August 2002
(First with newly appointed Secretary, Andy Farrell)
Mark Garrod
After seven years of dedicated and highly efficient service, give or take the odd tut, Mark Garrod retired as Honorary Secretary of the Association at the AGM during the Open. While his predecessors may have held office for longer, the job has continued to grow in recent years into a larger and larger commitment which Mark carried out alongside his not inconsiderable duties as PA golf correspondent.
At the AGM, Mark was presented with a Graeme Baxter print of Muirfield signed (or will be!) by Tom Watson, Nick Faldo and Ernie Els, Open champions all at the venue during Mark’s golf writing career.
Our chairman, John Hopkins, said: “It is a truism that no one is irreplaceable but no one comes closer to being irreplaceable than Mark. He took over from an outstanding secretary in Renton Laidlaw and improved the job even more. God knows how we’ll survive without him – but we will.”
Before heading off for a well deserved holiday, Mark wrote: “As you all know by now, I stepped down as Honorary Secretary at this year’s annual meeting. Seven years in the job appears nothing when you look at the list of my predecessors – Geoffrey Cousins 25 years, Ronald Heager 15 and Renton Laidlaw 17 – but I’m not sure how they did it and I just felt the time was right. In any case, Andy Farrell will look after the shop better (sic) than me.
“A presentation of a print of Muirfield was made to me at the AGM and although I said a few unprepared words at the time it would be wrong to let this opportunity pass without expressing my deep thanks to all those who chipped in with a contribution towards this delightful reminder of my stint as secretary.
“It was an honour and I here express my admiration of Renton, whose shoes were indeed hard (make that impossible) to fill and who as chairman from 1995-98 made it easier for me to find my feet, of John Hopkins, who followed Renton and has worked tirelessly on behalf of members since then, of all the committee men and women whose wise counsel I relied upon, of presidents Donald Steel and Michael McDonnell – ditto – and all the members past and present who were so kind and civil to me, even when I perhaps wasn’t kind and civil to them.
“And it would be wrong not to single out Dave Hamilton and Bob Davies, who as golf captain/dinner secretary and treasurer have played vital roles in the smooth running (most of the time!) of the Association.
“Once again, many thanks. And if anyone has seen my laptop and record books pinched from my car during the Open I can now get on with my work…”
Dave Hamilton
Also during the AGM John Hopkins presented Dave Hamilton with two train books, one by Bernard Darwin, which amazingly he did not already have among his 400-strong collection. After years of twin service, Dave retires as golf captain at the end of this season but will mastermind the Annual Dinner one more time at St George’s next year. John also arranged for a bouquet of flowers to be sent to Dave’s mother in recognition of her messaging service expertise.
John said: “Dave, and his mother, have been responsible for organising golf days for us and fielding phone calls to do with those days, as well as the dinner. It is said you never know how good someone is until they leave. I suspect that we will only appreciate Dave and his mother when they are no longer involved.”
Dave replies: “May I take this opportunity to express my thanks and surprise at the gifts I received at the AGM at Muirfield. It was totally unexpected so I suppose John Hopkins’ subterfuge along with whoever else was involved was fully rewarded.
“It came as a complete shock while the actual gifts themselves couldn’t have been more appropriate. As I mentioned at the time, railways have always been a big interest, not necessary the so-called modern variety that leaves a lot to be desired, but those of the old days.
“My library amounts to something in the region of 400 books, yet the pair I was given were not among them. I praise your selection and while I have not yet got around to reading them, I’m sure they will fill several hours of pleasure when the evenings draw in or perhaps on the next flight to a Challenge Tour destination.
“I must also say how much my mother appreciated the wonderful gift of flowers. I have not seen such a large arrangement outside of some hotel or such and we have had a house full of wonderful blooms. I’ve no doubt that she has answered the telephone to many of you over the years when she has acted as my unpaid secretary. What was even more pleasing was that the flowers arrived just days before her 90th birthday.
“I shall continue to handle our golfing affairs until the end of the year when, hopefully, I can hand over to my successor. Once again, my appreciation to the members of the Association for the books and I look forward to meeting up again in the next few weeks.”
New members
At the committee meeting during the Open, Phil Casey, Bernie McGuire, Graham Otway and David Smith were elected Full Members of the Association, as was George Peper, the editor of Golf Magazine in the States.
Phil Casey: PA Sport, The Bishop’s Manor, Howden, East Yorkshire DN14 7BL (01430 455459; fax: 0870 1240541). Home: 7 Ashfield Avenue, Morley, Leeds LS27 0QD (01132 520583; mobile: 07971 611 244; email: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Bernie McGurie: 7 Westgate North, Crail, Fife KY10 3RF (01333 451698; email: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Graham Otway: 13 Springway, Alresford, Hants SO24 19LN (01962 733689; fax: 01962 735515; mobile: 07768362615; email: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
George Peper: Golf Magazine, 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA (001 212 779 5068; fax: 001 212 779 5522). Home: 159 River Road, Grandview, New York 10960, USA (001 914 358 6543; email: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
David Smith: Evening Standard, Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5EE (020 7938 7390; fax: 020 7937 3304). Home: 60 Crabtree Way, Dunstable, Beds LU6 1UR (01582 608959; email: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Annual Dinner
There was a strong Georgia connection at this year’s dinner, as pointed out by Furman Bisher, who receives the thanks of the whole membership for his speech proposing the toast to our guests. Furman appropriately reminisced about Bobby Jones on the evening when the Great Britain and Ireland Walker Cup team received the Golf Writers’ Trophy for their victory at Sea Island, Georgia last August. While captain Peter McEvoy felt it was a job too far to receive the trophy, 20-year-old Nick Dougherty impressed everyone with his acceptance speech.
The 2001 Open champion David Duval, who graduated from Georgia Tech, and David Toms, who won the USPGA Championship at the Atlanta Athletic Club, were among the principal guests and each received a commemorative quaich to mark the occasion.
Replying to Furman on behalf of the guests Professor David Purdey kept us all enthralled with stunning oratory while the evening concluded with a performance from former Women’s Open champion Penny Grice-Whitaker, who played in the Walker Cup at Muirfield in 1984, in her new guise as a cabaret singer.
Broadcasters match
The annual match against the Broadcasters will take place at Stoke Park on Tuesday 10 September: lunch, afternoon golf, dinner. A limited number of rooms are available for that evening on a first come, first served basis. We are defending the trophy and the teams will be 12-a-side. Anyone wanting to play please contact Dave Hamilton.
DeVere Belfry
Attempts to arrange our annual visit to the DeVere Belfry for prior to the Ryder Cup have proved impossible and so has now been organised for the evening of Monday 28 October with golf the following morning. As previously partners are most welcome to join us. Please let Dave Hamilton know if you are interested.
Mike Maloney has also kindly suggested that if any members particularly want to play the Brabazon before the course closes on September 3 and get together a three or fourball they will do their best to fit them in. For this, or any interview requests with personnel at the Belfry, please contact Oona McCullough or Kate Selley at Synergy PR on 020 72221311.
Changes of Address
Gordon Richardson has moved to Les Chatres, 16310 Lezignac Durand, France. His telephone number remains the same: 0033 545 650452.
Stephanie Branston at PR company S2 can now be found at: First Floor, 42 Elcho Street, London SW11 4AU (020 7924 3424; fax: 020 7924 4530).
Junior Open
Once again part of the week for those taking part in the Junior Open was to prepare a project on a golfing subject of their choice. A panel of committee members reviewed all the projects and presented small prizes to the four best projects – all by girls – in the interview room of the Open press centre. The winners were: Naela El Attar (Egypt), Yuung Na Lee (Guam), Silvia Uribe (Colombia) and Samantha Widmer (Cayman Islands). If we do not end up writing about their golfing exploits, they might end up joining us!
Mount Wolseley
Those over in Ireland for the American Express World Championship are invited to play at Mount Wolseley Hotel, Golf and Country Club in Tullow, Co Carlow. Among interested contact Caroline Walshe on 00353 503 51674; email: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Media Masters
The second PGA of Europe/Master Hotels Media Masters golf tournament will take place at Atalaya Park Old Course on January 17-19, 2003.
Dennis Shaw of the PGA of Europe writes: “It will be slightly different this year with one practice round followed by a 36 hole Stableford in two handicap divisions 0-18, 19-36 plus ladies prize. As before flight, hotel accommodation at the Don Miguel, hire car and golf will be provided on a complimentary basis. This year wives/partners are also invited to share the double room free of charge but must find their own travel costs.
“Last year 47 media folk took part from 11 different countries. This year we are looking for a field of 100 and an enormous number of invites are being sent out around Europe and elsewhere.
“In addition this time we are planning a new venture to run in tandem, namely a three-day Starter Clinic for those journalists from golf, travel, hotel, catering media who do not play golf currently but who fancy giving it a whirl. Again, we can accommodate a large number in this category.
“Official invitations will be sent out by Master Hotels in early September stressing a maximum field of 100 for the Media Masters (on a daylight restriction). These places will be allocated in a first-come-first-served basis, closing date for entries November 1.”
Under new management
As you know this newsletter is now under new management. I would just like to say how honoured I am to join an elite, and brief, list of Honorary Secretaries, if not a little daunted. Mark Garrod will be an impossible act to follow but he has kindly offered to field my endless queries and I hope I do not force him to emigrate too soon.
Should anyone need to contact me I can be found occasionally at: 1 Pilgrims Bungalow, Mulberry Hill, Chilham, Kent CT4 8AH (tel/fax: 01227 732496; mobile 07711 702907; email email hidden; JavaScript is required).
ANDY FARRELL
September 2002
Henry Thornberry
Henry Thornberry, known as Paddy, died in New York in July, on the final day of this year’s Open Championship, at the age of 76. Paddy was a regular on the golf circuit while working for UPI in the 1960s.
He became a member of the AGW in 1962 and was later made an honorary member. Renton Laidlaw remembered Paddy as a “respected journalist who was popular with everyone he worked with”. The following is the obituary put out by the UPI:
William Henry “Paddy” Thornberry, a longtime sports editor for United Press International, died Sunday, July 21, while visiting his daughter from his native Ireland. He was 76.
Thornberry joined United Press, as it was then known, in 1947, after serving in Palestine as a British Army paratrooper. He was born January 16, 1926, and attended local schools in Dublin and later the London School of Economics.
“He had a ball with UPI,” said his daughter, Susan Maraglio, and often regaled the family with tales of office high jinks. Thornberry covered several Olympics, including Melbourne and Rome, and his daughter says she went along to some “which was wonderful.”
Maraglio said the family moved to New York in 1968, where Thornberry was assistant editor on the international desk. In 1974 he left UPI to join the New York Times News Service, where in 1984 he became executive editor. He retired in 1988 and moved back to Ireland, living with his wife, Gertrude, and a younger daughter, Carol, in Bray.
In addition to his wife and daughters, he is survived by two brothers, Paul of Wendover, England, and Kevin, of Monkstown, Ireland, a sister Anne Robinson of Bray; two grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews in Ireland, England and Singapore.
Bryan Potter
Bryan Potter, our man in the East, is recovering at home after undergoing heart surgery. Bryan was taken ill following a round of golf and admitted to the West Suffolk Hospital near his home in Bury St Edmunds.
After treatment he was transferred to the Papworth Hospital in Cambridge where he was operated on to open up an artery. His total hospitalisation lasted around 10 days but he is back home with the knowledge he should make a full recovery. He is hoping to be back on the fairways in a couple of weeks and on AGW duty and has even ordered a new set of irons. We wish him well.
Members’ book
Enclosed is the form for next year’s members’ book. Please write clearly and return by October 31.
Changes of Address
Chairman John Hopkins has moved again! He can now be found at: 12 Village Farm, Bonvilston, Vale of Glamorgan, CF5 6TY. Telephone numbers remain the same: 01446 781576; mobile: 07770 381922.
Ted Ostermann has moved to Austria: Schwarzseestr 14, A 6370 Kitzbuehel, Austria. Tel/fax: +43 5356 63941.
Robert Rodrigo (aka Bob Rodney) has moved to: 28 Hatley Drive, Burwell, Cambridgeshire CB6 0AY. Tel: 01638 741722; email: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Golf
Please see Dave Hamilton’s Golf Report for details of a busy autumn schedule and return the enclosed form to Dave. The Sir Henry Cotton Salver, which had to be cancelled earlier in the year, will now be played at the De Vere Belfry on Tuesday 29 November.
Tournament reports
These will be compiled over the next couple of months and we will be meeting with the Royal and Ancient and the European Tour over the winter so if anyone has any comments about any tournaments they have attended please let me know.
ANDY FARRELL
October 2002
Valderrama Library
The library in the Peter Dobereiner Room in the clubhouse at Valderrama has received two new donations thanks to the generosity of our members. Bob Ferrier has given a magnificent collection of around 80 books, including a complete set of Mark McCormack’s World of Professional Golf annuals, while Frank Butler has also donated half a dozen books. Many thanks to both Bob and Frank for their contributions to the library.
Golf Captain
At the committee meeting at Wentworth Bob Davies agreed to take over as Golf Captain when Dave Hamilton retires at the end of the year. Bob was also presented with a signed print of Sandy Lyle winning the Open in 1985 to mark his retirement from the Express and Star earlier this year.
Members’ book
Many thanks for the great response so far but if anyone has not yet managed to reply another form is enclosed with this mailing. The form can be faxed to me on 01227 732496 (ASAP).
Changes of Address
David Facey has moved to: The Shellard Hotel, 18-20 Dean Street, South Shore, Blackpool FY4 1AU. Tel: 01253 404718; fax: 01253 342433.
John Hopkins has a new fax number: 01446 781883.
John Huggan has a new mobile number: 07736 815051.
Following his move to Austria, Ted Ostermann’s phone numbers have changed again. Home: +43 5356 72106; fax: +43 5356 63941.
Tournament reports
These will be compiled over the next couple of months and we will be meeting with the Royal and Ancient and the European Tour over the winter so if anyone has any comments about any tournaments they have attended please let me know.
ANDY FARRELL
GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….
It’s been a busy yet frustrating autumn on the golfing front. Disappointment and anger were the feeling when the bid to revive the match with the Tour Caddies failed. I was disappointed that only seven members wished to participate and two of those later withdrew.
That suggested I should call the match off, but with the help of our President and Helen McDonnell, who is PR to the new Grove club, we gathered some non-AGW journalists to swell the numbers with the aim that, with the caddies, we might salvage the day with some friendly fourball matches.
However, the anger kicked in when at 9pm on the Friday I received a telephone call from Martin Rowley in Paris saying that his team had pulled out. That left us with the task of apologising to the Grove, who, in the absence of a clubhouse, had laid on refreshments for at least 24 people, and seeking to save Helen’s job with them.
Numerous telephone calls were made to those connected with the club, which wasn’t easy when there is no base at the moment, and to those who had made the numbers up along with those still in ‘the team’. That took considerable time but eventually it was decided to call the whole thing off. Fortunately, the owner took the decision well and even suggested we try again in the Spring.
However, the whole exercise leaves me to wonder if members are really interested in these matches against other groups. We invariably turn up one or two short – we were one light again against the Broadcasters in September – so is all worth the bother? It will be something my successor, Bob Davies, will need to consider.
Problems also beset us with the President’s Putter at West Hill, but this time it was the foul weather. Although almost all those entered turned up, but only eight brave souls chose to battle the elements and are to be congratulated for their efforts. At the end of the day, Derek Lawrenson came out on top with 32 points, a superb effort off nine handicap, one ahead of Bill Elliott, with Mark Garrod scoring 28. The President’s Putter was the only trophy Derek hadn’t managed to win so he has now achieved the Grand Slam.
Results: 32pts D Lawrenson; 31 B Elliott; 28 M Garrod; 27 M Hardy; 23 Dai Davies; 22 P Godsiff; 17 A Farrell, B Creighton.
We fared much better the following morning with the AGW Championship at Wentworth. Calm and warm conditions were reflected in the scoring with the Davieses dominating the tournament. Not that it was kept in the family as it was Patricia Davies and Bob Davies who tied with 38 points, Patricia taking the title on countback with 20 over the back nine to Bob’s 18. It is the third occasion Patricia has taken the title and her last success comes ten years ago. The words ‘wine’ and ‘age’ spring to mind. Third was Peter Higgs, who totted up 37 points.
Once again the Wentworth Club treated us royally with refreshments on the first tee and a wonderful post action lunch. Also our thanks to Cisco for supplying the prizes and other goodies.
Results: 38pts Mrs P Davies, B Davies; 37 P Higgs; 36 M Garrod; 34 B Robertson; 33 D Lawrenson, B Elliott; 32 A Tait; 31 M Aitken, P Godsiff, D Hamilton; 29 M Blair, A Farrell; 28 M McDonnell; 27 D Davies, M Hardy, T Stenson; 26 B Creighton; 22 J Chapman, N Dabell; 21 J Hopkins, J Whitbread.
Nineteen members and their wives graced our regular visit to the De Vere Belfry and, as usual, the company pushed the boat out. We were handsomely wined, dined and entertained but once again, the weather did us no favours with virtually continuous rain on the day although the course was in magnificent order just a month after the drama of the Ryder Cup. Some of us couldn’t get to grips with the superb greens but not David Birtill who won the Henry Cotton Salver with 31 points, edging out Mark Garrod on countback, with defending champion Mike Blair third on 26. David also won the Nearest the Pin prize, while Mike took the Long Drive award.
Results: 31 D Birtill, M Garrod; 26 M Blair; 25 P Higgs; 23 B Davies; 22, B Robertson; 21 A Herron; 19 D Hamilton, B Ward; 18 A Farrell; NR The Rest.
The event also marked the final leg of the De Vere Player of the Year competition with Peter Godsiff leading Mark Garrod by a point going into the day. With Peter absent in sunnier climes, Mark needed to score 33 points or more for victory but fell two short. So Peter wins the title for the second time with 104 points from three events, one ahead of Mark with Bob Davies and Derek Lawrenson joint third on 96.
Final scores: 104 P Godsiff; 103 M Garrod; 96 B Davies, D Lawrenson; 95 M Aitken; 90 B Elliott; 87 M Blair, B Robertson; 86 D Hamilton, M Hardy; 78 T Stenson, 77 M McDonnell, A Farrell; 76 B Creighton; 73 D Davies.
Dave Hamilton, Captain
December 2002
Golf Writers’ Trophy and Outstanding Services Award
Please find enclosed the voting form for the 2002 Golf Writers’ Trophy and Outstanding Services Award. The Golf Writers’ Trophy shall be awarded to the person or persons, born or resident in Europe, who in the opinion of a majority of Full and Life members has made the most outstanding contribution to golf in 2002.
The committee have drawn up a shortlist but this is for guidance only and you may vote for whomever you wish. Please list your 1-2-3 on the form and return to me by Saturday 28 December by post or fax. If you wish to fax the form, please do not do so until after December 18 (in case the machine runs out of paper). The winner will be the candidate with the highest number of first places. In the result of a tie, the higher number of second or third place votes will be decisive.
The shortlist is as follows (remember the World Cup is still to come, December 12-15):
Becky Brewerton (winner of the British Strokeplay and European Individual and earned 4 and half points in the Home Internationals)
Luke Donald (winner of the Southern Farm Bureau Classic on his rookie season in the States)
Nick Dougherty (winner of the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year award on the European Tour)
Ernie Els (Open champion and winner of Heineken Classic, Genuity Championship, Dubai Classic and World Match Play)
European Ryder Cup team, captained by Sam Torrance (beat the Americans at The Belfry)
Padraig Harrington (Winner of the Dunhill Links, second on the order of merit, member of the Ryder Cup team)
Sergio Garcia (winner of three tournaments around the world and member of Ryder Cup team)
Retief Goosen (winner of the European order of merit for the second year running)
Paula Marti (winner of the European order of merit and member of Solheim Cup team)
Colin Montgomerie (winner of four and a half points out of five at the Ryder Cup, and joint winner of the Volvo Masters)
Justin Rose (winner of four tournaments around the world, including the British Masters)
Annika Sorenstam (winner of 12 tournaments worldwide, the LPGA money list and voted European player of the year)
Sam Torrance (captain of the winning European Ryder Cup team)
The Outstanding Services Award was not presented in 2002 as the committee did not feel there were sufficient nominations. If you can think of anyone who might deserve the award, be they local, national or international figures, players or administrators, please let us know.
Tony Adamson
A reception was held at Valderrama during the Volvo Masters to mark the retirement of Tony Adamson as golf correspondent of the BBC. A case of wine (possibly white and Australian) was sent to Addo Towers in appreciation of his contribution to life on tour over the last 13 years.
Tony spent two years National Service with the Royal Irish Fusiliers and then worked for the London Brick Company. His broadcasting career took off at BBC Radio Oxford where he won a Country music DJ of the year award. He joined the Radio Sport department in London in 1977, later becoming tennis correspondent and then taking over the golf job in 1990, since when he has won three Sony radio awards.
AGW history
Michael McDonnell writes: The delightful stories about golf writing are rolling in for the book project but we could always do with more. In the hope of jogging a few memories about scoops, best stories or simply memorable encounters we intend to reproduce a few extracts each month.
In 1960, Allan Herron, then a young golf writer on the Glasgow Evening Citizen, was ordered by his editor to get an exclusive interview with Arnold Palmer, at that time the most famous gofer in the world, as he attempted to add the Open at St Andrews to the US Masters and US Open he had won that year.
Here is part of his account: I thought climbing the Eiger in trainers might just have been an easier proposition. I saw Palmer hole out at the end of his practice round and with pencil and notebook stopped him in his tracks and asked him if I could have five minutes of his time. Then I waited and he replied:” OK I’m staying over there are Rusacks. Give me a few minutes to clean up and I’ll meet you in the bar downstairs”. Trying to sound casual, I asked if I could get him, anything and he said “Yeah , a beer would be fine” Ten minutes later I am sitting alone with Arnie Palmer sipping a beer. Some twenty five minutes later I have my exclusive interview. I’ve been a fan ever since.
# # # #
Then there is this from John Ballantine who worked extensively in the United States during the 1960s: The AGW badge was an invaluable entrée into the highest reaches of American golf. I used my badge to engineer a one-to-one interview with Bobby Jones while staying with friends in Atlanta. He was suffering badly from the condition which eventually shortened his life. But upon telephoning his office where he still turned up regularly each day, I was told he would see me the next day although his secretary asked me to ring in advance to make sure he felt well enough.
I was ushered into his private office to find Mr Jones seated in an invalid chair behind a huge desk. He made it plain I could ask any questions I wanted so I went at it hard and strong. He said:” My notion was to hit the centre of every fairway and the middle of every green and let the putts take care of themselves.” Coffee was brought into his office, his cups having specially-constructed handles. As I saw his cruelly twisted hands clutching the cup I could not help reflecting poignantly that these were the very fingers that had achieved the Grand Slam.
# # # #
From the minutes from the 1969 AGW annual meeting: The report of the sub-committee on the future of the Charles Brett Trophy competition (P. Ryde, M. Wilson and R. Heager) was circulated—three blank sheets of paper!
Pick Your Pro
Congratulations to John Huggan for winning the Pick Your Pro competition for the second year running. In a game of pure chance it is a remarkable achievement. The prize for winning three times in a row will be to organise the competition for the following year. John sealed his victory with a week to spare, just ahead of Mark Lichtenhein, Martin Dempster and Dave Hamilton. The final table is enclosed.
And finally
May I wish all our members and their families a very Happy Christmas!
ANDY FARRELL
GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….
It was nice to end my time as Captain on a winning note and in glorious sunshine when we retained the Chesterfield Trophy with a 4-1 victory over the Golf Foundation. We couldn’t have asked for a better day weather-wise, come as it did between heavy bouts of rain, the Chelmsford course was in superb condition and we were well looked after.
It was also appropriate to take the match back to Chelmsford for the first time since 1998 as the Essex club holds a lot of happy memories for many of us after Michael Williams established it as our ‘home’ venue. I am also delighted to say that Judy Williams was able to join us for lunch just days after a brief hospital stay and she thoroughly enjoyed meeting up with many old friends.
The only down side was the usual one of not being able to field a complete AGW team despite 11 members originally indicating they wished to play. Fortunately, I was able to call on two retired sports journalists in David Richman and David Berresford to make up the numbers, the latter being a member of Chelmsford.
We were somewhat disappointed that the Foundation weren’t able to call up some of their more distinguished performers such as Sir Michael Bonallack, Bernard Gallacher and Freddie Lindgren, otherwise the scoreline might have been a little different. Nevertheless, it was a thoroughly enjoyable day with the pairings of Michael McDonnell and David Richman and Mark Garrod and John Fenton completing magnificent 5 and 4 victories.
Results: Bill Robertson & Bob Rodney lost to Mike Round & S Driver 3 and 2; Michael McDonnell & David Richman beat Ian Peacock & John Uzielli 5 and 4; Dave Hamilton and David Berresford bt Alan Bough & Finley Picken 2 holes; Mark Garrod & John Fenton bt Hugh Wickham & Carol McDonald 5 and 4; Andy Farrell & Peter Higgs bt S Armstrong & T Apicella 2 and 1.
So, that’s the end of my eight-year reign. There have been a lot of memorable moments, some thrilling and some not so thrilling golf, while we have been blessed by being welcomed to many wonderful courses. We are indeed privileged to be in this position and we should always remember that. Long may it continue and I wish Bob Davies every success as your new captain. Please give him every support in whatever he does.
Finally, may I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and successful 2003, especially on the fairways and greens.
Dave Hamilton, Ex-Captain
February 2003
Renton Laidlaw
Congratulations to our past chairman and former longtime secretary Renton Laidlaw, who has been named as recipient of the 2002 PGA Lifetime Achievement Award in Journalism. Renton is the 14th individual to be selected by the PGA of America for the award but the first European recipient. The presentation will be made during the Golf Writers Association of America awards dinner in Augusta during the Masters.
“The PGA of America is proud to present this award to Renton Laidlaw whose professional career best exemplifies the global reach of golf,” said PGA of America president M.G. Orender. “Few journalists today can match Renton’s lifetime travels in golf. Beyond his love for people, Renton communicates his sincere passion for the game through an entertaining and insightful delivery.”
Renton has been covering golf since he joined the Edinburgh Evening News as a junior reporter in 1957. After working in both newspapers and television, he became golf correspondent of the London Evening Standard from 1973 to ’98, and of the BBC from 1975 to ’90. Since 1995 Renton has been the “voice of the European Tour” in the States as a commentator for the Golf Channel.
“I’m overwhelmed by this honour,” he said. “When I look at the impressive list of previous winners it makes me both proud and humble. I never believed that I could ever be considered for such a prestigious award, far less chosen to receive it.
“I’ve had an amazing life travelling the world doing something I enjoy. I’ve been very lucky. Golf is a great sport to be involved with. I have been in the right place at the right time and when the Golf Channel came along, I was fortunate enough to be selected by them to front the European golf each week. I just try to be myself and say what I think.”
Renton, who also editors the Golfer’s Handbook, added: “I think that everyone in Europe has benefited from the tremendous working relationship between the golf writers and the various ruling bodies over the past 25 years. Because of the close cooperation, the working conditions for journalists covering golf are superb and that helps us all cover the game to the very best of our ability.”
The PGA Lifetime Achievement Award in Journalism honours members of the media for their steadfast promotion of golf. Past award winners include: Dick Taylor, Herbert Warren Wind, Jim Murray, Frank Chirkinian, Bob Green, Dan Jenkins, Furman Bisher, Jack Whitaker, Dave Anderson, Ken Venturi, Jim McKay, Kaye Kessler and Nick Seitz. The award selection committee includes representatives from the PGA of America, the PGA Tour, the USGA, the LPGA, and the European Tour.
European Ryder Cup team win Golf Writers’ Trophy
Europe’s Ryder Cup team were the overwhelming winners of the Golf Writers’ Trophy for 2002 after collecting more than 50 per cent of the vote.
For the second year in succession Sweden’s Annika Sorenstam finished runner-up, with Open champion Ernie Els in third place. Padraig Harrington, Justin Rose, Colin Montgomerie and Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance also featured in the poll.
It is the fourth time the European Ryder Cup team has won the award, having previously done so in 1985, ’87 and ’95. Torrance was a playing member of the team on each of those occasions. “It is incredible, really,” Torrance said. “To captain a winning Ryder Cup team is something you can only dream about but it became reality at The Belfry.
“I am very honoured for the team,” Torrance added. “They are the ones who deserve it. It was a wonderful performance from our team. We were the underdogs but we completely outplayed them. I was never surprised by anything our players did. I was full of expectations for every single member of the team. Some of them lived up to those expectations and the others exceeded them.
“I know what the Ryder Cup can do to the players. It can bring out things that they don’t even know they have inside them. Look at Phillip Price beating Phil Mickelson. It was an astonishing performance. Phil Mickelson would have prepared for that match as well as he would have prepared for any round of golf but the boy took him apart. It was wonderful.
“It was a very special week, from the moment we arrived on the previous Sunday to the moment we left the following Monday. But I never let myself think we might have the privilege of winning until Paul Azinger was in the bunker at the 18th. When he holed the shot I swiftly had to forget about it but we didn’t have to wait too long after that.”
Torrance was also delighted how the whole week unfolded. “Curtis Strange (the US captain) and I set out to get the Ryder Cup back to where it belongs – right at the top of the game. Everything went so smoothly all week. The spectators were magnificent and so were all the players. The biggest winners were golf and the Ryder Cup.”
Christmas hampers
Once again the hampers we sent out in time for Christmas seem to have been particularly well received. “What a lovely Christmas present,” wrote Lindy Johnson. “Please would you thank the AGW for me, it is so exciting to receive and a wonderful hamper to have – layer upon layer of goodies – such a generous gift and a lovely gesture. It is so nice to be remembered each year and starts my Christmas off with a smile, it certainly cheers up what can be a very grey month!”
Jack Robertson said: “Mary and I would like to thank the AGW members for their generosity yet again in sending us a splendid Christmas box. We have thoroughly enjoyed the contents. Our best wishes for 2003 go to all association members.”
“It is a sheer delight to receive it every year and so nice to be remembered especially when you get into your nineties,” wrote John and Isobel Baker.
There were also messages of appreciation from Anne Stobbs, Gaye Heager, John and Peggy Reece, Stan and Floss Lincoln and Jane Morgan. “Would you please convey to the golf writers my sincere appreciation of their generous gift which the whole family consumed over the holiday,” wrote Betty Dobereiner. “It is now nearly six, no, seven years since Peter died and they have continuously remembered. News of the writers’ activities reaches me through the grapevine and I wish them all well.” Pat Oakley said that she was having a party with the grandchildren on New Year’s Eve, “when all the good cheer in the hamper will be really useful and we will be drinking a toast to John and friends for 2003.”
“I am writing to thank you for the wonderful Christmas box you sent,” said Liz Nicol. “It was a very kind thought and much appreciated. The contents were put to good use and the basket they came in is now being used as a magazine rack by Gary.”
Dorothy Clough wrote: “Thank you once again for the Christmas basket of goodies. It cheered me up as on that particular day I was a bit down. Bethany and Jonathan thought it was a lovely gesture and join me in my thanks.”
“Once again I am a delighted recipient,” said Judy Williams. “It is such a pleasure to unpack all the lovely goodies and to be remembered at Christmas by the AGW is so much appreciated. I have enjoyed meeting up with members at Wentworth, Chelmsford and West Runton and look forward to attending events in 2003. I might even make it to the Open.”
Margaret Dodd said: “I very much appreciate the continued friendship of members and enjoy meeting up whenever possible and having news of you all.”
Finally, I quote from Joan Moody’s letter in its entirety: “I braved the east wind on Tuesday and was not in a good mood at all…and then I arrived home to find your lovely hamper. Thank you very much indeed. My mood changed. It’s such a thoughtful gesture. I felt very humble.
“My niece has warned me not to open it until she comes on Christmas Day. And again, in the language of heaven: ‘Diolch Yn Fawr Iawn’.”
Tony Adamson
Following his retirement from the BBC, which we marked at the Volvo Masters last November, Tony writes: “Thank you very much indeed for the wonderful gift of my favourite wine. With every sip I shall remember you all.
“As a small but beautifully marked member of the tiny but no less colourful battery-operated brigade – an AGW branch easily roused by stumpy little bastards and accusations of stealing Brian Creighton’s best questions like ‘Which arm did it sting you, Mark?’ – I feel a tinge of regret that I shall not be sharing as frequently in the merry banter between Lewine and Mark G, the cheery company of DD and his claret, and the occasional downright ugly confrontations between late-for-flight reporters demanding last minute order of merit standings and frightened, incompetent personnel who don’t know what the hell they’re talking about.
“That I have consumed my last green-paper sandwich at Augusta, completed my final 40 second missive from the English Open and contemplate never again having to ask Tony Greer a question about the rankings, is disappointing but I look forward to adding to my trophy cabinet (I’m a former Ron Moseley champion lest you forget), doubling my efforts to make a success of Pick Your Pro…and, of course, staying in touch with the AGW with whom I have enjoyed working and socialising. It’s been wonderful and thank you all.”
Artists for Zimbabwe
Lauren St John is organising an art exhibition in London in March to raise money for five charities in Zimbabwe. Lauren writes: “Throughout the first half of last year, I became more and more distressed about the plight of people and wildlife in Zimbabwe, particularly as stories started to reach me of farm workers I had known since I was a child left destitute and starving after violent attacks by government militia and war veterans, a horrific rise in the poaching and gratuitous abuse and slaughter of pets and wildlife, and all manner of horrors ranging from a huge rise in child abuse to the eviction of farmers.
“In July, I decided that I had to do something to help and Artists for Zimbabwe is the result. With the benefit of hindsight, I might not have taken it on had I known the work that was involved but I am absolutely convinced that it is worth it. The exhibition is to be held during the week 3-8 March at a small but prestigious gallery called Gallery 27 on Cork St, London, behind the Royal Academy of Arts. It will feature seven outstanding Zimbabwean artists, sculptors and photographers and raise money for five charities.
“I spent nearly six months researching which charities to support because many charities are either outlawed or not able to function under the repressive regime in Zimbabwe, where petrol and other shortages have brought many things to a standstill. However, the charities I have chosen are doing incredible work. They are: The Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force, a dedicated anti-poaching unit, The Farm Community Trust, which supports and feeds destitute farm workers, The Harare Shelter for Destitutes, which takes in orphan children and provides them with food, shelter and an education, The Girl Child Network Trust, which provides a safe house, counselling and a future for girls suffering sexual abuse, and Life Explosion, a Christian organisation which helps children with HIV and AIDS.
“As I’m sure you will appreciate, it costs a fair amount of money to put on an art exhibition which is going achieve the aim of not only raising money for the five charities involved, but also to bring attention to the situation facing the people and wildlife of Zimbabwe. I’m fortunate to be able to say that The Sunday Times have lent their support to the exhibition and are providing some assistance, but much more money is still needed. The exact amount required is £3,500, all of it needed by February 28 at the latest. I would be incredibly grateful to anyone who might consider making a small donation. Even £5 would help enormously. Please make cheques payable to: Artists for Zimbabwe and send them to me at: 22 Vista Apartments, Woodlands Crescent, Greenwich, London SE10 9UH.
“Regardless of whether people feel able to contribute, I would love to see any and all of the golf writers at the exhibition during the week. The opening hours are 10-6 and the nearest underground stations are Green Park and Piccadilly. There will also be two special events during the week, where there will be wine flowing and auctions with wonderful prizes so please e-mail me if you want to attend (email hidden; JavaScript is required; mobile: 07779 013981). Thanks for taking the time to read and consider this.”
Golf dates
The traditional Open Championship gathering will take place at Sandwich on Monday 28 April and Tuesday 29 April. The format will be as in recent years. Meet at Royal St George’s for a snack lunch at 12pm on the Monday, with golf from 1pm. There will be a drinks reception in the clubhouse at 7.30pm followed by dinner. The press conference will be at 9am in the clubhouse on the Tuesday.
Stewart McDougall has booked some rooms in Deal for the Monday night and is proposing to lay on transport to and from the course for the dinner. There are 15 rooms at Dunkerleys Hotel and five at the Royal Hotel, both at £55 B&B (reduced from the usual rate of £65). These rooms must be reserved directly with Stewart on a first come, first served basis. There is plenty of B&B accommodation adjacent to the hotels if you want to take advantage of the transportation.
Stewart has also managed to arrange a press day at Ganton, host of the Walker Cup, for Tuesday 6 May. The format will be lunch from 12pm and golf from 1pm, with a meal afterwards around 5.30pm.
Weetabix are also keen to repeat their press day for the Women’s British Open, which this year takes place at Royal Lytham. The proposed date is Monday 23 June with a format similar to that of the Ganton day. Both the Ganton and Lytham dates are dependent on there being enough interest to make the days worthwhile so please let myself or new golf captain Bob Davies know if you are available.
Fiona Foster from Karen Earl has been in touch to say that the Ron Moseley Trophy will take place on Monday 12 May on the Brabazon course at the DeVere Belfry. This is the day after the Benson and Hedges International and as this is the last one, it will be a farewell to the tournament. Golf probably from 9.30am, more details nearer the time.
Changes of address & Members’ handbooks
The handbooks should be enclosed with this mailing. The odd correct entry may have slipped in between the deliberate mistakes but please let me know of the necessary corrections. The following changes of address are in the new book but for your information:
Bob Ferrier has moved to 13 Tower Place, 6 East Clyde Street, Helensburgh G84 7PA (01436 678840).
John Huggan has moved to 29 Bruntsfield Crescent, Dunbar, East Lothian EH42 1QZ (01368 860673).
Mark Garrod has a new office fax number at PA Sport: 0870 1240809.
Graham Otway has moved to 8 Falcon Court, Alton, Hants GU34 2LP (01420 89392).
Mark Fleming has moved to 62 Braemar Avenue, London SW19 8AZ (020 8947 3240).
Martin Park, communications manager at the Ladies European Tour, can now be contacted at the Tytherington office and his e-mail address has changed to email hidden; JavaScript is required.
golf-online.biz
Lynda Regan has written from golf-online to offer members of the Association an extra 5 per cent discount on golfing equipment from the site. To see what is on offer visit www.golf-online.biz. To receive the discount, you need to enter the promotional code SOC03 at the point of checkout and the discount will be automatically calculated. Orders must be received by March 31.
Pick your pro
This year’s entry form is attached. Please read the rules carefully. Entries will be accepted at any time, except for events that have already started. The first tournament is the Accenture World Matchplay, which starts on Wednesday 26 February, so ACT NOW. Good luck!
ANDY FARRELL
March 2003
Sandwich trip and Walton Heath
As reported last month the traditional Open Championship gathering will take place at Royal St George’s on Monday 28 April and Tuesday 29 April. Stewart McDougall is sending out invitations and also has some rooms booked at Dunkerleys Hotel and the Royal Hotel, both at £55 B&B, in Deal. He is also organising transport to the dinner on Monday night.
Following the press conference on the Tuesday morning we have been invited to play at Prince’s just next door. Then on Wednesday 30 April we have been invited to field a team of 12 against Walton Heath, who are celebrating their centenary this year. More details on both days to follow but if you would like to play please inform myself or Golf Captain Bob Davies.
Ganton and Lytham
Stewart McDougall will be sending out invitations to both the Walker Cup press day and the Weetabix Women’s British Open day. The following have indicated they wish to attend. Ganton: D Birtill, M Blair, C Callander, J Carter, P Casey, B Davies, D Davies, A Farrell, M Garrod, D Hamilton, A Hedley, J MacVicar, B McGuire. Lytham: D Birtill, J Carter, J Chapman, B Davies, D Davies, J MacVicar, M Vousden. If anyone else wishes to play on either of these days, please get in touch.
Golf dates
Monday 28 April Royal St George’s – Open press day
Tuesday 29 April Prince’s
Wednesday 30 April Walton Heath – AGW v club
Tuesday 6 May Ganton – Walker Cup press day
Monday 12 May DeVere Belfry – Ron Moseley Trophy
Wednesday 21 May Wentworth East – Michael Williams Hogget (Spring medal)
Monday 23 June Royal Lytham – Weetabix press day
Wednesday 15 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
Handicaps
The past and present Golf Captains have consulted and informed me of the following handicaps for the 2003 season. These are for AGW competitions only; on all other occasions you should use your club handicap. If your club handicap changes or you are not listed below, please contact Bob Davies.
T Adamson 26, M Aitken 15, D Birtill 17, M Blair 16, M Britten 13, C Callander 10, M Campbell 7, J Carter 15, J Chapman 18, P Corrigan 26, B Creighton 26, N Dabell 24, B Davies 17, D Davies 22, P Davies 14, J Drake 10, B Elliott 19, D Facey 19, A Farrell 18, J Fenton 26, A Fraser 18, M Garrod 11, T Glover 25, P Godsiff 16, D Hamilton 13, C Harding 7, M Hardy 15, A Hedley 8, A Herron 11, P Higgs 21, J Hopkins 18, J Huggan 1, D Lawrenson 9, J MacVicar 11, L Mair 18, P Masters 8, M McDonnell 18, J Mossop 27, J Pinner 21, M Platts 12, B Potter 12, W Robertson 8, B Rodney 19, L Rubenstein 8, G Simpson 15, A Spink 26, T Stenson 26, A Tait 12, M Vousden 14, B Ward 13, J Whitbread 28, M Wilson 18, G Zachrisson 9.
US Open
We are currently discussing the arrangements for the media at the US Open with Craig Smith of the USGA. The official hotel is going to be in downtown Chicago and it is proposed that we take the train to the course, a journey of 45-50 minutes. The same bus journey at rush hour would take two hours, apparently. There is an eight-minute walk from the hotel to the station, but at the other end the media centre is right outside the station. The frequency of the train service varies but in the evening after the rush hour they are now proposing a bus service as well. Those hoping to find a hotel nearer the venue are advised that they also will need to arrive by train but this is among the things we are trying to clarify with Craig.
Open accommodation
I have heard of a few houses which can be rented privately during the Open Championship. One has one double and three singles, another has one double and two singles. Both of these are in Walmer, next door to Deal, close to all amenities and handy for getting to Sandwich. There is also a small cottage in Preston, a village near Wingham six miles from Sandwich, with pub and post office/store shop. Would suit couple but another bedroom can be made up. All prices by negotiation. If anyone is interested in any of these please contact me as soon as possible.
Walker Cup accommodation
The R and A have reserved rooms for the media attending the Walker Cup at The Bell, Market Place, Driffield, East Yorkshire. Driffield is 15 miles south of Ganton. There are standard rooms at £111 per night B&B and superior rooms at £121 per night B&B. The cost is per room, not per person. There are 6 standard doubles, 1 standard king, 2 standard twins, 7 superior doubles, 3 superior kings. If you want to book a room, please contact Stewart McDougall.
Changes of address
Paul Trow has left Hayters and is now managing director of UK Media Sport at 146-148 Clerkenwell Road, London EC1R 5DG (020 7713 0666; mobile: 07973 862747; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Following the closure of Golf Journal Brett Avery has left the USGA. His contact details are now: 40 Colonial Road, Morristown, NJ 07960-3744 (001 973 898 1480; mobile: 001 201 213 9460; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Martin Park, communications manager of the Ladies European Tour, has a new mobile number: 07971 986855.
Photographer Phil Inglis has moved house, though his phone numbers remain the same: 2 Church St, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 0BY (01249 712102; fax: 01249 712885; mobile: 07836 753393).
Majors Yearbook update
Alun Evans is offering fully updated versions of his Golf Majors – Records and Yearbook, which is not being published this year. A CD-ROM version will cost £7.50 ($12 or 12euro), while a hard copy in an A4 binder (with free CD version) is £15 ($24 or 24euro). Alun can be contacted on 01908 320562, fax: 01908 317700, e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Tournament finishing times
European Tour Productions have informed me of the following Sunday finishing times (subject to alteration). All times are local. Portuguese Open 1700; Spanish Open 1730; Italian Open 1700; B&H International 1630; Deutsche Bank Open 1700; Volvo PGA 1800; Wales Open 1700; British Masters 1730; Diageo Championship 1700; French Open 1700; European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1645; Irish Open TBC; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Nordic Open 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; Lancome Trophy 1730; German Masters 1700; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship 1800; Dutch Open 1700; World Match Play 1700; Madrid Open 1700; Volvo Masters 1800.
Pick your pro
This year’s competition is already underway but still in its early stages so it is not too late to enter. An entry form is enclosed.
ANDY FARRELL
April 2003
Jeff Kelly
Jeff Kelly, who was a member of the Association since 1994, has died following a brave and dignified battle with cancer. He was 58 and is survived by his wife, Anita, and son, Christopher, to whom we have sent condolences. The funeral took place on Friday 16 May and Mike Britten attended on our behalf and provided a wreath.
Jeff had lived in Spain for 35 years and, as publisher of Andalucia Golf, became a friend to all golf writers who attended events in the area, not least at Valderrama. Just before his death, a letter arrived reporting his latest project, a 24-hour golf marathon being undertaken by former European Tour player David Steele, who will attempt to play over 700 holes on June 4-5 at La Dama de Noche. All the proceeds from the marathon and an Am-Am tournament at Mijas with 500 participants will go to the Spanish Cancer Research Institutes. We shall be making a donation to the fund but if there is anyone who wishes to find out more about the events, offer sponsorship or make a donation please e-mail email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Eamonn Power, who worked with Jeff on Andalucia Golf, wrote this tribute for europeantour.com:
“Very few, if any, knew more about golf on the Costa del Sol than Jeff Kelly. Very few, if any, worked harder in promoting the area and his work, or maybe it was a labour of love, had Jeff travelling to all corners of the globe in his unceasing efforts to make golfers more aware of the coast and its golfing attractions. His forte, on a local level, was in keeping pressure on the golf course directors to ensure that when visitors arrived they found golf courses in apple pie order. All this Jeff managed to achieve whilst remaining on good terms with people he occasionally found it necessary to criticise, sometimes, in quite harsh terms.
“Only a top class product was good enough for Jeff and evidence of this could readily be found just by turning the pages of his beloved magazine, Andalucia Golf. From very humble beginnings, Jeff’s drive and energy fashioned a magazine which has become a very respected publication in a world where golf magazines are “two a penny”. Not only was Jeff a member of the prestigious Association of Golf Writers, he was also a top class photographer with an eye for the unusual and, over the years, readers of Andalucia Golf were treated to a succession of quite brilliant photographs from all continents. I knew Jeff for a number of years before I started writing for him and, as we travelled together covering golf events around the globe, I found his enthusiasm contagious and our friendship blossomed.
“There is a saying “birds of a feather flock together” and this was certainly true about Jeff and me. Both of us needed coffee in the mornings before we could utter a civil word and many a breakfast table was shared in a deafening silence until copious cups of caffeine had been downed. Both of us delighted in an argument while both of us sought the holy grail of perfection. Naturally the latter was not an achievable aim but Jeff spent many hours honing his work (and, indeed, mine) until it met with his approval. A word here, a comma there, all made a difference to this wordsmith who never failed to be excited when seeing the finished product in print. His greatest success, however, was the announcement that the Ryder Cup would be played at Valderrama in 1997. Jeff’s input to this was immense and he never, for a moment, doubted that the bid, spearheaded by Jaime Ortiz Patiño, would be the winner. Ryder Cup history was indeed made when Valderrama became the first home venue outside the UK to host this prestigious event and Jeff played no small part in that history making.
“A short couple of years ago I received a phone call from Jeff asking me to meet him and was greeted with the news that he had been diagnosed with cancer. “I won’t lie down and let this bastard take over my life,” was his response and how true that turned out to be. The travelling continued, the search for perfection continued and, above all, the enthusiasm continued. Indeed just 48 hours before he died Jeff was talking about arranging a party to be held at his home when he got out of the hospital. It was not to be, for in those few hours the strength drained from his body and his life ebbed away. Jeff Kelly had died in only his 59th year. Farewell Jeff, golf events will not be the same without your presence. I shall miss your criticism, I shall miss the arguments and, most of all, I shall miss your friendship. My heart goes out to Jeff’s wife, Anita, and his son, Christopher, whose loss will be infinitely greater than mine. Indeed it is fair to say that everybody involved in golf in Andalucia has suffered a tragic loss in Jeff’s passing.”
Annual Dinner
The application form for the Association’s annual dinner at Royal St George’s on Tuesday 15 July is enclosed. Please note the closing date for applications of Tuesday 1 July – AFTER THIS NOTING CAN BE GUARANTEED. Places are likely to be tight once again so please act as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
As usual for there will be a number of official guests to whom we will be sending invitations. There are also a number of people, including players, we would like to encourage members to bring as guests, and if you are in a position to help you will be add to add to the standard limit of two guests. Please check with dinner secretary Dave Hamilton (01621 817170) for a list of names.
Despite a slight rise in the cost of dinner we have decided to keep the ticket price of £45 unchanged. However, the biggest cost to Association is the extensive guest list so if you are able to bring any additional guests it would be much appreciated.
Subscriptions
Sadly, the committee feels it is necessary to remind anyone who has not paid their subscription within the first three months of the year that they are ineligible for our golf competitions or to apply for tickets for the Annual Dinner as, technically, their membership has lapsed.
Val and David Birtill
Congratulations to Val and David Birtill, who have got married. David sent this e-mail on Easter Monday: “I made an honest woman out of Val yesterday. We had lived together for 19 years and decided it was about time we legalised our relationship although we suspect most AGW members were probably unaware that we were living over the brush as they say up North.
“The three kids (Claire and Matthew from my first marriage and Richard’s from Val’s) were the only witnesses and we broke the news at a family party last night which was called to celebrate Val’s 60th birthday. You can imagine the reaction from the 30 guests!”
The Grove
Press previews of the new Kyle Phillips course and country estate called The Grove (located five minutes off the M25 at junction 20) started on May 1 so contact Helen McDonnell to arrange dates and times to suit you on 01245 256802. The official opening will be on September 16 and invitations will be circulated in early July.
De Vere Carden Park
The annual De Vere trip will not be at The Belfry this year but at Carden Park, near Chester, which Mark Garrod reports is a very fine hotel indeed. The hotel is hosting the PGA Seniors Championship on the first weekend in August so the suggested schedule is to meet on Sunday 3 August for the final day, have dinner that night and stay over, with golf the following morning and departure after lunch. As usual wives and partners are most welcome to attend. As last year at The Belfry, we will be playing for the Sir Henry Cotton Salver. Please contact Bob Davies (01743 872655 or email hidden; JavaScript is required) or myself (01227 732496 or email hidden; JavaScript is required) if you would like to attend, specifying if you require a single or double room.
US Open
As reported in the last newsletter the media hotel for the US Open (accreditation forms have now been sent out) is situated in downtown Chicago and will require a train journey of 45-50 minutes to get to Olympia Fields. Following our discussions with Craig Smith of the USGA, and those of the GWAA, it has emerged that an additional bus service will operate in the evenings, while lockers will be available in the press centre which will help to cut down on lugging stuff around. In future the USGA are considering reserving only a limited number of hotel rooms but providing on-site parking rather than a transportation system.
Art for Zimbabwe
Lauren St John writes: “Last December, I approached Michael McDonnell somewhat tentatively to ask whether he thought it would be appropriate to ask AGW members whether they’d consider supporting my fund-raising art exhibition for five Zimbabwean charities. I had expectations when I did so. I know full well that many of the golf writers are already actively involved in supporting other organizations that might be closer to their hearts, and it seemed a lot to ask for people to support or donate to my exhibition and my cause just because they were something I believed in.
“However, the response from AGW members was overwhelming. I have been more touched than I can say by the extraordinary kindnesses shown by the golf writers, many of whom have gone out of their way to help. I’d particularly like to thank Michael McDonnell, Liz Kahn, Robert Green, Brian Creighton, Tony Adamson, Peter Higgs, Peter Corrigan, Andrew Farrell, Mark Garrod and Dai and Patricia Davies whose support meant more than I can possibly say.
“As I write this, more than $7m Zimbabwe dollars are on their way to the children, farm workers and wildlife of Zimbabwe thanks largely to the support of the AGW, Robert Green and Golf International, and the Nick Price Group. Among the charities that will benefit are the Girl Child Network Trust, the Harare Shelter for Destitutes and the Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force, each of whom have received a donation of £1,000. Every penny is appreciated and every penny will go to make a difference in Zimbabwe.” Lauren has passed on thank you letters from the charities involved and I can email these to anyone who is interested to read them.
Changes of address
Martin Dempster has left the Edinburgh Evening News to take over as editor of Bunkered and Scottish Club Golfer. His new work contact details are: Pro-Sports Promotions Ltd, Unit 12B, Anniesland Village, Netherton Road, Glasgow G13 1AS (0141 950 2216; fax: 0141 954 8963;
e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Derek Lawrenson’s e-mail address is now email hidden; JavaScript is required.
John Barton is now working for Golf Digest in London. His contacts details are: 43 Woodlands Park Road, London SE10 9XE (020 8265 1311; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Iain Carter, the new BBC golf correspondent, can be contacted at: 13 Kings Drive, Surbitton, Surrey KTS 8NG (020 8390 1853; mobile: 07740 818323; work: 020 8624 9200; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Aer Lingus
If you are looking to book travel through the Aer Lingus Travel Department you can contact Jessie, Sylvia, Ingrid, Joe or Chris on 00351 818 365533 or at email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Tournament finishing times
European Tour Productions have informed me of the following Sunday finishing times (subject to alteration). All times are local. Volvo PGA 1815; Wales Open 1700; British Masters 1730; Diageo Championship 1700; French Open 1700; European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1645; Irish Open TBC; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Nordic Open 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; Lancome Trophy 1730; German Masters 1700; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship 1800; Dutch Open 1700; World Match Play 1700; Madrid Open 1700; Volvo Masters 1800.
ANDY FARRELL
GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….
It was the end of an era but nevertheless an enjoyable occasion when we played for the Ron Moseley Trophy as the curtain came down on the Benson and Hedges International Tournament. After 33 years, B&H have had to pull out because of the government’s nonsensical ban on tobacco company sponsorship of sporting events yet there was still plenty to smile about as members tackled the Brabazon course at The Belfry but, by and large, were all brought to their knees by the monster tamed just a few hours earlier by Paul Casey.
Just how tough it was, with the rough inches deep and the pins in the same precarious positions as they had been for the final day of the B&H, was gleaned from the fact that the winner – secretary Andy Farrell – took the title with just 29 points. It was, however, a creditable performance and Andy’s handicap was duly reduced by two strokes to 16.
Bill Elliott, still recovering from knee surgery, was runner up on 28 points, with Mike Blair third on the back nine, Mark Garrod fourth with 27 and his PA colleague Phil Casey fifth with 26. Other scores were: 25 points: Colm Smith; 24 Colin Harding, Bob Davies, Graham Otway; 23 Brian Creighton, Derek Lawrenson; 21 Brian Potter; 20 Tony Adamson, Dai Davies; 19 Norman Dabell; 17 David Hamilton; 15 John Fenton; 14 David Birtill.
Royal St George’s put up stiff resistance when the R&A kindly invited us to play the course, an experience which left us hoping for similar conditions when the club hosts the Open Championship in July. However, Mark Garrod might well have felt like submitting his entry for the Open when he made light of the wind and rain to drop just one shot in the opening eight holes, over which he amassed 20 points.
It didn’t last, though, but Mark still compiled a very acceptable 31 points to finish runner up to our photographer friend, Dave Cannon. It was nice to see Patricia Davies winning the ladies prize with 28 points.
The following day several members took up the kind invitation of Prince’s Golf Club next door to sample their course and although we did not play a competition, the gesture was very much appreciated by everyone.
Then it was on to Walton Health for my first stint as captain of an AGW team. The club is 100 years old this year and they were obviously not in the mood to have their Centenary celebrations marred by losing a match! Fielding a particularly strong team, which included the likes of former Amateur champion Michael Lunt, the club romped to a 5-1 victory, as our only winners were Mark Garrod and Colin Callander.
Despite the disappointment of defeat, I can now fully understand the frustrations of my predecessor, David Hamilton. Not only did we have great difficulty in raising a team in the first place, last minute withdrawals forced us to make up the numbers by inviting two non-members to play.
Hopefully, in future, when people commit themselves to representing the Association they will fulfil their obligations unless forced to pull out through a dire emergency as it would have been embarrassing for us to have turned up at Walton Heath short of players.
Ganton Golf Club, where the Walker Cup is to be played in September, in conjunction with the R&A, also kindly invited us for a sneak preview of the course and staged a stableford competition, which was won by Jock MacVicar, with an impressive 36 points. Andy Farrell was runner up with 34 and Mark Garrod third with 31.
Finally, we have a big entry for the Spring Medal, when we play for the Michael Williams Hogget, over the East course at Wentworth on May 21. The draw is:
7.30 David Hamilton Bob Davies Mark Garrod
7.38 Mike Blair Andy Farrell Martin Dempster
7.46 Bernie McGuire Mike Aitken John Hopkins
7.54 Peter Godsiff Alistair Tait Brian Creighton
8.02 Dai Davies Colin Callander Jock MacVicar
8.10 Bill Robertson Michael McDonnell Colm Smith
8.18 Tony Stenson David Facey Martin Hardy
8.26 John Whitbread Tim Glover Peter Corrigan
8.34 Bill Elliott Norman Dabell Jeremy Chapman
8.42 John Fenton Jane Carter Brian Potter
Bob Davies, Captain
Golf dates
Wednesday 21 May Wentworth East – Michael Williams Hogget (Spring medal)
Monday 23 June Royal Lytham – Weetabix press day
Monday 4 August De Vere Carden Park – Sir Henry Cotton Salver
Tuesday 16 September The Grove – launch press day
Wednesday 15 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
June 2003
Annual General Meeting
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION WILL BE HELD IN THE PRESS TENT AT ROYAL ST GEORGE’S ON WEDNESDAY 16 JULY AT 10am.
Annual Dinner
Thanks to those who have already responded and a reminder that the closing date for applications for the annual dinner is Tuesday 1 July. And if anyone is able to help with bringing as guests certain players or officials, these are in addition to the usual two guest tickets. Please contact dinner secretary Dave Hamilton (01621 817170) for a list of names. Receipts for dinner tickets can be obtained from treasurer Bob Davies.
John Jacobs
After not being awarded in 2002, the committee has decided that John Jacobs will receive our Outstanding Services award this year. John will be presented with the Michael Williams Trophy at the Annual Dinner at St George’s.
John’s name was among those that featured most regularly in the poll conducted over the winter and although he is already a Vice-president of the Association, it was agreed that he thoroughly deserved to be honoured in this way.
John Jacobs played in the Ryder Cup in 1955 and became the first captain of the European teams in 1979 and ’81. Known throughout the game as “Dr Golf”, John is one of the most respected coaches in the game. Butch Harmon said: “There is no one teacher who does not owe something to John. He wrote the book on coaching.”
He was also a pioneering administrator, becoming the first executive director of the independently run European Tour in 1971. Awarded an OBE in 2000, John has also been inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
John Reece
After writing on golf for the magnificent span of 70 years, John Reece informs me he has finally retired, “just short of my 88th birthday”. John adds: “My first retirement was in 1980 after 110 years in Editorial, and I had always combined golf writing with it. Eventually, George Simms enrolled me in the AGW, and I am proud of my membership. So there you are!”
John signed off from the Western Daily Press with these words: “I started to write about golf in 1932, and have contributed to the Western Daily Press since 1947. This is the end of a long round, and as I cannot stand slow play it is best to come in off the course.
“I wish good luck and happiness to all golfers, and beg them to look after a game that is changing almost from day to day, not always for the best.
“This ending is on a high note of four birdies because the robin that follows around when my wife and I work in the garden has just hatched four eggs in a wonderful nest hidden under a great fern.
“All seem to be doing well, but the area is out of bounds at present. It’s quite a while since the Reeces had four birdies. But there was a time…”
Carton House
Vari McGreevy, the director of sales and marketing for Carton House at Maynooth, has written to invite any members who are attending the Smurfit European Open to play their new Colin Montgomerie-designed course. “Quite different yet complimentary to the Mark O’Meara course, on the higher ground overlooked by Tyrconnell Tower, this ‘inland links’ style course features penal and strategically placed bunkers, run-offs into cavernous swales and incredible contouring on and around the greens.
“The opening of our new course will coincide with the European Open at the K Club which is only six miles from Carton House. Members of the AGW are invited to test their skills on the Montgomerie course on the Saturday of the European Open, July 5. We have tee-times currently available from 9.30am -11.00am for members of the press.”
Anyone looking to take up this offer please contact Vari on 00353 16286271 or mobile 00353 87 9797214 to book a suitable tee-time.
Changes of address
Peter McEvoy is now working from home: Sporting Concepts, Cider Mill House, Old Manor Lane, Tewkesbury, Gloucs GL20 7EA (01684 291345; mobile: 07836 314911).
John Barton, who is still working for Golf Digest but has returned to London, has new office contact details: Berkeley Square House, 2nd Floor, Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BD (020 7887 1412; fax: 020 78871411; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Annika Sorenstam postscript
Bob Rodney writes: “I’m amused by all this stuff about Annika being the first woman for 58 years to play in a pro men’s event. They’ve ignored Irene Kohler who teed up in the pre-qualifying for the 1971 German Open at Club zur Var, Bremen, and didn’t make it.
“Neil Coles might well remember this, and I’m sure Brian Barnes will because he was hoping to be paired with her if she succeeded in getting into the first round. She was quite good-looking, and he thought it might be fun to help her find a ball in the forests through which this very good course was cut.”
Tournament finishing times
Sunday finishing times (subject to alteration). All times are local. Diageo Championship 1700; French Open 1700; European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1715; Irish Open 1900; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Nordic Open 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; Lancome Trophy 1730; German Masters 1700; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship 1800; Dutch Open 1700; World Match Play 1700; Madrid Open 1700; Volvo Masters 1800.
ANDY FARRELL
August 2003
Open Championship
Following our discussions with the Royal and Ancient last winter, there were many improvements to the media centre at Royal St George’s, including the new projected leaderboard and the desks. Of course, there were also the collapsing chairs and the heat. We will be reviewing all aspects of this year’s Open with the R and A later this year so if any member has any comments to make about the facilities please get in touch. The same goes for any other tournament attended by our members this season.
Annual Dinner
Many thanks again to Dave Hamilton for organising this year’s dinner at Royal St George’s. We were blessed with some excellent speeches, including by John Jacobs after receiving the Michael Williams Trophy for Outstanding Services to Golf from Michael’s widow Judy, and Sam Torrance after receiving the Golf Writers Trophy on behalf of the 2002 Ryder Cup team.
Renton Laidlaw, our former chairman and secretary, proposed the health of our guests and Christopher Martin-Jenkins, cricket correspondent of The Times and a member at St George’s, replied with a highly entertaining speech.
We were honoured to be joined by so many players. These included Ernie Els and Greg Norman, plus Ryder Cup players Niclas Fasth, Padraig Harrington, Bernhard Langer, Paul McGinley and Lee Westwood. We will endeavour to get more players next year but it helps if we can promise they will not be hassled for photographs, etc.
Lee Westwood will have reason to remember the dinner. He was sitting on the same table as PGA of America president MG Orender. At the end of the evening, Orender said to Westwood: “See you at Oak Hill.” Westwood explained that, unfortunately, he was not qualified for the USPGA Championship but Orender repeated: “See you at Oak Hill.” Westwood’s invitation to the last major of the season arrived a few days later.
Richard Doyle-Davidson
In July, Richard Doyle-Davidson, who was the secretary and managing director at Wentworth for 17 years, died, aged 75, following a long illness. Richard was a great friend of the Association and even in retirement played many times as a guest in our competitions at Wentworth.
Having served in the Gordon Highlanders and worked in advertising, Richard moved into golf club management at Brancepeth Castle and then Formby. He joined Wentworth in 1977 and oversaw both the establishment of the club as a leading tournament venue, with the PGA Championship joining the World Match Play on the West Course, and the creation of the Edinburgh Course.
New members
The following were elected as full members of the Association at the membership meeting during the Open Championship:
BLACK, JIM: Jim Black Sport, Woodsley, 12A Shore Road, Skelmorlie, Ayrshire PA17 5DY (01475 520499; fax: 01475 529107; mobile: 07974 566240; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
FERGUSON, DOUG: Associated Press, 4871 Empire Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32207, USA (001 904 396 9262; fax: 001 904 396 7798; mobile: 001 904 608 3054; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
HIMMEL, PETRA: JM Strassbreitl 2, 82110 Germering, Germany (00 49 89 84102216 or 84102219; fax: 00 49 89 84102217; mobile: 00 49 1728145542; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
REASON, MARK: Sunday Telegraph, 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London (020 7538 5000; fax: 020 7538 7896). Home: 30 Chisenhale Road, London E3 5QZ (Tel/fax: 020 8981 2002; mobile: 07774 637429; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
REID, ALASDAIR: The Sunday Times, 1 Pennington Street, London E98 1ST (020 7782 5718; fax: 020 7782 5720). Home: 11 Upper Nisbet, Jedburgh, Scottish Borders TD8 6TS (Tel/fax: 01835 850350; mobile: 07775 875934; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
RUSHMER, TONY: Golf Weekly, EMAP Active Ltd., Bushfield House, Orton Centre, Peterborough PE2 5UW (01733 288036; fax: 01733 288025). Home: 105 Henley Way, Ely, Cambs CB7 4YH (01353 667548; mobile: 07702 579382; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
SHAPIRO, LEONARD: Washington Post, 1150 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20071, USA (001 202 334 5002; fax: 001 202 334 7685). Home: PO Box 798, Middleburg, Virginia 20118, USA (001 540 364 3327; mobile: 001 202 309 5023; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
The following had their applications approved and were placed on the Supplementary List:
BARTON, JOHN: Golf Digest International, 2nd Floor, Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BD (020 7887 1412; fax: 020 7887 1411). Home: 43 Woodlands Park Road, Greenwich, London SE10 9XE (020 8265 1311; mobile: 07903 276590; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
BARWICK, ROBIN: 27 Cromwell Road, Wimbledon, London SW19 8LE (020 8540 3834; mobile: 07753 610408; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
LAMPORT-STOKES, MARK: Reuters, 85 Fleet Street, London EC4P 4AJ (020 7542 2828; fax: 020 7353 6951). Home: St Kilda, The Hermitage, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6SH (020 8948 0300; mobile: 07990 560706; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
LOWE, DOUGLAS: The Herald, 200 Renfield Street, Glasgow G2 3PR (0141 302 7150; fax: 0141 302 7227). Home: 2/8 Park Lane, Charlotte Street, Helensburgh G84 7NT (01436 679424; mobile: 07739 675052; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
POWER, EAMONN: Dona Lola Club, Ctra de Cadiz 197-8, Mijas Costa, Malaga 29649, Spain (0034 952 932477; 0034 952 930193); Home: Calle Valencia 15, Pueblo Lopez, Fuengirola 29640, Malaga, Spain (0034 952 460755; mobile: 0034 7884 307903)
SWEET, GEOFF: News of the World, 1 Virginia Street, London E98 1NW (020 7782 24372; fax: 020 7782 4392). Home: 21 Byron Hill Road, Harrow-on-the-Hill, Middlesex HA2 0JD (Tel/fax: 020 8423 2042; mobile: 07785 728904; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Changes of address
Jack Robertson’s e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Elspeth Burnside’s e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Contrary to the details in the back of the handbook, Mike Stickney’s contact numbers are now: 020 79321795; fax: 020 79321701; mobile: 07802 201907; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Add to the Photographers’ section: Tom Ward, 7 Bellflower Road, Walton Cardiff, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 7SB (Tel/fax: 01684 273970; mobile: 07730 283165; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Michigan trips
Golf Marketing Services are extending invitations to golf writers to visit the state of Michigan anytime during the 2003 or 2004 season leading up to the 2004 Ryder Cup.
Kevin Frisch explains: “A golf trip to Michigan will provide a convenient opportunity to experience one of the country’s top golfing destinations. With the Ryder Cup coming to Oakland Hills in 2004, this could also provide a great opportunity to gather information for possible travel stories or preview stories leading up to the event. This is an open invitation for you and a guest to experience Michigan’s best golf courses and resorts.
“We want you to discover first hand why Michigan has become America’s Summer Golf Capital with top resort experiences including Boyne USA/Bay Harbor, Treetops, Shanty Creek, Garland, Crystal Mountain, Double JJ Resort, and Michigan’s newest resort facility Yarrow Golf Club designed by nationally acclaimed architect Raymond Hearn. Top golf courses to visit also include Shepherds Hollow, Westwynd, Strategic Fox, and Bucks Run .
“Golf Marketing Services will coordinate all your golf and lodging arrangements. We’ll also set up interviews with course/resort managers, owners, pros, superintendents, as well as Michigan’s nationally acclaimed golf course architects Tom Doak and Raymond Hearn.” Please contact Kevin Frisch on 001 989 6140241 or email hidden; JavaScript is required, or Dave Richards on 001 248 6426420 or email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Tournament finishing times
Sunday finishing times (subject to alteration). All times are local. NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; Lancome Trophy 1730; German Masters 1700; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship 1800; Dutch Open 1700; World Match Play 1700; Madrid Open 1700; Volvo Masters 1800.
Newsletter
This newsletter could not be sent out without the help of Paula Benn at Golf Monthly, which is greatly appreciated. Paula is now e-mailing the newsletter to those for whom we have addresses. Should you still wish to receive a hard copy, please let her know. Alternatively, if you have received a hard copy and wish it to be e-mailed instead to an address we do not have, please get in touch.
Should you wish to reply to anything in this newsletter and you have received it on e-mail, either reply to Paula and she will pass the message on, or “forward” the message to myself or Bob Davies.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
September 2003
Members’ handbook
Enclosed is the form for next year’s members’ handbook. Please write clearly and return by November 5. This form will also be sent out even if you are now receiving the newsletter by e-mail. If for any reason you did not receive the August newsletter, please let me know.
John Jacobs
John Jacobs has written to John Hopkins to thank us for awarding him the Michael Williams Trophy for Outstanding Services to Golf. “I write to thank you and the Association for giving me such a memorable evening at the Open. I take much pride and pleasure in receiving an award from such an illustrious body.
“I have enjoyed so many happy relationships with ladies and gentlemen of the press, going back to Ronald Heager who christened me “Golf Doctor” as long ago as 1952. Enjoying dinner at the home of Bernard Darwin with Ted Dexter when the Varsity Match was at Rye in the 50s. Such characters, Leonard Crawley, Henry Longhurst, Peter Dobereiner, Michael Williams, Renton, yourself and many good friends to name just a few.
“I remember with gratitude the support you all gave me during the difficult time when we were determined to drive British and European golf forward. Thank you most sincerely for an award which I treasure and for a relationship with the Association which has given me such joy over many years.”
Tony Stenson
Tony Stenson’s departure from the Daily Mirror was marked during the USPGA Championship at Oak Hill when he was presented with a picture of the 18th hole of the course where Europe won the Ryder Cup in 1995. The presentation, something of an emotional occasion, was made in the car park on preview day by none other than Colin Montgomerie.
Tony writes: “I would like to express my deep, heartfelt thanks to the AGW for my wonderful picture of Oak Hill, signed by Monty and Lee Westwood. It is already with the framers and should be on the wall of my study soon, a constant reminder of my last American major for the Daily Mirror. The ‘handing over’ ceremony is something I shall always remember. Although, I still hope to be involved in golf, the pressure won’t be the same.
“Though I am member of several sporting associations, the Football Writers, Sports
Writers and the Press Golf Society naming just three, nothing compares with the AGW. It is professionalism with a heart; friends, not foes.”
Change of address
Please note that Tony Stenson has a new e-mail address: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
USPGA Championship
Next year’s USPGA Championship will take place at Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin. Julius Mason, of the PGA of America, reports the official media hotel will be in Milwaukee, a journey of an hour and a quarter to an hour and a half. He realises the inconvenience and says he will be laying on luxury coaches with a newspaper and coffee station at the hotel in the morning and videos on the coach. For those who wish to get a little closer to the course, parking will be available and we hope to have details of accommodation agents shortly. By contrast, for the Ryder Cup in Detroit Julius says there will be a choice of four media hotels, all a quarter of an hour from the course.
Tournament Reports
If anyone has any comments on any tournaments they have attended this season please let me know so the relevant organisers can be informed.
Tournament finishing times
Sunday finishing times (subject to alteration). All times are local. Dutch Open 1700; World Match Play 1700; Madrid Open 1700; Volvo Masters 1800.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….GOLF NEWS….
We were up for it, but in the end had to settle for our first defeat in three annual matches with the Broadcasters at the magnificent Stoke Park Club. After two victories in a row, the AGW went into the game brimful of confidence and expecting to retain the trophy, especially as we had our ace in the pack in the final game – Tony Adamson!
Originally, Addo contacted me to say he would like to play in the match, then got in touch to say that, of course, he would be appearing in the Broadcasters’ line up. But they were over-subscribed and, we are delighted to say, Tony rapidly “defected” to the other side. But it was to little avail as, partnered by Secretary Andy Farrell they went down fighting by just one hole to the Broadcasters’ captain, Rob Bonnett, and Selina Hinchcliffe. It turned out to be a crucial result as the Broadcasters eased their way to victory by 3 1/2 – 2 1/2, much to their delight – and my dismay – as it maintained my one hundred per cent record as captain, having led the team into two games and lost them both!
In the top game the combination of Mark Garrod and Colin Callander battled their way to a half point against Jonathan Legard and John Rawlings, and the Writers nosed ahead when Bill Elliott and David Hamilton registered a 3 and 2 success over Heath Harvey and Sasha Upton. But from thereon things went slightly awry for the Writers. Peter Godsiff and John Fenton went down 5 and 3 to Russell Fuller and John Bramley, yours truly and Tony Witts (a guest standing in for Jim Mossop who had to withdraw at the last minute) lost 5 and 4 to Chris Hollins and Chris Walton.
However, President Michael McDonnell and Bryan Potter raised the Writers’ hopes with an impressive two-hole victory over Tony Adamson’s successor as the Beeb’s golf correspondent, Iain Carter, and Rob Nothman – before we fell at the very last hurdle. Despite the defeat, though, it was a thoroughly enjoyable occasion thanks to the splendid hospitality of the Stoke Park Club.
Although it was not an AGW event, it would be remiss of me not to offer a very big thankyou to The Grove for their generosity in staging a media day. All our members who took part went away with the impression that it was one of the best – if not the best – new courses they have every played.
For the record, Brian Creighton won the Stableford competition with a very creditable 43 points, just one ahead of Bill Elliott. After a spell in the doldrums, as far as his golf is concerned, it was good to see Dai Davies return to something approaching better form by finishing in third place with 35 points.
The Presidents’ Putter will tee-off at West Hill at 1pmon Tuesday 14 October. Sandwiches will be served from 12 noon. The draw is:
1.00 Mark Garrod Andy Farrell Petra Himmell
1.08 Dai Davies Peter Godsiff Tony Adamson
1.16 Patricia Davies Peter Corrigan Jock McVicar
1.24 Michael McDonnell Bill Elliott Colin Calander
1.32 Bob Davies Tony Stenson Jim Mossop
1.40 David Hamilton Martin Hardy Bernie McGuire
Anyone still wishing to play at either West Hill or in the Golf Writers Championship at Wentworth on Wednesday 15 October should let me know as soon as possible.
The draw for the AGW Championship on the East course at Wentworth is:
7.30 Michael McDonnell David Hamilton Bob Davies Guest
7.40 Mark Garrod Andy Farrell Dai Davies Petra Himmell
7.50 Patricia Davies Jane Carter Mitchell Platts Colin Calander
8.00 Mike Blair Bill Elliott Jock McVicar Peter Godsiff
8.10 Bill Robertson Peter Corrigan Bernie McGuire Martin Hardy
8.20 Tony Stenson Tony Adamson Jim Mossop John Whitbread
8.30 Bryan Potter Jeremy Chapman David Garland John Fenton
The final match of the season will be against the Golf Foundation at The Berkshire (Red course) on Tuesday 11 November and the team will be: Bob Davies, David Hamilton, Michael McDonnell, Tony Stenson, Bill Elliott, Andy Farrell, Alistair Tait, John Fenton, Paul Trow and Bryan Potter.
Bob Davies
Captain
(01743 872655; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Golf dates
Tuesday 14 October West Hill – Presidents Putter
Wednesday 15 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
Tuesday 11 November The Berkshire – AGW v Golf Foundation
October 2003
Members’ handbook
Enclosed is the form for next year’s members’ handbook. Please write clearly and return by November 5. This form will also be sent out even if you are now receiving the newsletter by e-mail. If for any reason you did not receive the August newsletter, please let me know.
John Jacobs
John Jacobs has writte
Tony Stenson
Tony Stenson’s depart
Changes of address
Bryan Potter’s e-mail address should read: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
The contact details for the Faldo Junior Series are now: Oskar Engstrom, Faldo Enterprises, University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London SW1W 0EX. (020 7592 3290; fax: 020 7592 3298; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
The e-mail address for Maria Acacia Lopez Bachiller should read: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
USPGA Championship
Next year’s USPGA Championship will take place at Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin. Julius Mason, of the PGA of America, reports the official media hotel will be in Milwaukee, a journey of an hour and a quarter to an hour and a half. He realises the inconvenience and says he will be laying on luxury coaches with a newspaper and coffee station at the hotel in the morning and videos on the coach. For those who wish to get a little closer to the course, parking will be available and we hope to have details of accommodation agents shortly. By contrast, for the Ryder Cup in Detroit Julius says there will be a choice of four media hotels, all a quarter of an hour from the course.
Tournament Reports
If anyone has any comments on any tournaments they have attended this season please let me know so the relevant organisers can be informed.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
November/December 2003
2003 Golf Writers’ Trophy
Please find enclosed the voting form for the 2003 Golf Writers’ Trophy and Outstanding Services Award. The Golf Writers’ Trophy shall be awarded to the person or persons, born or resident in Europe, who in the opinion of a majority of Full and Life members has made the most outstanding contribution to golf in 2003.
The committee have drawn up a shortlist but this is for guidance only and you may vote for whomever you wish. Please list your 1-2-3 on the form and return to me by Tuesday 16 December by post or fax. The winner will be the candidate with the highest number of first places. In the result of a tie, the higher number of second or third place votes will be decisive. The shortlist is as follows (at time of writing events like the World Cup still to come):
Darren Clarke, winner NEC World Invitational
Ernie Els, winner of European order of merit and World Match Play
European Solheim Cup team (captain Catrin Nilsmark), claimed third victory over US at Barseback
Great Britain and Ireland Walker Cup team (captain Garth McGimpsey), won for third successive time
Sophie Gustafson, winner of LET order of merit
Fredrik Jacobson, three-time winner including Volvo Masters
Annika Sorenstam, Player of the Year on the LPGA Tour for the sixth time, has won seven times, including the Weetabix Women’s British Open, helped Europe win the Solheim Cup and made history at the Colonial tournament by becoming the first woman for 58 years to play on the men’s US Tour
Gary Wolstenholme, British Amateur champion and member of winning GB&I Walker Cup team
Outstanding Services Award
Following the nominations that came back last winter, the Committee decided to give our Outstanding Services Award to John Jacobs after it was not presented in 2002. If you can think of anyone who might deserve next year’s award, be they local, national or international figures, players or administrators, please let us know.
Members’ handbook
Many thanks to everyone who has replied on the form that was in the last newsletter. If anyone else has new details to be included in next year’s book there may still be time to include them. Please get in touch ASAP. Another form is included but do not worry if you have already replied.
Changes of address
George Peper has moved to: 9A Gibson Place, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9JE (01334 478980; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Bryan Potter’s e-mail address should read: email hidden; JavaScript is required
The contact details for the Faldo Junior Series are now: Oskar Engstrom, Faldo Enterprises, University House, 11-13 Lower Grosvenor Place, London SW1W 0EX. (020 7592 3290; fax: 020 7592 3298; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
The e-mail address for Maria Acacia Lopez Bachiller should read: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Stephanie Branston has moved from S2 to Karen Earl Sponsorship. Her details are now – Tel: 0207 202 2800; mobile: 07747 038 114; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required
The London Golf Club
The London Club, which has two courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Ron Kirby in north-west Kent, has been bought by the Bendinat Group, owner of Royal Bendinat Golf Club in Mallorca, whose Honorary President is King Juan Carlos. Anyone requiring more information or wishes to review the courses should contact Suzie Kinnear of SK Public Relations on 01869 345348.
TravMedia
Sarah Clarke has written to introduce a new website providing travel news to the media. She says: “The site was designed by two ex-travel journalists and is free to use. The benefits of using TravMedia include: access to breaking news from leading travel industry organisations (and an archive of releases for research); the option to receive hourly, daily or weekly email alerts, tailored to your area of interest; photo libraries to support press releases and features; PR contact details for all organisations; search engine functionality to enable you to find press releases through key words. To use our free service, simply log onto www.travmedia.com and select the ‘register’ option. Alternatively, if you’d like me to register you please contact me on 020 7691 3299 or email hidden; JavaScript is required.
US Golf Scholarships
Lorne Kelly, the former Walker Cup player, has been appointed the Head Golf Consultant for FirstPoint USA, a company looking to assist in placing young British golfers on college scholarships in America. Lorne can be contacted on 0141 572 2005 or by e-mail on email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Sotogrande, Spain
Anyone who wishes to obtain information about, or even sample, the facilities on offer at Sotogrande, which include the Almenara and the new La Reserva golf courses, should contact Maria Cortina Aurrecoechea (0034 91 4519762; email hidden; JavaScript is required) or Eduardo Bartolome Fernandez (0034 91 4519718; email hidden; JavaScript is required) from the communications department for NH Hotels in Madrid. You can get more information on the group at www.nh-hotels.com.
Pick Your Pro
Congratulations to Martin Dempster for winning this year’s Pick Your Pro competition. While a number of others who finished high up last year crashed down the table, Martin, third in 2002, was a model of consistency and finished “In the money” 30 times. He was the front-runner for most of the season, ousted from the top spot for only nine weeks, but it looked as if he might miss out when Mark Wilson sprung into the lead thanks to Ernie Els at the World Match Play.
But Martin’s prediction of a two-point victory for Great Britain and Ireland in the Seve Trophy in the last week of the competition proved decisive. His fellow Scot Mike Aitken made a late move into second place thanks to Freddie Jacobson’s win in the Volvo Masters. Congratulations to all the prize winners, including Patricia Davies who gets her tenner back after propping up the table. Many thanks to everyone who entered and allowed us to extend the prize pot even further.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
January/February 2004
Stan Lincoln
The new year was touched with sadness at the death of Stanley Lincoln, a member of the Association for 50 years. Stan was 89 and passed away in a nursing home in Watford after a long illness. Our sympathies go to his widow, Florence, son, Peter, and three grandchildren. The funeral service was due to take place at West Herts Crematorium on Friday 23 January.
Stan, the long-time correspondent for the PA, joined the Association in 1953. He was the second longest serving member after John Baker. John, who is 94 and joined the Association in 1946, was good friends with Stan throughout their careers. He kindly provided this appreciation:
“Stan Lincoln – My Old Buddie” by John Baker
I must say here and now that Stan was the most dedicated and loyal man in his job I have ever known in my 50 years in Fleet Street. I first met Stan way back in the late twenties when he was a young uniformed messenger boy in the General Sports Dept. of the Press Association where I was a junior reporter in the same department.
He eventually came out of uniform and began doing the odd reporting job in sport. In time he became the right hand assistant to the PA No. 1 Graham Emery and covered most golf events and championships up and down the country. With the passing of Graham Emery, Stan took over his job and remained there for the rest of his career. By this time I had joined ExTel Sports with golf being my main job. However, Stan, like myself, was an all-rounder and we frequently bumped into each other apart from at golf events.
In a way Stan and I were almost inseparable throughout the year and were always prepared to help one another if and when occasion arose. Although, of course, we were employed by rival agencies we were not, shall I say, opponents. Stan was a good friend and we thoroughly understood each other in our respective jobs, never once having course to show any indifferences to each other. I saw him grow up, it was likewise him with me. Farewell, my Old Buddie. Rest in Peace.
Peter Lincoln, Stan’s son, has kindly provided more details on his father’s life and career:
Born 25 April 1914 in Poplar to Edith and Henry Lincoln of 18 Blair Street, Poplar. Stanley’s father died after a fall into a barge’s hold on the River Thames when he was about six years old, leaving his mother to bring up his younger sister Phyllis and older brother Harry. Attended Culloden Street School, Poplar. Where he was good at athletics winning medals for 100 yards and relay in the East London Sports at Victoria Park.
On leaving school his class master, E.Peal wrote, dated 4 April 1928: “Stanley Lincoln has been at school for 7 years. He has always been a regular and punctual. We have found him to be eminently honest and thoroughly reliable. He has worked well and hard both in school and at games. He is an extremely good athlete and will be of great assistance to any club at running, football and cricket. We recommend him with fullest confidence that he will prove a most capable and trustworthy employee.”
On leaving school at 14 years old he joined the Press Association in Fleet Street, London as Messenger Boy. Mr Matherson the Sports Editor took a liking to him and offered him a position as a telephone messenger for I think Morris Hart – Archie Quick. Where he learnt his journalistic trade, including short hand, that held him in good stead for future years. He covered General Sports i.e. athletics, seven day cycling events, boxing, billiards, ice hockey etc. At the retirement of the then Golf Correspondent he was offered his position which he held till his retirement at 64 years old in 1978. He went for a position as the BBC television presenter of their golfing programme. He declined the invitation, as it was too much indoors, he liked to be outside. The position that Peter Alliss now holds.
He married Florence Merrell on 22 March 1941 and they enjoyed 62 years together. They moved to Bushey in 1941, living in Ashdon Road, where in January 1948 they had a son Peter John, later moving to Park Avenue. Peter married Doreen in December 1971 and had three sons Christopher – 1977, Gareth – 1978 and Nicholas – 1981. Christopher is now married to Kathryn (Kay) – 2002, baby due 2004.
He served in the forces during the Second World War 1940-1946. In the Royal Signals, 8th Army Desert Rats in North Africa etc. A period of his life that he always wished to forget.
Looking through his address book there are many famous sports people listed in both golf and snooker. Hence the depth of his contacts and acquaintances is very impressive. Looking also at his diaries, a typical journalist, all the entries are in short hand and impossible to read. We will never learn the secrets they hold. He has collected many thousands of golf press cuttings taking up a whole cupboard – to someone a good basis for a book. He was a hoarder, as are his son and grandsons, everything and anything has a use, purpose and reason to be retained.
After his retirement he became an ardent golfer himself playing at Porters Park on a regular basis until his Pagets Disease made it to difficult and painful to play. To keep up his fitness he would be seen walking round the block, as he called it, till he had a mild stroke, but even after this he would still try and complete his circuit.
He later on had an embolism and was back in hospital. We tried to nurse him at home, till he deteriorated again and went back in to hospital and finally to River Court Nursing Home. The staff there looked after him brilliantly and superbly till he passed away on Tuesday 6 January2004. He will be surely missed and for some he will be remembered forever.
Annika Sorenstam wins 2003 Golf Writers’ Trophy
Annika Sorenstam’s historic season helped her win the 2003 Golf Writers’ Trophy. Sorenstam’s incredible list of achievements during the year helped the 33-year-old Swede top our annual poll in front of two victorious teams and the men’s European No 1, Ernie Els.
Although Sorenstam came out a clear winner there was also plenty of support for the Great Britain and Ireland Walker Cup team, the European Solheim Cup team and Els. Catrin Nilsmark’s Solheim Cup team, of which Sorenstam was a member, were edged out of second place by only one vote by Garth McGimpsey’s Walker Cup team which won for an unprecedented third successive time. Darren Clarke and Gary Wolstenholme, the British Amateur champion, also featured in the poll.
“I am deeply honoured to be selected by the Association of Golf Writers for this award,” said Sorenstam. “The 2003 season has been an incredible year for me, from playing at the Colonial to achieving the LPGA career grand slam to competing in the Solheim Cup and the Skins Game – with many other highlights in between.
“I am proud of all that I have accomplished, and I am truly thankful to the members of European press for recognizing my achievements. It means a lot to me to join the prestigious list of past recipients of the Golf Writers’ Trophy.”
Sorenstam is the first woman to win the award since Alison Nicholas in 1997 and the first ever from outside Great Britain and Ireland, aside from the Solheim Cup team in 1992. She joins Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer and Sergio Garcia as continental Europeans who have won the award as an individual.
Ty Votaw, LPGA commissioner, said: “We are thrilled that Annika has been selected by members of the AGW as the winner of the 2003 Golf Writers’ Trophy. Throughout her career, Annika has made a lasting mark on so many golf fans worldwide, and with her marvellous performances this year, there is no denying Annika’s impact on women’s golf, the LPGA and the sport in general. Annika has brought increased awareness and excitement to the sport and to the LPGA, and as her celebrity grows worldwide, we are so pleased that she calls the LPGA home.”
Ian Randell, chief executive of the Ladies European Tour, said: “Annika’s performances fully justify the award and I’m delighted for her. Her achievements and the way she conducts herself on and off the course are something of which we can be very proud. She was an inspiration to the Solheim Cup team and really led from the front. She continues to set new standards and has raised the expectations of others by showing them the dedication required to perform at a level previously unmatched. Everything she has done has had a very positive impact for the women’s game.”
Sorenstam brought unprecedented attention to her sport by becoming the first woman to play in a men’s US PGA Tour event at the Bank of America Colonial tournament in May. She utilised the experience to achieve even greater heights in the women’s game by winning two major championships and becoming only the sixth player to win a career grand slam.
Sorenstam beat Grace Park in a playoff at the McDonald’s LPGA Championship and won the Weetabix Women’s British Open for the first time after beating Se Ri Pak by one stroke in a thrilling final-round duel at Royal Lytham and St Anne’s. She joined the likes of Ballesteros, Tony Jacklin, Gary Player, Peter Thomson and Bobby Jones in becoming an Open champion at the famous Lancashire links.
With four points from five games, Sorenstam helped Europe regain the Solheim Cup in front of a home gallery at Barseback in Sweden. She had seven worldwide victories, set or tied 22 LPGA records, won the money list for a third successive year and was the LPGA Player of the Year for the sixth time. Sorenstam was also inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame and ended the season by finishing second to Freddie Couples in the Skins Game.
“If you measure a year in the amount of victories, last year I won more,” Sorenstam said. “But the experiences I had this year, and obviously Colonial, that’s the greatest thing that will ever happen to me. It was like a fairy tale and I didn’t want it to end. I think it’s the best year I’ve ever had. I have wonderful memories. I played some great golf. I think I’ve really taken my game to a different level, which is really my goal.
“The Colonial was incredible. I’ll never forget the first shot on the 10th tee. But I want to win majors, so I look back on a year where I won two majors. I mean, the tee shot at the British Open on the 18th (on the final day when tied for the lead with Pak) I’ll never forget. It’s probably the best tee shot I’ve ever hit. I’d like to win a few more majors, for sure. I feel like I haven’t reached my peak yet. So I’m going to go hard again next year and see if I can achieve some of the more goals I have, some more majors, and we’ll see what happens.”
Thanks are due for the many suggestions for our Outstanding Services award. These will be considered by the Committee in due course.
Royal Troon visit and other Golf Dates
The Open Championship golf day and press conference will take place on Monday 26 April and Tuesday 27. The arrangements will be similar to recent years. Meet at Royal Troon on a snack lunch on the Monday, play in the afternoon and then there will be a dinner hosted by the Royal and Ancient in the clubhouse that evening. The R and A press conference will take place at 9am on the Tuesday.
Stewart McDougall has tried to make a block hotel booking but this has proved impossible. Instead, members will have to make their own bookings. There are rooms available at the Piersland Lodge Hotel (01292 314747) at £80 pppn, the Glenside B&B (01292 313677) at £35 pppn – both of which are walking distance from the clubhouse – and at the Travel Inn at Monkton (01292 678262) at £44.95 per room/per night. The Travel Inn is about two miles away but Stewart will put on transportation if there are sufficient numbers.
As we are already in Troon, it has been proposed by Loch Lomond that we visit their new course at Dundonald from late morning on Tuesday 27 April. More details nearer the time but if you wish to play please fill in the response form provided.
Royal Cinque Ports in Deal are offering a press day on Tuesday 11 May. Tee-off times from 11 am followed by late lunch/early supper. If you drove past the course on the way in or out of St George’s during the Open and did not get to play, this is your chance.
Tandridge in Oxted, Surrey have also offered us a press day on Monday 7 June. The plan is to meet for a drink and lunch and then play in the afternoon. The club dates from 1925 and is apparently renowned both for its Harry Colt course and the quality of its lunches. (For more details see www.tandridgegolfclub.com.)
As the Benson and Hedges tournament is no longer, we are looking for a venue for the Ron Moseley Trophy. Depending on the turnouts for the Cinque Ports and Tandridge days, we may designate one of them for the Ron Moseley but more news nearer the time.
The Spring Medal on the East Course at Wentworth will take place as usual on the day before the Volvo PGA on Wednesday 26 May. Please indicate your interest in all these days on the response form.
Christmas Hampers
Once again I have received numerous messages of thanks for the Christmas Hampers which were sent out this year. Here is a selection:
“Yet again the generosity of the AGW overwhelms me. Would you please convey my and the family’s thanks to them. We will certainly add to the already obese population when we empty the hamper. Remember me to all my old friends and wish them a happy and productive new year.” Betty Dobereiner
“It gives me such pleasure to know that Ron is not forgotten. Thank you very much.” Gaye Heager
“Once again I’m writing to ask you to thank the members of the AGW for the lovely Christmas hamper which I receive with such pleasure each year. It is truly a lovely gift and certainly starts Christmas the right way, thank you all so much. My main news this year is the safe arrival of a new grandson on Easter Sunday, Ben, a brother for Oliver, he’s gorgeous and I’m not biased! I shall be enjoying Christmas Day with them all, they are now living this side of Plymouth and so it’s not too difficult for me to see them. Many thanks again for the wonderful start to Christmas.” Lindy Johnson
“It is very kind to remember me at this time, especially when everyone is so busy. Please send me love to all the ‘boys and gals’.” Jane Morgan
“I was once again delighted and grateful to receive the hamper of goodies courtesy of the AGW membership. 2003 was a difficult year for me and my family but the Christmas box gave us all a lift. We would like to wish the AGW members a happy and successful 2004.” Jack Robertson
“A huge thank you for the gorgeous hamper.” Anne Stobbs
“Once more Isabel and I wish to thank all members and friends of the AGW for the very acceptable Xmas hamper. It is so good to be remembered at this time of year. We wish everyone a very happy Christmas and a bright new year.” John Baker
“Please would you pass on to the Golf Writers my thanks and appreciation for the lovely hamper.” Dorothy Clough
“Once again I find the kindness of the writers overwhelming. I am a retired BBC pensioner and my former colleagues are astounded by your generosity. Rest assured every crumb and drop will be enjoyed. Diolch yn fawr. Thank you very much.” Joan Moody
“Will you please pass on my appreciation to the Golf Writers for the super Christmas hamper. I will take some of the special goodies to Paris where I am spending Christmas with Mark and his family, when I will see my third grandson for the first time, and we will drink a toast to John.” Pat Oakley
“There was great excitement when opening the AGW Christmas hamper with my granddaughters. They had fun with the packaging and we all thoroughly enjoyed the goodies. Please pass my thanks to the AGW for their generosity – the kind thought is very much appreciated.” Margaret Dodd
“Once again it was such a treat to be the recipient of an AGW Christmas hamper. Thank you and the committee for your kindness and thoughtfulness which are much appreciated. It was a pleasure to meet up with so many members of the Association in 2003, particularly at the dinner at the Open Championship. It was an honour for me to be there and present the Michael Williams award to John Jacobs. It was an occasion which I, and my son Rod, greatly enjoyed. Thank you to all members for your friendship and I look forward to seeing some of you in 2004. I wish everyone a happy, healthy and peaceful year.” Judy Williams
US Open arrangements
For those who will be attending the US Open, Craig Smith, the media manager for the USGA, has been in touch to say that there will be parking available near the course at Shinnecock this year. However, the media hotel will be 40 miles away so members may like to investigate alternatives.
Craig writes: “After meeting with the GWAA, we will be providing plenty of parking within a half mile of the golf course and leaving more of the booking of accommodations to the individual media. It seems many are searching the internet for good deals or sharing a house with colleagues to lower costs. I bring this up because I want the interested international media to move quickly in securing a hotel room at the media hotel. We will have 175 rooms at the Islandia Marriott, some 40 miles from
the golf course. It seems far away, I know, but the area doesn’t have many close-in hotel properties. The information will all be disclosed in the media credential form that will be mailed April 1.
“The point, mainly, is to let everyone know to begin looking for housing if they are not interested in the media hotel, or to replay promptly in early April if they are interested.”
Golf Majors Annual
Alun Evans writes: “There isn’t going to be a 2004 edition of the Golf Majors, and I’m not confident about 2005 either, although I am talking to the Golf Channel about doing something. Consequently, I’ll have updates available again from January 2004 (this year on CD [PC, Microsoft Word] only) for those (not insignificant number of) members who found them useful previously.
“As before the CD will include updates in the following areas: Reports and stats on the 2003 Majors; Major Championships 1860-2002 Top 30s; Every Top 30 finisher’s Records 1860-2003; Major Championship Records 1860-2003; Majors Hall of Fame 1860-2003.
“The cost is £10 inclusive of P&P. I do still have a few editions of GM 1999 and 2002 available. Their price is on application and dependent upon the overall units purchased and P&P involved.” Alun can be contacted by e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Bernie McGuire
Congratulations go to Bernie McGuire and his new wife, Ana, who send their New Year best wishes and thanks to all AGW members after they were married on December 29.
Bernie reports: “We were married in Ecuador but only after a six hour return journey to the capital, Quito, on the morning of the wedding, to have my birth certificate stamped by government officials after being initially informed all my papers were okay. Some days earlier Ana finally had been afforded a visa into Australia and on the 30th we travelled from Ecuador via Amsterdam to London and then onto Sydney spending New Year’s Eve 39,000 feet over Germany.”
Bernie says that now they are married he is hoping the British Government will afford Ana a visa so that she may join him in Britain in April after they attend early season tournaments in Thailand, Australia, Malaysia and Dubai.
Members’ handbook
These should be enclosed in this mailing. If there are any problems, please let me know. Some of the information may even be correct; please let me know of any inaccuracies.
Subscriptions
Just a reminder that subs were due on January 1 and that the constitution states that any member who is in arrears after more than three months automatically ceases to be a member of the Association. While contingencies can be made for overseas members, UK based members are reminded that the Committee recommends playing by standing orders. Forms are available from the Treasurer.
European Tour Finishing Times
I have received a provisional list of Sunday finishing times from European Tour Productions. These may change but I will pass on any updates as I get them. All times are local. Johnnie Walker Classic 1700; Heineken Classic 1700; ANZ Championship 1700; Malaysian Open 1630; Accenture World Match Play 1600; Dubai Classic 1700; Qatar Masters 1630; Caltex Masters 1630; Portuguese Open 1700; Spanish Open TBC; Italian Open 1700; British Masters 1730; BMW Asian Open TBC; Deutsche Bank SAP Open 1700; Volvo PGA 1800; Wales Open 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; French Open 1700; Smurfit European Open 1800; Barclays Scottish Open 1715; Irish Open 1900; Scandinavian Masters 1700; KLM Open TBC; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1800; German Masters 1700; AmEx World Champs TBC; Dunhill Links 1730; HSBC World Match Play 1700; Mallorca Classic TBC; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup TBC.
For those who may be covering the ANZ Championship at Horizons in Australia, David Probyn, the tournament director, says there is a local airport at Williamtown and that there will not be transportation provided by the event from Sydney which is two hours away.
Diane and John Bailey
Diane Bailey, the former Curtis Cup player and captain, and her husband John, who published Tee to Green magazine for the Golf Foundation, are now renting a stone-built, four-bedroom holiday home in France. The longere is 45 minutes north-west of Nantes and is near to beaches, restaurants and golf courses (26 within one hour). Members of golf societies have discounts on the tariff and on green fees locally. For more information, please call 01483 203358 or e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Rules of Golf
I have a supply of the latest version of the Rules of Golf for 2004. Please let me know if you wish to receive a copy or need a spare.
Pick Your Pro
This year’s entry form is attached. Please read the rules carefully. Entries will be accepted at any time, except for events that have already started. The first tournament is the Accenture World Matchplay, which starts on Wednesday 25 February, so ACT NOW. Good luck!
ANDY FARRELL
(01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Rather belatedly, as we have now all hopefully recovered from our New Year hangovers, I will endeavour to wrap-up last year’s results. Sadly, the trend continued when we played the Golf Foundation at The Berkshire and we lost to complete the season without a single victory in friendly matches to celebrate. Our only excuse, perhaps, was that the beautiful Berkshire course was enveloped in thick fog and it was obvious our opponents found their way around a little better than we did!
From there it was on to Brancaster for the annual pilgrimage for the Pat Ward-Thomas Trophy. Apart from the fact that it was on the day of the Rugby World Cup final – which delayed the tee-off times so that we could all share in the excitement in a pub – it was one of those days on which you wouldn’t even send the dog out.
But a few hardy souls wrapped themselves in their waterproofs – which turned out to be totally useless for most of us! – and braved the elements at Royal West Norfolk. It rained incessantly but by the time we returned to the sanctuary of the Clubhouse, and the glorious log fire burning therein, it was Tony Stenson who was wearing the widest grin.
Twelve months earlier he had teamed up with Patricia Davies to win the trophy and this time Bill Robertson partnered the former Mirror man to a repeat victory. A measure of just how appalling the weather was could be gauged from the fact that their winning total was just 22 points – but nevertheless it was an heroic effort.
They won, incidentally, only on the back nine from yours truly and David Hamilton as we were left to console ourselves with the fact that we might have won had we not succumbed to the conditions and took a short cut by leaving out the ninth and tenth holes!
The following day we did manage to beat West Runton GC in the annual friendly fixture around the little nine-hole course. The club, of which our President Michael McDonnell is a member, has just celebrated its centenary.
Bob Davies
Captain
Golf dates
Monday 26 April Royal Troon – Open Championship press day
Tuesday 27 April Dundonald – press day
Tuesday 11 May Royal Cinque Ports – press day
Wednesday 26 May Wentworth East – Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget
Monday 7 June Tandridge – press day
Wed 13 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
Colin Farquharson sent the following report on the European Writers’ Golf Championships:
Dutchman Erwin Mulder, a regular competitor in the event, and debutante Ann Mooney from Ireland were the title winners in the fifth European Writers’ Golf Championships played over four courses in the Murcia region of Spain’s south-eastern coastline (November 10-14). The men’s title went down to the wire with Amsterdam-based Mulder pipping Matthew Lindsay of the Evening Times, Glasgow for the trophy on the better last round points total (37 to 31). Erwin, managing editor of three golf magazines, plays off three and Matthew has a handicap of six. They tied at the end of 72 holes over Las Ramblas, Altorreal, La Finca and La Manga North with 127 stableford points apiece. Erwin won a Callaway Great Big Bertha II driver while Matthew also received a Callaway metal wood.
“Erwin and I were playing together so we both knew exactly the situation in the last round. I was beside the last green in two shots and all I had to do was get down in two, even three shots to win the title,” said Matthew. “Unfortunately, I did not have a good chip and then I took three putts to finish up with a 6 which made me finish on 127pt overall, the same as Erwin. But there was no provision in the competition rules for a play-off so the title went to him on the better last round.”
Third this year was Peter Godsiff (Golf Weekly), the winner two years ago at Vilamoura. Bristol-based Peter, a prolific freelance golf writer in publications down the west of England, had a clear lead with one round to go but picked up only 23pt off his handicap of 17 in the final round over La Manga North. Godsiff’s total was 122, five points behind the leaders’ mark.
If Erwin is an old hand at writers’ golf tournaments, home and away, then it was a completely new experience for Ann Mooney, the Irish Daily Mirror’s Travel Editor. As her job suggests, Anne is used to seeing new countries but not so accustomed to taking her clubs with her and adopting the role of a tournament competitor over 72 holes.
Mrs Mooney played off a handicap of 17, having started the golf season with a rating of 23. She scored 26pt in her final round to clinch victory with 101pt. Her prize for the “biggest win of my golfing career” was a Callaway two-ball putter. “It’s been a great week in very sunny Spain and to win this title at the first attempt is just fantastic,” said Ann.
Runner-up was Sue Farmer, who drove up from their base on the Algarve with her husband Geoff to play in the week-long event. They are both correspondents for the Sun Golf magazine. Sue, who plays off 23, scored only 12pt in the first round over the testing Las Ramblas course, which put her immediately 14pt off the pace and she could not make up the leeway, finishing second with 76pt.
The tournament’s main sponsor was Hacienda del Alamo, where a championship golf course, designed by Dave Thomas with the help of his son Paul, is being opened next year at a huge venue which will also include a hotel and villas. The vast majority of the prizes were donated by Callaway Golf Europe whose representative Sue Page also arranged a demo day for the competitors and other invitees at a Press Day visit to the Hacienda del Alamo site, squeezed into the busy programme between the third and fourth rounds.
March/April 2004
John Baker
January proved a cruel month for the Association with the loss of our two longest serving members. Following the death of Stan Lincoln, and just days before Stan’s funeral, his friend John Baker also passed away. John was 93 and died at home in Worthing. His last article was the tribute to Stan Lincoln which appeared in the previous newsletter.
John had been a member of the AGW since 1946. The funeral service took place at Worthing Crematorium on January 30. Mark Wilson represented the Association and also provided the following obituary:
“The legendary Bernard Darwin voted John into the AGW in 1946 as he covered a tournament at Southport, and while becoming the oldest and most senior member of the Association in the course of the next 58 years, his great contribution to golf was recognised with the award of Life Membership.
“It was as a general news cub reporter with the Press Association in the early 1930s that John’s journalistic skills, perseverance and interest in golf combined to make his name known. On a visit to Sunningdale, he saw the then Prince of Wales about to play a private match against the American amateur Charles Sweeney. Royal protocol, and bodyguards, prevented him from becoming a lone spectator for the chance to write an exclusive story. On being made aware of John’s disappointment, the Prince offered a compromise. John could write a report providing it was submitted for approval before publication.
“John agreed, and at the finish of the match handed his report, hurriedly written in pencil on notebook paper, to a bodyguard. To his dismay, the Royal party left Sunningdale without giving him back his story or the approval he needed. Two days later, however, on crested paper, beautifully typed, his story was returned to him with Royal approval. It was this act that explained a ritual which later mystified his colleagues. Whenever the Prince was on official duties, and he saw John among the Press Corps, he always made a point of giving him a knowing nod and smile of recognition of a journalist to be trusted.
“World War II interrupted John’s Fleet Street career and he became a fire fighter in East London and the Docks. He survived the most appalling experiences about which he was never willing to talk. ‘Best forgotten,’ he would insist when asked.
“When peace was restored, John returned to Fleet Street and, subsequently joined the Exchange Telegraph news agency. As the growth of golf and the birth of the European Tour commanded more and more of his time, he and Stanley Lincoln, the Press Association golf correspondent, became an inseparable combination, and the most industrious writers in the Press Tent.
“John is survived by Isabel, his wife of 40 years. By a previous marriage he had a daughter, Joan, who lives in Australia, three grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.”
Paddy Mearing was also kind enough to send this tribute to John:
“John Baker was a GENTLE-MAN of the old order, polite, dignified and always immaculately dressed. He was also a journalist of the old school, an agency man throughout who was able to turn his hand to most sports.
“I first met John when I joined Extel in 1948 and we remained friends ever since. His last Christmas card was written in the same strong hand that he had sent so many expenses sheets in to me when I was sports editor of Extel. John was originally at the Press Association where his father was in the accounts department and he took over as Extel’s golf man from Jim Chambers. Apart from golf, John was a keen supporter of Leyton Orient where he spent most Saturdays in the winter.
“But it was golf that occupied his life. He was assistant secretary of the AGW under Geoff Cousins after joining the Association in 1946 and most of the old professionals in the 50s and 60s were interviewed by the Agency Twins, John and his PA colleague Stan Lincoln, as they came off the course. The pair will be remembered especially by all the old Irish professionals as the Twins wrote pieces for the Irish Times, Independent and Press in their spare time. Fred Daly, Harry Bradshaw and “The Man Himself” Christy O’Connor would also seek out the Agency Twins to make sure that they had all they needed for the Irish papers.
“Strange that they should die within a short time of each other. I bet John and Stan are up there with their notebooks out and John with his immaculate shorthand interviewing them all as they come off the last green of the heavenly links. Another era has ended.”
Louis Stanley
Louis Stanley, who became a member in 1948 but subsequently left the Association, also died in January at the age of 92. As well as a career in motor racing administration, Louis wrote many books, around 20 of them on golf.
The 1991 edition of his “History of Golf” includes this tribute from Gary Player: “Louis Stanley, a scratch golfer, has given considerable thought to the techniques of the game. Over the years he has studied, analysed and played with many of the greatest players, in fact, no player of international repute has escaped the lens of his camera.”
The following obituary is provided courtesy of The Times:
“Beginning a journalistic career writing on sporting affairs for such magazines as The Field, Louis Stanley found himself in the 1950s and 1960s involved in motor racing administration as chairman of British Racing Motors (BRM) in the period after the team was taken over by the industrialist Sir Alfred Owen. Stanley’s second wife, Jean Baber, was Owen’s sister, and for the next ten years Stanley was involved with the fortunes of the company, of which he and his wife were appointed joint managing directors.
“Stanley was involved in all aspects of racing, notably driver safety, for which he fought a personal crusade. His creation of the International Grand Prix Medical Service is his permanent achievement. The Formula One experience provided him with the material for a number of books about the sport. After the demise of BRM in the 1970s he continued his writing career, producing a steady flow of books.
“Louis Thomas Stanley was born in New Brighton, the son of a cotton broker, and educated at Birkenhead College; Coats Hall, Edinburgh; and Emmanuel College, Cambridge, where he read economics and theology. His journalism, which began with his writing golfing articles for The Field, was to spread into many sporting, travel and cognate spheres in the years that followed, and it spawned a host of books. Green Fairways (1947) was a compilation of his Field golf articles to that date.
“BRM had been founded in 1947 by Raymond Mays to carry the standard for British motor racing. But ‘the nation’s team’ always struggled until it was taken over in 1952 by Sir Alfred Owen, and was able to benefit from the financial backing of his Rubery Owen industrial empire. Thereafter it became the Owen Racing Organisation, though its cars were still known as BRMs After marrying Owen’s sister in 1955, Stanley found himself not only at the heart of BRM, but an important figure in the Formula One business in general. Not everyone appreciated his high-handed manner and forthright opinions, but drivers realised that his heart was in the right place, when it came to their safety.
“In 1967 he established the International Grand Prix Medical Service, which brought a state-of-the-art mobile hospital to grand prix circuits with a databank containing medical particulars of every driver. His personal crusade, backed by Jackie Stewart, then a BRM driver, became the blueprint for the mandatory safety rules that today govern Formula 1 racing and have made deaths so rare.
“After the death in 1971 of Jo Sieffert, when his car exploded into flames after hitting a bank at Brands Hatch while he was driving for BRM, Stanley redoubled his efforts to find ways to protect drivers from fire. He was honorary secretary of the original Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, a trustee of the Jim Clark Foundation (Clark was killed during a Formula Two race at Hockenheim in 1968), and the founder of the Jo Sieffert Advisory Council. Even after BRM ceased to compete in Formula One from the mid-1970s onwards, after Owen put the company into liquidation, Stanley remained an elder statesman on the grand prix circuit. At the same time he continued writing prolifically on a range of subjects. Throughout his long life he had published books on topics including motor racing, golf, Cambridge, Cornwall and London inns.
“Stanley married in 1942 Kate Furness. There were two sons of the marriage, which was dissolved in 1950. His second wife, Jean, died in 2002. He is survived by the two sons of his first marriage and by the two stepsons and two stepdaughters of his second.
Curtis Cup
The Great Britain and Ireland team for this June’s Curtis Cup will be announced at a press conference at Formby at 9.30am on Monday 19 April. There will be chance to play the course following the announcement. Anyone interested in attending should contact Stewart McDougall (0141 4275344).
Bearwood Lakes and other golf dates
Bearwood Lakes, near Wokingham, have kindly agreed to fill the gap in our calendar on the day before the Spring Medal at Wentworth during Volvo PGA week. They have invited us to play from 11.30am on Tuesday 25 May, with a snack meal to follow. As we are still looking for a venue for a date for the Ron Moseley Trophy this should make a convenient time to play it. The course can be accessed from both junction 10 of the M4 and junction 3 of the M3. Anyone interested in playing please contact Golf Captain Bob Davies (01743 872655; email hidden; JavaScript is required) or myself.
As advertised in the last newsletter, the Open Championship golf day will take place at Royal Troon on Monday 26 April with the R and A press conference at 9am on the Tuesday. Further details can be obtained from Stewart McDougall. Later the same morning, on Tuesday 27, there is a chance to play at Dundonald courtesy of Loch Lomond. There has already been a large response but if anyone else wants to play please contact Bob.
Royal Cinque Ports in Deal are offering a press day on Tuesday 11 May with tee times from 11 am followed by late lunch/early supper. The following have indicated they wish to play: Tony Stenson, Alistair Tait, David Hamilton, Mark Garrod, Michael McDonnell, Andy Farrell, Bob Rodney.
The Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget takes place on the East Course at Wentworth on Wednesday 26 May. The following have indicated they wish to play: Peter Corrigan, Jock MacVicar, Colin Callander, Tony Stenson, Alistair Tait, Alan Hedley, Peter Godsiff, Mike Blair, David Hamilton, Mark Garrod, George Peper, Scott MacCallum, Tony Adamson, Colm Smith, Martin Vousden, Norman Dabell, John Pinner, Derek Lawrenson, Graham Otway, Jeremy Chapman, Michael McDonnell, Andy Farrell, Bob Davies.
Tandridge in Oxted, Surrey have also offered us a press day on Monday 7 June. Arrive 12pm for lunch at 12.30 and golf from 1.30pm. The following have indicated they wish to play: Tony Stenson, Peter Godsiff, David Hamilton, Mark Garrod, Tony Adamson, John Pinner, Michael McDonnell, Jeremy Chapman, Bob Rodney, Andy Farrell.
If you are not listed for the Cinque Ports, Wentworth or Tandridge days please get in touch. Also, if you know other members of the golfing media who are not members who wish to play in the press days at Cinque Ports or Tandridge, please get them to let me know.
US Open arrangements
An update from Craig Smith at the USGA concerning the US Open. Application forms will be sent out in the first week of April. It should be noted there will be NO bus service from the hotel to the course. Craig says: “A block of 175 rooms is being held for media at the Islandia Marriott off the Long Island Expressway (I-495). Rooms are $229 per night, plus taxes, and can be reserved only by returning the hotel form in the credential application. The hotel is 40 miles west of the golf course. Media parking will be available about a half-mile east of the golf course, with a continuous shuttle drop at the golf course media entrance.
“If you seek closer or less expensive alternatives, get started. Media parking will be available about a half-mile east of the golf course, with a continuous shuttle drop at the golf course media entrance. For alternatives, some places to search are the Long Island Convention Bureau at 001 631 951 3440, or the Southampton Chamber of Commerce at 001 631 283 0402. The website is www.southamptonchamber.com. Don’t wait!”
For those looking for accommodation close to Whistling Straits for the USPGA Championship, go to the website www.megahousing.com. Click on “Events” and then on the USPGA logo.
Tavistock Cup
The press contact for this new event is Toby Zwikel, who can be contacted on 001 818 3446195 or email hidden; JavaScript is required. The event features teams from Lake Nona (captain Ernie Els) and Isleworth (captain Mark O’Meara) and will be played at Lake Nona in Orlando on March 29-30.
Changes of address, etc
Dave Hamilton’s mobile is now: 07834 172877 and his e-mail is: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Steve Scott has moved to: 80 Dundee Road, Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1DW (Tel: 01382 739670; fax: 01382 454590; mobile: 07802 690214)
Eamonn Power is now a full-time writer with Andalucia Golf and his business address is now:
Andalucia Golf, c/ Ortega y Gasset, 7, Edificio Hispasol, 2-C, 29600 Marbella, Malaga, Spain (0034 952 828976; fax: 0034 952 829088; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required). His mobile has changed to: 0034 667 371786 and his personal e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Phil Sheldon’s e-mail address has changed to: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Clare Tyler is now the marketing, press and PR officer for the English Ladies Golf Association (mobile: 07793 944671; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Challenge Tour press officer Michael Gibbons’s mobile is: 07740 393484
Joanne McGhee’s direct line at Loch Lomond is now: 01436 655 336
E-mail addresses at the LPGA have changed to follow the pattern: email hidden; JavaScript is required. For example, director of media relations Connie Wilson can now be reached at email hidden; JavaScript is required
The e-mail address for the PGA of Europe has changed to: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Jamie Cunningham’s e-mail at Professional Sports Partnerships is now: email hidden; JavaScript is required
The press contact for Hi-Tec Golf is Shoma Amin (Tel: 0207 940 1709; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Loch Lomond
Following points raised in last year’s Tournament Reports, Keith Williams has written from Loch Lomond to advise that members of the press will from now on have access to the players’ locker room in accordance with the normal practice on the European Tour.
European Tour Finishing Times
Proposed Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions (subject to change). All times are local. Qatar Masters 1630; Caltex Masters 1630; Portuguese Open 1700; Spanish Open 1730; Italian Open 1700; British Masters 1745; BMW Asian Open TBC; Deutsche Bank SAP Open 1700; Volvo PGA 1830; Wales Open 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; French Open 1700; Smurfit European Open 1800; Barclays Scottish Open 1715; Irish Open 1900; Scandinavian Masters 1700; KLM Open 1800; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1800; German Masters 1700; AmEx World Champs TBC; Dunhill Links 1730; HSBC World Match Play 1700; Mallorca Classic TBC; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup TBC.
Rules of Golf
I have a supply of the latest version of the Rules of Golf for 2004. Please let me know if you wish to receive a copy or need any spares. It seems a shame to let them go to waste.
Pick Your Pro
This year’s competition is just underway but it is still possible to enter. If you require an entry form, please let me know.
ANDY FARRELL – 01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Golf dates
Monday 19 April Formby – Curtis Cup press day
Monday 26 April Royal Troon – Open Championship press day
Tuesday 27 April Dundonald – press day
Tuesday 11 May Royal Cinque Ports – press day
Tuesday 25 May Bearwood Lakes – Ron Moseley Trophy
Wednesday 26 May Wentworth East – Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget
Monday 7 June Tandridge – press day
Wed 13 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
May 2004
John Reece
It is with much regret that I record the death of John Reece. John, who died at home in March, was 88 and had spent almost 70 years writing about golf. He had been a member of the Association for 20 years. Earlier in the year, John phoned to say how much he and Peggy had enjoyed the Christmas Hamper, which had been saved until he came out of hospital. Peter Godsiff provided this tribute:
John had a remarkable career and he continued contributing his weekly column to the Western Daily Press until a year ago when ill health forced him to step down. He was born in Bristol but the family moved to Durham in 1919 and he only returned to his birthplace after the war. He was chief sub-editor of the Western Daily Press until he retired in 1981 to devote more time to golf writing. He worked for the English Golf Union, Professional Golfers’ Association, as well as a string of national and local newspapers.
John also reached high standards as a player and retained a single-figure handicap for more than 50 years. But for the war, many felt he would have been capped by England. He played county golf for Durham for seven years off a handicap of one.
He was the son and grandson of journalists. His father Val was an editor in Bristol in the early1900s before he moved to Durham as editor of the Durham Advertiser series for the following 20 years until the war. His brother was chief sub editor of the Evening Chronicle in Manchester.
John first played at Durham City before becoming a country member at Brancepeth Castle. He played for the county colt’s side and enjoyed the company of professionals. “I would pay them £1 from my pocket money to have a round with them,” he said. “I never wanted to be a professional but I would have loved to have played for England.”
He first walked onto a golf course in 1921 with a cut-down piece of hickory with a leather grip and polished head. “It was a wonderful way to grow up,” he recalled. He wrote his first golf story for a sports agency in Manchester when he was 16. He reported Brancepeth Castle professional Charlie Gadd’s win in the Northern Open on his home course.
“The headline was ‘Good Gadd’, I was paid five shillings and I was still at school,” he related. His early golfing influence was Bobby Jones and when he left school in 1932 he became a general reporter for the Northern Echo in Darlington although he was able to report on golf. He also spent much time on the professional tournament circuit writing about the game he loved.
He was sent to the Middle East with the Royal Signals in 1941 and was attached to the Indian Army. Two years later he was commissioned as a lieutenant. He was promoted to captain two weeks before demobilisation.
He used to visit his brother in Manchester and after the war was introduced to the Chronicle’s editor who said he was seeking a golf correspondent. But John resisted as his ambition was return to the West Country. He joined the Bristol Evening Post as a sports reporter but could not settle. So he walked across the city to the Western Daily Press where he stayed from 1948-1981.
He became a member of Henbury Golf Club where he met Peggy Millington, his future wife. He was devoted to Peggy and was proud of her notable success in women’s golf. She captained England in 1966, reached the final of the English Amateur, won all the competitions in the South West and was elected president of the English Ladies Golf Association in 1996.
But his life was turned upside down a year later when Peggy suffered multiple injuries in a car accident near their home as she was returning from an ELGA tournament at Saunton. She spent weeks in intensive care but, miraculously after almost six months in the Bristol Royal Infirmary and Frenchay Hospital, she recovered.
Knee problems restricted his own golf in recent years. He spent several weeks at Weston-super-Mare hospital suffering from respiratory difficulties early this year. He died on Saturday March 20 at his cottage home in Redhill, near Bristol, where he had lived for more than 30 years. Their son Simon was an Oxford blue for boxing. He became housemaster at School House, Clifton College.
US Open arrangements
In what is becoming a regular spot, Craig Smith wishes to remind members that credential forms for the US Open are available and the deadline for applications is Wednesday 19 May but anyone wishing to book into the official hotel should act immediately. Craig adds: “We will put together a skeleton shuttle service from the hotel to make it easy for media staying at the hotel to get to and from the golf course without having to rent a car and navigate the crazy New York traffic. I’m thinking of a couple outbound buses in the morning and a couple buses on the return end late in the day.”
Open accommodation
Allan Herron writes: “Members of the AGW looking for accommodation during the Open at Royal Troon may be interested in accommodation available at Annick Lodge, Irvine, some 15-20 minutes from Troon. This is a huge mansion house within acres of its own grounds, offering sleeping accommodation for 12 or perhaps 7 singles. It has been used by corporate people at previous Opens at Royal Troon. Owner is related, through marriage, to me. She is Mrs Margaret Quarm (Tel: 01294 850244). There is a billiards room within the building. If anyone needs further info don’t hesitate to call me.”
Changes of address, etc
The details for Advantage International in the Useful Addresses section of the handbook should be replaced with the following: OCTAGON (UK): David Collins, Octagon House, 81-83 Fulham High Street, London SW6 3JW (020 7862 0000; fax: 020 7862 0001; mobile: 07776 472 863; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required). OCTAGON (US): Phil de Picciotto, 1751 Pinnacle Drive, Suite 1500, McLean, VA 22102, USA (001 703 905 3355; fax: 001 703 905 4495; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
The new PR executive for TaylorMade-adidas Golf Europe is Nick Robbie, who can be contacted at: TaylorMade Court, Jays Close, Viables Business Park, Basingstoke RG22 4BS (01256 479 797; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Angus Macdonald has left S2 and can be contacted on mobile: 07798 600 578 or e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required. Peter Laundy is now the main contact at S2.
Margaret Dodd has moved to: 14 Stirling Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale, Ilkley LS29 7LH (01943 863811; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
European Tour Finishing Times
Proposed Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions (subject to change). All times are local. British Masters 1635; BMW Asian Open TBC; Deutsche Bank SAP Open 1700; Volvo PGA 1830; Wales Open 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; French Open 1700; Smurfit European Open 1800; Barclays Scottish Open 1715; Irish Open 1900; Scandinavian Masters 1700; KLM Open 1800; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1800; German Masters 1700; AmEx World Champs TBC; Dunhill Links 1730; HSBC World Match Play 1700; Mallorca Classic TBC; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup TBC.
Rules of Golf
I have a supply of the latest version of the Rules of Golf for 2004. Please let me know if you wish to receive a copy or need any spares.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Lewine Mair doesn’t dust off her clubs very often. But when she does she proves that she has certainly not lost the touch that earned her a very low handicap a few years ago. She took the honours by a considerable margin when the Royal and Ancient kindly invited writers and photographers on their annual pilgrimage to play this year’s Open Championship course at Royal Troon.
Lewine, playing off a handicap of 12, recorded a gross 83 – which included two birdies – for a very creditable 40 points on a day when many in the field were brought to their knees on a superb golf course. That gave Lewine a comfortable six-stroke margin over second placed Patricia Davies, who came in with 34 points. Perhaps there was a moral to the story, too, as both the ladies employed local caddies to plot their way around!
Leading the way for the men were Alistair Tait and Colin Callander, who both scored 33 points and could only be separated by a card count back over the last six holes. That resulted in Alistair taking third place and Colin finishing fourth. Apart from the fact that we were blessed with exceptional weather – on a day when there was torrential rain further south – it was a most enjoyable occasion because, for the first time, R&A secretary Peter Dawson, other members of his staff and officials from the club competed in the competition.
The following day we were invited to Dundonald, the new links owned by Loch Lomond. The course shows a lot of potential and our thanks go to Keith Williams and Joanne McGhee for organising the day which saw Matthew Lindsay win on a highly respectable 36 points.
The first AGW events of the new season are scheduled for later this month, so it is appropriate to remind members of their handicaps. They are as follows:
Tony Adamson 26, Mike Aitken 15, David Birtill 17, Michael Blair 13, Mike Britten 13, Colin Callander 10, Michael Campbell 7, Paul Casey 15, Jane Carter 15, Jeremy Chapman 18, Peter Corrigan 26, Brian Creighton 26, Norman Dabell 24, Bob Davies 17, Dai Davies 24, Patricia Davies 14, John Drake 10, Bill Elliott 19, David Facey 19, Andy Farrell 15, John Fenton 16, Alan Fraser 18, Mark Garrod 10, Tim Glover 25, Peter Godsiff 16, David Hamilton 12, Colin Harding 7, Martin Hardy 15, Alan Hedley 8, Alan Herron 11, Peter Higgs 21, John Hopkins 18, John Huggan 1, Derek Lawrenson 9, Jock MacVicar 11, Lewine Mair 10, Peter Masters 8, Michael McDonnell 18, Bernie McGuire 20, Jim Mossop 27, Graham Otway 9, John Pinner 21, Mitchell Platts 21, Bryan Potter 12, Bill Robertson 8, Bob Rodney 19, Lorne Rubenstein 8, Gordon Simpson 15, Colin Smith 18, Alex Spink 26, Tony Stenson 26, Alistair Tait 10, Martin Vousden 14, Barry Ward 13, John Whitbread 28, Mark Wilson 18, Goran Zachrisson 9, Petra Himmel 8.
If anyone has any views, please speak to me.
It is proposed to play the Ron Moseley Trophy at Bearwood Lakes, which is situated one mile south of junction 10 of the M4 between Wokingham and Sindlesham, on Tuesday 25May, with the first tee off time at 11.30am. Those who have told me they will be there are: Bryan Potter, Brian Creighton, Peter Higgs, Bill Elliott, Mike Aitken, Jock MacVicar, Martin Vousden, Colin Callander, Bernie McGuire, Norman Dabell, Bob Davies, Dave Hamilton, Mike Blair, Alistair Tait, Andy Farrell, John Hopkins, Mark Garrod, Peter Corrigan, Dai Davies and Patricia Davies. If anyone else would like to play, please let me know.
The Spring Medal, for the Michael Williams Hogget, will be played over the East course at Wentworth on the following day, Wednesday 26May. We have a number of guests coming over from Germany to join us as Ryder Cup captain, Bernhard Langer, will be holding a press conference during the tournament. They include his brother, Erwin, who is a scratch golfer himself. That means there will be a very full field and the draw is:
7.30 Mark Garrod, Bob Davies, David Hamilton
7.37 Andy Farrell, Jock MacVicar, Michael Blair
7.45 Peter Godsiff, Dai Davies, Mike Aitken, John Hopkins
7.52 Patricia Davies, Tony Adamson, John Fenton, Graham Otway
8.01 Michael McDonnell, Colm Smith, Peter Corrigan, Jim Mossop
8.10 Jane Carter, Peter Higgs, Bill Elliott, George Peper
8.19 Erwin Langer, Colin Callander, John Huggan, Alistair Tait
8.28 Bryan Potter, Alan Hedley, Bill Robertson, Derek Lawrenson
8.37 Bernie McGuire, Brian Creighton, Klaus Waeschle, Detlef Hennies
8.46 Tony Stenson, Norman Dabell, Martin Vousden, Scott MacCallum
8.55 John Pinner, Jeremy Chapman, Rainer Ruelsher, Reinhold Schnupp
Just a reminder about two press days. Royal Cinque Ports in Deal are hosting us on Tuesday 11 May (gather from 10am, golf from 11am, meal to follow), while Tandridge, in Oxted, Surrey, have also offered us a day on Monday 7 June (lunch 12.30, golf from 1.30pm).
Bob Davies, Captain – (01743 872655; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Golf dates
Tuesday 11 May Royal Cinque Ports – press day
Tuesday 25 May Bearwood Lakes – Ron Moseley Trophy
Wednesday 26 May Wentworth East – Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget
Monday 7 June Tandridge – press day
Monday 4 October Stoke Park – Broadcasters match
Tuesday 12 October West Hill – President’s Putter
Wed 13 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
PICK YOUR PRO – After the Italian Open
| Total | Wins | In money | MASTERS | Deutsche | Volvo PGA | |||||
| 1 | Derek Lawrenson* | 1,058,946 | 1 | 9 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Westwood | Rose | ||
| 2 | Norman Dabell* | 1,000,086 | 1 | 8 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Scott | Westwood | ||
| 3 | Mark Wilson | 933,660 | 1 | 5 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Casey | Faldo | ||
| 4 | Mike Aitken* | 840,461 | 2 | 4 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Casey | Singh | ||
| 5 | Tony Stenson* | 755,265 | 1 | 9 | Jacobson | 48,750 | Montgomerie | Poulter | ||
| 6 | Chris Plumridge | 729,134 | 1 | 5 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Gronberg | Casey | ||
| 7 | Philip Reid* | 709,749 | 0 | 7 | Els | 351,000 | Poulter | Bjorn | ||
| 8 | Tony Rushmer | 696,733 | 1 | 7 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Bjorn | Els | ||
| 9 | Nuria Pastor* | 675,812 | 0 | 8 | Els | 351,000 | Goosen | Olazabal | ||
| 10 | Jonathan Loosemore | 658,971 | 1 | 5 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Bjorn | Immelman | ||
| 11 | Dave Hamilton* | 658,958 | 1 | 7 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Harrington | Els | ||
| 12 | John Hopkins | 589,464 | 1 | 3 | Mickelson | 585,000 | Montgomerie | Els | ||
| 13 | Allan Herron | 575,667 | 0 | 3 | Els | 351,000 | Scott | Harrington | ||
| 14 | Jock Howard* | 498,387 | 0 | 6 | Woods | 35,100 | Goosen | Montgomerie | ||
| 15 | Peter Higgs* | 445,049 | 0 | 6 | Els | 351,000 | Casey | Clarke | ||
| 16 | Tony Adamson* | 442,477 | 0 | 6 | Els | 351,000 | Langer | Montgomerie | ||
| 17 | David Facey* | 389,330 | 0 | 4 | Els | 351,000 | Goosen | Casey | ||
| 18 | James Mossop* | 331,643 | 0 | 4 | Woods | 35,100 | Rose | Westwood | ||
| 19 | Mitchell Platts | 311,302 | 0 | 6 | Garcia | 143,000 | Harrington | Fasth | ||
| 20 | Iain Carter | 290,323 | 0 | 5 | Woods | 35,100 | Bjorn | Westwood | ||
| 21 | Gordon Simpson | 281,438 | 0 | 7 | Woods | 35,100 | M Campbell | Singh | ||
| 22 | Mark Lichtenhein* | 256,902 | 0 | 8 | Woods | 35,100 | Harrington | Clarke | ||
| 23 | Patricia Davies | 237,856 | 0 | 6 | Woods | 35,100 | Dier | Scott | ||
| 24 | Paul Trow* | 228,890 | 0 | 5 | Love | 94,947 | Scott | Bjorn | ||
| 25 | John Huggan | 206,740 | 0 | 7 | Singh | 94,947 | Casey | Immelman | ||
| 26 | Alasdair Reid* | 203,732 | 0 | 7 | Singh | 94,947 | Fasth | Bjorn | ||
| 27 | Mark Lamport-Stokes | 198,677 | 0 | 5 | Woods | 35,100 | Casey | P Price | ||
| 28 | Mark Reason* | 194,189 | 0 | 8 | Woods | 35,100 | Montgomerie | Casey | ||
| 29 | Colin Callander | 190,249 | 0 | 6 | Woods | 35,100 | Harrington | Montgomerie | ||
| 30 | Alistair Tait | 182,245 | 0 | 7 | Singh | 94,947 | Rose | Casey | ||
| 31 | Eamonn Power | 180,617 | 0 | 5 | Love | 94,947 | Casey | Poulter | ||
| 32 | Charlie Mulqueen* | 146,263 | 0 | 8 | Woods | 35,100 | Harrington | Immelman | ||
| 33 | Robert Green* | 142,693 | 0 | 4 | Love | 94,947 | Montgomerie | Casey | ||
| 34 | Martin Dempster* | 133,157 | 0 | 8 | Woods | 35,100 | Els | Montgomerie | ||
| 35 | Peter Godsiff | 111,661 | 0 | 5 | Woods | 35,100 | Gronberg | Els | ||
| 36 | Scott MacCallum | 110,907 | 0 | 6 | Woods | 35,100 | Harrington | Casey | ||
| 37 | Mark Garrod* | 108,064 | 0 | 5 | Singh | 94,947 | Cabrera | Clarke | ||
| 38 | John Pinner | 104,249 | 0 | 5 | Woods | 35,100 | Clarke | Poulter | ||
| 39 | Andy Farrell | 98,170 | 0 | 7 | Woods | 35,100 | Clarke | Westwood | ||
| 40 | Mike Blair* | 79,076 | 0 | 4 | Woods | 35,100 | Harrington | Westwood | ||
| 41 | Jim Black | 68,742 | 0 | 4 | Woods | 35,100 | Cejka | Levet | ||
| 42 | David Birtill | 67,006 | 0 | 5 | Toms | MC | Howell | Harrington | ||
| 43 | Graham Otway | 64,055 | 0 | 4 | Woods | 35,100 | Poulter | Jacobson | ||
| 44 | Bill Elliott | 58,292 | 0 | 3 | Clarke | MC | Poulter | Els | ||
| 45 | Doug Lowe | 58,044 | 0 | 3 | Furyk | DNP | Harrington | Immelman | ||
| 46 | Jock MacVicar* | 31,738 | 0 | 5 | Toms | MC | Scott | Singh |
June 2004
Annual General Meeting
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
OF THE ASSOCIATION WILL BE HELD IN THE PRESS TENT
AT ROYAL TROON ON WEDNESDAY 14 JULY AT 10am.
Proposal to change constitution
After discussing many matters to do with membership over the winter meetings, the Committee has decided to propose a change to the waiting period on the Supplementary List, to be debated at the Annual General Meeting, as follows:
In Rules 6 and 7 of the Constitution, it is proposed to change the sentence: “The candidate, on acceptance by the Committee, will be placed on the Supplementary List for a minimum of two years before being considered for membership” so that the relevant phrase reads “…for a minimum of one year…”
Annual Dinner
The application form for the Association’s annual dinner at Royal Troon on Tuesday 13 July is enclosed. Please note the closing date for applications of Friday 2 July – AFTER THIS NOTING CAN BE GUARANTEED. Places are likely to be tight once again so please act as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
As usual for there will be a number of official guests to whom we will be sending invitations. There are also a number of people, including players, we would like to encourage members to bring as guests, and if you are in a position to help these can be in addition to the standard limit of two guests. Please check with dinner secretary Dave Hamilton (01621 817170) for a list of names.
Despite a slight rise in the cost of dinner we have decided to keep the ticket price of £45 unchanged. However, the biggest cost to Association is the extensive guest list so if you are able to bring any of those guests who we feel should be at the dinner it would be much appreciated. Receipts for dinner tickets can be obtained from treasurer Bob Davies.
Ted Ostermann
It is with great regret that I report the death of Ted Ostermann, a member of the Association since 1963. Ted, who had been suffering from cancer for two years, died on May 13, his 88th birthday, in Kitzbuehel.
A single-figure golfer for much of his life, Ted Ostermann left a position with the British radio station in Hamburg to become Lufthansa’s representative in New York in 1949, the year he attended his first Masters. He would go on to attend over 50 more. A spokesman for the German Golf Federation and a member of the Royal and Ancient, Ted left New York to return home and bought a golf magazine and became its editor and publisher. He later sold what became known as Golfmagazin but remained listed as publisher until his death.
Detlief Hennies, the current editor, said: “Ted was a real gentleman. He knew everyone in the sport personally and he was always a very good advisor to those who worked with him. With the death of Gunther Marks earlier in the year, Germany has lost to two of its most respected and longest serving golf writers.”
Renton Laidlaw, who joined the Association in the same year, said: “Ted was a good friend to British golf writers and in particular to me, perhaps because we both joined the Association in the same year, 1963. Founder of the leading German golf magazine Ted had been a regular visitor to the Masters at the Augusta for 50 years, travelling down to his first Masters by bus when working for Lufthansa in New York. He was so respected that he often the German Federation’s main representative at Augusta, attending the dinners in an official capacity. He had been unwell for the past two years but his death came suddenly on his 88th birthday. The Associa6tion has lost a good friend.”
Ken Schofield to receive Michael Williams Trophy
Following suggestions from the annual ballot of members, the committee has confirmed that Ken Schofield will be the recipient of this year’s Michael Williams Trophy for Outstanding Services to Golf. Currently completing his 30th and last year as executive director of the European Tour, Ken will receive the award at our Annual Dinner at Royal Troon.
Chairman John Hopkins said: “The Committee felt that Ken’s dogged determination to secure the best that he possibly could for the European Tour and its members over the 30 years that he has been executive director provided a compelling case for him to receive this award.
“We felt that Peter Dawson summed up Ken’s contribution aptly when he said: ‘He is never one to say no for an answer. When obstacles present themselves he won’t lie down, he just goes through, round or over them’.”
Ken Schofield, Scotland’s youngest bank manager at the age of 23, became the press and public relations executive of the Tour in 1971. Four years later he succeeded John Jacobs as executive director, since when the European Tour has experienced extraordinary growth. From prize money of under £500,000, the riches able now exceed £85 million, with the circuit reaching every corner of the globe. He has also overseen the development of the Seniors and Challenge Tours and was worked tirelessly to open up new opportunities for European golfers in the American majors.
New members
During the winter, the committee decided that membership matters should be discussed biannually and away from the increasingly frantic nature of the Open Championship. It will now become standard practice to have membership meetings at Wentworth in May and October. Members acting as proposers and seconders should bear in mind that the deadline for applications is a month prior to each meeting.
At the recent meeting during the Volvo PGA Championship, Elspeth Burnside, Mark Fleming, Erskine McCullough, Karl McGinty, Dave Seanor and Detlef Hennies were elected to the Associations. Applications for membership were accepted from Peter Dixon and Neil McLeman, who will be placed on the Supplementary List.
BURNSIDE, ELSPETH: 4/3 East Castle Road, Merchiston, Edinburgh EH10 5AR (0131 221 1650; mobile: 0772 0837316; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
FLEMING, MARK: Daily Express, 245 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 9UX (020 7922 7294; 020 7922 7896). Home: 62 Braemar Avenue, London SW19 8AZ (020 8947 3240; mobile: 07775 788798; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
HENNIES, DETLEF: GOLFmagazin Germany, Jessenstrasse 1, 22767 Hamburg, Germany (00 49 4038 906233; fax: 00 49 4038 906304). Home: Bernadottestrasse 159, 22605 Hamburg, Germany (00 49 40880 98765; fax: 00 49 40880 98769; mobile: 00 49 170 3592996; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
MacGINTY, KARL: Irish Independent, Independent Newspapers, Mid Abbey Street, Dublin 1, Ireland (00353 1 7055610; fax: 00353 1 7055791). Home: 23 Somerton, Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, County Dublin, Ireland (00353 1 2840290; mobile: 00353 87 8556938; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
McCULLOUGH, ERSKINE: AFP, 13 Place de la Bourse, 75002 Paris, France (00331 40414851; fax: 00331 40417372). Home: 102 La Frelatiere, 85430 Aubigny, France (0033 228155364; fax: 0033 251062831; mobile: 0033 608407999)
SEANOR, DAVE: Golfweek, 1500 Park Center Drive, Orlando, Florida 32835, USA (001 407 563 7036; fax: 001 407 563 7045). Home: 780 Pine Hill Blvd, Geneva, Florida 32732, USA (001 407 349 9235; fax: 001 407 496 4966; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
DIXON, PETER: The Times, 1 Pennington Street, London E98 1TT (020 7782 25945; fax: 020 7782 5211). Home: 36 Gravett Close, Henley-on-Thames, Oxon RG9 1XW (01491 410532; fax: 01491 579816; mobile: 07770 536094; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
McLEMAN, NEIL: Daily Mirror, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP (020 7293 3649). Home: 18 Wood Vale, London SE23 3EE (020 8637 0048; mobile: 07786 748416; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Ryder Cup and USPGA accreditation
This is now being handled on-line by the PGA of America. Members should go to www.pgamediacenter.com and follow the instructions.
European Tour accreditation
While the Association badge permits entry to all European Tour events, something we actively seek to maintain, members are requested to make press officers aware if they will be attending an event at their earliest possible convenience. This helps with the logistical planning of an event and to provide the required number of desks, phone lines, parking spaces, etc.
Gordon Simpson, director of communications at the European Tour, writes: “It has come to my attention that an increasing number of the media – including AGW members – are arriving at European Tour events without providing any advance notification of their attendance or in some cases intimating their arrival at very short notice (one or two days). In many instances, people are appearing without any accreditation whatsoever.
“This places an additional burden on our Media Centre Administrator – more often than not, Frances Jennings – as all our planning and seating arrangements are based on confirmed personnel attending. Frances supplied me with a list of 25 people who simply pitched up at the Forest of Arden, expecting a work space, car park pass, lunch ticket etc.
“We are happy to be flexible in terms of accommodating people who learn at short notice that they must go to a particular tournament but most regular golf writers and photographers should be able let us know in good time. We will always endeavour to provide a workspace for anyone arriving unannounced, but in future the Tour is tightening up the accreditation policy, and we cannot guarantee a Media Car Park pass, a dedicated phone line or lunch for those who do not intimate their attendance. Caterers, in particular, demand precise figures these days and, in terms of parking, we will issue public car park passes to all media who do not provide advance notice of their attendance.
“This policy will come into force at the Volvo PGA Championship and continue through the events which the Tour coordinates during the season – namely at Celtic Manor, Gleneagles, the K Club, Loch Lomond, Baltray, Woburn, Mount Juliet, St Andrews and Wentworth. Hopefully, this will assist us in the smooth and efficient running of Media Centre for the remainder of the year without placing an additional workload on the staff.”
Changes of address, etc
Patricia Davies’ e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Alan Hedley has moved to: 7 Rectory Bank, West Boldon, Tyne and Wear, NE36 0QF (0191 519 2304; fax: 0191 5194375; mobile: 07768 554500; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
John Ingham’s e-mail is now: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Steve Newell, who works for Ernie Els’s website, has a new e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
The Official World Golf Rankings is now a separate company and Ian Barker (01344 840458; email hidden; JavaScript is required) is responsible for the day-to-day management while Tony Grear (01895 832715; email hidden; JavaScript is required) remains as a consultant.
Cricket match against Caddies
Thanks should go to Graham Otway, who helped to organise a cricket match against the Caddies during the PGA Championship. Graham reports: “Within 24 hours of the AGW fielding a cricket team against the caddies on the eve of the Volvo PGA, Nasser Hussain announced his retirement from the game and Tim Lamb resigned as chief exec of the England and Wales Cricket Board. Rumours of the game going to pot abounded.
“The performance at Egham Cricket Club was not, however, totally catastrophic. Batting first the AGW made 94 for seven from their 20 overs before heavy rain intervened and the two sides settled for an honourable draw. Thanks are due to the officers of Egham Cricket Club who made us all welcome – even to the extent of asking us back next year – and Jos Vanstiphout who paid for the food buffet and has asked to sponsor the drinks as well in 2005.”
European Tour Finishing Times
Proposed Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions (subject to change). All times are local. Wales Open 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; French Open 1700; Smurfit European Open 1800; Barclays Scottish Open 1645; Irish Open 1900; Scandinavian Masters 1700; KLM Open 1800; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; German Masters 1700; Ryder Cup 1800; Heritage 1700; AmEx World Champs 1800; Dunhill Links 1730; HSBC World Match Play 1700; Mallorca Classic TBC; Madrid Open 1800; Volvo Masters 1730.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Golf dates
Monday 7 June Tandridge – press day
Monday 4 October Stoke Park – Broadcasters match
Tuesday 12 October West Hill – President’s Putter
Wed 13 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Fewer members than we originally planned for enjoyed a superb day out at a new venue for the AGW – Bearwood Lakes, just off the M4 near Wokingham. We were invited along to sample the delightful Martin Hawtree-designed course a few months ago and took the opportunity to stage the Ron Moseley Trophy there as the event attracted a very creditable entry of 24 players. But just five days before the competition, our plans were thrown into chaos when it was announced that Ryder Cup captain, Bernhard Langer, was to hold a press conference at Wentworth just an hour after we were due to tee off. Duty obviously called for a majority of the writers but in the end 10 of us savoured the impressive Bearwood Lakes course, for which we will be eternally grateful to general manager Scott Evans.
When the press conference was called, and the Ron Moseley field was decimated, we thought there would be insufficient members to make it worthwhile going to Bearwood and the day was postponed. But after a rallying call to everyone from secretary Andy Farrell we realised there were enough of us prepared to travel to Bearwood and, thanks to Scott’s enthusiasm, we had a thoroughly enjoyable day. However, because of the reduced field we did not compete for the Ron Moseley Trophy, although the odd pound or two did change hands!
The good news, though, is that Scott and his fellow directors are keen to repeat the day during PGA Championship week next year – and hopefully for a few years after that – so it may be that Bearwood will become the “home” for the Ron Moseley Trophy in future.
There was no such disruption the following day when, blessed with glorious weather, we played the Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget over Wentworth’s magnificent East Course. Fittingly, having played his very first AGW competition alongside the late Michael Williams, the winner was Alistair Tait, with 39 points.
He revelled in telling everyone how, on that first occasion alongside Michael, he succeeded in collecting only around 19 points – prompting the former chairman to shake his head in disbelief at Alistair’s handicap! Gazing up to heaven, Alistair said: “I hope Michael is up there looking down on us and can see that I can play a little better now!”
Runner-up, with 36 points, was Tony Stenson, with Peter Higgs edging out Jeremy Chapman on the back nine for third place on 35 points and Bryan Potter easing out Colin Callander on the last three after both had carded 34 points. Other scores were: 32 points: Patricia Davies, Michael Blair, Bernie McGuire; 30: Bob Davies, David Facey; 29 Michael McDonnell, David Hamilton, Dai Davies; 28: Graham Otway, Martin Hardy, Bill Elliott, Jane Carter, Alan Fraser, Bill Robertson; 27: Mark Garrod; 26: Andy Farrell; 25: John Whitbread, Brian Creighton; 24: Norman Dabell, Colm Smith; 23: Peter Godsiff, Jock McVicar, John Hopkins; 22: Scott McCallum; 21: Mike Aitken; 18 Peter Corrigan; 16: Tony Adamson; 10: John Fenton.
Due to the Langer press conference, we had the pleasure of the company of a number of German golf writers and the winner of the guest prize, with 32 points, was Detief Hennies. Godfrey Clarke was runner up with 30 points and Klaus Waeschle third just one point behind. To make it a special day Bernhard joined us for lunch – together with the Ryder Cup – and presented the prizes alongside Judy Williams.
Bob Davies, Captain (01743 872655; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
August 2004
Annika Sorenstam
Annika Sorenstam received the Golf Writers’ Trophy for 2003 during the Weetabix British Women’s open at Sunningdale. “I am sorry I couldn’t be at the dinner, I bet I would have enjoyed it very much,” Sorenstam said. “I feel very honoured to receive this award, especially looking at all the names on the trophy, it’s really flattering.
“So, I want to thank you for considering me and for recognising my success on the golf course last year. It was a special year for me in so many ways. Getting inducted into the Hall of Fame, completing the grand slam, the Solheim Cup victory, playing with the men at the Colonial, it was a really wonderful year. So thanks for recognising all of that and thank you for your support. I will cherish this very much.”
Annual Dinner
Our thanks are due to everyone who made this year’s dinner at Royal Troon a superb evening, particularly Dave Hamilton and Bob Davies for squeezing in a full house and more.
Although Annika Sorenstam could not be present to receive the Golf Writers’ Trophy, Ian Randell, chief executive of the Ladies European Tour, collected the award on her behalf. Ken Schofield, in his 30th and final year as executive director of the European Tour, was on good form in receiving the Michael Williams Trophy for Outstanding Services of Golf.
Bill Elliott proposed the health of the guests, while Troon club member Colin Montgomerie replied with gusto in an entertaining prelude to his attempt to win the Open on home soil. Among the principal guests were the Captain of the Royal and Ancient, Ben Curtis, in the last days of his reign as Open champion, Hal Sutton, the US Ryder Cup captain and Sandy Lyle, as well as representatives from all the major golfing organisations.
Annual General Meeting
After six years in the role, Michael McDonnell stepped down as President saying the job was a “rare privilege that ought to be shared around.” Renton Laidlaw was duly elected to succeed Michael and said it was a “great honour to join the list of names who have served the Association as President”. Michael is well on his way to completing his history of the Association and it is hoped to publish the book in time for next year’s Open at St Andrews.
It was agreed to invite Sir Michael Bonallack to become a new Vice-President of the Association following the death of Joe Carr and he has confirmed he will accepted the invitation. With Dai Davies and Bill Elliott stepping down from the Committee, Philip Reid, of the Irish Times, and David Smith, of the London Evening Standard, were elected in their place.
The proposal to reduce the waiting period on the Supplementary List from two years to one year was passed. Bob Davies, the Treasurer, warned that subscriptions, which have been held at £25 for at least a decade and a half, may have to be increased in the near future and this would be monitored by the Committee.
Accommodation for 2005 Open at St Andrews
For accommodation in the university colleges, please contact: Lynsey Wilkie, University of St Andrews, 79 North Street, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9AJ (01334 463000; fax: 01334 462500).
For private rented accommodation, contact: Cath Slade, Pagan Osbourne, 106 South Street, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9NW (01334 470194; fax: 01334 470958).
For hotels and B&B, contact: St Andrews and North & East Fife Tourist Board, 70 Market Street, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9NU (01334 472021; fax: 01334 478422).
Ryder Cup
The deadline for accreditation was extended but anyone who has not yet applied should immediately do so by visiting www.pgamediacenter.com. If anyone has had problems with the on-line service, please contact Una Jones at the PGA of America on 001 561 6248407.
There are four official media hotels and all of them are within 10-15 minutes of Oakland Hills. Shuttles will operate throughout the day and drop media virtually at the door of the media centre. There will be a security check but this entrance will be for guests and media only, not the public. Media parking will be at the Holiday Inn Southfield, so anyone at one of the hotels should use the shuttles.
The media centre itself is handily placed on the tennis courts by the clubhouse car park and a short walk to both the first tee and the 18th green. The system of bids for access inside the ropes will operate roughly as at the last match in America. For those without bids, there are a number of platforms and pens for the use of media only, probably more than ever before. Thanks are due to the board of Ryder Cup Ltd for enabling myself and Dave Cannon to be part of the “walk-through” of the arrangements at Oakland Hills earlier this summer.
Changes of address, etc
Lauren St John’s e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Nick Green, of MacDuff Golf, has moved to: 5416 Harwood Road, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA (001 301 6560615; mobile: 001 917 5979250; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Colin Snape Golf Consultancy has new contact details: Rua Vasco Da Gama N 20 1 C, Alvor, 8500-028, Algarve, Portugal. Tel/fax: 00351 282 458709; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Golf
Anyone interested in playing in the dates shown below, please contact the captain, Bob Davies (01743 872655; email hidden; JavaScript is required). A form will go out in next month’s newsletter but to secure your place, especially concerning the matches, please act promptly. The match against the Broadcasters takes place as usual at Stoke Park. Wisley have offered us a match and this has been tentatively scheduled for the Monday after the World Match Play (tee-off approx 10.30am) but will only be confirmed when we are sure of fulfilling the fixture. The match against the Golf Foundation is likely to be played in early November – more details when they are confirmed.
Sadly, it has not so far been possible to arrange the traditional DeVere weekend. The executive who has overseen the trip in recent years, Alasdair McNee, has left the company, while the contacts at the PR company Synergy who made the arrangements have also departed so there has been a breakdown in communication. Hopefully, it will only be temporary.
Golf dates
Monday 4 October Stoke Park – Broadcasters v AGW
Tuesday 12 October West Hill – President’s Putter
Wed 13 October Wentworth East – AGW Championship
Monday 18 October Wisley – club v AGW
European Tour Finishing Times
Proposed Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions (subject to change). All times are local. KLM Open 1800; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; German Masters 1700; Ryder Cup 1800; Heritage 1700; AmEx World Champs 1800; Dunhill Links 1730; HSBC World Match Play 1700; Mallorca Classic TBC; Madrid Open 1800; Volvo Masters 1730
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
September 2004
Members’ handbook
Enclosed is the form for next year’s members’ handbook. Please write clearly and return to me by November 1. As it helps with postage and photocopying costs to send out occasional newsletters by e-mail, please indicate if you require a hardcopy.
Brian Meek
Mike Aitken, who spoke at Brian’s funeral, provided this appreciation:
Although he was never a member of the AGW, Brian Meek, who died of cancer aged 65 in August, spent a large chunk of his life as a sportswriter covering golf. When he worked for the Express in the Sixties, Brian often penned first person columns for champions such as Tony “Champagne” Lema at the Open. And, as chief sportswriter for the Herald, he covered Ryder Cups and US Opens in America as well as tournaments closer to home.
As a forthright columnist, perceptive sports journalist and elegant feature writer with a number of leading newspapers over the past 40 years or so, Brian was one of the most talented and best loved Scottish journalists of his generation.
When we spent a couple of hours together at his home in Morningside three days before he died, I asked Brian what he thought was the distinguishing feature of his work. “Leave ‘em laughing,” he replied. Whether it was those wonderfully down to earth and human political columns which earned him the accolade of columnist of the year no fewer than four times in the Bank of Scotland Press awards, or the keenly observed sports reports which brought him two gongs as Sports Journalist of the year, what set Brian apart from so many of his peers was the wish to lace information with entertainment.
The Scotsman gave him his first job as a copyboy. It didn’t take long before he moved onto the sports desk and first met Ian Wood, an AGW man who shared Brian’s wonderful lightness of touch. While Ian spent nearly all of his career working for The Scotsman, Brian was tempted to work for the Evening Dispatch when the long defunct evening paper offered him the post of horse racing correspondent.
Brian went on to join the Scottish Daily Express near the end of its heyday when the paper was the most successful in Scotland and sold nearly 600,000 copies a day. In what was to prove the start of an extraordinarily versatile career, Brian wrote both feature stories for the news section – often in cahoots with his great chum, the late Neville Garden – and items on rugby, golf and athletics for the sports pages.
When it’s also remembered how Brian went on to become one of Scotland’s most accomplished after dinner speakers – Jimmy Logan once told him: “I’m glad I don’t have to go on after you every night” – as well as a fine broadcaster and a director of a PR company, it should become clear how the lad o’ pairts evolved into a Renaissance man..
It was probably just as well there was no end to Brian’s versatility when a long and productive period with the Express came to an end during a bitter round of redundancies in 1974. He turned to freelance journalism when he wasn’t either running Lothian Region as Convener in the early Eighties or dishing out justice as a magistrate. Edinburgh’s longest ever serving councillor, Brian didn’t return to newspapers until Ian Wood offered him the chance to cover the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh as part of The Scotsman’s reporting team.
That was the only occasion Brian and I worked together for the same paper, though for the best part of the 20 years which followed we covered countless major international sporting events around the world together as the friendliest of rivals.
After the Commonwealth Games, the Scotsman dithered and missed the chance to recruit him permanently. The late Arnold Kemp, once deputy editor of The Scotsman, but by then a notable editor of The Herald, swooped for what was the journalistic equivalent of signing Henrik Larsson. When Brian asked Arnold what he wanted him to write about, Arnold replied: “Anything you like.” Brian took him at his word and went on to pen a hugely popular column and the most perspicacious sports reports.
The notion that an Edinburgh Tory might become much loved in Glasgow would have been dismissed by most editors as fanciful. However, Brian’s decency, his willingness to fight a corner and unerring sense of humour won him a new constituency. It was entirely fitting when one reader wrote to confess that while he’d never voted Tory in his life, he would surely have voted for Brian if he’d lived in his ward.
Brian was also regarded with particular fondness by the Scottish Rugby Union, for whom he worked as a press officer at the 1995 World Cup in South Africa. A poacher rather than a gamekeeper, Brian was happier with the boys in the Press box than hobnobbing with the high heid yins. Gavin Hastings, the former Lions’ captain, was among the Scottish internationalists who attended his funeral.
And he was a popular figure on the European Tour, where Ken Schofield, the executive director, led the tributes. During the recent Open at Royal Troon, Colin Montgomerie also took time out from a hectic schedule to hand me a card conveying his best wishes for Brian.
One of Brian’s favourite stories was about being picked up by a taxi driver after a match at Murrayfield. The driver asked if he was Brian Meek, the sportswriter. Brian replied ‘yes’. The man told him how much he enjoyed his writing. “I’m glad it’s you,” he went on. “No yon other Brian Meek who’s a Tory councillor. I cannae stand him…”
Brian was a journalist with political interests rather than a politician who dabbled in the media. His writing reflected his brilliant life – fearless, stylish and rewarding. Although he didn’t receive a formal university education, Brian could speak as eloquently as he wrote. He was, I suppose, a natural, and the press tent is a poorer place without him.
Furman Bisher
Following the presentation to him at the Open Championship, Furman writes: “Rare is the time that I have ever been rendered tongue-tied but on the morning of my surprise recognition by the AGW I was virtually speechless. Later, many thoughts roamed through my head that I would have liked to share.
“The dawning of my relationship with the Open began at Turnberry, on the year of the two-day drama of Nicklaus against Watson, that reached such a harried point on Sunday that both players ordered their caddies to sit the bags in the middle of the ninth – or was it the 10th? – fairway until officials could bring the crowd under control. Then Watson sank the deciding putt on the 17th green. That year Mark Hayes also shot a 63, setting the record for the Open, later tied, of course.
“I could have shared memories of some of the accommodations I have endured during the many Opens, some quite nice, but some no more than dumps. Like the Hovertel at Dover, where I had to stand under the shower to wet down, step outside and apply soap, then step back inside and wash it off. Then there was the lady cop at Birkdale, to whose hut I was assigned, arriving at 10am after the all-night flight. Banging on the door, just hoping for admittance so I might get a bit of rest before heading to Royal Birkdale, I was informed by a neighbour that, “She’s a police officer. She doesn’t come home until six.”
“Well, I could go on and then some, but I shall not. My experiences at the Open have been enormously appreciated, more so after I was to bring Lynda along to share with me. And all you gentlemen have been so kind and hospitable to her.
“It has been one of the grand experiences of my life, introducing me to other countries and other people and other lifestyles. But most of all, being able to share with my friends in the AGW, who accepted me as a member in 1988. To all of you, and to Michael Tate of the R and A for their gift, my deepest appreciation. I’m sorry to have to come to this point in my life that I just don’t see any point pushing it any further, not with children, grandchildren and my wonderful wife to embrace my life. Thanks to one and all.”
Changes of address, etc
Scott MacCallum has moved to: 49 The Paddock, Wilberfoss, York, YO41 5LZ (Tel: 01759 388610)
Golf dates
Anyone interested in playing in the dates shown below, please contact the captain, Bob Davies (01743 872655; email hidden; JavaScript is required). If your name is listed, then you are already signed up for the event. The events include the usual match against the Broadcasters at Stoke Park, the double-header in World Match Play week at West Hill and Wentworth, the Golf Foundation day and two other matches.
Broadcasters match – Monday 4 October, Stoke Park
Mark Reason, Mark Garrod, Tony Stenson, Tony Adamson, Bob Davies, Bill Elliott, Andy Farrell
Presidents Putter – Tuesday 12 October, West Hill
Mark Garrod, Tony Stenson, Bob Davies, David Hamilton, Colm Smith, Bill Elliott, Brian Creighton, Andy Farrell
AGW Championship – Wednesday 13 October, Wentworth East
Mark Reason, Mark Garrod, Tony Stenson, Tony Adamson, David Hamilton, Colm Smith, Bill Elliott, Brian Creighton, Mike Blair, Andy Farrell
Wisley match – Monday 18 October, Wisley
Tony Adamson, Mark Garrod, Andy Farrell
Golf Foundation match – Monday 1 November, The Grove
Bob Davies, Mark Garrod, David Hamilton, Andy Farrell
Wilson match
Monday 8 November or Tuesday 9 November, New Zealand club – more details to follow.
Archerfield Links
Dale Concannon has invited members to play at Archerfield Links, the DJ Russell-designed course right next door to Muirfield, on Tuesday 5 October during Dunhill Championship week. Courtesy accommodation for the Tuesday night will be available for the Tuesday night. If anyone cannot make it on the Tuesday, they are welcome to play at any point during the week, including the Saturday. Depending on numbers there will be a Stableford competition, which could run throughout the week. For more details and to register to play, please contact Dale directly on 07980 500753.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
October 2004
Donald Steel
Congratulations to Donald Steel on being nominated as the President Elect of the English Golf Union for 2005, with a view to becoming President in 2006. Donald, who was golf correspondent of the Sunday Telegraph for almost 30 years as well as becoming a highly acclaimed course designer, was Treasurer of the Association for 13 years before serving as President from 1993 to ’98. He has also served as President of the British Institute of Golf Course Architects and the Public Schools Golfing Society.
Following his nomination for the EGU presidency, Donald told English Club Golfer: “It came as a total surprise, like a bolt from the blue. I am surprised because I have never done any administrative work with the EGU or with my county, BB&O.
“But I presume this recognition stems from writing and golf course architecture which has precluded my attempting any administrative duties. I regard that as a great compliment to my two ‘trades’.”
As well as designing the Bracken course at Woodhall Spa, home of the EGU, Donald also helped with the modifications at Royal Liverpool which will see Hoylake return to the Open rota in 2006.
Members’ handbook
Many thanks to everybody who has replied so far. If you have not and your details need updating, there is another form enclosed.
New members
Following the decision at the AGM to reduce the minimum waiting period on the Supplementary List, a second batch of applicants was considered for membership. The following have been elected members of the Association: John Barton, of Golf Digest, Iain Carter, of the BBC, Mark Lamport-Stokes, from Reutes, Douglas Lowe, of the Herald, and Geoff Sweet, of the News of the World. Chris Bartlett, from the Bristol Evening Post, was accepted on to the Supplementary List.
BARTON, JOHN: Golf Digest, 2nd Floor, Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BD (020 7887 1412; fax: 020 7887 1411). Home: 29 Wimpole Street, Flat 16, London W1G 8GP (020 7636 3858; mobile: 07903 276590; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
CARTER, IAIN: BBC Radio Sport, Room 2640, BBC Television Centre, Wood Lane, London W12 7RJ (020 8624 9200) Home: 13 Kings Drive, Surbiton, Surrey KT5 8NG (020 8390 1853; mobile: 07740 818323; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
LAMPORT-STOKES, MARK: Reuters, 85 Fleet Street, London EC4P 4AJ (020 7542 2828; fax: 020 7353 6951). Home: St Kilda, The Hermitage, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6SH (020 8948 0300; mobile: 07990 560706; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
LOWE, DOUGLAS: The Herald, 200 Renfield Street, Glasgow G2 3PR (0141 302 7150; fax: 0141 302 7227). Home: 2/8 Park Lane, Charlotte Street, Helensburgh G84 7NT (01436 679424; mobile: 07739 675052; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
SWEET, GEOFF: News of the World, 1 Virginia Street, London E98 1NW (020 7782 24372; fax: 020 7782 4393). Home: 21 Byron Hill Road, Harrow-on-the-Hill, Middlesex HA2 0JD (Tel/fax: 020 8423 2042; mobile: 07785 728904; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
BARTLETT, CHRIS: Bristol Evening Post, Temple Way, Old Market, Bristol, BS99 7HD (0117 9343281; fax: 0117 9343575). Home: 9, Newton Green, Nailsea, North Somerset, BS48 4RF (01275 855987; mobile: 07715 770258; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Changes of address, etc
Lauren St John, having returned from Cornwall for the winter, can be found at: 57a Boyne Road, Lewisham, London SE13 5AN (020 8852 3850; mobile: 07779 013981; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
With S2 joining up with fellow PR company Lighthouse, Peter Laundy’s contact details are now: Lighthouse Communications Ltd, River House, 37 Point Pleasant, London SW18 1NN (020 8812 3400; fax: 020 8812 3401; mobile: 07961 566438; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Tournament Reports
If anyone has any comments about the tournaments they have attended this season, whether the Open, the Ryder Cup, any Tour event or amateur tournament, please let me know so they can be passed on to the relevant organisation.
Wisley match
Further to the Golf Captain’s report, I can only add the sad news that our fortunes did not improve against Wisley. Though the weather was wonderful following a week of rain, we lost 3-1 despite bringing in three-handicapper Andrew Cotter as a guest to supplement a side depleted by the Dregs’ trip to Ireland. But Andrew and Colin Callander were up against Denis Pugh, the Wisley pro, and David Morgan, who shot a gross 75 off nine, and the our only winners on the day were Graham Otway and myself. But we were entertained splendidly and the club offered to maintain the fixture next year, possibly again on the Monday after the World Match Play.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Former BBC golf correspondent, Tony Adamson, put the captains into something of a quandary when he turned up for the annual AGW v Broadcasters match at Stoke Park claiming to be playing for both sides! Fortunately, the problem was amicably resolved – and he teed up for us alongside Mark Reason and earned a very creditable half against Chris Hollins and Chris Walton.
In a tightly fought match, that helped the AGW go one step better than a year ago and at least finished level this time but it was not quite good enough to wrest the trophy from the Broadcasters following their 2003 victory.
Mark Garrod and Bill Elliott led the way for the Writers by beating Brian Newton and Johnnie Bromley, while Michael McDonnell and Dave Hamilton went down to Paul Davies and Tim Ufton. Myself and Peter Godsiff were denied victory when Terry Wogan earned himself and Paul Walters a half with a 20-foot putt on the last before Andy Farrell and Peter Higgs raised hopes of success for the AGW when they beat Patrick Whiteside and Andrew Cotter. But Tony Stenson and John Fenton went down to Rob Bonnett and Celina Hinchcliffe, so honours were even when Stuart Collier, guesting for the Writers, halved with Rob Nothman.
The weather was not too kind to us when we made was has become our annual pilgrimage to West Hill for the Presidents’ Putter. But Derek Lawrenson made light of the persistent rain by scoring a superb 39 points to lift the trophy. Dave Hamilton finished runner up on 37 and Graham Otway was a further point back for third place.
The following day it was on to Wentworth for an early morning start under blue skies. However, there was something of a hiccup to the usual smooth running of the Golf Writers’ Championship as cars had already been parked on the fairway of the first hole. It meant moving the tee forward a few yards but surprisingly, in such ideal conditions, the scoring did not match the weather.
However, Alistair Tait, who won the Spring Medal over the same course, triumphed this time with 34 points and that was sufficient to earn him the title of Golfer of the Year. Mark Garrod and Andy Farrell both carded 32 points, but it was Andy who took second place on the better back nine.
John Paramor, a good friend of the AGW, won the guests’ prize with 34 points. As usual, I would like to express our gratitude to Wentworth for kindly hosting the event and to HSBC, who sponsored the competition and have since been in contact to say they would like to do it again next year.
On Monday 1 November we play the Golf Foundation at The Grove, who have graciously agreed to host the match. Those who have committed to play are: Mark Garrod, David Hamilton, Andy Farrell, Bill Robertson, Bill Elliott, Michael McDonnell, Colin Callander, Tony Stenson, Jim Mossop and John Fenton. First tee-time is 10am (gather from 9am).
Finally, Wilson Staff have kindly agreed to revive their golf day. It will be at the New Zealand club on Tuesday 9 November. Gather from 8.30am, first tee-time is 9.30am, with lunch and a product demo to follow. The match is to be 12-a-side, but if there are more members who wish to play, John Collard will accommodate them on the Wilson team. So far we have: Jim Mossop, Alistair Tait, Andy Farrell and John Fenton. More names to Andy Farrell please.
Bob Davies, Captain (01743 872655; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
November/December 2004
2004 Golf Writers’ Trophy
Please find enclosed the voting form for the 2004 Golf Writers’ Trophy and Outstanding Services Award. The Golf Writers’ Trophy shall be awarded to the person or persons, born or resident in Europe, who in the opinion of a majority of Full and Life members has made the most outstanding contribution to golf in 2004.
The committee have drawn up a shortlist but this is for guidance only and you may vote for whomever you wish. Please list your 1-2-3 on the form and return to me by Saturday 18 December by post or fax. The winner will be the candidate with the highest number of first places. In the result of a tie, the higher number of second or third place votes will be decisive. The result will be announced in time for morning papers on Tuesday 21 December.
The shortlist is as follows:
Minea Blomqvist, LET rookie of the year and the first player to shoot 62 in a major championship
Laura Davies, winner of the LET order of merit for the sixth time
Luke Donald, won twice in Europe, made his Ryder Cup debut and helped England to the World Cup
Scott Drummond, PGA champion and the Sir Henry Cotton rookie of the year
Ernie Els, winner of European order of merit and the World Match Play for a record sixth time
England, in the form of Paul Casey and Luke Donald, who won the World Cup in Seville
European Ryder Cup team, who achieved their biggest ever victory at Oakland Hills
Sergio Garcia, three victories and with Lee Westwood earned 4.5 points at the Ryder Cup
Retief Goosen, US Open champion
Miguel Angel Jimenez, won four times on the European Tour
Bernhard Langer, Europe’s inspirational and meticulous leader at Oakland Hills
Colin Montgomerie, overcame personal trauma to hole the winning putt in the Ryder Cup
Annika Sorenstam, women’s No 1 who won 10 times worldwide, including the LPGA Championship
Karen Stupples, became the first home winner of the Women’s British Open for 13 years
Sweden, who won the Espirito Santo Trophy at the Women’s World Amateur Team Championship
Stuart Wilson, British Amateur champion on home soil at St Andrews
Outstanding Services Award
Following the nominations that came back last winter, the Committee decided to give our Outstanding Services Award to Ken Schofield. If you can think of anyone who might deserve next year’s award, be they local, national or international figures, players or administrators, please let us know.
Members’ handbook
Many thanks to everyone who has replied. The typesetting and proof-reading will take place throughout the first half of December in time for printing just after Christmas so if there are any last minute alterations, please let me know.
Dai Davies
At the Volvo Masters at Valderrama, the retiring executive director of the European Tour, Ken Schofield, paid tribute to Dai Davies, who is stepping down as golf correspondent of The Guardian after over two decades in the post. During Ken’s final-day press conference with successor George O’Grady, he said: “It would be very remiss if the European Tour and the outgoing executive director and the incoming one left this room without playing tribute to Dai’s long and outstanding contribution to golf, having been a member of the Association of Golf Writers for nearer to 40 years than 30. For over 21 years through The Guardian newspaper, he has engaged us, enthused us and enriched the written word of golf. It has been a wonderful journey and all of us on the Tour respect and greatly appreciate his writing.”
Dai was taken by surprise as over 20 colleagues covering the tournament all happened to descend on the same restaurant in Estepona to mark the occasion with a splendid evening. Dai wrote: “Words can express how I felt on walking into the Puerta Sol restaurant during the Volvo Masters and finding out that I had been conned – but they are probably not suitable for an AGW bulletin. As you know, I am not a great believer in such “surprise” celebrations and this one would not have happened without the conniving of several people, including my wife who, up until then, I had thought was on my side!
“However, that said, I have to confess that it was a seriously enjoyable evening. The restaurant was well chosen, the wine more so and even the company, once I had got used to the idea, could not have been bettered. I have no idea what I said when forced to my feet late in the evening but if I didn’t say a sincere thank you to all present, I would like to do so now. I didn’t want it, but I’m glad I had it.”
Golf Captain
With the post having been formalised into a two-year term, or sentence depending on your point of view, Bob Davies has now stepped down as Golf Captain. Bob has done an outstanding job over the last two years and we owe him a debt of thanks for taking on the role while continuing to serve as Honorary Treasurer.
Happily, Colin Callander has agreed to become Bob’s successor and after stepping into the breach as Captain Elect for a couple matches at the end of the season he remains undefeated.
Changes of address, etc
Alan Booth is closing down his e-mail address at the end of the year as his wife, Isabel, has suffered a bad accident and they are heading abroad to recuperate. Best wishes to them both for a swift recovery.
Those who have been following the movements of Lauren St John in these columns will have realised I incorrectly included an old e-mail address last month. Her details are: 57a Boyne Road, Lewisham, London SE13 5AN (mobile: 07779 013981; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Robert Sommers’s e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Geoff Sweet’s e-mail is: email hidden; JavaScript is required
The golf division of the International Management Group is now located at: McCormack House, Hogarth Business Park, Burlington Lane, Chiswick, London W4 2TH (Main switchboard: 020 8233 5300; main fax: 020 8233 5301; Golf Clients fax: 020 8233 5268)
Golf Majors book
Randall Northam, of SportsBooks, has been in touch to say he is now publishing Alun Evans’s book Golf Majors. He is offering members a discounted price of £12.99 instead of £14.99 when the book is published in February. Anyone interested should contact Randall at email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Rare golf books
Michael Cole, a former book seller from York, has set up a website – OldGolfBooks.com – listing a changing selection of over 4,000 rare or out-of-print golf books published between about 1860 and 2000. “It was clear from the beginning”, he explained, “that a single website dedicated to bringing together and displaying out-of-print golf books for sale from scores of small independent booksellers across the UK would give buyers a far larger choice than could be found in any second-hand shop.
“However, I really didn’t anticipate the sheer range of interesting old titles for sale that would result. OldGolfBooks.com doesn’t get involved in any way in the buying/selling process. Instead it puts you in direct contact with the bookseller who has got what you want. This allows the opportunity for a personal relationship to develop between individual buyers and sellers – a normal part of any high-street bookshop transaction but so often lacking when buying on the internet.”
Pick Your Pro
Congratulations to Golf Weekly’s Tony Rushmer for winning the 2004 Pick Your Pro competition at his first attempt. The final table is enclosed, showing Mark Wilson, Mike Aitken and Titleist’s Jonathan Loosemore had most wins with four apiece, Derek Lawrenson and Mark Lamport-Stokes were “in the money” most often and Jim Mossop least often. Thanks to everyone who took part.
ANDY FARRELL
January/February 2005
Renton Laidlaw
Best wishes for his continued recuperation go to our President, Renton Laidlaw. Renton was rushed into hospital over Christmas with septicaemia after the hip that has troubled him for a while became infected. He underwent an operation at King Edward VII Hospital in London on January 11 to remove the hip and clean out the infection. He was due to leave hospital and return home to Sunningdale on January 26, resting up before receiving a new hip in a couple of months.
“I’ve had quite a scare,” admitted Renton. He added: “You could say it has slowed me down a bit. Hopefully, I’ll be back in action in the summer but it is going to take a while to get back on my feet and it is obviously important to get it right.”
2004 Golf Writers’ Trophy
Europe’s victorious Ryder Cup team has secured another overwhelming victory by claiming the 2004 Golf Writers’ Trophy but the outstanding captaincy of Bernhard Langer was further emphasised in the annual poll.
Langer, whose inspirational and meticulous leadership helped Europe to a record nine-point victory over the Americans at Oakland Hills, finished a clear second in the voting ahead of Ernie Els, the European order of merit winner, with Annika Sorenstam and Colin Montgomerie tying for fourth place. Karen Stupples, the Women’s British Open champion, Miguel Angel Jimenez, who won five times, and the English World Cup pair of Luke Donald and Paul Casey were among others to feature in the poll.
This is the fifth time the Ryder Cup team has won the award, with Langer involved on each occasion. The German twice won the trophy as an individual, in 1981 and 1993, making him the most honoured recipient since the award was introduced in 1951. Seve Ballesteros won three times as an individual and with three Ryder Cup teams.
“It is always a great honour to be considered by the members of the Association of Golf Writers to receive their own trophy,” Langer said. “The whole experience of being Europe’s Ryder Cup captain was awesome and one I will treasure for the rest of my life.
“I loved the challenge of taking on one of the strongest U.S. teams ever on their home soil. We all know that, before 2004, only twice have we been successful on American soil, but my players responded extremely well and with great enthusiasm. This historic event and the large margin we won by, away from home, will not be easily repeated. As captain I want to thank everyone for their support and the part they played in our outstanding victory.”
Commenting on his captain’s achievement, Montgomerie said: “It is difficult to say whether someone has been the best captain ever but Bernhard was certainly the coolest. He may have been wearing those blue and yellow shoes, which made Ian Poulter envious, but he had the shades on and he always walked around at exactly the same pace. He was never flustered by anything. He was the epitome of cool.
“Bernhard was a fantastic leader and did a magnificent job. Thanks to him, we weren’t playing for ourselves, we were playing for each other. We left our egos in various parts of Europe and we were a team even before we got on the plane to go to America.
“On the Friday night I could sense some of the younger players might be becoming a little complacent. There was a lot of talk going on while Bernhard was trying to explain something. Eventually, I pointed out that he had won two green jackets, which were two more than any of us, and it might be worth listening to him.”
On a personal note, Montgomerie holed the winning putt on the 18th green at Oakland Hills following the trauma of his divorce earlier in the year. “When that putt went in, it righted the wrongs of the previous 12 months,” Monty admitted.
He added: “Every shot on a golf course pleases someone, whether it is you or your opponent, and when David Toms chipped 20 feet past at the last, that pleased me. Then he holed the putt, which didn’t please me as much. I had a four-footer, right-to-left, which are the ones we like, but in the circumstances I didn’t want to waste any time and let any negative thoughts creep in. Looking back, you always like to hole a putt to win the match, rather than have two for it and shake hands. So now I am thankful to David for giving me the chance to hole that putt, but I wasn’t at the time.”
Open Championship media day
This year’s Open Championship golf day and press briefing will be hosted by the Royal and Ancient on Monday 25 April and Tuesday 26 April respectively at St Andrews. The format is as follows:
Monday 25 April: 11am – Meet in Forgan House (the R&A property to the right of the 18th) for snack lunch prior to golf. Changing facilities available in Forgan House; 12-1.50pm – Golf on the Old Course; 7.30pm – Reception in the R&A Clubhouse; 8pm – Dinner in the R&A Clubhouse. Tuesday 26 April: 9am – Open Championship Press Conference (venue TBC).
Anyone interested in attending should contact Stewart McDougall (0141 427 5344) directly. He points out that numbers for dinner will have to be limited to 60. Stewart has also arranged for a block of 15 rooms to be set aside at the Scores Hotel (01334 472451) at a rate of £65 bed and breakfast for Monday night. Anyone who wants a room should contact the hotel directly quoting “Media”; first come, first served.
To fit in with the trip, we have received an invitation to play at Loch Lomond on the previous Sunday and at Kingsbarns on the Tuesday afternoon. Full details are contained in Colin Callander’s golf report, along with an extensive list of fixtures for the season.
US Open arrangements
Craig Smith, the media relations manager at the USGA, has been in touch regarding the US Open at Pinehurst (June 16-19). Craig says: “I will have US Open media credential forms with me at the Masters, but they will also be mailed on April 1 to the international media group. There is ample local parking so members of the media may choose between making individual housing arrangements or staying at the media hotel (Holiday Inn in close-by Southern Pines for $195/night). A shuttle will run to and from the golf course from the media hotel. Wireless connectivity will be offered free of charge. Meals will be free of charge, courtesy of the USGA. Fly to Raleigh, North Carolina, direct from London, and drive one hour south on Route 1. For details of housing available, contact the Pinehurst Management group (001 910 235 8151).”
European Men’s Team Championship
England is hosting the European Men’s Team Championships at Hillside Golf Club, Southport, Merseyside on June 28-July 2. Would any members considering covering the event please contact Dave Hamilton, the English Golf Union’s Press Officer, by telephone (01621 817170) or e-mail (email hidden; JavaScript is required) so that an idea of the numbers attending can be assessed.
Christmas hampers
Once again I have received numerous messages of thanks for the Christmas Hampers which were sent out this year. Here is a selection:
Gaye Heager: “Thanks again for the lovely Christmas hamper. It’s a pleasure to be remembered each year.”
Isabel Baker: “Many thanks for the hamper. It was much appreciated as I didn’t expect anything. I can’t believe it will soon be a year since John passed on. I don’t know where the year has gone. I have lovely friends around who have made the loss much easier.”
Elizabeth Price: “Great excitement when the hamper was delivered. Thank you to the AGW. It is so good to feel that, despite the fact one cannot attend tournaments and so does not meet fellow scribes, one is still one of the group. I enjoyed my times in the press tent and wish all those still there best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.”
Betty Dobereiner: “The AGW’s most generous Christmas gift is much appreciated once again and will be enjoyed by all the family.”
Lindy Johnson: “Once again I am writing to thank all the AGW members for the wonderful hamper. I’ve gorged myself on the goodies and it’s all delicious, thank you so much, it’s such a lovely thing to receive. North Devon is still beautiful, funny, I didn’t notice it when I was growing up, I just thought everywhere was like it! Royal North Devon is still covered in sheep and horse droppings, sand and reeds, that can’t change. I walk the dogs there most days, it’s the nearest I get to a golf course but I will try to get to the British Women’s Open at Birkdale this year. I am visiting NZ in March as two of my daughters now live in Auckland. I thought I could just about spare one of the three to NZ but not two, I find that hard especially as the third has now moved to Portsmouth which is a horrible journey from here, however you go, instead of being one and a half hours away. My best wishes to everyone for 2005, may it be happy and healthy and a big thank you to all.”
Peggy Reece: “How very kind to send me a Christmas hamper, such a surprise. John was always so thrilled when one arrived, he was very proud to be a member of the Association.”
Judy Williams: “Once again my sincere thanks for the lovely hamper which the AGW sent me for Christmas. It is such a treat to be remembered by you at this time and very much appreciated. I have enjoyed some special occasions with you all in the last year, at Wentworth during your spring meeting and, of course, the dinner at the Open, as well as the weekend at West Runton. I hope the members of the AGW have a good, happy, healthy and peaceful 2005.”
Pat Oakley: “A big thank you for the very welcome hamper. As you know, John wanted to carry on covering golf events as long as possible. He really loved the game an had a great regard for those involved in it, especially the golf writers. John’s two grandsons, Jacob, 12, and Harry, 8, are sport naturals. Our youngest grandson, Christopher, is a year old, a bit too young to tell whether he will also take after John.”
George Bayley
George Bayley, who along with John Fenton pioneered the art of on-course radio commentary, died suddenly in January at the age of 78. Former BBC colleague Tony Adamson writes: “I have never known anyone who had as much passion and deep respect for the game of golf, or basked in its history and tradition, as George Bayley. Two vivid and contrasting examples of his affection for golf come easily to mind, both in 1994.
“He was a huge admirer of Nick Price who he believed was the game’s greatest ambassador. As Price approached the long 17th at Turnberry in the final round of the Open Championship, George, in his role as leading BBC Radio course commentator – ‘Whispering George’ – could hardly contain his excitement. Price was a shot off the lead as he stood over a 50-foot putt for eagle to head the field. ‘He sends it on its way,’ described George breathlessly.
“Then, quietly as if not wishing to disturb the putt’s trajectory, George urged it on its way towards the hole. ‘Get in, get in, get in, get in,’ he pleaded, his voice rising to a crescendo as the ball caught the lip pf the hole and disappeared. ‘Yeeeeeeeeeeessssss,’ yelled George in exultation as Price headed for almost certain victory.
“Imagine George’s delight the following month when invited to join the BBC radio team at the USPGA Championship at Southern Hills where Price dominated the year’s strongest field to win his third major. The trip also enabled George to purchase a coveted 7-wood he’d seen advertised at considerably less the cost at his beloved Ponteland Golf Club at home. That he had to cover most of the state of Oklahoma to track it down seemed not to bother him. However, while shopping at Duty Free on the journey home, George emitted a blood-curdling shriek that shattered the relative calm of Tulsa Airport. He’d mislaid the treasured 7-wood.
“An abiding memory is of George legging it, at a speed too ambitious for a man of his years, back to check-in to discover a rather forlorn 7-wood propped up against the desk. He hugged the club to him in a warm embrace leaving the attendant and her queue of passengers amused if somewhat bewildered. I valued his fun and his friendship.”
Dai Davies
Following a series of surprise dinners to mark his retirement as golf correspondent of The Guardian, Dai Davies returned home to find another something else of interest. He writes: “Can I thank the AGW for their astounding awareness of the fact that from time to time I am partial to a glass of red wine, and, because of that, sending a case of Aussie Shiraz to mark my retirement. I am glad to see that this body of trained observers have lost nothing of that ability by going to the best wine mail order company, the Wine Society, and getting them to send me one of their best cases. It’s a ’99 Tahbilk Shiraz which, according to them, will be ready for drinking 2004-2006. That being so, it may not see out Christmas, and certainly not the New Year. My grateful thanks to the Association for such a thoughtful gesture.”
Changes of address, etc
The new members’ handbook should be enclosed. Any problems, changes, errors, please let me know.
Patricia Davies has a new mobile number: 0794 6241645.
Philip Reid’s new e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Golf Majors book
Randall Northam, of SportsBooks, has been in touch to say he is now publishing Alun Evans’s book Golf Majors. He is offering members a discounted price of £12.99 instead of £14.99 when the book is published in February. Anyone interested in taking up the offer should contact Randall on email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Subscriptions
Just a reminder that subs were due on January 1 and that the constitution states that any member who is in arrears after more than three months automatically ceases to be a member of the Association. While contingencies can be made for overseas members, UK based members are reminded that the Committee recommends playing by standing order. Forms are available from the Treasurer.
Computer back-up and recovery
Two firms specialising in backing up computer files and recovering apparently ‘lost’ files may be of interest to members, who will receive a discount for using the services.
Peter Groucutt, of Databarracks, writes: “Most people don’t realise how valuable their data is until it’s too late. Only a very small proportion back-up their computers. Have you ever considered what would happen if you lost all of your data? E-mails, accounts and as journalists and writers, most importantly your work. At best losing data will be inconvenient and require work to be re-written but this could also easily manifest itself in considerable financial losses too.
“By outsourcing your back-up to Databarracks, your data’s security is guaranteed. For a low monthly cost, you can have a fully automated and serviced back-up solution managed by professionals in one of the most secure environments available today. Wherever you are in the world, as long as you are connected to the internet your data can be sent and stored, available immediately online at the click of a mouse. Your data is restored to you free of charge if you suffer a data loss. The service starts at £7.50 per month and for the Association of Golf Writers we will give 15% off. You can try the service with no risk or obligation completely free of charge for two months. Your data is also insured up to £1,000,000 if it is backed up by Databarracks and not retrievable.
“For more information or to sign-up go to www.databarracks.com or call 0870 922 0902. When you have setup your account just send us an e-mail with the account name you have setup and saying you are a Golf Writer.”
Data Recovery UK operates a service for retrieving files. Their address is 45 Lafone Street, London SE1 2LX; Tel: 0207 407 4002; e-mail email hidden; JavaScript is required; website: www.dataemergency.co.uk.
Phil Gunning says: “You will see from our website that we are one of the leading Data Recovery companies in the world and have experience in recovering data from all types of media. We also specialise in image recovery which may be of interest to any photographers.
“To qualify for the discount please refer to the reference PG/AGW. This means you will be automatically upgraded to our premium service, which means that your work is given priority status. In normal circumstances we would expect the data to be returned to you within 3-5 days. (Exceptions to this are where the recovery process is of such a complex nature that intensive recovery methods have to be adopted.) In addition, the diagnostic fee has been reduced from £120+VAT Premium Service to £85 +VAT. We operate on a No Recovery-No Fee basis. We also offer an emergency service, if required, on +44(0)7843 230546 or +44(0)7873 558641. For more information, I can be contacted on 07931 662058 or email hidden; JavaScript is required.”
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. These are provisional and subject to change. (All times are local.) Heineken Classic 1700; New Zealand Open 1800; Malaysian Open 1600; Accenture World Matchplay 1500; Dubai Classic 1700; Qatar Masters 1630; Indonesia Open 1600; Portuguese Open 1700; Spanish Open 1730; Johnnie Walker Classic 1700; Asian Open 1730; Italian Open 1700; British Masters 1745; Irish Open 1800; BMW Championship 1830; Wales Open 1700; KLM Open 1800; French Open 1700; European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1645; Deutsche Bank Open 1730; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; German Masters 1700; HSBC World Match Play 1715; Seve Trophy TBC; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship TBC; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup 1600; China Open 1600; Hong Kong Open 1630.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
I am happy to report that this year’s golf calendar has almost been completed. The Golf Foundation match plus one or two more fixtures are still to be finalised but in the meantime it seems sensible to publish a list of confirmed dates so that members can pencil them into their diaries.
I would be obliged if members could take some time out to fill in the form that accompanies this list of fixtures and return it to be at the address below. I do not need a definitive list of who wants to play in the various fixtures at present but early entries would be appreciated.
Please return the forms to me at GMS, 14a High Street, Welwyn, Herts, AL6 9QF. I can also be contacted by e-mail on email hidden; JavaScript is required or by fax on 01438 840819.
IMG Match
We are in the process of organising what we hope will be the first in a series of annual matches against IMG. The first is to be held on the morning of Monday 14 March at a course to be confirmed in the London area. The match is to be 12-a-side followed by lunch. Please let me know if you are interested in taking part. I will be in touch with details about venue, tee times etc, as and when we have them.
Loch Lomond
The AGW’s annual visit to Loch Lomond has been scheduled for Sunday 24 April to coincide with the R & A’s Open Press Conference (see below) and if sufficient members subscribe to it we will play for the Sir Henry Cotton Salver on that day. Tee times will start at 1.00 pm to allow southern-based members time to travel up that morning. Golf is followed by dinner. Joanne Kerr at Loch Lomond has organised a special room rate at the Inverbeg Inn. Contact Clara on 01436 860678 and explain you are looking for the special rate agreed with Loch Lomond.
R & A Open Press Conference
The R & A have scheduled their annual Open Press Conference for April 25-26 at St Andrews, with golf on the Old Course from 12pm on Monday 25 April. Stewart McDougall will be sending out invitations. Please see the main newsletter for details of the itinerary and accommodation.
Kingsbarns
If anyone would like at game at Kingsbarns on the afternoon of Tuesday 26 April after the R and A press conference I would be obliged if they could let me know ASAP. As things stand we have been promised 4-5 tee times in the early afternoon although we might be able to arrange a couple more should the need arise.
Ron Moseley Trophy
This year’s Ron Moseley Trophy is to be played over the Longcross course at Foxhills on the morning of Tuesday 24 May. The tee is booked from 9.30 am and the club will then put up a quick buffet lunch so that competitors can get to Wentworth in time for that afternoon’s press conferences.
Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget
The PGA Championship’s sponsor might have changed but that has not affected our annual Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget which in keeping with tradition is to be held over the East Course at Wentworth on Wednesday 25 May. Stuart Christie has confirmed the tee has been booked from 7.30-8.30 although we can squeeze in a couple more four balls should we require them. Golf will be followed by lunch in the clubhouse.
Royal Cinque Ports
Royal Cinque Ports is organising a media golf day on Monday 25 July. The club’s plan is to meet for a snack lunch, tee times from 2pm and then invite media representatives to stay for dinner. We are in the process of organising subsidised accommodation in Deal for those who do not want to return home that evening and are also investigating whether we can obtain a limited number of tee times at Prince’s on the morning of Tuesday 26 July. [Cheap flights are now available from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Dublin and other cities in Europe to Kent International Airport at Manston on eujet.com – AF]
President’s Putter
This year’s President Putter is to be played at West Hill on the afternoon of Tuesday 13 September. Tee times start at 2.30pm which is a little bit later than in previous years but should help members who have to work at Wentworth in the morning. It also means that we will miss the worst of the evening rush hour which has got to be a good thing.
Golf Writers Championship
This year’s Golf Writers Championship will be held over the East Course at Wentworth on Wednesday 14 September. The tee is booked between 7.30 and 8.30am and golf will be followed by lunch in the clubhouse.
Broadcasters Match
The annual match against the Broadcasters is to be played at Stoke Park on Monday 19 September. This is normally a 12-a-side contest with members arriving for lunch followed by golf and dinner. Accommodation on site can be arranged for those who require it.
Wilson Match
Last year the traditional match against Wilson was resurrected and it proved to be such an outstanding success that the plan is to repeat it on an annual basis. This year the match returns to the New Zealand Club where it is to be played on Thursday 10 November. It will be a 12-a-side match with the teams meeting at 8.00am in time for golf followed by lunch.
Colin Callander, Golf Captain
March 2005
Ian MacNiven
It is with great regret that I announce the deaths of two members of the Association, Ian MacNiven and Anders Janson.
Ian had been a member for over 40 years having joined the Association in 1962. He died at the age of 79 in Western General Hospital in Edinburgh after being admitted with shingles a week before.
Martin Dempster wrote this tribute for the Edinburgh Evening News:
Ian MacNiven, one of the longest-serving golf writers in Britain, was different to many of his press tent colleagues. Unlike them, Ian didn’t get too excited about the Open Championship, the Ryder Cup or any other professional tournament. He lived for amateur events and, in particular, amateur golf in the Lothians. The highlight of Ian’s year was a close-run thing between the Lothians Championship and the Dispatch Trophy, the popular team event held at the Braids.
While he attended the Open Championship almost without fail for 40 years, Ian was much happier when he was camped in a clubhouse in and around Edinburgh. His face was well known wherever he went and it was no surprise that many of Ian’s best friends had connections with the Lothians Golf Association. Until recently, he regularly had lunch – at a golf club, of course – with Ron Brownlee, Ian Graham and Bob Kilgour, all past presidents of the LGA. Such was his standing in Capital golfing circles that Ian was looked upon as an ‘unofficial’ selector and nothing gave him more pleasure than to see the Lothians dominate the Scottish Area Team Championship. Indeed, it was fitting that, just a month before his death, he was not only able to attend a dinner to celebrate title triumph No.11 but also gave a memorable speech at that event, held at Kingsknowe GC.
“Lothians golf has lost a very good friend,” said current LGA president John Wood. “Ian was a staunch supporter of Lothians golf and, when my predecessor, George Henderson, talks about ‘Team Lothians’, Ian was most certainly part of that team.”
Born in April 1925, Ian lived in the same house in Edinburgh’s West End all of his life. His father, George, was a civil servant and Ian went to Edinburgh Academy. After leaving school in 1943, he joined the Navy and trained as a radar mechanic before being involved in the D-Day landings. While based at Fareham, near Portsmouth, Ian played a lot of rugby but it wasn’t long before golf took over as his main sporting love.
After leaving the Navy, he had a spell working for D C Thomson in their Victoria Street office before, in April 1947, he took up the post of general/sports reporter with the Edinburgh Evening News. Three years later, Ian, who initially wrote under the pen name ‘Cockburn’, was making the golf headlines himself, winning the Lothians Championship at Dalmahoy, where, incidentally, he recovered from being six down with eight holes to play to win his semi-final tie.
A member of Mortonhall at the time – he later became members of Gullane and Dalmahoy before being afforded honorary membership of Glencorse – Ian made it to the final again the following year but came up just short on this occasion. A few months later, however, he helped Edinburgh Academicals win the Dispatch Trophy and, in 1952, he was in the Mortonhall team that won the Edinburgh Inter-Club tournament.
In the mid-1950s, Ian, a bachelor, left the News and started to cover golf on a freelance basis for the Evening Dispatch. When the Dispatch and the News merged, it was Renton Laidlaw who got the job as golf reporter but his departure to Grampian TV in 1968 paved the way for Ian’s return to the News, for whom he continued to cover Lothians golf until last year – a connection of nearly 60 years!
“Ian was a terrific lover of golf and also a very genuine person,” said Laidlaw. “When I got the job as golf reporter for the Evening News, he could have become bitter but he never once mentioned it. Indeed, he was nothing but supportive all the way through my career.”
While Ian was a huge Ronnie Shade fan, he also took great delight in watching Bernard Gallacher come through the ranks to not only become a prolific winner in the professional game but also taste victory as a Ryder Cup captain. “Ian was what you’d describe as a ‘real Edinburgh man’ and I am very sorry that he’s passed away,” said Gallacher. “As I was growing up, there was hardly an amateur event I went to that I didn’t come across Ian and he had an encyclopaedic memory of anything that happened in Lothians golf.”
Ian, a big Hearts fan, shared the football reporting duties for the Evening News in the 70s and 80s with the late Stewart Brown, his great friend. As the chief football reporter, Stewart would mainly cover the team playing at home, leaving Ian to do most of the away duties. Not that he minded too much. In fact, he became something of an expert on where to enjoy a good lunch en route to football grounds all over Scotland.
Ian, a real gentle giant, will be sorely missed, particularly when the Lothians Championship and the Dispatch Trophy come around. The ‘Big Man’ will leave a ‘Big Void’.
Anders Janson
Anders Janson was a respected magazine editor in Sweden who joined the Association in 1995. He regularly attended events on the continent, especially in the early 90s, but his death last month followed a five-year battle with cancer. Goran Zachrisson pays this tribute:
The best people are those, who will make much of others and little of themselves. That was Anders Janson, opiniated and no pushover, but always sensitive to others.
He was introduced to golf after having worked on the sports desk at one of the now exctinct, old fashioned sports papers; the one that was always accurate, the one that remembered and celebrated the first 100 years of the Canoeing Club of Nyköping (where is that?) or the fact that the right handed javelin thrower Eric Lemming was in fact left handed. (Olympic Champion 1912, 62.23 metres.) This kind of detailed information forms the foundation for Sportsworld anywhere and Anders brought his experiences to golf in Sweden, when the game was starting to grow.
After a spell at Svenska Dagbladet, the Times of Sweden, he, in 1973, became the Editor of Svensk Golf, today the largest golf magazine in Europe. Every golfing household in Sweden recieves a copy and I believe 350,000 copies are printed monthly. He stayed on as Editor until 1994.
But more importantly he edited several voluminous books about the growth of golf in Sweden, where every little aspect of the game for the past hundred years was covered. He was zealously thorough, but his observations were thoughtful and never did he lose himself in details. He also became a founding member of the Swedish Golf Writers Association and the Golfing Historical Society of Sweden.
Working for the Swedish Golf Federation meant that he not only grew with the game; sometimes it was the other way around. He was passionately involved in trying to spread the traditions and essence of golf to quarters where golf hitherto had been unheard of. He became a revered advisor to the Federation and ironically, it is possible that his quiet demeanour brought him power, something that he never recognised.
All the while Anders stayed in touch with general sports in Sweden. He was President of the Sportwriters Association in Stockholm until only a few weeks before his illness got the better of him. He had fought cancer for the last five years, not once complaining.
Anders was as pleased as he was proud of being a member of the Association of Golf Writers. He only wished he had had more time to meet with us, to listen and be part of it all. My feeling is that he had more to tell us, than we him. He was 63 years old and is survived by his wife, Ylva, and five children.
Birkdale hotels
Barry Ward writes concerning accommodation in the Royal Birkdale area: “Those members who will be attending the Amateur Championship in June and the Weetabix Women’s British Open in July at Birkdale might care to know of the hotel situation here.
“It’s been parlous for yonks but two new hotels have opened recently. One is a small (not quite boutique) inn known as the Alexandra and Victoria Hotel, an old apartment building that has been imaginatively restored. Only 16 single/twin rooms (they also have a large apartment still to be converted) and a most attractive restaurant. They offer B&B for £35 pp upwards. Convenient, too. It’s on the prom a few minutes from Birkdale. Parking available. Relatives stayed there at Christmas and were most impressed. Hence my interest. Tel: 01704 530072; website: www.alexandraandvictoriahotel.com. Mention the AGW. I’ve advised the management.
“The other place is nearby, close to the Prom. It’s a new Travel Inn. The usual block-type structure but it’s a brand with consistent standards. Nothing earth shattering. It does what it says on the tin. Reports are agreeable. Don’t rates but the website is: www.premiertravelinn.com. Either one must be better than anything else we have in town and they’ll be half the price. There are some new restaurants in town, too. I’ll be at both events at Birkdale and will advise the chaps.”
Seve Trophy
John Collard has been in touch requesting are idea of the numbers who will be covering the Seve Trophy at the Wynyard on September 22-25. He says hotels in the area are limited and in order to make adequate provisions he asks those who will need accommodation to contact him as soon as possible. John can be reached on 020 8879 5780; mobile: 07785 304784; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Thistle Hotels
Thistle Hotels is offering members of the Association discounts through their Thistle Advantage scheme. They have 49 hotels in the UK, including 20 in London; details can be found of the properties on their website: www.thistlehotels.com. Discounts should be in the range of 30-40 per cent, depending on availability. To take advantage of the offer, contact reservations (0870 3667474, email hidden; JavaScript is required) and quote our Advantage number: TA4904.
Golf Channel
Anyone attending the Bay Hill Invitational or who will be arriving early for the Players Championship might like to take up an invitation to play for an International team at a golf day put on by the Golf Channel at Lake Nona in Orlando on Monday 21 March. If you want to play, please contact Dan Higgins on 001 407 3554018 ot e-mail him at email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Tsunami Aid Appeal
Anyone who wishes to make a donation through the European Tour International Relief Golf Fund can do so by send a cheque (payable to The European Tour) to The European Tour-International Relief Golf Fund, Wentworth Drive, Virginia Water, Surrey GU25 4LX. The details for a direct bank transfer are: Sort code: 20 53 30; Account number: 40865699; IBAN: GB92 BARC 2053 3040 8656 99.
Changes of address, etc
From April 8, Colin Farquharson’s address will be: Littleways North Wing, Baillieswells Road, Bieldside, Aberdeen AB15 9BS (Tel/fax: 01224 869782; mobile: 07843 446411).
James Mossop’s e-mail addresses are email hidden; JavaScript is required or email hidden; JavaScript is required and not as listed in the handbook.
Hayters-Teamwork
Tony Rushmer, golf editor at Hayters-Teamwork, says the agency is looking to provide an opportunity for a young golf writer, a university graduate or someone just out of journalism college with a special interest in golf. If anyone knows of someone who might be interested in the role they should contact Tony on 07702 579382.
Subscriptions
Just a reminder that subs were due on January 1 and that the constitution states that any member who is in arrears after more than three months automatically ceases to be a member of the Association. While contingencies can be made for overseas members, UK based members are reminded that the Committee recommends playing by standing order. Forms are available from the Treasurer.
Pick your pro
This year’s competition is underway, although only just, so those wishing to enter still have a chance to do so. If you need a form, please let me know.
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. These are provisional and subject to change. (All times are local.) Dubai Classic 1700; Qatar Masters 1630; Indonesia Open 1600; Portuguese Open 1700; Spanish Open 1730; Johnnie Walker Classic 1700; Asian Open 1730; Italian Open 1700; British Masters 1745; Irish Open 1800; BMW Championship 1830; Wales Open 1700; KLM Open 1800; French Open 1700; European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1645; Deutsche Bank Open 1730; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; German Masters 1700; HSBC World Match Play 1715; Seve Trophy TBC; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship TBC; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup 1600; China Open 1600; Hong Kong Open 1630.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Michele Mair has confirmed the AGW’s match against IMG is to be played over the West course at Wentworth on Monday 14 March. The tee is booked between 9.10 and 10.00 am, with lunch in the clubhouse to follow. As this Newsletter went to press, we had nine members signed up but need 12 to complete the team. Anyone else interested in playing, please contact me as soon as possible. It promises to be a good day out.
IMG match (Wentworth, March 14): Colin Callander, Tony Adamson, Tony Stenson, Peter Higgs, Jane Carter, Andy Farrell, Alistair Tait, Bill Robertson and John Barton.
I have also had a large number of entries for the Sir Henry Cotton Salver, to be held at Loch Lomond on Sunday 24 April and for our outing at Kingsbarns two days later. The Loch Lomond event is scheduled to start at 1.00 pm, with dinner in the clubhouse to follow. Joanne Kerr at Loch Lomond has organised a special room rate at the Inverbeg Inn. Those interested should contact Ciara on 01436 860678 and explain you are looking for the rate agreed with Loch Lomond.
Sir Henry Cotton Salver (Loch Lomond, April 24): Colin Callander, Alan Hedley, Jeremy Chapman, David Birtill, David Smith, Michael McDonnell, Scott MacCallum, Alan Herron, Tony Stenson, David Hamilton, Douglas Lowe, Peter Godsiff, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, John Barton, Mitchell Platts and Martin Vousden.
Kingbarns has been booked from about 12.30 pm onwards on Tuesday 26 April, thereby giving members time to write their copy and get to Kingsbarns after the R & A’s Open press conference. If anyone needs a little more time, let me know and I will draft the draw accordingly.
Kingsbarns (April 26): Alan Hedley, Jeremy Chapman, Mark Garrod*, Mitchell Platts*, David Birtill, Michael McDonnell, Paul Trow, Scott MacCallum, Tony Stenson, David Hamilton, Peter Godsiff, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Elliott, Andy Farrell, Bill Robertson, Detlef Hennies and Martin Vousden (* to be confirmed).
Anyone else who wants to enter, please write to me at GMS, 14a High Street, Welwyn, Herts AL6 9QF or e-mail me on email hidden; JavaScript is required. I am also taking entries for the other events listed below. The matches against the Golf Foundation and The Wisley are still to be finalised.
Colin Callander, Captain (01438 718399; 07788 443995)
Golf Dates
Monday 14 March Wentworth West – IMG match (9.10am)
Sunday 24 April Loch Lomond – Sir Henry Cotton Salver (1pm)
Monday 25 April Old Course – R and A press day (12pm)
Tuesday 26 April Kingsbarns (12.30pm)
Tuesday 24 May Foxhills – Ron Moseley Trophy (9.30am)
Wednesday 25 May Wentworth East – Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget (7.30am)
Monday 25 July Royal Cinque Ports (2pm followed by dinner)
Tuesday 26 July Princes (am)
Tuesday 13 September West Hill – President’s Putter (2.30pm)
Wednesday 14 Sept Wentworth East – Golf Writers’ Championship (7.30am)
Monday 19 September Stoke Park – Broadcasters match (golf followed by dinner)
Thursday 10 November New Zealand – Wilson match (8am)
April 2005
Renton Laidlaw
I am delighted to report that our President, Renton Laidlaw, is recovering well after his operation to have a new hip put in. He is hoping to be back in action by the end of May. “I would just like to thank to all the members who have been in contact over the last three months to check on my progress and offer their support,” Renton said. “I am most grateful.”
Forest of Arden
Martin Hardy has informed me there are a limited number of rooms available at the Marriott Forest of Arden during the Dunlop Masters. Anyone interested in taking up the offer (rooms are around £100 a night) should contact: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Open accommodation
Chris Mann, of Pete Richardson Communications (01440 783784; mobile: 07788 577 747), is offering “single rooms in a student house for the week of The Open @ £300 per head. It’s by the harbour, within walking distance of course, shared shower, loo and kitchen. Bargain of the week!”
Solheim Cup
Requests for media credentials, phone/wireless ordering information and the media hotel reservation form for the Solheim Cup at Crooked Stick all have to made on-line at www.solheim-media.com/. If you have any questions about the process or the 2005 Solheim Cup in general, please contact the LPGA Communications Department at 001 386 2746200 or Jeff Weitekamp of the Indiana Sports Corporation at 001 317 2375016.
Changes of address, etc
The contact for the Faldo Series is now Tom Phillips (020 7592 3290; fax: 020 7592 3299; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. These are provisional and subject to change. (All times are local.) Spanish Open 1730; Johnnie Walker Classic 1730; Asian Open 1730; Italian Open 1700; British Masters 1745; Irish Open 1800; BMW Championship 1830; Wales Open 1700; KLM Open 1800; French Open 1700; European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1645; Deutsche Bank Open 1730; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; German Masters 1700; HSBC World Match Play 1715; Seve Trophy TBC; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship TBC; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup 1600; China Open 1600; Hong Kong Open 1630.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
AGW match against IMG
The 2005 season started in some style on Monday 14 Match when an 11-strong AGW team augmented by BBC commentator, Andrew Cotter, took on IMG over the West course at Wentworth. Sadly, however, most of the style came from our opponents who ran out worthy 4-2 winners in what looks likely to become an annual event. Michael Pask and Brendon Taylor set the tone for the day, being a combined four under par when they defeated Alistair Tait and your new Captain of Golf by 3 & 2 in the opening match. Several of our other pairs were similarly out-gunned although there were noteworthy wins from Jock Howard and Peter Higgs and Jane Carter and Andy Farrell.
Results: Colin Callander and Alistair Tait lost to Michael Pask and Brendan Taylor 3 & 2, Tony Stenson and Jeremy Chapman lost to John Murray and Dougal Christie 6 & 4, John Barton and Tony Adamson lost to Ali McKay-Forbes and Tania Revitt 1 hole, Peter Higgs and Jock Howard defeated Matt Boucher and Paul Gillmon 6 & 5, Bill Robertson and Andrew Cotter lost to John Broke-Smith and Rupert Hunter 1 hole, Jane Carter and Andy Farrell defeated Katie Powell and Rob Aller 4 & 3.
New Fixtures
Stewart McDougall has asked us to point out that the LGU will be staging a Weetabix Women’s British Open media day at Royal Birkdale on Monday 16 May. Stewart has indicated that he will be sending out invitations but, in the meantime, we can confirm the first tee time will be 10.00 am, followed by a buffet lunch.
Another fixture for your diaries is the annual AGW match against The Wisley which has been scheduled for Wednesday 31 August. As things stand, the format is still to be finalised, although it is likely to be similar to last year when we gathered at about 8.30am in time for golf and lunch. Full details will be confirmed next month.
Mitchell Platts has intimated that he is in the process of putting together a European Tour media day, to hosted by BMW. The likelihood is that it will be held at Walton Heath on Tuesday 3 May. Mitchell will be sending out invitations in due course.
Next Fixtures
I can confirm that as of March 29 the following members had entered the forthcoming fixtures in Scotland:
Henry Cotton Salver (Loch Lomond, April 24): Alan Hedley, Jeremy Chapman, David Birtill, David Smith, Michael McDonnell, Scott MacCallum, Alan Herron, Tony Stenson, Mike Aitken, David Hamilton, Douglas Lowe, Peter Godsiff, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, John Barton, Mitchell Platts, Martin Vousden, Alan Cambbell, Bryan Potter, Martin Dempster, Graham Otway, Jock Howard and Jim Mossop.
Kingsbarns (April 26): Alan Hedley, Jeremy Chapman, David Birtill, Michael McDonnell, Paul Trow, Scott MacCallum, Tony Stenson, David Hamilton, Peter Godsiff, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Elliott, Bill Robertson, Detlef Hennies, Martin Vousden, Bob Davies, Alan Campbell*, Bryan Potter, Graham Otway, Brian Creighton, Jock Howard and Jim Mossop (*to be confirmed).
Anyone else who wants to enter, please write to me at GMS, 14a High Street, Welwyn, Herts AL6 9QF or e-mail me on email hidden; JavaScript is required. I am also taking entries for the Ron Moseley Trophy at Foxhills on Tuesday 24 May (tee times start 9.30 am), the Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget over the East Course at Wentworth on Wednesday 25 May (7.30am), Royal Cinque Ports, Monday 25 May (golf then dinner), Prince’s Tuesday 26 May (am), the Wisley match on August 31 (golf followed by lunch), the President’s Putter at West Hill on Tuesday 13 September (2.30pm), the Golf Writers Championship over the East Course at Wentworth on Wednesday 14 September (7.30am), the Broadcasters match at Stoke Park on Monday 19 September (golf followed by dinner) and the Wilson match at the New Zealand Club on Thursday 10 November (8.00am).
Colin Callander, Captain (01438 718399; 07788 443995)
May/June 2005
Annual General Meeting
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION WILL BE HELD IN THE PRESS TENT AT ST ANDREWS ON WEDNESDAY 13 JULY AT 10am.
Annual Dinner
The application form for the Association’s annual dinner at St Andrews on Tuesday 12 July is enclosed. Please note the closing date for applications of Friday 1 July – AFTER THIS NOTING CAN BE GUARANTEED. Places are likely to be tight once again so please act as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
As usual for there will be a number of official guests to whom we will be sending invitations. There are also a number of people, including players, we would like to encourage members to bring as guests, and if you are in a position to help these can be in addition to the standard limit of two guests. Please check with dinner secretary Dave Hamilton (01621 817170) for a list of names.
This year we have again held the ticket price at £45. However, the biggest cost to Association is the extensive guest list so if you are able to bring any of those guests who we feel should be at the dinner it would be much appreciated. Receipts for dinner tickets can be obtained from treasurer Bob Davies.
Should you be left with a spare ticket because a guest becomes unavailable please inform the dinner secretary who will be able to dispose of the ticket for you.
Open accommodation
Please see below two properties in St Andrews which may be suitable for newspapers or other journalists covering the Open in July. Anyone interested should contact Stephen and Alexandra Greene on 01334 477944; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
- Large family house (centre of town, Westport, South Street), 5 mins. walk from the 18th green, available for the Open: 5 double bedrooms, (2 additional sofa beds, separate rooms), 3 bathrooms, large garden available for entertainment. £4500 for the week. B/f, Ev.meal additional.
- Family house (centre of town), 10 mins. walk from the 18th green, available for the Open: 3 double bedrooms, 1 single. £2000 for the week. B/f, Ev.meal additional.
Solheim Cup
Connie Wilson, of the LPGA, has an invitation for anyone attending the Solheim Cup in September: “You are cordially invited to a very special media outing at Rich Harvest Farms, the prestigious course 50 miles west of Chicago in Sugar Grove, Ill., that has been selected as the host venue for the 2009 Solheim Cup. For media who cover the 2005 Solheim Cup, the LPGA and the 2009 Solheim Cup Committee will host you for 18 holes of golf at Rich Harvest Farms followed by a reception.
“This will give you a tremendous opportunity to test your skills on one of the nation’s most challenging new courses and enjoy first-hand why this will be an ideal host site for the 2009 Solheim Cup, the most prestigious team event in women’s professional golf.
“For planning purposes, we need to gauge the interest level and availability of your plans to participate. Would you kindly review the following information then e-mail me (email hidden; JavaScript is required) or call me (001 386 2746271) with your interest and/or availability. Thank you for your attention to this and I hope to see you at the 2005 Solheim Cup.”
Monday 12 September (day after the 2005 match concludes):
8:30 a.m. Depart Carmel, Indiana, by bus
12:30 p.m. Arrive at Rich Harvest Farms, Sugar Grove, Illinois
12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Meet and Greet, distribute box lunches
1:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. Driving Range
1:30 p.m. Shotgun Start at Rich Harvest Farms
5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Pavilion atrium
6:00 p.m. Depart to overnight accommodation near Chicago’s O’Hare Airport
Changes of address, etc
Graham Otway’s e-mail address is email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Subscriptions
Apparently, it is again necessary to request all subscriptions are paid up as the constitution states that any member who is in arrears after more than three months automatically ceases to be a member of the Association. While contingencies can be made for overseas members, UK based members are reminded that the Committee recommends playing by standing order. Forms are available from the Treasurer.
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. Subject to change. (All times are local.) Irish Open 1900; BMW Championship 1800; Wales Open 1700; KLM Open 1800; French Open 1700; European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1645; Deutsche Bank Open 1700; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Diageo Championship 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; German Masters 1700; HSBC World Match Play 1715; Seve Trophy TBC; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Championship TBC; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup 1600; China Open 1600; Hong Kong Open 1630.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
AGW Scottish Tour
AGW members are currently recovering from a hectic Scottish Tour during which some of our more enthusiastic (or foolish) brethren signed up to play a total of three rounds of golf in three days.
This marathon started at Loch Lomond where AGW members and other journalists took part in a Scottish Open media day hosted by Barclays Capital. We used this opportunity to stage our Sir Henry Cotton Salver and it was won by Bryan Potter who accumulated 33 points over a Loch Lomond course that was in exceptional condition for the time of year.
Bryan’s total might not sound particularly impressive until one learns that due to an administrative error (for which the local assistant is still being chastised) we played a “Stableford” system under which we were awarded three points for a birdie, two points for a par but none for a bogey. It was what can only be described as a brutal examination and explains why our winner finished six shots ahead of runners up Martin Vousden, Jeremy Chapman and my good(ish) self on 27 points.
The normal Stableford system was in back in vogue for the R & A’s media day over the Old Course where Alistair Tait emerged as the winner after a card count back against Derek Lawrenson. Alistair and Derek both accumulated an excellent total of 39 points over the pristine Old Course to finish three points ahead of Alan Hedley and Jamie Corrigan. For the first time in a while none of our lady members featured near the top of this particular leaderboard but that might have been because they were salivating over the prospect of entering next year’s Open Championship proper. Rumours that Lewine Mair is already practising assiduously have been strenuously denied.
The following day just over 20 AGW members signed up for a round at Kingsbarns but that competition was abandoned after torrential rain hit that picturesque corner of Fife. I understand from my spies that Detlef Hennies was the only member who defied the elements and completed all 18 holes. He has been congratulated on his fortitude but warned about conduct unbecoming of a golf writer.
It turned out to be a particularly bad day for Bill Elliott who was the last member to leave Kingsbarns and as a result had to settle a bill for some £30 which had been accrued by members who failed to pay for food which they mistakenly believed was on the house. I would be obliged if anyone who scoffed a burger, bacon roll or whatever, contact Bill to sort out recompense. The alternative is that Bill will ask me for a donation which, as a true Scot, fills me with considerable dread. On the subject of money, I should add that Peter Corrigan collected a total of £170 as a whip round for staff at Loch Lomond. It has been sent on to Joanne Kerr with a letter thanking the club for its magnificent hospitality on the day.
Forthcoming Fixtures
There follows the tee times for both the Ron Moseley Trophy and the Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget. I would be obliged if anyone who wants to enter or withdraw from either event do so as soon as possible so that I can notify the appropriate authorities. I should add that there will be a buffet lunch laid on for competitors at Foxhills. Wentworth is treating us to our usual feast in the Ryder Cup room at the end of the Spring Medal. I understand that several German journalists will also be playing the East course on the morning of May 25th as guests of BMW. They will also be lunching with us thereafter.
The winners of the two events will be presented with the respective trophies. BMW is also to provide some additional prizes for AGW members and guests at the Spring Medal and Red Bull is also hosting a Final5 competition under the rules of which the competitor who scores the lowest nett score over the last five holes will receive a bottle of champagne (or something similar). This Red Bull Final5 event is similar to a competition that was originated on the Challenge Tour in 2003 and has since been contested at several European Tour events too.
Tee times for the Ron Moseley Trophy (Foxhills, Tuesday 24 May)
10.00 am – Mark Garrod, Alan Hedley, John Hopkins,
10.10 am – Colin Callander, Peter Higgs, Dave Hamilton
10.20 am – Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Elliott, Peter Godsiff
10.30 am – Dai Davies, Martin Vousden, Brian Creighton, Alistair Tait
10.40 am – Jim Mossop, Tim Glover, Dai Davies, Tony Stenson
Tee times for the Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget (Wentworth East, Wednesday 25 May)
7.30 am – Martin Vousden, Michael McDonnell, Dave Hamilton
7.38 am – Mark Garrod, Bob Davies, John Fenton
7.46 am – Colin Callander, Bill Elliott, Derek Lawrenson
7.54 am – John Huggan, John Whitbread, Patricia Davies
8.02 am – Alistair Tait, Tony Stenson, Peter Higgs
8.10 am – Colm Smith, Peter Corrigan, Dai Davies, Bill Robertson
8.18 am – Mike Aitken, Bernie McGuire, Jeremy Chapman, Alan Hedley
8.26 am – John Hopkins, Peter Godsiff, David Smith, Douglas Lowe
8.34 am – Scott McCallum, Brian Creighton, Jock MacVicar, Tim Glover
Another Date for Your Diaries
I have learned from Helen McDonnell that there is to be a World Golf Championship media day at The Grove on Monday 17 October during which members and other guests will be brought up to speed about plans for the WGC American Express Championship to be held there in 2006. Further details will appear in the next Newsletter.
I am also endeavouring to arrange a suitable date and venue for our annual match against the Golf Foundation although that is proving somewhat problematical given the length of our fixture list. With a bit of luck that fixture should also be finalised in time for the next missive.
Golf Schedule
I am currently taking entries for the following fixtures. Many members have already entered these events but others who want to can do so by contacting me on email hidden; JavaScript is required:
Tuesday 24 May Foxhills – Ron Moseley Trophy (10am)
Wednesday 25 May Wentworth East – Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget (7.30am)
Monday 25 July Royal Cinque Ports Golf Day (2pm followed by dinner)
Tuesday 26 July Princes Golf Day (am)
Wednesday 31 August Wisley match
Tuesday 13 September West Hill – President’s Putter (2.30pm)
Wednesday 14 Sept Wentworth East – Golf Writers’ Championship (7.30am)
Monday 19 September Stoke Park – Broadcasters match (golf followed by dinner)
Thursday 10 November New Zealand – Wilson match (8am)
Colin Callander
Captain (01438 718399; 07788 443995)
ANNUAL DINNER – TICKET FORM 2005
Name ………………………………………………………….
Date ……………………………………………………………
I require ……… tickets for the 2005 AGW Dinner in the R&A tent, St Andrews on Tuesday 12 July (6.45pm drinks reception, 7.30 dinner)
My guests are
- …………………………………………………………….
- …………………………………………………………….
If you are willing and able to pay for an additional guest or guests from the official list please insert their name(s) in the space provided below. Please check with Dave Hamilton
- …………………………………………………………….
Tickets are £45 each and full payment for yourself and your guests MUST be included with this form (cheques payable to the Association of Golf Writers). If you are not attending the dinner yourself please do not apply for guest tickets.
Signed …………………………………………………………
Please send form to: David Hamilton, Association of Golf Writers, 11 Darcy Road, Tolleshunt Knights, nr Tiptree, Essex CO5 0RP.
All forms must be returned by Friday 1 July to avoid disappointment.
(ANDY FARRELL, HON. SEC.)
July 2005
Herb Warren Wind
Herb Warren Wind, the distinguished writer on golf for The New Yorker and Sports Illustrated, died in May at the age of 88. He had been a member of the Association since 1973. Wind was the man who coined the term ‘Amen Corner’ at Augusta National. In the 1958 Masters, the result hinged on Arnold Palmer’s play on the 12th and 13th holes, the eventual champion grabbing an eagle at the latter. Robert Macdonald, Wind’s friend, explained: “Herb felt he should try and come up with some appropriate name for that corner of the course where the critical action had taken place. He was fond of jazz and the only phrase with the word ‘corner’ he could think of came from the title of a song on an old Bluebird record recorded by a band under the direction of Milton (Mezz) Messrow, a Chicago clarinettist, called Shouting in the Amen Corner.” Wind also collaborated with Ben Hogan on the seminal instruction book Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf.
John Hopkins’s obituary from The Times, reproduced with kind permission, follows:
AS WELL as having one of the most distinctive names in golf, Herbert Warren Wind was the game’s most elegant chronicler and America’s finest golf writer. Wind made his name with his seminal book, The Story of American Golf (1948), which he wrote while he was on the staff of The New Yorker. Despite its modest sales, it became a classic and established Wind as a golf writer. He was the man who named the 11th, 12th and 13th holes at Augusta National Golf Club, the scene of the annual Masters tournament, Amen Corner.
Herbert Warren Wind was born in Brockton, Massachusetts, in 1916, and learnt to play golf at Thorney Lea, a club in Brockton, during school holidays. In the summers he went to Camp Zakelo in Maine, where he and his friend John Horne Burns, who would go on to win the Pulitzer Prize for fiction, published a camp newspaper. At Yale, Wind covered sports for the Yale Daily News and wrote about jazz for the Yale Record.
But it was when Wind came to Jesus College, Cambridge, where he played rugby and took a degree in English literature, that he met the men who would change his life. Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch, the editor of The Oxford Book of English Verse and a Shakespeare scholar, was his tutor. While at Cambridge Wind met Bernard Darwin, grandson of Charles Darwin. Bernard Darwin was the eminent essayist and golf writer for The Times, and, having fallen under his spell, Wind determined to become a golf writer.
When he returned from active service in China during the war, he settled in New York and was a staff writer for The New Yorker from 1947 until 1954. Then he joined a new weekly magazine called Sports Illustrated and served as its golf editor until 1959. In 1960 he helped to launch Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf, a successful television series, and wrote all the scripts.
In 1962 he returned to The New Yorker and became its golf and tennis writer until he retired in 1989. He also wrote about squash rackets, polo, real tennis, American football, track and field, basketball, ice hockey, skiing and pelota. But it was his long, ruminative essays on golf that made him famous. He gave his readers not only a vivid description of the tournament being covered but a lengthy discussion on the players, and the history of the game, golf course architecture, the rules, the clubs and anything he felt a golfer needed to know to be able to appreciate the game.
He worshipped Bobby Jones, the US amateur golfer who had won the Open and Amateur Championships of the US and Great Britain in 1930, a feat nicknamed “the Impregnable Quadrilateral”, and soon after this started the Masters tournament. Wind helped to create the impression that the Masters was a major tournament. He also established the concept of measuring golf greatness by the number of major championships a player had won.
In person Wind was as fastidious in his manners and dress as he was in his writing, which he did painstakingly in pencil. He was only rarely seen on a golf course without a jacket and tie and he quite often wore spats. He usually carried a neatly folded mackintosh, and a shooting stick on which he would sit and make notes. He never married. Like a monk to his religion he devoted his life to his writing — and he liked best to write about golf. Herbert Warren Wind, writer, was born on August 11, 1916. He died on May 30, 2005, aged 88.
Jim McCabe, of the Boston Globe, adds: “Herbert Warren Wind was a Brockton native whose passion for golf grew out of childhood rounds at Thorny Lea Golf Club and led to a legendary writing career at The New Yorker.
“A graduate of Yale, Wind also earned a degree in English literature at Cambridge University. It was during his time in England that he became enamoured with writing about golf, something he did brilliantly in two stints at The New Yorker (1948-53; 1960-90) and for six years as one of the first sportswriters hired at Sports Illustrated. It was in a Sports Illustrated article in 1958 that Wind dubbed Augusta National’s 11th, 12th, and 13th holes ‘Amen Corner’.
“Among his closest friends in golf, Wind counted Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, and Francis Ouimet. He authored 14 books, including projects with Jack Nicklaus and Hogan. ‘He certainly taught us an awful lot about golf,’ said his sister, Gertrude Scheft of Weston.”
Phil Sheldon
Phil Sheldon, the golf photographer who was a colleague and friend to many members of the Association, died in June, the day following the US Open, after a long and brave battle with leukaemia. He leaves his wife Gill and two sons, Jack and Alfie. Hugh Routledge, of The Times, pays tribute to his friend and fellow snapper:
An acclaimed sports photographer, Phil worked for various golfing magazines and national newspapers over three decades. He covered all the major tournaments in the world, including 24 US Masters, 21 US Opens, 25 Open Championships, 18 USPGAs and 11 Ryder Cups. He won the Specialist Sports Photographer of the Year award on three occasions, was the recipient of the inaugural Lawrence Levy Lifetime Achievement Award and had one of his photographs voted “Golf’s Greatest Photo” by Golf World magazine.
It would be easy to think that to review the life of Phil Sheldon one would only have to describe spending a day with him working at one of the great golf tournaments of the world. Or even just to review his latest great book, Golfing Days. But that would be to miss so much that was the man, Phil Sheldon. I can think of no better way to describe what this guy was all about than to take you on one of his “little walks”
The “little walk” would start in the press tent at any one of the many tournaments he had covered each year since 1975. The destination was irrelevant, possibly the clubhouse or the driving range, the purpose ambiguous, the distance no more than 400 yards and I always agreed to go under several self-imposed conditions: A – if I carried a camera it was never used, B – I had not agreed to see anyone at the clubhouse or range, and C – most importantly, I had plenty of time to spare.
Time was the main factor, because every 20 yards Phil would be stopped by anyone from that enormous cross-section of people who make up the great game of golf. The range of characters never ceased to amaze me. From the pro of some humble golf club in the back of beyond, to any one of the top-100 golfers in the world; from a bunker raker Phil had met at his last tournament, to a member of the R & A committee; from the editor of a low readership weekly in the home counties, to any one of the best sports writers in the business from across the planet. He seemed to know them all. But what always struck me was that more often that not the conversations were not about golf.
Phil’s would ask “How are the kids?”, “Is the house finished yet?”, “What’s the rose garden like this year?” They all seemed to be friends, not just acquaintances. And there was always the laugh. Everyone got the laugh. I can hear it now, but could not begin to describe it. So I won’t. It was unique and everyone got it.
Then there were the odd facts that came out of these conversations. His favourite hotel (after The Savoy) was the White Swan in Southwold. His favourite place – Southwold. His favourite occupation above all else – playing with kids on Southwold beach. His favourite architecture – the beach huts on Southwold beach. I am sure that in some dark cupboard lies the plans for Phil’s ultimate golf course. The 18th will be a mighty par 5. With 200 yards in front of the tee, a huge bunker called “Southwold Beach”, and on the plans in the middle of the sand will be a shortish character with balding pate and a beard, carrying a bucket and wielding a sand iron with gusto, and a huge grin on his face.
Above all else on these “little walks” I learned of Phil’s enormous pride in his two boys Jack and Alfie, and of course the great love in his life for the rock in all that was Phil Sheldon, his wife Gill. We will all miss a great photographer, a great family man, a great man, but for me, I am especially going to miss our “little walks”.
Keith Duckworth
In a wretched month for the golfing media, it would be remiss not to record the death of Keith Duckworth. Keith was not a member of the Association but was well known to all of us who had worked alongside him at tournaments in America and also from his work “behind the desk” at the Open.
Bernie McGuire wrote the following obituary:
The Open Championship Media Centre has lost one of its most devoted supporters with the untimely passing of Keith Duckworth. Keith served The Open for eight years as a member of the media team who tirelessly gathered greenside quotes, assisted with interviews and generally helped make the effort of those reporting on The Open that less stressful.
There was a very jovial side to Keith as myself and many others will attest. I was on the receiving end of Keith’s banter at the recent Weetabix Women’s British Open Media Day on a bleak and dismal day at Royal Birkdale. In contrast, Keith was his usual brightest best. Tragically, it was to be Keith’s final media golf outing. He loved his golf and he loved being a part of The Open and also the British Amateur where he was also due to work this year before his untimely passing.
Keith had been a member of his beloved Ulverston Golf Club since 1978 and was also a member of Cumbria’s executive committee. Ulverston Golf Club secretary Ray Rushforth paid tribute to Keith saying: “Keith was a previous member of the club council. He was always concerned about the well-being of the club and he will be sadly missed.” The flag at Ulverston Golf Club was flown at half-mast as a tribute to Keith. He was a great collector of golf memorabilia and other items that proved helpful in raising monies for various Ulverston region charities.
Keith got into golf reporting firstly as a photographer helping out AGW member Dick Severino taking photographs. Among Keith’s work were some fabulous shots taken of Seve Ballesteros in full victory mode at St. Andrews in 1984. Keith soon sought to join to AGW but the rules then restricted access to photographers so Keith decided to attend golf tournaments dressed in a collar and tie.
Keith thought if he couldn’t become an AGW member he would do the next thing to becoming a member and that was take to reporting golf. He travelled often to the States covering tournaments and it was in this role he came to know very well many of the game’s leading players and in particular, Sandy Lyle and Nick Price.
In fact, Sandy revealed during the recent BMW Championship that Keith once purchased a BMW he owned – the same car Sandy had driven home with the 1985 Open Championship trophy. Sandy’s long time caddie, Dave Musgrove, was also one of Keith’s many good friends and both he and Sandy expressed their sadness.
Keith was also an extremely devoted family man. He was married to Di for 45-years and also leaves two daughters and two grandchildren. He was originally from Bury and moved to Ulverston in the early ’70s after falling in love with the town during a caravan holiday at Black Beck, Bouth.
When caravanning at Bouth, Keith and his wife Di used to buy their newspapers at Salmon’s News agency and it was one day on seeing a sign that the business was for sale, they decided to purchase the agency. Malcolm Sibbert, manager of Salmon’s newsagents, now owned by Allan and Anne-Marie Grundy, paid tribute to Keith: “He was a good boss and also a good friend. As well as working together we used to go out socially and both played golf.”
Keith had spent a happy day together with his wife but took ill later in the night and passed away a short time later in Furness General Hospital. He’ll be missed at St. Andrews and for many more Opens to come.
Annual Dinner
Just a reminder that ticket application forms, with cheques, need to be in by Friday 1 July – AFTER THIS NOTHING CAN BE GUARANTEED. Dinner secretary David Hamilton is currently at the European Amateur Team Championship until July 2 so please let him know your form is on the way by mobile (07834 172877) or e-mail (email hidden; JavaScript is required).
There are still some officials and others we would like to get to the dinner so if you are able to help out, please contact Dave. Also, if you find yourself with a spare ticket because a guest becomes unavailable, please let Dave know as he will be able to dispose of it for you.
AGW book
The history of the Association – entitled Forgive us our press passes – will be published by Queen Anne Press in time for the Open Championship at a price of £9.95, which represents excellent value for a tome packed with anecdotes about the great characters who have written about golf over the decades. Michael McDonnell has done a superb job in pulling together a mass of material and there are some outstanding pieces from members of the Association and guest contributors. Chairman John Hopkins persuaded various organizations to sponsor the book and found a publisher able to get it printed in time for the Open.
Copies will be available at St Andrews, especially at the AGM on Wednesday morning. Otherwise, copies may be obtained from Adrian Stephenson of Lennard Associates at a cost of £13.50 including postage and packing in the UK; £15 for Europe, including the Republic of Ireland; and £18.50 for the rest of the world. Contact Adrian with credit card details on 01582 715866 or send a cheque (made payable to Queen Anne Press) to Lennard Associates, Windmill Cottage, Mackerye End, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5DR. If you wish to order more than one copy, please e-mail email hidden; JavaScript is required to obtain the cost of postage and packing.
Outstanding Services Award
Jack Nicklaus will receive the 2005 Michael Williams Trophy for Outstanding Services to Golf on the occasion of his last appearance in the Open Championship. However, as Nicklaus will be attending the R and A’s Open champions dinner on the same night as our dinner, the presentation will take place during his press conference on Tuesday morning. It is hoped as many members as possible will attend the presentation.
New members
Peter Dixon, Neil McLeman, Robin Barwick and Eamonn Power have all been elected to membership of the Association. Paul Williams and Steve Newell have been accepted on to the Supplementary List.
BARWICK, ROBIN: 18 Garden Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2XL (01892 524706; mobile: 07753 610408; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
DIXON, PETER: The Times, 1 Pennington Street, London E98 1TT (020 7782 25945; fax: 020 7782 5211). Home: 36 Gravett Close, Henley-on-Thames, Oxon RG9 1XW (01491 410532; fax: 01491 579816; mobile: 07770 536094; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
McLEMAN, NEIL: Daily Mirror, One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP (020 7293 3649). Home: 18 Wood Vale, London SE23 3EE (020 8637 0048; mobile: 07786 748416; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required
POWER, EAMONN: Andalucia Golf, c/ Ortega y Gasset, 7, Edificio Hispasol, 2-C, 29600 Marbella, Malaga, Spain (0034 952 828976; fax: 0034 952 829088; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required); Home: Calle Valencia 15, Pueblo Lopez, Fuengirola 29640, Malaga, Spain (0034 952 460755; mobile: 0034 678 064750; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
WILLIAMS, PAUL: Western Mail & Echo, Thomson House, Havelock Street, Cardiff CF10 1XR (02920 583655; fax: 02920 583652). Home: 4 Pwllhelyg, Tongwynlais, Cardiff CF15 7HX (02920 811327; mobile: 07714 102086; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
NEWELL, STEVE: The Oak House, The Street, Tibenham, Norfolk NR16 1QA (01379 674383; mobile: 07867 787292; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Tournament Reports
With immediate effect, committee member Lewine Mair is taking responsibility for all matters relating to tournaments, such as compiling the reports and letters that go to the promoters and sponsors, as well as those issues to be raised with the R and A and the European Tour at the winter meetings. If there are any points from any events you wish to raise, particularly from tournaments earlier in the season, please e-mail Lewine on email hidden; JavaScript is required.
In a further reorganisation, assistant secretary Jane Carter will take over responsibility for membership matters, overseeing the application process as well as the handbook and the Christmas hampers. Any changes in address or contact details can be notified to Jane or myself, and preferably both.
The secretary will remain responsible for newsletters, keeping the committee minutes, the constitution and AGM, the Golf Writers’ Trophy and Outstanding Services Award, liaising with the golf captain and dinner secretary, etc, and being the main point of contact for the Association, both internally and externally. The rejig, for those who may not have heard, is a result of my recovering from post-viral fatigue, or ME. Progress is good. Many thanks to all those who have been in touch and to those on the committee who have shared the load.
Changes of address, etc
Alan Booth’s new e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Nuria Pastor’s e-mail address is now: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Bernie McGuire has a new mobile number: 07910 847 821.
Eamonn Power’s new office e-mail is: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Richard Simmons asks mail to be directed c/o Golf International, 10 Buckingham Place, London SW1E 6HX.
John Collard has a new address: Sports Impact, 46 Crooked Billet, Wimbledon Common, London SW19 4RQ (020 89719230; mobile: 07785 304784; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required).
Mike Woodcock is the new Communications Manager of the St Andrews Links Trust: 01334 466666; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Oscar Jacobson
The European Tour has arranged a deal with Oscar Jacobson, a European Ryder Cup team supplier, to offer all members of the AGW and the golfing media with golfing and formal apparel at a discount of approximately 25% off retail prices. To take advantage of the arrangement, you should contact Peter Bannington, Sales & Marketing Manager (UK) of Oscar Jacobson, on 0207 4020797.
USPGA Championship
To apply for media credentials for the 87th USPGA Championship please go online to: www.pgamediacenter.com and click the Online Credential Application (left side of page). The championship will be held on August 8-14 at Baltusrol in Springfield, NJ.
Please note that the deadline for media credentials is Tuesday 5 July. If you have any questions please call Una Jones on 001 561 6248407.
Golf Foundation
Ben Evans, formerly editor of Pro Shop Europe, is the new press officer for the Golf Foundation. He can be contacted on 01747 820384 or 07789 291031 and e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required. Ben will be running a raffle for members visiting the junior golf centre at the Open and there will also be a buffet lunch on Tuesday 12 July.
Seve Trophy
A new media hotel has been found nearer to the course. Anyone looking to book accommodation or telephone or ISDN lines should contact John Collard on 07785 304784 or email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Deutsche Bank European Golf Writers Cup
Members who will be attending the Deutsche Bank Players Championship of Europe at Gut Kaden are invited to play in the Deutsche Bank European Golf Writers Cup on Saturday 23 July at the Golf Club An der Pinnau. Hans Peter Kregelius of DVGJ (German Golf Writers Association) says: “As you might remember, we invented this Cup last year in St. Leon Rot and were a little late with our invitation to the international colleagues, so there were only eight players. But we had three winners and Klaus Wondraschek – best gross – is going to defend his title in Hamburg.
“We do have a strong support by Deutsche Bank and especially by Mr. Michael Hoelz, who is responsible for the tournament. We plan to have a starting field of about 40 players, at 9.30 or 10am there will be a shotgun start. Deutsche Bank sponsors the green fees, a halfway snack, the cup and a couple of additional prices. During the next four weeks, we will try to get some more sponsors for prices, giveaways and so on. We would really appreciate if you could inform our colleagues from Great Britain about this event, which we try to make a traditional yearly get together with our two organizations and golf writers from all over Europe.” Anyone interested can let Hans Peter know on: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. Subject to change. (All times are local.) European Open 1800; Scottish Open 1645; Deutsche Bank Open 1700; Scandinavian Masters 1700; Johnnie Walker Champs 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; German Masters 1700; HSBC World Match Play 1715; Seve Trophy 1700; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Champs 1500; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup 1600; China Open 1600; Hong Kong Open 1630.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Ron Moseley Trophy
Bill Elliott compiled a total of 39 Stableford points to win the Ron Moseley Trophy staged over a pristine Longcross course at Foxhills. That gave the Observer’s golf correspondent a two point victory over Derek Lawrenson, with your Golf Captain trailing home in third place with 35 points.
I would like to take this opportunity to thanks Roger Hyder, Foxhills’ Director of Golf, for the hospitality we received during the day. The club looked after us admirably, so much so that I have begun discussions to see if we can return there next year.
Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget
The following day a total of almost 40 AGW members took part in the Spring Medal for the Michael Williams Hogget played over the East Course at Wentworth. This year, the trophy was won for a third time by Alistair Tait, who defended the title by compiling 39 points, one more than both Brian Creighton and Patricia Davies. Tony Stenson, displaying stamina none of us thought he had, won the Red Bull Final-Five prize for the best score over the closing five holes. Our thanks go to BMW, the European Tour and Red Bull for donating such lavish prizes. Special thanks, too, go to Judy Williams for attending the lunch and presenting the trophy to Alistair.
Golf at Royal Cinque Ports and Prince’s
I have given Ian Symington, the Secretary at Royal Cinque Ports, the names and addresses of the following 13 AGW members who stated they wished to play in the club’s Golf Day on Monday 25 July: Tony Adamson, Mike Aitken, John Barton, Colin Callander, Dai Davies, Patricia Davies, Bill Elliott, Andy Farrell, Mark Garrod, Tim Glover, Michael McDonnell, Bob Rodney and Tony Stenson. If anyone else wishes to play, or wants to withdraw, please let me know as soon as possible and I will pass on your details. In the meantime, Ian will be sending out further information about the day, although I understand we are expected to arrive about mid-day in time for a light lunch followed by golf. A meal will be served after we complete our round.
The next day, golf has been arranged at Prince’s for the following: Mark Garrod, Tony Adamson, Tony Stenson, Bill Elliott, Andy Farrell, Mike Aitken, Dai Davies, Patricia Davies, John Barton, Bob Rodney and Tim Glover. Players are expected to arrive at 9.30 am when they will be met by the genial host, Bill Howie. The tee is booked from 9.45 onwards.
Ian Symington was on holiday when I contacted him about potential overnight accommodation but his assistant Carol recommended the following hotels: The King’s Head, Beach St, Deal (01304 368194), Dunkerleys, Beach St, Deal (01304 375016) and The Clarendon, Beach Street, Deal (01304 375294) Carol indicated that The King’s Head was “very popular”.
AGM match versus The Wisley
I am currently on the look-out for a few more members to take part in the annual match against The Wisley, scheduled for Wednesday 31 August. If last year’s fixture is anything to go by it promises to be an excellent day out. It is a 12-a-side match, starting at about 9.00 am and followed by lunch. Contact me on email hidden; JavaScript is required or by phone if you want to be added to the list.
Golf Schedule
I am currently taking entries for the following fixtures. Many members have already entered these events but others who want to can do so by contacting me on email hidden; JavaScript is required:
Monday 25 July Royal Cinque Ports Golf Day (12pm followed by dinner)
Tuesday 26 July Princes Golf Day (9.30am)
Wednesday 31 August Wisley match (9am)
Tuesday 13 September West Hill – President’s Putter (2.30pm)
Wednesday 14 Sept Wentworth East – Golf Writers’ Championship (7.30am)
Monday 19 September Stoke Park – Broadcasters match (golf followed by dinner)
Thursday 10 November New Zealand – Wilson match (8am)
Colin Callander, Captain (01438 718399; 07788 443995)
August 2005
Outstanding Services Award
Jack Nicklaus received the 2005 Michael Williams Trophy for Outstanding Services to Golf on the occasion of his last appearance in the Open Championship. The presentation was made at a packed press conference on the Tuesday of Open week.
Explaining the decision to award Nicklaus the trophy, chairman John Hopkins said: “We had to honour him because of what he has meant to those of us who inhabit this tent and to our predecessors who worked here when Jack arrived for his first Open 43 years ago. Quite simply, Jack has been a thread of strong cotton running through the fabric of golf. It is not just for his 18 professional major championships that we are giving him this award; it’s not just his three victories in the Open; nor the fact that’s played in the Open for most years since 1962; it’s not just that he helped to revive the Ryder Cup; that he stood for fair play and honesty and integrity; it’s for all these achievements and many more.”
Judy Williams, Michael’s widow, made the presentation to Nicklaus and said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity on behalf of the Association to present you with this trophy, particularly as seven years ago I came to Muirfield Village for the Memorial where you honoured Michael in the Hall of Fame. I am just delighted to be able to reciprocate today.”
Accepting the award Nicklaus said: “Thank you very much. I can’t tell you how much being over here and being able to sit down with you, the writers, over here through the years has been an experience for me. I know the press today is a much different animal than when I started coming over here some 40 years ago. However, there are still a lot of fellows who remember the old guard, Michael (Williams) and Pat Ward-Thomas and Henry Longhurst and right on down the line. We used to be able to sit down and have dinner – it was the same in the States – and say anything you wanted to say and you knew it was not going to appear in the newspaper the next day.
“I think part of the beauty of a relationship between an athlete and the press is being able to sit down with them and being able to talk with them, being able candidly to tell you how they feel and go through it and not worry about the next day being nailed for something you’ve said, because everyone talks in many different ways, as you know. People talk and they make jokes and kid around about different things. The relationship I’ve had over here with your press has been wonderful. I’ve really appreciated that, I’ve appreciated your kindness and I’ll miss it.”
Annual Dinner
Due to a clash with the R and A’s Open champions dinner, Jack Nicklaus was unable to attend our Annual Dinner but Bernhard Langer was present to received the Golf Writer’s Trophy on behalf of the European Ryder Cup team he captained to victory at Oakland Hills last year. Paul Casey, Paul McGinley, Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood were also able to join us, while other players who were present included Brad Faxon, Graeme McDowell and Amateur champion Brian McElhinney.
John Hopkins proposed the health of the guests and Sir Michael Bonallack replied with a number of anecdotes concerning his encounters with many members of the Association over the years. Our thanks go to David Hamilton and Bob Davies for again organising the dinner and to Payne and Gunter for the fine food and service after a few problems in previous years. Also, a raised glass to Hardys for the plentifully flowing wine.
Open Championship and tournament reports
Arrangements at St Andrews were not satisfactory. The committee has identified a lengthy list of issues – frustratingly, many of which have been raised in previous years – and will be seeking far greater consultation with the R and A throughout the year than simply the annual meeting in December. Our efforts are being supported by the Golf Writers Association of America.
If members have any particular problems they want to raise please e-mail myself, John Hopkins or Lewine Mair. As the chairman said at the AGM: “The more evidence we can present to the R and A that this was a particular problem for this person at this time, the stronger our case is.” The same goes for issues at any other tournament, amateur or professional. If there is something you think we need to sort out, please take time to drop us an e-mail.
Annual General Meeting
Issues from the Open dominated the Annual General Meeting but we also had the opportunity to welcome the president, Renton Laidlaw, back to action after his health problems and to salute the work of Michael McDonnell in putting together the book.
The committee and officers were re-elected: Bob Davies (honorary treasurer), Andy Farrell (honorary secretary), Jane Carter (assistant secretary), Mike Aitken, Mark Garrod, Peter Higgs, Derek Lawrenson, Jock MacVicar, Lewine Mair, Philip Reid and David Smith. Following the AGM, John Hopkins was re-elected chairman by the committee. Lewine Mair has taken on responsibility for the tournament reports and letters, while Jane Carter is administering the membership application process.
Accommodation for 2006 Open at Hoylake
For rented houses, contact: Clive Watkin at Clive Watkin Partnership, 30 Pensby Road, Heswall, Wirral CH60 7RE (0151 342 9090; fax: 0151 342 9299; website: www.clivewatkin.com)
For hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation, contact: Wirral Tourist Information Centre (0151 647 6780; website: www.visitwirral.com)
AGW book
The history of the Association – entitled Forgive us our press passes – has been well received and all the copies sent up to St Andrews were snapped up. Further copies will be available at other events this season, in particular there will be a car boot sale at the World Match Play at Wentworth next month. If you wish to secure a copy please e-mail myself or John Hopkins.
Otherwise, copies may be obtained from Adrian Stephenson of Lennard Associates at a cost of £13.50 including postage and packing in the UK; £15 for Europe, including the Republic of Ireland; and £18.50 for the rest of the world. Contact Adrian with credit card details on 01582 715866 or send a cheque (made payable to Queen Anne Press) to Lennard Associates, Windmill Cottage, Mackerye End, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5DR. If you wish to order more than one copy, please e-mail email hidden; JavaScript is required to obtain the cost of postage and packing.
Changes of address, etc
Martin Vousden’s e-mail address is now: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Bethan Cutler is the new media relations manager for the Ladies European Tour, The Old Hall, Dorchester Way
Macclesfield, Cheshire SK10 2LQ (01590 622888; fax: 01625 610406; mobile: 07980056045; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
Pete Richardson Communications has a new address: Pete Richardson Communications Ltd, Upper Cowgrove, Heath Farm, Petersfield, Hants GU31 4HU (08700 330 550 or+44 1730 711 920)
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. Subject to change. (All times are local.) Johnnie Walker Champs 1700; NEC World Invitational 1830; BMW International 1700; European Masters 1700; German Masters 1700; HSBC World Match Play 1715; Seve Trophy 1700; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Champs 1500; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1730; World Cup 1600; China Open 1600; Hong Kong Open 1630.
ANDY FARRELL
(01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Wisley match
I am still on the look out for a couple more members to take part in the match against The Wisley Club on Wednesday 31 August. We are scheduled to arrive at around 8.30 am, play golf and then have lunch. Anyone who wants to fill one of the remaining two places should contact me as soon as possible (see numbers below).
Media day at The Grove
Helen MacDonnell has confirmed that The Grove is to be staging a Media Day on Monday 17 October to help publicise the WGC American Express Championship to be held there next year. She tells me the invitations are about to be sent out but I can confirm the plan is to play golf in the afternoon and then stay on for dinner. Members and other media representatives will be able to stay overnight in the palatial hotel.
Golf Foundation match
The annual 12-a-side match against the Golf Foundation is to be held at the Berkshire on Monday 24 October. That is the Monday of Volvo Masters week but it was just about the only day we could get tee times at this prestigious venue. The timing is still to be finalised but it will involve meeting about 8.00-9.00 am, followed by 18 holes and lunch. I will be accepting entries as they arrive. The first 12 entries will be allocated places. The rest will go on the reserve list.
Wilson match
John Collard has contacted me to say that the date for the match against Wilson has had to be changed. Originally it was to be held on at the New Zealand Club on Thursday 10 November but it has now been moved to Friday 4 November at the same venue. The format remains the same. We are required to arrive at around 8.00 am in time for golf followed by lunch.
The change in date will affect the following members who indicated a desire to play on the original date. I would be obliged if you could all contact me on email hidden; JavaScript is required or 07788 443995 to let me know if you can still play. New entries can also be accepted. The following indicated that they wanted to play on the original date: Jeremy Chapman, Mark Garrod, Paul Trow, John Hopkins*, Tony Adamson, Tony Stenson, Dave Hamilton, Jane Carter, Peter Godsiff*, John Whitbread, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Elliott, Bill Robertson, Dai Davies, Patricia Davies, John Barton, John Fenton, Alistair Tait, Jim Mossop, Jock McVicar and Brian Creighton (*to be confirmed).
President’s Putter
The following members have entered the President’s Putter to be held at West Hill on Tuesday 13 September: Alan Hedley, Mark Garrod*, David Birtill, Michael McDonnell, John Hopkins, Tony Adamson, Tony Stenson, Peter Higgs, Dave Hamilton, Colm Smith, Peter Godsiff, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Elliott, Bill Robertson, Dai Davies, Patricia Davies, John Barton, Bob Davies, Alistair Tait, Bernie McGuire, Jim Mossop, Jock MacVicar and Brian Creighton (*to be confirmed). Further entries can be lodged by contacting me on the usual numbers. The draw will be published in the next newsletter.
AGW Championship
The members who have indicated a desire to compete in the AGW Championship over the East Course at Wentworth on Wednesday 14 September are as follows: Alan Hedley, Jeremy Chapman, Mark Garrod, David Birtill, David Smith, Michael McDonnell, John Hopkins, Scott MacCallum, Tony Stenson, Peter Higgs, Dave Hamilton, Colm Smith, Jane Carter, Peter Godsiff, John Whitbread, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Elliott, John Huggan, Mike Aitken, Bill Robertson, Dai Davies, Patricia Davies, John Barton, Bob Davies, Bryan Potter*, John Fenton, Alistair Tait, Bernie McGuire, Jim Mossop, Jock MacVicar, Tim Glover and Brian Creighton (*to be confirmed). Other members can contact me on the usual numbers if they want to play. The draw will be published in the next newsletter.
Golf Schedule
Wednesday 31 August Wisley match (8.30am)
Tuesday 13 September West Hill – President’s Putter (2.30pm)
Wednesday 14 Sept Wentworth East – Golf Writers’ Championship (7.30am)
Monday 19 September Stoke Park – Broadcasters match (golf then dinner)
Monday 17 October The Grove media day (golf then dinner)
Monday 24 October Berkshire – Golf Foundation match (golf then lunch)
Friday 4 November New Zealand – Wilson match (8am)
Colin Callander
Captain (office: 01438 718399; home: 01438 717878; mobile: 07788 443995; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
September 2005
Dick Severino
Dick Severino, a member of the Association since 1974, died last month after suffering a stroke during his annual summer visit to Saratoga Springs, New York, where he grew up. Dick was 85.
He had lived in San Diego for the last 25 years after being a long-time resident of Beirut. The former Olympic bobsledder was both a writer and photographer on golf and was often the only American journalist on the European Tour. He leaves a widow, Louise, two children and six grandchildren.
“I didn’t know Dick until four or five months ago,” said Tod Leonard, the golf correspondent of the San Diego Union-Tribune. “We became fast friends. He was an unbelievably fantastic guy, incredibly humble. He was failing physically, but if you talked to him on the phone he sounded like a 30-year-old. That’s how sharp he was. Dick’s daughter, Sophia, says she would appreciate any remembrances. Her e-mail address is email hidden; JavaScript is required and her phone number is 001 615 385-2964. Sophia says her mother, Louise, who was married to Dick for 46 years, would enjoy hearing from old friends. Her address is: 10081 Mesa Madera Drive, San Diego, CA 92131.”
A couple of months ago Tod wrote the following profile for the Union-Tribune:
Pausing on the stairway in his Scripps Ranch home, Dick Severino brings his face close to the beautiful, framed photograph he took years ago of the Royal County Down golf course in Northern Ireland. “You see that cloud?” he says, raising his finger to point out a large, wispy shape in the bright blue sky. “I waited an hour for that cloud to get into that spot. “But,” he says, his face lighting up with a grin, “it was worth it!”
Severino, 85, likes to say that behind every picture is a story. In his case, there’s a story behind every story, too. Some people in their journalistic pursuits write well. Others have an eye for photography. Through diligence, talent and unabashed enthusiasm, Severino has reached great heights in both. By happenstance as much as design, the golf world became his canvas and his notepad. In the nearly 40 years since Severino’s rather humble start in the business, writing free golf columns for an English-language newspaper in Beirut, he has covered golf in nearly every corner of the globe for most of the major golf publications and his own Golf Feature Services. He has photographed elephants on courses in India and golfers playing on sand and gravel in Egypt. His passion for links golf in Ireland produced a series of his photographs that are displayed in clubhouses in the U.S. and Europe.
And when Severino took his eye away from the viewfinder, he chronicled with his portable typewriter the victories of nearly every major player of the late 20th century, from Arnold Palmer and Gary Player to Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman and Tiger Woods. “Dick is one of the most fascinating people I’ve ever met, and I’ve met a lot of people” said Kaye Kessler, a retired longtime golf writer of the Columbus Citizen-Journal who closely covered the career of Nicklaus. “He is a total people person. He’ll bend your ear off, but unlike some guys it’s not all about him. It’s about the places he’s been.”
It has been a fine second career for Severino, considering he didn’t do anything in golf until he was well into his 40s. “This wasn’t an initial goal of mine,” Severino said recently as he lounged in his home of 25 years. “When I first started, I had no idea of becoming a golf writer and photographer. But I figured out after a while that I could carve out a little niche for myself in golf, and that’s what I did.” Severino shoots few pictures now, because failing eyesight and osteoporosis won’t oblige his youthful exuberance. He pursues fewer writing assignments. But he can recall with fine and colorful detail the people and places in golf that have shaped him. “I could have made a lot more money in another business,” he said, “but I wouldn’t have had as much fun.”
Severino’s was a fully realized life before he got into golf. He grew up in Saratoga Springs, N.Y; played football and boxed at Cornell, where he received an engineering degree in ’42; served as an officer in the Air Force during the Korean War; and all the while he pursued the great passion of his youth, bobsledding. Six times Severino drove two-and four-man bobsleds for the U.S. in world championships, and he was a member of the four-man American team in the 1952 Winter Olympics in Oslo, Norway. He had a 20-year career in bobsledding, and it was through acquaintances in the sport that he landed a job as a salesman of construction equipment in Europe, most notably for Mack Trucks, which assigned him to Asia and the Middle East.
Dick and Louise Severino, who have been married 46 years, settled in Beirut in 1959 and raised a daughter and son there – before the war began and eventually chased them to San Diego in 1980 after a missile came through the wall and nearly struck Louise. It was Louise, a former New Jersey fashion model, who suggested in 1967 they join the Golf Club of Lebanon for the social benefits. “I had played golf,” Dick said, “but I wasn’t a golfer.” He nevertheless found himself wanting to promote the game and the club, and he offered to write a golf column for the The Daily Star of Lebanon. Because Severino seems to do nothing casually, that sent him headlong into studying everything and everybody in the game.
“I’m the kind of person who once I get into something I really try to do it right,” Severino said. “Without having my nose in the air, I always thought there was no substitute for quality, and I tried to live that way.” Severino eventually abandoned the sales business, and once he began covering professional tournaments in Asia and Europe for Golf World magazine, his enthusiasm charmed the players in an era when reporters played pro-am rounds and spent hours of leisure time with the golfers. “Other than the British Open, I was the only American in the press corps,” Severino said. “They related to that, and the fact I lived in Beirut was kind of mysterious to them. I stood out without being pushy about it.” The legendary golf writer, Dan Jenkins, did a piece on the European Tour for Sports Illustrated in 1973 and wrote: “I say Dick Severino is a spy. He uses his notepad, his camera and Golf World as a cover. Besides, he lives in Beirut.”
Argentinian Roberto De Vicenzo would become a close friend of Severino’s, and Severino was on good terms with many players, including Palmer and Lee Trevino, with whom he walked yearly in practice rounds at the British Open. Severino recalls having breakfast with Palmer before the final round of the 1975 Spanish Open. In the previous two days, Palmer had driven into a lake on the par-5 finishing hole. “I said, ‘Arnold, what are you going to do when you get to the 18th tee?’ ” Severino recalled. “And he said, ‘I’m going to hit it as hard as I (expletive) can.’ And I said, ‘Well, hit it straight Arnold.’ ” In a downpour that day, Severino recalled, Palmer finally hit the fairway, rifled a 4-iron to 7 feet and made the eagle for a one-shot win.
Severino first took up golf photography as a necessity, because while doing features on courses in places such as Afghanistan or India, photographers were either expensive or non-existent. In 1976, he visited the Emerald Isle for the first time while covering Ben Crenshaw’s victory in the Irish Open, and his love for Ireland’s people and its unique golf landscape has produced his most widely known and distributed work. Numerous books and magazines, even Delta Airlines, have used photos from The Irish Collection, and Severino felt extremely honored when Ballybunion chose one of his pictures for the cover of its centennial book in 1992. In the U.S., Castle Pines Country Club in Colorado displays 22 of Severino’s pieces, and the Irish-founded MacGregor Links Country Club in Saratoga Springs ordered several photos from him before it knew he was a native son.
Severino never “hustled” his photos, never even bothered to print a brochure – which jibes with the humble and low-key way he’s gone about his business. “I’m not an ‘I’ guy; I don’t even like to write in the first person,” he said. “I would never want to come off being that way. I don’t believe in it, and I don’t think it’s true of me.”
The following is an extract from Severino’s obituary in The Saratogian, the local paper in Saratoga Springs, under the headline Local Olympian dies:
The Spa City’s first-ever Olympian and an acclaimed golf writer and photographer has died. Maurice ‘Dick’ Severino, 85, grew up on Locust Grove Road in Saratoga Springs and was a member of the four-man U.S. bobsled team at the 1952 Winter Olympics in Oslo, Norway. Severino, who lived in San Diego, died on Sunday (August 28) at Albany Medical Center as a result of complications from a stroke he suffered last Thursday.
‘He was the most magnetic individual I’ve ever been around,’ said his close friend Bob Duncan. The two met about six years ago at Saratoga Race Course. Duncan was working as a starter for NYRA, while Severino was photographing the races. The two men quickly became close friends, and Duncan eventually credited him with changing his outlook on aging and life. He described him as a man who acted decades younger than his age and a world-traveller who had an endless curiosity and knowledge.
‘Every day we spoke there was another revealing thing,’ Duncan said. ‘He was a Colonel and travelled around the world. He interacted with politicians in various countries when he worked for Mack Trucks. His stories in Beirut when he was there during the Civil War. Bullets being shot through his apartment. Every time I talked to someone else about him, there’s another wonderful story. He’s kind of like James Bond. He’s done a little bit of everything.’
Severino was also quite an athlete. At Saratoga Springs High School he played football. At Cornell University, where he graduated in 1942 with an engineering degree, he also played football, in addition to excelling in ping pong and boxing. But more than any other sport that he participated in, Severino was known for bobsledding. Severino had a 20-year career and he piloted two- and four-man sleds for America in the World Championships six times. At Oslo, he was the No. 3 man on a U.S. sled whose stirrups broke shortly before reaching speeds of up to 80 mph. ‘It was really two miracles running that saved us,’ Severino said, according to a 1952 newspaper account. The stirrups broke on the bobsled run’s first curve, and only the driver’s skilled handling kept the sled on course. The stirrups were welded, but broke again at the same place, again on the first curve.
Severino even met his wife of 46 years, Louise Guthrie, 83, in the late 1950s on a mountaintop in Switzerland, the country in which they eventually married. ‘They met when my father was sitting in a bobsled at the top of the sled run,’ his daughter Sophia said. Severino and his wife vacationed in Saratoga Springs every summer, and just a few weeks ago he presented the Olympic Regional Development Authority in Lake Placid with his 1952 four-man sled. ‘We’re bringing that sled back to life,’ ORDA spokesman Sandy Caligiore said.
Workers are sandblasting and repainting it, and the sled will be displayed at Lake Placid’s Verizon Sports Complex where the bobsled course is located. Severino’s donation off the sled was one of his final acts for the sport he loved most, followed closely by golf. ‘He was known to the bobsledding community,’ Caligiore said. ‘He made many, many trips down the 1980 course here.’
Severino is survived by his wife of 46 years, Louise; his sisters Rita King and Grace Donahue; brother Jerry; two children, Richard and Sophia, and six grandchildren. ‘He had a great mind, a great heart. He was a spectacular human being, and he was my dad,’ Sophia said. ‘What a privilege it was to have him as my dad.’
Members’ Handbook 2006
Enclosed is the form for next year’s members’ handbook. Please write clearly and return to me by November 1. As it helps with postage and photocopying costs to send out occasional newsletters by e-mail, please indicate if you require a hardcopy. If your details are the same as in this year’s book, please let me know as it helps to confirm all the entries are correct. Also, if you have sent in a change of address recently, please do not assume the handbook has been updated.
AGW book
The history of the Association – entitled Forgive us our press passes – has been well received and all the copies sent up to St Andrews were snapped up. Further copies will be available at other events this season, in particular there will be a car boot sale at the World Match Play at Wentworth next month. If you wish to secure a copy please e-mail myself or John Hopkins.
Otherwise, copies may be obtained from Adrian Stephenson of Lennard Associates at a cost of £13.50 including postage and packing in the UK; £15 for Europe, including the Republic of Ireland; and £18.50 for the rest of the world. Contact Adrian with credit card details on 01582 715866 or send a cheque (made payable to Queen Anne Press) to Lennard Associates, Windmill Cottage, Mackerye End, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5DR. If you wish to order more than one copy, please e-mail email hidden; JavaScript is required to obtain the cost of postage and packing.
US PGA Tour accreditation
Denise Taylor, of the PGA Tour, writes: “The PGA Tour is debuting its new media credentialing feature on pgatourgolfmedia.com. The American Express World Championship is the first tournament available. In the near future, you will be able to access other PGA Tour events here. You will only need to create an account once and the website will retain your information for future use. You may edit your information at any time. To access, just select the link for “Credentials” from the pgatourgolfmedia.com home page.
“If this is your first time visiting the site, you will go through a brief registration process. Once you receive your confirmation via email, than you can go through the application process. I’m certain you will find pgatourgolfmedia.com an informative site for up to date information on the Tour.”
Changes of address, etc
Mel Webb has moved to April Cottage, South Instow, Hammonds Cross, Swanage BH19 3DS (01929 477273).
George Begg, honorary secretary of the Australian Golf Writers Association, has a new e-mail address: email hidden; JavaScript is required
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. Subject to change. (All times are local.) German Masters 1700; HSBC World Match Play 1800; Seve Trophy 1700; Dunhill Links 1730; AmEx World Champs 1500; Madrid Open 1700; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1730; HSBC Champions 1600; World Cup 1600; China Open 1600; Hong Kong Open 1630; Dunhill Championship 1630; SA Open 1630.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
President’s Putter and AGW Championship
The draws for both the President Putter on September 13 and the AGW Championship on September 14 have been done and are printed below. Please contact me at the earliest available opportunity should you require a late entry or wish to withdraw. HSBC has agreed to donate prizes at the AGW Championship. That being the case, one of their representatives will be playing in the event and will be presenting the prizes at the subsequent lunch in the clubhouse.
Draw for the President’s Putter at West Hill on Tuesday 13 September:
2.30 pm – Peter Higgs, Alan Hedley, Tony Adamson
2. 38 – Michael McDonnell, Bob Davies, Tony Stenson
2.46 – Dave Hamilton, Colm Smith, Peter Godsiff
2.54 – Peter Corrigan, Dai Davies, Bill Robertson, Bryan Potter
3.02 – Alistair Tait, Patricia Davies, Jim Mossop, Alan Hedley
3.10 – Derek Lawrenson, Bernie McGuire, Colin Callander, Jock McVicar
3.18 – Brian Creighton, Mike Aitken, Mark Garrod, John Hopkins
Draw for the AGW Championship at Wentworth East on Wednesday 14 September:
7.30 am – Colin Callander, Mitchell Platts, HSBC Guest, Michael McDonnell
7.38 – Alan Hedley, Jeremy Chapman, Norman Dabell, David Birtill
7.46 – David Smith, John Hopkins, Scott MacCallum, Tony Stenson
7.54 – Peter Higgs, Dave Hamilton, Colm Smith, Jane Carter
8.02 – Bob Davies, John Whitbread, Peter Corrigan, Bill Elliott
8.10 – John Huggan, Derek Lawrenson, John Barton, Bill Robertson
8.18 – Bryan Potter, Patricia Davies, Mike Aitken, Peter Godsiff
8.26 – Dai Davies, John Fenton, Alistair Tait, Bernie McGuire
8.34 – Jim Mossop, Jock McVicar, Tim Glover, Brian Creighton
8.42 – Robin Barwick, Mark Reason, Douglas Lowe, Erskine McCullough
Broadcasters Match
This year, not for the first time, the annual Broadcasters match, to be played at Stoke Park on Monday 19 September, has been over-subscribed. That being the case, the team (and reserves) has been selected in the order they entered and is as follows: Jeremy Chapman, Tony Stenson, Mark Garrod, Peter Higgs, Bill Elliott, Dave Hamilton, Jane Carter, Mark Reason, Bill Robertson, Alistair Tait, Jim Mossop and Jock McVicar. Reserves (in order): Brian Creighton, Peter Godsiff, John Fenton and Tim Glover.
Please note that I am anticipating it will be a 12-a-side match although I understand the opposition captain, Rob Bonnet, is endeavouring to find 14 people to play. If that happens, or there are late withdrawals, the reserves will be notified of their inclusion.
Note also that I will be phoning round to find a captain for the day. It is a far from onerous task and means you can select the pairings (and your own partner!).
The programme for the day is as follows: Meet for a buffet lunch at 11.30 am, Golf from 1.15, Drinks Reception 6.30, Dinner 7.30. Annie Harper, Stoke Park’s effervescent PR lady, tells me Stoke Park is offering a number of free rooms on a first come, first served basis. Please contact her direct on email hidden; JavaScript is required should you require one.
Wilson Match
As members know, the Wilson match, originally scheduled for Thursday 10 November at the New Zealand club, is now to be played on Friday 4 November at the same venue. To date, I have received confirmed entries from Paul Trow, John Barton, Jock Howard, Brian Creighton, Dai Davies, Patricia Davies and Jeremy Chapman but am still waiting to hear from the following people who entered for the original date but have not yet confirmed their availability for November 4: Mark Garrod, John Hopkins, Tony Adamson, Tony Stenson, Dave Hamilton, Jane Carter, Peter Godsiff, John Whitbread, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson, Bill Elliott, Bill Robertson, John Fenton, Alistair Tait, Jim Mossop and Jock McVicar.
Golf Foundation Match
Can I remind members that the annual match against the Golf Foundation is to be played at The Berkshire on Monday 24 October. I have already received entries from Jeremy Chapman, Brian Creighton, Dai Davies and Patricia Davies but need at least seven other members to complete the team. On the day, we are scheduled to meet circa 8-9 am, play golf and then have lunch. Last year the match, played at The Grove, ended 2.5-2.5.
Wisley Match
Last but not least, due to an administrative c**k up at their end, the Wisley match, scheduled for Wednesday 31 August, had to be postponed at short notice. I apologise to those AGW members who had their day out ruined and confirm they will get first refusal as, and when, the match is re-scheduled. I am speaking to the club about an alternative date and anticipate publishing details in the next Newsletter.
Golf Schedule
Tuesday 13 September West Hill – President’s Putter (2.30pm)
Wednesday 14 Sept Wentworth East – Golf Writers’ Championship (7.30am)
Monday 19 September Stoke Park – Broadcasters match (golf then dinner)
Monday 17 October The Grove media day (golf then dinner)
Monday 24 October Berkshire – Golf Foundation match (golf then lunch)
Friday 4 November New Zealand – Wilson match (8am)
Colin Callander – Captain (office: 01438 718399; home: 01438 717878; mobile: 07788 443995; e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required)
MEMBERS’ HANDBOOK 2006
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I WISH TO RECEIVE NEWSLETTERS BY: E-MAIL/POST POST ONLY
All AGW correspondence will be sent to home address unless you indicate otherwise.
Please return form (by November 1) to Andy Farrell, Hon Secretary, Association of Golf Writers, 1 Pilgrims Bungalow, Mulberry Hill, Chilham, Kent CT4 8AH; by fax to: 01227 732496; or by e-mail to: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
October 2005
Members’ Handbook 2006
Many thanks to everyone who has replied so far. For those who have not yet had time, another form is attached. Please write clearly and return to me by November 1, on e-mail, letter or fax.
2006 Ryder Cup
Thanks are due to Richard Hills and Mitchell Platts for organising the Ryder Cup planning meeting at the K Club in advance of next year’s match. A number of photographers and writers, including Philip Reid and Andy Farrell from the AGW and Joe Gordon of the Boston Globe, were present to meet with Edward Kitson and David Garland, as well as Kerry Haigh and Julius Mason from the PGA of America.
Accreditation forms will be available on-line from around the time of the Masters next year but confirmation of the hotel accommodation, currently being finalised, should be circulated in the next couple of weeks with details of booking through Ryder Cup Travel Services. There will be two main hotels, with rooms around 260euro a night. Shuttle services will run from both hotels, starting at 5.30am, with journey times between 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The shuttles will drop us at the gate for the Palmer course clubhouse, around 150 yards from the media centre, which will be located between the 10th and 11th fairways as the course will be played for the Ryder Cup (between the first and second fairways as the club play the course). Inside the media centre, the format will be similar to the Belfry in 2002. The cafeteria will be open from 6am every day, with a range of food at roughly cost price. There will also be a subsidised bar and, given the strict no smoking laws in Ireland, a “garden area”. The preview interview schedule will be the same as last time, with individual press conferences with all 24 players, but this may be reviewed for future matches should attendances drop at some interviews. There will be a similar number of on-course bibs as for the last two matches, with a few spares which can be loaned for a particular session. Also, there will be a number of viewing spots around the course for media without a bib. Finally, with due regard to the sensibilities of the secretary, the Ryder Cup will from now on be known as the Ryder Cup.
Open Championship
With support from the Golf Writers Association of America, a lengthy letter detailing our many issues from the Open at St Andrews was sent by the Association to the Royal and Ancient. The R and A has responded positively and John Hopkins and Andy Farrell were able to meet David Hill and Michael Tate during the Dunhill last week. The R and A presented a number of proposals, as did we, and there will be further discussions prior to the annual meeting at the end of November when the full committee will have a chance to meet all the leading officials of the R and A. Included in the suggestions was for representatives from the AGW to meet directly with various suppliers, including the caterers, etc.
It is an encouraging start, if only a start, but if anyone has any further comments please do not hesitate to contact myself or the chairman. Also, if you have any comments about any of the tour events, please drop a line to Lewine Mair, who is preparing the tournament report letters this year.
Mission Hills China
Anita Lai, the assistant director of communications at the Mission Hills Golf Club in China, has extended an invitation to any media who might be visiting the region over the winter. “We are keen to promote our club as a new golf travel destination for European golfers,” said Anita. “For those golf writers who have plans to come to China or Asia in November and December, we sincerely invite you to extend a side trip to Mission Hills China in Shenzhen, the world’s largest golf club, according to Guinness World Records. You will have the opportunity to play as many of the 10 signature courses designed by the legends of golf including Jack Nicklaus, Vijay Singh, Greg Norman, Jose Maria Olazabal and Annika Sorenstam as you wish; take a class at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy; play one or all the 51 tennis courts; enjoy an invigorating spa session; and indulge in traditional Chinese dishes during a lavish tasting dinner. For those attending the HSBC Champions Tournament, we would be delighted to host a two-day, one-night trip immediately after the tournament, inclusive of transportation, golf game and accommodation.” If anyone is interested please contact Mission Hills China at email hidden; JavaScript is required or +852 2973 0303, ext 2154.
AGW book
Copies of the Association history – entitled Forgive us our press passes – may be obtained from Adrian Stephenson of Lennard Associates at a cost of £13.50 including postage and packing in the UK; £15 for Europe, including the Republic of Ireland; and £18.50 for the rest of the world. Contact Adrian with credit card details on 01582 715866 or send a cheque (made payable to Queen Anne Press) to Lennard Associates, Windmill Cottage, Mackerye End, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5DR. If you wish to order more than one copy, please e-mail email hidden; JavaScript is required to obtain the cost of postage and packing.
Sunshine Tour accreditation
Anyone looking to attend any of the Sunshine Tour events in South Africa later this year should contact media manager Lali Stander on: +27 21 850 6500 or +27 82 990 7150 or e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required for accreditation forms. Alternatively, check the “newsroom” section of the website: www.sunshinetour.com.
Changes of address, etc
Mike Britten’s phone number should read: 0034 952 7888138 and not as printed in the handbook
Tim Glover’s address is now: Appledore, Darvill Road, Ropley, Nr Alresford, Hants SO24 0BW. His e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Donald Steel’s e-mail address is now: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Mel Webb new address should read: April Cottage, South Instow, Harmans Cross, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3DS (T/f: 01929 477273)
Gordon White’s e-mail address is now: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Jim Elkins has a new e-mail address: email hidden; JavaScript is required
European Tour Finishing Times
Sunday finishing times as advised by European Tour Productions. Subject to change. (All times are local.) Madrid Open 1700; Mallorca Classic 1745; Volvo Masters 1700; HSBC Champions 1600; World Cup 1600; China Open 1630; Hong Kong Open 1630; Dunhill Championship 1700; SA Open 1700.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
President’s Putter
Patricia Davies recorded her first triumph of the 2005 season when she accumulated 40 points to stroll to a five shot victory at the President’s Putter at West Hill. Davies, a prolific winner of our championships, raced to the turn in 21 points and added a further 19 coming home to finish five points ahead of your captain and seven in front of Alan Hedley.
AGW Championship
A total of over 40 members teed up in the Golfer Writers’ Championship over the East Course at Wentworth but it turned out to be something of a one-horse race with the formidable Bill Elliott amassing no less than 43 points to win his second major of the season.
Elliott won the Ron Moseley Trophy at Foxhills earlier this year and this time he produced a record haul for the season to finish four points ahead of both Mike Blair and Alan Hedley. Blair’s day was highlighted with a glorious hole-in-one at the 215 yard par-three 17th hole where, I am told, he was bemoaning slow play literally seconds before despatching his shot into the hole. He received a certificate from Wentworth’s Julian Small to mark the achievement and then breathed a sigh of relief when the club’s genial host spared him from paying the traditional bar bill.
The other major winner on the day was the European Tour’s David Garland who won the guest prize with 39 points. Garland, who plays off two, shot a fine one under par round of 67 despite dropping two shots at the 417 yard 18th where he hit his drive into a bush and had to take a penalty drop.
2005 Player of the Year Award
Bill Elliott left Wentworth laden down with prizes presented by HSBC but, unbeknown to him, and to your perennially inefficient captain, his haul of 43 also landed him the trophy as the AGW’s De Vere Golfer of the Year.
Elliott went into the final major of the season trailing Patricia Davies but his 43 points saw him leapfrog the President’s Putter winner and finish the season with a total of 110 points from his three best finishes of the year. That left him a tantalising one point ahead of Davies, with yours truly finishing third on 105 and Alan Hedley, Derek Lawrenson and 2004 winner, Alistair Tait, all sharing fourth place on 103.
Elliott, who becomes the oldest ever winner of the Player of the Year award, received his trophy prior to the subsequent match against the Broadcasters.
Broadcasters match
Sometimes a captain has to take drastic action and that’s exactly what I had to do at the annual Broadcasters match, played over the original 18 Harry Colt-designed holes at Stoke Park. Owing to a late call off, we had one more player than the Broadcasters so I decided to fall on my sword and the tactic worked a treat because we won the match for the first time in three years.
In my absence, the AGW team was captained by 2005 Golfer of the Year, Bill Elliott, who won his game in partnership with guest, Golf Monthly’s Neil Tappin (a late replacement for Jane Carter and a man with a great name for a golf writer). Elliott also made the winners speech, “much better than you would have done” he tells me. Clearly, given the result, I am going to have to give some thought to putting away my clubs and becoming a full-time non-playing captain. In the meantime, however, it would be remiss of me not to thank Tony Adamson and John Fenton who, lent to the Broadcasters for the day, followed instructions perfectly, going down by 2 holes to the aforementioned Elliott and Tappin. Incidentally, I am told that Fenton, who celebrated his 79th birthday the previous day, played like a “frisky colt” (not Harry).
Results
Mark Garrod and Alistair Tait bt Russell Fuller and Graeme Reid-Davies 1 hole, Bill Elliott and Neill Tappin bt Tony Adamson and John Fenton 2 holes, Bill Robertson and Dave Hamilton lost to DJ Spoony and Celina Hinchcliffe 3 & 1, Jeremy Chapman and Terry Probert bt Andrew Cotter and Jonathan Legard 6 & 4, Mark Reason and Brian Creighton lost to Johnny Bromley and James Porter 1 hole, Peter Higgs and Peter Godsiff bt Rob Bonnet and Rob Nothman 2 & 1.
Match Result: AGW 4, Broadcasters 2
Golf Foundation match – The Berkshire, Monday 24 October
Our next fixture is the annual match against the Golf Foundation, scheduled to be staged at The Berkshire on Monday 24 October. To date, I have received entries from Jeremy Chapman, Dai Davies, Patricia Davies, Mark Garrod, Alistair Tait and Bill Elliott but need five other volunteers to make up the team. The plan is to meet first thing in the morning, play 18 holes, have a late lunch and then depart. I will confirm the exact arrival timings 7-10 days before the match.
Wilson match – New Zealand Club, Friday 4 November
Paul Trow, John Barton, Jock Howard, Brian Creighton, Patricia Davies, Dai Davies, Mark Garrod, Bill Elliott, John Fenton, Alistair Tait and Tony Adamson have all entered the re-scheduled Wilson match, now to be held at the New Zealand Club on Friday 4 November. The following members indicated they wanted to play on the original date (November 10) but have not yet confirmed whether or not they wish to be considered for the new date: John Hopkins, Tony Stenson, Dave Hamilton, Jane Carter, Peter Godsiff, John Whibread, Peter Corrigan, Derek Lawrenson and Bill Robertson. I will be selecting the team on the traditional first come, first served basis so a prompt response is required from any other members who wish to play. Normally, this is a 12-14 a-side match. Sometimes, though, Wilson nab a few magazine journalists for their team, so there could be space for up to 15-17 AGW members.
Review of the AGW Handicap System
Over the winter, I am planning a review of our somewhat chaotic handicap system and with that in mind would be obliged if all members could e-mail me with (a) your current AGW handicap and (b) your official club handicap (if applicable). I would also be interested in any comments members may have about amending/improving the system.
Colin Callander, Captain of Golf
MEMBERS’ HANDBOOK 2006
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Please return form (by November 1) to Andy Farrell, Hon Secretary, Association of Golf Writers, 1 Pilgrims Bungalow, Mulberry Hill, Chilham, Kent CT4 8AH; by fax to: 01227 732496; or by e-mail to: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
November/December 2005
Charlie Yates
It is with great regret that I record the death of one of our vice-presidents, Charlie Yates, at the age of 92. He had been suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. Charlie was the longest serving member of Augusta National, having joined in 1940, and acted as both the club’s secretary and chairman of the press committee for the Masters. It was in the latter capacity that he became friends with many members of the Association and until recently he hosted the British press party on the Saturday of the Masters.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Charlie Yates,” said Augusta National chairman Hootie Johnson.
“Charlie was an outstanding amateur golfer and a member who was linked to Bobby Jones and the club’s history, attending every Masters through 2003. He will be greatly missed.”
Yates grew up in a house that overlooked the East Lake course in Atlanta, where Bobby Jones learned to play. Although Jones was 11 years older, the two became firm friends. “When I was about seven years old I’d slip across the fence and watch him play,” Charlie told the Augusta Chronicle. “He never seemed to mind. When he finished a match, sometimes he’d stand behind the 18th green and knock balls in the opposite direction. We boys would pick the balls up. That was a great treat.”
When Jones played his last round of golf, at East Lake in 1948, Yates was his playing partner. In the 1990s, after the club fell into disrepair, Yates masterminded the reconstruction of the club, which now annually hosts the US Tour Championship. A second course, open to the public, at the club is now named after Charlie Yates.
Yates was a fine amateur golfer, winning the 1938 Amateur Championship at Royal Troon. Jones had lent Charlie his “lucky, red flannel long john underwear”, for the trip. Upon his victory, Bernard Darwin wrote: “There has been no invading champion more popular than Charlie Yates, whose cheerfulness and humour, of his own particular brand, made everybody like him.” Yates played in two Walker Cups, in 1936 and ’38, and captained the US team in 1953. He played in 11 Masters, and was low, or joint low, amateur four times. In 1980 he received the USGA’s Bob Jones award for outstanding sportsmanship in golf.
Charlie Yates was married to Dorothy for over 60 years and had four children. His brother Dan has also worked in the press centre at Augusta, while Dan’s son Danny was twice a Walker Cup player and twice captain.
Our president, Renton Laidlaw, a close friend, commented: “With the death of Charlie Yates members of the Association of Golf Writers have lost a good friend who did much over the years to make our visits to The Masters at Augusta so much more enjoyable.
“A personal friend of Bobby Jones, who with Clifford Roberts founded the National Club at Augusta, Charlie ran the press centre at The Masters for many years and was charged by Jones to ensure visiting pressmen were well looked after. Each Saturday evening during the event he hosted the British writers get-together in the clubhouse where senior members of the club, including Alastair Cooke, enjoyed cocktails and a buffet with the journalists.
“Frequently Charlie helped in getting press tickets for those golf journalists who were not regulars on the international golf scene but wished to visit Augusta at least once. As a token of our appreciation he was made an honorary vice-president of the Association and was presented with a painting of the 17th hole at Royal Troon where, in 1938, he won the Amateur Championship.
“He enjoyed his relationship with the British press and was proud, too, that he had won the Amateur title in Scotland. Often he would lead his friends from Britain in a chorus of “I belong to Glasgow” – the music-hall song made famous by Will Fyffe. He learned the words after celebrating his 1937 victory. He played in the 1936 and 1938 Walker Cups and captained the American side in 1953.
“Charlie played in 11 Masters and was low amateur four times. He attended every tournament through to 2003 and was playing just ahead of Gene Sarazen when that player famously holed his second shot at the 15th hole in 1935 before going on to win the tournament. Sadly, Charlie never saw the shot go in because he was hitting his own tee shot to the short 16th at the time.
“After retiring at 60 Charlie, always the warm-hearted Southern who was generous of spirit, helped raise $20 million for the Atlanta Arts Alliance and the High Museum of Art. With his death a valued link with Augusta has been lost.”
2005 Golf Writers’ Trophy
Please find enclosed the voting form for the 2005 Golf Writers’ Trophy and Outstanding Services Award. The Golf Writers’ Trophy shall be awarded to the person or persons, born or resident in Europe, who in the opinion of a majority of Full and Life members has made the most outstanding contribution to golf in 2005.
The committee have drawn up a shortlist but this is for guidance only and you may vote for whomever you wish. At the time of writing there are still events, such as the World Cup, which are still to be decided. Please list your 1-2-3 on the form and return to me by Monday 12 December by post, fax or e-mail. The winner will be the candidate with the highest number of first places. In the result of a tie, the higher number of second or third place votes will be decisive. The result will be announced shortly after the closing date.
The shortlist is as follows:
Michael Campbell, US Open and HSBC World Match Play champion (Brighton resident)
England, winner at the men’s European Amateur Team Championship
Oliver Fisher, youngest ever Walker Cup representative and Faldo Series winner
Sergio Garcia, a winner on both sides of the Atlantic
Padraig Harrington, two wins on the US PGA Tour
David Howell, victories at the BMW International and the HSBC Champions tournament
Brian McElhinney, British Amateur champion
Edoardo Molinari, first European to win the US Amateur Championship since Harold Hilton in 1911
Colin Montgomerie, won eighth order of merit and Dunhill Links champion
Lloyd Saltman, low amateur at the Open Championship and Walker Cup player
Annika Sorenstam, undisputed women’s world No 1 with ten wins (so far), including two majors
Spain, winner at the women’s European Amateur Team Championship
Louise Stahle, successfully defended at the British Women’s Amateur Championship
Iben Tinning, three wins to clinch women’s European order of merit
Following the nominations that came back last winter, the Committee decided to give our Outstanding Services Award to Jack Nicklaus. If you can think of anyone who might deserve next year’s award, be they local, national or international figures, players or administrators, please let us know.
Ryder Cup Accommodation
Booking forms for accommodation at next year’s Ryder Cup are now available. If you have received this newsletter by e-mail then the forms are attached; if not then they are available both electronically and in hard copy form from the communications department of the European Tour. Please note that each individual must complete a separate form and that they should be returned to Ryder Cup Travel Services.
Also, while on accommodation for the Ryder Cup, Charlie Mulqueen writes: “The son of a good friend of mine has a four bed-roomed house with a large lounge, etc, and patio within striking distance of The K Club. He is moving on business to Tenerife for two years and is prepared to rent the house for the week of next September’s Ryder Cup. For those who know the area, its five minutes beyond Barberstown Castle on the road towards Maynooth and park and ride facilities will be available nearby.” Anyone interested, please contact Charlie.
Mike Blair
Mike Blair writes: “After 44 years, the last 12 as their golf correspondent, I have dissociated myself from the Birmingham Post (anyone with an hour to spare can hear the grizzly details). My e-mail address has therefore changed and should I find a company competent enough to connect my new computer (five weeks so far and still trying) I will reveal a new address.”
Home Internationals
Michael McDonnell writes: “During the recent Home Internationals played at Irvine Bogside, Dundonald and Glasgow Gailes, won so comprehensively by a rejuvenated Welsh squad led by their inspirational captain Peter Corrigan, I had hoped that my 70th birthday would pass unnoticed. No such luck. Not only was I presented with a cake (seven candles for each decade) but the assembled company also chipped in for a case of chardonnay (although how they found out I like the stuff I’ll never know). I would just like to express my thanks to colleagues for their kind gesture and also stress that the fact England never won a match had nothing to do with the amount of chardonnay consumed. Congratulations to Wales on their magnificent Grand Slam victory. Final result: Wales 3;Scotland 2; Ireland 1; England 0.”
AGW book
Copies of the Association history – entitled Forgive us our press passes – may be obtained from Adrian Stephenson of Lennard Associates at a cost of £13.50 including postage and packing in the UK; £15 for Europe, including the Republic of Ireland; and £18.50 for the rest of the world. Contact Adrian with credit card details on 01582 715866 or send a cheque (made payable to Queen Anne Press) to Lennard Associates, Windmill Cottage, Mackerye End, Harpenden, Herts AL5 5DR. If you wish to order more than one copy, please e-mail email hidden; JavaScript is required to obtain the cost of postage and packing.
Georgia Cup
For the first time two Europeans will contest the Georgia Cup, the match between the US Amateur champion (Italy’s Edoardo Molinari) and the British Amateur champion (Ireland’s Brian McElhinney). The match will take place at the Golf Club of Georgia, in Atlanta, on Wednesday 29 March (at 1pm) in the week of the BellSouth Classic at Sugarloaf. Glenn Sheeley, formerly of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, is making press arrangements for the event and would like to hear from anyone interested in attending.
He says: “There will be a media van running between the TPC at Sugarloaf and The Golf Club of Georgia to fit your schedules. We will have lunch and beverages for you at the club and wireless available in the Georgia Cup media room. For those who wish to drive, there will be nearly-at-the-door parking in the clubhouse lot. With two Europeans competing, we are expecting 2006 interest in the Georgia Cup to be stronger than ever. You can trust I will do everything possible to make things easier for anyone interesting in attending. You can help me by passing along recommendations or coverage ideas.” Glenn can be contacted on 001 770 7728167 or e-mail: email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Changes of address, etc
Alan Booth’s e-mail address is: email hidden; JavaScript is required
Doug Lowe’s has a new mobile number: 07790 134746
Mike Maloney
During the Volvo Masters at Valderrama there was a presentation of an inscribed quaiche to Mike Maloney on behalf of the Association in return for all the kindness and hospitality shown to us by Mike and The Belfry down the years. Mike has now moved to Spain, near Murcia airport, and is hard at work developing a hotel and resort for De Vere and is keen to continue the relationship he had with us at The Belfry at his new place.
Mike replied: “Please extend my sincere thanks to the members of the AGW for presenting me
with such a wonderful gift. I have many happy memories of times spent together and I was genuinely
honoured by the occasion and the kind words. I am thoroughly enjoying my new life in Spain and look forward to welcoming you all to Roda in the future. My very best wishes and warmest regards – I will be in touch.”
Rookies of the Year
Spain’s Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano, winner of the KLM Open in the Netherlands in his 13th start of the season, was the unanimously selected as the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year on the European Tour by a panel comprising the European Tour, the R&A and the Association of Golf Writers.
Elisa Serramia, also of Spain, won the Ryder Cup Wales Rookie of the Year award on the Ladies European Tour and will receive the Bill Johnson Trophy.
Pick Your Pro
Congratulations to Colin Callander on winning the Pick Your Pro competition this season. Colin, who was fourth two years ago, had six victories, more than anyone else, and including Woods at the Open and Mickelson at the USPGA. But it was a strong defence from Tony Rushmer, last year’s winner, to run second with Bill Elliott leaping into third and Tony Stenson making steady improvement from 8th up to fourth. Martin Dempster, third in 2002 and the winner a year later, was back on form to sneak into the top-five.
ANDY FARRELL – (01227 732496; 07711 702907; email hidden; JavaScript is required)
GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS… GOLF NEWS…
Golf Foundation
This year’s match, played over the Blue course at The Berkshire, ended with a narrow victory for the Golf Foundation. Alistair Tait and Mark Garrod won the top match and their success was replicated by Graham Otway and Jeremy Chapman but the tail of our team failed to wag and we went down 3-2. Nevertheless, a good day was had by all and, somewhat miraculously, we managed to stay relatively dry despite most of the rest of the country being subjected to torrential rain. Our thanks go to the Foundation for a fine day and, in particular, to genial host John Uzielli for organising a magnificent venue.
Eagled-eyed members will note one of our members, Paul Trow, played for the opposition. That was because I “lent” him to the opposition thinking we had an extra man only to find we were actually a man short when another of our members dropped out at the last minute. I endeavoured to take on Bill Bryce and Alan Bough single-handedly, something that proved well beyond my capabilities.
Match results: Alistair Tait and Mark Garrod beat Brendon Pyle and Paul Trow 3 & 2, Graham Otway and Jeremy Chapman beat John Uzielli and Mike Reynolds 8 & 7, Bill Elliott and Dai Davies lost to Carol MacDonald and Ben Evans 6 & 4, Patricia Davies and Tony Adamson lost to Stuart Armstrong and Mike Round 3 & 2 and Colin Callander lost to Bill Bryce and Alan Bough 5 & 4.
Wilson
We also ended up a man short at the annual Wilson match at the New Zealand Club and our problems were compounded when the opposition arrived with no less than nine golfers with handicaps of six or under. The end result was somewhat similar to Europe’s defeat at the 1981 Ryder Cup match but the ever-dependable Alistair Tait and Jock Howard did save us from a whitewash with a fine 3 & 2 victory over Iain Carter and Michael White.
It was a somewhat sad way to end the 2005 season but that was more than made up for by a fine course, an excellent lunch and the generous hospitality of Wilson. Our thanks go to John Collard and his team for organising such a great day.
Match results: Mark Garrod and John Fenton lost to Andrew Cotter and Neil Parker 4 & 3, Alistair Tait and Jock Howard beat Iain Carter and Michael White 3 & 2, John Whitbread and Brian Creighton lost to Daniel Owen and Phil Smith 3 & 2, John Barton and Dai Davies lost to Jeremy Ellwood and John Collard 4 & 3, Patricia Davies and Jeremy Chapman lost to Simon Daddow and Rick Hazeldine 3 & 2, Colin Callander lost to Richard Simmons and Phil Bonham 3 & 2.
The Wisley
I have been in touch with Ron Commans at The Wisley and it is likely that a match against the club will be played in late April or early May next year. We are currently discussing potential dates with a view to formalising arrangements before the end of the year. More details to follow.
British Open Media Days
The R&A and the LGU are in the process of organising a great golfing double-header for April next year. There will a Weetabix Women’s British Open Media Day at Royal Lytham & St Annes on Sunday 23 April followed by the traditional Open Championship Media get-together at Royal Liverpool on April 24-25.
Details are still to be finalised but the Weetabix Media Day on the 23rd will include a press conference, golf and dinner. The next day, members will be invited to make the short journey to Hoylake in time for golf and dinner. The traditional Open media conference will be on the morning of the 25th.
Last year, when The Open Media Day was at St Andrews, some members played Kingsbarns on the afternoon after the press conference. If there is a demand to do something similar, I would be delighted to approach a local club to see if we could obtain some tee times. (Wallasay, home of the Stableford scoring system, would seem an obvious choice). Members who are interested in this idea, please let me know.
AGW Handicaps
Last month, I asked members to e-mail me with confirmation of their handicaps (both official and AGW where applicable) so I can conduct a survey of our handicap system over the winter. Some members have already done so but not many, I’m afraid. To make my deliberations meaningful I need 20 or so more members to respond so I can detect any patterns (should they exist). Constructive comments about how you would like to see the system changed would also be most welcome.
Colin Callander, Captain of Golf
2005 FINAL PICK YOUR PRO TABLE
| [’04] | Total | Wins | In mon | Prize | ||||||
| 1 | [25] | Colin Callander | 4,290,347 | 6 | 27 | £200 | ||||
| 2 | [1] | Tony Rushmer | 3,659,217 | 5 | 26 | £125 | ||||
| 3 | [45] | Bill Elliott | 3,268,775 | 4 | 25 | £75 | ||||
| 4 | [8] | Tony Stenson | 3,005,207 | 3 | 29 | £50 | ||||
| 5 | [34] | Martin Dempster | 2,839,340 | 2 | 29 | £30 | ||||
| 6 | [16] | Andy Farrell | 2,780,310 | 4 | 29 | |||||
| 7 | [9] | Mitchell Platts | 2,725,654 | 3 | 28 | |||||
| 8 | [31] | Doug Lowe | 2,710,638 | 2 | 28 | |||||
| 9 | [21] | Nuria Pastor | 2,640,297 | 3 | 30 | |||||
| 10 | [41] | Allan Herron | 2,570,337 | 2 | 26 | |||||
| 11 | [7] | Chris Plumridge | 2,537,694 | 4 | 26 | |||||
| 12 | [-] | John Barton | 2,533,159 | 3 | 27 | |||||
| 13 | [-] | Peter Corrigan | 2,472,997 | 2 | 24 | |||||
| 14 | [-] | Brian Creighton | 2,281,706 | 3 | 26 | |||||
| 15 | [13] | Mike Blair | 2,220,210 | 3 | 23 | |||||
| 16 | [23] | Mark Reason | 2,183,761 | 3 | 28 | |||||
| 17 | [43] | Martin Vousden | 2,114,944 | 2 | 18 | |||||
| 18 | [17] | Robert Green | 2,108,387 | 2 | 23 | |||||
| 19 | [30] | David Birtill | 2,046,750 | 1 | 26 | |||||
| 20 | [38] | Paul Trow | 2,039,917 | 1 | 22 | |||||
| 21 | [2] | Mark Wilson | 2,010,430 | 1 | 21 | |||||
| 22 | [29] | Jim Black | 1,995,416 | 2 | 21 | |||||
| 23 | [5] | Mike Aitken | 1,976,306 | 1 | 29 | |||||
| 24 | [6] | Jock Howard | 1,929,083 | 1 | 32 | |||||
| 25 | [19] | Jonathan Loosemore | 1,924,990 | 2 | 26 | |||||
| 26 | [36] | Mark Garrod | 1,921,823 | 0 | 31 | |||||
| 27 | [3] | Derek Lawrenson | 1,886,786 | 2 | 29 | |||||
| 28 | [11] | Alasdair Reid | 1,846,233 | 1 | 28 | |||||
| 29 | [26] | Peter Godsiff | 1,788,470 | 2 | 26 | |||||
| 30 | [20] | Peter Higgs | 1,772,055 | 1 | 22 | |||||
| 31 | [24] | Alistair Tait | 1,769,187 | 2 | 27 | |||||
| 32 | [-] | Colin Harding | 1,748,999 | 1 | 23 | |||||
| 33 | [14] | Charlie Mulqueen | 1,716,851 | 1 | 23 | |||||
| 34 | [27] | Dave Hamilton | 1,694,110 | 1 | 22 | |||||
| 35 | [15] | Mark Lichtenhein | 1,677,493 | 2 | 24 | |||||
| 36 | [40] | Jock MacVicar | 1,644,399 | 1 | 29 | |||||
| 37 | [33] | Philip Reid | 1,636,881 | 0 | 27 | |||||
| 38 | [42] | Scott MacCallum | 1,568,415 | 0 | 26 | |||||
| 39 | [12] | Mark Lamport-Stokes | 1,559,749 | 1 | 24 | |||||
| 40 | [4] | Norman Dabell | 1,556,727 | 1 | 28 | |||||
| 41 | [-] | Martin Park | 1,552,825 | 1 | 23 | |||||
| 42 | [47] | Graham Otway | 1,537,810 | 1 | 20 | |||||
| 43 | [28] | Tony Adamson | 1,488,032 | 1 | 23 | |||||
| 44 | [37] | Patricia Davies | 1,408,651 | 0 | 26 | |||||
| 45 | [39] | John Huggan | 1,378,074 | 1 | 29 | |||||
| 46 | [44] | James Mossop | 1,377,340 | 1 | 22 | |||||
| 47 | [35] | Gordon Simpson | 1,347,873 | 1 | 22 | |||||
| 48 | [10] | Eamonn Power | 1,327,785 | 1 | 23 | |||||
| 49 | [-] | Elspeth Burnside | 1,280,097 | 1 | 19 | £10 |
GOLF WRITERS’ TROPHY BALLOT FORM
Please give your 1-2-3 choice and return form to Andy Farrell by post to 1 Pilgrims Bungalow, Mulberry Hill, Chilham, Kent CT4 8AH, by fax to 01227 732496, or by e-mail to email hidden; JavaScript is required.
The closing date is Monday 12 December. The result of the ballot will be announced shortly afterwards.
The award is for the person or persons, born or resident in Europe, who in the opinion of a majority of Life and Full members has made an outstanding contribution to golf during 2004. The winner will be the candidate who receives most first places. In the event of a tie, the number of second and third places determines the winner.
Date………………………… Name……………………………………………….
WINNER…………………………………………………………………………………..
Second …………………………………………………………………………………..
Third ……………………………………………………………………………………
Signed………………………………………………
PLEASE REMEMBER THE CLOSING DATE IS MONDAY 12 DECEMBER
AGW OUTSTANDING SERVICES TO GOLF AWARD
My nomination is……………………………………………………………………………
Signed………………………………………………
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