HAPPY NEW YEAR

We are about to enter a new year and the good news just keeps on coming. Keir becomes our 4th new member for 2019. And Alex has moved up into the Gents Section and I'm sure he will be keen to encourage and give advice to any of the juniors with his experience of being part of the Scottish Boys set up for a number of years and knows what has to be done to get there.

HIRE CLUB UPDATE

Stuart becomes the first member of season 2019 to become the latest junior to take advantage of the hire scheme and how fortunate was he. A full set of Taylor Made clubs, Callaway Wedge and Odyssey Two Ball putter along with a cart bag. £25 for a full season what amazing value. And the difference to his game was amazing !!! Can’t wait to see his progress

XMAS MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

I wish all members of Strathmore Golf Club and staff of Strathmore Golf Centre a very merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

May the Golfing Gods smile on us all in 2019

Eric G Gray - President 

ZIMBABWE 🇿🇼 JUNIOR TEAM

Report from Frances. This is the junior Zimbabwe team and Trust beat two of them in the last tournament. Hoping he might get a chance on this bench!!! Let’s hope the selectors are paying attention. 

SO HUMBLED

This had me streaming in tears last night and I feel so humble. Having donated Trust clubs it makes me so proud to have been able to help someone who has nothing achieve his dreams. He lives in a hut and Golf is his only escape, he practices 4 hours a day before working for his food. We don’t appreciate what we have and this is a chance to give a youngster a chance. Phone or text me on 07707 657233 if you would like to help. Any donations would make such a difference to this young lad. 

Hi Iain. Thanks for ringing. We have been so pleased to get this news. re Trust. Am enclosing photo of him getting a prize from the Chairman of Nomads, Zimbabwe. In the competition he played and beat two of the Zimbabwe junior team players and it is hoped he will get a chance to play in the junior national team next year.......for a boy who has nothing, no family support and little in the way of education, we are delighted that PEZA Trust is making a difference. Jane recognises his golfing talent and she very much hopes that through golf he will make something of his life. We hope to send him and another 3 lads for some coaching with one of the national coaches in February. If you need further info let me know. Again thank you so much for your input which has gone a long way to helping Trust
Frances

BIG WELCOME TO ANOTHER NEW MEMBER

Owen becomes our 3rd new member for season 2019 and look forward to meeting him soon. He has been playing for a couple of years so will be keen to join in with everything.

HUGE THANK YOU TO A PAST MEMBER

Cormac Sharpe who started out at Strathmore got in touch last night to say he had some equipment he wanted to donate to our Club Hire Scheme. I arranged to go along tonight and am glad I emptied the boot as I had to use that and the back seat ! Three bags, a trolley, full set of clubs he used last year as Ping have fitted him for a new set, various wedges, drivers, fairway woods, balls, head covers, a glove still in the packet and a Skycaddy. He appreciates the opportunity he was given at Strathmore and still comes along to use the range. I am so happy to see him doing so well and as he is still only 14 and has another 4 seasons as a Junior and is already a Scratch player. He takes practicing to a new level, his back garden is fitted with a 3 hole AstroTurf putting green, full size practice net with trackman and all of it is floodlit. Thank you so much for your generous donation and I will make sure everything is put to good use.

WHAT A YEAR FOR KIRSTEN

Received a message from a very excited Kirsten tonight telling me she’d just had confirmation of her selection to Scottish Golf’s “Young Person Panel” She is one of twelve successful candidates and I am so proud of her. This year already she started her Golf Leader Award through Scottish Golf and Active Schools and took part in the running of the Family Activities Area at the European Team Championships at Gleneagles and I was advised by many that her enthusiasm and work ethic shone through and that they were delighted to have had her working there. She comes along to the coaching and assists Gareth and myself and was also a great help when I ran the midweek sessions and fun nights. She is always first to offer to help and nothing seems too much bother and the way she relates to the other juniors especially the younger ones is to be commended. This honour is definitely deserved and will allow Kirsten to have a say in shaping the development of junior golf for years to come.

Below is what’s involved in both

 Golf Leader Award:
·         Fun and practical workshop of the introductory elements of coaching golf activities in school and supporting clubs
·         As well as resources and coaching ideas for primary and secondary school pupils, Scottish Golf and Active Schools work together to support coaching hours with a series of projects that support local golf development and club coaching programmes
·         Opportunities to work with Scottish Golf and Active Schools to give young people a voice in golf and inspire more young people to play
·         Opportunity to support children and family activities at the European Team Championships at Glenaeagles this summer (a European Tour & Ladies European Tour sanctioned event)

Young Persons Panel

Scottish Golf is excited to launch the Young Person’s Golf Panel. Working with young people (both golfers and non-golfers), the role of the panel will be to provide valuable insights and a better understanding of young people and society today.

As part of our commitment to growing the game, it is vitally important we engage and listen to young people and offer a platform that enables them to voice their opinions.

We want young people to be part of shaping the future of golf in Scotland, and are looking for candidates to help us support clubs.  This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of an exciting time for Scottish Golf, and for the panel to work with the Governing Body for their personal development, life skills and employability skills as Scottish Golf support them fully on their Leadership journey.

Candidates must be 14-23, fully committed, and be passionate about sport and making a difference.

Why are we launching our Young Person’s Golf Panel?

The Young Person’s Panel is a huge opportunity to give young people a platform to voice their opinions about the sport. What are the issues and barriers they face, and what innovative ideas do they have to overcome them?

It’ll give us a valuable opportunity to examine development through the eyes of young people.

What will the programme offer you?

• We will support the panel and young people to develop new life skills whilst providing you with experiences that will increase your confidence
• Support you as a young person to develop your leadership skills, while giving you the opportunity to motivate and inspire others to get involved in golf
• You will be provided with a platform to share your views and influence the future of Scottish golf
• You will be provided with a benefits package including; branded clothing, team building, plus much more…

What will the Young Person’s Panel do?

The Young Person’s Golf Panel is a national programme, encouraging and enabling networking with new friends, athletes and inspirational people involved in golf.  Each of the panel will receive a bespoke development programme, tailored to their particular skills and interests.

The Young Golfer’s Panel will meet together as a group 2 – 3 times in the year to discuss and share ideas on the following:

• Barriers to participation in golf
• How to encourage people to participate in golf
• Club vision and direction
• Social media and communication in clubs

The Panel will become involved in a variety of opportunities such as:

• Research and reporting to management and board level
• Assisting with new initiatives to engage young people in golf
• Engaging with golf clubs
• Creation of sub-groups across priority areas of work identified by the panel
• Media & communications, promoting golf through a variety of social media channels

Scottish Golf staff and volunteers will be there at each step, to offer support and guidance.

Why should I get involved?

Becoming a member of the Young Person’s Golf Panel is a great way to gain an insight into Scottish golf and help shape the future of the game and to provide you with experiences that will develop your skills. For example, organisation, communication, presentation, event management or leadership.

Getting involved might also provide a different perspective to career opportunities.

As a role model and leader of young people, you will be able to influence and shape decision making whilst gaining skills that will enhance your CV.

How can I become involved with the Young Person’s Golf Panel?

If you are aged 14 to 23 and keen to shape the future of Scottish Golf, we want to hear from you!

Ideally you will be:-

• Enthusiastic and passionate about golf/sport
• Want to make a difference through action planning, decision-making within projects and meetings
• Driven and have ambitions to be a leader within the Scottish golf community
• Willing and able to commit up to a maximum of 2 hours per week

THE FUTURE IS LOOKING SO BRIGHT

Went down for a few holes this afternoon and was met by 2 very excited boys who had both had fantastic rounds on Rannaleroch’s Winter Course. Blair broke 90 with an 89 including 5 pars and Conan shot 94 including a birdie on the 13th. Unfortunately it can’t count for handicap purposes but I am so pleased these two are playing every chance they get and can see both of them reduce their handicaps dramatically when the season kicks off in April. Megan A and Kirsten were practicing with the County Ladies and then had a speed golf Challenge which looked amazing. Kirsten couldn’t take part as she still recovering from her foot injury but think the 8 who took part completed the course in 36 minutes and 26 seconds !!! Amy missed out as she was unwell. Archie put in another card yesterday for Leitfie Winter League and Megan P was also out trying her new driver. Great at this time of year to see so many youngsters out playing.

Junior Prize Giving 2018

Texas Scramble before AGM/Prize Giving 2018

Highlights of 2018!

Junior AGM/Prize Giving

Kirsty Brodie also sent a video to show her appreciation to Strathmore Golf Club from across the pond!

WHAT A JUNIOR CAREER

Junior Captain Kirsty has had an amazing time as a Junior at Strathmore and here is a list of some of her achievements.
2011
Girls Highland Junior Masters Champion 🏆
At 11 became the youngest ever Ladies Club Champion 🏆
2012
Girls Highland Junior Masters Champion 2nd time 🏆
2013
Scottish u14 Girls runner up 🥈
P&K u14 Autumn Meeting 🥇
2014
1st time representing Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Qualifies aged 14 in Scottish Ladies Amateur
Breaks Murrayshall Ladies Course record
2015
Alfred Dunhill Senior Girls Champion 🏆
Scottish Junior Champion of Champions 🥈
P&K Ladies Champion of Champions 🏆
1st P&K Ladies Jamboree
Girls County Champion 🏆
Ladies Club Champion 🏆
Junior Scratch League winner 🏆
2016
European Team Championship 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Junior European Masters 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Scottish Schools 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Paul Lawrie Scottish Schools Team Championship (Angus) 🥇
St Andrews Ladies Invitational 🥇
P&K Junior Stroke Play 🥇
2017
Signs up to Charleston. South Carolina
Home International Girls 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
European Team Championship 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Scottish Schools 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
P&K Ladies Jamboree 🥇 and played in Scottish Finals
P&K MacPherson Medal 🥇
P&K Girls Champion 🏆
2018
Scottish Ladies Open pro-am 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Girls Home International 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
European Team Championship 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿
Scottish Girls semi finalist
Stephen Gallacher Foundation Vase 🏆
P&K Girls Champion 🏆
1st Strathmore girl to have a Scratch then plus Handicap

Kirsty has promised to keep us up to date as her adventure continues at University in America

NEW 2nd CERTIFICATE

After the redesigned Leitfie Links Course come into play it was decided the 2nd Certificate should be altered. From today it can be achieved by playing 9 holes in 54 shots or under. This will also count towards gaining a fun handicap and being able to participate in the Summer and Winter Leagues.

AMAZING RESPONSE

Looks like 2019 is going to be another fantastic season and we’re not even finished 2018. 2 girls have already joined and another 1 is going to follow. 5 Mums and a Grandmother have signed up for our “Parents get into Golf” Taster Sessions which has now been extended to include Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and even family friends. Members are renewing like there is no tomorrow and refitting of clubs have been organised. Many Juniors are keen to keep playing at weekends during the winter and work on different aspects of their games which is really encouraging. Archie has already knocked 2 shots of his fun handicap and Blair 6 shots. So the Winter League will be competed for the first time in 8 years !!!! Also just found out another of our past Juniors is following a career in Golf, Ben Anderson has been an apprentice Green Keeper at Alyth since July this year.

END OF SEASON BUT ANOTHER ABOUT TO START

Please read this to the end.

This Saturday on the 01/12/2018 sees the Junior AGM and Prize giving proceeded by a Texas Scramble on the recently upgraded Leitfie Course this gives all the juniors a chance to play and have some fun. Arrive for 11.30am tee off 12noon and AGM 2.30pm.
The Leitfie Winter League has started and Archie has 4 cards in already. Fun handicaps can be attained on the wee course and you can all play and give him a bit of competition. In March we will again be running Taster Sessions for local  School children so if any of the juniors have friends who might enjoy trying golf, feel free to bring them along. Our “Parents into Golf” Sessions are also proving a success with 4 mums already signed up, which is brilliant,  and we do hope some more will follow suit. We have now extended this to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and even family friends so if you know anybody who might be interested in giving golf a go let me know and we will get them along. They don’t even need clubs and if they decide to become members they can join my Club Hire
Scheme which I have now extended to include adults. 2019 Membership letters have been sent out and may I take this opportunity  to thank all our 2018 members for their support during the season and hopefully we will see you all rejoining. Centre fees and Clubs subs should be paid before the 31/01/2019 when the 2018 membership expires.
For the 38 on the Club Hire Scheme these fees should also be paid by the same date. Charges remain the same for 2019.
Set of clubs with bag £25
Set of clubs £20
Set of irons £15
Electric trolley £10
Manual trolley £5
If anyone has outgrown their current set let me know and I will arrange a refit. If anyone is not
rejoining the Scheme for any reason please return the clubs as they will be required for others and if
anyone has clubs they no longer require then I will be happy to receive then into the Scheme. There will hopefully be some exciting news coming up early next regarding the Scheme so watch this space. In the meantime I have just taken delivery of a nearly new Stowamatic Electric Trolley with carry bag which is available for hire now until 31/01/2020 for £10 - this will be done on a first come first served basis. ALREADY HIRED 7.50pm Congratulations Conan.
Failing to plan is planning to fail so everyone should now sit down and plan out their goals for next season. Once a goal has been set, plans have to be put in place as how to get there. Get your practice strategy in place. If it’s a handicap reduction make it realistic and achievable as you can always set new goals. The Junior fixture list is available now, the Ladies County list is on their blog but still being worked on, the Girls and Boys Junior lists are not available yet but watch their blogs and websites. Some of the Scottish dates are online so diaries out and get your season planned out now.
Best tip for improving your game is knowing your distances. How far on average you hit each club. Take 20 balls hit the same club and measure to the middle of where most of your balls finish. Practice your putting especially distance control and your short game by using a variety of shots to get the ball close to the pin.
I now need you to answer a few questions
1 Who’s coming to the Texas Scramble/ AGM and Prize giving (numbers required for catering)
2 Are there any Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles or family friends who would like to sign up for
our Free "Get into Golf" Taster Sessions
3 Are there any friends of the Juniors who might be interested in coming to the Junior Taster Sessions
4 Who is rejoining in 2019 (numbers required to help plan coaching sessions)
5 Who needs to upgrade their Hire clubs
6 Who wants to join the the Club Hire Scheme (numbers required in case I have to buy more)
7 Who will be handing their hire clubs back in
8 Who wants to hire the Stowamatic Trolley
9 Who wants help with their Goal setting and planning
10 Who wants help with their distance control, short game or putting
11 Who wants to play on a Saturday or Sunday
12 Who needs to get a handicap - Leitfie or Ranneleroch
Please reply by email to iain@ianddinsurance.co.uk and thanks again lets make 2019 another amazing for Strathmore Juniors

ALEX BOWS OUT OF JUNIORS AS A NATIONAL CHAMPION

Was honoured to attend today’s P&K Gents AGM and Prize giving in the company of Alex and his family. As his Junior Convenor and doubles partner I have had the privilege to watch him mature and develop as a player and individual and I could not have felt more proud than I did today. It’s days like this that makes my role so worthwhile.
Alex’s list of P&K Junior achievements
2012 - under 14 Coaching Medal 🥇 winner
         - Bell Trophy team runner up
2013 - under 14 Coaching Medal 🥇 winner 2nd time
         - under 14 Champion 🏆
2014 - under 14 Coaching Medal 🥇 winner 3rd time
         - under 14 Champion 🏆 2nd time
         - Team Championship winner 🏆
         - Scratch League runner up
         - Stephens Trophy 🏆
2015 - under 16 Champion 🏆
         - Scratch League 🏆 winner
2016 - under 16 Champion 🏆 2nd time
         - under 18 Champion
         - Lee McCormack 🏆 winner
         - Order of Merit 🏆 winner
         - Champion of Champions runner up
         - Team Championship winner 🏆 2nd time
2017 - Champion of Champions 🏆 winner
2018 - under 18 Champion 🏆 2nd time
         - Match Play Champion
He has been the Champion at every age group category more than once and his name is on every Trophy except the Strokeplay which clashed twice when he was away representing Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿. What an achievement and one I doubt will ever be repeated.
And then to top it all he was part of the 4 boys County Team who made history by becoming the first P&K team to become National Champions.

“GET PARENTS INTO GOLF” TASTER SESSION

Moya’s mum Carol became the 2nd mum to try our taster session and Dawn and Jackie were both very impressed. I believe if we can get more parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and other family member involved Strathmore more can enhance it’s growing reputation as one of the best club in Perthshire not only for Juniors but for family golf.
Dawn, Jackie, Frankie and I have secured funding from Scottish Golf, Sport Scotland and Live Active (Gannochy Trust) to enable us to do the PGA Level 1 Coaching Qualification at Elmwood in February and look forward to then being able to enhance Strathmore’s already amazing Coaching set up.
As most of you already know I find making my annual AGM report an ordeal as I am very passionate about the section achievements and get very emotional 😭 when talking about it. So again this year Frankie has assisted in prerecording my whole speech. We have also invested in some high tech equipment which will hopefully enhance the whole experience for everyone and be a great asset for years to come. Hopefully everyone can attend next Saturday please arrive by 11.30 am to allow plenty of time to arrange teams and make your way to the starting tees.
Over the past 2 years the Donation box 📦 on the bar for landing in the green side bunker on the12th had raised over £500 and I would like thank everyone for their donations and taking it in the spirit it was intended, to make it a bit of fun and a talking point in the 19th 👍.
My Club Hire Scheme which has been amazing has now been extended so any family members who join who can also take advantage of not having to go out and buy clubs, yet another first for Strathmore Juniors. Tomorrow I am off to Dollar to pick up 26 clubs, 2 bags and an electric trolley which have been donated. I will hopefully have some really exciting news regarding the Scheme early in 2019. Tom and Alistair have already renewed their memberships and club hire so we are already off to a flying start. Next week Conan and Stuart are having fitting sessions for replacement and new sets respectively and if anyone else thinks they need to upgrade please let me know. The 31st of January 2019 is the date all juniors should renew both Centre and Club membership and also renew their Club Hire fees which remain at £25. Many of our juniors are now ready to upgrade to the the full course and if anyone is in doubt I am happy to advise.
Tomorrow also sees the last P&K girls coaching session at Gleneagles and hopefully all our County girls will attend. If I have time I will drop in on my way back from Dollar before attending the P&K Gents and Junior AGM at Craigiehill to see Alex recieve his Trophies for 2018. He has now won every P&K age group Junior Trophy and I am so proud to have been there every step of the way. Such an amazing talent and if he wants it bad enough he can achieve it and if he can recapture the self  belief he had as a 5 year old the world is his oyster.
Kirsty just replied from Carolina to a message I forwarded her when she won The Spirit of Youth award in front of 900 people at the Perth Concert Hall 6 years ago !! The Junior Section finished 2nd in another category. We were making headlines back then as well.
Blair and Conan were out trying to reduce their Congu handicaps today and I picked up some cards from the box and Archie already has 3 cards submitted for the Leitfie Winter League which hasn’t been played for since 2010 !!! Lochlan has also put in a card for handicap so let’s keep it going.

NEW LEITFIE LINKS LAYOUT

Played it for the first time yesterday and was very impressed !! This will certainly be great for all our juniors because the holes are now all par 3’s and there are no long carries to reach the fairways. It will also be brilliant for sharpening up their short games. Set a target yesterday for someone to beat so who’s up for the challenge ?

SO MANY POSITIVES

Frankie is home and on the mend. He would like to thank everyone for their kind wishes. Took Archie, Conan and Stuart out for 9 holes today and wow, these 3 were so impressive. Cannot believe the improvements they have made. Megan was out testing the new Leitfie course and Kirsten was up for a putting lesson from Gareth. Brilliant to see so many Juniors out and hopefully we will see more out during the winter.

PARENT TASTER SESSIONS

Wow 4th mum signs up !!!

CLASS OF 2019 (PART 2)

Today it was Fraser, Liam and Stuart’s turn. We played a Texas Scramble and were level par through 9 but dropped 5 shots on the way in. All 3 boys are showing so much promise. Came off the course and met Archie and Cammy who had both been out on Leitfie, great to see the enthusiasm of these youngsters. Amy, Kirsten, Megan and Taylor were at P&K Girls coaching at Gleneagles and Moya would have been there but injury ruled her out. Hopefully the result of the scan on her foot this week will help with the diagnosis. Dawn took out Fraser’s mum who became the first parent to take up our offer of Taster Sessions and is keen to come back. It looks like another mum is also going to come along and we may have another girl joining soon. What a weekend !!!!

CLASS OF 2019 (Part 1)

Adrian, Archie, Blair, Cammy, Conan, Keegan, Murray and Taylor played a Texas Scramble with Amy, Frankie and myself and Blair, Cammy, Conan and Frankie were the victors with a one over par 36. Everyone had great fun and this was definitely worthwhile to assess how these players have progressed.

And then to cap of a fantastic day met Chloe Gordon our 2nd new member for 2019 and she takes our girls numbers up to 21 !!! Amazing 

PARENTS GET INTO GOLF

Today we are delighted to announce our Free Get Into Golf for Parents Taster Sessions. You don't need anything just the desire to try golf and have a bit of fun. These will be individual or small group sessions run over the winter at weekends on a pre arranged basis. They will initially be half hour sessions. To book your appointment phone Iain on 07707 657233 or Dawn on 07861 242460.

We have also extended the Club Hire Scheme so if anyone comes along and decides to join the club they don't even need to buy a set.

Our first newbie Claire is coming along on Sunday !!!!        

END OF COACHING FUN DAY

Had the most amazing day yesterday at Strathmore Golf Club with our superb juniors. We set up 5 skill challenges and were not disappointed with the results. Incredible is the only way to describe how much fun they had. The impossible bucket challenge was achieved by 2 players, the zig zag putting was won with a 3 !!!!, the 1 metre putting challenge along with the target putting were close run events as was the chipping into either of 3 baskets. The fun Texas Scramble went down to the best back 6 when 2 teams tied. On behalf of the Juniors I would like to thank the Centre for the amazing buffet which was really appreciated by everyone who attended. These events don’t just happen so a huge thank you goes to all my helpers on the day and also to the parents, grandparents and friends who came along but especially to the youngsters themselves who all had so much fun. The Clubhouse was packed and this bodes well for the future. We have some seriously good players and the improvements that they are making are very impressive

1st NEW MEMBER FOR SEASON 2019

Huge welcome to Rosie Duncan who today became our 1st new member for 2019. Look forward to meeting her tomorrow when we have our end of coaching Fun Day, over 30 juniors are taking part in what is going to be an amazing event. Numerous skills challenges, a Texas Scramble and some new ideas I have put together.

ALEX BOWS OUT OF THE JUNIORS WITH ANOTHER TITLE

Congratulations to Alex who won the P&K under 18 Scratch Championship at Dunkeld today. Commiserations to Megan who was playing in the Alfred Dunhill Event at the Dukes today and looks like she finished 2nd missing out by 1 shot and will be ruing a 3 off the tee. Last weekend Megan and Amy played for Strathmore Ladies in the Scratch League final and both won their matches against Jen and Laura. Winning against these 2 very experienced players shows how far these girls have progressed and I am so proud of their achievements so far. Unfortunately Kirsten’s damaged ankle meant she was unable to play and she could be sidelined for a few weeks yet as the diagnosis is not good and it looks like there is no treatment that will help only rest. Coaching has another week to go and we intend to have a big finale on Saturday 6th October (full details to follow) I hope all the Juniors will attend and make it a special day.

Lochlan receiving his 2nd Certificate from Gareth 

DISAPPOINTMENT AS WE BOW OUT IN SEMI FINAL

Was always going to be difficult but the team went out to do their best and unfortunately it wasn’t to be but it was very close for a while. Alex lost his match and Amy again won her match and it all rested with Megan who had been 3 down. Some inspired play saw a great comeback including an Eagle to beat a birdie and going down 14 she was still 1 up. We were so close to a playoff but it wasn’t to be and over the 2 legs we had our chances but Blairgowrie’s birdies at the right times saw them through.
This was Alex’s last Scratch League match at Junior level, the highlight being a 10&8 win at Pitlochry a few years back. It is a pity Kirsty missed out by being at University in America and I would like to thank them both for their unwavering commitment to Strathmore Juniors over the years.
Every cloud has a silver lining and instead of having to go to Crieff for the final I can relax with my feet up and watch the final day of the Ryder Cup.
Next year Strathmore will create another record by becoming the first Club to field an all girl Junior Scratch League team and I believe Megan, Amy and Kirsten (who will all be playing for Strathmore Ladies Scratch League team in their final on Sunday at Blairgowrie against Muckhart) will form a formidable force and one that can take us to next years final.

KIRSTY EVACUATED

With Storm Florence due to hit South Carolina Kirsty has been evacuated to Orlando, Florida. She is loving her new adventure and says the Courses are amazing.

SCRATCH LEAGUE SEMI FINAL

It’s only half time but we have given ourselves a chance of making the final. Alex after being 3 up lost on the 17th. Megan after being 4 up lost on the 18th to a magnificent birdie and Amy who was never behind closed her match out on the 15th. On Thursday I know all 3 of our players will be determined to win their individual matches and make sure we make the final.

ANOTHER RECORD GOES

Cairo became the 38 player this year to take advantage of my Club Hire Scheme and what a talent this young lad has. Great swing and very confident. I was really delighted by some of the improvements the youngsters have made over the past few weeks.
Megan messaged from Lancaster where she had been playing for Scottish Schools v England. She won her foursomes with Katy 2&1 but lost her singles by the same margin. Scotland lost 5&4. Great experience for her to be involved again at this level.
Tomorrow is the first leg of our Scratch League semi final against Blairgowrie and I look forward to Alex, Megan and Amy doing their best and hopefully taking a healthy lead to Blair on Thursday.

Adrian receiving his 2nd Certificate

MORE GOOD NEWS

Amy Mitchell won the P&K Junior Girls McPherson Medal at Crieff. Great to see Moya also taking part in the 9 hole fun competition.

And Cameron Redden not only knocked 7 shots off his handicap but also won a Stephen Gallacher flag competition the week before and entered an online competition and won a Taylor Made Tour Bag worth over £400 when his name was picked out. It has all the American players names on the linings of all the pocket. Certainly good things comes in 3 for him.

SUPER SATURDAY AND RECORDS GO BY THE BUCKET LOAD

What an unbelievable day. Records go galore. First Arron becomes the 36th Junior this season to take advantage of the club hire scheme and also added a trolley making it 7 out on hire this year. Then Megan became our 30th new member this season and make her our 19th girl in the section and followed up by becoming the 37th Junior to utilise the Club Hire Scheme. 3 well attended sessions of coaching this morning with so many improving players then I was informed that another 2 girls are thinking of joining. In the afternoon I accompanied Blair and Cameron for 18 holes, both boys played well and Cameron took an amazing 7 shots off his handicap and is well on his way to a full Congu handicap. Can’t wait for what’s up next. P&K Girls at Crieff tomorrow, Megan representing Scottish Schools in England on Monday and the Scratch League semi finals and another 3 sessions of coaching on Monday with another club fitting !!!

ANOTHER HAT TRICK OF RESULTS

Megan Ashley won the Girls North of Scotland Scratch Championship for the 2nd time. She shot a 1 Under par 72 to win by 2 shots at Kirriemuir. Fantastic score and sets her up for her trip to play for Scottish Schools against England.
Alex Simpson qualified for the Gents Match Play and then helped P&K Boys retain the Gary Harvey Trophey at Forfar.

WATER HAZARDS USA STYLE

Don’t see many of these at Strathmore !!! 

LATEST NEW MEMBER

Cairo Frampton becomes our 29th new member for season 2018. Look forward to meeting him soon.

CLUBS ARRIVED SAFELY

Trust received his clubs and put them to great use immediately by having his best round ever at Harare Golf Club. I am delighted to have been able to help the PEZA charity and look forward to updates on his progress.

THEY SAY THINGS COMES IN THREES

So what about 3 new members - to be confirmed. UNBELIEVABLE this will take us up to 31 for 2018.
Scratch league semi finals organised Tuesday 11th September at home and Thursday 13th away at Blairgowrie.
Conan is the latest junior to gain a handicap on the big course.
This is the season that keeps on giving !!!

AUTUMN COACHING BEGINS

Great first night and both Gareth and I were very impressed by the improvements some of the youngsters had made over the summer. Obviously those who had played and practiced were easy to spot. It appears some parents may be under the impression that membership is lessons only but it is not. Membership means that the youngsters can play on the course from sun up to sun down all day every day, use the driving range, practice area and putting green whenever they want so let them make the most of their membership not waste it.

Kian being awarded his 1st Certificate.

3 RECORDS EXTENDED

Katie Thomson today became our 28th new member for 2018 and brings our girls section up to 18. Last Saturday I spent some time with her at the driving range and both Gareth and myself were very impressed with her natural swing and for someone who had never swung a club before, even after half an hour, the improvement was incredible. She will also be our 35th member this year to take advantage of the club hire scheme. What an amazing season !!!

European Championship: Mixed Team Final

Successful day at the European Golf Team Final! The juniors (Blair, Conan, Cameron, and Taylor) who came along had a great time. Was good to see Kirsten working at the Family Events and also see Amy on the tv presenting the medals! 

Fantastic day!! Special thanks to Scottish Golf for providing Strathmore Junior Golf Section with the tickets!

HOME INTERNATIONALS

Come on Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 and our own Kirsty Brodie

LEITFIE SUMMER LEAGUE

It’s all happening, Conan is taking a slender lead into the the last couple of months. Archie is hot on his heels. Lewis still has a couple of cards to complete his 10 cards before he starts to knock off his worst cards. Others are needing to get some more cards in and could Keegan who has 2 exceptional cards in could be the dark horse as could Moya. Keegan has knocked 6 strokes off his handicap, Conan 4, Fergus 3, Moya 2 and Archie and Lewis 1 each. Exciting finish to the season and all to play for.

2ND DAY AT ST ANDREWS

Megan unfortunately didn't have such a good day playing the Jubilee course but finished fourth overall and can take a lot of positives from the weekend.

MEGAN ASHLEY - BRILLIANT NEWS FROM ST ANDREWS

Hi Iain, just back home from the first day of the St Andrews University Schoolgirls competition and despite having to get up at 4.30am, I played the Strathtyrum and shot 4 under par!!! My best ever score!! I'm so pleased the hard work is paying some dividends! Had another good round of 4 over on the Eden this afternoon which I am pleased with too. Thought I should let you know and say thanks for all your encouragement and enthusiasm throughout the year! Look forward to playing the Jubilee course for the first time tomorrow!

SCOTTISH MENS AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP

Despite a great comeback in the last 64 to win on the 19th Michael lost out 5&4 in the next round.

SCOTTISH MENS AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP DAY 2

Past Strathmore Junior Captain Michael Brodie shot a 2 under par on Rosemount today following his 3 under par round on Lansdowne yesterday to finish tied 3rd on 5 under. Brad Bannerman and Ross Dallas unfortunately did not make the cut.

SCOTTISH MENS AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP

3 past Strathmore Juniors teed it up in the first round today. Michael Brodie returned an impressive 3 under par round on Lansdowne and lies tied 7th. Ross Dallas and Brad Bannerman have it all to do in the 2nd round to make the cut tied 174th and 199th respectfully at 7 and 8 over.

PRESIDENTS CUP

Amy just pipped Megan on the best back 6 after both scoring 39 points. Excellent scoring !!!

HAZEL FINISHES 16th IN EUROPEAN WOMENS CHAMPIONSHIP

Ayrshire youngster Hazel MacGarvie (Troon Ladies and past Strathmore Junior)  achieved a creditable top 20 finish in the European women's amateur golf championship at the Penati Golf Resort, Slovakia.
She outshone Hannah McCook (Grantown on Spey) and Chloe Goadby (St Regulus Ladies) who both missed the third round cut on the final day when 36 holes were played.

Hazel, pictured, had scores of 75, 68, 72 and 72 for a one-under-par total of 287 which gave her a joint 16th place finish among the female amateur stars of Europe.
Curtis Cup player Olivia Mehaffey (Royal Co Down Ladies) finished joint seventh on six-under 282 with rounds of 70, 71, 71 and 70 - 10 shots behind the winner, Spain's Celia Barquin who set a new course record of 63 in her third roune.
Another Curtis Cup player, Shannon McWilliam (Aboyne) shared 51st place with rounds of 71,79, 70 and 77 for nine-over 297.

LEADING FINAL PLACINGS
Par 288 (4x72)
272 C Barquin (Spn) 69 71 63 69
273 E Henseleit (Ger) 64 71 70 68
279 A Molesco (Ita) 67 71 73 68, A Nobilio (Ita) 67 70 70 71.

SELECTED TOTALS
282 O Mehaffey (Royal Co Down Ladies) 70 71 71 70 (T7)
287 H MacGarvie (Troon Ladies ) 75 68 72 72 (T16).

ANOTHER PAST STRATHMORE JUNIOR PLAYING WELL

 THE LEADING SCOT AFTER ROUND 2 IN SLOVAKIA 

Esther Henseleit carded a 71 (-1) in round two of the European Ladies' Amateur Championship at Penati Golf Resort, Slovakia, to retain her lead at the halfway stage.
The German player, who shot an eight-under-par round on day one, holds a one-shot lead over Finland's Kiira Riihijarvi, who shot the lowest score on day two, a seven-under-par round of 65. 
Hazel MacGarvie (Troon Ladies and past Strathmore Junior) was the top Scot with a 4 under par 68  today 
60 players and ties will make the 54-hole cut after day three, with 67 players currently sitting at five-over-par or better. 
 

EUROPEAN WOMEN'S INDIVIDUAL AMATEUR STROKE PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP
Penati Golf Resort, Slovakia.
2nd-ROUND LEADERBOARD
par 72
135 E Henseleit 64, 71(Ger)
136 F Kinhult 71,65 (Swe).

SELECTED SCOTTISH SCORES

143 H MacGarvie (Troon Ladies and past Strathmore Junior) 75, 68 (18th) 
150 C Goadby (St Regulus) 79,71 (T68) S McWilliam (Aboyne), 71,79 (T 68) 
160 H McCook (Grantown on Spey) 81,79 (130th) 
162 C Young (North Berwick) 78,84 (T135)

JUNIOR OPEN

Amazing day 45 youngsters took part including 6 Italians. Both the girls and boys Scratch winners were past Strathmore members and started playing golf here. Both Katy Alexander and Cormac Sharpe shot 74’s. Katy also won the overall Scratch with Giulio Zanichelli from Golf Del Ducato winning the overall handicap with a nett 63 (big handicap cut on the way).

I would like to personally thank Strathmore Golf Centre for all their support in running this event. They provide the course, the prizes, the back ground support and also the catering for the helpers. Tonight the meal was magnificent and if anyone hasn’t experienced Steak Night I would highly recommend it.

The Centre also welcomed the Italians with a momento of their visit and they have in return given us an open invitation to play in Italy 🇮🇹.

Video attached to this post. Also, photos of today can be found here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/Q8MuXQiPJEq5nttB8

ANOTHER CERTIFICATE ACHIEVED

Well done Daniel MacCuish on achieving his 1st Certificate

THIS PUTS THE CREAM(ER) ON THE CAKE

First up report from Blair Hockley.

OMG TODAY I MET BERNHARD LANGER (defending Senior Open Champion!!!)

I met him because I won a competition through Highland Spring (sponsors of the Senior Open) that meant I was invited to go to the Old Course in St Andrews and for a golfing masterclass from Bernhard Langer. It was an amazing experience I really enjoyed it and he was a lovely person. He talked a bit about his golf career and showed us some common mistakes that people make and how to sort them before he let each of us in turn choose one of our clubs to hit a few balls and get some tips! He made everyone feel comfortable and gave me some tips that I can hopefully implement into my game so I can improve. He may be really famous but he isn’t smug about it and so I really liked that. He said he really liked my swing, that I had a good grip and stance and gave me a few tips to stop me making my swing too flat. All over it was a great experience and I had a great day.

I gave him a thank you letter and in it I invited him to come to see our amazing junior section at Strathmore! - we can only dream!!

Kirsty played in the Ladies Scottish Open pro am at Gullane and here’s her report

I started off the day at the range. It was so busy so I just went down to the end where I found Anna Nordquist and Charley hull hitting. I went beside Anna we then all headed to the course and it was a shotgun start. The format was 3 amateurs and 1 pro. The pro am was today and I was out with Pernilla Lindberg. Who won a major this year! She was so nice and so good!!
We all teed off and picked the best drive and everyone plays from there then finishes out the hole with your own ball. And you just had to get as many birdies as possible I played well and it was so good to see how a major winner plays. To be honest she never hit it any longer than me but she never missed and green and was always close to the pin amazing to watch.

My coach is now coach’s Paula Creamer so he introduced me to her! Which I loved

 

RORY PICKS UP SOME PRIZE MONEY

Peter Whiteford (Linlithgow) won the £300 top prize in today's (Tuesday) Tartan Tour Young Pros' Order of Merit sprint Series 18-hole competition at Balbirnie Park Golf Club with a seven-under-par 64.
He shot eight birdies - six of them after the turn - and one bogey in halves of 34 and 30 - to head a field of 47 competitors and win by one stroke from Jamie McLeary (Deer Par) who had a bogey-free 65 to collect the £250 runner-up prize.
Steven O'Hara (North Lanarkshire Leisure finished third with a 66 - four strokes ahead of the joint fourth-placed Rory Tinker (Piperdam) and Greg Cessford (Balbirnie Park) who earned £140 apiece

SCOREBOARD
par 71
64 P Whiteford (Linlithgow) £300.
65 J McLeary (Deer Park) £250.
66 S O'Hara (N Lanarkshire Leisure) £200.
70 R Tinker (Piperdam and past Strathmore Junior) G Cessford (Balbirnie Park) £140 each.

ANOTHER BUSY NIGHT FOR OUR JUNIORS

Megan, Amy and Kirsten (making her debut) all played Scratch League for the Ladies tonight at home v Blairgowrie and won 3&2, 1up and 1up respectively helping the Ladies win 4v1.  Met Kirsten after 9 when she was 3 down and she told me there were still plenty of holes left and she was right. Gareth had 8 at his coaching session tonight and the clubhouse was busy with parents and other family members. Having a thriving junior section has its benefits in so many ways.

CAN THE ITALIANS DO THE DOUBLE

With Francesco Molinari winning today’s Open could they make it a double by winning Strathmore’s Junior Open on Thursday ? 6 have entered so it will be interesting to see how they do.

FIRST CAME THE DANES NOW WE WELCOME THE ITALIANS

Fantastic news received today. Fabrizio Sintich, who was coach to the Italian Ladies team for 15 years, has entered 6 youngsters into our Junior Open this Thursday. Can’t wait to meet Andrea, Alberto, Guilio, Tito, Amauri and Riccardo who will also play a practice round before the event.

Met a very excited Blair Hockley today who couldn’t wait to tell me he had won a “1 hour master class session” with Bernard Langer who is a two time Masters Champion and in 1986 became the sports first official number one ranked player. What an experience he is going to have on Wednesday. Wish it was me !!!! Also delighted for Kian Donnelly who this morning achieved his first certificate. It’s all happening at Strathmore. Also had an email from Magnus Moncrieff the Angus Active Schools Coordinator wanting to organise more taster sessions. Think we might need a bigger clubhouse !!!

LAST NIGHT WAS SO SPECIAL

Arrived down at the Clubhouse to find 9 youngsters raring to go. I took Archie, Conan and Lewis out for 6 holes on the big course and was very impressed with all 3. Conan is playing his 1st card for his handicap on Saturday and I look forward to seeing how he scores. Archie proved that he is definitely ready for the big course but 18 holes might be a bit too much but we hope to introduce 9 hole competitions which will be perfect for him. Lewis again is not far away and just needs to sharpen up his putting but was again very impressed. Stuart and Fraser played Summer League and Stuart is upgrading his membership to the big course and on Saturday will play his 3rd card for his full Congu handicap. Murray who had just returned from Florida joined Adrian, Lochlan and Zoe out trying for their certificates.
This is what the Junior night on a Thursday and Saturday mornings is all about. Parents and Grandparents spending quality time with the kids who are out enjoying themselves. I would really appreciate that over the next 3 weeks we can see more youngsters out playing, making new friends and having fun.
Come on join in !!!!

TRUST’S CLUBS START THEIR LONG JOURNEY

Message from Frances

Took the clubs to St Andrews today to meet up with Ryan Bekker from 
Zimbabwe. They are now on the next leg of their journey. He leaves 
Scotland on mon 23 rd and Jane, my cousin will be in Harare the capital 
where Ryan lives, and will collect on August 1st. I understand Trust 
has a competition in August so fingers crossed. I will keep you 
informed. FF 

Can’t wait for updates