Friendly Comp at The Belfry, Sun 15 March 09

Forum > Organise and Promote your Event

Chris Perry

Who's interested in having an event playing on the PGA National at The Belfry on or about Friday 27th March 09 to celebrate the clocks going forward and getting an extra hour of evening golf?  Cost would be £35 each with the following included: -

• 18 holes on the PGA National
• Tea/coffee and a bacon roll on arrival
• Range balls
• Course planner

There is a minimum requirement of 12 players and a maximum of 32 so I want to get an idea of the level of interest before booking anything.  Plan would be for first tee time to be around 10:30am so everyone would be finished playing by around 4:00pm.  We could also add a couple of pounds on to get some prizes if people wanted.  I enquired about the Sunday, the day the clocks actually move, but there is only consecutive tee times for 16 players available (people have booked REALLY early!).   

So who's interested, should we have a prize pot and what does everyone think of the times?

John Flood

Chris,

Count me in. I could supply some chocolate as prizes . If your going to play for money then 3/4 handicaps should be used. Don't mind putting a few extra quid into the hat for prizes.

John.

Paul Williams

John Pettitt

Jon Williams

Dave ley

Martin Millichip

Yep, me as well, would love to have a game with you guys.

Chris Perry

Tim Hawkins

Jon Williams

Chris Perry

Wayne Santorini

Kevin Hewitt

You v=can count me in aswell, be good to see you lot again

Stephen Falcus

Sounds interesting! I quite like the sounds of it.

Would you go by your club handicap or the golf shake one? (I just manually adjusted the golf shake one to my club one...)

Jonny P

John Pettitt

Stephen Falcus

Chris Perry

May be a slight date change as I've noticed there is a clash on this date with the SVGS Spring Open and it may be a little too close to the N v S.  Likely date will be either Friday 13th March or Sunday 15th March 09.  Both dates are currently available but first tee off available on the Sunday is 11:20, meaning the last group in would be in at around 5:00pm. 

Can I have a 'show of hands' as to whether Friday or Sunday is preferred?  My preference is the Sunday. 

Stephen Falcus

John Pettitt

Wayne Santorini

Chris Brannon

Hi,

Is this open to Golfshake newcomers? If so I'd be interested.

I should be able to make either day with it being quite far off.

Thanks

Chris

Martin Millichip

Chris Perry

Chris Brannon

Great.

Count me in then.

Cheers.

Chris.

Jonny P

John Flood

Chris,

Any day with enough notice. I'd take into consideration how busy the course is likely to be on either day though? If the course is busy it might not be a nice experience if the marshall starts to tell people to hurry up etc? Although saying that if your playing stableford people should 'pick-up' if they can't score.

John.

Kevin Hewitt

Stuart Govan

Paul Williams

John Flood

Paul,

If you've got an unlimited amount of funds for golf can you buy me some irons like Santo's got please .

John.

Chris Perry

John Flood

Chris Perry

I've still got the labels on mine as I haven't had to wear them yet.  Never know what santa will bring.

His missus is forcing him to play now he's bought the kit.  It's like the kid who demands loads of cake so the parents make them eat it until they're sick to teach them a lesson!

Chris Perry

Currently have: -

• Friday - 2
• Sunday - 4
• Don't Care - 5

Dave Ley, Tim Hawkins and Jon Williams are still to declare their alligience (if any).  I'll give it until tomorrow and then see what the overriding preference is. 

Paul Williams

Friday was one of those day's when everything was going to go wrong. The unhappiness soon past and the love affair as been rekindled.

My missus know how miserable I'd be if i didn't have golf, she also knows if she asked me to chose between her and golf....then I'd miss her!

John if the funds we're there then i would gladly, at the moment i just acquiring all the gear i need to last me a few years, the spending will soon stop.

Booked my lessons at the Belfry, the earliest i can start is Monday 5th January, so i can start to see light at the end of the tunnel.

Paul Williams

John,

i did buy 2 pairs of waterproof trousers last week; sunderlands & galvin greens and still got them cheaper than Mr Perry paid for his one pair of Galvins.

Phillip Newton

Hi Chris

please put my name down for this and a prize fund sounds good.

P.S friday was good will try to improve for next game!!

regards

Phil 

John Flood

Tim Hawkins

Paul Williams

Bargain hunt, thats me! Total spending so far:

Driver:£100 + £15 re shafting & gripping.

3 Wood: £100.

5 Wood: £30.

Irons 4-pw,gw. £450.

S/W £79.99.

Putter £70

Bags:cart £30 & stand £40.

Waterproofs Galvin Green jacket & trousers £250, sunderland trousers £40.

Total £1135! And after all that my game is still crap!!!!

John Flood

Paul,

Start to spend some money on lessons now & read some good books about getting your mind ready for next years golf. Oh & stop worrying about your golf & just relax & enjoy it.

John.

Stephen Falcus

thats crazy for waterproofs!

I'd rather go to sports soccer and pay £20 for some dunlops!

Chris Perry

I've did that Stephen.  Guess what?  I've just replaced them with Galvin Green trousers and a Sunderland jacket.  Trust me, you will notice the difference.  The Dunlop jacket will keep you dry but weighs as much as a full carry bag and trying to swing in it is like trying to swing underwater.  The trousers will keep you dry on a cold day but if you wear them whent he temperature is above about 10* you will be even wetter on the inside from the sweat. 

When it comes to waterproofs, you get what you pay for.  But if you still want Dunlops then you can have mine for a tenner.  Trousers worn no more than a dozen times, jacket worn once, size large.

John Flood

Stephen,

It depends on how much you play throughout the winter. If it's not much then go for the Dunlops. If like me you play all year then a good quality set of waterproofs is a sound investment & if looked after properly will last years.

John.

Paul Williams

John,

Since Friday I've been researching the psychology side of golf and asking a few questions of myself, and in that found a lot of answers about how i feel whilst playing and playing with players of better ability. Things are starting to "click" into place about what goals are achievable.

I've also booked my lessons starting on the 5th jan.

Paul, ( I'll be dropping your 2-fore-1 vouchers in around 15:30 and will leave them where you suggested).

Stephen Falcus

Maybe I'm crazy but i've been playing all winter and haven't worn waterproofs at all (apart from a newcastle united raincoat once)

There's a shop next door to where i work that has a nice stubert waterproof jacket for £50 reduced from £100 or something - maybe if its gonna get wetter i might get one of them.

Wayne Santorini

Lee Miller

Go on then Perry put me down. I will try some "proper" golf with some pros. I should have my handicap down to under 24 by then. Not bothered which day.

Chris Perry

Wayne Santorini

Chris Perry

This event, The Springtime Season Starter, has now been booked, confirmed and created!!!!  Date is Sunday 15th March 09 per general consensus.  Tea/coffee and bacon rolls will be available from 10:00 with first tee time at 11:20.  Link is below, look forward to seeing you there!

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

Chris Perry

David Marshall

Russell Middleton

If I'm working I'd like to join you for this event.

I would prefer a Sunday, but if it has to be Friday or Saturday then OK.

Russ

Stephen Falcus

Chris Perry

Kevin Shearsby

John Pettitt

Chris Perry

Jon Williams

Chris Perry

Jon, Kev,

You're not showing on the competitior list yet.  Can you click on the link below, then click on the link that says "Click here to register".  There's a link on there (yes anouther!) to actually register yourself. 

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

EDIT - Just seen the note from Jon and Allan on the message board.  I'll get you both added. 

Chris Perry

I've had notes saying there are people who have registered for this comp but their names are not showing on the list.  I've asked Darren to investigate but having experienced this before and knowing of a 'dirty' fix, can the following please try to add themselves again: -

• Allan Bostock
• Jon Williams
• Kev Shearsby
• Darren Millichip

Let me know how you get on.  Thanks. 

Darren Millichip

Darren Ramowski

Chris Perry

Jon Williams

Chris Perry

Chris Perry

Given the level of interest (we will be oversubscribed), I've arranged for an additional two tee-off times, giving us up to 28 players.  I have to confirm whether we need all of them by the end of Jan, so I will be cutting off entry at the end of the month.  If you don't have your name down on the list and want to play, or know of someone else in the same position, please get your name down ASAP.  Apparently the course is getting quite busy that weekend so it's unlikely I will be able to get us any further tee times (32 is the max they allow anyway). 

Given the recent problems with registering, can I ask everyone who has put their name down to check and make sure they are on the list. 

Russell Middleton

I'm unemployed at the moment but if I start work in time then I'll have to hope there is a place left for me, if not then next time.

I'll put my name down as soon as I'm back at work.

Russ

Stuart Govan

Dear Organiser Perry!

I have clicked to register and am now humbly awaiting your approval

Wayne Santorini

oh no

Chris Perry

Dear Mr Govan

You have been humbly accepted.  Look forward to seeing you there. 

David Marshall

Dear Mr Organiser Perry

If Mr Govan is going to attend

I humbly ask for you to take my name off

Mark Sobey

I Think Mr Goven is coming to Portugal Davina, any chance you could humbly take your name off that one too ???

Only Joking mate, looking forward to it, dont think ive seen you since we were there last year.

David Marshall

Hardly seems possible that 11 months have flown by already.

Looking forward to seeing you out there too. And everybody else.

Well....Almost everybody else

Stuart Govan

What's the matter Wayne, you worried my understated navy blue and will clash with the overstated pink and orange you're going to subject us to? 

And David, no need to withdraw, just plan to attend as usual. By the time you and your horse drawn cart get off the single track roads you trundle along the sun will have gone down in Warwickshire, even with the clocks going back...

Wayne Santorini

Stuart Govan

Wayne Santorini

Mmmmmmmmmm

I'll deal with that reply on the 7th Feb mate

Stuart Govan

Excellent, just in time, honeymoon period with the new irons will have worn off!

Maybe you should stick to dressing like a tart! 

Wayne Santorini

Chris Perry

23 places out of 28 taken, with 3 people having tried to register but not yet on the list due to the registration problems we have been having.  Two of those have PM'd me today and told me they are definites.  That means there are only 2 guaranteed places left, 3 at the most. 

Get your name down quick if you want to play.  Should be a good one. 

John Pettitt

Chris Perry

Darren is hoping to attend John.  If he does I would hope to convince him but I fear that the handicap restriction the club operates may mean it's not truly open to all and for that reason he doesn't allow it.  However, there are a couple of names down who currently do not meet the restriction......

Taking on board comments from another thread about rewarding good golf, I'm also thinking of replacing the long drive prize with a Secret Six.  I'll get the starter to write down six holes of his choosing and put them in an envelope before we play.  At the end of the round, the player with the lowest total gross on those six holes wins.  As no-one (including me) knows the holes prior to play it means that the player with the most consistent round is most likely to win. 

John Flood

Chris,

I don't think the Belfry will be checking any handicap certificates & as we all know anyone can have a 'mare' on the day so I don't think that the difference between a 24 & 28 handicapper is going to be massive. If any 28 h'cappers want to play tell them to tell the starter there a 24 h'capper??

Just don't put them in my group

John.

Chris Perry

All,

This event is now FULL.  The list of players attending is: -

• Chris Perry
• Kevin Hewitt
• John Pettitt
• Wayne Santorini
• Tim Hawkins
• Martin Millichip
• Dave Ley
• Mark Sobey
• Paul Heath
• Chris Brannon
• Lee Miller
• Paul Williams
• Phillip Newton
• David Marshall
• John Flood
• James Illsley
• Darren Millichip
• Allan Bostock (you still need to accept Allan)
• Kevin Shearsby
• Jon Williams
• Stuart Govan
• Kevin Swain
• Alan Davison
• Timothy Buffham
• Paul Hindmarsh
• Ian Prince
• Rob Camplisson
• Darren Ramowski

Sorry if you didn't get on in time but I can't get any further tee times (I've tried).  If you can't make it please let me know so that someone else can have the chance.  If anyone has any preference of who they do (or don't!) want to be grouped with, or a preference for an early or late tee off, let me know by either the comp message board or PM. 

Stephen Falcus

Chris Perry

Stuart Govan

Stephen Falcus

Chris Perry

OK guys, important update for you all. 

I've managed to negoitate with The Belfry that instead of giving us course planners and range tokens they will give us vouchers to the value of £6 per player to use as a prize fund instead.  This means that we will have a prize fund of £168 (plus whatever I can blag from Darren!) and that the cost of the competition is now £36.40, which includes the PayPal commision.  Course planners and range tokens will still be available on the day for those who want them, but by doing things this way it not only brings the cost of the comp down but mean that some players aren't lumbered with things they don't want (or already have). 

I'll PM you all with the payment details shortly.  Payment is required one month before the comp per The Belfry's terms.  I will refund the difference to those that have paid already. 

Wayne Santorini

John Flood

Chris,

Id also like an early tee off, not bothered about playing partners.

John.

Wayne Santorini

Blimey your doing it here as well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GET A GRIP JOHN

Chris Perry

Paul Williams

Chris,

Changing the subject alittle but have you got the all clear for Perton Park for tomorrow?

Paul.

Chris Perry

I've had a chat with The Belfry and managed to get one more tee time.  This means that there is now a maximum of 32 players, the largest society gathering that The Belfry will allow.  There are three people on the reserve list - Stephen Falcus, Neil Beech and James Marshall.  If these people still want to play can they register ASAP or let me know otherwise. 

This also means there is one additional slot now available.  First come, first served.  Anyone else will be added to the reserve list in order of application and willl be given a spot if there are drop outs. 

Lee Miller

Chris Perry

Certainly is Lee.  Surprised me as I originally only set it up for 20 players.  I think it's a combination of a good price for a good course, people eager to get back out and play and a good warm up for the North v South.

And why have you got a Marseille player as your avatar, I thought you were a Sunderland fan?

Paul Williams

Chris Perry

Stephen Falcus

Chris Perry

Stephen Falcus

Dave ley

Stephen Falcus

Wayne Santorini

Chris Perry

Per the information on the comp homepage Dave: -

"Competition will be Stableford off full handicaps."

I understand why high handicappers would want to go off full handicaps and low handicappers off ¾, as if everyone meets the maximum 24 handicap requirement and we play off ¾, no-one will get more than one stroke per hole.  Also, with yourself and Martin only losing two shots whilst Darren, Lee and Tim Buffham would lose 7 it does swing things in favour of the better golfers and nullify the bandit effect.  I do think that the course itself will do that anyway as you have to have a good all round game to score well. 

I have tried to load the prizes to reward good golf as opposed to having lots of shots to waste; that's why there's a nearest the pin (skill required) but no long drive.  I've replaced the long drive with a secret six, which will be six holes as selected by the starter, written on a piece of paper and put into an envelope.  No-one, not even me, will know which holes have been selected until after the round.  At the end of the round, the lowest cumulative GROSS score on those six holes wins the prize.  A seventh hole will be named in case there is a tie, after that it will be on gross over the full 18. 

I am, however, a reasonable man and subject to sufficient bribery and backhanders the basic format could be changed. 

Stephen Falcus

Dave ley

I only asked as thats what we did last time and the scores were relatively close. I have no problem with what you have done organiser just asking a qestion.

Wayne no need to shout i can read lower case and who does stapleford favor??

Chris Perry

Chris Perry

Well, Neil Beech, Dale Unwin and James Marshall are now in - 31 out of 32 places gone.  If Steve's wife allows him to play we're all full up again.  If she doesn't then there's a place left.  Be interesting to find out who wears the trousers in the Falcus house tonight......

Dave ley

Chris Perry

He claims he was outside on the phone.  I was there for an hour afterwards and didn't see him.  And he didn't play to mine, yours and his combined, and that's full not ¾!!!

The bookies are not even taking bets on Mrs Falcus.  We all know the real score.  Maybe he should mention that it's only 20 minutes to the centre of Birmingham for designer shopping in Selfridges or lots of bargains in the Jewellery Quarter.  He'll get to play but it'll be a VERY expensive round!!!

Jon Williams

Stephen Falcus

oh, she wont be coming with me!

will report back later after 'the talk'

If i don't reappear its because i am too ashamed to bring my 'whipped' arse back on here..............

Dave ley

Stephen Falcus

Yes, I will be attending.

woo hoo

Paul Williams

Dave ley

Stephen Falcus

Lee Miller

hahaha join the Club Stephen.

Any idea on the playing groups Mr Perry? Feel free to place my High handicapped arse at the rear of the field as to not upset you proper golfers!!!

Darren Ramowski

Lee Miller

Wayne Santorini

Paul Williams

Stephen Falcus

Somewhere in the middle is best for me so i can hit some balls at the range first.

(would love to beat the mackem on the day)

Chris Perry

I'll start putting some groups together at the weekend.  I don't plan to have the high handicappers last, rather trying to get balanced groups out.  I've had some preferences for tee times and playing partners but I'll give everyone until the end of the week to get in their requests.  I'll then sort it out on the comp page and post the list here.  I'll also post the proposed prizes. 

Looking forward to this guys, should be good. 

Wayne Santorini

Chris Perry

Lee Miller

I can only hope you strike a ball better than Nicky Butt Stephen....

Chris Perry

Provisional groupings and subsequent tee times are below and have been based on trying to get a balance of playing abilities in all groups.  I have accomodated the requests I have received for early/middle/late tee off and playing partner requests wherever I can, although I struggled with Stu Govan asking to play with Dave Marshall and Dave saying he was going to throw his teddies out if I put them together.  If anyone has major issues with their group or time, let me know and I will do my best to ignore you .   

Group 1 - 11:20
Chris Perry
Dave Ley
John Pettitt
Neil Beech

Group 2 - 11:30
John Flood
Martin Millichip
Phillip Newton
Wayne Santorini

Group 3 - 11:40
James Marshall
Jon Williams
Kevin Swain
Rob Camplisson

Group 4 - 11:50
Darren Millichip
Darren Ramowski
David Marshall
Paul Williams

Group 5 - 12:00
Allan Bostock
James Illsley
Lee Miller
Mark Sobey

Group 6 - 12:10
Alan Davison
Kevin Shearsby
Paul Hindmarsh
Stephen Falcus

Group 7 - 12:20
Kevin Hewitt
Paul Heath
Tim Hawkins
Timothy Buffham

Group 8 - 12:30
Chris Brannon
Dale Unwinn
Ian Prince
Stuart Govan

John Flood

I see you've put yourself with the infamous Mr Pettit??

Just as long as you don't hold me & Wayne up it should be OK

With Wayne's pink outfit & my GPS were quids in

John.

Wayne Santorini

Chris Brannon

From thebelfry.co.uk18th hole guide.....

"Keep the ball left of the intimidating oak or a punch shot towards the clubhouse awaits."

Guess every one gets to see me make a balls of this one then?

Wayne Santorini

OH YES

John Flood

Wayne,

At least if we were first they would be able to watch 'proper' golf shots. Oh well at least we'll be able to watch Chris put his balls into the lakes!!

John.

John Pettitt

John Flood

John,

If I start last I'd need a miners hat to help me finish the round

If I have any chocolate left by March I'll donate a few bars as a 'wooden spoon' prize.

John.

John Pettitt

David Marshall

"Would have thought we would have been first John, at least they could see which way I'm going around the course"

You having a laugh Waynetta?

Not only will everybody see you...They will hear you as well...Foghorn Santorini

Wayne Santorini

Stuart Govan

Looks like my playing slot is the same as my final leaderboard position then!

Stephen Falcus

I am going to win.....................................

&nbs
p;

FK ALL!

just looked at the course guide and it looks very tough, there are some drives over bunkers about the 240/250 carry mark - I know i wont be able to resist a go and end up screwing them up.

I'm gonna need to buy an odd 3 iron too for the 200 yd par 3.

Wayne Santorini

John Pettitt

Wayne Santorini

Stephen Falcus

Wayne,

It say's to club up, longest iron i have is a 5 which i can get 190 yds but i'd rather a controlled swing than a fully blown one, never been faced with that long a par 3 before!

My irons are £150 wilson prostaff's - not exactly great!

I'll just have to outdrive you, then you might wanna go off the reds ;-)

Stuart Govan

Looks like my playing slot is the same as my final leaderboard position then!

Wayne Santorini

John Pettitt

Wayne Santorini

Chris Perry

Hole 8 is 187 yards off the yellows.  Depending on the wind direction and strength, it's anything from a 5 iron to a driver.  Seriously! 

Oh, and it's over a pond and a stream, if you're off the back the rough is nasty and the pin is normally tucked behind the bunker on the left.  Be VERY happy with a par on this hole.  This will not be the nearest the pin hole........

Here's a link to the course overview.  Have a look at 8, but also 4, 12 (my favourites), 3 and 14.  Bet at least half of the players take the bunker on when on hole 14!

http://www.thebelfry.co.uk/index.cfm/section/info/display/6/content/111/pgana
tionalcourseguide.htm

Tim Hawkins

Know that par 3 well now.  Played it 3 times, twice in the lake and once in the left hand bunker - I'm getting closer...  Have used hybrid (water), 5 wood (water) and 3 wood (bunker), driver next time if the wind is up.

Personal favourite has got to be the 4th.  Choice of tee shots - 180yd carry over the lake to the 40yd wide neck of the fairway or the safe option to the mound at 210yd but no water.  The first leaves a 110yd pitch over the deep bunkers onto the green, the second 170yds to the green over various hills and small lake.  Ace. 

Stephen Falcus

180yd carry should be a piece of pss.

I'll probs use a 4 iron on the 8th if its 186, get about that with a 5 but it advises to club up.

Looking forward to one that says if you get over a 240 yd carry its a big downhill slope, should be some 300+ drives on there (would have been ideal for longest drive chris!)

Wayne Santorini

I drove to 2 foot short of the water off the whites on a very sunny day 2 years ago, then duffed the pitch shot into the first bunker on the right, got up and down for a par WELL HAPPY

Agree with you Tim fantastic hole

Chris Perry

"180yd carry should be a piece of pss."

Indeed it is Stephen, that's the problem.  You then only have around 35 yards of grass to stop it on or you're in the next lake.  The narrow neck to the left of the second lake is only about 5 yards wide so you have to be deadly accurate to drive the first and miss the second.  There's also a bunker to the left of the neck and heavy rough to stop you trying to keep it away from the water.  Driving both lakes is neither an option nor achievable. 

Great hole. 

Stephen Falcus

so its a long iron or hybrid for the shot that has to stop within 210.

Gonna be great fun and a good challenge for me!

Just hope i can keep my tee shots straight and ride a bit of confidence otherwise i'm screwed and will limp home with about 18 points like a few weeks ago!

Wayne Santorini

Stephen you've got nothing to worry about, we really are a great bunch of guys & gals here, and everyone puts newcomers at ease.

at least for 3 holes anyway, ask Paul Williams

Tim Hawkins

Wayne Santorini

oh Tim don't goad him mate, both you and I know there will be plenty of pain if you try to tame the PGA

mind you we can take the P*** out of him when he picks up the wooden spoon

Paul Williams

"180 carry should be a piece of pss"

Stephen the key word is SHOULD, everything about this course say's "i should drive this" "i should carry that".Just wait untill you play it before you give it large matey!

 IMO its very well designed and this time of the year play's like a links course.

If your lucky and nice to Mr Santorini he may go easy on you, or on the other hand you'll have him taking the micheal all the up the 18th and beyond!

Chris Perry

Chris Brannon

John Pettitt

Chris Perry

John Pettitt

John Pettitt

Chris Perry

Dave ley

Jonny P

"I know one of the greenkeepers at The Belfry and he said he would rather play the Derby than the Brabazon."

The only reason he'd say that is if he struggles around the Brabazon - all of the people I know who dislike it are high handicappers which is fair enough.

I have played both and the Derby is one of the worst courses I have played, to say the Brabazon is worse is daft, even if one doesn't like the layout, it's far superior quality wise.Not played the PGA yet but hear good things.

Have you sampled both?

John Pettitt

Dave ley

Chris Perry

It's not a Texas Scramble John!

There's a good reason why the Brab is better quality Jonny.  The Belfry have 24 greenkeeprs on duty every day; 12 for the Brab, 7 for the PGA, 5 for the Derby.  It's not that he struggles with the Brab, he just feels that the Derby is more of a golf course than the Brab.  He likened it the Brab to a trophy wife - she can't cook, can't clean and is can't hold a conversation but she looks good and your friends who don't have to live with her are impressed.  I can't comment as I haven't played the Brab, but almost everyone I have spoken to seems to be of the same opinion. 

Jon Williams

Paul Williams

John,

The last golfshake event was my first and i can assure you these lads are a great bunch!   Even Santo once you've told him to fk off a couple of times! he,he!

I had a crap round, but really enjoyed the whole scene of the site and promised myself i'd miss no-more events.

Whatever the scores, the banter will be on form and friendly, we'll all have a cracking day and this will be more than likely be an annual event from here on in!

Paul.

Tim Hawkins

John Flood

Tim Hawkins

Paul Williams

Tim,

I think John was referring to the last time we played, as Mr Ley measured Mr Perry's duffed drive to 40 yards.... i then managed to out drive him at 42 yards

Paul

Chris Perry

I think he means my first when the 7 of us played Tim.  And it was more like 41 yards anyway!  He fails to mention the first time we played there and I sailed a beauty straight down the middle, drawing a round of applause from the two onlooking Japanese four-balls! 

I do agree about it being different to other corporate venues though.  I think it's because it's a golf course first and hotel second, as opposed to the De Vere and Marriott places where it's a hotel with agolf course attached.  The Belfry uses the golf to get people into the hotel where the others use the hotel to sell the courses. 

It is a bit nerve wracking when you play your first event with a bunch of lads you've never met before Jon, but you're in a group with Rob who has never played in an event before and the other two lads have only played in a couple.  I played at Staverton with Kev and I'm sure he'll look after you.  By the time you tee off you'll have seen Dave Ley slap it bullet straight 250 yards and Santo take a fanny, so you'll have seen the best and worst and the pressure will be off.  And you can't do worse than my first event - I came in plumb last with 14 points and had to put up with Santo all the way round!

Chris Brannon

Jon W,

I see you are in Notts. You should get your name down for the 3 counties winter league games. The last one was my first event at Ramsdale Park and was good fun. The next one is a week on Sunday at the Lincolnshire and not far off is one at Bondhay.

Chris

Wayne Santorini

you loved it if nothing else I made you feel welcome

Chris Perry

I did enjoy it Wayne, but it was back in the days where I would allow bad shots to get to me and you saw the disastarous results that caused.  I just don't care anymore! 

During my darker, younger days whilst looking for a proper job I did some sales work.  My boss was of the opinion that on any given day you are going to get a set number of No's and a set number of Yes's.  Given that this is the case, a 'No' is good because it means you have got one out of the way and your chances of a 'Yes' are better the next time round!  Bizarre thinking, but it helps you get through a morning of nothing but No's.  I now take this on the course with me.  I realise that I am going to have a number of bad shots in any given round - every time I hit one, that's one of them out of the way. 

Darren Ramowski

1st hole is nice and inviting on the PGA.  Clear view down the fairway and fairly nice and open.

Shame you can end up with a gallary congregating around the tee, given it's near the marshalls office and the 1st of the Brab   squeaking bum time

Stephen Falcus

Wayne Santorini

Dave ley

Stephen Falcus

Lol, arrogant no, overly ambicious/light hearted optimism yes.

No doubt i'll be in the shrubs now!

Chris Perry

Stephen Falcus

lol, I'll just get my moneys worth and stay right in the middle (i hope)

which route were you aiming to take with your 40.5 yard duffer that time?

Wayne Santorini

I'll bring my digital camera so that someone in his group can video his tee shot

Tim Hawkins

Chris Perry

Chris Perry

Stephen Falcus

Dave ley

Chris Perry

Stephen Falcus

I hope I hit a corker after all this like!

lol @ harry hill - i want the money mind!

Stuart Govan

Newcomers need not fear! First time I played with Mr Santorini at the N vS I topped my tee shot on the second hole par 3 (over a lake). Two bounces off the top of the water and ended up on the fringe, chip and a putt and a nice par! Wayne got a bogey but he still had the good grace to call me a lucky b*****. Unfortunately Chris P wasn't in my group to observe my technique, he could've used it on the 18th!

Sounds like there will be plenty of water here so I'm sure there will be more of the same! 

Dave ley

Chris Perry

Dave ley

Wayne Santorini

Dave ley

Wayne Santorini

Sticks & Stones my son!!!!!!!!!!!

never

Chris Perry

Dave ley

"I hope I hit a corker after all this like!

lol @ harry hill - i want the money mind"

It's never going to happen now Stephen and I'm sure we will hear the laughter whilst walking  up the 6th.

Chris Perry

Wayne Santorini

Dave ley

Chris Perry

If Neil doesn't mind swapping groups I have no problem with it. 

Still two months until we play, I'm monitoring handicaps to ensure no banditry is occurring.   

Wayne Santorini

Don't put him first I've just watched his swing video, blimey it took him 40 seconds to move the club back

If he goes around in 65 shots assuming he has 35 putts it will have added at least another 44 minutes

Lee Miller

Theres some right banter going on already... Dread to think of the side bets hat will be on before March arrives.

Chris Perry

OK guys, Al Bostock may have to withdraw due to work commitments.  There are currently three people on the waiting list who will be given precedence based on the order they asked to be added.  Top of the list will get Al's place if he has to withdraw.  I may be able to sneak one extra tee time as long as we fill it but I can't promise as we are already at The Belfry's theoretical maximum for a society. 

Is there anyone else who is not down to play that wants to? 

Entry to the comp is currently blocked but if you try to register in the usual way (link below) I will be informed and will add you to the reserve list in the order you apply.  Please let me know ASAP

http://www.golfshake.com/competition/competitionView.php?ID=4411

John Flood

John Pettitt

Stephen Falcus

The video is in slow motion! The first swing is after 32 seconds, its slowed down 4 times so its only 8 seconds!  JEES!!!

1st group eh! some good players to get tips from in there!!!

You lot have no idea how much i'm gonna practise that 1st tee shot! I will never,ever,ever live it down after this hype!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Chris Perry

And there won't be any pressure at all with at least 31 sets of eyes watching on......

I think I might move myself into the last group.......

Stephen Falcus

Paul Williams

Stephen Falcus

so any clean contact even if I slice it will be ok?

I'll take that bet.

Just booked my warm up game at this course;

http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/lindenHall/golf/tourthecourse.htm

Should be a decent challenge and set me in goo stead.

Dave ley

Leave the groupings alone you've done a fine job organiser especially keeping DM and SG 4 groups apart

Tim Hawkins

John Pettitt

John Pettitt

Dave ley

John Pettitt

Tim Hawkins

Cheeky bugger Dave, the only shot you saw me play on the first was a low, slow fade into the bunker on the left at about 200 yds!

And John, if you want to play off Daves drives get him to borrow my driver, it's got 20yds on his! 

Phillip Newton

Dave ley

Jon Williams

Thanks for the encouragement above and although I am feeling nervous it is balanced by the anticipation of playing a good course and meeting a lot of you.  I will have played with Martin, Tim and Lee before then so hopefully I won't feel a complete newby.

Chris I have eyed up the Winter League but weekends are a bit of a problem.  I tossed up between Bondhay and Belfry as they are close together and just came down in favour of the latter.  However if the Winter League runs next year I should be able to get to a couple.

Dave ley

Chris after just reading yours and paulie's scorecards from yesterday I won't mention 3/4 hcp agian.Whats going on fellas??

Please leave excuses below:-

John Pettitt

Dave ley

John Pettitt

Dave ley

Darren Ramowski

Dave ley

Paul Williams

Here's my excuse Dave:

I started yesterday brimming with confidence having done well in my lesson beforehand (driver mainly).

180 balls later as the lesson ran on alot longer than expected and i wasn't going to refuse any extra help, i tee'd off playing sensible golf and looked o.k. untill about six holes, then fatigue kicked in and i lost it big time. Plus the fact i'm absolutley knackered anyway as i now do the 01:00 & 04:00 night feeds for Dominic.

Chris on the other hand just didn't really look in the mood for it from the off??? He'll tell you that himself.

Thats 2 weeks on the trot i've beat him now, i'll take a win anyway i can get it at the moment. Hopefully i'll make 3 in a row friday

I have since been told expect to go backwards then forwards following a lesson so there you have it!

Let the p*@# taking commence!

Paul.

John Pettitt

Paul Williams

John,

I won't be making the same mistake again, my lesson was only supposed to be for 1/2 hour, but my pro's next pupil cancelled last minute so he generously gave me the hour + balls and it was one of those lessons where everything he was saying clicked and everyball was flying well (didn't want it to end!).

Sticking to the 1/2 from now on(before a round anyway)

Paul.

John Pettitt

You have now learned lesson number one, just when you think you have cracked this game it has a habit of shooting you in the foot.

I am expecting to see a good swing when we catch up with each other Paul.

John Flood

Dave,

Paul started off OK & then faded. Chris started off bad & got it together for a few holes & then faded.

I got caught out on the par 3 8th, I landed in the front bunker from my tee shot & took 6 to get out (bloody 6!!!).

John.

Chris Perry

It was weird.  When I arrived I just didn't have my golf head on.  Swing was awful, couldn't concentrate.  Was almost as if I couldn't be arsed.  Pulled the swing together on the third tee (it did drift in and out for the rest of the round though) but my putting was awful all day - all 42 of them!  I could read the line (although I did get one dramatically wrong!)  but I just couldn't get the pace right and was over-hitting everything.  I'm putting this down to my last few games being on temporary greens and these greens being quite quick.  I eventually got the measure of the pace on the 14th and started knocking them in. 

Paul suffered his standard 'two bad holes, head drops' routine and John came back in really strongly - think he was one over for the last 4 holes and only around 5 over for the back 9.  And just to make John feel a little better, while he was trying to get out of his bunker on the 8th, I took 3 to get out of the other one.   

Stephen Falcus

My game was bloody rained off on Sunday.

Had a good front 9 on saturday though, after a 7 on the 1st, I took advantage of a temp tee mat which shortened the par 4 2nd to about a 220 carry over the lake, Smashed my 3 wood (my driver has been all over recently) and landed just short of the green, chipped on and putted for a birdie 3. Then finished the front 9 with a score of 40.

Back 9 I started to fall apart from the 14th where the holes start to get longer, I hit one fairway out of 5 and ended up with 55 for the back 9.

My driver used to be my most consistant club but at the minute I can't hit for sh*t

John Flood

Stephen,

I thought you would have hit a 5 iron to the 2nd?

John.

Stephen Falcus

lol.

Somewhat beyond my reach i'm afraid John.

I have a smoother more controlled swing now.

180 or so with a 5.

Paul Williams

Stephen Falcus

Different driver and different swing now Paul - I will deliver 250 (if i can hit the ball) but cant hit as far with this Tour Burner compared to my old Saussie 5900.

Driver has been poor over the past few weeks, maybe I'll end up having to hit a 3 wood!

Chris Perry

Sounds like some bottling and back peddling to me.......

Stephen Falcus

Chris Perry

Stephen Falcus

LOL

I do hit a bit of a fade with my 3wood actually.

Its ok, I'm sure I will get some tips on the range before hand and I'll be swinging the Driver ok.

Paul Williams

You'll get tips alright mate but i guarentte it won't be on the range, but in the bar afterwards.

No one will want to hinder the banter thats with your 1st tee shot

Martin Millichip

I ask myself - Why does he have a handicap of 24 when he hits the distances he says he hits ?

I don't really have a preference about how far I hit it off the tee. Played in plenty of pro-ams and learnt to ignore thefact that maybethey are 20 - 40 yards in front of me.

Sounds to me like Mr falcus needs to be thinking about working on other parts of his game and not worry about how far or how hard he can hit a golf ball !!!!!!!!!!!!!

Stephen Falcus

John Pettit has promised to give me a few pointers before we start.

I believe John to be a man of his word...

I am going to love the groan of dissapointment from everyone when my 1st tee shot sails up the fairway!

Will be the highlight of the day!!!

Paul Williams

And then you woke up!!! I don't care what anyone Say's, this will be your 1st golfshake comp, and with all the banter and hype you've given us nerves are bound to kick in mate. Thats why we're so confident you'll have a poor 1st tee shot.

No one doubts your ability to drive the ball, but we've all been there and all had the "weak knee's" and the pressure you've put yourself under for your 1ST GOLFSHAKE EVENT is massive.

Best of luck and don't forget your wallet

Paul.

John Pettitt

Stephen Falcus

Martin,

This is all banter instigated by Dave Ley I think - not me!

I am working on all aspects of my game all of the time, 90% of my practice is with a 6 iron, which may be why my driving has gone off lately.

and Paul, the pressure wont make me duff it, just my own lack of confidence in the club if i am not swinging correctly at the time (which i am not at the minute)

There is far too much to learn in the time i've been playing!

Paul Williams

Exactly you like me are a newbie, and we have to walk before we can run! Some of the guys we'll be playing with are of an excellent standard, Dave Ley, John Pettitt,Martin Millichip and a few more i haven't mentioned come to mind.

So the best thing you can do is QUIETLY watch and learn, and you'll be in awe of How Dave ley strikes the ball as i was when i played with him!

Stephen Falcus

Thats what i'll do.

1st tee means (well previousley didn't) mean anything to me, but its a big spectacle now!

No one knows what I look like so I might send a mate who plays off 12 to play as me.

Martin Millichip

Just note guys that we are all a FREINDLY lot on Golfshake and even though there is plenty of ribbing and banter flying around we don't intend it to be as serious as some people make it to be.

I am as competitive as the next man but please do not let it get to you or make you nervous about playing in your first event. Once that first tee shot is hit no matter how nervous you think you feel, you will wonder what all the fuss was about when you come off the first green !!

Paul Williams

Paul Williams

Tim Hawkins

Martin Millichip

Just like Sunday at Conwy, was out in the first group 2nd to tee off, wind howling off the left OB down the right. Yep, you guessed it promptly put it OB. Then my second was about a foot inside the ropes.

Who was the first to take the piss - the King of Piss himslelf Mr Wayne Santorini "Oh you haven't put it OB have you"

I had the last laugh when I saw his F9 score !!!!!!!!!!

Stephen Falcus

I'm fine with the banter - enjoy it.

I will give as much as I get, well try too anyway, Chris has got a bloody camera crew coming and Dave Ley has made a provisional enquiry to You've been framed to see if its an acceptable clip to send in!

I'm very much looking forward to it! wouldnt drive over 200 miles to come otherwise!

Paul, I forgot about the swing vids (DAMN)

Dave ley

"Martin,

This is all banter instigated by Dave Ley I think - not me!"

Stephen, If you stick your head above the wall with us lot your gunna get shot at.

Paulie, you wont see Stephen hit 280-300 yrds, He has fessed up he got  confused with feet and yards !! lol.

Paul Williams

Stephen Falcus

lol,

If I want to hit it that far I can generate enough club head speed to do it, but I am not good enough to hit consistantly at those speeds yet, hence slowing it down a bit.

Dave ley

Stephen Falcus

you can teach me on the 15th if you like dave?

Highest club head speed I've had on moniter is 112  mph.

Just lost it a bit recently with the driver

Dave ley

 here's your homework

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJyqplX4sRc

Kevin Hewitt

Chris Perry

David Marshall

Oooohhh..

This is so exciting...I could crush a grape

Paul Williams

I don't think many will drop out Chris, unless unforeseen circumstances closer to the day force them to.

Everyone wants to play this one and we're all itching to get out there, and watch Mr Falcus slap one down the first, then play his second from the 18th

Stuart Govan

Pity you can't crush a drive

Bet you were hoping I wouldn't pay. Well tough, I just have...

Paul Williams

Chris Perry

There's one potential drop out due to work commitments, but they will be confirming in a couple of days.  I'm hoping John's eye recovers in time for my lesson him to play. 

The key one will be people failing to pay on time meaning I give their place someone else. 

John Pettitt

I am determined to be there, Chris. Being noted for my excellent driving I am hoping to hit it further than Stephen.

At the moment there is no improvement in the eye at all, but still two weeks of eye drops to go, so will try not to be too pessimistic.

The knee is not good enough to be able to walk round but a buggy will solve that problem. I am looking foward to getting you hitting the ball properly and am backing you to win the day.

Paul Williams

John,

I to would appreciate a few little pointers if its not to much trouble, and will be on the range from 09:30 so if you have 10 minutes i would be grateful.

Last night i videoed myself with the driver and 7 iron and have tried to load them onto golfshake, response Say's, i should be able to see them within 24hours. Is this a normal length of time to load up footage?

The problem with the video is my son recorded them with the camera parallel so you have to tilt your head to get a good look at them.

Chris Perry

John Pettitt

Paul Williams

Thank You John, a beverage of your choice will welcome you in Sam's bar post round.

Paul.

Stephen Falcus

I had a scare last week - thought I'd re-fractured a double break from last year in my ankle, ok now though.

I am actually hitting my 3 wood further than my driver at the minute due to more roll but will see where I am at the time.

John, you are going to be a busy man helping all of us out! You'll be sloshed in the bar afterwards with all the drinks you'll be owed!

My irons are good at the min, just my driver thats shaky - I will sort that out in due course though.

John Pettitt

Only shaky, Stephen, one can play with a shaky driver, it is the one that has a mind of its own like mine, that is a problem.

After the drive I have to concentrate like mad to make no more than bogey.

Stephen Falcus

John Pettitt

I don't have a three wood anymore, Stephen. I have a five wood, which is no better than my driver.

I tend to swing too quick with the woods, this is the problem. I try something different on ever tee shot and even if I hit a repectable one I cannot transfer that feeling to the next tee shot. All in the mind, I know.

John Flood

Stephen,

I suppose you can live with losing about 20yrds with your 3 wood. 260 yrds is still a decent hit

John.

Stephen Falcus

According to the vector my 3 wood carry's 230 yds. Never really measured it on a course.

There is a 306yd par 4 about where the green is about 80ft lower than the tee box and I'm about 20yds short of the green if i hit a good 3 wood.

Only consistant from the tee with it though, hitty missy from the fairway.

Stephen Falcus

John Pettitt

Chris Perry

Lee Miller

Chris Perry

Phillip Newton

Thanks chris for confirmation

I must  try and get to the range or on the course if I can find anyone to put up with me!!

Will it be full handicaps?

phil

Chris Perry

Dave ley

Wayne Santorini

I'm in with a chance now

Must get my attire ready and co-ordinated

Stephen Falcus

I doubt i'll figure anywhere.

My goal for the day is to hit a straight drive off the 1st tee

Wayne Santorini

Stephen Falcus

you aswell as many others.

I expect I will either get a sarcastic 'wey hey' if i hit it well or a haaaaaa, hahahahahaha, haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, hahahahahahaaaaa! if i dont!

Dave ley

Wayne Santorini

Dave ley

Stephen Falcus

Dave ley

Chris Perry

I'll give you one Steve (a tip that is).  On March 15th, the green is driveable on the par 4 14th as long as you are willing to take the tiger line over the corner.  I went for it last Friday (my drives are normally around 230-240 yards), pulled it well left but was still only left around 50 yards to the green from the left of the fairway.  Had I been on line, I would've only been around 20-30 yards short so a big hitter will be able to get there. 

Question is, will you have the bottle to go for it.......

Stephen Falcus

I did indeed, however I was thinking more along the lines of in person, on the range at the belfry.... lol

Paul Williams

Mr Perry, your naughty! He dosen't have the bottle to go for that shot mate!

I to "went for it" but came up about 10yards short of the fairway and about 60 yards to the pin.

Wayne Santorini

Stephen Falcus

We'll see what happens on the day. If i'm swinging ok I will more than likely go for it.

Depends also on how the people in my group attack it (unless im teeing off 1st)

What did you do about the groupings Chris? you mentioned it then never confirmed either way.

John Pettitt

NO need to worry Stephen, I can assure you that your drive will look brilliant in comparison to mine. At Ombersley I had a quick low scuff no more than 120 yds into the left hand trees.

Kevin Hewitt

Chris Perry

Groups are as stands.  I've had no requests for changes to times or playmates. 

Why does what someone else in your group does effect your approach Steve?  It's not matchplay.  It's you versus the course; play your own game, it doesn't matter what anyone else does. 

Wayne Santorini

Just how you play the game eh Chris

Paul Williams

Chris Perry

Kevin Hewitt

John Pettitt

Wayne Santorini

Kev, yours is a dead cert

Many a time I've played with my mate Tubbs and said to him (after a cocked up shot) you lifted your head up/wanted to watch it and ended up pushing a divot 30yds past the ball

Only to then thin my shot for him to reply "you lifted your head up/wanted to watch it"

Paul Williams

Stephen Falcus

Just so I can see what the line is, I dont know what the holes like so copying the result of a good shot could be advantageous.

I was referring to you saying you were tempted to move me into the 1st group, wasn't sure if you were being serious or not and it went quiet after that.

I'm the type of person that'll probably go for it tbh, cant resist.

Kevin Hewitt

Yeah - we've all been there, some more frequently than others.

I've found out in the past that sounding off about how monumentally far one can hit a tee shot is just asking for it and never fails to deliver!! :

Chris Perry

The line is fairly simple on the 14th.  Follow down the line of the fairway on the left or cut the corner directly towards the flag that's fluttering away, tempting you, taunting you, daring you...... 

But watch the cavernous bunker protected by high mounds that throw you into the sand that you have to go over and the gorse to the right.......

Paul Williams

15/03/2009 Is going to be the most eagerly awaited tee shot of the golfshake calender!

Will he deliver a 280yrd drive or duff it 40ft? place your bets....

Dave ley

John Pettitt

Kevin Hewitt

Kevin Hewitt

John Pettitt

Dave ley

Kevin Hewitt

Chris Perry

Dave ley

Chris Perry

Tim Hawkins

John Pettitt

Chris Perry

John Pettitt

Dave ley

I will ignore that question as I'm convinced it's a dive.........

Must be cheap copies ,what was the name of that Looky,Looky man?

Try a little brass wire brush and keep'em dry after use, are you using covers?

John Pettitt

Here is an aerial photo of the 14th Hole at the PGA course, Belfry. This is the one that apparently can be driven by cutting the corner, but only by high handicappers as normal golfers would play safe.

The hole is apprently 307 yards long.

Russell Middleton

I can't wait for the videos that will be coming from this event/hole!

Who's taking a video camera?

Russ

Paul Williams

John Pettitt

Paul Williams

i do hope your still referring to golf John!

Sorry i just couldn't resist.

John Pettitt

Kevin Hewitt

Tim Hawkins

Quite a simple hole really for a higher handicapper, a little wood to the fat part of the fairway and then a mid iron to the green.  However, what I normally do is to land it in the bunker so as not to dishearten the guys I'm playing with....

Chris Perry

They are Srixons and the name of the looky looky man was Golfsmith.  I'd heard they were a bit 'fly by night' but they looked reputable at the time....  Yes I use covers, the zip up ones, not the neoprene.  I think I've not dried/cleaned them properly before covering them and putting them back in the bag and they've festered in the boot of the car. 

Dave ley

Stephen Falcus

make no 14 the closest to the pin hole lol.

Dunno if i will go for that like, probs hit a rescue/3 wood to leave a wedge to the green

Chris Perry

Dave - Thanks.  Only seems to have affected the two clubs though. 

Steve - Coward!  I always go over the bunker with the direction of the wind dictating how much I take.  Only hit the bunker twice and hit a fade both times.  Problem is if you don't take enough or pull it you're in the trees on the left....

Stephen Falcus

Paul Williams

Martin Millichip

Paul Williams

Chris Perry

Just because you put your first out of bounds at Conwy.........

Stephen Falcus

Paul Williams

Stephen Falcus

Well I'm not exactly going to wind myself up am I now Paul??????

Paul Williams

I dont think you understand my last comment Stephen???????

Where in did i state you we're winding yourself up??????

It was more a case of " Its not me Martin"

Just sounded something that my 11year old son would say.....

Stephen Falcus

Chris Perry

Paul Williams

Stephen Falcus

that was a very sobre responce Paul, not what I expected.

My Brother is all skin and bones and My Dad i smaller than me so I'm f**ked

Paul Williams

My Dad is a t*@# whom i last saw and the end of my fist 5 years ago and my brother no better, whom i last saw 14 years ago. So look after my family and myself, but then you can when your built like a brick sh*t house,

Chris Perry

"...built like a brick sh*t house"

That must be what the smell is then

Chris Perry

Paul Williams

Hey Perry, no one force's you to spend 8 hrs a week walking round a golf course with me!

What did you want last night anyway? left phone in car.

Wayne Santorini

Chris, when is the cut off point for Handicaps???

Is it the weekend before or 3 days before the event??

Chris Perry