New golfers in new match
Two groups of beginner golfers have been the first to hold an inter-club match, as part of the New2Golf scheme supported by Wales Golf.
The match was between 32 New2Golf players from South Pembrokeshire and Haverfordwest golf clubs, the day being so successful that more are planned with the beginners schemes set to run again next year.
Golf clubs across Wales have been participating in the Wales Golf New2Golf throughout the summer, the schemes being available to all beginners and lapsed golfers wanting to take up the sport.
South Pembrokeshire and Haverfordwest Golf Clubs have been working with Wales Golf to introduce the programme in order to encourage new golfers in the county to take up golf, a fun and sociable programme to accommodate all abilities.
“These have been two brilliant schemes to encourage new players into the game of golf and enjoy the benefits of club membership, with the fun match between the clubs taking things to a new level,” said Theo Baker of Wales Golf.
South Pembs had 39 new adult starters. The initial scheme consisted of 6 lessons for a nominal registration fee for adults who were 18 and over. Lessons were provided by a golf professional, Sam Barton of Haverfordwest Golf Club who taught the basics of golf to enable the New2Golfer play a round of golf with family, friends and colleagues.
Once all 6 lessons were completed the scheme entitled the registrant to a further series of lessons plus other benefits which included discounted membership at South Pembs Golf Club.
Whilst participating in the scheme the New2Golfers were provided with mentors, working with the club professional, who were able to provide information about the club, support the New2Golfers in practice sessions and provide guidance when first going out on the course.
New2Golfers could use the five-hole practice facility which allowed all the new starters to practice their newly acquired skills at a time that was convenient to them. The practice area allowed for pitching and putting, bunker play and chipping, there were also nets available to practice driving.
Running alongside the initiative for adults was the Junior New2Golf Scheme which followed the same format as the adult New2Golf Scheme. A total of 20 Juniors signed up with most taking up the offer of further lessons.
“The New2Golf Scheme at South Pembrokeshire Golf Club has been extremely successful and is now near completion with the last of the lessons currently being undertaken with our golf professional,” said New2Golf organiser Donna Grimwood of South Pembs.
“The golf club has given its full commitment to the scheme and the staff and volunteers have provided opportunities for the New2Golfers to participate in regular competitions and social events,”
“Competitions have been arranged for all the New2Golfers every Thursday and Saturday, supported by the mentors if required.
“This also culminated in a mixed Texas Scramble competition with Haverfordwest New2Golfers hosted at Haverfordwest Golf Club, 32 New2Golfers attended and thoroughly enjoyed the day followed by a presentation and a meal.
“This was so successful further home and away events have been arranged over the coming months.
“To congratulate all those who completed and supported the scheme a Celebratory Event was held at South Pembrokeshire golf club.
“All the New2Golfers were issued with prizes for their achievements and the Juniors also received certificates and a medal. All New2Golfers have also been given the opportunity to take up a discounted membership at the club.”
Alex Jones from Haverfordwest added, “It was an absolute pleasure to collaborate with Donna and South Pembs Golf Club on bringing the new golfers together.
“It was also great to get support throughout the New2Golf Scheme from Theo from Wales Golf and from our brilliant club pro, Sam Barton. “
Due to the success of this years scheme the Golf Club are planning to run the scheme again in 2020. If you have an interest in taking up golf, this is an excellent opportunity to take up this fantastic sport.
For further information or if you would like to take part in the next New2Golf Sessions next year at South Pembs Golf Club, please ring Donna on 01646-621453 or Email marketing@southpembsgc.co.uk For anyone looking for information or to take part next year at Haverfordwest Golf Club, please contact Alex Jones on 07725 212397 or email Alex.jones1375@yahoo.com