TheSocialGolfer Forums

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Deals at Birchwood Park

17 May 2012, 13:17

There are some good deals to be had for the rest of this month at Birchwood have a look here (if the link works )

http://www.birchwoodparkgc.co.uk/2012_special_offers.asp

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

16 May 2012, 21:17

My handicap is on the wall at South Essex for all to see..... I can't seem to keep it all together when I play there.... Keeps my handicap up unfortunately.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

16 May 2012, 20:24

John/Andy I trust you'll be putting regular cards in to reduce your handicaps? We wouldn't want any bandit claims in September :-)

Only joking chaps

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

16 May 2012, 20:03

Sorry Andy, but I'm having lessons too.... Maybe we should form a team at Burstead..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

16 May 2012, 19:53

John,

All I had was 2 minutes of glory and a photo with the sponsor before I found out was not the nearest pin in 2. - especially as I hit a great second shot in.

I plan to peak at Burstead, I lost to you by 1 point last year and with a few lessons with Matt Stables at South Essex I hope that will be enough to win.

I did mention to Matt that he gave lessons to both of us and we came 1st and 2nd, but he recieves no commission only recommendation.

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

16 May 2012, 19:04

Can I blame the weather today for my worst effort for weeks... As for showing off, I have to after coming in a very poor last the year before I won.....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

16 May 2012, 10:44

Now you are showing off John. I would be happy with any of the set. My best chance is always in the sweep stake!

Agreed it was another good day. I thought the course was playing really well considering the weather we have had and can't allocate any of the blame for my score to the elements.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

15 May 2012, 21:07

Well Done Mark and team. Also Polly Parrot for the money raised. I will have to play moderately better at Burstead to win the second place. To add to my 1st from last year and 3rd this year. I really do want the full set. I also agree that it should be better attended, advertising on TSG will probably help, and I'll be sure to pass the word at South Essex where I play with the seniors. Well Done to all who took part... Come to Burstead with at least two friends...

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

15 May 2012, 11:07

[quote=Graham Hearl]We are due out to Lykia in 4 weeks time and I would love to know what the current state of the course is.

Thanks

[/quote]
Sorry, Graham, I am going out Thursday but I won't be able to help you. We have switched our game to Carya. Lykia had threatened to charge a cancellation fee but withdrew this threat. Maybe a sign that they weren't confident that the greens would be acceptable? Who knows.

You might check out these comments of visitors in April

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g297962-d663498-r129883592-LykiaWorld_LinksGolf_Antalya-Antalya_Turkish_Mediterranean_Coast.html#REVIEWS

My recommendation would be to try and switch. They are so many good courses it seems crazy to take the risk.

Best of luck!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

15 May 2012, 10:51

We are due out to Lykia in 4 weeks time and I would love to know what the current state of the course is.

Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

14 May 2012, 19:59

Mark + team,

many thanks for supporting the day and well played. I am really pleased you ernjoyed the day and the girls put in a lot of time to ensure everything runs well - I will pass on your comments.

I look forward to the next one - I only hope I putt better (though i was happy with 33 points in the end and team came second to you).

see you again on the course

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Polly Parrot Appeal Charity Day – How it Went!

14 May 2012, 19:39

Rob Wotton, Ken Simmonds, Adam Peek and I had all entered the Polly Parrot Charity Day, at South Essex, which aims to raise money in aid of the Dedicated Children’s A & E Department within Basildon Hospital to provide money for furniture, play equipment, artwork and multisensory equipment for the unit.

There were (I think) 40 entries, with various prizes at to be won, not forgetting the aim of the day was to raise money, and have some fun! The forecast had been for some rain by lunch time; however, true to form the weather forecasters had got it wrong, so it was raining when we arrived at 9.30am (all 4 of us early!), and didn’t stop all day!

Once registered, and rules/scoring had been explained we were told we were the 2^nd group off on the Heron teeing off at 11.07, so bacon rolls, and coffee consumed we headed off to the driving range for a bit of much needed practice.

The day started off steady for all of us, with all scoring consistently. At the end of the first 9 as a team we had scored slightly above par, so went into the 2^nd nine in anticipation of a decent team score, not to mention (oh I just have) Rob was leading the longest drive when we left it (that would eventually be won by one of the women contestants). We continued around the Vixen, with all of us scoring well. By the time we had completed the course, we were happy to be back on dry land, and having submitted our cards, enjoyed a sausage & mash dinner, with the obliquity beer of course.

As the results were announced Adam had come runner up in the singles contest scoring 41 points (the winner scored 42), and was more than happy to receive a £100 American golf voucher, and trophy. Much to our amazement when the team 4 ball winners were announced, it was none other than us!! Seeing us all pot £10 each, and a free 4 ball at South Essex.

All in all it was a very well run day, which (in my opinion) deserved better support. I’m sure everyone who attended enjoyed their day, I know we did.

There will be another event run at the Burstead 10^th September, which will posted on the TSG, so if you fancy a good days golf, at a nice course helping to raise money for a good cause then put this date in your diary!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Polly Parrot Children's Charity Golf day - South Essex Golf Club Monday 14th May - Players wanted

14 May 2012, 18:57

Thanks to all players for a great days golf, even the weather could not spoil the day.

South Essex Golf club are excellent hosts for our day. We will be playing this course again for the spring charity next May so look out for it.

See you all at Burstead Golf Course on September 10th for our next autumn charity day.

Andy

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Polly Parrot Children's Charity Golf day - South Essex Golf Club Monday 14th May - Players wanted

12 May 2012, 15:02

Basildon Hospitals Polly Parrot Children's Charity golf day is this Monday (this is advertised on this site). We have a number of players and teams but have 3 teams needing a player to make up 4balls. The cost is £40 + £10 (donation optional) for usual nearest pins etc. the sponsorship is excellent with incredibly good prizes. Also, if you have a team of 4 it is not too late to play as we still have some tee times between 11 and 12. Day includes bacon roll + lunch.

If interested in playing contact me via the forum here (I will check forum periodically), or arrive at South Essex Club in Brentwood at 10am and find me or Helen for registration in the clubhouse. Planned finish time is 4.30pm

Andy Ray

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG OPEN Golf Day Championship.....

11 May 2012, 13:11

Dear TSGers,

Despite a very wet April and so far a pretty damp May, we thought it was time we turned our attention to the June sunshine and of course, our third annual TSG Golf Day!

All the details of the event are listed below and we are looking forward to seeing as many of our fellow TSG members on the day..... Trophies, Prizes and TSG Celebrities are confirmed!

To book your place on the day, please CLICK HERE and follow the links

Start your Diamond Jubilee weekend early and join us for a great day!

Ian & The TSG Team
------------------------------

TSG Golf Day Championship 2012

Forget the Olympics, this is THE sporting event of the year! This will be the 3rd time we have organised the event...

- Individual 18 hole Stapleford Competition (Men & Ladies)

- A 4-Ball team event

- A Yellow Ball team event

- Longest Drive

- Nearest Pin

- Beat the Pro (Nearest Pin)

- A 12 hole Putting Competition

There will be plenty prizes on offer for all of the above winners and runners up + £5's of every entry fee will be donated to our site charity - BALASA (British Amputee and les Autres Sports Association) which anyone who came last year, will agree is a great cause!

The day is no more than a good "social" opportunity to meet many of your fellow TSG members and includes coffee & bacon rolls on arrival, 18 holes of golf, a two course lunch, afternoon tea and of course the all important prize giving and the presentation of the Halliwell Cup.

We have arranged for a special TSG discount on buggies (costs on request, but there are limited numbers, so please let us know in advance), marshalls will be on the course and a photographer on the day to record the events!

Registration will start at 9am for a 10am start with an end time planned of around 4.30pm.

Entry Fee = £48

More information will be issued nearer the time but all we ask is that you have a full TSG Handicap Certificate or a full Congu/USGA recognised handicap. TSG Handicaps can be obtained by entering 3 or more scorecards into the TSG system - Click on the following link for more details: www.thesocialgolfer.com/myscores

Guests are welcome but TSG PRO members will take precedent should numbers be tight.

N.B. Golf Day Fees will be required to be paid by Monday 28th May 2012, in order that we can advise the club of final numbers.

For more details on Bletchingley, visit the TSG Course page:
www.thesocialgolfer.com/bletchinley or visit: www.bletchingleygolf.co.uk

AND to celebrate the appointment of being this years TSG host venue: Bletchingley are offering all TSG members a unique 2for1 offer for the whole of 2012 - See members pages for details: www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewoffer/bletchingley

In addition, Steve Cookson - Bletchingley Club PGA Pro is offering all TSG members ahead of the day a FREE 10 minutes game consultation - Call him 01883-744666 to arrange.

Finally, please let us know of any special dietary requirements in advance.

STOP PRESS: Trevor Sandford (Golf Against Cancer) will be launching his book "A Month of Madness on the M25" on the day - The book is based on the blog he wrote on TSG durring his tour. He will also be doing a Q&A after lunch....sounds like fun!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Live VIP Ticket Competition....The Winners!

05 May 2012, 10:48

A little later than planned but I am sure you will all forgive us.....

We asked you the following question:

'Who is the Event Ambassador for Golf Live?"

And the answer was of course, Mr.Colin Montgomerie!

The draw has taken place at TSG HQ this morning, the tension was high, and results have been counted and verified (well that's what they say on the TV isn't it?)

So here you go, in the order they came out of the hat and winners of a pair of VIP tickets to this year's Golf Live at The London Club are:

- Jack Shelton, Romford, Essex
- Dave Blaney, Woodford Green, London

Congratulations to you both, what a prize!!

Runners up and winners of individual tickets are:

- Trevor Hempsall, Grantham, Lincolnshire
- John Amos, Epping, Essex
- Adam Peek, Romford, Essex
- Chris Emms, Benfleet, Essex

Well done to all of you, we'll be in touch soon with details of how to claim your prize!

Of course, if you weren't lucky enough to win this time round, don't forget you can still take advantage of the special TSG ticket offer - Golf Live are offering all TSG members the special rate of two tickets for £30, for more information on this offer please go to: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers

N.B All under 18s enter the show for free (tickets must be downloaded using the above link and accompanied by an adult).

That's all for now.......

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

03 May 2012, 08:38

Hi,
Did not play Lykia. played Sueno Pines instead,fabulous course.
No one in our hotel played Liykia,everone who complained was moved.
Stayed at http://www.voyagehotel.com/Voyage-Belek-Golf-Spa-EN, Great complex but it is not ULTRA all inclusive. The one downside to the holiday was the waiter service...poor compared to other hotels we have stayed in.

Pines: http://www.bilyanagolf.com/suenogolfclub_pinesgolfcourse.php

Best course of the week. A must play.

Carya: http://www.bilyanagolf.com/carya_golf_club.php

Tat

http://www.bilyanagolf.com/tat_golf_club.php

Montgomerie

http://www.bilyanagolf.com/montgomerie_course.php

Never seen so much waste bunkers in my life. All in all great course

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

30 Apr 2012, 15:02

[quote=Stewart Rothnie]

I have been watching progress here since I started to see the negative reviews. I have had feedback from both the agent who we booked through and from the manager. It has nothing to do with weed killer. The problem was the overseeded Papsalum grass which because of the unusually harsh winter remained dormant. This is the only course in Turkey which is overseeded with links style grass for the summer. They have been very honest with me and I am updated more or less weekly with photographs. According to the manager the greens are still fast but the lack of green blades make it hard to stop the ball, especially in the wind. The new grass is starting to come through and I am hopeful there will be rapid progress in the next few weeks. Seemingly constan temp above 22 deg C should have a rapid effect. We are going there on 20th May. I'll post the photos tomorrow, They are archived at work. We were offered the chance to change resort but we love links golf and hopefully all will work out.

[/quote]

Very interesting, Stewart. We're due to play 21st. I'm in discussion with our booking agent and seriously considering cancelling Lykia. Best of luck to you!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

29 Apr 2012, 19:01

I hope they have fixed the problem, as this was a really enjoyable course to play.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

29 Apr 2012, 18:19

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

27 Apr 2012, 09:13

Thanks, John, I had spotted that (and other) reviews. However, you will see that the review was for a visit in March. I was hoping for a 'bang up to date' observation on the condition of the greens

My tour organisers have clients out there this week and they promise feedback to me on Monday

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

26 Apr 2012, 20:49

Just checked Trip Advisor - follow this link:

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g297962-d663498-Reviews-LykiaWorld_LinksGolf_Antalya-Antalya_Turkish_Mediterranean_Coast.html

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

26 Apr 2012, 11:05

Hi Gee Gee I note you didn't get any responses to your post and you will now be on your trip. Did you play Lykia? If so, what state were the greens in? Like you I'm nervous about the reports I've read and my group are off in three weeks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Live VIP Ticket Competition....The Winners!

26 Apr 2012, 09:59

Dear TSGers,

No, it's not Friday (when we normally do our competitions) but with all this wet weather we thought we could all do with some cheering up! Once again we here at TSG HQ have got together with the organisers at Golf Live to bring you an amazing competition and TSG ticket offer!

Yep, you lucky people have the opportunity of winning 2 x pairs of VIP tickets to this year's event, not only will you get to see the stars at the show but you will also get to do it in style! Plus, we also have 4 runner-up prizes of individual standard tickets to giveaway too!

The event takes place on 18th-20th May 2012. Now in its third year and back again at the London Club, Event Ambassador Colin Montgomerie has signed up to return again, with South African legend Gary Player in a strong line up of talent from both the men’s and ladies’ Tours.

This also includes: Solheim Cup winning captain Alison Nicholas, Paul Casey, Melissa Reid, Carly Booth, Rhys Davies, Ollie Fisher, Pablo Larazzabal, Thomas Levet and Henni Zuel will all appear at the three day event.

All you need to do is to answer a simple question......

So what conundrum have they set us for us this time...drum roll.....

'Who is the Event Ambassador for Golf Live?"

(I know, I said it was simple....)

To be included in the draw: Send your answers to theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

Answers are required to reach us by Thu 3rd May at Midnight.

Winners: to be announced Friday 4th May.

That's all folks.....good luck!

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
--------------------------------

In addition, Golf Live are offering all TSG members the special rate of two tickets for £30, for more information on this offer please go to: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers

Or go to www.golfliveevent.com and use the code: SocialGolfer30

N.B All under 18s enter the show for free (tickets must be downloaded using the above link and accompanied by an adult)

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

24 Apr 2012, 20:53

Pansanger for me Adam. Reasonable, Good condition and interesting, Happy hunting

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

23 Apr 2012, 12:02

Just to add to the Pedham Place v Austin Lodge.

I'd highly recommend AL over Pedham. Pedham is an OK course, it's fine, but it's location sucks. There's no views, it's very flat, has power cables nearby and compared to Austin Lodge which is a better course anyway imo, it has great views of the valley it sits in/on. And some history too, what is now the 5th and 6th hole used to be a glider runway where some of the first gliders ever flew!

Wouldn't recommend walking Austin Lodge if time is important though, it's very hilly!

M.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Replacing divots

21 Apr 2012, 17:28

John I know that I am always on the fairway trouble is nine times out of ten its the wrong one.!!!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Replacing divots

21 Apr 2012, 15:53

I've always thought that you should (as a matter of routine) replace fairway divots, seed tee-box divots (sometimes helps if you squash them down so that others don't slip). divots in the rough.. hmmm

I don't make much of a mess in the rough - but do try to repair obvious damage... usually when I have failed to sweep the ball from the rough...

and of course, pitch mark etiquette can be applied, in that you are allowed to fix somone elses divot after you've taken a shot...

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 22:11

Don't forget Gatton Manor.

Well worth a visit. Great track. Hosts the Surrey Open.

Green fee is £48 but if you join there "friends" list through there website [no charge] you can get a discount of £10 during the summer and even more off during the winter.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 22:07

We play there quite often(playing this saturday)testing parkland course,not very busy good value £21
or £18.50 over 60s

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 19:21

Like the look of Austin Lodge. Cheers for the heads up on that one.

What's Cheshunt like Howard? Tight? Long?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 19:08

Cheers for the List Ian. Problem with the likes of Woolston and I'm guessing others is the need for a Sunday morning tee time.

South Essex isn't a bad shout, but I think it might be the same problem. You're right I did hate it when I played there last year. I thought the rough was unreasonably punishing. I played there in January or February this year and it was much, much better.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 18:07

Hi Adam,

You could do worse than South Essex, as it can cater for lots of people but I recall you hated this course (something about the long rough?!).....alternatively, you could try any of the other TSG courses we have deals with e.g.

Woolston Manor
Bletchingley
Surrey National
Woldingham
Westerham
or The Addington.....

The last being a Top 100 GB & Ireland course - see 'members offers' pages for details.

You may even be able to negotiate some preferential rates on the back of the TSG deal?

OR you could try my latest favourite Warley Park, that would be a great test for all levels!

Otherwise, any of the courses mentioned below are all good....

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 16:00

Hi Adam,
Cheshunt is a good test and would cost around £22

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 15:24

Pedham Place and Austin Lodge are both decent and not far from M25 (Pedham Place is virtually on top of J3 but not blighted by the M25), Austin Lodge is longer and probably more expensive than Pedham Place. But both are nice courses and in a similar price bracket to Birchwood.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Best Pay and Play Golf Courses in the south East

19 Apr 2012, 12:55

I shall elaborate further. I have a works golf day in September this year and we are trying to think of a convenient venue to play on a Sunday morning. Therefore the course has to be in/around the M25 and east of Watford and Croydon and not require a mortgage for the green fee.
Last year we played at Birchwood Park and are hoping to try somewhere new this year so I thought I'd throw it over to the wise old sages at TSG and see if they can come up with any suitable venues.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golfoot - Please tell me this is a scam....

19 Apr 2012, 09:14

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/blogs/world-of-sport/finally-chance-play-golfoot-152419840.html

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Replacing divots

16 Apr 2012, 18:33

me thinks it's hard enough to get some people to replace thier divots on the fairway let alone the rough,
Must admit that I have never replaced a divot when playing from the rough, shame on me!!!!!! as I seem to spend alot of time in the rough just lately

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Replacing divots

16 Apr 2012, 07:32

I think it's always better to replace divots wherever possible, except on tees. Even in the rough, you wouldn't want to find your ball in an unrepaired one, would you?

But Jack, aren't you always on the fairway?!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Replacing divots

15 Apr 2012, 18:44

I know you should not replace a divot on the tee, as this can cause a player teeing off to slip on it. With regards the rough, I think it would help the course to regain a good surface and quality, as it would on the fairway.

I do it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Replacing divots

15 Apr 2012, 17:24

I was always taught to replace the divot you take on the fairway,and to use the seed boxes that are sometimes provided on the tees on par 3's and not to replace the divot only on these occasions.
However listening to the commentary on the golf on Sky sports this week this point was raised,about replacing divots.
There was some conflict about replacing your divots when you hit a shot out of the rough,I have never done this and can say its the first time I have heard of replacing your divots in the rough.
Can someone help out on this?
Do you replace your divot when taking a shot out of the rough,or leave it be?

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \National Golf Show Comp. & Ticket Offer.....The Winners!

11 Apr 2012, 20:53

Dear TSGers,

As you know, last week we ran our National Golf Show ticket competition and told you about our TSG 2-for-1 ticket offer!

And the question was;

'Which course is the US Masters played at every year?"

The answer was of course "Augusta National"

And the winners are......in no particular order......

Terry Ainscough, Stanford Le Hope, Eseex UK
Milan Krneta, Hertfordshire, UK
Robin Vidler, Wilmslow, Cheshire, UK
Sidney Moffatt, Hesham, Lancashire, UK
Chris Holdom, Crouch End, London, UK

Congratulations, I hope you enjoy the show!

Didn't win this time around? Don't worry, remember you can still take advantage of the TSG ticket offer....

For more information on the offer and this year's show, please visit the TSG members offers pages at: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers

Or visit: www.nationalgolfshow.com

Thats all folks.....enjoy the weekend!

Happy Golfing!

Ian & the TSG Team
-------------------------------

N.B. Under 14's go free when accompanied by an Adult Ticket Holder

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

09 Apr 2012, 18:02

Nice work Adam, very nice little win for you there.....shame about my man Westwood.

If he could just get the putting going.....he'd be unstoppable!!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stanmore Golf Club is doing golf discount vouchers until 30 June 2012.

09 Apr 2012, 12:51

Stanmore Golf Club is doing golf discount vouchers until 30 June 2012.

example Sat/Sun normally £38 voucher price £28.
Just email the club secretary@stanmoregolfclub.co.uk with your name and email address.

Check web site for t&c www.stanmoregolfclub.co.uk

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

09 Apr 2012, 10:46

Did you back him to win then Adam? if so well done!!!!!!!!!!!!!! £££££££££££££'s
you are right !! "IF ONLY??" Westwood could putt,this was his nemesis he would have walked this major,
I wonder how this will effect his preparations for the "OPEN"
He has to improve this part of his game otherwise he will end up like Monty always the bridesmaid never the the bride.
This will be interesting to watch over the coming months

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

09 Apr 2012, 08:44

Anyone else take the 40/1 on Bubba??

If Westwood could putt, he'd probably end up with double figures in Major wins.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which ball do YOU play??

07 Apr 2012, 09:59

I love the subtle joke at the very beginning ... where he pulls the bucket of balls out of the trash bin.

So funny - cracks me up every time.

Here's another funny video for you guys (about Vegas):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8m6GRgs3iw4

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Golf Trolly

06 Apr 2012, 21:35

Sorted the trolly went for the motocaddy S1 pro Happy days :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \National Golf Show Comp. & Ticket Offer.....The Winners!

06 Apr 2012, 10:33

Dear TSGers,

It's competition time again and this time round we've got together with the lovely people at the National Golf Show to bring you a unique TSG 2-for-1 ticket offer!

However, in order to promote this offer, they have also kindly given us x5 pairs of tickets to giveaway to TSG members......

Now in its 6^th year, we can confirm this year's how brings you the 'World of Golf all under one roof!' and is once again being held at the Birmingham NEC on 20th-22nd April.

So what conundrum have they set us for us? Well to win a pair of tickets, all you need to do is to answer the following question:

'Which course is the US Masters played at every year?"

(I know, its a toughie....)

To be included in the draw: Send your answers to theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

Answers are required to reach us by Thu 12th April at Midnight.

Winners: to be announced Friday 13th April.

Thats all folks.....enjoy The Masters!

Happy Golfing!

Ian & the TSG Team
-------------------------------

For more information on this years show or to take advantage of this unique 2-for-1 ticket offer, please visit the TSG members offers pages at www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers

Or Visit www.nationalgolfshow.com

N.B. Under 14's go free when accompanied by an Adult Ticket Holder

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

06 Apr 2012, 10:31

Looking good so far......

:-)

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Golf Trolly

05 Apr 2012, 20:30

[quote=TheSocialGolfer]Don't forget to try the internetgolfstore.co.uk - our preferred retail partner.......they will price match anything from AG and they help to promote the site for us.

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffer.aspx?ID=40

Ps We make no commisions on their sales!

Ian
The TSG Team
---------------------[/quote]
Cheers Ian.
Ill have a look and see what they can off me. May be adding some new irons aswell but gonna get fitted for them I reckon

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Golf Trolly

05 Apr 2012, 09:14

Don't forget to try the internetgolfstore.co.uk - our preferred retail partner.......they will price match anything from AG and they help to promote the site for us.

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffer.aspx?ID=40

Ps We make no commisions on their sales!

Ian
The TSG Team
---------------------

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Golf Trolly

05 Apr 2012, 06:02

Cheers for that Robin,
Ive been looking over the trolly's on the internet and been to look at them both at AG near me and I think I may be going with the Motocaddy S1.
just need to trawl through and look for the best deals now

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Golf Trolly

04 Apr 2012, 20:10

A golfing acquaintance has had nothing but issues with his last 3 brand new Powakaddies. I have an S3 digital lithium and it's a good trolley. Folds easily. 3 or 4 of the lads in my society have Motocaddies either S1s or S3s and they are always in good working order.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Golf Trolly

04 Apr 2012, 18:28

Looking for a little bit of advice guys
Im thinking of buying an electric trolly but torn between two
the Motocaddy S1 or the Powacaddy freeway (i think) they are both in the £300 to £350 region ?
Any help/advice would be appreciated

Thanks Nige

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which ball do YOU play??

04 Apr 2012, 17:28

I keep going back to watch it again. Just as funny after several views, you notice things that you missed before, great video. Thanks for posting Dave P.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

04 Apr 2012, 09:36

I too am getting excited by it, only the Ryder Cup and the Ashes above it in sporting terms for me now especially as football keeps cutting it's own throat.

Not sure Westwood has the short game to win at Augusta. I think he could end up being the modern day Monty.

I saw Woods was a short as 4/1 with some bookies. I'd be laying that all day. I'l be having a bit e/w on Jason Day, Keegan Bradley and perhaps Bubba Watson and a bit on Rory outright as a saver.

By the way if anyone is interested http://todaysgolfer.fantasyleague.com/Index.aspx It's free and runs for the entire golf season. I can set up a Social Golfer private league if there is enough interest. Teams have to be registered by 1pm tomorrow so you have to be quick.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

03 Apr 2012, 20:59

For me it's Chris Emms..........he plays at every other golf club!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

03 Apr 2012, 20:56

Yes, I agree.....and we all need to get serious with the preparations for four nights in front of the TV !

I reckon it's time for current World no.1 - Luke Donald to take the Major step up, but the Woods/Mcilroy story is sure to be compelling......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Masters.....

03 Apr 2012, 19:38

Is it just me or is anyone else getting this excited?

Tiger Woods to tee off 3.30pm, Rory around 6.45pm.........

My pick this year - Lee Westwood

http://www.masters.com/en_US/index.html

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which ball do YOU play??

03 Apr 2012, 16:10

Great golf balls Dave just ordered 2 dozen, picking them up at the next range.

Dave

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

02 Apr 2012, 10:27

Asking the distance to a point on the course,I hold my hands up and say yes I have done this on a very rare occassion,and that was to check the 150yard marker.
When your playing in a fourball and on say a par 3,normally a couple of guys have these GADGETS, and they compare yardages to the flag,usually in conversation for everyone to know.
Normally these are different,by a few yards,then the scorecard comes out and the dispute begins because this says something completely different as well.
Then I am left with a head full of numbers wondering how far the flag really is!!!!
"WITHOUT HAVING TO ASK,ON MOST HOLES I AM TOLD ON THE TEE WHAT THE YARDAGE IS"
maybe a ruling should be brought in regarding keeping this information to yourself,so as not to confuse those of us that dont use them.
In match play you are penalised for asking your opponent what club he used,what about penalising the player that gives out GPS yardages?????

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which ball do YOU play??

01 Apr 2012, 16:11

a round white one with a titleist logo on it !!!!!!!!!!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Lykia Links,Belek

01 Apr 2012, 11:15

Hi,
Has anyone played Lykia Links in the last couple of weeks.
Heard horror stories about the state of the greens that weed killer put on by mistake and they are keeping tight lipped about it.
Any info appreciated as due to play it on 20th April.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

31 Mar 2012, 16:59

The one I use is the Garmin Approach S1 Watch - which gives distances to front, middle and back of the green.   It's very easy to see and use.....and I find it very useful.

Yes, many courses do have 150 yard markers - usually to middle of green (sometimes front - which is confusing), but the watch will tell me exactly how far - wherever I am.   Standing on the tee of a par 3, I know the distance wherever the tee box is and wherever the pin is placed, so I can decide which club to use.......whether I hit the right shot is another matter!

On a longer hole, if I am not within range of the green, I can decide to 'lay up' to about 100yds - again the watch helps here, but not many courses have yardage posts to assist with this.

Jack - you question how many of us hit exact yardages?   Well, the watch has a 'measure shot' mode - so on the rare occasion that I do hit that perfect drive/4-iron, etc, I'm able to measure how far the ball's gone by walking to it and checking my watch - check my yardages......you MUST agree that can be a good thing!   And it will also tell me the time!

The technology is there and will only improve...we all have a choice to use it. I've often been asked distances by playing partners without GPS units.....maybe you'll ask one day?!!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

29 Mar 2012, 21:31

I use the Skycaddie SGXw now, having previously owned a Skycaddie SG5 and SGX. These are the Rolls Royce of GPS units as they are mapped out by people walking the course with GPS gear on, not just estimated via Google Earth or similar. I find it difficult to play without one now. For those doubting whether you should use one, think about why the pros have caddies with yardage books worked out through walking the course. Why have a caddie with a distance book if there are yardage markers on the course? I personally do not hit the middle of fairways often so like to know exact distances to hazards and greens thank you very much.
I am selling the SGX due to the upgrade to SGXw. PM me for details.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

29 Mar 2012, 16:14

[quote=Jack Shelton] NONE OF THEM !!!!!!!!!
Whats the problem using the 150 yard markers at the side of the fairway,or using your own judgement, takes a lot of the skill out of the game.
How often do you hit to the yardage it tells you on these gadgets,not many I bet.
Its nice to know how far you are on any point on the course,from a certian place.But can you hit that exact yardage every time?
The forum has gone a bit quite of late lets liven it up again.
If you was to play your next round without this gadget would it make a big difference to your score,I dont think so,THEY ARE LIKE A FASHION CRAZE MUST HAVE ONE.BECAUSE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!???????
[/quote]

That's all well and good Jack, but how many courses have well maintained yardage markers? Or if the course insist on using the stupid discs in the middle of the fairway that are only any good if you are stood within a few metres of them otherwise they're invisible.
It's almost like saying why are Sat Nav's so popular, there is nothing wrong with an A-Z! Which is equally true, but what's the harm in getting a little helping hand?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

29 Mar 2012, 15:48

NONE OF THEM !!!!!!!!!
Whats the problem using the 150 yard markers at the side of the fairway,or using your own judgement, takes a lot of the skill out of the game.
How often do you hit to the yardage it tells you on these gadgets,not many I bet.
Its nice to know how far you are on any point on the course,from a certian place.But can you hit that exact yardage every time?
The forum has gone a bit quite of late lets liven it up again.
If you was to play your next round without this gadget would it make a big difference to your score,I dont think so,THEY ARE LIKE A FASHION CRAZE MUST HAVE ONE.BECAUSE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!???????

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

26 Mar 2012, 22:38

If you are considering buying a GPS unit please avoid golfgps.org, snoopergps.org, and thecaddy.co.uk. I used one of these, placed an order for the SkyCaddie SG5 back in mid Feb and still waiting. Waiting on a refund that sadly I dont think I'll get as having done a bit of research it looks like they're all run by the same bloke and he has form for setting up online golf companies, not fulfilling orders and then liquidating the firms. A bit of a sickener as when I ordered it was priced only slightly cheaper than the mainstream firms and therefore not suspiciously underpriced. Chalked up to experience and will never use again an internet firm that I've not heard of!

To cheer myself up I ordered the new SkyCaddie SGXw from Scotsdale Golf (an excellently priced firm by the way!). Hopefully due to be delivered tomorrow. Will post up a review when I've had a play with it!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Top 10 Luckiest Shots in Golf.....

25 Mar 2012, 11:50

Hadn't seen these before.....

:-)

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewVideo.aspx?id=133

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

22 Mar 2012, 18:58

Hello-"Mr Scorecard Stalker" as everyone is saying on the site me included,glad to see you are getting better and soon hope you are playing again.
I think we should have a Greg Butler returns golf day,for injured golfers,I could be your partner we will truley have a proper H/C THEN
I can't wait to have that first game with you,it won't be to long.
I returned to work on Monday 19th March after my injury,and things ain't so bad now especially with the golf,
been over the course practicing for an hour or so 2-3 times a week,its not the same as just hitting balls over the range.
On some holes I was playing 5 or 6 balls,hitting from the same spot til I got it right,I used even more on my short game,hitting on to a proper green and then holing out.YES,I did repair all my pitch marks.and racked the bunkers.
This was how I practiced about 6-7 years ago,you have to put in the time and effort to get the results,hence I have nearly reached my GOAL.
As you know I put my H/C upto 12, from 8, with the ambition of getting back to single figures by Woburn,well the practicing and playing is paying off because after todays game at Romford I am now playing off 9 again,after shooting 77.
Its a great feeling,although Romford is rather flat I wonder how I would fair at somewere like Weald Park,with all the different lies.
Will be put to the test on Monday at Chigwell G,C. will probably be eating humble pie for lunch Ha!Ha!!!
Woburn is only 5 weeks away now,come round very quick.
see you there if not before???????????

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

22 Mar 2012, 16:42

[quote=Ian Mullins]Hi Greg,

Hmmm....I was doing soooo well and had three straight sub ninety rounds but alas the wheels came off again.

However, still thinking I can get down to single figures this year, at a push......OK, still a little optimistic!

When do you think we'll see you back on the course?

Ian [/quote]

Glad to see you're still aiming high Ian. My revised resolution is to play as much golf as i can , just as soon as i can, (maybe starting sometime in April) and to enjoy every last stroke on the way, no matter how good or bad.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

21 Mar 2012, 18:48

After a long much-needed break, I've now played 4 times this year. 4 very enjoyable games - as they all should be - and even a (slight) handicap reduction. Not looking forward to the wheels coming off though!

Hope to see you back on the course soon, Greg.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

21 Mar 2012, 18:07

I've had a couple of shockers :-(

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

21 Mar 2012, 17:59

Hi Greg,

Hmmm....I was doing soooo well and had three straight sub ninety rounds but alas the wheels came off again.

However, still thinking I can get down to single figures this year, at a push......OK, still a little optimistic!

When do you think we'll see you back on the course?

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

21 Mar 2012, 17:51

Have had to revise any resolutions i was thinking of due to an arm incident, was just wondering how those who were brave enough to declare their hopes for 2012, either on this forum post or privately, are fairing?.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

21 Mar 2012, 10:05

My claim to ace was in 2000. Par 3 8th at Royal Blackheath. Both of our shots looked perfect and being on the green on this hole is always a treat as it is surrounded by bunkers. You can only see the base of the flag as you approach the green and one ball was next to the pin and the other was the other side of the pin. One dropped just as we were walking round to the green so we did not know until we got there who's it was. It was mine. My partner was gutted to lose a hole she had birdied, but knew I would be buying the drinks later, so she got over it. I had only been a member of the club for 4 months and so was eager to meet new people in the clubhouse to help celebrate. It was a Saturday - and one of the quietest on record - but those I did meet were some of the key members and have become good friends. My round cost me £7.50. Not a bad result :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are most amateur golfers being mislead on how to swing?

20 Mar 2012, 21:54

I have discovered that restricting the back swing enables 'back-pain free golf' so finding the individual swing works, we aren't all the same.

I've come the other way from Tennis (reasonably competent) into Golf late in life - so am not as flexible as the young teaching professionals. I haven't found many who don't try and teach the 'pro swing' and so have found by trial an error a way that works for me. Did the tennis bat thing and I have pretty good hip, shoulder separation. I strive to improve and do benefit from warming-up and warming down stretches... Being easy off the tee also helps...

I don't expend energy on the backswing, and try for easy fluid swing with a defined end position... in fact the pose is probably the best bit for me... held until the ball has bounced at least twice...

Bottom line is - it is bood to see teaching pros who can teach what people are capable of achieving, rather than teach what they are able to teach themselves... I will never be able to swing like the pros, but I still manage to swing well enough to get around.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are most amateur golfers being mislead on how to swing?

18 Mar 2012, 16:18

YES

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

17 Mar 2012, 10:12

Nice to see someone else shoot an ace on the Algarve. Salgados is a right biatch of a course too so many congrats Geoffrey.
My 'perfect strike' still resides in a #1 wooden trophy block since hitting the bottom of the cup on the 145 metre 7th hole at Parque Da Floresta 18th May 1993/
11 people in the clubhouse but only 8 quid for the round of drinks as most were already on their driving limit!
I'm praying for another one.......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

16 Mar 2012, 18:15

I've been really lucky; I"ve had 3, the first two at the same hole on the Manakin Course at Hermitage CC in Richmond, VA. There's a story behind the third.

Playing in the senior club championship two years ago, came to the fourth hole, a short par 3 over water. Chunked the tee shot into the pond. I went down to the drop area, and proceeded to rinse four more into the pond. I finally managed to hit what was my 11th shot onto the green, and two putt for a "crowd pleasing 13".

Next day, next round....15th hole, longer par 3, again over water. Hit a beautiful 7 iron, just to the right of the back pin, but we all lost sight of it against the setting sun. Walked up to the green, and whaddaya know...the ball hit just right of the cup and rolled in for an ace.

So, I managed a 13 on one par three one day, and an ace on a different one the next. Golf...huh?

Bob C

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Should Rule 4.4 (Maximum of 14 clubs) be altered?

16 Mar 2012, 16:16

I'd ecommend that everyone tries a reduced club compeition at some stage. It's worth discovering just how flexible and creative you can be with 5 sticks. I wouldn't want to restrict the number of clubs generally thoughy, as each course I play allows me to exercise a different subset of clubs. Whilst it is true that there are very few course when all 13 sticks are actiually used, I can load my bag accordingly to suit the type of course I'm playing, for example more wedges for Woolston Manor, more long hybrids for tree-lined courses like Panshanger and Cheshunt.

I try to emply same swings and vary sticks for distances required, and around the green I can use 7,8,9,P to chip close... Love to experiment with shot variety, one day it will all come together before memory goes...

Having the need to be creative - with limited clubs - makes it fun... the best fun I had was with 3 clubs (one had to be a putter) a different challenge...

If of course we had a restriction on clubs, it would be pot luck to have the right club subset for the course to be played and if you play different courses every other day, you'd never really get the chance to learn...

I'd say leave it as is and let people decide just how many sticks they want to carry around (I know that when trolley and buggy restrictions are in place I do tend to leave 50% of sticks in the car boot...)

I am also working on consistentcy (still relatively new to the game) and it is easer for me to have the same swing with different clubs as distance control...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

15 Mar 2012, 10:08

geoffrey saunders scored an ACE at Salgados Golf Club. See his card

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Should Rule 4.4 (Maximum of 14 clubs) be altered?

14 Mar 2012, 04:54

I don't have your skill or experience, but following a 'five club' competition at my place a few weeks ago I have started playing with a reduced set just like you describe.

I have found the game a lot easier with less clubs to choose from!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£15 off vouchers from Golfing in Style....The Winners!

09 Mar 2012, 13:14

Dear TSGers,

As you know, last week we told you about the new, up and coming, online Golf Clothing retailer Golfing in Style!

To help the guys launch their new site, they gave three lucky TSGers the opportunity to win £15 off vouchers to spend in their new online store.

Golfing in Style is all about clothes for on and off the course. Their mission is to bring you a modern look yet with classic styling. They offer brands such as Farah Vintage, LUKE, Tommy Hilfiger and UKKO amongst others! Their philosophy is simple…....look as good in a bar or restaurant as you do walking down the fairways!

And the question we set in order to find those lucky people was;

"What does 'Golfing in Style' pride itself on?"

The answer was of course "...they pride themselves on top rate customer service!"

And the winners are......in no particular order......

Jen Triggs, Chester, Cheshire, UK
Neil Williams, Cheshire, UK
Jonathan Crickmore, Southport, Merseyside, UK

Looks like its a clean sweep for the TSG Northern contingent, we'll contact you all shortly regarding the vouchers!

Apologies to all those that entered and weren't successful this time round BUT remember Golfing In Style are giving all TSG members a 15% discount. on items purchase on their site.

Simply enter the following coupon code in the checkout area: TSG

For more information on this unique offer, please visit the TSG members offers pages at www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers or visit the guys at www.golfinginstyle.co.uk

That's all folks.....enjoy the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Should Rule 4.4 (Maximum of 14 clubs) be altered?

09 Mar 2012, 12:34

From the manufacturer's perspective.

Lets double that number. we could stick 3 drivers in the bag; one with extra draw; another with more loft and another just for show. We could have 3 fairway woods, 3 hybrids and a driving iron. Add to this all the irons from 1 thru to 9 and then 5 wedges - 48°, 52°, 56°, 60° & 64°. That leaves enough room for a couple of chipping irons and a prile of putters. Callaway, TaylorMade et al would be licking their chops and I bet plenty of golfers would go for it.

Would golfers play better with double the choice? Noooo! I find that the opposite is closer to the truth.

For the good of the game.

Lets leave the present rule alone for the pros. They have put in the hours and can float a 9 iron consistently to 140 and an 8 to 150 and so on. I know very few normal golfers who do this with any consistency.

I personally play with 7 clubs in my bag and I can shoot around par with them. When i go out with 14 clubs I normally play worse because I often choose the wrong club. I have a driver for my tee shots; 5 wood for 170 plus tee shots and longer fairway shots; 5 hybrid for all shots 150-170; 7 iron for 130-150; 9 iron for all shots from off the green to 130; 56° wedge for sand and when I have to go high and finally my putter. With this selection I rarely choose the wrong club.

I would change the rule for amateurs. I am not a lover of the handicap system but I know its there and its probably there to stay. It does however make this new rule easier to apply. It goes like this...

Class (1) Handicap 4.4 or lower may use up to 9 clubs.

Class (2) Handicap 4.5 to 11.4 may use up to 8 clubs.

Class (3) Handicap 11.5 to 18.4 may use up to 7 clubs.

Class (4) Handicap 18.5 to 25.4 may use up to 6 clubs.

Class (5) Handicap 25.5 or higher may use up to 5 clubs.

I do this with many of my students and they get to class 1, 2 and 3 very quickly. When I play with class 4 and 5, I restrict myself to one club, my 9 iron and usually play bogey golf with it (and yes I do putt out with it). I can guide most of my students to bogey golf with 5 clubs but when they go out with more it all goes sideways.

We don't have a putter for 10 ft and another for 20ft, we use a thing called touch. I chip anything from 5 to 40 yds with my 9 iron using the same skill, and can use this skill to vary the distance with any of my 7 clubs.

Want to get down to a lower handicap, then get to know 5 clubs inside out before you pop another one in the bag.

P.S. I love playing with only my 9 iron and it gives me plenty of challenge to play bogey golf. It also improves my creative skills which add a new dimention to my game.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Looking for a 21 to 23 year old...

07 Mar 2012, 20:20

ja perv

LoL

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are most amateur golfers being mislead on how to swing?

07 Mar 2012, 19:15

A typical amateur golfer tries to emulate the textbook swings of top professionals. Among other endless criteria, he generally tells himself that he's got to get the club parallel at the top of the back swing; shift his weight at impact without moving his head or altering his spine angle; and end up perfectly balanced on his target foot after a smooth follow through.

However, a top professional has a rather lengthy and complicated regime for his swing which, for him, is an imperative for successfully reproducing the miracle shots required for his trade. This regime involves: one to two hours of stretching and exercise before going to the range/course; working for 2-6 hours on various elements of his game with his coach/caddy/video feedback equipment; and then putting this all together playing nine or eighteen holes of golf. This is a normal non-tournament day for the average modern professional and only the cream of the crop manage to put it together well enough to make a living on one of the tours.

I could go on and on but my main point is that there's a swing for pros and therefore there must be a less structured and more individual swing for amateurs. We all walk, run, jump, swim, drive, ride a bicycle etc and although we do these similarly there are no strict directives on how to do them.

I coach this game and, in my opinion, the main mistake that golfers are making is trying to emulate the pros. And it's not their fault! All the magazines, books, videos, golf channels and most teaching pros insist there is only the pro's way. The logic is... they do it best, so they are doing it correctly.

Well so are professionals in other sports but I don't see amateur skiers taking corners at 70 mph cutting the snow with a half inch edge of their skis; or tennis players busting a gut trying to place a 100+ mph service in the correct part of the court; or driving a car with slick tyres into a sharp bend at over 150 mph and applying the brakes at the last second in order to glide round the inside of another driver with the same goal. I say different levels for differing skill standards.

I recently took up tennis and decided to follow a training video to improve my service and quickly realised that the hours of precise practice and timing just weren't possible for me. I'm miles away from hitting the ball at professional levels because my consistency and control suffer when I do. I play tennis and golf to my capabilities, the same way as I do every other physical action.

So why does an amateur golfer feel he has to try to swing like a pro? Mainly because that is the way they have been instructed and the pros look really good the way they are doing it. And we've all had those days, rather seldom may I add, where our golf swing just knitted together and the results were way above our norm, only to return another day back to square one. There must be a more consistent alternative.

When anyone comes to my school for a golf lesson, I always ask two very important questions before I start...

How much time do you intend to spend practicing each week?

Do you intend to adopt a stretching routine before each practice session and for how long?

These questions put me in a better position to advise my students on how they will be able to swing and I can also clear up the myth of why they shouldn't or can't adopt a pro-like swing. Most people want to play for hours on end but devote less than one hour per month on practice. On the same breath, a couple of minutes of stretching each day is well above average.

I have devised an easy drill that proves why this textbook swing is more athletic than golfers are led to believe. (Up to this point they have been so obsessed with looking ''correct'' at the end of the back swing that they were ignoring natural swing fundamentals. Typical errors include: lifting the club to this position; weight over the target foot; straightening of the off target leg; over rotation of the hips and many more.) Performing my drill, my students manage to experience back swing restriction for the first time. The fittest of my students have trouble stretching further than a three quarter length back swing. Putting it simply, how can a regular golfer who hasn't, and normally doesn't want to, put in the practice hours or essential stretching required, be expected to accomplish the very atheletically challenging conditions achieved by the top athletes of the sport.

My biggest problem when I coach this game is unfortunately all too common. This textbook swing is so deeply imprinted in every golfer's mind that a much more natural swing with important qualities like fluidity or back swing restricion is a rarity. I used to lose students when I told them they weren't fit enough for a complete backswing. Most of them had the same visual impression of how to swing properly and didn't realise there should be natural restriction. These days most of my new students are promptly introduced to this natural condition with my aforementioned drill.

Let's get down to this simple drill and for most of you it's time to feel this backswing restriction for the first time! I prefer to introduce this drill to my students without a golf club because with one they do the 'same old - same old' and don't feel the natural back swing restriction that I am trying to portray.

I use a carpet beater when I introduce this drill. (A tennis/squash/badmington racket does the same job.) At ground level, I place a cushion against the wall and procede to hit it one handed - my dominant hand - with a forehand action and don't think about golf but naturally striking the cushion. You should feel little or no backswing restriction at this point and you should notice that you don't take the racket back as far as the conventional parallel position at the top of the advised golf swing.

Within a few swings you should feel that this is a very natural task for you that belongs to other motor skills in your repetoire that have been mastered. You are now ready to feel natural backswing restriction! It's time to use the other hand but we don't want this hand to interfere with what I describe as your own natural swing. This hand has to be put in place as a non-interfering passenger. Lie the four fingers of this hand on the back of the hand holding the racket and fold the palm snugly above the adjacent thumb. Now repeat the forehand action. I expect most of you won't get your hands much higher than your hips on the back swing.

This drill makes you experience tighter restriction than the conventional grip but the important thing is to feel this natural condition. At this point everybody is surprised at how fit you have to be for a full back swing

A golf swing without restriction is always unnatural and almost always wrong.

I repeat...

A golf swing without restriction is always unnatural and almost always wrong.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

06 Mar 2012, 19:06

Well does'nt time fly? - Seems like yesterday when we were arranging this.

To the Epping Bandits please note; we win by default if you cant arrange a home match within three months of your away game. That would be end of March.

Let us know.

Regards,

Daniel

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

06 Mar 2012, 01:43

I agree too, "the rub of the green will always prevail.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Looking for a 21 to 23 year old...

05 Mar 2012, 17:04

Folks,

Despite what you may think, this isn't a spam posting or some lonely hearts ad...

Let me enlighten you..

The current Mrs Gray has approved my request to join a golf club in the Guildford area, so I have been searching around for best courses and options available etc, and I find the offer from Bramley GC particularly attractive.

Basically, the offer is designed to attract "younger" members to the club, which quite clearly rules me out.. But a new member of my age (over 41 years old) can join for a reduced fee IF THEY JOIN AT THE SAME TIME AS A YOUNGER PERSON.. So, it is in my best interests to find a younger person to join at the same time as me..

In fact, so much so, that I would cover membership subscription for the both of us... It wouldn't cost the other person anything, and they could simply leave the club at the end of 2012 (if they wanted).. They needn't even play the course !!

The optimum benefit is if the person is 21 to 23 years old, but there are options (to a lesser extent) for anyone aged 18 - 20, or 24 - 26..

If anyone is interested, please let me know ?

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Win £15 off vouchers from Golfing in Style....

02 Mar 2012, 11:41

Dear TSGers,

It's competition time again!!

This time we're giving away 3 x £15 vouchers to spend at the new, up and coming online Golf Clothing retailer Golfing in Style!

Golfing in Style is all about clothes for on and off the course. Their mission is to bring you a modern look yet with classic styling. They offer brands such as Farah Vintage, LUKE, Tommy Hilfiger and UKKO amongst others! Their philosophy is simple…....look as good in a bar or restaurant as you do walking down the fairways.

The business has started with a core product range thatthey hope you like, they want to build a solid customer base and feel strongly that the customer is always right. Founded in little over a year ago, they pride themselves on top rate customer service!

To win one of these unique money off vouchers, all you have to do is answer the following question:

"What does 'Golfing in Style' pride itself on?"

(think about it...)

To be included in the draw: Send your answers to theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

Answers are required to reach us by Thu 8th March at Midnight.

Winners: to be announced Friday 9th March.

That's all folks.....enjoy the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Furthermore, as well as the above competition, Golfing in Style are giving ALL TSG members 15% discount off all purchases to ALL TSG members!

To claim your discount, simply enter the following coupon code in the checkout area: TSG

For further details, visit the TSG member offer pages: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers

Golfing in Style - Clothing for on and off the course - www.golfinginstyle.co.uk

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

29 Feb 2012, 19:08

Tend to agree Ian, but the purists among us would never accept the ruling. It has been part and parcel of the game since inception, and the 'rub of ther green' will always prevail. It's one of the quirks of golf that make it the game it is....unforgiving, demanding honesty and integrity...all good old British values - gulp!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \SCORECARD CURIOSITIES

29 Feb 2012, 18:33

[quote=Roger Marsland]In the distant past, I posted that I had enjoyed/endured a round with all numbers from 2-9 on my card. Well, today, my round was at the other end of the spectrum in that I managed to have only three numbers on my card this time - 3, 5 & 6. Unfortunately, there were far too many 6s and not enough 3s for my liking. Has anyone else managed to keep a 4 off their card?! [/quote]

I've done it twice for the wrong reasons 128 at last years open day, and 132 the following weekend, nothing lower than a 5 :-(

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \SCORECARD CURIOSITIES

29 Feb 2012, 18:02

Nothing quite so numeric as that I'm afraid, although I did play with a fellow TSGer last year, whom, if I recall correctly, scored a 4 on every hole on the front nine!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

29 Feb 2012, 15:03

Hmmm...I'm inclined to agree with Andy on this one........I for one would have no issue with any TSGers dropping a ball from a divot (rather than just placing!) and I think given we are all about 'social golf rather than competitive, it would sit well with me!

But John makes an equally fair point, that this would not count in competition though!

I am not so sure about the bunkers issue though as this could be abused without a specific R&A ruling!

However, I think we should petition the R&A (!!) maybe we could post a 'vote' now thread and send this into the powers that be.....

Whatdayathink?

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \SCORECARD CURIOSITIES

28 Feb 2012, 14:27

In the distant past, I posted that I had enjoyed/endured a round with all numbers from 2-9 on my card. Well, today, my round was at the other end of the spectrum in that I managed to have only three numbers on my card this time - 3, 5 & 6. Unfortunately, there were far too many 6s and not enough 3s for my liking. Has anyone else managed to keep a 4 off their card?!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

28 Feb 2012, 09:25

It's a nice idea to have an agreement with the people you are playing with to be allowed to rake bunkers left in a mess by inconsiderate players. Nice to have a 'pick and place' all year round with those same players. BUT what do you do when you turn up for a competition, may be club, may be an open game, you will not be allowed to get that agreement as it is not in the R&A rule book. You are then at an immediate disadvantage to all the other non-TSG players who as a matter of course play out of footprints and divots.

Maybe you never play in these sorts of games, but many of us do. It is unfortunate to land in these areas, but it is not as though you land in one on every shot. A footprint in a bunker is a pain in the ar*e, but the bunker is a hazard that you were really trying to avoid (unlike the pro's who sometimes use the bunker as the lesser of two evils). Landing on an unrepaired divot is a pain, but not something you find you've done or do on every fairway.

I know this makes me at odds with the rest of the posters on this thread, but I think we should grin and bear it. As it is, unfortunately, what would be classed 'rub of the green'. As long as we all rake the bunkers, even the areas of the bunker you actually did not use but has marks, and repair divots that you make to the best of your ability, there is always the chance one of the ingrates that normally can't be bothered will see and do the same (or I can keep dreaming!).

John

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

27 Feb 2012, 09:20

Andy, I don't think TheSocialGolfer can get involved in making its 'own' local rules as we play so many different courses in varying conditions, but it's probably a good idea to have an 'agreement' with playing partners to lift, rake & replace a ball that's in a bad lie left by a previous player. Or, treat a footprint as an 'animal scrape'?

Some courses do partially address the problem by having a 'Preferred Lies all year' rule, but if we start changing rules, we may find our handicaps not accepted.....and who needs another h/c discussion?!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

26 Feb 2012, 23:17

Ian, is it not possible to make a social golfer 'rule' just as in 'local rules under' the rules of golf. simply as has been stated as unfair, that ball to be placed withing 6 inches of the divot the ball was in for instance,,, and siply allowed to rake and place in a poor bunker sir?
and to be honest, if players in a group choose to stick to the standard rule, it is simply a choice and no one is affected.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Site downtime apology.......

25 Feb 2012, 14:51

Dear All,

Just a quick note to apologise for the downtime we have been experiencing with the TSG site today.

We received a notice from our webhosting company late yesterday, explaining that they needed to carry out emergency works on their servers but that would take place between 10pm and 8am last night.....

However, it would seem that this server maintenance overran by some 5+ hours!!

Whilst in our view this is totally unacceptable (I will be calling them first thing on Monday to make my feeling felt!) we must reiterate this is the first time in more than four years that we have experienced downtime on TSG for longer than a few minutes at any one time and as you know is by no means reflective of the usual service we provide.

Rest assured we will asking them for a formal apology, in the meantime, please accept OUR apologies for the inconvenience this may have caused.

Best Regards

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

24 Feb 2012, 19:34

I am at PRO level just shot a level par round, puts me on 72.00 average score. If only golf was like this for real.
Would be a great feeling going to Woburn G.C. knowing your game is top draw.
I have not subscibed to the site,and play with the starter set of clubs,its great fun.
The only draw back is when you are playing with someone who has invested in a set of clubs,they hit the ball a lot further,and when they also play with a better ball it has a better response on the green,it looks great when it fizzes back with all the spin.
The only bad part about this game is there are a lot of Americans who Disconnect when they are loosing or playing bad.
It has a chat drop down where you can talk to your opponent on the game about the game
complimenting on a good shot or what ever you want to talk about.
I like winding up the Yanks especially when you are playing a pairs team event.Its a great laugh,they get upset when you mention the Ryder cup.
LIKE GREG I LIKE PLAYING IT FOR FREE.
give it a go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which ball do YOU play??

24 Feb 2012, 15:20

Hilarious Dave, must get me some of them.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which ball do YOU play??

24 Feb 2012, 14:32

Brilliant!!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which ball do YOU play??

24 Feb 2012, 08:25

www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIR3oCQMQBE

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

21 Feb 2012, 20:28

Just wondering how many TSG'ers are playing this and what levels have you reached?, i've managed to make it to level 45, status Pro, average score is 74.8, but the thing i like best is the various different types of golf game on offer. You can suscribe if you wish, to enable more equipment options but their is no pressure to do so, i'm quite happy playing for free.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Temp Greens

21 Feb 2012, 07:49

[quote=Ian Mullins]
With regards to the Temp greens specifically, I don't see much point in entering a card if the holes are like buckets but if the temp greens are of good quality then yes.

Its all down to the individual, this is a game of honesty and therefore the player should know in himself whether it is fair representation of his(or her) round!

:-)[/quote]

agree. Honest game is important.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

16 Feb 2012, 10:20

Thanks for all your feedback.....with these comments and email we have received, the general consensus seems to be:

- Glossy mags are a luxury and based around a 'time' factor/travelling
- Online/websites are a good resource for product
- Twitter is great for day to day tips and following 'The Stars' and latest news
- Free local golf mags are well read and are relevant
- There's little interest in digital mags
- Facebook...hmmmm.....didnt even get a mention!!

Thanks TSGers.

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

16 Feb 2012, 10:10

What a shame! Still must have been nice to see a '1' on the card!!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Temp Greens

14 Feb 2012, 10:00

Hmmmm.....I agree with Dave, I think you have to make a judgement based on the conditions and the course layout. However, I think if the course length has been altered and is no longer representative of what is on the card then its a no.

With regards to the Temp greens specifically, I don't see much point in entering a card if the holes are like buckets but if the temp greens are of good quality then yes.

Its all down to the individual, this is a game of honesty and therefore the player should know in himself whether it is fair representation of his(or her) round!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Temp Greens

14 Feb 2012, 09:14

I think it depends on the circumstances. The obvious example was stockbrook manor recently where there were 18 temporary greens but the holes themselves were like buckets.As long as you hit the ball roughly on line it had a fair chance of dropping. On the day a lot of people came in with very high stapleford scores but chose not to enter the cards both for handicap and leaderboard purposes, which i think was reasonable,
Had it just been that the tees were forward and the greens back but the holes were standard size then I suspect more people with exceptional scores would have entered their cards as a truer reflection of their play on the day.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

14 Feb 2012, 07:06

It wasn't at a TSG game - they are thin on the ground oop north - but I got my first hole in one just before Christmas at my home course, Reddish Vale in Stockport

2nd hole - a 150 yard carry over a ravine. I hit a 7 wood but thinned it. It hit the bank in front of the green like a bullet and then I lost the ball in the low bright winter sun.

After searching at the back of the green one of my playing partners found my ball in the hole! This came exactly one year to the day after taking up golf and joining Reddish Vale.

Hoefully next time I'll actually see the ball go in!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

11 Feb 2012, 10:31

I tend to use magazines while travelling or on holiday - I can access all articles, interests and golf equipment online with other users ratings.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Temp Greens

10 Feb 2012, 23:36

I put my cards in if there are temporary greens,and I know fellow T.S.Gers do.This all comes under playing "winter rules"
Some people will say you cant because it's not a proper golf hole with temporary green.
What happens when you are playing off a temporary tee,with a proper green in play?The hole will be reduced in length,most times which gives the hole a new perspective on how you play it and the score you make.
Good question this one,I would say yes to putting your card in.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Temp Greens

10 Feb 2012, 21:11

Do you think its ok to put in your card when there are temp greens ?

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

09 Feb 2012, 13:56

[quote=David Pipe]Hey, I'm the MAN ... the ladies love me! I guess now I'll never know what that "suitable vital thing" is she had to tell me ... it might have been something to take a few strokes off my game.
[/quote]

You still have her email address David, perhaps you could follow it up and post the results...but not with too much graphic detail please :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

09 Feb 2012, 13:47

I'm also in complete agreement with both these proposals. Provided the stance is not improved in any way. Agreement should be sought with playing partners, where a ball in a bunker has plugged - in a footprint or rabbit scrape etc. Should the sand be raked and the ball replaced then pushed into the sand with the same degree of 'plug'. I think so.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

08 Feb 2012, 11:16

I totally agree that something has to be done in both these case' as it would appear that more and more so called golfers fail to do eithe,r and I am afraid that it is now becoming the norm,
Prehaps if more course's had marshalls on them it might help to improve the situation But this would also increase the cost if a round,would you be willing to pay a bit extra to have a marshall on course's? to make sure players replaced thier divots and raked the bunkers

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Las Vegas

08 Feb 2012, 09:10

Oh, I almost forgot: To get good deals on green fees, book ahead at www.golfnow.com

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Las Vegas

08 Feb 2012, 09:09

Hi there,

My place is in Summerlin, on TPC Las Vegas. I can certainly recommend that course, but it's expensive.

Here is a list of the courses I play when I'm back home:

1. Angel Park - Two courses, Palm and Mountain. Both a good test. Cost is very reasonable.
2. Rhodes Ranch - I LOVE this course, it's my favourite in Vegas. Beauifully manicured, lots of water (and a waterfall!), and not too expensive.
3. Black Mountain - In Henderson. Good course at a very good price. Nothing spactacular, but solid value for money.
4. Siena - Similar to Black Mountain, but a bit nicer.
5. Bear's Best - The Nicklaus course ... very expensive, but worth the money. Great course, excellent condition, and a tough test.
6. Badlands - 27 holes set in Red Rock Canyon. Very nice ... I've played there a few times.
7. Primm Valley - Two courses, Desert and Lakes ... I've played them both, and they are awesome. This place is a bit of a drive, out near Baker.
8. Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort - Three courses, all of them totally awesome. I highly recommend this place ... beautiful scenery, excellent courses, and perfect conditions.

If travel is a problem, and you MUST play a course on the Strip, there is only one: Bali Hai. It's quite expensive, and hasn't been maintained very well over the last few years. In fact, all 3 Walters Golf properties (Bali Hai, Royal Links, and Desert Pines) have all gone downhill.

My recommendation is to rent a car (very cheap in Vegas ... you can find deals for $20/day if you look) and play my top reccommendations:

Rhodes Ranch
Paiute
Primm Valley

If you have the time, drive out to Mesquite (on the Nevada/Arizona border) and play the Palmer courses.

Have fun!

David

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

08 Feb 2012, 09:01

I used online for readings. I only buy magazine when I'm traveling.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Las Vegas

08 Feb 2012, 08:54

Have you heard about Angel Park? My friend recommended this golf course with us but since I can't golf anytime this month, I think you should inquire about it. If its okay with you, I've known a golf vacation specialist who can assist you with that. Here's the website link. www.golfzoo.com/

Hope it helps :D

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

08 Feb 2012, 08:47

[quote=Colin Samuels]I have Golfshot on my iphone . I have used it for 18 months . It cost £18.99 to download and it is excellent. One tip , when your on the course if you tap the bottom left corner of the screen it puts the app into sleep mode , this saves the battery life. I can do 18 holes using aprox 40% of the phones battery life.
[/quote]

Yeah I recently discover it too. It was great.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

08 Feb 2012, 08:43

I can see the headline now......'TSG boss leads march to St Andrews'......certainly a way of raising profile, but possibly not the image to portray!

I would be prepared to write a letter to The R&A Rules Committee asking if they would consider these suggestions. Any response would be very interesting but, obviously, the argument would carry more weight with more names behind it.

'Play the ball as it lies, play the course as you find it, and if you cannot do either, do what is fair.....' is the statement at the front of the Rulebook. BUT, in the etiquette section (p20), it reads that bunkers and divots should be 'carefully repaired'. Surely it is not 'fair', then, to have to play from a lie that has not been repaired?

Any more opinions?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Las Vegas

07 Feb 2012, 21:31

Hello,

Its been a long time since i have posted, so i hope you are all well.

I have booked to pop over to Vegas agin this August. As last time i went it was a drinking 24/7 holiday we never got close to a golf course. This time we have the wifes in toe so we have to behave, so this is going to be something for us todo, plus i was gutted last time that i let such a chance pass me by.

So can anyone recommend a good course to play (as there is so many to pick from) we would need to hire clubs as we wont be taking are own.

Hope someone can help.

I know Dave Pippa had a house out there so, lets hope he still uses TSG.

Cheers
Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

07 Feb 2012, 17:25

Hi John,

I totally agree with both of these suggestions.....what happens now though?

Do we all need to sign a petition or go on a march?

Lemme know!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Day of Golf For Two Plus 40 Driving Range Balls Each for £29 at Westerham Golf Club (Up to 80%

06 Feb 2012, 13:01

Thanks Robin I've just bought a voucher - excellent value for that course!

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

06 Feb 2012, 12:02

Hi all,

This is obviously an old thread and one that was posted before 'our' time on the site.......

HOWEVER, rest assured we are looking into this again and hope to have some samples for you all to see at this year's TSG Golf Day!

Best Regards

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

06 Feb 2012, 11:55

Hi To The offical towel buyer you can forget about my one ! I have run out of Soap!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Day of Golf For Two Plus 40 Driving Range Balls Each for £29 at Westerham Golf Club (Up to 80%

06 Feb 2012, 08:30

Hello,

I just thought I'd let you know about a promo I saw on Groupon. Golf for 2 people at Westerham GC for £29. Thats £14.50 each plus 40 driving range balls!! Excellent offer for this course. I have bought 2 vouchers and will post a game soon, anyone can recommend a time then let me know.

Regards

Robin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

05 Feb 2012, 20:23

I agree, Jack - if an earlier player hasn't bothered to repair their damage, why should someone else suffer?

On the European & PGA Tours, bunkers and divots are repaired immediately, so I think we should all be allowed to play under similar conditions to the pro's. The game's difficult enough without having to contend with unfair lies!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

05 Feb 2012, 20:11

I usually have several magazines - mostly the free ones like Golf News, National Club Golfer, Essex/Kent Golfer and I occasionally get Todays Golfer or Golf Monthly.

I always spend more time reading the magazine rather than online, but I'm not a fan of those 'ebooks' either! Websites are useful for the latest pro news and tournament scores, but for an interview, instruction or reviews,etc, I would prefer the printed copy.

My view is that I look at a screen enough, so it would be a sad situation if the 'hard' copy wasn't available.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

05 Feb 2012, 20:07

I will have a rant,John!!!!!!!!! what about if you hit your SUNDAY BEST drive up the middle of the fairway,it comes to rest in a divot that has not been repaired.

Surley a new ruling could be made to overcome both these situations.
This is a good one for a starter.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Rules - what should be changed?

05 Feb 2012, 18:43

The January TSG News included an item about R&A Rule changes for 2012.   The revision process is ongoing, with views of many ordinary golfers taken into consideration - golfers like 'us', perhaps...?

What do TSGers think......which rules don't seem fair at times?   What should be changed?

Every week, Sky TV show golf played on manicured courses around the world, where players always have a perfect lie on fairways and in bunkers.   A good lie makes any shot easier to play, but how annoying is it when your ball is in a bunker that hasn't been raked?   It's almost impossible to play a good shot from a size-10 Footjoy print of a player from an earlier group, so wouldn't it be fair and sensible to allow us to lift the ball, rake the sand and replace the ball in the same position?   We'd then have a chance to play a shot like we see on TV......without an unfair disadvantage caused by lack of regard for the etiquette of the game.

Flooded bunkers......that's another one, but I don't want to 'rant'.....!!!

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

05 Feb 2012, 13:22

would buy a bag tag in a bright colour with TSG logo.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

04 Feb 2012, 21:30

OMG - I am only reading this for the first time!!!! Very amusing. Anyway - I can definitely confirm that there are some of us who do play golf :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

02 Feb 2012, 23:33

I buy about 2 mags per month, Todays Golfer, Golf World or Golf Monthly. I enjoy reading the practice tips, and news about courses played by other people. I do find the equipment reviews rather manufacturer biaised in their content - much of it seems to be just lifted from their advertising! I would like to see more challenging reviews and some independent testing. I agree the mags are rather expensive, but I do keep mine for quite a while - then pass them on to my son, who is also a keen golfer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \300 Yard Putt!!

01 Feb 2012, 07:34

Hopefully this link works? If it doesntthe URL is:

http://americangolf.globalgolfpost.com/americangolf/20120130?pg=1&pm=1&fs=1#pg28

I wont spoil it all, but Wdge 175 Yards& the last shot a with a putter 300 yards!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

31 Jan 2012, 21:14

i like Mags and get Golf Monthly and Todays golfer sent through each month i like to read Mags papers etc as all this on line stuff does my head in if i didn't buy them id spend the money on either more Golf stuff i don't need or more lottery tickets i know what you mean about the Adverts but i like the forum's and views put across and especially the write ups and course info it give's me an insight into Visiting places the other Half and kids can go to whilst i pop out for golf holidays to try and even the balance out.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

31 Jan 2012, 18:23

I have Golfshot on my iphone . I have used it for 18 months . It cost £18.99 to download and it is excellent. One tip , when your on the course if you tap the bottom left corner of the screen it puts the app into sleep mode , this saves the battery life. I can do 18 holes using aprox 40% of the phones battery life.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Stack & Tilt Golf Swing

30 Jan 2012, 19:37

I am changing to this swing style this season.

Lots about this on the net.

Here is my Blog address - there is a bit on there about my day spent with Rory McIlroy last year too.

http://getstacked2012.blogspot.com/

All the best

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

30 Jan 2012, 19:34

I use a Snooper Sapphire S280 (Shotmiser) and I cant fault it:

1) The course downloads are free for life (I've had 40 on it at once with no problems)

2) It acts as a Satnav in your car too, once you have downloaded the course, you have an option that allows you to drive straight to it!

3) Speed Camera detection is included which is also free up-dates for life - I've had it 2 years and have now cleared all the points from my license.

4) If they don't have a course map for you - they will map it within 2 weeks.

I also have a Laser rangefinder which I use on our PGA academy par 3 course - mage by Pargate which is good, but form all the GPS features I would guess I'd choose that by preference.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

30 Jan 2012, 08:53

All leisure pursuit magazines, sold via newsagents, are far too expensive to buy, speaking for myself i don't wish spend my money on a product where it seems every other page is advertising. Magazines, when i used to get them infrequently, seem to repeat some info, (how many different ways can you show someone the correct grip...for example), If i need to find instruction, course guides or any other golf related subject i can now find it on-line.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

29 Jan 2012, 05:10

The only time I buy golf magazines is when I'm traveling ... Something to read on the plane.

Otherwise, it's mostly online reading for me.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

28 Jan 2012, 20:55

My own perspective. I LOVE golf. I play 2+ times a week. I watch on TV 10 hours a week. I follow numerous players/correspondents on Twitter. I use many websites. I pick up free mags from my club. ....but I do not BUY any mags.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Mags.....are they on their way out?

28 Jan 2012, 15:24

Dear All,

I had an interesting debate earlier in the week about the future of Golf Mags and would like to know the thoughts of other TSGers.....

- Are they still relevant in today's market?

- Would you rather see local news or celebrity features in these mags?

- Do you think the hard copy is dead, as people begin to switch to Online, Mobile and iPad versions?

- If publishers switch to digital versions - will you spend as much time reading them?

I have my own views but would like to know what everyone else thinks!

Regards

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\SOPA

27 Jan 2012, 23:08

Hi Kathy, hopefully it will drive the fakes off the web, Callaway are in the process of taking several fake sellers to court so maybe the rest of the golf companies will follow suit if they are successfull.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

26 Jan 2012, 07:54

[quote=Ian Mullins]Dont buy one Richard, these are available at most golf clubs and are free, even for non members!

Alternatively, you can view the latest new rules at :

www.randa.org/Rules-and-Amateur-Status.aspx

Ian
:-)

[/quote]

Thanks to these Ian. I've been looking for these lately.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

25 Jan 2012, 17:12

Thanks Jack and Ian.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

25 Jan 2012, 14:43

Dont buy one Richard, these are available at most golf clubs and are free, even for non members!

Alternatively, you can view the latest new rules at :

www.randa.org/Rules-and-Amateur-Status.aspx

Ian
:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

25 Jan 2012, 14:11

If you are a member of a Golf club you will be able to get a copy from the Pro shop,these are printed free by the R/A to distribute to all courses in the U.K.
Your golf club should have stock of them by now,and supply you with a copy.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

25 Jan 2012, 12:27

Hello, where would be the best place for me to buy the most up to date Rules of Golf book, need to catch up on a few things. Cheers.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Parallel Clothing Sale..........

25 Jan 2012, 10:02

Worth a look I reckon....

ParallelClothing.com

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Discount club prices

24 Jan 2012, 05:30

It's quite impossible. I think these are imported..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

19 Jan 2012, 20:48

Well now thats much clearer !!! THANKS John

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

19 Jan 2012, 20:44

The relevance of the change to rule 13.4 is that if, when playing from a hazard, you fail to get the ball out, you are now permitted to smooth the sand or soil BEFORE playing a second shot from that same hazard.

Previously, raking before playing was not allowed, as it could be considered 'testing the surface', but given that you can dig your feet in before making a first stroke, it was felt there's really no advantage to be gained.

There are times when the player (or caddie) is really just trying to save time by raking the bunker, so as long as the lie of the ball or line of play are not improved - it's now acceptable from January 1, 2012.

Rule 18.2b was explained in the January TSG Newsletter!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

19 Jan 2012, 19:35

I can understand the reasoning and need for the first rule.
The second I am not to sure about could someone explain it in leymans term,I dont fully understand it
Thanks
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \2 sensible rule changes for 2012

19 Jan 2012, 16:46

Thought you should all be aware of a couple of rule changes which make sense, especially the first one when playing on a windy day!

Ball Moving After Address (Rule 18-2b). A new exception is added which exonerates the player from penalty if their ball moves after it has been addressed when it is known or virtually certain that they did not cause the ball to move. For example, if it is a gust of wind that moves the ball after it has been addressed, there is no penalty and the ball is played from its new position.

· Ball in Hazard; Prohibited Actions (Rule 13-4). Exception 2 to this Rule is amended to permit a player to smooth sand or soil in a hazard at any time, including before playing from that hazard, provided it is for the sole purpose of caring for the course and Rule 13-2 (improving lie, area of intended stance or swing or line of play) is not breached.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\SOPA

19 Jan 2012, 05:26

So here comes this SOPA issue. And lately there were website blackouts. So how do you think it will affect us golfers?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Ball Ruling..........

17 Jan 2012, 06:25

I think David, John and Kathy have got it right. And John you are not a sad anorak, but many golfers don't. even try to get to know some basic rules

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Ball Ruling..........

17 Jan 2012, 05:39

I'm pretty sure you cannot change your ball during the play of the hole, unless:

1. It's lost during the play of the hole; or

2. It is damaged during play of the hole.

So in the case you described, the player should be allowed to switch his ball if it has been damaged (for example, the cover has been "cut" on the approach shot to the green).

Agree with David Pipe's comment :)

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Discount club prices

16 Jan 2012, 00:05

They are up in court as they were all counterfeit clubs. If you click the link you can read all about it & see a list of dodgy websites selling these clubs.

Polls & Surveys\Handicap differentials in match play

15 Jan 2012, 18:24

I have been advised by a society handicap secretary that for matchplay singles the full handicap differentials may now be applied (2012 new rulings perhaps) instead of 3/4 handicap differentials. Not the case for pairs in matchplay yet. I also believe that rules for each competition may be applied locally... so the key word is 'MAY'...

Would this mean that we could claim the full handicap in the TSG Annual Compeitions? which have been Stableford Scoring so not subject to the new rule anyway...

Always a good test and who knows us high handicappers may have a good day anyway, it certainly keeps the low handicappers interested...

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

15 Jan 2012, 13:31

K.I.S.S Or "Less is More"

Well done Ian

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

15 Jan 2012, 13:05

Thanks TSG, I think that is a very considered response, and all those who feel strongly about the leaderboard should be happy with your ruling. It is only a bit of fun after all, but to see your name in lights is good for the golfing ego. I look forward to one day winning the coveted white jersey, but I'm not holding my breath, even though I'm due a good one.......! Happy golfing everyone, and I look forward to playing with many more like minded chaps in 2012. I have enjoyed every one of the games played so far through the TSG, and that's because of it's members.

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

14 Jan 2012, 21:28

[quote=Jack Shelton] DARREN BIGMORE, DARREN BIGMORE, you have been mentioned now Ha!Ha![/quote]

Thanks Jack

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

14 Jan 2012, 20:21

DARREN BIGMORE, DARREN BIGMORE, you have been mentioned now Ha!Ha!

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

14 Jan 2012, 18:49

Didn't think i was going to get a mention

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

14 Jan 2012, 18:44

I think the 'I's have it!

Firstly, a big thank you to Chris E for posting this thread, I think the first thing we can take from this is that there is good number of you, that care about how the site is run, which is shown by the number of postings here on this topic, its great to see so many varying views and not just from the few, we are after all a democracy (we'll almost!).

My initial response, is as both Chris E and Dave A point out, The Social Golfer is NOT like the 'Bricks and Mortar' clubs, where there is constant sniping about scoring and handicaps that causes ill feeling and resentment (if we were, there would be a committee room and a Handicap secretary!). On the contrary, its that kind of out dated approach that leads us to have a site like TSG in the first place.

Like we have said previously many times, we are here to promote the positive side of the game, provide you with a platform to get together with like minded people, share some harmless banter and have a good time enjoying the game we love. Which is why we here at TSG HQ have always been quick to congratulate ANYONE that scores well, regardless of their handicap, their location OR the level of the courses they play, which leads us to the point in question....

Clearly, Epping GC (although it is not on its own here) has a case to answer, especially when you see the number of members scoring a high number of Stapleford points recently but as John B originally states and Colin S echoes, this is a case for the CONGU/EGU NOT TSG! The reason for such anomalies and high Stapleford scores on the TSG leaderboard is not with the player or their handicap or with the differential against the SSS. but as Alan H puts it, with the length/Par of the course and of this we have no control. However, as David J says "You put your score in accordingly and you will be cut and eventually you will receive the correct handicap wherever you play". Hence why we have spent so much development time (and money!) on making sure the TSG Handicap system works as well as it does.

Furthermore, as John A states, Epping GC is NOT dominating the monthly leaderboard every month, it has only produced ONE winner in the last twelve months, certainly since we introduced the 'White Polo Shirt' as a reward for good play and to add some healthy, good natured competition to the site. N.B. This is something I fund from my own pocket and am happy to do so!

As for Mark T, Adam P and Jack S's suggestions (very impressive though they ALL were!), I do not think these are workable, as they would be both difficult explain to those new to the game (my head is hurting already), costly to implement and would penalise those that work full time and dont always get the chance to play every week. I believe that a preferred system like they have in the US, where courses have a slope rating would help but I suspect it will be a long time before the EGU get around to this, they are more interested in whether our shorts and socks are the right length! (Oops, I allowed my personal opinions to creep in there!)

So what is the solution? Well unless the CONGU/EGU review their course ratings, there isnt one BUT we would like to ensure that the TSG system is fair for all and whilst Jack S is correct in saying that we do monitor the scores before awarding the prize, we have decided that the system doesn't currently reward the more established members on the site. As such, as John A hinted at, from the 1st January 2012, members will now be required to enter in 10 SCORECARDS to the system before you are considered for the monthly league table. New members joining will still see their handicap tracked on their own TSG profile page straight away but they will ONLY be eligible for winning the coveted "White Polo Shirt' on their tenth card. The usual three card rule will remain for TSG events and tournaments.

So there you have it guys, the verdict is NOT to ban Epping GC (or any other course) from the leaderboard, a level playing field for the more established handicappers and an incentive for the new members to enter their cards in order to be considered for the 'Good Natured' banter associated with being the TSG 'Player of the Month!

As for the question regarding why do Low Handicappers want to play off 3/4 handicaps when playing High Handicappers (Darren B) I suggest you start another thread on this one! :-)

Happy Golfing!

Ian

----

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

14 Jan 2012, 12:18

Come on guys from over the Water,there is not much of a response from you!!!!!!!! Lets have some ideas or suggestions from you .
There have been some good threads in the past that you have jumped on made it very interesting,this is being dominated by Essex and Home counties.
All input is valid and read by the team,its not a waste of time,this is our site you included.
It only takes 5 minutes to write on here,so try and make the effort.
UNITED WE STAND DIVIDED WE COULD FALL.
JACK

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

13 Jan 2012, 18:09

[quote=Ed McLatchie]

"TSG" If you are giving out ‘TSG’ shirts can I have one?

[/quote]

You need to be 1st mate!! (get that Porche down to Epping by all accounts )

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

13 Jan 2012, 17:30

[quote=Adam Peek]I've quickly re-worked the top 10 using the format I mentioned on the previous page

1st) David Jacobs - 4 under "par"
1st) Robert Wooton - 4 under "par"
1st) Mark Tucknott - 4 under "par"
4th) Jack Shelton - 2 under "par"
5th) Chris Emms - 1 under "par"
6th) Michael Roos - level "par"
6th) Russell Gambrill - level "par"
8th) Dave Blaney - 2 over "par"
8th) Roger Marsland - 2 over "par"
10th) Colin Samuels - 4 over "par"
.[/quote]

I like this system....................probably the only way I'll ever be 1st

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

13 Jan 2012, 13:12

Ok Adam you have got the job lol but i do see what you are getting at, it just looks like lots of T shirts for TSG to fund

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

13 Jan 2012, 12:56

I've quickly re-worked the top 10 using the format I mentioned on the previous page

1st) David Jacobs - 4 under "par"
1st) Robert Wooton - 4 under "par"
1st) Mark Tucknott - 4 under "par"
4th) Jack Shelton - 2 under "par"
5th) Chris Emms - 1 under "par"
6th) Michael Roos - level "par"
6th) Russell Gambrill - level "par"
8th) Dave Blaney - 2 over "par"
8th) Roger Marsland - 2 over "par"
10th) Colin Samuels - 4 over "par"

For those that didn't read my previous theory, this takes your stapleford score, in DJ's case 45 points as being 9 under par (36 points being a theoretical par score). Then adding back the difference between the SSS and course par. In Eppings case, SSS is 63 and par 68 so adding 5 onto David's -9 brings him to an adjusted score of 4 under.
To my mind this is the fairest way of adjusting a score based on the relative difficulty of a course. I know from experience 36 points scored at Stapleford Abbotts members course isn't equal to 36 points scored at their Priors course.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\FOR SALE - TaylorMade Stratus Stand Bag

12 Jan 2012, 09:09

Cheers Ian,

Its only for sale as all these games has tempted me into buying too many clubs and the last time I played Rob was gutted he couldnt "borrow" my 4 iron as it wasn't in the bag!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just lost to the wife

12 Jan 2012, 09:07

[quote=Darren Bigmore] I cant beleive it just lost to the wife at golf Thank goodness it was only on the Wi
[/quote]
I can't believe you've posted this!! Still at least she wasn't talking to horses (private joke )

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

12 Jan 2012, 07:53

Well done, Jack - you've obviously put a lot of thought into this, which would effectively change the Leaderboard into a 'Golfer of the Month' league table.

Fair enough, when TSG is as big as The European Tour, with stats sponsored by Genworth Financial, but we currently pay £19.99 a year.....which must be an even better bargain than Thursday golf at Weald Park?!!!   The costs associated with reprogramming in order to 'average' scores would surely be beyond TSG resources.

We all have the opportunity to record scores and the overall best 5 are shown on the home page - so we can see who's playing well and where. If 3 scores had to be entered, then it wouldn't work until later in the month and individual rounds couldn't be shown......far too complicated, I fear!   The new member handicap problem has now been addressed, so I think don't change something that isn't broke!

With your obvious determination and dedication, Jack, we'll all be happy to see your name continue to appear on that leaderboard and no doubt you'll soon be proudly wearing a TSG shirt !!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just lost to the wife

12 Jan 2012, 05:39

That's how we women play golf.

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

12 Jan 2012, 00:24

Sorry to hear you can only play a couple of times a month,therefore the idea is not suited to you,thats what happens.
You will never resolve the problem to keep everyone happy.Maybe someone else may come up with something!!!!!!!!
My situation changes later in the year,and I will find it a problem too!!
If we can take one thing from this thread it has shown a great deal of positive feed back,and kept the forum alive for a change.
Come on guys lets have some more like this one.CHRIS.E. deserves a polo shirt from the team

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

12 Jan 2012, 00:23

Why not make the leaderboard just for fun, it doesn't have to have a prize. That way those that do like to see our name up there can if we have a good round. And the rest of us will have a wry smile whenever we see an Epping GC score go up.
You cannot ban easy courses. I'll usually play Selsdon Park, but if I'm not playing too well I'll play Addington Court as its an easier course and will make me feel better.

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

11 Jan 2012, 22:23

Good idea Jack, but that excludes all of us who find it hard to play three time in a month, from the leaderboard

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\FOR SALE - TaylorMade Stratus Stand Bag

11 Jan 2012, 20:35

For the record....I was admiring this bag the last time I played with Mark and if it wasnt for the fact that I only bought a new bag myself last year, I would be biting his hand off!

:-)

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

11 Jan 2012, 19:59

Gets my vote but the mechanics(software) might make it later rather than sooner

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

11 Jan 2012, 19:17

Jack Shelton, you have come up with a cracking idea with your average of the highest three cards. If you only put in one card with 45 points on it in the month, you will only end up with 15 points on the leaderboard. Still gives us something to play for (need a new shirt!) and removes the 'freak' round from the equation.

Very similar to the way the Yanks work out handicaps - and that seems to work. Gets my vote. If I am lucky my average over 3 is probably 29 to 33 (depending on if there is a vowel in the month) .

jb

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just lost to the wife

11 Jan 2012, 18:45

I cant beleive it just lost to the wife at golf Thank goodness it was only on the Wi

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

11 Jan 2012, 18:43

[quote=Jack Shelton] Here's one for the pot
The winner for the leader board could be changed to the effect that you had to sumitt more than 3 cards in that month,instead of counting the one exeptional round.
Even if you submitt 10 CARDS you take the 3 highest Stableford scores giving you a total score for your best 3 rounds that month.Divide that total by 3. this will give you your average stableford score for your best 3 rounds that month.
The member with the highest average,wins the LEADER BOARD that month.
[/quote]

That makes sence jack what a good idea

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

11 Jan 2012, 17:29

Here's one for the pot
The winner for the leader board could be changed to the effect that you had to sumitt more than 3 cards in that month,instead of counting the one exeptional round.
Even if you submitt 10 CARDS you take the 3 highest Stableford scores giving you a total score for your best 3 rounds that month.Divide that total by 3. this will give you your average stableford score for your best 3 rounds that month.
The member with the highest average,wins the LEADER BOARD that month.
This will stop New members winning straight away,and cut out the bandits.
There seems to be some feelings that the Leader boad is not important,and creates hassell,and appears to deflect the MEANING OF the SOCIAL GOLFER.
Again its what it says on the tin.THE SOCIAL GOLFER,we all have our own ideas what we want from it.Obviously the most important aspect is the Social side,we have made this site what it is today,lets keep it that way,and make new members feel part of our community.
Also bear in mind things like the Leader Board are important to other members,I like nothing more than to see my name in the top 5 and may be one month I might WIN IT.
I am serious about my golf,and how I play,but more serious about always keeping the SOCIAL ASPECT FIRST.
This is true with most T.S.Gers I play with,long may it continue.
Jack

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

11 Jan 2012, 12:08

Don't ban course's just do away with the leaderboard problem solved. Any way as someone has already said its meant to be a social wed site for us to meet and play with new people.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \SPAM Alert.....

10 Jan 2012, 13:37

Dear TSGers,

Once again we have been hit by Spammers pretending to be lonely hearts.....

However, once again we have managed to prevent these idiots from posting 'most' of their invitations on your profile pages and deleted their comments and THEIR profiles. However, if we have missed any of these postings, please do not respond to these messages as they are purely data collection exercises.

This time we managed to catch them within the hour but we would ask you all to be vigilant and report any suspicious messages appearing on your profiles immediately.

Thanks for listening and hopefully they will soon get tired of this pointless exercise.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-------------------------------

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 19:24

John, you have hit the nail right on the head:

TSG.........The SOCIAL Golfer........it's all supposed to be fun, isn't it ?!!

The minute we all forget it is for fun is the time we all need to pack the game up. If banning courses did happen, how soon before we have a list of courses, and how soon before the membership of this site drops to an unsustainable level?

jb

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 18:35

TSG.........The SOCIAL Golfer........it's all supposed to be fun, isn't it ?!!

Naturally, we all enjoy playing more when scoring well, but it's also good to see the scores of other members when they've had a good day.....as Dave A says....'on whatever course.'

I think it would be difficult to 'exclude' courses from the Leaderboard, or to adjust scores re SSS as where would it end? As Chris says ..... how about Winter Rules....or what happens about a windy day? Let's keep it a 'fun' thing and good luck to those playing the easier tracks, but those having a great round on a tougher course will have more satisfaction...and a bigger handicap reduction!

Throughout 2011, scores from three courses won the monthly prize more than once - Epping, Stapleford Abbotts (Priors) and Kingswood. Obviously some courses are easier to play - last year, 8 of the 12 winning monthly scores were on courses having a SSS at least 3 shots below par (including Seaford Head - Par 71 - SSS 66), but we all have the opportunity to play these if we wish! Every course has it's own Leaderboard, so try for a higher position there!

Incidentally, winning scores ranged from 44 to 47pts, by players with handicaps from 14 to 26 - but the high handicappers are all lower now!

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 17:06

Tend to agree with chris, fair enough if we are playing for a week in spain,but its purely symbolic and speaking for myself, i love to see other people scoring well whatever course it happens to be on

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 17:02

[quote=chris emms]Banning is the thin end of the wedge! Whats next "only off the white tees"! or "only in competition"! or "not under winter rules"! i thought that the TSG was about social golf haveing a round of golf and a bit of a laugh
with a few golfing buddies?? or am i wrong?[/quote]

Chris as soon as you have a Leaderboard us men want to be leading it

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 17:01

[quote=Adam Peek]In my opinion banning courses from the leaderboard is the wrong way to go. As is the idea of 3/4 handicaps.
Can a leaderboard system incorporating both Stableford points and score against par be used. For example a golfer scores 42 points playing a course that has a SSS of 67 against a par of 70....still with me?
Said golfer is 6 under his or her handicap based on stapleford points, but subtract from that the 3 shots the SSS is lower than par so this golfers score for our leaderboards sake would be 3 under Par.
This would also work at "harder" courses where the SSS is higher than par.
[/quote]

Adam that is spot on :) This seems the simplest solution surely ?

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 16:21

Banning is the thin end of the wedge! Whats next "only off the white tees"! or "only in competition"! or "not under winter rules"! i thought that the TSG was about social golf haveing a round of golf and a bit of a laugh
with a few golfing buddies?? or am i wrong?

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 13:06

By the way I'm copywriting that leaderboard idea.....I'll expect royalties if implemented

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

09 Jan 2012, 13:04

In my opinion banning courses from the leaderboard is the wrong way to go. As is the idea of 3/4 handicaps.
Can a leaderboard system incorporating both Stableford points and score against par be used. For example a golfer scores 42 points playing a course that has a SSS of 67 against a par of 70....still with me?
Said golfer is 6 under his or her handicap based on stapleford points, but subtract from that the 3 shots the SSS is lower than par so this golfers score for our leaderboards sake would be 3 under Par.
This would also work at "harder" courses where the SSS is higher than par.

As for 3/4 handicaps, speaking from personal experience, I play off of 24 because I'm not very good (which those that have played with me will testify to!). Cutting this to 3/4 moves the goalposts to suit a small group just the same as banning or not banning a particular course does.

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 22:37

The reason for this becoming an issue is undoubtedly Epping GC - 5 out of the top 10 on the leader board, being there by virtue of having played this course.
Epping GC claim a course length of 5,400yds, but this is off the white tees. As a former member, I know that during the winter months, all tees are deliberately moved forward, frequently many yards in front of the regular ladies tees. It is possible in fact, to drive some of the par 4 greens. This makes a complete mockery of the SSS rating and for that very reason, I believe that this course should not be considered for the leader board standings. On such a course, it is far easier for a 28 handicapper to score 7 or 8 under their handicap than it is for a 10 handicapper to do the same.
The comment that the course could hold the TGS to account does not hold water, as the course is not as described on their scorecards or their own website.
There are some members who take the leader board very seriously, evidenced by the fact that we are discusing this in the first place. Each to his own. Well that's my four penn'orth.

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 18:52

A very good thread this.Some interesting posts all with very good points.Being part of the group that tends play here a bit and "sometimes"scoring well I can see peoples complaints. But as previously commented it should even out if regular cards are put in.However the course is very short and if you are on your game you will tend to score well. The 3/4 thing for me doesn't work. If you are scoring well all the time at the same course, as I said before the handicap system will bring your handicap down to a level that suits the course, you will notice the difference should you play elsewhere.As I have suggested to some of the guys, play off the back tees and see the difference.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\FOR SALE - TaylorMade Stratus Stand Bag

08 Jan 2012, 16:34

As the title says, in very good condition just 6 moths old!! Blue & White. Depending where you shop they range from £109 - £65 I'm looking for £40 collected

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6-Way Top Cuff With Full Length Dividers
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Benefits From Ergonomic Shoulder Straps With Velour Lining

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Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 15:27

If you reduced handicaps by 25% across the board , then I do not see how the leader board would change very much, although admittedly it will change. However if a 25 handicapper is at the top of the board month after month , then it stands to reason that the said players are being cut each month and therefore will no longer be top of the leader board , hence given them harder targets to achieve in future months.

If anyone has a concern with the SSS of a course, then I think their first port of call is the relevent ruling body. It is not our place to decide how easy or hard a course may or may not be, or do we start making adjustments for 'local knowledge' after all some people play the same few courses week in and week out and only submit a card when it suites them .

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 13:33

103 Views and only 13 replys

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 13:31

[quote=David Pipe] Would it be possible to construct the leaderboard such that it reports off of 3/4 handicaps? That would tend to even things out, and we'd no longer see >25 handicaps at the top of the board month after month.
[/quote]

Surely just go by the SSS and that will even it out ?

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 11:17

Would it be possible to construct the leaderboard such that it reports off of 3/4 handicaps? That would tend to even things out, and we'd no longer see >25 handicaps at the top of the board month after month.

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 11:01

I've only been playing just over a year, so please excuse me if I've missed something here,however, for what it's worth my limited opinion is:

The leader board should somehow link to the relevant SSS, which would cut the points in the same format as the handicap system does e.g the past 2 weeks I've had a round of 94, (not sure how?) scoring 41 & 40 points. The 94 for 41 was at Langdon hills with a SSS of 67 and my handicap was cut by 0.4, yesterday my round at Risebridge was 94 for 40 SSS of 71 which saw my handicap cut by a further 1.6!

Another point here is, personally I know myself that the first 9 at Langdon is a lot easier than the first 9 at Risebridge, so I give more personal value to yesterday's 94 than the week before. So unless you can regularly score similar strokes/ points at all courses your perhaps fooling only yourself by playing what may be deemed an easier (I dont think any course is easy) course.

I also thought the leader board was just for fun, with Ian kindly donating a T-shirt to the "winner" each month, but as I said at the beginning maybe I'm missing something?

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

08 Jan 2012, 09:33

Thanks for posting this thread Chris, you beat me to it!

Keep coming with all the views as this is an important debate and one that we would like all TSG members to join in with......

Regards, new joiners, we'll be announcing new rules on their entry into the monthly table later this week.

Ian

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 23:39

What do you mean by a low h/c Darren?
Jack

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 23:29

I have a question for you why do all low handicappers want to do 3/4 handicap when they are playing high handicappers ?

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 23:11

What a great topic for a change,well done Chris this could liven up the forum for some very interesting reading.
I have read all the points of veiw and have to agree banning any course from a leader board is not the answer.
I have never played Epping Forest G.C. so cant comment on it being easy or hard.
I have however just played the Priors at Stableford Abbotts G.C. some say thats an easy course,it is when there is no wind blowing across the course,a bit of a breeze and I challenge anyone to beat their H/c there.
Some regular guys I play with comment on Woolston Manor being a tough course with all the bunkers,the truth is if you end up in one ask yourself why you where in it in the first place,no one has said it should be taken off the LEADER BOARD becuase its too HARD.
No matter what course you play or how you score,everyone has a difference of oppinion of it.
This comes back to the same old arguments about Bandits and so forth.so long as you put in an honest card the H/c system set out by CONGU works for everyone and once you have entered a few cards you will know what your true H/C is.
New members starting off 28 H/c and going top of the leader board are now being monitored by the TSG team.
That is the same for me,I added 4 shots to my H/c this year because of injury, I was top of the Leader board for a few hours today but was beaten.My round over the PRIORS saw me loose a shot off my H/c now 11
My target is to get back to single figures again regardless of what courses I play,it only proved one thing playing off 12H/C AND SCORING 42PTS means I am better than that.
Its great feeling knowing I am going in the right direction,if we where all honest enough to admitt it we all wish our H/c where lower.Its what you are prepared to do to reduce it,and to take a step back when someone hits a good stableford score.
IT MIGHT BE YOU NEXT TIME. TOP OF THE LEADER BOARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!
great post this one again well done Chris.E.
Jack

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 22:00

I agree DJ dont ban the courses just adjust score according with the SSS, Its as easy as that

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 21:16

I agree with John and think he has it right

'Too easy' is only in the eye of those looking in from the outside, just because you have a couple of stunning scores on a course, does NOT mean that the course is too easy.

With regard to the problem of 'bandits' - You put your score in accordingly and will be cut and eventually you will recieve the correct handicap whever you play. but banning scores from particular courses is not the way to go. And if those that complain about certain courses having high scores entered want to rectify the matter, it's easy -

Play the course yourself and get a low score yourself!

No offence to anyone, but banning is not a good idea at all.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Cheap Golf Lessons

07 Jan 2012, 20:34

[quote=Darren Bigmore]Have found some cheap golf lessons at Woolston Manor :) Follow the link

www.groupon.co.uk/in/.Yqcgt5?nlp

[/quote]

Sorry offer has gone.

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 20:22

The only problem you have got, lets take Epping as the example a friend of mine ( Yes rob I count you as a friend ) he scored 47 points at epping last month, he was a 28 Handicapper but only got cut I think was 2 shots because the SSS is low for that course.
If you happen to play courses that have low SSS in my opinion your handicap should be cut the full amount, This is my opinion.
Surely what would be fair is actually manually adjusting the score by taking the SSS shots away from the score, I hope you know what I mean.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

07 Jan 2012, 18:13

My aim was/is to consistently get around in under 100!! Strange thing is somehow for the 2nd game running I've posted a 94, not that I know what I've changed to achieve this! None the less it's still my target

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 17:21

If the EGU have given any club an official SSS then it does not matter what number a player submits as a Stableford score, because it is done under EGU direction.

Epping looks a prime example for a 'too easy' designation, but if that is so why did I only score 34 points? I may not have scored well, but I was happy with my game.

'Too easy' is only in the eye of those looking in from the outside, just because you have a couple of stunning scores on a course, does NOT mean that the course is too easy.

I would also say that if a course was put on the list banning it from the leaderboard, people would stop playing there and then couldn't the course have a case against TSG for damaging their business??

t the root of this is the problem of 'bandits' - I have had my bleat about it before, but banning scores from particular courses is not the way to go. And if those that complain about certain courses having high scores entered want to rectify the matter, it's easy -

Play the course yourself and get a low score yourself!

No offence to anyone, but banning is not a good idea at all.

John

Polls & Surveys\Do We Think TSG Should outlaw some courses from the Leaderboard ???

07 Jan 2012, 16:37

A little bird told me this is being considered by the powers that be at TSG headquarters
and today talking it through with a group of TSGers we thought the wider TSG
Community should be asked about such a move.

It seems that if a course is deemed to easy then scores from that course will not be
counted on the leaderboard ??

what do you think ? all points of view welcome

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

06 Jan 2012, 18:47

Many thanks for the offer Jack but I think you'd be pushing water up a hill......will try to join you for a Thu game at Weald Park one week but alas, this work marlarkey keeps getting in the way at the moment!

John - its no good trying to improve your game on the range, its the fairways you need to be playing on!

:-)

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Cheap Golf Lessons

05 Jan 2012, 08:58

Have found some cheap golf lessons at Woolston Manor :) Follow the link

www.groupon.co.uk/in/.Yqcgt5?nlp

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Ball Ruling..........

05 Jan 2012, 08:14

So I guess it depends on how cut the ball is and how generous you feel toward your playing partner on the day.....

Thanks for feedback!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

03 Jan 2012, 09:45

A very Happy New Year to all on TSG, and good luck to all those with resolutions to reduce their handicap!!

I've not been able to play at all in the last few weeks, so am not sure I should 'resolve' to lower my handicap..... but certainly intend to enjoy being on the course as much as I have since joining TSG in 2011.

With this in mind, I hit 50 balls on the driving range before breakfast on New Year's Day at the hotel I was staying at in Hampshire.....and another 100 yesterday!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

02 Jan 2012, 19:54

Its my intention to get to single figures again by the time I play Woburn on 26 04 12.this means loosing about 3.5 shots off my present H/c.
Ian possibly a more realistic target for you may be to get down to 12 H/C.
That does mean a lot of work,and comittment so we might see you on the fairways a bit more this year.
Come and join any of our games,there are some of us that can help you with you MISSION.
I for one will help you with your game where I can.Just ask me!!!!!!!!!!!!!
good luck anyway
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Bag and Trolley for SALE

02 Jan 2012, 19:39

Callaway Golf Stand bag,red and Black,Plenty of pockets, VGC £40 ono
Golf Trolley pull type, very sturdy, Black, the top clip on trolley is broken ( which holds bag on )but have a strap to take its place. £15 no offers

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

02 Jan 2012, 18:07

Hi Greg,

No, possibly not! However, I would prefer to see this as more of a 'mission' statement than a promise.......or maybe we'll call it a resoultion! :-)

Anyone else got any goals for 2012?

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

02 Jan 2012, 14:43

A very happy New Year to all,

Ian do you think you've allowed enough time for your quest? The very best of luck to you and i hope you make it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Ball Ruling..........

02 Jan 2012, 13:48

Happy new year folks....

And the answer is:

Rule 5-3 Ball unfit for play.

A ball is unfit for play if it is cut, cracked or out of shape...... If a player has reason to believe his ball has become unfit to play he may mark lift and check. Before lifting he MUST announce what he is doing to his opponent/marker and allow them to see damage. If not damaged it must not be cleaned (unless on green) and replaced.

Failure to comply, usual penalties apply.

The new rule book for 2012-2015 is now available and this is on page 46.

I know, sad anorak ain't I???

jb

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Ball Ruling..........

02 Jan 2012, 11:26

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Ball Ruling..........

02 Jan 2012, 11:13

OK, heres one to debate and a question that came up the other day.....

When can you change your ball during a hole? Or cant you?

A fellow player wanted to change his ball on the green last week as it had been 'cut' in flight to the putting surface......can you do this? Or must you finish the hole with the ball you started (unless lost?)

Comments welcome.....

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

02 Jan 2012, 10:47

Happy New Year everyone...

.....in 2012 I'm going to get my handicap down to single figures!!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

01 Jan 2012, 19:46

[quote=Jack Shelton] All the very best to all "T.S.Gers" for a great year of golf in 2012, see you all on the fairways soon.
Jack[/quote]
All the best Jack.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

01 Jan 2012, 11:07

[quote=Jack Shelton] All the very best to all "T.S.Gers" for a great year of golf in 2012, see you all on the fairways soon.
Jack[/quote]

And to you

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY 2012

31 Dec 2011, 22:20

All the very best to all "T.S.Gers" for a great year of golf in 2012, see you all on the fairways soon.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Merry Xmas

26 Dec 2011, 18:46

all the best to you and yours

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Merry Xmas

25 Dec 2011, 21:15

hava great one urself Darren.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Merry Xmas

25 Dec 2011, 09:00

Merry Xmas to all, and hopefully many more straighter shots

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Bank Holiday golf charges!!

23 Dec 2011, 18:48

Robin the other week I got charged w/e price's on a Friday at Cottesmore as their w/e starts on a Friday so the pro said..
It seems that these clubs are a law unto themselves and can change weekends& Bank holidays to suit
.
Prehaps we should tell our bosses that from now on weekends starts on a Friday or even a Thursday !!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wonder what the reaction would be.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Bank Holiday golf charges!!

23 Dec 2011, 18:03

Hi Robin i belive South Essex are still doing the Tsg offer if that helps ? but to be quite honest i dont do a lot of booking of games our groupe have a man for that job lol lol he knows who he is! any way have a good christmas

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Bank Holiday golf charges!!

23 Dec 2011, 12:20

I have just tried to book a round of golf at Surrey National for Thursday 29th December, using the TSG Special Offer, and been told it does not apply to the week after Christmas. I could understand if I was trying to book on the 26th or 27th, as these are officially bank holidays. But what gives golf clubs the right to decide which days they want to make as bank holidays.
They are quick to complain about a lack of income over winter, because of the weather, but every chance they get they are happy to rip us off that little bit extra. I don't mind playing off mats if it protects the course, and I will even play temporary greens occassionally.
Anyone else had similar problems and can recommend some fair minded golf courses?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

20 Dec 2011, 22:57

@Jack Shelton: Jack, seriously?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

20 Dec 2011, 22:55

Hi Ian - I guess the idea is that its open to all societies in TSG with a minimum of 24 members. Annual event. The more the merrier!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

20 Dec 2011, 14:14

Congratulations to the South East Swing.........

Epping bandits, dont despair, myself and a playing a partner turned around an 8 shot lead on day two of a similar type match last year - we still lost but we got it back to 1 down with three to play, so its all to play for!

Daniel/David, what is the format for this going forward? It is an annual match between the two groups or are you looking for another team to challenge the winners etc etc?

Let us know, this could be fun!

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shanks

19 Dec 2011, 22:39

Thanks for that Russ, people dont realise how much convidence it takes out of your game, hopefully sorted it out myself I took a bit off 4x2 piece of wood down the range lined it up first couple of shots clipped the wood after that it was happy days again, played on sunday I think I may of done 1 :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

19 Dec 2011, 22:14

this was the reserve team of the Essex Bandits that played you S.E.S. guys.We where just testing the water,it will be the full strength squad for the return visit.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

19 Dec 2011, 21:22

It was a great day with a great bunch of guys! We look forward to the 2nd (and final) round!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

19 Dec 2011, 20:57

well, a bad result for the bandits, a extremely good result for SES. It hurts to say but 6-0 Im afraid. We were made extremely welcome by a good bunch of guys.A few teething problems with format and costs, but it soon was sorted.Must speak to Daniel about course information and gimmees for next time but will look forward to the return. Best we can hope for is a draw, unless we move the goalposts and have the best of 3!!!!!!!!!. I urge other groups to get involved, you never know you might enjoy it

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

19 Dec 2011, 18:06

Hi Chaps,

Any sign of a match report yet......we're all on tender hooks here?

Ian
The TSG Team
----------------------
:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shanks

19 Dec 2011, 12:37

I developed the dreaded shanks a couple of months ago.

Booked a lesson with my pro and he told me the following.

1) I was standing to close to the ball

2) My backswing was starting to far on the inside.

Once I stood the correct distance from the ball and started the club back on the correct line, no more shanks!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shanks

17 Dec 2011, 18:26

Hopefully tomorrow

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shanks

17 Dec 2011, 15:14

Hi Darren,

Not sure I can offer any advice on how to stop the shanks but when are we going to see you out on the course again!!

Ian
:-)

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf in Chiang Mai (Thailand)

16 Dec 2011, 14:16

If you're planning to play in Chiang Mai. Do play the Alpine Golf Resort & the Chiang Mai Highlands Golf & Spa Resort. They are two of the best in Thailand.
Avoid Inthanon. It is very mediocre.
Cheers

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Is it time i brought new fitted clubs ?

15 Dec 2011, 19:22

ordered my clubs on tuesday cant wait to get them

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shanks

13 Dec 2011, 18:46

I used to shank quite alot, was told by a pro to stand closer and taller to the ball(only slightly)this lifted the heel of the club(again very slightly) and also made you use a more upright swing plane. Once you are used to the new swing go back to your normal stance. Worked for me, only shank every blue moon now. Hope it helps, if not seek a pro's help

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shanks

13 Dec 2011, 15:11

Has anybody had the Shanks before ? if so how did you manage to correct it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Count back ruling on stableford scores

06 Dec 2011, 21:59

thanks for the feed back guys,if ever it did go back as far as the front nine holes I think I will suggest who can down a pint the quickest.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Count back ruling on stableford scores

06 Dec 2011, 19:18

[quote=Mark Hatton]Hi Jack

Ian is correct, but if that still doesn't give you a winner, you go to the front 9 score and start with the first 3 holes, then the first six and even if you still can't split it its the full front 9 score, hope this helps.

Mark[/quote]

If that doesnt work try a drinking competition.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

06 Dec 2011, 08:07

@David Jacobs - We'll see you on the 1st!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

05 Dec 2011, 20:25

Hi Russ,

Hmmm, I think we should put TV rights for this one out to tender, that way we'll get a better deal. They'll be falling over themselves!!

Meanwhile, there IS some more movement media wise.......check out the up and coming 'Golf News' Society Guide (Out Dec 10th) we have an article on TSG in it!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

05 Dec 2011, 17:40

Well SES must be desperate as they sent a spy out today to play with some of the Epping Bandits at Top Meadow today, we didn't say to much Steve Hunt as it would have got back to the opposition, as I played with Steve today I don't think we have much to worry about. Hey keep practicing out there!!!
Let the Dual begin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

04 Dec 2011, 14:11

Hi again Terry,good to see you making use of the sites potential,posting scores and writing on the forum, the forum is where you will get loads of feed back its the back bone of the T.S.G.
You will get other members giving you their feed back,and comments,if you have a point to raise put it on and start a new topic.
i played with you over the Abbotts on your first game,and must say,I enjoyed your company and hope to play with you again very soon.You will fit in well with the T.S,.G community.
With refference to your card on that day,just because you had 6 par 3 doesn't mean you cant enter it and the fact no one signed it.
I don't think I have ever had a card signed in all that I have entered,there are other members who just do the same,it's your own honesty thats relied on.Bottom line is you only cheat your self.
The bandits are always found on this site,thats all part of being on the T.S.G.
If its any consulation I did not enter my card for that round as it would not give me a true reflection on my H/C,
I missed out three holes and picked up on a few others,I simply could not hit the ball in that cold weather because of my hand injury.You do what you have todo,no one criticised me for not entering the card,and I will do it again if happens again.
I played Saturday on my own and entered my card,exactly the same score as my last round on this course,it could have been better,thats golf for you.
see you soon Terry
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

04 Dec 2011, 13:30

Hi Terry

Welcome the the vagaries of the Social Golfing community, mostly we play to enjoy the day out and stick to the rules as much as possible.

Picking up - an interesting concept and what to mark on your scorecard does depend on what you are looking to improve. When I first started I recorded each hole as it happened (6+ on par 3s, more on sime longer holes) for the simple reason that I could go back later and compare with what I had done before. OK there's a time to be sensible my view is that once you have exceeded the scoring potential (e.g. 6 on a Par 3) you should pick up - I'd mark my card as a 6 and move on if there were people waiting behind...

Lots of rules and lots of interpretations, I think social golfers are sensible and generally are out to enjoy the day... you are sure to enjoy the days out and it's a possibility that you will improve...

I'd suggest watching the low handicappers but not necessarily trying to emulate them, unless you can, so play to what you know and short game/putting is the best way to lower scores...

Welcome, and we will see you around ...

[quote=Terry Ainscough]Hi Everyone,

Sorry about the score card I entered on the 01 Nov, but I don't get to play that often due to working and having 3 young kids.
After working long hours during the week the weekend is for the wife and kids, apart from visits to the driving range on the way home from work at 9pm (kids in bed at that time so don't feel too guilty) to hit some clubs for maybe half an hour at a time, and at weekends. I realy can't justify going to play golf for upto 5 hours on saturday or sunday, at least I can take the kids with me to the range on the weekend.
I have also had lessons with David at St Cleres Hall, he has got me hitting the ball straighter and the practice has made me more consistant. I have been spending time on my short game and putting also.
I only get to play when I get a day off from work which is easier to do at this time of year due to my job.
My aim is to get my H'Cap below 20 over the winter if possible and I do seem to have got off to a good start. I played at Stapleford Abbotts on the 1st of Dec and had another good round, but this being my 1st game with TSG didn't know I should have got my card checked and signed by one of the other players, and I also picked up on the 13th (par 3) hole after 6 shots and I am not sure what you enter on your card for this. So I didn't enter the card on the web site.
I am used to playing golf on my own when I get the odd day off so it will be good for me to play with TSG members and learn what is expected of me, and to learn the rules.
I hope to be playing alot more at TSG games over the winter and I hope you won't think too bad of me.
Thanks
Terry
[/quote]

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

04 Dec 2011, 10:50

Hi Terry
look forward to playing a few rounds over the winter with you

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

04 Dec 2011, 09:58

Hi Everyone, Sorry about the score card I entered on the 01 Nov, but I don't get to play that often due to working and having 3 young kids. After working long hours during the week the weekend is for the wife and kids, apart from visits to the driving range on the way home from work at 9pm (kids in bed at that time so don't feel too guilty) to hit some clubs for maybe half an hour at a time, and at weekends. I realy can't justify going to play golf for upto 5 hours on saturday or sunday, at least I can take the kids with me to the range on the weekend. I have also had lessons with David at St Cleres Hall, he has got me hitting the ball straighter and the practice has made me more consistant. I have been spending time on my short game and putting also. I only get to play when I get a day off from work which is easier to do at this time of year due to my job. My aim is to get my H'Cap below 20 over the winter if possible and I do seem to have got off to a good start. I played at Stapleford Abbotts on the 1st of Dec and had another good round, but this being my 1st game with TSG didn't know I should have got my card checked and signed by one of the other players, and I also picked up on the 13th (par 3) hole after 6 shots and I am not sure what you enter on your card for this. So I didn't enter the card on the web site. I am used to playing golf on my own when I get the odd day off so it will be good for me to play with TSG members and learn what is expected of me, and to learn the rules. I hope to be playing alot more at TSG games over the winter and I hope you won't think too bad of me. Thanks Terry

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

03 Dec 2011, 07:50

Quite a few views but not a lot of action. Obviously only SES and Epping bandits are brave enough. for the challenge !!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

02 Dec 2011, 19:37

Message for Ian Mullins, this might be a good oppurtunity to get some brownie points for the site, the TSG Ryder Cup style challenge......
Sky, BBC, ESPN........the sky's the limit!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

01 Dec 2011, 06:47

I dont think so Ian!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Count back ruling on stableford scores

30 Nov 2011, 08:59

Hi Jack

Ian is correct, but if that still doesn't give you a winner, you go to the front 9 score and start with the first 3 holes, then the first six and even if you still can't split it its the full front 9 score, hope this helps.

Mark

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

29 Nov 2011, 21:12

The Epping Bandits looks much nicer than S E S as the first name on the trophy!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Society Cup

28 Nov 2011, 20:50

Ok guys - the Epping Bandits challenged the SES to a match at Surrey National on the 17 Dec 2011(what were they thinking!) we're game. and thought we'd take it one step further.

We're throwing it open to all groups (min 24 members to qualify),
Each group plays a home and away match against every other group,
Teams of eight players each,

Games format: Singles 4 players, Alternate ball 2 players and better ball 2 players
Scoring format: Highest stapleford score wins match - 1 point awarded for each single match, 1 point each for alternate and better ball matches (total 6 points available).

Annual competition,
Trophy awarded to winning group (to keep until next competition),
Group name engraved on trophy.

Knock out format, venues and dates TBC

Suggestions welcome!

So if you think your group is the best (apart from SES of course!) then lets from you!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Count back ruling on stableford scores

28 Nov 2011, 10:25

Hi Jack,

Not sure there is an 'Official rule' on this, however, for the record I always use the following system....

The lowest cumulative (Stapleford) score over the 18, if there is still a tie after this, I revert to 'count-back' on the back 9, then last 6, then last 3 and if its still even, the very last hole. That should sort the men from the boys but if there is still no winner after this - I would toss a coin!

Ian
:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Reset my playing handicap because of serious injury... ?

26 Nov 2011, 14:00

Resetting my handicap was the best move I could have made,I have shot under 12 H/C 4 times now scoring 42pts on one occasion.
Played again today with 3 other members,and scored another 38pts it was very windy,and cold at 8.00a.m this morning.I suffered quite a bit with my grip,because of some discomfort in my ring finger,it is still quite swollen from my injury,the cold wind made it quite painful at times.
Walking along with my powa caddy and an oven glove over my righthand gave some cause for a bit of banter,but who cares,I shot my H/C again and thoroughly enjoyed myself.Thats what its all about !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A few bad shots where cursed,then quickly forgotten.
If I can keep playing and improving like this,now off 11.8 I have every chance of getting back to 8 h/c by the time we play at Woburn.Some t.s.gers may wonder why I write so much on the forum about this subject,the truth is if you set your self reasonable targets after a bad injury like mine,if you are serious enough you will reach your goals,it might give someone else the encouragement to do it as well.
I would just like to add a big thanks to Dave,Greg,and Lucky FRANK( who beat me this morning) for their company and freindship on the course this morning,I had a great one CHEERS LADS .
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Interesting rule.........

25 Nov 2011, 17:21

What if it lands in the droppings can you lift and clean? I know you like to play with clean balls Greg!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Count back ruling on stableford scores

25 Nov 2011, 16:39

If you play in a competion or society golf day and there are say 3 players with the same amount of points,which one wins on a count back.
Is it the score for the last nine holes played,the last 3 holes played,or do you go back through the card starting on 18th and adding the scores together until you reach a winner.
I have heard of so many different variations,what one is seen as the norm??

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

24 Nov 2011, 16:31

Woburn golf day is now booked,and confirmed.If you wish to join the day please see JOIN GAMES SECTION.
We will be playing the Marquess and Duchess courses not the Dukes as stated.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Interesting rule.........

23 Nov 2011, 21:41

On the Jinja course in Uganda if a ball lands in a footprint made by a hippopotamus, it may be lifted and dropped without any penalty

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Interesting rule.........

23 Nov 2011, 19:05

Did you know that if your ball comes to rest close to a white 'out of bounds' stake (but still 'in play') and you attempt to remove the stake, in order to play your shot unimpeeded, it would result in a 2 stroke penalty!!

Seems a bit harsh, when technically the white stake is NOT on the course.....

Anyone know of any other odd rulings?

Ian M

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Is it time i brought new fitted clubs ?

20 Nov 2011, 01:11

well done Glen you will notice the complete change in your game when you get the full set.Now the key issue is to trust the clubs you have and give them a chance.
Results won't happen over night,they are cutsom fitted for you,alot of work lays a head.
One thing to start on is to hit balls over the range,not for practice but to hit say 20-30 balls with each club then take the average distance you hit them.this will give you an idea of what yardage you hit each club.
That what I did years ago,I know how far I can hit every iron in my bag.
Did this set come with an wedges,If so practice hard with these knowing how far you hit them is crucial to a good short game,this is where your H/c will come down,dramaticaly.
Wish you luck with them and look forward to seeing you top of the leader board.
Keep us posted with your progress it makes interesting reading
Cheers
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Is it time i brought new fitted clubs ?

19 Nov 2011, 21:32

Well i had my fitting today with the pro at burlish park.WOW!!!!!!!! i wish i had done this six months ago. He made a 6 iron jpx 800 up for me.Lighter shaft,quarter inch short and 2 degrees flat. After struggling to hit under 100 I did it and this was only with one decent club.Cant wait to get the set now. got to find the money dont tell the wife!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

18 Nov 2011, 23:41

keep practicing Greg,we will have to have W.G.T NIGHT ha ha!!!!
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

18 Nov 2011, 19:40

Have to agree, very good game with excellent graphics/visualisations, only problem is my input.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\jpx clubs hybrids,irons and wedges

16 Nov 2011, 22:54

go for custom fitting,clubs that are made for you,might cost a bit more but worth it in the end.
Best thing I ever done.
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\jpx clubs hybrids,irons and wedges

16 Nov 2011, 14:07

Hi Glenn,

I have a set of Mizuno irons (MX300's). This is my second set and I love them.

However, don't be to swayed by a brand name, the key thing is to get the clubs that are right for you. I had a list of ten sets I was looking at last year and after whitling them down to a Titleist set (I was persauded by the brand image) I changed my mind at the last minute and went back to the new Mizuno's and am very happy.

I also have a 3,4, and 5 set of Cobra hybrid - Bafflers which I swear by and they are currently being discounted to £75 online, I paid £110 each less than a year ago!

My advice would be try to start with a list of 5 ot 6 clubs and try each three or four times before you make your final decision, ultimately its all about what feels right for you, not the shop assistant advising you!

Good Luck.

Ian

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\SPAM ALERT - Angela Love is a scam!

16 Nov 2011, 09:44

Dear TSGers,

It would seem that we have been SPAMMED last night by a certain lady called "Angela Love".

Alas, as some of you have probably experienced with your personal emails inboxes, Facebook and Twitter pages it can be very difficult to prevent, regardless of your website security budget. The strategy behind theyre spamming is in order to collect email addresses to hit you with further email scams at a later date.

However, rest assured this 'Lady' has now been removed from the site and we will continue to keep a strong eye newly created profiles over the coming weeks.

Whilst we have endeavoured to cancel ALL these messages from your profiles today, we may have missed some - so If you have received anything from 'Angela' please delete this from your profile and do not respond to 'her' overtures.

Furthermore, if you see any other activity like this on the site - please alert us straight away in order that we can act as quickly as possible on your behalf.

Many thanks for your understanding - keep em peeled!

Ian & The TSG Team
-------------------------------

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\SPAM ALERT - Angela Love is a scam!

16 Nov 2011, 09:03

Thanks for alerting us to this guys - were on to it!!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\SPAM ALERT - Angela Love is a scam!

16 Nov 2011, 08:27

This is obviously a scam, similar to the one reported last month - see TSG Matchmaking.

OR.....someone who has a real 'thing' for golfers!

No doubt 'Miss Love' will be removed from the site very soon.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\jpx clubs hybrids,irons and wedges

15 Nov 2011, 15:16

I have the 3 hybrid and would definitely recommend that, haven't tried the irons or driver.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\jpx clubs hybrids,irons and wedges

14 Nov 2011, 22:33

I am in the market for new clubs thought i might treat myself to a fitting and a complete set of hybrids irons and wedges. I,ve looked at a few sets but the ones that have really caught my eye are the jpx from mizuno. Anybody got them some feedback would be nice thanx

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

13 Nov 2011, 17:40

[quote=Mark Tucknott]Got one off Tesco's website £189 (collect from store tomorrow) we'll give it a try Sunday mate
[/quote]
Very handy little tool it may not have improved my score on this occassion, but I can see it will

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

13 Nov 2011, 11:52

[quote=aidan mcmahon]screwfix are doing a golf scope for £20 product code 35615 , i will try it out on sunday and let you know how i got on
[/quote] i tried it out this morning and its ok it was near enough right to the fairway markersbut you need a steady hand to get the correct alingment my mate who shakes like a good un had no chance with it lol.it will make a cheap golf prezzie for xmas

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Is it time i brought new fitted clubs ?

13 Nov 2011, 10:39

i am a member of burlish park (was wyre forest). The pro there is doing the fitting for me. I have good reports off people who he has fitted this seems to be the way to go. I know clubs are not everything but all i have talked to said it helped there game.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Is it time i brought new fitted clubs ?

13 Nov 2011, 10:11

where are you going for custom fitting? Don't go to American Golf,there custom fitting is;we can sell you this set money in the till.THANKYOU.
Book an appointment with someone like ping,or a reputable club maker,there are some around,even look in the Essex Golfer mag.
There is alot involved,in Custom fitting,its not a 5 minute job,the most important aspect is to trust the the guy giving you the advice what you need.
Not many golfers adopt this attitude,hats off to you,I have written on the forum many times about my experience of custom fitting,and the advantages it has.
Have a look at the previous posts about it.
My clubs took about 5-6 months to get right each one was hand made.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT,the most important thing is the shaft thats fitted.
I have Rilfle shafts in mine,they are the dogs b;',,.;;;;;;;;.
Let us know how you get on GOOD LUCK
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Is it time i brought new fitted clubs ?

13 Nov 2011, 08:16

I have been playing now for 18 months. I have a set of ben sayers clubs (cheap set) i have gone from hitting around 140-150 to hitting around 100-105. Is it time to invest in a good set of game improver irons and hybrids. I have a custom fitting session in two weeks any advice would be welcome. I was looking at the mizuno jpx 800 clubs any advice?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

12 Nov 2011, 12:10

Ha Ha PLAYING ALL NIGHT , I have not stopped playing it all day either,even stopped me going over the driving range,on Friday to practice,must go got things todo.
W.G.T TIME again
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

12 Nov 2011, 10:46

As Jack says, yes fine on the laptop, the only problem is you'll be playing it all night!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

11 Nov 2011, 23:56

cant get enough of this game its very addictave,its brill'.especially on a lap top.with a sensor pad.
Treat youself to one Greg,and see the difference.One of the best I have played.
Jack

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf in Brittany

11 Nov 2011, 23:39

I played at Golf de Rimaison, near Baud, Brittany, in May, 2011. This is a charming 9 hole course with some testing holes, paid 25 euros, and was told by the English staff member that for that I could play as many rounds as I wished during the day! Managed 18 in the end.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

11 Nov 2011, 23:03

I have got the Garmin S1 Golf watch. Simple to use, loads of courses available, but obviously no pictures!. Not very useful for dogleg holes, since always shows shortest distance to green, not necessarily the mos practical!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

11 Nov 2011, 19:52

Hi Mark, would this game be easy to play on a laptop with a touchpad?, tried some others earlier in the year and found them a bit tricky,..........................or maybe i'm rubbish at pc games.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

09 Nov 2011, 19:54

[quote=aidan mcmahon]screwfix are doing a golf scope for £20 product code 35615 , i will try it out on sunday and let you know how i got on
[/quote]
That won't help with bunkers, ponds etc

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Wrotham heath

09 Nov 2011, 08:15

its a great course got my only hole in one there the par 3 across the rd

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

09 Nov 2011, 07:44

screwfix are doing a golf scope for £20 product code 35615 , i will try it out on sunday and let you know how i got on

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Free on line golf game

08 Nov 2011, 21:07

Be warned this is as addictive as the real thing!! http://www.wgt.com/

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

08 Nov 2011, 19:28

Got one off Tesco's website £189 (collect from store tomorrow) we'll give it a try Sunday mate

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

06 Nov 2011, 18:30

Just played with a guy that had a Garmin Approach G3 Golf GPS Unit was very useful :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

05 Nov 2011, 18:21

I wiil be booking and confirming this Game this week will post the details on the forum, and anything else I will email you with.

Have your diary' to hand.
I will be booking 1 fourball.
cheers
Jack
(I will see you on the 26 11 11 Greg for a chat)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Reset my playing handicap because of serious injury... ?

05 Nov 2011, 18:12

Thanks for the feed back Roger,
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Reset my playing handicap because of serious injury... ?

05 Nov 2011, 18:08

Greg when you are use to playing the standard of golf I was acustom to, I only ever needed one haand to count my score,on any one hole.
I only used 2 hands to add up the amount of holes I had won by,my little finger comes in handy if the hole is halved.
Cheers
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Reset my playing handicap because of serious injury... ?

05 Nov 2011, 16:55

Hi Jack,
you know i'm going to think this is a good idea, anything that will take a little pressure off trying to play as before has to be beneficial, so on the one hand i totally agree with you.......................................but on the other hand............................................counting up your score could be interesting if using your right.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Reset my playing handicap because of serious injury... ?

05 Nov 2011, 12:03

Hi Jack,
Sorry to hear about your injury. Its great to find someone who is prepard to tell everyone that they have changed thier h/cap & why,I am sure that no-one on this web site will object to what you have done.

The very best of luck and hopefully I will be able to see your handicap returning to where you would like it to be.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Reset my playing handicap because of serious injury... ?

04 Nov 2011, 17:21

I have adjusted my Handicap on the site,by adding another 4 shots to my handicap,instead of playing off 8.2, I have decided to start again and play off 12.2.

This I have given a lot of thougut to,because my last few games have been a nightmare,due to the fact I had my little finger amputated on my right hand and have serious injury to my ring and index fingers.
Gripping the club is still a problem,and playing the game to the standard I am use to is a thing of the past.
It gets frustating in many ways not only in the playing capacity,but the mind games when shots that used to be so routine and easy,are now hard work.

I have accepted that I cant play single figure golf now and it will with time get better,but to give my self a realistic chance of posting a decent score have increased my handicap with the goal of getting down to single figures again,at the same time accepting the fact that I am not as good as I was before my accident,and hope that I can start to enjoy my golf again and be more realistic of the situation.

What do other members think, have I done the right thing?

I would like to hear other opinions or Idea's, I am serious about this situation,and would appreciate some positive feed back!

CHEERS

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

04 Nov 2011, 10:31

Hi All,

Rest assured, we are aware that this is an on-going area of controversy but as we have said previously, we congratulate anyone that has a good round and who scores well and who improves their game!

However, we DO take account how many cards have been entered in the system before we award anyone the honour of winning the TSG monthly league.

The current qualification process currently requires three cards being submitted...with the fourth card counting. So in Terry's case, his current score of 47 points (at this stage) will preclude his score from counting in Nov (Sorry Terry!). However, like some of the other well wishing TSGers we would like to say well done on a great round!

Furthermore, as we have also said previous on other threads, we plan to talk to the developers about automating this system in the next site upgrade, planned for the new year (if not before).

Hopefully, that will bring an end to the on going debate.......for now!

Happy Golfing!

Ian
:-)
------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

04 Nov 2011, 08:20

Good idea Alan, I support the 3 or 5 card system.

Any new club you joint. You would have to submit 3 cards before getting a handicap.

I played on me Nintendo wii last night and got 52 stableford does that count.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Gloucestershire TSG Golf Society

03 Nov 2011, 14:59

Lloyd, why not arrange a game and post it on TSG? You never know, there me be someone out there looking to have a game near Gloucester. It would be best to plan it 2/3 weeks in advance, so that more people will have a chance to notice the game. If it does turn out that no one joins, you could always simply cancel the game!

I joined The SocialGolfer at the end of June this year and have already played more than 20 games, many at courses I'd never have thought of playing, so give it a go.....and good luck!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Gloucestershire TSG Golf Society

03 Nov 2011, 12:20

Yup, but it is still in it's infancy....so hopefully it will grow with more and more subscribers. If you have any golfing mates, it might be an idea to mention it to them. I love the fact that I can now join in with games at courses I would never have dreamt of previously. Strange that some people appear loathe to join in with people they don't know....anyway, good luck again

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

03 Nov 2011, 12:03

Firstly, I think Terry should be congratulated on such a good round of golf.

He may have been ' Blinded by The Light' (Manfred Mann!), but he did say that he'd had lessons and practiced a lot since his last round, which has led to the improvement. His card shows 4 x 3-putts, so there is possibly still scope for further gain.

I agree with Alan's point that new members' scores shouldn't be eligible for the leaderboard until 5 cards have been posted, or perhaps the leaderboard should be just for TSG arranged games ?   The initial handicap is always difficult to work out, especially for a new member who hasn't played much golf recently.....probably their main reason for joining TSG!

Most Golf Clubs have a system whereby new members have to put in 3 cards, marked by another member, in order to obtain a handicap. The handicap is then based on the best of those 3 cards - not the average, as it's designed to represent the player's best game.    The TSG handicap tracker works well, but does rely on one of golf's fundamentals.....honesty.....so ideally all scores should be posted and every score over 36 points MUST be posted.   After all, as golfers we all want to reduce our handicaps, don't we?!!

Welcome to the world of The SocialGolfer, Terry.....well played at St Cleres Hall !    Keep up the practice & your handicap will soon be under 20.   There are frequent TSG games in your area, so why not join one, or post a game yourself ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Gloucestershire TSG Golf Society

03 Nov 2011, 11:45

Thanks for your reply Alan, after having joined the forum only recently I've already noticed that it is little used which is a shame.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

03 Nov 2011, 07:03

Steve

Not quite, it was 'Here I Go Again' - 29 years ago in '82.....and yes it was Whitesnake.

And in reply to Chris W, I think Alan had a point on 23rd October.

I have been told many times that I should only expect to play to my handicap a few times a year - and never expect a massive haul of points even then. If that happens, either my handicap is too high, or my handicap was set on a 'difficult' course and my high points were gained on an 'easy' course.

There is a lot to be said for the slope system used aboad.

jb

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Gloucestershire TSG Golf Society

02 Nov 2011, 22:07

Hi Lloyd,
The problem is of course, that few people know of the site. I only came across it by accident, but it has changed my golfing experience dramatically. I hope you have success in forming a group in Gloucs.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

02 Nov 2011, 20:01

Chris,
Here we go again.......was that done by WhiteSnake or ManfredMann??

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

02 Nov 2011, 16:40

Here we go again

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

02 Nov 2011, 08:51

Amazing...I have jsut had a quick look at the leaderboard and there is a 47 point haul on the 1st Novmember.

Its just mad, another high handicapper score! It has to be split up into handicap levels as high handicappers are going to see massive improvements and post scores like this as they are getting started!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Gloucestershire TSG Golf Society

01 Nov 2011, 11:26

Hi,

I'm new to the game so I'm keen to build up my playing and social networking opportunities. I can see that there is not currently a TSG society in Gloucestershire, the nearest being Ledbury, I think.

Would there be any interest from others in Gloucestershire to create a society for the area?

Regards
Lloyd

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Discount club prices

31 Oct 2011, 15:18

They have no UK address or phone number, so I presume goods are imported. I would suggest you stick to places like American or Direct Golf or a pro at agoof club.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

31 Oct 2011, 10:34

Hi Jack,

I spoke to the guys at SE this morning and unfortunately if you book in as a 'Society' we wouldnt be able to get the TSG deal. However, given that its Dec, the manager thinks that there shouldnt be a problem with teetimes on a Thu in Dec, if you book a week before.

Maybe post the game with a caveat, "course subject to change"? Especially if Woolston Manor are saying the same thing.

Sorry I couldnt be of anymore help!

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

30 Oct 2011, 21:42

I am definitely interested in a NW London group. I usually play Haste Hill, but also Ruislip, Trent Park, Wycombe Heights and Bushey Hall. I look forward to some games in the New Year.
Bob

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

30 Oct 2011, 19:33

See what you can do then Ian CHEERS!!!!!
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

30 Oct 2011, 17:00

Hi Jack,

Let me have a chat with South Essex, I know there guys pretty well down there, having said that I cant promise anything......

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Discount club prices

29 Oct 2011, 18:45

Has anyone ever bought clubs from this site http://www.golfsale18.com/ ? Their prices seem almost too good to be true!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

28 Oct 2011, 19:14

[quote=Jack Shelton] likley date will be Thursday 8th December 2011 O.K.????
Jack[/quote]

Looks good for me ...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

28 Oct 2011, 11:06

And me!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

28 Oct 2011, 10:21

Thursday 8th December is fine for me.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

27 Oct 2011, 14:11

[quote=Jack Shelton] likley date will be Thursday 8th December 2011 O.K.????
Jack[/quote]

Ok with me

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Are online golf stores believable?

27 Oct 2011, 13:13

I know a shop online There are many golf club and tennis racket in the shop I think you will be interested in them You can find the shop from here:[url=http://www.todo-color.com]GOLF CLUB AND TENNIS RACKET[/url]

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\spanish golf prices

27 Oct 2011, 06:22

Hi Steve,

I live predominantly out in Spain 30 minutes South of Alicante.

The deals that are on offer now have never been so good. I can arrange golf packages for uk societies. The latest package that is 7 nights all-inclusive accomm with unlimited drinks, brekkie and 3 course evening meal, All the transport/transfers with 3 round of golf for about 350 quid. It doen't get much better. Let me know if you want more info.

Cheers

Stuart

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

25 Oct 2011, 21:34

Oh Mr Butler your sense of humour is something to be desired. You do give us some entertainment, at times,keep them comming
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Regional Challenges - Lots of scope for inter county competition...

25 Oct 2011, 20:05

Not sure if this has been mentioned before, probably been the sibject of some discussions, however, is there appettite for regional 'challenge' matches. I was looking at each 'region' playing home and away legs with winners progressing to regional finals. Details to be agreed though, but teams of 6, 4 ball better ball matchplay, played home and away would be interesting...

I'd look at providing regional champions N,S,E,W, for a grand finale somewhere next summer. I know that there is fair scope for Essex boys to lock horns with Kent boys. and there are plenty of golf coiurses near the dartford crossing, so home and away would be good...

Details to be agreed, first step will be to ascertain the degree of interest...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

25 Oct 2011, 19:43

I'll be up for a pre festive season game,depening on the details of course... after all I have a post Christmas Society day, last one for the Comedians Golf Society and I have to do well in order to win something, so will need the practice... funnily enough my society venue is Blakes - I'd better organise a recce round during November watch the space...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

25 Oct 2011, 17:30

count me in Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

25 Oct 2011, 08:46

Usually a Turkey Trot was a game just before Xmas, for Club Members who played in a competition, with the usual nearest the pin and and longest drive and Stableford points. The winner's prize being a fresh farm turkey and the runners up ie. nearest the pin, a bottle of spirits and the longest drive a bottle of sherry.
As us older members have played this format, it is quite a good day out.
I would be interested.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

24 Oct 2011, 18:17

By the way GREG this time I will take a First Aid kit you never know what might happen.
If you can get back A.S.A.P i WILL GET THE BALL ROLLING.
Jack[/quote]

Hi Jack, when you say "rolling" i know you really mean get the ball shooting forward low enough to endanger the shins and ankles of anyone lingering by their ball, whilst being overcome by smugness (and therefore not fully aware whats going on around them) at placing their 1st drive in the centre of the fairway. First Aid Kit is a good idea, especially if it has bump cream.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

24 Oct 2011, 18:07

Could be interested on Sundays north of the river (preferably after the sparrow has risen AND had breakfast)

john

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

24 Oct 2011, 17:13

Oh OK - I think Im relieved, for a moment there I wasnt sure what I was signing up to!!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

24 Oct 2011, 16:55

I have never played there at weekend ,I don't even know if they allow guests.I am told tho' it does get very busy with the members,even with 3 courses.
So I am going ahead with the 26 APRIL 2012 as this date seems to be favourite with all.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Christmas Turkey Trot....

24 Oct 2011, 14:17

Hi Jack,

I'd be up for this, however, someone is going to need to explain to me what a Xmas turkey Trot is?

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

24 Oct 2011, 13:47

Ta! I hope it'll take off to some extent - I keep longingly looking at the SE London groups and hoping something will crop up near my part of the world.

I need to get the next few months out of the way first, and then get the ball slowly rolling in the New Year.

Early thoughts for courses/the sort of area:

Trent Park, Wycombe Heights, Rickmansworth, Ruislip - thinking those sorts of areas for London.
And then maybe up to places like Little Hay, Shendish Manor etc in Herts.

Open to all sorts of course ideas if people have other suggestions.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

24 Oct 2011, 13:27

Hi Gary,

A NW London group would be great, moving us closer to a proper Ryder Cup style-ly, Team event.

Let us know if you need any help from us promoting the group!!

Regards

Ian
------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

24 Oct 2011, 11:42

Just to bump this up again - I'm thinking of starting a North/West London/Herts (roughly!) group up in the New Year. Hopefully there will be some interest!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

24 Oct 2011, 09:17

Morning. I would prefer a weekend as I will have to take a day of work, but if that is not possible then a Friday would be better to turn it into a long weekend.

If you all prefer Thursday 26th though then that is fine with me.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

23 Oct 2011, 23:46

If people are concerned about being topped for the lead on the leaderboard, by people posting scores with a stapleford in the high 80's, it should be remembered that the majority, if not all those posting such scores are new or fairly new members, without previous handicaps. Perhaps it would be better if scores are not considered for the leaderboard until at least 5 cards for games organised through the TSG have been posted. A check could be made to ensure they post ALL their scores.
Just a thought.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

22 Oct 2011, 20:21

THURSDAY 26th APRIL 2012 it is then,will be booking it up soon.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

22 Oct 2011, 14:11

John suggestion is we play late in the month,possibly on Thursday 26th APRIL,this will give us more daylight and more time to finish.
This date is Ok with me I need confimation from Steve and Greg,and then I will book it up.
The way we have done it in the past is the club asks for a 25% deposit,when I book it.
I will pay my 25% deposit, which will be about £35 this will secure the booking,then it is upto each invidual to pay there own deposit once the booking is made.
You can do this by phoning the club giving them the date and time we are playing,and pay by credit card.
We pay the outstanding balance in the Pro Shop on the day.We normally do this as soon as we have all met up.
By paying this way no one is out of pocket,and there can be no arguments,its the fairest way especially if someone decides to pulls out.
I think the cost for the Day is about £140 each I will confirm the price once I have made the booking.
It is still 6 months away but it comes round very quick,so get saving you pennies.
By the way GREG this time I will take a First Aid kit you never know what might happen.
If you can get back A.S.A.P i WILL GET THE BALL ROLLING.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 23:56

Steve,from past experience trying to organise a golf day at a course like Woburn has been a nightmare,people are always up for it,Ihave booked the tee times and arranged the day,but when it comes to paying the money the problems begin.
The excuses start commimg out,mainly because of the price and they drop out,leaving me to pick up the pieces.It becomes embarrasing for me being the organiser.
So I will only be going as a FOURBALL, with Greg and John in the group and yourself,it all ready is going to be a crack.
I have played there probably 15 times over the years,and always look forward to going back.
I will phoning the club soon to see what dates they can offer us in April, I am thinking of playing on a Thursday or Friday!!!!!!!
ANY PREFERANCES ON WHAT DAY WE PLAY post your reply please.
Jack
This will be 2 rounds of golf I hope to play the Duchess and Dukes,the Duchess is my favorite of the 3 courses.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 19:17

lets put it this way Greg,without you in the frame the day would not be the same,of course you are included, ONE OF THE ORIGINALS.
Its your turn to put me on the deck with a stray shot,fond memories.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 17:53

Jack, if i'm not in already then please DEFINITELY include me, awesome!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 16:01

Nice, so thats a fourball and it didn't take very long. Maybe we could get another group or two?

Were you planning on doing the 2 round in one day deal?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 13:30

Wow, Jack - you certainly talk a great game and have sold this one to me!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 11:08

it will be money well spent tho'.It's probably the finest venue for golf in the country.Thats why we keep going back.
How much would it cost to go and watch a cup final at Wembly,or a test match at Lords.
At least you are playing at such a prestigious venue,and not a spectatator for the same price.
Its the experience you cant beat.!!!!!!!
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 08:37

Looks amazing, i'm in. Sure I can get a loan arranged by April :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN 2012

21 Oct 2011, 00:29

I am going to arrange another days golf at Woburn G.C. in April 2012.In the last couple of years I have managed to play there 3 times with other T.S.Gers
On each occassoin it has been memorable visit, and it keeps getting better every time we return there.
I know one T.S.G member has already booked his fourth time to come with me and are now looking for another two to make up a fourball.
If you want to join us in 2012 on our return viisit,or have any questions you may want to ask to persuade you to join us then please drop a line under this topic and I will try to give you an answer.
THIS PLACE IS GOLF TO DIE FOR (see past posts written about Woburn)
Jack

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

17 Oct 2011, 18:11

[quote=Dougie Gray]Dave,

Perhaps she has heard about the size of your ball marker ??

dg[/quote]

The legend of my Ball Marker has traveled far and wide ... hence my inbox is flooded with these unsolicited emails!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

17 Oct 2011, 08:10

Dave,

Perhaps she has heard about the size of your ball marker ??

dg

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

16 Oct 2011, 20:25

I hope you weren't lowering the tone suggesting vinegar stroke's.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

14 Oct 2011, 18:15

Hey, I'm the MAN ... the ladies love me! I guess now I'll never know what that "suitable vital thing" is she had to tell me ... it might have been something to take a few strokes off my game.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

14 Oct 2011, 17:55

is it me or do we seem to have loads of women on this website that don't seem to play.

David you obviously have something we are all missing.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

14 Oct 2011, 15:41

I got a similar message back in Jan when I joined, just figured it was part of the service, alas never heard from the (young?) lady again

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

14 Oct 2011, 15:07

Hi David,

Lucky you!

Alas, no we have no ties to the world of Internet dating, we are strictly offering a "Dating for Golfers" only service! Rest assured this individual was immediately removed from the site, which is why the icon you see defaulted to TSG rather than the offenders - I have now deleted it from your page!

If anyone else has suffered this indignity let us know, otherwise it looks like its just you Mr.Pipe!

Regards

Ian

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

14 Oct 2011, 14:49

I am very "caurious" to know more ... she has a "suitable and vital thing" to tell me! :-) Ian, are you getting kick-backs from hooking up Eastern European women with "wealthy UK golfers" now?!? A new revenue stream ... brilliant!!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

14 Oct 2011, 14:38

I have recently purchased the EZiCaddy, with a free bag, and so far I am very happy with it.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Matchmaking?!?

14 Oct 2011, 14:36

Today I clicked "My Profile" on the TSG website, and under "Open Comments" I saw this:

Hello dearest,

My name is Miss Nancy
How are you? I Hope you are fine and in perfect Health.i came across your profile and deemed it necessary to write you immediately. Am too caurious to know you more. Could you please reciprocate to my message by droping mail on my yahoo id (nancylovex1@yahoo.com) so we can introduce ourself better on media and also share the passion of love together. I will be waiting for your email because i have a suitable and vital thing to tell you. Have a nice day and God bless you,
I will send you my picture as soon as i recieve your mail,so that i can tell you more about my life ok.please
lots of love
Nancy

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

12 Oct 2011, 21:59

My Powacaddy was a bargain, a present from my wife... so saying it is more than adequate with a wide variety of add ons and stuff... I managed to drop the original 36 hole battery and now it is only 8 volts (should be 12) so had to replace at market rate, even paid fo it myself. I have seen other makes on the course and the moto caddy looks OK and is well regared by some of my society peers.

The Pwacaddy also makes soothing whalesong noises as I navigate different courses... and I know that my game has improved with the electric trolley (as I have more energy for longer in each round).

Plus there's a whole new range of Powacaddy stuff coming onto the market, including a USB adaptor (keep your satnav fully charged ) or use it to drain the battery fully between eahc charge and recharge phones, ipods and stuff with whatever is left after each 18 holes. I believe that would keep thebattery in good condition for longer... plus it is energy efficient and green and carbon neutral...

OK I talked myself into the next new gadget for Powacaddy - USB adaptor...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

12 Oct 2011, 21:51

I would congratulate anyone who has a 'blinding day' as they can just happen out of the blue... when conditions and everything is just right(ish). Having had a couple of OK days in recent history (and also knowing where more shots could have been saved in high scoring rounds) I have noticed that everything sorts itself out and the next round is often a reality check. Still it is good to see people recording scores and tracking their own improvements... I look forward to the next 'good day'.

Good luck to all who strive to improve, remember to enjoy the game as well..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Clubs Custom Fitting?

12 Oct 2011, 20:27

Its was the best move I ever made,my first set from American Golf,off the shelf,bargain Mizzuno's,they had carbon shafts,regular flex,I never really got on with them.
I changed them after about 2 years after visiting a shop that made Custom fitted clubs,the clubs the shop sold where mostly American Imports and A VERY GOOD PRICE.
When I had the old clubs checked out to see if they suited me,the guy laughed and said the shafts in the clubs where totally wrong for my swing speed,the loft and lies where all different on each club.
He gave me food for thought would I buy an expensive suit from Saville Row that didnt fit, no chance.
WHY WALK INTO AMERCAN GOLF BUY A SET OF CLUBS THAT ARE TO BIG, WRONG LOFT AND LIES,and Most important THE WRONG SHAFTS,its like buying a suit that dont fit properly,every golfer has a different requirement.
The clubs I bought from him where custom fitted,took 4 months to get right,adjusting loft and lies addiing extra weight to the club head,hitting numerous balls,making notes of divot marks,even the pitch mark on the green.Thats how thorough this club maker was,and do I now feel the benefits for it.
They have riffle shafts fitted to them that also make the difference, even the grips are measured for thickness for the individual.
With a lot of practice and playing with these clubs, got me from 16H/C TO SINGLE FIGURES, also with taking golf lessons helped enormously.
Custom fitting for me is a must,but like all things its what you want out of the game,and how serious you are about it
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

12 Oct 2011, 19:24

no Dave just to help me put all the big carp back in the lake,its murder trying to move them one handed,biggest so far 28lbs no fishermans tales here,photos to admire my conquests.
ANYONE FOR FISHING????
ps dont loose as many balls as i do fish. ha!ha!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

12 Oct 2011, 18:57

Are you using it to carry your fishing gear at the mo jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

12 Oct 2011, 14:48

I have had a POWER CADDY FREEWAY for about 15 years its still going strong,I bought it with two batteries and only replaced them last year
I had a new cluch fitted a couple of years back cost about £80,and a new handle with a controller last year £40.
If I where to buy a new one I would not hesitate to buy powa caddy again,on average I must use it 2-3 times a week in the summer,it has probably done more miles than my car.
They may be more expensive than others around but you get whats written on the can, V.F.M.
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

12 Oct 2011, 12:52

Robin, whichever one you go for, remember to charge the battery & don't leave the lights on !!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

12 Oct 2011, 08:17

www.uksportimports.co.uk a fraction of the price and if any thing goes wrong you get 1 year warranty then you just buy parts from them..

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Electric Trolleys

12 Oct 2011, 02:33

Have recently suffered some back problems, on my last round of golf I hired an electric trolley for the day. Wow what a revelation! I am now a convert and am looking to buy, but its hard to decide which. There doesn't seem much difference between Motocaddy S1 and Powakaddy Freeway, can anyone recommend?
And then I see other options like the EZiCaddy, £299 including a bag, has anyone bought one of these, and if so was it worth it?

Please, any advice would be much appreciated.

Robin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

11 Oct 2011, 10:18

Roger - completely agree with you and well done for making such progress so quickly. There's nothing annoys me more than when someone plays well and immediately gets labelled a 'bandit'. I know there are one or two guys out there who deliberately keep their handicap high to score well in club competitions but let's not assume everyone who scores well is doing that.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

10 Oct 2011, 22:40

re Kevin, Richard and Ians posts, (September leaderboard 44 points)
Thanks for the comments guys. i`ve had quite alot of ribbing also from my playing partners in my local society. but as i see it, i make no apologies for improving my game so quickly,i did feel guilty and embarrassed initially ( about 10 minutes) but after all this is what we all strive to do in the long run. i suppose sooner or later we all find our wall somewhere down the handicap ladder. this is why i joined TSG to get an unbiased and fair handicap, and to be able to keep an accurate, safe, set of records to analyse my game.This can only be done by being totaly honest with the score keeping and uploading. otherwise i would be living in cloud cookoo land and only fooling myself.
once again guys thanks for your interest in my game to date, I see you are all pro members and can, and have viewed my uploaded stats.
all the best
Roger Allsop.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Clubs Custom Fitting?

10 Oct 2011, 16:26

[quote=Ian Mullins]Not sure this counts or not......

I took delivery of some new clubs last year (after a certain theft at Broke Hill!!) and I took my new clubs to Direct Golf (they gave me a free fitting). Oh dear, what a mistake, I took my clubs onto the range straight after and couldnt hit anything but a really REALLY bad slice?!

I perservered for about an hour before I walked back into the shop and asked them to be changed back!!

I am sure it works if you are just starting out in golf but if youve worked hard as I have at being able to hit clubs that dont fit me, why change now - I am very happy using non fitted clubs!

:-)
[/quote]

I'm not surprised by that Ian. Golf pro at the club I used to be a member of said they were bandits who knew very litlle about golf. If you go in there to buy a club of any sort, you will be recomended on Adams club. I guess that's where their mark up is!

I went to Ping to get custom fitted for mine clubs. Excellent service. Did it work? Ish. At least I now know when I carve it into the trees it's not the wrong club, it's the idiot attached.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Clubs Custom Fitting?

09 Oct 2011, 09:05

Do yourself a big favour & get your fitting done at The Belfry. They have the best & latest technology. You can try any club & the price is very competative.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Clubs Custom Fitting?

08 Oct 2011, 18:14

Not sure this counts or not......

I took delivery of some new clubs last year (after a certain theft at Broke Hill!!) and I took my new clubs to Direct Golf (they gave me a free fitting). Oh dear, what a mistake, I took my clubs onto the range straight after and couldnt hit anything but a really REALLY bad slice?!

I perservered for about an hour before I walked back into the shop and asked them to be changed back!!

I am sure it works if you are just starting out in golf but if youve worked hard as I have at being able to hit clubs that dont fit me, why change now - I am very happy using non fitted clubs!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

08 Oct 2011, 17:49

Tell ME about it - I lost out to Roger on 'count back' in September after my best round points wise!!

However, I'm with you Richard, good luck to you Roger! If I hadnt played for seventeen years, I'd be starting back from 28! I'll certainly be looking forward to hearing about his round in the October AND November Newsletter - assuming no one else topples it!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

07 Oct 2011, 12:48

Tell me about it!

I come in with 46 points on 1 October 2011 thinking that could be good enough for the rest of the month and then 24 hours later I'm down to 2nd

How low do I have to go?

Well done Roger, keep up the good golf

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

07 Oct 2011, 07:30

Next one out of the pond is roger allsop

in 16 games he goes from shooting 116 to shooting in the mid 80's

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Clubs Custom Fitting?

06 Oct 2011, 20:05

Sounds like a great idea Clark, it's something that most of us are guilty of not doing, (myself included) , can anyone who already has had clubs fitted, let us know what a difference they made?
Greg.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Member

05 Oct 2011, 12:12

Hi Lloyd,

No worries at this stage re handicap...just get use to playing.

Mens handicaps go up to 28 max so best to reset yours to this.

Suggest you put some games up local to you to see if there are any players in your area rather than using the forum as "join games" are much easier to see.

Good luck.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf Weekend in Reading Berks - Discounted Price 4 spaces left

03 Oct 2011, 20:57

Now down to just one place - for this coming weekend. If you have any interest then let us know - if you are travelling from Kent - we may even be able to organise a car share if need be......please enquire

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Member

03 Oct 2011, 20:18

I've no idea what my handicap is yet, just selected the highest.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Member

03 Oct 2011, 19:37

[quote=roly richardson] With a 36 handicap you'll be up that leaderboard in no time at all !![/quote]
You couldn't resist it ah Roly

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Clubs Custom Fitting?

03 Oct 2011, 17:27

Hi I am thinking of getting a new set of clubs and looking at getting them custom fitted so I would like some opinions from you golfers out there.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Member

03 Oct 2011, 15:41

With a 36 handicap you'll be up that leaderboard in no time at all !!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

02 Oct 2011, 09:26

Thanks guys, all great feedback for what is considered "work in progress".. Thanks to Steve I briefly tried out the Rangefinder and Dave P showed me the Skycaddie SGX..

Will hope to see someone with the Golflogix app or the Shotmiser and check them out before informing Mrs Gray what her selection of birthday present is to be....

dg

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

01 Oct 2011, 20:47

Looks good, they are doing it here http://www.golfgadget.co.uk/shotmiser-g700.htm for £249 including free next day delivery.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \London Golf Show Competition Winners & 2-for-1 Ticket Offer......

01 Oct 2011, 14:06

Dear TSGers,

Here we go, a little later than planned but we have recived the most entries to any of our compeitions to date!

As you know, in order to help promote this years show, we have x5 pairs of tickets to give away. And the question we set in order to find those lukcy people was;

'Which Central London venue hosts the London Golf Show for the first time this year?"

The answer was of course, Earls Court.

And the winners are......in no particular order......

Steve South, Richmond, Surrey, UK (Two in a row for Steve!!)
Richard Lane Blackwell, Gravesend, Kent,UK
Dave Wright, Honchurch, Essex, UK
John Amos, Epping, Essex, UK
Stephen Slater, Harlow, Essex, UK

Looks like the Essex boys did well this time round - we'll contact you all shortly to arrange tickets!

Apologies to all those that entered and werent succesful this time round BUT remember the London Golf Show are giving all TSG members a 50% discount of the on the door price. For more information on the show or to take advantage of this unique 2-for-1 ticket offer, please visit the TSG members offers pages at www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

N.B. Under 14's go free when accompanied by an Adult Ticket Holder

Thats all folks.....enjoy the sunshine!

Happy Golfing!

Ian
-----

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Member

01 Oct 2011, 14:04

Hi Lloyd,

Welcome to the TSG community!

I think you'll find were a friendly bunch......

There are a number of golfers in your area (60+ within 20 mile of Shipton) so you should be able to find a few to join you on your quest to learn the game. Best way to find new playing partners, is to start posting games!

And who knows, it could soon be you winning the TSG monthly leaderboard.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

01 Oct 2011, 11:57

Hi Dougie

I've had a 'Shotmiser' for the last two years, and am very happy with it, and extremely impressed with the aftersales service also. When I bought my G500, the deal on downloading courses was not as good as it is now, but I would still buy one. The G700 comes with unlimited courses, no subscription, and you only pay if a course has not been previously mapped, and I reckon I might trade in for that. You can pinpoint distances to hazards etc. and I would not want to play without one now. Have a look at their website.
I play in a Society from time to time where a number of members use the Garmin watch type GPS. It only gives distances to front, middle and back of green, no other info., and has not always had the courses needed. So, cheaper but nowhere near as useful. I reckon if you pay for decent equipment and use it, it justifies the cost.
Hope this helps

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

30 Sep 2011, 21:32

I am a big fan of GPS systems ... so much so, that I find it very difficult to play without one anymore. I previously had the SkyCaddie SG5, which I really liked. I then made the mistake of switching to the Golf Buddy World Platinum. I was attracted to it because of the touch screen (you can tap anywhere on the hole, and it will tell you the distance to that point) - and also the fact that ALL 40,000 courses are pre-loaded with no downloading required.

However, I found it to be very cumbersome in many ways ... too many taps/inputs needed to record your score, and it didn't seem to connect to the satellite very well. Plus the screen was quite difficult to read in bright sunlight.

I've switched back to the SkyCaddie, to the SGX (the latest model) and am VERY happy with it. Sure, you have to download courses and pay the annual fee ... but in my expereince, the SkyCaddie's are the Cadillac of GPS units. Very reliable, great screen quality, easy to record your score and stats, and your scores/stats are automatically uploaded to the website for analysis. Awesome piece of gear.

David

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

28 Sep 2011, 18:42

I'm with Steve on this.......

I use the GolfLogix app. on my Blackberry and its great for a rough idea of distances and its free!

Not sure I would pay £200+ for one of the many on the market now, as I dont think it would give me that much more. However, I notice quite a few TSGers out on the course now using the Garmin wrist watches and they all seem happy with them!

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

28 Sep 2011, 16:10

Hi Dougie,

I have GolfLogix gps on my phone and a Bushnell Tour V2 rangefinder. Both are great, but if I had to choose one it would have to be the rangefiner. Compared to a gps:

- You dont have to worry about the battery so much
- You can get the range to any hazard
- You don't need to worry about gps reception, although it is usually fine out on course
- You don't have to worry about downloading courses, especially useful if you travel abroad regularly or play courses that may not be mapped.
- You can use it down the range to get the true yardage to any target.

The benefits of the gps type device for me are:

- You can usually enter your score and track your stats with them, that is all I really use GolfLogix for now
- If you are behind a tree you know the distance to the green without having to walk around it to get a rough distance with the rangefinder.
- GolfLogix gives you an overhead view of the hole which can be useful.

If you do go for a rangefinder, the tour v2 is great. Small, light and can easily pick out the pin. You are welcome to take a look at both on Saturday, see you then.

Steve

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf GPS : Which one ?

28 Sep 2011, 14:52

Folks,

The newly acquired Mrs Gray is pressing me for gift ideas for my (upcoming) birthday..

I'm thinking GPS gizmo / rangefinder type, but looking for feedback based on your experiences, either good or bad.

Which should I go for, and what are the key factors that should be taken into consideration when presented with the current options on the market ?

Your support is appreciated..

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Member

27 Sep 2011, 11:08

Hi,

Just wanted to say hello as I'm a new member to the forum as well as a new beginner to the game. Although I've played a few times in the distant past it's only now that I've decided to give it a go for real. Looking forward to getting out as much as I can while the weather is good. There's plenty of courses near to me in Gloucester for beginners, but it doesn't look like there's much local activity on the forum.

I got out on Sunday with my new clubs for 18 holes at Shipton Golf Course, a nice 9 hole pay & play. And although there is plenty of opportunity for improvement (to say the least), I really enjoyed myself.

Anyone else near to me that wants to play with a beginner?

Lloyd

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

26 Sep 2011, 11:52

Try the North of Portugal. Great fun In the cities Guimarães, or Braga. Vidago, Amarante, 2 Golf courses near Douro Valey. Don't miss the Port Wine Vinyards.... Great food, and beer @ a very low price...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \London Golf Show Ticket Offer and Giveaway.......

23 Sep 2011, 17:10

Dear TSGers,

Its competition time again and this time round we've got together with the lovely people at the London Golf Show to bring you a unique TSG 2-for-1 ticket offer.

However, in order to promote this offer, they have also kindly given us x5 pairs of tickets to giveaway to TSG members.......

Now in its 7^th year, we can also confirm this year the show is designed to be more 'Interactive' than ever before and moves to the new location of Earls Court on the 11-13th November with a new look and feel!

So what conundrum have they set us this time round? Well to win a pair of tickets, all you need to do is to answer the following question:

'Which Central London venue hosts the London Golf Show for the first time this year?"

To be included in the draw: Send your answers to theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

Answers are required to reach us by Thu 29th September at Midnight.

Winners: to be announced Friday 30th September.

Thats all folks.....enjoy the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

Ian
-------

For more information on this years show or to take advantage of this unique 2-for-1 ticket offer, please visit the TSG members offers pages at www.TheSocialGolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

N.B. Under 14's go free when accompanied by an Adult Ticket Holder

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\The relevance of the dominant eye in green reading

23 Sep 2011, 12:18

Sorry for the late reply but I wasn't notified of your posts. New policy in TSG?

If you don't know which one is your dominant eye, do this:

a) With both eyes open, use your index finger to point to an object in front of you.

b) Without moving your head close your left eye. If your finger remains aligned, your dominant eye is the right one.

c) If it doesn't, open the left eye and close the right one. Now your finger must stay aligned and your dominant eye is the left one.

Marcel

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\The relevance of the dominant eye in green reading

19 Sep 2011, 17:25

Sounds like nonsense, but I previously googled it anyway.. Make a circle with you finger and look through it at a fixed point. Close your right eye, then your left. The point will disappear when you close one of them, that is your dominant eye.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\The relevance of the dominant eye in green reading

16 Sep 2011, 12:16

Funny that Roger....I was thinking the same thing?!

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\The relevance of the dominant eye in green reading

16 Sep 2011, 11:46

How do I find out which is my dominate eye?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

15 Sep 2011, 23:03

Due to an injury to my right hand,I have decided to put the clubs away for the foreseeable future and will not be playing till the injury has cleared up.
So any golf day that might be organised by the T.S.G team I will not be taking part in,and thru' personell reasons will have to withdraw from any organising of the the day that I offered todo.
Hope to be back on the fairways sooner rather late
regards
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

15 Sep 2011, 16:53

Trevor - maybe you should introduce your mate Steve to TSG. If he's still playing 3 rounds a day at The London Club, he should be less than 6 by now!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

15 Sep 2011, 16:00

Hey, John, thanks for the mention! I'm now back to my club h/c of 12.3, not the inflated TSG one, so maybe we need those celebs to join TSG and get theirs adjusted too!
PS my mate Steve Backley plays off 6. Haven't you been reading the blog?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

15 Sep 2011, 07:56

This should keep you going for a while!

Jamie Redknapp              7
Alan Hansen                      4
Roberto Di Matteo           14
Gianfranco Zola                 5
Matt Le Tissier                   6
DJ Spoony                          9
Vernon Kay                       16
Andrew Cotter                    3
Sir Steve Redgrave         14
Sir Matthew Pinsent        16
Sir Clive Woodward           7
Chris Hollins                       8
Jeremy Kyle                       14
Chris Evans                       15
Sir Bruce Forsyth              14
Anton Du Beke                    8

These are correct as at 25 May 2011.

One more - TSG's own Trevor Sandford....13 (or should it be 12?!) He's been on the radio & in so many newspapers that maybe he could assume 'celebrity' status!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

14 Sep 2011, 22:57

Tiger Tim Henman scratch i think....

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\The relevance of the dominant eye in green reading

14 Sep 2011, 14:15

Hi all!

I write about breaking putts and putting lines and I try to check everything relevant that is published concerning my niche.

Recently a golfer that claims to be also "a shooting sports instructor" posted an article about the dominant’s eye role in green reading and said that " the dominant eye needs to be on the uphill side of the break", that is, sometimes reading from behind the ball and others from behind the hole. I never heard that and don’t understand why it could be true but I tested the concept and it seems to work fine.

I invite all those who seriously read greens before putting to also test this tip and give feedback because if it proves to be true, it’s a gem that has to be shared.

Marcel White

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

14 Sep 2011, 13:43

Anymore thoughts on this anyone?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Florida Golf Villas to Rent - Orlando

11 Sep 2011, 08:46

see www.OrlandoMagicKingdomVillas.com for details

Discounts for all Social Golfers ! please mention this

Villas are very close to several courses including Mystic Dunes, Highland Reserve, Celebration etc

Thanks for looking

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

09 Sep 2011, 21:53

HI Dave

Ladies set - As I am currently unattached, when I meet Miss Right, she may need to borrow a set. The grips on this set are a bit worn and I am thinking of replacing them with Lamkin Ladies Blue grips - http://www.lamkingrips.com/Crossline_Ladies_Blue.php

Golf Shoes - 8 pairs I think - Main pair in car with spare in view. Emergency pair inside spare wheel. Five reserve pairs at home

cheers
JD

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

09 Sep 2011, 11:19

And you didn't mention how many sets of golf shoes you had. I'm sure you must have a good few pairs of those.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

09 Sep 2011, 11:17

That's very impressive, John but I'd love to know how you ended up with a set of Ladies clubs ;-)

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Confusing Stats on Scorecards

08 Sep 2011, 16:04

Thanks Ian.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

06 Sep 2011, 18:01

This got me thinking about how many putters Ihad so went out and counted them 12!! not including the one i am using, so look out for some bargin putters on e bay

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

06 Sep 2011, 10:31

Much to my wifes discust, i have 3 bags, 1 trolley and around 2 sets of clubs and of course plus the set i use.

I blame the garage!!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Confusing Stats on Scorecards

05 Sep 2011, 18:40

Hi Dave,

Thats a good point and one that we hadnt really spent much time thinking about before!

Alas, this was the system that we inherited but it is a fair point and one that we should look into.

We dont have any plans for further site upgrades until the New Year now but rest assured we'll add this to the list along with the 'available for a game' request (although this didn't work as it should either, so will require some tweaking) amongst many others requests and we'll then consider the priorities.

Thanks for the feedback - its much appreciated.

Ian & The TSG Team
----------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

05 Sep 2011, 18:31

Dear Trevor (et al),

Its been a few days now since the end of the Golf Against Cancer tour but as Trevor has headed off to put his feet up, I thought I would just say thank you to him on behalf of ALL TSG members!!

I am sure once he is back he will give us all an update on what life after the tour is like but until then lets give big cheer to him - he has after all, with your help raised over £8k for Cancer Research UK!!

Here are just some of the photo highlights - Click here...

Lets here it for Trevor, for he's a jolly good fellow........

The TSG Team
---------------------

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Confusing Stats on Scorecards

05 Sep 2011, 17:16

Agreed. Is that the same for the 'average score' stat? I have always wondered why my average score was around 79 when I have only got there once!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Confusing Stats on Scorecards

05 Sep 2011, 12:01

Dave - I completely agree with you on this and, must admit, was a bit surprised at how it worked when I started putting scores on the TSG system.

I'm not really a 'stat' person, but also think comparisons with others should be on a 'gross' basis. As our handicaps are constantly changing, it would also be more useful when considering changes in game over a period of time. In professional tornaments, G I R numbers are often quoted, so it would be good to compare our performance with the top players.

When playing and on the rare occasion I make a birdie, I never think of it as a 'net' eagle and don't think many other golfers do. An eagle is, and should always be a very rare bird indeed!

Throughout August, in the month of Golf Against Cancer, much was spoken of 'chip-in' birdies. Trevor had 5, and there were only 3 others, but who knows how many were net eagles, and who really cares?

Having said all this, I think it will be difficult for hard pressed management of TSG to implement any changes very quickly, so we'll have to carry on as we are for now!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Confusing Stats on Scorecards

05 Sep 2011, 11:21

Hi,

The handicapping system in golf is a great way of levelling the field and enabling people of all different levels to play together competitively

What I really struggle to understand though is why you would factor in your handicap when reporting stats. This is exactly what TSG does. An example of what I mean is the reporting of what is a Par, Bogey, etc. TSG scorecards show how many Net Pars, Net Bogeys, etc. that you get, not how many actual Pars, bogeys, etc. This means that if your handicap allows you 1 shot on a Par 4 and you score 5, TSG will show that as a Par.

Fair enough if you think this is useful but I think it is a pointless stat. Even worse though is the GIR (Green In Regulation) stat. The same principle is applied here; so on a par 4, you would normally be given a GIR if you get on the green in 2 shots but in TSG, if your handicap allows you a shot on that hole and you get on the green in 3, you will be given a GIR.

I understand the whole "I had a Net Par" approach when scoring but surely the whole point of stats is to show how you are improving (or not). If you factor in your handicap to these stats it can't possibly show you this.

Here is an example of why it doesn't work. Lets say your handicap is 9 so you get a shot on holes where the stroke index is 1 to 9. You play a round and on SI 1-8, you get a gross par and on SI 9-18 you get a gross bogey. If you have 2-putted every green that means you will have actually hit 8 greens in regulation but TSG will report that you have hit 9 because, even though you reached the green in one more than you should, your handicap allowed you a shot. You then play the next week but in that week you have played well and your handicap has come down to 8. You shoot exactly the same round on the same course. In reality, you have hit the same number of greens in regulation (8) but TSG now also reports 8 because you were not allowed the shot you got the previous week on SI 9.

In 2 weeks you have hit the same number of greens in regulation (8) but one week, TSG reports 50% and the next it reports 44% so it looks like you are getting worse but in fact you are not.

I would like the scorecards to be changed to report stats based on gross scores although I'm sure that plenty of people will want to keep it the way it is so can we at least have some way of flicking between the 2 views please?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf Weekend in Reading Berks - Discounted Price 4 spaces left

02 Sep 2011, 20:45

if anyone is interested we have a Golf weekend at Wokefield Park Reading on Oct 9 - there are 4 spaces left only - weekend is for 16 players of all handicaps , price is 119.00 includes 2 rounds of golf, evening meal, single rooms, and breakfast sunday.

Most of the players are mid to high hcp - all enquiries welcome
Weekend is a good laugh and is Ryder cup based.

see the game on this site

Gary

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Sep 2011, 20:01

I'd like to add my congrats also to Trevor for an incredible performance in raising funds for research into a condition that has no respect for age or gender and has almost certainly brushed all of us personally or via close family &/or friends. As Ian said at the Tudor - Trevor doesn't just talk, he does.

It was a pleasure and priveledge to be able to join with others at the Tudor, play in great company, and see - yet again - the local bandit known as JOC record 43 points only to be beaten by a even bigger bandit - both from the same club!

Also - for John, JOC and for the benefit of others north of the Thames - I checked out the cricket results this week in case they were missed, lets see ... England beat Ireland and Kent beat Essex. Different game, same results!

Well done Trevor and to all who assisted and look forward to hearing about whatever idea he's allowed to do next year....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Sep 2011, 13:37

Dave: The very same. You can take the Golf Club voucher out of Essex, but you can't take the Essex out of the Golf Club voucher! I was going to send it to you if you give me an address, otherwise I'll buy it off you and bring some of the Kent boys over to Heron's Gate for a reunion match...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Sep 2011, 10:52

Hear I missed a great day Trevor, is that fourball the same one that we won recently at that strange organizers day. Either way feel free t o use it to raise more funds for your charity.
Once again brilliant job and look forward to playing with you again soon.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Sep 2011, 09:53

Go enjoy your holiday Dave, the Dartford Crossing will be a little less busy, and they can survive without your 3 quid a day. I can see you now, plotting your next venture whilst sitting on a beach somewhere, or will it be in some clubhouse?
Looking forward to playing with you again some time in the future, perhaps on a 'proper' course.
Thanks for the memories, and very best wishes.
Trig.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Sep 2011, 07:58

PS: And the winner is.......

Great day back at Tudor Park, my home club, with 20 lads from the GAC tour for a celebratory golf day under clear blue skies - well, it's September now! The boys from The Ridge won the money (I must have a word with the handicap secretary there), Kevin Wellings pipped John Amos to Nearest the Pin and modesty forbids me revealing the winner of the 295 yard Longest Drive - in the middle of the fairway. Maybe "normal" golf has returned at last? Kent beat Essex (again!) courtesy of Andy's birdie on the last. I can't remember my score but had a terrific day whizzing round on a trike. Everybody liked the course and, coming back to it after a month away, I can see why. Absence makes the heart grow finder, as they say.

Anyway, now for the stats. All scores now posted, I can reveal that in 31 days over 558 holes there were 2789 shots taken. Malcolm Jackson from Harrow got it right and wins a microlight flight. Several people guessed 2790, including my pairs partner Andy, who knows my game better than I do, and a certain Ian Mullins, who has clearly been looking at the TSG site. If only I'd 3-putted the last at Orsett....However, closest to the tie-breaking 211 miles walked and 57 balls lost were Dave Allchorne from Brookmans Park who wins a golf day for 4 at South Essex and Barry Frampton from Maidstone who gets another go at Tudor Park with a fourball.

There are lots more stats, of course - miles driven (over 1500), pasties eaten (lost count), chip-in-birdies (5) etc. All will be revealed at the London Golf Show and in the forthcoming book. But the big winner of the tour is Cancer Research UK, where the money raised stands today at £7,725 (154% of target). That's many contributions from TSG members (including a staggering £1000 from John Amos and his supporters alone), golf clubs, friends, family and general passers by.

The site remains open at www.justgiving.com/monthofgolf2011 but it's now goodbye from me as I'm off to tackle the list of jobs my wife has kindly amassed for me over the month - but maybe they can wait until after the holiday!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

01 Sep 2011, 09:45

I also offer my congratulations to Trevor on a hell of an effort.
I had the pleasure of playing in 4 matches and with Trevor on 3 occasions. We are the Nortern Irish team who are 3-0 down to the bloody English who insisted on playing better than us.

I did notice a strange thing in that the more Trevor played the more energetic he seemed to get. Adversity suits him and I was thinking of what great historical figure he reminds me of and it came to me.... Tigger of course from Winnie the Pooh!

I think you'll agree when you see this (if it works) http://youtu.be/dJFyz73MRcg

John O'Callaghan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

01 Sep 2011, 07:28

What have you done Trevor?

Well done mate for an absolutely fantastic achievement in raising loads of cash for a great cause that you know is very close to my heart ( well, my pancreas really!)

I was thinking last night what have you actually done here, so thought I had better put pen to paper before I forgot.

- You must have had at least 9000 practice swings, as your pre-shot routine hasn't changed a bit, despite all the golf you have played

- You have lost that infamous draw with your driver and developed a fade which will make Tudor Park a lot more challenging

- You have discovered that Essex is a very dangerous place, as you now hold the world record for the most insect bites I have ever seen below the knee

- You have fallen in love with the M25, you now know so much much about it and understand why I always had it in my thoughts for the 8 years I looked after it.

- You will now get loads of free invites to play golf at clubs around the M25, as you have certainly left an impression on so many members and staff

I am sure that once you have collated all the info on each of the 31 rounds you will be known as the new 'Statto' .

Most of all Trevor, you have earned the respect of so many people, made lots of new friends and you will have to go a long way to beat it. So roll on next year, when you will be playing your driver off the highest peak in each continent (make sure you have a firm stance though).

All the best

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

31 Aug 2011, 22:51

Day 31:   Orsett

Great to be invited along for the final game at another course I'd never played before - and what a course!

Trevor and Andy v Ian and myself in the M25 finale.   We all played well today and were all looking for the headline shot - an eagle perhaps?   Never before have I stood over a wedge from 100 yards thinking 'this has to go in'.   We peppered the pin all day and all had birdies, but there have been no eagles in the Month of Golf - only happen in Summer, says Trevor.

It's a tight match, set for a good finish when the club captain comes out in a buggy to see us in. We put on a great show for him, all feeling the pressure to perform, but Andy had the edge today so the Kent boys win 1up.   The crowd are released from the ropes, surging forward to greet the winners with champagne - just like we see on a Sunday afternoon on Sky!

Emotions are running high at the end of a great month, which I feel proud to have been a part of.

I've played 180 holes with you and now I'm tired, but you've done 558!   Amazing!   At times our golf has been awful and occasionally brilliant.   The weather hasn't always been kind but it doesn't matter. I've enjoyed meeting your friends (there are some good golfers at Tudor Park!) and other TSG members who have joined in.   I'm pleased that some of my own friends were able to come along - they all enjoyed their days.   We've had some memorable times and plenty of laughs along the way.

Congratulations on reaching the end of your marathon, Trevor - you're a star.

It's been a real blast - let's do it all again next year!

John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

31 Aug 2011, 22:26

Many congratulations on the completeion of this epic event Trevor...and I look forward to the next one, of a similar nature. Hope the RSI heals quickly.
Very best wishes

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

31 Aug 2011, 21:47

Day 31: Turned out fine in the end...

On the final day at Orsett, Mullins and Amos represent their county and I get the chance to play Kent vs Essex with my best friend and regular pairs partner, Andy. What better way to finish the tour.

The club is terrific, really welcoming and Steve, the Captain comes to see us off on the 1st tee. Bang it goes on the fairway. In fact they nearly all go on the fairway today; somehow it's all coming back together again. Kent stay 1 up for hole after hole as I play bogey golf and watch everyone else get pars. Eventually I join them, though no-one chips in today, despite numerous near misses.

On the 16th, Steve comes to meet us in a buggy and follow us in. All square at the last, I hit a cracker on the fairway - and then find the greenside bunker. When we get up to the green, a crowd of women in GAC shirts run up with balloons and stuff - the WAGs have arrived! A quick up and down (in 2), the terrace breaks into applause and we're all sipping champagne. Just like Darren at Sandwich. Miles in the kitchen gives us a free lunch, the sweetie jar fills up and everyone goes away happy.

Month of golf? Done, finished, surrounded by great people who've provided terrific support, as have so many others along the way, at clubs, through TSG, family and friends. I couldn't have dome any of this without your help: a BIG, BIG thank you from me. It's a dream come true and we've raised how much for Cancer Research? I'll let you know tomorrow, when all the stats will be revealed.

Meanwhile I forget that Andy's finishing par for 80 actually won the game, so we'll have to have a rematch at Tudor Park tomorrow. Yes, I've finished the month of madness and what am I going to do tomorrow? - play golf. Then I'm taking the family on holiday for a week - and no golf! It's been a fantastic month, exhausting but exciting, draining but dramatic. The weather hasn't been wonderful....but it's turned out fine in the end.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

31 Aug 2011, 18:19

HOT OFF THE PRESS.........GOLF AGAINST CANCER TOUR CALLED TO A HALT......TREVOR SANDFORD FORCED TO CONSIDER GIVING UP ON HOLE 14 AT THORNDON PARK.......WILL HE FALL SHORT BY ONLY 23 HOLES?

Click Here...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

31 Aug 2011, 07:02

Day 30: Where do we go from here?

So where are you next, they always ask. It's Orsett tomorrow, or whatever, I say. But what will I say tomorrow? Actually, I had thought of just carrying on. I wouldn't mind another go at most of the courses I've played and why break the routine when you've just got it cracked? There are only 30 days in September, after all, so it's got to be easier!

I have had a few ideas. I've done Lands End to John o' Groats on a bike, so why not with a golf club? Oh, that's been done, has it? Well how about a round in every county in Ireland (there are 32!), all the Seve courses in Europe (60, was it?). Hmm, could be an expensive trip. And I'd have to leave behind my best friend over the past month, my constant companion throughout August.

Sorry, dear, I'm talking about the M25! I will miss her as I pay my last toll at the Dartford crossing, but there'll be a tribute chapter in the forthcoming book, i promise. There, now - that's the next project, and maybe I'll get it done in time for Christmas, but it won't be half as much fun as playing golf on the GAC tour.

Talking of which, today's award for battling against injury must go to Jack who played at Thorndon Park despite losing half a finger in an industrial accident only a few weeks ago. He hasn't lost his sense of humour, however. Coming off the 17th, I signalled over for his score for the card and he raised his fingers, as you do, then hesitated a moment and said "Put me down for a 41/2"

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

31 Aug 2011, 00:41

Today is my 7th day on the 'Tour' so the end of my 'wild week'.....

I've observed Trevor and witnessed how hard he's been working.   Always at the course at least 90 minutes before tee off to make preparations and put the Cancer Research UK & Social Golfer banners in place.  There's often a reporter to speak to and club staff have to be asked where the collection jars can be placed.   And then he plays golf, has a drink with the day's team, gets the sweepstake entries, clears away & drives home. Then does it all again the next day. it's not just about playing golf, so no wonder he's getting tired.

Day 30:   Thorndon Park

I'm awake early again, but this time for a drive to Stansted Airport. My wife and son are fleeing the country ....... Golf Against Cancer has taken it's toll - I'm driving them crazy, so they need to get away for a few days!

It's a handsome looking venue today - Jack's 'Wentworth of Essex'. We're offered a choice of breakfast and even given £20 by Lewis, the caterer, for the collection jar.

This course needs to be thought out, but today is busy so we have to keep allowing 2 & 3 balls to play through - never easy, but we felt under pressure when one group decided to tee off before we'd cleared the fairway. We thought it spoilt the end of a good day on a great golf course.

Kent managed another victory on Essex soil, 1up.   Kevin is now P2 W2 & looking good for an each way bet at his home course, Tudor Park, perhaps? I'm not sure about Trevor, though, it's all becoming a blur!

So that's it - 7 days - 126 holes of golf - 661 shots - no cib's :-(   - 44.5 miles walked - 7 lost balls.

Contact Trevor Sandford with any last sweepstake entries on his numbers!!

It's been a great week and a real pleasure and priviledge to play with Trevor each day.  A week that I'm sad is over, but one that I shall remember forever.

Anyone up for a game tomorrow??

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

30 Aug 2011, 20:05

Now that John is doing the match reports, I can concentrate on the "wider issues", so today it's....

Day 29: Getting up and down.

We all like to get up and down from a bunker - preferably in one shot! But there have been lots of other ups and downs in the past month. My weight, for instance. Started about 75kg (sorry, you'll have to convert into old money), then dropped to 73 after a week. Can't have been my daughter's cooking; must have been lack of pasties. Now it's crept back up again; this time it is the home cooking - plus the pasties.

Then there's the handicap. I'm playing now off what I played off in June. I just had a good couple of rounds before the tour, got down to 12, have crept up to 14, and now back to unlucky 13 again. Mostly, though, I've been playing to about 18. If only I'd been able to go round again, I'm sure I'd play so much better. Now, there's an idea!

So everything goes up and down and everything ends up more or less the same. Except you know yourself better. You know the yardage for every club; you know what you should play off every tee. Whether the execution follows is another matter, as my round on Sunday proves. Oh, on that point, I will post my scores now, but, given so much info is now publicly available, sweepstake entries are now doubled in price. Stay tuned for the results on Thursday evening, if I am still sober. You know Darren Clarke took about a week to get up and down after the Open, so I'll need at least a day to do the same.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

30 Aug 2011, 07:40

Ok, so it's 105....but I'm trying to remain positive.... I only lost one ball with my first shot of the day. And did I mention the rain?   There's no way that Alan will want to play with me now!

Day 29: Romford

After yesterday, I'm looking for some inspiration......

            I can see clearly now the rain has gone....
            I can see all obstacles in my way....

You know - from the film 'Cool Runnings' - is playing on my car radio. The sky looks better and the forecast good and I'm thinking time for course management - avoid all water, trees, bushes, sand, etc.

I've got my friend Ian playing with us again today, stepping in at short notice to fill a late cancellation. Ron, my dad, is also here to offer moral support and 'crowd control'.   Making up the fourball with Trevor is TSG member Paul.   On the first tee, a photographer from The Romford Recorder arrives for a photoshoot - so make sure to buy a copy on Friday.

When playing golf, there always seems to be a lot of dis-jointed conversation - walking & stopping to play shots. Trevor started something about changing grip and his trigger finger on his shaft, but once Paul became involved the tone was lowered!

Good news for Trevor & myself is that we can still play a bit, but Paul was the star of the afternoon with 3 birdies, including one of the famous 'chip-in' variety from about 70 yds - high fives all round - a fantastic shot. It was a hard fought contest, but after clawing back from 4 down, Trevor & Paul were beaten by The Theydon Boys 1 up.   Victory is sweet, Trevor and don't even think of asking Ian where he was born!

In the bar we were greeted by Laurie, the club captain who insisted on buying us all a drink. He was hosting a presentation evening and made a short speech to members about Golf against Cancer.   The collection jar was passed around tables and returned to us looking quite full, so a big thanks to Laurie and all at Romford GC for your generosity and hospitality.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

29 Aug 2011, 12:24

Funny that I've not posted my score yet...for the same reason!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Parallel Clothing Competition....The Winners!

29 Aug 2011, 11:55

Dear TSGers,

Oops, in all the excitement of the Bank Holiday weekend, we forgot to announce the winners of the Parallel Clothing competition! So, the conundrum we set this time round was:

"Which Member of the TSG community is currently on his way round London's M25 raising money for Cancer Research UK?"

The answer was of course, our very own Trevor Sandford.

And the winners are......in no particular order......

Steve South, Richmond, Surrey, UK
Daniela Raquel Alves Valdez, London, UK
Chris Emms, Basildon, Essex, UK

One of Parallel's innovative and fashionable Polo shirts will be winging their way to you shortly!

Apologies to all those that entered and werent succesful this time round BUT remember Parallel Clothing are giving all TSG members a 10% discount off their entire range of clothing. For further details, please visit the TSG member offer pages: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx or follow the links below!

Thats all folks.....enjoy the rest of the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Founded in the UK, Parallel Clothing brought a very unique style of clothing to the market gaining a large following of golfers who take pride in looking good on the golf course and those that want to look unique and stand out from their peers......

Over time Parallel has developed into a brand designing clothing suitable for any golfer. Throughout our online store an extensive range of polo shirts will be found along with sweaters, cardigans, sleeveless sweaters, half sleeve sweaters and golf shirts.

Parallel Clothing - Golf clothing with a difference - www.parallelclothing.com

EXCLUSIVE TSG MEMBER OFFER - 10% off using the following code: PCTSG

For further details, please visit the TSG member offer pages: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

29 Aug 2011, 11:45

was another great Chip-in-Birdie, Murray and thanks for carrying me round. I won't post my score yet for fear of ridicule. Anyone coming to Tudor Park on Thursday? There'll be a special "Chip-in-birdie" prize. You know it's going to happen!
Oh, by the way, turns out Greg was actually born in Kent so it's really Kent 11/2, Essex 1/2. Sorry, John....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

29 Aug 2011, 11:34

Despite a shaky start.. [it was not only Trevor who had an indifferent front nine], I really enjoyed my day at Stapleford Abbots. Greg and John stirred me on to a better back nine, but the

Kent

boys still lost 3 and 2. My only consolation was joining the "Golf Against Cancer" CIB club on the Par 5 7^th.

I hope Trevor can hold it together for the last few days – he deserves all his success.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Are online golf stores believable?

29 Aug 2011, 09:52

Hi, where do you buy your golf clubs? Does anyone know any good online golf stores in the US. Are there any pitfalls. It seems even with any duty it's still much cheaper to buy say a new driver and have it shipped. And are they all brand new and original? Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

29 Aug 2011, 09:18

Well, Trevor - I was there & reckon you've taken that photo from completely the wrong angle....what were you thinking?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

29 Aug 2011, 08:49

Day 28: Month of Golf suspended due to Disqualification....

The rules of golf can be cruel - ask Padraig Harrington. At The Grove, they have a local rule where they treat the rough like a hazard, allowing a drop for a one-shot penalty if you can't find your ball. This is really designed so that the celebs don't get their trousers dirty and also the buggies stop working when you go near the rough (they do, really!) Seems a good rule for amateurs playing on a course set up for the pros - would have been useful at The London Club.

The photo gallery shows my own dilemma on day 22. when playing from a hazard. John kindly brought to my attention page 28 of this month's Golf International for a ruling which vindicated my decision. Unfortunately there was also a ruling on Out of Bounds which means that, on further consideration, my second shot on the 8th at The Hertfordshire may have been illegal. To make matters worse, my playing partner pointed out a local rule at Abridge that no free drop can be taken from any staked tree! It was on the back of the card, apparently. Who ever reads all that stuff, I ask myself?

This means disqualification for signing for the wrong score (a 78!), subsequently playing off the wrong handicap and throwing the sweepstake on shots taken into complete disarray. The Month of Madness has ended in disaster, disgrace and expensive law suits. All play is suspended pending a stewards' inquiry.

Actually, hold on, this is Golf Against Cancer, not the PGA tour. Maybe we can have a bit of forgiveness here. Tell you what. I've posted a picture of the position in question. If you say it's definitely OB, I'll call a halt, put my feet up, watch the athletics and have a week off. (He's looking for an excuse here, you know). If you can't tell, I'll play on....

Let me know soon - we're due at Romford at 3pm!

Click here for Photos...

Click here to Join Games....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

29 Aug 2011, 08:05

Day 28: Stapleford Abbotts

As you can probably tell, I've been thoroughly enjoying all this golf, but it's given me a real 'high', so I've been waking up far too early each day.  Today I'm tired and my back's a bit sore, so I join the Ibuprofen club.   I don't know how Trevor is managing to stay playing for so long - it's quite remarkable!

We're at Alan's 'Proper Golf Course' today, but are told that the greens have just been hollow tined and heavy showers are on the way.   Great, just what I need today - a nice easy game.... and then it's decided we're playing off whites!

I'm not alone in feeling this way, as Trevor also get's off to, what I'll say, an 'indifferent' start. When the very heavy rain starts on the 12th, he suggests that we have a break & wait until the rain eases - "Are you really sure, Trevor?"

Despite the weather, we do eventually finish and, Alan - I'll look forward to playing here with you sometime, but on a better day!  It was a pleasure to meet fellow TSG member Greg, who played so well and Trevor's friend Murray, who just couldn't miss a putt and even joined the chip-in birdie brigade!

It all adds up to a 5 hour+ round & I'm needing food, a bath and a very good sleep.   Let's do it all again tomorrow!!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Tesco club points at American Golf.

29 Aug 2011, 07:44

Trolley & shoes for me :D

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

28 Aug 2011, 08:14

Day 27: Abridge

Golf Against Cancer shot of the week - thanks Trevor, I'm truly honoured!! I reckon it was my shot of the year though, followed by momentary stunned silence and complete disbelief.

Problem for me though was that it went to my head and I started trying to play like Seve, in looking for the 'glory' shot through the narrowest gap, or around the trees. I should remember that course management is so important, so need to think 'Luke Donald' more often. But then.......this is Golf Against Cancer and we're all looking for that headline shot!

Yet another memorable game and today the rain stayed away from us just until our last putts had been sunk - or missed, in my case!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

28 Aug 2011, 07:27

Day 27: Eat up those greens....

Why is the bacon roll synonymous with the golf day? When else do you eat ham, egg and chips than after golf? How will I survive on this diet for a month, I thought? I'm going to need triple statins, if not a triple by-pass.

Week 1 was OK as I returned home in the evening to my daughter's cooking - practice for survival at Uni.- but sharing a house with an 18 year old whose diet consisted of pizza and Chinese was clearly a bad influence. My wife was shocked when I said I hadn't seen a vegetable for 2 weeks. So last night the conquering hero returns home to a three-course dinner, complete with carrots and broccoli! You know what they say about the way to a man's heart.

Of course planning the games over mid-day means missing lunch and I lost weight for the first week, but now I have the world's supply of pasties, pork pies and flapjacks there is always food to hand on the golf-course. Talking of which, shot of the week must surely have been John's amazing chip-in straight to the bottom of the cup on the second today, nearly knocking out the pin in the process. It's a pity he'd just had to take a drop from the greenside pond. A chip-in for....par: so near and yet so far!

For the next 4 days we are all going to be laying up short, missing the green deliberately, just to get that oh-so-special chip-in birdie. At home I'll be tucking into the broccoli, but on the course it's the lob wedge that'll be eating up the greens!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Parallel Clothing Competition....The Winners!

27 Aug 2011, 22:20

Do we know the winners yet ?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Tesco club points at American Golf.

27 Aug 2011, 20:55

so did I. I bought a Garmin Approach G3

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Australian Partner

27 Aug 2011, 20:36

IS THIS GUY AFTER FREE ADVERTISING,WHAT THE HELL HAS THIS TO DO WITH GOLF,SEEMS ANOTHER ONE OF THOSE THAT WILL USE ANY WEBB SITE TO GET RECOGNITION.
I THINK THE T.S.G. TEAM NEEDS TO LOOK INTO THIS GUY.
we have had people like this on here before,doesn't seem right to me.
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Tesco club points at American Golf.

27 Aug 2011, 19:59

I spent £100 worth there today

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Australian Partner

27 Aug 2011, 19:11

I own several golf companies in the USA and I'm now expanding to Australia and Japan with an outstanding new product in Health & Wellness that not only will take care of all chronic condiitons of golfers or anyone, such as Arthritis, Bursitis & other inflammatory conditions. Not only are those conditions eliminated but also over 200 diseases are seen to be eliminated through daiy use or reduced & eventually erradicated through the use of this daily supplement!

There is a tremendous short & long term residual income that will blow anyone away. This is backed by lots of scientific studies at Major Institutions in the USA such as Universities and Hospitals with the best Biological Research scientists in the world! I need a Business Partner in Australia right now to help me open that market! This is flying under the radar of the FDA in the USA right now because it is being sold as a supplement but in fact it is the only NrF2 Activator of our "Survival Genes" on the market anywhere in the world!

TIMING IS EVERYTHING....MUST BE AN OPPORTUNIST!

4th Quarter Financials just repoted this week: http://www.sys-con.com/node/1957282

LifeVantage Announces Preliminary Record Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2011 Results

- Achieved Record Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2011 Revenue of $15.0 Million; a 241% Increase Compared to the Same Period Last Year

Contact me ASAP!
Bob
bob@portablegolfsolutions.com

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Tesco club points at American Golf.

27 Aug 2011, 18:59

You can use your Tesco club points at American Golf. Every £10 Tesco club points equals to £20 at American Golf.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \new player/member

27 Aug 2011, 13:09

Hi all,

well we had our first lesson yesterday, the club has even let us borrow a club each. (8 irons) to practice our swing.

we both did well, i was hitting the ball consitently and even got my head around the grip.
apparently my swing is nice and easy and has a good tempo which was the pros worst fear that i would be hitting very hard rather than smoothly.

I was hitting reasonably straight and a good distance with the 8 iron, no idea of the actual distance as there were no markers.

the missus did very well indeed she was hitting the ball most swings and connecting well with some which for her first time out was good to see.

we both enjoyed it and have already booked our next session in.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

27 Aug 2011, 11:57

A great day with John, Ian and of course the redoubtable Trevor, who clatters the ball a country mile, despite a dodgy thumb. Fortunately the rain did not have too much of an effect - I would have played that badly anyway -left my golf brain at home.

John putted like a demon - missed nothing, Ian, loaded with ibroprufin (he would have failed a drug test) hits a six iron off the tee further than I manage a 5 wood. I had ONE good hole, a 185 par three where my pit mark was 10 inches from the pin (gets shorter the more I relate it) sadly the ball rolled on to about 6 ft., and you know what happened next...John rolled one in from nowhere for par, and of course I missed the birdie putt. I think he is still smiling...grrrr.

Nevertheless, Trevor and I managed to beat Ian and John 1 up...but it was touch and go on the last. The victory beer tasted so good, thanks John.

Thanks lads for a very enjoyable and memorable experience. Looking forward to Tudor Park next week, and congrats on reaching your target Trevor. As I write this, I am listening to Trevors excellent interview on Radio Essex, where TSG got an honorable mention!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

27 Aug 2011, 08:15

The first day of my 7/7 wild week arrives with much anticipation.....

Day 24: Hadley Wood

I've got two friends, Jack & Rod with me in support - they already know I'm mad! Rod has a special reason for playing as his wife, Melanie is battling cancer, so today is for her.

The round starts well for him with a fantastic birdie at the par 5 first. We all agree it's a great course in a lovely location and the sun starts to shine. We all struggle a bit with our game, but have a memorable day.

In the excellent clubhouse Trevor, the perfect host, takes time to speak with us all which was appreciated by my guests.

Day 25: The Hertfordshire

Today it's raining hard and the forecast isn't good.   We're well looked after by staff at the club, with coffee & bacon rolls provided.   John, my guest today & I try to delay our start in the hope of better weather, but Trevor's having none of it. "This is the Golf Against Cancer Tour"!

A Kent v Essex match is fixed up, but sadly we're made to look like serious hackers by Trevor, who has his best round of the month and his mate Kevin who's on fire with 23 pts on the front 9. Sorry Essex, but we didn't stand a chance!   With golf, there's always another day.

Day 26: West Essex

I awoke at 4am, to the sound of heavy rain, thinking 'what the hell am I doing?' Looking on my computer, I see that the total raised has now exceeded the £5000 target, so this is my answer.

Ian's with me today, but with an injured shoulder from a recent motorbike accident, so I'm impressed that he's turned up - especially as it's wet, wet , wet!

I've been reading about the 'chip-in' birdies and reckon that in 7 games, I've a chance of joining the club. Of course, if you hit too many greens in regulation, your chip-in chances are reduced, so at the par 3 5th, I hit my tee shot to the left fringe of the green. I get the birdie but - big mistake - with my putter. Doesn't count, I'm told - I'll use the 8 iron next time!

The par 3 7th deserves further mention.   Ian 'lays up' to 70 yds but hits a perfect wedge to 6 feet. Alan is at the back of the green and Trevor and I are in separate bunkers short of the green.   I manage what I feel is a good shot to 5 feet past the hole. We're then talking birdies again and suggest to Trevor that one from the sand would be a bit special.

What happened next could not have been written. Trevor plays the perfect shot from (wet) sand to hole out!!! Unbelievable but brilliant and couldn't happen to a nicer person. The rest of us all get our pars, which pale into insignificance after Trevor's shot of the month.

The rain continues but we're all in good spirit. I have another chip-in attempt at the 15th, only missing out by a few centimetres, but fear that now the stakes are raised, an eagle is going to be needed....now that would be a good story!

Ian is delighted to be presented with Trevor's 'bravery' award and we've all had a great day. I leave thinking that I didn't know you could have so much fun in the rain.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

26 Aug 2011, 21:32

Day 26: Hips and shoulders, knees and toes....

Pain management now stable on the thumb and the knee twinge that appeared at The Grove has not returned, so we can now turn attention to other body parts. Two pairs of socks seems to be working with the feet and two gloves with the hands and the back is not giving much gyp these days. Actually, playing more golf seems to be helping - it is exercise after all.

My thoughts are shared by my playing partners today. Alan looks for a slope to run up and down to test out his new hip and Ian insists on hitting a 6-iron despite having done his shoulder in a recent motor-bike accident. He says it's not doing any damage and actually making it stronger. All the same, though, we share Ibuprofen doses like serial drug users.

Now for today's chip-in birdie. I'm afraid John's "putt-in" on the 5th and near-miss on the 15th, however worthy, don't count. I'm in the bunker at the 7th and ask the others not to mark their balls, so I have plenty of targets for an in-off birdie. They rush for their markers and say you'll just have to do a sandy chip-in birdie.................so I do! I will be running a workshop on "the role of luck in golf" at Tudor Park in September. That is, assuming the knees and toes are still up to it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stockbrook Manor Golf Club

26 Aug 2011, 21:30

Here you go Heather.....

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewCourseScorecard.aspx?id=818

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stockbrook Manor Golf Club

26 Aug 2011, 19:39

Could not find a score card on here. Nat played Stockbrook Manor today it pored down he played 3 under his handy cap he is a 12 came 3rd in the gross comp would have ome 1st in the net but there was only prize per person. alot of boys walked of so really pround of my 13 year old will be 14 next Wed

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \new player/member

26 Aug 2011, 10:42

Hi Steve,

If I could give you one piece of advise it would try and get the idea of 'hitting' the ball out of your head. You should be using your body to swing the golf club, rather than trying to hit the ball with your arms. I have a tendency to go this way too... Have a look at this video, hopefully it will help you start off in the right way!

blog.revolutiongolf.com/lose-your-swing/

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

25 Aug 2011, 22:57

Trevor, re day 18, an amazing club house without a doubt and reminded me of Rome with similar style high ceilings and walls magnificently painted. The golf (almost) lived upto the magnificence of the club house with your birdie par 5 a treat to watch and it would of course be rude of me not to agree with your comments on my birdie chip in on the 7th!
Keep up the good work and note that your theory about all Thursdays being wet was proven again today so will pack my wet gear for the 1st at Tudor next week. Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

25 Aug 2011, 20:33

Day 25: Have I got enough balls?

I wrote to both Titleist and Srixon before the tour to ask for ball sponsorship. I reckoned I could lose 100 balls in 31 days. Unfortunately neither felt able to help. Perhaps I should have tried Calloway, Nike, Bridgestone, whoever. Anyway I bought 8 dozen on special offer from Direct Golf; that should be enough, I thought. Some days I thought I'd need to restock; then at The Grove I didn't lose any. I'm not really improving my golf; I'm just learning to be conservative (some of the time).

Today at The Hertfordshire I was joined by my friend Ed Moore who'd organised his company golf day to support GAC so we had a dozen people in all. Everyone must go away with the traditional commemorative GAC ball, but do I have enough? Stocks are looking good so they all get one. I didn't even lose one today. In fact, I had the best round of the tour so far - a 78! Now that's thrown those who went for big scores in the sweepstake - well, you can always have another go!

Elaine at the club was fantastic and organised everything, turning up on the 11th with a photographer from the Mercury. "Too late", I cried, "you've just missed today's chip-in birdie." Fortunately they didn't ask me to re-enact it or we'd still be there, making do with a putt instead. By this time the rain had ceased, the sky was blue and Kent beat Essex again 7&5 (ouch!)

Of course I won't play like that again. Or will I? I won't put up my scores for the final week so I'll leave you guessing. And as for balls lost, that's it now; I'm hanging on to the remainder. Btw, the thumb seems to be OK, though the strapping does elicit appropriate sympathy. It's the feet I'm worried about now. But have I got enough balls? I'll leave you to answer that question....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stockbrook Manor Golf Club

25 Aug 2011, 19:19

Hi Heather,
you should be able to view a scorecard, after using the find courses link at the top of the TSG homepage 1 of the options should be viewing a scorecard. Unless you're specifically after a junior scorecard for the course,
Greg.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \new player/member

25 Aug 2011, 19:14

Thanks Greg,

yeah we are taking it up to both learn together so although we may start of with different ability levels we should level out with handicaps as well.

I am really looking forward to getting out there and playing a round to see how i do, im not know for my touch so my big hitting may have to compensate for that in a I get to the or around the green quicker and then everyone else catches up whilst i am still figuring things out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \new player/member

25 Aug 2011, 19:11

Hi Steve,
in answer to part 3) of your first post, the 2nd most important part of playing golf is putting and short game,
the most important part is ENJOYing it no matter how we play.
Good luck with the lesson, Greg.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ladys cut down TylorMade golf Set

25 Aug 2011, 18:47

Nat has a new set of golf clubs, he wnts to sell his old ones they are all cut down TylorMade burner clubs 1 wood rescue wood has 3 wood but that is the full size ladies size irons set and a cut down fisher golf with the green in set. HE was 4ft 11in when he first got them they just about still fit him but got a good deal on new clubs. How much do you think we should sell them for. Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stockbrook Manor Golf Club

25 Aug 2011, 18:36

Has any one played Stokbrook Manor Golf Club Nat is in a junior ope tomorrow. They do not have a score card or course map on there web site. Nat would just like to no how hard it is and if any one can give him any advise. Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Parallel Clothing Competition....The Winners!

25 Aug 2011, 18:29

Only a few hours left to get your entries in.....Good luck!

The TSG Team
----------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \new player/member

25 Aug 2011, 13:55

Hi Ian, thanks for the welcome, Ive been told that as i was hitting on the range as well with a proper ball it will probably carry further, so im not trying to hit the ball hard. I am concentrating on hitting i, I naturally tend to hit balls hard in any sport anyway so have learned that timing and patience are key. Hoping as time progresses though and I get to used to the swing that my drives will carry a fair distance acurately. hopefully if any of you guys are around north wales I will be able to get out for a game with you when I have all the gear(and hopefully some idea). Cheers

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

25 Aug 2011, 13:08

Hi Trevor,

Apologies for the delayed response.....

Just wanted to say great day at Aldenham on Sunday! Thanks to Chris Holdom and Dave Allchorne for joining us as well, OK they didnt win the day but there certainly joined in the spirit of the Tour!

Hope this weeks weather isnt getting to you, just think only 6 left after todays round.....are you going to miss it when you wake up on the 2nd Sept and have no where to go?

See you next week at Orsett!

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \new player/member

25 Aug 2011, 12:46

Hi Steve,

Welcome to the TSG community!

Good questions....heres my thoughts:

a) The average beginner would probably only hit a drive 170 - 190 yards (So your doing well!)
b) A good score would be 110 - 120 but this should drop to around the 100 mark fairly quickly
c) Concentrate your ball striking rather than distance & scores right now - distance will come in time!

Hope that helps....

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \new player/member

25 Aug 2011, 11:12

Hi all,

Hope you are all well?

Just thought I would drop a note to say Hi and a little about myself.

I already play Cricket, and used to play Hockey.

Now the golf idea started when a mate took me down to the driving range, and I was hitting a driver 3 out of 5 reasonable straight or with a slight 10 yard or so fade(left to right). the ball was consistently going 240 yds.

i also managed to get within 10 - 15 yards with a 7 iron of the target we were both aiming at.

So I figured I would give it a go, I took a trip up to the local golf club with the missus and we should have our first lesson tomorrow. then we will see where that takes us.

A couple of questions,

1) I hit the ball reasonably hard/far in all similar sports, how far is a long drive in golf
2) What is a good score for a beginner?
3) any other useful info (golf related please)?

Cheers and happy golfin

Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

25 Aug 2011, 08:11

Day 24: Why am I doing this?

Left the banners at The Shire so had to call back today....

Ceri finds them and presents me with a £100 cheque from the club for CRUK. It's the charity of the Seve Foundation. We get chatting about his 60 course designs around the world and I feel two months of golf coming on. Ceri is up for it - he'll be in touch!

On through the stockbroker belt to Hadley Wood under lightening skies. I messed up the booking here and we have 9 people but they are fine with three 3-balls so we play a team game. Kent beats Essex and the TSG "hybrids". John says it's better than Ireland v England: at least he has won something, even if it's only a bottle of beer. (He's a cider man...)

It's the other John's first day of his "wild week" alongside the golfing madman and he brings two friends....

Rod asks why I am doing this; I do begin to wonder. Is it for a friend, a former colleague, a family member?

Today it's for Melanie, who's in chemotherapy; tomorrow it will be for someone else. It's for the 1 in 3 of us who may battle at some time. Unlike today, though, let's hope that more than 1 in 3 of us can win!

Click here for Photos...

Click here to Join Games....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

23 Aug 2011, 20:58

Day 23: In memory of Seve Ballesteros....

It's pouring at 10 o'clock and no sane person would want to play golf, but this is the Month of Madness and The Shire, London, Seve's only UK design, opened in 2007, is a must-play for me...

My kids didn't understand why I drove for an hour and a half in Tenerife just to play Buenavista when there were several golf courses nearby. There was just something special about the man and he has managed to transfer some of his DNA into his courses: they are demanding risk/reward tracks and great fun to play, even in the wet.

Tony, the boss, waives the discount rate and offers us a free breakfast as we are supporting Cancer Research UK, the charity of The Seve Foundation. It's still raining but we hit the tee with enthusiasm and then the fun begins. I've been playing Seve-style golf for much of this tour - wild off the tee and with ridiculous scrambling, so I wonder if it will work here. The answer comes at the first where you have to know your yardage exactly to hit the green. Luckily I do - I have had a bit of practice!

A combination of 6 par 3s, 4s and 5s requires thought all the way round and I play the stretch from 12 to 17 in level par. Standing mid-fairway on the 18th with 192 yards uphill to the pin over an S-shaped lake, a couple of wedges and a putt would give me par but what would Seve do? I reach for the rescue club, find the water and make a 7. Oh well, he'd have been proud of me for trying: nobody sits in the clubhouse boasting about their great lay-up on the last.

Over a drink I look at the gallery of photos all round the bar: icons of golf in my lifetime. I leave a note in the book of remembrance in the foyer. Seve: I tried my best but you got me on the last.

Always a battler, always an inspiration, my golfing hero. Thanks for the memories!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

23 Aug 2011, 13:34

Hi John,

Thats hilarious......

When I first read your note, I thought you must be a hoarder.....however, just totaled mine up and it made 22 reserve clubs incluidng 3 currently on loan! (Excludes playing set).

2 Drivers
4 Fairway woods
12 irons
4 putters(?!)
+ 2 spare golf bags!

And I had a set + bag stolen last year....this is very worrying!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

22 Aug 2011, 20:12

Day 22: Jewish Club set for Christmas treat...

You won't get a bacon butty at Dyrham Park: it's a Jewish club, opened in the 30s apparently when, shockingly now, Jews were unable to join other local clubs. This very attractive country club in magnificent parkland does not take casual visitors but societies are welcome.

Monday again and with everyone back in the office, my friend Kevin starts his annual leave by joining me here. We had the most enjoyable round ever! The fun really began on the 13th tee when somehow Kevin managed to get so much backspin with his driver that the ball ended up 4 feet behind the tee. "Still you, Kev..." I wish I'd got it on video.

Then at the 16th, having hooked 2 off the tee, I found my provisional sitting on top of the hazard line. Unsure of the rules, I played it as it lay and then Kevin spotted the drop zone. Having agreed that my first was in the hazard, I dropped, lobbed up the 45 yards and - into the hole! Two shots and a penalty drop for today's chip-in birdie. Honestly, I am not making this up!!

We'd had such a great time, we decided to come back in the autumn with the gang. Ismat in the office tells us that their best deal is the Christmas special. Fair play, I thought, a Jewish club for our Christmas treat. Very good, even without the bacon butty - See you in December........

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

22 Aug 2011, 18:37

That will take some beating John, but don't be too hard on yourself..............2 of the 95 will go to your fellow member, that will still leave you with enough clubs for 6 sets if you fancy a change.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

22 Aug 2011, 08:08

Day 21: Homeward bound....

At Aldenham today, Mr.Mullins and I saw off the opposition despite the dicky thumb. Walking off the 12th after he'd won it with a par I said "that's 2/3 of the tour done now"; he said "well you've got a 600 yard par-5 next!" Has the man no sympathy...? So we are coming "down the stretch" now, as golfers peculiarly put it.

Back in 'Berko' at my mate Pete's house whilst he is away on holiday, his neighbour turns up with bandages, tape and an ominous-looking rubber glove. I go with the tape. Trevor's dicky thumb is now a cause of national concern - Rory had an MRI scan for his latest injury - I suddenly wonder if my health insurance covers golf?

After a hot bath and a glass of wine, things aren't looking so bad and I pick up the old guitar that Pete and I used to play in a band together. Paul Simon's "Homeward bound" comes to me with slightly amended lyrics.
For a small fee I'll do a full karaoke version at Tudor Park in September but , for now, here's verse 1:

I'm sitting at a service station; I'm a long way from my destination, going home......
On a tour of one-day stands, my golf clubs and guitar in hand
Where every stop is neatly planned for a poet and a golfing mad man..
Homeward bound (I wish I was) homeward bound etc..........

21 down, 10 to go.....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How many golf clubs do you possess?

21 Aug 2011, 23:06

A fellow member at my golf club was looking for a 3 and 5 wood for a spare set to keep at work, so he could pop out and play nine holes when things were quiet. I said, I am sure I have some old woods I don't use, I will let you know.

I moved into my current house about a year ago and my old golf clubs live in the garage, more by force of habit than anything else. The garage is a bit musty and some of the clubs had stuff growing on them so I decided to clean them and move them into one of my spare rooms.

Well, how many clubs did I find? Note, my current playing set are in my car.

I have 95 RESERVE golf clubs, these are

8 drivers
12 fairway metals
2 hybrids
9 putters
10 wedges
3 iron sets
1 ladies set of woods and irons
6 misc 6 irons
6 misc 1 and 2 irons
5 misc "miracle" wedges, chippers, etc

Have booked apointment with shrink for tomorrow!

I am not a hoarder by nature so I am sure someone can beat this.

cheers
JD

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

21 Aug 2011, 09:00

Day 20: No driver needed at Berkhamsted....

Didn't need a driver today - the course was only a couple of miles away as I was staying locally. Good job too as I forgot my wallet again and had to go back for it. This was, in fact, the first course where I've had to pay for the tee-time. It was difficult to get on anywhere on a Saturday and the offer of 4for1 seemed good enough at the time.

Dating from 1890, the course runs through attractive heathland but nearly all the par-4s run out of fairway at about 240 yds from the daily tees - another reason you don't need a driver. You don't need a sand wedge either as there are no bunkers. A good day for the rescue club, perhaps?

I teamed up with Steve against "driver" Jeff and "5-iron" John, a real risk/reward partnership. 2 up at the turn, we'd let a couple of 2-balls through already when I suddenly got pain in my thumb: I couldn't do a backswing. This is it, I thought; the month of golf ends here. Whilst we deliberated and I stuffed in the Ibuprofen, a two ball rushed up to the 10th and we let them through, only to find their other halves had also played from the hidden ladies tee and they weren't members so didn't know their way about. A five-hour round loomed with me walking in.

Well, somehow or other, playing half swings with a rubber band round my thumb I finished the back nine in the same score as the front, though we played them out of order to avoid getting stuck behind our friends. That will blow the "miles walked" stats. We couldn't persuade Jeff off the driver but John's 5-iron was a thing of beauty. Despite that, Steve carried us to a 3&2 win. Back on the clubhouse board we saw the winners of the Berkhamsted Trophy, including one L Donald from Beaconsfield, back in his amateur days. The world No 1 may have a driver wherever he wants to go these days, but I bet he didn't need one here either.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

20 Aug 2011, 07:20

Day 19: This place has the X-factor....

From the moment you pull in at the bag drop at The Grove, everything is taken care of. This exclusive venue (with no members) plays host to the England football team before home games and its proximity to London makes it ideal as a celebrity getaway. You have a coffee and return to find your car parked up and your clubs ready on the buggy. The pyramid of balls awaits on the practice range.....

On the first tee, the starter talks you through the buggy (it won't go in the rough and tells you how to play each hole) and if GPS is not for you, you help yourself to a strokesaver, tees, pitch repairer, whatever. All included in the price. It's Pay and Play Jim, but not as we know it.

The course is immaculate - "one of the best kept in Europe", says Monty. I can play any club off the fairways and my GIR stats reflect this. It's like a US tour track. The greens are perfect according to Tiger, but I took a while to find the pace (10.5 it said on the tee-box, just so you know). You pull up by each tee and say "what do we have here?" and the nice man in the buggy gives you a flyby with pro's tip. The weather is perfect, so you've no excuse not to play well. And I did - except Ireland lost to England yet again. (Too near Wembley obviously); we'll get them at the rugby next weekend!

Another bad day for the charity jar I'm afraid, but then nobody goes to the bar and everyone pays by credit card - they are surprised when you offer cash! I'm done now but don't want to leave: I take a final wander around the gardens, taking photos of the many amazing sculptures (you can buy a horse for £46k), chat to some of the girls at the Hindu wedding in their fantastic dresses, ask a photographer to take my photo and stumble upon a film crew interviewing Gary Barlow (Take That fame!) on the terrace.....

It's the X Factor crew. They had boot camp at Wembley arena all week and are here to find out who their mentor will be for the series. Twenty or thirty young wannabees wander by, posing, pouting and trying to relax, hoping that this could be their stairway to stardom. Louis will be having a drink inside; Kelly and Tulisa may be in the jacuzzi. I'd nip in myself, but it's £205 for a day pass. They know how to keep you out, but they know how to treat you when you're in - This place really does have the X-factor!

PS Today's chip-in birdie was on 15 - easier than putting on those greens!!

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General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

19 Aug 2011, 19:16

Day 18: High point of the tour on the High Course

The forecast was for heavy rain, so I put my wetsuit on before getting in the car. At the club we found a big sign saying ¾-balls on the West Course today, 2-balls only on the High Course, so we split up and headed off, deciding we’d play betterball matchplay even though we weren’t actually playing together.

I’m not sure whether we played faster just because of the two-ball. It may have been that the first cut was quite generous so I could actually find my ball or even that I am actually turning that wayward slice into a “power fade”. Well, I’ve had enough practice!

Today’s chip-in birdie was from Steve on the 7^th and I managed to play the par-5s in level par, which is always a good sign. 36 points off the whites (SSS73) and I see I’ve actually been cut by the TSG computer. Have I finally arrested the downward trend? You’ll have to wait and see.

The rain started on the 17^th and by the time we got into the clubhouse it was bucketing. The food was excellent and surprisingly good value and when we went through the cards we ended all square.

You just cannot believe the interior of this 17^th century mansion: it makes Stoke Park look bland. Go and have lunch there one day, just for a look. Of course there was nobody there with all the rain so the kitty was bare again today. We’d have done better passing it round the guests at the Sikh wedding thronging the main hall in all their finery. A high point for them today obviously, but a high point for us too – don’t you agree Steve?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \An old remedy - better late than never

19 Aug 2011, 17:31

I think the cream is.

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream

Good Luck

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Parallel Clothing Competition....The Winners!

19 Aug 2011, 17:07

Dear TSGers,

As you know, we recently got together with the guys at Parallel Clothing to bring you a unique discount on their new clothing brand (see below). However, in order to celebrate the partnership with TheSocialGolfer.com, those lovely chaps are giving three lucky TSG members the opportunity to 'don' what is clearly an emerging, innovative and fashionable golf brand!

To win one of their innovative and fashionable Polo shirts all you need to do is to answer this hugely difficult question:

"Which Member of the TSG community, is currently on his way round London's M25 raising money for Cancer Research UK?"

(told you it was tricky!)

To be included in the draw: Send your answers to theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

Answers are required to reach us by Thu 25th August at Midnight.

Winners: to be announced Friday 26th August.

Thats all folks.....enjoy the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

EXCLUSIVE TSG MEMBER OFFER - 10% off using the following code: PCTSG

For further details, please visit the TSG member offer pages: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

19 Aug 2011, 13:56

Looks like I may struggle to join you now but really enjoying the blog and think what your doing is great!

Lyndon

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

19 Aug 2011, 10:34

Hi Trevor,

Loving the new photos, looks like your having a ball!!

Looking forward to catching up with at Aldenham on Sunday, keep up the good work - were all supporting you!

Regards

Ian

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG please reinstate the Available for a Game tab

19 Aug 2011, 10:13

thanks for your support Dave

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \An old remedy - better late than never

19 Aug 2011, 09:56

Hi Trevor, well done for the month of madness, a worthy cause, pity I am unable to contribute much by way of practical support, but if you are up for it I would like to invite you along as my guest to the Comedians Golfing Society - on a future society day (18 holes of golf - what more torture) and dinner. You would get the recognition you deserve for your efforts if nothing else.

Now the practical advice:- Blisters on the feet and how to avoid them..

This information as imparted to a group of outward-bound young soldiers by an old gnarled Royal marine Commando - half way through the second week ... If you suffer from blisters (and sore feet) invest in vaseline and apply direct to the feet typically around the heels (copious quantity) before putting on your socks... this actually works to reduce friction even in wet conditions and you may find that you don't need the second pair of socks...

It would have been nice to have known this at the start of the outward bound course... but it has worked for me ever since... and you can always apply more vaseline after your post round shower to keep your heels and feet silky smooth and unblistered...

Sore hands... hmmm, there's always that Norwegian cream, can't remember the name, the one the Fishermen use to keep hands soft and gentle in the most adverse conditions... the name eludes me for the moment, but it does work as well, just have to apply it the night before each game... it's the tube with the Norwegian flag on it... been advertised on the TV a while ago...

I'll try and get back to the M25 in time to participate...

Best wishes and good luck in the venture...

Rgds Stephen

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

18 Aug 2011, 19:51

Day 17: Sign of the times

Mindlessly following the Sat Nav, as you do, I suddenly came upon Northwood Golf Club. It seemed to be right on the A404, no drive or anything. I parked on the road, just under a sign saying Empty your car when you park it, or a thief might. And I thought this was a safe area. Sign of the times, I guess. Having eventually found the car park and got inside, I was warmly welcomed in the safe haven of golfers which proved to be surprisingly rural within this suburban setting.

On course the signage continued. Caution, unstable bank announced the 9^th tee – so Lehman Brothers held their golf days here, did they? Later, at the 15^th I nearly had to cut short the round when confronted by No golfers beyond this point. But then since my scores have already proved I am not a golfer - I carried on.

Actually, I’m more of a billiard player than a golfer today. I was about to chip onto the 9^th (from the 10^th tee!) when Graham said “Shall I mark my ball?” I said “No” and went for it, my lobbed wedge hitting Graham’s 4-footer on the second bounce and cannoning into the hole for birdie. Quite the most spectacular chip-in-off birdie I expect I shall ever have. Graham was not amused. He drives all the way round from Kent to stop me playing solo and this is the thanks he gets. Well, he did have the last laugh as I lost 4&3 on the 15th, despite my rising handicap!

Chatting to members later, they say it’s a nice club but they are struggling to attract new members. Now there’s another sign of the times I guess.....

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Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG please reinstate the Available for a Game tab

18 Aug 2011, 18:33

found this very helpful please add again ..

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG please reinstate the Available for a Game tab

18 Aug 2011, 16:34

TSG please reinstate the Available for a Game tab

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

17 Aug 2011, 19:37

Day 16: Film-star service does not do ready-meals.

The biggest B&B breakfast I’ve ever had, I thought, should save me having to remortgage for lunch at exclusive Stoke Park, but I did enjoy a coffee in the elegant Orangerie having surveyed the film memorabilia in the locker room. Scene of James Bond’s famous 18th hole victory over Goldfinger, it has provided a backdrop to numerous movies, adverts and promotions and no wonder why – it’s a very classy venue. Today we donned our trilbys and followed in 007’s footsteps....

This time there was no gamesmanship, crushed balls or flying bowlers and I managed to close out with pars on 16 and 17. The guys in front, knowing we were playing for charity, gave us their winnings to add to the kitty. When I got to the bar, the sweetie jar was nowhere to be seen. Maybe it just wasn’t classy enough, but the waiter dug it out from under the bar to reveal the measly fiver I’d started it with this morning! On reflection, my disappointment was tempered as I realised that no-one actually goes to the bar here except the waiters, as you never have to get up out of your seat to get anything.

En route to my temporary abode later, I dropped into Tesco for a microwave meal, realising that breakfast was now half a day ago. I wondered if Bond had a decent lunch in the Orangerie after his match. Funny, they never seem to eat ready-meals in the movies.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Weald Park Golf course

17 Aug 2011, 18:15

[quote=Ed McLatchie]Yes they do, its "Thanks Goodness its Thursday" 18 holes for only £10 tel 01277 375 101 or www.wealdpark.net or email info@wealdpark.net[/quote]

Cheers ed :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Weald Park Golf course

16 Aug 2011, 21:08

Yes they do, its "Thanks Goodness its Thursday" 18 holes for only £10 tel 01277 375 101 or www.wealdpark.net or email info@wealdpark.net

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

16 Aug 2011, 11:54

[quote=Ian Mullins]Hi Trevor,

Reallying enjoying the blog and nice piece from Andy too!

By my reckoning your 198 holes down with 360 holes to go......maybe we should consider renting you a buggies for Aldenham!

Anyone got any predictions for Trevor's gross score over the 31 days?

I'll start the ball rolling with 2790......

[/quote

Good number Ian...bogey golf eh! I'll go a bit higher as the effects really begin to kick in, at the latter stages.
I'll say 2825.
Trevor is doing an amazing job, and I don't think we really appreciate just how difficult it is, not only walking about 5 miles a day up hill down dale, but having to negotiate the dreaded M25, twice a day.
To use the modern vernacular - respect!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

16 Aug 2011, 11:47

Alan
Thanks for your concern, but you'll see from my scores that my handicap has now risen to 14. I don't think this type of activity is designed to improve your golf! Plus i will have to play off 12 again when i get back to Tudor Park in September. But, hey, I'm not looking for sympathy; I'm writing this in the elegant lounge of Stoke Park and I've gotta go now 'cos they have put a nice little pile of balls for me on the range, so maybe today I actually will do some practice!
Trevor

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

16 Aug 2011, 11:23

Hi Dave, I do hope you are entering your cards for handicap purposes...with all this practice you should be down to single figures by now..... :-) Do keep up the good work. Trig.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

16 Aug 2011, 11:06

Day 15: Millionaires' golf on a Monday

There's something about golf on a Monday. Everybody's back in the office and there you are, out on the course - better than working!

Mike (from my tennis club) was gutted that due to a mix-up in dates by a mutual friend, he couldn't join us at Stoke Park tomorrow. But not wanting to let the side down, he persuaded occasional golfer Peter to come with him to Thorney Park today....

We saw hardly anyone on the course, which won't help the charity jar in the bar. However, though close to the sounds of road, rail and air transport, we had time to stop and stare at ponds and streams and spot woodpeckers in the trees. Snakes, camels and frogs were frequently encountered and two gorrillas suddenly appeared on the 18th! Peter, nervous in front of an audience when a couple did catch us up, produced a number of contenders for pig, though his joy was unallayed when, by the 15th, he made his first par.

After the round, Mike gave me a cheque for what we would have paid at Stoke Park. He'd had a great day - relaxed, fun and unhurried - and had coaxed Peter into a game that might get him out more often.Next time we meet it'll be for tennis, but it's the golf we'll talk about.

Millionaires' golf on a Monday - much better than working!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf lessons online

16 Aug 2011, 01:21

Nice link. My recommendation would be Paul Wilson's free videos which can be found here. www.revolutiongolf.com/

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

15 Aug 2011, 16:29

[quote=Trevor Sandford]It's Trevor, Alan.
Roger.
Over and out.[/quote]

Thanks Dave, I'll try to remember
Trigger.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PGA Championship predictions....

15 Aug 2011, 09:10

I almost went to bed after he tripled on the 15th, but figured I'd wait and see what Dufner did there.

Not much of a secret really - I watch the golf on Sky as much as I can (the wife is very pleased I can do it on my iPad now!), and knew Bradley's been having a good season, so stuck him amongst 6 or 7 picks.

Picked Adam Scott last week too, so I'm having a good run!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PGA Championship predictions....

15 Aug 2011, 09:06

Good call!

However, I suspect you were sweating somewhat at 15...

What was the thinking behind picking him? Please share your secret with us all!!

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PGA Championship predictions....

15 Aug 2011, 09:01

Well I had a couple of quid on Keegan Bradley at 180/1, so I'm a sleepy, but very happy person this morning!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

15 Aug 2011, 07:12

PS just had a drop-out for 11am today at Thorney Park (Jn 15) if there's anybody awake and idle in west London..txt me on 07717276502 if so.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

14 Aug 2011, 23:27

Day 14: Golf is not subject to the laws of physics.

Short report today as I played a nine-holer. Well, played it twice, actually. Was doing well on the front nine until on the 8th Tony and I discovered we'd both read physics at the same university. At that point Heisenberg's uncertainty principle took over and I was no longer able to determine the position or momentum of the ball. However after a random walk on the 8th, it was 'chaos' on the 9th when I chipped in for a birdie. 2 over gross on the front nine - not bad.

Playing again from different tees, you'd think I'd have learned from the first attempt but no!

Quantum fluctuations ensured that holes which previously yielded pars and birdies offered up 7s and 9s. My Srixon AD333 is clearly subject to wave-particle duality and is diffracting through the gaps in the trees. Even the putting is tricky as there is interference on the fringes.

I walk off with a score in the mid eighties. Why did we ever start talking physics; we should have stuck to the golf....

More photos coming soon but alas technology has got the better of me for now!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

14 Aug 2011, 11:03

Day 13: Slice of life on both sides of the river...

No entry-code needed for today's venue but you do have to make your way through a caravan park - a far cry from the private estates of Surrey. We are now firmly in West London. You can hear the screams from Thorpe Park across the road and see the planes going off from Heathrow!

Though one of the cheapest venues on the tour, I'd only managed to negotiate the members' guest rate when the itinerary was agreed, but John in the pro-shop would have none of it. His Mum died of cancer and of course we'd have a concession....

On course, in an all-TSG match, John and I lost to Dougie "too good" and Dave "nice draw". We played animals and won one apiece. I added a pig to the gorilla with a thin onto the terrace at the last, just missing the photographer at the wedding - no he didn't get the shot, unfortunately.

Back in the bar, my press article had been nicked and the barman had had to hide the sweetie-jar, for fear it would be raided. He offered to host it for another day but I thought I'd better move it on. Fortunately, with the concessions, animals, sweepstake and everything we made it over the 100 quid mark, so another OK day for CRUK.

Popped over the river to Ashford Manor on the way home to collect my other charity jar and found it half-full and heavy to lift. Nearly £270(!!) from members when I got home and counted it! Thats a record.

Seemed a stuffy old place yesterday but now I won't have anything bad said against them, even if you can't wear cargo shorts and trainer socks.

Tomorrow - Its Junction 14, nearly at the half way point.....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

14 Aug 2011, 10:36

It's Trevor, Alan.
Roger.
Over and out.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf lessons online

13 Aug 2011, 19:13

very useful! makes me realise how wrong i have been doing things... cant wait to test tomorrow morning... thanks!

Matt

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\3 wood help!

13 Aug 2011, 17:10

hi,

I've done the best I can, trying mates clubs, trying clubs in the proshop and speaking to people. I have used that info and have risked buying a club online, however they're sure I've made a good choice based on how I swing etc

I've ordered a graphite shaft reg flex 2008 callaway x 3 wood... Should arrive on monday or tuesday... will post here when I know what it's like :)

thanks

Matt

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

13 Aug 2011, 10:43

Great stuff Roger. Hope the wear and tear is not too severe. If you were not fit to begin with, you will be by the time it finishes. Looking forward to playing with you at Chigwell. Love the blog.
Very best wishes

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf lessons online

13 Aug 2011, 09:03

Just been on this site looking to improve bunker play. Very helpfull.
http://www.golflessons.tv/

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

13 Aug 2011, 07:31

Day 12: Longest drive at Ashford?

I have a bad feeling today as the iron gates swing open from what seems an ordinary suburban street. I'm there far too early, I have to remind them who I am and what I'm doing, they're not keen on putting up banners and they don't have wi-fi. I chase around the local library/Costa coffee and nobody has wifi here it seems. I won't say how the guy in the computer shop describes his place of birth, or its local golf club.

Anyway it's now 10.30 and John, Baz and Ben haven't arrived - must be stuck on the motorway so I give them a ring......Where are you, John? We're in Ashford. Oh, well you're two minutes away then. Er, no mate, we're in - you've guessed it - Ashford, Kent! Now tell me John, when we said a Month of Madness on the M25, was there not a clue there somewhere? Yes, I did wonder about that; I thought you must have wanted one nearer home for a shorter drive....honestly, you couldn't make this up!

Well John definitely wins the longest drive competition today because 2 hours later we were on the tee and away. Gave me a chance to promote the tour to members in between though.

On course the golf was good on a nice course (though I still didn't hit any fairways) and people kept coming over and asking "how's your geography?" and telling us their "wrong Ashford" stories. They asked if they could keep the collecting jar overnight so maybe I'll get more cash out of sympathy?

Back home in the pub later, someone recognises me from the local paper and asks about the tour. Ah, celebrity status has returned. Maybe not such a bad day after all!

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General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

12 Aug 2011, 23:15

Trevor, despite all the aches & pains it sounds as though you're enjoying the month so far!

Rory McIlroy had treatment during his round at the USPGA, so it's only right that you should accept what's on offer in terms of massage, etc. After 12 days golf, you deserve it! Maybe someone out there could offer services as a caddie for a day - possibly even 'Oddjob' at Stoke Park, or Tiger's new guy who's now got the weekend off!

Like others, I've been enjoying reading the daily blog - keep up the good work & I'm looking forward to another game with you next week.

The number that's most important will be the amount raised for Cancer Research UK & I'm sure this will smash the target of £5000. But gross shots - put me down for 2882 - some tough courses to come!

John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

12 Aug 2011, 22:04

I'll go for 2845.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\3 wood help!

12 Aug 2011, 21:59

Hi Matthew, Unfotunately (for you if you can't get to anywhere to try out some new clubs) the best way of finding what is best is to try before you buy. Obviously you have a budget but that doesn't mean that you can't get what you are after. Direct Golf and American Golf usually have second hand clubs in stock which you can try and they will give you all the info you need regarding distance, flight etc. I would recommend trying to get to one of these and having a go of whatever they have in stock and seeing how it feels. When I first started playing on a more regular basis all I was looking at was clubs online but you never know if it is going to be any good for you unless you have tried hitting a few balls with it. Richard

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

12 Aug 2011, 21:15

Day 11: Bad golfer gets Star treatment.

I’m getting used to pulling up through iron gates onto the long drive through the trees towards the impressive country mansion, so today was no different. Only thing was, I’d rushed out without my battery – and my wallet! No trouble, sir, we’ll lend you a motocaddy. You’ve got some banners to put up? I’ll get the green staff onto it – where would you like them? Thank you, Sean, what a welcome!

On the course for the return Ireland/England match, my 290-yd drive on the 2^nd was followed by the first s***k my mate Andy had ever witnessed me do. John remarked on about the 16th it was the first hole we hadn’t had to look for my ball. Maybe the golf is getting to me – or could it be the celebrity status? At an early par 3, the photographer arrived to take a few shots for their monthly magazine. I’d already taken 3 to reach the green, so they had to make do with putting.

Still, it wasn’t only me who was playing bad golf. We were stocking up at the halfway hut behind the 9^th green when suddenly a ball shot in through the open door and clattered all over the room, luckily causing no damage. So someone else thins their lob wedges too.

Andy’s wife, Heather walked the front nine with us before going in for her spa treatment and having spoken to the staff about the lunatic golfer going round the M25 that she was with, they offered me a complimentary back massage after the round, so it was into the robe, pop on the little slippers, lie back, think of England (they did win again, I’m afraid) and come out smelling of roses. What a finish to the day.

One third of the way round now. The golf can only improve but the star treatment can hardly get better.......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

12 Aug 2011, 21:13

What about Day 11?

It's coming, folks. Just don't ask me why nowhere in west London has wi-fi. The only place I managed to get online was Walton-on-Thames conservative club. What was I doing there, you might well ask?

No, it's too long a story....

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\3 wood help!

12 Aug 2011, 12:20

Oh and my current came with a set (dunlop max) and is a really heavy stiff steel shafted wood and i just cant stand how it feels!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\3 wood help!

12 Aug 2011, 12:17

Hi Greg,
Thanks for prompt and useful reply! :) Unfortunately I'm unable to get to somewhere where i can try demo clubs :( but thanks for the tip on not to be too glued to the big makes! I have spoken to some people, and would you agree that I should aim for clubs with regular flex and with a very high amount of forgiveness and is easy to use and get in the air??

Thanks

Matt

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

11 Aug 2011, 19:04

I'll try 2,730..........but i hope it's less, also enjoying reading the blog, keep it up Trevor looking forward to meeting you on the 28th.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PGA Championship predictions....

11 Aug 2011, 19:03

Jason Day 25/1 and Luke Donald 14/1 would be my bet

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\3 wood help!

11 Aug 2011, 18:56

Hi Matt,
I would say don't assume a top branded name club is going to be better for you than a lesser one, all i would advise is if your previous 3 wood was recommended for you with regard to loft, shaft flex etc then get one that will work for you, if not then take advise from someone before buying or go somewhere like American Golf to hit some balls with there demo clubs.
Hope this helps.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

11 Aug 2011, 18:55

Hi Trevor,

Reallying enjoying the blog and nice piece from Andy too!

By my reckoning your 198 holes down with 360 holes to go......maybe we should consider renting you a buggies for Aldenham!

Anyone got any predictions for Trevor's gross score over the 31 days?

I'll start the ball rolling with 2790......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Weald Park Golf course

11 Aug 2011, 18:14

Hi

I have just been told that Weald Park Golf course, on a thursday is doing a round for only £10.
Does anyone know if this is true ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PGA Championship predictions....

11 Aug 2011, 18:11

If I was a betting man i would go with these two.
25/1 Adam Scott

25/1 Rickie Fowler

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PGA Championship predictions....

11 Aug 2011, 17:51

Any predictions on a winner for this weekend? Tiger is looking good at 66/1, as is McDowell at 100/1?

5/1 Steve Stricker

9/1 Rory McIlroy

14/1 Lee Westwood

14/1 Luke Donald

25/1 Phil Mickelson

25/1 Jason Day

25/1 Adam Scott

25/1 Rickie Fowler

28/1 Dustin Johnson
33/1 Nick Watney

40/1 Martin Kaymer

40/1 Matt Kuchar

40/1 K.J. Choi

40/1 Alexander Noren

50/1 Bubba Watson

50/1 Miguel Angel Jimenez

50/1 Matteo Manassero

50/1 Zach Johnson

50/1 Sergio Garcia

50/1 Brendan De Jonge

60/1 Charl Schwartzel

66/1 Tiger Woods

66/1 Bill Haas

66/1 John Senden

66/1 Brian Davis

66/1 Jerry Kelly

80/1 Hunter Mahan

80/1 Y.E. Yang

80/1 Peter Hanson

80/1 Geoff Ogilvy

80/1 Gary Woodland

80/1 Fredrik Jacobson

80/1 Anthony Kim

80/1 Stewart Cink

100/1 Graeme McDowell

100/1 Ian Poulter

100/1 Robert Karlsson

100/1 Retief Goosen

100/1 Francesco Molinari

100/1 Ernie Els

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hole in one .................but the wrong hole

11 Aug 2011, 14:17

[quote=roly richardson] Hey Mark, perhaps you should have hit the rake in the bunker then you might have got the real hole!!

Mind you, you should even be getting on the green for 1 with your handicap!
[/quote]
Hi Roly,
I'm trying hard to improve the handicap

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\3 wood help!

11 Aug 2011, 12:44

Hi

I've been playing golf for about 4 years now and I am looking for a new 3 wood. I have a low budget and if I want i new club, the best I can get is a wilson prostaff LCG new for just under £40. I have another option which is to use sites such as golfbidder.co.uk... would you say a reasonally good condition cleveland launcher (2009) second hand is better than a brand new wilson prostaff lcg??? (i think i could predict the answer but I am new to golf and dont know anything!)

Thanks

Matt

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

11 Aug 2011, 08:43

Keep going Trevor you are doing a fantastic job and Im really enjoying reading about it Interesting points about the prep required to undergo this sort of task,, When the idea was first mooted I thought what a lucky bloke playing all that golf but if your physical and mental strength are not a hundred per cent it must be very tough It is all too easy to forget the blisters and aches and pains, and even the self inflicted pain when your game suddenly takes a downward lurch Anyway enjoy the experience and I will look forward to meeting you at Hadley Wood

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

10 Aug 2011, 19:33

Day 10: Month of golf starting to show its strain.

Andy your comments above are far too generous; you know I am always happy to find an excuse to play golf!

Of course, playing every day for a month poses its own problems. E.g. Richard, who kindly drove me to Burhill and back today asked me if I'd done any special preparation or anything. In the end I haven't done a lot, just the Pilates for core strength and stretching. I wake up with a sore back every morning and today I gave in and took Ibuprofen. However, it's mainly the hands and feet you have to worry about.....

On day 3, I played with leftie John Warnett who lent me a spare glove when I was struggling with holding my grip in the heat. Since then, it's been 2 gloves every day and that seems to be helping me hold the club, if not find the fairway. On the foot front I am beginning to feel the strain and the blister pack is close at hand; however two pairs of socks seems to have helped. By the end of the month I'll be covered in layers of clothing!

Actually the fairways of the New Course at Burhill were so good it was like walking on carpet anyway, Why has no one I know ever played there? It has two great courses, equally challenging but different and a fabulous clubhouse, but there was hardly anyone there. Where were the burghers of Walton-on-Thames? Probably on the 7.14 to Waterloo working.

I guess there are so many great golfing venues nearby that this is just another one to some, but for Richard, Graham, Kamal and myself it was a treat. If only my golf had risen to meet the challenge........

Click here for Photos...

Click here to Join Games....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hole in one .................but the wrong hole

10 Aug 2011, 17:56

[quote=roly richardson] Hey Mark, perhaps you should have hit the rake in the bunker then you might have got the real hole!!

Mind you, you should even be getting on the green for 1 with your handicap![/quote]

The way he has been playing in his last couple of games, he will be cut very soon.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hole in one .................but the wrong hole

10 Aug 2011, 15:01

Hey Mark, perhaps you should have hit the rake in the bunker then you might have got the real hole!!

Mind you, you should even be getting on the green for 1 with your handicap!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

10 Aug 2011, 10:42

Andy, this is a truly inspirational story which can surely give hope to other cancer sufferers. Well done in getting back into golf and thanks for sharing this with us. Trevor's 'Month of Madness' will be a great achievement and it's good that he's got friends along with him. Good luck at Foxhills and The Grove. I'll hope to meet you at Tudor Park!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

09 Aug 2011, 22:44

Well done Trevor for another great day of golf around the M25.

For those of you who are following Trevor's blog, you won't be surprised to know that aswell as doing a fantastic job in the month of madness on the M25, he (and his family) have given amazing support to me. I have had (and beaten) pancreatic cancer, following a major operation last October, with a subsequent 6 months of chemotherapy.

I was away from my golf passion for far too long but Trevor has been a key part in getting me back in the swing of things. I am now playing better than I have for a long time, with my swing slowing down to a blur!

So for all you TSG members that have taken part so far, or plan to attend later in August, you are supporting some fantastic people dedicated to their work in beating cancer. The staff who cared for me at Kings College Hospital, Camberwell were also absolutely brilliant, so all money raised will definitely make a difference.

I have played 3 rounds in the month of golf (North Downs, Walton Heath and Tyrells Wood). I have 2 more to go at Foxhills and The Grove.

Trevor and I were caught in the usual queue between J5 and J7 this morning, on our way to Tyrells Wood. Having had responsibility for maintaining the M25 between 2001 and 2009, I took the opportunity to let Trevor know some fascinating facts on the technical aspects of the M25 road contruction et al..... When Trevor eventually woke up, he promised to ensure a chapter in his forthcoming book about the month of madness to cover "interesting facts about the M25".

It could well be the shortest ( and most uninteresting) chapter in the whole book after today's discussion!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

09 Aug 2011, 21:44

Day 9. No concessions for ladies at some clubs

It's my daughter's 19th birthday today so I have been thinking about the day from a female's perspective....

Calling in at Walton Heath to collect my mislaid folder, I noticed the sign showing the "Ladies entrance". Some clubs these days go a long way to encourage female membership but giving them their own entrance? Could that be going too far? (Discuss)

Today alongside my pairs partner Andy were John and Diana, the first and (so far) only lady TSGer to have signed up for the month of golf. Playing off 34, she was doing fine until we noticed that nearly all the red tees were on the same tee-boxes as the yellows, just a few yards forward. Even the uphill 12th which I just reached in 3 was a 490-yard par 5 for the ladies. They probably do have female members here but they must all be Olympic athletes.

Anyway, finished after an up and down round (well, it is very hilly at Tyrrell's Wood, with quite dramatic elevated tee-offs to begin each 9) to find two attractive young ladies waiting for me on the terrace. No guys, it's not what you think.....

My daughter's having a load of her Uni friends for a party tonight and I've offered the Surrey contingent a lift back. So regrettably we speed off so they can have their "pre-lash" chez moi. Otherwise I'd still be lingering on the terrace of that beautiful clubhouse sipping my gin and tonic as the sun goes down.

Do they serve white wine spritzers here often, I wonder?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

09 Aug 2011, 18:11

As far as I know, Crown golf have only got a lease of South Essex, they don't own it. Not that it will make any difference to us golfers.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

09 Aug 2011, 00:06

Day 8: Ryder Cup lost amidst the heather

This morning we took tea in the Braid Room, under the board displaying presidents of the club including HRH the Prince of Wales. That gives you some idea of the class of this venue, the first in England to host a European Ryder Cup team in 1981. Unfortunately the Americans won 181/2-91/2.

Today fellow Northern Irishman John and I took on Andy and Bob (my Club champion (net) and Captain respectively) in an Ireland v England derby. Unfortunately we lost too, but mainly because of my drive on the 18th (clubhead speed 300mph+!).

The Old course comes in at No 28 in the GM Top 100 in Britain and deservedly so. The fairways are wide but everywhere else is heather. You can play out of it - trust me, I had plenty of practice. Fortunately John donked a little driver 200 yards down the middle of every fairway and used his 11 shots to good effect.

I had some spectacular errors, not least leaving behind a folder with all my stats, spreadsheets and sweepstake entries. Oh well, I can always pick it up when I'm passing in the morning.......

PS they found the folder for me - if not my errant drive on the 18th!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another 10% Discount

08 Aug 2011, 17:06

[quote=TheSocialGolfer]You going to tell us all where your local shop is Darren and how we get in contact?

:-)[/quote]

oops

www.discountgolfstore.co.uk

Sorry

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

08 Aug 2011, 12:22

Hi Trevor,

Really enjoying your reading your blog.... a very entertaining read.

A fantastic cause and a huge amount of respect to you.

Hope it all continues to go well... looking forward to joining you on 21st August at Aldenham!

Best wishes

Chris

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another 10% Discount

08 Aug 2011, 11:12

You going to tell us all where your local shop is Darren and how we get in contact?

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

08 Aug 2011, 09:49

Day 7: Two top men beat cancer

Too late and tired last night to tell you the story of my day, perhaps it's catching up with me already and the oak panelled Renshaw Room at Walton Heath is a bit more conducive than the Premier Inn!

Anyway, was lucky with both the weather and the M25 yesterday though we did have a howling gale. Surrey Downs, nominally a Peter Alliss design, had rather too many blind drives for me and misreading the 7th proved a card-wrecker. The greens, however, were superb - fast and sloping, so quite a challenge.

Alongside TSGer Mark and myself was George Rothman who, at 75, plays off 7 (despite a broken shoulder) and has written a book "New Angles on Golf" whilst recovering from Cancer! How's that for a humbling C.V.?

Guiding us round was Peter Townson, General Manager of the club and also a Cancer survivor. He couldn't have been more helpful, with lunch, drinks etc all laid on and £80 raised already before I arrived from the Saturday swindle. Top man, Peter......even his wife turned up in a buggy to cheer us in!

Golf a bit up and down and most of the lost balls were provisionals - maybe today it'll all come together; at Walton Heath it'll need to. I'll study the putting chapter in George's book.

Did you know there were 5 types of putt? You can buy a copy off me for £10 while on the tour (50% to CRUK).

The putting green here is like the back garden of some country house. I can't look at it any longer - I need to get out there and practice..........

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another 10% Discount

07 Aug 2011, 21:56

Hi all

My local golf shop are doing another 10% Discount, hurry ends midnight monday if you ring them up dont forget to mention TSG :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hole in one .................but the wrong hole

07 Aug 2011, 20:32

Cheers mate

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Apps for iphone

07 Aug 2011, 20:24

Have used both my caddie and golflogix they have both good features, Golflogix gets my thumbs up at the moment.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hole in one .................but the wrong hole

07 Aug 2011, 20:21

It was a nice shot as well :) you didnt mention is was a good 10yds from the right pin and you neally holed that putt.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hole in one .................but the wrong hole

07 Aug 2011, 19:38

Risebridge this afternoon 11th hole - 146 yards - took my trusted 6 iron good shot onto the green, but no roll, just straight in the unplugged hole not in use. Didn't know what to say

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Team TSG Triumph.....

07 Aug 2011, 17:47

Well done for achieving success, even without me you did OK. Always to be out and playing, it goes to show that organising events needs a bit of planning at the very least.

Well done TSG team... about time we have a 4 ball inter-TSG regional competition... matchplay would be a welcome diversion.

I could guarrantee prizes for that sort of a day... might even be able to drum up a showbiz team as well..

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

06 Aug 2011, 21:16

Hi all,

You may be following the daily blog about the Golf Against Cancer tour, but I thought i'd just post a note of thanks here to all TSG people who have signed up for games in the last couple of weeks.

There are now vacancies only on August 10, 14, 16, 17 and 22. I am thinking of booking some extra tees in the last week if needed, so please add your name to the standby list and I'll take that as a signal to do so.

Also, for those of you who appreciate a bit of class, I have been let down by two friends at Stoke Park on Tuesday 16th, so now have 2 places available at this prestigious venue. OK It's £100 but you get to wear a trilby and walk in the footsteps of Bond - Book in now before my mates and show them you know a deal when you see it.....

I'm delighted to say we have already passed my original target of £3,100 for Cancer Research UK and there is lots more to come, so I hope we can make that target of £5k!

Just a reminder that I also have a GAC Golf Day (the full works, including dinner etc) at my home club, Tudor Park, in Kent on 1st September with special rates for people who've supported GAC, so please don't miss out on that. It'll be fun as well as great value.

BTW, the tour is going well. Still not playing to handicap but having fun and meeting new friends to play golf - isn't that what TSG is all about?

Join in the fun! Go to: Join Games...

Trevor

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

06 Aug 2011, 08:00

Day 6: Wise men come from the East (bringing clubs).

Overnight reports said "M25 closed in both directions between J7 M23 and J8, A217 (Reigate), because of a shed load, an accident involving a lorry and a car earlier on, an oil spillage AND barrier repairs - Diversion in operation - " Worried wives report radio advice to "avoid the area at all costs".

Well, this is Golf Against Cancer and we don't give up that easily. Andy my golf partner and driver today is former director of M25 maintenance, so he'll know what to do. Coming from Kent, we sail up to Jn6 and are there in no time, but I fear the beast is rearing its ugly head.......

The club couldn't be more accommodating and set us up to get going as soon as poss. Unfortunately TSGer David who is joining us comes from Jn 10 and is having a nightmare on the side-roads. He calls in and says start without me and eventually makes it on the 5th green.

The course is generally short and sweet with a lot of "rescue + lob wedge" par-4s. I could have had a go at most of them but I've a month of this to do and don't want to lose all my balls on one day. As it was I had an aberration at the 2 quirky holes around the turn and lost 4 in a row, but the rescue/lob combination saw me home in 87 to a friendly clubhouse where they weren't happy with the £18 in the sweetie-jar and asked if they could hang onto it tomorrow when it'd be a lot busier. Fine by me.

Wise men from the east normally bring gold, but I'm quite happy to take it away...roll on Junction 7!

Click here for Photos...

Click here to Join Games....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

06 Aug 2011, 07:41

Day 5: Small change all adds up in Sevenoaks

Weather back to fine today, thank goodness but got stuck in the private roads surrounding Wildernesse amongst enormous mansions. The Lexus count in the car park was high but the clubhouse, though nearly empty on a Friday lunchtime, was large and welcoming.

Though the course was quiet all afternoon, we found £49 in the sweetie jar by evening: loose change in Sevenoaks, like the Lexus, doesn't rattle!

As a fourball we started off the 10th, which turned out to be about a half-mile walk away! Sadly the greens had just been scarified so putting was a bit tricky. Apart from that, the course was great and Paul and I beat Jed and Gary 6&5 (ouch!)

Now playing off 13 - missed a hole in one at the 130 yd 13th by 13 cm! Unlucky for some.

Last day in Kent today: am going to have to tackle the M25 proper tomorrow!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Team TSG Triumph.....

06 Aug 2011, 00:19

Well done lads for flying the flag for T.S.G. AND WINNING.
You must be a bit disappointed that there was no trophies up for grabs,at least you won YEAH!!!!!!!
May be a letter to the club expressing your views would not go a miss.
Certainly if I was part of the team I would mention it to them,also the fact we where considering a second golf day there,and what they stand to loose.
Maybe we should forget a return visit here and look at courses in the south after all.
Also I think the team might consider taking on another 4 ball of T.S.G MEMBERS, in a match play event in September.
I am certain that this wont take to much effort,
I WILL THROW DOWN THE GAUNTLET AND START THE CHALLENGE.
WHO'S UP FOR IT
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

05 Aug 2011, 18:14

Blimey Trevor, sounds and looks like you were hit by a Monsoon! However, clearly it makes for good reading though. Hope today was better for you.

Keep your chin up.....only another 26 days to go!

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

05 Aug 2011, 18:02

There are a lot of good courses not far off the M25 in Kent, Sussex, Surrey etc, so are easy to get to, but the event has to be big enough to make people make the effort to travel that bit further, especially if it means having to take time off work.
Maybe using a recommendation from Trevor on one of his "31 day, M25 tour" stops may be a start.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Team TSG Triumph.....

05 Aug 2011, 17:54

Dear TSGers,

It was last minute but we managed to get a team together in time!

The sun was shining, we all arrived in time for bacon butties and we were soon teeing off. Despite being last out of all the groups (some confusion by the organisers didnt help!) it didnt matter, we were happy to be out and enjoying the weather.......

The Result: Dave Allchorne was our lead man with 35 points, followed by Ian Mullins on 33, Andy Flynn on 30 and last but by no means least John Amos with 28 points, making a grand total of 126.

Considering we were playing off 3/4 handicaps this was solid scoring and we managed to romp home by a massive 13 point margin from our closest rivals - The London Fire Department!

What a shame the organisers couldnt be bothered to stump up for a trophy. In fact, as far as Golf Days go, this was as badly an organised event I've been on. No longest Drive?! No nearest pin?! Lets just say the TSG Open Championship held at the same venue put them to shame.

However, we didnt let this spoil the day......check out the smiling faces below!

Team TSG - Winners Photo!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

04 Aug 2011, 20:58

Day 4: Swingin' in the rain

After 3 days of 30 degree heat, it was rain all day. The club kindly offered me a buggy (worth £25) though the guy in the pro-shop took £3.50 for the course planner. I put the change in the charity jar. Good job I did as there was hardly anyone there all day. Lots of no-shows and who'd blame them? If it hadn't been for Golf Against Cancer, I'd have stayed in bed too.

We had a film crew in tow down the first. Well a local film buff and his other half anyway. They do newsreels of "interesting events in Orpington" apparently, as well as comedy and drama. I could certainly have offered the latter. Look out for my appearance in Orpington Film Festival next spring; thank goodness I canned the 10 foot putt in one take!

Splashing our way onwards through casual water to flooded greens where we couldn't putt, Chris took the sensible option of an early bath after 9 holes but with the full weight of Golf Against Cancer pressing on my shoulders, I carried on, dobbing a rescue club off the tee so I wouldn't lose sight of the ball. On the 16th, the ball went 230 yards, the club went 40.

It looked a nice course. I couldn't really tell; was too busy wiping my glasses to see much. Speeded home early and just for fun the sun came out!

Maybe it'll still be shining tomorrow.......

Click here for Photos...

Click here to Join Games....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

04 Aug 2011, 18:19

I am with you Jack, played Austin Lodge last month a good test of golfing skills the course was in fantastic condition, I just wish they would cut the rough a bit shorter as I seemed to spend a lot of time in studying it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

04 Aug 2011, 13:44

Well said John,both points you make are very valid.
One course I do remember playing a few times in Kent was Austin Lodge,we had a couple of Xmas society days their from work.
I would put that on the list for a venue,
WHAT ARE OTHER T.S.G MEMBERS THOUGHTS ON THIS
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

03 Aug 2011, 23:50

For the record, I certainly have no problem with a long drive 'straight down the middle' of the Dartford Bridge. I've played a few great courses in Kent, Surrey & Sussex this year, but am just trying to get a bit more support for Trevor Sandford. So if members join these 'empty' games, surely the case for a TSG day South of London will be heard louder?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

03 Aug 2011, 22:28

Day 3: Penal rough awaits the rich and famous

Mervyn, my driver for the day, had tried to pop into the London Club before, just to look around, and was politely but firmly refused. Today, the security guard recognised me and welcomed me by name. The 5* treatment continued as you dropped off your clubs and found them all set up for you and waiting when you were ready to go. Bad news is the International course is closed for maintenance; good news is we get to play The Heritage, reserved for members and tour events. What a treat!

Into the bar and there was Steve Backley OBE, local lad, former Olympiam and javelin world record holder. Just happens to be President of the club. It's noon and he's already back in after a round. A bit of banter later he says 95 would be a good score here, the rough's really penal. I'm getting nervous already.

In comes John Warnett, early morning presenter on Radio Kent and a keen golfer. We chat with Steve and Mervyn (our fourball), the other Steve (Backley, now we are mates obviously), we do a quick interview (goes out Friday morning sometime between 7 and 9 on 95.5 FM) and head out for the golf where the Cancer Research and Social Golfer banners await us on the first tee and the marshall reminds us about the penal rough.

Needless to say we all find it off the first, but after a few holes the fear factor has faded and we start to play golf. It's a wonderful course but it's a brute. No green is easy to find and did I mention the penal rough? It's harder than Royal St George's. I make 3 pars and score 21 on the 4 par-3s alone. I find the water on the last for a 97.

Two drinks on the terrace later and two guys roll up to the 18th in a buggy. Backley and his mate finish their third round of the day. I tell him I made 97; he smiles. I've had a terrific day. He gets to come here every day - all day! Playing off 6, though, I doubt he knows the rough as well as we do.

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General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

03 Aug 2011, 21:37

Don't think we should do south essex again, nice enough but variety is the spice of life and more than happy to cross the bridge, lots of perfectly good venues not too far the other side, westerham, bletchingly, austin lodge , surrey national etc all within 50 miles of me and i live in hertfordshire

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Gunpowder Shot......

03 Aug 2011, 19:35

Nice to see the European Tour Pro's hard at work......enjoy!

www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewVideo.aspx?id=130

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

03 Aug 2011, 19:00

I am not going to take sides where this next golf day should be north or south of the river,certainly for me the Q E 2 bridge is not an argument,if you want to get to a course to play it then if it means crossing the bridge in either direction then thats life take it or leave it.
I have played a lot of golf in Kent over the years,and never been put off the thought using the bridge or the tunnel.
I think the T.S G TEAM is right on another point.
Let Trever Sanford finish his month of madness and focus on this at the end of August,we will get something up and running.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

03 Aug 2011, 07:17

Perhaps a few members from 'south' could support Trevor & Golf Against Cancer?

There are still 2 places left for Broke Hill on Thurs 04 August and no one has yet signed up for the games on the next 2 Saturdays - North Downs (06 Aug), Laleham (13 Aug) or Datchet on Sunday 14 Aug.

Myself and 2 other members from Essex 'took on' the Dartford Crossing on Monday to play with Trevor at Mid Kent GC. I will do this again on Saturday if no one else joins the game, as it will be a great shame if Trevor has to play on his own!

Come on TSG members in Kent/Sussex/Surrey - give Trevor some support for this great cause. The Essex section is now sold out with over 3 weeks to go, so it would seem obvious where the Golf Day venue should be!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Aug 2011, 21:11

Day 2: Hey, what a contrast

Bit late with today's report as my electric trolley failed to function today. Had to borrow a pull-trolley and get the spanner out when I got home. It was the battery connector: you do rely on these things...

Anyway, despite the weather being almost identical, today couldn't have been more different from yesterday. At Mid-Kent, we followed the Vets Medal. average age 75. At Birchwood it was more like 17. Welcome to the world of Pay and Play. Also it was like playing in the desert compared to the lush green turf manicured to delight the members than we trod on yesterday.

Kamal took the money today and my mate Arthur got annoyed when the teenagers drove up before he'd played his second. Otherwise the course was pretty good (if completely arid) and I shot one-under. 92 yesterday, 82 today. 72 tomorrow? - at the London Club? I don't think so.

The food was good in the bar but the punters were mean - only £7.43 in the sweetie-jar after £40 yesterday. Perhaps those 75 year-olds have got something over the teenagers after all...

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Apps for iphone

02 Aug 2011, 19:27

Hi Darren,

Another one you could look at is GolfLogix. I downloaded this for my Blackberry and cant fault it, given it was free! Pretty sure you can get it on Iphone if Mycaddie doesnt prove fruitful....

Best Regards

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Apps for iphone

02 Aug 2011, 15:01

Try Swing by Swing. It's free on Android. Can't speak for Iphone

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Aug 2011, 07:38

Someone's dropped out at Birchwood now if you fancy another day off work!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

02 Aug 2011, 07:27

What a good day to start the month! Long may this continue, Trevor & what were you saying about next year?!! Great photos, Ian - next time I'll take some more of you if you like! John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

01 Aug 2011, 22:20

Terrific pics, Ian. What am I going to do tomorrow without my resident photographer?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

01 Aug 2011, 21:50

Great day Trevor!

Nice course, nice people, nice weather.......looking forward to hearing about tomorrow.

Good luck!

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Apps for iphone

01 Aug 2011, 19:58

Nice one just downloaded Mycaddie

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \M25 Month of Madness completed: And the winner is.......

01 Aug 2011, 18:42

Day 1: Phew, what a scorcher
Now up and running and who could have asked for better weather. An extremely unhealthy but delicious breakfast at Nell's Diner ("where the rich and famous eat" according to the sign), then on to the golf.

The Mid-Kent course was looking great, especially around the greens and the pro-shop had a big welcome notice for us on the board outside. Ian (TSG boss), John and Chris made up the fourball. After numerous impressive poses on the first tee ("your swing isn't normally that good, is it, Trevor?"), we got to hit some balls.

Hit the first green in reg and then 3-putted; missed a gimme on the next; oh dear, I have got a month of this ahead.....a couple of birdies later, everything in the garden of England was lovely and we were just out doing what we do best (playing exciting and inconsistent golf) .

In August 2003, Gravesend broke all records, coming in above 38*C. Today it was a good 10* less and there was a decent breeze. Enjoyed the course (see reviews) but could have played it a lot better.

High point was my 310-yard drive on the last ; low point taking 5 more shots to finish .

In the clubhouse people chipped in a few quid into the "sweetie-jar" and including the golf we came away with £130 in total for Cancer Research. By the way I shot 92 (10 over my handicap), lost 1 ball and walked 5.6 miles. Multiply that by 31 for your entry to the sweepstake.

Back home after a bath and a glass of wine I have nearly cooled down enough to feel normal, wash out the team shirts, update the stats and get ready for tomorrow.

Click here for Photos...

Fourballs most of the week but still some spaces on Thursday and Friday. This heat can't last, surely, so come out and enjoy it!

Click here to Join Games....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

01 Aug 2011, 12:00

I'd happily join a group, especially a NW London type one - I've been a member of a South London group in the past (not on TSG), but the M25 is a right old pain to bother on a regular basis.

So anything in the West/North area of London would be mroe than welcome. Trent Park springs to mind, then you've got places like Rickmansworth, and even Wycombe Heights a little bit further afield.

Definitely up for joining something.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

31 Jul 2011, 21:09

Thanks, guys. We've a full fourball for the start tomorrow and I have the team shirts for you all! Lots of other surprises await for those on the Golf Against Cancer Tour.

Great to launch the tour with so many people on board. Only 5 days where I'm still looking for company and just 6 places left on other days. Still a chance to book in, especially on 6, 13-15 17 and 21 August.

Great too to have cleared 50% of target funding already before we start. Thanks to all who've paid in advance and other supporters just donating. Over £2,500 in the can for Cancer Research UK!

Nice piece in the Sunday Mirror today too, even if they did call me Trev. I'll forgive them if it brings a few more punters in. Got John Warnett from Radio Kent playing on Wednesday so tune in there on Thursday morning to see how it went.

So off for an early night and up at dawn. Brekkie at Nell's Cafe and then non-stop golf! Bring it on.........

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Apps for iphone

31 Jul 2011, 18:48

For GPS, I use Mycaddy pro which is free! Very good too as it shows maps of courses as well as yardage. It also has courses abroad as well as the UK

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Apps for iphone

31 Jul 2011, 17:20

If it is for GPS, I use Skydroid. it is about 89p. although I have android system I belive iphone can get it as well. GL

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

31 Jul 2011, 17:03

All the very best to you Trevor, looking forward to our game.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG in the Sunday Mirror

31 Jul 2011, 15:31

Nice one TSG, a article about Trevors M25 Cancer Research Golf month, well done TSG and good luck trevor.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

31 Jul 2011, 15:25

Good luck with this Trevor - I hope you've been taking the Jointace! Best wishes also to everyone who is playing with you in the games throughout August. It's a great cause and will be a fantastic achievement. I hope the remaining places are soon taken. John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

31 Jul 2011, 10:42

Dear all,

Only 24 hours til Trevor's tee-off and I see even more people joining up to fill the games!

Loving the piece in today's Sunday Mirror (P.69), fame for TSG at last.....

Trevor, hope youve got your feet up today, its non stop from here on in.

Please send Trevor your best wishes everyone!

Ian
The TSG Team
---------------------

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Apps for iphone

30 Jul 2011, 22:46

Hi
Can anyone recommend any good golf app for the iphone.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

29 Jul 2011, 09:48

[quote=Paul Langford]Paul Langford scored an ACE at . See his card
My first one what a fab feeling my heart is still in my throat couldn't sleep last night had a few drinks as well.
It was a 121 yard 8 iron at the 14th at Weald Park its an up hill tee shot over a pond
It pitched about 10 feet from the pin and rolled back down the slope. It then dissapeared behind a bank. heading towards the pin not a bad shot
We walked up onto the green and Alan Haywood who was walking in front of us, turned to me and Dennis who was in our 4 ball and said. i dont want to say anything but there is only one ball on the green all 3 of us thought it was Dennis's ball which had gone in. But as we walked closer i could see the writing on his ball. I was nearly sick .i said god i think its my ball. So my joy began 3 minutes or more after the ball had hit the bottom of the cup. but what a great feeling it capped off a very good round 41 points.
By the way it was after the Lord Mayor's show on the next green where i 4 putted.[/quote]

I can just imagine the cheesy grin that you had for the rest of the round, in fact I'm sure its still there now.
Well done fella. Lyndon

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

28 Jul 2011, 12:24

I know that the TSG is very strong in Essex but why do all the games have to be in Essex whats wrong with some of the courses in Sussex and Kent or is it because of the dartford crossing

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

28 Jul 2011, 12:06

I am with Ed on this one,another visit to South Essex.I would be sure they could do us a reasonable deal,with all our past involvements with them.
I think they would welcome us with open arms after the summer golf day we had there.
I feel this might generate quite a bit of interest.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Falcon's Fire (Summer Slam ) Results

27 Jul 2011, 22:52

Thanks for another great day David

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \straght swap skycady for bushnall

27 Jul 2011, 21:30

Nat has a skycady SG5 can download 20 golf courses has paid for it till April 2012 had it sent back to skycady a few months ago got it serviced its a few years old so in good condition. We are fed up keep forgeting to charge it up or delete golf clubs that we dont want to. All the boys at junior opens seem to use bushnalls on Monday Nat was in a 36 hole comp at Wanstead deleted Wanstead did not mean to so he could not use skycady today playing 36 holes at Braintree downloaded Braintree winter course not the 1 we wanted to. There is nothing wrong with the skycady just dont want to buy a bushnall if can get some one to swap there bushnall with Nats skycady

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Falcon's Fire (Summer Slam ) Results

27 Jul 2011, 19:45

Well a great day had by all especially the people who won, the weather stayed fine for us and the course was playing superb. Well here we go with the results.

1st   37 points Ian Fykin
2nd 37 points Lee Neary
3rd   36 points Micky Green
4th   35 points Chris Emms
5th   32points Barry Green
6th   31 points Dave Jacobs
7th   31 points Dan Rosenthal
8th   30 points Norman Bean
9th   28 points Russ Sykes
10th 27 points Simon Walker
11th 27 points Steve Hunt
12th 26 points Steve Slater
13th 25 points Dougie Gray
14th 25 points Michael Roos
15th 25 points Stuart Alexander
16th 24 points Steve Diamon
17th 24 points Steve Hardy
18th 20 points Mike McAlear
19th 19 points Russ Gambrill
20th 19 points Howard Stander
21st 17 points Howard Crammer
22nd17 points Mal Silverman
23rd Not saying Howard Wayland

Nearest the Pin won by Steve slater
2nd Shot N/Pin won by Chris Emms
Longest Drive won by Dougie Gray

Team Yellow ball winners with 52 points with the yellow ball returned
Howard Stander, Michael Roos, Steve Hunt

Lost ball count won by Barry Green with 71 lost balls in total from the whole group.

Thats all Folks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And Hey Keep Practicing out there it could be you next
Well done to all
Regards
David Jacobs

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

25 Jul 2011, 18:44

I did try last year but it didnt last im ready to get the ball in motion, is anyone ready to act as joint captain

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

25 Jul 2011, 16:49

[quote=Darren Bigmore][quote=Darren Bigmore]Darren Bigmore scored an ACE at . See his card[/quote]

Stapleford Abbotts - Priors

12th Hole 152 Yds, 8 Iron, hit the front of green and rolled into the hole.
[/quote]

Darren, only got in the game as Adam Peek's guest pulled out Saturday morning and he contacted Adam who told him to come along

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

25 Jul 2011, 16:41

It must have been "National Hole in One Week" last week!!

Now you have done the perfect shot.....what next!!

Great stuff Paul.

Enjoy the fame.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

25 Jul 2011, 15:57

Sounds like there plenty of interest to start a few groups - Maybe one South West and one North West? - whos going to be brave enough to get the ball rolling?

Ps We have it on good authority that Falcons Fire & South East Swing are open to Ryder cup style challenges!!

The TSG Team

:-)

----

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

25 Jul 2011, 15:51

Hi all,

Thanks for the prompt, we are looking at a second event later in the year and with a new location - probably south again (of the river) and ideally on a Saturday to allow as many as possible to join in! (One suggestion we have considered is Bletchingley Golf Club near Godstone, Surrey).

However, right now most of our focus is on getting Trevor's 'GolfAgainstCancer' off the ground, as soon as this underway - our thoughts will turn to this.

In the meantime - we would welcome all views/preferences on how we should construct/format the day?

Ian
----

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

24 Jul 2011, 21:53

[quote=Darren Bigmore]Darren Bigmore scored an ACE at . See his card[/quote]

I can't believe you did this whilst your best mate was playing somewhere else!!

Well done mate, I'll b expecting to see one from your next week!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

24 Jul 2011, 20:57

South Essex near the M25

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

24 Jul 2011, 18:40

Hi Jack, Yes Provided its a bit more towards Sussex

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Another TSG Golf Day later in the year?

24 Jul 2011, 16:11

Are the T.S.G. team running another golf day later in the year around October,or even something around XMAS time?
Not looking for anything special like a yellow ball comp.Just 18 holes with a few prizes after,we don't even need a huge turn out just a few hardy golfers looking for a bit of fun.Perhaps 15-18 would be a reasonable number.
I would be prepared to help getting it under way with the T.S.G. Team
would like to hear members and the t.s.g. views.
JACK

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

24 Jul 2011, 12:40

well done paul!!!!!! I was 2 games behind but didn't hear the screams. You should have seen the smile on his face in the clubhouse. Thanks for the drink mate

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

24 Jul 2011, 10:03

Blimey! No hole in ones for ages and then three come along at once........

Congratulations guys - lets hope today is my day!

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

24 Jul 2011, 09:28

Paul Langford scored an ACE at . See his card
My first one what a fab feeling my heart is still in my throat couldn't sleep last night had a few drinks as well.
It was a 121 yard 8 iron at the 14th at Weald Park its an up hill tee shot over a pond
It pitched about 10 feet from the pin and rolled back down the slope. It then dissapeared behind a bank. heading towards the pin not a bad shot
We walked up onto the green and Alan Haywood who was walking in front of us, turned to me and Dennis who was in our 4 ball and said. i dont want to say anything but there is only one ball on the green all 3 of us thought it was Dennis's ball which had gone in. But as we walked closer i could see the writing on his ball. I was nearly sick .i said god i think its my ball. So my joy began 3 minutes or more after the ball had hit the bottom of the cup. but what a great feeling it capped off a very good round 41 points.
By the way it was after the Lord Mayor's show on the next green where i 4 putted.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

24 Jul 2011, 08:09

yes, SE London

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

23 Jul 2011, 18:18

[quote=Darren Bigmore]Darren Bigmore scored an ACE at . See his card[/quote]

Stapleford Abbotts - Priors

12th Hole 152 Yds, 8 Iron, hit the front of green and rolled into the hole.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

23 Jul 2011, 17:05

Darren Bigmore scored an ACE at . See his card

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

23 Jul 2011, 12:14

Anyone in South East London, I've posted a game at Selsdon Park in Croydon for Monday at 3.12pm. Its only £10 using there pay as you play card. If anyone knows a better course for only £10 please let me know.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

22 Jul 2011, 22:58

Yep,North London

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf Weekend in Ireland or Devon

22 Jul 2011, 15:11

Anyone keen on golf weekend in Ireland or Devon (South West) over the next coming months?

let me know

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

22 Jul 2011, 15:09

I would be keen live in east london docklands

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

22 Jul 2011, 12:44

Thanks, Jack. Sorry you'll have to do it from your armchair and not on the course, but I'll keep you up with all the action. Get well soon.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

21 Jul 2011, 23:09

I shall be following your progress throughout the month,and hope you complete the challenge,could have the makings for some interesting reading.
Wish you all the best on your adventure,and best of luck doing it
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

21 Jul 2011, 16:25

We all want a slice of Darren Clarke now, after his terrific Open triumph. He is such a great guy, laid back, likes a pint, you could imagine him in your fourball on a Saturday. All the media will be after him now, so I've written to Chubby Chandler to see if I can get in there too........

Actually, my links with Darren aren't too tenuous. We are both from Co Tyrone, after which one of his sons is named; we grew up 10 miles apart. We might be a world apart in terms of golfing ability though I did actually par the 18th at St George's when I played there in January and he only got a bogey! OK, maybe the pressure was a bit different, and the tees were further back, and - OK, I give in, I wish I could play like he did that weekend!

Anyway, it's now 10 days to go before we hit the road with the Golf Against Cancer tour on the M25. A good number of TSGers have signed up and some are still sorting out their work/holiday commitments and hoping to join in later.

Currently we have 3 slots left on days 4,5,6,10,13,14,15,17,and 21; most of the rest are full, though I have got extra tee-times where needed. Sort out that work/holiday guys and sign up. It'll be fun.....It'll also help reach that target of £5,000. Click here for Games listing...

We have over £2,000 on the website so far and nearly £4,000 if everyone currently signed up pays up. That's fantastic and thanks to all who've contributed.

Golf Against Cancer has now had quite a bit of media attention (e.g. Golf News this week, Essex Golfer, Kent Messenger etc) and we are still hoping to scoop major celebrity backing so we can bore the nation about it over the summer. Well, proper hacking will at least be better then phone hacking, surely?

Stay tuned for the daily blog on this channel from August 1st. Now I'm off to practice.....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

20 Jul 2011, 12:25

Might be a case for NSEW areas or whatever. I've posted games all around London as part of my tour of the M25 in August. Most of the TSG responses have come from Essex and Surrey, so there are still places available especially in West London (e.g. 10, 13, 14, 15 and 17th August) and a few in Kent (4-6 Aug). All welcome to join in - they are all posted. cheers Trevor.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

20 Jul 2011, 11:39

Dave,

Well done, great result.

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

19 Jul 2011, 19:23

Did this ever happen? I'm in.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

19 Jul 2011, 11:23

Thanks guys! It was on the 17th hole at Sherfield Oaks - Wellington course. Par 3, 165 yards. Struck a 6-iron that went straight as an arrow, hit the front of the green, bounced a couple of times, and rolled right into the hole - which was at the back of the green. I couldn't believe it ... it felt like one of those slow-motion sensations, as I was watching the ball bounce then roll closer and closer to the hole, and finally dropped right in. Amazing feeling!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

19 Jul 2011, 09:13

Brilliant Dave P.

Congratulations......now you have to do it again on Saturday!!!

Cheers,
John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

18 Jul 2011, 18:24

Well done Dave! Fantastic news........Are you going to share with us all how & when?

As far as I can see, you have joined an exclusive club of only two TSG members to have recorded a Hole in One on the scoring system!

Come on spill the beans.......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

18 Jul 2011, 17:33

David Pipe scored an ACE at Sherfield Oaks Golf Course. See his card

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Openfairways offer.....

18 Jul 2011, 13:10

Dont forget.... TSG Openfairways Promotion finishes tonight!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Darren Clarke - Open Champion........

18 Jul 2011, 12:17

Taking a moment in the Locker room.......

http://yfrog.com/kj4nnvjj

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10% Discount

16 Jul 2011, 14:15

Have just found this discount while the Open is on.
http://www.discountgolfstore.co.uk/

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

15 Jul 2011, 15:23

Hi Jack

I have nothing but admiration for the results of the obvious dedication some low handicappers have put in over the years. However technology moves on on all sports and the struggle for improvement continues. I had some fun in a competition ages ago, with old wooden shafts and persimmon woods. I would say that everything has its place and we all have choices. I am a relatively late starter in the golfing world, so all I know is what was around at the time... and I can still hit long irons well enough to appreciate the sensation of a well-struck shot... Perhaps in a few years there will be some other 'next best thing' and we may have to review current choices.

Anyway I've seen you play, and the evidence of dedication is obvious, not bad at all for an old boy. Perhaps I'll be allowed to join you on one of your future golfing days out.

Best regards

[quote=Jack Shelton]I thought this point would come up,I have a low handicap agreed I achieved this with countless ours of practice,and dedication.
I did not use a hybrid club in all the hours I put in to my game,it was a personal choice and they was not about years ago,I stuck with the traditional way.
I do understand the argument of making the game easier for yourself,but in my book there is nothing more sweeter than hitting a well struck 3 or 4 iron to the heart of the green. Or playing a low runner below the wind with these clubs.
Its the skill aspect that I admire,but when it goes wrong you do feel a bit of a fool.
Everybody plays this game different so its down to a matter of personal choice and how much you want to achieve
Happy golfing
Jack [/quote]

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \GolfBlogger.co.uk.....

15 Jul 2011, 11:32

Hi All,

As a way of saying thank you for their support in helping us to promote Trevor Sandfords' Golf Against Cancer project in August, we thoughty we would let you know a little more about GolfBlogger.co.uk.....

Full of UK & Irish Golf News, World Golf News, Pro Tours, Golf Rankings, Gear, Courses, Travel, Property and videos and a daily golf blog featuring golf reviews, opinion and essays on the game. The site also provides live Golf Scores & Leaderboards for the Nationwide Tour, PGA Tour, Champions Tour.....

Check it out and let us know what you think!

Ian

www.golfblogger.co.uk/

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \http://www.groupon.co.uk/deals/oxford/Hinksey-Heights-Golf-Club/535968?nlp=&CID=UK_CRM_45_0_0_0&

15 Jul 2011, 07:04

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Openfairways offer.....

14 Jul 2011, 10:48

Dear TSGers,

To celebrate the start of The OPEN at Sandwich today, we have got together with Openfairwyas to bring you a great promotion.....

For the next four days ONLY (actually five!) all TSG members will be able to buy an annual OpenFairways Card at the discount price of only £45! (RRP £89).

Yes, its true but the offer only lasts until Monday 18th July 2011!!

The Open Fairway’s concept is simple – play quality golf courses, either locally or abroad, at affordable prices. As a market leader with over 15 years experience in golf incentives, there are no gimmicks or catches, just exceptional offers at over 1600 golf courses negotiated by Open Fairways. From playing golf at a local course or hidden gem, to a day out at a Championship course, to arranging a golf break inFrance,Spain or Portugal and beyond, the fully transferable Open Fairways Privilege Card delivers the ultimate value and choice.

Its easy to use your membership and start playing, simply choose a course that’s listed on the Open Fairways website, call to reserve a tee-time and swing by to present your card. Throughout the year’s subscription, members can play as much or as little as they want and enabling them to discover new golfing spots along the way. The card comes in a handy black wallet and will let you take up to eight guests too.

Membership includes:

- Typical discounts of 4 for 2 or 2 for 1 greenfees includes The K Club, The Oxfordshire, Gleneagles and Royal St. David’s. See: www.openfairways.com

- Complimentary Hotel Express International membership, offering discounted hotel rates Worldwide. See www.hotel-express.com

- Both memberships valid for 12 months

In order to take advantage of this offer, go to the TSG members pages - Click Here!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

14 Jul 2011, 08:09

I am certainly enjoying shaping my shots more as I improve, so I would never have a full set of hybrids. However I have just replaced my 3 iron with a mizuno jpx 800 hybrid and it has been working out great for me. Nice and straight, much more forgiving, good distance, I would highly recommend it.

The only trade off is that you can't work the ball as much, but for me at around 16 at the moment, not being able to do that with my 3 iron is a small price to pay for reliable, straight hitting on tight fairways. I can still work the ball with my 4 which luckily I can hit a fair distance.

So I would say get one or two, but i'm not sure about larger sets. Although who am I to argue with choi and yang.
http://blogs.golf.com/equipment/2011/04/masters-augusta-kj-choi-ye-yang-hybrid.html

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\SCOTISH OPEN RULING

14 Jul 2011, 07:06

Casual water!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

13 Jul 2011, 23:39

I thought this point would come up,I have a low handicap agreed I achieved this with countless ours of practice,and dedication.
I did not use a hybrid club in all the hours I put in to my game,it was a personal choice and they was not about years ago,I stuck with the traditional way.
I do understand the argument of making the game easier for yourself,but in my book there is nothing more sweeter than hitting a well struck 3 or 4 iron to the heart of the green. Or playing a low runner below the wind with these clubs.
Its the skill aspect that I admire,but when it goes wrong you do feel a bit of a fool.
Everybody plays this game different so its down to a matter of personal choice and how much you want to achieve
Happy golfing
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

13 Jul 2011, 11:49

With all due respect Jack, you have a single figure handicap

Some of us need all the help we can get

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\SCOTISH OPEN RULING

13 Jul 2011, 11:43

Hmmmm, thats an interesting one....

I think that would come under the term "Rub of the Green" wouldnt it? By that i mean it would be considered as weather conditions and that you are required to play in the conditions given on the day.

Maybe one to email Mr.Allis on over the weekend?

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\SCOTISH OPEN RULING

12 Jul 2011, 22:41

WHATS THE RULING? During the tournament on one of the holes a pro teed off on a hole running parallel to the beach,the beach was classed as an integral part of the course and not out of bounds.
He teed off in the morning round his ball landed on the beach,he played his second shot which hit the grren and walked off with a par.
The players in the afternoon playing the same hole face the challenge that if they was to hit an errant shot on the same hole it would land on the the beach,but the tide would be in hence the the ball being underwater or lost.
WHAT IS THE RULING?
If the player in the morning can make par,what decision will be made to the player in the afternoon who hits the same shot surely the morning tee time has the advantage.I would be glad of an answer because the rules appear to be awkward.This actually did happen any ideas???
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

12 Jul 2011, 18:57

Here's something to rock the boat,I am all for making the game easier for myself and others on the course,I do love to see fellow golfers playing well.
However,I do think that these hybrid clubs take a certain amount of skill out of the game,they are easier to use to get the ball in the air and get greater distances,and also getting out of the rough a walk in the park.
I carry a 3 and 4 iron and get great satisfaction when I hit them well.
Especially if you have to shape the shot with a draw or fade,I am not that good that I can do it to order,but do love the challenge,and get a good feeling if it comes off.
I may be old fashioned but I think I prefer long irons to Hybrids any day of the week.
Thats my choice I know,I have spent many hours practicing to change now
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

12 Jul 2011, 16:54

Hmmmm......somehow I knew you were going to say that.......right off to the cobra website now to check it out!

Cheers

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

11 Jul 2011, 20:32

Just to confirm, that the 6 Hybrid is one of my favourite sticks, serves as a 6 and/or 7 iron, allows me to float a ball in the air and/or hit it lower. Also I have a nice line in knock-down shots (essentially long-chip shots) and the 6 is pretty good at getting to 100 yards (keeping quite low) with just about zero effort. I would recommend trying the 6 (if they had an 8 I would have a look at it as well). I think it would be the last one to leave my bag if I had to dispose of hybrids.

I have a 2 (scarey beast) which does the job of a 3 wood and has at times been my choice for driving... but also allows me to hit a 'looonnggg' chip shot keeping under the trees and through the gaps...and getting a good 150 yards (just about half-swing as well). OK I guess if if game strategy is to get the ball low and running as soon as possible...

Hm I wonder if there is a hybrid PW (I know Slazeber did a range of near hybrid irons a while back - Ernie Els was advertising them, but they seem to have died the death).

Anyway - short answer - love the 6 hybrid, favourite stick (after Driver and Putter)...

And you can never have enough hybrids... the consistency anomalies - I have encountered them as well, but it's just becasue the sticks are versatile... slightly more disciplned approach to their use, I have 3 basic hybrid setups, the Tiger stinger (club delofted - hands forward), a Floater, standard set up and the long chip shot... I can usually get close with one of those 3...

Always looking for new options though...

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Found an active discount code on-line! Use while you can!

11 Jul 2011, 18:04

Hi fellow members, I found a code that I think you will all like! The web site is nice and the prices are great, but with the 5% off and free shipping on orders over 100 quid, you'll be as pleased as me...
www.golfequipmentonline.co.uk AND THE CODE IS: 1234.
I just bought a Taylormade R11 driver in stiff for 271.00 and I love it!!!! I WOULD RECOMMEND ANY SINGLE FIGURE PLAYER TO GET THIS DRIVER NOW!!!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

11 Jul 2011, 12:04

This is very weird as my normal ball for summer use is the Pro V1.

Last winter the assistant pro at my golf club told me about the Srixon Soft Feel.

I used them all through the winter months and was very happy with them.

So I go from one extreme to the other.

Been trying some Bridgestone golf balls recently that I found, and I'm very happy with them as well.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \More flexible game posting

10 Jul 2011, 15:07

I'd put it back, just don't link to peoples emails.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \More flexible game posting

10 Jul 2011, 00:20

I liked and used available for a game ... would like to see it back

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \More flexible game posting

09 Jul 2011, 20:36

I thought 'Available for a game' was a good idea, you have my support to reinstate it

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

09 Jul 2011, 20:02

My Wilson Deep Red set came with 3 and 4 hybrids, I was a bit nervous about using them as my previous set of John Letters was 3-sw. I then ditched the hybrids and bought 3 and 4 Wilson C19 irons. I was fading my drivesand after a chat with various people, I decided to use my 3 hybrid instead of my driver and am now driving straight down the middle of the fairway. I still use my 4 iron but have not used my driver for the last 3 weeks.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

09 Jul 2011, 13:18

My irons came with hybrids 3&4.

I'd had a 24 degree hybrid that I'd added to my previous set so I'd been used to them but now I don't think I could do without them.

One thing I find is that the ball really flies from the semi-rough.So for example if I were the distance from the hole on the fairway where I'd take the three, from the semi-rough I'd use the four to compensate.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

09 Jul 2011, 10:10

I swear by my Hybrids....

Like Stephen, I started with one, two years ago - a 3 Hybrid Cobra Baffler Rail (£110 - I think) - but then added the 4 & 5 soon after. Initailly, I dropped from 18 to 14 handicap within 6 months (!), alas that consistency has now been reversed and back to 19 but its not the clubs.

Stephen, how you getting on with the 6, I was thinking about adding this to the bag but was concerned i might be taking it too far.....

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Falcon's Fire (Essex County Golf) Summer Slam RESULTS

08 Jul 2011, 15:28

Even the rain did little to dampen spirits, OK I got soaked but had a good day out...

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

08 Jul 2011, 15:20

Hybrids, a good question, I started my collection with a 4 Hybrid (22degree loft) just because I liked the look of it. I soon added 2,3,5,6 hybrids, which work well for me, but still retained 8iron down to wedges. So whilst not quite a full set, I have replaced long and mid irons with a set of Hybrids... (I chose Forgan sticks as they work for me). I find I can play nice high and soft landing shots and low drilled shots with just a modicum of set-up change... difference is noticeable. The only thing I struggle with is digging out of sticky rough, s I have to reduce my expectations accordingly.

I was OK with mid and long irons as well, but just find a little more consistency with the hybrids... and the illusion of control helps...

I do find the 2 hybrid a bit of a beast though, interesting of the fairway/semi-rough, but reasonably good off the tee. So no need for fairway woods/metals either (but I still have them)...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \More flexible game posting

08 Jul 2011, 14:35

Hi Steve,

Again a good question.....

Until last month you could use the 'Available for a game' button on the 'posting a game' page but we had too many complaints that members didnt like the service, so we withdrew it last week. We didnt mention this on the last site news email.

However, if there is enough people who would like us to re-instate this we'd be happy to do it.......

Ian
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General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Drop off in membership

08 Jul 2011, 14:19

Hi Roger,

Its a reasonable question......

To be fair, we have only been operating the subscription membership for little over a week now and so far we have been supported really well, especially by the hard core users of the site (see games pages). In addition, we are seeing other members take up the PRO account on a daily basis, as and when their availability dictates - so I think its something that you will see grow in the coming weeks.

However, its worth mentioning that all those in your group, who's accounts have for the moment reverted to a FREE status, do still receive your game posting and would therefore be aware of your games.

As you know, we are working hard to raise the profile of the site and introduce new members all the time but it will take time to build up and whilst I was very hesitant to introduce the fee, it was the only way that the site could be maintained in its current form.

Hopefully our arrangement with YourGolfTravel has also help to soften the introduction of the fee.

Rest assured, I REALLY appreciate everyone that has supported us in the last 10 days and lets hope we can all help build the site into something bigger and better over the coming months.

Best Regards

Ian
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General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \More flexible game posting

08 Jul 2011, 13:14

Afternoon,

I wonder if it would be possible to allow the posting of games to be more flexible by not requiring the course to be specified. I want to play this weekend, and I am happy to travel for about an hour. I could post a game, but perhaps someone who lives near me doesn't really like the course, played there yesterday etc, so they might not join.

What might be nice is if you could specify a postcode, say tw12 and a drive time, say 1 hour. It will give people the opportunity to have a chat and choose a course that suits them all.

You could of course do this in the forum, but adding this to the post game section might give you an opportunity to add some fancy visualisations, venn type diagrams over a map for example so you can easily see who is willing to travel where.

Just a thought.. And if anyone is up for some golf within an hours drive of tw12 this weekend please let me know! I dont care which course.

Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Drop off in membership

08 Jul 2011, 12:30

I was wondering what the drop out rate has been since T S G introduced the membership fee, as it seems to me to be very high . In the group that I run on here it did have 47 members, but looking at it now it only has 6 pro members that will be able to join my games so it seems pretty disastrous,and would appear to now be a waste of my money in joining.
Has anyone else experanced this with either the groups that they run or their friends list

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

07 Jul 2011, 14:37

I have to agree with Pete, why not get traditional irons and replace the 3 and 4 irons with hybrids. I got a set of Nike Ignite 3's 4-PW from Direct Golf and then got a John Letters 3 Hybrid a week or so later. Now I'm considering getting the 2 Hybrid to match.

I find the hybrids so much easier to hit than I ever did my long irons.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf and lunch at Woolston Manor for £15

05 Jul 2011, 16:06

Deal now closed.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf and lunch at Woolston Manor for £15

05 Jul 2011, 12:15

Just checked and it's sold out sod it!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Any Bedford Based Golfers?

04 Jul 2011, 13:31

Hi Kevin,

Just did an area check for you and it looks like you've 70+ golfers registered within a 20 mile radius of Bedford, so I am sure if you post a game you will find some fellow TSGers to join up with you for a round.

Happy Golfing!

Ian
The TSG Team
--------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Any Bedford Based Golfers?

04 Jul 2011, 08:23

Am just getting back into golf and wondered if anyone in the Bedford area was looking for a game?

Am available weekends only

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf and lunch at Woolston Manor for £15

03 Jul 2011, 17:40

Have a look at Golf and lunch at Woolston Manor for £15. Deal still open. Keep checking Groupon website

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

01 Jul 2011, 22:26

Trevor - this is a great idea!

You've inspired me to get my clubs out and join you for a Wild Week of golf in Herts & Essex. 7 games in 7 days - am I mad or what?!! Well....I have said I want to get back into golf this year! I'll now have to start some serious training, so shall be looking out for plenty of TSG games to join.

I had a cousin - Janice - who sadly passed away 10 years ago after suffering cancer. She was only 41. Without really wishing to give away my age (!), we were born in the same year. Sometimes we all may think that life's not fair, but perhaps it's a lot fairer to some than others. I'm doing this in memory of Janice.

As well as the green fees, I'm hoping to raise additional funds for this excellent cause.

Good luck with your own practise and I very much look forward to meeting you in August.

John Amos

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

01 Jul 2011, 16:32

I agree, Alan. I got "fitted" for a ball at Golf Live by the Titleist people and guess what they came up with - the ProV1, or perhaps if i fancied it, the Pro V1x. I said i normally played the NXT tour; they said i'd get better results with the Pro V; I said are you saying I'm too good a golfer for the NXT tour then or what? Obviously that stopped the conversation as they wouldn't have wanted to be rude to a potential customer!.
As you know I'm playing golf every day in August and on unfamiliar courses I am bound to lose a few balls. I did ask Titleist for sponsorship but they declined, so I have bought a whole bunch of Srixon AD333s at just over a quid each from direct golf. To be honest I can't find a lot wrong with them. They go long, don't seem to spin wildly out of control like they think that's what i'm trying to do with them and I got 12 ft of backspin off a 9 iron. OK that was just once, but, hey, it actually happened so it must be possible.
We're playing at Dartford in August. why don't i play the AD333, you play an NXT tour and the winner gives the loser a sleeve of balls (we can decide then which one!)
Cheers, Trevor.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

01 Jul 2011, 15:56

Over the last few years I have tried several different brands. The ones I got on best with were Srixon Soft Feel and Tri Speed and also Wilson Staff DX2. I'm honest enough with myself to know that using Pro V1's is a waste on someone of my ability, although I do sometimes buy thier lake balls.
Callaway Warbirds on the other hand were like hitting rocks. Really didn't like the feel of them around the greens.

Not tried any Bridgestone balls, I may see how they go next time I need to buy some.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

30 Jun 2011, 18:27

Only a month until tee-off, still practising madly and preparing for the month of mayhem. It’s my birthday tomorrow: not a big one, but you can make me happy by reading on and helping me hit my target...

Publicity

Golf Against Cancer has now been taken up by many local and national media. We hope you’ll read or hear about it on TV. It’s more than a few games of golf; it’s the fun in the fundraising!

Play in the Month of Madness.

Many venues are already full. However, there are still places at some great courses like The Grove and The London Club. All games are posted on Join Games. Sign up to play. One member has signed up for a “wild week”. Go on the standby list even if the game is full and I’ll ask the club for another tee-time. Bring friends along too: host a company golf day at one of the venues as one friend is doing. Don’t miss out.

Win a microlight flight, a Marriott golf fourball and more.

There’s a sweepstake on the outcomes. How many shots taken/miles walked/balls lost etc? See me on the day to participate or ask me for a copy.

Make a donation via Text Msg

Text GACM70 to 70070 and you can leave a donation. What could be easier? PS that’s GACM70 even though I'm still on the M25. Don't ask..

Celebrate at Tudor Park on 1 September

Sign up for the golf day in Kent (incl competitions, prizes and 2 course dinner) and support Cancer Research UK. It’s only £25 if you’ve already played in the Month of Madness, otherwise still good value at £45.

Again, go to Join Games

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

29 Jun 2011, 15:53

Thanks to all those that have joined Trevors game so far, were making good progress on our target of raising £5,000 but there are still plenty of places up for grabs, dont forget you can invite friends to join you too.

AND we have a number of media including Sky Sports News interested in giving us coverage if we sell out all Trevors games! Join in if you can - its a great cause.

More from Trevor on his preparations soon.........

Ian
The TSG Team
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General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Golf Day 2011 photos........

29 Jun 2011, 12:20

Dear TSGers,

Finally we have the photos from the TSG 2011 Golf Day loaded on the system, please take a look and feel free to comment on any of the images......

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewgroupphotos.aspx?id=156

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Ps For those that still dont know the result...

Champion Golfer - Paul Smith (38 points)
2nd Place - Roger Hurcombe (34 points)
3rd Place - Greg Butler (33 points)

Ladies Champion Golfer - Jen Beech (30 points)

Longest Drive - Steve Sharpley (302 yards)
Nearest Pin - Mark Tucknott (via the rake in the front bunker!)
Putting Comp. - Chris Emms (18 putts over 9 holes)

Team 4 Ball - Paul Smith, John Day, Shaun Bakker, Sidney Moffatt (Solid performances all round)
Yellow Comp. - Roly Richardson, Dave Allchorne, Craig Osborne, Mark Tucknott (They got it home)

Happy Golfing!

Ian
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Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf on the Costa Del Sol

28 Jun 2011, 17:36

Thanks for the tip, noted for next time. Had to go out at 8am to get in 9 holes walking the course, next day had to take a buggy for 18 holes, too hot to play even at 10 am.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Want to win £100 of American Golf vouchers?

28 Jun 2011, 17:25

Hello!

My name is Nik Poole, and I am a Masters student in Sport and Performance Psychology at London Metropolitan University. As part of my degree I am undertaking a research project exploring the habits and psychological skills of amateur golfers.

If you would still like to participate in this research and have the opportunity to win gift vouchers worth £100, you will be required to follow the link below and answer an online questionnaire relating to your golf performance. The questionnaire should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete and all responses will remain confidential.

If you are ready to complete the questionnaire, please click on the link below.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3L5MXSF

Your time will be very much appreciated!

If you have any questions at any time, please contact me at this email address - ncp0013@londonmet.ac.uk.

If you would like to withdraw from the project, you may do so at any time by emailing me and asking for your responses not to be used for analysis.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Falcon's Fire (Essex County Golf) Summer Slam RESULTS

23 Jun 2011, 22:58

[quote=Steve Diamon]Thanks Dave another great day..........................
[/quote]

Ditto that

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Falcon's Fire (Essex County Golf) Summer Slam RESULTS

22 Jun 2011, 18:12

Well what can I say we all managed to finish despite the downpour.
Barry Green won 2nd shot n/pin, and nearest the pin,
Howard Crammer won longest drive,
yellow ball comp was won by Alan Haywood, Steve Slater, Dennis Conway with 68 points no one came back with the yellow ball, and Howard Stander lost the yellow ball on the 18th hole by putting it from the green into the murky depths of water otherwise they would have won.
Total lost balls was 51 won by Steve Diamon.
In 1st place with 36 points was (yes) Barry Green again
In 2nd place with 35 points was Steve Slater
In 3rd place with 34 points was (hooray) David Jacobs

Hope to see you all again at Hever Castle 27th July

And Hey Keep practicing out there.

That's all Folks!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Open Golf Day Championship - The Result!

22 Jun 2011, 17:01

just like to say a big thanks to everyone who set the day up
it was great and a big thx to the guys i played with made it
even better cheers guys happy golfing
Roger Hurcombe

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Against Cancer Tour - ONLY A FEW PLACES LEFT!

22 Jun 2011, 16:45

Hi All.

You'll have heard of my project to play my way round the M25 in August 2011 (A month of Madness!), which tees off in just under 6 weeks time. Yes, I know it's a crazy idea, but that's what is great about it as no-one has done it before.

I've already persuaded most of my local golfing buddies to give it a go, though they are mostly only doing a few days. They are not mad enough to do the whole month. Or maybe their wives are less understanding?!

Anyway all the games are posted here now, so I hope you'll get along to one or two, knowing that the fee you pay all goes to Cancer Research UK, as the clubs have been kind enough to donate the tee-times (after I'd explained what I was doing!).

I'll be running a sweepstake on the number of shots played, balls lost, miles walked etc so you can contribute even if you can't get to play. We have got a good bit of media interest so far and I'm hoping we can get it on TV and radio over the summer.

Meanwhile, I am looking for advice from all you seasoned golfers about how I am going to play every day without getting completely knackered.....I will offer a free game to the best suggestion!

Also open to offers from caddies, chauffeurs, coaches, physios, psychotherapists etc.....

Click Here to find my games!

Regards

Trevor

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N.B.: To view my Blog and Profile pages you will need to register for a TSG FREE account on the site.

All golfers wishing to join me for one of my games, will need to register for a TSG PRO account, however, all golfers joining TheSocialGolfer.com for the first time specifically to play with me, will have this annual subscription fee (£19.99)* donated directly to Cancer Research UK - just email theteam@thesocialgolfer.com after joining one of the games, putting 'GAC' in the subject field.

*Minus PayPal fees
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Courses:

J1 - Mid Kent GC, Kent

J2 - Birchwood Park, Dartford, Kent

J3 - The London Club, Kent

J4 - Broke Hill, Kent

J5 - Wildernesse, Kent

J6 - North Downs, Surrey

J7 - Surrey Downs, Surrey

J8 - Walton Heath, Surrey

J9 - Tyrell’s Wood, Surrey

J10 - Burhill, Surrey

J11 - Foxhills, Surrey

J12 - Ashford Manor, Middlesex

J13 - Laleham, Surrey

J14 - Datchet, Surrey

J15 - Thorney Park, Buckinghamshire

J16 - Stoke Park, Buckinghamshire

J17 - Northwood, Middlesex

J18 - Moor Park, Hertfordshire

J19 - The Grove, Hertfordshire

J20 - Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire

J21 - Aldenham, Hertfordshire

J22 - Dyrham Park, Hertfordshire

J23 - The Shire, Hertfordshire

J24 - Hadley Wood, Hertfordshire

J25 - The Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire

J26 - West Essex, Essex

J27 - Abridge, Essex

J28 - Stapleford Abbotts, Essex

J29 - Romford, Essex

J30 - Thorndon Park, Essex

J31 - Orsett, Essex

Celebration Day - 1st Sept - Tudor Park, Kent

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Well done you! TSG now has 100 games live to join.....

22 Jun 2011, 16:18

Correction, Ian, it's now 100....I've posted a great golf day in Kent on 1 September to celebrate the end of the 'Golf Against Cancer' - month of madness on the M25!

You are all invited of course, and you won't believe the price either.

See you there!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Well done you! TSG now has 100 games live to join.....

22 Jun 2011, 14:07

Dear TSGers,

Just a quick note to all those that have been posting games over the last few weeks (and those that have joined them) as you will see we now have 100 (!)* games live and available for all to join between now and the end of the year!

Amazing support - Thanks everyone!

Ian
:-)
------

* Following Trevors latest update below - YAY!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Newquay Golf Club

16 Jun 2011, 20:13

Cheers Russ sounds like a plan, I have sent you a message so hopefully we ca sort something out. Anyone else fancy it?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Open Golf Day Championship - The Result!

16 Jun 2011, 19:29

What a great day it was!! Well done to Ian and Alan for putting on such a well organised day. Thoroughly enjoyed it!! Looking forward to the next event.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Open Golf Day Championship - The Result!

16 Jun 2011, 15:51

Yep, great day, great company, only thing wrong was my abject golf, but looking forward to trying again next time

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf on the Costa Del Sol

14 Jun 2011, 11:27

Hi Clive,

Not in Spain at the moment (unfortunately) so can't get a game in, but you should not put your telephone number on the forum because it's open (for read only) to the public not just TSG Members so anyone/everyone on the whole worldwide web can see it!

Regards,
Pete.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Newquay Golf Club

14 Jun 2011, 07:33

I'm going to Cornwall (St. Ives) for the last two weeks in August.

Maybe we can meet up and play here.

I walked through the course last year (there is a footpath through the course) and it looked OK

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Open Golf Day Championship - The Result!

13 Jun 2011, 23:20

Well, personally, even though I wasn't allowed to play, :-) , I had a great time. I thought the day went brilliantly, and I look forward to the next one. I like the look of that trophy!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Newquay Golf Club

13 Jun 2011, 19:15

Going to Newquay at the end of August and was hoping to get a round in during the week, just wondered if anyone had played it and is it worth the £33 green fee or should I look elsewhere in Cornwall or try and find a member to play with so the price is £17. If anyone else is in the area during that week I will gladly meet up and have a round, after all it beats playing on your own. Cheers, I welcome any opinions. :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Open Golf Day Championship - The Result!

11 Jun 2011, 17:34

Thanks Ian/Alan. I really enjoyed the day, well organised, good course, and a good bunch of lads! As to Roly, Dave, & Graig thanks for the advice lads, sorry I didn't score a few more points And thanks to whoever left the rake on the edge of the bunker on the 17th

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Open Golf Day Championship - The Result!

11 Jun 2011, 14:54

Dear TSGers,

As most of you will know the 2011 TSG Annual Open Golf Day Championship took place yesterday at South Essex Golf Club, UK. TSG members and their guests all arrived in anticipation of picking up the coveted Halliwell Cup and raised over £300 for BALASA!

Thanks to all those that attended, it was great to have such support and despite a short shower, I think the humour, banter and golf were in full flow!

Special thanks also goes to Alan Haywood for helping the day run so smoothly and for being our official starter and scorecard adjudicator and to Richard Saunders (Chairman of BALASA) & Collette for running the raffle and general all round support and of course the club, for all there help in running the day.

So to the result........drum roll.......

Champion Golfer - Paul Smith (38 points)
2nd Place - Roger Hurcombe (34 points)
3rd Place - Greg Butler (33 points)

Ladies Champion Golfer - Jen Beech (30 points)

Longest Drive - Steve Sharpley (302 yards)
Nearest Pin - Mark Tucknott (via the rake in the front bunker!)
Putting Comp. - Chris Emms (18 putts over 9 holes)

Team 4 Ball - Paul Smith, John Day, Shaun Bakker, Sidney Moffatt (Solid performances all round)
Yellow Comp. - Roly Richardson, Dave Allchorne, Craig Osborne, Mark Tucknott (They got it home)

Please congratulate all of the above when you see them and who knows, next year...it could be you!

We'll be posting photos over the coming days......

Happy Golfing!

Ian
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Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

08 Jun 2011, 15:07

Hi there,
I know this is an old string, but you must play Palmares GC in the Western Algarve. Its a new Robert Trent Jones design and is officially opening next week.
I played it at the end of April and I can say that it is the just about the best course I have ever played - I came off it feeling exhilarated! And I work in the golf travel business, so have played literally thousands of courses all over the world - it's that good!
Drop us a line via www.golfdelaluz.com if you want a green fee there.
Cheers.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

04 Jun 2011, 10:14

Congratulations Nigel.

Does this count as a 'Hole-in-one?'

Playing the 9th hole on the Abbotts course I shanked my three iron out towards the 13th green.

We looked for my ball whilst at the same time a four ball were playing the 13th hole.

One of the other group said to me "Does your ball have a blue line on it?"

Yes it did, and there is was in the hole on the 13th green!

Does it count?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

03 Jun 2011, 23:24

CONGRATULATIONS Nigel you are now a member of a very unique club. How much did the bar bill cost you?
Hope you saved the golf ball you used,and took a photo and saved the scorecard to get if framed!!!!!!!!!
Well done
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

03 Jun 2011, 11:06

Nigel Culyer scored an ACE at Dewsbury District Golf Club. See his card

Dewsbury & District GC, Hole 6, 127 yrds, Hit a 9 iron, one bounce then rolled into the hole. First ever Hole in One.
Great stuff.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wentworth Tickets

27 May 2011, 07:32

Steve

I was up there yesterday, £35 for a ticket on the day, hopefully the weather is better than yesterday!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wentworth Tickets

26 May 2011, 18:45

Excellent, thanks for the replies, I will head up early as you suggest. Looking forward to it.

Hope to catch up for a round soon.

Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wentworth Tickets

26 May 2011, 16:39

No problem at all as tickets are aval. I would advise a very early start tho. arriving at 7.30 - 8.00am latest, to find a good parking spot as some of the car parks are a good 15 min hike to the clubhouse and all the action. You have to follow the 'Public' car park signs, which is where the plebs are housed, unless you own a Beemer, in which case you have priviledged parking...not sure if you have to register beforehand tho.
I went yesterday...practice and Pro-Am day - brilliant

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wentworth Tickets

26 May 2011, 16:39

Hi Steve,

I am sure youve tried here but this site has information on the day.......

http://www.europeantourtickets.com/bmw-pga-championshipbr--26-29-may-2011-1-c.asp

I hope that helps!

Ian
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General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wentworth Tickets

26 May 2011, 12:50

I have never been before, but fancy going down on Saturday. Does anyone know what the chances are of getting in on the day?

Thanks,

Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Epping Bandits in association with Falcon's Fire v South East Swing

24 May 2011, 15:20

And whoever started the thread, it's not South ESSEX but South EAST swing, that's why home and away would make sense, more rev for Dartford Crossing and all that....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Epping Bandits in association with Falcon's Fire v South East Swing

24 May 2011, 15:18

If I'm free on the day count me in (if picked of course)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Epping Bandits in association with Falcon's Fire v South East Swing

24 May 2011, 12:32

We just need the dates and courses, then await the victory of the SES

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Epping Bandits in association with Falcon's Fire v South East Swing

24 May 2011, 11:48

I'm in - and I'm sure several other guys from SES will be playing as well.

I promise to restrict the trash talking to this particular thread.... ;-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Epping Bandits in association with Falcon's Fire v South East Swing

23 May 2011, 21:50

Me too, so thats 3 from essex

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Epping Bandits in association with Falcon's Fire v South East Swing

22 May 2011, 20:16

Great idea i am up for it

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Epping Bandits in association with Falcon's Fire v South East Swing

22 May 2011, 12:45

How about a home (Essex) and away (Kent) 2 teams of 12 from each side to play a Saturday match teams of 4 consisting 2 players from each side, to include longest drive nearest the pin second shot nearest the pin overall team stapleford/ match play winners for trophies?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \THE EPPING BANDITS

20 May 2011, 21:10

Hi Jack
Just to let you know there was a total of 65 balls lost at Toot Hill

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

20 May 2011, 19:31

Well said

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

20 May 2011, 14:43

[quote=Alan Haywood]Personally, I think it's a bit rich to complain about a £20 fee for a site which brings people together in this great game, particularly when people have used it free of charge for a few years, have met up with people who they would not have otherwise met up with, and people they continue to play with.
I don't know if people are aware of the time and effort it takes to maintain a website such as this.

[/quote]

Hear, hear Alan. I'll be paying up shortly.

Even if you only attend half a dozen games, they are games that you would not have known about otherwise.

jb

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

20 May 2011, 14:10

Personally, I think it's a bit rich to complain about a £20 fee for a site which brings people together in this great game, particularly when people have used it free of charge for a few years, have met up with people who they would not have otherwise met up with, and people they continue to play with.
I don't know if people are aware of the time and effort it takes to maintain a website such as this. Having been involved in IT for over 30 years, from the good old Sperry Univac days, I can tell you, it ain't cheap.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

20 May 2011, 13:54

[quote=Steve Hunt]The idea of splitting the handicaps is a good one but maybe there should also be a formula to take into consideration the sss rating of the course i.e. 47 points on a course with a rating of 63 compared to someone scoring 40 on a 72 rated course[/quote]

Hi Steve,
That's the whole point of an SSS rating. It is used to calculate the handicap in the CONGU unified handicap system, used by the TSG. That's why you are asked to enter the tee's used in a particular game, when entering your scores, as SSS ratings may change depending upon the tee used.
It is a very fair system, but relies entirely upon the honesty of the individual, not only in entering the correct scores, but also ALL of their scores.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

19 May 2011, 13:46

The never ending discussions about bandit play and low handicap players is insatiable. I entered a card recently where I hit a hot streak for the day and came in at 45 points. It was a reflection of my hard work that i had put in over the winter when most golfers hang up their clubs for four months. My Handicap was then lowered to 21 and this is what I am now regularly hitting at and it seems to have brought me to a stable level, and I am now working on the next level of improvement (putting!!)

I used SocialGolfer as a introduction to the sport and its rules, as it has given me the mechanics to understand the system and how golf is scored. I now dont bother to enter my scores and have also stopped entering comp's because of the system which breeds a continued harrasment of people starting the game and improving. I could probably start playing againin comps and this tool, but it all seems like so much hard work and I feel better off just playing with friends.

Golf has still got some serious questions surrounding its aristocratic routes and is still unable to fit a SOCIAL format.

Well done Dave and keep up the practice, I would suggest jsut counting your scores on the back of a fag box in future.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

18 May 2011, 18:36

Would the T.s.g team be prepared to put up the prizes for different catergories,its a good idea but how many T.S.G Members play in catergories 1 and 2 below 12h/c.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \THE EPPING BANDITS

17 May 2011, 23:23

DOES ANYONE IN THE SOCIETY HIT THE BALL FAR ENOUGH TO LOOSE IT ha! ha!
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \THE EPPING BANDITS

17 May 2011, 17:56

Steve bring loads of balls there are 28 players and I think this could be a record of lost balls between everyone I reckon 125 total lost balls + Game on

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \THE EPPING BANDITS

17 May 2011, 12:45

Lets see you guys bring those scores to Toot Hill tomorrow!
Game on

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

17 May 2011, 12:42

The idea of splitting the handicaps is a good one but maybe there should also be a formula to take into consideration the sss rating of the course i.e. 47 points on a course with a rating of 63 compared to someone scoring 40 on a 72 rated course

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

17 May 2011, 11:00

Andy's idea of splitting the Leaderboard into Categories (ie like a club competion) sounds like a good idea (if the system allows enough categories eg like 'Golfers around Tonbridge with a 17 handicap' I might even win!)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \THE EPPING BANDITS

16 May 2011, 19:23

YEEHAH !!!!!! THE EPPING BANDITS are back Howard Stander had a blinder of a round and I would like to congratulate him on his success in getting on the leader board, Alan Haywood also scored the same points but lost with a countback on the back 9. Alan won n/pin with Andy winning second shot n/pin.

WATCH OUT WATCH OUT THE EPPING BANDITS ARE ABOUT

ps sorry Chris and Colin but myself and Howard won the match play after a great team effort.

Yeehah That's all Folks!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

15 May 2011, 23:03

You have entered your cards on the website so anyone wanting to question your handicap can see what you shoot and i'm sure after the great round in question you would of been cut anyway ... enjoy the good run

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

15 May 2011, 22:47

I am a bit miffed by the comments as I do not play in any competitions or for a club or society so have nothing to gain by being fictitious about my game, as a relatively new player I thought entering score cards on here of which I have entered 33 would give me an idea of what handicap I should tell playing partners I play off because it seems to be the first question asked when playing even a social round of golf.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

15 May 2011, 17:27

@ Dave Cambers

Dave, you are to be congratulated on your improving golf game, this after all is one of the reasons we all play, the other being social interaction and to get away from the "Mrs" for 5 hours.

My statement was not intended as a slight against you, I shall endevour to explain what I meant.

When I first started playing golf some 24 years ago the winning stabledford scores at my then club were 38-40 points, nowadays the winning points total is between 40-44.

Equipment today makes it easier for there to be a more level playing field for amateur golfers, perhaps the issue on this site is with the leaderboard as it stands. Personally I feel it should be split into the four main handicap catergories, these being;-

Cat 1 Upto 5
Cat 2 6 - 12
Cat 3 13 - 20
Cat 4 21 - 28.

This I feel will be a better way of presenting the LeaderBoard.

I endorse Pete's Comment "Consistency gets you a low handicap but also means it's less likely you'll score 40+ points.

The question I ask myself before I play in my club monthly stablefords and medals is this.....Do I enter to win while playing off my 11 Handicap? The answer is NO. Do I hope to win my Cat 2? The answer is sometimes. I will never win the overall prizes and accolades because they are always won by a High Handicap Golfer who has managed his golf game well that day. Do I have sour grapes because of this? The answer is a resounding NO, I congratulate them on their achievement that day.

The only issue I have is the handing out of the "correct" handicap in the first instance.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

15 May 2011, 12:35

This site is what we make it ,maybe a guide to help first timers list games so that they get more interest .. more people rating courses. to see where people want to play. i think the price of a green fee is a small price to pay. i will be investing in this site and active in making it work.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

15 May 2011, 09:41

I've played with guys who have scored 43, 44, 45 points and when they are genuine guys they enter their score for handicap assessment (and get cut), when they are not they call it a one-off and refuse any handicap adjustment because they want to win the next golf society day, just like they won the last...

We all know that one of the biggest factors in getting better is consistency (if you hit 3 good shots out of 4 then you're on the green in regulation most holes). When a high handicapper does that they score great - either following a great lesson, by playing on a course like an open field, or just because it all just comes together on the day (mine only ever seems to come together for a string of holes, not the whole day!).

Consistency gets you a low handicap but also means it's less likely you'll score 40+ points. That's why the rules of golf say that when assessing 'playing' handicap in a game you:

- Identify the lowest handicap player
- He then plays off scratch
- Everyone else gets 3/4 the difference between their handicap and that of the lowest handicapper.

eg Player 1 is 12 handicapper, Player 2 is 23 handicapper; Player 1 plays off scratch; Player 2 plays off 8.

What this does is reduces the handicap of the high handicappers plus gives them shots on only the hardest holes (in this example holes 1 - 8 not the 105 yard Par 3 !).

Obviously, when the card of Player 2 is entered into the TSG system it assesses him off of his actual handicap of 23 (and if he's had a good day, cuts him).

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

15 May 2011, 08:41

Dave I agree with you I scored 42 last week off a 28 handicap which but for five putts just missing by a fraction would have been 47 points, this score came from nowhere as I shot 107 the week before. I followed that with 39 points yesterday so my handicap is going down as it should. I play with a group that were happy my scores were getting better not bitter that I took the cash off them!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

14 May 2011, 22:27

As the person in question I feel very upset at your comments, I first picked up a golf club last year after my son bought me lessons for my birthday, I played my first round of golf proper July last year, I do not belong to a club and joined this site to record my scores and to obtain some kind of handicap,when I joined I had to enter a handicap, so as I had only been playing two months and had no idea of my handicap I entered 28 since then I have entered all the scores of my rounds and this site has altered my handicap accordingly so please tell me what I should have done differently, and of course excuse me if my game has improved,I guess this is not a site for me if posting my scores gets such a reaction!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

14 May 2011, 17:35

I for one totally agree with Andy, either the initial handicap was wrong or the "golfers" putting in these high scores are not being honest when joining.......................damn, these sour grapes are a bit sharp

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

14 May 2011, 16:45

[quote=janusz holender] I do not believe there are enough games on TSG to justify charging £20. I organise about 15 games per year but could well use another (fee) site or simply e-mails to arrange them. I join maximum 4 games per year simply because there aren't enough games so £20 for 4 games sounds expensive to me Another danger is that when these charges are in place there will be even less games and this site could go the VGS path.

I think the way forward is to encourage people to organise more games rather charge them for using the site.

Janusz

[/quote]

i agree with a lot of what your saying and think getting more people to organise more games is a MUST.
that said its not without its costs running a site like this and i know that revenue can be hard to come by
so i think that some way of making a donation (if you wish) could be set up and a tag added to your avatar
showing that you are a supporter of the site could be the way forward ??

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

14 May 2011, 15:34

I do not believe there are enough games on TSG to justify charging £20. I organise about 15 games per year but could well use another (fee) site or simply e-mails to arrange them. I join maximum 4 games per year simply because there aren't enough games so £20 for 4 games sounds expensive to me Another danger is that when these charges are in place there will be even less games and this site could go the VGS path.

I think the way forward is to encourage people to organise more games rather charge them for using the site.

Janusz

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

14 May 2011, 11:10

Hi Andy,

I agree with you on one hand, Ive played for 13 years now and my best ever was 43 points(I think?!).

However, I think the player in question here (when you looks at his stats) has probably just had one of those great days on the course we would all like! And it looks like he has been playing a lot more recently and has steadily been improving, so whilst there may be bandits out there in TSG land, I think in this instance or in my mind, he gets the benefit of the doubt and should be congratulated!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

13 May 2011, 18:14

[quote=Jack Shelton] You are right in what you say John in the respect of it being on your conscience, if you put in a card that you have marked yourself,if its not correct then you only cheat yourself.
Most of my cards that I have entered I have marked myself,this is the same as most of the guys I play with on the site.We mark our own cards and enter them,the same as I do if I have a round on my own.
We don't take it as serious as a golf club would in something like a monthly medal.
To me its having the trust in others to enter true cards.
My problem is when you can see someone who is entering cards on a basis and scoring 40+ every time and getting on the leader board
These are the golfers in the T S G WHO ARE CAUSE FOR CONCERN
It doesn't matter if you play on your own(as I do) or in a society its your HONESTY at the end of the day that counts
Jack.[/quote]

Good point Jack, but these people automatically have their handicaps reduced as a result of 40+ points. If someone has managed to get his handicap down to a level where he can't possibly play to it...he wouldn't get far in a comp., and would soon be found out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

13 May 2011, 18:08

[quote=Kevin Slumbers]Please roll in the next bandit ----------------------------- MR MICHAEL HARRISON

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewmemberprofile.aspx?id=19921

top of the monthly leaderboard

last 3 stapkeford scores 47,41,42

seems to shoot most of his scores in the 80's

send that man a TSG polo shirt[/quote]

In fairness, Michael has only submitted three cards and all are at Epping GC, which is a bit mickey mouse with a par of 68 and an SSS of 66 (I believe). I have personally gone round in 4 over on this course, playing off 13. It does take time for the handicap to stabilise, but is dependant upon people submitting ALL of their cards. I would like to see a system where all participants in games organised through TSG MUST submit their cards, otherwise a decrease in handicap of ...say 0.2 strokes is incurred.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

13 May 2011, 17:36

Amendment to the above post......

I don't mean any intentional disrepect to high handicap golfers because most of us started with a high handicap sometime in our golfing careers. Everyone can hit the ball well off any handicap some of the time but to shoot this score requires the following;-

a) Balls of Steel.
b) Nerves of Steel.
c) God to have given you a free pass that day to do what you want.

I have been playing the game for over 20 years and the best haul of stableford points I have ever got was 42 when playing off 10. That was playing out of my skin. Now it can happen, but sorry the handicap alloted in the first instance in my opinion was wrong.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \BANDIT ALERT?

13 May 2011, 17:11

Seriously guys, 47 Points..Someone needs to have there handicap re-evaluated. No -one and I mean no-one should be capable of shooting nett 61 off a 25 handicap. To be given a handicap that high in the first place is just plain wrong. Do you know how pure you have to be striking a ball to achieve that score, high handicapers just don't do it.....ever. Which is why this handicap is totally wrong.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Relevance of the number on a ball?

12 May 2011, 10:23

That makes sense, thanks

Next I need to get my head around this Stableford scoring system then I might actually beat mybrother when I play him, as we simply play stroke for stroke, and he's been playing for years compared to my 1! At the moment I'm content on winning 2 holes out of 18

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Relevance of the number on a ball?

12 May 2011, 09:35

Yep, you are correct

BUT the rules of golf state that you should:
a) be able to identify your ball - saying it's a Nike no. 1 is not enough - unsurprisingly Nike have made lots of them!
b) declare your ball to your playing partners before starting (and if you change your ball).

Therefore, if your ball doesn't already have an identifying mark on it (eg a logo which you wouldn't expect to find on the course you are playing) you should add your own mark (anything to to enable you to categorically state "this is my ball" when you find it in the rough; saying "it's white it must be mine..." is not good enough)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \GolfLIVE! Ticket Sale.......

11 May 2011, 13:13

STOP PRESS!! - GOLFLIVE! ARE GIVING TSG MEMBERS A LAST MINUTE OFFER - buy tickets between Thu and Sat (12th -14th May) at £20 each only. Click Here and quote reference: FLASHSALE

For more details on the event visit the TSG members pages below:

www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffer.aspx?ID=25

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Relevance of the number on a ball?

10 May 2011, 16:52

So my guess was right :-D

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

10 May 2011, 15:11

Bring it!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The TSG Golf Day Championship...only one month to go!

10 May 2011, 08:31

Morning all,

Yep, crazy I know but exactly only one month to go now until you can pit your whits against your fellow TSGers at South Essex GC - 10th June 2011!

Compete in the following:

- Individual 18 hole Stapleford Competition (Men & Ladies)

- A 4-Ball team event

- A Yellow Ball team event

- Longest Drive

- Nearest Pin

- Beat the Pro (Nearest Pin)

- A Putting Competition

There will be prizes on offer for all of the above winners and runners up + £5's of every entry fee will be donated to this years charity - BALASA (British Amputee and les Autres Sports Association) which I am sure you will agree is a great cause!

The day is no more than a good "social" opportunity to meet many of your fellow TSG members and includes coffee & bacon rolls on arrival, 18 holes of golf, a full buffet lunch, afternoon tea and of course the all important prize giving and trophy. The event will be played across the two main South Essex courses (Heron & Hawk) and there will refreshments available on the course all day.

Entry Fee = £45!

If you havent already signed up to the day, please click here: TSG Golf Day championship

See you there!

Ian & The TSG Team
----------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

09 May 2011, 21:49

You do realise Dave, that this means war?!!!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Relevance of the number on a ball?

09 May 2011, 21:38

And google says:

http://golf.about.com/cs/beginnersguide/a/bfaq_numbersonb.htm

jb

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Relevance of the number on a ball?

09 May 2011, 20:05

I don't feel so bad as.................Seems no one knows?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Seve - Your memories?

09 May 2011, 13:32

One of my earliest golfing memories was of Seve in 1979 at Royal Lytham & St.Annes.......where he ended up driving (his Tee shot!) into the car park and still put it on the green for two. Of course, I have repeated this shot many times myself over the years.......with the exception of getting it back on the green!

And despite the great weather we having right now, I am sure the summers did last longer back then, he'll be missed......Run VT: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpcBFvZlyDk

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

09 May 2011, 10:53

That 82 at Pedham cut my handicap by more than one whole stroke! So down to 16 now...

And I'll be playing on Saturday ... not sure how I missed that one, but signed up now.

USA!
USA!!
USA!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

09 May 2011, 10:44

Daniel,
no, we won the Ryder Cup last time .

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

09 May 2011, 06:39

@Dave: £100 comes from the SES treasury!

@Russ: Did'nt we lose the last Ryder cup?!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

08 May 2011, 21:07

Daniel,
well he's not playing this Saturday so lets all have a bloody good go shall we !! C'mon the brits!! Ryder Cup spirit and all that !!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

08 May 2011, 19:02

Who's putting up the £100???

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£100 to topple David Pipe from SES No1 spot!

08 May 2011, 14:02

(Sorry Dave, had to throw this one out there!)

Can anyone take David pipe down? Just shot 43 stapleford pts @ Pedham Place yesterday!Now top of the South East Swing Leaderboard. £100 cash to anyone who replaces him at No1(he must be playing for this to be valid) If you think your good enough, come and play!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Seve - Your memories?

07 May 2011, 21:23

I was lucky enough to see this great golfer and a true gentleman play on several occasions,one of these being at the East Sussex National, Where after his round he went straight to the practice green as he had not putted well on that day, after watching him for a while we got to talk, Not many of todays pro's would find time to just stand and talk to an intrested spectator as Seve did on that day.
He will be missed by a lot of people who live's he touched both on and off the course,and thanks for just being you.
Rest in peace Seve.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Relevance of the number on a ball?

07 May 2011, 20:12

Whenever I've bought a box of 12 balls, there are 3 x No1, 3 x No2, 3 x No3 & 3 x No4 in it, but is there any relevance to the number on a ball, or are they numbered so you can play with others all using the same ball?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

07 May 2011, 19:45

I just bought a box of Bridgestone FIX golf balls (yellow box) - a two-piece ball, with a soft core. It has low compression, but a soft cover for control. First time out, and I shot my all-time lowest score (82). Not sure how much the ball had to do with that, but I must say it performed very well. Felt long off the tee, and also felt I had good control of short pitch/chip shots. Let's see how we do tomorrow...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How can this happen!

07 May 2011, 11:56

Hi,
Just thought I would post this and get peoples ideas on this. At our club we have an active junior section who once they are playing to below 28 hcp can play in the mens competitions. A few weeks ago a junior was disqualified from a medal due to incorrectly entering his handicap. This is fair enough. However the junior in question checked the handicap sheet before teeing off and filled that handicap in. The reason for the disqualification was that he hadplayed in a competition the day before at a different club and received a cut from that which had not been updated on the handicap board until after.
It seems a little harsh to dq someone who has made the best effort they can to avoid disqualification and is not intentionally try to gain an advantage.

Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Seve - Your memories?

07 May 2011, 08:23

Following the sad news of Seve Ballesteros' passing away this morning, we thought we would mark the occasion by inviting TSG members to give their thoughts of the great man. Please feel free to use this thread to share with everyone your memories;

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

05 May 2011, 10:32

Hi Daniel (et al),

Just to let you know weve located and fixed the system errors that were disabling the South East Swing group, so hopefully no more weird error messages from now on, we hope! Of course, if you do find any more anomalies when using the group or group game pages, please let us know immediately.

Anyway, hopefully all is now well and you can continue to fight it out for the SES order of merit without hindrance.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The Team
-----------------------

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

04 May 2011, 20:31

I’m quite new to the game, but have just purchased some Srixon Soft Feel, simply because they claim to be good for people with a slower swing, which my brother insists on telling me I have whenever we play

Here’s hoping for some longer drives

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

04 May 2011, 19:02

@Dave: I nearly had a heart attack laughing at your post!!! But then again, you never know!!!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

04 May 2011, 18:17

Hi All,

Just to give you quick update:

The Tech Team think they have located the problem behind the system errors in the South East Swing, which they suspect is affecting all members of the group/society and are currently testing the patches as we speak........fingers crossed, we should have you back up and running by tomorrow guys.

Thanks for you patience everyone!

Ian & The Team
----------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

04 May 2011, 10:48

Just a thought....Will the handicap be based on games played with non TSG members, or do you stipulate that the qualifying games must be played on TSG with other TSG members?

if the former applies, you could technically come in with three micky mouse cards & gain a high handicap, which could also be used to possibly win the TSG Championships!.......Am I being too pinnickity?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

03 May 2011, 19:50

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

03 May 2011, 17:17

This is surely some sort of dastardly plot by Daniel, to rob my of my rightful place at the top of the South East Swing leader board!!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

03 May 2011, 16:42

Thanks Ian.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

03 May 2011, 15:32

Option C seems harsh,however in the long run after 10 cards have been entered you will be playing to a H/C that reflects your true standard of golf.
On the downside unless you play 2-3 times a week this could take a while to achieve.
Perhaps another idea might be to have two leader boards,according to your standard.SAY from Scratch to 14H/C. and 14H/C to 28H/C.
I wonder if the T.S.G team would be prepared to give away 2 polo shirts for the winners every month tho'
THIS TOPIC COULD GET VERY INTERESTING
JACK

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

03 May 2011, 14:21

I would go for either A or B, but they do not qualify until the month after their final card of the requirement going in.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

03 May 2011, 13:16

Hi Guys for what its worth I feel that option B is the best solution to this problem.It will give a h/c after 3 cards, plus another 2 that will allow for adjustments to take place

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

03 May 2011, 11:07

Hi Roly (et al),

Actually, when we referred to the high handicappers issue on the update email, we were referring to some of the formula's in the system that were allowing 28+ handicaps in the UK - this is now fixed.

However, the tech team are still working on the 'newbies' qualification in the monthly leaderboard.....

As such, we have been thinking some more about this issue and would welcome a debate from the members........

Should we:

A - Allow newbies into the league table after three cards - as is now?
B- Allow newbies into the league table after FIVE cards - ironing out any anomalies?
C- Allow newbies into the league table only after 10 cards - a bit harsh maybe?
D- A.N.Other solution?

Let us know your views everyone, please join in with your comments/thoughts!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

02 May 2011, 18:15

Hi Johh/Dave,

Thanks for the heads up on this, rest assured we have been in touch with the Daniel and Tech team and they are looking into the problem - fingers crossed we will have access to the South East Swing pages back working shortly!

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused.

Regards

Ian & the TSG Team
----------------------------

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

02 May 2011, 17:27

Yes, me too. I sent the error log to Ian. Hopefully it'll be fixed soon.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Opening Daniel J's events

02 May 2011, 13:46

I am getting an error message on all of Daniels events and the South East Swing Group.

When I click on the event or group I get an error message.

Regards,
John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

01 May 2011, 15:33

The law of averages says that someone will win Mays Leader Board with 40+ points,and odds on to be high handicapper again.
Still it makes you try harder,even if you are in the top 5 for a couple of weeks.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

01 May 2011, 14:52

Well said .. Roly

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New Leaderboard - TSG members views needed?

01 May 2011, 09:56

Just wondering if this Months leaderboard will see the Epic scores of last month (at least 3 with 47 points!!)
TSG say they have sorted the system out to stop' High handicap newbies' Taking the leaderboard by storm.

I understand that everyone has a good day every now and then, but lets hope the board is a true reflection of established TSG handicaps & reflecting just who has genuinly played above their usual standard and earned their position on top of the leaderboard

Good luck to all

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\INCREASED GREEN FEES

29 Apr 2011, 23:34

This is a permanent increase at the ABBOTTS course,I am not sure what the price is for a normal green fee,after 7.30a.m is tho'.
This has probably increased as well probably by the same amount.
This is not just because it's an abnormal bank holiday either
We played today at a private course Maylands G.C. and had a day ticket,we played 2 rounds, the day ticket was for a week day green fee where most other courses where charging for a weekend rate because of the holiday.
They charged us £40 each,it was very busy,but we managed to get round in a reasonable time,even with a society in front of us.We teed off later than our alloted time P.M. but still managed to finish,once out on the course it was flowing quite well.
Jack

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\INCREASED GREEN FEES

29 Apr 2011, 12:50

Jack - just a thought.
Today is a Bank Holiday - is this the reason for the higher price or is it a permanent feature?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\INCREASED GREEN FEES

29 Apr 2011, 11:30

Teeofftimes.co.uk is usually good but remember to bring the payment printout as sometimes there is miscommunication and you need to show proof that you have paid. The other challenging thing is that on most of these sites, you need a minimum of 2 players to book otherwise it is still considered costly. They have offers of £10 at Bletchingley Golf for today for 1 player .. check it out.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\INCREASED GREEN FEES

29 Apr 2011, 09:35

Just a thought - try direct-teetimes.co.uk or teeofftimes.co.uk. They have been doing some exceptional deals, but who knows if they'll last.

jb

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\INCREASED GREEN FEES

29 Apr 2011, 00:27

I have just played one of the CROWN GROUP of courses Stableford Abbotts,on an early bird round,where you tee off before 7.30a.m.
I was shocked to find the price had been increased by 25% starting at the beginning of April,the green fee now for an early bird is £20
Doe's anyone else Know of increases on other courses that should be mentioned on here,because I am now probably going to start playing at a couple of other courses that do a better deal that are a bit further afield
for better quality golf.
Most golf clubs do some sort of green fee reductions during the week it's a matter of finding them,so posting them on here might be an idea as well.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Nike SQ Str8 Fit Machspeed Driver - Help Needed !!

28 Apr 2011, 22:51

Hey Guys and Girls.

I have just purchased the above Driver second hand and it didn't come with a manual to explain which way the arrows are meant to be and what the correlate too. Is there anyone on this site that has the said driver and can help a fellow member out.

Cheers

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

25 Apr 2011, 18:12

I dont know ... anything to be in the top five LOL

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

25 Apr 2011, 14:20

No one has written on this topic for a while,so I would like to mention my nearly hole in one yesterday.
Playing the 6th hole par 3 over the Priors course,about 145 yards.The pin was at the back of the green on the top tier.
The green is protected by a large bunker at the front and two on the left hand side.There was a slight breeze blowing towards the green.
I took an 8 iron,nothing special required apart from you need to get the ball on the correct level otherwise it rolls back down to the front of the green leaving you about a 35' putt
I addressed the ball took an easy swing and topped it
The ball hopped and skipped all the way to the green,missed the front bunker,and rolled all the way up the two tiers and hit the flag stick with a thud and came to rest about 9 inches from the hole.
Not a hole in one,but a birdie I wont forget in a while.
These things only happen when I play on my own THATS GOLF FOR YOU.
JACK

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Luke Donald 1st in reg on par 5's

23 Apr 2011, 17:49

Just been watching the Heritage golf and Luke Donald is 1st in the world in reg for par 5's not bad for someone who does'nt smash it miles down the fairway..Just proves that sacrificing length for accuracy pays..It looks good for British golf at the mo,with Westwood and Donald to be 1 and 2 in the world......happy golfing in this glorious weather...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A Word of Thanks

21 Apr 2011, 00:48

Come on Dave!! What about a little verse about your glorious win at Burstead G.C this week 37pts and took the money.
You seem to have slipped below the radar on this one
YOUR AUDIENCE AWAITS YOU
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

20 Apr 2011, 17:56

Hi Guys,

well this has certainly spurned a decent golf conversation. The rules have always been a bit of a sorepoint in all forms whether major competition or just fun days with your mates.

I am pleased that the scores are coming down but well aware this will not carry on and looking forward to finding my exact handicap, I reckon it should be around 18/19 (if i keep up the practice).............

All I initially wanted was to get a h/c I could compete with. As it has been pointed out from Roger I was way off of this last year and hitting over 100 easily most rounds. So, glad to be jsut keeping it on the fairway and being fairly consistent with my iron play recently. (not counting my chickens though as we know what happens when you think you have cracked it!!! ;-)

well happy batting chaps and look forward to playing some comps on the actual Social Golfer, shame I have a day job really as I would much rather be out on the course on days like today. I still need to have a day job before getting good enough to capture that green jacket though heh David ;-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

20 Apr 2011, 10:06

Morning all,

Just to let you know we do monitor all the entries on the TSG leaderboard and we do take into account that some scores can seem high, especially when they are posted by new joiners but we think thats to be expected when you are trying to establish your handicap!

And to some degree this debate lies at our door, as we are waiting for the Tech Team to find a way of excluding the first three cards any new member posts from the leaderboard - Its on their 'to do' list, honest!

However, we must say that whilst it would be great to have every card verified, that is not the TSG way. We do not want to get tied up in rules and regulations like the established bricks and mortar clubs, we are far too relaxed about our golf for that, its all about having fun for us........and anyway, it wouldnt make for an interesting debate if we did!

Keep those scores coming in everyone, next month, it could be you!!

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

19 Apr 2011, 20:28

"Hear, hear", Roger.
Just for the sake of good order, my comments on this thread have been made with my tongue firmly in my cheek!
Chris (Wynn) is an associate of mine and similar to Phil (Lyons) is a genuine high handicapper who is improving his game through more regular playing and experience.
Cheers.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

19 Apr 2011, 19:42

Just so you all know, although the game was not arranged by this site and Phil is a reasonably new member I marked both his last two cards at Seaford,
As he did not have a h/ c when he started to play with us we thought that 28 was about right for him based on previous rounds we had played with him. 2great rounds by Phil has lead to his H/c being cut to 23.
So well done Phil as we all try to reduce our H/c and I am sure he will be chuffed with his new one.
As for the TSG shirt I am sure that Phil has no Idea that there is one up for grabs.
Please don't let this forum get bitchy like some other ones .I am sure that alot of the comments are meant in a funny way but prehaps not to the person concerned.
There I feel better now!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

19 Apr 2011, 11:26

Probably want to win (Wynn) Something a white tee shirt for their efforts.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

19 Apr 2011, 10:54

I see that we now have two members of the Wynn family on the leaderboard!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WORLD RECORD ON PAR 4

18 Apr 2011, 16:12

I think I can beat this........18!!!

I WAS playing of 28 at the time and the course was empty:

- Drove my first in the woods, the second in the woods, meaning I was playing 5 off the tee.....

- Three shots off the fairways put me through the green into a ditch......

- Tired and emotional, I took four to get out, including taking a two shot penalty for a double hit......

- And four putted!!

What did I learn that day? Always drop rather than try to attempt trick shots and pick up after 10 and Ive done that plenty of times since!!

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

18 Apr 2011, 12:09

[quote=Kevin Slumbers]I agree with Roly's 1st comment, 18 months ago I joined VGS looking to play more golf with anyone, as long as I was playing golf, Played with Derek Hewson who put me onto TSG and told me that everyone had left VGS to join TSG on the basis it was free!!!!

Now im no tight bugger and have no hesitation in paying £20 for any kind of subscription, but Roly is right, lack of games and too many in the wrong part of the area(Essex) have left me in thinking do I really want to pay £20 a year just to tap my scores in(priciple I guess).

In my 20 Months of joining TSG I have enjoyed some of my best golf and bad, and met some really decent people, will mention Tim Culyer, John Sewell, Michael Channing who are gentleman when it comes to playing the game, my 85 Broke Hill Feb10, 87 Selsdon Park August 10 are two of my most satisfying rounds ever which have both been on TSG pre arranged games which will never be forgotton(I can play golf when I want to)

So where will I be in June, I dont't know, may start my own free golf networking website www.slumbersgolfsocial.com ____________________ feel free to join[/quote]

Hi Kevin....Have you considered posting a few games out your way...you might get to know a useful band of intrepids...just a thought.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

18 Apr 2011, 12:04

I think you will find that the VGS plan to start charging in Dec. this year John,according to their website. No doubt there will be a bit of competition...vying for subscribers and so on, but to maintain a site such as TSG, is very time consuming, not to mention the degree of expertise involved....and this undoubtedly has a value - not something that can be maintained for free. Whether or not the site attracts North, South or in betweeners , is of course, a matter for the subscribers. It's up to them to post games, but you are right, there does appear to be a North South divide at present.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

17 Apr 2011, 23:24

You are right in what you say John in the respect of it being on your conscience, if you put in a card that you have marked yourself,if its not correct then you only cheat yourself.
Most of my cards that I have entered I have marked myself,this is the same as most of the guys I play with on the site.We mark our own cards and enter them,the same as I do if I have a round on my own.
We don't take it as serious as a golf club would in something like a monthly medal.
To me its having the trust in others to enter true cards.
My problem is when you can see someone who is entering cards on a basis and scoring 40+ every time and getting on the leader board
These are the golfers in the T S G WHO ARE CAUSE FOR CONCERN
It doesn't matter if you play on your own(as I do) or in a society its your HONESTY at the end of the day that counts
Jack.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WORLD RECORD ON PAR 4

17 Apr 2011, 18:08

Not Quite as bad as 16, but I played Saunton in Devon last August & whilst I had a good round, the last hole was a par 3.....

I left it about 90yds short & the second shot went into a high walled bunker......I decided I was Phil Mickelson & would take on the front high wall...............

My third shot hit the wall and landed about a foot further back from my previous shot..........obviously, I had to try this shot again.

The 4th shot hit the wall, then ball bounced back and hit my arm (extra shot penalty)

My 6th shot was 'a shot in anger' at the wall again, which naturally landed back in the bunker.

Realising my round of stroke play had been completely ruined, I opted to chip the 7th shot out to the side. The 8th was on the green & 2 puts gave my a 10 on a par 3.

What did I learn from this.....Play within your strengths- If at first you fail, give up and try something different. Think carefully before playing a shot in anger.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

17 Apr 2011, 18:05

£20 is not a bad price, but.... There used to be lots of games on VGS, but many members left because they were having to pay and could get the same thing using TSG for free. Now we seem to be going the opposite way perhaps, as at present VGS is still free and not making any noises about charging an annual fee, and, surprisingly.

It appears that the majority of games on VGS are further north and most of the games on here are within 35 miles of Big Ben.

I will happily pay up my 20 quid, but will get awful ticked off if suddenly all the games disappear. I know I don't play that many, but to have a chance of playing a selection is worth while. At the end of the day £20 is not a fortune, and is an amount we all shell out at least once a week (if not a member somwhere), and this is an excellent meeting place to arrange those outings.

jb

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

17 Apr 2011, 17:20

Surely the same rules need applying to the TSG as to all courses regarding handicaps. You can put as many cards in as you wish, but they only count if verified by another member.

ie. No good going out and playing by yourself and including the card as for handicap adjustment. Perhaps the 'techies' can include that into the calculations.

I entered a score for a round played yesterday and had it allowed for handicap, but as it was not 'marked' by anyone, I unticked the box - I think the box should need you to tick it to ADD to handicapping, not have to remember to have to un-tick it.

At the end of the day if you are putting a score in, it is your conscience you have to deal with!!

jb

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

17 Apr 2011, 15:52

Trying to deflect the attention you created on yourself will not work.You have already caused suspicion about your own game.
Anyone else thought to be in the bandit category will also be bought to light by the T S G team.
I have seen all this sort of thing before in a society I used to run,you will always be caught out , cheats never prosper.
Jack.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WORLD RECORD ON PAR 4

17 Apr 2011, 14:56

I think I made a mistake seems like the score was 16 on A PAR 4 not 14 as i quoted OOhhhpppSS
Jack

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

17 Apr 2011, 09:49

I've enjoyed the games I've joined using the site and the people I've met.

Unfortunately, the old back trouble returned last July and subsequently I've only managed one round since (that was a pre-arranged birthday meet last September)

Not sure how long its going to be until I'l OK but having said that the £20 fee is very good value in my opinion given the service provided.

Hope to see some of you chaps sooner rather than later.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

17 Apr 2011, 08:16

Please roll in the next bandit ----------------------------- MR MICHAEL HARRISON

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewmemberprofile.aspx?id=19921

top of the monthly leaderboard

last 3 stapkeford scores 47,41,42

seems to shoot most of his scores in the 80's

send that man a TSG polo shirt

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

17 Apr 2011, 00:11

Chris,
I am confident the original bandit you refer to was myself.
There was never any intention of skulduggery or banditry.

My history is that I have played golf for 15 years, mainly in corporate days and with the local pub outings 4 times per year. I was given a handicap of 26 by the organiser of the pub socials for the past year or two.
My son and I joined a club for the first time in Feb 2011. As this club will only issue handicaps on games played after April 1st I was eager to find out if I was playing near to handicap.
Being a newbie my agenda is for self-development by keeping an eye on my scores, not for being the top of a league.

As the admin chap explained, I based my HC as 26 and put 3 cards in. My HC was cut accordingly on the basis of these scores.

Let me assure you, my skill level is at such a level that I'll never pose a threat to you in your quest for TSG equivalent of the Augusta Green jacket.
I wish you well in your journey to be the best of the best..........

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

16 Apr 2011, 20:17

Another old quote from outside the world of golf once said"You can fool some of the people some of the time,but you cant fool all of the people all of the time".............
Can't wait to see how lucky you will be in your next game
Seems like you are drawing a lot of attention to yourself on the forum,hope you can handle it
As Kevin says straight to the point you only cheat yourself in this game.
JACK

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

16 Apr 2011, 15:59

thanks Kevin,

Not sure what I can do if I am getting better and as the great Gary Player said "the more i practice the luckier i get"............

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

15 Apr 2011, 22:02

I agree with Roly's 1st comment, 18 months ago I joined VGS looking to play more golf with anyone, as long as I was playing golf, Played with Derek Hewson who put me onto TSG and told me that everyone had left VGS to join TSG on the basis it was free!!!!

Now im no tight bugger and have no hesitation in paying £20 for any kind of subscription, but Roly is right, lack of games and too many in the wrong part of the area(Essex) have left me in thinking do I really want to pay £20 a year just to tap my scores in(priciple I guess).

In my 20 Months of joining TSG I have enjoyed some of my best golf and bad, and met some really decent people, will mention Tim Culyer, John Sewell, Michael Channing who are gentleman when it comes to playing the game, my 85 Broke Hill Feb10, 87 Selsdon Park August 10 are two of my most satisfying rounds ever which have both been on TSG pre arranged games which will never be forgotton(I can play golf when I want to)

So where will I be in June, I dont't know, may start my own free golf networking website www.slumbersgolfsocial.com ____________________ feel free to join

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

15 Apr 2011, 21:34

Chris

I'll get straight to the point

25 Handicap on SCC

21 on The Social Golfer

your last 3+ round(TSG) you have scored above your handicap

last round in the 80's

Yeah no wonder why you finshed 2nd

I don't smell a bandit

I KNOW A BANDIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WORLD RECORD ON PAR 4

15 Apr 2011, 21:26

If i get to about 12, will pick up and move to the next hole, the way im playing can be more often than not at the moment.

SOMEONE ONCE SAID TO ME " FORM IS TEMPORARY, CLASS IS PERMANENT"

I keep believing

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WORLD RECORD ON PAR 4

15 Apr 2011, 18:32

We have all had a score on a hole in a round that has been a card wrecker, 8,9 and 10.
That seems quite common,but what about the Pro on the tour,just herd that he has set a world record score of a 14 on a par 4.
Just wondering what other members highest score has been on a hole,can you beat 14 or have you picked up and walked to the next tee?
Tell us about your high scores on any one hole,there must be a few tales out there.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

15 Apr 2011, 16:57

Just because your playing a different course doesn't mean that you play the game any different.,if you can score 40+points on consecutive rounds wheres the problem.
It will be interesting to see if you post another score of +40 stableford points going by your last couple of rounds.
We wait with great anticipation of there being a new Leader on the board next week.........
There are 12 of us playing on Monday and I will bet a pound to a pinch of salt non of us will score over 40pts
let alone get to the of the leader board.
We all put our scores in no matter how good or bad we play,thats all part of the game.That way it does give you a proper playing H/C.
Come along and join the TSG golf day see how you fair against other members,there will no be no arguments if you win this day
"HAPPY HACKING"
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

15 Apr 2011, 13:29

we win a T-shirt for top score do we? Interesting to see.......... Surely I must be in the running now?

Yes, what a few weeks do to your game. Played Cams and had a basic game, nothing special but hitting greens with my second shots and getting a tiday shot off the tee to make that happen. I hit 15 fairways and had a great short game day. I think I am playing nearer the 19/20 handicap position at the moment and this is now reflecting in my Social golfer handicap.(21)

The first time I have dipped into the 80's and at the turn I was +4, amazed is not the word. Trickier and longer back nine was not to the same standard but I was still pleased with a bogey and one par leading to the 17th. I hit the bunker for the long par three and a missed put led to a five. The 18th was a different story and I Mcilroyed the tee shot.... next shot in the water and it was going from bad to worse. An 8 was a difficult one to take after such a good round and I could have been in the low 80's...... not too bruised though as I am still learning and a first 80 is superb for the start of the season.

I am playing in a Competition at Silvermere on Sunday which is a bit tighter and trickier I hear so not expecting the same game.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

14 Apr 2011, 22:30

He didn't win the "T"shirt for best score of the month,that was given to 2nd place,so his scores are being monitored by the TSG team.
His H/C has also come down 7 shots,as well.It will be interesting to see what happens in the months to come.
I keep an eye on the leader board,thats all part of aim to get in the top 5.It would be interesting if he was to play on the TSG golf day and see what card he puts in.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

14 Apr 2011, 20:32

I see that Chris is at it again - top of the April leaderboard now!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

13 Apr 2011, 17:59

Just got back from a golf holiday...Did He Win?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

11 Apr 2011, 13:38

Feel so sorry for Rory to blow his lead like that, hope he can put it all behind him Quickly and go on to win a major this year he is such a talent

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

11 Apr 2011, 07:54

[quote=roly richardson]Well im not gonna go on about it but who is the only one to predict Rory. Hes feeling pretty smug at the moment and his name is the same almost!![/quote]

OOPS

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ONE LINERS AT AUGUSTA

10 Apr 2011, 18:24

Peter Alliss i think quoting someone else, " that putt is fast, just hold the putter up and hit it with the shadow".

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

10 Apr 2011, 07:50

Well im not gonna go on about it but who is the only one to predict Rory. Hes feeling pretty smug at the moment and his name is the same almost!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ONE LINERS AT AUGUSTA

10 Apr 2011, 07:45

So Bubba, 5 under is pretty good? Bubba: "well its better than 4 under". So the British want to know where you got the name Bubba? " From my dad, cos I looked like a Bubba"!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

09 Apr 2011, 20:30

Yep,..............that's why you'll never see me in the bookies.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \GolfLIVE! VIP Ticket Giveaway....The Winners!

08 Apr 2011, 16:04

Dear TSGers,

The sun is shinning at TSG HQ this afternoon and its Masters weekend, so what nicer thing to do than make someones weekend start on an even better note......

In order to enter this month's competition, we required you to answer the following question:

"This years GolfLIVE! event will take place on the 20th-22nd May.......but which club is the host venue?

The answer was of course......The London Club!

And the winners are:

- Stuart Herd, Essex, UK.
- Dave Knight, West Sussex, UK.

Congratulations to both of them. A pair of VIP tickets to this years show will be on their way to you shortly (better start buttering them up now if you want them to take you!)

For those that didn't win this time, dont forget, you can still buy standard tickets to the event using the fantastic TSG offer shown below!

Thats all folks.....enjoy the weekend and The Masters.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TSG Ticket Offer: In addition to the competition above, the organisers are giving TSG members a special offer on 2 standard tickets for £50 (45% off usual RRP)......to take advantage of this offer Click Here and quote reference: SOCIALGOLFER

For further details on this offer and the event, please visit the TSG member offer pages: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ONE LINERS AT AUGUSTA

08 Apr 2011, 00:08

"Who do you think is going to win this years masters" the Sky reporter asked Arnold Palmer after the par 3 competition.
With out hesistating he looked at her and said"The one who shoots the lowest score"and walked off.
Her face was a picture.
IF YOU HEAR ANY MORE GEMS POST THEM HERE.

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

07 Apr 2011, 14:12

Mickelson is the man to beat - especially given his current form with a win last week. Who could beat him? Westwood or maybe Casey. Hoping Tiger "spit-ball" Woods misses the cut ... chump.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

07 Apr 2011, 13:22

Oops! All you Luke Donald fans must be cursing last nights victory in the Par 3!! Or will he make history?

Still think Westwood or McDowell, both can handle the pressure.......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

07 Apr 2011, 12:20

I'd like to see Luke Donald take it but I think the course is too long to suit his game and I think Rory doesn't have the head game yet to clinch the biggies.

So it's Kaymer for me also - I think he's got the mechanical, repetitive swing he can trust and the calm head he'll need in that company on that course. Although I also think Graeme McDowell is definitely in with a chance. Plus probably 15-20 others...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

07 Apr 2011, 00:17

Kaymer for me though i would love to see Luke do it

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Smartphone tech and apps

06 Apr 2011, 21:18

Hi Guys Ive been using this for a while now very good http://www.freecaddie.com/

worth a look i think

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Smartphone tech and apps

06 Apr 2011, 13:39

Hi Matt,

Can you tell me how you got on with this App? Only Ive just tried to download it for a Blackberry and its not even sending me the text link to download it?

Maybe I should look at the SkyDroid you also mention, as I just want it for distances really.

Lemme know

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

05 Apr 2011, 20:59

Head says Kaymer, heart says Luuuuuuuuuuuuuke.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

05 Apr 2011, 18:23

Im going with Westwood, world no.1 (or is it No.2 now?), anyway just feels like his turn.....probably my heart talking but at 14/1 (with William Hill) I think its fair odds too!

Although Graeme McDowell at 45/1 is looking pretty good for an each way bet as well!

Only 48 hours to go.......

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

05 Apr 2011, 17:30

I think Mickelson is a safe bet, but I'm gonna go with the Irish boys & plump for Rory...although would like Lee to win it!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Masters 2011 Winner

05 Apr 2011, 14:45

Hey All,

Just wondered who everyone thinks might Win this weekends First Major.

I'll start us all off.

I think the Winner will be: Phil Mickelson.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

04 Apr 2011, 15:19

Cheers guys!

Had a magical round yesterday in a competition through the SCC Golf Society. I came second playing off of 3/4 handicap which was 20. Quite an open course but still lots of water dotted around and got a birdie on a par 4 which was a first for me. Looks like all that winter golf is paying off.............

See you all in the season

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

04 Apr 2011, 13:31

well done Chris top of the leader board hope it stays that way for you.Seen your card as well,two
FOUR FOR FOUR POINTERS!!!!
keep it going mate
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

04 Apr 2011, 10:34

I see that Chris Wynn is currently top of the April leaderboard with 42 points!
What goes around comes around!
Well played Chris - pleased to see the recently improved scores.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Epping Golf Club Bandits

04 Apr 2011, 00:52

who needs enemies when you have golf buddies like us as friends to keep your spirit up,always remember
"YOU ARE ONLY AS GOOD AS THE LAST ROUND YOU PLAYED"
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Epping Golf Club Bandits

03 Apr 2011, 22:57

David "The Bard" Jacobs strikes again

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Epping Golf Club Bandits

03 Apr 2011, 21:09

Watch Out !!!

The Epping Bandits are about

We play the game

To no big shame

You to can do the same

If you practice, and keep us in mind

I’m sure you wont, get left behind

So when your out

With your club in hand

Keep your cool, and keep out the sand

You can get lots of points, as well

That will make your forehead swell

So spare a thought, before each game

And I’m sure you can, do the same

Play more rounds, that you can afford

You to, can get on that Leaderboard

David (Shakespeare) Jacobs

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Epping Golf Club Bandits

03 Apr 2011, 18:08

my short game was a little better Friday, Andy was demanding payment for his and ur lessons

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Epping Golf Club Bandits

03 Apr 2011, 16:03

Do we detect a degree of jealousy here,slandering your golf buddies,perhaps if you spent the time practicing your bunker play and short game the way we showed you at South Essex,your game might improve enough to get on the leader board.
You have to put the effort in to get results. HA.HA!!!!
Jack

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

03 Apr 2011, 12:21

With my aching bones sometimes, I would need to be labelled a "Not very active member!!"

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

02 Apr 2011, 19:14

Probably one solution is rather have an ACTIVE member to rename it a FULLY ACTIVE MEMBER which indicates you have paid the £20 subscriptions,and shows you have access to all the site.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shotsaver - Drive to Turkey 2011 (now that is probably more than a Sand Iron)

02 Apr 2011, 17:16

Just to advise Social Golfers that the Shotsaver guys are promoting another pan-UK competition, with regional qualifying events, leading to a grand final in Belek, Turkey (all expenses paid - well most anyway).

Format is Pairs, betterball, stableford with two top teams from each event going forward to the Grand Final sometime in November 2011. There are prizes on offer (in line with Rules of course) and as far as I can see there are no limits to the amount of time you can enter or the number of teams.

Events are typically De Vere venues as follows:
Carden Park, Cheshire, 8th June
Mottram Hall, Manchester, 14th June
Oulton Park, Leeds, 28th June
Belton Woods, Grantham, 2nd June
Staverton Park, Daventry, 24th May
Wokefield Park, Reading, 24th May
and
Bush Hill Park, Winchmore Hill, London, 20th June
Felixstowe Ferry, Felixstowe, 28th June

Cost of entry looks to be 50.00 GBP per person (100.00 per team)

Online entry forms at www.snooper.eu (hunt around for the actual page) or call 01928 579 579

Great opportunity to enjoy at least one day out, sure to be refreshments on offer at each event... but not stated.

valid handicap certs required, 3/4 handicap allowed (maximum Handicap is 24 - before allowance of course).

I have had some contact with the Snooper guys and they do put on a good show... each qualifying event is at a great venue... and the final is 5* luxury at a fabulous venue (or so I am led to believe).

If you want more - I could answer quesiotns but have a check on the web page and see for yourself...

Best wishes and keep out of the rough, now that spring is arriving and the adders are beginning to stir.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

02 Apr 2011, 12:33

I have made some good friends and had some great games with people on this site so in my opinion its well worth the £20. It will also show who is serious about joining games, as there do's seem to be a lot of people on this site who have never gone out and joined a game.

A question for the TSG guys. I have a group on this site how will I know if all of the current members re join, will you be removing them from the groups that they belong to, or how do you see it working.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \GolfLIVE! Ticket Giveaway....

01 Apr 2011, 11:32

Dear TSGers,

Great news, we've managed to strike a deal with the guys at GolfLIVE! and they have agreed to give two lucky TSG members a pair of VIP Tickets each to GolfLIVE! worth £75 each.

It should be a fantastic day out for all golf lovers, as this years world class line up includes; Thomas Bjorn, Darren Clarke, Paul McGinley, Ian Woosnam, Thomas Levet, David Howell and many more! Other famous faces taking part this year include, Sky Sports golf presenter Peter Alliss, Iain Carter and Andrew Cotter.

However, as always, in order to win these tickets you will need to answer the following question correctly:

This years GolfLIVE! event will take place on the 20th-22nd May.......but which club is the host venue? (Tough one, eh?)

To be included in the draw: Send your answers to theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

Answers are required to reach us by Thu 7th April at Midnight.

Winners: to be announced Friday 8th April.
------------------------------------------------------------------

TSG Ticket Offer: In addition to this competition, the organisers are giving TSG members a special offer of 2 standard tickets for £50 (45% off usual RRP)......to take advantage of this offer Click Here and quote reference: SOCIALGOLFER

For further details on this offer and the event, please visit the TSG member offer pages: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

Thats all folks.....enjoy the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Smartphone tech and apps

01 Apr 2011, 10:22

Well we're not a very tech-savvy bunch are we ?! 38 views and no replies! Golflogix is the software I've gone for. There's a free version or £15 for the full app. It looks really good! http://www.golflogix.co.uk/ - scroll to the bottom of the page for mobile device app.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

01 Apr 2011, 08:45

[quote=roly richardson] I have just seen the email regarding being charged £20 to use the TSG site.
Now I have been using it for free for about 3 years, but recently there have not been many good games going on so I have only popped on to read the occasional forum etc.

I know that the Virtual golf society was abandoned in favour of TSG a couple of years ago. That was mainly because they charged & the site was not as good as this one (in my opinion)I fully understand that the site operators would want to make something for their aquisition of TSG, but perhaps there could be (as was suggested about a year ago) credits that could be earned by posting games, course reviews etc.

The number of games & the forum postings have declined recently so perhaps TSG should be looking at getting us more involved, rather than introducing a fee, that may just scare off existing members in the financially challenging time?
[/quote]

Now thats and idea that needs looking into CREDITS for posting,reviews ect. that way we might get a lot more people bothering to post games instead of just waiting for someone else to!!!

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

31 Mar 2011, 11:58

I like that idea David...it helps too if/when new players arrive at a venue, the tag identifies people and intro's are made easier.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

30 Mar 2011, 18:38

I play in a golf society once a month at different courses all over Essex,I have been doing this for about 7 years now.
We play from March through to November and the trophies we play for are quite special,they are very keenly contested for and the day can be very competitive.
The winner of the day is decided on the highest stableford score,sometimes we can have as many as 40 golfers competing for the trophy.Everything is done fairly and the rules are strictly adhered to.There are no gimmies you have to hole out is one example,that way there are no arguments.
Over the years we have had some very high scores win the day up to 46 points and around 38-42 points is quite common.
If you do win the day your H/C is automatically cut by 1 shot and also by 0.3 of a shot for the points you score over 36 points.
This has worked very well for us,and if a high score like 46 points wins then there is no arguments.
The members H/C adjusted after every society day,so its a fair playing field on the next venue.
The society was formed back in 1964 so we must be doing something right.
NO BANDEERO'S IN THIS SOCIETY
Jack

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

30 Mar 2011, 15:35

I've been on this site since 08, I've met some great people on great courses and always enjoyed the golf .. for this I thank them and the social golfer.
Free is always good but £20 is a fair price.

Maybe throw in a TSG bag tag...

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

30 Mar 2011, 08:23

Hi Alan

A friend of mine has posted a few midlands games on here but there was no interest, he used to post many games on here but moved to VGS as other people always join his games on there....he currently has 2 games on VGS where 17 have joined one game & 4 for the other...this wouldn't have happened here. Don't get me wrong this is a great site but games wise it is mostly southern based so not much good for me. It's strange because there seems to be many members in the Midlands but for some reason very few of them take an active role here.

Regards

Garry

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

29 Mar 2011, 21:20

Hi Garry, did you ever consider posting a game...you never know you might get a response. The more people who post games, the bigger the variety of courses available to the members. For example, I live on the outskirts of London, and frequently travel to Brum to see my family and would love to join a game up there if one was available. All it takes is for someone to take the time to post one. I also use VGS, and I gather they are charging for their service later this year. Happy golfing.

Polls & Surveys\scorecard for iphone

29 Mar 2011, 19:28

Hi There

Anybody come across a useful iphone app that will assist with just a simple scorecard.
I have skycaddie so I dont need gps but a touch screen scorecard on the iphone would be useful.

Many thanks

D

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

29 Mar 2011, 19:15

I think it depends on where you live, this site as far as the games are concerned are predominantly in the South. I live in the Midlands & have hardly seen any games posted in my area all the time I've been with TSG. I did have one local member contact me for a game & we have subsequently had a few more but other than that I haven't played a single game on here as most of them are over 100 miles away. I'll still look at the site but there's not much point in me paying £20 for nothing. I'm a member at a club so get my handicap from there, I also use Virtual Golf Society who have games all over the country.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

29 Mar 2011, 18:54

I used to be a member of a small, but friendly and very enjoyable golf club. I joined TSG and let my club membership lapse mainly because (a) i wanted to become a better golfer, i believe it's difficult to improve if you're playing the same holes over and over again, (b) i wanted to play different courses and (c) i could'nt afford to do both.
TSG lets me play when i want, where i want, with some of the best golfing companions you could ask for. (Any improvement in my golf is questionable so far ;0) )
TSG lets me record my scores, keep an official handicap, gives me advice if needed, plus other golfing related features.
All this up to now has been completely free, i fully understand how difficult it must be providing all this for nothing, how many other services do you know nowadays that are free?
How much am i to be charged for this membership to TSG?.................................less than 40 pence a week, still sounds like a good deal to me.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

29 Mar 2011, 10:55

I suppose it was bound to happen, as there must be a huge cost in providing such a site - hosting it for eg., and maintence must be a full time job. Personally I would be happy to pay a nominal £20 to belong to a golf community that I have really enjoyed playing with these past few years.
It is my experience that the membership is full of 'characters', and it has been a joy playing with many of them.
I look forward to the TSG Golf day on June 10th when I shall be meeting many more.
Although I do belong to a golf club, I find that the TGS gives me greater flexibility in finding games at other courses, with people I got to know very quickly....playing the same old course, week in week out, does get a bit boring... Additionally, we do get good rates at other clubs, either via 2 for 1, Open Fairays, or the organiser gets us members rates. All in all, a great deal.
Summarily, TSG has opened up a world of golf I would not have otherwise known. Thank you, and keep it up.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

29 Mar 2011, 10:27

Hi All,

Actually, we're with Chris in this instance but rest assured we already had noted this anomaly.

To be fair to the member in question, this score of 47 is as a result of him having just joined and him having set his handicap to 26 (He is now playing off 21.2). Of course, the system doesnt allow you on to the leaderboard UNTIL you have entered three cards - thus taking away some of the aforementioned 'banditry'!

However, the failing of the system is that once three cards have been entered then ALL those cards do become live. So I guess this is one for the Tech team to look at......

In the meantime, rest assured the scorecard in question here will not be included in the final table for March, so theres still a chance for others to win the illustrious White TSG Polo shirt!

We''ll add this task to the job list!

Happy Golfing!

Ian
-----

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

28 Mar 2011, 22:49

I must say I wondered how long this site would remain FREE of charge.
For me it opened up a new world of golf,I have played many games with members,and had some really enjoyable games,made new golfing friends,its a fantastic site to be part of.
The £20 subscription fee,for me is a small price to pay for the enjoyment I have already had in the past 15 months.
I just hope that it does not put other members off continuing their membership because of the charge.

It's only the price of a round of golf at my local course

Keep up the good work
Jack.

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

28 Mar 2011, 22:22

Hi Roly
From my perspective £20 IS decent value.
I use the site to post all my scores and therefore track my handicap for all games that I play (alongside my Club CONGU handicap).
Like you, I have not joined games over the Winter but plan to do so again once the season gets into full swing. I do, however, enjoy seeing what games are being arranged and how people that I know have performed. I also find the Course Reviews interesting.
When most of us are forking out £100s on memberships/green fees/equipment/travel, £20 as part of our annual golf expenditure is no big deal, as long as the quality of the site is being maintained.
Cheers.
Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

28 Mar 2011, 22:12

Not necessarily a "bandit" score, Chris.
Last year I played 102 rounds - most were in the 30s, some were in the 20s, a few were in the 40s, and one (12 months ago) was 48! At that stage my handicap was 18 - 100+ rounds later it is 16.
Remember your handicap should be a reflection of the best that you can play and not the norm - paradoxically, the more that you play the more you have the chance to shoot the "perfect" round, even though your handicap will be more accurate than those who are only able to play less often.
Hopefully catch up with you during the season sometime.
Cheers.
Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I smell a bandit??

28 Mar 2011, 20:19

HI guys,

Firstly may i say its not that I bother about the stableford points where we can see where we have all come in after a weekends play, but I keep an eye on it a little bit. This week I shot a really great round and a whole three points over my handicap by shooting a +23 instead of my handicap +26 to achieve a great 39 points.

I thought I must be in the top ten at least......... well I must say there are some great scores there but come on 47 points???? ha ha....... its laughable. This guy must have either been playing a pitch and putt or there is some good old fashioned bandit action here.

answers on a postcard, because I am baffled....

Chris

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

28 Mar 2011, 19:32

Ah, the proverbial catch 22 - everybody recognises there is a cost to providing, maintaining and operating a website but no-one wants to pay for an internet service because we've all come to correlate 'Internet' with 'Free'!

For my two penneth worth I'd say - As long as the quality is maintained, I'd be happy with a nominal charge because then I'd know that all games which were posted (including mine) were only open to people who had actually paid to be a member of the community (it's a truism that even time wasters who are time wasters by nature won't pay to be a time waster...).

So, although the three month deferral is a bit stingy (I've been a member for two years, perhaps I should get 6 months deferral?), I'm generally happy with the proposal and I would join.

Having said that I am reminded of a remark by the superb Groucho Marx: "Please accept my resignation. I don't to belong to any club that will accept people like me as a member". Schizophrenic or what...

Polls & Surveys\£20 to use TSG worth it or not?

28 Mar 2011, 18:32

I have just seen the email regarding being charged £20 to use the TSG site.
Now I have been using it for free for about 3 years, but recently there have not been many good games going on so I have only popped on to read the occasional forum etc.

I know that the Virtual golf society was abandoned in favour of TSG a couple of years ago. That was mainly because they charged & the site was not as good as this one (in my opinion)

I fully understand that the site operators would want to make something for their aquisition of TSG, but perhaps there could be (as was suggested about a year ago) credits that could be earned by posting games, course reviews etc.

The number of games & the forum postings have declined recently so perhaps TSG should be looking at getting us more involved, rather than introducing a fee, that may just scare off existing members in the financially challenging time?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Smartphone tech and apps

28 Mar 2011, 11:37

Hi all.

Well I finally have a smartphone, an Android HTC.

Can anyone advise on the best golf apps for iphone / android phones ?

I downloaded SkyDriod and used that last weekend playing 18, it was fantastic! It has all the functionality you'd usually have with a golf GPS device, but it was £2 ! So I was able to see a photo of the hole I was about to play, it has a gps range finder, shot tracker to measure your shot distance, distance to the hole and distances to bunkers and coursemarks etc.

I'm also wanting a scorecard and handicap tracker - now I could log in here for that but it's quite fiddly when you are out on the course to be entering in stuff via a website on a smartphone, so is anyone using a dedicated scorecard and handicap tracker app on their phone ?

Cheers,
Matt

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \OpenFairways Offer......Closing 31st March!

25 Mar 2011, 13:22

Dear TSGers,

We hope youre enjoying the sunshine!

Just a quick reminder to let you know the deadline for our OpenFairways Card offer is looming and there is only 6 days left to take advantage of this great deal.......

For more information on OpenFairways Card and the exclusive TSG member offer of only £39 per annum (RRP £89). Goto: www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffer.aspx?ID=23

Or visit www.openfairways.com for a full listing of the 1600+ participating golf courses
including the new Links Collection.

That's it for now...

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team

--------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ALAN HAYWARDS HIP REPLACEMENT

23 Mar 2011, 23:16

We.. will have to modify that manic electric golf trolley of yours then,I can adapt it for you free of charge.
It will be a pleasure to do for you,I could probably stop it going A.W.O.L. as well.
You know that pond on the side of the first par 3 over the ABBOTTS.
The next time you play that hole just point it in the direction of the pond and .................................!!!!!!!!
PROBLEM SOLVED
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ALAN HAYWARDS HIP REPLACEMENT

23 Mar 2011, 21:22

shoot my age Jack....not unless I am playing at the age of 105, buggy carrying the oxygen cylinder.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ALAN HAYWARDS HIP REPLACEMENT

23 Mar 2011, 18:46

how old does that make you then Alan?

Give us a clue,have you shot your age on a golf course yet? I mean 18 holes not 9 holes.
Or is it a case I have forgot more than you will ever know?
What ever it may be you are still welcome to come and play with youngsters on the T.S.G.ANY TIME!!!!!

JACK

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ALAN HAYWARDS HIP REPLACEMENT

23 Mar 2011, 13:05

Hey, thanks guys, much appreciated.
BTW, Tom, an old mate of mine - a very wealthy 70 year old, appeared at his golf course with a stunningly beautiful 25 year old lady. Everyone was speechless she was so gorgeous. During the round one of his playing partners asked how he had managed to pull such a beautiful girlfriend.
Girlfriend he said...she's my wife.
Blimey said his mate how did you manage that.
I lied about my age
Haha...so you told her you were 50.
No said Tom, I told her I was 90.

The older you get the more canny you must become.

Enjoy.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

20 Mar 2011, 10:24

if in florida two exceptional tracks now available to the public are redtail near sanford and bella colina near mount dora..... these are as good as the pga courses trust me... and at a fraction of the cost

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ALAN HAYWARDS HIP REPLACEMENT

20 Mar 2011, 09:35

Hip Hip Hooray
Alans out to play

It's off to golf to see
Alans new hip, on the tee

With a driver in his hand
Where's that ball going to land?

Oh no it,s taken a hook
That bloody ball is in the brook

He takes a drop, just by the stream
And get's the ball on the green

Now the putt he does a shimmy
Gets near the hole for a 6" gimmie

The surgeons work has worked it's toll
Now it's on to the 2nd hole

He takes his stance
And with all his might
This little ball takes its flight

Heading to, no mans land
This little ball, hits the sand

It's out the bunker with a hack
Whatever you do, watch your back

The ball it takes a sudden blip
It's all down to this, brand new hip

The doctor says his game will improve
As long as you keep on the move

All in all your game is grand
So remember to keep out that sand

In a few months time, with golf much more
I'm sure you will, lower your score

So get some rest, from now till June
From all at Social well see you soon

David (Shakespear) Jacobs

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Social Media Tabs/labels feedback needed.......

18 Mar 2011, 18:50

Dear TSGers'

We have had a report from one of the members, that the 'social media' sharing tabs at the top of some the TSG pages have been causing PC's to freeze for up to 30 secs at a time, as you move between the site pages.

However, before we investigate further we wanted to find out how widespread the problem is or whether its just an isolated case?

If you could let us know here if you have experienced this problem or anything similar we can try to fix......

Thats it for now - Enjoy the weekend!

Ian & The TSG Team
-----------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ALAN HAYWARDS HIP REPLACEMENT

18 Mar 2011, 17:32

Really?! Damn, that means he'll be back in time for the TSG Golf Day........

Happy Days!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ALAN HAYWARDS HIP REPLACEMENT

18 Mar 2011, 16:50

glad to hear Alan's operation went well and look forward to joining him on the fairways again very soon
he has stated that the operation should help improve his game in more ways than one.
He has mentioned he will be able to throw clubs further!!
I think he will be able to run faster to catch that bloody remote control trolley he has when it go's A .W .O. L..

Is there anyone else that has any ideas on how the operation might improve his game?
If so lets hear them,I am sure Alan would appreciate them especially with a new hip in place.
Hurry up back ALAN
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \29th April 2011-THE ROYAL WEDDING/GOLF AS ALTERNATIVE

17 Mar 2011, 00:20

Great news GREG sorry its not Woburn. At least we are out for the day now hope others can join!!!! Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \29th April 2011-THE ROYAL WEDDING/GOLF AS ALTERNATIVE

16 Mar 2011, 17:58

Hi Jack, great idea!! count me in please.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \29th April 2011-THE ROYAL WEDDING/GOLF AS ALTERNATIVE

16 Mar 2011, 00:05

As everyone is probably aware 29.04.11 is the date of the Royal Wedding,and has given me the chance to play golf all day while the wife sits in doors and watches it (I have been kicked out of the house for the day) with her blessing.
Is there any other T.S.G members who would be up for a days golf somewhere in the Essex ,Kent area,I have not booked anything as yet.
I am not going to pay loads of money out for a game,as I had to pull out of going to Woburn because of the price.
My idea would be to play 27 or 36 holes with the possibility of including Breakfast and Lunch somewhere, around a price of about £50,or cheaper.
This is a once off golf day,and the more that attend the better as far as I am concerned.
IF YOU CAN MAKE IT OR HAVE ANY OTHER IDEAS LET US KNOW WITH A REPLY

Cheers
Jack

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

11 Mar 2011, 13:58

If you end up going to Florida, maybe I can help. I'll try to simplify things by giving you my top courses.

In the Orlando area, it's Bay Hill, Champion course. You have to stay at the lodge to get on.

In Jacksonville, in the northeast, it's the Stadium course at TPC Sawgrass. Beware, it's expensive.

Tampa area: Copperhead course at Innisbrook. Some of the PGA Tour pros say it's the best on tour.

South: Blue Monster at Doral.

Panhandle: Camp Creek. Beautiful course in a natural, coastal setting.

More detailed info at my Florida golf blog, if these suggestions are so inspiring you can't wait to read more: http://bit.ly/gpa5tt

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\CRG GOLF Give this one a wide berth

09 Mar 2011, 05:51

I would like to know if anyone has used the Captains Rest Golf in Belamedena in Spain

And did anyone have any problems with Mr Kevin Jenkins the Director .

The link underneath is the problems we had with him and many others have had with him in the past year or so .I am only posting this to help out any one who intends to use him in the future for the golf trips away in Spain or Portugal.

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g562812-i10092-k4065931-Captains_Reat_CRGGolf-Benalmadena_Costa_del_Sol_Andalusia.html

be very aware of this outfit as he has tucked up a lot of people in the past, including our society ,for £6000 last September , with promises of a refund that are still ongoing.

Since Last September we have since been contacted by numerous golf societys ,who have also been tucked up by CRG GOLF.

SO BEWARE OF THIS OUTFIT AND NEVER BOOK WITH THEM !!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf rule clarification?

08 Mar 2011, 19:03

Hi,

Unless you actually saw the ball go into the water hazard you have to treat it as a lost ball and go back to where the ball was played from. In this case you will be taking 3 from the tee. Hope this answers your question. Stuart

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf rule clarification?

08 Mar 2011, 16:27

Ok so you tee off and the ball goes to the left and it heads towards a water hazard. It appears that the ball has either stopped short or gone in the water, but you are not sure

You look for your ball on the bank in front of the hazzard, with no luck....

Can you now assume the ball went in the water (even though you cannot see it, & didn't see it actually drop in the water) and therefore take a drop within the hazard usual rules etc, or do you have to go back to the tee and play the shot with a shot and distance penaly?

appreciate any feedback

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

08 Mar 2011, 15:10

Great news Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

08 Mar 2011, 10:14

There is a notice in the clubhouse at Paultons saying that this club is now no longer for sale and will remain under the Crown banner - apparently the same applies to South Essex. The remainder remain on the market. Good news for me anyway!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A Word of Thanks

07 Mar 2011, 18:13

Just Got home from playing The Gog magog Club, i had a great day and would like to give a BIG THANKS
to David Jacobs for all his hard work setting all these golf days up for us ....... he even managed to get the sun to shine i know i speak for the other 14 players so keep the good work up Dave and we will see you again soon

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

03 Mar 2011, 20:00

Wow, loving this video!

Funnily enough, I recently had a conversation with one of the guys at Direct Golf who told me that despite 'Titleist' being the most preferred ball on the market, that 'Bridgestone' produces the best ball - as you say - for an amateur's swing speed.....

Trouble is, 'Bridgestone' will need to spend a lot more on their Brand's affinity with golf before I buy them.........and I wonder why I am STILL playing off 17!!

Ian M

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

03 Mar 2011, 18:44

Alan, my favourite golf ball is any that seems to listen whilst i am shouting (offering encouragement) at it to alter course. This happens all too frequently (the shouting). I agree amazing video.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf ball for you

03 Mar 2011, 15:58

A lot is made of golf balls, which is best and all that, but I rec'd the following a couple of days ago that made me sit up and think. Take a look at the video - amazing.

The Pro V-1 ball everyone, it seems, venerates because so many of the top pro's use it, is actually a 3 piece ball, and you need a club head speed of at least 100mph to compress all 3 stages - if you don't you will never fully compress and you will never get full performance/distance. that the pro's do.

We get more distance out of a ball that has only 2 stages of compression...like a Titelist NG Tour. It is more suited to our swing speed and we can compress it on impact and hit it further than a Pro V -1.

So the secret is not to buy the most expensive because we are actually decreasing the distance we can hit the ball, unless your club head speed is over 100mph, which is highly unlikely for ther vast majority of amateurs.

Watch this video, it shows what a golf ball goes through when hit at 150mph. It's amazing, but no-one hits this hard, Tiger Woods for eg, hits at just under 130mph. most of us amateurs manage 80 - 95, MAX.

This was taken at an amazing 7000 frames per sec.

http://www.flixxy.com/golf-ball-slow-motion.htm

Copy and paste into your browser.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

03 Mar 2011, 10:09

Hi, I use Skygolf SkycaddieSG5 read some nice about it on Testfreaks aits pretty cheap too and works. Thanks.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \golf training pschology

02 Mar 2011, 03:20

has anyone heard of pro golf I.Q? i found bettergolftraining.com while looking for golf tips online

it says that you cant just practice your swing to improve your game.

you also have to practice your state of mind for when you get out on the golf course.

so they have all these different exercises to prepare you mentally.

i got interested because i hit the ball so well at the range but when i get on the course it all changes.

so im gonna try it out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Is spitting accepted in the US........

27 Feb 2011, 13:23

Didnt think so! So why did Monty say it - Very odd?!

I couldnt give stuff about what goes on in Tiger's private life but when it comes to on course etiquette, he's is in serious danger of losing me as a fan......

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

26 Feb 2011, 12:39

Having re-read David's critique of the GolfBuddy Platinum, It seems that this is also a very serious contender for a dedicated GPS. Packed full of features you don't get with an App.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

26 Feb 2011, 12:28

As an owner of a Sureshot GPS, for a year or so, I would recommend you buy SkyCaddie.
Sureshots is OK, but has let me down too often. The courses cannot be relied upon, as proved to me recently when I went all the way to Celtic Manor and played the Roman Rd Course, a course I had never played before. The first two holes are Par4 followed by a par 3. Not on my Sureshots..2nd hole was a par 5, and the following holes were all over the place. VERY annoying. I have had this a number if times in the past and have complained to the Aussie manufacturer who was sympathetic, but that's all.
The ANNUAL fee is about £23 to download 20 courses, or £30 for 40 courses...IMHO..a bit steep. You do not get an fly overview of the hole, simply a distance to Front Middle and Back, plus various hazards, and a scorecard feature. I still do not understand the distance measure feature, and have given up trying.

I now own a, internet pad and have downloaded the Sonocaddie app. For a one off fee of about £21, I have the use of over 30,000 courses worldwide, with free upgrades as and when. The graphics are superb with a fly over view, view of the green, full scorecard for 4 players if needed and distance measure feature, plus a distance from your position to any point on the course feature...all in all a brilliant package.
I had a couple of issues to begin with which were dealt with immediately, so customer service appears to be on the ball.

So, with those who want a dedicated GPS, I would recommend a SkyCaddie, but for those with iPhones and the like... Sonocaddie, and BTW, it is free to download and use for one course, so you can try it out on as many different courses as you like, you simply have to download the course beforehand. I have looked at other apps., but none are as good as or outperform Sonocaddie IMO.

Hope this helps.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Flying Clubs...

25 Feb 2011, 07:26

Hi everyone,

Am still new to golf but when I was goffing around with my buds before I started, we would have a few cold ones at the driving range. Since no one but my friend was serious about the sport back then, we only had a few clubs so we shared. When it was my turn to tee off I wasn't wearing any gloves and I gave it a swing. I nailed the ball, the club flew out of my hands and made a loud thump noise that got everyones attention when it hit the gutter from the roof that was covering us.

Everyone that noticed the loud unusual noise, started to stare and giggle about what just happen. I quickly ran and grabbed the club that was about 20-30 meters away. Got to the club and looked at everyone and yelled out, MY Bad. Game on! Then quickly ran back to my friends that was dying from laughter.

What a great into to golf... Hehe!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Castle Point, Canvey Island.

24 Feb 2011, 18:47

Thanks Chris and S H,
I shall try and arrange a game here,......................... when it's warm but not too hot, fairly calm, course is in good condition, not too busy, oh yeh......and when my game is in better shape. (Could be a long wait for the last one).

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Is spitting accepted in the US........

24 Feb 2011, 08:55

Speaking as an American (who travels home a lot, and still plays there frequently) ... I would never spit on the green, and none of the guys I play with would ever do that. I've never SEEN anyone do it ... either in my group, or any nearby groups. I've never seen it at a PGA Tour event, either.

I think Tiger's in a class by himself ... spittin' and fartin' all over the course. Such a tool.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Is spitting accepted in the US........

23 Feb 2011, 19:40

Hi All,

I saw an interview with Colin Montgomerie on Sky Sports News last night about Tiger's spitting incident and he seemed to think that this was cultural thing and that spitting is accepted/endured in the US compared to the UK.....he did of course go on to condemn the action!

Personally, I have never played with anyone in The States that has spat on the fairway, let alone the green but perhaps our friends across the pond can confirm this?

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \lessons or clubs?

21 Feb 2011, 18:34

lessons........ not that you need me to say that reading the all the others

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \lessons or clubs?

21 Feb 2011, 15:46

Lessons, lessons, lessons and more lessons!!!

If you don't know how to use your golf clubs then you could have any set you want and still not get a good score.

Most golf clubs will have some demo clubs that you could take out on the course (or range)

Remember that you can have you own clubs adjusted for loft and lie.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \lessons or clubs?

21 Feb 2011, 15:23

First off start the lessons,the pro will give you the proper instructions accordiing to your abilities to play the game.
Then ask his advice about what clubs he would recommend to you,there are so many different types for players of all abilities.From blades to cavity backs that have a bigger sweet spot and more forgiving.
Also the type of shaft you require, then comes the loft and lies of the clubs
All this will be done if you have the clubs Custom Fitted by reputable dealer like Ping or Taylor Made.
Clubs that look Kick Ass are no good if you cant use them,my club's are custom fitted and it was worth every penny spent. I have used the same set for about 8 years and not even considered changing them.
Gett it right now it will only give you peace of mind on the course.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \lessons or clubs?

21 Feb 2011, 09:08

lessons no question about it ....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \lessons or clubs?

21 Feb 2011, 07:57

a kick ass set of lessons

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \lessons or clubs?

21 Feb 2011, 07:33

Hi everyone,

I had a good day at the driving range and i did a 18 hole course over the weekend.. My new problem is weather to invest in lessons or purchase a kick ass set of clubs.

What do you all think the best investment would be fopr a beginner?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Castle Point, Canvey Island.

19 Feb 2011, 21:14

It is a pay and play course but has some difficult holes especially when the wind blows. If you do want to play there I would suggest the summer would be better. S

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Castle Point, Canvey Island.

19 Feb 2011, 07:31

Hi Greg
i have not played Canvey for about 6 months now but it is very flat with a few "out of bounds" its a good course for high handicap golfers as there is not to much to punish any shots off line ...... all that said i would be happy to join any game posted

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \National Golf Show Ticket Competition - The Winners!

18 Feb 2011, 16:23

Dear TSGers,

In order to enter this month's competition, we required you to answer the following question:

"2011 will see the second annual TSG Golf Day Championship take place on the Fri 10th June......which golf club will be hosting this event?"

The answer was of course......South Essex Golf Club!

And the winners are.......

- Trevor Hempsall, Lincolnshire, UK.
- David Jacobs, Essex, UK.
- John Taylor, Staffordshire, UK
- Lisa Malaws, West Sussex, UK.

Congratulations to them all! A pair of tickets to this years show are winging their way to you all as we speak (actually they're not....but they will be sent out approx, two weeks prior to the event!)

For those that didn't win this time, dont forget, you can still buy tickets using the TSG offer shown below!

That's it for now - enjoy the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team
--------------------------------------------------------------

Ticket Offer: TSG members qualify for a special 2 for £10 rate on tickets (33% off usual RRP)......to take advantage of this offer goto: http://www.nationalgolfshow.com/ngs-golf-show-tickets and quote reference: SG241

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

18 Feb 2011, 08:25

[quote=Frogs Hair] Afternnons and evenings would seem the best times for the novice golfer to play. If for nothing else, the green fees are usually less expensive later on in the day. Most of the hard core golfers play in the mornings around here. (Desert Southwest, USA) Personally I don't care when a novice golfer plays. Just by paying their green fees, they help to keep my green fees lower. As for the possibility of slow play, most, if not all golfers are guilty of slow play at one time or another. I don't let slow play bother my game. Blaming slow play for poor score is a bit on the lame side to my way of thinking. A good pre-shot routine is a great cure all. [/quote]

Thanks for the advice.. I'll inquire about the lower green fee's from the clubs so i can compare.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

18 Feb 2011, 08:01

[quote=Russell Middleton]Afternoons are much quieter than the mornings, even at a weekend.

Many a time I've gone out on a Sunday afternoon and played 18 holes without having anybody in front of me or behind me.

As a beginner a good practice idea is to get to 100 yards from the hole and then drop two or three extra golf balls and play them all from there, afterall it's your short game that matters!

If you get people behind you then just let them through, you could wait by the side of the green and once they have gone through you can practice your chips from just off the green, etc.

Russ[/quote]

Great idea mate.. I'll try that out this weekend. I'll drop a few extra balls after i take my shot to see if i can improve my swing and campare.

Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

18 Feb 2011, 07:59

[quote=chris emms]Hi Vincent

Another good tip is try not to hit each shot so hard! you will find this will improve your accuracy and save time not looking for lost balls

All the best Chris[/quote]

Cool, I'll keep that in mind not to kill the ball in every swing.. Ballsdo get expensive when you start losing em. hehe!

Thanks for the advice.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

18 Feb 2011, 07:56

[quote=Ian Mullins]Hi Vincent,

Welcome to TSG! I would say midweek afternoons are going to be your best time to play when you are just starting out but this will depend alot on your local club. A good idea would be to ask them, most clubs should be able to advise this.

However, just because your new to the game, it shouldnt mean you are slow around the course......simple steps, like being ready on the tee when its your turn to drive and picking up once you can no longer score stapleford points will improve your speed.

Slow play is rarely due to your skill level and more to do with general etiquette around the course.

However, I am sure there are other tips the TSG members will be able to impart - anyone else got some advice for Vincent?

Ian M
[/quote]

Thanks Ian,

I'll keep in mind mid week would be a good time.. Hopefully I can get some time off from work.. I'll also ask around in our local clubs if whats the best time that they can recommend. Some members also mentioned to place your bag where your walking towards after hitting the ball so you wont have to walk all the way back from where you started.

Thanks again.

vince410

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Castle Point, Canvey Island.

17 Feb 2011, 18:45

Has anyone played Castle Point on Canvey Island recently?, or anytime. I like trying to play some different courses other than the norm, having not played here i'm thinking of putting up a game, can currently get some good online rates at the weekend.
Found some mixed reviews from a while ago but nothing recent, fellow TSG'ers input will be very welcome.
Cheers, Greg.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

17 Feb 2011, 16:10

Afternnons and evenings would seem the best times for the novice golfer to play. If for nothing else, the green fees are usually less expensive later on in the day. Most of the hard core golfers play in the mornings around here. (Desert Southwest, USA) Personally I don't care when a novice golfer plays. Just by paying their green fees, they help to keep my green fees lower. As for the possibility of slow play, most, if not all golfers are guilty of slow play at one time or another. I don't let slow play bother my game. Blaming slow play for poor score is a bit on the lame side to my way of thinking. A good pre-shot routine is a great cure all.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10.5 or 9.5 degree drivers

17 Feb 2011, 16:00

Obviously it's the loft of the club, with one having 1/2* more loft which in a perfect world would give the ball a higher trejectory, all other things being equal. Problem is we are not perfect golfers. Depending on how a golfer swings, and more importantly how they release the club at, or through impact, that 1/2* difference probaly does not mean much. Depending on the release, the golfer could be getting anything from 8* to 12* degrees of loft. Even with a golfer who has a consistant swing, and release, that golfer might be impacting the ball with loft that is different that what the club head says. An early release could add loft, while a late release could subtract loft. It's the same with all clubs.

Pete's reply pretty much sums up the rest of this subject.

In the end, it is what ever loft the golfer can get the best results with.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10.5 or 9.5 degree drivers

16 Feb 2011, 10:18

I think from recollection (clubs not with me) my driver is 12 degree and I love it (Mizuno).

Here's a good article with suggestions as to the correct loft of driver:

http://ezinearticles.com/?What-is-the-Correct-Golf-Driver-Loft-For-You?&id=1703767

Have fun.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10.5 or 9.5 degree drivers

16 Feb 2011, 09:46

I should have added that i use a 13 degree taylomade draw. When i was playing at the weekend my father-in-law suggested that the loft on my driver might be to high for my swing.

Thank you both for your answers i might just have to try a few out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10.5 or 9.5 degree drivers

15 Feb 2011, 22:29

I think Pete's answer is far more thorough than mine and sounds like someone who knows what he's talking about I'm obviously a complete amatuer using a 13 degree loft.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10.5 or 9.5 degree drivers

15 Feb 2011, 22:25

Degree of loft dictates the trajectory of the ball off the club face.

Most pros go for lower loft because they hit the ball harder/further and then (because it's coming in at a lower angle) get more run on the ball.

Most teaching pros will advise an amatuer to go for a more lofted club because it is easier to hit (ball gets off the ground quicker and more loft means means less side spin) and, for amatuers, you will bizarrely get a longer shot (except in wet conditions when the ball plugs).

Make sense?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10.5 or 9.5 degree drivers

15 Feb 2011, 22:22

Well as far as I can ascertain, I would say the loft. I use a 13 degree nike driver myself as I need to get more height on my ball. Hope that helps

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

15 Feb 2011, 20:04

Russ i dont know if its the same in Australia when i was in Perth WA it was mad in the Arvo dont know about Queensland ??

Chris

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \10.5 or 9.5 degree drivers

15 Feb 2011, 19:39

OK so i might be asking an obvious question here but what is the difference between the two above mentioned degrees in drivers?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

15 Feb 2011, 19:13

Afternoons are much quieter than the mornings, even at a weekend.

Many a time I've gone out on a Sunday afternoon and played 18 holes without having anybody in front of me or behind me.

As a beginner a good practice idea is to get to 100 yards from the hole and then drop two or three extra golf balls and play them all from there, afterall it's your short game that matters!

If you get people behind you then just let them through, you could wait by the side of the green and once they have gone through you can practice your chips from just off the green, etc.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

15 Feb 2011, 17:35

Hi Vincent

Another good tip is try not to hit each shot so hard! you will find this will improve your accuracy and save time not looking for lost balls

All the best Chris

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

15 Feb 2011, 16:46

Hi Vincent,

Welcome to TSG! I would say midweek afternoons are going to be your best time to play when you are just starting out but this will depend alot on your local club. A good idea would be to ask them, most clubs should be able to advise this.

However, just because your new to the game, it shouldnt mean you are slow around the course......simple steps, like being ready on the tee when its your turn to drive and picking up once you can no longer score stapleford points will improve your speed.

Slow play is rarely due to your skill level and more to do with general etiquette around the course.

However, I am sure there are other tips the TSG members will be able to impart - anyone else got some advice for Vincent?

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Best time for new golfers to play?

15 Feb 2011, 05:54

Hello everyone,

I just want to know when would be the best time and day for a new golfer to play? I noticed when am on the field that I tend to slow the group and the group behind us down so when's the best day that the field isnt as packed or full to play?

Thanks!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Fellow Golfers

14 Feb 2011, 22:42

I am heading with 8 fellow golfers in early june to wales, would love to hear from fellow members about good deals in golf and accomadation . joe

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\My email address has changed

14 Feb 2011, 15:57

Hi Dan,

Goto MY TSG / MY SETTINGS / ACCOUNT DETAILS.......and you can make the changes there.

You will however, have to reactivate your account via an email sent to the new address.

Any problems - email us at the team@thesocialgolfer.com

Regards

Ian
The TSG Team
---------------------

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\My email address has changed

14 Feb 2011, 15:08

Hi,

My email address a has changed and i don't have access to it anymore so i was wondering if anyone could give me some advice on how to change it?

Cheers Dan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN GOLFDAY 2011

12 Feb 2011, 19:46

Thanks for that information Roger,I have looked at the offer and this is an Open Competition,it is a great chance to play this unique venue,and a very good price too.
It is quite a saving on the cost of a day at the course compared to their normal charges for that time of year.
The only problem is that it's a competition,and this is not really my scene,I like to play golf for the more social side of it and going in for competitions I don't enjoy so much.Trying to win a society golf day is as far as it goes for me these days
So I think I will stick to what I know is best for me,other members on the site may show an interest tho'
Cheers for now
Jack.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN GOLFDAY 2011

11 Feb 2011, 18:29

This is a good alternative.
http://www.golfempire.co.uk/Entry-Forms/Woburn-Gents-Individual-Open.htm

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \National Golf Show Ticket Competition - The Winners!

11 Feb 2011, 11:29

Dear TSGers,

In order to enter this month's competition, we required you to answer the following question:

"2011 will see the second annual TSG Golf Day Championship take place on the Fri 10th June......which golf club will be hosting this event?"

The answer was of course......South Essex Golf Club!

And the winners are.......

- Trevor Hempshall
- David Jacobs
- John Taylor
- Lisa Malaws

Congratulations to them all - a pair of tickets to this years show are winging their way to you all as we speak (actually they're not....but they will be sent out approx, two weeks prior to the event!)

For those that didn't win this time, dont forget, you can still buy tickets using the TSG offer shown below!

That's it for now - enjoy the weekend.

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team
--------------------------------------------------------------

Ticket Offer: TSG members qualify for a special 2 for £10 rate on tickets (33% off usual RRP)......to take advantage of this offer goto: http://www.nationalgolfshow.com/ngs-golf-show-tickets and quote reference: SG241

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN GOLFDAY 2011

10 Feb 2011, 14:57

THIS GAME HAS BEEN CANCELLED WILL ORGANISE ANOTHER DATE .LATER IN THE YEAR
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Two hole in ones.........

06 Feb 2011, 18:49

Most Specialist Golf Insurance Companies offer to pay for your bar bill following a 'hole in one' I wonder if they would pay out twice in one day, for two trips to the bar?
Have any members even claimed once on their golf Insurance?

Roger Bolt

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Theft of golf equipment

06 Feb 2011, 13:15

I recently had a big shock when I heard of two sets of golf equipment that were stolen from a car at night. one had specialist golf insurance the other thought he was covered by his house insurance.....WRONG ! It turns out that the cheap specialist golf insurer only covered theft during daylight hours,(found in the small print, afterwards), the house insurance only covered theft from a locked car in a locked garage, at the home address...No where else. So I decided to investigate just what cover is available, that delivers exactly what I think golfers need and expect to get. (THIS HAS TAKEN THE LID OFF OF A VERY BIG CAN OF WORMS !!!) Firstly I Googled 'Insurance for Golf' and started checking the small print of all the listed Golf Insurers. First tip: Definately read the small print of the top 3 sponsored links (They pay to be their for a reason!!) I also found that Golfcare, The Golfers Club, American Golf and Nevada Bobs are all in fact the same company, offering the same policy, with lots of free gifts,and all at different prices !! but all with very restricted cover and some BIG suprises in the small print which could prove expensive should you need to make a claim. Here are just a few (not all) that I discovered: NO overnight cover in cars, NOT New for Old after 3 years from new date (Second hand value only paid out!!). Low price to start, increased after 1st year. Extra if you want overseas cover. This applied to most of the Cheap golf insurers listed not just the previous 4, but you do need to check out the small print to understand how they all vary and why the prices are so cheap, I found out it's true, 'You only get what you pay for.' The best information I got from my research was from Googling 'Compare Golf Insurance' The information I picked up from this website was quite amazing. I dont think it would be fair to tell you which Golf Insurer I have decided to insure with, you should make your own mind up, but certainly www.comparegolfinsurance.com will help you understand what to look for and to make the right decision. The other thing I learned was 'DEFINATELY' read the small print or call the company before making up your mind. You have been warned !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Note: I think it would be very interesting to hear from other members who have had golf claims refused, or not had their claims settled in the way they thought they would. Roger Bolt

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Two hole in ones.........

04 Feb 2011, 14:33

I knew you wouldn't resist it Dave

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Two hole in ones.........

04 Feb 2011, 12:55

A friend of mine had 2 holes in one in the space of 3 holes at Brookmans Park in october. It caused quite a stir in the local press. They also quoted the odds of 67m to 1 for such a feat occurring.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

03 Feb 2011, 18:57

Thanks for that Hailey...would love to play any one of them. How much are the green fees, and are there any concessions? Thanks

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

03 Feb 2011, 01:44

At Pebble Beach in California, you can find at least 3 golf courses.

Pebble Beach Golf Links - has been the site of annual AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, and five U.S. Open Championships in 2010.

Spyglass Hill Golf Course - is rated one of the toughest courses in the world from the Championship tees, boasting a course rating of 75.5 and a slope rating of 147.

Spanis Bay Golf Club - this golf course provides you with the choice of using your regular shot or a low, running shot to play the firm turf while keeping the ball under the steady ocean breezes.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Theft of golf equipment

02 Feb 2011, 20:43

I think a motor bike wire rope put through the wheels of the trolley and then through the handle of a golf bag (Golf bags may have to have a steel reinforced handle in future) and then secured with a padlock may make it harder for your trolley and bag to be taken. If you inter-locked your bag with the other people you are playing with, all the better. Although this won't stop people taking the clubs from the bag, maybe someone could invent a Kevlar type cover that the wire rope could go through before locking .

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Two hole in ones.........

02 Feb 2011, 11:59

Just seen this story on Eurosport.........some people have all the luck!!

http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/golf/bunker-mentality/article/790/

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

01 Feb 2011, 18:42

Having occasion to discuss - I too will not be able to support this particular event, however the possibility for another H4H event north of the River is never out of the question, I'll see what I can come up with in the near future...

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Theft of golf equipment

01 Feb 2011, 10:52

Thanks David for your comments. I hope more members will add theirs.

Thank you also Roly for your comments,

The problem for me was not only to prevent the theft of all the golf equipment including restricting access to the pockets in the bag, but how to create a design that looked right for the golf courses and that would work on the majority of different bag and trolley combinations.

I feel I have achieved this and tried the prototype I have made on three different sizes of bags and trolleys.

It works and takes less than 30 seconds to secure the bag, clubs and trolley in the unit.

My proposal would be that these free standing units would be permanently sited near the clubhouse or pro-shop on every golf course and would be free of charge for the golfers to use.

Unit costs would be covered by advertising sponsorship.

The golfer would need only to carry a padlock with them. This would alow them to ue this facility on both their own course or when visiting any participating clubs.

I have applied for a patent on this unique design.

I am now working on a second design, which is a portable version that would be small enough for the golfer to roll up and carry with them.

Finally thanks to Kevin for your comments. Yes you are correct and most golfers and I would not do the things you suggested.

I am at present trying to fullfil the requests of some golfers in giving them an alternative and piece of mind, that they dont have to rush to put their golf equipment back in their cars to keep them safe.

Please keep sending in your comments.

Keith Humphris.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Theft of golf equipment

31 Jan 2011, 22:24

Would you leave your car running why you jump out - run into the newsagents to get a paper, would you leave your frontdoor open why you are at work allday, would you leave your wallet on top of the bar why you go to the toilets!!!!!!!

for this reason i'm not investing

IM OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Theft of golf equipment

31 Jan 2011, 18:47

Any anti theft device, would have to secure clubs in the bag, bag on the trolley & trolley itself. It would have to be like a dome that secures everything and locks onto a lampost!.

If you can come up with something that does all this and is resonably priced, then i might be interested....(i'll invest £10,000 for 50% of the business!)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Theft of golf equipment

31 Jan 2011, 13:55

Keith, I was playing with Ian on the day his gear was stolen. In fact, I left my clubs right next to his when we went upstairs to the bar. I had to leave quickly (lucky me) and my gear was still there when I left - so they must have nicked Ian's shortly after that. I must admit I was never concerned about this until Ian's gear got stolen ... in fact, just this weekend I was playing and left my clubs outside the pro shop when I went in to have a coffee and bacon roll before teeing off ... and was worried about them the whole time. I usually leave mine in the car now most of the time. Would be great if there was some kind of anti-theft device for golf clubs. David

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ireland vs ROW in north wales

31 Jan 2011, 10:44

Hi Joe,

Sounds fun to me. What are the exact dates you guys are over, as first week of June is the same time as the TSG Golf Day, which may make things difficult for people getting additional time off.

I'd be up for joining in though and persuading others, if it didn't clash with the above.

Can you give us more details on where and when and costs?

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

30 Jan 2011, 23:10

Yes i have to go along with that aswell

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

30 Jan 2011, 19:45

I think I have to agree with you there Gary,a 25% increase is a bit steep,by the time you also take the cost of getting there it will take the cost well over £130 for me.
I am all for sponsoring a good cause,and giving up my time for something like this,but this is a bit too much.
Unless they decide to drop the price to at least last years cost then I will also will be pulling out of the team.
I don't see how they can justify this increase for a golf day like this,especially when you can play their for £35 inc. of a two course meal in a winter deal they have advertised on the Charthills Web site.
It's a shame to let something like this down and may be someone who is reading this might be able to give us an explanation for the increase in price
Sorry to let the team down on this,it's the principal of the matter for me
JACK

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Theft of golf equipment

30 Jan 2011, 19:34

I recently came across a thread posted on the TSG forum by Ian Mullins "Golf club theft beware" where Ian had all of his golf equipment and some personal belongings stolen whilst he left his trolley and bag unattended for a few minutes.

As an inventor of a successful security product I have been approached by a number of golfers expressing the same concerns about the potential theft of their equipment and asking me if I could design something to protect their equipment.

After giving the matter some serious thought I have designed two possible solutions.

I would like to ask all the members of The Social Golfer for their comments and feedback on the issue of potential theft and does it concern them.

Are you always on edge as to where to leave your equipment before, mid and after a round of golf.

Do you feel the need to always keep your trolley and bag in sight or take the other option and return it to your car.

I have designed two concepts where you are to be able to secure and walk away from your equipment with the piece of mind that it will still be there when you return.

Although Ian was able to claim for some of his losses on his insurance there were so I understand items of sentimental value that could not be replaced.

Please let me have your thoughts, comments and suggestions and between us we can solve this problem.

Keith Humphris

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

29 Jan 2011, 08:14

sadly guys I have decided to now not attend, myself and Mark R, played the course last thursday and whilst there looked at the entry form. for some reason they have increased the fee for non members from £60 to £80 per golfer to take part, there is no change to the days format nor have the green fees been increased so even though it is for a great cause it seems a very excessive increase.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

29 Jan 2011, 00:11

Seems like we have a team to be entered then YIPPEE !!!!!
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

28 Jan 2011, 18:57

Count me in - Always up for a good cause - and I have a military background as well...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \OpenFairways competition.......The Winner!

28 Jan 2011, 18:54

Dear TSGer’s

The time has come for us to announce the winner of our January competition and the chance to win a free OpenFairways Card valid for the next THREE YEARS! All lines have now closed and the results have been independently verified (well thats what they say on TV).....

We asked you "Which OpenFairways course will host the next Ryder Cup on European soil?"

And the answer was of course Gleneagles.

And our winner is......Chris Emms from Basildon, UK!

Chris, you will shortly be contacted by the Openfairways team, enjoy your prize!!

For those that were not successful, remember for more information on OpenFairways Card and the exclusive TSG member offer of only £39 per annum, Goto: http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

Thats it for now.......

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team

-------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ireland vs ROW in north wales

27 Jan 2011, 23:48

Dear members, I would like to open an invite to any members in north wales or anywhere in England to take on an irish team in early june as there ia 8 of us and we would love a challenge i.e. ryder cup theory . We are traveling to wales and would love to hear from any members of good and reasonable courses in north wales and fair accomadation . We love a challenge and also a bit of fun afterwards about the game. Yours in Golf . JOE KEENAN

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WOBURN GOLFDAY 2011

27 Jan 2011, 23:41

Anyone interested in a game at Woburn G.C on the 28.04 2011,please get your name down on the Join Games section.
There are only two of us going at present,and are looking for other members to join us for the day,if you want a game on one of the finest courses in the country,then this is it

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

26 Jan 2011, 17:52

thanks Jack and Chris, come on folks, we need one more to make up Team TSG, last year we managed to enter two teams. it was a great day and is for a very worthy causes.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

25 Jan 2011, 19:26

Have we given up on the idea of any sort of golf towels and golf bag tags or are we still waiting for samples??

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Anyone interested in a London group

24 Jan 2011, 22:19

I'm Interested South London " Let's Ave Ya"

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Eastern Algarve Golf

23 Jan 2011, 20:28

Hi again Pete,

I'd play Monte Rei definitely (I believe there are deals to be had with Twilight rates etc to soften the blow!), along with Quinta do Vale, El Rompido and Costa Esuri West. That is 2 courses in Portugal and 2 in Spain. You should get unlimited golf at the 2 Spanish ones I think - certainly Golf de la Luz do advertise that.

I'd probably stay on the Spanish side as the prices tend to be lower, maybe near Ayamonte (Riu Atlantico is a good hotel) or maybe at El Rompido Golf Resort which has a good 5 star hotel and usually offers golf packages with their 2 courses.

Early March should be great weather, and the prices usually haven;t peaked so VfM should be pretty good too!

Hope that helps.

Cheers

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \OpenFairways Competition.........

21 Jan 2011, 12:47

Dear TSGer’s

A quick reminder to let you know the January competition is still live with the deadline for entries midnight on Thu 27th Jan.......

Remember, this is your chance to win a free OpenFairways Card valid for the next THREE YEARS!

All you have to do is answer the following question:

“Which OpenFairways course will host the next Ryder Cup on European soil?’’

Email your answers to: theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

Winner will be announced on Fri 28^th Jan 2011

For more information on OpenFairways Card and the exclusive TSG member offer, Goto: http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

Good Luck & Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team

-------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Server downtime apology........

21 Jan 2011, 12:14

Dear All,

Just a quick note to apologise for any inconvenience that you may have experienced this morning due to our servers being down between 8am and 11am today.

Rest assured, the guys in the engine room of TSG HQ have been working hard with our hosting company to fix the problem and whilst these technical issues do occur from time to time, we endeavour to keep them to a minimum.

Apologies again to anyone who was trying to access the site during this time!

Regards

The TSG Team
---------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

20 Jan 2011, 20:24

I would be interested Jack

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Eastern Algarve Golf

20 Jan 2011, 12:21

Excellent stuff. Thanks for the (very comprehensive) advice but too many seemingly excellent options to choose from.

If you were recommending a 4-5 day break to include 3-4 games of golf for a group of 4 guys where would you recommend to stay and which of the courses would you most recommend to play (Monte Rei would definintely be included).

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Eastern Algarve Golf

19 Jan 2011, 11:51

Hi Pete, I've played a lot of golf in the eastern Algarve and also the Costa de la Luz just over the border into Spain and there are some really good courses in that region. Best course is Monte Rei - Jack Nickluas Signature course - but it has green fees that match its status - but worth a play for a treat! Other good options are as follows: El Rompido North & South Islantilla (27 holes) Costa Esuri - West is excellent, East not as good Quinta do Vale - Seve Ballesteros design - very good Castro Marim - very different, hilltop course - worth a play Benamor - typical British style club Quinta da Ria & Cima - great tracks, but a little higher priced Bellavista - Huelva's main town course Dunas de Donana - in the Donana National Park - worth going for a day out to see the park, but quite a long drive. I use Golf de la Luz to organise my golf and hotel accommodation when I travel there. Call them on 0800 011 2520 or see www.golfdelaluz.com Hope you enjoy your trip there! Cheers

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Eastern Algarve Golf

18 Jan 2011, 09:56

I've only played a couple of the courses in the Eastern Algarve (between Faro and the Spanish border) but really enjoyed the area and the (much quieter) courses.

I'm planning on going back probably early March. Is there anyone who knows more about these Eastern Algarve/Spanish border courses and can give me advice on which to play which to miss (I'll probably try and play three courses).

Which to play....

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf in Dubai

15 Jan 2011, 12:59

I'm off to Dubai at the start of next month and the clubs will be coming with me. Can anyone recommend a course out there. I've played the Dubai Creek course before and wanted to try another. They are all quite pricey so wanted as much information as possible. Many thanks to all.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

11 Jan 2011, 00:19

You can can count me in again on this,from last year's experience it was for a worthy cause and a great course to play.
I hacked round last year,but that didn't matter,its the taking part that counts!!!!!!!
SO IF ANY T.S.G MEMBERS CAN JOIN THE TEAM PUT YOUR NAME FORWARD.

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \"Success is a Mind Game".....The Winner!

10 Jan 2011, 20:25

Yee Ha!... Won summink at last., Now for the lottery! I'll try to keep you posted on what goes on and any positive results that may occur. With my game I need all the help I can get!!! Many thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \"Success is a Mind Game".....The Winner!

07 Jan 2011, 14:05

Dear TSGers,

As I'm sure you know by now, we recently got together with Steve Sharpley, Peak Performance Mind expert and author of new book "Success Is a Mind Game: Improving Consistency and Results in Golf and Business" to bring you a unique and amazing chance to win 2 x 90mins one to one tele-coaching* sessions with Steve. Thank you for all your entries to the competition but as they say on TV, all lines are now closed.

Most of you will have also guessed by now, the answer to the question: "Which ex-England Rugby Player has Steve coached?", was of course, Tim Stimpson!

So, after all the entries have been checked and verified, we can now formally announce the winner:

Congratulations to Alan Haywood!

Alan, Steve will be contacting you shortly to arrange your one to one coaching sessions.

However, for all those of you that didnt win this time but would still like to get an experts view of how to improve your game, take advantage of the exclusive book offer, which can be found on the TSG "member offers" page:

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewOffers.aspx

Thats is for now, we will be bringing you more competitions in 2011 but in the meantime......

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team
----------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Your tips for the Majors in 2011

05 Jan 2011, 21:27

Masters...Dustin Johnson

US Open...Tiger Woods

Open...Lee Westwood

US PGA.....Bubba Watson

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Your tips for the Majors in 2011

04 Jan 2011, 22:01

I wish I was your Bookmaker !!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \"Clay Pigeon Golf Shot"................

04 Jan 2011, 19:05

Great ! I loved it !!! Very Funny !!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \"Clay Pigeon Golf Shot"................

04 Jan 2011, 17:21

For those of you that have already seen the first in the series of PGA Tour ads.......check out the new one from Saatchi & Saatchi..........

Happy New Year everyone!

Ian M

http://www.campaignlive.co.uk/news/bulletin/thefix/article/1047759/?DCMP=EMC-CONCampaignDailyFix

Ps And for those that missed the first one......

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/ViewVideo.aspx?id=108

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Your tips for the Majors in 2011

04 Jan 2011, 11:21

So who's your money on this year?

my predictions are:

Masters - Westwood

US Open - E. Molinari

Open - Ernie Els

US PGA - Woods

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

04 Jan 2011, 10:31

Played Kings Hill (West Malling, Kent) yesterday and the course was in great shape.

It has been closed for the best part of a month (snow) but now it's open again with no temporary tees or greens (they don't have them) and the fairways and bunkers were all good.

Thumbs up to the green keeping team at Kings Hill.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \" i got those Winter golfin' blues"

03 Jan 2011, 12:30

There’s no doubt about it, (da da daaa da)

Winter golf is here,

Pickin’ ‘n placin’ on fairways,

My golf in need of cheer,

Went down to the course,

In need of a game,

Lookin’ forward to it,

Did’nt play well, shame,

Bunkers full of water,

Soggy fairways,

Will it ever dry out?,

Will we get longer days?,

Now I’m off to the range,

To work on some moves,

Lookin’ forward to Spring,

Hope my game improves,

Tryin’ to look on the bright side,

Conditions ain’t great,

Excuses come easy,

But it’s the weather I hate,

There’s no doubt about it,

It’s yours to choose,

You can play in Winter,

But i got those Winter golfin’ blues.

…………………………………………..additional and probably better verses welcome

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

01 Jan 2011, 18:56

I've got to say the rest had done Milford good alot of work been done on the course a few new temp tee boxes have gone up that are as good as fairways to play off and greens are in great shape .. thumbs up milford

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Happy New Year

01 Jan 2011, 17:36

I would just like to wish each and every one of you a very Happy New Year.

Let me say that I hope 2011 will be a good year for you all.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Courses open

01 Jan 2011, 17:33

I managed to play the Priors yesterday and the Abbotts today.

So glad to get out swinging a club again.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

01 Jan 2011, 17:32

I'm not sure if the golf clubs don't clear the snow from the greens/tees due to any damage it might cause to these areas.

If this would not cause any damage then they should clear them and get people playing again.

Now the fairways are a different matter, it would take a mighty effort to clear these areas. Maybe some machinery would be needed!

At my golf club there are quite a few retired members so why not ask them to come in and help clear the snow. Maybe they could provide a free lunch for a mornings work. Must be worth it to get the course back playing.

I played the Abbotts course today and there are mats on three of the tees. The problem was we could see no difference in the condition of the tees being used and the ones with a mat!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros

01 Jan 2011, 16:35

Hi all,
Last year I managed to raise two teams of four from TSG to play in the H4H charity day at chart hills golf course.

The same event is being held again on the 26th May 2011, regretfully I will not be able to take part as will be suffering playing golf over in Florida.

Gary Moth, who played last year is really interested in putting a team or two together.

if anyone would be interested, please post here and if enough to make a team then Gary will get the details and post the game.

think the cost last year was £60 per golfer.

it is a great day out for a very worthy cause.

regards
mark.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celtic Manor

01 Jan 2011, 16:26

have played the roman road and monty course's back in august, would rate the roman road above the monty.

as for the 2010, played in november, holes 1 - 11 fairly boring and a part from the bunkers/mounding featureless flat wide tracks, from 12 to 18 the holes are much more interesting, and the last 5 have plenty of natural features.
the short up hill 15th par 4, is worth taking the tiger route but only if the group in front call you up so they can spot where your ball has landed.
sadly the ladies tee does not allow for any other shot except for following the actual dog leg, as the direct line is completely blocked out for them.

worth playing on the hotel special offers, ours was £135 sunday stay, with round on the roman road as well.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Courses open

30 Dec 2010, 20:25

Yippee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so far most courses are now open, I have played at a few this week and no snow or ice in sight, maybe a bit damp, but hey what the heck I am outside again after my Christmas prison sentence being forced to stuff my face and watching tv, Hope to see you all out on the course soon

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

30 Dec 2010, 03:39

I played Surrey National today, there is small amounts of snow around some greens and in some bunkers, but not enough to spoil your round. NO TEMPORARY GREENS OR TEES either. If you want a proper round of golf then well worth it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PRIORS COURSE OPEN 29.12 10

28 Dec 2010, 21:58

I'll be playing tomorrow but don't know what time!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PRIORS COURSE OPEN 29.12 10

28 Dec 2010, 15:06

The Priors course at the Abbotts is open as normal tomorrow (29.12 10).The main course is open on Thursday.
There is still some snow on the fairways but is clear enough to play.there is a reduced green fee of about £12
Trolleys are allowed,and as far as I am aware there are no Temps.
Nine holes on the South Essex are also open playing the Vixen.
SEEMS LIKE WE ARE GOLFING AGAIN AT LAST

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

28 Dec 2010, 12:51

Stapleford Abbotts will be open on Thurs, and possibly tomorrow Weds 29th.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

27 Dec 2010, 19:08

Cooden Beech was open today no sign of snow anywhere, they were even allowing trollies all holes were on temp greens which were not to bad , also got a reduced rate of £15 because of the temps not a bad deal at all

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

27 Dec 2010, 17:59

Are all these clubs waiting for the thaw or are they actively clearing the snow .. would be interested in knowing what different clubs have done .. i know hoe bridge have cleared some holes to stay open .. think my place is just waiting for the thaw ..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

27 Dec 2010, 17:30

Just played Cooden Beach today was in really good condition all temp greens but still worth playing thou...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

25 Dec 2010, 19:32

hoping Milford will be open monday snow pending hoe bridge is open on the par 3 maybury for snow golf .. see website .. i may have to give it a go .. to save my sanity ..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

24 Dec 2010, 18:57

Hi All
I am given to understand that the following will be open on Monday providing there is no more bad weather: Cooden beach, Highwoods, Seaford Head, all on the coast.But suggest a phone call before you make the trip.

Best wishes to all my friends here on TSG

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

24 Dec 2010, 13:51

Hi Roly
Cams Hall is claiming to be open, although I haven't seen it for myself.
South Winch, Dummer & Paultons have been closed all week with Paultons planning to reopen Monday.
I guess that you're going "stir crazy" like me!
Seasons Greetings to you and all my other TSG friends.
Roger

Polls & Surveys\Puttering out

23 Dec 2010, 20:57

[quote=JACK SHELTON] WHATS ALL THIS ABOUT?[/quote]

I suspect someone has been at the Christmas trifle Jack..... :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

23 Dec 2010, 15:45

july is probably a better month as there is loads going on in september end of hols begining of new school/collage/uni/ year just a thought?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

23 Dec 2010, 15:14

Hi All,

I think John has made a valid point on dates(school holidays etc)...........perhaps first week/end of September would be better thus giving a little more time between official TSG competitions!

If theres no more views/thoughts, we'll start making plans for this in the New Year......

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team
--------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \"Success Is a Mind Game" Competition..........

23 Dec 2010, 14:12

Dear TSGer’s,

Having reduced his own handicap from "Hacking" standard to a competitive 14 in just a few years - using what he offers his business clients - he knows the tricks of the trade inside out. He has also helped 1000's of golfers and business people around the world with his coaching, talks and workshops and has now included what he knows in his new book and DVD....

This new and well received book is about the proven principles and practices to more consistent and improved results in golf and your work/business life
Learn everyday skills to improve your golf without needing to go to the course or golf range......in less time and with less effort and less stress
In addition to golf and work, it has also helped readers in other pursuits such as Skiing, Squash, Tennis, Darts and even housework!

"Steve enabled me to immediately improve my focus and enjoyment 'on the course' which improved my game and results. Even more impressive in the weeks since then, I have already been able to reduce my stress away from the course and seen the benefits in other areas too......I wish I'd had this when I was still playing professional rugby!"
Tim Stimpson ex-England Rugby Union full back

See 'Members Offers' pages for more details…..www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewoffers.aspx

For your chance to win this unique competition, just answer the following question:

- Which ex-England Rugby Player has Steve coached?

Email your answers to theteam@thesocialgolfer.com

N.B. All correct entries and all purchasers of Steve’s book or DVD, bought through TSG and ordered and paid for by 31^st Dec 2010, will be automatically entered into the draw.

Winners will be announced on w/c 3^rd Jan 2011.

Good Luck & Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team

-------------------

*Sessions can be conducted effectively via phone or Skype – so location should not be seen as a barrier to entry! Both sessions to be completed within one month of the commence date.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

23 Dec 2010, 10:48

Were struggling over this way too Roly - theres a slim possibility that South Essex will be open tomorrow but I suspect it will be Monday at the earliest now! Will keep you updated.......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \which courses are open in the South?

22 Dec 2010, 14:48

Hi all, just wondered which courses have avoided the snow and are currently or about to open? I know the Berks, North hants & Surrey courses are closed, But are any other areas open?.

Can we use this forum as a guide to list courses as they are defrosting? Appreciate any information received.

Polls & Surveys\Puttering out

21 Dec 2010, 23:27

WHATS ALL THIS ABOUT?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Excuses

18 Dec 2010, 13:27

Golf Excuses (to be used after a poor shot)

A fly landed on my ball right when I hit.

A squirrel picked up my ball and put it in the bunker.

A squirrel pushed my ball into the trap, the good-for-nothing wannabe rats.

After that last shot, I'm just too embarrassed to try and hit the ball.

All the golf schools I liked were too expensive - so I self-taught.

Before the sex change, I was allowed to hit from the red tee. Its just too difficult to score now.

Bermuda grass sucks. My club keeps getting stuck.

Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!

Damn it, have you no etiquette? Please quit breathing when I swing.

Didn't you hear that sound in the woods during my swing? It sounded like a duck. What's that smell?

Ever since I made a hole-in-one, I can't concentrate.

Fore!

From three hundred yards out it looks like the green sloped away. I should have laid up.

Golf is about etiquette, not playing well.

Golf isn't fun if it's competitive, so I don't try hard.

Hackers tore up the green. I can't play competively under these circumstances.

I aimed my shoulder too far left of the target.

I always aim too far left when coming out of the bunker.

I always choke when money is on the line.

I always get kicked off the course for being intoxicated. This is the first round I've finished.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Double-Entendres

18 Dec 2010, 13:22

US PGA Commentator
"One of the reasons Arnie (Arnold Palmer) is playing so well is that, before each tee shot, his wife takes out his balls and kisses them ..... Oh my god!! What have I just said??"

Steve Ryder covering the US Masters:
"Ballesteros felt much better today after a 69 yesterday."

Ken Brown commentating on golfer Nick Faldo and his caddie at the Scottish Open:
"Some weeks Nick likes to use Fanny, other weeks he prefers to do it by himself."

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Caddy Comments

16 Dec 2010, 16:38

Golfer: I think I'm going to drown myself in the lake.
Caddy: Think you can keep your head down that long?

Golfer: I'd move heaven and earth to break 100 on this course.
Caddy: Try heaven, you've already moved most of the earth!

Golfer: Do you think my game is improving?
Caddy: Yes sir, you miss the ball much closer now.

Golfer: Do you think I can get there with a 5 iron?
Caddy: Eventually.

Golfer: You've got to be the worst caddy in the world.
Caddy: I don't think so sir. That would be too much of a coincidence.

Golfer: Please stop checking your watch all the time. It's too much of a distraction.
Caddy: It's not a watch - it's a compass.

Golfer: How do you like my game?
Caddy: Very good sir, but personally, I prefer golf.

Golfer: Do you think it's a sin to play on a Sunday?
Caddy: The way you play, sir, it's a sin on any day.

Golfer: This is the worst course I've ever played on.
Caddy: This isn't the golf course. We left that an hour ago.

Golfer: That can't be my ball, it's too old.
Caddy: It's been a long time since we teed off, sir.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ten Golf Sayings

16 Dec 2010, 16:26

1) I'll always remember the day I broke ninety. I had a few beers in the clubhouse and was so excited I forgot to play the back nine (Bruce Lansky)

2) They say golf is like life, but don't believe them. It's more complicated than that (Gardner Dickinson)

3) I'm hitting the woods just great, but I'm having a terrible time getting out of them (Harry Tofcano)

4) Golf! You hit down to make the ball go up. You swing left and the ball goes right. The lowest score wins. And on top of that, the winner buys the drinks (Unknown)

5) I play in the low 80s. If it's any hotter than that, I won't play (Unknown)

6) Putts get real difficult the day they hand out the money (Lee Trevino)

7) The best wood in most amateurs' bags is the pencil (Unknown)

8) I'd like to see the fairways more narrow. Then everybody would have to play from the rough, not just me (Seve Ballesteros)

9) If you think it's hard to meet new people, try picking up the wrong golf ball (Jack Lemmon)

10) Golf is a game whose aim is to hit a very small ball into a even smaller hole, with weapons singularly ill-designed for the purpose (Winston Churchill)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Poor Golf Partner!

16 Dec 2010, 16:18

Bob comes home after his regular Saturday golf game and his wife, Barbara asks why he doesn't include John Wayne in the games anymore.

Bob asks, "Would you want to play with a guy who regularly cheats, swears outrageously over everything, lies about his score, and has nothing good to say about anyone else on the course?"

"Of course I wouldn't," say Barbara.

"Well," mutters Bob, "Neither does John Wayne."

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

16 Dec 2010, 13:32

That sounds like an ideal start to a semi regular competetion for TSG............. well done to everyone for inputting on this. it would be great to get a few games going over the year. You can count on me putting a team together.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

15 Dec 2010, 23:40

All sounds good to me and you can expect my full support

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

15 Dec 2010, 21:19

Hi Ian and rest of TSG Team,

I like both.

Just one observation, from previous years I have noticed that August games can drop due to holidays and I would suspect that numbers available for such an event may also drop. As a result, it may be worth moving to July or September but whatever you decide the concepts look good.

Cheers,
John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

15 Dec 2010, 15:12

Hi All,

OK, further to John's comments and in the absence of any other contributions, how about the following:

We at TSG HQ agree that a monthly competition may be asking too much at this stage and as John points out it could be difficult to maintain the momentum over 8 months........

And as you know, we will soon be announcing details of the 2011 TSG Golf Day (were just dotting i's and crossing t's), this will be scheduled for late May/early June and consist of an individual and team event + much much more.........

However, what if we add a second 'Major' to the TSG calendar in August, whereby it is solely a Team Event, rough idea as follow:

- All TSG members are invited to enter a team of four - Captain only to join game +3 Guests
- Venue to be decided by TSG subject to entrants locations
- Tournament to be played on a Sat (TBC but the TSG Golf Day will be a Fri, thus helping those with jobs)
- Team Handicap 3/4 of total team combined Handicap or as John says - best 3 scores per team count

- All entrants required to be TSG members with 3 cards submitted to the TSG system
- TSG to provide trophy and a few prizes and maybe even a sponsor!

Final costs to be determined later but will be kept to minimum especially if its played at the weekend!

Look forward to hearing everyone's thoughts..........

Ian
The TSG Team
----------------------

Polls & Surveys\Puttering out

14 Dec 2010, 21:17

When you're putting well you're a good putter, when your opponent is putting well, he has a good putter...

My putter woked sooo well for me today, I'm going to sleep with it tonight..My wife will just have to go next door...

I find it helpful to inform an opponent who's lining up a 4 ft putt that under the metric system widely used in other countries, it's actually a putt of just over 1,200 milimetres... give or take

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Snow Hole Positions

11 Dec 2010, 23:56

I finally managed to get out onto the golf course today.

Three of us played the Priors course and I just could not understand the position of some of the holes.

For those of you who know this course I'll take the third green as an example.

The green must be forty yards wide and twenty yards deep on the right hand side.

They had positioned the flat on the right hand side of the green, about ten yards from the right edge of the green, and about twelve yards from the front of the green.

I played a good pitch wedge onto the green and walked up the slope to find my ball on the green, but it was sitting on snow!

The ground staff had obviously been clearing the snow from the green and had managed to get most of the green cleared, but for whatever reason they hadn't finished the job.

So the hole was about two yards from the snow with plenty of clear green, so why didn't they move the hole into the middle of the cleared patch?

Now I don't know if it's not good for the green to put a new hole in when the ground is hard and cold.

The same thing happened on the 18th green, it was 105 yards to the flag so I hit a steady pitching wedge.

We could see from the tee that the flag was on the right hand side of the green, right where the only snow on the green was!

Does this kind of thing happen at your golf club?

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Boots

11 Dec 2010, 17:12

Now that the wet weather is here I found out that my golf shoes are leaking!

When I looked at them the leather had gone through on both sides of the shoe.

So I went into American Golf and ended up buying a pair of golf boots.

You can see them here:

http://www.americangolf.co.uk/golf-shoes/mens-golf-shoes/stuburt-h-lite-boot-mens-golf-shoes/

They were on special offer at £34.99 so I decided to get a pair.

Played my first round wearing them today and I can say they were very good.

My one concern was the fact that being boots they might restrict my swing, but not one problem.

So I'm going to keep wearing them until the spring when I can put them away until next winter.

Russ

Polls & Surveys\Golf Joke

09 Dec 2010, 19:19

The Bum

A man was walking in the city, when he was accosted by a particularly dirty and shabby-looking bum who asked him for a couple of dollars for dinner.

The man took out his wallet, extracted two dollars and asked, "If I gave you this money, will you take it and buy whiskey?"

"No, I stopped drinking years ago," the bum said.

"Will you use it to gamble?"

"I don't gamble. I need everything I can get just to stay alive."

"Will you spend the money on greens fees at a golf course?"

"Are you NUTS! I haven't played golf in 20 years!"

The man said, "Well, I'm not going to give you two dollars. Instead, I 'm going to take you to my home for a terrific dinner cooked by my wife."

The bum was astounded. "Won't your wife be furious with you for doing that? I know I'm dirty, and I probably smell pretty bad."

The man replied, "That's OK. I just want her to see what a man looks like who's given up drinking, gambling, and golf."

Sweet Relief

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

09 Dec 2010, 09:26

Hi ALL,

I would just like to thank Ian and the rest of the team for their efforts. Well done TSG team.

I do not want to be scrooge but I think this team process is likely to be to much to keep running throughout the whole year. My reason being you need to have a large number of participants to make the teams up, you need to have elected captains and vice captains etc. All of which could lead to numbers dropping as you can never guaranty personal availability. Add to that the weekday issue and we are looking at something unmanageable!!! We had the same issues on a match play competition in 2009 which ran over 5 months - it was difficult to make sure everyone played there matches to complete the nock out rounds!!

I would suggest that to keep interest in a major event is to have "TSG" competitions during the summer months which are based on an individual competition and a team event. As per Pine Ridge competitions previously run by Frances she would have the 4 balls selected based on handicaps that came to roughly the same total handicap for each team. Best two/three scores per hole would score. This would keep the interest running in two ways - individual and team. Teams would be selected based on those that would attend with a cut off date of one week prior to allow time to sort. You could also have teams of 3 but they did not have the luxury of an individual score for a hole being wiped as all 3 had to score!!
I would also suggest that these events are created by the TSG Team as to rely on specific individuals to coordinate may not be a good idea as such events need deposits and I know from experience that trying to make it clear that people only add themselves to an event if they definitely can attend is risky - Frances had a number of such issues when doing the Pine Ridge events [note you could always judge which players would be an issue as the regulars are always good to attend it but getting hold of those players is difficult].
Hence my question about setting up a paying in structure through TSG when you add your name working on the principal that if you pay up front you are more likely to show up!!

I would suggest doing one event first then see how that progresses.

Cheers,
John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

08 Dec 2010, 21:11

I guess it is an unfortunate fact of life that some people can only play weekends and some weedays only.

To play some games mid-week will mean that ALL teams will need to have a mix of players - which may be easier said than done.

jb

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celtic Manor

08 Dec 2010, 18:59

[quote=Ian Mullins]Hi Alan,

Cant comment on the 2010 course, as not played it either but found the same offer on Yourgolftravel at £79.........

http://www.yourgolftravel.com/celtic-manor-golf-hotel.html?gclid=COGuha_q2qUCFUYe4QodOzOclA

Ian M[/quote]

Thanks Ian, I'll check it out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

08 Dec 2010, 18:28

It sounds great, but what about those of us who can only play during the week I feel that some games should be played in the week as well as week-ends

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

08 Dec 2010, 18:17

excludes mid-week only players!.

Which county would you play for if you live in berkshire but are a member of a Hants club?

Roly

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celtic Manor

07 Dec 2010, 23:47

Hi Alan,
I played at the Celtic Manor resort,back in 2001 we stayed overnight in the hotel,and played 2 rounds of golf.
The first was on the old Wentwood Hills course,which they redesigned and is now the 20-10 course,that was a challenge then,a typical American design with a lot of water in play,not for the faint hearted golfer.
I remember plenty of 6's and 7's on my card,+other funny numbers.
Like you I have heard that the new layout is tough and too much of a challenge for the average golfer,but I won't knock it until I have tried it.
We played the Montgomerie course as well and that was very good.it has some interesting holes,and much fairer and quite a bit shorter,although it still made you think about your game,it rewarded good shots,and at the same time could bite back with any mistakes,club selection was the key to a good score.
The greens where very good loads of undulations and fast,I did enjoy this course.
They used to accept the national 2 fore 1 vouchers,we used these to make the golf package cheaper that was a bonus.
The prices in the hotel where very expensive,as Roger has said,so beware!!!!!!
We where going to have a meal in the hotel on the Sunday night until we saw the price's.So we tried to find a local pub to get dinner that night,the only thing was they all stopped serving food about 8.30p.m.We ended up in Newport and the only place open was a Chinese,in some back street.
We had a meal there and it went down a treat,we came out of there quite happy considering.
Celtic Manor is on my hit list to play again if something comes up on the site.

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celtic Manor

07 Dec 2010, 20:41

Hi Alan
I have played both Montgomerie and Roman Road twice over recent years. They are both decent courses although I consider RR to be the better of the two. Both are quite long walks - use of a buggy is down to personal preference as you cannot take them on to the fairways. The deal that you/Ian highlight sounds a good one, although do be aware that the clubhouse/hotel is very expensive for extras such as drinks/snacks etc. Enjoy!
Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celtic Manor

07 Dec 2010, 19:09

Hi Alan,

Cant comment on the 2010 course, as not played it either but found the same offer on Yourgolftravel at £79.........

http://www.yourgolftravel.com/celtic-manor-golf-hotel.html?gclid=COGuha_q2qUCFUYe4QodOzOclA

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celtic Manor

07 Dec 2010, 18:45

Golfbreaks is offering 1 night B&B with two rounds, Montgomerie and Roman for £89 to £109, depending on date, in February.
Everyone wants to play the 2010 course, but according to reports I have, they will be disappointed. The course was conceived specifically for the Ryder Cup, and is too difficult for most people and as a result, not that enjoyable. The Montgomerie on the other hand has excellent reports. I am therefore confused, not having played either....yet. Does anyone have experience of either course? I'd appreciate any comments. Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

07 Dec 2010, 18:09

All sounds very promising to me cant wait

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

07 Dec 2010, 17:26

Dear TSGers,

OK, following Chris' initial posting and further debate, we've been knocking this one around for a few weeks now and we think this might work:

The TSG Counties League Trophy (I am sure we can think of a better name!)

- We invite all counties to entry a team e.g. a)Essex b)Herts c)Kent d)Surrey e)Bucks f)Berks g)Sussex h)Hampshire and i)Beds etc
- A captain and vice captain are appointed for each county and they will share the responsibilities of their team in 2011 and pick each home venue
- TSG will set up bespoke TSG groups and invite joiners
- Captain and VC pick the teams but ensure everybody in the group gets at least one game through the year, to ensure it doesnt get too clicky!
- There is then a monthly round robin match a) vs h) etc. with TSG making the draw to ensure impartiality(!) e.g 9 teams = 8 matches (Mar-Oct)
- Teams would consist of 4,8 or 12 (depending on the interest) e.g. Ryder Cup singles style (To be agreed by Captian/VC) but played in four-balls
- Games are to be played on a Sat/Sun
- Games are posted by TSG on last weekend of each month with each Captain or VC then joining the match with a '+3, +5 or +7 guests' or they can invite their team to attend one by one
- Captain/VC then report back on game result and TSG add result to league table - posted on a new site page
- This could then be accessed through The Clubhouse dropdown - where other members can then comment or add game notes, banter?
- Only those with valid TSG handicaps can join in (3 cards or more - thus avoiding banditry!) and if there are any last minute dropouts, that singles match is forfeited - thus meaning flak from there fellow team members and this will hopefully avert teams being let down.
- If a team does loses a player, the four-ball would just become a three ball, meaning the opposing teams player still gets a round in! Participants can still enter in there own cards on TSG as well.
- TSG will put up prizes for the winning team e.g. Branded TSG Polo Shirts etc (these are currently in the making!)
- We'll also donate a small trophy for the winners to be presented at the end of the year
- We could even try and find a sponsor......

I think this would make a nice contrast to the TSG Golf Day (which will be May/June next year) as it will keep interest throughout the season.

Some of this will need to be worked out in more detail but I think theres a thread of an idea there.....alas, we cant start accepting money for bookings (See John West's comment) as we dont currently have the facility or the time!

Whatdayathink? Comments welcome..........but lets no make it too serious guys - we'll leave that to the traditional 'Bricks & Mortar' clubs!

Ian
The TSG Team
----------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What Will You Do For Golf?

05 Dec 2010, 15:26

Four married guys go golfing on Sunday.

Whilst playing the fourth hole the following conversation ensued:

First Guy: "Man, you have no idea what I had to do to be able to come out golfing this weekend. I had to promise my wife that I will paint every room in the house next weekend."

Second Guy: "That's nothing, I had to promise my wife that I will build her a new deck for the pool."

Third Guy: "Man, you both have it easy! I had to promise my wife that I will remodel the kitchen for her."

They continue to play the hole when they realized that the fourth guy has not said a word.

So they ask him. "You haven't said anything about what you had to do to be able to come golfing this weekend. What's the deal?"

Fourth Guy: "I don't want to talk about it. Let's just say that the foundation for the new house is being poured next Tuesday."

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Slow Group In Front!

03 Dec 2010, 09:02

Joe decides to take his boss Phil to play nine holes of golf on their lunch break.

While both men are playing excellent they are often held up by two women in front of them moving at a very slow pace.

Joe offers to talk to the women and see if they can speed it up a bit.

He gets about half of the way there stops and jogs back.

His boss asks what the problem is.

"Well one of those women is my wife and the other my mistress," complained Joe.

Phil just shook his head at Joe and started toward the women determined to finish his round of golf.

Preparing to ask the ladies to speed up their game, he too stopped short and turned around.

Joe asked "what's wrong?

"It's a small, small world Joe, and you're fired"

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Vicar, Doctor and Engineer Playing Golf

03 Dec 2010, 08:50

A Vicar, a Doctor and an Engineer were waiting one morning for a particularly slow group of golfers.

Engineer: What's with these guys? We must have been waiting for 15 minutes!

Doctor: I don't know, but I've never seen such ineptitude!

Vicar: Hey, here comes the greens keeper. Let's have a word with him.

Hi George. Say, what's with that group ahead of us? They're rather slow, aren't they?

George: Oh, yes, that's a group of blind fire fighters. They lost their sight saving our clubhouse from a fire last year, so we always let them play for free anytime.

The group was silent for a moment.

Vicar: That's so sad. I think I will say a special prayer for them tonight.

Doctor: Good idea. And I'm going to contact my ophthalmologist buddy and see if there's anything he can do for them.

Engineer: Why can't these guys play at night?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Amazing Golf Ball

03 Dec 2010, 08:42

A golfer, playing a round by himself, is about to tee off, and a greasy little salesman runs up to him, and yells, "Wait! Before you tee off, I have something really amazing to show you!"

The golfer, annoyed, says, "What is it?"

"It's a special golf ball," says the salesman. "You can never lose it!"

"Whattaya mean," scoffs the golfer, "you can never lose it? What if you hit it into the water?"

"No problem," says the salesman. "It floats, and it detects where the shore is, and spins towards it."

"Well, what if you hit it into the woods?"

"Easy," says the salesman. "It emits a beeping sound, and you can find it with your eyes closed."

"Okay," says the golfer, impressed. "But what if your round goes late and it gets dark?"

"No problem, sir, this golf ball glows in the dark! I'm telling you, you can never lose this golf ball!"

The golfer buys it at once. "Just one question," he says to the salesman. "Where did you get it?"

"I found it."

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Early Morning Golf

02 Dec 2010, 00:11

This is my favorite time to play as well Russ.I prefer this as it suits my shift pattern at work and life style.
You don't get the real benefits this time of year because winter months,but in the summer when its light at 5.00a.m thats when the "EARLY BIRD GOLFER" comes into it's own.
I have teed off at 5.30a.m in the morning,had the course to myself,no one else around.no need to rush,or worry about the group behind,the first person you see will probably be a green keeper.
The only problem that I have had playing this early is sometimes you might have to wait for the green keeper to cut the grass on the green,or locate a new hole position,but I can live with that.
I do play quite a few "early bird" games over the Abbotts course throughout the year,on some occasions someone from the T.S.G has joined me and they have commented on how enjoyable it can be.So there must be something to it.
It's not everyone's cup of tea,but don't knock it til' you have tried it.!!!!!!!!
I will be posting "EARLY BIRD" rounds next year,so if you get the chance come along and see for yourself

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Photos........

01 Dec 2010, 20:33

Hi All,

It took me a little longer to edit than I'd originally planned but here they are.........Enjoy!

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewmemberprofilephotos.aspx?id=178

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Srixon Soft Feel

30 Nov 2010, 21:21

i take it some of these would be the Freebie kind you recieved lately.

Any way i couldn't think of a better ball to play with over the winter just a shame they don't do them in yellow or pink.

Russ if i don't speak to you have a good Christmas.

Steve.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Srixon Soft Feel

30 Nov 2010, 21:13

They're a good ball (and much cheaper than a ProV1). Maybe you should try buying some rather than rely on finding them... :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Srixon Soft Feel

30 Nov 2010, 21:11

Over the last few weeks I've been using a Srixon Soft Feel golf ball.

I'm really happy with this golf ball.

Feels nice to hit and responds well around the greens.

Not sure if it will be as good as a Pro V1 during the summer months, but very happy to use it during the winter months.

My only problem is that I've lost both of the Srixon Soft Feel golf balls that I recently found.

Maybe I should look harder the next time I'm near a water hazard!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Early Morning Golf

30 Nov 2010, 21:01

Now I have never, ever been an 'early morning' person.

My idea of a great days golf is to get up around 9am and tee off around 11am to midday.

Now I work nights but this doesn't stop me playing midweek during the summer months.

My problem now is that the job I'm doing at the moment means I don't finish work until 6am, or even later if there are problems at the depot or on the road!

At the start of the winter I used to go to bed and get up at 11am, tee off at midday and be finished around 3pm.

This started to get a bit of 'hard work' as I struggled to get out of bed!

So I decided to give 'early morning golf' a try.

I played the Priors course at my golf club and started at 8am (not really early, but early for me!)

Started well enough but I could feel myself getting tired as the round progressed.

At this moment I've played two early morning rounds and the second round wasn't as bad as the first one, so maybe I'm getting used to playing early.

I'll keep trying but at the moment the snow is stopping any golf whatsoever!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The New Look TSG.....

28 Nov 2010, 19:00

I find the new web site very user friendly and quick to find all aspects of golf.
Keep up the good work, and hey keep practising out there, see you all soon on the course.
David

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

26 Nov 2010, 15:57

Hi Chris

Count me into your propsed 2011 county competition

Thanks
Vanda

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The New Look TSG.....

25 Nov 2010, 18:01

Hi Greg,

Thanks for the thumbs up, always nice to know our efforts are being appreciated, however we wont stop yet......there's so much more to do!!

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team
---------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \RENTAL EQUIPMENT

25 Nov 2010, 15:30

Is it the recession (apparent to all of us except Lord Young - I know it's unfair but I do like a bandwagon...) but, it seems to me that the golf holiday market is moving pretty quickly away from expensive, hotel based deals offered by the likes of 3DGolf to a much more flexible market where a group of you can get cheap flights to Murcia or Faro (even BA now offer excellent deals), stay in your own self-catering apartment or villa (would sir like a pool?), make your own tee time booking so that you get the times you actually want (and at a discount) and hire top quality clubs for the week to save the hassle (and cost) of transporting your own (fantastic unless you're one of the 1 in 50 who have properly customised clubs).

From my own experience, over the last ten years I've been on traditional golf holidays to Scotland (yes, it rained!), North Portugal and the Algarve, Murcia (several times), Almeria, Malaga, Marbella, San Roce & Almenara and the two holidays that stick out by far as being the most fun were both villa holidays (La Manga a few years ago and Eastern Algarve recently).

So, learning with the speed of a slouth on mogadon, in future I'll confine myself to booking my own cheap flights (preferably BA), perusing PackYourClubs.com for accommodation to suit my needs (if not my aspirations), using the likes of GolfSwitch.com for my discounted tee times and almost certainly looking to pick up a quality set of hire clubs at the airport on arrival.

Now, where to go????????

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

25 Nov 2010, 15:29

Hi Chris

I would be up for it if it is Surrey to represent the "Ladies" as long as you don't start too early in the morning as I run a bed and breakfast, but anywhere around Pine Ridge is good for me.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \RENTAL EQUIPMENT

25 Nov 2010, 14:40

Golfing in Faro/East Algarve

Paul McGinley set up earlier this year a pickup point at Faro Airport where you can rent the latest golf clubs (35-45€ per week) ..... www.clubstohire.com is their website, great idea and bargain especially when all the airlines are charging massive money to travel with clubs and can be seen as try before you buy.... Also next year Malaga, Edinburgh & Majorca pick up points

www.blueskygolf-rental.com on the border of Spain/Portugal, do club hire, electric trolleys and GPS rental, alot cheaper than renting at the course.

Warning... some of the golf courses charge very high fees compared to the UK...

.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

24 Nov 2010, 23:03

PLEASE not a crown course!!!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The New Look TSG.....

24 Nov 2010, 20:09

Thank you TSG, the new menu drop downs are so much easier.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

24 Nov 2010, 15:00

Fly into Faro...

The Portugal/Spainborder is about 30/35mins from Faro, Malaga is about 3hrs....

Some very good golf courses around east algarve and just over the bridge into Spain... cheaper and less busier than Vilamoura area....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

24 Nov 2010, 11:52

Thanks very much for all your comments so far guys and girls........... I will speak to the TSG team and work on how we can organise this for next spring and maybe one for the end of the summer?

Any more comments are very welcome!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

23 Nov 2010, 20:37

There is always two issues with such events - [1] Getting the numbers? [2] Whether it's played during the week or weekends? Both of these issues are interlinked as it is more likely that you can get a bigger response at the weekend whereas weekdays although likely to be less cost, many would have to have days off from work. Frances did create a number of excellent events at Pine Ridge on Sundays; these were usually two months a part. unfortunately, the level of support dropped from a massive 25-30 down to less than 12 so its not easy! Where did they all go I ask?? I would suggest the best way forward is to make sure that these events are put up on the events calender well in advance and advertised. You could do a weekday event and a weekend event but probably best to have these dates some way apart. But you are always dependent on those that are available to play! It may be worth getting the TSG Team in on this challenge and get them to set up maybe two events in the year!!Maybe they could set up a payment system which everyone would have to pay in advance too when they join the event that way you are likely to get full attendance rather than people adding their name to an event and then pulling out when the time approaches. These are just ideas....I hope they are of use?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

23 Nov 2010, 16:54

Don't want to be a party pooper, but this was tried by Dave Smith, but failed to get the support it needed.

I would be happy to join in any midweek events as long as they are well supported and organised.

Looking forward to next summer spring already.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

23 Nov 2010, 15:58

Sounds good to me. I am sure we can get a few teams together from Surrey.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 22:26

[quote=Chris Wynn]Absolutely, maybe we should try and arrange the teams into counties?? Bob from TSG has been in touch and I am just waiting for him to help me put something together........ Do you think you could put a team or two together from Essex then Chris?
[/quote]

i am sure we could sort something out

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 20:33

What about the boys from Sussex by the sea???? I am sure we would be able to put a team together If invited of course!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 20:17

I would most certainly be up for a round at Pine Ridge.

It takes no time from Luton - if we from north of the river are permitted to join in!?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 20:05

Absolutely, maybe we should try and arrange the teams into counties?? Bob from TSG has been in touch and I am just waiting for him to help me put something together........ Do you think you could put a team or two together from Essex then Chris?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 18:36

I would be up for it if us Essex Golfers are included ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 14:26

Hi Chris,

Great idea, there have been a number of similar competitions run across the year by members in the South East and beyond and it can all be managed from the comfort of your PC, so let us know if you need any help with this........

In the meantime, look out for an announcement coming soon regarding the annual TSG Golf Day, where there will be many prizes on offer!

Regards

The TSG Team
---------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 14:04

Ime sure we can come up with some kind of prize........ probably a boobie prize for you Rob, ha ha!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The New Look TSG.....

22 Nov 2010, 13:41

Dear All,

Welcome to the new look TSG!

As promised, we have listened to your feedback and made some significant changes to the look and feel of the site.....

The main changes to note, are as follows:

- A brand new landing page, now showing the TSG 'mission statement' and a live short-list of the upcoming games

- There is a new look menu system with single dropdowns, hopefully now making it simpler for you to navigate your way around the site

- Increased limits for uploading your photos (Up to 5mb per image and up to 50mb per member in total)
- Cleaner and better presented graphs on the Game Analysis pages with improved defaults
- And lastly, added detail to the email alerts, especially on the 'Game comments' updates (N.B. These will take effect later this week!)

However, not ones to rest on our laurels........

As we have been going through the redesign process, we have noticed some of the page loading speeds are not what they should be (a constant problem for everyone in the cyber-world) but bear with us, as we are seeking to improve this too in the coming days/weeks......

Oh and before we forget, we have a new improved and shortened copy-line on our masthead "Make New Friends, Play More Golf!", which is of course, exactly what we want you to do!

So thats it for now, we hope you like it!

Happy Golfing!

Ian & The TSG Team

-------------------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 13:23

Sounds good - any prizes? - I'll be up for it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \TSG Team Event 2011.......

22 Nov 2010, 11:06

HI Chaps and Chapesses,

I wanted your opinion on the appetite for a Social Golfer competition kicking off next Spring. There seems to be a fair amount of people playing in the Hampshire/Surrey/Kent area. It would be good to set up a couple of tournament games throughout the year (nothing too organised and costly), but a good day on the course where we can meet some of the cyberspace faces.

The keys would be:

At least 20 participants (Deposits held)
A course that is suitable in location and price (Pine Ridge has been a good middle ground for example)
Fun atmosphere - 'its not the bleedin Masters!' (a quote from a good friend of mine)

Who is interested?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

20 Nov 2010, 10:48

I am a member of Batchworth Park Golf Club at Rickmansworth, and one of my reasons for joining was that I could play the other Crown Group courses for free. At the moment, the only course that is up for sale that is likely to affect me is Sunbury, but there are rumours of other disposals. We will have to wait and see.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

18 Nov 2010, 19:14

Had a hole-in-one years back (1983, I think) -- 205 yard hole, 5 wood -- back when I could hit a 5 wood 205 yards!

But, just two years ago, I had a hole-in-three! I hit my first ball into a pond, teed another and put it in the hole -- 149 yards -- 5 iron. Much rarer than a hole-in-one!

I had much more fun from the hole-in-three, plus I didn't have to buy after!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Devil and the Golfer

17 Nov 2010, 13:29

Really good! What is a handicapped golfer? The one who plays with his boss.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

16 Nov 2010, 23:39

I HAVE HAD A "HOLE IN ONE" - MY LEFT SOCK WITH ME TOE POCKING THROUGH

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golfing Confession

15 Nov 2010, 19:44

Best joke I have heard for a long time. SH

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golfing Confession

14 Nov 2010, 18:39

A man goes to the confessional.

"Forgive me father, for I have sinned."

"What is your sin, my child?" The priest asks back.

"Well," the man starts, "I used some horrible language this week and I feel absolutely terrible."

"When did you do use this awful language?" Said the priest.

"I was golfing and hit an incredible drive that looked like it was going to go over 250 yards, but it struck a phone line that was hanging over the fairway and fell straight down to the ground after going only about 100 yards."

"Is that when you swore?"

"No, Father." Said the man. "After that, a squirrel ran out of the bushes and grabbed my ball in his mouth and began to run away."

"Is THAT when you swore?" Asked the priest again.

"Well, no," said the man, "You see, as the squirrel was running, an eagle came down out of the sky, grabbed the squirrel in his talons and began to fly away!"

"Is THAT when you swore?" Asked the amazed priest.

"No, not yet." The man replied. "As the eagle carried the squirrel away in his claws, it flew towards the green. And as it passed over a bit of forest near the green, the squirrel dropped my ball."

"Did you swear THEN?" Asked the now impatient priest.

"No, because as the ball fell it struck a tree, bounced through some bushes, careened off a big rock, and rolled through a sand trap onto the green and stopped within six inches of the hole."

"You missed the %#$*& putt, didn't you?" Sighed the priest.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golfing With The Wife

14 Nov 2010, 18:10

A lovely afternoon finds one fellow and his wife golfing.

They have had a wonderful time and the man has had a near perfect game.

The final hole, by far the most difficult, wraps around an old barn.

With a terrible slice the man puts the barn between his ball and the green.

Knowing that the strokes that it will take to get around the barn will destroy his score, he begins to rant and rave.

His wife hating to see him ruin such a great afternoon makes a suggestion.

"What if I were to hold open the barn doors? That way you could send it right through the barn onto the green."

He thinks this over and decides that it will work.

With his wife holding open the barn door he lines up with the hole and gives the ball a terrific "whack"!

The ball shoots through the air and right into the head of his wife, killing her instantly.

Months go by, the man mourning all the while.

His friends, hating to see him in such a state, convince him to go golfing with them.

They end up at the same course and on the final hole, oddly enough; another terrible slice puts the old barn between his ball and the green.

Again he begins to rant and rave at what this dilemma will do to his score.

His friend, wanting to please him, makes a suggestion.

"What if I were to hold open the barn doors? That way you could send it right through the barn onto the green."

"No," the man replies, "last time I did that I got a double bogey."

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Devil and the Golfer

14 Nov 2010, 18:01

A golfer is in a competitive match with a friend, who is ahead by a couple of strokes.

The golfer says to himself, "I'd give anything to sink this next putt."

A stranger walks up to him and whispers, "Would you give up a fourth of your sex life?"

The golfer thinks the man is crazy and that his answer will be meaningless but also that perhaps this is a good omen and will put him in the right frame of mind to make the difficult putt and says, "OK."

And he sinks the putt.

Two holes later he mumbles to himself, "Boy, if I could only get an eagle on this hole."

The same stranger moves to his side and says, "Would it be worth another fourth of your sex life?"

The golfer shrugs and says, "Sure."

And he makes an eagle.

Down to the final hole.

The golfer needs yet another eagle to win.

Though he says nothing, the stranger moves to his side and says, "Would you be willing to give up the rest of your sex life to win this match?"

The golfer says, "Certainly."

And he makes the eagle.

As the golfer walks to the club house, the stranger walks alongside and says,” You know, I've really not been fair with you because you don't know who I am.

I'm the devil and from now on you will have no sex life."

"Nice to meet you," says the golfer.

"My name's Father O'Malley."

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

13 Nov 2010, 20:14

Your lucky not to have had a hole in 1. my seven H O 1s has cost me a bomb.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Keeping the Spammers at bay.....Your Help Required!

12 Nov 2010, 23:37

[quote=Pete Connon]Hi Ian, I've used the <Report This> button before (when I received an interesting proposal from a lady who want to be my "friend"...). Is this the best way to make TSG aware of spammers?[/quote]

...and you turned her down? please pass on any further requests, at my time of life, I would be eternally grateful :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The NEC Golf Show Ticket Giveaway....The Winners!

10 Nov 2010, 18:44

Dear TSGers,

Thanks for all your entries to this weeks competition. For those that missed it, heres a quick reminder of the question:

"Who (at the time of going to press) is currently sitting pretty at the top of the world rankings?"

As most of you will have guessed the answer by now, it was of course our very own LEE WESTWOOD!

So, after much excitement and tension at TSG HQ this afternoon, we have made the draw from all the correct answers and we can now formally announce the winners..........

Congratulations to Steve Shand & Carol Bellis!

A pair of tickets are on the way to both of you. Enjoy the show........

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team
----------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Why your other half shouldn't object, but encourage you to play golf!

09 Nov 2010, 18:29

(Sorry about the long title)

I have heard that some partners (wives/Husbands) have, at times, objected to their other halves 'playing too much golf'. I personally havn't come across this as I only ever play 3 or 4 times a week.

However if you ever have the occasional heated debate, with things being said like "This is the 4th time this week you have played golf" & Why don't you spend the day with me & the kids" & "you love golf more than me"

I have been hearing reports recently that if you walk upto 5 miles a week, your immune system is much more efficient & you are less likely to get a cold (Man Flu) The immune system works extra hard to combat any fatigue you have from the long walk & continues to be ultra efficient for hours after the walk.

I also heard that if you walk about 9 miles a week you are much less likely to develop Altziemers.

These are just two facts that will help you to reply to your other half with the question "do you want me to be healthy & avoid getting altziemers? I am sure the reply would have to be "YES" therefor just give them the facts & put your clubs in the car.

If you know anymore excuses...........er I mean valid reasons we can give as to why we should play more golf, please add the to this discussion.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Keeping the Spammers at bay.....Your Help Required!

09 Nov 2010, 18:28

Hi All,

Exactly that Pete!

- If you notice anything via the internal TSG email message system, there is a 'Report This' button at the top of each message page.

- If you notice anything in the Forums, there is a 'Report Spam' button at the bottom of each thread.

Alternatively, email us at theteam@TheSocialGolfer.com

As they used to say in Hill Street Blues.......Lets be careful out there!

Ian
The TSG Team

-----------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Keeping the Spammers at bay.....Your Help Required!

09 Nov 2010, 17:23

Hi Ian, I've used the <Report This> button before (when I received an interesting proposal from a lady who want to be my "friend"...). Is this the best way to make TSG aware of spammers?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Keeping the Spammers at bay.....Your Help Required!

09 Nov 2010, 15:28

Dear TSGer's,

We have noticed the community has been hit by a number of Spammers in recent weeks (People who are using the site & their profiles to promote their own business interests). However, the good news is we have caught and deleted all of them pretty quickly!

Now whilst we are always happy to consider commercial opportunities for the benefit of you the members, we are committed to keeping as many areas of the site commercial free and as such we would ask you all to be vigilant when you come across any such abuse and let us here at TSG HQ know as soon as you spot anything awry!

In a way I guess we should be flattered by their interest but lets make sure we keep them pesky kids at bay!

Happy Golfing!!

Ian
The TSG Team
----------------------

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The 'Laws of Golf'

09 Nov 2010, 15:04

We all think we know the 'Rules of Golf' but what we really do is play our golf using the 'Laws of Golf'

LAW 1: No matter how bad your last shot was, the worst is yet to come. This law does not expire on the 18th hole, since it has the supernatural tendency to extend over the course of a tournament, a summer and, eventually, a lifetime.

LAW 2: Your best round of golf will be followed almost immediately by your worst round ever. The probability of the latter increases with the number of people you tell about the former.

LAW 3: Brand new golf balls are water-magnetic. Though this cannot be proven in the lab, it is a known fact that the more expensive the golf ball, the greater its attraction to water.

LAW 4: Golf balls never bounce off of trees back into play. If one does, the tree is breaking a law of the universe and should be cut down.

LAW 5: No matter what causes a golfer to muff a shot, all his playing partners must solemnly chant "You looked up," or invoke the wrath of the universe.

LAW 6: The higher a golfer's handicap, the more qualified he deems himself as an instructor.

LAW 7: Every par-three hole in the world has a secret desire to humiliate golfers. The shorter the hole, the greater its desire.

LAW 8: Topping a 3-iron is the most painful torture known to man.

LAW 9: Palm trees eat golf balls.

LAW 10: Sand is alive. If it isn't, how do you explain the way it works against you?

LAW 11: Golf carts always run out of juice at the farthest point from the clubhouse.

LAW 12: A golfer hitting into your group will always be bigger than anyone in your group. Likewise, a group you accidentally hit into will consist of a football player, a professional wrestler, a convicted murderer and an IRS agent -- or some similar combination.

LAW 13: All 3-woods are demon-possessed.

LAW 14: Golf balls from the same "sleeve" tend to follow one another, particularly out of bounds or into the water (See Law three).

LAW 15: A severe slice is a thing of awesome power and beauty.

LAW 16: "Nice lag" can usually be translated to "lousy putt." Similarly, "tough break" can usually be translated "way to miss an easy one, sucker."

LAW 17: The person you would most hate to lose to will always be the one who beats you.

LAW 18: The last three holes of a round will automatically adjust your score to what it really should be.

LAW 19: Golf should be given up at least twice per month.

LAW 20: All vows taken on a golf course shall be valid only until the sunset.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

08 Nov 2010, 11:48

[quote=chris emms][quote=ALAN HAYWOOD]A towel, bag tag and other items, must of course be paid for, and as this site is free, it is difficult to see where the money is coming from.
Personally, I would be happy to pay a modest amount for all the facilities offered by TGS...what say you?[/quote]

As i frequent quite a few sites for all number of things i will say the really successful one's are free. The rationale for this is simple would you pay to join a site not being sure how the community works or even if it works? i will say that most of them carry adds to help pay the way.[/quote]

Good point Chris, but I have looked at 2 such sites, and A. the advertising is very intrusive, but I suppose that could be ignored if you are an occasional user, but most importantly, B. The sites are not at all well designed...difficult to navigate...quite slow, and very few games on offer.
I think the reason for this is that most people simply don't understand just how much work goes in to providing a web site (Clearly not you Chris, as IT is your lifeblood :-) ) It is very time consuming, and if free, then advertising is the only source of revenue. The site should be run for its members, not for advertising.
It is my humble opinion, that the TSG site is probably the best around, and it is also my experience that the TSG is the more social of all the golf groups I have been involved in.
For that reason, I think that a modest annual fee would be in order with perhaps new members given a 1 or 2 month trial period. This would allow goodies to be distributed, and with a guaranteed income, the site and member benefits would improve over time, Waddya think??

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf games - any suggestions?

06 Nov 2010, 20:19

Many thanks, guys ... the suggestions much appreciated!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf games - any suggestions?

05 Nov 2010, 11:04

Texas scramble is usually great fun but some clubs won't let you play it because it is slower than a normal four-ball. So if you're going to do it check with the club first!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf games - any suggestions?

04 Nov 2010, 18:16

I'm with Pete on this, 'Yellow ball' is great fun if there are a few groups, although I have always played it: that if someone loses the ball on their turn the game stops for the whole team - adding pressure when its your go. If you can get the ball round the full 18, youre doing pretty well.

Alternatively, a 9 or 18 holes 'Texas Scramble' can be very strategic:

1. Each team will consist of four players
2. All players tee off on each hole.

3. The team captain then selects the best drive and marks the position with a tee (The other players then retrieve their drives).

4. The player whose ball has been chosen then plays his next shot first.

5. The remaining players then play within six inches of the tee peg

6. The above method of play is followed until the green is reached.

7. On the green its the same. The ball chosen is marked and players putt from the same spot.

8. Each player must mark the ball after putting.

9. Play continues from the best position after every shot until the ball is holed.

10.The score is the total number of shots from the chosen spots (including the tee shot).

Note! If a player putts and misses but then inadvertently knocks the ball into the hole, then that score counts AND the fun bit....a min. of 2 or 4 (9 or 18 holes) tee shots per player to be picked!!

Winner: The total for each hole is added up and the strokes received subtracted to give the total net medal score for the round. The winning team will be the one with the lowest medal score.

Great fun!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf games - any suggestions?

02 Nov 2010, 12:14

Try a "Yellow ball" competition alongside one of your other competitions whereby you count the Stableford Points score achieved on the hole by the person with the 'Yellow Ball'. This is rotated between the team (obviously it doesn't have to actually be a 'yellow ball' and if the 'yellow ball' is lost then no score for that hole)

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Meet the Golf 'Surgeon'

01 Nov 2010, 17:12

Hi Alan

I've been receiving the 'free videos' for some time now and once they are all pieced together they do make some sense. As a late entrant to the world of Golf I have some swing limitations but this DJ stuff appeals to my innate laziness (ok most output for least input - so the 3/4 swing (or the 70/90 degee turn CJ Goecks seems to be an affiliate of Don Trahan) works for me...

On a good day I hit more fairways and am managing to avoid lower back pain, which is good for someone with my amount of disc damage. I get around OK and handicap is slowly reducing.

I have had to re-measure my distances though as I seem to be getting out there a bit further with each stick.

Subscribe to the free videos and investigate for yourself.

Working OK for me at the moment...

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf games - any suggestions?

01 Nov 2010, 08:08

try a gruesomes............ this is a fourball scramble but the opposition choose the ball in otherwords the worse shot

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf games - any suggestions?

31 Oct 2010, 09:07

A group of friends (24 of us in total) are going away for a long weekend at a UK golfing complex next April.

We're splitting onto two teams and will be playing a 'Ryder Cup' style competition - the usual fourballs, fourcomes and singles - but also wanted to introduce something different for a change. Do any TSG members know of any good/fun variants that we might try?

Any suggestions gratefully received!

thanks,
Neil

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A couple of questions...can you help.

30 Oct 2010, 20:56

Hi Robin

Many thanks for the answer.

D

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PITCHING REPAIRS

29 Oct 2010, 19:41

Have to agree with both items mentioned here, and I'd like to add another one. Why do people not replace their divots?

Many a time I've heard people say that the reason they don't repair pitch marks is that it's the greenkeeper's job!!!! How ignorant can people be?

It's the same thing with not raking bunkers. If I hit a ball into a bunker I'd take bets that it will be in a footprint, it could be the only footprint in the bunker but my ball will be there! Again, it only takes seconds to rake the sand but that's far too much for people to do.

A couple of things I have heard are these.....

Some golf clubs put all their members into eighteen groups, and each group is responsible for one green on the golf course. The club offer prizes/incentives to the group who's green is the best kept, worth a try at your golf club?

If a golf club has a course marshall, and they see you play a shot out of a bunker but not rake it after, they will ask you to go back and rake it or get off the course. It could be worth having a few nominated members who will report any incidents they see from members. The problem with this is what punishment can the club impose on anyone who is a regular offender?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PITCHING REPAIRS

29 Oct 2010, 16:08

For me, not repairing pitch marks is second only to NOT RAKING BUNKERS! Drives me insane ... every time I end up in a greenside bunker, I walk up to find it looking like a recent moon landing. Footprints all over the place, and more often than not ... my ball in one of them.

What's so hard about repairing pitch marks and raking bunkers?!?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Meet the Golf 'Surgeon'

29 Oct 2010, 14:09

Hi Russ, The basic videos are good, but you have to pay about $29 for the full set, Well worth the money tho...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Something for the Weekend?

29 Oct 2010, 11:24

Hi All,

We were just enjoying a cup of tea on a Friday morning at TSG HQ and the subject of alternative golf games came up in conversation........

The game in question was Otters, Snakes and Camels? The point being that no one seemed to agree on how it should be played, so we thought we ask the TSG members to clarify it for us!

However, that also led us to ask how many different types games does the community know about?

Something to consider on the course over the weekend perhaps.......

Happy Golfing!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PITCHING REPAIRS

29 Oct 2010, 11:09

I'm with you Ryan!

I played yesterday and watched at least two putts take a detour 6 inches from the cup due to pitch marks - luckily they werent my putts but I would rather Clubs lecture us on 'Pitch Repairing' than the length of our socks or whether we have pockets on our shorts!!

Ian M

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Photo Uploading. (or not)

28 Oct 2010, 20:02

Hi Bob, TSG,

with the new file size limits and the overall capacity increase all is well, many thanks to you and the Tech Team.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PITCHING REPAIRS

28 Oct 2010, 19:56

Just want to rant about repairing pitch marks..i know not everyone who plays golf understands the etiquitte but when you go and play a stunning course,only to find the green's like a battlefield and whats worse to know its sometimes the members making the craters..I just recently played Chathham Park and it was in excellent condition,the green's where emaculate apart from said bomb craters...So please lets get the message out because them green keeper's keep us playing the golf we love.....................sorry for ranting...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A couple of questions...can you help.

28 Oct 2010, 03:12

Ross Fisher

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A couple of questions...can you help.

27 Oct 2010, 20:11

Hi Guys

Firstly I need the answer to a question for a golf competition it is: Which European Ryder Cup star endorses Under Armour Clothing? The only clue I have, he is English.

Any member play Ayrshire courses on a regular basis, in particular Dundonald Links?

Many Thanks

David

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Meet the Golf 'Surgeon'

26 Oct 2010, 23:04

I registered for this site about four weeks ago, but so far haven't really had a chance to sit down and watch the free videos!!!!

After Alan's testimony I'll have to set aside some free time to watch these videos.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Meet the Golf 'Surgeon'

26 Oct 2010, 10:38

Further to the above...the site does appear to be full of .....stuff...but if you click on the 'Free Videos' button at the top of the screen, that will start you off.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Meet the Golf 'Surgeon'

25 Oct 2010, 17:49

As a senior, anything that simplifies the game is OK by me. I came across a bloke from the States (where else) by the name of Don Trahan...known, in the biz, as The Surge.
Having studied everything from Jack Nicklaus's Golf My Way to the Best of David Leadbetter, I found that this bloke simply blew them all away.
It's called the Peak Performance Golf Swing.
I don't normally bore people with things like this because I have found that where golf is concerned (particularly). what suits one person does not necessarily suit somebody else.
However, the teachings of Don Trahan are so simple, so clear, and so blinking obvious, that I defy anyone not to improve having tried his methods. Its all on-line, the site is:

www.peakperformancegolfswing.com

Give it a go...you can thank me later :-)
Happy golfing

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Tending the flag

22 Oct 2010, 18:25

When I tend the flag I remove it from the bottom of the hole and place the bottom of the flag into the cup, tilting the flag back at an angle.

Doing this means there is nothing to stop the flag from coming out of the hole.

I have come across this before and getting two penalty shots does seem harsh, especially as the person tending the flag was trying to get it out!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \winters priors league (Russ)

22 Oct 2010, 18:20

Dan, not sorted anything out yet but I'm looking into it.

Just so busy with competitions!

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Photo Uploading. (or not)

22 Oct 2010, 15:32

[quote=Greg Butler]Thanks Chris, just tried your tip and it works a treat, thanks.

Only problem now Bob, TSG, is apparently i've used up all my available photo allowance and now have to delete some to be able to upload new ones. Any chance this could be increased by the Tech Team too?, or are they both connected anyway.
[/quote]

No Probs Greg even if the tsg team allow larger file size again still do it that way and you will get more uploads

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Photo Uploading. (or not)

22 Oct 2010, 09:27

Hi Greg,

Glad you managed to sort it out in the end, However,no good if you now cant post anymore! I'll pass it on to the the tech team and see if we can get them to do both at once - I'm sure they can, clever people these techies!

Bob
The TSG Team

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Photo Uploading. (or not)

21 Oct 2010, 18:12

Thanks Chris, just tried your tip and it works a treat, thanks.

Only problem now Bob, TSG, is apparently i've used up all my available photo allowance and now have to delete some to be able to upload new ones. Any chance this could be increased by the Tech Team too?, or are they both connected anyway.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

21 Oct 2010, 17:34

[quote=ALAN HAYWOOD]A towel, bag tag and other items, must of course be paid for, and as this site is free, it is difficult to see where the money is coming from.
Personally, I would be happy to pay a modest amount for all the facilities offered by TGS...what say you?[/quote]

As i frequent quite a few sites for all number of things i will say the really successful one's are free. The rationale for this is simple would you pay to join a site not being sure how the community works or even if it works? i will say that most of them carry adds to help pay the way.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \winters priors league (Russ)

21 Oct 2010, 16:00

Was just wondering if you were going to do one this year?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

21 Oct 2010, 15:45

[quote=ALAN HAYWOOD]
Personally, I would be happy to pay a modest amount for all the facilities offered by TGS...what say you?[/quote]

I think your spot on Alan.

I am loving the idea of some merchandise as it is difficult sometimes when you turn up and you don't know who your playing with.

And although i try to tell everyone who will be interested in such a site i think it will go along way to promoting the site to.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

21 Oct 2010, 15:28

A towel, bag tag and other items, must of course be paid for, and as this site is free, it is difficult to see where the money is coming from.
Personally, I would be happy to pay a modest amount for all the facilities offered by TGS...what say you?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

21 Oct 2010, 14:48

I use a Ping wedge which works really well, and sometimes not so well. I don't think that's the club's fault though, more the idiot on the end of it!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

21 Oct 2010, 11:39

I've got TaylorMade XFT wedges in 50, 54 and 60 degrees and am very happy with them.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Photo Uploading. (or not)

21 Oct 2010, 10:04

Hi Greg,

Totally understand your plight (regarding 'The Boss' I mean!).......no seriously, during the recent change of server we downgraded the file size allowed for photos, to ensure the site kept running at high speeds.

However, now that this operation has been performed successfully, I'll speak with the Tech Team today and see if this cant be increased back to its original level.........

Back soon.

Bob
The TSG Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

21 Oct 2010, 09:34

[quote=chris emms]ok i think we can say its arrived !![/quote]

Certainly has this morning - white frost as far as the eye can see. No more early bird games for a while!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

20 Oct 2010, 23:10

ok i think we can say its arrived !!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Photo Uploading. (or not)

20 Oct 2010, 23:04

yes is the short answer ............

you didnt say what os you are using on your computer? but the same rule works with most os apps,

load the pic you want to upload into a paint package of some sort then save it off as a lower quality .jpg

you wont see the difference on the net but you will end up with a smaller file size

hope this helps

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

20 Oct 2010, 21:00

hey "taylormade R7 draw i do/did like this one but i can't find it for sale anymore".

If it works why change it ...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

20 Oct 2010, 20:30

Despite echoing David's comment, I can thoroughly recommend the Mizuno wedges but, be careful with the degree selection......

When I replaced my clubs after the theft in June (Yes, I'm still bitter!) I had huge deliberations over what to go with. I ended up with a 47 degree PW, a 52 degree gap wedge and a 58 degree Sandwedge and whilst I wouldnt say it say it totally changed, my game around the greens it has certainly improved!

However, one word of caution, whilst the Black nickel looks ever so enticing in the shop - bear in mind this soon wheres off -but I was told that is old part of the design - I'm not going to argue with Mr.Mizuno but they did look better when new!

Good luck!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Photo Uploading. (or not)

20 Oct 2010, 19:17

This is really aimed at TSG, but may also be easily explained by someone who is more computer savvy than me, i've already tried "the boss" who is the oracle on pretty much most things to do with 'puters but this time even she's not sure.
Been trying, without success, to upload some more photos, having already done some in the past it was'nt very difficult, (can't have been). However now with photos from the same camera, set to the same resolution and quality. After apparently "going thro the motions" of uploading to TSG i get a message telling me"un-able to upload", (or words to that effect)," the maximum file size is 1mb", most of my photos seem to be about 3mb.
Has there been a file size change?, is there a really clever way of getting round this?, and therefore impressing the boss, or is it something simple and i'm just being a numpty?.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

20 Oct 2010, 17:32

[quote=david smith]why not get it re shafted[/quote]

Apparently it costs more?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

20 Oct 2010, 17:18

why not get it re shafted

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

20 Oct 2010, 17:07

So i've seen two one being TaylorMade RAC 52degree or Mizuno MX Series Black Nickel 09 50 degree. I'm not that sure of what to get. Can anyone give me anyone give me any input on either with me being a high handicapper.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

20 Oct 2010, 16:59

If we end up with a quality item it will be worth the wait

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I need a new PW

20 Oct 2010, 16:49

So here it is. I was playing a few months back and i laid up next to a tree and stupidly played the ball as if the tree wasn't there and well i wrapped my pitching wedge around a tree.

So i need a new one can anyone recommend a good replacement i was using the one i got with my set which was a taylormade R7 draw i do/did like this one but i can't find it for sale anymore.

Cheers Dan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

20 Oct 2010, 16:41

Hi Roger,

Sorry for the delay regards this and other branded TSG items, we are aware that this was discussed by the previous TSG Team but never delivered. Rest assured a long term solution to this is in hand and we hope to have this ready for the new year, if not sooner.

If you could just bear with us a little longer, we promise it is high on our list of things to do!

Regards

Ian
The TSG Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

20 Oct 2010, 16:12

the problem is how long are we going to have to wait for the bag tag or what ever, still waiting for the towel that was talked about at the start of the year!!!!
Come on TSG get something moving

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

20 Oct 2010, 13:34

Yes Alan
ifs its a Badge,Bag tag or Hat as long as the quality is good that will show us all in the best light
and i bet people will still do the home made thing

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

20 Oct 2010, 10:48

Not a good idea Jack...if everyone did that, imagine the variations not only in design but also in quality...must show the society in the best and most professional light, and a good quality, highly visible tag is, in my opinion, a must. Something for the future no doubt.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Tending the flag

19 Oct 2010, 18:09

Last week whilst playing in a four ball friendly game a player was asked to tend the flag. The ball was putted and as it was travelling towards the hole, the tender was desperately trying to remove the flag, but failed to do so. The ball went in, with the flag in the hole. As it was a friendly (+ none of us new what the rule was on this), we let it go.

I have since looked this up & it is a strange one.

If a player deliberately fails to remove the flag, he shall be considered in breach of the fair play rules & be disqualified. If he makes an attempt to, but fails to remove it.......now wait for it....the putter shall be penalised 2 shots in stroke play & loss of hole in Matchplay!!

Seems a bit harsh, but it could help you to win a match if you pretend to remove flag, but insist it was stuck.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

18 Oct 2010, 21:59

MAKE YOUR OWN BAG TAG ALAN ITS NOT HARD TO PUT SOMETHING TOGETHER

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

18 Oct 2010, 15:12

Of course, a TSG bag tag...large enough to be noticed, similar to those issued by clubs to their members.
(More bloody expense :-))

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CELTIC MANOR TRIP

18 Oct 2010, 01:21

Andy, I'm a yes, available all Sun/Mon in Feb apart from the 1st weekend.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CELTIC MANOR TRIP

17 Oct 2010, 17:54

Hi Andy,

I'd be up for that if the consensus vote is for the mid-end of Feb (I can't make either Sunday 6th or Sunday 13th Feb).

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CELTIC MANOR TRIP

17 Oct 2010, 16:13

Hi,

I am looking to run a trip to Celtic Manor in Feb.
The reason for the month selected is manily down to the deal they are offering.

The Deal
1 Night + 2 Rounds
B&B Only
Sunday - Montgomerie Course
Monday - Twenty Ten Course
£145 p/p

Price could come down within the next month and also depending on group size i will push for a discount (dont get if you dont ask)

As its a Sunday /Monday trip, if you are interested can you please state the dates of the month you CAN make.

I feel a trip like this would be great with as many numbers as possible, at the moment i have 9 yes's.
This would also be great for TSG as well as making new friends.

Best Regads
Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

17 Oct 2010, 16:01

I am in.............rubbish at par 3's so cant see it costing me much anytime soon haha

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf simply is not what it used to be...!

17 Oct 2010, 14:13

Rule 8

If a player is blown up during the game and is unable to continue, his opponent may be awarded the game. However if the player who is blown up, can continue the game at a later date he may do so under penalty of 2 strokes!

:~)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

17 Oct 2010, 11:56

Great, understood, thanks Pete!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

17 Oct 2010, 06:08

O and bye the way i do mention TSG to every other golfer i meet, so spreding the word is not a problem

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

17 Oct 2010, 06:06

[quote=TheSocialGolfer]Hi Chris,

OK, we have put our thinking hats on and thrown around a few ideas of how we can get around this issue in the short term and have come up with the following solution........

If you are arriving at a club and meeting with a member you have not played with before (or they dont have a photo in their profile) you can now download a full TSG logo in PDF form by going to the following:

HOME / 19th HOLE / SPREAD THE WORD / PROMOTIONAL POSTER.....

This can be printed and in the event of an emergency can be held aloft. Agreed, you may not look particularly cool with it held above your head (perhaps hold it across the chest) but hopefully it will ensure avoiding a no-show and may even attract a few new members to the site!

What do you think Chris, do you think will work for now, while we consider alternative options?

Regards

Ian
The TSG Team
[/quote]

Yes we thought of something along those lines, thats why i thought a lapel badge might be good

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

16 Oct 2010, 22:53

How About The Men wearing Their underpants on top of your trousers (Just like Superman) you would certainly get noticed ! and As for the Women they can all wear the same shade Lipstick !! What do you Think?..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf simply is not what it used to be...!

16 Oct 2010, 15:10

So rule 2 states that you can take cover whilst bombs are falling, without a penalty.

But rule 7 states that if a bomb (which must have fallen from the sky) detonates whilst you are taking your stroke you can replay the shot, but have to add a penalty shot to your score!!!

And I thought it was bad playing golf today having to keep an eye open for off target golf balls, especially when the person who took the shot suddenly forgets how to speak (to shout fore!!!).

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

16 Oct 2010, 09:54

"Winter Rules" vary from club to club but they always include the ability to 'pick and place' your ball on the fairway (note, the fairway - not in the long stuff or a bunker!). So you mark your ball position (with a tee), pick up your ball, clean it if you want and then place it anywhere within a 6 inch radius of where you picked it up from. This allows you to 'tee' the ball up which is fairer (because your ball might be 'plugged' or muddy) and it also cause less damage to the fairways during the winter period (when they don't recover).

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

15 Oct 2010, 18:28

I have done exactly that, but I taped mine to my golf bag and it works well.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

15 Oct 2010, 16:50

Hi Chris,

OK, we have put our thinking hats on and thrown around a few ideas of how we can get around this issue in the short term and have come up with the following solution........

If you are arriving at a club and meeting with a member you have not played with before (or they dont have a photo in their profile) you can now download a full TSG logo in PDF form by going to the following:

HOME / 19th HOLE / SPREAD THE WORD / PROMOTIONAL POSTER.....

This can be printed and in the event of an emergency can be held aloft. Agreed, you may not look particularly cool with it held above your head (perhaps hold it across the chest) but hopefully it will ensure avoiding a no-show and may even attract a few new members to the site!

What do you think Chris, do you think will work for now, while we consider alternative options?

Regards

Ian
The TSG Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are you a member of a golf club

15 Oct 2010, 15:31

Hi Garry,

You can currently see who are regular players at a club by going to the individual course pages, you can also update the course info and add 'Visitor/Guest costs' here as well........

However, this is an area of the site that does require some updating and we are currently under-going a review of all the functions here. As such we will add your comments onto the TSG 'things to consider' list! :-)

In the meantime, thanks for the feedback, it is only by listening to the members comments that we can continue to improve the site.

Regards

Ian
The TSG Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are you a member of a golf club

15 Oct 2010, 14:56

Cheers for the feedback. I just wonder if there was a section within the forum (or elsewhere on the site) it would save clicking on each members profile on the off chance they maybe a member. We could also state the cost of the guest fee & when we are available to play.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are you a member of a golf club

15 Oct 2010, 14:07

Hi Garry,

As Roger and Chris have pointed out, the site does currently allow for this..........

You can add regularly played courses on your personal profile pages and there is a tickbox there to confirm your membership to a particular club.

However, If you think the system can be improved further or you would like us to show the club membership in another way, let us know and we will consider it!

Happy Golfing!

The TSG Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

15 Oct 2010, 11:10

From what I'm seeing on a couple of weather forums, it's looking like it could be as bad as last winter if not worse..! So the question is, what's the best club for the snow ?! Can someone explain 'winter rules' to me, I've yet to play in the winter (I've been a fair-weather golfer until now, but I've crossed the threshold and will play in all weathers now!)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

15 Oct 2010, 10:40

And the weather is still holding

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are you a member of a golf club

15 Oct 2010, 10:34

[quote=Roger Akerman]Hi Garry,
If you look at members profiles, it shows on there which club they are members of if any.

[/quote]

My thoughts Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf simply is not what it used to be...!

15 Oct 2010, 10:29

Hilarious!!

Were you a member back then Alan?

;-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are you a member of a golf club

15 Oct 2010, 09:43

Hi Garry,
If you look at members profiles, it shows on there which club they are members of if any.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

15 Oct 2010, 09:37

I stayed in a friend's villa in Vale Da Lobo, so at least the accommodation was reasonable! Do you still fly to Faro when in the eastern Algarve, nearer the Spanish border ? Or Malaga ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf simply is not what it used to be...!

15 Oct 2010, 01:23

Dont know about a stroke!! ......... i would have a heart attack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

15 Oct 2010, 01:19

[quote=ALAN HAYWOOD] Excellent idea Chris....I had the occasion to meet a new member recently, and had to wait at the pro shop until he turned up...he was late, but it turned out he was outside waiting to be contacted. A TSG hat woud also be a good idea.[/quote]

It was only luck we bumped into each other when we played Alan ............ but i was not late

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are you a member of a golf club

14 Oct 2010, 20:23

Not sure if this has already been done elsewhere but I thought it would be a good idea to let other users know which of us are members at golf clubs. If we state the club we are members at, where the club is & when we are willing to play, forum users could then contact us for a game thus allowing them to pay the members guest rate rather than the visitors fee. Any thoughts ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

14 Oct 2010, 18:12

What I normally do when organising a game is to PM the people who haven't played golf with me before telling them what I'm likely to be wearing, etc.

But a good idea would be a Social Golfer polo shirt!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf simply is not what it used to be...!

14 Oct 2010, 12:20

Rule 7 seems a bit harsh.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\So, what happens on these "free" inspection visits?

14 Oct 2010, 11:43

Of course, a bit more digging and I would have found the answer to my own questions... fact remains though that only now, by browsing the forums, did I come across this item. Perhaps more should be made of these offers on the front page...given more prominence. Again, of course it might be entirely my fault as it may have been given prominence at the time, but I failed to notice it, (old age) Is this and ongoing thing?...the offer not my old age

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\So, what happens on these "free" inspection visits?

14 Oct 2010, 11:36

What free inspection visits??? where, when...what am I missing??
Perhaps the info. was not prominent enough....??
More info please
Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf simply is not what it used to be...!

14 Oct 2010, 11:27

Golf was such a genteel game 60 years ago, where British phlegm was at its best, witnessed by this notice, posted at Richmond Golf club in 1940...Brilliant.

   RICHMOND GOLF CLUB
   (TEMPORARY RULES - 1940)

1. Players are asked to collect bomb and shrapnel splinters on and
   around the greens to prevent these from causing damage to the
   mowing machines.

2. In competitions, during gunfire or while bombs are falling, players
   may take cover without penalty for ceasing play.

3. Positions of known but delayed action bombs are marked by red
   flags at a reasonably, but not guaranteed, safe distance therefrom.

4. Shrapnel and/or bomb splinters on the fairways or in the bunkers,
   within a clubs length of the ball, may be moved without penalty,
   and no penalty shall be incurred if a ball is thereby caused to move
   accidentally

5. A ball moved by enemy action may be replaced, or, if lost or destroyed,
     a ball may be dropped, not nearer the hole, without penalty.

6. A ball lying in a crater may be lifted and dropped, not nearer the hole,
   preserving the line to the hole, without penalty.

7. A player whose stroke is effected by the simultaneous explosion of a
   bomb, may play another bal from the same place. Penalty, one stroke.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

14 Oct 2010, 11:10

Hi Chris,

This is a very good idea and one we will consider along with a number of other options i.e. Bag Tags, Towels, Hats, T-shirts etc.

However, all of this will take a little time, so we will look into how we can get round the problem in the short-term and report back shortly!

Happy Golfing!

Ian
The TSG Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

14 Oct 2010, 10:40

Excellent idea Chris....I had the occasion to meet a new member recently, and had to wait at the pro shop until he turned up...he was late, but it turned out he was outside waiting to be contacted. A TSG hat woud also be a good idea.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just a thought

13 Oct 2010, 23:28

After going along to a few games and trying to pick the person out your trying to meet, would a TSG lapel Badge not be a good idea?

I would buy one

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

13 Oct 2010, 09:23

Yes, the Vale da Lobo/Vilamoura/Quinta da Lago section is great but verrrry expensive (food, drink, golf, everything is inflated).

Further West (Penina, Parque da Floresta etc) is definitely cheaper and best of the lot (as I found this time) is the area East towards the Spanish border (I'd guess 30%-50% cheaper for golf, food, drink, everything).

PS. Where did you stay around Vale da Lobo?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

12 Oct 2010, 13:33

Hi Pete. I'm not long back from the Algarve, first time out there playing golf, and it was fantastic. I can't wait to go back. But it was very expensive!! We were around Val Da Lobo and Quinta Da Logo, so I'll definitely check out nearer where you were, sounds alot more reasonable!

Matt.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

12 Oct 2010, 10:56

and me... I won't be off to sunnier climes again now until next year so best I can hope for is local courses in the cold (but not rain!) for a few months unless snow stops play entirely 'til February like last year :(

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

11 Oct 2010, 20:17

WELL ITS BACK TO THE ABBOTTS FOR ME AGAIN THIS WEEK

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

11 Oct 2010, 12:27

well pete just to get my own back for making me reet jealous.... im off to florida for practice at leadbeatters academy then up to hilton head island south carolina for the ew tour national finals at palmetto dunes oops then back to orlando for a weeks r and r and golf...... playing bay hill and sawgrass and the doral.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

11 Oct 2010, 12:23

lol alan, think the missus would have something to say

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

11 Oct 2010, 09:02

I would agree that the UK has some of the best golf courses in the world (and I've been lucky enough to play a few of them, but not yet Woburn...) but because we tend to have 'weather' rather than a 'climate' planning anything (golf, BBQ, day out) is a lottery. That, alas, is the reason we love our golf trips to Spain & Portugal (plus the food!).

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

10 Oct 2010, 23:47

Yeah,I too enjoyed the mini heat wave with two other T.S.G members,on Thursday strolling the fairways(tree lined) of Woburn G.C.
Why go abroad to play great courses when there are so many in this country???
ONLY JEALOUS

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

10 Oct 2010, 12:59

I think it will be very close, but europe will just win on the final singles after Hunter scuffs a putt. It could also go on till the Monday as I think there will be some long weather delays.....:~)

Palm readings available at a reasonable rate!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

10 Oct 2010, 11:42

Hi Pete,

Sounds very good value (and yes, I am slightly jealous) but what you didnt know.....while you were sunning yourself in Portugal, we were enjoying a mini heatwave in Oct (OK, it only lasted one day!) - Friday was 22 degrees here!!

Ian M
:-)

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Just back from a week in the Eastern Algarve....

10 Oct 2010, 10:31

Just back from a fantastic week in the Algarve and I thought I'd tell everyone (to make you all jealous...).

I've been to the Algarve several times before, played Penina, San Lorenzo, Parque de Floresta, Quinta da Lago, and too be honest I've loved the golf courses but thought the Algarve to be over built, too touristy and uniformly expensive. As a consequence my previous best Portuguese golf holiday was to the Silver Coast north of Lisbon (fantastic courses, great bars, restaurants, countryside and everything at fair prices)

But this time I was talked into going to the Eastern Algarve, the bit running from Tavira to the Spanish border.

Sorted out my holiday accommodation from PackYourClubs.com - I rented a house with a private pool for £430 for the week (very nice indeed, private pool, garden, views of the sea, 200 yards from the most impressive beach I've seen in years, 10 minutes walk to the centre with bars, restaurants, shops etc - lovely).

The golf courses(Benamor, Quinta da Ria, Castro Marim) were excellent and much. much cheaper than courses on the Western side (Monte Rei is superb and a match for anywhere but very expensive)

The area I was is great - fantastic beach running forever, blue sea, hills behind and everything is half the price of the Western Algarve (beer at €2, grilled whole sea bream, chips and salad at €9 - lovely).

So, in summary, while you guys spent last week wishing you'd taken Russell's advice and checked over your wet weather gear I was either on a golf course, lazing by the pool, walking along the beach or sipping a cold beer all in 25c sunshine.

This is an area I will definitely be going back to (anyone want to join me - PackYourClubs.com has holiday accommodation ranging from 1 bed apartments to 10 be villas)

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\DAY AT WOBURN G.C IN APRIL 2011

10 Oct 2010, 09:48

Woburn is on my 'too play' list but I'm likely off on hols mid-April (won't know until it's finally confirmed later in the year). If the dates don't clash I'll be there.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

09 Oct 2010, 08:48

Yes Strokeman,but you won't find them without my help....when are we going?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

08 Oct 2010, 16:24

My prize for winning the British Par 3 Pro Am is ten days all inclusive for me and missus in mauritius in May 2011........ unlimited Golf...... any MUST PLAYS i SHOULD NOT MISS.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

06 Oct 2010, 20:34

Breaking News!

Britain set to enjoy Indian summer.....much of Britain is expected to be graced with an unusual spell of sunshine later this week, forecasters said. Sun worshippers seeking autumn rays will enjoy unseasonably warm temperatures with the mercury set to peak at 22C on Friday!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Etiquette

06 Oct 2010, 13:18

Yes i agree with that in part, but i think it gets worse each time (might just be me getting older) the Ryder Cup should be the pinicle in team golf competition and set the example for others to follow. (as far as etiquette)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Etiquette

06 Oct 2010, 10:42

Surely the fist pumping and passion contribute to making the ryder cup the special and unique competition that it is.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Etiquette

05 Oct 2010, 23:40

I was pleased to see the welcome Tiger got at the Opening Ceremony and pleased to see Europe win BUT what has happened to the players Etiquette ? some of the celebrations on course were over the top to say the least and as the players lead the crowd will follow.

Polls & Surveys\Ryder cup

05 Oct 2010, 23:22

It really doesn't matter what you say a win is a win,in any sport,with or without Rose and Casey.It was a close game probably the best I have seen,in any Ryder Cups between the teams.It had the lot,for me it was compulsive viewing,tension,drama,passion,and what a finish.To go down to the last match for the last point,for victory.
I feel the victory was even sweeter without Rose and Casey in the team,they did not deserve it,when they show more support for the European Tour,instead of Chasing big bucks in the States.They know the score,it won't hurt them in the pocket,but the thought of not being part of that winning team and missing out on this victory will be hard to swallow,and might change their priorities for 2012 in the States.
The score may well have been a greater margin with these two in the team,and goes to show how strong the European side is without them.Roll on 2012 if they make the team,then who knows what will happen.
As for Harrington being in the side he done his bit - - - helped Ross Fisher read his Putts.
I think Monty done a fantastic job as captain,and got a grand job done in style,that only he can.
WELL DONE THE EUROPEAN TEAM,YOU DONE US PROUD

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

05 Oct 2010, 13:13

One of my favourites has to be La Mer at Le Touquet, Combine that with either of the Hardelot courses, and Belle Dunes....a fantastic foursome

Polls & Surveys\Ryder cup

05 Oct 2010, 11:41

Well done Europe & Monty, But did he get the picks right< I just wondered what we would all be saying if Europe had lost. Could we have won by a larger margin if the likes of Rose and Casey had been in the team?

But it was so exciting going to the last match, far better than football

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Etiquette

03 Oct 2010, 00:11

Russell I have been at Celtic Manor since Tuesday and the Americans have had fair support all around the course, their good shots have been applauded and there have been OOh's and AAh's on their poorer shots. I have seen no applause at all for Any bad shots. Did you see the welcome Tiger got at the Opening Ceremony?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Etiquette

02 Oct 2010, 23:10

yes we must applaud every poor shot the opposition make or we may aswell play infront of empty seats

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

02 Oct 2010, 17:54

I'm in, or will be soon when I record my first ever hole in one.

Been close on a couple of occasions and I'm sure it will happen eventually, I just hope I have a witness!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Etiquette

02 Oct 2010, 17:52

I have to agree with your comments.

If you are the last game out then it's not a problem, but if there are games behind you then stay off the green!

In my opinion there are far too many people inside the ropes.

Earlier today there was a putt and there must have been five or six people standing on the green who were blocking the view from the main camera being used.

Just watching now and there are nine people in the picture, seven of them on the green.

The only people who should be allowed on the green are the players and their caddies.

My other gripe is the crowd, I have heard on many occasions a cheer when the Americans have hit a poor shot. I know the American crowds are not the best but do we have to start following them?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup Etiquette

02 Oct 2010, 15:59

I'm not impressed by the conduct of both teams regarding "non players" walking on the greens (and particularly around the hole) to shake hands / celebrate once a game is over.. Surely this will induce spike marks etc whilst there are matches that are on the course and still to reach the affected green ?

Both sides are guilty, this isn't a pro Europe comment..

I can understand wanting to congratulate players, but wait until you're off the green..

(Poults may not be allowed to Twitter, but he may take a peek on TSG, you never know....)

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

01 Oct 2010, 20:25

I played the Priors course and it was lovely, good job I wasn't playing today!!! lol

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

30 Sep 2010, 23:26

Played in a four ball at South Essex today,the weather was glorious walking round in short sleeve shirt.!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Birdie Fly away

30 Sep 2010, 19:57

"18-1 - By Outside Agency

If a ball at rest is moved by an outside agency, there is no penalty and the ball must be replaced.
Note: It is a question of fact whether a ball has been moved by an outside agency. In order to apply this Rule, it must be known or virtually certain that an outside agency has moved the ball. In the absence of such knowledge or certainty, the player must play the ball as it lies or, if the ball is not found, proceed under Rule 27-1.
(Player’s ball at rest moved by another ball – see Rule 18-5)
*PENALTY FOR BREACH OF RULE:
Match play – Loss of hole; Stroke play – Two strokes.
*If a player who is required to replace a ball fails to do so, or if he makes a stroke at a ball substituted under Rule 18 when such substitution is not permitted, he incurs the general penalty for breach of Rule 18, but there is no additional penalty under this Rule."

I think that this answers your question, Roger.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup - who's going

30 Sep 2010, 19:30

My daughter and I are mad keen on golf and would have loved to have watched the Ryder Cup which is probably one of the most important events of the golfing callender. However with the high expense of funding both her County Golf career and her University place the cost is well outside our budget. For the same reason we do not have Sky.

Basically two exceptionally keep golfers golfers who would have loved to have watched this great event will be restricted to watching very limited highlights on BBC. It is for this reason that the organisers should look again both at the high cost of tickets and selling virtually exclusive rights to Sky.

S

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Birdie Fly away

30 Sep 2010, 16:49

Today when playing a seagull picked up my partners ball and flew a good 30 yards nearer to the hole before dropping it, Should he now play it from there, or return it to as near as possible to its original position. Also what would the ruling be if the bird had dropped the ball out of bounds.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup - who's going

29 Sep 2010, 17:50

Two of my friends are marshalling, and are there now.. I was trying my best to hide my jealousy when they told me, but I don't think I managed it too well....

As some form of minor soothing, I await delivery of a brand new 42" plasma, due to arrive Friday morning !!

Ian / Mark - Enjoy, hope the weather is kind..

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup - who's going

29 Sep 2010, 15:01

Hi Mark,

I am going......but tomorrow rather than Fri, alas could only get practice days tickets in the ballot but I guess we'll see the opening ceremony too! Enjoy it!

And have fun at Bowood, its a lovely course!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup - who's going

28 Sep 2010, 23:20

"I AM GOING"
to watch it on telly!! 3 days viewing from start to finish,can't wait 7.45a.m Friday ROLL ON
Enjoy you day Mark,I will try and spot you on the box,Big Brother's watching you!!!!!

JACK

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

28 Sep 2010, 21:00

My Heart says Europe but head says U.S.A. I think Monty made a big mistake with his picks ! Whats Mr Podraig done this year!! or last ,Mr edoardo I dont see him getting a point, I would have liked to have seen Mr Casey & Mr Rose,to my mind a bit of class! especialy at Matchplay I am off now to have a couple hundred quid on the Yanks @ the odds of 9 to 5 The bookies are giving Money away they must be nuts !! Hurrah.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Time to start playing again.

28 Sep 2010, 19:05

get one of those mobile dongles and put your mobile sim in it just to the important bits

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

28 Sep 2010, 18:33

I want Europe to win ...but what are the odds for 14 pts each...???

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup - who's going

28 Sep 2010, 17:41

Anyone off to The Celtic Manor to watch the Ryder cup ?

Self and Gary M have tickets for Fridays matches, really looking forward to the day (but not the weather - looking bleak).

Heading off Thursday morning, got a tee booked at Bowood for 9am, then over to Somerset to crash out with Family, then 5am Friday drive on up to Newport.

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

28 Sep 2010, 14:43

Is Nick Faldo involved? Come you euro's.....oh is that money!

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

27 Sep 2010, 19:32

[quote=Ian Mullins]I voted with my head! :-)[/quote]

looks like we got this one covered then

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

27 Sep 2010, 19:32

Come on Europe...........we want the cup back.

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

27 Sep 2010, 19:04

I voted with my head! :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Car Boot Sizes

27 Sep 2010, 18:21

got me a people carrier can get all my gear in and the rest of the 4 ball

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

27 Sep 2010, 18:16

Think i might have voted with my heart

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

27 Sep 2010, 18:15

Play until they close the course

Polls & Surveys\Ryder Cup Poll............

27 Sep 2010, 17:20

Dear TSGer's,

So with only a few days to go, we thought we would get a yardstick from everyone as to which way you think its going to go. Tell us your predictions above.........

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

26 Sep 2010, 10:38

Well, they have to find buyers first, and in this economic climate, it's not going to be easy, so it will be a while before they are disposed of I imagine. Has CG come up with a reason for the sale??? as it was my impression that they had intended to expand their empire.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

25 Sep 2010, 21:08

The manager at Milford does a great job and as a member i cant moan (and i dont hear of many there that do), but a few free away rounds is always good ... a few clubs on the list that will be missed.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

24 Sep 2010, 19:25

I've walked off before finishing only twice: Once when I injured my back, and was in horrible pain; and the other time it was raining so hard I couldn't see 5 yards in front of me.

If I have a horrible front 9, then I just use the back 9 as a practice round - trying out various shots that I might not ordinarily try if I were scoring well.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

24 Sep 2010, 16:18

As much as I enjoy the fact that I can play other Crown courses for free it won't affect me that much.

South Essex is the only one of the list that I play on a regular basis, and that is probably about four times a year.

To be honest I wish they would sell my golf club (to the members would be good!). That way it would be run as a golf club and not for the benefit of Crown Golf.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

23 Sep 2010, 20:33

We have a few youngsters that play in our Saturday swindle,
Unfortunatly some of them can't handle a bad front 9 and walk off sulking breaking up a fourball.
Result = One month ban from the swindle.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

22 Sep 2010, 17:10

[quote=S H]This is not really a tough question to answer. Walking of the course, except in exceptional circumstances, is just not accpetable. I have had my share of bad days but never failed to finish the round. SH[/quote]

i could not agree more,you really have to enjoy the moment whatever it holds

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Burnham Putting Cleek??????

22 Sep 2010, 09:23

There is a Society of Hickory Golfers (www.hickorygolfers.com). They might be able to give you some help.

While you're at it you could also ask them why they insist on using hickory clubs - the game's hard enough with modern equipment!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Burnham Putting Cleek??????

21 Sep 2010, 22:00

Does anyone have an idea where I can find out a bit of history with regards to a Hickory putter I purchased off Ebay. It has a wrapped leather grip, hickory shaft and the head has Hand Forged, Made in Scotland,Burnham Putting Cleek plus a star with "Special" stamped on the back of the blade.
It was purchased to mount in a cabinet for our end of year presentation to be put behind the bar at our Society pub.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

21 Sep 2010, 11:15

O-Oh!...does this indicate that Crown Golf is crumbling? There are some very good courses on that list.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

21 Sep 2010, 08:53

The article I saw said that they were putting the 8 clubs up for sale (so no buyer yet) to concentrate on their resorts (don't they own St Mellion?)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Time to start playing again.

20 Sep 2010, 21:22

Hi all, i've been out of action for a while but am ready to start playing again. My problem being is that i have no internet access at the mo so i'm having to use my mobile, but when i go on to the games being played page it's just blank so can anyone help please. Cheers Dan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

20 Sep 2010, 19:57

Who is buying them

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

20 Sep 2010, 15:52

This is a very heavy blow are more to follow should we all be worried ..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

20 Sep 2010, 14:40

http://crowngolf.wordpress.com/2010/09/20/crown-golf-to-sell-eight-clubs-as-portfolio-focus-shifts/

My club, Paultons, is on the selling list. Prima facie not good news. Will post news of developments as I find them out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

20 Sep 2010, 12:41

I know winter is on its way very soon but I will play till the first snow fall!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Crown Golf selling 8 of their courses!!!

20 Sep 2010, 08:57

I see on the golf news that Crown Golf are selling 8 of their golf courses:

- Pyrford Golf Club
- Traditions Golf Club
- Paultons Golf Club
- Chelsfield Lakes Golf Club
- Addington Court Golf Club
- Orpington Golf Centre
- South Essex Golf Club
- Sunbury Golf Centre

That's surely going to affect you guys who joined one of the crown golf group courses based on their offer that you had playing rights at all of their courses.

Does anyone know how many courses that leaves in the Crown Golf group?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

19 Sep 2010, 17:47

Jack, you must know I work nights so an early start is out for me.

Trust me, the weather is on it's way, it might take a month or two but it will arrive.

I play all year round and I know from past experience that it's better to get everything out now and have it ready.

Enjoy the golf.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

19 Sep 2010, 09:39

It's more than half way through September now,and the weather is still fine,courses are still in great shape,still playing in late summer conditions.
What a way to spend a few hours,playing golf !!!
What's happened to all the bad weather you forecast Russ?
Playing the Early bird rounds over the Abbotts this time of year has never been better,no hassle, no rushing,course to yourself,apart from the odd green keeper doing his job,you can't beat it.
Long may this continue,Octobers weather is supposed to be fine as well.So I will still keep playing until conditions start to change.
Come and join an early birdie round Russ,if you can.
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

16 Sep 2010, 14:00

[quote=Pete Connon]

Handicap 'cheats' exist in clubs as well as societies and communities.

I played in the Help For Heroes Charity Golf Day at Chart Hills and whilst on the driving range the guy next to me was blasting shots down the range, nice draw, nice flight, lovely golf swing. Then his friend came over and asked what he was playing off, to which he replied I've said 24 because I haven't played for a while... At which point his friend said but you used to be 16 (and he still looked a very good 16), but he was adament - I haven't played in any club competitions so my handicap has lapsed and I've decided to start again from 24.

PS. The winning team (best 2 scores from the 4 man team) came in with 104 Stableford Points (we worked out that to achieve 104 needed a minimum of 33 Nett Birdies plus 3 Nett Pars for the 36 scores). Bandits away...

[/quote]

Seeing someone hitting it good on the range does not mean that much on the course.

I used to be a good 3 handicap (almost 2) but only play 2 or 3 rounds a year, as such I now suck and score around 85-90! BUT on the range I still have the raw ability to hit drives over 300 yards at will, problem is I cannot get the ball in the hole - hitting on a range is EASY its not GOLF!

K

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \NEAREST THE PIN AND LONGDRIVE NEAR YOU

16 Sep 2010, 13:51

Nearest the pin tournament for 2010/11

You can enter at your golf course (If registered) or via your nearest indoor golf centre, venues are listed, you should ring in advance of entering.

Nearest the pin - Indoor venues will be offering monthly prize and the top 3 each month qualify for the second stage where you will compete with golfers from local golf clubs.

2nd Stage - WINNER

At each indoor venue the nearest the pin winner will win a special golf day at WWW.STOKEPARK.CO.UK ON 5th October 2011 - there will be many sponsor gifts also - the prize is worth £499.99 -

TOP 8 win prizes

Nearest the pin final will take place on the 7th hole at Stoke Park -
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9Zi5nLiXcc)

There is longdrive also!

WITH CASH PRIZES

Enter early - as the prize pot grows and more peole know about the tournament it will become harder to qualify!

Good Luck

Click www.worldlongdriveseries.com to go enter - note this page is being developed so is quite bare.

You should also note that you can BUY a spot at the Golf day on the 5th October, 100% of this fee is going to www.visioncharity.co.uk

Please email me if you have any questions at admin@uklongdriveseries.com OR post on this thread and I will answer

thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Ryder Cup is coming HOME..............

14 Sep 2010, 22:13

Ah, as I suspected, but what is really telling is that there is noooooooooooooo response from the American contingent to my ascertion(s) that:

1/ Tiger is a fantastic natural golfer but not a team player
2/ His inclusion in the team is detrimental to Team USA
3/ Team Europe are going to take back the Ryder Cup

No response from USA Members because you knooooooooooowwwwwwww it's true...............

Get in the hole!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PS. I guess, unless I want a and full and intimit body search, my opinions mean I shouldn't be planning a holidaying in America for a while :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Nick Faldo Memorabilia

14 Sep 2010, 22:06

Hi Pauline, congrats on becoming Ladies Captain (that'll keep you busy for the next year...).

I'm a bit confused about the memorabilia - you say that the club & head cover are both signed and then say that the shirt is the only item signed!

What have you got, what's signed by Sir Nick, what's the charity which will benefit and why don't you think your club will raise the best money (auctions are great because they offer the opportunity of two fools bidding aginst each other...)

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

14 Sep 2010, 16:34

Now that I've used my new GolfBuddy World Platinum for a few rounds, I can give a short review on the device. I will make some comparisons with my SG5.

What I like about it:

- During a round, it scrolls from hole to hole just like a course guide. There is a full layout of each hole, and you can tap on any location (it's a touch screen, like the iPhone) and it will give you the distance from where you are to that location - and from that location to the pin. I found this particularly useful after I've hit a bad shot ... say, a drive that lands in the next fairway. When I walked to my ball, I could get a precise distance to the green (if I had a shot) ... but if I didn't, and wanted to lay-up to a particular position, I could tap on the point where I wanted to lay up and it would give me the exact distance. SG5 doesn't have this functionality.

- It has the ball mark feature, so you can measure the distance of your shots. Just like SG5.

- The scoring module is more sophisticated than the SG5. For example, you can track the scores for your entire foursome - not just yourself. You can also choose Stableford scoring mode, input your handicap, and it will calculate your points automatically (great for the mathematically challenged).

- There are two "view" modes: (1) The entire hole; or (2) just the green. If you tap on the "green mode" it shows the green and the distance to the front/middle/back (just like SG5). But if you tap on the pin, you can drag it to any point on the green and it will re-calculate the distance.

- The measurements seem to be a bit more precise than my SG5. I found the GolfBuddy very useful for pitch shots near the green. Given that you can move the pin on the screen to where it's actually located on the green, I found it calculated the correct distances (when I checked by pacing them out).

- The unit holds 40,000 courses in its memory, so you don't have to download the course you're going to play next. Updates are on the website, and you just download the file if there is an update (one file for each country, or one file for each US state).

- You just need to turn it on when you arrive at the course, and it knows which course you are on and selects it automatically. Which is great, because it takes a long time to manually select a course.

What I don't like about it:

- Battery life is less than the SG5. I could get 36 holes of play out of my SG5 before I had to re-charge. The battery indicator was down to only one bar on the GolfBuddy after 18 holes. Didn't appear that it would go another 18, but I didn't try.

- The scoring module is a bit more cumbersome than the SG5. You have to tap more buttons to get your score in, which takes a bit longer. Also, the GolfBuddy doesn't seem to know which holes you've already scored, and it always asked for the score of the hole you are ON. So if I just finished 14, and walked to the 15th tee box and tried to enter my score, it assumed I wanted to score 15 (which I'm about to play!).

- The screen is a bit smaller and not as bright as the SG5.

- The "mark ball" function (to calculate the distance of your shot) is a bit hidden away in the scoring module. I like the SG5 better, because it's a dedicated button on the front of the unit.

Overall, I like the GolfBuddy and am happy with my purchase. Out of 10, I'd give it an 8.5

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Flagstick Ruling..........

14 Sep 2010, 16:33

Really! Hmmmmm, somehow I knew that was going to be the view. OK, let that be a lesson to me and everyone else.......if the flag is out - never leave it in your own putt line!!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

14 Sep 2010, 13:32

OK, that doesnt sound too bad!

Many thanks

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Flagstick Ruling..........

14 Sep 2010, 09:38

Your ball hit the flagstick on your putt. Ooops...

If it were Matchplay you lose the hole.

In Stroke Play you get a 2 stroke penalty (Rule 17-3 - Ball Striking Flagstick or Attendant). Incidentally the same penalty rule applies if you hit your own or your opponents equipment .

However, having taken your penalty the ball should then have been played from where it lies but you moved your ball to where you thought it would have finished if it hadn't hit the flagstick. Ooops.... So your friend is correct: You moved the ball and therefore played the ball from the wrong position (Rule 20-7 - Playing from Wrong Place) - 2 Stroke Penalty.

Hit the flag for three, so + 2 shot penalty, moved the ball so + 2 shot penalty, one putt to hole out = 8

PS. for those rainy days (or for those with too much time on their hands) the R&A have updated their website with an excellent interactive 'Rules' guide (with search capability). Check it out here: http://www.randa.org/en/Rules%20and%20Amateur%20Status/Rules%20of%20Golf.aspx#/rules/

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

13 Sep 2010, 19:12

Hi Ian, Gullane 1,2 and 3 in peak season approx between GBP 25 to 30 Luffness peak 60 to 75 Muirfield (getting a tee time is quite a task) check their website but anywhere above GBP 100 The other courses such as Glen, Dunbar, Mussellburgh, Haddington range from 25 to 40 pounds Catherine

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Flagstick Ruling..........

13 Sep 2010, 17:20

So, there I was on the 2nd green in two......I pulled out the pin......overplayed my first put by miles........it went eight foot past the cup......and my ball hit the pin (lying on the ground)........

Now normally it wouldn't be an issue but my playing partner, an old friend and fierce competitor (probably because he never beats me!) has decided I should be penalised.......

If I take the punishment for not putting the flag further away from the cup and hitting it - rules state there should be a two shot penalty.........but whilst debating the issue over a beer with the rule book......he believes I should also incur a SECOND two shot penalty, because I replaced the ball where I thought it would have finished had it not hit the flag.......I'm claiming I've already taken a penalty for hitting the flag and I'm NOT taking another penalty for placing the ball even further away from where it came to rest.........

I hit the flag for three + two shot penalty + one putt to hole out makes six, he wants me to mark the card a eight!!!

Who is right?

Ian M

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

13 Sep 2010, 10:00

Hi Catherine, have been planning a trip up that way at some point - how much would you expect to pay on these courses?

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Ryder Cup is coming HOME..............

13 Sep 2010, 09:55

Working in the industry as I do Pete, thats exactly what the NBC contract will say. Either that or NBC will have a retrospective arrangement where they only payout, per thousand viewers, after the event.

However, whether it actually names Tiger in the contract or not (which I doubt), someone surely would have mentioned it to Pavin!

My guess is Europe will win by 3........

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Nick Faldo Memorabilia

13 Sep 2010, 08:55

I am about to become Ladies' Captain at my Club. I am friendly with Sir Nick and he has given me some signed items to sell for my charity. This includes a Ryder Cup shirt which he wore for the practise round. a Taylor Made driver and head cover, both signed, a glove and a penant listing his wins. Any offers or suggestions for selling. An auction at my Club would not raise enough. The shirt is the only one he has signed.

Thanks

Pauline

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

11 Sep 2010, 18:29

Hi, Few great courses in East Lothian: Muirfield, Gullane 1 and 2, Luffness,North Berwick, Archerfield, Kilspindie. All these courses are within a radius of approx 15 miles, typically links courses, most with excellent views over the Firth of Forth and Edinburgh.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

11 Sep 2010, 09:50

OK - well bear me in mind, as I would be interested!

Speak soon

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The Ryder Cup is coming HOME..............

11 Sep 2010, 09:40

Well almost home, Mr. Samuel Ryder was an Englishman whilst it will be at a Celtic Manor in Wales where the cup is won by the European Team.

Is it just me or does anyone else think there must be a reason other than golf that Tiger is in the team?

Call me a cynic but I believe his inclusion was a foregone conclusion the moment he said he wanted to play, not because Cory Pavin thought "he'll make a fantastic contribution to the team" (after all what a great team player he is...), not because the team petioned Pavin to include him (why would they!!), not because of a fantastic last minute run of form (where is he in the BMW Championship????) but because NBC (who paid an awful lot of money for the TV rights to the Ryder Cup in the States, and who want a return on their investment via viewing figures and the associated advertising revenue) would have had a fit if Tiger hadn't been included. In fact it wouldn't surprise me if there was something in their TV Rights Contract which said "If Tiger's not playing then we'll only pay 50% of the agreed contract sum...".

Still, whatever the reason for his inclusion I think it now makes the European Team outright favourites for the cup. The Cup is coming home it's coming....

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

10 Sep 2010, 22:00

Not sure what I'm doing with my SG5, Ian ... will keep it for a bit, just to make sure the new gear works out. If you're interested, let me know.

David

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

10 Sep 2010, 13:50

So does this mean your SG5 is up for sale?

Ian M

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

10 Sep 2010, 10:55

I have just purchased a GolfBuddy World Platinum:

http://www.golfbuddyglobal.com/

I'll be using it on the course for the first time this weekend, replacing my SG5. It's got amazing features ... there is a touch-screen with a layout of the hole, and you can touch anywhere on the hole and it will give you ditance to any pin or hazard. You can also move the pin around the green, and it will re-calculate the distance.

It keeps scores (for up to four players), tracks stats, and calculates stableford points. It can hold 40,000 courses in its memory, there are no annual fees, and you can download updates for free from the web.

I'll post more info once I've had a chance to use it on the course.

David

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Beginners Golf Lessons/Academy

07 Sep 2010, 18:40

Hi Pete,

Thanks for the welcome and quick response with your recommendations. I'll have a look at the SwingRite Golf School, it's always good to have feedback from someone that has experienced it. I'm hoping to get 4-6 hours of lessons initially but not sure if it's better to book individual hours or a block course; hopefully they should be able to advise.

Many thanks

Mark

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Beginners Golf Lessons/Academy

07 Sep 2010, 08:44

Hi Mark and welcome to the TSG forum.

I had several lessons with Paul Foston a few years back (when he first moved to Smarden). He has a nice setup in a large old oak barn in the garden of his house. Here he has video analysis with multiple cameras and an array of teaching aids. Paul certainly knows his stuff and is a good teacher but I didn't like the fact that I was hitting into a net and so his setup is perhaps better suited to someone who is tweaking their swing rather than someone who would like to develop their swing in conjunction with seeing the result!

I've also had a few lessons (2 years ago) with John Dale at the 'SwingRite Golf School' which is based at West Malling Golf Club (5 minutes from either J5 or J4 of the M20). The setup at West Malling GC is very good. They are all very friendly and have a driving range, video analysis, explanar swing trainer and other teaching aids. I only had a couple of lessons with John but he was exactly what I was looking for from a pro - he didn't just say "you're swinging outside the plane" or "your take away is too steep" he would try to explain what that meant and what it would mean to the ball flight (generally using the video analysis and comparison with the swing of professional golfers). Now when I hit my crap shots I know why !

As you are just getting into the game I would definitely recommend SwingRite rather than Paul Foston. There are about 5 teaching pros working at SwingRite and I've no reason to believe that they are not all very good, but I can only personally recommend John.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

06 Sep 2010, 21:32

Hello Paul, You have definetly done the right thing! this time next year you will be a millionaire ,I mean you you will be a twele handicaper !! I cant say fairer than that !!! keep taking the tablets and keep in touch and let me know of your progress lol !!!! regardsCarlos &( amazon .com)..

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Beginners Golf Lessons/Academy

06 Sep 2010, 20:34

Hi everyone,

My first time posting on here, so hello to all and hopefully someone may be able to help with recommendations.

I played very occassionaly a few years ago as a total beginner, unfortunately due to work and DIY I stopped playing; however I have now started again and bought myself a new set of clubs and really want to improve my game so my wife wants to treat me to some lessons for an upcoming birthday.

My nearest Pro is Howard Bonaccorsi at Homelands Better Golf Centre in Ashford, Kent but close by is Paul Fostons Golf Academy at Smarden and Andrew Jones Golf Academy based at Littlestone Golf Course. The prices are all reasonably similar but I just wondered if anyone has any experience of any of them that they could share. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated?

Regards

Mark

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

06 Sep 2010, 12:24

Hi Carlos,

Just ordered the book of Amazon ! so ill give that a go and report back , I live in Whitehaven Cumbria so a long way to come and hit the balls to show me :) but the views are great on the course !!!

Paul

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

05 Sep 2010, 12:15

I use the SONOCADDIE and is fine for worldwide use.

If the course is not mapped, you get in touch and give them the details and, bingo, there it is a couple of weeks later.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

05 Sep 2010, 09:46

Here's another one which seems to have come from no-where and is getting rave reviews:

- Shotmiser G500 from Optimizegolf

Anyone got one? Is it any good? What's the coverage of UK courses like? What's the cost of downloading UK & European Courses?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

04 Sep 2010, 12:19

Trust me people.

Get your base layers out now.

Give your flask the steradent treatment.

I've been looking at the signs and it's all pointing to Autumn being skipped this year!

Enjoy your golf while you can.

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\How to adjust SSS

02 Sep 2010, 09:31

TSG Members have the ability to add or update Golf Course Detail (including Basic Detail, Photos and Scorecards).

To update the detail of a specific golf course use the 'Golf Course Search' to find the golf course you are after, click on the 'Detail' link and you will be taken to the 'Golf Course Detail Page' where you will find the 'Update' options for the detail of the Golf Course (including Scorecards).

Note: The 'Golf Course Search Page' can be found under the 'Search for...' / 'Golf Courses' menu options.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

01 Sep 2010, 23:25

Nothing like a bit of forward planning Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

01 Sep 2010, 20:42

I agree with greg, going for the indian summer, no plans to put the shorts away yet

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

01 Sep 2010, 20:36

Russ

you should be a salesman mate

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\How to adjust SSS

01 Sep 2010, 19:59

Hi,

I entered my score for a round at Birchwood last month but the handicap has not been calculated correctly as the SSS on TSG is 71 and it should be 68. I tried entering a totally new scorecard but this doesn't seem to have worked. Any ideas?

Cheers,

Richard

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

01 Sep 2010, 17:21

I'm planning to play thro a nice balmy Autumn first.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Is Coming!

01 Sep 2010, 11:25

It's the first of September and with winter on it's way it's now the time to sort out your winter gear.

Give your waterproofs an airing and check that there are no holes in them!

What about your umbrella, had it out lately? I know mine needs changing!

Have you checked your grips and gloves? Buy a wet weather glove, once things get really wet these are a must.

Then there is your winter clothing, find it now and not an hour before you need it!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \MONTYS WILD CARD PICKS

01 Sep 2010, 11:24

Haha Ian, been to Cornwall for two weeks relaxing in the sun. OK, we got a couple of days in the sun and the rest was cloudy! Bodyboarding isn't as relaxing as it should be.

Work is killing my golf at the moment but I'm going to have to force myself to get up early and play some golf, especially as the winter is coming!

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

31 Aug 2010, 21:04

Hi Pete,Yes that's the one! you will not be disapointed !! if it doe'st do the business for you I will go to your local course and hit the ball for you myself lol regards Carlos..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \MONTYS WILD CARD PICKS

31 Aug 2010, 19:22

OK, sounds like we're all broadly in agreement then!!

Dougie, I AM off to Celtic Manor but alas only for one of the practice days but I will happily 'grass up' anyone next to me shouting anything like you have described!

Alan H......weve found Russ!!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \MONTYS WILD CARD PICKS

31 Aug 2010, 18:33

Harrington has done nothing this year so I wouldn't have picked him.

The other two players deserved to be there.

For those that missed out on a place in the team, well that is their fault.

The players based in America could have played a few more games over here to qualify, but decided to stay in America and rely on a wildcard pick.

Some players who got in the team put family events behind them and played at Gleneagles. It paid off for them!

I do think they should change the way the players qualify for the event, even get rid of the wildcards if needed. Let's just pick the top twelve players and that's the team.

All we can do now is wait and see how we do.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \MONTYS WILD CARD PICKS

31 Aug 2010, 17:27

Ok folks,

Here's my take on his picks / omissions..

Molinari : Stone wall had to pick him.. Two wins this year, held it together on Sunday afternoon under the utmost of pressure and wrapping it all up with three birdies to take the title.. Pair him up with his brother and they can mutter away in Italian without too many US opponents understanding what they're saying.. I can see the US Ryder Cup hopefuls reaching for their old "Parliamo Italiano" cassettes..

Donald : Always one of the potentials, given his ranking.. Unsure if Monty had seen his "six birdie" start on Sunday before he made his choice, but made for some interesting timing.. He has shown support for the European Tour this season, which I believe was absolutely key to his selection.

Harrington : A surprise to many, primarily due to his (comparitively) poor form this season. However, he is a triple Major winner, and an experienced Ryder Cup player.. I believe his inclusion was heavily influenced by his ongoing support and "standing" on the European tour, when compared to others in the hunt for a place..

Casey & Rose : Quite simply, their lack of support / attendance on the European Tour went against them.. I think Casey's "post PGA" interview instantly got the rug pulled from under his Footjoys, and there was no way he was going to make the team after smiling his way through that one.. Given the money these guys are making anyway, I can't understand why they wouldn't have made the effort to compete in the last two European qualifying events rather than stay in the US for the Fed Up Cup..

I don't have a hotline to Monty, so these are only my opinions.. I'm not going to judge the selections, but hope they all perform when they have to..

And I would ask anyone who is going to watch at Celtic Manor, to "grass up" any of the idiots who shout "you're the man" whilst a player is on their downswing (from either team) - this has to be the most infuriating development in golf over the past few years..

dg

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

31 Aug 2010, 09:54

Is that book Ben Hogan's Five Lessons?

If so although written in 1957 (reviewed by Hogan is 1985) it's still in print and available from Amazon for £5 - used paperback or £8 new hardback. Amazing, with such a recommendation I think I'll get myself a copy (even if it doesn't improve my game!)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \MONTYS WILD CARD PICKS

30 Aug 2010, 20:50

My understanding (although I didn't hear it myself) is that Monty committed to giving a "pick" to Harrington on Radio5 ahead of the Open. He has been far too egotistical for my liking during the whole process and I do fear that this will carry through to the match itself although I still think/hope that the European side will be strong enough to regain the trophy.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

30 Aug 2010, 20:43

Hogan dedicates the entire first chapter of this book on grip.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

30 Aug 2010, 20:40

I would say use ben hogan's five lessons (agree with carlos ramos). I picked up golf again back in May and spend 6 weeks not hitting the ball, now I hit the ball with power and can hit it straight or use a bit of fade. I would recommend you spend one week per lesson, 15-20 minutes a day for the first. As you progress through each lesson, spend 10 minutes "reviewing each lesson" by going through the steps before doing each new lesson. After practicing the current week, spend another 10 minutes putting it all together. I spent the last week just practicing it all together for 30 minutes, then hitting the range. You have to be very committed to the book and willing to forget everything you thought you knew about golf. I've read through this book countless times and feel very confident with my swing. I am only 5'9" and can carry my driver 300+ yds consistently.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \MONTYS WILD CARD PICKS

30 Aug 2010, 10:44

Amazing, quite amazing.

Montgomerie's choice of Edoardo Molinari is inspired and gives the team a fantastic edge, expecially when, as surely they must, the Molinari brothers are paired together. But he must be the only person in the world who would rank Harrington above Casey in this sort of competition.

Overall a good team but - One step forward, one back...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \MONTYS WILD CARD PICKS

29 Aug 2010, 22:12

So he's made he's choices!! What was the thought behind Harringtoin,what has he achieved over the last year,apart from winning a couple of majors.this seems to be his ticket into the team.We have not seen him on any of the leader boards this year or in contention at all.
OK he has experience from past cups,but that was only when he was playing well and with Darren Clarke as a partner.
WOULD BERNHARD LANGER been a better choice?
As for the young MOLLINARRI winning the Johnie Walker trophy,what a talent,he deserves his place in the team.
Luke Donald I remain open minded about,he has the talent on the big stage,the Ryder cup is something else,tho'
I think Rose and Casey being left out is for the best,their talents go without question,I understand their schedules are planned out but the question is the dedication to the European Tour,do the deserve to be in the team when they play most of the year in America?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

27 Aug 2010, 14:40

Actually, I really like that one Jack, I think I'll try that next time I'm at the range!!

Good luck with your efforts Paul........

Ian M

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

27 Aug 2010, 14:27

Hi Paul, Get hold of Ben Hogan's Five Lessons (The Golf Coaching Bible) read this then Problem solved.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

27 Aug 2010, 14:09

Hi Paul,

I'm curious. You are obviously cutting & pasting your responses from a word processing package (Microsoft Word?) which is adding in the 'Style definitions' etc. Why are you doing that instead of just typing into the forum post box?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

27 Aug 2010, 12:27

Thanks Jack ill give that one a go down the range tonight it sounmds like it will be fun , I am sure people will look at me and say poor guy what is he doing he has no idea !

Ill let you know how I get on !

Thanks to you all

Paul

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

25 Aug 2010, 23:58

One lesson I had a couple of years back gave me a better understanding of the path the club should travel on the take away and I still use it today.
It creates an IN TO OUT SWING PATH,and if adopted properly a feeling of how your weight transfers from the back swing to the follow through.
Its important to grip the club in a neutral position
Make sure the ball is in the MIDDLE OF YOUR STANCE, then keep your legs straight and feet together.and using a 7 or 8 iron take the club away so the shaft is horizontal to the ground(half swing) and try to hit the ball without loosing your balance.or falling over.
YOU WILL HAVE TO TURN YOUR SHOULDERS AND HIPS TO HIT THE BALL OTHERWISE YOU WILL LOOSE YOUR BALANCE.
ITS NOT EASY!!!! you will miss it and top the ball to start with but if you build it together slowly you will start to hit the ball with a slight draw only about 60-70 yards.
After you have done this for a while slowly move you feet apart and hit half shots you will notice the difference.
If you have done it right you cant slice the ball !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THIS DRILL IS DONE BETTER ON THE RANGE
Give it ago and let me know how you get on
JACK

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

25 Aug 2010, 08:56

For me the basics are:

1/ One-piece takeaway (there's a good video on TSG about this but I can't find it!) ie take the club back with a combination of arms and shoulder turn.

2/ When the club is horizontal (still in front of your body) hinge the hands such that the butt of the club is pointing to the back of the ball (obviously the longer the club the more hinge)

3/ From here it's all shoulder turn (not arms - if you use arms you'll either bend your arms or simply lift the club)

4/ To start the downswing I need to feel that I'm dropping the club slightly - if your first movement is to push the club forward ie away from your body you are 'casting' the club (as if it were a fishing rod) and you will come over the top of the ball to create an outside to inside swing path.

Try it to get it in your mind and then have another lesson - with a pro who can explain things rather than just tell you you've got an out to in swing !

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

24 Aug 2010, 19:00

Don't get me wrong, they do make (and sell) complete sets of hybrids ie to replace the entire set of irons, but they don't seem to sell many (as evidence by the fact that I've not seen anyone with a complete set of hybrids). I don't know why that is. Perhaps someone more knowledgeable than me can answer?

RE you comment about the 10 minute limit before the green man in you comes out and you feel the need to smash the spots off the ball - perhaps try clubs on the range (with the radar swing speed, direction, distance tracking thing a me) in 8 minute sessions? (as a good 12 handicapper me thinks a proper set of irons is for you, just which ones...)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \NEAREST THE PIN COMP - WIN A ROUND OF GOLF AND MORE

24 Aug 2010, 18:08

Hello,

First up, what happened to the Yellow ball comp?

second

I have a tournament starting later this week

Nearest the pin OR Longdrive OR both

You can enter at your club (Assuming they have registered)

OR

At your nearest indoor golf centre

Longdrive prizes will be cash with the pot starting at $5k
Nearest the pin - top 16 will get a round of golf at Stoke Park golf course next October 5th

If you more detail on how to enter or how to register your club drop me a line / pm

thank you

Kenny
admin@uklongdriveseries.com

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

24 Aug 2010, 17:43

Thanks for the reply Pete - maybe I've misunderstood then.........they're advertised as 'full set of hybrid irons' - and I have to say that they don't look like the conventional irons. I have tried the 'controlled environment' without much success. Perhaps I'm overcome with the urge to hit everything a lot harder than usual, but inside 10 mins I start to shank everything and I can practically see the pro thinking 'oh my god........'

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

24 Aug 2010, 11:56

Hybrids are a great replacement for the long irons but I've never seen someone with a complete set of hybrid irons. Would you not just replace your irons with something that works for you (get your swing speed measured and try a few different clubs in a controlled environment - Haywards Heath Golf Club have a very nice club fitting setup) and then perhaps replace say the 3 & 4 iron with easyier to hit hybrids?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

24 Aug 2010, 11:36

once you have addressed the ball,move both feet a couple of mm away;you may be standing too close.
Hope it helps.

Lav Jhingan

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hybrids - what do you think?

23 Aug 2010, 18:38

I've decided that the time has come to ditch my ping i3's (mens, steel shaft, blades, stiff - in case anyone wants to buy 'em!), and go for something very different. Over the last few weeks I've tried loads of clubs, with varying results, and at the weekend I tried a set of hybrid irons. I found them easy to use, very accurate and pretty consistent. But - could this just be the honeymoon period? Has anyone out there gone over to hybrids? Do you still like them or did the novelty wear off? Any advice would be appreciated!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

20 Aug 2010, 16:10

Thanks all for the advice!

I took a lesson and was told I had a out to in swing and then also some casting.

My hand movement was where I sometimes hit the ball on the toe which was moving my hands and that will sort itself out when I correct my swing.

Now he did not really tell me how to stop this other than practice - so any other advise on drills etc... would be most welcome .

Thanks

Paul

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

20 Aug 2010, 09:50

It could be the grip (see Ian's response) but if the ball starts out straight and then curves off right it could just as easily be the swing plane.

A simple visual pointer about your swing plane is, having played a shot off the grass, stand still and check your divot - what is the alignment of the divot/grass scaping in relation to you and your target? I bet it is not square to your body and straight at the target but is instead running from 'out to in' ie starting wide of your target line and coming in towards your left foot.

If so then (probably as well as your grip !) you should concentrate on making sure you are not 'casting' the club from the top of the swing (ie your first movement must not be pushing your hands forward away from your body instead you should feel like you are dropping your hands slightly - this will make sure you don't go over the top...)

Why don't you upload a video then we can have a proper look?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

19 Aug 2010, 16:56

[quote=Pete Connon][quote=Matt Culling]Hi Richard, I'm with Russ on this. I bought an SG5 and I couldn't be more pleased with it. The stats tracking when you save your scores in it is excellent once you upload it to the skycaddie website. I'm using it to keep track of my number of putts, greens in regulation and fairways in regulation.

Great piece of kit.
[/quote]

Why don't you use TSG to maintain these stats for you ?

If you enter the detail as part of the 'Enter Scores' process (fairway in regulation, penalty shots, lost balls, bunker shots etc) it not only automatically maintains your playing record and your handicap but also automatically feeds into the 'Game analysis' section giving you all the charts, graphs and 'compare' me options for free![/quote]

Because I have to enter my scores manually into TSG to do this, whereas my skycaddie provides all the funcitionality above and uploads my scores automatically.

If TSG was to build an interface to take scores from my skycaddie then I would consider a switch, but I don't think there's any plans for this

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

19 Aug 2010, 16:32

[quote=Stephen Slater]

I have just taken delivery of the next variant Snooper Shotsaver, the s320 - which appears to have addressed all the critique of the previous version and done a whole lot more. Screen display is bigger, brighter and better, the version I have is just Golf-oriented (I didn't need the navigation I can get lost on my own).

Simple upload and a choice of over 4,000 courses from a data base that is always expanding, and no monthly subscription charges at all...

Ful colour, High Res screen, with interim yardages, player tracking, club yardages... etc etc...

The whole thing (plus a wide array of mounting brackets and power supply connections) including free access to the entire list of golf courses (more being added daily - in fact pretty much guarranteed to map a new course within 2 weeks), comes in a just under £200.00 - brand new and boxed with access to all sorts of technical support.

I'll take it out on my next foray and see how it compares to my olde (but perfectly useful) shotsaver...

Happy to share my experiences and who knows perhaps there could be bulk discounts in tiem for Christmas Presents... and no monthly/annual subscription...

Rgds

[/quote]

I'd be very interested in a comparison of the two because I got the Skycaddie SG5 and whilst it's good (and apparently the new version is even better) I did like the marketing blurb for the Shotsaver

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

19 Aug 2010, 16:29

[quote=Matt Culling]Hi Richard, I'm with Russ on this. I bought an SG5 and I couldn't be more pleased with it. The stats tracking when you save your scores in it is excellent once you upload it to the skycaddie website. I'm using it to keep track of my number of putts, greens in regulation and fairways in regulation.

Great piece of kit.
[/quote]

Why don't you use TSG to maintain these stats for you ?

If you enter the detail as part of the 'Enter Scores' process (fairway in regulation, penalty shots, lost balls, bunker shots etc) it not only automatically maintains your playing record and your handicap but also automatically feeds into the 'Game analysis' section giving you all the charts, graphs and 'compare' me options for free!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

19 Aug 2010, 16:22

well if I go in September, I won't be eating anything!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

19 Aug 2010, 16:12

That's one of the reason's I go to Woburn is the food they serve,it's well known for it's very high standard's of exellence and has been quoted in many of the National golf magazines about the quality.its "GRUB TO DIE FOR".
It's a mistake I made on my first visit there,I ate to much at lunch time (3course meal) and still had 18 holes to play in the afternoon.be careful how much you eat its very easy to over do it

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

19 Aug 2010, 14:55

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

19 Aug 2010, 10:08

Hi Paul,

I think I can help on this one!!

I had the same problem until a few weeks ago - can you see 3 knuckles on your LEFT hand when its in position? If not, then try turning your left hand clockwise until you can...............I changed to this grip after hearing the tip from Tom Watson and have been consistently straighter ever since and am no longer getting the exaggerated slice.

It worked for me!

Good luck.....

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \energy

18 Aug 2010, 22:13

Yes Rog a buggy ha ha only kidding..Having played many a round with you,firstly a good nights sleep,a light breakfast .Has suggested banana's plus a mars bar(glucose) thru your round and water.The body needs fuel every couple of hours,it varies for people,We burn lots of energy(calories)and we need to replace them.Try having some carbs the night before or if your playing in the afternoon that day..Rog trying slowing down and relaxing before you go out and having a good stretch.I will ask at the gym for more tips .

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Some advice Please on my Grip

18 Aug 2010, 20:35

I am slicing the ball it starts straight then curves to the right.

I know that at the point of contact the club face is open and if I hold my follow through then bring the club back to where I just hit the ball it is definably open and I notice that my right hand has moved a fair bit clockwise. - so is that what is causing it could it be an out to in swing ?

No matter what I try I just cannot seem to keep my right hand in the same position - am I holding to tight with my right hand?

Any idea how I can sure my right hand moving - appart from a gafa tape ?!

Thanks

paul

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

18 Aug 2010, 09:23

Jack, they are offering the standard 'two round package' but split over two days. However, they have advised that the kitchen will be closed for refurbishment in September and so the lunch will not be available (no mention of a discount though ...)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \energy

17 Aug 2010, 17:19

http://wantbettergolf.com/2010/08/09/5-power-foods-for-the-golf-course/#more-74 I have just come across this and it might be of interest. Good Luck - Julie

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \energy

16 Aug 2010, 19:19

M & Ms work well, stay fresh, and full of energy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \energy

16 Aug 2010, 14:56

I take a container full of Muesli, Yoghurt and Fruit. Over the years I have had to contend with much micky taking about this but it has been like water off a ducks back as it works for me! I do have to admit that I normally have a post round snooze now though and the times of 36 hole days are well behind me....! Roger.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

14 Aug 2010, 13:38

if you decide to take the offer of a 2 round deal over 2 days I would be interested to know what the details are,and the price

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

14 Aug 2010, 09:07

[quote=JACK SHELTON]As a choice of all three course,I think that playing the Marquess and Dukes in one day would be to much,they are the Championship courses that are played on when they hold any European tour events,for me now it would be too much.
I would always play the Duchess with one of the others,on a day there,however I would not turn down the offer of playing the Dukes and Marquess if that was the only choice.
JACK[/quote]

I don't think I could play any permutation of two of these courses on one day any more! I was intending to play them on consequtive days and stay overnight to catch up with some friends in Milton Keynes (Woburn say they would give me the 'two round deal' but spread over the two days).

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \energy

13 Aug 2010, 19:35

When I remember to take them, bananas do the trick for me Roger.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

13 Aug 2010, 18:41

As a choice of all three course,I think that playing the Marquess and Dukes in one day would be to much,they are the Championship courses that are played on when they hold any European tour events,for me now it would be too much.
I would always play the Duchess with one of the others,on a day there,however I would not turn down the offer of playing the Dukes and Marquess if that was the only choice.
JACK

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \energy

13 Aug 2010, 17:23

Just Lately I have found that I am getting very tired over the back 9 holes( yes I know it comes with old age)And I got to wonder if anyone else suffers like this and is there a answer, I have tried things like Red Bull they just don't seem to work for me. so come on guys I need some help here, as I am not ready to give up yet!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

13 Aug 2010, 09:12

Thanks to all for the advice, very useful.

It would seem that the two to (initially) play are the Dukes and the Marquess (leaving the Dutchess for another time).

Sorry Jack, I did look at your game but it's wedding anniversary time so trying the old - I thought you'd prefer to have the day to yourself... would probably ensure there weren't too many more anniversaries!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

12 Aug 2010, 23:11

My advice is Pete, come and join us in October,there is a game posted .It's not booked yet,I will do that in the next couple of weeks,there is still one place left..
It's my intention to play 2 rounds there on the day,not decided which courses tho',I Know it sounds expensive for a days golf,but you will have to go along way to beat the Woburn Experience "it is quite unique"
Read my feed back from our last visit in APRIL
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Car Boot Sizes

12 Aug 2010, 19:29

Hi Jane

That would be the sensible option sadly I was left to my own devices:-)
I checked out my friends car in the end and it looks I'll be ok with the saloon......just!

I always thought Saab looked a great car unfortunately it wasn't on my list of choices.
Thanks for replying.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

12 Aug 2010, 19:20

Hi Pete
They are all great courses so dont worry which one you play just make sure you get back to play all 3 over time.

Dukes, classic golf course and a very fair test.
Duchess, tight tight tight, every time I have played a match against Woburn Golf teams they seem to use this course. Maybe a co incidence but I doubt it!!!
Marquess, absolutely majestic. You'll have fun banging the big stick around here.

Check out the website, they seem to have a few opens nowadays.
Have fun

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

11 Aug 2010, 18:32

Pete, Jack Shelton (played H4H's) is the man to talk to about Woburn, he has a game posted to play the Dukes and Duchess courses around the 7th October.

I played the same two courses back in April along with Jack, both are great courses and I would recommend both of them.
Yes they are "tree lined" but not tight enough to put me off hitting the driver and I was still working on a swing re-build and was not that confident, can only remember losing one ball to the woods in the 36 holes.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Car Boot Sizes

11 Aug 2010, 12:40

Hi Gary, This may sound obvious but i went to a main dealer of the car make i wanted then picked the most practical model for the social side as well as work. its best to make sure it all fits... I have a Saab and they have a good boot size...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Woburn - Which course to Play????????

11 Aug 2010, 11:24

I've heard people raving about playing Woburn and I thought, I'd like to experience a course like that.

Then I find Woburn Golf Club has not one but three courses! All apparently are different and all ranked within the Top 100 UK Golf Courses.

So the question is what are the major differences (I like pretty, parkland courses but not ones where I can't take the driver out without losing a ball for each swing) and, which should I opt to play, the Dukes, Dutchess or Marquess?

Advice please?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Car Boot Sizes

10 Aug 2010, 15:14

Hi Pete
Thanks for taking time to reply.
The boot on the saloon actually looks a bit wider than the Tourer when I have looked in the garage
so I'm thinking the Saloon boot maybe the best of a bad option.

Regards

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Car Boot Sizes

10 Aug 2010, 09:33

Hi Gary,

I've got a BMW 3 series saloon (320 si) and the boot is rubbish. I have to take the woods out of the bag otherwise it won't fit (I lay the woods diagonally across the boot) and I haven't bought an electric trolley because of the hassle of getting it plus the clubs easily in the boot.

The Tourer is obviously better because you haven't got the boot lid reducing the available space but it'll still be the same width. Nice car to drive though...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Car Boot Sizes

09 Aug 2010, 21:54

Sorry if this has been done before but I have a choice of company cars to make. Business first of course!! but need a car that will take the clubs and trolley at weekends.
Like the look of a BMW 3 series tourer but I am not sure the sticks will fit. Does anyone have a Tourer and can you offer your thoughts.
Regards

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

09 Aug 2010, 17:21

Very well articulated John, I dont think anyone here by any means, wants to single out a particular golfer but when things like this occur, it can only help to improve the site as a whole for everyone!

I think the idea of fixing the entry point handicap is a good solution (with any changes to be discussed/sanctioned by the TSG moderators thereafter!)

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Lee Westwood World Number 1

07 Aug 2010, 11:07

Well you certainly put the mockers on Lee... he could be World Number 1...... now he'll be lucky if he's (a) fit for and (b) ready for the Ryder Cup !!!!!!!

Did you also by chance fancy Tiger Woods for a comeback? (he's currently lying at +6 !!!)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Lee Westwood World Number 1

07 Aug 2010, 08:25

Just hear'd he might be out of RC because of his injury thing! ....perhaps this is just psychology against the Yanks......watch this space.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Lee Westwood World Number 1

05 Aug 2010, 12:16

just seen a bbc news article which says LEE WESTWOOD would be racked WORLD NUMBER 1 if he wins the pga golf at bridgestone this week and tiger doesn't come 2nd.

About time we had a british number 1, READY FOR THE RYDER CUP :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

04 Aug 2010, 21:57

Lets put this particular scoring anomoly into perspective:

Played 30/6 and recorded a start h/c of 13
Played 8/7 and recorded a start h/c of 24
now plays off 12

Has never posted a score before 30/6 for handicap purposes.
You cannot chop and change your start handicap - that should only be down to the entry of your scores to do for you.

To play this way is to go against the basis for the game - the only person you cheat at the end of the day is yourself as others will end up refusing to play competitions with you.

A VALID certificate is possible from TSG, all you need do is put in three cards with the marker named and bob´s your uncle there it is.

There is a problem with this site, in as far as you are able to re-adjust you handicap, but this needs to be done only by the moderators, and you should have a very compelling reason for it to happen.

At the end of the day every player needs a legit and valid certificate, be they club player or social golfer

JohnB

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

04 Aug 2010, 21:25

Whilst I dont condone cheating in anyway and dont want to start a witch hunt on this by any means, and being really new to golf I dont understand how handicaps are calculated in any case, and observation maybe that the player in question is a new member to site and therefore the points calculated are on a higher handicap than the players true club handicap. Thus indicating that he/ she has scored points than they did on the actual round? Before anyone goes casting any dispersions (and no one has to date, i accept) Is it not worth cheacking the players profile to see what handicap they consider themselves to be playing off, and if they are an experienced golfer who is just new to the site then i suspect they may have enetered their true handicap on thier profile.

However I do feel that the TSG handicaps do need to be considered for what they are, a free indication of how well your doing with your golf. I have only been playing 2 months and TSG have me as playing of 19, but no way would i consder myself to have got anywhere near the low 20's let alone 19 this quickly in 6/7 rounds of golf with only one round of 90 being below 100.

I do feel that if people do want to achieve a handicap (me included) then in the long run they will pay the money and achieve a club awarded handicap. However for a new comer to the sport the TSG option is a far cheaper alternative method of self motivation in bringing your scores down and keeping track of your progress.

sorry that turned out to be longer than planned!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

04 Aug 2010, 16:09

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

04 Aug 2010, 13:45

Phew - not just me then! Like the idea of having a alarm system for anyone over 50 points - that way the TSG team could then discuss with the player and perhaps come to an agreement!

I suspect in this case, the player hadnt played for a while and so started back at 28.

However, maybe on reflection he should be excluded from the leaderboard stats for July - harsh but fair?

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

04 Aug 2010, 12:12

Big difference between TSG and a golf club awarding someone their first h/c.

At a golf club you have to submit three cards played with and signed by a another member, one of which should be played off the back tee's for a h/c.

Here on TSG you can post one score, witnessed by no one and get a h/c.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

04 Aug 2010, 10:38

Those were my sentiments exactly when I saw the July leader-board, Ian. I suppose the only saving grace is that the 51 off 24 handicap calculation does give 19 (Providing the ´24´ was below 24). I would hope that the new handicap after the 55 off 19 was no more than 15.

Even playing off 15 with stableford scores like that is excessive - 15 would have given a stableford of 51.

I think on a real handicap adjustment through a club, the committee would be looking at least at another 5 shots off.

Unfortunately there is probably nothing that can be done on an open handicap system like TSG´s. You will always have these anomalies that just could not happen at club level. Unless of course TSG can put an alarm in place that brings the excessive point scores to their notice and THEY act as the handicap committee...

John B

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Leaderboard Handicaps.........

04 Aug 2010, 10:16

Not wanting to be a doubting anyones honesty in any way but does anyone else find the idea of someone shooting a 51 (off 24) quickly followed by a 55 (off 19) as credible?

I am sure the scores currently at the top of the leaderboard are all true but it seems a little harsh on everyone else, who have probably been working very hard all year at their game to reach 45 points, let alone a 50+ score.......

What does everyone else think? And is there a solution to this happening in the future?

Ian M

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Huxley putting greens

03 Aug 2010, 11:27

I do not drive so I have to get my son to golf clubs by bus some times he gets a lift, want to get him a huxley putting green he wants to try and get a golo scolership in America will be 13 end of this month is 15 handy cap at the moment so will have to get down to scrach by 16 these greens are very expencive between £1035 - £1345 he has his own money so can pay foi it himself. I would not concider letting him get this if I drove or lived close to a golf club, do you think I should let him or just say no. He has the potencial of becoming a very good golfer but what hold s him back in the winter is not being able to go to the range or golf club as much as he could when he has a long day at school and comes home he has to walk to bus stop then get bus then walk to range so is tired out by the time he gets to range.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Chinese knock-off clubs...

02 Aug 2010, 17:07

I came across this site when looking to buy my Ping G15 irons. i went through the online help system, where i asked plenty of questions to see if they were genuine. It all seemed too good as the irons retailed at about £425 in my pro shop & these were £230. I had a feeling that something wasn't quite right so didn't go through with it...I just kept thinking..'if it seems too good to be true, it probably is'

Got them from the pro shop in the end!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Handicap

02 Aug 2010, 14:54

Last score I put in before yesterday was April 2009 when his 1st club was Wanstead have not put any in since then till yesterday he won Crowlands junior open 7 under his handy cap for 36 holes he was 23 handy cap the then won a comp at Wanstead 5 under his handy cap he was a 21 handy cap then won another comp at Wanstead 6 under his handy cap went into a few comps at Maylands his 1st club now and his handy cap was put down to 15 a few weeks ago he has a comp every week at Maylands. In the comps he hands his cards in so I dont get to put the score down but yesterday looked at his sky cady and put the score in from that, his coach said he is capable of getting down to a 10 by the end of the summer, he is at golf course nealy every day will be 13 end of this month so not doing too badly

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Handicap

02 Aug 2010, 09:06

Hi Heather,

I've had a very quick look at the scores you have posted on behalf of your son and the TSG calculation is correct starting at the game at Wanstead on 20th April. At Wanstead he played as a 25 handicapper and since then he's been, correctly, cut each game.

I'd guess the difference between his TSG handicap (18) and his club handicap (15) is based on the difference in starting position (what was his club handicap when he played at Wanstead in April?) plus the number of games taken into account (with TSG you have posted all his games, from different clubs, and he's been doing well, but his club handicap will only be based on the competition games played at his club - very few).

Hope that helps.

TSG Golf Team

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Handicap

01 Aug 2010, 21:18

I put my sons score into from a comp he went into at his clob Maylands he is a 15 handicap which is the handy cap he is on the centrel id ref so he played to a 15 handy cap sky cady makes it 15 but on here is 20 just wondered why

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Away scores for handicapping

01 Aug 2010, 18:54

Hi golfers
I am a senior golfer and we play 3 of our competitions on away courses, this was the wish of the trophy donors.

Question is are those scores acceptable for handicapping purposes, the courses we play are measured with appropriate SS, our club match secretary will not accept them as he claims it is only away "open competitions" which qualify. I do not agree, how about you?

cheers

Ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Chinese knock-off clubs...

31 Jul 2010, 10:45

I suspected as much. So cheap clubs sold cheaply, nice and pretty and new but when you use them the clubhead falls off after 3 rounds...

what I am surprised about is that Ping, Taylormade, Callaway etc haven't shut them down - they've got a page 1 rank in google so they should be high enough profile for the club makers to see and easy enough to target.

Won't google shut them down? Or is it not that easy?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Chinese knock-off clubs...

30 Jul 2010, 23:30

I've asked the lads on the golf forum I post on if they've had any experience of that particular company

Will come back with any info

Edit

had a couple of quick replies

definately Chinese snides, approach with caution

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Second Hand practise nets and putting mats

30 Jul 2010, 21:52

Found one on ebay for £38 just have to find a huxley putting mat expect I will have to buyn a new one in the end

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Second Hand practise nets and putting mats

30 Jul 2010, 18:13

Don't know a site offering second-hand nets (except ebay) but I would say that when I looked for one I found there was a massive variation in price so it's definitely worth doing some internet searching to find the cheapest option (it is after all only a net to stop him knocking out the neighbour's windows!)

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Chinese knock-off clubs...

30 Jul 2010, 18:11

When trying to find the best deal for a set of TaylorMade R9 irons (which several reputable discount sites were offering for between £450 - £500 I found these guys - http://www.mygolfpurchase.com offering them at £299.

Now the site is pretty slick with a 'Chat Now' option and they quote a London telephone number but there is no contact address details and the person who answered the online 'chat now' session definitely didn't have English as their first language.

So the question is - Is this a pretty sophisticated off-shore site offering Chinese Knock-offs of major club brands in a format which would probably fool many people, or am I mis-juding them and they are a major, major UK based wholesaler selling pucker gear at super low prices ???????????

Your thoughts please.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Second Hand practise nets and putting mats

30 Jul 2010, 13:57

Before I pay out for a huxley putting mat and a practise mat wondered if any one noes of a site where I could get them second hand. My son has just gone down to a 15 handy cap he is 12 nealy 13 his coach thinks he is capable of getting to a 10 by the end of summer as I dont drive coach has said to get a huxley putting mat and a practise net to help him when he is not at the golf club they are very expencive so before I buy any thing want to see if I could buy them second hand so if any one can give me details of a site that sells second hand equpitment that would be great thanks.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Game Invite Emails

29 Jul 2010, 16:30

Yes that makes sense.

I doubt it was a routing issue since the half-dozen people I asked all received the email about the same time, several hours after I posted the game. They can't all have dodgy ISP's :-)

Thanks for the reply though.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Game Invite Emails

29 Jul 2010, 09:35

For 'general' messages each TSG Member controls the type and frequency of email notifications they receive - in the 'Account Settings' section (under 'Home') you will see that you can set email notification of 'general events' to 'Imediate', 'Daily', 'Twice Weekly', 'Weekly' or 'Never'.

For 'game' notifications (new game, change to game you are involved in etc) the options (again under 'Account Settings') is Receive them or Not (Yes/No).

The Email Create Process for a New Game is attached to the 'Confirm Details' button. So the emails would have been sent into the ether (to everyone in the area who has said 'Y' I want email notification of new games) the moment you confirmed the game.

We are not aware of any problem with our email servers on Sunday (or indeed for several months). So the only thing I can think of is that the emails which arrived late were sent to accounts where the email was bounced all around the world to get next door! (usually AOL).

Does that make sense?

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Game Invite Emails

28 Jul 2010, 11:31

Hi,

I posted a same-day game on Sunday 25/7 but I've been told by several people that they didn't receive their emails until hours after I posted the game.

Is this normal or was there an issue with emails on Sunday?

Thanks,

John

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\spanish golf prices

26 Jul 2010, 18:33

Cheers Steve, I've found a golf booking shop based in Fuengirola who have cheaper tee times than the courses offer and also hire clubs for 50 euros a week. here is there websire for anyone who is interested. WWW.Elitegolfservices.com
Garry

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \The British Par 3 championship the Social Golfer Team try for a second Midlands Title

26 Jul 2010, 15:33

a team representing The Social Golfer including myself and that Short Game Machine Roger Hurcombe are at the National Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall on 10th August.
see www.britishpar3championship.co.uk. Its a fantastic week of golf if your in the area.

ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hammer

24 Jul 2010, 10:26

Sorry danny, I've not seen that particular 'off main brand' driver advertised in the UK so can't comment specifically, but I've seen others like them - lots of Golf Channel advertising, promising great things, but the result is an average club of average quality which was obviously demonstrated on the TV by a player of above average ability (I've seen a right-handed trick shot golf pro use a left-handed driver to smack the ball 250 yards down the fairway, but I wasn't tempted to buy the left-handed driver...)

By the sounds of it you should in any case stick with the HRG, I'd certainly be happy with a 15 degree club which I could hit 250 yards consistently down the middle!!!!

PS. I once played with a guy who had a driver which looked like a can of beans on the end of a pole, unusual but he could certainly hit it a long way, just too often a long way in the wrong direction...

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hammer

23 Jul 2010, 16:22

All of us are looking for ways to inprove our game. Seems like there are hundreds of companies that advertise devices to improve your game.
Has anyone used the Hammer driver? I bought the driver and 3-wood. I am able to hit the 3-wood off the fairwood about 220 average. I can't hit the driver straight. Push slice or slight slice.
I hit my 15 degrees HRG wood about 250 average and can keep it in-play most of the time. Maybe I'll just be happy with the HRG and forget the extra distance advertised.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Area not found when posting availability

23 Jul 2010, 09:59

Hi Tiaan,

We've investigated and found that the system was appending your local country to the Location you specified and, not unsurprisingly, it couldn't identify Kuala Lumpur in the United Kingdom.

It's been fixed now.

Sorry for the irritation and I hope you find a game or two during your travels (as I believe you have previously).

TSG Tech Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Now the fabulous La Cala Resort in Spain becomes a TSG partner!

22 Jul 2010, 18:08

As members will know, TSG has already partnered with two of the biggest names in European golf, Oceanico Group and Pestana Group in the Western Algarve.

Now we are delighted to announce that the finest new resort in Spain, the La Cala Resort on the Costa del Sol, has become a TSG partner. La Cala will be offering TSG members some amazing deals and fantastic investment opportunities.

If Spain is your idea of golfing heaven, watch out for further announcements shortly. Alternatively, if you would like a sneak preview of what's going to be available, simply contact us here for more exciting details.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Area not found when posting availability

22 Jul 2010, 15:43

Hi
I am trying to post availability for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in October, but the form can't find it when I have to put down the area.

I managed to do it last year and got to play golf over there by doing it.

Any ideas or fixes for this?

Thanks

Tiaan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

21 Jul 2010, 19:02

This is not really a tough question to answer. Walking of the course, except in exceptional circumstances, is just not accpetable. I have had my share of bad days but never failed to finish the round. SH

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

20 Jul 2010, 11:43

If you want to make money on golf gambling become a bookie

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

18 Jul 2010, 19:20

I Think Louis Oosterhuizen might do it by 7 shots!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Is the Tiger scandal, good or bad for the game?

16 Jul 2010, 12:35

I would agree that Tiger's behaviour has surprised and irritated many golfers (irrespective of his personal problems the spitting, swearing, taking chunks out of the tee with his driver when smashing a drive out of bounds and ignoring fans requests for autographs - even the kids is appalling and not good for the game) but we may not like him but we all still want to watch him - he's on at 2:20 today...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Is the Tiger scandal, good or bad for the game?

16 Jul 2010, 09:59

Dave's got it spot on, tiger's midemeanors won't draw any new people to golf (communities like TSG are more likely to get people into the game) and definitely watching the £5m per year prima donnas giving there all to get a draw with the likes of America and Algeria and then firing on all cylinders to scrape a win against the smallest country in the comp was a great acheivement and made for a fantastic sporting event :( Give me the British Open every time (even in the rain)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

16 Jul 2010, 01:11

Frankly, I feel that walking off half way thru a round is not on! The whole point of the game, in my opinion is to gain control of your emotions, and play the best you possibly can. Heaven knows I have had a strop on occasion, and immediately regretted it....haven't we all...but walking off IMHO is the ultimate strop.
If you can't lose with grace, or accept that today isn't your day, then you should not be playing the game.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

15 Jul 2010, 15:10

My bet on McIlroy is looking good...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Is the Tiger scandal, good or bad for the game?

15 Jul 2010, 15:02

Whatever you think about Tiger he has an aura about him that enhances any tournament that he plays in. Not really sure in the long run that the extra publicity makes a lot of difference to golf in general.Will more people take the game up? probably not All I do know is that I have had more enjoyment in a few hours this morning than in the whole of the last five weeks watching that overpaid, overrated bunch of pampered primadonnas out in South Africa

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Is the Tiger scandal, good or bad for the game?

15 Jul 2010, 11:57

Despite all the media frenzy of the last few months.....it suddenly occurred to me this morning that maybe this isn't such a bad thing for golf as a whole?

Clearly, the worlds media has now condemned Woods for his behaviour and given that this has probably given the sport, more column inches of editorial than it would normally have received in 5 years, on the front pages as well as back.......is it such a bad thing for the game?

I do wonder whether he has brought into question 'The spirit of the game' with his overall demeanour and attitude on the course.....

But there is an old addage "There no such thing as bad publicity!"

I wondered what everyone else thought?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

14 Jul 2010, 19:52

I am in the gang of walking off only in club competitions and not in a two ball. Not very often but if im having a nightmare and i think im spoiling other peoples game by them continually looking for my ball i would decide to go for their benefit´as well as mine. Never in a four ball match as im prone to just picking my ball up to stop the pain and hoping my partner selection was the correct one on the day

PS got my first eagle last week after 20 years of golf. 120 yard shot to the green, straight in. Down side was i never saw it as i was way below the hole. Never crossed my mind to walk uin then though. Isnt golf funny!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

14 Jul 2010, 15:46

Tiger at 6.8 to 1 on betfair has to be the pick, plus a little bit of the form horses Justin Rose [22to 1],Steve Stricker [40 to 1] and Graeme McDowell [37 to 1]

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

13 Jul 2010, 10:13

Looks like my bet on Rory McIlroy is looking better by the day, even Tiger has said he thinks McIlroy is the main challenger. Being a Northern Irish man hes certainly got the links game. Has he got the tempreament???

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Charlie Wie bending the rules or fair play?

13 Jul 2010, 09:44

Hi Laurie, I accept what you are saying and he was clearly within the rules so I guess it comes down to whether you would take advantage of the rules like he did.

For me I'd say definitely not in a game with friends (I'd never hear the end of it!), definitely in a grudge match or when finding myself playing with someone I didn't particularly like, so a competition is probably in the middle - would I want to win so much I'd use the rules so blatently to my advantage. I don't know :)

PS. I remember Nick Faldo (now Sir Nick) getting to the 18th in something like the Open and doing a similar thing - his approach shot meant he had to play over a bunker with little green to work with so he claimed the scaffold grandstand was 'interfering with his play' - not his swing, not his stance but it was he claimed in his vision. The commentators said he can't do that, but the regulations official said he could. Result - he was allowed to move the ball far enough around to take the bunker out of play much to the astonishment of everyone. Allowable, yes, right, I don't think so.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Charlie Wie bending the rules or fair play?

12 Jul 2010, 12:35

It may seem he is taking advantage of the rules. When playing tournament golf it is very important to have a great knowledge of the rules. Sometimes the rules can work in your favor and you can still be within the rules. Laurie

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

10 Jul 2010, 20:08

Hi put me down for a Towel + Bag Tag & bobtail + I would like R.A.F socks like my hero Frank!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ANYONE FANCY A ROUND TODAY?! I AM IN ENFIELD!!

10 Jul 2010, 11:10

If anyone near me woud like a game today let me know

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

08 Jul 2010, 13:08

Hi David,

I agree with Ian and Russ.

Remember we all started for the first time on TSG at some point so we all know what it is like to turn up for the first time at your first event.

Everyone on TSG is friendly and we all have a common goal, to have fun playing golf.

I always try to introduce a first time person to the rest of the group at the events I set up. You will never remember everyones name but once your in a two/three or four ball it is easier.

This site needs new people like you, it needs to retain those already here. Remember without us, TSG doesn't function.

So play............

Don't forget you can always set up a game........we need event creators as well!!

Welcome and good luck,
John.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

08 Jul 2010, 10:25

If I am having a particularly bad round (Happens occasionally!) I try and pull my game together by changing things (Grip, stance,attitude, trousers!) I usually get to a stage where I know I am not going to win, or even get any Order of merit points. So I completely think outside the box.

Use it as a practice round to improve faults.
Do the stuff you have read & seen on video, but only ever tried on the range.
have this thought ' i know this drive will go in the rough, but it doesn't matter because I am alive and playing the game I love (albeit badly!)
Walk a little faster to get your heart rate & adrenaline up.
set a target number of shots to finish the round, then reward yourself if you beat it. (new golf glove?!)
Ignore how well everyone else is playing, because next week they will be you! (Playing badly)

I must say I have never walked off, but can understand that sometimes it might be for the best.

Good golfing

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

08 Jul 2010, 09:52

I agree with Russ, playing with lots of different people has really improved my game. I was playing off 20 for years but since joining TSG, playing new courses and different players this has tumbled, at one stage earlier this year I was playing off 14!

As for being shy at posting games and even joining games, dont be, you'll soon get over that and see that we're all pretty normal and we all here to enjoy the beautiful game.

Good Luck!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

08 Jul 2010, 00:40

I've just posted a game for Thursday 15th July if anyone is interested. At present its at Selsdon Park in Croydon but am willing to change it if someone has a better suggestion. I tried St Andrews but tee times were full for that day, some other competition or something!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

07 Jul 2010, 12:35

Playing with 'New' people will help to improve your game.

As you say, if you're playing with the same group every week then you might feel uncomfortable when playing with people you don't know.

Once you have joined a few games you will lose these nerves and just concentrate on swinging the club.

I play the majority of my club competitions plus I joined the Norman Plum and Jubilee Cup teams. These two competitions are played against other clubs.

Nothing more nervous than standing on the first tee of an away course with lots of people watching you, strange how it doesn't bother me at all now!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

07 Jul 2010, 12:22

Guys Hi,
Very interested in the trail of comments.,yes aim one of those " New People " who have joined the site, but, as yet have not taken the plunge and had a day out with any groups.

I think the comment raised about being on the tee with a group of new people does play a big part in taking that first step!! we are all creatures of habit and very rarely like to step out of our comfort zones, but in saying that we all had to start somewhere ! so i will be looking out for some games that are close to where i live .
Regards

David

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

07 Jul 2010, 12:06

Anything other then a Two ball -

May be they are really not enjoying the round (good or bad), not enjoying the company, fed up with playing with people who might not adhere to the rules or etiquette of the game, maybe they just don't want to be there.

I have been playing a round and even though playing/scoring well, felt so bad that I just did not want to be there, to the point of feeling sick............. its a form of depression. Same thing that Ronnie O'Sullivan suffers from, it affects me every now and again and not just when playing golf.

I have walked in for all the above reasons whilst playing "competitive golf" and have seen plenty do the same.
I have also played in competitions and wished that one of the group would pack up and walk in because they are playing so bad, cursing/swearing,having a hissy fit and throwing the odd "club" out of the pram.
(not a bad sign if it is a foursome/fourball and they are on the other team)

I would not hesitate to walk and would not blame anyone I was playing with from doing the same if that is what they decide.

Golf is a hobbie, how can you relax if your playing so bad you are forever apologizing to the people your playing with and feeling even worse because you know your affecting their game as well.

As for passion and love of the game, rain or shine............. I know plenty who pack up the clubs as soon as the first rain drops land, ........by the time they have walked the next hole on their way in, chances are the shower has stopped, but if thats what they decide fine.

How many times in some PGA tour event do you see some pro suddenly become injured and withdraw, usually when they are +6 or more.

Or are you really saying, regardless of how the person is feeling within themselves they must continue the round so as not to upset you ?

As you finish with a "so what" !

So what, just carrying on, play your own game and enjoy the round with the other partner/partners.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

07 Jul 2010, 10:26

I'd also go for Harrington. He's not a flash golfer and I think he knows his limits which means he doesn't tend to go for the big shot, just good, solid, steady play and then see if the others fall away.

But, if it wasn't for the fact that it seems Tiger is headed for a very expensive and no doubt messy divorce I'd go for him. He likes St Andrews and, when on form, his iron play is superb (and that's whats needed on the Old Course).

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG GOLFSHOP

07 Jul 2010, 10:08

Hi Jack,

Yes, sorry about that but the TSG Golf Shop has been temporarily replaced by the TSG Offers BUT it will be coming back very soon accessed from a new joint menu item TSG Shop/Offers)

All the best,
TSG Admin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \WALKING OFF THE COURSE HALFWAY THRU THE ROUND

06 Jul 2010, 18:25

What is it that makes people pack up there clubs and walk off halfway thru the round.Is it frustration,ignorance,or what i dont understand it,i look at it this way,golf is a hobbie and time to relax with friends or with other golfers is a passion,a sport we all love to play,good or bad,rain or shine.So why do people feel the need to walk off and leave ther playing partners bemused,bewildered angry, in ther actions to stop,come on this is supposed to be a social game even competitive golf...If the round is going bad so what ..............

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Charlie Wie bending the rules or fair play?

06 Jul 2010, 08:56

I think that what we all need to bear in mind is that whatever decisions we take on the course we are eventually beholden to the "golfing gods"! They got Mr Wie back by making sure that he bogied the 18th, slipped down the leaderboard and lost a lot of dollars as a result!.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

05 Jul 2010, 18:02

I don't think i'd be tempted to part with any hard earned money on him and i'm not really a fan, (not sure why), but given that he seems to have struck some form at the right time, Justin Rose will have to be considered, personally i'd plump for Harrington.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

05 Jul 2010, 16:31

With Westwood struggling with his leg problem I'm now going for Rory McIlroy and Graeme Mcdowell as the best chance we have to keep the winner this side of the pond (dismissing Ernie Els because South Africa is as far away from Scotland as the US is)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Charlie Wie bending the rules or fair play?

05 Jul 2010, 16:24

Watching the AT&T National yesterday and was amazed at the blatent exploitation of the rules to get personal advantage which raised a question:

Is what Charlie Wie did to get on to the green a fair use of the rules or do you think he broke the unwritten laws about playing in the spirit of the game???

When you're in the rough off the side of the green should you be allowed to demand relief from a sprinkler head because it 'might' affect your stance and then deliberately go one club length towards another sprinkler head so that you can then get relief from that which lets you drop on the edge of the green.........

Doesn't seem right to me but I might be outdated. Who think if the rules are there it's fair game to use them however you can to get ahead?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

04 Jul 2010, 18:18

Ps I also think Choi will be a good outside bet!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

04 Jul 2010, 18:13

I dont think you can overlook Woods and Mickleson but personally I think Poulter & Westwood will take some inspiration from the McDowell win and hopefully kick on and do it for the English lads.

And given Westwood has just ripped his calf muscle again.........

.......My tip is Poulter!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who do you fancy to win the British Open at St Andrews - only 10 days to go :)

04 Jul 2010, 09:54

The British Open is at St Andrews again so who's got a tip for the betting.

Tiger woods is the clear bookies favorite at 3 -1 with phil mickelson, ernie els, lee westwood, rory mcilroy and padrig harrington out at 14-1 and grahame mcdowell out at 25-1.

I think St Andrews will favour the likes of westwood and mcdowell because it's all about positional iron play and thinking your way around and so they have got to be good odds but if tiger leaves the driver in the bag he could also be in there at the end. what do others think?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

03 Jul 2010, 15:33

Dave, you seem to have commitment from at least 4 teams and I'm sure more will surface once it's up and running. So is it a go-er?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\spanish golf prices

02 Jul 2010, 15:17

Hi,
Garry sorry about the delay in responding had pc trouble. We booked directly with the courses.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

28 Jun 2010, 10:05

i think we all agree what we would have done, but im still confused, mesmorised as to why johnson went back to the tee............i may see him or gmc when i return in august to orlando , i wil ask them and let you all know.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

27 Jun 2010, 19:54

YOU CANNOT DECLARE A BALL LOST.

Sorry to shout, but the number of people who seem think you can declare a ball lost is astounding. You cannot. If you find it you have to play it or declare it unplayable except when you have already played a provisional from a point nearer the hole than where the original is found (and before it is found).

Oh, and you cannot 'agree' that the ball is lost in the hazard. It "must be known or virtually certain" that the ball is in the hazard so to answer the original question;

if it is "known or virtually certain" that the ball is in the hazard the player can drop in accordance with Rule 26.

if it is not "known or ...etc" that the ball is in the hazard and the ball isn't found within 5 minutes it is lost and the player plays his provisional.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Disaster Areas!!!

27 Jun 2010, 11:22

I've got a whole course like that - it's called Red Libbets.

No matter how well I'm playing that course never lets me score well, beautiful course but, for a man who typically fades the ball, there are too many dog-leg lefts with too many big trees along the way......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

27 Jun 2010, 11:16

I beleive that everyone is right!

1/ If you and your playing partners agree that your first ball is most likely in the hazard you can drop another ball based on a 'penalty drop' (lateral hazard - red stakes, 2 club lengths from estimated point of entry; water hazard - yellow stakes, 2 clubs lengths keeping point of entry to hazard between you and the hole - big difference 'cos may mean you have to go around the other side of the hazard).

2/ If you and your playing partners can't agree that your first ball is most likely in the hazard you go and play your provisional ball (4th shot).

3/ If when walking to the point of your first ball you think, I'm not sure it's in the hazard and if it's not I don't want to find it then you can declare it lost (without even looking for it) and walk straight to your provisional ball and play your 4th shot.

Clear as mud?

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

26 Jun 2010, 10:21

Towels and Bag Tags are the clear favourite (see Poll above).

We're now waiting for samples of golf towels and golf bag tags as we don't want to place any order until we see the quality of the product - TSG Members only deserve quality products!

But, I'd guess we won't be in a position to supply the gear for 4-6 weeks. So, in the interim you may need to 'borrow' a cheap towel from somewehere...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

26 Jun 2010, 05:08

[quote=Dougie Gray]Folks,

I'd like to ask your opinion on the correct ruling for a situation I was involved in last week.. I'm hoping to tell the story in an unbiased manner...

Three guys are playing a course they've not played before. On a hole, Player A tees off and his ball heads left towards small trees and a marked water hazard, so he plays another ball, declaring it as a provisional before he hits it etc.

When the players reach the area the initial ball headed, they can't find the ball and conclude it must be lost in the hazard..

This is where the fun begins..

Player A reckons he can drop a ball at estimated point of entry to the hazard and play his 3rd stroke from there, and pick up the provisional ball.

Player B reckons he has to play the provisional ball he has hit from the tee, and play his 4th stroke from where it is lying.

Your feedback on who is correct would be welcome..

dg [/quote]

I believe that if the ball has been declared lost the player must then play the provisional ball. The subsequent stroke would therefore be his fourth stroke.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

25 Jun 2010, 23:53

Im up for the towel and a bag tag is also a good idea..

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

25 Jun 2010, 22:17

Hi all,

any news on the merchadise? Am new to golf, new to the site, voted for the towel when i joined social golfer and really need to get a towel sorted out for my bag. Got into golf on the cheap with 2nd handclubs and upgrading slowly through beg borrow and steal process from friends/ family (ok less of the steal) but dont really want to be spending money on a towel if there is one just round the corner from TSG!

if you could let us know would be great.

cheers

Dave

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

24 Jun 2010, 10:12

As of 1st January 2008 the R&A and USGA use the new combined rules. So the rules are the same across the world.

PGA rule 26-1 clearly states - 'It is a question of fact whether a ball that has not been found after having been struck towards a water hazard is in the hazard. In order to apply this Rule, it must be known or virtually certain that the ball is in the hazard.' ie if the players agree the ball is virtually certain to be in the hazard then it is and a 'one stroke penalty drop' can be taken.

So, none the wiser why Johnson and his playing partners couldn't agree the ball 'virtually certain' to have been lost in the hazard but for the rest of us it seems clear.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\spanish golf prices

24 Jun 2010, 09:15

managed to persuade a group of chums to hit florida instead of spain...... flights and accom put £200 on week but golf they played 6 rounds, all booked the day before on golfnow.com

harmony   $18, Sugarloaf $ 22, Celebration $ 32.   Solvita   $18     Ridgewood   $17   Legends $23

in otherwords none cost more than twenty quid all with compulsory buggy.

add this to the all you can eat at ponderosa for $5.99         and all agreed it was no dearer than the costas.

ian

Polls & Surveys\Active Forum Threads at Top or Forum Categories at Top?

24 Jun 2010, 09:08

Yes, voting poll at top of page (click on your selection)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

24 Jun 2010, 09:07

Johnsons case was pretty peculiar, in that the tv clearly showed it went into the hazard area. the spectators said it had, i presume gmc thought so too, but beause it could not be seen, he walks back.... now i cant see under water so if you hit into a water hazard but cant see the ball, well i think you can see my problem... wise sages out there........ help please.

Polls & Surveys\Active Forum Threads at Top or Forum Categories at Top?

23 Jun 2010, 17:39

Active Threads for me.
Is there a Voting Button I should be using?

Polls & Surveys\Active Forum Threads at Top or Forum Categories at Top?

23 Jun 2010, 09:30

Well we've had a few members say they like the Forum Categories section to be at the top when they go to the Forums and a few members say they preferred it when the first thing they saw was the Active Threads.

So, lets put it to a vote...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

23 Jun 2010, 08:33

Gents,

Thanks for the responses.. Clear now if the situation were to come up again.

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Disaster Areas!!!

22 Jun 2010, 20:17

Am I the only person who has a few disaster areas on my home courses?

The last three times I've played the third hole on the Priors Course I've thinned my approach shot through the back of the green and OOBs!

It's a par 5 hole, 471 yards. So I take a driver and then whatever iron I need to leave me about 100 yards short of the green.

This hole has two bunkers about 40 or 50 yards short of the green, and with the out of bounds behind it makes going for the green in two an unattractive option.

Today I played this hole, hit my driver which went about 240 yards but just off the fairway to the right. I then hit my 8 iron to the end of the fairway.

When I arrived at my golf ball my SkyCaddie said I had 88 yards to the flag. Allowing for the slight breeze from behind and for the ball to run a couple of yards I decided on 80 yards as the distance needed to get the ball close.

80 yards is a three quarter swing with my 53 degree gap wedge.

I've had a couple of practice swings and then set myself up for the shot.

Taking my time I made my swing, and low and behold I thinned it through the back of the green and out of bounds!

Dropped another ball and got it onto the green, then I was so angry with myself that I hit my first putt way to hard and put it nine feet past the flag, so I ended up three putting.

Shot 8 on a hole that I should have got a par on.

So does anyone else have problem areas on their home course?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

22 Jun 2010, 20:16

Posted a similar question a few weeks back and the replies I had were,

If you are certain the ball went into the water hazard then you drop a ball and take the penalty shot (rules for ball lost in a hazard).

If you are not sure the ball went into the water hazard, either you think you might have gone over it, etc. Then play the provisional ball.

That's the conclusions that were reached from my question.

The main point here is to decide if the ball went into the water hazard or not! Once you have decided that question then the way you continue your round of golf is already decided for you.

Russ

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\spanish golf prices

22 Jun 2010, 19:52

Thanks for that, I'll be going in a few weeks time & was looking at Santana & El Chapparal. Did you book directly at the course or through an agency ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

22 Jun 2010, 15:47

All players agreed it had to be in the hazard.. The ground surrounding it was fairly clear / open, so we concluded / all agreed it couldn't be anywhere else..

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Anyone want to buy a 2nd-hand Calloway FTi (square) driver?

22 Jun 2010, 14:29

Anyone looking to buy a secondhand Calloway 'square head' driver?

I bought the Calloway FTi squarehead driver (right hand, graphite shaft, draw bias) and it's a great club but I don't like the noise it makes off the club so I've replaced it with a Mizuno driver.

You can see it here: http://www.callawaygolfpreowned.com/ft-i-drivers/drivers-ft-i,default,pd.html?gcid=g100 )

Anyone interested? Send me a message.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\spanish golf prices

22 Jun 2010, 14:26

Hi, went to spain last week to play golf and found that maybe the spanish are realising there is a recession on. We played Santana and got 18 holes with a buggy for 120 euros a pair. I didnt think that was bad as last year we paid 80 euros each. The top courses which we swerved this year are still stupid money (175 for La Reserva + buggy). It makes you think about the courses you want to play and the audience. This year we had two high handicappers and it seemed pointless for them paying that much. enjoyment versus cost is a major factor now. Hope some of the other courses will drop there costs as well.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

22 Jun 2010, 14:18

It depends on how serious the game is. The rule for a hazard (my understanding) is you must be able to confirm 100% your ball is in the hazard. If so you can drop at point of entry. That would be the way we play it. If you are not sure you are in the hazard, perhaps you may have flown the hazard but still cant be sure then the provisional is in play. As a futher point in the US open Johnson did it and they could not confirm it was in as they couldnt see the ball so he had to go back to the tee.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What is the correct ruling ??

22 Jun 2010, 10:50

Folks,

I'd like to ask your opinion on the correct ruling for a situation I was involved in last week.. I'm hoping to tell the story in an unbiased manner...

Three guys are playing a course they've not played before. On a hole, Player A tees off and his ball heads left towards small trees and a marked water hazard, so he plays another ball, declaring it as a provisional before he hits it etc.

When the players reach the area the initial ball headed, they can't find the ball and conclude it must be lost in the hazard..

This is where the fun begins..

Player A reckons he can drop a ball at estimated point of entry to the hazard and play his 3rd stroke from there, and pick up the provisional ball.

Player B reckons he has to play the provisional ball he has hit from the tee, and play his 4th stroke from where it is lying.

Your feedback on who is correct would be welcome..

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Great Win For McDowell

22 Jun 2010, 10:14

It was a great finish by McDowell (and good to see a European winning) but you had to feel sorry for Johnson who just seemed to go to pieces. Made for good television though, kept you there to the very end

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Strength of the Pound helps make dreams come true for many expat golfers

21 Jun 2010, 19:51

As the pound has continued to rise against the euro, and with excellent discounts already available, the interest in the quality overseas property market has increased significantly in recent weeks. Major developers are reporting a sharp increase in both enquiries and sales as top quality property has become increasingly affordable and as UK investors now see real investment potential on offer.

For example, a studio property at Oceanico's fabulous, newly launched, Belmar Spa and Beach Resort was on the market at the end of 2009 for €165,000 or, at the exchange rate of the time (around 1.06) approximately £155,000. The exclusive TSG price for the same unit is just €123,250 which, at todays exchange rate of just under 1.20, equates to only £102,708, an effective reduction in price of almost 34%. And this is for a state-of-the-art, fully furnished unit in one of the most exciting, beach-front Spa resorts in the Algarve!

Other property, from one, two and three bedroom apartments, or villas on any of our three partner resorts have all seen similar, dramatic price reductions with two bedroom golf resort apartments down from £264,622 to just £187,000 and 3 bedroom golf side villas from £513,679 to just £363,000.

For more information on prices, discounts and exclusive inspection visits, please contact us by clicking Property Enquiries here.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

21 Jun 2010, 16:04

any news for this event? Would like to play, but the diary is starting to stretch to later this year so would love to get it confirmed

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Great Win For McDowell

21 Jun 2010, 14:05

I was working last night so had to listen to the US Open golf on the radio.

A great win for Graeme McDowell

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Golf Handicap Certificate (UK and USGA)

21 Jun 2010, 10:44

As you know TSG offer:

- Game Scorecard Tracking
- Graphical Game Analysis Tools
- Golf Handicap Tracking Software
-  Golf HANDICAP CERTIFICATE (downloaded to your PC as many times as you want).

Some members have asked us to clarify the difference between the TSG Handicap Certificate and a Club Handicap Certificate and an Internet Handicap Certificate.

So, ...

- An affiliated Golf Club in the UK (ie a club 'affiliated' to one of the Golf Unions) will use scores submitted in club competitions to calculate changes in Player's Handicaps. The actual calculation methods used are the same for all clubs ie the CONGU UHS Calculation method (Council of Golf Unions Unified Handicap System)

- An affiliated Golf Club in the USA (ie a club 'affiliated' to the USGA) will use scores submitted in club competitions to calculate changes in Player's Handicaps. The actual calculation methods used are the same for all clubs ie the USGA Handicap Calculation method (similar to the UK calculation but includes use of Course Rating, calculation of Playing Handicap based on Slope etc).

-  The TSG Handicap Tracking system provides TSG Members with the ability to track their handicap based on an implementation of either UK or USGA Handicap Calculation methods. The major differences between a TSG Handicap and a Club Handicap is that:

1/  A TSG Handicap is arguably more accurate and more flexible in that it will invariably be based on consideration of more scorecards and from playing a variety of golf courses. Whereas a club handicap can be based on as few as three cards from your 'home' course in a 12 month period.

2/ TSG uses the UK SSS (Standard Scratch Score) or US Course Rating & Slope from the Score Card as opposed to calculating it based on the scores from a particular competition on a specific day.

3/ TSG allows you to switch between UK and USGA Calculation Methods (there can be a wide difference)

In summary, a TSG Handicap Certificate is acknowledged as being correctly and accurately calculated and is therefore accepted by most clubs who require a handicap certificate as proof of your playing standard BUT it is likely that for entry onto *some* golf clubs and entry into *some* Open Golf Competitions they will demand a handicap issued from a CONGU or USGA Affiliated Golf Club (so please check with the Golf Club Secretary when booking).

Finally, handicaps offered on other websites, cannot be better than a TSG Handicap Certificate so don't be tempted to pay extra for one when the TSG Handicap Tracking System and TSG Handicap Certificate comes as part of your TSG PRO Membership.

(Updated/Revised 1/2/12)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

19 Jun 2010, 17:27

I'm happy to join a team, my signing on fee is slightly on the cheap side.

Robin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

19 Jun 2010, 12:58

I would be happy to enter a team on behalf of the Essex contingent of the site!!

Ian M

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Club Fitting Service...

18 Jun 2010, 18:22

Well, on the advice of both Mark Rowley and Gary Moth I went down to Haywards Heath Golf Club where for £50 they put you through a 1 hour session where they measure your grip size, hand to floor length, club 'lie' etc and then use a piece of pretty sophisticated ball tracking solution to check your swing speed, record ball trajectory, distance, grouping etc when you're trying different clubs with different shaft, heads etc.

All good stuff and it does mean that you get to try out clubs from Mizuno, Ping, TaylorMade, Wilson, Yonex (a few more I can't remember !). Then when you've found the one that you like the best (and the computer verifies that it was a good one) they can order in those clubs custom fitted to you.

Impressive, except with a pretty consistent swing speed (irons) of 82-84mph the standard shaft was right for me and, being of average build, the standard shaft length was good and, having an okay swing plane, the lie was good and the standard grip was good... you're getting the picture. Just call me Mr. Standard.

Whatever, trying out so many different clubs in that high tech environment was worth the £50 because there were three clear favourites Mizuno mx200; Wilson Ci9; TaylorMade R9 and I've now ordered myself a gleaming new set of TaylorMade (actually my most consistent shots were with the Wilson but the final decision was based on the fact I've always had TaylorMade and the R9s - and the Mizumo - came a very close second in consistency).

Looking forward to a game next week to try my new clubs out (as long as they arrive as promised on Monday).

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

18 Jun 2010, 18:09

Those Northern Michingan golf course looks fantastic (and actually very good value for the quality) but, unfortunately, a little too far to travel...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

18 Jun 2010, 14:07

Yellow golf balls?

I can help you there, drop me a line at admin@uklongdriveseries.com

ta

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Golf Club Theft - Beware...........

17 Jun 2010, 16:37

Sorry to hear about the theft of your clubs Ian.

I've often said that if you had the balls you could walk into any golf club at a weekend and walk away with any bag you want!

Everywhere else security is paramount but when it comes to having a beer after your round then everyone leaves their clubs outside the clubhouse.

I do hope they catch them but I wouldn't hold your breath.

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Golf Club Theft - Beware...........

15 Jun 2010, 13:30

Thanks for the sympathies everyone....yes, it really did hit me yesterday when I added up the cost of replacing everything for the insurance company and it came to £2037!! Luckily the house insurance covers me for £2500 for personal items but not for the £85 cab fare home + £100 excess. So whilst I may get some new clubs out of it, one way or the other I am going to be out of pocket.

Good idea Pete, I would be happy to but knowing the way things work in this country Kent Police would probably then arrest ME for abuse of THEIR image rights!!

However, for the record, the vehicle used was a Black Audi A3 and the number plate (subject to final CCTV inspection) we think ended in ??54 WDZ.

I will keep you updated on the progress of the case but let me reiterate to everyone - be vigilant when leaving your bag unattended and check your insurance properly covers you!

Ian M

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Golf Club Theft - Beware...........

15 Jun 2010, 10:34

Bummer, I hope you get your stuff back (especially the watch), but at least your house insurance is going to pay out for the other stuff.

When I bought my range finder I suddenly thought there is a golf bag sitting there with stuff in it which would cost me a £1,000 to replace so I checked my house insurance and it was pathetic for anything not taken from the property (Nationwide Insurance). So I paid my £50 for specific golf insurance (which I hope I never have to use).

How about seeing if you can get a copy of the CCTV picture and post it here to see if anyone can tell you who they are...

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Golf Club Theft - Beware...........

15 Jun 2010, 09:42

Hi Ian,

I am so sorry to here about that.

You do not expect to have your clubs stolen from right under your nose and it puts a bad taste in your mouth after having enjoyed a days golf.

I hope that the b******ds are caught and I hope you get a great set of clubs off the back of this without spending money out of your pocket.

Unfortunately some items cannot be replaced and I feel for you on that score!

Sorry mate.

See you on a golf course soon.

Cheers, John.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

14 Jun 2010, 22:24

I'll put in a plug for northern Michigan golf -- check out the link (watch the slide show) for www.arcadiabluffs.com/

Pretty much directly across Lake Michigan from Whistling Straits, home of the 92nd PGA Championship Tournament in August -- and some say Arcadia Bluffs is every bit as difficult and much prettier due to the beautiful sunsets. Whistling Straits is on the sunrise side of the big lake.

Then, after playing Arcadia Bluffs, you can go to "The Bear" in Traverse City (Nicklaus course), or any of the Gaylord golf mecca courses, like "Treetops" -- or "Dunmaglas" in Charlevoix, "Bay Harbor" in Petosky, "Boyne Highlands" -- the list goes on and on.

Then, when you have overspent your budget on the showcase courses, there are countless public courses in the northern Michigan counties which are a half-step behind in quality and just as much a test of your golfing skills.

The economy has reduced play this year and created great bargains, great for us, less-so for the courses!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mcllory v Westwood who's going to win there first major

14 Jun 2010, 22:23

What an unbelievable finish in the St. Jude Classic last night ! Three shots behind with one hole to play it looked like another 2nd place finish for Lee Westwood. You have to feel sorry for Robert Garrigus but that must a fantastic boost for our man leading up to next weeks US Open.

What price back to back victories?

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Golf Club Theft - Beware...........

14 Jun 2010, 19:39

Wow, Ian - so sorry to hear that. But I guess all the money you took from us on the day will help offset the loss!

I left my clubs down there as well, and just ran up to make my contribution to the pot ... I guess I'm lucky that I had to leave right away, or mine might have been gone too!

Hope they catch those a$$holes....

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Golf Club Theft - Beware...........

14 Jun 2010, 17:42

Hi Ian
Really sorry to hear about the theft. This must have made you feel sick in the stomache, I know it would me. especially as I have just bought a set of ping g15 irons for £420!

i have heard of a couple of people having clubs stolen, in fact a mate of mine who is a young pro, Had his Callaways stolen from his own club as he popped to the loo!. Another guy had his Driver & his putter taken (The 2 most expensive in his bag)

I hope these B******s are identified & duly prosecuted & I really hope you get everything back, including the watch.

In the meantime I agree with your advice, don't leave your clubs unattended put them back in the car!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \SOCIAL GOLFERS win SHOW AM Celeb Classis at Henley on Arden Golf and Country Club

14 Jun 2010, 13:41

know what you mean we took some stick too next was 83..... but roger never blobbed, we only had one 4 pointer, rest 5,6 and one 7....great day

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Golf Club Theft - Beware...........

14 Jun 2010, 11:43

Dear All,

Sadly at the weekend I suffered the indignity of having my clubs stolen!!

Having enjoyed a great day at Broke Hill in Kent on Saturday (organised on TSG), after the round I made the mistake of leaving my clubs outside the golf shop while I went to catch up with the other players in the group.

Within 5-6 minutes of leaving the the bag unattended, the clubs were stolen from right under the noses of all those, both in the shop and the clubhouse. Luckily we have the perpetrators (thats the polite term for what they are!) on CCTV cameras and as such there will now be a full police investigation into the theft.

However, whilst the club have so far been very helpful and my house insurance have said they will cover the financial loss and the replacement cars/house keys - nothing can replace the fondness I had for the equipment that I have gathered over a 10 period or the loss of the watch my Father bought me for my 40th birthday!

So PLEASE be very vigilant when leaving your clubs unattended (and any items you keep in the bag) and make sure you check your insurance cover - there is clearly a set of undesirables out there who will see your bags as a cash cow and they may well be operating in other areas!

Regards

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Members who have scored an 'Ace'

13 Jun 2010, 18:56

TSG Members who have recorded an 'Ace' (Hole in 1) on a scorecard entered into the TSG Scorecard System will automatically be included here....

However, not a single one so far though........So what does that say about our community of avid golfers - We are not as good as we think we are OR we play really hard courses?!

The TSG Team

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\What is SSS, CSS, Course Rating and Slope Rating?

13 Jun 2010, 17:59

Very useful - thanks.
As an aside, why is the Slope Neutral rating 113 - this seems a "random" number to work around!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\What is SSS, CSS, Course Rating and Slope Rating?

13 Jun 2010, 10:10

We've been asked a few times what the difference is between the UK SSS and CSS. Plus what is the US Slope Rating. So, all rolled into one:

The UK:

- The SSS (Standard Scratch Score) is the score it is deemed that a 'scratch' golfer would shoot on the course (the difference between the Par and SSS gives an indication of whether the course plays harder or easier than its given Par layout)

- The CSS (Competition Standard Scratch) is a varient of the standard scratch for the course and it is based on a computation using the scores achieved on that particular day/in that competition. The reason it is used is that if it's a fantastic, calm, sunny day (ie not normal) and everyone is ripping up the course it would be wrong to cut players handicaps because it is not normal course conditions (and vice versa).

The US (and most of Europe):

- The Course Rating is the score it is deemed that a 'scratch' golfer would shoot on the course (the difference between the Par and Course Rating gives an indication of whether the course plays harder or easier than its given Par layout) ie this is directly analogous to the UK SSS.

The 'Slope Rating' is a USPGA invention which, is an additional 'rating' for the Course (ie in addition to the Course Rating) and seeks to level the playing field for 'bogey' golfers. The USPGA Slope Rating is awarded based on a separate review team which look at the course from the eyes of a 'bogey' player (18 handicapper I think). This team may look at a Par 4 and say an 18 handicapper can't play this as a Par4 because there is a lake in front of the green which means you have to drive 250 yards off the tee to give you a chance of attacking the green (which an 18 handicapper is not deemed to be able to do). So for the 18 handicapper this is really a Par 5. So having taken all this into consideration they award the course a Slope Rating which is then used to alter a Playing Handicap for this course.

A Slope rating of 113 is 'neutral' ie your Playing Handicap for this course is the same as your Handicap. More than 113 and you get extra Handicap allowance. Less than 113 and you get a reduced Handicap allowance - the actual calculation is [(Handicap / 113) * Slope rating)]

As an aside there are courses in the US which have a Slope Rating of 155 meaning that if you are normally an 18 handicapper, for that course, you would play off 25 (now that must be a tough course....)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \SOCIAL GOLFERS win SHOW AM Celeb Classis at Henley on Arden Golf and Country Club

13 Jun 2010, 09:57

Fantastic result by TheSocialGolfer team, well done to all.

and a winning score of 95 suggests that there weren't any 'bandit' teams in the event (too often I go in for Charity Days or Team events using the 'best 2 from 4 scores' system and see the winning team come in with 103-105 points - whhhhaaaat....., hooooowwww and no wayyyyy)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mcllory v Westwood who's going to win there first major

13 Jun 2010, 09:54

Wellll, McIlroy certainly answered the question about him or Lee best placed to win their first major...

With Westwood three off the lead going into the final day he's in a fantastic position - If he can claw it back (which he is capable of) and win that will be fantastic for his confidence going into the Open next week. If he can hold it together and stay in the top 3 he'll also feel very confident going into the Open next week.

He's looking more and more like it's only a matter of time for him - probably worth a small wager for at least a top 5 finish next week

On another player - I didn't realise that Robert Karlsson is 6' 7" tall - no wonder he hits the ball miles!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funny old game!

12 Jun 2010, 10:11

God yes...i was 6over for the first 3,then went 1 over for the next 6.More off a mental thing, i swear my body forgets how to swing halfway round ,so frustrating...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mcllory v Westwood who's going to win there first major

11 Jun 2010, 22:38

[quote=TSG Golf Properties][quote=Richard Lane-Blackwell]I think I'd have to go for Westwood to get one first. His record in the last three majors is not far short of brilliant and he has got to get past the finishing line soon. Rory definately looked on form with his win in America and I hope he keeps it up but I just think that at the moment Lee is a little bit closer to getting the big win.[/quote]

It looks as though you might be right after last nights first round of the St. Jude Classic in Memphis. The Oceanico-sponsored player shot a course record 63 which must put him in great shape for next weeks US Open.
[/quote]

Just to make things even more interesting, Westwood has just been paired with Tiger Woods for the first two rounds at next weeks US Open.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mcllory v Westwood who's going to win there first major

11 Jun 2010, 08:10

[quote=Richard Lane-Blackwell]I think I'd have to go for Westwood to get one first. His record in the last three majors is not far short of brilliant and he has got to get past the finishing line soon. Rory definately looked on form with his win in America and I hope he keeps it up but I just think that at the moment Lee is a little bit closer to getting the big win.[/quote]

It looks as though you might be right after last nights first round of the St. Jude Classic in Memphis. The Oceanico-sponsored player shot a course record 63 which must put him in great shape for next weeks US Open.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\So, what happens on these "free" inspection visits?

10 Jun 2010, 19:48

[quote=S H]I guess a very hard sell routine. Nothing in this world is free. [/quote]

Of course, they would love visitors to buy something from them but, like all the best businesses, they rely on courtesy, professionalism and a really great product to convince people.

Oceanico have always had a great reputation for quality and service, an outlook that, thankfully, they have maintained even in today's challenging climate. They believe in the old adage that a good reputation takes years to build but just minutes to lose!!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\So, what happens on these "free" inspection visits?

10 Jun 2010, 18:27

I guess a very hard sell routine. Nothing in this world is free.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

09 Jun 2010, 21:41

Sadly working both days, but would certainly of been interested.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\So, what happens on these "free" inspection visits?

09 Jun 2010, 19:20

As TSG members will know, we have negotiated some great deals with our partners, Oceanico Group and Pestana Group. As part of our agreement, we are able to offer some fantastic inspection visits with a host of benefits, from free golf on some of Europe's top courses, to free accommodation and much more.

Understandably, there has been great interest shown from TSG members with many either booked up for a visit over the next few weeks or who have already completed your trips. So, what sort of experience can you expect when you are there?

Well, we asked the thoughts of one of our first members to take advantage of the offers, Geoff Saunders, who has recently returned from Oceanico's amazing Amendoeira Golf Resort. Geoff said of his visit: "Both myself and my guest had a great experience at Oceanico's O'Connor course and were looked after by friendly and competent staff. Many thanks for the introduction".

Both Oceanico and Pestana want you to enjoy your time with them and to be, as we are sure you will be, impressed by the fantastic facilities and properties available. There is no hard sell, just completely professional, knowledgeable and friendly staff to help answer your questions.

For any other members wanting to take advantage of these fantastic deals, please contact us here.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funny old game!

09 Jun 2010, 19:12

'consistently inconsistent' I like that as a description for lots of things, I'll no doubt be using that phrase many times in the future :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

09 Jun 2010, 19:10

Definitely put me (and a team) down as long as the venue is in the Surrey/Kent/Essex area

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

09 Jun 2010, 19:07

Sounds like fun - I'll try to organise my team and let you know.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Yellow Ball Competition

09 Jun 2010, 13:30

I'm thinking of running a Yellow Ball Comp, so I'm putting the feelers out to see if anyone would be interested.

The teams would consist of 3, one captain and two others, the combined handicap of the team when divided by 3 should be between 20 - 24 and each player would then play off 3/4 of their handicap

If you fancy having a go then let me know. What I need to know is:-
HOW MANY TEAMS SO GET TOGETHER NOMINATE A CAPTAIN AND HAVE THEM E-MAIL ME
so I can judge the response and see if it's is worth running
The Date would be 11th - 12th September Venue and Cost TBA

Cheers Dave

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \SOCIAL GOLFERS win SHOW AM Celeb Classis at Henley on Arden Golf and Country Club

08 Jun 2010, 16:42

I am pleased to report that a Social Golfer team, including two community members, myself and Roger Hurcombe joined by my Golf Director Steve Skitt and Floridian Golfing Partner Rich Poore compiled a massive 95 points in the better two ball stableford and won this prestigious event.

Roger was quite imperious on the day, with a wonderful solid display which saw him score 41 points personally. I scored 33 points, Steve 32 and Rich 39....... a great Days Golf followed by super black tie evening presentation when we celebrated in great style.

Ian W Halliwell

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funny old game!

07 Jun 2010, 21:39

I've always found golf to be consistently inconsistent.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantastic Free Four Day Visit to an amazing Pestana Golf Resort

07 Jun 2010, 18:01

Not particularly new, Peter - it was initially built in the early 1990's with Nick Price as co-designer.

It's a lovely course with some really nice properties available around it. You can see more details at www.pestanagolf.com/en/courses/gramacho.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funny old game!

07 Jun 2010, 13:29

My trouble is that I can play like an absolute beginner and like a pro on the same hole never mind during the same round!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Exclusive Investment Opportunity - available only until 12th June

07 Jun 2010, 13:22

If any other members want to take advantage of this offer or they want to join the information day at the Pestana hotel in Chelsea, London they better act fast beacuse it's on 12th June.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantastic Free Four Day Visit to an amazing Pestana Golf Resort

07 Jun 2010, 13:18

I've played Vale da Pinta, it's a lovely course well recommended (and the villas around it looked pretty good too) - http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewcourse.aspx?id=53621

Never heard of Quinta do Gramacho, is it a new one?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funny old game!

06 Jun 2010, 20:50

yes mate funny old game! I am alwasy amazed that one minute i seem to play like a beginner the next i am playing out of my skin!

Consistancy, dont ya just love it!!! lol

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funny old game!

06 Jun 2010, 10:37

I played the Priors course last Friday and when I arrived on the 11th tee I was one under par for my handicap.

The 11th hole is a short par five, but the green is an island so it requires a very good drive to have any chance to go for the green in two!

Having played this hole many times I take a three iron then lay-up short of the green. I'd rather do the three iron, eight iron option than hit my driver and have to lay-up with a gap wedge!

So I'm playing well and the sun is shining.

I take my three iron and hook my golf ball into the rough on the left of the fairway. After a few harsh words with myself I take a provisional ball, and do exactly the same thing. Now I'm really annoyed at myself!

I start walking towards where my golf balls have gone into the rough saying to myself that I'm bound to find one of those two balls!

Withing fifteen seconds of looking I have found my first ball and it's not in a bad position. It took me a couple more minutes to find my second ball (nobody behind me).

So having found my first golf ball and having a chance to get a full swing at it I'm feeling much better.

Well I hit a pitching wedge out of the rough over a tree in front of me, straight onto the fairway.

Standing at my golf ball I look at my SkyCaddie and it's telling me it's 145 yards to the flag, slightly downhill but with a breeze blowing towards me. It's a nice, smooth seven iron for me, no need to hit it hard, just a nice, smooth swing.

I hit a great shot (even if I say so myself!), straight at the flag. The ball landed about ten feet short and took one bounce and ended up about four feet past the flag.

Taking my time with the putt I rolled it into the middle of the cup for a birdie, what a funny, old game golf can be!

So I'm now two under my handicap as I don't get a shot on this hole!

Went on to shoot a 77 (par 70, sss 68) and reduced my handicap by 0.6

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

05 Jun 2010, 15:06

I had a few lessons with John Dale down at West Malling GC. He bothered to explain the mechanics of the swing and then changed my swing plane which has made me much more consistent. Roll on the summer and handicap reduction...

Anyone looking for a coach Id thoroughly recommend John (if he's still there !)

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantastic Free Four Day Visit to an amazing Pestana Golf Resort

05 Jun 2010, 12:46

The offer is available for either Vale da Pinta or Quinta do Gramacho, although both are subject to availability of course.

Once a member has registered interest in an inspection visit, we just need some basic information - including a preference for resort - before being able to confirm dates and other details with Pestana.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Would you choose England to win the Football World Cup?

05 Jun 2010, 10:03

Have you seen the advert on here with the World Cup offer from Your Golf Travel. I haven't read it properly but it seems to offer your money back if you book a golf holiday to the country which goes on to win the Football World Cup.

All I can say is that if people are deciding where to go for a golf holiday based on the chance of getting their money back if that country wins the world cup then Spain and Holland are looking a damn sight more attractive than England!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantastic Free Four Day Visit to an amazing Pestana Golf Resort

05 Jun 2010, 09:21

Which Pestana golf resort is this?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Kent Members - Fancy a 'Two Game Eclectic' Competition?

04 Jun 2010, 16:38

I could be interested, depending on the dates. I can only do mid- weeks though.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantastic Free Four Day Visit to an amazing Pestana Golf Resort

04 Jun 2010, 15:21

For a very limited period, TSG has negotiated a fantastic three-night, four day inspection trip to one of Pestana's fabulous golf resort properties. With prices from little more than €200,000 for a two bedroom apartment, this is a truly amazing opportunity to buy into a dream holiday lifestyle.

The TSG/Pestana Inspection Visit includes the following fabulous schedule:

Day 1

Airport pick up
Resort introduction and orientation
Dinner

Day 2

Breakfast at club house (on terrace when possible)
Buying procedure explained and questions answered
Tour properties
Lunch
Tour local area, - Monchique, Lagoa, Portimão, beaches
Dinner

Day 3

Breakfast
Golf/Beauty treatments
Lunch
Review your property choices and options
Dinner (Champagne celebration either brought to your villa or at the Club House)

Day 4

Breakfast
Having made reservation, choice of golf/beauty treatment/beach or property tour
Lift to airport

Includes:
Accommodation, food and golf/beauty treatments.

This fantastic offer is available for a limited period only so, to be sure to make your reservation, please contact us as soon as possible.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

04 Jun 2010, 12:11

In that case....BRAVO mate.....well done.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\TSG Exclusive Investment Opportunity - available only until 12th June

03 Jun 2010, 12:00

You already know about the fantastic property prices available to TSG Members at two of the Algarve's finest golf resorts.

We are now able to offer an even more exciting opportunity for the serious property investor.

For a very limited period, we have agreed a discount of 35% for investors buying at least two properties at any of Pestana's exclusive golf resorts.

Finance of up to 75% of valuation will be available at extremely low rates to qualifying applicants PLUS rental options can be offered to offset any cost of borrowing.

This exceptional deal will be available only until the 12th of June on which date senior representatives of Pestana Group will be in the UK, inviting potential investors to an exclusive briefing at their flagship UK hotel, the Pestana Chelsea Bridge.

For members wanting more information about this unique deal, or who wish to express interest in meeting Pestana's senior management in London on the 12th of June, please contact us

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Kent Members - Fancy a 'Two Game Eclectic' Competition?

03 Jun 2010, 09:51

Problem with allowing people to play whenever and mark the card is that it works for the first game but you really want everyone together for the second/final match so that you can sit in the sun with a cold drink, tally up the cards and announce me (oops), announce the winner...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

03 Jun 2010, 09:37

I have to use my club handicap in all official competitions!

The Jubilee Cup singles players all play off scratch, no shots to any players so on this game my handicap didn't matter, it was real golf!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Kent Members - Fancy a 'Two Game Eclectic' Competition?

02 Jun 2010, 20:55

count me in broke hill if a choice.

do we all have to play together or can we arrange a couple of games with tsg members to mark card within a set period ie July? I prefer to play in the week but i know other people prefer weekends.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How to top the TSG Leader board?

02 Jun 2010, 12:42

The system only includes scores from members who have submitted, at least, three scores into TSG and, whilst I wouldn't want to play the man off of 28, he did get himself cut to 23 for the score in question...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How to top the TSG Leader board?

02 Jun 2010, 10:46

Join on a dodgy handicap & score 50 points! Enough said!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

01 Jun 2010, 19:08

Off which handicap were you playing Russ - TSG or SAGC ??? ;-)

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantastic Property Finance - Now available in the UK for TSG members

01 Jun 2010, 11:39

To complement the fantastic property deals now available through TSG, we can now announce even more amazing finance deals, available here in the UK.

Banco Espirito Santo (BES) is one of Portugal's most respected banks, offering exceptional loan facilities to TSG members from as low as 2.5% p.a. Mortgages are available on an standard variable, fixed rate or interest only basis. Better still, applications are processed here in the UK, making it as easy to apply as it's possible to be.

With repayments for a 2 bedroom apartment on one of Europe's finest golf Resorts now from as little as £380 per month, and with the prospect of strong rental income in return, the combination of great property, great prices and fantastic finance options is hard to beat. For more information, please click here to contact us

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Kent Members - Fancy a 'Two Game Eclectic' Competition?

31 May 2010, 07:27

worth the drive if i'm off i'm up for it ... broke hill ... crown member

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

30 May 2010, 21:17

I take it all back!

Played in the Jubilee Cup today and won my match 6 & 4, was dormie 7.

Hitting everything much straighter than before and my pitching, chipping and putting was on fire.

The lesson certainly got me back on track.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

30 May 2010, 21:14

I phoned Hank but he said that as I only had a wife, and no mistress then he couldn't help me!!!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

30 May 2010, 09:34

I had my first ever golf lesson a few weeks ago. I was shown how to have a stronger wrist by showing more knuckles etc & had my stance & swing plane adjusted.... I hit some very nice 6 irons during the session. I then went out with my son in a buggy & played the front 9 on Waterloo (Sherfield oaks) & took 41 shots equalling my best ever 9........... Since then I have played a lot more steady & have dropped to 18 HC on here.....I also bought some G15 irons which might also have made a difference!

So basically I am in the group ' Yes to a lesson' but listen & remember what you are told & keep doing it, & keep practising.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

29 May 2010, 22:11

Hi Russ

if you cant track down your golf pro try this guy ------------Hank Haney----------------, I hear he is looking for work and may improve your game.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Kent Members - Fancy a 'Two Game Eclectic' Competition?

29 May 2010, 18:08

I'm interested but I'd need to know the dates before I could put my name down.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Lesson Disasters!

29 May 2010, 17:42

Had my first golf lesson for about five months this morning.

I've only left it this long as it's been difficult to tie down the golf pro but I got there eventually!

My golf game hasn't been too good lately, playing OK but just not scoring!!!

So I turned up this morning for my lesson only to find out that I couldn't hit a thing.

It turns out that I've gradually started to swing the golf club further and further around my body.

So the pro puts me right and I start to swing the golf club on the correct plane, only to find out that I then cannot get a good contact with the ball!

This is not good news as I had arranged for my matchplay singles game to take place this afternoon.

When I have a golf lesson I always stay on after for about an hour just to continue with what I've been taught. So I continued to do what the pro had shown me and it started to come together.

At the end of the session I was back to swinging the club on the correct plane and striking the ball really well.

I was playing a guy who plays off an eight handicap and lost my matchplay singles 2 up, but not too sad. I played well enough and he played well below his handicap.

More practice required I think and maybe I shouldn't book a golf lesson on the day of a competition!

Russ

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

29 May 2010, 14:33

Golf Towel YES,Bag Tag Yes,has anyone mentioned Polo Shirts embroidered with TSG Logo,sleeveless pullovers it goes on :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Kent Members - Fancy a 'Two Game Eclectic' Competition?

29 May 2010, 10:19

Any one up for a two game 'eclectic' competitions ie where you play the same course twice and then select your best score from the two rounds for each hole.

I'm open for suggestions but I'd propose either Broke Hill (Crown course and accept Open Fairrways discount card); Red Libbets (accept Open Fairways discount card) or West Malling (£25 for a great course).

I'd say £5 per entrant giving winner, 2nd and 3rd a payout.

If you fancy joining it then check out the TSG Golf Group - KENT 2010 TWO GAME ECLECTIC COMPETITION - http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/viewgroup.aspx?id=79

Up for it?

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

29 May 2010, 09:08

Sorry for the delay in responding to Greg but...

Greg, I think the reason that there have been nearly 200 views of this thread but only 20 people voted is that the system tries to be helpful when you click on a forum thread and positions you at the most recent addition ie at the bottom. Whereas the Poll is at the top !

We're investigating options. In the interim I'll change the heading to make it more obvious that there is a POLL here for members to express their views.

Roly, did I understand it correctly that you're asking for a pink towel?

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

28 May 2010, 09:15

Hi Roly - I think if you look at my card I played to my exact handicap so El Bandito can fly out of the window. Nice pink for a towel - yes I'll go for that to liven things up a bit!

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

27 May 2010, 22:07

Hi Linda

Thought you would have a towel in the Mexican national colours with a sombrero & a mask embroidered into it....El Bandito.....Failing that something in a nice pink!

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

27 May 2010, 21:36

Golf towel in black sounds with green TSG logo good to me - I would buy one.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

26 May 2010, 19:25

Perhaps the forum header leads them to believe that these might be free!! I have 3 towels attached to my bag, so don't really need another.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

25 May 2010, 20:38

Why has this topic had 161 views, but only 13 votes.........is this another case of voter apathy?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros - Help Needed

25 May 2010, 09:37

Hi, Just a quick report on the day. Weather hot, course in good condition greens were good. Our team played extremely well and got 94 points which would have been in the frame at most events. But we had a great day, good laughs and managed to get two balls out of four on the green at the beat the pro on the 17th par 3 (another £20 lost!). Had a few beers after and the meal which again was good. Didnt stay for the evening entertainment but the singer they had lined seemed professional.

Overall a great day was had by our team and really liked the format. Best 2 from 4 allows everyone to have a mishap hoping the other team members take up the slack. Dont think we could have done much better and looking back at the card couldnt see us getting anywhere near the winning score of 104.

Hope they raised plenty of cash on the day.

Steve

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

25 May 2010, 09:17

Hi, as with Russell i voted for the towel but would be interested in the cap as well

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Disappointing PGA tournament at Wentworth

24 May 2010, 15:30

I agree Alan - see my post under the "Changes at Wentworth" thread.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Disappointing PGA tournament at Wentworth

24 May 2010, 12:19

Was anyone else disappointed, not only at the quality of play, but also the attitude of the players at the PGA last week? Contrast the event with those in the US where roars of approval ring out for great shots...at Wentworth, there were no great shots to shout about and only luke warm applause all the way round. Luke Donalds comment, that he might, MIGHT, be disappointed for a couple of days, but there's always tomorrow....a similar statement to that given by Westwood at the US open, says it all. These players will never be major winners. There didn't appear to be any fight in any of them. Just playing for a decent pay cheque perhaps? Lets face it...a couple of tournaments a month, even making the cut will earn them £10,000 min. That with appearance fees and sponsorship deals, puts even journeymen in the millionaire bracket.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

24 May 2010, 10:52

If you're interested in Open Fairways then quote 'TSG' when you get a quote as TSG Members get discounts with them

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

24 May 2010, 00:26

Roger, the Open Fairways deal is very good too, can save bundles...but you always need to be a twosome at least. If you havent done so , have a look at their website, via the Daily Telegraph...they publish several prices....I have gone with a 12 month deal, where they give me a 3 month free trial...cost if I remember correctly was £49

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Changes at Wentworth

23 May 2010, 20:57

I agree Roger.
I have enjoyed the tournament more this year seeing the Pro's "struggle" with the additional challenges that they now face, and feel that -6 is a much more appropriate winning score than has hitherto been the case.
I was though disappointed in the standard of play on the final day (today), with so many of the leading players coming in well over par for their final round - I'm not sure that this can be "blamed" on the course especially when Karlsson shot -9 yesterday!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Changes at Wentworth

23 May 2010, 19:25

What do we all think about the changes to the course at Wentworth? Do you think they have made it more of a spectacle for the spectators in particular the 8th & 18th ?

I know that the likes of Westwood and Co. have been critical of the change, but should golf courses be designed for the professional golfer or the viewing public?

I think the changes have made Wentworth a much tougher course for the pros, and more of a theatre for the public so well done Ernie.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

23 May 2010, 09:48

Put me down for a towel.....

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

22 May 2010, 17:55

Yes, towel or bag-tag (or both!)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

22 May 2010, 13:21

Alan I agree that the cost are taking a toll on our pensions, you are lucky to have crown courses near you the nearest one to me is a 50 mile drive and with the cost of fuel it makes you think twice about where you play these days. I do belong to a club but also I enjoy playing different course, Or Did

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

22 May 2010, 12:53

I agree with most of the posts here, but for me, and I believe many like me, golf has become quite expensive, taking into account not only green fees, which are £28-£30 at weekends, but the cost of travel etc., £50 incl. a day is the norm, and on my pension, which has been squeezed dramatically, I have to be very circumspect when I decide where and when I play. Crown Golf does help in that for a flat rate, I have the option of playing as often as I like at several courses in my area.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

22 May 2010, 10:48

Golf towel sounds good to me and black would match my new bag! However would also happily have a bag tag too!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Fantastic Day at Help The Heroes Charity Day, Chart Hills

22 May 2010, 08:16

As Pete has already said, the day at chart hills was a fantastic event enjoyed by all. I would like to say a special thanks to both Mark and Graham for attending at such short notice, much appreciated guys. certainly roll on for future entries to this charity day.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

22 May 2010, 08:10

Love a towel

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

21 May 2010, 20:00

Neil, where are you?

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

21 May 2010, 19:56

towel and tag, or a nice smart polo shirt.

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

21 May 2010, 19:10

Yes to the towel, Like Russ would be interested in a cap at the right price

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

21 May 2010, 16:07

I know I havent listed much this month just gone as work has got in the way ( GRRR! ) surrey crown will be back with a vengence in june .. think maybe time to get someone (RR,NW) anyone involved in listing games with me , as in joint captain . maybe even slip jobs a weekend and a midweek captain ?

happy for any help .. it still is as its always been ... about great golf days and a good turn out

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

21 May 2010, 15:40

Golf towel at £6 delivered, yes please.

Bag tag, not interested.

Cap, if the price is right!

Russ

PS - Voted for the towel as it wouldn't let me vote for two things!!! lol

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

21 May 2010, 14:06

bag tag .. 100%

Polls & Surveys\Member POLL Question - How many Members want a TSG Golf Towel?

21 May 2010, 12:58

We keep getting asked why we don't organise some form of TSG emblazoned golf accessory (towel, bag-tag, cap, golf balls etc) because it would be useful and help identify other TSG Members at the golf club.

We can't do the golf balls because the TSG Logo is too big for the printable area.

Any of the other options could be supplied at realistic prices if we can secure bulk discounts (and if only 5% of TSG Members want something that would give us massive buying power!).

I've had a price for the 'Tri-fold' towel in black and, based on sufficient numbers, it would come in at about £6 / €8 / $10 inc postage, but we need to know if it's just a few people who would want one or lots of people.

Your votes please.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Fantastic Day at Help The Heroes Charity Day, Chart Hills

21 May 2010, 10:16

The two TSG Teams entered into the Help the Heroes Charity Day at Chart Hills yesterday both had great days but unfortunately neither of us won the event.

It was full handicap allowance, best 2 Stableford Points Scores from the 4 team members counted for each hole.

Based on taking your best 2 from 4 each hole the winning team should be looking to get around 90 points (a 'nett' Par and a 'nett' Birdie from your four scores on each hole).

- TSG 'A' Team came in with a very good 86 points (Mark Rowley, Gary Moth, Jack Shelton & Matt Taylor).
- TSG 'B' Team came in with a superb 94 points (Pete Connon, Steve Connon, Mark Fossey and Graham Garland)

BUT, another team (not TSG - booo) came in with an unbelieveable 102 (meaning they carded no less than 31 Birdies and 5 Pars for their 36 scores - like I said unbelieveable!!)

Anyway, a great day had by all and everybody happy to have helped raise funds for a great cause.

Roll on next year...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

21 May 2010, 03:38

Hi all,

I think for those of us with memberships when it comes to playing other courses its got to be one we really want to play ..

but on the plus side will be looking to join alot more of the weekend games (7day crown member).
I do also play other clubs.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

21 May 2010, 00:41

HI Guys I have played with a fair few of the people on here now and when I have been able to get away from work it has usually been a game in the week which is tricky to arrange. If we have enough of the southern mob here able to play in the Hampshire, Surrey, west Sussex area on a weekend I would glady put a game up. I think the season is just starting come alive again. Maybe we should try to post some more over the coming months and try to find some deals so that the prices are equal to a weekday game.....lots of 2-1 and twighlight offers around.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mcllory v Westwood who's going to win there first major

19 May 2010, 16:13

I think I'd have to go for Westwood to get one first. His record in the last three majors is not far short of brilliant and he has got to get past the finishing line soon. Rory definately looked on form with his win in America and I hope he keeps it up but I just think that at the moment Lee is a little bit closer to getting the big win.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Gillingham Football Club Golf Day

19 May 2010, 14:36

Gillingham Football Club are hosting a golf day at the Weald of Kent Golf Club. Teams consist of 4 players, 3 from your party and 1 being a 1st team Gillingham player. The event is on 14th July and teams cost £350+vat.
Your day will include:
- Full english breakfast upon arrival
- 18 holes of golf
- Presentations in the evening
- 3 course meal after presentations.

Any players who are interested in this please feel free to call me for further information on 01634 350 209

Many thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros - Help Needed

19 May 2010, 09:23

Second team filled again. Thanks for all your support. Lets hope the day raises good money for a worthy cause.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros - Help Needed

19 May 2010, 08:32

As this day is for such a good cause,and my son is in the Army.I will also pay another £10 off each,so that means if you can join us at such short notice it will cost £10 each.
WHAT A BARGAIN AND ON A FANTASTIC VENUE, AND A GREAT CAUSE!!
SO COME AND SUPPORT THE HELP FOR HERO'S GOLFDAY

Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help 4 Heros - Help Needed

19 May 2010, 07:55

Short notice request for a couple of players to take part in The Help 4 Heros Charity Event at Chart Hills Tomorrow.

Due to an injury one of the Team members has had to sadly drop out, regretfully he was also bringing a guest who also can no longer make the event.

This is a full day event at a great course in aid of a very worthy cause, TSG managed to get two teams entered. myself, Pete and Steve Connon, Gary Moth, Jack Shelton and Matt Taylor.

Format is teams of four, stapleford with the best two scores on each hole to count. further details can be found on Pete's posted game, which if anyone would like to take part can join the team.

The original cost per a player was £65, but the deposits had been paid by the two who have had to withdraw so Pete is looking for £30 per person.

Being Ex forces this event means a lot to me so I will personally pay £10 for each, so the event will only cost you £20 if you can join at short notice.

so come on golfers, the weather forecast is excellent, the course is one of the best in the south east, the event is in aid of a great cause and you will get to represent TSG all for £20.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mcllory v Westwood who's going to win there first major

18 May 2010, 18:15

Hello everyone just been wondering who out off Mcllory and Westwood is going to win ther first Major............Westwood has a better record in the Majors and has become the new monty or even Mickleson to a point ....Mcllory has the talent ,abillities,but does he have the big game temperment,has every time he seems to fade away....what do you think.....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \If you could construct the perfect golfer....

18 May 2010, 14:44

In Ryder Cup year....

Driving - Westwood
Irons - McIlroy
Short game - Harrington
Putting - Poulter

Dress - Wie/Gulbis!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \If you could construct the perfect golfer....

18 May 2010, 09:25

mine would be: Out Of my friends it would be

Driver--Quivos Jamie
Irons--Westwood Lance
Wedge-- Mickleson Ryan
Bunker--Player Andy (I only hit woods out of fairway bunkers)
Putting-- Palmer Howard
Dress--Poulter Yours Truly (eat your heart out Ryan)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \If you could construct the perfect golfer....

17 May 2010, 19:34

If you could construct the perfect golfer,who and what attributes would you use..ie

Driving   Alvaro Quiros
irons      Tiger
wedge   Phil Mickleson
Bunker   Seve
Putting   Nicklaus
Just an example............
You get the idea,lets have some fun from everyone,get thinking im sure we can get some intresting ideas...Lets get the forum rocking again have fun............

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£5 off green fee at Hoebridge

17 May 2010, 17:02

Hi Rich, Where is Hoebridge?

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Two Scores

17 May 2010, 12:01

Hi Russ,

We have been looking into this and have made a slight change which should resolve this issue. We believe that the problem was due to the system preventing duplicate scorecards from being entered when a user accidentally submits the same card twice. Because you were trying to enter two scorecards for the same course for the same day it thought it was a duplicate. It should be working now, but please let us know if you have any problems

Regards,
Neil, TSG Golf Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

17 May 2010, 11:24

From a personal perspective the rapid increase in petrol prices has dampened my appetite/ability to travel away from my local area to play, paricularly at a time of year when the weather is uncertain. I expect to be out and about more during the summer months but will still be more "choosy" than I was during 2009.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

17 May 2010, 10:03

There used to be lots of games posted by certain individuals (eg NW) The peak of these games were just before the so called credit crunch. I think that as Kevin hints, the novelty of TSG games, was getting new players out together, dealing with those 'new player nerves' without having to join a club where everyone seems to know each other.

I personally have gained a great deal of confidence from playing games with TSG. This has helped my handicap go from 28 to 18 in 2 years. regarding players wanting to only play with people they know, I can understand again this might be the 'nervous of playing with new people' syndrome.

I have tried to get involved with games & groups all over the south & have met some great guys & gals from as far as Portsmouth, southampton, Oxford, Woking, Kent, North London, etc........oh & Bracknell!

Perhaps someone could organise a special event for those who have joined, but not yet ventured out for a game. There could be a weekend event (JW?) & a midweek event (DS?) Perhaps TSG could offer some incentives (Prizes) & we could talk to our regularly used clubs to get a good price........weather getting HOTTER! Let's play more golf!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

17 May 2010, 09:14

Hi
I must say that I agree with all the comments so far. But its not just weekend games that are suffering Because all the games that I post are mid week and now some evening games for those that fancy a game after work, and the response is still very poor. It appear that the whole site is slowing down re another thread from Roly on forum topic's. So I say come on every one this is a great site the guys have worked so hard to give it to us so lets all try and get Involved a bit more

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

17 May 2010, 08:19

Hi Kevin,

You may be right.

Although most of the people I play with would normally play the game rather than make sure that they play with only those they know.
In the past we used to get the large events like Pine Ridge competitions created by Frances Pendle attended by 28 or more each time the event was staged. Now you're lucky to get 16.

My thought is that a number of the regulars which even at the peak would only hit 20-25 have most likley joined golf clubs. As a result and as mentioned by Russell, they have so many club events that makes it less likely to need to join or create a game through TSG.

With less members to go round less events will be created and less will attend.

I am not sure of how this can be resolved but we don't want it to be like VGS site as I want to play. I am happy to book events when I am able to play but for the next two weeks I can't and as you can see, there are not many games around on the weekends!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

17 May 2010, 06:44

I agree with Kevin - I can only play on weekends, and often if there is no game listed, I'll put one up myself after booking a tee time. Sometimes I get no responses at all ... not sure what's up with that.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

16 May 2010, 19:55

Due to work and golf club competition I have hardly put up any games over the last two months.

My summer league games are going to have to be played in a much smaller time period, again due to my participation in the singles and pairs competitions.

At my golf club we have a large number of major competitons being played this month as well.

Then I put myself forwards to play in the Jubilee Cup team and that takes up another Sunday each month.

Once the number of games have reduced I'll post the Summer League games and be able to put up other one-off games.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

16 May 2010, 19:40

Hi john

I could possibly anwser this and speak for others to, I have put up various games in the past and have had hardly any response, now i just want to play golf and i dont care who I play with(even if it was an alien from mars) ive always had the impression that some members like to stick to there same groups of players that they like playing with, sometimes I look at the site and feel they should rename it THE CROWN social golfer, if you look at VGS there were only 7 games available when i last looked and maybe TSG may be going down the same route.

I would hate to come across negative but one thing I feel has made me a better player than say 12 months ago is playing with people I dont know.

We all know the saying "I get nervous on the 1st tee because everyone is watching me" but I can say I don't feel that now and that is down to the TSG and also joining and playing in various Golf societys mixing with fellow golfers I have never met before.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the games gone?

16 May 2010, 12:58

Have noticed a decline in games [I put up as many as I can], but there seems to be a decline in the number available especially at weekends.

Have we lost some players to golf clubs?
Have we lost some players due to recession?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \£5 off green fee at Hoebridge

14 May 2010, 19:52

Hi

I have just received 12 £5 off Monday to Thursday green fee on the Hoebridge course and was wondering if anyone would like me to post them some since I won't use them all before the expiry date of 31st July.

Rich

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Two Scores

13 May 2010, 17:50

Any fixes for this problem yet?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

13 May 2010, 13:14

Carol B, all qualifying cards should be accepted,good or bad.The good ones to decrease your handicap and the bad ones to increase your handicap.This is the essence of a CONGU handicap.Basically if you have a score that is better than the CSS(competition standard scratch)your handicap is reduced.If your score is say 4 stokes better you will be reduced by .8 . If the opposite is the case you should be getting .1 added to your handicap.Have a look online ,type in CONGU and have a good read on all the rules and regulations. rgds peter hayes

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

13 May 2010, 00:38

Robin
so I am not alone telling the wife little white one's.Must confess tho' I had a bit of a guilt trip after,thing is you can only use the car breaking down excuse once.
There have been a couple of times I have done it over the years,only been caught out once and that was enough,you have to have a good memory to be a good PORKY PIE TELLER and mines crap.
It was fun when I done it at the time and look back and laugh now.
If I want to go and play I clear it with the Mrs because of the boys and 95% of the time its no problem!!
KEEP THEM COMING IF YOU HAVE A STORY TO TELL I will put one of mine on soon, will see how it goes
Cheers
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

12 May 2010, 09:02

Robin, I would have done exactly the same thing!!!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

12 May 2010, 02:00

Jack I have a confession. A few months ago I was driving to the course, its about an hour from home. Unfortunately my clutch went, so I had a choice. Call in the repairmen and waste a day getting it fixed. Or, as I was only a 10 minute walk from the course, make the walk, play the game, and then get it fixed up after.
Obviously I enjoyed a thoroughly enjoyable round, and then told a little white lie to the wife, breaking the bad news that my clutch had gone on the way home.

I feel better already getting that off my chest.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

11 May 2010, 16:14

My name is Ian.....and I am a golfaholic!

:-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

11 May 2010, 06:48

A quick query for Peter Hayes re his posting.
I agree that you should have only one playing handicap, but in theory, putting in a card from another course that you've played is an 'adjustment' in itself. eg. I played in a competition at a much easier course than my own - I had assumed it was a friendly, but was told at the end that it was actually a qualifier. my gross score was considerably lower than my handicap warranted, and the away club insisted that I gave it to our club handicap secretary. This didn't particularly upset me, but it then gave me a handicap at my own club that I found difficult to play to for a few months. However, my club won't accept away cards that have scores higher than my handicap.
I would really appreciate an explanation of this seemingly double standard please Peter.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

11 May 2010, 00:26

Thats a great idea,start up GOLFERS ANONYMOUS. why didn't I think of that?Everyone sharing their experiences,strengths and hopes,with each other.
It could be run like the way A.A runs,its meetings,if it was not for A.A. I would not be able to write on this forum,they helped me in a time of need......
The topic's of conversation are endless! On the course and off,virtually anything goes.
Lets start by asking,to what lengths have you gone to to make a game,?have you ever been on the course when you should have been else where ?have you ever thrown a sickie at work to play golf,and best of all has anyone ever been caught out?
TELL US YOUR STORIES!! I bet there are plenty out there!!
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

10 May 2010, 22:41

"One final point you raised, about the cost of playing. I pay my 5 day membership at Sherfield Oaks £600 per year, I play approx 3 times per week on lots of different Crown courses for no extra expense. If I play at a non crown course, I usually book it through online offers that come by email every week & give me up to 80% discount. I deduce from this, that as I can afford it, then my addiction, is not a problem!!"

Im not a memebr of a club, i play twice a week, rounds ranginging from £15 to £40(weekend), as well as adding petrol on top of that, and a round of drinks in the bar afterwards.
The last year i have overspent in buying golf clubs, balls and other golf equipment i dont use, i feel so guilty about buying all these clubs that when i counted my bag last week i had 18 clubs in it, i know the max is 14 and i dont carry 18 to cheat, its just i dont want to leave any in the garage, i used to carry 2 putters and it was only a couple of months ago that i was able to leave 1 in the garage.
Last week playing surrey downs i shot 89 and walked off feeling like Tiger Woods only to play sunday and shoot 109 and feel like being hit by Mike Tyson the amount of times i hooked my tee shot with my driver.
im playing and spending so much on golf that everytime i leave the house my wife thinks im having an affair knowing that i have made her a golf widow, my main aim is to be playing off a genuine 18 handicap at the end of the year and sometimes i think is it all worth it (think of the exercise i tell myself)
Anyway playing 36 holes at traditions on wednesday and then off to golfers anonymous straight after to confess my sins to everyone who attends.

Am i an addict

thanks for listlening

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

10 May 2010, 21:36

Hi Peter, glad to have your official perspective, but my point is that someone who has earned a 15 handicap at somewhere like Princes, Carnoustie, Lytham St Annes etc is likely going to be a better player than someone who has earned a 15 handicap at their local course which is a Par 70, SSS 68 open field afair - blast it 30 degrees off line but never mind because you're just on the next fairway...

So, the option of building a handicap based on games played at a variety of courses is likely to give a fairer indication of your 'general' playing ability as opposed to how well you play your own specific course.

Anyway, no more for me for now 'cos, ash cloud permitting, I'm off for a week.

Have fun golfing.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

10 May 2010, 19:48

Pete,
As a serving Handicap Sect, you should have ONLY 1 playing handicap,the one your home club issues.Their is no such thing as 'Home & Away' handicaps
rgds
peter hayes

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

10 May 2010, 19:11

hi pete

playing as i do in the states a lot, their system is i believe better.......but bear in mind they prefer scramble formats and competitions are usually in specific classes ie 0-10 11-15......... they still have a distinct lack of belief and transparency in the whole handicap/stableford system at most clubs i encounter..........

id luv to be a 4 when talking golf and a 24 when playing in a comp........

ps im at grande pines orlando on the ewtour this weekend and there wont be a handicap in sight.

keep well

ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

10 May 2010, 16:26

Quote " It seems like you want to tell the wife about your game' and how you played ,yet are not interested in anyone else's.Sounds like a case of "DOUBLE STANDARDS" to me."

Thanks Jack. My comments were mean't to be a bit tongue in cheek & maybe provoke a few comments, but the point I was making was that Debbie doesn't really understand the scoring systems of golf, because she doesn't play! She quite happily listens & expresses her approval of how well, or bad I say I play!

I am quite happy for people to report on the forum, how their game went, & any interesting & funny anecdotes. I was just trying to get more folks getting involved in forums.

One final point you raised, about the cost of playing. I pay my 5 day membership at Sherfield Oaks £600 per year, I play approx 3 times per week on lots of different Crown courses for no extra expense. If I play at a non crown course, I usually book it through online offers that come by email every week & give me up to 80% discount. I deduce from this, that as I can afford it, then my addiction, is not a problem!!

Thank you I feel much better now

Good Luck

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

10 May 2010, 10:09

I think that playing your own course where you know what club to take off each tee, you know where you want to be on each fairway, you know where the trouble is and you know the greens well enough to know the speed and where the ball will break - well that's got to be worth at least 3 shots against someone playing the course for the first time.

Also, a shorter more open course is more forgiving for most golfers and so it isn't really fair to say that the Standard Scratch Score for a 5,600 yard, fairly open course is only 4 shots less than a 7,000 yard track with tight fairways, lots of bunkers and forced carries over water.

This works both ways of course, someone who has 'earned' their handicap at somewhere tough will generally always seems to 'play to, or better, their handicap' no matter where they go.

All in all, I think the true reflection of your actual playing ability is when you base your handicap on an assessment of your scores from a few different courses (easy enough to do if you enter all your scores into TSG and ask it to use them to calculate your handicap).

The alternative is that we adopt the US PGA approach of having the 'Slope Index' for a course as well as the 'Course Rating' (our Standard Scratch). I don't know why they call it 'Slope' but it's an adjustment applied to your handicap based on an assessment of how tough the course is for an average golfer (I think based on an 18 handicap). This makes for some interesting results - on a shorter, more open course the Slope Rating adjustment might mean your handicap gets cut whilst the Slope Rating for a longer, tougher course means that, for that game, your handicap goes up.

Do you reckon the R&A will adopt the approach of their rival golf authority...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

10 May 2010, 09:53

Lots to comment on here...

- Roly, okay you're a real golfer and I'm a cissy, I really enjoy my golf and it's at it's best when the sun is shining, the birds are singing, I'm with people who want to beat me but not at the expense of a few laughs and the course looks rolling, green and tree lined (with a little bit of water thrown in for the benefit of the widlife). I don't enjoy walking 6 miles in the rain, wearing a wet glove, carrying a wet bag and swinging a wet club (I think I'd rather be poked with a stick for a few hours). BUT I accept we are all different and I know of other people who, like you, simply cannot get enough golf and hitting one good shot makes their day (not saying you only hit one good shot - I saw your score at Hever).

- Jack, glad you sorted the alcholism out, most of us like a drink but it can be destructive if it gets ahold of you and yes, I enjoyed your review of Woburn (so much so that I have added to my 'Must Play' list - hopefully this summer) and I also read most reviews as they pop up on my home page - although it seems to me that there are a lot of scores added and not so many reviews - why are people so lazy? I want to hear about what other golfers felt about a course and whether it's worth playing!!! So post a bl#*&y review so I don't feel left out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

10 May 2010, 00:16

Let me start by and saying that I find reading about other golfers games they have played quite interesting,especially the the course reviews,I wish there where more of them posted,I do like to read about how they played and good or bad.and a general report of the day,certainly not a shot by shot account tho'.
I recently posted a review on Woburn G.C,

Like you I wanted to tell everyone about the fantastic day we had, so I posted it on here.

Did you read it,if so what are your views? Have you played there? would love to know.Like you I am passionate about the game,and if it's a response you want about your game tell us on the T.S.G. you will get a reply.
It seems like you want to tell the wife about your game' and how you played ,yet are not interested in anyone else's.Sounds like a case of "DOUBLE STANDARDS" to me.
Just also like to say from the addiction side of it,I had a problem with this 15 years back,that was with alcohol,I fell by the wayside with it,I hit rock bottom and got my life back on track,only with the help of the A.A. attending regular meetings.The recovery part is about sharing with others your experiences and you hopes for the future.at A.A meetings.So as for wanting to tell someone about your golf I KNOW EXACTLY HOW YOU FEEL.
Think on this "if your golf is costing you more than money" that's when you have an addiction.!!!!!!!

ALL THE BEST
Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

09 May 2010, 21:45

I have the same kind of problem.

My golf club has two courses, one long with tight fairways and the other fairly short and very open.

Due to time constraints most of my midweek golf is played on the shorter more open course.

This means I have a managed to get my handicap down to 11 on here (a few months back), but my club handicap is 16 as all of the competitions are played on the longer, tighter course.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Home & away Handicaps

09 May 2010, 19:20

My home course is a Par 71 5622 yards, which is fairly open with wide fairways and very few bunkers. My problem is that i record my cards on TSG and have a handicap of 10.8 which is ok for there, but when I go and play other courses which is one or twice a month I really struggle to play to that sort of Handicap, more like 14-15

I wondered if anyone else has this sort of problem, and is there a solution to the problem apart from playing better on away courses, or not entering my home course scores.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

09 May 2010, 17:11

Okay for the coming week....But it would be C!!

Day	Weather	Max. DayTemperature (°C)	Min. NightTemperature (°C)	Wind Direction and Speed (mph)	HumidityPressureVisibility
SunNight weather	Partly Cloudy		1		This data unavailable for night	More info for Sunday's weather
Mon Day weather	Sunny Intervals	15	4	East North Easterly9	52%1013mbGood	More info for Monday's weather
Tue Day weather	Sunny Intervals	13	3	North North Easterly7	45%1015mbVery good	More info for Tuesday's weather
Wed Day weather	Sunny Intervals	13	4	North Easterly18	43%1017mbVery good	More info for Wednesday's weather
Thu Day weather	Sunny	14	3	Northerly8	54%1015mbGood

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

09 May 2010, 09:53

Ummm, I enjoy my golf, and the feeling of standing on the tee on a beautiful parkland course in the sunshine with a few friends for the banter is always great, having said that I think you need treatment for the level of your addiction!

Put another way, when you see the BBC weather forecast on the Monday and it says RAIN, RAIN, RAIN for the next three days and you turn to Metcheck and it says HEAVY RAIN, VERY HEAVY RAIN, RAIN do you:

a) Cancel the friendly little knock around you had planned for tomorrow?
b) Phone your friends and say 'shall we check the forecast in the morning'?
c) Nip down to the garage to respray your waterproofs, dig out the hat and all weather golf so that you are prepared?

Please don't say (c) !!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A 3 bedroom luxury home from just over £40,000!

08 May 2010, 17:56

As TSG members know, we have negotiated some amazing deals for those of you who have always dreamed of your own home in the sun. However, not everyone is able to spend 12 months of the year on holiday. That's where our fantastic fractional offer is ideal. Now, you can own a 3 bedroom luxury property for as little as £40,000 with no property purchase taxes to pay either! Fractional gives you all the advantages of outright ownership - don't confuse this with timeshare because, with our fractional scheme, you become the legal owner of a freehold share in your chosen property, with all the potential that offers for future growth. You enjoy as much, or as little, occupancy time as you want - our 12th share scheme gives you one month each year to enjoy the fabulous five star facilities, whilst our quarter share scheme lets you take more time if you can. Either way, you have the choice of self-occupancy, letting it to friends and family (and, believe me, they will be hugely impressed!) or even letting it commercially to generate additional income. What a great way to enjoy a luxury holiday lifestyle for life! To read more about the fractional way of life, please click here. Alternatively, if you have any questions, or would like to book a free inspection visit, please contact us.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Celtic Manor "Deal"

08 May 2010, 15:49

Anyone looking for a golf break, The Celtic Manor have a great deal for the summer.

£99 - over night stay in the Manor House Hotel / breakfast, rounds on both Roman Road and Montgomerie courses. Valid May - August , Sunday - Thursday. (based on two people sharing room).

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Where have all the interesting Forum topics gone?

08 May 2010, 15:33

I don't know about you, but I like to browse this site & have enjoyed reading some interesting & sometimes controversial topics. Lately all we seem to have is people describing 'a game they had that day', or someone promoting a new product without paying for the advertising!

Come on everyone, lets get some new subjects going & give me something to disagree, or agree with.

I will start the ball rolling.

What is more addictive, golf, drugs or alchohol?

I have to say I do like a drink, but have not had any dodgy substances since my youth, but why is golf so addictive? I have a couple of days without a game & I am hallucinating about driving off on the 1st tee at my club. (don't go left into the OB....don't go right into the lake!!)

I drive along in my car & see a field & think 'Now that would make a good golf hole'. I look on ebay and always search for bargain golf clubs. I pull into American golf, just to wonder around and look at all the shiny new golf things.

I think that if I had to stop playing golf for any reason, I would have to be given a golf substitute (Golf methodone!)

I tell my misses (Debbie) about how I ended 2 up in the Bogey competition last week & then won a matchplay off 3/4 handicap 3 & 2.....Now I know she thinks I am speaking in Chinese or something, but I have to tell her, or I will explode.

I know some people are crazy about playing football, or rugby etc, but do they have the same addictive effect as golf?

Anyway, glad that's off my chest. Looking forward to any interesting responses or anymore new & interesting forum topics.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \UK LONGDRIVE SERIES

08 May 2010, 14:09

230 may not make you world champion

but many people enter purely to donate to charity as well as get discounts from sponsor products

IF YOU DO enter, you should still go hit, take a friend that hits 220!

www.uklongdriveseries.com

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \UK LONGDRIVE SERIES

08 May 2010, 13:17

cant see my sunday personal best of 230 yards doing the business.......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \UK LONGDRIVE SERIES

07 May 2010, 19:32

Hello

If you are in the UK and would like to help raise money for the RNLI AND VISION charities through your golf please enter the uklongdriveseries.com

YOU - get discounts to al sponsors products and if you are good can even get to the world champs

thank you

please email me for any info you require

admin@uklongdriveseries.com

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A DAY AT WOBURN G.C

06 May 2010, 00:12

I will show you how to play the shot one day Greg,the reason I said it was luck is because I hit the wrong tree,imagine what would have happened if I had hit the one I was aiming for? (cough)!! Ha! Ha!
P.s Mark showed me how to play it. (didn't he tell you) ??..........................

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A DAY AT WOBURN G.C

04 May 2010, 21:44

Firstly i'd like to thank Jack for arranging this day, many thanks also to Gary and Mark. While i'm about it i'd also like to thank the "wise old owl" of a course groundsman who after i'd just opted for my pitching wedge on Dukes hole 3, wandered over and said "that'll be an 8 or 9 iron today". Trying to look as if i had'nt really already decided i strolled nonchalantly back to my bag and did a subtle swap for my 9 iron. One well struck 9 iron later..............i was still short of the green,(but at least straight,Jack).
Having never played a championship course before i was'nt sure what to expect, what i did find however were visitor changing rooms that put most clubs members facilities to shame. Staff that were very helpful and accomodating, nothing seemed too much trouble. Yes it costs more than your average golf course but in my opinion it was well worth the money.
Just like to finish by nominating my two shots of the day, 1st place has to go to Gary for driving the green on Duchess hole 3, awesome,followed by a 2 putt birdie. 2nd place by the narrowest of margins is Jacks third shot, from thick bracken on Duchess hole 17,(tongue is firmly in cheek) this is the sort of shot you can only attempt after gaining previous knowledge of your surroundings. This shot, from about 75 yards, was played at some pace but by skillfully? aiming and hitting the dead centre of a tree trunk behind the green, managed to rebound the ball to the centre of the green. Jack tried modestly to pass it off as luck but we who were there know different........................

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Pairs Match!!!

03 May 2010, 17:49

Well I have to say a big "Thank you" to my pairs partner today.

Although we lost our match on the 18th hole he managed to keep us in the game.

I was awful!!!

If I hit a good drive I messed up my approach.

A good approach and the putt was terrible!

My only saving grace was I got a par on the 17th hole to win that hole and take the game to all square.

Then I managed to par the last hole but they did one better with a birdie.

Now I knew we were up against it as the two players we were playing against were both single figure golfers, one playing off five and the other off eight.

Russ

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

03 May 2010, 12:28

No, I didn't. As I said, I went there for the inauguration of the O'Connor course and played also Faldo course. The Academy wasn't still there.
Marcel

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \McIlroy on a charge

03 May 2010, 11:57

yes, he did it so well that Mickelson said it has one of the best rounds he has seen in a long ,long time when after a birdie on the final hole gave him a 68 and second place alone.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \McIlroy on a charge

03 May 2010, 09:44

His win was even more special as he only just made the cut. very impressive i'd say...never give up anything can happen.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \McIlroy on a charge

02 May 2010, 22:14

Great finish for McIlroy, after waiting for ages to tee off on the eighteeth he found the middle of the fairway.

Then he hit his iron shot onto the green and proceeded to sink a monster putt to finish on -15.

His round for the day was a new course of 62 shots, beating the old course record by two shots!

I'm playing golf tomorrow so watch out Rory I'm coming for you....

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \McIlroy on a charge

02 May 2010, 22:09

Rory McIlroy is leading the USPGA event at Quail Hollow.

He's having the round of his life and at this moment in time is on -14, four shots clear of the field.

It's really nice to see him playing so well, especially as he's not been doing too well recently.

Go Rory.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Dreaded Shanks!!!

01 May 2010, 17:16

Thanks for the info Colin, but I'll have to make do with the clubs I've already got as my wife won't be too happy with me!

It appears as normal service has been resumed.

I played in the club competition today and didn't have any problems, was striking the ball well with all my clubs.

Let's hope that yesterdays practice session was a blip and I'm over it now!

Russ

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

01 May 2010, 17:13

HI Marcel

Glad you liked the Amendoeira courses. Did you get the chance to play the floodlit Par 3 course - the Academy - they have there also? It's been called a mini-Augusta!!

[quote=Marcel White]Hi Pete,

I just read the message about the fantastic offer you got to TSG members. Both Faldo Course and O'Connor Course, on Oceanico's Amendoeira Golf Resort, are worth to be included in any MUST PLAY list. I played both (O'Connor in the inauguration tournament) and found them excellent and challenging.
Some piece of advice: use the course guides and don't get out of fairways unless you know how to get the ball out of rough thick as hell and 3" high.
Add those 2 to your portuguese short list ( Praia D'El Rey & Quinta da Marinha) and remove Quinta da Marinha.

Marcel White
[/quote]

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

01 May 2010, 16:33

trust me, the drop outs, re negotiations with course caused by that...... late changes, id take you up on that my friend next time, wife charged me a bottle of chablis... good golfing young fella

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

01 May 2010, 13:01

"Tournament Director"? I'll organise it for you, for a fiver!!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

01 May 2010, 12:05

Blimey SH, what a terrible job, but I s'pose someone had to do it....(is the position vacant??????)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

01 May 2010, 10:01

the original format was one i use in the south sfrican, floridian and australian events... seperate comps for women, men, different classes within these groups... unfortunately we simply did not get enough women participants to cover the costs for the extra prizes this would entail, remember we had constant drop outs, pete also tells me £60 was considered expensive. on organisation, it could have run smoothly but again because of lack of numbers it was uneconomical to bring in my tournament director.. hopefully next year all the comments above can be encapsulated in ensuring the uk social open becomes a model of a stableford comp, open to all abilities, gender and age, at a reasonable cost at a great venue an as i think the above does show that a great social days golf was generally had by all. again many thanks to all participants, i had a great day.....thanks for taking time to comment above, pete and I certainly will take on board each and every point. Anyway got to fly, off to Florida to play in the GRANDE PINES CLASSIC on the Edwin Watts Tour were i am sure there will be hiccups similar to the above. good golfing friends. ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Motocaddy S3 Help

30 Apr 2010, 23:28

I purchased a Powa Kaddy Freeway new about 12 years ago,it cost about £400 then,that was with 2 batteries and was the best investment I made,although it seemed expensive at the time,it was part of an insurance claim when i had all my golf gear stolen from my shed.I had to put some money towards it but it worth its weight in gold.
I am still getting by with the same batteries,one has just done 18 holes round the Dukes course at Woburn,although I need to replace them this year.I had a new gear box fitted 3 years ago that cost £90,and had a new handle fitted this year,for about £45.It is still going strong.I couldn't play 36 holes on a society day carrying my clubs,it probably saves me 6-7 shots around.For me it's been a godsend and would recommend Powa Kaddy any day of the week above anything.I used to be known as the Tart with the Cart. in my society,funny how most of them now have an electric trolley.
Perhaps another idea is to look on E bay there are quite a few bargains to be picked up there,but buying a new one is all ways best.Remember you will only get what you pay for and thats Powa Caddy for me

good luck in your search
Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Dreaded Shanks!!!

30 Apr 2010, 22:00

Buy some of these;

http://www.f2golfshop.com/F2-Plus-Series-Irons_c_1.html

HTH

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Dreaded Shanks!!!

30 Apr 2010, 20:23

I played a round of golf yesterday evening after I got home from work.

During the course of this round I hit three seven iron shots that were dreadful!

Tonight, again after work I took my seven iron and pitching wedge to the practice ground.

Well, what a nightmare!!!

I couldn't get the ball off the ground.......

It was going right of the target and slicing.......

Nothing I tried seemed to stop this.

I had only hit about eighteen balls when I decided the best course of action was to stop the practice session as I had no idea what I was doing wrong.

With my pitching wedge I went down to collect the few balls I had hit down the range, this was made more difficult due to the golf club having held a demo day and there being loads of range balls all over the place.

Now with my pitching wedge I was hitting the ball well, apart from the very odd shot.

Once I had collected my practice balls I started hitting some of the range balls with my seven iron.

It was then that I noticed the marks on the hosel of my club.

This explained all those poor shots, I was shanking the ball!

Now I've never done this before and it comes as a bit of a shock especially as I've been striking the ball so well lately.

Any ideas what I should do to correct this problem?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

30 Apr 2010, 18:49

Thank you for a great day, meeting new and old friends and a great days golf what could be better oh yes winning a prize!
Speaking for the Ladies I do think a longest drive and Nearest the Pin for both Men and Ladies would be better, and if we have more ladies next year maybe prizes for Ladies and Men , for first, second and third. Another format I have found successful is to divide the field into either, age groups or handicaps it really dose give everyone something to play for. I am in favour of producing a handicap cert.
If I can be of any help next year just call.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Motocaddy S3 Help

30 Apr 2010, 17:35

My s3 is three years old and is beginning to have probs. The batteries were always a problem area and I now have two 18 hole batteries which I alternate, seems to work ok. the engine has only recently started making a ginding noise as it moves along, and I have contacted Motocaddy to try and get it serviced ,but still waiting for a reply. I play four times a week so t has done a few miles, but I now have to stop when moving near other players lest the noise disturbs them.
Overall a good trolley but after 2 1/2 years is it about to start costing me dosh!

good luck, Hwk.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\2 Thumb Putter Grip

30 Apr 2010, 17:26

Instead of using it as a two thumb grip, try dropping the right hand down and keeping the left hand as passive as is possible further up the grip. This will cause you to hit the power of the putt with the right hand only, and feel that you are rolling the ball to the hole with your right hand only. I have found that i am much more consistant with this grip than the two thumb method.

good luck, hwk.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

27 Apr 2010, 18:35

Hi,

I spent 2 years as a senior Golf Course evaluator for Golf Monthly and during this period played just under 60 of the top 120 UK courses. It is very difficult to arrive at just one, for a number of different reasons, but my must play courses are Wentworth West Course, Woburn Dukes Course, Royal West Norfolk (Brancaster) and Hankley Common. With the cost of my daughters County Golf career and her University place I am afraid these courses will remain just happy memories. Regards S

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Can you recommend a 'Must Play' course?

27 Apr 2010, 12:42

Hi Pete,

I just read the message about the fantastic offer you got to TSG members. Both Faldo Course and O'Connor Course, on Oceanico's Amendoeira Golf Resort, are worth to be included in any MUST PLAY list. I played both (O'Connor in the inauguration tournament) and found them excellent and challenging.
Some piece of advice: use the course guides and don't get out of fairways unless you know how to get the ball out of rough thick as hell and 3" high.
Add those 2 to your portuguese short list ( Praia D'El Rey & Quinta da Marinha) and remove Quinta da Marinha.

Marcel White

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

24 Apr 2010, 22:37

Thanks for a great golf day, just a shame Myself and Gary had to scoot before the prizes giving but I had to get back to Hastings due to going away for a holiday later that evening.

Congratulations to all winners but specially to Tom on coming second, had the pleasure of playing with him and scoring his card.

One suggestion for next years event, would it be possible to have a longest drive prize for both men and women. myself and Mark Quant hit drives measured at 285yards (skycaddy and laser range finder) and we were still 30 yards short of the winning post..........

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf day at Stapleford Abbotts (priors) 24th april

23 Apr 2010, 09:52

Sorry forgot to say....

you can just play the golf which is £20 plus a £5 for prizes

Regards

Mark

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \World Kids Golf 2010 - Be part of it with TSG!!

22 Apr 2010, 19:24

The 2010 World Kids Golf Tournament is the most fantastic event for the whole family. Hosted at the Oceanico Group's fabulous Amendoeira Golf Resort in the sun-drenched Algarve between the 26th and 30th of July, it's the perfect way to combine a dream holiday with one of the best kids golf tournaments in the world!

And with Oceanico being one of TSG's great new partners, we have some absolutely fantastic deals on holiday accommodation at the event.

So, if you think you have a budding champion in the family, or just fancy some summer sun, simply click here to contact us and we'll send you all the details.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf day at Stapleford Abbotts (priors) 24th april

21 Apr 2010, 10:01

Hi all,

I'm haviving a golf day this weekend at Priors course in Stapleford Abbotts

it's 10.30 meet for coffee n bacon rolls

18 holes

one course lunch after

and some fantastic prizes

all for £35

please email me at staplefordabbotts-shop@crown-golf.co.uk to enter

or

phone; 07827 908 293

Regards

Mark Quant

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mr Consistency

20 Apr 2010, 01:41

i deny being mark quant's stalker.

the other day when we played the same comp at hever castle he text me three times asking wat time i was arriving as he was bored. my wife will be a witness if anyone wants proof. who's the stalker now.

plus i beat him with the driver he sold me. you should have kept it mark.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Poor Finish!

20 Apr 2010, 01:35

oi quant

don't be horrible to my playing partner.

stalker dave

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Surrey Medal Golf Day

19 Apr 2010, 22:14

[quote=David Pipe]How do you register for this event as an individual? The Entry Form doesn't appear to cater for that ... do you just include your own details, and send in 1/2 the fee?
[/quote]

Hi david, im sure u would just include your own details and send half the fee, they will send you out your tee time nearer to the date and im sure you will be paired up with another individual to make a pair.

This is only my second year of taking part and for only £29 this is excellent value.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

19 Apr 2010, 18:01

Just to say well done to the organisers, it is never a simple matter to arrange and advertise and the format/personnel constantly changing made it interesting. Anyway, good food, good company, good golf (well Andrew played well in my four ball). Interesting track and quite a long walk for someone as out of shape as me... but I did manage to score some points and had a good swing at a few of the other holes.

In fact the one ball I contrived to lose (just through the OOB on the 2nd hole, actually ran through the little gate) was visible but not worth the effort of climbing over and retrieving. I had some good sand shots and made some long putts... we won't mention the penalty shots though...

Good day, and nice to see a lack of bandits in play.

Spoilt only by the M25 being closed for me on the way home to Essex... otherwise a great day out...

Sure - the visible organisation could have been better, we could have had handicap certs scrutinised, and there could have been a welcoming announcement - explaining all the rules... and there could have been lots... but what there was was good enough for me.

Rgds Stephen

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Surrey Medal Golf Day

19 Apr 2010, 11:28

How do you register for this event as an individual? The Entry Form doesn't appear to cater for that ... do you just include your own details, and send in 1/2 the fee?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

19 Apr 2010, 11:16

i would like to say that i enjoyed the day at hever castle. not attempting to slag off the day but it could have been organised better but that comes with experience. also it doesn't help with people putting their names down and then removing them.also people who never turned up on the day should be excluded from the next event.
it not all about winning but i think the first prize should have been better than the villa in florida unless it also included help towards the cost of flights etc.
it was good to see old faces and new ones.
not sure if i've missed the scores but it would be good to see all the scores posted so that we can see where we finished overall. it just allows the opportunity to have some banter with people you know who played.

david roth

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

19 Apr 2010, 10:28

I'd like to thank all those involved in organising the event - which was my first competition at Hever (where I took up the months trial membership on 26 March, my CONGU handicap is held at Boarshead) & first individual "Open" event in the 3 years I have been playing.

I am looking forward to playing TSG events and hope that the Open becomes an annual tournament.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

19 Apr 2010, 09:29

The day was great fun. I didn't hear anyone saying anything other than that.

I know that Andrew (the winner and member of Hever Castle) paid the same as everyone else but I think he should have been cut 10 shots for having personal knowledge of the course. Plus, while I'm at it, I think anyone with a handicap less than me should have to give me 5 shots. Yes, I think that should do it...

Roll on the next one, my golf swing has moved from awful to adequate so with the same rate of improvement I should be playing off scratch by mid-summer :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

19 Apr 2010, 09:02

I would just like to say what a good day me and my son tom had it was great. As for some saying about an offcial congu handicap me and my son Tom whom came 2nd did bring and show our handicap certificates. And as tom plays off 6.8 i think he did well so to me it does sound a bit like sour grapes.And as for playing a round with TSG, my son is still a student and so it is very difficult to find time to play these games without him messing up exams.

Roger Hurcombe

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \A DAY AT WOBURN G.C

18 Apr 2010, 23:39

I said in an earlier forum post that I would give a feed back on the day we had at Woburn G.C. .four of us from the T.S.G made the day after I posted an invitation on the forum last year.WHAT A DAY WE HAD!!!!!
The three guys that joined me made it one of the most enjoyable days golf that I have had in many years.I would like to say they where fantastic company and enjoyed every minute of it.Thanks for making the day so special. (Mark, Gary and Greg).
Both the courses Dukes and Duchess where in fantastic condition,just as you would expect from a club of this calibre,and every hole had a story to tell.We teed off at 7.30a.m on the Dukes to start the day,and then it begun,walking the fairways the best in the world have graced.
The 1st is a par five a real test to start the round,and what start I had,on the green for two ,putting for eagle.Missed the long putt but still walked off with a birdie.HERE WE GO -1 UNDER after 1 HOLE on a championship course.
Held par on the 2nd still 1 under,then came the signature hole,par 3 3rd 125 yards downhill and what a hole,it's one of the most photographed holes in golf,its on the front of the scorecard.I Shanked my tee shot straight in the undergrowth,and finished with a 5,the wheels had suddenly come off,my game.
The rest of the round was a bit up and down in places,and was more than happy with 84 in the end.
Every hole is different and unique,close cut fairways,greens that run fast and true,all set in tree lined fairways,hit a shot off line and your in forest if you find your ball it's a bonus,chipping out sideways is normally the only choice.That's golf at Woburn for you.
The round took about 41/2 hours to complete,and then it was off to the clubhouse for lunch,a two course meal roast and all the trimmings,followed by desert,it was food to die for for cooked to perfection.
We resumed golf at 1.45p.m on the Duchess course,this is alot tighter than the Dukes and the one I prefer to play,again tree lined fairways fantastic greens loads of undulating lies,care has to be taken on every shot or trouble awaits,it also rewards good golf.I have played this course a few times over the years,this was the best condition I have played it.
Apart from finishing with 2 double bogeys it was the best score I've had on this course well pleased with 81.
It was a great day for me and look forward to playing with Mark at the HELP FOR HERO'S golf day at Charthills in May.
For £125 it was worth every penny the club made you feel most welcome nothing was to much trouble.Again thanks to the guys for making it a special day and hope to do another one sometime later in the year.
FOR ANYONE THINKING ABOUT GOING ON A DAY TO A CHAMPIONSHIP VENUE DO IT ---YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT YOUR MISSING.
Jack Shelton

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Surrey Medal Golf Day

18 Apr 2010, 21:02

Hi all

The annual Surrey Media Golf Day(formally the surrey herald) is to be hosted at Hoebridge Golf Club in woking on the 25th june.

The overall winner (man or woman) of the individual 18-hole Stableford competition will win the Surrey Herald Shield and a super round for four at Wentworth, kindly donated by the club.

There will also be separate first and runners-up prizes for men and women, a cup for the best 60-and-over player, and longest drive and nearest-the-pin prizes.

This year, for the first time, we have introduced a betterball competition for team pairs.

The Surrey Advertiser Cup will also be up for grabs, the winning duo clinching a round for four at Burhill, kindly donated by the club.

You can enter the competition as a pair or as an individual, who will be paired with another entrant.

Entrance is limited to a maximum handicap of 24 (men) and 36 (women). A handicap certificate is preferred, but not mandatory.

The event is designed to give all readers, from club members to pay-as-you-play golfers, a chance to compete, but any improper handicapping will be immediately disqualified. Tee times will start at 8.30am approximately off the first and 10th tees, and the prizes ceremony will be held after lunch.

The entry fee has been held at a very modest £29 per person, which includes coffee on arrival and a two-course lunch.

for an entry form please follow the link http://www.surreyherald.co.uk/surrey-sport/golfday/

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

18 Apr 2010, 20:55

"quote"

Finally, & believe me this is not sour grapes, I think as a TSG championships, where it is stipulated that, the competitors must have an official congu handicap, or a TSG handicap it would have been nice if the first 2 places had played at least 1 game with TSG prior to the day! I believe no one was asked to produce a handicap certificate at any time.

The fact the winner was a member at hever castle the question i would be asking myself is did he pay the same entry fee as everyone else

STEWARDS ENQUIRY

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

18 Apr 2010, 10:18

Mystery holes,

Originally there were 5 holes............. I think Karen chose 1 , 10, 13, 17 and 18........ guess who won.........

yours truly........... so we looked at second there were 7 on next no of points..........

i asked her to pick 3 holes, checking 40 cards and 5 nos was no possible......... lordy we missed andrew out of main draw............. this she did and pia with 3, 3 and 4 won easily...................

hope that clarifies this for everyone............

rest of points valid, and we would put right next time,but in my and petes defence.......... the problems we faced, with late no shows, matching pairs up rather than an open draw...... getting a good deal from hever when we had consistently changed numbers was always going to be fraught with difficulties.

but as I said we invite comment so we can make the next one much bigger and better..... and it served the three principal criteria, pete and I wanted at beginning..

1. It established the Concept of an Annual Tourney

2. It broke even and actually raised funds for the Strok Association.

3. The Golf was good, fun and competitive.

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

18 Apr 2010, 09:57

It was a great day, so many thanks again to those who made the effort to attend, you all contributed to making the day the success it undoubtedly was.

Special thanks to Ian and Karen who organised the day (and drove down from Wigan to do it), Hever Castle Golf Club who were good to us and the weather, which once the cloud cleared, rose from a chilly 10c to a positively balmy 15c, plus our sponsors who donated some superb prizes:

- Ian Halliwell who donated 2 weeks in a luxury villa in Orlando Florida
- www.PackYourClubs.com who donated 2 * £100 discount vouchers for any of their listed Golf Holiday Villas
- Hever Castle who donated a complimentary four-ball
- www.berrygolf.com who donated packs of their superb own brand golf balls

Plus of course, congratulations again to the winners who shot very respectable scores around a beautiful but tough course (but then they should with handicaps for the winners ranging from 7 to 14).

With regard to the comments made, thanks for these they will be acted upon to make future events even better (and yes, we intend that this was the first of what will become an annual event).

The Stroke Association Mystery Five Hole 'Mini-Comp' was based on the scores achieved at a random selection of 5 from the 18 holes (made before the start and known to none of the players). Sorry if that wasn't made clear when players were asked if they wished to enter it.

Finally, about the handicaps, the only players who could not prove a Club or TSG Handicap were individually advied that they were included in the Nearest the Pin, Longest Drive and, if they wished, the Stroke Association Mystery Five Hole Mini-Comp, but their scores would not be included in consideration for the main 'TSG Competition, Prizes and Cup' (and they were not).

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

18 Apr 2010, 08:37

I attended this event & generally had a very enjoyable day. The food was very nice & the club & course were all excellent. I do feel however a few things could have been improved on.

Firstly it would have been nice to have had a welcome speech from any of the organisers.

It would have been good to be reminded of the exact format eg Stableford, must putt out etc, & the reasons why the ladies were initially told to play off Yellows & then played off the reds?

For an event of this size, it should really have had the results put into a laptop programme to ensure the embarrassment of presenting the trophy to the wrong person could not happen.

I did not really understand how the mystery holes were calculated, it was explained something like "there were only 3 holes, where this lady in my group scored two 3 pointers and a 4 points, so she wins a Florida holiday"?

Finally, & believe me this is not sour grapes, I think as a TSG championships, where it is stipulated that, the competitors must have an official congu handicap, or a TSG handicap it would have been nice if the first 2 places had played at least 1 game with TSG prior to the day! I believe no one was asked to produce a handicap certificate at any time.

Well done to the eventual winner, who I believe is a member at Hever castle!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winners - TSG Golf Day, Hever Castle Golf Club, Fri 16th April

17 Apr 2010, 20:33

Many Thanks to all the 40 Competitors who participated in The Inaugural Event. I hope you all had a Great Day, I certainly did............ for the record and of course this might change..... thats an In joke for all those who attended, sorry TOM for the false presentation and Ian...

Winner............. Andrew Siggs 33 points
Runner up...... Tom Hurcombe 32 points
3rd Place........ Helen Harding 29 points
4th Place.......    Ian Mullins    28 points
5th Place.......    Ian Halliwell 27 points

nearest to Pin............ Ray Edby     longest Drive       Helen Harding    Mystery Holes   Pia E Sun

as you can see not many bandits, Indeed the course really showed its teeth but then thats surely what we want of what I hope will become our National Yearly Championship.

On a personal note, the event raised over £ 500 for THE STROKE ASSOCIATION.... Sincere thanks to all...

Im sure Pete and I would welcome any constructive comments as to how we can improve and make the event bigger and better.

Finally there are a mulititude of pics from the day on THE FACEBOOK, site for THE SOCIAL GOLFER and
on www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com.

THANKS AGAIN

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Summer is here, official!

16 Apr 2010, 22:24

That's right, I've just had my lad get my trolley and summer golf bag down from the attic.

So from tomorrow you can put away your jumpers and waterproofs, shake off the dust from those tailored shorts and get ready for some hot weather...

Well I hope so!

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf helps?

16 Apr 2010, 18:29

I took a few lessons and the pro told me to stay with the 3-wood since I can depend on 250 plus with it. Better to be in the fairway and shooting for the green than to be longer and hitting from the rough.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ryder Cup 2018

16 Apr 2010, 17:53

One of TSG's newest partners, Oceanico Group, has announced its bid to host the 2018 Ryder Cup. As some of you will know already, Oceanico is Europe's biggest golf resort developer and has been a stalwart of the European Tour for some time through it's headline sponsorship of the Portugal Masters, hosted on the Victoria course in Vilamoura, one of seven championship standard courses they own in the region.

Two of their highest profile property owners, Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke, have already added their personal support to the bid.

TSG has negotiated some incredible deals on property ownership or golf holidays with Oceanico - just take a look at the Property and Holiday pages and you can soon be playing these amazing courses yourself!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

16 Apr 2010, 16:55

Just read the two articles and agree. I also take it Tiger will carry on insulting golf by only playing in the majors. Golf can do without the likes of Tiger but Tiger cannot do without golf. So it is about time golf pointed this out to him.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Want to know where Lee Westwood lives?

15 Apr 2010, 19:27

Hi to all fellow TSG members. You may have noticed something new about TSG this week? Like the brilliant new section on buying property in Portugal's glorious Algarve. Think you can't afford it? Then you need to check out some of the latest news. TSG have reached a deal with two of Europe's best Golf Resort operators - Pestana and Oceanico Group to offer you some truly amazing deals. Those of you with a keen eye will have seen Oceanico's logo on Lee Westwood's shirt during the Masters. Not only are they sponsors, but Lee, together with Darren Clarke, Retief Goosen and Padraig Harrington, all own Oceanico property. And with the special deal for TSG members - they could soon be your neighbours. I'll be around to answer any questions you might have and to provide you with news and gossip from the world of Algarve golf!! Enjoy. Golf In The Sun.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Disabled

15 Apr 2010, 16:00

Thanks for that.
Being disabled thats a shame.

Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Prizes for TSG Golf Day at Hever Castle, Kent, Friday 16th April

15 Apr 2010, 16:00

Yes, down to a single game now but with other prizes thrown in (Nearest the Pin, Longest Drive, Mystery 5 holes, plus a couple of random prizes as well).

Weather is looking good. I'm very much looking forward to the game.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Disabled

15 Apr 2010, 15:58

Yes tomorrow should be great.

The separate categories (including the Disabled Golfer category) were scrapped because not enough people who fitted into the various categories committed to the game. So now it seems there is a single category but with other random prizes as well

See you tomorrow.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Disabled

15 Apr 2010, 15:18

Looking forward to tomorrow

A while ago I read that there was a disabled catergory (disadvantaged golfer) with prize accordingly but now I cant seem to find anything about it.

Has that now been scrapped?

Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Prizes for TSG Golf Day at Hever Castle, Kent, Friday 16th April

15 Apr 2010, 14:48

Have the categories been removed, as I had expected there to be prizes for each category, low handicappers-men, high handicappers men, Ladies and Disabled (in no particular order)...

I'll still look forward to the day regardless...

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Prizes for TSG Golf Day at Hever Castle, Kent, Friday 16th April

15 Apr 2010, 09:22

Hi Roly, if you come 10th I'm sure you be allowed to take a picture of the Halliwell Cup which you came nowhere near winning!

Looking forward to tomorrow. Should be great fun (and weather getting warmer & sunnier all the time...)

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf palm springs usa

14 Apr 2010, 20:55

Hi,
have got a four ball going to palm springs in october this year for a golf break and wondered if any of the american gang could recomend a few courses. Have been to Arizona and had a great time now moved on to a different area so wish some local advice.

any assitance would be good.

regards

steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Prizes for TSG Golf Day at Hever Castle, Kent, Friday 16th April

14 Apr 2010, 20:17

If I came ...say 10th. could I get a thimble size, teeney weeney replica of the mini replica Halliwell cup? Looking forward to a great day out. Thanks

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Prizes for TSG Golf Day at Hever Castle, Kent, Friday 16th April

14 Apr 2010, 19:58

The Prize list for TSG Golf Championship at Hever Castle Golf Club is as follows:

1st Prize:
- Prestigious Halliwell Cup for 1 year (replica cup to keep thereafter)
- Two weeks in Luxury Florida Villa (Orlando)

2nd Prize:
- Replica of Prestigious Halliwell Cup

3rd Prize:
- Mini Replica of Prestigious Halliwell Cup

Nearest the Pin:
- Trophy
- £100 off golf holiday booking via PackYourClubs.com

Longest Drive:
- Trophy
- £100 off golf holiday booking via PackYourClubs.com

Stroke Association Mini Comp Winner (Mini Comp is based on best score from the 'preselected mystery holes'. £5 entry fee. All proceeds donated to The Stroke Association):.
- Trophy
- Two weeks in Luxury Florida Villa (Orlando)

Other Prizes:
- Various other prizes (Complimentary 4-ball at Hever Castle, dozen golf balls etc) will be awarded based on 'luck of the draw' awards in the clubhouse.

Not bad aye?

Good luck to everyone, enjoy the day and may the best and luckiest golfers win the goodies.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Westwood doing well

14 Apr 2010, 19:37

It was a shame that Lee didn't win - his time must come soon though. He's a great player and a really nice guy.

Incidentally, look out for some exciting news on TSG concerning one of Lee's sponsors. As a clue, their logo was on his shirt throughout the Masters!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \No Golf Shoes

13 Apr 2010, 18:59

Hi Russ, remember last year when I sneaked on and hobbled round MAYLANDS in Sandals, after 2 massive blisters from new Stuburt shoes? Using the cheapest Footjoys now and so comfortable, I nearly drove home in them from Cranham today.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Westwood doing well

13 Apr 2010, 18:56

If it had to be an American ... pleased it was Micholson. Really wanted Westwood though, think he will find it hard now after losing these recent Major leads. Nice to see the new improved respectful Tiger ;-) never seen anyone drop his club in disgust so much. He will be winning again very soon though.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \POGT 2010 Assistance

13 Apr 2010, 15:30

HI All

The People's Open Golf Tournament is starting its qualifiers next week. I am hoping to see quite a few of you at Wokefield Park, Reading on Monday.

David from POGT has asked me to see if there are any golfers that might be interested in helping out at some of the events as he won't be able to be at both on the same day. Details are below. If you are interested please visit the website www.pogt.co.uk or contact David using the details below:

********************************************************************************************************
On behalf of POGT:
We are looking for assistance at some of our qualifying rounds.

The dates and venues are;

Monday 10 May - Oulton Hall

Tuesday 11 May Botley Park

Wed 26 May - Carden park or Linden Hall

Monday 7th June Belton Woods or Cameron House

The assistance (could be 2 persons) would be expected to

1. Set up a reservation desk - at least 1 and half hours prior to play

2. Check all players have a valid handicap certificate.

3. Have their own lap top and or know how to use an in-house computer

4. Be able to use the handicap master system to record scores

5. Be able to work with the resident Pro and be familiar with the rules of golf

6. Have their own mobile and be able to communicate with me at regular intervals.

We shall be able to offer
Overnight accommodation
All meals
Out of pocket travel expenses
A fee

David Dryer
Manager POGT
Tel 07825 302822
Email info@pogt.co.uk

****************************************************************************************************

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

13 Apr 2010, 09:13

Totally agree with you, Alan. I thought both of the articles below captured it well:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/threedotblog/detail?entry_id=61052

http://www.golf.com/golf/tours_news/article/0,28136,1981176,00.html

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

12 Apr 2010, 17:06

Agreed Dave, one of the best Masters ever, and Phil Mickelson absolutely deserved his win. He was bold and brave. Cannot say that about Westwood - not nearly aggressive enough when it mattered.
My big disappointment was in Tiger Woods, he was incredible, and as the commentators said, ONLY he would have ended up 11 under the way he played..BUT, his fit of pique when he missed a birdy put, and walked off with a bogey, and his subsequent 'couldn't care less attitude, spoke volumes. If I can't win, I don't wanna play....an insult to everyone else. I was once a great fan - no longer I'm afraid. He will always be the best golfer in the world for me, but I now agree with Clark, he is a very poor role model.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

12 Apr 2010, 14:58

Well, so much for my predictive abilities ... What amazed me was how well Tiger actually did, despite really not being on his game. Westwood played inspired golf ... just a little short of what Mickelson was able to produce. And a great run by Fred Couples ... all in all, a great Masters.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

12 Apr 2010, 12:23

Well I hope no-one put any money on him missing the cut!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mr Consistency

11 Apr 2010, 20:44

Well it had to happen!

The last round of golf I had above 89 shots was the 6th March 2010, when I shot a 90 round the Priors course.

I have played twenty seven rounds of golf since then and today my run finally came to an end.

The Sunday Medal at my golf club was today, and I have been playing really well lately, but today I shot a 96!

Don't know what happened, just hoping that it's a blip and things will return to normal on my next round.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Westwood doing well

11 Apr 2010, 09:29

Sat here last night watching the Masters and I really enjoyed the coverage.

For once the TV didn't concentrate on the US players but I suppose they had to follow Westwood and Poulter seeing as they were the leaders.

My only concern is that Lee didn't get a big enough lead for the final round.

I would have like to see him with a two or three shot gap between himself and the rest of the field.

Poulter was a bit sad, don't know why, he just didn't seem to start! Straight from the first tee he seemed to struggle. Let's hope he puts in a charge today.

So I'm playing in my golf club's medal competition today and then I'll be home tonight ready to watch the Masters.

Come on Lee......

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Two Scores

11 Apr 2010, 09:27

Thanks Neil.

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Two Scores

11 Apr 2010, 08:47

Hi Russ,

I'll check it out.

Regards,
Neil, TSG Golf Team

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Two Scores

10 Apr 2010, 20:35

I was lucky enough to play two rounds of golf today.

When I went to add both rounds the system appears to add everything together and shows it as one scorecard!

I was one shot under my handicap for the morning round so my handicap was reduced from 11.5 (12) to 11.3 (11).

So adding my afternoon round of 83 would mean a 0.1 increase in my handicap, taking it upto 11.4 (11).

The problem is that due to the system adding both my scorecard together it isn't getting my handicap correct!

Russ

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Fourball At Stapleford Abbotts GC

10 Apr 2010, 09:10

I have a voucher for sale that is for four people.

You will get coffee and a bacon roll on arrival.

Followed up with 18 holes on the Abbotts Course.

Then, when you have finished your round of golf you will get ham, egg and chips.

This voucher is valid until the end of July 2010

The cost is £100, that is £25 per person.

You can use this voucher at a weekend, but if you are not a member there then you cannot tee off until after 1pm

PM me if interested.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

10 Apr 2010, 09:07

I did the same thing about three weeks ago.

Was practicing my pitching from 20 to 40 yards.

So I used the 'Mark Ball' function to measure out the two distances from the flag.

Then I threw 100 balls into the air and hit pitch shots.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

10 Apr 2010, 07:32

I also found a new use for my SG5 yesterday. I'm been struggling a bit with 'in between club chips' and so went to the chipping green at my club. Using the 'mark ball' feature I could start at the pin and measure 30 yds back to give me the distance that I want to practice.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \People's Open Golf Tournament 2010

09 Apr 2010, 20:04

There is still spaces availible for the POGT 2010. Hopefully I will see a few of you at Wokefield Park on 19 April and maybe even St Andrews!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

09 Apr 2010, 17:41

Hi all,

Thank you all for your comments, i am playing tomorrow and sunday so i wont mess around to much but i will go over the range next week and have a go at all tips given.

Cheers
Andy

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

09 Apr 2010, 10:56

I have the SkyCaddie SG5, and I think it is excellent. It used to lack the ability to track your scores/stats, but that has since been remedied with the latest software update. So now, not only does it give you the distances, but it also can track your scores and stats - and it automatically downloads them into a web-based analysis tool. You can see where you're missing the fairway on your drives, for example ... mostly right, mostly left, etc.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

08 Apr 2010, 15:24

Hi Andy

I am New to TSG so I hope you don't think I am butting in or anything. The best way for more distance is better swing technique (obvious I know).

The fundamentals to a powerful swing are (right handed golfers)
- A bend in the right leg at the top of your back swing, keep the same bend you have at setup, practice this without a downswing to ingrain it into your swing.
- A straight left arm throughout the swing (some bend is okay, I mention this because my dad bends his arms to look like chicken wings.
- A full turn so that your chest faces away from your target at the top of your swing
And finally (and this was one of the biggest improvement to my swing)
- You must not let your left arm collapse too much across your chest at the top of your swing, all of your power comes from a hip/back rotation not an arm swing. By that I mean, if your left arm lies across your chest at any point during the back of your swing, you will find it very difficult to allow your body to swing the club effectively (unless you are very very strong(and coordinated)). Email me back if you need me to explain this last bit any more, it's not easy to imagine without diagrams etc.

I hope this has made sense

Thanks

Neil

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

08 Apr 2010, 08:14

looking forward to alot of golf this year to welcome aboard

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 23:18

yes good point............ I hope I can be involved with your games as much as possible as well. I would really like to start playing a lot more this year!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 23:14

once your in a group you can list a game whenever you want ..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 23:10

Do you suppose any of these games will be played on a weekend as I am in full time employment and its difficult to get time off in the week. Its not ideal but sometimes I can take holidays, just that as you probably are well aware holidays are sacred!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 23:04

I'd have to check by playing with the Kent Group but I think you can say what format you want for the Group Leaderboard - free format?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 18:17

surrey crown is group name have seen personnal scoring is group scoring an option too

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 17:47

Perhaps set it up as a proper TSG Group because the Groups functionality offers a Group Leaderboard ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 15:13

A good place for a main match would be surrey as then all areas could get involved a kent, surrey, hampshire, berkshire shoot out .. would make for a good day ..

maybe a group leader board is possible ...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 15:08

no no I think most people are happy to drive for an hour once we get under way i,m more people will join in have you started a group if so i,ll join as i,m in kent 4+ times a year..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 13:46

I don't think a fourball from Kent would be a problem as long as not intending to travel to deepest Hampshire for a day - the M25 is a killer!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 12:51

Orpington, Addington Court loads of courses on the way...

starting and running a kent group would need a captain (you up for it) as I would join games, I am looking to post a game group/area challenge in kent fingers cross may.

what sort of size team you thinking (fourball?).

I,m working on a team willing to travel but I think to start to split the distance between teams to get a few matches underway..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Apr 2010, 09:34

I'm sure we can raise a Kent group and, contrary to my previous ill-informed opinion of it, Chelsfield Lakes is a nice course in the Crown Golf Group and... it accepts the Open Fairways Card so 50% discount (4-for-2).

Lets get a few dates & courses agreed and then we can arrange the teams.

Over to you David...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Apr 2010, 20:23

more groups the better ... is that the start of an anti-crown group lol

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Apr 2010, 20:19

some of the club members get vouchers through or discounted rates (just got some free 2 for 1s at milford)..
anyone that joins surrey crown can post games it doesn't have to go through or be done by me.
so anyone that wants to get involved can .. any ideas and all help welcome (because its free for us games got a better turn out).

roll on the summer and some great golf....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Apr 2010, 19:38

how about a non crown golf team, would have to be a crown course that accept 2-1 vouchers to keep the cost low for the non crown team, im sure i can gather a bunch of boys to compete.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

06 Apr 2010, 19:18

Andy, it doesnt seem that long ago when we played your first ever round (18 months ago?!) and you are already down to playing off 25 and jugding by your entered scores you have already broken 90 once!!

My advice would be to be patience, keep playing as often as you can and it will come.........alternatively invest in some decent hybrid clubs - these will improve your distance off the fairway and are much easier to hit than the average 3/4 iron.

And as Russ says experiment with ball position.

Good luck.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

06 Apr 2010, 09:40

Andy

Experiment - as Russ suggests - ball position, check your grip (nice and light often results in a better strike). Try exhaling before beginning and during your backswing...

Know your own limitations and don't worry that the next guy can hit it further, plan your way around the course - keeping within your own capabilities.... focus more on approach and short game and putting, you'll save lots more shots that way...

I played with a guy who drove 150 yrds on average but he still made par 5s, just by being straight where he aimed.

Know how far you are liable to hit each club, easy enough to work out... take 10 shots with a 9 iron, all the same stroke, measure the average distance and work out the rest from there (adding approx 9-11 yrds per club). Once you know how far you are liable to hit the 7 iron, 3 iron, it's the same swing without extra effort to get the ball a bit further...

So saying it is good to drive the ball 300 yrds now and again...

Rgds Stephen

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

05 Apr 2010, 22:52

One thing you could try Andy is to move the ball back in your stance when using your irons.

Only move it back about two ball widths.

This will produce a punch like shot that will stay lower but travel further.

Not much good if you are hitting an approach to a green that is higher than you are!

But for your second shot on a par five it's worth a try.

This kind of shot would be good on a hard, dry fairway as the ball will run much further.

Try moving the ball around until you find a place that you hit well from.

Hope this helps.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

05 Apr 2010, 21:56

Another Skycaddie user here. Don't waste your money on a SG5 though. The 2.5 is more than adequate.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

05 Apr 2010, 21:55

Answer is - as always - it depends. As a starter; how far do you hit your 7 iron? And your driver? Also, what it your shot shape (fade, draw, slice, high, low...?).

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

05 Apr 2010, 20:53

Hi Richard, I'm with Russ on this. I bought an SG5 and I couldn't be more pleased with it. The stats tracking when you save your scores in it is excellent once you upload it to the skycaddie website. I'm using it to keep track of my number of putts, greens in regulation and fairways in regulation.

Great piece of kit.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

05 Apr 2010, 12:55

Thank you russell, i understand as regards to the air but even in the summer i still dont hit long, its just my style of play, so was just on the look for tips to try.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

05 Apr 2010, 12:05

Andy, due to the current weather conditions you have to accept that you are not going to be hitting the ball as far as you normally would.

The air temperature is still cold and the ground is wet, so your ball won't travel as far through the air, and then when it lands it's not going to run very far.

As the ground gets drier and harder you will start to notice your ball running much further.

Try and concentrate on making a full turn and getting a good strike on the ball, the rest will come as the air temperature gets higher and the ground gets harder.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Hitting Long

05 Apr 2010, 10:08

Hi does anyone have any tips or can offer advice on best clubs ect for someone who does not hit the ball far, as much as my game has started to improve i do feel this costs me a number of shots each round, its also a big problem during the current weather period we have at the moment.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

04 Apr 2010, 17:23

I have iphone. i use Golf card 5.99 and is great for holding stats and a great range finder tracking your handicap and other stats ie putts, G.IR among oter things . Also there is my caddie pro which is a free app and is quick and simple range finder using google maps both are great in there own way

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Belek Turkey in May 2010

04 Apr 2010, 09:47

I enjoyed all the international golf courses in Belek --awsome to play before and after the heat sink season.

Cheers :)

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Belek Turkey in May 2010

03 Apr 2010, 20:14

Our party are going on the 18th April and we have booked again with Bilyana golf..here is the UK branch..

http://www.bilyanagolf.co.uk ask to speak to Steve Nicholson.

The Faldo course is fabulous.
if your looking for a shorter course ... the Pasha
If you want a links...LykiaLinks
Heard great reports about Carya

Gerry.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shaping Your Shots

03 Apr 2010, 15:15

Hi Russ, so why not aim to hit the ball into the hole?

Seriously I would tend to try the simple approach, hit it straight and two putt.. the rest is too complicated, but you know that if I see someone else fading ir drawing I'm always tempted to play the'glory shot' as well...

I'm looking to play the easy shot for the rest of this year and see if it is as much fun playing off the fairways as it is out of trees...

btw.. Played a round at altitude in South Africa, imagine an extra 60 yards on every drive... that was a different problem (ok when it went straight, but advised to leave it when it went that extra 60 yards into the jungle). Also good incentive to keep up with play...

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

03 Apr 2010, 14:08

If you have an Iphone you could always take a look at the Golfshot GPS app. For £17.99 it takes a bit of beating

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Belek Turkey in May 2010

03 Apr 2010, 12:13

Anybody have any suggestions of courses to play in Belek, Turkey and know of a on line booking site for Belek.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \No Golf Shoes

02 Apr 2010, 19:14

I have a pair of spikeless golf shoes that I keep at my house in Vegas. You normally don't really need spikes to play in such dry conditions - not even soft spikes. These shoes are made for Porsche Design by Adidas ... hideously expensive, and I never really could afford them, but last time I was back home they were having some insane sale at Porsche Design - got them for 60% off. They are super comfortable, and the best thing is that I don't have to change my shoes! Just put on my golf shoes, and drive to the course!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \No Golf Shoes

02 Apr 2010, 16:36

I was wondering what he was wearing,they had a blue undersole so i couldnt work out if they where golf shoes.So is there a rule that golf shoes must be worn or is it a medical thing with Mr Couples........outside bet for the Major Fred Couples...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Poor Finish!

02 Apr 2010, 14:02

get a life!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \No Golf Shoes

01 Apr 2010, 22:44

I was watching the Shell Houston Open tonight and Fred Couples was playing a shot.

The presenters then explained that he didn't wear golf shoes, just normal training shoes.

Now at my golf club if you haven't got golf shoes then you don't get on the course!

I suppose this could be the same thing as wearing a glove, most people wear them but some people don't.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Poor Finish!

01 Apr 2010, 21:03

The last two rounds of golf I have played have all ended with me having a poor finish.

On both rounds I was going to finish with a round of golf that was below my handicap as long as I made nothing worse than a bogey on the last hole.

I must admit in this strong wind the final hole is tricky.

A par three, 138 yards with a carry all over water. Out of bounds behind the green.

Nothing worse than playing well in a strong wind and then blowing it on the last hole!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Worst Part Of Your Game

01 Apr 2010, 18:32

Some days my driving is On, and the second shot is off, or the short game is on and the long game is off, there are times though (not too frequently) when the driving is on, the second shot is on, the short game is on, putting is on, then the alarm clock goes off...

Seriously I've only just begun to hit fairways from the tee, so still getting used the choosing the second shot that I can manage instead of trying for something that is outside of my capability... managing my own expectation of my own capability... it would help if I could reconcile myself to playing the shots I can do, as opposed to the shot I want to.

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who's the best golfer you've played with?

01 Apr 2010, 18:23

Played a round of golf with a PGA pro at Landon Hills at a Pro am last year, scratch golfer, nice young guy John Woolley (worthwhile remembering his name) and he played effortless golf, making birdie/par for every hole except 1 (where I managed to outscore him using all of my shots). For the first 9 holes it was relatively close and our SSS scores were just about the same (give or take 2), but he just continued to play consistent easy stuff - making his putts and keeping in the short grass..

I had a bit of a poor back nine and he turned in a score of 38 points (in difficult conditions) for the round... and he was a little disapointed to not par one hole...

Good to watch and not sure if I learnt anything other than he was much better than me... or maybe I was just a little unlucky on some holes... Perhaps I began to learn to play within my own capabilities and not to compete with someone so much better than me... must have been very distracting for him to play with me...

But he never complained in person.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

01 Apr 2010, 17:12

Hi Richard, as you know I've got the SkyCaddie SG5 and I cannot recommend it enough.

I've seen the SureShot but haven't really looked at what it does.

The SkyCaddie SG5 clips onto your belt easily and they also do a trolley holder.

You can keep your score on it and then download it to the website and it will keep your scores for you.

There is a 'Mark Ball' button so you can see how far your drives have gone, or how far you hit each club.

If you haven't bought one before the next time we play together again I'll show you how it works.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Sureshot vs Skycaddie

01 Apr 2010, 13:02

I'm thinking of getting a GPS system and was looking at either a Skycaddie SG5 which I can get 2nd hand for £140.00 or a Sureshot 8800 which I can get brand new for £150.00. Does anyone have any advice regarding either of these units?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

01 Apr 2010, 11:36

Fair enough Clark, but was John Daly EVER in the position that Tiger was...not even close, and to suggest thet he put himself on a pedestal is a bit over the top don't you think. The media and sponsors were certainly to blame for that. I would also question your assertion that he couldn't hold a candle to the greats. Even they have said he is a phenomenon.... Nicklaus in particular. As far as his personal life is concerned, I am sure he is not alone in his personal failings, but, and I certainly do not condone his actions, (I think he was a prat), everything he does in put under the media microscope, unlike lesser mortals. The man is a world celebrity even among the non golfing community. You could not say that about the greats of the past. Would that I was in his position, I could easily be a prat for a while. :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

01 Apr 2010, 09:57

will be looking at surrey / kent game shortly after details on the way, any ideals lads.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

01 Apr 2010, 09:41

looking like surrey, hampshire will be a joint group until the numbers are up. oak park is looking like a good course for a surrey/hampshire/berkshire game. 3 way match would be a good start most points wins the day. any ideals welcome.
would be looking at may, as I can only book 2 tees would have to get each captain to book there teams tee and we,ll work it so they are in sink.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Any advice about Turkey (Belek) golf holiday?

31 Mar 2010, 19:23

Didn't get to Turkey (few people dropped out) but off to France in a few weeks which should be fun.

Maybe Turkey later in the year.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Worst Part Of Your Game

31 Mar 2010, 18:21

The first 4 or 5 holes every Saturday Medal
Way to much drink on Friday night
Keep saying i'm staying in...but that wont happen.

Must say worst part of my game is old father time catching up with me.

Gerry.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Any advice about Turkey (Belek) golf holiday?

31 Mar 2010, 18:14

Hi, our party leave for Belek on 18th April,this is our 3rd time in Turkey after 4 years in costa del sol and 3 in Villamoura in Portugal.
We book our own flight and book the golf, hotel & all shuttles with...
http://www.bilyanagolf.com/
who are ultra competitive.
Staying once again @ Cornelia Deluxe 5 star all inclusive
http://www.corneliaresort.com/
Playing The National-Faldo twice and the Carya, Everything for £850...great value
19 days to go ...but whos counting.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

30 Mar 2010, 23:23

I do not disagree with you on Tiger’s golfing skills but he could not tie the laces of the three greats that put golf where it belongs. Also as far as the apology is concerned I would agree with you Tiger does not need to apologies to the people who have made him so rich but if he had not put himself on such a pedestal he would not have had to. I mean have you ever hear John Daly apologise for all his faults and yet the press are not after his throat. Yes I also agree with you that Tiger will make the cut unfortunately and I still say his attitude is the wrong one for young golfers to follow.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \stuart freeman

30 Mar 2010, 21:22

does anyone know whats happened to stuart freeman.all his posted games have been taken off and he hasnt replied to emails.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

30 Mar 2010, 12:57

I'll have a £50 wager that you are wrong, and another £50 that he will win it. ;-)

Tiger - Best thing to have happened to golf since the good old days of Palmer and Nicklaus...heady days.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Villa Rentals for Golf Holidays from PackYourClubs

30 Mar 2010, 10:24

As promised the Golf Holiday Accommodation Section is now live (it can be found under the 'Golf Property' menu item).

This section is powered by PackYourClubs.com so all of the golf villas, apartments and houses, whether on the Algarve, Lisbon Coast, Costa del Sol or Florida are actually on or very near some of the best golf holiday resorts and courses.

So if you are planning a short break to the Algarve with friends, or a week on the Costa del Sol with the family (but want to get in some golf while you're there), support us by starting your search here:

http://www.thesocialgolfer.com/GolfPropertyRentals.aspx

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mr Consistency

30 Mar 2010, 09:51

I have now made it to sixteen rounds of golf all within a ten shot range.

A couple of times I've struggled to get going but I was pleased to stay within this range.

I played yesterday in the rain and with a wind blowing.

Started off well with a good par on the first hole, but after that it was hit and miss!

I needed to bogey the last three holes to make eighty seven shots, managed to go bogey, bogey, par for an eighty six.

In a way I'm pleases as I'm not striking the ball as well as I was a month ago but I'm still staying within my ten shot range.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

30 Mar 2010, 08:37

Why do so called fans think Tiger woods owes them an apology, I'm a fan of golf, what Tiger got up to off the course is his business, Though I think he would of passed Jack's total of majors if he hadn't had quiet so many "off course" interest on the go at the same time. :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

29 Mar 2010, 17:16

I Hope he does American golf has been great without him never knew there were so many other golfers in Tournaments I know it is not his fault also the way he thinks he apologised to his fans was an insult to them. I also do not think he is the sort of person who is a good role model for younger players

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

29 Mar 2010, 14:07

[quote=Pete Connon]Hi Pat, I see you're from NJ. What's the tv coverage been like for Tiger in the States? Has he been receiving bad press or supportive press?[/quote]

It seems to be a very interesting mix of coverage: initial coverage was very bad: as each of his "players" surfaced, press up in not such a good light; however, things have calmed a bit and players seem to be sticking by him outwardly when questioned with press. Where are u from?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Scottish Disability Golf Partnership - Free PGA Tuition & Golf Open Day

29 Mar 2010, 12:13

The Scottish Disability Golf Partnership are inviting anyone, of any age, with a disability or serious health issue (and their coaches or carers) to join them at their PGA Tuition & Golf Open Day at Mearnes Castle Golf Academy, Glasgow.

With funding from the Voluntary Action Fund's Community Chest the SDGP has arranged the free golf
training day at the Mearnes Castle Golf Academy on Saturday 10 April. The training will be provided
by PGA qualified Professionals from 10:00 and for more established players some golf is also
available at a heavily subsidised price.

The Scottish Disability Golf Partnership is the only group in Scotland which actively encourages and
involves anyone of any age, with a disability, serious health problem or mobility issue and their
coaches, who wish to play golf and includes amputees, the blind, deaf, those with learning
difficulties, downs syndrome, stroke and heart attack victims, wheelchair users and anyone with
other similar issues, who wish to learn or play the sport.

Further information about the event and the SDGP can be found at www.sdgp.co.uk or by email at
SDGP.Secretary@ntlworld.com

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\London Golf Show - Free Entry

28 Mar 2010, 21:28

I picked up a leaflet for the London Golf Show 2010 at my club today.

It states that if you are a member of a golf club you get free entry to the golf show.

The event is being held at the ExCel center between the 30th April and the 2nd May 2010

For those of you who are interested in Tennis as well it will get you free entry into the London Tennis Show.

The tickets for the golf show are £15 at the door or £10 if booked in advance. So if you are a member of a golf club then it makes sense to register and get your free ticket.

You have to register on their website http://www.londongolfshow.com before the 17th April to qualify.

To be honest I've never heard much good about this golf show, and I attended the Golf Show at the NEC a few years ago, it was poor!

But with free entry it might be worth a day out.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who's the best golfer you've played with?

28 Mar 2010, 18:56

Nice story David.

You can just imagine this guy in a morning saying to his wife, "I'm just going to go upto the golf club and boost our pension money".

Probably plays three or four days a week doing the same thing, old guy who everyone feels sorry for when betting against him, and him walking away with all the cash and a big smile on his face.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \the round the world trip

28 Mar 2010, 12:17

summary of golf related matters

hardest course played......................... koolau............hawaii

best course played..............1. cape kidnappers 2 pebble beach 3. kauri cliffs

best value for money.............. northlands vancouver

best country visited.............. new zealand

must revisit.......................kauri cliffs the most scenic golf course

favourite hole................ 7th at pebble, still cant believe my fully cmmited, well hit 6 iron only went 60 yards into the wind...

see you all i hope at hever

youes

ian

www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who's the best golfer you've played with?

28 Mar 2010, 12:01

A couple of years ago, I was back home in the San Francisco Bay Area for a visit - went out to play a round with my best friend and a friend of his. The friend of his brought along his father-in-law, who was 67 years old ... he asked us if we wanted to have a little wager. We felt bad about maybe beating up on an old man, so we tried to keep the bet low - but he insisted, so we went along.

Not sure what his handicap was, but he kicked our ass up the front-9, and again down the back-9, and took all our money. I can only hope to play that well when I'm his age.

He did invite us back to his house for dinner, where his wife cooked us a really nice meal. But I won't be betting with him anytime again soon!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Worst Part Of Your Game

27 Mar 2010, 17:37

Same as Stuart my short game until recently, i have started using a 5 or 7 iron around the green.I now feel confident in this shot and its something that i havent practise ,its just come natural i treat it like a putt which is the best part off my game ...ive never liked short chips,could never judge how much power to use so it would go 5yards or 50.....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who's the best golfer you've played with?

27 Mar 2010, 17:30

I played with a work friend in hampshire who played off 1 and made the game look like a sickly easy,oh he shot a 4under just to add insult,but watching him play made me play better has i was taking tips and just watching what he was doing.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \My Short Game

26 Mar 2010, 19:36

Further to my post 'Who's the best golfer you've played with'.

I realised that each and every good golfer I've ever had a round of golf with had a really good short game.

Most of them didn't miss the green from 100 yards in, putted really well.

On the few occasions when they did miss the green they pitched/chipped the ball into a position where they could one putt.

I've spent an hour on the practice ground today just concentrating on the 20 to 40 yard pitch shots.

At the moment these shots are the worst part of my game and desperately needed some work.

I spoke to the assistant pro at my golf club and he confirmed that I was setting up correctly for the pitch shot. So after the hour working on this part of my game I now feel a lot more confident on these shots.

It's my first game tomorrow as a single player in the Jubilee Cup (inter-club competition) and I don't want to let either myself or the club down.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who's the best golfer you've played with?

26 Mar 2010, 19:29

I was sat at home thinking about the people I've played golf with and how good they were.

So who is the best golfer you've ever played with?

And what was their handicap?

I've played with two golfers who were playing off a handicap of six.

Not once have I ever played with a professional golfer (pro-am, etc).

So who have you played a round of golf with and what was their handicap (if it's a professional then don't bother with the handicap, just name names!!!).

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Worst Part Of Your Game

26 Mar 2010, 19:28

1. rushing, i tend to play at 100mph, need to take my time over shots(chipping and putting)

2. all in the mind, distracted very easily(I need to hire a sports pyschologist)

3. leave my mobile phone at home(so wife, work cant phone me), tend to play better in 4 balls when the pace is slowered

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

26 Mar 2010, 07:05

Had the same problem playing with a 2 handicap HACKER.Kicked his bag,clubs going right,left and every where else.His sense of language was choice.
My solution was as follows,refused to sign his card at end of round ,told him he was a thundering disgrace and left him on the 18th green,wondering what to kick next.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Worst Part Of Your Game

25 Mar 2010, 20:10

Hi,

I am an 8 handicap golfer who has a terrible short game from about 20 yards out. Having said that I am a really good putter which is just as well. How do I know this well the ball never or very rarely finishes close to the pin. I have spent many hundred of hours (and I am not joking about this) on the short game area but have not managed to resolve the problem. Now I use my putter from 20 yards out and have had a lot of success with this shot.

Regards,

Stuart

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Worst Part Of Your Game

25 Mar 2010, 17:51

What I want to know is what is the worst part of your game?

Also, why do you think it is the worst part of your game?

And finally, what are you doing to fix it?

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\New Menu to support great new functions

25 Mar 2010, 14:45

OK, yep got it now. Many thanks! Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

25 Mar 2010, 14:15

5 putted the 10th green at mannings heath today(kingfisher course), so much steam coming out of my ears!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\New Menu to support great new functions

25 Mar 2010, 13:44

Hi Ian

Try search, drop down menu ,games and comps link

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\New Menu to support great new functions

25 Mar 2010, 13:28

Great to see the site continues to be updated but can anyone tell me where I find the 'games' section now? Ian M

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\New Menu to support great new functions

25 Mar 2010, 13:25

Thanks Guys For a great web site, that has just got even better

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\New Menu to support great new functions

25 Mar 2010, 11:24

As you've probably noticed (hard not to!) we've changed the format of the TSG menu. This change was required to support the addition of all the new functionality we've got planned.

Coming very, very soon will be the Golf Property Sections (Holidays & Sales).

Closely followed by Online Tee Time Booking, starting with the UK, then Europe, followed by others as we can (we're still looking for suitable solutions for the rest of the world so if you know of a good one - let us know).

Lastly the new menu allows us to easily integrate other services. We've had discussions with a few complementary service providers and when we've got a short list of good ones we'll open a Poll for you to vote on which you want to see.

All the best,
TSG Golf Team.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \People's Open Golf Tournament 2010

23 Mar 2010, 21:04

I have received my entry papers for the qualifier at Reading. They are also doing a deal for £79 to stay the Sunday night and play practice round. Half board twin sharing. Anyone else going? I might just book into a B&B near there and play a round the Sunday afternoon.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

23 Mar 2010, 11:52

Hi Pat, I see you're from NJ. What's the tv coverage been like for Tiger in the States? Has he been receiving bad press or supportive press?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

23 Mar 2010, 00:30

cant' wait to check out the action; should be one of the most tv watched events, even for none-golfers.
Yes, sad to hear re: Billy Hills.

And, yes, Woods: he will be ready-- he is not only spending a few moments in front of cameras, but LOTS OF TIME ON THE COURSE! He has a game plan! Believe me!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Just another reminder...

22 Mar 2010, 18:58

Hey Social Golfer members! I just wanted to again remind you that we are currently hosting a Swing Challenge at the National University Golf Academy. Its a chance to pit your swing against others and win some great prizes, including a $1,000 NUGA scholarship and personalized swing lab sessions. Social Golfer members are encouraged to come on over and check us out. Thanks! http://bit.ly/swingchallenge

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mr Consistency

21 Mar 2010, 22:29

OK, make that the last 11 rounds of golf I have played.

Played in my last Winter League game today on the Priors course and shot 84.

This included three triple bogeys!!!!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

21 Mar 2010, 19:38

Tiger being back can only be a good thing,after all he is still the man to beat unless your a blonde female.Come the Sunday he will be there or thereabouts...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mr Consistency

21 Mar 2010, 18:55

Mark, I don't live on here but I do have to divide my time between this forum and other ones!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mr Consistency

21 Mar 2010, 12:31

DO YOU LVE ON HERE RUSS?????

and for everyone who wants to know my stalker is dave roth :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

21 Mar 2010, 09:31

I seem to recall that Samuel L Jackson plays off 5 or 6 and Kurt Russell about 8.

So it would seem that the American film stars get more time to play than the UK stars!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

21 Mar 2010, 08:42

That's true Russ, but I've only had 78 forum posts, not 264!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

21 Mar 2010, 08:26

Roly, you've got far too much spare time on your hands!

I suggest taking up a hobby, say golf, what do you think?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Celebrity Golfers handicaps

21 Mar 2010, 08:14

I woke up this morning wondering what Handicaps some well known golfing celebrities play off? (Sad I know) I thought they might all pop up on one 'celebrity golfer UK website' but unfortunately had to do a bit more digging.

The first few suprises were that:

Sean connory is listed as between 15 & 17.9 (depending which site you look at)
Alex Ferguson 24

Bruce forsythe 10

Ant 24

Dec 28

Chris Evans 14

Hugh Grant 7

I couldn't find a find some of the ones listed below, so can you help?

Sir Terry Wogan

Ronnie Corbett

Jimmy Tarbuck

….etc

I did find out that US celebs Dennis Quaid plays off 1.1 &Alice Cooper 2 & Kenny Gee is off Scratch.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

20 Mar 2010, 20:50

Lots of funny stuf in here but I do not think Tiger woods will be missing the cut at Augusta, He was still #1 when he left for a bit.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Mr Consistency

20 Mar 2010, 18:23

I've just added another score to my scores.

When I looked at my last ten games I realised that they have all been within ten shots of each other.

My best score was a 77 (did it twice) and my worse score was 87. The best thing is that these scores are from three different courses.

Three of the scores dropped my handicap by a full shot. Three of the rounds were outside my buffer zone by just one shot!

Hopefully as the weather gets warmer and the greens get better I'll be able to drop my handicap down to my target, single figures, who knows.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Changing Back To Pro V1's

20 Mar 2010, 17:36

Well I played the Priors course again today and the wind was blowing!!!

Decided to play the NXT Tour ball as I didn't need any extra spin in that wind.

I was pleased with my shots so maybe I should hold off going back to the Pro V1's for a month or so, until the weather gets even warmer.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shaping Your Shots

20 Mar 2010, 11:47

Mark, Mark, Mark....

First things first, congratulations on your win in the Pro-Am, your stalker wasted no time in telling me how well the team had done.

Now back to my question.

As I'm still in the process of trying what you told me last week, and it's working by the way! then the draw would be out for me. Too much of a risk if I push the ball.

The fade would be good as I'd take an extra club knowing that the ball won't travel as far.

I'd probably try and hit a staight(ish) shot, but aiming five yards left of the flag. Then if I push it I should be on the green right of the flag. If I hit it well then it would be close enough to the flag to give me a one putt chance. And if it goes were I was aiming then I'd be on the green and I would take the two putts and walk away happy with another par.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

20 Mar 2010, 10:09

No way, Woods will come very close to winning , if not will actually win it.

he has been playing behind the scenes alot last couple of months

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shaping Your Shots

20 Mar 2010, 10:02

Russel Russel Russel,

I would hit a draw shot into the green because i can control the ball very well as youu know.

BUT
'
for you i would say none of them are good if you want to lower you handicap as 9/10 time you will end up in the pond with a draw shot, in the bunker with a fade shot cos fade shot go shorter than a draw.

NMy advice to you would be, hit the ball to the centre of the green and 2 putt!!!!!

this is the easiest option.

what you think??

Regards

Mark

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Changing Back To Pro V1's

20 Mar 2010, 09:08

The Pro V1 (and even more so the Pro V1x) is designed as a softer ball (more feel) which allows slightly more spin to allow the golfer to 'shape' the shot.

The NXT is designed to minimise spin, so better for trying to keep it straight !

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Shaping Your Shots

20 Mar 2010, 08:43

Imagine the scene....

You've got 160 yards to the center of the green.

The flag is on the right hand side of the green (about six paces on from the right hand side of the green edge).

There is a pon about five yards to the right of the green and the ground between the green and the pond slopes down to the water.

There is also a bunker just in front of the bunker.

This means that you cannot run the ball upto the green but have to carry it over the bunker.

The green is receptive and will hold a ball.

So what would you do and why.....

1) So would you hit a draw, starting the ball at the edge of the pond and bringing it back to the flag. The problem with this option is that if you don't get the ball to draw you'll probably end up in the pond.

2) Would you hit a fade, starting the ball at the middle of the green and fading it towards the flag. The problem with this option is that if the ball doesn't fade then you'll have a monster putt.

3) Hit the ball straight at the flag. Not the kind of shot that most people can play.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Jubilee Cup Information

19 Mar 2010, 20:08

I've been selected by my golf club to represent them in this years Jubilee Cup.

Stapleford Abbotts GC won this cup last year so I'm very proud to be asked to try and retain the trophy.

Last year the Jubilee Cup had a website (jubileecup.co.uk) but a couple of weeks ago the website went missing from the internet!

Has anybody any ideas on how I would get any information on the games, etc?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Changing Back To Pro V1's

19 Mar 2010, 18:02

Over the winter months I've been using Titleist NTX Tour golf balls.

Last summer I used the Pro V1's and really liked them.

Over the last few weeks I've been hitting Pro V1's alongside my NXT Tour golf balls.

Today was the first time that the Pro V1's were travelling as far as the NXT Tour balls. So after nine holes I changed golf balls.

Over the last couple of months I've started hitting the ball really well, and straighter than I've ever hit them.

Today, after changing balls I was starting to get a fade with my driver. Although the front nine with the NXT Tour ball wasn't that good!

So now I'm wondering if I should stay with the NXT Tour during the summer months.

All I can do is start to get the ball going straight again and then use a Pro V1 and see if the shots stay straight!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \White Tees Are Back

19 Mar 2010, 17:49

I turned up to play the Priors course at Stapleford Abbotts GC today and the white tees are back in play.

When the weather turned cold and wet last year the white tees were removed from this course. Oddly though, they remained on the main course but were always situated with the yellow tees!

The Priors course is a far better course to me when played from the white tees.

It also means to me that the weather/course is getting better.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

19 Mar 2010, 17:27

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

19 Mar 2010, 17:08

Be interesting to see if the Yanks still Love him, or hate him!...I mean he has "apologised to all his fans"!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

19 Mar 2010, 14:10

13/2 to miss the cut with billy hills

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \I predict Tiger misses the cut at The Masters

19 Mar 2010, 13:45

... and gets a fat lip, after being hit in the mouth by a mobile phone thrown at him from some chick in the gallery.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

17 Mar 2010, 17:34

your surrey dont worry i,ll keep the games moving

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

17 Mar 2010, 16:40

Hi David,

I have added myself to the Surrey team.

Hopefully we can get enough players to cover the counties.

Let me know if you need me to move to another county if numbers are short - when I say move, I won't be moving house!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

17 Mar 2010, 15:14

Hi,
Great to have you on board, If you guys want to mail Roger Marsland about starting a group for hampshire or add yourself to surrey crown or crown golfers berkshire. Then you would of met some of the players before the team events.
Going to start to list surrey crown games next month and start getting some feed back for county games

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

17 Mar 2010, 14:51

Hi,

Would be happy to play, work permitting . I live in Fareham so would be part of Hampshire team.

Cheers

Guy...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \how to have a good downswing,mentali and physicaly

17 Mar 2010, 09:16

What's the problem with your downswing?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \how to have a good downswing,mentali and physicaly

16 Mar 2010, 07:10

who can help me in my downswing?im 18 handicaper.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

15 Mar 2010, 10:22

Hi Guys,

I would really like to be involved with your team events over the year, and time permitting with work then I am sure I can make a fair few of these events this year. I am from Southsea, Portsmouth so imagine I would be in the hampshire's.....

jsut shout if you need some support

Chris

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \sabre tooth putter cover

14 Mar 2010, 13:03

Steve, try giving Callaway a ring www.odysseygolf.com/Global/en-GB/CustomerService/ContactUs.html. They're usually pretty helpful. I said THEY'RE USUALLY PRETTY... Oh never mind...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \sabre tooth putter cover

12 Mar 2010, 23:41

TRY EBAY YOU CAN BUY MOST THINGS ON THERE

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ UK Long Drive Series 2010 starting near you NOW..

12 Mar 2010, 13:34

You can now enter online all over europe

www.uklongdriveseries.com

thank you

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \sabre tooth putter cover

12 Mar 2010, 09:27

Hi, ive lost the cover that comes with the sabre tooth putter and cannot find anywhere to buy a replacement. anyone know where i can get one. thanks

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Forums now work okay with Google Chrome

12 Mar 2010, 09:27

Thank you for sorting this out.

Obviously I am going to post this with a few paragraphs.

It seems to be fine.... I see I have emoticons also.. never had those before

Keep up the good work TSG

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Forums now work okay with Google Chrome

12 Mar 2010, 09:06

Hi All,

We have now sorted the problems with the text editor used when posting a forum response so that it works properly with the internet browser 'Google Chrome' (the paragraphs were being ignored).

Any other problems, let us know.

All the best,
Pete, TSG Golf Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Amazing...

12 Mar 2010, 09:03

I was going to delete this spam, but your responses are far to amusing to lose. So I'll delete it later (so that he doesn't benefit from Google Link-backs from us).

Pete, TSG Golf Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

12 Mar 2010, 03:35

good man looking forward to running a few ideas by you for team events

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

12 Mar 2010, 01:12

Hello All..... well i have re'name the crown golfers group name and i agree with roger..... regardless of how many people are in the group ( 4 ) players at a time playing a singles match is a good start.

So i could get 4 players to come to South Winchester to play and then then of course the return match at Blue Mountain...so and so with other areas. I have to say though to be fair, a player can ONLY play for 1 county once its all started otherwise it will get silly and un fair.

So get ready to shout....... 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 ha ha

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\2 Thumb Putter Grip

11 Mar 2010, 23:23

Been using mine for around a year to and have the pro light version so it didnt affect the balance of my putter. Would find it hard to go back to a normal grip now i like it that much.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Amazing...

11 Mar 2010, 20:17

I agree, If you want to advertise on this forum at least make it a bit more subtle.....we are not still in nappies you know...you will lose business by patronising us!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Amazing...

11 Mar 2010, 18:29

Not very given you work there. Getting a bit desperate for visitors are you?

Little tip, if you're going to Spam forums as least do it using an alias.

uk.linkedin.com/pub/ergul-sahin/13/656/785

Knob.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\2 Thumb Putter Grip

11 Mar 2010, 16:16

hi
been using mine for a year now wont go back .. short putting it helps alot .. long putts take a bit of getting use too..

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\2 Thumb Putter Grip

11 Mar 2010, 16:08

Hi,

Does / has anyone used the two thumb putter grip and if so, what do you think?

My putting is the worst part of my game and I know there is no substitute for practice but wondered if a two thumb grip would provide me with any assistance. I have quite big hands so I can't comfortably hold the grip with hands side by side which I could do with the two thumb grip.

Any views would be appreciated.

Richard

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Team TSG V The Gloucester Golf Society Match - St Pierre.

10 Mar 2010, 19:34

Great couple of days. Would certainly recommend both courses. Theres a good few holes on both the players and St Piere that i would take completely different clubs from the tee. Lucky with the weather and had a few beers and a laugh on the way. Thanks to Brian and Mark for the organising and count me in for the return match. Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

10 Mar 2010, 16:50

I have serious hearing powers being a dj and i heard my name mentioned...ha ha.....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

10 Mar 2010, 15:05

Hi everyone please add me to your friends lists if your thinking of starting your area groups i think the easiest way to get the ball rolling would be to start close get everyone to pick courses at a halfway point give plenty of notice ..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Team TSG V The Gloucester Golf Society Match - St Pierre.

10 Mar 2010, 10:18

I'm gutted, mediocre, middle of the pack score, no nearest the pin, no longest drive, I didn't even win the prize for last place!

But thoroughly enjoyed the day, great course, lovely weather, good company. Thanks to Brian and Mark for organising and looking forward to the rematch.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Two Balls With One Shot!

10 Mar 2010, 01:18

Hi Guys - As I had money on him to finish top 5 and top 10, as the "two ball" incident wasn't his first attempt to get out of the mud - I was choked !!!! Think he ended with a six (triple bogey) by holing out from 15 feet - unfortuneately it was all too late for my flutter by then !!!

You have to laugh

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Two Balls With One Shot!

09 Mar 2010, 15:28

Hope he had a 2 shot penalty...playing the wrong ball!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Team TSG V The Gloucester Golf Society Match - St Pierre.

09 Mar 2010, 09:34

The challenge match held between The Gloucester GS and Team TSG held at St Pierre golf course Monday 8th result Team TSG consisting of 9 TSG members(sadly due to some late withdrawals)3 guest and six Gloucesters players. Took on The Gloucester GS Team of 20 over the Old course.

Scoring was stapleford with the best 15 scores counting for each team.

Team TSG took the Honors with a total of 392 pts against 373pts.

Notable TSG prize winners:
- Ivan - Best score of 35 pts deserved winner who answered a phone call at 10pm Sunday evening from Richard E and drove down from Birmingham Monday morning as a late replacement.

- Steve - took nearest the pin in 2 on the 10th and second best score.

- Gary B - third best score.

- Gary M - nearest pin on the 235 yard 18th (only one to hit the green) best front 9.

- Mark - Longest drive on the 16th (a fantastic drive).

- Richard E - best back 9.

Overall an excellent match held on a very good course, plans are currently in the early stages for the return match with The Gloucester Team coming down to the South East for either August/September. I would like to thank all the TSG Team who made the trip up to St Pierre and a special thanks to Brian from The Gloucesters for doing 99% of the organisation.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

08 Mar 2010, 22:11

The only way to cure your friend's temper is to walk off the course and tell him when he stops acting like a child you will play with him again.

Tony Silvestri
Dataw Island Club
South Carolina, USA

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

08 Mar 2010, 20:29

I have been known to throw the odd club now again,ask Roger.Until that is the day i threw a expensive putter costing £135 on a society day,not the dum thing.Now just result to swearing at myself much to the amusement of everyone i play with.I once played in a society day when my mate John hit his golf bag so hard,he snapped his putter head clean off and had to put out the 12 remaining holes,with his 4iron..And they say golf is a social game..By the way Rog your getting worse yuo swear more than me ha ha (joking)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

08 Mar 2010, 19:52

I think it might be frustration - my Dad used to throw his clubs all over the place - we've spent ages in the rough looking for a 6,7,8,9 irons. Remember him bending his 9 iron round a tree after one particular bad shot. 'nother time he hit his trolley so hard it bust the wheel - served him right had to carry his big summer bag all the way from the furthest part of the course. He'd still have a good chuck even when he was seniors captain!! I bet he's still throwing his clubs about in heaven. Think you just need to laugh it off with a "what did the club do this time then" I'm sure the individual will get the message eventually.

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

08 Mar 2010, 14:45

Thanks Dylan....It's good to have differing points of view!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Two Balls With One Shot!

08 Mar 2010, 09:28

Just sat here watching the US PGA on Sky.

A player (Green) had hit his ball into the edge of a pond.

His golf ball was visible and he decided to play it.

He's put on his waterproof jacket to protect himself.

So he's taken his swing and he hit well behind the ball, big splash of water and his ball popped up about five feet and dropped into the semi-rough in front of him.

When Sky have replayed the shot in slow motion it turns out that two golf balls have come out of the pond!!!

There must have been an old golf ball buried in the mud, and seeing as he hit so far behind his own ball he's collected this other ball at the same time.

You do see some odd things on a golf course!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

08 Mar 2010, 05:27

i have never done that thing ,

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Ball Cleaner

07 Mar 2010, 12:58

lol I didnt keep mine long .

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Ball Cleaner

07 Mar 2010, 12:20

Its called spit 'n' shirt

I had one of those ballzee things once. Total waste of money imho.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Ball Cleaner

07 Mar 2010, 09:20

ballzee

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Mar 2010, 09:16

lol ... it will only really matter on team event but if one team is light you or anyone can make up the numbers your just playing for that area .. our weeks games will have points but there are a few ways that can work we,ll all have a chat and see how it should be worked..

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf Ball Cleaner

07 Mar 2010, 09:15

I did ask this question last year but due to old age I've forgotten the answer!

There is a golf ball cleaner available that works quite well.

If I remember correctly it's a small circular pouch that you put some water in before your round.

Can anybody remember what it's called?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

07 Mar 2010, 08:52

I was going to offer to set up the Berkshire group, because I live in Reading. But I play at Sherfield Oaks, which is Hampshire! Perhaps someone from Blue Mountain (John, Martin?) Could do this.......Who should I play for Hants Or Berks?.......Highest bidder i suppose!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 22:38

I've just opened the surrey group i will be looking to join other areas group as well as being happy to see other members joining surrey .. looking forward to some great golf matches .. thanks for all the support .. maybe social golfer could do a group leader board too ..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 22:09

Sounds good to me, this is going better then i thought. Four areas covered already come on berkshire.
great to have you on board Essex.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 20:56

I already run a winter and summer league over in Romford, so you could say the Essex section is already up and running.

All we need is the venue(s) for the county games.

How about each county puts in a team of players and then you get points for you finishing position, or stableford points, could even go down the matchplay route.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 18:42

At the moment its not letting me start the group .. keep the cider cold .. dont forget Addington Court and Orpington down the road .

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 18:20

They are almost across the road from each other and whilst Chelsfield lakes is nice it's a bit 'open', Brokehill Park is much better.

The Kent boys & gals will be ready.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 17:52

Dont forget guests will be welcome at all events and so will the discount they,ll get as members guest. Its run by us thats why its a crown league.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 14:30

nice one roger look forward to arranging a game. would be nice to see everyone running there own leader boards. then all having a big meet 2/3 times a year.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 14:22

i am happy to be the Hampshire representative (captain!). Whilst we are a bit thin on the ground compared with Surrey, Berkshire and Essex, Kent I am confident that I will be able to get a team of 4 together for County v County events.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 10:35

i thought chelsfield lakes was a more testing course still good to have you on board looking forward to it. plus a few nice courses along the way .. if you work on setting up a group your end im in maidstone a few times a year (hopefully 4/5) i,ll join in and my area group will be open very soon (april) hoping to get a summer team challenge (may/june) with room for another .. running intergroup matches along side the main events..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

06 Mar 2010, 09:09

I'm sure we could raise a Kent team for an inter-county challenge, say perhaps one game per month? Only trouble is that the only Crown Golf Club around here worth playing is Broke Hill.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

06 Mar 2010, 01:39

I remember playing golf with Darren, it was bad!!!!

He swore after every shot, even the good one!

But we sorted him, got him sent upto the North East of England.....

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

05 Mar 2010, 22:39

each to their own I think, I love have a good swear up when I play a bad shot ... normally to the amusement of my playing partners. Why should the action of someone else effect your game ? So what if someone throws clubs, swears or hits the ground. Who looks the idiot at the end of the day ... them And its only for one round as you won't play with them again

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

05 Mar 2010, 21:53

good to have you on board and would be good to see neil on the course again after all his good work .. with the right people on board could work for some great matches really get the numbers up .. have emailed some of the clubs to try to get them on board to..here to a great summer

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

05 Mar 2010, 21:48

I am happy to help in any way I can. I think as Roger says, it needs to be simple & fair for all players. Maybe someone can contact Neil & see if he is still going to be playing, & as founder of the Crown group give him the option to bee involved? Summer golf starting in 3 weeks Yeah! Lets get golfing.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

05 Mar 2010, 21:02

thanks i,m hoping for abit more of a team effort say a few groups running in there own areas then meeting up a few times a year for a team challenge ..
would be good to get the numbers neil had on board .. would be looking for as much help as possible ..
maybe a vice captain for this area .. so games were regular and fair .. want the job..

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

05 Mar 2010, 20:52

Hi Dave
Neil Williams put a lot of effort in to organising a Crown Group League & Knockout last year but unfortunately both "fizzled out" for a variety of reasons. If I had one recommendation for this year it would be to keep things simple. You can count on me to support events to the west of London.
Good luck.
Cheers.
Roger

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

05 Mar 2010, 17:47

[quote=roly richardson]Hi TSG. I am currently using Google Chrome OS[/quote]
I get the same issues with Firefox.

Odds on this being a new paragraph?

Hmm. Is OK in Preview. Fingers Crossed.

ETA; ooh, seems to be OK in the forum with Firefox

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \crown golf social golfer league

05 Mar 2010, 17:20

Hopefully the start of something big and a chance for maybe an essex vs surrey ryder cup (not counting out other areas).
some good clubs out there with alot of social golfer crown members would be good to get some team games together.
Interested in hearing your thoughts.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ruling...........

05 Mar 2010, 11:44

Thanks for the clarification chaps.......I did indeed place my ball (as close as possible) back in its original position (uncleaned), struct it beatifully and walked off witha par and 3 points - phew!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ruling...........

05 Mar 2010, 09:42

Dougie you are indeed correct. On investigation Rule 21 states:

A ball on the putting green may be cleaned under Rule 16-1b. Elsewhere a ball may be cleaned when lifted except when it has been lifted:

a) To determine if it is unfit for play
b) For identification (in which case it can only be cleaned to the extent necessary for identification)
c) Because it is assisting or interfering with play.

So, I'd say that in Ian's situation he would be entitled to clean the ball and in my situation I've incurred a few previously unregistered penalty shots !

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ruling...........

05 Mar 2010, 08:46

Pete, not always the case.. For example, if your ball is just off the green, but in the line of your opponent's ball, then your opponent can ask you to "mark it". When you lift the ball in this instance, you aren't allowed to modify it's "condition" (ie you can't clean it). To avoid modifying it's "condition", you usually lift it up with one finger either side of the ball, hold it only with those two fingers (apols..) and replace it again in exactly the same position / orientation as it was before it was lifted.

I don't know if the same "condition" rule applied when your ball had been moved when at rest, per the initial query.

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Group for Various Ohio Courses

04 Mar 2010, 18:28

Probably displaying my ignorance for all to see, but isn't Ohio a pretty big place?

Why don't you set up a golf group (maybe 'Ohio Midweekers' with a 'base' location of somewhere in Ohio) then the TSG system will automatically promote your group to all members in that area.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ruling...........

04 Mar 2010, 18:22

Haven't checked this one but, I believe, any time you are legally allowed to lift your ball you are allowed to clean it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ruling...........

04 Mar 2010, 17:42

Now then... Could you clean your ball prior to replacing it ? dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ruling...........

04 Mar 2010, 17:00

Easy, your ball is replaced as near as could be determined to its original position, he plays his from where it stopped (R&A Rule 18-5: Ball at Rest Moved by Another Ball).

If his ball ended behind a tree it's also permissible to laugh whilst carefully replacing your ball in the middle of the fairway.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \cypress point and the whole pebble beach experience

04 Mar 2010, 16:56

Cypress is generally rated as the best course in the world, does it deserve that rating, is it that good. Well having succeeded in getting to play a round. Yes it is great, special and truly magnificent but does it deserve its special status or is that derived because of its exclusiveness. when you play Pebble you are walking in the footsteps of heroes, were watson chipped in,like phil mick drive over the ocean on 18 and later in june some other noteworthy, maybe tiger will replicate shots you can play. You cant say that about Cypress because the majority will never play it and secondly rarely see the course on tv either. On that basis I suggest its ranking be artificial.

A further little point, only 2 miles from both pebble and cypress can be found the little vaunted poor mans pebble, the Pacific Grove, itis located on the same peninsula, has the same sort of views and hole design and comes at a fraction of the cost.... less than $50 compared to $500 now thats what i call a great course.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Ruling...........

04 Mar 2010, 13:54

Can anyone tell me what the rule is if.........

You and your partner have teed off, he plays his second shot and hits your ball on the fairway in the process?

Do you play from where your ball comes to rest? Or like a green, you replace it in its original position?

This happened this week, so if anyone knows the answer, dont be shy.........

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Taking A Divot?

04 Mar 2010, 12:08

Taking divots, size, depth or not at all is down to a persons swing and the type of shot they wish to hit "sweeping" 3,4 or 5 iron will impart little if no back spin, if you want some extra stop on the ball you will need to hit down and through. In the winter I shallow out my plane a touch so as not to take much of a divot if the fairways are soggy, more chance of a clean contact rather then a "splat"

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

04 Mar 2010, 12:05

In my view people that throw their clubs about should be banned from the course.(Health & safety act) We all get frustrated at times but that's golf, just when you think you are on top of it ,it bites you back. I don't think I've ever had a round when I have hit every shot perfectly.And yes like Roly I admit to hitting the ground with my club on occasions, and a few choice words uttered in frustration. Another point, what about the guy who is not having a good round who walks of the course and goes home, leaving his playing partners to finish their round without him.Is this just as bad as throwing your clubs about or worse?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Taking A Divot?

04 Mar 2010, 10:31

What club would you say that you should take a divot with, and which ones should you not?

Thinking about my irons it appears to me that I've never really taken a divot with any of my shots.

This is probably due to starting golf on a driving range mat that was as hard as concrete and me not wanting to damage my clubs!

I'd say that a 3, 4 or 5 iron should be sweeping the ball off the turf, then the rest of the irons you should be taking a divot.

What do you think?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Group for Various Ohio Courses

04 Mar 2010, 01:50

Anyone interested in playing golf during the week in Ohio on regular day like Wednesday or Thursday?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

04 Mar 2010, 01:49

too old to throw golf clubs. that was 30 years ago.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

03 Mar 2010, 18:33

Hi TSG. I am currently using Google Chrome OS

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

03 Mar 2010, 17:07

re. these postings, I just had to put this photo up!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

03 Mar 2010, 16:54

Yes Roly,
thereby hangs the dilemma! Do you go up the practice ground religiously to work on your game and maintain or improve your handicap - only to be thrashed in matchplay when your opponent then smugly tells you 'I get a shot on this hole' - on every other damn hole! Yes, it's quite a good feeling when someone is surprised at your handicap, but you certainly don't need a wheelbarrow to collect your prizes at the end of the year!
In all fairness, you expect the majority of competitions to be won by people who are improving their game much faster than the handicapping system allows for ie a high handicapper will only be cut 0.5 for each shot they are under handicap, so they've always got a few 'in the bag' . When you reach the stage when you are only cut 0.1 or 0.2 per shot, the chances are you are not regularly playing below your handicap, but it takes a long time to gain a shot back!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \early morning golf

03 Mar 2010, 14:15

Looking at it it's not a bad idea.

I work lates, finish time is 3am (or earlier if the jobs are done). So coming home in the summer and playing golf first thing, then going to bed, seems a good idea.

The problem is that after a night at work I don't feel up for a round of golf.

I'd much rather get in from work, grab some sleep and tee off around 11am.

My only problem then is during the summer months I'd be stuck behind every group of golfers who are in front of me!

I've never been a 'Morning' person', would much rather have a lie in and then play golf.

Jack, you'd better watch out as I've got shooting rights on those courses so if you see a bloke in camos walking around with a few rabbits in his hand, that might be me!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

03 Mar 2010, 14:11

I've played with a couple of people who go into a rage when they hit a bad shot, either shouting/swearing or throwing/hitting the ground with their club.

My opinion is that it's not the club that hit the bad shot, it's the idiot holding it! And having paid a fair amount of money for my clubs why would I want to risk breaking/bending them!

A good player would be able to use almost any clubs and still shoot a decent score.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

03 Mar 2010, 13:31

Roly,

Some years ago, a group of us all used to play various different courses, and one guy in particular was a very poor sportsman (this translates as a club chucker). I remember one time, on an early long par 4, he reached a greenside bunker in 2, proceeded to take 11 shots to get on to the green for a 2 putt 15. For the remainder of the round he was unbearable.. He spoke to no-one, played his shots then walked off without waiting on others to play, launched clubs around the course, and it was generally a most uncomfortable experience for the rest of us.. Back at the bar after the game, he was laughing and joking about it when questioned.. Some of us got together and agreed a "card" system, which we explained to all.. Each outburst, if severe enough, warranted a yellow card.. Two yellows got you a red card, which resulted in a 2 game ban. A crude system, but it worked.

Most club chuckers know they are affecting their playing partners but do little to curb their behaviour.. The card system may or may not have an effect, dependant on how you adhere to it.

dg

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

03 Mar 2010, 12:56

Hi Roly,

What PC Operating System and what Internet Browser are you using?

Regards,
Pete, TSG Golf Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Do you throw your golf club when you hit a bad shot?

03 Mar 2010, 12:31

I played a game very recently, with some guys (Not TSG Members) one of the guys who is a 9 handicap & takes his game very seriously, threw his driver 3 times & his 9 iron once! I am aware that golf can be a stressful game, but I don't think I would ever throw a £200 driver towards a tree. Just wondered what lengths people go to, to relieve their frustration over a bad shot? I must confess I do occasionally hit the ground with my club (Never on the green!) & use the odd swear word. Playing with someone who gets very angry (all be it only for a few moments)can be upsetting for the more easy going 'stress managed' players. Perhaps we should have a new rule that points are deducted for unacceptable behaviour?........................NB I am also annoyed that when I put new paragraphs in my blog on TSG, they disappear when I post it????!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \early morning golf

02 Mar 2010, 19:03

It does get better than that,when you do the same in the summer months.Teeing off at 5.00a.m on a summers morning,short sleeve shirt,not to hot,clear blue skies,lush green fairways,fast greens,and not a care in the world,for a couple of hours. The only person you see is the green keeper cutting the grass on the first,when your putting out on the eighteenth. Then a breakfast in the clubhouse,and all done by 8.30a.m,and if your really keen go and have another round."THATS WHAT I CALL GOLF" I did that a few times last year on my own,and it was one of the reason's I joined the site,to get a few early morning games in,it suit's me down to the ground,especially if I am working on a late shift. I do advise you to phone the course first to let them know your intentions to play that early,because some courses won't let you play before the Pro shop is open and insist you pay the green fee first. Most will let you pay after you have finished.Stappleford Abbotts are very obliging with this.I have done it loads of times there and only £10 around before 7.30a.m,this is under review in March '10. GIVE IT A GO YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT YOUR MISSING!!!!!!! Jack

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\HILTON HEAD South Carolina

02 Mar 2010, 17:20

I used to go the Dennis Van De Meer tennis camp in Hilton Head when I was younger. Would love to go back for the golf!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\HILTON HEAD South Carolina

02 Mar 2010, 17:11

yep sorry for confusion, i play on florida amateur tour and qualified for the national usa finals at hilton head south carolina. i stayed at the palmetto dunes, highly recommend.

some pics on ww.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

cheers

ian

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

02 Mar 2010, 16:28

Just as a Juxtapose to players not entering Good scores, I wonder how many (& I know of a few!) who won't enter scores because they are too low. I assume sometimes it can become embarrasing entering your round of 106 shots & 18 stableford points if you play of 18! I also wonder if most golfers want their handicap to be low, so they can tell their mates they play off 13 etc, or whether they want it to stay high because the have more chance of winning comps?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \early morning golf

02 Mar 2010, 12:02

Played this morning, 2 of us teed off at 7am, the sun was out, there was barely a puff of wind and the sky was blue.We had the course to ourselves and cruised round in just over 3 hours. indoors by 11 with the whole day ahead. Apart from my patchy golf of course what could be better?

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

02 Mar 2010, 09:49

It's an interesting one because (using exactly the same scorecards) the discrepancy between your handicap when calculated under Congu & when calculated under PGA could be even bigger (none of the UK courses have a 'Slope' rating and so it's not used!)

Congu uses a simple 'one game at a time' assessment (cutting you savagely, 2, 3, 4 shots if you have a great round but only raising your hanciap 0.1 or 0.2 if you have an terrible game)

The US PGA system reassesses your handicap after every game using an average of the best 10 or your last 20 games (or a similar percentage if less games available). So if you have a great game it gets included but if you have a terrible game it's probably ignored (not one of your best 10 games etc) and even if used it's only included as one of your best 10 games from which an average is calculated (so less volatility movements). The other major difference (and it's potentially a biggy) is that the US courses have an additional 'tweaker' called 'Course Slope Rating' which is an assessment of how difficulat a course is to play for a higher handicap player. The Slope Rating of a course is used to adjust your handicap for that specific course. A value of 113 is 'neutral' ie doesn't adjust your handicap. So an open field would probalby have a Slope Rating of 100 meaning you get cut when playing that course, but a course rating of 130 means that your handicap is increased because the course is rated as bloody hard! (forced carries over water, lots of rough etc).

I must admit I quite like the US system because I think it makes more effort to be fair and, as long as people enter every card, being based on an average of your best cards is gives for a steadier handicap.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CONGU v USPGA Handicap calculations

01 Mar 2010, 18:46

Don't know how much Pete and Alan have paid the h/c committee. But my Congu H/c goes from 10.2 down to 8.9 on PGA Think I will stick to my official club one of 13 :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CONGU v USPGA Handicap calculations

01 Mar 2010, 17:47

I have the same problem...13.8 Congu, 15.3 PGA...where do we stand on this??

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

01 Mar 2010, 08:43

Sounds good Mark

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

01 Mar 2010, 06:42

Andrew,

My wedges are as follows -

CG 12 - 52' with 6' bounce because mainly used for fairway approach from 110-120 yards, also good for the tight lies just off or around the green.....

Ping T-wedge 56' - 10' 80-100 yards, general bunker play, greenside shots........

Cleveland 588 60' - 14' 55-75 yards, lose fluffy bunkers, rough/semi-rough around the green, or to pop the ball up and back into play from long grass.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Good Greens!

28 Feb 2010, 23:27

I know there are some very good golfers on here, and golfers who have played at a very high amateur level.

What I would like to know is what was the condition of the greens when you played in these tournaments? Are the greens receptive to a ball hit in with, say a seven iron? Or are they hard?

The reason I ask this is that the greens at my golf club are very soft at the moment, no surprise there, with the weather we've had. But in the summer those same greens are rock hard and any ball landing on the green won't stop there, it will bounce and run through the back.

So I'm interested to know!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 23:13

Posted by mark rowley on 28 Feb 2010, 20:11

What does your coach mean by 6' of bounce only being suitable for English courses Low bounce is good for tight lies, hard turf and firm fairways/bunker, higher bounce for soft springy fairways, fluffy bunkers and deep rough. as we have a good lot of Park land and Links, Not forgetting the mixed weather, I have one wedge low, one standard and one high.

Looks like you have everything covered! Are they similar loft?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 23:11

Posted by Russell Middleton on 28 Feb 2010, 20:37

Hi Andrew,

Next time we'll play I'll have to give your new wedge a swing.

Can't say about Tuesday as I start work on Monday evening, and it's not unusual for Mondays to be busy, so therefore a late night for me. What time you thinking of playing?

If you say 11am I might be able to get there!

My two Mizuno wedges have 8 degrees of bounce. I use both of them out of bunkers.

Russ

Hi Russ,

Its Andy Flynns game at 9.58 on this site.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 23:09

Hi Mark,

Like you say, soft springy courses are what the higher bounce are designed for and in particular USA style fairways. I found my old Ryder mk2 wedge from years ago and it was measured to be 4 degree bounce. I've hated my Ping G10 for chips off harder summer fairways and now know the reason why as my local woodland course Belfiars has very tight lies in summer. Also the higher bounce is good for fluffy sand bunkers, most I play in are rather harder and again I believe lower bounce is better in this type.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 20:37

Hi Andrew,

Next time we'll play I'll have to give your new wedge a swing.

Can't say about Tuesday as I start work on Monday evening, and it's not unusual for Mondays to be busy, so therefore a late night for me. What time you thinking of playing?

If you say 11am I might be able to get there!

My two Mizuno wedges have 8 degrees of bounce. I use both of them out of bunkers.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 20:11

What does your coach mean by 6' of bounce only being suitable for English courses Low bounce is good for tight lies, hard turf and firm fairways/bunker, higher bounce for soft springy fairways, fluffy bunkers and deep rough. as we have a good lot of Park land and Links, Not forgetting the mixed weather, I have one wedge low, one standard and one high.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 19:05

http://www.clubhousegolf.co.uk/acatalog/Cleveland_CG15_DSG_Oil_Quench_Golf_Wedge.html

This is the one I went for, the Dynamic Sole Grind model to get the reduced loft. Oil Quench looks quite nice. And if it rusts, that adds to the 4 groove lines spin potential .............. apparently!

Only available this year before the old grooves are not saleable, but ok to use till 2024 in Amateur competition.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 18:59

Hi Russ,

Bought the new Clevland CG15 wedge a few weeks ago. On my coach's advice that only a bounce of 6 degrees is suitable for English type courses, got a 62 degree one which is a bit extreme. He would have bent 8 degree ones down, losing 2 degrees of loft but the Romford/A12 store didnt have them in stock. First few shots round Abbotts pretty good, but as it was so wet Wednesday 10 days ago, I need confidence to hit harder. Giving it a second go round Priors on Tuesday, you not able to make it?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Picking Things Up

28 Feb 2010, 17:20

Since I started playing golf I've always picked things up when on the golf course.

The normal things like balls, tees, pencils, etc.

Plus the unusual items, like head covers, car keys, etc.

I'll aways pick up clubs, head covers, car keys, etc and hand them in at the pro shop when I've finished.

But for the last few months I've stopped picking up golf balls and tees.

As a Yorkshireman it goes against the grain to leave something out on the course, but I've got so many golf balls it's not worth the effort!

I still dig out my ball retriever when I see a ball in a hedge or pond. But if it's not a Titleist I just leave it on the edge of the pond or maybe on the next tee.

Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x are my ball of choice, but any Titleist ball will do for my practice ball bag. My regular playing partners will take any Srixon, Callaway or Nike balls that I find. Anything else stays on the course.

Just lately I've also stopped picking up tees. I have always used the castle type of golf tee. Just like the way I can be certain the tee goes into the ground the same distance for each shot.

I have a plastic soap powder container that I use to store any spare tees I have. This is now full and I'm having trouble closing the lid. So unless it's a pink or orange castle tee they also stay on the ground now.

Russ

-- 28/02/2010 17:44:37: post edited by Russell Middleton.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What A Pleasure

28 Feb 2010, 17:10

I played golf last Wednesday and for the first time this year I didn't put my long sleeved themal vest on.

Went to the course with my base layer, a polo neck jumper and my Nike windstopper.

It had rained in the morning and the course was deserted.

I was sweating as I walk quickly and I was also carry my bag.

It was my intention to tee off around 11am as I usually do but when I got up at 10am it was raining. As I sat in the house the weather improved and come dinner time I thought I could still get 18 holes in and make it to work for 5pm.

There were a couple of times when the sun tried to come out and it was really mild, so I'm just hoping that things stay this way and the warmer weather stays with us.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 10:09

Hi Pete,

Click this link and it will take you to some pictures of the new wedges.

The pictures scroll and one of them gives you a really good view of the extra lines on the clubface.

http://www.clevelandgolf.com/US_cg15-black-pearl__CG15BP__viewProd_wedges.html, once you get to the page click on 'Gallery'

It would be interesting to try one of these wedges against what I'm using at the moment.

Russ

-- 28/02/2010 10:12:38: post edited by Russell Middleton.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

28 Feb 2010, 10:01

Funnily enough I have friend who really rates his Cleveland wedges (and he's bought a few clubs in his time!). Then today when I logged on there was advert across the top for Cleveland wedges which, because I need something to fit between my wedge and sand wedge (difference of 25-30 yards between clubs - far too much) I had a look at it, and then I see this forum post. Spooky...

Anyway, having clicked on the Clecland advert they say their Black Pearl wedge has won a few 'Best in class' and ' Editors choice' awards from a few magazines (probably one of the ones you read - don't know now though because the advert has rotated to something else). But didn't see anything about new 'extra' lines between the grooves.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Club Choices

27 Feb 2010, 18:49

Hey Russ, My set consists of Driver,Driving Iron,4I-9I,46PW,50GW,54SW,58LW & Putter, I will occasionally include a rescue of some description depending on the type of course i'm playing. Most companies will sell you the Irons to the speck you want, I would recommend either Callaway or Titleist. Andy

-- 27/02/2010 18:49:53: post edited by Andy Taylor.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Cleveland Wedges

27 Feb 2010, 14:08

I was reading Golf Monthly at work last night whilst waiting to be loaded.

Cleveland had an advertisement for their new wedges.

What they have is the normal grooves, but then they have lasered four extra lines between each groove.

They are claiming that this gives their clubface the maximum amount of grip that is allowed.

Now is this just advertising hype or would it work?

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

27 Feb 2010, 10:47

Thanks Mark, but I wasn't aware that this was the method of handicapping.It does make sense though - the lower the handicap, the lower the reduction. Oh! well, the only way then is for members to police their own games, and check to ensure that all players at a particular event enter their cards, unless they specify beforehand that the game is not to be used for handicap purpposes. Members take note.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Short break in France

27 Feb 2010, 09:26

Sorry Alan, I've 'signed up' to going with a few guys to St Saens Wed 21st - Fri 24th April (a bit further south, north of Rouen). Otherwise I would have loved to join you. Maybe next time.

All the best,
pete.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Club Choices

27 Feb 2010, 02:40

I suppose my set of golf clubs is pretty standard.

There are my two woods, driver and three wood.

Then I have a set of irons, three iron to sand iron.

A putter is in there as well.

And to complete my set I have two wedges, a 60 degree lob wedge and a 53 degree gap wedge.

I'm seriously thinking of getting myself some new irons within the next two months.

My two wedges are very good and I'm wondering if I should buy myself another one to replace my pitching wedge?

I hardly use my sand wedge, I much prefer to use my lob or gap wedge out of the sand.

One problem would be that if I purchase a full set of irons it will come with a PW, unless I buy each club one at a time.

I'll have to think about this one for a little while.

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

26 Feb 2010, 20:53

Sadly a 0.5 reduction to someones h/c for not entering a score is not feasible, handicaps are reduced by groups, cannot remember what the actual groups are but something like :-1-5 h/c's group 1, 6-10 group 2, 11-18 group 3 and 19-18 group 4. your group is what your h/c is reduced by so a group 3 player score would be reduced by 0.3 per a pt reduction, group 4 by 0.4 Failure to hand in a card after a golf club competition results in an increase of 0.1 the same as failing to play to the standard scratch score for that comp. what could be used would be similar to "active member" for people who do not enter scores after playing a posted TSG game, Failure to enter scores from any three games could result in a "inactive h/c" status under a persons profile, which is only removed after their next three played games scores are entered.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\HILTON HEAD South Carolina

26 Feb 2010, 19:11

Hi Ian,
I have relatives (on the wifes side) in South Carolina, which we plan to visit later in the year and I will definately be taking my golf clubs....you talk of the great courses in the area...I presume this is Hilton Head, because elsewhere you state that Hilton Head is in Florida. Could you clear up the confusion.
Thanks
Alan

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Short break in France

26 Feb 2010, 18:54

I have received a quote for a 3 night stay at the Nouveau Caddy hotel, Le Touquet, as follows:

3 nights' bed & breakfast at Le Nouveau Caddy Hôtel , based on two people sharing.
and 4 rounds of golf : Le Touquet La Mer, Le Touquet La Foret, Belle Dune, Hardelot Les Pins

cost: £375.00 (per person) Price includes eurotunnel crossing, 1 car - 4 passengers

Date: Depart Weds 21st April ...although, if people have issues with the date, I am sure we can come up with something mutually convenient :

The courses are among the best in France.

If anyone is interested then please let me know ASAP so that I may confirm the booking.

I have an estate car capable of carrying 4 sets of clubs plus baggage and enough room for a few bottles of the good stuff collected on the way home.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

26 Feb 2010, 18:34

Good point Pete, thanks for that. Problem is though that if you discover someone has not entered a score, then a gentle reminder could result in a bit of bad feeling. If the individual knew that half a stroke penalty would be imposed for failing to enter a score, then they are more likely to conform. I'm sure the software could take care of this...for eg., if a penalty were imposed, it would be negated if the score was subsequently entered....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \semi vs private

26 Feb 2010, 17:39

it seems to be the million dollar question... i personally think that people dont play according to their ability...for example folks playing from tees that are above their abitlty..also carts are pushed and as a former caddy, i know they dont speed up play.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

26 Feb 2010, 17:07

Ah, a question I can answer!

If you look at any members Profile Page (by clicking on their photo or finding them using the member search) half way down the right hand side there is a section called 'Scores/Handicap' which shows the summary of their latest scores but if you click on the 'view all' link you can see the summary details from every game they have entered including a checkbox showing whether they used it for handicap adjustment.

Plus if you then click on a game you get to see their scorecard as well.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \First post from a new member!!

26 Feb 2010, 16:52

It's pretty active around your neck of the woods. I've played a couple of times 'north of the river' and have always enjoyed the company if not the game (no comments about my lack of ability please!). So I don't think you'll struggle to get a few games in.

PS. Why don't you join the TSG Open Championship game at Hever Castle on Friday 16th April? (find it under the 'Games' search option).

-- 26/02/2010 16:53:55: post edited by Pete Connon.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \First post from a new member!!

26 Feb 2010, 14:00

Hi All,

Just joined as a new member after taking up golf last year. I had a few lessons and have recently moved to a 4 day week where I have every Friday off, so if anyone fancies a game Friday mornings feel free to give me a shout.
I am playing off 26 at the moment, and hope to bring that down when my lessons start in a couple of weeks. I live in Hertfordshire, near the Essex borders and usually play either Whitehills, Panshanger, Nazing or Blakes. I'm looking to join a club, which will probably be Cannons Brook in Harlow, which I'll make my mind up on when I try it out in a couple of weeks.

Bye for now!!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

26 Feb 2010, 13:41

I have to agree with Alan.

You could play the game of your life but if you don't put the scorecard in then your handicap will remain the same.

As an organiser of a golf league I would like to be able to put all the scores in for everyone who plays in my league, but at the moment I have to rely on each individual putting their own card in.

It would be interesting to see how many people play in games organised here but don't put a scorecard in for that game.

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Handicapping system

26 Feb 2010, 12:41

We all know that there are a few people who do not enter their scores, for handicap purposes, particularly when they have had a great day. May I suggest that the handicap of anyyone failing to enter a score, following a game, is automatically reduced by 0.5. Additionally, the scores entered should be available for viewing by their playing partners. I'm not saying that players are cheating...simply forgetful.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\LOOKING AT GAMES PROBLEM.

26 Feb 2010, 08:36

Thanks for reporting the paging problem. It's been fixed now.

Regards,
Pete, TSG Golf Team

-- 28/02/2010 09:54:35: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CONGU v USPGA Handicap calculations

26 Feb 2010, 02:34

Thanks for fixing it for me.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Pebble Beach

26 Feb 2010, 01:32

I am sat in the lodge overlloking 18th at pebble beach, what a view...............

played Spyglass yesterday, Sensational

played Spanish Links today, Superb

tomorrow Pebble, it will be Phenominal.

Sorry just had to tell you all.

Ian

www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\LOOKING AT GAMES PROBLEM.

25 Feb 2010, 19:44

I have the same problem.
colin

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\LOOKING AT GAMES PROBLEM.

25 Feb 2010, 17:45

Hi there,

it could just me, but since the recent improvements to the site, every time i open up a posted game to look at the details, then would like to back to the same listings page i was on, instead of this i now find myself back to the 1st page every time.
This is a little inconvenient as i now have to remember what page i was on, anyone else having similar issues?, as a bit of a technophobe, would be grateful for any help.

thanks, Greg.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CONGU v USPGA Handicap calculations

25 Feb 2010, 15:07

Russell, upon checking it transpires that you have entered over 200 scorecards, and when you changed from Congu to PGA handicap analysis the system was taking too long to process all tthose cards and so was timing out.

This has now been resolved.

All the best,
Neil, TSG Golf Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CONGU v USPGA Handicap calculations

25 Feb 2010, 09:17

Mine works fine. perhaps it's got a thing against cutting anyone from a 12 handicap !

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Want new forum functionality?

25 Feb 2010, 09:11

Sticky Posts are those ones which are forced to stay at the top (otherwise they just get shuffled off by more active posts). I'm not sure we'd use them in TSG but I'm sure there'd be use for the Polls and Search facilties.

RE The order of sections on the Member's Home this was based on the feedback from the last Member survey but it's easy to change if members have decided that, having seen it they want the sections reordered - this could be one of the first Polls in the new forum !

-- 25/02/2010 09:13:04: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Tues Practice Round Tickets for Masters?

24 Feb 2010, 17:50

If you manage to obtain 2 I would love an invite to join you.

Regards S

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Firefox Bug - Game Details Updates

24 Feb 2010, 14:14

Hi Colin,
I use Firefox all the time, and have only noticed a couple of 'blips' in here. When searching for members within a specific radius, I have to be sure to allow all scripts - although with the new option of 'search for local members' - that's no longer the problem. The other thing I've noticed is that my inbox doesn't always show that I've received a message (so I don't look!). but going into it at a later date, I discover that I have in fact received mail.
I still think the pros outweigh the cons though!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Tues Practice Round Tickets for Masters?

24 Feb 2010, 13:27

OK: I am a very beginner at this, but was hired as an event planner for PGA event at Baltusrol a few yrs back and got hooked on this addicting game. So, I have a dream of getting to a practice round of the Masters, if not this year, maybe next year. Any tips on how I can obtain 2 tickets to "God's Country"? Thank you, Pat

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Looking for good Samaritan

24 Feb 2010, 02:09

Hi Andy - I live a long away from you but hope you have every success in finding a playing mate.

Good luck in your search

Regards

Bob Smith

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CONGU v USPGA Handicap calculations

24 Feb 2010, 00:38

I've tried to change it about three times and each time it comes up with a problem!

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Firefox Bug - Game Details Updates

23 Feb 2010, 13:34

Firefox (3.6) doesn't save changes to the message box on the Game Details Page.

Out of interest - as a dedicated Firefox user - what %age of visitors to the site use Firefox and how much testing is done using that browser?

Thanks,

Colin

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\winter sun and golf

23 Feb 2010, 11:48

A mate of mine got some great deals on golf holidays and all other travel destinations on this website.!
http://www.Plus2Golf.com

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Looking for good Samaritan

22 Feb 2010, 17:30

I am a 12 Handicap Golfer who is looking for someone to play regular golf with. I am free almost anytime, looking for someone to pick me up. The beers will be on me or petrol costs. Just need to play.

Cheers

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Matchplay - the best golf format to watch?

22 Feb 2010, 17:26

Well Mr. Poulter has finally managed to prove that he's not just a guy who wears pink...

But poor old Casey, he must be feeling like - always the bridesmaid, never the bride.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \semi vs private

22 Feb 2010, 17:24

I've just checked it out and Delaware National looks like a great course plus you've got nearly 40 courses within 20 miles of there. How can they get so crowded that you have 5-6 hour rounds? Are they cheap to join and play?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \CONGU v USPGA Handicap calculations

22 Feb 2010, 16:32

Anybody else changed the Handicap Calculation Type from CONGU to PGA ? (in the 'My Handicap' section).

It's pretty interesting. Accoding to CONGU I've got a handicap of 18.3 but when I switch it to PGA (using exactly the same cards) I'm suddenly Handicap 20.1.

So from now on anyone wanting a small side wager - I'm from the good old USA...

Pete.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Want new forum functionality?

22 Feb 2010, 14:32

Alas, I am not sure what 'sticky posts' are either?! All for polls etc though.

I wouldn't mind 'The Forum' being back at the top of the page along with the 'friends' back on the top right thoughl......given the site is about promoting 'social' inter-action. I can get my golf news anywhere.

However, I understand that I may be in the minority and I am sure you had a consensus for making this change!

On the plus side, always nice to see the site being improved - keep up the good work chaps!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Oh Tiger!

22 Feb 2010, 14:02

I have to agree with Russ on this one.......I work in the media/PR industry and I was appalled by Tiger's press conference. Whoever is advising him should be fired straight away!!

Firstly, he was too rehearsed and therefore it came across as insincere (probably appeals to the Americans though).

Secondly, his audience (hand picked journo's & sponsors) was not relevant and far too corporate (the website manager, Nike Rep, Woods Enterprises Rep?! He was also presented to the world behind a lectern, why? (he's a sportsman not the President!!).

He spoke for far too long and his words(in my opinion) were spoken straight from his 'Therapists' mouth.... "Its MY fault, I did wrong, MY responsibility etc (Clearly I'm para-phrasing to prevent a law suit!)

The only part I dont agree with Russ on is the timing......who cares if it was at the same time as the World Matchplay, I probably would have done the same and it did stick two fingers up to the sponsors who dumped him!

Sadly, this press conference has done more to damage him as a 'personality' than the 'transgression' itself, I was a huge fan of Tiger but I am actually starting to dislike him.....I am not even sure I want him to come back at all now.

Tiger - fire your team now and get back to play sport rather than politics!!

Ian M

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Want new forum functionality?

22 Feb 2010, 12:44

For the amount of traffic that is using the site, I would suggest that for all your effort, its not really worth it

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Oh Tiger!

22 Feb 2010, 10:06

If Tiger's absence improves the chances of Poulter, Casey et al winning Majors and other big tournaments, personally I am in no hurry to see him return.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Scores have gone wrong!!

22 Feb 2010, 09:34

Hi John,

CONGU scores calculation has not changed (latest changes from CONGU were Sept last year).

The only thing which has changed is that we've implemented the ability to input cards out sequence - previously if you suddenly put a card in from last week having already put a card in for this week the system got confused. Now it doesn't (and all handicaps were recalculated to make sure cards were considered correctly). So it is almost certainly that which has thrown out some odities.

Finally, some Members had set their Handicap = 0 so when they then post a Gross Score of 92 they will, as per CONGU Rules, get their Handicap increased by 0.1 for playing so badly as a 'Scratch Player' (your handicap goes up very, very slowly but shoot a good score and your handicap comes down pretty rapidly !)

All the best,
Pete, TSG Golf Team

PS. Tell us if we're wrong !!!!!!!

-- 22/02/2010 16:27:07: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Scores have gone wrong!!

22 Feb 2010, 08:43

I have noticed that some people's scores entered this weekend have gone a bit weird!!

I person had a handicap of 0.1 after scoring 78 pts. Gross score 92??

Whats happening?

Is this due to the upgrade?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Oh Tiger!

21 Feb 2010, 15:11

What has the timing of Tigers "press conference" got to do with anyone. If you had listened to the statement that tiger read out :- First, he had spoken to Accenture prior to the conference. Secondly the reason for the timing was the fact he was going away to continue his therapy. If he had not made a "Statement" that would of been wrong, because everyone has been moaning because he has kept quiet, now when he does that is wrong!!! Then you have Golf Monthly moaning that there was no commitment from Tiger on when he would return.......................he will return if and when he feel it is right. Personally.................I could not give a monkeys about Tigers private life, It would be nice to see him back on the course, hopefully sooner rather then later.

-- 21/02/2010 15:19:06: post edited by mark rowley.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Want new forum functionality?

20 Feb 2010, 17:42

I think, anything that can get more members involved in the Forums is a good thing. Not sure exactly what "Sticky posts" are (unless its somewhere to put your chewing Gum!) _______________________________ Polls would give us a general idea regarding others opinions. (perhaps we could hold one as to whether or not to have Polls!)_______________________________________ Searching is always a good tool to have. (especially if it helps me find my ball!) Go for it..

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Want new forum functionality?

20 Feb 2010, 16:27

We're considering upgrading the TSG forum to support 'Sticky Posts', Polls, Searching etc .

What do you think, Upgrade it of Leave it alone?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \semi vs private

20 Feb 2010, 14:03

what really bothers me the most is that my club sold off 9 holes to a developer...in delaware the idea of open space is frowned upon.. I wonder why people dont see the quality of life that a golf course brings to an area. everyone wants to live on the golf course but fail to support the club. I'm going to give Delaware National a year to see how this plays out and with some luck things will work out. The economy on the rebound should help and maybe membership will rebound when the public sees what our club has to offer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Oh Tiger!

20 Feb 2010, 10:07

I'm a little concerned that Tiger may be suffering financially. I would hate to think that his family may grow hungry & not have a roof over their heads. Perhaps we can all dig deep & spare a few pounds to help this family.................................. please donate at www.dec.org/tigersdowntohislastbillion/pleasehelp................................... Nb not a real appeal, just Irony

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Oh Tiger!

20 Feb 2010, 05:52

WHY. He made a 13 minute statement. It wasn't a 'press conference', it was Tiger releasing a statement, which was what everyone was calling for. Okay he didn't say when he would be playing again, but he is having treatment and so maybe he doesn't know yet. And why not steal some thunder from a sponsor that dropped him. I am glad he has made this statement and not gone all weepy on Oprah!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Oh Tiger!

20 Feb 2010, 01:59

Russ - Your last sentence says it all - "he seriously needs to change".

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Matchplay - the best golf format to watch?

20 Feb 2010, 01:53

Pete - Have to agree with you and it's the original way the game was played too. I know TW is currently not playing (golf that is) but any form of the game that means you don't have the TW Show has my vote. Although Golf Channel or CBS might pull the plug on coverage if "the man" gets K.O.'d in a few 1st Round Match Play Comps.

Hope you are well

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Oh Tiger!

20 Feb 2010, 01:23

I don't know who is advising Tiger Woods at this present time, but they are making a complete hash of it!

The timing of his so called 'Press Conference' was poor.

Accenture were the first sponsors to drop Tiger once his affairs came to light.

So to have his 'Press Conference' during their tournament just stinks.

Then onto the so called 'Press Conference' where only invited guests were allowed in makes me laugh.

Also, no questions!

I seriously think that Tiger needs to change his advisors.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Start Of The Golf Season

20 Feb 2010, 01:19

Seems to me that the 1st of April is winning, or is this an April's fool joke?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Start Of The Golf Season

19 Feb 2010, 17:46

1st of April,

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Matchplay - the best golf format to watch?

19 Feb 2010, 10:11

I've largely stopped watching golf on TV because I can't spare the time to follow a four day tournament (so I generally just watch a couple of hours of the last day).

But with the WGC World Matchplay I'm back to being hooked (although the coverage skips around too much).

For me Matchplay is definitely the game format to watch - two top golfers playing each other in a dynamic knockout rather than 60 top golfers playing the course over 4 days and seeing who plays it best - a sprint rather than a marathon. I guess that's also why the Ryder Cup is the most popular golf tournament in the world.

I can't beleive I'm alone in my thinking. So is this the start of the end for 4 day 'player against the course' tournaments? May be like the swing away from 5 day test cricket to 20-20 one-day cricket?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \the most challenging course in the world

18 Feb 2010, 17:49

five my partner lost 16............but i played really well quite surprisingly... pro says you always need as many balls as your handicap!!!!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Start Of The Golf Season

18 Feb 2010, 15:20

Simple.. April 1st, the day the fairways reopen

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Start Of The Golf Season

18 Feb 2010, 02:21

When, or what do you consider to be the 'Start' of the golfing season.

For me it's the Masters on TV.

Once that tournament starts I know the golfing season has started.

In the UK we have different weather patterns so it is possible to have a warm spell before the Masters starts, but for me that's just a bit of luck on our part.

So what is your trigger for the start of the golfing season?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Paying over the odds!!!!!

17 Feb 2010, 18:25

As already said you pay for what you want. but I don't think we pay to much for golf, it all comes down to personal choice or "must have". you can go to any country and pay £15 - £20 (depending on exchange rate) for a game of golf or you can pay £200 - £400. If you wish to play the Courses which have held or still hold Top PGA tour events or has been designed by a well know player/architect, then you will certainly have to expect to pay anything from £50 upwards, but there are plenty of deals around, winters fee's or 2-4-1 Have just played Prince's, £40 unlimited golf and breakfast(winter rate), via TSG a round on the Heritage course at The London Club (guest of a member), host of the 2008/2009 European open, £55 including complimentary buggy and range balls (it cost £65 winter fee to play the international course at The London club, which is the pay and play). Am playing Woburn Dukes and Duchess courses in April, £130 including lunch (again winter rate). ChartHills has been running a special deal for tuesdays and thursdays in Jan/Feb of £25. The same goes for equipment, you can either pay £50 for a driver or £400, £30 for a pair of shoes or £300. How many 18 plus h/c players do you see using ProV1 golf balls, when there is a choice of lower priced balls which would suit their game better. If you read the reviews in the golf mags, there is little difference now between The Named gear and that from less well know makers.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Paying over the odds!!!!!

17 Feb 2010, 03:50

I do believe that we pay far too much for our sport.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Paying over the odds!!!!!

16 Feb 2010, 18:32

It's a personal judgement based on lots of factors (how good your game is, the quality, challenge and beauty of the course, what the wife will let you pay...) but to me I'd pay two or three hundred to play a fantastic course but not every day. Having said that I wouldn't pay $500 for a round because my game isn't up to it and I'd undoubtedly feel I didn't get my monies worth and/or appreciate the experience enough. Maybe next year...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Paying over the odds!!!!!

16 Feb 2010, 17:32

If you think its worth it, you pay it!

If not you dont, I was on anothe forum where a guy said

"He did not enjoy the Old Course" - that is his opinion and we can hardly tell him he is wrong!

Anyhow most do enjoy it, even at the price for a public course and even having to be there at dawn - he was the exception.

I reckon If I ever had the opportunty (Time / money) to play Pebble, I would not resent the price, that being said, IT WOULD BE A 1 TIME DEAL!

K

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Paying over the odds!!!!!

16 Feb 2010, 16:12

I can top that. I was in Las Vegas last week, and went over to the Wynn Hotel to check out the Country Club Grill - which overlooks the 18th hole of the Wynn Golf Club. This is the old (upgraded) course that used to be part of the former Desert Inn. Green fees are US$500 per round, caddy mandatory (with the associated gratuity). Didn't get on to the course for a look, but I hear it's nice.

I played lots of golf while in Vegas, and there were bargains galore. I paid between $20 - $45 for each round, and these are resort courses. Granted, those are "resident rates" (I have a condo in Vegas, and have a Nevada I.D.) - but even non-resident rates were the lowest I've ever seen. The recession has hit hard there, and courses are offering all kinds of incentives to get folks out to play.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ UK Long Drive Series 2010 starting near you NOW..

15 Feb 2010, 22:53

A little bump for you all as there has been a big change today

Live scoring has appeared on the site and hitting will begin in the morning.

5 categories

men
old men!
ladies
girls
boys

www.uklongdriveseries.com

If you guys want power tips from pros please ask on our forum - drag them onto this one if you like too -

The average longdriver handicap is 2 at the moment (ruined by a guy of 14!)

HOPE YOU CAN ALL ENTER TOO!

VENUES IN

LONDON
GLASGOW
MANCHESTER
NOTTINGHAM
BOURNEMOUTH
IRELAND

MORE TO COME

thanks

-- 15/02/2010 22:54:14: post edited by kenny duff.

-- 15/02/2010 22:54:36: post edited by kenny duff.

-- 15/02/2010 22:56:24: post edited by kenny duff.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Paying over the odds!!!!!

15 Feb 2010, 17:08

Hi, l have just watched the recent PGA tournament haeld at Pebble Beach resort and after hearing it was open to the public decided to check out the prices.......$495 for 18 holes l nearly fell through the floor!!!!!!!!..........Question is: Although playing abroad has weather advantages, why are we prepared to pay between £50 and £90 a round when we only pay £15 - £20 at home, and should we accept this?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \the most challenging course in the world

15 Feb 2010, 10:36

Course looks superb (even better considering the weather we're having here in not so sunny England.

But a slope rating rating of 152 ay, yi, yi... How many balls did you lose?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Romford Summer League 2010

14 Feb 2010, 22:03

I will be running a summer league this year.

Once I have managed to sort out the dates I will start a group.

My problem is that in previous years, with both my summer and winter leagues, I have used the same Sunday each month.

This caused me problems last year due to me missing some of the major competitions at my home club, and due to my Norman Plum/Jubilee Cup games.

So this year I will be looking at the calendar and fitting the summer league games in around my free weekends.

Hopefully, I'll get this done over the next week.

Once I've sorted it out I'll put the games up for people to join.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

13 Feb 2010, 10:55

Posted by Bob Smith on 13 Feb 2010, 10:23

Have to ask - who was the "Deleted User" ?????

Some kind of golf guru, maybe ?

Anyone with any ideas

Tiger has a lot of time on his hands at the moment......?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

13 Feb 2010, 10:23

Have to ask - who was the "Deleted User" ?????

Some kind of golf guru, maybe ?

Anyone with any ideas

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \semi vs private

13 Feb 2010, 09:23

Hi Tom, almost all of the clubs I know will allow visitors, if fact I'm struggling to think of any that don't. The difference is that while most clubs allow them the better ones will insist on a valid proof of handicap which 'should' reduce the possibility of a 5-6 hour round (whic would not be acceptable to any club member).

Having said that, I left my last club (considered a good one) for two reasons, one was the very high cost of taking a guest but the other was that if someone was prepared to pay, a lot, they could play; so we got lots of society and corporate days, and if you got behind one of them you were waiting on every shot and 5 hours was an absolute minimum.

It would seem that no matter where you are some clubs are too quick to take the quick buck to te detriment of the already committed member

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Using A Different Golf Ball

12 Feb 2010, 15:07

I must be getting used to the Titleist NXT Tour balls now.

Played at the Priors today and they felt good.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Using A Different Golf Ball

12 Feb 2010, 13:24

Hi Russ

I'm in a similar boat, most of my current ball selection includes Pinnacle things, that go straight and long but retain touch around the greens, OK that's what is on the box.

But I have tried a selection (usually acquired as presents) and found that the ball types do make a difference, being able to trust that the ball runs true (more about confidence than skill) is key for me (and I still manage to find all different types around the courses I get to play). I try them all at some stage but still revert back to the Pinnacle Gold balls out of choice (and because I have some left). When they are gone I will move onto the next selection - Dunlop somethings or Wilson something elses... also acquired as a present... I just don't seem to be losing as many balls as I used to.

I did try some other brands - but found they had a tendency to power fade into the water - rather a lot... OK that was a while ago and sometimes I am a bit straighter these days.

Fidn the ones that suit and stick with them is my current motto, when I get good enough to be able to see the difference I will make a more informed choice.

Rgds

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

11 Feb 2010, 01:53

Step One         Line Up Your Golf Ball
Tiger Woods does it. And the only reason Jack Micklaus never did it is because nobody had thought of it yet. I don't know who first thought of it, but they are a genius.
Think about like this. If you do not use a line on the ball to line up on your target line, there is no other visual reference. The line doesn't exist and you are left to a mental picure that is vague at best.
Fortunately, most ball makers are putting a line of sorts on their balls. But still, the more visible the line, the better. So get out your Sharpie and put something on that ball that really jumps out at you
And it will help if you practiced lining up the ball a little bit. You don't have to be at the golf course. Just point it at something on the carpet at the house. But don't let the word practice scare you. I just mean work on it for about five or ten minutes and you will have it mastered and ready for use at the golf course.
And, this is important, if you are not comfortable with the alignment of the ball once you get over the putt, back off a look at it again. Nobody is going to care and it only takes 10 seconds to do it. And most likely by the time you you stand back up to the putt it will look right. If it still doesn't look right, then it is wrong and you should realign the ball.
There is nothing that will improve your putting quicker than to create a physical visible reference to what has, up until now, been an imaginary line

Step Two            Focus on the Speed
Speed is KING! Put it in its proper place.
I work at a golf course and play with players of all levels. I myself shoot in the mid 70's. In my experience, speed is the biggest problem for most players when it comes to putting. The same players who spend a lot of time on the line hit the ball way to hard or too easy.
You should think hard about the speed and make a couple of practice strokes while you are standing behind the ball. I also find it helpful to look at the hole as I do this.
It is a matter of feeling the arm stroke required to get the ball into the hole. And you have to get feeling for the speed before you ever step over the putt. If you are trying to figure out the speed after you step over the putt, it is too late.
You have to commit to the speed before you get over the ball, and then establish the feel for the speed from your putting position with two or three practice strokes. Don't make the mistake of worrying about the path or anything else on your practice strokes. They are only for the speed.
Always remember that speed is crucial and should be your primary concern. You can't really read a putt if you don't have an idea of the speed to base the read on. And that's just another reason for speed to be on the top of your list of putting concerns.

Step Three             Follow the Line
You have lined up your golf ball, and committed to your speed. Now it is time to approach the ball and and get set up to hit the putt. Most people just waste the approach to the ball, when it can really be a beneficial few seconds.
The only thing that comes close to speed in importance is line, and it is a close second. By the time you have gotten behind the ball for a final look at the read, you should be comfortable and committed to the speed. As you take that final look at the read, follow the line on the ball for a final visual check.
You will likely have a few little steps to make as you walk up to take you stance. As you do, follow the line on the ball out to the area directly in front of the ball for a foot or so. Do this repeatedly until it is time to get lined up. When line up time comes, you will be very familiar with the line in front of the ball that it will eventually roll over on the way to the hole. It reinforces your perception of the line on the ball by extending that line in your minds eye. It also allows you get comfortable with the line so you will not have to second guess yourself while you are aiming the putter.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

10 Feb 2010, 16:43

Hit down and through to the target.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Using A Different Golf Ball

09 Feb 2010, 22:09

Hi Russ,

Let you into a secret ..... It depends what he finds (LOL). When we played @ our previous club (name protected) it was Ultras, Pinnacles, DDH etc. However, now at WHGC he seems to be playing with Pro V1 and NXT balls.

NOW, he has either come into money (that he has not told me about) OR (more likely) our members are more affluent.

Mind you I can't hit a Pro V1 - so bring back the scuffed Pinnacle !!!!

Bob

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Using A Different Golf Ball

09 Feb 2010, 13:24

I don't know about your mate Bob, but I could certainly feel the difference last Sunday.

Maybe it's because I've used the same make of ball for so long, whereas you mate plays with a different ball each time.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Using A Different Golf Ball

08 Feb 2010, 23:20

Well Russ - Don't think you would like playing Foursomes with a mate of mine then. I usually play with PTS Roll balls - but left to him he would happily play with a grubby, yellow Pinnacle.

Point is he plays off 7 and going down - so does the ball you use REALLY MATTER ?!? - discuss.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

08 Feb 2010, 23:11

For those short putts of 4 feet and under - listen for the ball to drop into the hole, don't look for it . My ratio of holing to missing has improved since I adopted this technique.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\winter sun and golf

08 Feb 2010, 19:03

Thanks for the replies, I will do a bit of browsing and see what I come up with

Paul.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help For Hero's Charity Day.

08 Feb 2010, 10:56

Great news, we now have two Team from TSG to put forward entry forms for this event. If anyone else would be interested in playing and making up a Team C, please add your names to the standby list on the posted game.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \the most challenging course in the world

08 Feb 2010, 04:40

KOOlau in Hawaii with a slope rating of 152 and the 18th rated by golf digest as the hardest final hole on the planet. I can concur after playing this memorable scintillating frustrating but never to be forgotton course,

see www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Using A Different Golf Ball

07 Feb 2010, 23:20

For the best part of six months I've been using the Pro V1 golf ball, then when I ran out of them I moved onto the Pro V1x

Playing golf last Saturday I realised that most of my Pro V1x balls had seen better days.

Seeing as I had a plastic toy box full of Titleist golf balls I dug out a dozen NXT Tour balls for today's round.

Well, what a difference, just didn't like them.

Nice enough when hitting them but around the greens and putting, not working for me at all.

Now this is strange as before I started using the Pro V1's and Pro V1x's I always used the NXT Tour ball.

Isn't it strange how changing from one type of ball to another can see such a change.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

07 Feb 2010, 23:16

whilst at the range and having just taken up the sport, i was hitting everything as hard as possible and the balls were flying everywhere, when this little old man came up to me and said

"you dont have to kill it, it's already dead".

This made me slow the swing speed right down and I now hit the fairway on the odd occasion

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

07 Feb 2010, 20:45

I've had lots of 'single pieces of advice' most about swing plane stuff, which with my suspect back are often unusable BUT the single best piece of advice I received (courtesy of Duffy Divot) was when chipping, focus on the front of the ball to avoid 'chunking' and use a simple putting stroke to get the ball to the hole...

This has saved me shots around the green (on a good day) and there is no cost to implement...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \the most challenging course in the world

07 Feb 2010, 09:18

well, which one is it??????????

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help For Hero's Charity Day.

07 Feb 2010, 09:04

We are looking for just two more people to join Jack and Pete, that will give us two teams to enter for this golf event. So please if your interested in representing TSG and helping a worthy cause, join the game sooner rather then later.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\winter sun and golf

06 Feb 2010, 19:45

Hi Paul

Try these:

http://www.golfturkey.com/
http://www.tarletongolf.com/
http://www.golfplanetholidays.com/
http://www.golfbreaks.co.uk/

Try this one: http://www.elegantgolfresorts.com/lykia_world_antalya.htm for direct hotel booking (there are others than just Turkey here)

Enjoy your break - I'm off to Lykia World in a fortnight.

john

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \the most challenging course in the world

06 Feb 2010, 19:42

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\winter sun and golf

06 Feb 2010, 19:22

Hi,

When I say all inclusive I mean the golf is included in the price and tee off times booked

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What A Year So Far!!

06 Feb 2010, 00:43

Roly, don't know what you mean, that's the 'Short' version....... lol

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

05 Feb 2010, 22:16

Hi Zoey

Had a Nissan 350Z and that was a great driving car - but as an added advantage it came with a diagram on how to get two full sized golf bags in the rear space. It worked!! And the golf shoes fitted in as well. As for your trolley - hire one and enjoy the drive. The hardtop will keep your hair tidy.

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \semi vs private

05 Feb 2010, 21:57

I recently joined Delaware National Golf Course, now two months in the club is becoming semi private. I joined to avoid the crowds and hackers that seem to infect all the courses in this and surronding states. Five to six hour rounds are common and unavoidable anymore. My question is there anyone out there who can tell me the advantage of staying at this course or has anyone else had this happen to them.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What A Year So Far!!

05 Feb 2010, 21:07

Russ

well done brilliant round the sort of round I dream of! keep it up mate and I hope to see that single figure very very soon!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What A Year So Far!!

05 Feb 2010, 19:06

Brilliant story, motivation for us all - Well done Russ!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What A Year So Far!!

05 Feb 2010, 18:30

Not forgetting, you've just written the longest blog ever!! Well done Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hi, My name is Phil and I'm an alcoholic

05 Feb 2010, 18:20

I managed to give up for 4 weeks recently. Although I initially had the shakes & woke up in a sweat on many occasions. I gradually started to feel that I was no longer addicted to it... I could say no!.... I was not a slave to this addiction... & then the snow cleared and the courses opened up & have succumbed to this once again... Oh my Goodness somebody refer me to Golfers anonymous! I am still going to play , but will use a false name.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \What A Year So Far!!

05 Feb 2010, 15:40

Well, what a year I've had so far....

And to pin it down even more what a week I've just had.

At the start of the year we had all that snow so I didn't get out onto the course for about two and a half weeks. Well the break must have done me some good.

I came out and suddenly my swing was much better. I had stopped trying to hit the ball and all of my concentration was on my swing.

Because of this my drives straightened out as well as my iron play.

Although my stats won't show my fairway in regulation as being too good, especially for my handicap. The truth is I'm hitting the ball as far as I've ever hit it, but a bad drive for me might be five yards off the fairway!! Not in the trees like it used to be.

Then I played in all the frost we've had last weekend and still managed to keep my scores within my buffer zone.

Played at the Priors course last Monday, very cold and the ground was frozen.

Shot 81 and had my first ever 'Eagle'. One good, straight drive and a great seven iron to leave me six feet from the hole. Rolled the putt right into the middle of the hole.

Yesterday I played the Priors again. Joined up with a bloke who hadn't played the course before. I shot 80 and this included a couple of penalty shots.

Went there today to play and had to start on the tenth tee as two groups were teeing off on the first as I arrived.

Well I had a great nine holes, shot 33, two under par for the nine. Had three birdies (two on consecutive holes) and only one bogey!!! As it happened this was on the same hole as I'd got my eagle on Monday, the 11th hole for those who know the course.

I took a three iron off the tee, hit a full eight iron onto the flat part of the fairway. Had 80 yards to the green, flag near the front. Perfect for my gap wedge. Well I only went and hit it fat, put the ball into the pond in front of the green. Dropped a ball in the same place and hit my gap wedge to three feet. Walked away with a six.

Started the front nine and I could feel the round going away from me.

Hit a good drive on the fifth hole and a six iron to the green. Landed short and was in a very poor lie, with mud on my ball. I couldn't clean it or move it so played it with my lob wedge. Hit the wedge fat and my ball went five yards! Good chip to six feet and hit my putt too hard, went eighteen inches past the hole. But because I hit it too hard the break never happened.

Came to the last two holes and I was one over par for the course.

Birdie on the 8th hole, hit a PW eight feet past, ball jumped back to stay four feet away from the hole. Good putt, birdie.

Then I came to the last hole. 298 yards par 4, yellow tees where with the ladies tees.

I hit a good drive which left me with 75 yards to the green. Gripped down on my gap wedge and took a swing. A full swing with my gap wedge goes 85 yards.

Didnt' get a good contact on the ball but it made it to the green, only problem was 33 feet from the hole. A very good putt and the ball dropped into the hole for a birdie. So a birdie, birdie finish gave me a 69 total.

My previous best on this course is 77. Shot 77 about five or six times.

So my 69 dropped my handicap from 13 (13.2) to 11 (10.9). 10.9 is the lowest I've ever been.

So as you can imagine I'm walking on water at the moment.

Never in my dreams did I ever think I'd play a proper golf course under par!

Hope you enjoyed the read. Off to work now to bore the chaps with my golfing tales....

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help For Hero's Charity Day.

05 Feb 2010, 09:05

Further confirmation - James Cornish (Director of Golf, Chart Hills Golf Club) has advised that because TSG Handicaps are calculated based on CONGU Rules they are FULLY ACCEPTABLE as confirmation of your playing handicap in the Help for Heroes Charity Golf Day.

It's a very worthy cause and promises to be a great day at a fantastic golf course. So join Mark's game today.

-- 05/02/2010 09:05:32: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\ALOHA from Hawaii

04 Feb 2010, 20:16

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Hi, My name is Phil and I'm an alcoholic

04 Feb 2010, 20:13

Sorry not an alcoholic, I meant golfer. Play golf at the vale of leven in dunbartonshire. Do travel down to england on regular excursions so would be looking for a game down near lancaster on the odd occasion. I caddie at The Carrick on Loch Lomond and also marshall during the Scottish Open at Loch Lomond Golf Club. Looking to play different courses and anyone who is interested in playing golf around the central belt of Scotland, then please let me know. hic

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\winter sun and golf

04 Feb 2010, 09:41

Depends what you mean by all inclusive.

If you want an Apartment or Villa on the golf course then look at www.PackYourClubs.com (generally the most cost effective golf holiday when there's a few of you - and most owners/agents will arrange the golf for you)

Or if you want a hotel then look at www.Golfbreaks.com

Pete.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

03 Feb 2010, 18:30

Darren, many thanks for the most enjoyable games, and it's sad to see you go. Keep in touch via TSG, and maybe some of will get up to Cleveland to whip your arse one more time. Good Luck mate.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

03 Feb 2010, 15:04

Best of luck in you new venture, and remember there's no shame in taking one club more (especially uphill and into the wind) I saw some magic from you - at times - and enjoyed walking around with you.

I remain in awe of some of your extremely long putts and the novel way you navigate around the course...

Best wishes...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help For Hero's Charity Day.

03 Feb 2010, 11:19

The first team of four has been made :- Myself, Gary,Steve and Matt.

Looking for another three to join Jack in making Team B.

Come on folks, it's for a worthy cause being played on a great course, Team places will be limited as it is a shotgun start and even if they doubled up on every hole that would only allow 36 teams to enter the event.

The sooner a team of four is made then the entry form can be sent in and hopefully accepted to take part.

Game is posted so if your interested then please join asap

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Does Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia exist?

03 Feb 2010, 01:23

Many thanks Tiaan, I'll give it a go.

Robin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

02 Feb 2010, 20:35

Good luck with the move Darren,hope all turns out well for you. I have enjoyed your company on the course and am sorry to see you go.

If you leave us with one memory "ICE MAN" it's the tee shot on the 18th over the Prior's !!!!!! Who else could hit a shot like it,?? but you have to hole the putt. to take all the glory.

ALL THE VERY BEST

JACK

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\winter sun and golf

02 Feb 2010, 19:51

Hi all,

Any information welcome on good web sites or golf travel agents , Im looking for an all inclusive golf holiday somewhere warm and easy going for April

Thanks Paul.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

02 Feb 2010, 19:30

Jag would be a good choice and classy. a good driving experience and a lot of head turning...

The new one XK8 would be fab... but expensive...

The Old XJS - if you can find one - was a good car... especially the 12 cylinder variant.

Best of luck...

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

02 Feb 2010, 17:43

Thanks Darren for welcoming me to my first Social Golfer game !
Good luck, Bill Nowell

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

02 Feb 2010, 15:29

We only went round the once Darren but it was enjoyable

All the best for your move

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Does Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia exist?

02 Feb 2010, 11:28

Robin
I managed to do it when I went so I won't know why it doesn't work now. Otherwise, there is a guy in my friends list called TS Yee. I think he is a member at Saujana GC although we played elsewhere because we were playing on a Saturday. Email him and say I put you in touch with him. He might be able to arrange a game for you.

Tiaan

-- 02/02/2010 11:33:02: post edited by Tiaan Kotze.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help For Hero's Charity Day.

02 Feb 2010, 07:07

A TSG member who did not have a club h/c contacted charthills with regards playing in the event, they in turn passed him on to the organiser Steve Craddock.

Steve is more then happy to except TSG h/c, so if you would like to take part in the event which is for a worthy cause please join the game which is posted. (well done Jack)

As a person joins the standby list, an additional four will be added to the game, which will make the next Team.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

02 Feb 2010, 01:39

Darren, it's been a pleasure to play golf with you.

I hope your move up north works out for you.

Remember to bring you clubs if ever you come back down this way.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

01 Feb 2010, 23:42

Hear hear to that. I really have enjoyed the golf and the banter over the last few months. It's a shame you can't make it on Wednesday so I could whip your ass one last time. Keep in touch and if you are down this way again bring your clubs and we can organise a game.

Best of luck with the move and I hope it all works out for you mate.

Dave.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Does Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia exist?

01 Feb 2010, 22:08

I've tried to post some 'Available for a game' for when I stop off in Kuala Lumpur, but when I enter Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, MY into the 'Promote to' box it does not recognize any of the above. Does anyone know a way around this?

Any ideas much appreciated.

Robin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Stapleford Abbotts Gents

01 Feb 2010, 21:46

Thanks to all of you for a great ten months of golf, laughs and general mickey taking.

I have been taught quite a bit and that has brought my handicap down by 7 shots and made me enjoy my game a whole lot more.

But to be honest its not even been about the golf as I have enjoyed the company walking round in the sunshine during the summer and the cold during the winter, but whoever I have played with they have always had fun and never taken it to seriously.

I will raise a glass to each and everyone of you when I hit the 19th hole in Cleveland.

Its been a pleasure.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Royal Ashdown Forest card

01 Feb 2010, 15:00

Hi Tiaan,

I'll investigate.

Regards,
Pete, TSG Golf Team

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Royal Ashdown Forest card

01 Feb 2010, 14:32

I've been trying to submit my card for Royal Ashdown (White Tees), but the actual card is incomplete. I completed it, saved it and all it saved was the SSS and number of holes.

Tiaan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Help For Hero's Charity Day.

31 Jan 2010, 10:21

Am looking to enter a team in a charity day at Charthills Golf Course on Thursday 20th May, The day is in aid of Help For Hero's.

Cost for the day is £65 and further details can be found on the Charthills web site.

Currently looking for one maybe two players to make up the team of four,

As I head a group on here which is "TSG Team UK", this will be the name for the team on the day, so you will also be representing TSG.

Obviously if enough people would be interested then it could possible to enter further teams.

would be looking to enter team/teams as soon as possible.

Please either post a comment or message me if you would be 100% for taking part.

-- 02/02/2010 06:52:25: post edited by mark rowley.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

30 Jan 2010, 19:07

Hi Stephen I can believe a Jag would be good for boot space. Re: the Porsche issue. Perhaps it might be the 944?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

30 Jan 2010, 09:26

Hi Zoey

I remember some time ago top gear (I know, I know) were reviewing a Jag ragtop (can't remember which one) and Clarkson was making the point that the hood was the size it was due to the fact that the boot was designed to allow a full set of clubs to be carried. Besides which a Porsche?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

29 Jan 2010, 16:30

It would have to be Tiger purley for the after dinner entertainment ha ha secondly Seve has he is my golfing hero,last but not least Ian poulter being a fellow Gooner....but i like the sond of you fourball Mark dont think i would be able to concentrate on the golf thou...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

29 Jan 2010, 15:41

A mate of mine had a nice Boxster... boot space wasn't much, just enough for 2 tennis bags... It wouldn't be an ideal for the golfer with bag and trolley. The old SLK had the manual convertable roof so there was lots of space, but if you are looking to buy an expensive sports car with lots of boot space there are quite a few good choices elsewhere. Depends on the budget you have available I would guess.

Rgds

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\KAURI CLIFFS and CAPE KIDNAPPERS

29 Jan 2010, 00:49

Just had a week in New Zealand as part of rtw trip and had pleasure in staying and playing these two prestigious courses. They are ofcourse two of the most photographed in the world and in real life, they dont disapoint and are every bit as spectacular as the photos show. The resorts are equally special, they are in effect all inclusive so are a bit more affordable than you may believe. worth travelling to end of world for, you'd better believe it.

Trip now updated on blog as we head on to hawaii.

www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

happy golfing

Ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

28 Jan 2010, 19:49

Hi Stephen I've seen & driven an old MGB GT which was ideal, but haven't looked at the MGF. I'll have a look, thank you. I did look at a new SLK, but the boot was so full of roof folding stuff that my bag couldn't get anywhere near : ( I've heard that a Porsche Boxter can accommodate a full set, but haven't tried it. Does anyone have any experience of a Boxter? Zoey

-- 28/01/2010 19:50:50: post edited by Zoey Zophya.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

28 Jan 2010, 18:41

Hey there

I bought an old MGF just because the write ups said you could fit two championship golf bags in the boot, forgetting to say that they had to be one on top of the other...

I still use my MGF for society days, which require the full bag, shoes, powacaddy and battery, suit bag and a suitable hat.

It all fits in quite snugly.. and once you get used to the packing and unpacking sequence it's fine...

I had a look inside a lovely old Merc SLK and it had capacious storage...

Rgds

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

28 Jan 2010, 18:36

I went with Golfplan for all the good reasons - new for old, liability insurance - hole in one insurance... I spoke to the call center staff who knew more about golf equipment than I did and the only time I needed to make a claim for repairs to a broken electric trolley they were fuss-free and it was all easily settled.

The more kit you add the more expensive it can get.. so it encourages you to be prudent with that next golf purchase...

Still waiting to make the hole in one claim... this year no doubt...

Rgds

-- 28/01/2010 18:37:09: post edited by stephen slater.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How do these sites make money ?

27 Jan 2010, 21:20

Hi Pete,

cheers for the reply and yes it does make sense. The only part I don't understand is the site I have used on quite a few occasions , I have always in my opinion got a good tee time , ie 1030 on a Fri, 1200 on a Sat. They always seem to have decent ones available, this may change as the weather warms up though.

Cheers again

Guy...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

27 Jan 2010, 19:29

German Shepard Dogs ( Alsations)

tc Mark.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

27 Jan 2010, 19:25

Hi Mark Thanks for the reply & advice. I'm sorry to be dim, but what's a GSD? Best wishes Zoey

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

27 Jan 2010, 19:17

Hi Zoey,

Two to look at Alfa Romeo Spider or BMW Z4 roadster.

apparently two set of clubs can fit into the Z4's boot (240 litres), no experience sry, Work,Bored and Google.

Drive citreon Picasso, can take three sets clubs / three electric trollys and when not being used for transport to golf, the rear two thirds are owned by a couple of GSD's.

Helped to kill sometime only 2hrs to go............... Doh!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Sports cars & golf bags

27 Jan 2010, 18:30

Hi, I have a Mazda MX5 which is a lovely car but useless for transporting a full size bag of clubs & electric trolley as the bag & clubs have to occupy the passenger seat. Does anyone have any experience of a drop-top sports car that can accommodate a full set of clubs, tour bag & elec trolley in the boot? Thanks for your thoughts Zoey

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

26 Jan 2010, 18:35

I'm with Mark Rowle, and hoping it will be the hottest day of the year!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

26 Jan 2010, 16:10

For me it has to be Danny De Vito and Chevy Chase - if my golf doesn't inspire laughter - they will !!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How do these sites make money ?

26 Jan 2010, 10:11

Hi Guy,

All these sites, teetimes, teeofftimes, reservatee etc are linked into the same collection of 300+ clubs (about 170 of the 2,500 in the UK! plus another 180 or so in Ireland).

The clubs allow online access to their tee times and let the sales companies sell them. There are then two business models - either the selling company takes commission (10-20%) or sells the tee time for free and instead gets given a couple of free tee times which they can then sell themselves and keep the money (these tee times are never the good ones which the club will always sell - so no Friday afternoon or weekend prime time etc).

Does that make sense?

Pete.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

25 Jan 2010, 21:30

Re: Stevie Wonder Not if you're playing at night, LOL!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \How do these sites make money ?

25 Jan 2010, 19:58

Hi,

can anyone explain to me , how the websites like teetimes.co.uk ad others selling various tee time at clubs make money ? Only wondering as I have just looked and a club that I called today near to me told me that they would charge me £45 for a round on there championship course, I explained that a website was doing tee times on the same course for £15. Just wondering how they manage to do that and stay in profit.

-- 25/01/2010 19:59:22: post edited by Guy Hall.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

25 Jan 2010, 19:52

Stevie Wonder, I might have a chance of winning !!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

25 Jan 2010, 14:17

Hi,

I went with golf care for £22, new for old cover andf most other things. Need any more info about them let me know

Cheers

Midnight...

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\GOLF IN THE PHILIPPINES

24 Jan 2010, 19:46

I'm off on holiday in February to Manila and was going to play some golf. I've tried 'messaging' all the Social Golf members who claim to come from the Philippines but without success. If anyone knows anyone out there who would like a game then please let me know. I don't mind playing on my own, but I always win!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

24 Jan 2010, 19:23

I'd love to play a mixed fourball with Laura Davies, Arnold Palmer & Peter Alliss The only trouble is that I'd need a game that would last for a year to even begin to hear about all their experiences & stories. Zoey

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

24 Jan 2010, 17:02

I'v just taken out another policy with Golfplan for circa £65.

If the two main resons you have insurance at all are - third party liability and loss/theft of your equipment - then be very careful with the cheaper policies as these only insure for market value of kit up to three years old.

Unless you are one of those golfers who buy new kit every time they have a bad shot ! then you, like me , will find most of your kit is un-insured or worth nothing in the event of a claim on a cheap policy!

Go for the extra £20 or so and get 'new for old' cover regardless of the age of the kit - then if the worst happens you are still smiling!!

Debbie

-- 20/02/2010 11:19:00: post edited by Debbie Vagg.

-- 20/02/2010 11:21:38: post edited by Debbie Vagg.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Par 3 courses in Essex?

24 Jan 2010, 09:17

As I have seen you play Dan I know the perfect par three course for you.

It's on the Southend seafront and you will find it very interesting as you will go through tunnels and all sorts, I think its called adventure island.

Good luck and remember to use your handicap on this tricky but entertaining course.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Par 3 courses in Essex?

23 Jan 2010, 23:50

There are 9 hole par 3 courses at Hobbs Cross (www.hobbscrossgolfcentre.com/) and in North Weald (northwealdgolf.com/).

There is also an 18 hole par 3 course in Leyton of all places (www.leevalleypark.org.uk/en/content/cms/Leisure/Activities_and_Sport/golf_centre/golf_centre.aspx).

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Par 3 courses in Essex?

23 Jan 2010, 13:04

Jack, the par three course at Stapleford Abbotts GC is now only four holes in total.

It was run down and it was decided to open four holes for members to use, and then the remaining ground has been turned into a practice area.

Russ

-- 23/01/2010 13:05:35: post edited by Russell Middleton.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Par 3 courses in Essex?

23 Jan 2010, 12:50

There used to be a par 3 course at the Abbott's,to the left of the 18th fairway,going down as far as 16th tee. Give them a ring,as your a member there you must be able to use it,providing it's still in use. Failing that there is another one at Dunton Hill's G.C. that is situated on the A128. If you take the A128 from Halfway House roundabout towards Orsett, it's about 2 miles down on the left hand side,it also has a 18 hole course and driving range. There is also one at St.Clere's G.C.at Stanford-le-hope,that's on the OLD A13.Traveling from the Orsett Cock roundabout towards Stanford,it's about 3 miles down on the left. I have played both of them and they are worth a look,especially Dunton. GOOD LUCK JACK

-- 23/01/2010 12:52:17: post edited by JACK SHELTON.

-- 23/01/2010 12:53:17: post edited by JACK SHELTON.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Par 3 courses in Essex?

23 Jan 2010, 11:17

Just had a quick look on the net and found their website

http://www.noakhillgolfclub.co.uk/index.shtml

Looking at the website it appears that the new clubhouse has opened.

The last time I played there they were still building it.

Also, the website gives you a good look at the holes.

Russ

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Par 3 courses in Essex?

23 Jan 2010, 11:13

There is a nice par three course in Noak Hill, between Billericay and Basildon.

Taking the road from Billericay you come down a hill and the golf course is on your left.

Watch out though, the drive it between two houses and is easy to miss.

There is a sign, but once again it's easy to miss.

I've played there a couple of times and it's worth a visit.

Small shop for gloves, balls, tee's, etc

The longest hole is 203 yards (if my memory serves me well!) but it's downhill.

The shortest hole is about 95 yards

Russ

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Par 3 courses in Essex?

23 Jan 2010, 10:47

Hi all i'm looking at getting my par 3's down and taking a friend out who hasn't been out in years so was looking for a good par 3 course in essex. Any suggestions would be grateful.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

22 Jan 2010, 19:41

Hi,

Previously my Golf Equipment was covered by my household policy but since the last renewal they only cover your equipment in an unattended motor vehicle (even if the vehicle is alarmed) if it is out of sight and stored in the boot. With an Electric trolley tour bag and clubs it is not possible to store everything in the boot. I have looked at a number of different policies and they all seem to be the same. I was wondering if anyone else has encountered the same proble. Your comments would be welcome. S

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

22 Jan 2010, 18:09

Its worth noting that you get 3 months free when you become an American Golf Card member. A great short term fix but bearing in mind mine ran out and they havent contacted me since to renew, I am not sure I would rely on this long term!

As for travel, I have always put mine on my house insurance at no cost?!

Let me know what you decide to go with Steve and I'll take note!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

22 Jan 2010, 15:30

I had teh same thign when I went to Asia. I could add that cover for £10, but managed to do it with my travel insurance for £4 instead.

The free golf rounds makes it worth it though. One round at De Vere Oulton Hall is usually £60 (more than the total insurance). And now there is two more free rounds.

Tiaan

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Motocaddy S3 Help

22 Jan 2010, 13:27

Hi Dale,

Yep, a conundrum, but you could get a brand new S1 Digital (with battery, warrenty etc) for £280 which compares with the £150 + £50 battery you are considering for a 2nd hand S3 (which is £360 new). Why don't you offer him £100 and see what he says? (then you have money spare to comfort you if it's on it's last legs and needs lots of new bits this summer)

Pete.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Motocaddy S3 Help

22 Jan 2010, 12:55

Pete,

Thanks for your comments. I am getting the trolley for around £125-150 mark but my worry as you have pointed out is that it is coming to the end of its life and will soon require parts which can be sourced easy enough but once you add £10 for this and £25 for that in a few months plus the £50 for the replacement battery to get the thing going for 18 holes it may be more hassle than its worth.

I have looked around and seen cheaper models but to be honest I am not keen on the styling thus the above seems the only way to dip my toe into the world of electric trolleys without spending £350+ especially when you consider my green fees will also be due around about now!!!!!!!

Kind Regards

Dale Strachan

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Motocaddy S3 Help

22 Jan 2010, 11:25

Hi dale,

I think it's the Motocaddy S3 that is used as the hire option at the London Golf Club. If so (and I'll check) they get used probably 5 times per week and seem very reliable. The only problems I know of is - battery (obviously) and occasionally you'd get one where the speed dial wouldn't turn to zero so you'd have to use the On/Off switch to stop the thing or it would creep off while you're taking your shot to the general amusement of everyone except you - especially if there was a bunker near by...

Good trolleys but it would have to be cheap to my mind - 2.5 rounds per week for 30 months = 300 rounds @ 5 miles per round = 1500 miles on a 200 watt electric motor !

Pete.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

22 Jan 2010, 11:15

That's a pity. I quite liked the idea of a touch screen application which would allow me to work out the best place to land the ball to leave me the best shot to the green (I know, I know it assumes I have the consistency to do that but you have to hope!).

Plus I don't have an iPhone so can't go for the great apps which keep popping up on there.

So, I guess it's the Skycaddie for me.

Pete.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Motocaddy S3 Help

21 Jan 2010, 21:31

I have recently been offered a Motocaddy S3 that was purchased in October 2007. This included a 27 hole battery and plastic scorecard and Motocaddy golf bag.

Unfortunately the current battery need replacing as it can only manage about 16 holes now but apparently these can be bought for around £50. This particular trolley has seen a lot of action maybe on average 2-3 rounds a week during a typical season.

I was wondering if anyone could advise me on the possible pit falls of this trolley and if their was anything I should look out for mechanically.

Any help would be most appreciated.

Kind Regards

Dale Strachan

-- 22/01/2010 10:45:06: post edited by Dale Strachan.

-- 22/01/2010 10:45:21: post edited by Dale Strachan.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

21 Jan 2010, 18:50

skycaddie gets the vote.........so easy to use........Go buy it you wont regret.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

21 Jan 2010, 17:08

Sorry steve, should have said - I went with GolfGuard (www.golfguard.com/).

It cost less than £30 because I got a discount by mentioning TheSocialGolfer (they had a TSG Offer running last year).

Pete.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

21 Jan 2010, 16:08

Who did you go with Pete?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

21 Jan 2010, 15:38

I must admit I didn't like the approach of the Golfers Club. I took out their golf insurance because it was well promoted and looked okay (and you get 2-fore-1 vouchers as freebies) but then I found out that it is regionally constrained so when I said I was going to play in Spain suddenly I had to pay for a 'European Upgrade'. then when I said I may want to play in the USA I was informed that I wasn't covered and would have to upgrade to the 'Worldwide' cover. Never claimed so don't know how professional they would have been but don't like the pricing structure or the 'draw em in' sales approach.

I've gone instead for a company which just offers comprehensive, play anywhere, golf insurance at a cheaper price and if I want 2-fore-1 vouchers I'll buy them at £2 each at American Golf or off the Internet (in fact if I recall correctly they weren't even 2-fore-1 vouchers they were 'GreenFree 2for1' which is accepted, ummmmmm nowhere!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

21 Jan 2010, 13:45

A good golf GPS application that is pretty good is the Golfshot application for the iphone. Just google it. CaddyAid is another good one.

I use Freecaddie on my Windows phone at the moment, but will be switching to Golfshot soon.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

21 Jan 2010, 13:40

Hi Steve

I'm with The Golfer's Club. Just renewed my policy and got the three free rounds (one at a De Vere course, Qhotels and Burhill), 5 greenfree vouchers and a tuition voucher free again. It costs £50 with the standard golf insurance terms and amounts etc.

I used all my free golf vouchers last year which made it definitely worth it for me.

Hope this helps.

TIaan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Insurance

21 Jan 2010, 12:39

Do many of you have golf insurance? I'm trying to make some changes to my swing so i'm not playing too well at the moment. I should probably get some!

If you have, what company are you with? If you have had to use them what happened and did they handle it well?

The best policy I have seen is at http://www.golferspolicy.co.uk/

£35 per year will give you amongst other things £1000 worth of equipment cover, £25000 worth of accidental damage (which they will pay without the third party having to take you to court, £5,000,000 if they do) and £150 for you hole in one round. ha.

Interested to hear your thoughts.

Steve

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

21 Jan 2010, 06:18

did you notice the snooper only has a battery life of 5 hours? That must be one of the shortest battery lifes in use. Also, you have to pay for each course you download (Like the CaddieAid system). Thats ok if you are playing the same courses on a regular basis, but if you like playing new courses, the cost will soon mount up. Its one of the things to take into account when picking which one to purchase. I have a couple, with the CaddieAid being very good and does not need a GPS signal for you to work our distances, as it uses photogrpahs of the course, but the downside is the text settings, they are very small. Mainly though, i use my SureShot, as its easy to read.

Last point about courses - the databases are not the same for all the units, so make sure your regular courses are on the database. If its not, make sure the unit has a mapping facility for you to do it yourself.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

20 Jan 2010, 14:47

I've just seen a review of the 'Snooper Shot Miser'. It looks pretty impressive - SkyCaddie on Steroids!

It's got GPS with course mapping but then in addition to showing you the standard distances you can touch the screen and it'll tell you how far that point is from you, how far to the pin from there etc. Which would seem great for Course Management.

Has anyone even seem one of these thing? and if so, Does it do what it says? Is it reliable? Is it worth £50 more than a SkyCaddie 2.5?

Thanks

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

16 Jan 2010, 22:54

cool will e mail you to sort a game when i arrange hol

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

16 Jan 2010, 22:20

David, make certain that you play both the courses at Stapleford Abbotts GC (Crown course).

The Priors is the short, easier one, but both are worth playing.

If you can play at the weekend then let me know and I'll join you if you like that.

Russ

-- 17/01/2010 17:59:56: post edited by Russell Middleton.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

15 Jan 2010, 20:41

hope its a sign that all the courses will be back to normal very soon ... still be down in the garden of england for a week or so soon ... will be hitting crowns' essex courses ... thanks all keep listing

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

15 Jan 2010, 18:58

Dont know if its any good to you but South Essex opens for the first time again tomorrow and as an incentive they have a deal where you get 18 holes, coffee, a yellow ball and a hand warmer for £18 (normally £28 just for the round).

Cant say I am looking forward to the wet weather but to be fair to them, I think thats a great deal and perhaps something a lot of other clubs could learn by!

Ian M

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \will it ever end!!

15 Jan 2010, 17:49

If you need someone to caddy for you just let me know.........

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

15 Jan 2010, 16:53

have played there before liked the course ... 2 weeks no golf ... well worth the drive

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

15 Jan 2010, 15:57

All closed around me (dartford tunnel area) but a few of my mates drove down yesterday to Littlestone. They are open but a bit wet and windy by all accounts. Bit of a drive for you but if you are desperate!!!

-- 15/01/2010 15:57:30: post edited by Steve Connon.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

15 Jan 2010, 15:10

i have mate all doors closed .. i may have to cross the thames

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

15 Jan 2010, 14:54

David, I'm afraid I can't help with a golf course near you that is open.

The snow has all but gone in Romford.

Some golf clubs may open their course(s) once the snow has gone, but to be honest the vast majority of them will be waterlogged.

I'd say most courses will need at least a couple of days to allow the surface water to drain away.

Why not phone a few local courses and see what they say.

Russ

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf course that open

14 Jan 2010, 19:52

please help going mad ... anyone know of a golf course near ish (20 miles) woking thats open tomorrow got to get a round in

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Any advice about Turkey (Belek) golf holiday?

14 Jan 2010, 09:05

Thanks John, contacted both companies and they've both given good prices on a hotel called Sirene, playing the Pasha & Sultan courses.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Good new Golf blog

13 Jan 2010, 20:11

Hi guys,

Due to the wonderful cold snap I was trailing through some blogs being bored and found this one. It sounds interesting click on the link below and it will take you there

http://slacker2hacker.blogspot.com/

Also any of you guys know any other good ones to follow let me know

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

12 Jan 2010, 18:44

Hi,

For me it has to be Seve in the hope their might be a short game lesson afterwards.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicaps

12 Jan 2010, 14:52

Hi Roger

A good question.

I have only been playing for 2/3 years and in 2009 finally got my official H/C of 19.
So Iam determined to see if this year I can reduce it, however i think there is a balnce between the H/C and always enjoying the game.
I read a book over the last few weeks (with all this snow I could not do much else), it is by John Richardson entitled "Dream On", this guy has an average score of at least 90 if not more, he sets out to see if it is possible for someone of his ability to play his own course after an intense 12 months training and score a level par round!!! As Sam Torrance said "Dream On", I good read, I would reccomend it you and anyone else. Honest I do not know this guy and it is not a plug for his book.

Cheers
DE

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \will it ever end!!

12 Jan 2010, 10:50

Posted by David Pipe on 11 Jan 2010, 17:19

It's times like these I'm happy I bought that golf course condo in Las Vegas! I'm outta here on Jan. 25 for 2 1/2 weeks of golf in the desert sunshine ... daytime highs around 17C this month. Maybe next year I'll try to spend the whole month of January there ... Viva Las Vegas!!

Blah blah.....I hope you get sunburn!.....I'm only Jealous! have a good time

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Disabled golfer

11 Jan 2010, 19:40

Hi everyone

I am an amputee golfer looking to play in tournamnets throughout Europe organised by the European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA - which can be found online). I am looking for help from any individual or business interested in sponsoring my participation in these events. I currently recieve clothing sponsorship from my local golf shop (Golf wise in Crowborough) and would really appreciate if anyone could help further and also if anyone is interested, i am always up for game so people can see me play. i am currently playing off 15 but hoping to lower this in the very near future.

Many Thanks

Roger Hurcombe

--edited to remove personal email address from public forum

-- 12/01/2010 09:14:18: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicaps

11 Jan 2010, 17:54

after starting playing again after a 15 yr break, from when i was a junior, ive gone from 24 to 13 in the last 12 months. I played off of 15 as a junior which goes some way to explaining the large drop. But Im still proud of what ive done this year considering the effort and expenditure.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \will it ever end!!

11 Jan 2010, 17:19

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

11 Jan 2010, 16:30

Think you mean Paula Creamer, add natalie Gulbis and Annika sorenstam.....what a fourball :-)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicaps

11 Jan 2010, 16:23

was given club H/c of 24 after handing in three cards with the lowest a round of 84 and highest around of 90, friends couldn't understand why as they were expecting nearer to 17. after playing first club comp and easily winning was adjusted to 18, so 6 shot in that hit. by the end of my first year I was playing off 14 so 10 shots over the season. sadly I have been stuck around the 13-11 h/c for a good 10years now, mainly due to the amount of games that I play, can go a couple of weeks and play 5 or 6 times but then 2 or 3 games in the next couple of months due to work and other commitments.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicaps

11 Jan 2010, 12:58

If I remember correctly, my biggest handicap drop was 3.8

I had a great round but it did hit me in the handicap section!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicaps

11 Jan 2010, 12:31

Unfortunately it was when I first started - 28 down to 22.

A six shot reduction never to have been repeated :)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicaps

10 Jan 2010, 16:53

what is the biggest cut in your handicap that you have achieved in any one playing year. Mine so far has been two, don't think I will improve on that

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who to play with

10 Jan 2010, 16:49

Being a bit bored I got to wondered who everyone would like to play a round of golf with if they could.So who would you like to play around of golf with and why it can be any celebrity from any era. Mine would be Paula Crammer, wouldn't do my heart or golf any good but what VIEWS!!!!!!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Should golf courses refund some fees for unplayable courses ?

10 Jan 2010, 09:55

Think it comes under the 'Act of God' Clause which basically says if the course has to close for reasons beyond our control, no refunds will be given. Can't blame them really they are a business....................having said that, I am a business & had a few cancellations where I lost money, will include a clause in my future contracts that ensures I get paid if they cancel due to bad weather...horse bolting & stable door this time!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \will it ever end!!

09 Jan 2010, 21:59

We on the east coast, USA are feeling the effects of the cold weather. Temp. this morning was 23 degrees. Wind chill was 10 degrees. 8:00 tee times are going off at 11:00 due to the frost. Locals are'nt playing, only people that are playing are our friends from Canada, who are here for the winter. Oh well, here's to the warm weather that will be here eventually. Good luck, Jeff.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \will it ever end!!

09 Jan 2010, 20:31

The snow won't worry the greens, it's the freezing of the ground that will cause problems.

As long as the snow thaws gradually and it doesn't freeze, then once the drainage has taken care of any surface water the greens should be fine.

Looking at the weather forecast for the next week it does appear like now would be a good time to get onto the driving range and sort out your driving.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Should golf courses refund some fees for unplayable courses ?

09 Jan 2010, 20:27

I'm also a member at Stapleford Abbotts GC and have been for the last two years.

This is the first time since I became a member that the courses have been closed for a sustained period, so I'm not sure what they do about it.

Maybe it's in the small print that weather conditions are out of their control so therefore no refunds are given.

Might be worth asking in the office about this.

The new course manager starts next Monday.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Should golf courses refund some fees for unplayable courses ?

09 Jan 2010, 19:20

hear hear ... maybe all the crown courses should be the first to start this system after all they are the biggest course operator ... milford has been closed on and off for 2 weeks ... i would think in the long run it would build on their good name and bring them in more business

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Should golf courses refund some fees for unplayable courses ?

09 Jan 2010, 17:27

Just to throw a question out to you all concerning monthly fees taken by golf clubs.

I am a member at the Stapleford Abbotts golf course and as far as I know both courses will be unplayable due to the current weather, now I know they can not control the weather but in other sports if you buy a ticket to play or attend they either refund your payment or defer it to when the game can take place.

Should this be the same for golf ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \will it ever end!!

09 Jan 2010, 17:14

Hi all,
what with all this mardy weather, and the effect it has on golf courses, how long before the courses open again. Currently play a downland course in sussex, which has seen some heavy snow today and cant see the course being playable for some time yet. There must be a recovery time for the greens. Just wondered if any of you knew how long.

yours
one irrationally itchy golfer

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Any advice about Turkey (Belek) golf holiday?

06 Jan 2010, 14:31

Hotel Sirene - all in, right in the heart of golf-land - excellent. Have stayed there twice and played Sultan & Pasha.

Lykia World 30 mins on from the golfing centre. Again all in and has a links course only open 14 months. (am off there in 6 weeks)

Follow the links:

http://www.elegantgolfresorts.com/lykia_world_antalya.htm
http://www.golfturkey.com/

Hope you enjoy yourselves.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Outings

04 Jan 2010, 20:14

This forum post had gone quiet, so thought I'd revive it for the new year. There are just a few places left to join TSG Team UK, and take on The Gloucester Golf Society in a challenge match over the St Pierre Golf course on Monday 8th March. This is the first match and it is hoped to arrange a return game later in the year when The Gloucester crew will travel to the South East, if all goes well they will become yearly fixtures. Would there be any other societies around the country willing to host a challenge match against TSG Team UK ?

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\9 hold handicap calculation problem

04 Jan 2010, 18:00

Sorry folks. This issue has now been resolved.

All the best for 2010,
TSG Golf team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \ UK Long Drive Series 2010 starting near you NOW..

04 Jan 2010, 15:30

Fancy a challenge - www.uklongdriveseries.com - Everyone Wins, Check It Out...

-- 04/01/2010 15:31:20: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \hi from singapore

04 Jan 2010, 14:56

First stop of round world trip what a wonderful golfers paradise a course wherever you look quality golf at night under lights Will update www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com Next week when arrive in aus

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\9 hold handicap calculation problem

03 Jan 2010, 18:22

Thanks Frances.

Unfortunately I can't uncheck the box. It is disabled because it is only a 9 hole (this is the bug mentioned above).

Steve

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\9 hold handicap calculation problem

03 Jan 2010, 11:52

if you re-edit the card - uncheck the box, your handicap will get re-calculated automatically.

Frances

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\9 hold handicap calculation problem

02 Jan 2010, 23:42

Thanks. Are you going to sort my handicap out or should I delete those scores and reenter them.

Thanks,

Steve

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Any advice about Turkey (Belek) golf holiday?

02 Jan 2010, 20:52

Heard lots of good things about the Belek region of Turkey for golf holidays so thinking of going at the end of April (4 couples).

Anyone got advice on where to play, where to stay etc? (there will be 4 couples - 4 golfers wanting to play good/great courses and 4 ladies wanting pool, browsing of shops, galleries, historic sites etc).

Advice please?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Would You Play?

02 Jan 2010, 20:37

I played Worthing GC (Lower course) on New Year's Eve when they predicted freezing conditions and light rain/sleet all day and it was great, cold but no rain, no sleet, lovely views, course in great condition (considering). So, yes, always worth giving it a try.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Would You Play?

02 Jan 2010, 20:05

Hi Russ,

I played the south essex today and it was very similar. Mind you the fairways where very hard and if you connect well with the ball it would run (which i never).

In answer to your question yes why not and although it's one of the worse rounds i had since starting i enjoyed it. To be fair we all know the conditions before we set out.

Hope you had a good xmas & new year mate. I saw your post on what Mrs Russ got you all i can say is you lucky sod.

Hope to play again with you soon Dan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Would You Play?

02 Jan 2010, 19:18

Played the Abbotts course at Stapleford Abbotts GC today.

The tees and fairways were in a great condition, especially with all the snow/rain we've had over the last few weeks.

Our only problem was the greens, snow, hail and ice on them. Not every hole but I'd say fifty percent of them.

If you were given a choice would you play?

I did, and to be honest I was glad I played. The only thing was that we should have played to the greens and then picked up our balls.

Some of the greens didn't have much snow/ice on them but they were very bumpy.

So, would you have played?

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\9 hold handicap calculation problem

02 Jan 2010, 11:04

Hi Steve,

CONGU rules do not really accept 9 hole rounds for handicap purposes so the checkbox 'Use for handicap purposes' is disabled but it should, as you say, be unchecked!

We'll fix it.

Happy New Year to you.

TSG Golf Team

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\9 hold handicap calculation problem

01 Jan 2010, 17:49

Hi,

I just added a score for a nine hole and although on the score entry page it says..

use scorecard for handicap calculation (only available on 18 hole courses)

The checkbox is ticked, but disabled.

Therefore the score was used to adjust my handicap down to 10. ahh! Can you sort it out please..

I imagine the fix is to ensure the checkbox is unticked and disabled if it is a 9 hole course.

Thanks,

Steve

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

01 Jan 2010, 15:42

Hi,

if you can get a copy of Golf Monthly they have 12 diffrent GPS/distance devices being reviewed in the latest copy.

Cheers

Guy.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010

01 Jan 2010, 00:49

To everyone on the T.S G.!! Wishing everyone a Happy New Year in 2010,and good luck to all!! Jack

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Over The Moon....

31 Dec 2009, 13:00

David, I had a Snooper SatNav which also included GPS for playing golf.

I've seen different golf systems being used by my playing partners and I've often had a look at what they do.

The SkyCaddie is nice and compact, clips easily onto my belt, or I could even hold it in my hand, which is what I had to do with my Snooper.

I've only used the SkyCaddie once since I received it but that's more down to work/weather than anything else.

Two things I like about the SkyCaddie are the Mark button and the fact that you can record your score onto it.

The mark button allows you to measure the distance you've hit the ball, although I'm not used to having it yet so keep forgetting to push the button.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

31 Dec 2009, 11:08

If you already have a phone with integrated GPS, I would recommend getting golf logix. http://golflogix.com/ Is only about £20 per year and even has nice pretty colours. Use the rest of the money for a golf weekend!

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

30 Dec 2009, 14:13

Would also recommend the Skycaddie 2.5, have had mine just over a year and cannot fault it. Smaller and Compact compared to the SG5 and basically has the same features and gives the same information except not in colour. all you want is the yardage so what colour it is in seems pointless and a waste of money.
A friend I play with has the SG5 and he spends more time asking me for the yardage then checking his own, as it seems that pretty colours take longer to update

Yes there is the yearly subcription of £30 for the birdie (UK) courses, but the sky caddie web site is very good and has a vast amount of courses in its database.

The SG 2.5 is only £150 whilst the SG5 is £270, so even with £30 for the subcription you will still have over £100 to splash out on some other golf gear

-- 30/12/2009 14:15:21: post edited by mark rowley.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

29 Dec 2009, 22:35

hi,

there are lots of decent ones out there, I have a sky caddie 2.5, it is a decent bit of gear, the only issue I have is that each year you have to pay a subscription. £29.99 for a birdie one which means you can download courses from the UK.

The GPS holds 10 courses at once and it is easy to download them. If a course you want is not on there site , then if you contact sky caddie they will try and get it mapped asap.

There are other good ones out there , but the sg2.5 can be picked up for around £150.

I think the diff between both models is that the 2.5 does not have a colour screen and is not as big.

Hope this helps

Guy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Over The Moon....

29 Dec 2009, 19:34

Hi Russell

Cogratulations on getting your Skycaddie GS5.

My dear wife has also suggested buying one of these items for me, I have posted a question on the forum regarding which one to buy.

Do you mind me asking why you settled on that particular one.

Many thanks.

David

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which golf GPS is easy to use and value for money?

29 Dec 2009, 19:31

Hi Guys

Its a long story but I have still to get my xmas present from my dear wife.
The budget is £300!! I know I have spoiled her this year!
Anyway I think I would benefit from a handheld golf GPS to help with knowing distance etc.
As you know the market is flooded with so many of them and I am trying to decide which is best.
I thought I would ask you kind golfers for your thoughts.
I mainly play in the UK.

Many thanks guys and all the very best to you all for 2010.

I appreciate any comments.

DE

-- 29/12/2009 20:32:26: post edited by David Ellis.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \merry xmas to each and everyone of you

29 Dec 2009, 14:29

May I add my best wishes to all for 2010. Hopefully it will be a good year for us all (available time to play Up, handicap Down).

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\edit scorecard

29 Dec 2009, 14:22

we'll investigate.

Regards,
Pete, TSG Golf Team

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \NEW YEARS DAY

29 Dec 2009, 10:48

Sadly I have to be at work at 06:00am :(

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Over The Moon....

28 Dec 2009, 21:56

Andy, I won't be playing on New Year's Day morning!!!

Might get out in the afternoon though, clear away a few cobwebs from the night before.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Over The Moon....

28 Dec 2009, 16:16

dont suppose you fancy a gam on new years day then?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Over The Moon....

27 Dec 2009, 17:15

Thanks for that Andy, but I've not played golf for three weeks so I was a bit rusty today!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Over The Moon....

26 Dec 2009, 21:29

You should know that course my now and not need any help the amount you play haha

Nice one fella, merry xmas to you

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \NEW YEARS DAY

26 Dec 2009, 21:13

Hi All,

Hope you all had a good xmas and i wish you all a very happy new year.

Is anyone interested in a morning game new years day?

Regards
Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \driving range boredom

26 Dec 2009, 21:12

Not sure of your location but in Chigwell, Watford and i think Bexleyheath they have ranges called top golf. There you play with chiped balls to inform you of your distance on each shot ect also they have targets for you to play games with a leader scores all on screen in the bar area. it makes the bore of the range a lot more fun.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \driving range boredom

26 Dec 2009, 15:42

we all know that we need to know how far we hit our irons with distance from each club in the bag but in my experiance most driving ranges use very cheap balls which give no indication to actual distance you hit each club in comparison to to the ball you play in your normal round. driving ranges are now charging premium prices for what i would call crap balls which bear no resemblance to to current balls that most people use.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Over The Moon....

25 Dec 2009, 14:49

Well my darling wife has outdone herself this Christmas.

I received my 'Surprise' present and she must have been listening to what I had been saying over the last few months.

A brand new SkyCaddie GS5 was presented to me this morning, thank you wifey

No instructions with it but I'm sure I'll manage.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \merry xmas to each and everyone of you

24 Dec 2009, 09:47

my prayer for all next year is continued good health, nothing else really matters.........

remember theres only one bad round of golf and thats the last one each of us will ever play.

keep well golfing buddies and i hope to see you at hever in april when i return from my golfing road trip round this gorgeous planet of ours..

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Buying over the internet from USA

24 Dec 2009, 08:45

Hi. My first post so hope this doesn't sound like spam. I live in Perth Australia and the UK. Have bought from 3Balls.com and had excellent service. They use FedEx and you can track it from the States to arrival. To Australia it took 4 days and the Aussies allow you $1000 of imports free of duty. Ordered more clubs for the UK on the Friday before leaving Perth and they were waiting for me when I arrived in the UK on Tuesday. Needless to say had to pay duty or VAT ( I forget) on them to HMRC, but they were delivered first and billed by FedEx later. So no probs whatsoever and much cheaper. Clubs described as used were actually demos and I couldn't tell the difference between them and unused. They sometimes do special deals with free delivery so check out the site thoroughly. Will use them again, without doubt. 10/10 + 2 for neatness.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \driving range boredom

23 Dec 2009, 18:46

Steve, I take full bag and also a note pad and started as far as possible to record all my distances on a full shot, half shot because all the professionals i have played with have all asked how far do you hit your 5 iron, 52 degree lob etc., and now i know pretty well exactly not a guess or intuition and this has helped my course management.. I also courtesy of david leadbetters school in florida have a regimented practice regime. I try to play slices and hooks thruout the whole bag. changing the grip, dropping the foot backwards and have finally discovered that my grip has little effect on my swing but feet position does. Practice has to be more than boomimg the ball away..

Also even in summer i try and visit the range twice a week, if practice makes the pros good it is true what it can do for us. I have made the visits as integral as a full practice round. I have certainly in the past year c hanged a range visit from a durgewhich only occured instead of a round but a precursor to improving my game for a competition.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\edit scorecard

22 Dec 2009, 12:01

I have entered a new scorecard for a golf club in Malaysia: Kelab Rahman Putra, but it doesnt want to store the course details. It only stores what I have entered in the top information boxes. Any reason for this?

Thanks

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\David Leadbetter swing setter?

22 Dec 2009, 07:11

Hi Peter

Thank you for your comments, I have also sent you an email.

Regards

DE

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \driving range boredom

21 Dec 2009, 22:27

if you go to the range with any mates try a bit of friendly competition with a bit of target golf. take it in turn to pick a target and the first person to five wins and gets to choose a new target, choose targets that make you use different clubs each time. i have spent many a rainy day or evening in this way and it certainely sharpens up your aim and gives you purposefull pratice instead of just whacking ball after ball aimlessley.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \driving range boredom

21 Dec 2009, 20:01

Not playing much due to the obvious snow and rain so decided to just go to the range and practice. Take my bag and hit a few shots with my wedges and start ok then get bored and just start hitting the balls to get rid off them. I must try a routine so anyone who has been through the 'driving range boredom zone' and come out of it with a plan please let me know. Thanks

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\David Leadbetter swing setter?

20 Dec 2009, 23:13

I bought one of these a year or so ago (golf Channel on TV). I bought it simply because of the David Leadbetter recommendation. Eagerly awaited but massively disappointing.

Essentially it's a golf club with some magentised half golf balls on it. The idea is that if you 'snap' into the downswing (ie bring the wrists into play at the right moment) you will hear the half a golf ball 'snap' back into position with a click at the right point in your swing (if you don't hear the click your timing is off).

It teaches you nothing about the swing plane, take away, poise etc, but I'm sure it's good for people who have a goof grip, posture and swing and who's only problem is timing. If that's you you can pay me £10 plus postage for my 'little' used offering....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

20 Dec 2009, 21:51

Hi Paul

Its very healthy to have a goal for 2010. I too am determined to bring my handicapp down as well.
I have almost finished reading a good book (Iam not a reader) that has given me much to think about and would suggest it is a good read for anyone who is determined to bring their handicapp down, the book is entitled "Dream On" by John Richardson. This guy usually scores 100+ on his local course but decides on a challenge: is it possible for someone who plays badly to set himself a goal of playing his local course and break par? There is lots to think about from this book, not much golf can be played in this weather so I reccomend you read this, I think it will put you on a good path to reaching your goal.
Good luck Paul
All the best to all at TSG

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\David Leadbetter swing setter?

20 Dec 2009, 20:55

Hi Guys

I have now settled down with my trusty Ping G5 irons and will invest my cash in lessons instead.

My question is, has anyone out there had any experience with the David Leadbetter swing setter?

It looks like a good tool for assisting with developing/maintaing your swing during the winter months (in Scotland we have lots of snow at the moment) so I am tempted to purchase it in the hope that I can use it at home and not break anything. I could tell you a story about when I was swinging my 8 iron and our chandelier, but it has been repaired and my wife is none the wiser (I want to keep it that way!). This swing setter is £100 so is it a good idea.

Many thanks for your comments.

Have a great Christmas everyone.

DE

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \New FREE Golf game for iPhone - iDriveMate

19 Dec 2009, 09:39

Found a new golf game released yesterday for free download on iPhones.

Developed with PGA Professional Andrew Good the game is called iDriveMate and is supposed to be fun and also demonstrate the correct swing path, body coil etc.

So it's a game which is also a tutorial or is it a turorial which is also a game!

For those with iPhones you can get it free from http://appshopper.com/games/idrivemate

Have fun...

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf helps?

16 Dec 2009, 19:55

Hi Danny
I know what you are going thru,had the excact problem 2 years ago,could not hit a driver but could launch my 3wood miles,until i had 3 lessons and the insructor took me back to basics,1) slow down the swing with the driver 2) positioning off my feet 3) my right arm..like Pete just couldnt get it in my head what my arm had to do(until a injury)...now my driving has improved and im more confident when steeping up to hit the big dog....i have a taylomade burner,nothing fancy..hope you get things sorted out soon...well worth having a pro look it over,piece off mind....

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

16 Dec 2009, 11:11

Aspirations are to find time to play more and see how that affects a handicap... all in all though planning to enjoy every day as it comes and make better use of 'course management' to play within my scope of endeavour. Must try and remember to bring along spectacles (does help to find the ball) as an aid to improving putting... and now and again play sensible shots... instead of the 'trick shots' I enjoy...

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Newmarket Golf

16 Dec 2009, 10:14

Andy, a quick look at the 'Members' search shows there are 50+ members in/around Newmarket plus a couple of golf groups but currently no games.

So when you get there you could tie up with the existing groups or post a few 'Open Invite' games to meet new golfers.

-- 17/12/2009 09:39:34: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Newmarket Golf

15 Dec 2009, 15:36

Am moving to Newmarket in the New Year, anyone fancy a Golf Partner, Handicap 12.

Cheers

Andy

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

15 Dec 2009, 00:18

It is my intention in 2010 to reduce my handicap by at least 1.0-1.5 shots but you have to be realistic in your goals.By keeping regular scorecards posted on the site and checking your game analysis will give you the indications what are the strengths and weaknesses these are the area's I look at. When I am working on any part of my game,it is normally over the range,with that in mind, only take the clubs I require.If it's my short game I am working on,I will just take 2 or 3 wedges and leave the other clubs in the bag.I sometimes take my video camera to record my swing and keep check on what I am doing this has worked wonders in the past.When get home I have even replayed it on the T.V you can learn a hell of a lot like this. I have been with the same Teaching Pro for about 4 years and he has my swing recorded with his camera on his laptop ,and can go back to any lesson and show me what what we worked on. I am going to start having regular lesson's again this year and it was the best advice that was given to me.Some golfer's have never had a lesson and are very good at the game,this was not for me though,we are not all the same.So long as you enjoy your golf thats what it's all about.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Ping G5 irons to Ping G15, to change or not to change?

14 Dec 2009, 21:55

Hi Guys, many thanks for your comments so far. It has given me something to think about for sure. My G5 pings were not custom fitted so I will explore that. Just to re-assure everyone I am not naive to think a new club or clubs will sort a poor swing or set up...if only. New to the forum and I do appreciate all comments so far. Keep them coming, many thanks

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Ping G5 irons to Ping G15, to change or not to change?

14 Dec 2009, 20:21

A couple of questions need to be asked.
Firstly,were your Ping G5 irons fitted or bought off the shelf.If not not fitted go back and get them fitted . If fitted and you are happy the old saying comes to mind, IF IT AINT BROKEN , IT DONT NEED FIXING
happy xmas to all
pete

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

14 Dec 2009, 19:20

At the beginning of the year i was 21 and wanted to get down to 17 but gone one better and now down to
15 been down to 14 next year i want to get down to 10 or better been play better than handicap so its looking
good not to bad for a amputee

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Ping G5 irons to Ping G15, to change or not to change?

14 Dec 2009, 14:10

The G5's are not that old a club, so buying the new G15's would not make that much of a difference to your game. Half the cost of a new set spent instead on lessons would benefit your game more, then in a couple of years you may wish to invest in a newer set of clubs.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Ping G5 irons to Ping G15, to change or not to change?

14 Dec 2009, 12:01

Hi David, I was once asked by a pro why I wanted to change my clubs ,I told him that I wanted to improve my game, to which he replied new clubs wont make much difference you golfers are all the same willing to spend £300 to £400 on clubs in hope that they will make a difference, spend half that sort of money on lessons and I guarantee to make a difference, and he was right. So my advice would be have lesson and I am sure you will be reducing your handicap

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Ping G5 irons to Ping G15, to change or not to change?

14 Dec 2009, 10:59

I have been using my Ping G5 irons and have been quite happy with the results. I tried the new Ping G15 irons and they had a nice feel about them, I also tried them on the range too - results were good. I am aware that new clubs have a "honeymooon" period. Should I change them or spend the money on lessons. Your thoughts... (Handicap 19) trying to get better. Many thanks

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

13 Dec 2009, 11:04

I've got a good idea if it's light drizzle or looks like it's gonna rain play the first nine and if its raining by the 9th get in your car and go home. Oh

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

13 Dec 2009, 10:58

I bought some (like a mug) and i think as Colin says they are for fools to part with there money. No more distance i actually found them worse as far as going to the left and right (fade/draw). I did find some the tees called lift tees a little bit more distance and straighter but i've now run out so back to the wooden ones.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

13 Dec 2009, 10:47

I'd like to be a good steady 20-22 i'm playing one course better then my 28 but the other courses i play that i don't play as regular i'm playing over so when i say steady i'd like to be playing all courses at 20-22 play a minimum of 3 times a week so i hope this is achievable.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf helps?

12 Dec 2009, 03:57

My 3-wood off the tee gives me an honest 255 carry. Depending on the bounce or roll I get more.
I've just given up on the driver since I can depend on the 3-wood. May take some lessons to see if I can work out any swing problems.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

11 Dec 2009, 20:06

My target is to slash at least 3-4 off the handicap,also to play more and at least practise once a week.(try to)Secondly would like to shoot 75 or under,have been close 4 times.To eveyone on TSG have a good xmas and plenty of golfing by all......

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funniest Golf Joke 2008....You decide

11 Dec 2009, 18:56

Three men wanted to learn how to play golf, so they hired a golf instructor.

The instructor took the three men over to the driving range and asked them to each hit a ball as far as they could.

First man hit his ball way off to the right, the instructor yelled "LOFT!"

Then the second man hit his ball way left, the instructor yelled "LOFT!"

The third man stepped up and hit his ball just two feet infront of him, again the instructor yelled "LOFT!"

The three puzzled men looked at each other and then turned to the instructor and asked what "LOFT" meant ?

The instructor simply said,

"LACK OF FREAKING TALENT"

PS:- Please feel free to use the the word "Loft" the next time you are playing in your friendly game am sure the right moment will present it's self...................lol

-- 11/12/2009 19:00:46: post edited by mark rowley.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funniest Golf Joke 2008....You decide

11 Dec 2009, 18:30

A couple met at Hilton head and fell in love, They were discussing how they would continue the relationship after their vacations were over.

"It's only fair to warn you Jody." He said, "I'm a golf nut, I live,eat,sleep and breathe golf."

"Well, since you're being honest, so will I." Jody said. "I'm a hooker."

"I see," he said.
Then brightening, he smiled "It's probably because you're not keeping your wrists straight when you hit the ball."

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funniest Golf Joke 2008....You decide

11 Dec 2009, 14:50

An old boy was tee'ing up on the first when a lady ambled up and asked if she could join him. "Of course my love" He replied "Do you want to play for a fiver" said the old girl " No problem" Said the old boy.
She proceeded tp give him a good beating and at the 18th asked for a lift down ther bottom of the road.
He gave her a lift and when they got to the bottom of the road she gave him a trouser friendly kiss!!!
"Im free on wednesday if you wanna go round again" said the old girl, "Without a doubt" came the reply so wednesday came and the things went the same way as before and when they got to the bottom of the road the old boy got his fiver out and the old girl got his thingy out. " I could get used to this" thought the old boy. " Free friday" He asked her "certainly am" she said. "How about we go all the way next time" the old boy asked, " Afraid not im a transvestite" said the lady
"You cheeky B*****D, You've been playing off the ladies tees all week" said the old boy!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

11 Dec 2009, 14:35

i started this year off 24 had an evaluation with a pro and aimed to get down to 14 by the end of the year. have had 6 lesson, hit 200 balls down the range every week, bar a month off with bad back, and have played at least 27 holes a week. Am currently off of 15 and with the way ive played this week do not think i'll be getting to my target. Next year i'd like to get down to 10 and hopefully break 80 for the first time. Its a big ask but you gotta aim high. With range time and lessons its cost me nearly £800 for those 9 shots. How scary is that!!! the worst thing is i do not feel like a much better player, im still far to inconsistent.
This game is a brain beater aint it!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funniest Golf Joke 2008....You decide

11 Dec 2009, 14:04

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

11 Dec 2009, 10:53

might be setting your sites a bit high.But good luck to you.Practice your PUTTING and CHIPPING around the green.This will help you in your task.Try getting up and down in as few as stroke as possible.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Handicap targets for 2010?

11 Dec 2009, 10:33

This time next year my handicap will be....?

Mine is to be get down to below 12 by the end of the season and scoring consistently below 85 as soon as possible. Lessons booked in for the new year to start prep for the new season.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

10 Dec 2009, 11:26

rubber duck, im really starting to worry about myself, i thought it were female, suppose i should have done some research.....

not used to guys writing to me in them terms to be honest women dont either.

ian

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

10 Dec 2009, 10:18

PMSL

Poor lad will start to get the feeling no one loves him.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

10 Dec 2009, 09:00

I GOT THAT EMAIL ALSO HE PUT DOWN TO PLAY IN OUR GAME YESTERDAY AT THE ABBOTTS BUT HAD A NO SHOW 'STOOD UP AGAIN' DAMN !!!! seemed like a nice boy

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

10 Dec 2009, 07:26

I thought maybe it was one of Tiger's former mistresses ... looking for a new Sugar Daddy.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

09 Dec 2009, 18:39

Pete you must have been the only one then,never mind Christmas is coming and your luck might change

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

09 Dec 2009, 18:07

Story of my life. I don't even get propositioned by a spammer!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

09 Dec 2009, 15:42

felt like tiger for a minute, at xmas im always in need of a flexible friend too

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

09 Dec 2009, 10:00

I had the same message, so dissapointed as I thought I'd made a new friend/lover without even trying!

Did report it, even though he/she/whoever is my new best friend.

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

09 Dec 2009, 09:38

Thanks for repoting the abuse of our open community.

Fatou has been removed from TSG and we've raised a complaint to Yahoo.

If you see any other who are not 'real' members of TSG then please point them out and we'll deal with them.

Pete, TSG Golf Team

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

09 Dec 2009, 09:08

Friend had same in his inbox, used the "report" option and then deleted it.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Spam Messages

09 Dec 2009, 08:53

I've just received this message in my Social Golfer Inbox ... anyone else getting spammed like this?

Hello dear new friend,

Hello dear new friend, How are you today? I hope you are fine. My name is fatou,I am kind, flexible, responsible, curious, easy-going, romantic and sensual. I prefer active way of life style. My dream is to spend time and share life with a partner, who will be my lover and friend,if you're interested with my proposal here is my email address (fatou_jafar@yahoo.com) I will be waiting for your email

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

09 Dec 2009, 03:13

I had them and the only real significance is that they do not break. My distance never improved nor did my accuracy.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

09 Dec 2009, 00:08

First and foremost is you must keep yourself warm and dry.

You do need a good wet weather suit. Goretex if possible. My waterproofs stop the rain getting through but when I take my jakcet off it's wet through on the inside with sweat!

I do recommend a rain hat. I have a Callaway one and when it's raining the rain falls off the back of the hat and onto my jacket, not down the back of my neck.

Once you have stopped the rain getting through you then need to make certain that you keep warm. I have a baselayer garment that is skin tight and does appear to keep me warm, without the need to wear to many other items of clothing.

After making certain that you are warm and dry then you need to move onto your equipment.

Put your rain cover over your bag so that you can keep your clubs dry.

If you use a trolley get an umbrella holder, therefore keeping your hands free. Hand a towel inside your umbrella to keep it dry.

I also have a 'wet weather' glove. The wetter my grips get on my golf clubs the better this glove works.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

08 Dec 2009, 22:59

Go straight to the 19th

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

08 Dec 2009, 22:07

bucket hat and a West ham carrier bag to protect your clubs.

This might be useful http://www.divingdirectshop.co.uk/advanced_search_result.php?page=1&keywords=wet%20suit&limit=9

The one on the bottom left looks good also get the Mrs to cover you in goose fat it keeps you warm ;) hope that's helpful.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\IS ANYONE IN THE ROMFORD AREA UP FOR A DAY AT WOBURN G.C IN MARCH 2010?

08 Dec 2009, 06:48

Due to commitments playing at Celtic manor and St Pierre 7th / 8th might not get away with another golf expense with "her in doors" for March.

Would you consider April instead ?

For infor Woburns green fee's for 2010 are as follows:-

February £90,March £105 and April £125, package is a round on either Dukes or Duchess, bacon roll, coffee/tea and two course lunch. with the "option" for further golf, daylight permitting.

May, June, July and September package consist of a round on each but price rises to £159.

-- 08/12/2009 06:53:28: post edited by mark rowley.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

08 Dec 2009, 02:40

stay in the warm its much nicer!!!!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\IS ANYONE IN THE ROMFORD AREA UP FOR A DAY AT WOBURN G.C IN MARCH 2010?

07 Dec 2009, 16:59

I have played at WOBURN G.C. a few times over the year's and always enjoyed the challenge of the Championship course's there,and was considering another days golf there in March 2010. They do offer winter golf deals and it was my intention to have a return visit as stated.This is probably one of the finest venue's for golf in the country if you like playing inland courses with tree lined fairways,and greens that are true and fast and a consistant speed.That's why it has held many EUROPEAN TOUR EVENT'S over the year's.It certainly is a 'GOLFER'S PARADISE '.Have a look at it's Website. I am looking to make a fourball to go and play there and asking if there are any T.S.G. that would be interested in joining me for the day.It is my intention to play two of the courses the Duchess and the Dukes and normally lunch is included in the price ALTHOUGH IT MIGHT APPEAR A BIT EXPENSIVE I FEEL ITS WORTH IT IF YOU ARE UP FOR IT DROP US A LINE p.s I AM NOT SURE OF THE COST AT THE MOMENT BUT IT WAS ABOUT £90 LAST TIME I WENT THERE

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

06 Dec 2009, 09:37

The only sound piece of advice I can give is D,ONT BOTHER !

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

05 Dec 2009, 18:19

The name of the gloves I mentioned for playing in the rain is called 'MACWET' if you go to GOOGLE and type the name in it shows all the gloves they make, there should be a pair on the site that should help. I have been to Warley Park Driving Range today and they are out of stock of them because of the demand for them. Hope that might help your conquest for playing in the rain!!! Happy 'Hacking' Jack

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

05 Dec 2009, 08:05

As already mentioned getting the right equipment makes all the difference, I used to hardly play at all through the winter.
But a couple of years back decided to invest in some decent gear and take advantage of some great winter deals and less crowded courses.
good water proofs can be expensive, set by cutter and buck bought a year ago cost £150 but worth the money, have just got new complete Mizuno suit from ebay for £85 (normally £140 +).
again good shoes are worth paying for to keep feet warm and dry, I have a pair for summer and another pair for winter.
A new/dry glove for every hole whole be nice, but there are plenty of excellent wet weather gloves now, the wetter the weather the better they grip, some also come in pairs. don't forget a storm brolly.
a couple of extras worth considering, a good bucket hat and a bag rain cover, the bag rain cover is a must buy, having to empty out the bag after playing in the rain to dry everything out was what used to put me off the most, problem is they tend to only allow access to clubs and not any other pockets. Just bought one (think the name is "longbridge") which has access zips to top, side and front. again bought on ebay for £15.

-- 05/12/2009 08:13:32: post edited by mark rowley.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

05 Dec 2009, 01:02

First of all as already suggested is a decent wet suit,I paid well over £100 for mine about 10 years ago and it still keeps me dry to this day,it's worth the investment.Also a decent pair of shoe's there's nothing worse than walking round in one's that leek. I also have a pair of glove's that I bought from Warley Park driving range they are proper golf glove's that have been designed for playing in wet condition's the club will not slip or turn in your hand when playing and no matter how wet your grips get they really do work it saves a lot of hassle on the course trying to keep your clubs dry between shots.I will try and find out who they are made by and if they are still available. Also a decent brolley is a must the storm proof design is great as it will not turn inside out because the air flow is allowed to escape through slits when its open. Also the caddies for the Tour Pro's hang a towel inside their brolley's when its raining to dry and clean the faces of their clubs after every shot,but how many of us have the luxury of a caddie? 'HAPPY HACKING IN THE RAIN'

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

04 Dec 2009, 21:17

your not on your own pal............ i go to florida but that might not be the advice you want to hear.....so......................

when i played in british par 3 and it threw it down, graeme storm changed gloves virtually every hole and was wrapped up to the nines, he had a really impressive wet suit and when we played the 19th he hardly looked like he had been out in the rain.... so that could be the key, lots of gloves and top notch wet gear. by the way a caddy dried every club for him before every shot think that helped too.

Ian

www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Any tips for playing in the rain ?

04 Dec 2009, 17:40

I hate playing in the rain and have decided not to even bother leaving the house to play in future.

Anyone got any tips that might help me and change my mind ?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funniest Golf Joke 2008....You decide

04 Dec 2009, 14:55

So the police roll up outside the house in Florida and encounter Mrs Woods standing over the reclining body of her billionaire husband. She is clasping a 6-iron and crying.
“Ma’am, step away from the car and the golf champion. Did you hit your husband with that club?”
“Yes, yes I did,” says a hysterical Mrs W.
“How many times?”
“I’m not sure. It all happened so fast. Five…six times? Put me down for a five.”

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf In Malaysia/Singapore - Nov 09

03 Dec 2009, 11:31

HI Robin.

Golf in KL is excellent even though it was close to 35C and humid. I posted on the games section that I am in KL and looking for a game and got a few replies. They love golf in Malaysia and the people are very friendly and hospitable so someone based in KL will reply. There is very little chance of getting on a course on the weekend/public holidays as they are crammed full. Also, a lot of courses only allow members and members guests.

Depending on where you are staying I can put you in touch with a couple of people I played with there. (Petaling Jaya and Bukit Bintang area).

Message me you email and I will forward it on.

Tiaan

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\anyone in Almeria over the Christmas break?

03 Dec 2009, 09:35

I'd love to be playing golf in the sun at the end of December, but sadly I cannot. Instead I'll be in England where it will be dark by 3:30pm and probably raining.

I did go to Mojacar a couple of years ago (a friend was living out there for a while) and we played Valle del Este and Desert Springs. Both of which I would thoroughly recommend. Have fun.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\anyone in Almeria over the Christmas break?

02 Dec 2009, 17:33

We're going to Mojacar, Almeria for a couple of weeks at the end of the month, and will hopefully get in a few games of golf. Anyone in the area up for a game, or maybe just make a few suggestions re. the local courses?
Thanks.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funniest Golf Joke 2008....You decide

02 Dec 2009, 17:14

Recently I was asked to play in a golf tournament ,at first I said naaahh!!
I already play 3 to 4 times a week
then they said to me come on it's for handicapped and blind kids
Then I thought
!!!
!!!
!!!
S**t I can win this

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf In Malaysia/Singapore - Nov 09

02 Dec 2009, 03:30

Hello Tiaan, I saw you played in KL recently. I'm stopping off in KL on the way to Manila in February and was hoping for a game. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks, Robin.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Golf In Malaysia/Singapore - Nov 09

01 Dec 2009, 15:58

Thank you to Yee in KL and Kayo in Singapore for arranging the golf games. I thouroughly enjoyed it. Hope to play in Asia again soon.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\RE: Windows 7 Professional - issue with 'My Game Stats' Charting

01 Dec 2009, 08:19

Hi Steve, thanks for the help but when I go to the web address you provided the answer is there:

- Adobe Flash Player is not supported for playback in a 64-bit browser. However, you can run Flash Player in a 32-bit browser running on a 64-bit operating system.

So I'm running the 'old' version of Internet Explorer until Flash is supported in the new 64-bit version. As I get the same problem on virtually every website I use (Flash must be used everywhere!) I think I'll take the 64 bit version of IE off my desktop because it's irritting when I use the wrong one - little red X everywhere there should be a graph or picture...

-- 01/12/2009 08:19:54: post edited by Pete Connon.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\RE: Windows 7 Professional - issue with 'My Game Stats' Charting

30 Nov 2009, 23:21

Hi Pete, Have you installed Flash? http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/ Hope this helps... Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Funniest Golf Joke 2008....You decide

29 Nov 2009, 16:36

One day a woman was happily going about her business vacuuming the bedroom. She decided to do under the bed as it had never been done and she was in the mood,so she fitted the nozzle and poked it under the bed. It hit an object so she got down to look. When she pulled it out and unwrapped it she saw it was just an ordinary shoe box in a pillow case.Curiosity got the better of her and she opened it, inside was 3 golf balls and £300.00. When the hubby came home from work she asked him what the box was all about. Embarrassed the husband came clean. "My darling every time I have been unfaithful to you I have put a ball into the box". Shocked the wife broke down in tears. Eventually she said " We have been married for 27 years and you have been unfaithful to me three times, I think I can forgive you,we will be ok,but tell me why is there £300 in the box as well"? The husband went red faced and said "Well every time I got a dozen I sold them"!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

29 Nov 2009, 13:46

Tiger can learn a lot from his wife...... 3 iron straight through the rear windscreen, missed the 'rough' cos he was unconcious in the front

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

28 Nov 2009, 23:59

Woods - if he ever learns to drive straight!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \3DGolf, Longshot Golf Ceased Trading !!

28 Nov 2009, 10:10

I just saw this today - apparently on 29th October Intra Group Limited, trading as 3DGolf Plc, Bill Goff Golf Tours, Jack High Bowling Holidays, Longshot Golf Holidays, and Sunshine Challenge ceased trading !

Did anyone get caught out with a holiday booking which they now won't get?

-- 04/12/2009 16:47:33: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

27 Nov 2009, 13:24

jack nicklaus has said to get any benefit out of the stuff today you need a certain amount of club head speed , i tend to think that jack was a straighter driver of the ball but tiger has the best short game in the world it's 1 of the reasons he's the no1

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\RE: Windows 7 Professional - issue with 'My Game Stats' Charting

26 Nov 2009, 10:47

I've just got a shiny new laptop which is running Windows 7 Professional edition and Internet explorer 8.

Now when I log onto TSG I don't get some of the promotional stuff and I don't see any of the Charts showing my game Stats and My Game Improvement (or not!) nor the Game Statistics Chart on the Profile Page of any other TSG Members (just get a little red X in the top corner where the chart should be).

This is also happening on a couple of other sites I use and after a bit of looking around I found that Macromedia don't yet have a version of 'Flash' which runs on 64 bit browsers (apparently it's coming sooooon.........).

So to use TSG the way I did last week I have to use the 32 bit version of Internet Explorer (also provided with Windows 7). Why can't things be easy???

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wedge groove laws changing.

25 Nov 2009, 20:46

Posted by Darren Lehey on 25 Nov 2009, 18:43

I think this should come into effect ASAP as my wedge does not seem to working properly with the grooves it has now. Its also the same for all my other clubs as well as my putter which has no grooves ?

Mate i'm bringing my cricket bat tomorrow after today i had a mare the difference a day makes.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wedge groove laws changing.

25 Nov 2009, 19:22

Here is the timeline.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wedge groove laws changing.

25 Nov 2009, 18:43

I think this should come into effect ASAP as my wedge does not seem to working properly with the grooves it has now. Its also the same for all my other clubs as well as my putter which has no grooves ?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Europe beat usa in Florida

25 Nov 2009, 12:55

I werent impressed when I played albeit in terrible weather. Our guys will have the extra advantage like at the K Club of having played it many times........ but it is long..... guess it will be another nail biter..... the set up by Monty will be important like at Belfry the most Americanised Course in the Uk yet home to some of our best success and occasional disaster.

Cant WAit.......... Ill pass on a few tips.......... Ha Ha

Ian

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Europe beat usa in Florida

25 Nov 2009, 09:21

Excellent stuff Ian. Let's hope thats a sign of things to come - roll on Celtic Manor...

Anyone got any predictions for this one? Has anyone played the new course? Will it favour Europe or the US big hitters?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \More regulatory changes to golf equipment?

24 Nov 2009, 21:43

never mind the clubs shorter courses would help me, at Hilton Head played Shipyard from 7400 yards, on some holes I needed a Taxi, my 5 wood was crying it was being used that much, nothing more off putting than constantly hitting your sunday best off the tee the still seeing the 150 marker in front of you in the distance on a par 4. Socially you can ofcourse move up tees but why in most amateur comps do we suddenly feel the need to be Tiger.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Europe beat usa in Florida

24 Nov 2009, 21:39

Ok, not the Ryder Cup or Walker Cup or Solheim Cup............ but any golf victory on us soil has to be appreciated and last weekend I represented a Europe Side against the USA in the 1st Annual CYDER Cup at Celebration Golf Club. A memorable day saw Europe triumph 4 1/2 to 1/1/2, my half with partner Matt Gallagher an helicopter pilot out here in Orlando effectively clinching the trophy. it was a tremendous event organised by Shannons Irish Bar, hence he Cyder Cup and well supported by the whole town of Celebration. For a moment coming up the 18th one down and faced with a 80 yard approach to a green protected right by a cavernous bunker and left by water, I had that rare feeling the big guys must get, I hit a peach to 6 feet and the crowd all twenty of them went mad. Two putts for the half and the trophy and many magners were ours. Thanks to all involved, especially Celebration Golf Course who hosted the event majestically.

Ian

www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

23 Nov 2009, 17:33

I agree with Mark on this one That Handicaps are there to make it a level playing field, that is what is so great about the game of golf I cannot think of another sport that operates such a system that give everyone a chance of winning no matter how good or bad you are. We must have some rules though that stop people abusing the system, that is why I feel that A minimum of three Cards should be entered and duly signed by another TSG member and that this should be a minimum requirement to obtain a TSG handicap certificate

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

23 Nov 2009, 15:28

Ian, no one is suggesting "overly zealous" rules, I assume the main reason you joined this site was to play golf, I'm a member of a club but play more golf via TSG. The reason this discussion has come about is mainly due to The TSG Open, with the prizes on offer, sadly you will have some people who will join and abuse the handicap system to give themselves an advantage. A person who shots 77 and 79 has not just taken up the game, they can play, they also know they are better then a 28 h/c. as I pointed out with the previous conditions for h/c and entry to the TSG open, They could of posted another score of 78, this would be +7 for the course already used, off current 15 h/c a net 63, making net -8 for the round, a 15 h/c I think that would be a .3 per shot adjustment, so a total reduction of 2.4, this would give a new playing h/c of 12.6 (+13). If the same three cards had been entered at a club for awarding of h/c the person would of most likely started on +7. Handicaps have nothing to do with over zealous rules, it is to allow a fair and level playing field so golfers of all standards can compete against each other.

-- 23/11/2009 15:30:42: post edited by mark rowley.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

23 Nov 2009, 13:51

Yes, I noticed this one appear too!

Hmmm.....not sure I agree we need to start imposing quite such strict rulings on everyone, we dont want to put people off joining the site and the reason I am here and not a member of a club, is exactly to avoid overly zealous rules.

I agree with Pete on this one - you dont get a handicap until your submitted three cards on the site AND you dont get onto the leaderboard until youve entered 3 cards either.

Simples!

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

23 Nov 2009, 12:31

sorry about previous post, have not worked out yet how to break it up into paragraghs like Russell and TSG :(

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

23 Nov 2009, 12:29

I Feel that there should be some further restriction then just The Three Card rule. Russell's suggestion of further cards does make sense, Roly's first entry for this posting shows that it can be abused. Someone who shoots gross scores of 77 and 79, is obviously a very good player (most likely single figure h/c) so why join, declare no h/c and start off 28 ? even a third card of say 78 would only adjust the h/c down something like 13, and not the 8 or 9 that would be nearer the true playing standard. so even with a 3/4 adjustment for the competition the person would still be playing off 10. At a club, you have to play three rounds with a member and usually one of these rounds has to be from a club comp, before you are given your first h/c. Yes you do get some players at a club who can play better then their h/c suggest, but this is usually after they have been there for a while, they don't play in as many club comps, just the required 6 or so to maintain their h/c, and they don't bother handing in cards from social rounds played with friends. Due to the prizes on offer in the TSG Open, to have a condition that someone who is going to use the TSG h/c must first play three posted games before getting their first h/c and then another three games either which they have posted (but played with another TSG member)or joined does make sense. Another suggestion would be to not allow rounds that cannot be confirmed be used for H/c adjustment, to be able to use a score for h/c it most be from a posted game that at least one other TSG member has attended. Just for information, if a person is playing to their h/c they should not be running up scores in the 40's on a regular basis or even 38's and 39's, but around the 32-34 mark.

-- 23/11/2009 12:31:46: post edited by mark rowley.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

23 Nov 2009, 10:34

When a new member joins TSG they step through a few pages allowing them to build their profile. One of the questions is current handicap (with a system default).

When a member enters scores into the 'My Scores' section they are offered the option of using the score to maintain their handicap (a check-box on the score entry screen) in which case that score would then be seen in the 'My Handicap' section and the score shown on the TSG Downloadable Free Handicap Certificate.

A player's handicap only really matters when playing for money or prizes. If you are playing someone you don't know for money and accepting their handicap, well you are very trusting.

The TSG Competitions are fun competitions but they do have prizes and whilst we want everyone to get involved and enjoy the day we want someone who has had a great day, played above themselves (and probably had a bit of luck) to walk off with the top prizes not someone who plays okay but has manipulated their handicap to give themselves a head start.

So, it's a balance between making it easy for members to join but imposing some checks and balances. The way we've done that is by insisting that, for those without a club handicap, scores are entered to the TSG System with at least one of them being carded in a TSG 'Open Invite' game (ie not just someone entering a score and saying, I played on my own and scored 106 giving me a 28 handicap!). Also we'll be playing off 3/4 handicap to level the playing field further. Finally, lets not forget that we're accepting club handicaps which we all know can be as manipulated as any other.

All in all we want people to be honest with entering a few scores to prove their handicap (you may be surprised with what handicap you get) and then we want everyone to enjoy the day and the competition.

Should we impose a requirement for more cards like Russell & Dan suggest?

Or has anyone got any other ideas for making sure the handicaps are fair?

-- 23/11/2009 10:39:29: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

22 Nov 2009, 22:22

Posted by Russell Middleton on 22 Nov 2009, 17:15

Having had a think about this I have come up with the following suggestions.

When a person joins this site why not ask them for their present golf club handicap (if they are a member of a golf club), or for them to put in an estimated handicap, based on how they are playing at the time they join.

Nobody should be able to play in a big competition until they have entered five or six scorecards onto the system. It could even be that it is stipulated that three of them have to be marked by another SG member.

Once three scorecards have been entered then the new member can play off the handicap the system sets them.

Russ

Totally agree with this but could we also have a section where maybe an active member can tick (or something) to approve this obviously if they play in the game just an idea.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \More regulatory changes to golf equipment?

22 Nov 2009, 18:23

See above for timeline I found re groves!!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

22 Nov 2009, 17:28

A very good question but I do think it's impossible to answer!

The old players had equipment that was so inferior to today's stuff that it would be hard to imagine today's players using the old stuff, or even the old players using today's equipement.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Professionals behaviour

22 Nov 2009, 17:26

Firstly, most professional golfers have enough money to keep them happy for the rest of their lives.

Secondly, due to them all being sponsored by golf equipment companies they don't even have to pay for their equipment. They just let them know that they need and hey presto a new one appears.

So as Mark said, fining them is a complete waste of time.

The only way things will get better is for each professional who commits an infringement to miss the next tournament, harsh maybe, especially if you are a spectator and was looking forward to watching a certain player.

I can understand the point about starting with a number of shots added to your score but to be honest, I cannot see the golf authorities, or even the players standing for this.

It is wrong for the professionals to swear or abuse equipment after hitting a bad shot.

Russ

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

22 Nov 2009, 17:15

Having had a think about this I have come up with the following suggestions.

When a person joins this site why not ask them for their present golf club handicap (if they are a member of a golf club), or for them to put in an estimated handicap, based on how they are playing at the time they join.

Nobody should be able to play in a big competition until they have entered five or six scorecards onto the system. It could even be that it is stipulated that three of them have to be marked by another SG member.

Once three scorecards have been entered then the new member can play off the handicap the system sets them.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Professionals behaviour

22 Nov 2009, 14:52

Is it not time that the "Golfing Bodies" start to come down hard on the poor behaviour being shown by some of the top players. After seeing Rory McIlroy smash his club through an advertising hoarding in the final round of The Race to Dubia, can they not use a system like football and issue Red or Yellow cards. A red card resulting in for example the player being banned from a ranking tournament, or if that is on the harsh side why not that they begin the next ranking tournament with a number of shots penalty, say +6 for red and +3 for yellow. Maybe Rory will get a fine for this behaviour but what is the loss of a few £, when you are earning millions. These incidents seem to be on the rise, in the last couple of years Tiger has been getting worse with the swearing and slamming of clubs.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

22 Nov 2009, 14:17

Whilst we generally think life is better when you trust people we do accept that sometimes trust can be abused and the offer of prizes may prove too much temptation for the very small minority. So we've tightened up the handicap requirement for the TSG Open Golf Championship to require some validation (which shouldn't be a problem for anyone to achieve between now and april 2010 !).

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

22 Nov 2009, 13:58

Maybe at the very least a TSG member should have to enter several cards (3?) before a score they have entered is considered for the Leaderboard?

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

22 Nov 2009, 13:29

Roly has a fair point with regards H/c's. Could it not be arranged that on joining TSG that a person declares an offical club h/c or registers for a TSG h/c. If registering for a TSG h/c then the first three cards must be entered from posted TSG games and confirmed by another TSG member who attended the same game. Once the three cards have been entered then a TSG h/c is awarded. I do feel that the current way a person can just post scores without confirmation could be open to abuse, especially for entering The TSG open. Handicap conditions for entry to TSG Open :- "Note, a Player’s Handicap maybe a TSG Assigned Handicap (based on a minimum of three scorecards entered into the TSG Handicap Calculation System) OR a handicap issued by a CONGU registered Golf Club." With the current system a person could just make up three scores (as there is no requirement for any confirmation), enter them and give themselves a very healthy h/c for this competition.

Site News, Questions, Suggestions and Help\Fantasy initial handicaps on TSG!

22 Nov 2009, 12:10

I see that The Guy at the top of the leaderboard (NOV) joined TSG as a 28 handicap. He has scored 2 games of Gross 77 & Gross 79 with Stableford points of 58 & 47! He now has a handicap of 15. Now whilst there is no harm done & obviously,(Unless he is the greatest & quickest, improver of all time!!)he joined with a fantasy handicap. Does this leave a question as to whether new members should have to submit at least 3 scores with named markers before they get a TSG handicap? This is after all what we all have to do at our own clubs.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

21 Nov 2009, 20:21

I'm going to buck the trend and vote for a golfer I've seen play, rather than someone in 20/30's who I've heard of. His name is Tiger Woods. Without him golf wouldn't have had the coverage it has received in the past 10 years. Admittedly, he's not my favourite, that would be Seve. But I think all of us playing today owe a lot of thanks to Tiger, maybe not yet, but will become the greatest golfer ever.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wedge groove laws changing.

21 Nov 2009, 10:18

Dan - Only for Pro's as from next year (January I think). For us hackers I believe we still have 10 years with our "non-compliant" clubs until we need to fork out for a new set.

Don't worry - just get that good book/DVD on putting and lower the handicap !!! (LOL).

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf tuition DVD's

21 Nov 2009, 10:12

Dan - What you need playing off 28 is the best book/DVD to unlock the secrets of putting. Crack that you will not be off 28 for long !

Dave Peltz or someone called Bob ??? are guru's in the field of getting the ball in the hole.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

21 Nov 2009, 10:04

Sorry but I don't think that Tiger qualifies as "the greatest golfer" in the wider sense as I find the spitting and bad language unacceptable. I am sure the greats of the past would praise his talent, but the rest ....... ????

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

21 Nov 2009, 09:57

Sorry Ryan, I missed your vote for Bobby Jones - my vote is with you.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

21 Nov 2009, 09:55

Hat in the Ring !!!

From what I have heard Bobby Jones was a pretty good player in the 20's/30's. Retired very young from the game (I believe) but is always mentioned by the older golfing experts (Alliss, Critchley etc...) as being an extraordinary talent.

So - a vote for Bobby Jones

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Wedge groove laws changing.

21 Nov 2009, 08:06

Does anyone know when this comes into affect and would it affect you and i as for competitions?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Why Florida

20 Nov 2009, 21:42

sad that and very rare for any floridian experience were customer is king whether it be golf, pub, food, petrol or disney. i find it overkill sometimes with have a nice day. i would have fired a shot straight at em and give them some biff, point you make is valid, the lakes are a great track, but there are many of a similar ilk, the service needs to be spot on.

ian

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Why Florida

20 Nov 2009, 17:53

Played Ridgewood lakes 2008, lovely course shame about the staff, found the pro shop staff completely unhelpful, being the only person in the shop there was no "can I help, do you need any assistance", and when I did go to the till point with a polo shirt I was made to wait that long I was ready to walk out. I was just stepping onto the 10th to hit my tee shot when two green staff pulled up alongside the tee in front, they then proceeded to start mowing the tee area. once they had finished the front tee they then started on the tee I was on. certainly not on the return to play list.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Why Florida

20 Nov 2009, 16:54

and started this week at Diamondback, what a course that is..... for a measly price of 35 bucks, whats the price on the costas or algarve at the moment

ian

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are there multiple ways to play (and score) a Nausaw Side Bet?

20 Nov 2009, 15:17

The side bet is the Nausaw... Our group is trying to find out if there is just one way to score the game..

Most of us play with a press after being two down or more. If a second press is asked for, and given, the first press is given to the winner and another bet is started. A couple of hotdogs play that all presses are active and alive through the nine. I think you could probably play either way but what is the normal way.

(Sandbaggers looking for money can win more if played the hotdog way) We play friendly golf..

MLC

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

20 Nov 2009, 09:46

I'd have to go for Ben Hogan as the having the best, most elegant swing and I'd go for Sevvy as being the most naturally gifted shot maker.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Why Why Why.

20 Nov 2009, 09:44

It's called swing groove consistency and it's the way to get your handicap down.

On a similar note, what used to happen to me was that I would play the best golf of my life on the front nine and then couldn't hit the golf ball on the back nine. It was so frustrating because as far as I was concerned I wasn't doing anything differently and didn't know what was happening. My solution was to find a professional who could explain the elements of the swing to me (in English!). I'm still no better (don't play often enough is my excuse) but at least now when I push the ball off to the right I know what I did wrong and focus on my swing for the next shot.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Golf tuition DVD's

20 Nov 2009, 06:50

Can anyone recommend a good one please and will it work along with my lessons or shouldn't i bother?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Why Why Why.

20 Nov 2009, 06:48

At the beginning of the week i played my best golf the day after i played terrible the day after better then the Monday yesterday terrible. I just can't work it out.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Show at the NEC.

20 Nov 2009, 06:42

Cheers Russ, That's confirmed it for me i think i'll give it a miss.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Show at the NEC.

20 Nov 2009, 02:34

I went up to the NEC a couple of years ago to the golf show.

Big disapointment!!!

Plenty of stands that would let you try out their clubs but no real deals.

Seemed to be plenty of holiday home salesmen!

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

20 Nov 2009, 02:32

I received some brush tees as a Christmas present a couple of years ago.

Having used them for a while I could not tell if they lived up to what they said on the package.

Still got one in my golf bad Dan so I'll dig it out for you on Monday so you can give it a go.

Russ

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

19 Nov 2009, 21:43

My mate i play golf with always takes the p### so i think of him before i take my shots. he gave me some advise early on....
..head up swing fast..
Steve

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

19 Nov 2009, 21:39

I find those brush tees sometimes on the tees and find myself using them and looking more for the tees once the ball has flown away (possibly 300 yards) than the actual shot. On another note my mate swears by leaning the tee forward. He reacons there is less resistance on the ball ?
Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

19 Nov 2009, 21:34

My vote would be Sevy. How many times did you see him in the ryder cup when playing with Ossie that he played a shot to save the hole when everyone said '1 down'
Steve

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are there multiple ways to play (and score) a Nausaw Side Bet?

19 Nov 2009, 21:29

Hi, we play match and bye(press) every week and multiple presses is an option. We generally never get a second press but the option is there to cancel the match and take the press at the option of the loser to give them time to get some money back.
Never heard of the nausaw side bet please give more details to confirm i'm talking about the same bet.
Steve

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\GPS systems advice

19 Nov 2009, 20:08

I have used just about every GPS their is and I keep going back to my sky caddie. I don't leave home with out it.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Are there multiple ways to play (and score) a Nausaw Side Bet?

18 Nov 2009, 21:51

What is the correct way to score a Nausaw with Presses. I've always played presses after 2 down and if another press is asked for later in the match (before the end of the front or back nine) the first press was conceited and a new bet was started with the new press.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

18 Nov 2009, 21:43

Bobby Jones is a name that is hardley mentioned,a truley great amateur player who won 7 majors back in the 20's and one off the first players which used a a more upright stance,which Byron Nelson used especially when steel shafts came along...........

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

18 Nov 2009, 20:45

i think until tiger woods passes jack nicklaus record of 18 majors jack nicklaus is the most sucssesful golfer of the 20th century
i think tiger and jack are similar in the fact they have the ability to focus when really have to , however jack was a more accurate driver ofm the ball and tiger has a better short gme Mark britton

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

18 Nov 2009, 20:34

Personally It has to be between Byron Nelson and Ben Hogan their swing looked like it was done with ease and no effort.

Just my opinion though.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

18 Nov 2009, 18:56

I wonder how much they've had to pay him to look like a junitor sweeping the tee box

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

18 Nov 2009, 17:28

Mine would be Sevvy,its intresting to hear people's thoughts...Tarby going for a Arsenal fan mmmm

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\GPS systems advice

18 Nov 2009, 16:16

looks like my xmas box.......... any recomendations........

main criteria......................... would prefer touch screen...... (not essential)........ but must be universal..... needs to be capable for use
world wide, particularly, uk usa, spain, south africa and australasia.................

seeking views please

ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

18 Nov 2009, 14:52

I know it's single bit of advice but all the members i've played with this week have given me advice, probably the most important is ENJOY the game but there was things like, i keep lifting my head far to early, my stance was on my back heels, regarding my short game 2 members one said use a high club just around the green and the other was in my grip with PW/SW and to bring my hands forward.

I put all this into practice today and i got my best score.

Cheers Dan

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

18 Nov 2009, 09:37

Well I asked Tarby the other day & he reckoned it's Ian Poulter!

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Golf Show at the NEC.

18 Nov 2009, 08:57

Is anyone going? And has anyone ever been just wondering what it's like?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

18 Nov 2009, 00:19

asked arnie that question at bay hill earlier in year.............

answer............ bobby jones

not sure if that helps

ian

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

17 Nov 2009, 21:28

That's why i asked Colin as Justin Rose uses them. As do a couple on the senior tour.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

17 Nov 2009, 21:27

The Fact that there are more players capable of winning and more in the field to beat, Woods is a hard act to follow. how would Hogan or Nelson get on with todays equipment likewise Woods playing with the gear they had back then ?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

17 Nov 2009, 21:21

They are different in that they manage to part many fools from their hard earned cash.

If they really made any difference the pro's would be using them don't you think?

colin

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Who would be the greatest golfer

17 Nov 2009, 21:15

If you put all the greatest golfer's ever to walk this planet and put them in a era of time,who would come out tops.People like Byron Nelson,Ben Hogan,Jack Nicklaus,Sevvy,Faldo.Norman,Woods.etc etc,,just intrested to hear people's thought's on who would be....Would Woods have been so dominant ,,,just wondering

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Brush Tees?

17 Nov 2009, 21:05

Does anyone use them if so how different are they?

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Why Florida

17 Nov 2009, 20:26

I know Im biased cuz i have a home here but in the last ten days............

I have played Legends at Clermont............... for $27
.......................   Ridgewood Lakes................... for $30
.......................   Kissimee................................... for $35
........................ Providence................................ for $30
........................ highlands Reserve.................   for $38..................   all included buggy.............all in fantastic condition as it really is start of their season................ and these prices can be applied to another ten or twenty courses at least!!

weather has been 85 to 95 degrees with no rain................. Room only on International DRive from as low as $40 per night........

grab a cheap flight and get over here you wont regret it.

Ian

www.thesocialgolfer.blogspot.com

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PWL TABLE (After 2 events)

16 Nov 2009, 10:03

Why don't you use the Game Results section and the Leaderboard section of your Group for this. Why the general forum?

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \PWL TABLE (After 2 events)

15 Nov 2009, 19:45

PRIORS WINTER LEAGUE

STANDINGS AFTER TWO EVENTS

1) Paul Carey (79 points – 2 events)

2) John Barber (71 points – 2 events)

3) Simon Battery (65 points – 2 events)

4) Russell Middleton (64 points – 2 events)

5) Richard Lane-Blackwell (63 points – 2 events)

6) John Thorpe (60 points – 2 events)

7) Paul Langford (59 points – 2 events)

8) Tony Elsdon (57 points – 2 events)

9) Karl Webber (37 points – 1 event)

10) Charlie Sturgeon (36 points – 1 event)

11) Dave Blaney (33 points – 1 event)

12) Greg Butler (29 points – 1 event)

Steve Goss (29 points – 1 event)

14) Tom Graves (28 points – 1 event)

15) Graeme McKendry (26 points – 1 event)

Stephen Willett (26 points – 1 event)

17) Brian Woods (23 points – 1 event)

18) John Moody (22 points – 1 event)

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Priors Winter League Results - Game 2

15 Nov 2009, 19:29

PRIORS WINTER LEAGUE - Game Two Results

Stapleford Abbotts GC (Priors Course)

Sunday 15^th November 2009

1)   John Barber (39 points - Won on countback)

      Paul Carey (39 points)

3)   Karl Webber (37 points)

4)   Simon Battery (34 points)

5)   Dave Blaney (33 points)

6)   Richard Lane-Blackwell (30 points)

      Paul Langford (30 points)

8)   Greg Butler (29 points)

      Steve Goss (29 points)

10) Tony Elsdon (27 points)

        Russell Middleton (27 points)

12) Graeme McKendry (26 points)

        Stephen Willett (26 points)

14) John Thorpe (25 points)

15) Brian Woods (23 points)

16) John Moody (22 points)

* Those in bold are included in the summer league

£2 Stableford Game

Overa

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Winter Tees!

15 Nov 2009, 11:42
At my club some of the tees move but on a number of holes there are actual dedicated winter tees. These tend to shorten the course but there tends to be more trouble in way.

Peter

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

15 Nov 2009, 11:38
The best piece of advice I have ever received was 'dont try to hit it too hard. Let the club do the work'
It has really helped me, granted I am quite a bit shorter than I was but at least the ball is now playable rather than in the lake, tree, ditch or wherever it went.
Thanks for that Tim

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Extra's at your golf club?

14 Nov 2009, 13:42
I always get loads of extra's at my club, normally about three shots per hole !!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia)

14 Nov 2009, 12:53
Recently my friends & I (group of 10 from various parts of the world) took our annual golfing holiday in Kota Kinabalu.
We stayed at the Sutera Harbour Resort and played 3 courses. Dalit Bay, Nexus & Sutera.
Dalit Bay was disappointing with bare minimum facilities (no caddies, food/drink koisks were closed and just about the only thing we could purchase was water.
The other 2 courses were GREAT with Sutera's Heritage being the best.
I would recommend KK to anyone interested in a super golf +++ holiday
Cheers

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Extra's at your golf club?

14 Nov 2009, 12:47
The only extra at my club would be the sauna in the gents changing room.

I've been a member for two years now and only used it once!

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Extra's at your golf club?

13 Nov 2009, 13:47
Is that the same game where for a little extra money you can even pick your own caddie?

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Priors Winter League (Game 2)

13 Nov 2009, 13:46
We have had a couple of people drop out so if you want to bring a guest along then just PM and we should be able to fit them in.

Russ

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \belvedere golf range (Basldon/Wickford)

13 Nov 2009, 10:43

Hi Dan,

Comments made, Advice given, Opinions expressed by genuine TSG Members is never spam.

Spam is when someone joins our community (generally with a free hotmail or gmail account) with the sole intention of promoting something they don't believe in just they do it because they have been paid to do it - they're probably not even golfers just sad people who spend their lives posting text on community forums (with weblinks to the site they are promoting) .

It's an industry problem, so we check several times per day and delete the Spam posts and complain to the company they are working for. If we delete them quickly enough they have wasted their time - which suits us perfectly.
-- 13/11/2009 17:45:00: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

13 Nov 2009, 02:13

two pieces of advice :

1. The last movement before you start your swing should be to move your head to the right - this promotes a better shoulder turn for us more mature golfers. Jack Nicholas & Sam Snead both used this technique in their swing routine. I have found it helps me a great deal.

2. When standing over a putt longer than 6 feet - the last think I do in my routine is to look at the cup for about 3/4 seconds, then look down at the ball and hit the putt. I am a much better putter now I do this - the brain computes the distance control, it really does work.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \belvedere golf range (Basldon/Wickford)

12 Nov 2009, 18:37

I was talking to the guy that owns it and he is really trying to improve things down there for everyone concerned.
I have been to only 7 different range's since starting ad this is far the best one i've been to some where you can't
even do a full follow up swing because of the room but down there you can get a 2 bays in there one. He also has a chip and run, a indoor putting practice area and is building a sand trap for his punters.

The guy is such a nice fella he told that previously it had a bad name and he is just trying to get up and running again.

The price of 100 balls is only £4.50, 75 = £3.50 and 50 = £2.50 which i think is really good half the tees there are power tees
and the other half are manual.

I just thought i'd share this with others.

NOTE TO MODS IF THIS IS PERSIVED AS SPAM I AM SORRY AS THIS WAS NOT MY INENTION.

C&P ON OTHER SITES TOO.

General Golf Chat / The 19th Hole \Extra's at your golf club?

12 Nov 2009, 16:40
I see a game listed on 20th Nov at the firestone club in China includes 'body massage & foot massage'. It just makes me think we don't get enough from our golf clubs! Do any UK clubs offer any of these services (purely for health reasons of course)We could use it to loosen up before & wind down after the game. Anyone fancy a trip to China?

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

12 Nov 2009, 11:47
The best advice I was given - that improved my game the most - was at a recent golf school in Las Vegas. They put me on video, and I was shocked at how vertical my swing plane was. The pro got me swinging the club much more AROUND my spine angle, instead of up/down (I had the club up way too high near my neck on the backswing).

Once I got the hang of it, not only did it improve my consistency with irons, it virtually eliminated my slice with the driver.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf clubs

11 Nov 2009, 18:22

Hi All,

The 'John Brown' account was set up this morning purporting to be a lady but with a name of John Brown! and with no Profile information and the only thing 'they' have done is post this forum thread.

As per Tiaan's assessment this is defintely SPAM and, also as per the assessment, if you are foolish enough to buy from a site like the one mentioned you will undoubtedly not have to wait long to regret your decision (especially when the club head goes further than your ball !)

Normally I would just delete such blatent rubbish but we've had a problem today with broadband access which has only just been resolved (and so I didn't see it).

However, it has raised the issue of such c**p and so beware.

We will raise a formal complaint to the major search engines about the 'black hat' tactics of the website (it's then up to them to 'discuss' their de-rating with the people they are employing to post the SPAM).

All the best,
Pete, TSG Golf Team.

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

11 Nov 2009, 16:51
A piece of advice that I was given about chipping has helped a great deal - and people I've passed it on to have also said they found it useful.
When chipping from around the green, imagine there is a low coffee table a couple of feet in front of the ball. When you play the ball, try and play it UNDER the coffee table. This ensures that you strike down and don't try to 'help' the ball up.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf clubs

11 Nov 2009, 14:17

If I offend anyone I apologise, but this post by John Brown seems very dubious.....similar to what we use to get on another site - there we called it SPAM.

On another forum post about 'best advice you were ever given' John Brown states her/his father bought the clubs and on here he/she ordered it. Best way to plug your site on the net for search engine robots to pick it up is to get you site linked to from as many reputable sites - hence why spammers tend to flood forums with nonsense posts mentioning their site address.

McAfee Security: It is a gif image so certainly not an active piece of code updating everytime it is security tested. This is a standard function when you have Verisign/Mcafee securing your site. Only way that will get updated if they changed the image.

My Opinion: Clubs probably being sent from China with no way of getting back in touch with them when your driver head comes off...talking from experience

Golf Equipment, Golf Tips, Golf Advice\Which single piece of advice most improved your game?

11 Nov 2009, 12:37
Like most of us, I slice the ball and during the summer it was getting progressively worse with each round - until it was pointed out that I was playing the ball 'in front' off my left foot. Something I knew that was a bad habit but it wasnt until it was pointed out that I realised how far I had let the ball creep forward in my stance. Once back 'inside' my front foot I saw a massive improvement - culminating in my handicap dropping from 17 to 15 (alas, now back to 16!). Still have a slice, actually more of a fade now but am hitting a lot more fairways!

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf clubs

11 Nov 2009, 11:37

Would be wary of this site, home page at top states security updated daily but appears to have not been done since 25th september.
On the "contact us" section there is only an address and e-mail addy, no phone numbers.

google search turned up quite a few similar "forum" post through out the internet, including postings on abc-of-golf.com by an "11 year old", who had only joined the site the same day as posting messages. the other search results again have all been done in the last couple of days.

maybe genuine but do some checks first, better safe then sorry.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf clubs

11 Nov 2009, 11:05
Sounds like a good deal mr spammer... :)

For everyone else... I was also recently looking for a new set of irons. The best deal I found was at American Golf in Milton Keynes offering last years Callaway X-20's fully fitted including shafts and grips for £349.00! This included 24 Callaway balls! I tried them out they have a nice feel good heel toe weight I was very tempted but in the end decided to stick to my trusty ancient Lynx Black Cats... another time!

I think I'll be back there as you can try out all the clubs and they offer a fully fitted service for free!
-- 12/11/2009 16:43:20: post edited by Richard Russell.

Golf Breaks, Golf Holidays, Golf Courses\golf clubs

11 Nov 2009, 10:20
I ordered the Callaway Lady X-22 Irons on !!!!!!!!!!!! (removed by TSG Admin), i was very suspicious about this site in the beginning,but the price is so favorable that i want to order one set to check the quality.To my surprise,the clubs are with good quality and high performance,absolutely the OEM products,the same as the ones in my local pro shop.
-- 11/11/2009 18:23:17: post edited by TheSocialGolfer.