Jordan Speith’s extraordinary triumph at The Open Championship contained play which gives hope to amateurs everywhere.
How many of us can honestly say we have panned a teeshot that far right without going out of bounds? If it can happen to Jordan, it can happen to anyone.
Thankfully Garrick Porteous had no such drama as he won his first title on the Challenge Tour as he continues to fulfill his obvious promise.
Alex Stevenson also managed to keep on the straight and narrow with a sensational win in the Scottish Under 16 Open.
The number of talented teenagers in this region – especially among the girls – is a testament to some of the excellent work being done by coaches and clubs throughout the North East and Yorkshire.
One of the leading lights, JJ Vallely, gives us a fascinating insight into how to nurture talent in our cover story.
Elsewhere, excitement is building towards the British Masters, which will be held at Close House September 28-October 1 with Masters champion Sergio Garcia leading a host of the world’s top players.
Tickets are going well and we are delighted to give you an opportunity to win passes to the week’s play – see page 42 for details.
Chester-le-Street has undergone a transformation, turning an already impressive golf course into something special. You can read all about it and win a chance to play in this issue.
Our second course review takes us to a place which has given the region some of its top players – Prudhoe in Northumberland – while our area focus this month takes a trip around some of the beautiful courses in and around Harrogate.
With the season in full swing, club championships are producing winners in gents, ladies and junior sections. Make sure those who take your club crowns don’t miss out on the chance to become Champion of Champions at Ramside Hall in September – full details on page 12.
Dean Bailey welcomes the return of golf to terrestrial TV in his regular column and chews the fat with businessman Colin Pybus on his love of golf. Plus we have the usual mix of news, features and offers from clubs across the region.
Enjoy the mag and see you next month.
Paul Robertson, editor
editor@northerngolfer.co.uk
