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Golfer YOUR CLUBS WEDGES & PUTTER

WEDGES TEST

21 TOP CLUBS DO BATTLE

FIRST TEE

Bushnell’s latest offering is a rangefinder and a GPS device in one packageDistance measuring devices have been one of the most helpful inventions in golf over the last 15 years – but which type is better, rangefinders or GPS devices?

Bushnell, who usually specialise in rangefinders, have got round that conundrum... by combining the best of both options in their new Hybrid.

The Bushnell Hybrid features laser rangefinding technology that is accurate to within one yard – while also incorporating more than 20,000 pre-loaded golf courses, making it ready to

use straight out of the box without any additional fees.

The GPS offers instant distances to the front, back and middle of the green and you can set four custom points on every hole – which is perfect for marking hazards and lay-up positions. Plus, shot distance mode makes it easy to measure how far you hit each shot.

“We believe this first-of-its-kind rangefinder will give golfers the best of both worlds,” said Phil Gyori, Bushnell’s Executive VP of Marketing. “There has

been a long, ongoing debate over laser rangefinders and GPS devices, and we are excited to bring the Hybrid to consumers and offer them a product that marries the best laser rangefinder technology with the easy-to-use features of a GPS rangefinder.”◗ The Bushnell is available in America now and will be released in Europe in late spring/early summer, priced £439. Visit www.bushnellgolf.com for more information on the Bushnell family of rangefinders.

{ LASER + GP S IN ONE!}

DOING THE DOUBLE

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BETTING

Royal St George’s will play over 100 yards longer than when it last hosted The Open in 2003, and its par has been cut to 70. High winds and odd bounces will also make for tough scoring so a strong mind will be as important as ability. Seek players with a record of enjoying links and the wind.

LEE WESTWOODAfter tied third in 2009 and second last year, surely victory beckons for the Englishman. Four top threes in last seven Majors.ODDS: 12/1

PADRAIG HARRINGTONJust returned from injury and not in the best form but it’s hard to look past a three-time winner and arguably the best links player on the planet.ODDS: 22/1

JIM FURYKNot too many Americans are favoured but Furyk’s relatively low ball flight and determination should stand him in good stead.ODDS: 50/1

JASON DAYGrew up in Queensland and lives in Texas so used to playing in the wind. Coming off the back of two Major top 10s.ODDS: 50/1

THOMAS AIKENHas finished T39-T8-T74 in last three Opens and is on the verge of a big breakthrough.ODDS: 100/1

THE OPEN JULY 14-17

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T H E G R E AT D E B AT ETwo TG writers put their case forward in the rangefinder v GPS argument

RANGEFINDERInstruction Editor Joel Tadman 4-handicapper uses a Bushnell Pro 1600I prefer to use a rangefinder because I can take it anywhere in the world without having to download courses or pay additional charges.

The other big plus is that it gives an exact yardage to the pin (not just front, middle and back) so I can be precise with my approaches, which is essential for single-handicap golfers.

GPSFeatures Writer Kit Alexander 10-handicapper has a Garmin S5 ApproachI really benefit from seeing an image of the entire hole in front of me so I can plan my strategy for the entire hole before I tee off.

There’s nothing more frustrating than hitting a good shot only to discover it was the wrong club and I think knowing yardages to hazards and greens saves me at least three shots a round.

NO EXCUSESThe Bushnell Hybrid zaps pins to within a yard and comes with 20,000 courses already pre-loaded.

FIRST TEE

A good short game can make up for average ball striking and turn a bad day into a decent score. But if your chipping and putting is modest, it means that even if you miss only the occasional green, good scores will be hard to come by.

If you asked your average keen club golfer how they would break a one-hour practice session down, they would probably answer something like: hit balls for 40 minutes, then 10 minutes of chipping and 10 minutes of putting at the end.

Now consider the following scenario; you play a round of perfect regulation golf, hitting every green in regulation on a par-72 course. During this round you will hit 36 putts and 4 chips or pitches (on par 5s). This means 56 per cent of your shots were accounted for by your short game! For an 18-handicapper that percentage will probably be nearer 65 per cent – time to rethink your practice routine?

So how do you go about improving your short game? Firstly, practice it! Luke Donald, owner of one of the best short games in the world, says he spends twice as long practising his short game as he does on his long game. If you took your hour’s practice and spent 40 minutes chipping and putting and 20 minutes hitting balls your short game would undoubtedly improve.

Secondly, practise the shots you’re going to need regularly on the course, such as five-foot putts, long lag putts and chips from just off the green. Finally, get your putter fitted, don’t just pick it because you like the colour or manufacturer. It needs to fit your style of stroke and your body.

Spend more time working on the most important part of your game – on and around the greens – and your scores will improve. Visit www.paulhurrion.com for more information about improving your short game.

By Dr Paul Hurrion, putting expert

SHARP SHORT GAME SAVES YOU SHOTS{ }

L A T E S T N E W S

MOST-USED OPEN VENUES

TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ◗ IS SUE 2 84

Troon, Carnoustie, Musselburgh, Turnberry, Cinque Ports, Prince’s

and Portrush have all hosted it less than nine times.

THE RYDER CUP 2018

ALLEZ EUROPE!France's Le Golf National to host Ryder Cup 2018Le Golf National, Paris, has been awarded the 2018 Ryder Cup by the European Tour.

The French course fought off stiff competition from Spain – the romantic choice so soon after the death of Seve – Portugal, Germany and Holland to become only the second host of the event on continental Europe.

The layout has hosted 18 of the last 20 French Opens and its closing stretch – the long par-4 18th over water, in particular – has provided some thrilling tournament finales.

The French bid was the only one that included a completed course and all 400,000 registered golfers in

the country contributed one euro to help fund the bid.

European Ryder Cup director Richard Hills said: “Le Golf National is a truly outstanding golf course, providing excellent spectator viewing and the promise of spectacular climaxes to the matches. Transportation, logistical and infrastructure plans are also of the highest quality.”

Pascal Grizot, of the French Golf Federation, said: “The decision is a real honour for our country, the French Golf Federation and all the public and private partners in the bid. It is a huge accolade for all French golfers who contributed.”

HIDDEN TREASURES

McEWAN CLUBSent by: John AllenGraham says: McEwan was a family of clubmakers in Scotland and any club is sure to be of good quality and highly sought-after. This is a long nosed putter circa 1875.VALUE: £400

‘SNICKER’ CLUBSent by: Gerry KendrickGraham says: A transitional semi long-nosed scared head putter, dating to around 1900. Maker unknown. A great collectible and ideal for hickory matches. VALUE: £100+

ROYAL DOULTON PLATESent by: Bob AllisonGraham says: 10-inch diameter plate shows a 1920s golfer. Royal Doulton used golf to help sell their wares at the turn of the last century. Very sought-after. VALUE: £100

The dramatic 15th (left) and

18th (right) holes of Le

Golf National.

In the ‘Cash in the Attic?’ feature in the May issue, we invited you to send details of your collectibles for a free valuation. Many did, and here are the three that excited expert Graham Rowley the most…

◗ St Andrews 28 ◗ Prestwick 24 ◗ Muirfield 16 ◗ Royal St George’s 14 ◗ Royal Liverpool 12 ◗ Royal Lytham & St Annes 11 ◗ Royal Birkdale 9

28 24 16 14 12 11 9

FIRST TEE

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Today’s Golfer Fantasy League winner will earn superb holiday to beautiful La Manga

{ SIGN UP NOW}

PLAY FREE FANTASY GAMEThe countdown to the FREE Today’s Golfer Fantasy League game has started and we’ve got a fantastic line-up of prizes on offer.

The overall winner will earn a fantastic golf holiday to La Manga in Spain and the rest of the top 10 will win trips to Spain and Portugal, UK breaks and fantastic clubs. Those from 11th-50th will get pairs of 2-FORE!-1 vouchers.

Plus, there will be six sets of monthly prizes so there’s always something to play for even if you’ve had a couple of bad events.

The competition includes European and PGA Tour events and point-scoring begins with the Open Championship at Royal St George’s on July 14 and climaxes with the Dubai World Championship in mid-December.

Visit www.todaysgolfer.co.uk/fantasygolf for more information and to sign up now.

FORMATSelect a team of six golfers ensuring that the total value does not exceed the $15m budget.

Unlimited team changes are available up to the start of every tournament.

You earn points based on your golfers’ performances; for making the cut, a best round of the day and finishing inside the top 20. Major championships are worth triple points and WGC events, the PGA Tour Championship and Dubai World Championship are worth double. See www.todaysgolfer.co.uk for more details.

As well as the overall top 50 winning prizes, each month’s top three will also be rewarded.

FOR FULL RULES, TERMS & CONDITIONS AND TO PICK YOUR

FIND OUT MORE BY VISITING

T G ONLINE

3rd Monte da Quinta holiday, PortugalThree nights and two rounds of golf for two people. The Monte da Quinta Club is one of the Algarve’s premier golfing resorts.

4th Cameron House trip, ScotlandTwo nights, two rounds of golf for two and a golf lesson. Cameron House is a flagship De Vere hotel overlooking Loch Lomond.

5th Q Hotel packageA two-night golf break at the Q Hotel of your choice for two people, including two nights and three rounds. Q Hotels have 21 hotels dotted across the country.

6th Trevose trip, CornwallTwo nights and two rounds of golf for two people. Trevose Golf & Country Club is set against the backdrop of the majestic Trevose Head and Atlantic Ocean.

7th Mizuno MP630 Fast Track driverAs used by Tour star Chris Wood, this adjustable driver has adjustable weights and also features Mizuno’s Hot Metal technology.

FIRST TEE F A N T A S Y L E A G U E

PRIZES1st La Manga holiday, SpainFour nights with unlimited golf for two people. La Manga is the pride of Murcia in sunny Spain and is widely regarded as one of Europe’s leading golf resorts. Not only does it provide a range of luxury accommodation and countless dining options, the facilities are top notch and of course include three 18-hole golf courses (North, South & West).

2nd Son Gual holiday, MallorcaThree nights at Son Julia and two rounds at Son Gual for two people. There is some quality golf to be enjoyed in the Balearics and without a shadow of doubt Son Gual is the jewel in Majorca’s classy golfing crown. It guarantees a memorable round, with stunning greens.

1 The Open Championship, July 14-17**

2 Canadian Open (PGA Tour), July 21-24

3 Irish Open (European Tour), July 28-31

4 WGC Bridgestone, August 4-7*

5 US PGA Championship, August 11-14**

6 Wyndham Championship (PGA Tour), August 18-21

7 The Barclays (PGA Tour), August 25-28

8 Deutsche Bank Championship (PGA Tour), Sept 2-5

9 KLM Open (European Tour), Sept 8-11

10 BMW Championship (PGA Tour), Sept 15-18

11 The Tour Championship (PGA Tour), Sept 22-25*

12 Alfred Dunhill Links (European Tour), Sept 29-Oct 2

13 Madrid Masters (European Tour), Oct 6-9

14 Portugal Masters (European Tour), Oct 13-16

15 Castello Masters (European Tour), Oct 20-23

16 Andalucia Valderrama Masters

(European Tour), Oct 27-30

17 WGC HSBC Champions, Nov 3-6*

18 Barclays Singapore Open (European Tour),

Nov 10-13

19 Johor Open (European Tour), Nov 17-20

20 UBS Hong Kong Open (European Tour), Dec 1-4

21 Dubai World Championship

(European Tour), Dec 8-11*

THE 2011 FANTASY LEAGUE SCHEDULE

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DREAM TEAM VISIT WWW.TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK/FANTASYGOLF

8th Tour Edge Exotics XCG4 fairway woodA forgiving fairway wood with the tungsten sole pulling weight low in the head which means a high, powerful launch with great distance.

9th Yonex VMS hybridThis rescue club features a degree of offset making it ideal for the game-improver who struggles to control a slice. The thin face helps to deliver great distance too.

10th Nike VR V-Rev wedgeThese wedges are all about control and feel, with the engineered carbon steel design offering sensational levels of touch around the greens and from further out.

11th-50th. A pair of 2-FORE!-1 vouchersPlay at more than 1,000 courses around the UK for half price. Visit www.241golf.com for more information.

Monthly prizes (total of six months):1st Three 45-minute lessons with the top TG Elite Pro of your choosing.2nd Ping Scottsdale putter.3rd Druh belt.

2011FANT

ASY

League

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

WELCOMEMake sure your short game is in good shape

Drive for show, putt for dough. That’s what everyone tells you. And it’s not just a meaningless cliché. Having a great short game will lower your scores... fact. It’s all very well being able to bomb 300-yard drives but if you can’t get the ball in the hole, every drive is a waste of energy.

Part three of TG’s Love Your Clubs campaign focuses on your wedges and putter – the clubs that get your ball in the hole from 100 yards and in. Statistically, you play more shots from within this distance and if you hit every green in the number of shots you’re supposed to, half the shots during your round would be putts! If you’re a golfer that always chooses the driving range over the short game area, now is the time for a change in attitude. To help you along the way, new TG Elite Pro Noel Rousseau has compiled a great collection of short game tips and drills to turn three-putts into two and make up-and-downs a guarantee.

Joel TadmanInstruction Editor

31 WORK OUT YOUR HANDICAPUsing these three short-game tests.32 SHORT GAME: HIGH HANDICAPAdopt a pendulum putting action.37 SHORT GAME: MID HANDICAPReading greens and angle of attack tips.42 SHORT GAME: LOW HANDICAPChipping and putting under pressure.48 PUTTING PSYCHOLOGYDon't fear those nervy three-footers!49 GEAR GIFTS UP FOR GRABS!Just by tracking your handicap online.

PART THREESHORT

GAME TIPSSAVE MORE PARS AND MAKE MORE

BIRDIES!

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YOURCLUBSWEDGES& PUTTER

Noel is also the creator of the Everyday Golf Coach iPhone app, the UK’s biggest-

selling golf coaching app on iTunes.

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IN ASSOCIATION WITH

TIME FOR A TEST Find out how sharp your short game is by taking these three simple handicap tests...

1 . S H O R T P U T T I N G

2 . L A G P U T T I N G

3 . U P - A N D - D O W N U N D E R P R E S S U R E

Becoming proficient on short putts is about a number of factors that include reading the break, starting the ball on line and holding your nerve. It makes sense then that when we practise from this distance that each putt counts and there is an obvious consequence to missing. Skills tests are a great way of simulating the playing environment in our practice.

Set up the drill as described (left), making sure you treat each putt as you would on the

course by giving it your full attention and following your normal mental process and pre-shot routine. The six balls from each distance need to be placed at varied positions around the hole. Never hit from the same location in succession. See how your score ranks below.

Once you have a functional stroke then judging distance becomes a largely unconscious process. You can’t calculate how hard to hit the ball, we need to be able to trust in our innate skill in the same way we do when we throw a ball. However, it’s tough to trust in something that isn’t reliable so build on your distance control with well-intentioned practice. This test will keep you focused enough to give each putt your full attention while giving you

immediate feedback. You can vary the difficulty by changing the positioning of the balls. The easiest set up being to put three balls from the same location in order back from the hole. The more random you make the location and order of play then the more challenging and realistic the test becomes.

It’s one thing to practise your chipping and putting in isolation with a bag of balls but putting it all together one ball at a time is something quite different. As with all of these skills tests the idea is to simulate a real game scenario so make sure you give each shot your full attention and preparation. You may at first be disappointed with how many shots you take to hole out all nine attempts. But, at least you have accurate feedback on your ‘up-and-

down’ skills. As you improve your score you will have something real and tangible to give you confidence. Imagine facing a chip shot in a medal, knowing that you regularly score 21 on this test. That’s something that can’t be gained from chipping 100 balls to the same hole.

PUTTS HOLED HCP0-9 19-2810-14 10-1815-18 0-9

PUTTS HCP5 or less 19-286-7 10-188-9 0-9

SHOTS HCP26 or more 19-2822-25 10-1821 or less 0-9

CONCLUSION WHAT DO YOUR SCORES MEAN AND HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE?Every aspect of the short game isn't covered here, we’ve focused on the most important short game shots. If your score was low in the lag putting test, you’re likely to have problems with tempo (p32) or finding the sweetspot. Missing shorter putts could occur because you struggle to read subtle breaks (p38) while scoring low in the final ‘up-and-down’ test could be a combination of the above or errors in your chipping set-up (p34).

DRILL SET-UPThis test uses 18 balls, six from half a putter’s length, six from one putter's length and six from two club lengths.

DRILL SET-UPYour target is one club length around the hole. Hit nine putts; three from 20ft, three from 30ft and three from 40ft.

DRILL SET-UPUsing one ball only, chip and putt from nine locations around the green – three easy, three medium and three hard.

YOUR CLUBS WEDGES & PUTTER

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TRY THIS DRILLPlace five balls in line with the hole. Start six inches away then move back in two-foot intervals. The aim is to tap the first ball in nonchalantly then treat the remaining balls as if they are getting even easier.

FREE YOUR MINDThis drill is more of a mental exercise helping you free up your stroke and find the ‘child- like’ qualities when everything seemed easy. Remember, the process relies on you believing that the task is very simple.

'TAP-IN' BIRDIE PUTTSLower your expectations on mid-range putts

9-0HANDICAPWEDGES &

PUTTERA large part of the frustration in putting from around eight feet is the expectation that we ’SHOULD’ hole nearly all putts from that range. This in turn creates an elevated sense of

anxiety and 'over-trying'. If we look at the stats from the world’s best players then it starts to put things into perspective. Bear in mind that these are the most talented

players in the world putting on surfaces that are as smooth as a snooker table. Not entirely the same as the golf the rest of us play, so make sure you're more realistic from now on.

(Stats detail the percentage of putts holed from the PGA Tour in 2009. www.pgatour.com/stats)

11-15FT

30%8-10FT

45%6-7FT

65%4-5FT

85%UNDER 3FT

97%

40-YARD SAND SHOTMaster one of the hardest shots in golf

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

SWING COMMITTEDOne of the most important elements of this shot is to stay committed to your swing and trust your method, having worked on it in the practice bunker first. The club must be accelerating through the hitting zone, striking the sand first.

FINISH FACING TARGETKeep your body turning confidently through the ball so you finish with your hips and chest facing the target. Like all shots, you will need to practise this away from the course enough to be confident in the contact and strength required.

OPEN THE FACE SLIGHTLYA 9-iron has less bounce than a sand wedge so be careful that the front edge doesn’t dig into the sand too steeply and lose speed. To encourage the club to skid, address the ball with the club face a little open 2-3 inches behind the ball.

IMPACT

DRILL

ADDRESS

LOW RISK SHOTThis is a method that will reduce risk and improve distance control. Very simply, it is a splash shot with a 9-iron if height is not an issue. This allows you to take less effort and more sand.

WHERE TO FOCUSYou will need to make a pretty full swing to have the speed in the club to skid through the sand and still hit the ball the full distance. Keep your eye on your intended contact point in the sand.

9-0HANDICAPWEDGES &

PUTTER

This is a shot that everyone would rather not have to play. Do you opt to hit the ball clean like a full shot or play it like a greenside splash? If you play it clean then you

really have to judge the contact just right with no margin for error. If you opt to splash the ball with a sand wedge, the distance requires you to take a mere sliver of

sand. Both options are prone to thinning the ball over the back of the green. The method outlined below should give you the best chance of getting out of this tricky situation.

TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ❘ IS SUE 2 84

WORTH OVER £5,000

{ PRIZE}

WINTHE CHANCE TO BEAT MARTIN KAYMERWe’ve teamed up with BMW to offer one lucky reader the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play against US PGA Champion Martin Kaymer in America

Martin Kaymer won his first Major title, the US PGA, at Whistling Straits last year and we are offering you the amazing chance to play against him at the Wisconsin paradise.

No other UK golf publication has secured this terrific opportunity for one of its readers, so this has to be considered one of the most sensational competitions ever to have appeared in the UK’s best-selling golf magazine.

Kaymer, an ambassador for German car giant BMW, saw off the challenge of American stars Bubba Watson and Dustin Johnson in a play-off in August last year. Now you get the chance to tee it up against the former World No.1 at the stunning 2010 US PGA venue to see if you can succeed where Bubba and Dustin failed!

The prize will see you flown business class to Chicago, arriving on Saturday, August 13, and transferred by BMW shuttle service to the hotel where the players stay for the BMW Championship.

After dinner and a good night’s rest you will be taken in the BMW to Cog Hill Golf Club for a round on the course where big-hitting

Dustin Johnson won the BMW Championship in 2010.

Following the golf you’ll be back in the BMW and taken to Whistling Straits where you’ll check-in at the hotel and have dinner with Kaymer.

On Monday, August 15, the BMW shuttle will take you to Whistling Straits where you will spend time on the driving range with Martin before heading to the course. You will compete with two other golfers chosen from around the world to play against Kaymer, with the competition format being better ball before lunching with the amiable German. After a final night’s accommodation you’ll be flown business class back to the UK and appear in Today’s Golfer, with pictures of you and Martin from the event, along with your version of events from what promises to be an unforgettable few days in the States.

The competition draw will take place on July 15. To be in with a chance of winning visit www.todaysgolfer.co.uk/kaymercomp. You must be over 21 years old to enter, and have a handicap of less than 36. The closing date for entries is July 15, 2011.

{ C O M P E T I T I O N }

IT WAS MAD!

RADIO 1 AND TFI WERE BRILLIANT BUT COMPLETELY

UNSUSTAINABLE...

C H R I S E V A N SHe’s one of Britain’s most famous broadcasters with a passion

for classic cars – but could the DJ drive off with TG’s £20?

W O R D S D A V I D C O N N O R P I C T U R E S J A M E S C H E A D L E

He was once known as the wild child of British broadcasting, famed for his outrageous presenting

style and alcohol-fuelled benders before going live on air.

At one point he was the second most featured personality in the British press sandwiched between Princess Diana and the Prime Minister and famously ordered his entire crew to fail to turn up to work for his Radio 1 Breakfast show after a Christmas party because “to do so would be to not be doing our jobs properly!”

Evans then, is clearly not the kind of character you’d expect to come across at Sunningdale, or any other self-respecting golf club for that matter.

But the 45-year-old broadcasting legend is a golfer, make no mistake. And a very good one at that.

He’s also very much a changed man since his wild days at the helm of the Radio 1 breakfast show and the iconic Channel 4 show TFI Friday.

He’s a little older, more mature, a bit wiser and perhaps even a little

more humble than he was in his youth. He is a family man these days after all and when he speaks about his son Noah and wife Tasha it is clear he is more content than ever with his stock in life.

However, there is still the element of the showman in him – bearing in mind he commands millions of listeners to his Radio 2 breakfast show every day – and this is apparent as he arrives at historic Sunningdale in a vintage red Ferrari 288 GTO before quickly transferring to a Jaguar E-Type model for our photographs.

“I don’t normally drive this car,” says the Ferrari enthusiast. “But it’s a real treat for me getting to come to Sunningdale so I thought I’d bring one of my favourite cars.”

It is clear from the off that Evans is very comfortable in the traditional surroundings of one of the world’s most prestigious golf clubs but he admits he does get some strange glances at various clubs from people who don’t associate his image with the world of golf.

“I don’t really think about it. I

{ T H E T G T W E N T Y }

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TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ❘ IS SUE 2 84

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TWILIGHTZONE

VALUE ADDEDYou can play the stunning Ailsa course for just £95 if you tee off after 3pm.

1 SAVE £100TURNBERRY AILSA

Why you should go: It’s a legendary layout and links golf simply doesn’t get any better than this. It’s staged four Opens including the famous Duel in the Sun contested in 1977 and eventually won by Tom Watson. Watson of course so nearly celebrated a fairytale victory at the pride of Ayrshire a couple of years ago. You’ll remember every hole, every shot and every putt along with the equally legendary lighthouse and Ailsa Craig views.

◗ FACTFILETwilight special: Sunset offer after 3pm (all week): £95. Normal green fees: £175 (Mon-Thurs) and £195 (Fri-Sun). Location: 18 miles south of Ayr, A77. Tel: 01655 334032.

2SAVE £90THE CARRICK

Why you should go: It sits right nextdoor to Loch Lomond, probably the most stunning water hazard in golf! The Carrick boasts a fantastic array of holes, particularly coming down the stretch with holes 14-17 skirting the bonnie banks, and the classiest of clubhouses which includes a luxury spa.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: From £35 per person and £50pp for a twilight game and a main course meal in the Claret Jug. Twilight golf must be booked in advance while the meal will be selected from the Golfer’s Fayre menu. Normal green fees: £125. Location: Banks of Loch Lomond. Tel: 01389 713655.

3SAVE £80DUKE’S COURSE,

ST ANDREWSWhy you should go: Championship heathland course located just outside St Andrews, the Home of Golf, and boasting wonderful panoramas over the historic town, West Sands and the Grampian Mountains.

Part of the iconic Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, The Duke’s was originally designed by five-time Open champion Peter Thomson and then in 2004 underwent a remodelling by Pete Dye prodigy, Tim Liddy.

By 2006, the American had transformed the course into a heathland masterpiece. Liddy replaced the old pot bunkers with rough-edged, spacious bunkers reminiscent of the romantic bygone years of heathland golf,

W O R D S K E V I N B R O W N

Looking to play a top course for a rock bottom price? TG has found a plethora of extraordinary deals at stunning courses: all you need to do is book a late tee time

Botley Park, Hants Twilight green fee: £21 (normally £35-£40). Twilight buggy: £15 (£25) 0844 879 9034.Cardrona, Borders Twilight green fee: £23 (normally £46/£56). Twilight buggy: £16 (£25). 0844 879 9024.Hill Valley, Shrops Twilight green fee: £15 (normally £25/£35). Twilight buggy: £20 (£25). 0844 879 9049.Linden Hall, Northumberland Twilight green fee: £17.50 (normally £35). Twilight buggy: £15 (£35). 0844 879 9084.Portal, Cheshire Twilight fee: £80 for fourball (normally £55pp). Twilight buggy: £15 (£30). 0844 879 9082.Portal Premier, Cheshire. Twilight green fee: £60 for fourball (normally £40pp). Twilight buggy: £15 (£30). 0844 879 9082.Spey Valley, Aviemore. Twilight fee: £40 (normally £70). Twilight buggy £20 (£32.50). 0844 879 9152.

TOP DEALS 1MacDonald Resorts

BARGAINJust £35 can buy

you an evening game on the

stylish Duke’s at St Andrews.

LESS IS MORETee off late at Faldo’s Chart Hills and save £40 on the weekend green fee.

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improved the course drainage and completely redesigned five holes.

It has five sets of tees measuring from the front tees an inviting 5,216 yards to the challenging back tees of 7,512 yards. Not surprisingly it’s been placed in sister magazine Golf World’s latest Top 100 Courses in the UK.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £35 between 3pm and 5pm every Tuesday. Normal green fees: £115. Location: 3 miles south of St Andrews, Fife. Tel: 01334 470214.

4SAVE £45CARDEN PARK,

CHESHIREWhy you should go: This is one of the leading venues in the north-west and boasts two superb, contrasting 18-hole courses (Nicklaus and Cheshire) along with a luxury De Vere hotel and top practice facilities. Naturally everybody wants to tackle the mighty par-72 Nicklaus layout, a terrific parkland challenge with a fittingly thrilling finale involving a par 3 over water followed by a sweeping par-4 dog-leg around a lake. The Cheshire provides a more gentle stroll in the park as well as exquisite panoramic views beyond the county into Wales.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £20 per person (after 3pm). Normal green fees: £65. Location: 10 miles south of Chester on A534. Tel: 01829 731534 and quote “TG Twilight”.

5SAVE £40CHART HILLS

Why you should go: Kent is famed for the quality of links courses including this year’s Open venue (Royal St George’s) but this is surely one of the county’s top inland tracks.

Designed by six-times Major victor Sir Nick Faldo – it was his first UK course creation – it’s a spectacular par-72 layout plotted on rolling Kent countryside. The round impressively starts with a testing slight right dog-leg par 5, and the pace doesn’t let up. You’ll particularly remember the uphill, bunker-strewn par-5 16th and the following par-3 signature hole with its near-island green.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight deal: £40 all week (except Fri). This includes golf only and tee-times must be booked and paid for in advance by calling the shop. Normal green fees: Sun-Thurs: £65. Fri-Sat: £80. Location: 12 miles west of Ashford (A262). Tel: 01580 292148.

6SAVE £38BREADSALL PRIORY,

DERBYSHIREWhy you should go: You’ll find two contrasting 18-hole courses (Priory and Moorland) and a mansion house hotel with excellent facilities.

The more popular course is the Priory, an undulating parkland layout with some breathtaking elevated tees and supported by the more open and exposed but fast-draining Moorland track which is playable all-year round.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £20 after 5pm and £35 after 1pm. Normal green fees: Mon-Fri: £53. Sat-Sun: £58. Location: 5 miles north of Derby (A61). Tel: 01332 836016.

7 SAVE £38MEON VALLEY, HANTS

Why you should go: It sits in 225 acres of picturesque parkland and is something of a golfing paradise with the championship Meon course being backed-up by a splendid nine holer and on-site Marriott hotel with first-rate facilities.

The 18-hole par-71 Meon layout is the main attraction though and is a mature parkland layout with a great variety of holes, one of the best being the par-3 12th where you need to take careful aim from an elevated tee to a green beyond a lake.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £17 a round on the Meon Championship course after 4pm (also available online at www.Marriottgolf.co.uk). Normal green fees: Mon-Fri: £45. Sat-Sun: £55.Location: 2 miles north west of Wickham near Southampton. Tel: 01329 833455.

8SAVE £35WORSLEY PARK, LANCS

Why you should go: It’s a top stay-and-play venue with a luxury Marriott hotel on site. Don’t be surprised, especially at this time of the year, to see some of Manchester’s

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>>

WELSH GOLDThanks to a great twilight rate, you

can enjoy the stiff challenge of St Pierre for less.

CHEAP THRILLTwilight at super Trevose is an experience not to be missed – and is almost half price.

IS SUE 2 84 ◗ TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK

footballing superstars knocking it around the fine par-71, 5,914-yard parkland track.

The USGA-spec course is a short drive from Manchester’s city centre and has matured nicely since opening in 1999. As you would expect, the practice facilities are pretty tasty too.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £25 per person after 3.30pm (all week). Normal green fees: Mon-Thurs: £50. Fri-Sun: £60. Location: Close to M60 jct 13, Manchester. Tel: 0161 975 2043.

9SAVE £34SAUNTON, DEVON

Why you should go: This sumptuous north Devon club oozes charm and personality, is the home of two outstanding links courses (the championship East and West) and is widely regarded as one of England’s finest seaside venues and the best links never to have staged an Open Championship.

Both courses – set among a sea of sand dunes – are loved to bits by just about everybody who plays them and among Saunton’s biggest fans is Sir Nick Faldo who regards it as one of his favourite places to play. You simply can’t get much higher praise than that.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £40 in midweek after 4pm & £45 at the weekend/Bank Holidays. Normal green fees: Mon-Fri: £74. Sat-Sun: £79. Location: 6 miles west of Barnstaple. Tel: 01271 812436.

10SAVE £30DUNSTON HALL,

NORFOLKWhy you should go: This 6,275 yards, par-71 layout is reputed to be one of the best inland tracks in the county if not East Anglia. It’s a quality parkland course with most of the gently undulating fairways lined by mature trees while there’s strategical bunkering on most holes. Tees and greens are great, and you can warm up in style on the 22-bay floodlit range.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £15 per person Mon- Fri after 3pm or £17.50 after 4pm Sat & Sun. Normal green fees: All week: £45. Location: On the Ipswich Road, Dunston, Norwich. Tel: 01508 470444.

11SAVE £30TREVOSE, CORNWALL

Why you should go: This super Colt track is one of the best in the south west and just a great place to play.

It recently staged the prestigious Brabazon Trophy and was placed 8th in Today’s Golfer’s 2-FORE!-1 Top 100 Courses poll. Overlooking Constantine and Booby’s bays, Trevose is a must-play and the highlight of a memorable round is the unforgettable par-5 4th with its ‘blind’ green sitting right next to the beach.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £35 after 3pm till the end of Sept. Normal green fees: £65. Location: 4 miles west of Padstow. Tel: 01841 520208.

12SAVE £30ST PIERRE,

SOUTH WALESWhy you should go: The par-71 Old Course is a stunning parkland layout and has staged a host of top tournaments including the prestigious Curtis and Solheim Cups.

Plotted amidst 400 acres of mature undulating countryside and supported by a fine on-site Marriott hotel, the memorable round finishes with a spectacular 200-yard par 3 over a gaping lake.

◗ FACTFILETwilight special: £30 on the Old course which includes a £10 retail voucher if booked via Marriottgolf. Also £25 per person inc buggy, subject to availability, for hotel residents (bookable through the golf shop).Normal green fees: All week £60. Location: 2 miles west of Chepstow (A48). Tel: 01291 625261.

13SAVE £27.50 (WITH BUGGY!)

MANNINGS HEATH, WEST SUSSEXWhy you should go: The Kingfisher Course is a modern, superbly presented layout which opened in 1996 and is plotted within 500 acres of stunning parkland overlooking the South Downs.

The par-70, 6,217-yard course is fairly open and features large inviting greens against a backdrop of mature parkland, a scenario which has proved a popular venue for south east-based golfers eager to play affordable golf.

Book some amazing twilight golf online via the new teeofftimes service on offer at www.todaysgolfer.co.uk and here’s just a few venues where you can make some fantastic savings…Surrey National Golf Club, SurreyFrom £13.00 per person – save 59%.A high quality course, which measures at 6,858 yards, with full USGA spec greens.Ramsdale Park Golf Centre, NottsFrom £13.00 per person – save 55%.This par 71 is more than 6,600 yards long and the natural water hazard on the 6th is a real treat.De Vere Carden Park (Cheshire Course), CheshireFrom £30.00 per person – save 33%.A great supporting act for the on-site Nicklaus course.The Shire London Golf Course, HertsFrom £35.00 per person – save 30%.Main attraction is the Seve ‘Masters’ course (par 72, 6,322 yards) which features six par 5s, 4s and 3s.

TOP DEALS 2Book with Teeofftimes

TODAYSGOLFER.CO.UK ◗ IS SUE 2 84

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SHORT PRICEIan Woosnam’s

scenic and mature Dale Hill is only £30 for a late

tee-off time.

BIG DEALSave £80 on the price of a fourball at Heron’s Reach if you play on a weekend evening.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: After 2pm Mon-Fri: £12.50; After 2pm Sat-Sun: £17.50. Buggy only £10 (normally £30). Normal green fees: Mon-Fri: £18. Sat-Sun: £25. Location: 3 miles south east of Horsham (A281). Tel: 01403 210228.

14SAVE £20BIRCHWOOD PARK,

KENTWhy you should go: Surrounded by lush Kent countryside, Birchwood Park’s 6,364-yard par-71 course offers a challenging test – for golfers of all abilities.

Your game will be particularly examined late on so hopefully you will have scored well prior to coming down the stretch. Two of the final four holes (15 and 18) measure more than 400 yards and you’ll need to pull out all the stops to par them.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: Mon-Thurs after 3pm: £15 & after 5pm £9.99; Fri-Sun after 3pm: £16 & after 5pm £9.99. Normal green fees: Mon-Thurs: £25. Fri: £26. Sat-Sun: £30. Location: Wilmington, near Dartford. Tel: 01322 662038.

15SAVE £20DALE HILL,

EAST SUSSEXWhy you should go: The USGA-spec layout has matured extremely well since opening in 1997, being the par-72, 6,512 yards handiwork

of former Masters champion Ian Woosnam.

It provides stunning scenic vistas across the High Weald along with a superb finish involving an outstanding right dog-leg par 4 and a tightly wooded par 3 over a valley with a devilishly tricky green. It all adds up to an enjoyable round of golf in relaxing surroundings.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: Mon-Fri: £30. Sat-Sun: £35. Normal green fees: Mon-Fri: £50. Sat-Sun: £55. Location: B2087, off A21 at Flimwell from M25 jct 5. Tel: 01580 200112.

16 SAVE £20 (per player)HERONS REACH,

LANCASHIREWhy you should go: This leading De Vere venue opened in 1992, designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark. Heron’s Reach is classy and challenging and being set among nearly 240 acres of prime parkland in the popular seaside town of Blackpool, it’s probably not surprising it’s a top parkland track with something of a links feel to it. You’ll love the USGA-spec tees and greens too, though you’ll have to putt well to handle the contoured greens.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: £100 per fourball, subject to availability. Pre-payment is required. Normal green fees: Mon-Fri: £35. Sat-Sun: £45. Location: M55 junction 4. Follow signs to Blackpool Zoo. Tel: 01253 832505.

17 SAVE £15SANDFORD SPRINGS,

HANTSWhy you should go: There are three contrasting loops of nine all designed by Hawtree – and they’re all pretty tasty though the Woods and Lakes combination is probably the strongest. You’ll also be well impressed with the quality bunkering. The undulating terrain provides marvellous views.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: Mon-Thurs (after 5pm) unlimited golf for £20. Fri-Sun (after 5pm) unlimited golf for £25. Normal green fees: Mon-Thurs: £35. Fri-Sun: £40. Location: 8 miles north of Basingstoke on A339. Tel: 01635 296808.

18SAVE £13WYCOMBE HEIGHTS,

BUCKSWhy you should go: Set in the chalk hills above High Wycombe, this John Jacobs-designed course allows golfers to enjoy stunning views across the Chilterns. Jacobs has created a memorable track, particularly the 391-yard par-4 3rd, which is cut into the side of the hill with a curving, plateaued fairway lined by steep banking right and a sharp drop left.

◗ FACTFILE Twilight special: All week (after 2pm): £15. Normal green fees: Mon-Fri: £21. Sat-Sun: £28. Location: Half-mile from M40 junction 3 on A40 to Wycombe. Tel: 01494 816686.

Crown Golf (www.crown-golf.co.uk) is Britain’s biggest golf course provider – it has 29 UK golf facilities and 48 courses in its portfolio, including flagship venue St Mellion, the first UK course to be designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.

All Crown’s clubs with the exception of Batchworth Park, Hertfordshire, offer twilight golf from 4pm seven days a week during the summer months, with the rates varying from £13 at Paultons Golf Centre, Southampton and £16 at Pine Ridge in Surrey to £27 at The Hertfordshire, Broxbourne.And if you’re looking for a twilight experience on the Nicklaus masterpiece and European Tour venue of St Mellion it costs from just £35 – and from £18 on the neighbouring 18-hole Kernow track.

TOP DEALS 3Value from Crown Golf

LOFTY AMBITIONSGetting up and down dramatically improves scores. Our testers put the latest wedges through their paces to find the best tools for the job

TG'S WEDGES TEST

WEDGES21

T E S T E D

PICTURES H OWA R D B OY L A N A N D T O M C R I T C H E L L

EQUIPMENT

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With 34 hitting bays, five state-of-the-art fitting rooms and a superb short game area, The Belfry’s sensational PGA National Fitting centre was the perfect place to do some

of the testing.The excellent Derby

course provided the backdrop for any testing the guys were doing around a green.

The Belfry also has the

stunning four-time Ryder Cup venue The Brabazon and the PGA National course. Call, e-mail or visit the website for some great stay-and-play deals this summer.

HOW WE RATED THE 21 WEDGES…We tested looks, feel, sound and performance from two different scenariosWedges are arguably the most underrated and undervalued clubs in the bag – we are more than happy to shell out for a new driver and irons, but the thought of investing in wedges is often not given the same consideration. The problem with wedges is that you use them a lot – this causes the grooves and the face roughness to wear down, which causes less spin and also means a more ballooning ball flight. Clearly, these things aren’t good and this is why you need to update your wedges regularly.

METHODOLOGYEach tester rated each club on looks (overall aesthetics and how it sets up at address), feel (what sort of touch the wedge offered) and sound (feedback through noise) out of five. They were then asked to hit balls to a pin 75 yards away for Trackman to record how far away from the pin the ball pitched. The four distances from the four testers were then averaged out to get a final figure – this was then applied to a sliding scale (the lower the number, the higher the score out of five). Finally, we asked each tester to score how many balls (out of five) they got within a three-foot radius of the pin from just off the green. Pro Chris to hit a 56° wedge to a green 75 yards away, so Trackman could record the spin revolutions per minute. Anything above 7,500 is considered good as the ball will stop more quickly.

THE VENUE

The Belfry Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield, B76 9PR

Tel: 01675 470301Email: enquiries@thebelfry.com

Web: www.thebelfry.com

We got in touch with the top wedge manufacturers and asked them to supply 52°, 56° and 60° wedges for our team to test at The Belfry. If a certain manufacturer didn’t have that loft available in their wedge make-up, we asked them to send us the closest loft. All wedges provided had steel shafts. The conditions for both of the test days were similar – with the weather windy and overcast.

Feel and the ability to get the ball close from different distances were the key elements. The five criteria are marked out of five, and the overall rating is an average of the combined scores from each tester.

❘❘❘❘❘ Must buy❘❘❘❘❘ Excellent❘❘❘❘❘ Good❘❘❘❘❘ Average❘❘❘❘❘ Avoid

THE R ATINGS

Chris Chamberlain Belfry ProChris’ super ball-striking and short game made him the perfect tester.Jon Greathead HCP 8Our man knows his wedges and what makes a good club.Pete Heighway HCP 13Pete struggles with distance but his short game is a big strength.Mike Cox HCP 18Mike’s touch around the greens was impressive throughout.

THE TE STERS THE CLUBS

WEDGE FUNDThe Belfry's Chris Chamberlain used his short-game prowess to good effect.

EQUIPMENT T H E T E S T W E D G E S

COURSES

H A L F - P R I C E GO

LF

I HA

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RICE GOLFIHALF

-PR

ICE

GO

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Half-price golf

near you. Buy

vouchers at

www.241golf.com

HIDDEN HEROGuaranteed thrills and spills on this north-east of England venue’s 29 holes – and a nice hotel too

{ 2-FORE!-1 SEASIDE SPECIALS}

‘YOU MAY NOT HAVE HEARDOF HUNLEY HALL BUT TODAY’S GOLFER PAID A VISIT AND IT’S DEFINITELY A WORTHY STAY-

AND-PLAY VENUE’

MORE ‘SEASIDE

SPECIALS’Five more coastal

classics…

◗ NORTH SHORESkegness parkland-links mixture.Green fees: Mon-Fri: £31.50. Sat-Sun: £39.50. Sun-Thurs (after 2pm): £20. 2-FORE!-1: Mon-Fri. Tel: 01754 764822.

◗ LYME REGISBreathtaking Dorset clifftop course with views to match.Green fees: All week: £40. 2-FORE!-1: All week (after 2pm).Tel: 01297 443822.

◗ LYTHAM GREEN DRIVE, LANCSImpressive, mature parkland.Green fees: Mon-Fri: £42. Sat-Sun: £50. 2-FORE!-1: All week (high). Tel: 01253 737390.

◗ MEYRICK PARKMagic muni in Bournemouth.Green fees: Mon-Thurs: £25. Fri-Sun: £29. 2-FORE!-1: Mon-Fri (after 11am on Fri-Sun rate). Tel: 01202 786040.

◗ TENBYStunning links – one of Wales’ finest – close to the beach.Green fees: All week: £50 before 2pm & £40 after 2pm. 2-FORE!-1: Mon-Fri (on £50 rate). Tel: 01834 844447.

COURSES H A L F - P R I C E G O L F S E A S I D E S P E C I A L S

Hunley Hall, which dramatically overlooks the Heritage North Yorkshire coastline, is very much an unsung hero of 2-FORE!-1.

You may not have even heard of it but TG paid it an early-season visit and it’s definitely a worthy stay-and-play venue. Virtually everything you need is on-site including, unusually, 29 holes of golf which gives Hunley four different 18-hole combinations (Millennium, Jubilee, Imperial and Morgan’s). Wherever you look, there seems to be tees and greens!

The original layout was designed by European Tour player John Morgan and opened in 1993 with 11 additional holes being created three years later following the acquisition of more land.

There’s a good blend of holes here while the well-kept fairways are fairly generous. However, this open parkland is close to the clifftop – so the wind is usually a factor. Of the 29 holes on offer the short par-4 4th on Morgan’s – known as Snaith’s – is the best. It’s a stunning downhill hole from an elevated tee with outstanding views.

Pick of the rest include contrasting par 3s –Dicken’s Dilemma (3rd on Millennium) and Clark’s Brook (11th on Millennium). The

Dickens Dilemma is a 133-yard punch over a pond while Clark’s Brook requires an accurate shot through a gap in the trees nearly 220 yards away with a wood.

Hunley Hall is all about value for money, on and off the course – as you can see by the deals below. The 28-room, on-site, three-star hotel provides comfortable if not luxurious accommodation, serving up great food in the Lookout restaurant overlooking the course and 12-bay floodlit driving range.

◗ WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOWLocation: 15 miles N of Whitby on A174.Green fees: Mon-Fri: £25. Sat-Sun: £35.2-FORE!-1: Sun-Thurs (after noon).Contact: 01287 677444.Try it for yourself: Deal 1: Sunday night special includes one night’s dinner, B&B and two days’ golf from £69pp.Deal 2: Until Sept: Two nights’ DB&B and unlimited golf for £179 (midweek) and £195 (weekend) per person.Contact: 01287 676216 or e-mail reservations@hhgc.co.uk or visit www.hunleyhotel.co.uk

{ AWE SOME AMENDOEIRA}

W O R D S K E V I N B R O W N

THREE GREAT REASONS TO VISIT THE ALGARVE

TRAVEL

Nick Faldo has played a major role in turning a small part of Portugal into a cracking, three-course resort with loads to offer at sensible prices

TRAVEL

BULGARIAThree nights’ half-board at four-star Riu Pravets Golf & Spa Resort, transfers, use of facilities plus two rounds for €289pp (£260). Valid until Oct 30.Contact: 01903 262150.

PORTUGALStay and play at the Pestana Resorts in the Western Algarve with golf at Gramacho, Pinta, Alto & Silves from £44pp, including buggy.Contact: 0800 011 2520.

PORTUGALUnlimited free golf available with all apartment bookings at the superb Aroeira Golf Resort, Lisbon Coast, from only £31pp per night.Contact: 0800 011 2520.

CYPRUSThree nights’ accommodation at the five-star Aphrodite Hills, Paphos, two rounds of golf and use of buggies for £245pp.Valid from Dec 4-Feb 27, 2012.Contact: 0800 043 6644.

MORE SHORT BREAKS

Enjoy great long golfing weekends for little cost

SPAINStay and play at the excellent four-star Islantilla Golf Resort on half-board basis from only £259pp for seven nights including golf. Contact: 0800 011 2520.

The climate, the fantastic courses and the short flight – just three of the things that attract Brits to the Algarve.

But there is another very good reason to pick Portugal as your next destination. The Amendoeira Resort opened in September 2008 and both the Faldo and O’Connor Jnr courses have matured fantastically.

The main attraction is the Faldo-designed course, which comes alive as it climbs into the hills at the turn with stunning views.

As with all good resort courses, the fairways are generous but the lush rough is more penal than it looks and the layout is liberally sprinkled with water and bunkers.

While Faldo grabs the majority of the headlines, the O’Connor is a quality layout in its own right. Despite a slightly longer yardage and water coming into play on 13 holes, it actually plays easier than its neighbour and offers a very different feel.

The resort is part of the Oceanico family, which includes another five courses in the Vilamoura area, most notably the magical Old Course and Arnie Palmer’s thrilling European Tour hosting Victoria track.

Amendoeira isn’t cheap – normal rack rate to play the Faldo is €130 (£115) with the O’Connor slightly less (€125/£110) – but there are some great deals around (see below).

There’s plenty of other things to do at the resort too. The facilities include six tennis courts, swimming pools, gym, lawn green bowls, five-a-side football, besides a luxury clubhouse with bar, restaurant and pro shop, a superb floodlit nine-hole, par-3 course and Golf Academy.

◗ AMENDOEIRA GOLF RESORT DEALSDeal 1: Three nights’ accommodation and three rounds (Faldo, O’Connor & Victoria), buggies and resort shuttle. €352pp (£312) in a two-bedroom apartment (four sharing).Deal 2: Seven nights’ accommodation and five rounds (two Faldo, two O’Connor and one Victoria), buggies and resort shuttle service. €659pp (£585) in a two-bedroom apartment (four sharing).To book or find out more options contact Oceânico Direct on 00351 289 320 5257, e-mail info.packages@oceanicogroup.com or visit www.oceanicogolf.com

B A R G A I N B R E A K S P O R T U G A L