Hi Everyone,
In theory as we get into November the golf season is beginning to wind down, however on the European Tour the 2018 season has already begun, just 4 days after the grand stand finish at the Tour Championship in Dubai. Justin Rose looked as if he had the momentum with him as he took control on the final day. However, as we all know this game has a way of jumping up and biting you. Some unforced errors on the back nine, meant Tommy Fleetwood won the Race to Dubai and a nice seven figure bonus to go with it. Rising star Jon Rahm (now number 4 in the world, from having no ranking 2 years ago!) won the event with his trademark powerful game. I am sure our Ryder Cup Captain is looking forward to unleashing Jon on the Americans in September.
As Justin had reminded us how challenging golf can be, leading LPGA star Lexi Thompson had a forgettable moment to finish her terrific season. Seemingly to have the formality of popping in a gimmie putt to win the the season ending event, she somehow managed to slide the putt by the hole.
The good news is she still won the Order of Merit and no doubt won't do that again.
For me November has been very fortunate as I spent two weeks on the lovely island of Tenerife with David Short Golfing Groups. The first week were were at the excellent Buenavista, a specatacular Seve designed golf course for a golf and coaching week. On these weeks I look to cover all aspects of the game and crucially see everyone on the course, the ultimate test for us all.
The following week, my wife Jennie came out and we hosted a playing week, taking in four of the excellent courses in the south of the island. My favourite by a hairs breath is Costa Adeje with some great holes and super views. There is a great deal to be said for the super climate out there and wearing shorts for a fortnight in November has a lot going for it.
Back home now and winter golf is well and truly upon us, although after a few holes at Mid Herts the other day, I was amazed how firm and true the putting surfaces were and wondered just where Jody and his brilliant team put all those leaves that come down each year? Judging by my garden they could be there!
A good tip as the season progresses, is that the ball will travel shorter and shorter distances, so do club up. As the greens become a little damper, perhaps consider a more aerial route on your short shots round the green, remembering to repair your pitch mark of course. Winter is a good time to review your golf, so even though our season doesn't quite start as quickly on the European Tour's does (or as warmly) take the opportunity to have a lesson to see where your game is at and have a couple of ideas for 2018.
Hopefully the weather holds for the for the foreseeable and we can continue to play, although I did notice that snow has made its way to Scotland this week....
Enjoy your golfing wherever you are.
All the best
Barney
