In Round 1, Warwickshire’s top Amateur – Andy Sullivan (Nuneaton) - returned a gross score of 64 (including 8 birdies) to hold a 5 stoke lead over the rest of the field - with Andrew Cheese from Sutton Coldfield on 69 being the highest placed Pro.

 This was the first major event at KGC since the Course was extended and re-assessed for Standard Scratch and Sullivan’s score of 64 is a new Course Record.

 After the morning round the top Kenilworth players – Assistant Pro James Crompton and Amateur Elliott Forbes - were in 13^th and 14^th places, 8 and 9 strokes respectively behind the leader.

 Although Andy Sullivan’s 2^nd round score of 67 did not quite match his own lofty standards of the morning, it was nevertheless the lowest score returned in the afternoon and his overall combined Winning gross score of 131 was 6 stokes better than that of overall Runner Up (and Top Pro) Andrew Cheese, who returned very creditable sub Par rounds of 69 and 68 for a total of 137.

 Chris Dougill (Stoneleigh Deer Park – with 72 & 68 for 140), Rob Browning (Coventry – with 70 & 71 for 141) took the 2^nd and 3^rd Amateur places respectively. Kenilworth’s Elliott Forbes returned an excellent 69 in the afternoon to add to his morning 73, enabling him to move up into 4^th Place in the Amateurs (on 142) and with Jack Sant (Ladbrook Park – with 72 & 71 for 143)  taking the final Amateur prize.

 Will Weidner – the Assistant Pro at Ingon Manor (with scores of 70 and 69 for 139) took the Pro Runner Up prize, with Kenilworth Assistant James Crompton’s 2^nd round score of 68 giving him a total of 140 and moving him up into a tie for Pro 3^rd place with Andrew Jones (Stonebridge – 70 & 70) and Jak Hamblett (Sky Caddie – 70 & 70). Adam Gray (Stratford Oaks – with 73 & 70 for 143) took the final (6^th) Pro prize.

 Best Aggregate Scores Warwickshire Amateur and Open Championships :

 The T.P.Cooke Salver was won by Andy Sullivan with an aggregate score of 273. The Runner-Up was Rob Browning with 284 and in 3^rd place was Chris Dougill with 286.

Directors Mike Hastings and Jim McCarthy recently met with Michael Coker, a  long standing local councillor, to discuss local development issues.

Michael advised that all of the earlier plans for housing development in the area had been set aside. A new plan is being developed and the firm indications are that any threat from development in the Crewe Lane area has very significantly receded.

He also outlined the consultation process for the proposed high speed rail link (HS2).An amended route for the Stoneleigh area was under consideration and, since our meeting, a revised route has now been recommended, the details of which are sketchy but are of increased concern to the Club. This issue, together with all other considerations on the route will be part of the consultation process which is scheduled to commence in spring 2011. Michael alerted us to the very strong challenge to the viability of the business case for HS2 that has been presented to the Government by the HS2 Action Alliance. If this challenge is successful then the whole scheme is dead.

We will continue to closely monitor developments on your behalf.

Members will be aware that we now have brand new tee  markers on all the holes.  As a way of raising funds for the Captains Charity we will be auctioning the old signs individually on the evening of the Charity Day on 25th September. A perfect way of owning a bit of KGC history.

Please give your bids to our General Manger Rob Griffiths by 24th September and help us to raise much needed funds for the Childrens Hospices we are supporting this year.

Richard Joyce

Captain

CAPTAINS AWAY DAY

WEDNESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2010

TADMARTIN HEATH GOLF CLUB

Coffee & Bacon Rolls

9 Holes

Soup & Sandwiches

18 Holes

3 Course Meal

Luxury Coach

Please put your name on the booking sheet in the locker room.

£75 inclusive.

Richard Joyce

On Friday Former Light Heavy Weight World Champion Boxer, John Conteh visited the club, to play a few holes and have lunch.  John was on his way to play at Nailcote Hall in the Par 3 Champioship and decided to catch up with his old pal and Kenilworth Member John Carlin Snr.

John was impressed with the condition of the course and promised to come back when he had more time. 

 Click here to read the Summer Course Update from the Course Committee Chairman Bill Murdoch

As a result of a course assessment by the Warwickshire Union of Golf Clubs on 28 June we have received a new Standard Scratch Score for the two courses as follows :-

White Tees – 71

Yellow Tees – 70

As a result of this new rating we have taken the following action:-

1. New tee markers have been placed on each hole.
2. The white, yellow and red tees on each hole have been marked with new wooden tee markers indicating length and revised stroke index.
3. The stroke indices on some holes have been changed to accommodate the recent changes.
4. A new scorecard has been issued incorporating these changes. This card has space to mark a fourball. Click on the image to see a full size scorcard.

 Please be aware when playing stableford format or match play that the stroke indices have changed.

 Richard Joyce

Captain

27th July 2010.

FREE  ‘TASTER SESSIONS’

on

 WEDNESDAY 18 AUGUST 2010

1^st session    9.00 am – 10.00 am

2^nd session   10.15 am – 11.15 am

    Venue:  Golf Club function room

Please enter your name, contact number and membership number on the form in the Clubhouse together with session time required.

10 week course to commence mid September

We may have found a solution to lots of unsightly trenches when our Green staff are trying to locate broken drains in the autumn and winter.

 Although very pleasant for golfers, a long hot dry spell of weather does not offer too many benefits to Green Keepers. However, the long lines of very dry brown grass indicating the presence of elusive drains somewhere below the surface of the fairway have stood out more clearly than ever before.

With the help of our friendly drainage contractor we have used the brown lines on the fairways to map all of the drains on the course using a GPS sensor with links to up to ten satellites. The mapping will provide us with a very accurate plan and the GPS co ordinates of each drain down to a few centimetres. Instead of digging lengthy exploratory trenches we should be able to use co ordinates to quickly locate the precise position of any offending drain.

Fortunately Richard Dorrington and Bill Murdoch were able to get the surveyor to the course just as the weather broke. Within hours of the first rain the tell-tale lines began to fade as the grass, (not dead, but waiting) rapidly replaces the old brown and orange pigments in the leaf with green, energy producing chlorophyll.

Mike Hastings

Jeremy Wright MP took time this week to meet with Kenilworth Golf Club Directors Alan Pulham and Mike Hastings. They took Mr Wright on a tour of the course and clubhouse and used the opportunity to discuss local development and transport issues and how the Club fits into the local community. It was Mr Wright’s first visit to the Club and he is now aware of our major areas of concern and has promised to keep in contact over the coming months.

Despite claiming that he plays golf infrequently and badly Alan and Mike did their best to convince  Mr Wright that this would not be sufficient grounds to debar him from membership!

Charity proved the winner at the club during the stewardship of David Ellbourn and Lyn Harrison last year's captains. They have handed over a cheque for £6,400 to Jodie Smith of the Stroke Association, their nominated charity for the year. 

The duo were quick to praise the efforts of club professional Steve Yates  and Richard Simmons along with all the club members and suppliers who generously contributed throughout the year in the various club events to support the charity and enabled the magnificent sum to be raised.

The association plays a major role in helping to rehabilitate those who are afflicted with this sudden serious health issue. They also carry out extensive research to learn how strokes may be prevented and provide extensive funding for training medical staff to further that end

Dear Member,

A very successful and positive AGM was held last week. At the meeting, the following were elected:

 President – Brian Melling

Captain – Richard Joyce

Ladies Captain – Angela Bradley

Vice Captain – Lyn Harrison

Vice Captain – Patrick Fleming

Ladies Vice Captain – Liz Brown

Directors – Mike Hastings and Alan Pulham

Club Committee members – Sue Ford, Alan Stevens and Laraine Wooding.

Best wishes were expressed to all in their new roles.

Tributes were paid to retiring officers and addresses made to the meeting reported on the healthy state of the Club.

The addresses are listed below include: Chairman of Management, the retiring Captain and newly elected Captain and the retiring lady Captain and newly appointed Lady Captain.

Rob Griffiths

General Manager and Secretary

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CHAIRMAN’S REPORT TO AGM, 15^TH APRIL 20

 President, Captain, Ladies Captain, Ladies and Gentlemen 

Let me start my report by seeking to put into context what we have been trying to do in our management of the Club.

The Club’s strategy identifies our overall goal to be a financially and socially successful private members club.

There are three key elements of that goal:

-       We are a private members club and all that we do is focussed on the overall benefit to members;

-       To flourish as a private members club, we must be financially successful to support investment and continuous improvement in the Club’ facilities;

-       And we must achieve that financial success whilst jealously guarding our reputation as a highly sociable club, one known for its camaraderie.

So we are driven by these three elements of our goal – and the key challenge is to achieve the right balance when these elements conflict with each other.

To deliver this goal, we are committed to improving the quality of our course and of the Club house and its surrounds. That commitment to investment requires success in growing our revenues.

Our main revenue focus has been on subscription income, bar and catering profit and green fees, which all show healthy growth. Whilst overall revenue growth in 2009 of £16k is not dramatic, it follows on from a very strong performance in 2008, so over the last two years we can look back on growth over 2007 of over £100k. During the biggest recession in 70 years, that is a real achievement.

Our primary source of income is subscriptions and we have increased this in 2009 by 7%.

At the 2009 renewal, we started with a full house of 655 members, from which we had 65 resignations. During the course of 2009, we built that back up to nearly full. At this year’s renewal we have had 29 resignations but with new joiners, we now have 642 members. There remains a few amongst that list who have yet to pay, but taking some conservative assumptions on the number of non payers who drop out, we will have already exceeded last year’s subscription income and our budget for this year, so we look forward to a very healthy position. At the same time, we are conscious that we operate on very fine margins, so we are vigilant to ensure our revenue streams are in place before committing to expenditure.

 Our subscription policy remains one committed to giving our members great value for money. In the local area, I believe we out perform those clubs with similar subscription levels and that our offering to members is the equal of other local clubs where subscriptions are around 15% higher than our own.

These revenue increases enable us to spend on the improvement of our facilities. In 2009 we spent more on the course, particularly in relation to increased personnel throughout the year and I think the benefit from their efforts is there for all to see. We have also maintained the machinery replacement programme, whilst introducing additional equipment to assist improvement. In 2009, we acquired a grass overseeding machine and this year delivery of a greens iron and a tractor powered leaf blower is imminent.

The main focus has been on additional pathways, improvement in the quality of greens and the main drainage programme. All that continues together with the magnificent new 3^rd medal tee and its surrounds. We still have much to do but the determination remains to drive for further course improvements, with a focus on the quality of grass cover throughout the course.

We have also spent more on our management and administration support, with resource and expertise committed to both driving revenues and getting better value from our overhead spend.

The first phase of the Club House renovation project is nearing completion. I congratulate the project team on their vision to be able to see what can be achieved with limited spend. Whilst not every aspect of the change may match all individuals’ taste, the overall tremendous transformation that has been achieved is to be acclaimed. Some finishing off plus minor modifications and snagging are still be done but we have made great strides. This project has been funded from the operating cash surplus of the last two years, without recourse to the cash received from the land sale.

Looking forward, we will develop plans for subsequent phases, with priorities and timing to be determined as funds become available. We are finalising plans for a golf academy , attached to the Pro’s shop and we will be installing the new tee signage in the next couple of months, for which there is still some availability for tee sponsorship.

Our progress is due to the tremendous efforts of so many, both our full time staff and our members. We have a management team and supporting staff who excel in their roles and are very much part of the family that is the Club. These staff operate successfully within the guidance and framework laid down by our various club committees. I congratulate all those involved and in particular I commend the unity of purpose that has enabled all of our committees to pull in the same direction. From my own personal experience, I thank all of the Management Committee for their support, commitment and guidance during the year. I also pay tribute to so many members who contribute so much behind the scenes, in both time and money and we would be lost without their support, so thank you to them.

 I say an especially big thank you to those officers and directors stepping down this year. In particular, may I pay tribute to our retiring president, Mike, for his outstanding contribution to the Club. We have benefited hugely from your energy, your enthusiasm, your guidance and leadership and your sense of fun.

I say thank you to David, our retiring Captain, who has led us most ably in a happy year and who has very successfully worked to ensure effective liaison across the Club’s committees.

Thank you to Lyn, our Ladies Captain, for leading such a successful ladies section, one that is the envy of many clubs.

David Butcher stands down as a director and I thank him for his very sound advice and support to the board; in addition we are indebted to David for his outstanding work on developing the Club’s tremendous web site. We wish you luck David in your Chairmanship of Acorns.

Patrick Fleming also stands down from the Board and I thank him for his boundless enthusiasm and energy, plus the expertise that he brought to the Board to ensure that the Club successfully marketed its product. We look forward to your re-appearance in a new role.

I welcome and wish the best of luck to all of those taking up new terms of office and those joining the Board or the Club committee this year. It will be an exciting time as we continue to drive Kenilworth Golf Club onwards and upwards.

Thank you ladies and gentlemen for your time.

15.04.10

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CAPTAIN’S AGM REPORT

 Dear Member

 Last April seems a long time ago when you elected me as your Captain, but the time has really flown by, and now sadly it comes to a close. I have enjoyed the experience immensely, but it would not have been possible without the support of yourselves and the staff.

 My year started with a lot of new faces taking up major roles within the Club, which meant a pretty steep learning curve for all of us, but I think we managed it. Everyone has fully justified themselves, and made for a great team that has undertaken the work of implementing the policies and activities of the Club in a very professional manner, which has resulted in a successful year and moved us further toward our objective.

 Inevitably within a club of our size and diversity of members, there are decisions taken that might not fulfil everyone’s aspirations.  All suggestions are welcomed and listened to and the committees often debate these at length however someone has to make a final decision and we hope these are supported by the majority.   

 The re-draft of the articles has allowed us to be far more proactive in our decision making in line with modern business requirements. And the establishment of a well defined Club Strategy, outlining both our intent and vision along with the Development Plans are all to the good, and will keep the Club moving forward in the right direction, and enable it to meet the continuing challenges that lay ahead.

 Our membership reached capacity at the beginning of March and I hope all of the new members are enjoying the benefits we have to offer, but inevitably we will still seek applications to replace those members that for a number of reasons decide not to rejoin this year.

 The course is our greatest asset and we must thank Richard Dorrington and his dedicated team who are out there in all weathers keeping it in such magnificent condition, and we will continue to build upon the improvements we have made over the year as the course plans come to fruition.

 The weather managed to stay bright and sunny for my drive in with Lyn an event we both thoroughly enjoyed, and could not have been better for Captains Day and Charity Day, and I must thank all of the Members, Staff, Professional, Lyn and Lady Members along with my family who gave their support and assistance to make them such memorable occasions.

 My thanks must go to the Match and Competitions team under Nick Wright who give up their social time to provide us with professionally run events throughout the year, which are a great accolade to the club and enjoyed by both members and visitors.

 Thanks to the House Committee team under Ian Courts, who played a large part in the refurbishment programme, along with Stuart Leech and Sean McDonald and their staff providing us with much needed food and beverage both on and off the golf course.

 Whilst I have already spoken about the course further thanks have to go to Bill Murdoch who chairs the course Committee as well as bringing lots of ideas forward and overseeing the work programmes, is always ready to lend a hand himself in carrying out the work when required.

 Also I must not forget those volunteers known as the “wood burners” that have given up their time to help in various projects around the course, thank you.

 The Social scene took off when Alan Stevens came on board and undertook the responsibility and planning of the calendar for the year, many thanks for the organisation of some truly great events, and we look forward to their continuation next year. 

 Thanks to Steve Yates for his assistance for my Captains day, also he and I had some enjoyable rounds of golf in the Captain-Pro challenge matches, and along with James Crompton gave us marvellous support throughout Charity day.

 Thanks to Team Captains and members who represented the Club at all the golfing events and helped bring back the shield from Llandrindod, also Peter Hall for again taking over the mantle of Mid Warwickshire League Captain.  Also to Richard Lane for taking over the chairmanship of the juniors, which he and his team run with great enthusiasm.

 Our president Mike Carrick has been a great support to me during the year, organising the last of the Captain Pro challenges in very pleasant surroundings with excellent company.

 Lyn Harrison has been a truly supportive Ladies Captain and of great assistance in organising the charity events, which this year we nominated the “Stroke Association” a truly worthwhile cause for which we have raised over £6000 and our most sincere thanks goes to you all for such generosity.

 To Rob Griffiths, Shirley Huxley who had to learn quickly the ways of KGC, and Kay Constable in the office making up a superb team, thanks for all of your assistance and putting up with me when you have been busy, also providing the occasional chocolate biscuit, I will miss the rapport.

 My best wishes and support go to Richard Joyce and Angela Bradley for their year ahead, they will undoubtedly carry out their tasks in true style, have a memorable year.

 I apologise if I have left anyone out of my thanks.  But it is you the members that make it all worthwhile, so finally let me thank you all for making this past year one that will live long in my memory.

 Keep enjoying your golf.

David J Elbourn

Captain

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LADIES’ CAPTAIN’S AGM ADDRESS – 15.4.2010

 Mr President, Mr Captain, Mr Vice Captain, Ladies Vice Captain, Ladies & Gentlemen

 I believe it is generally acknowledged that we have a great Ladies Section here at Kenilworth, and I have indeed been privileged and proud to have had this opportunity of becoming Ladies Captain.  I have thoroughly enjoyed my year, it has been an experience I will look back on with many fond memories.  

 There have been many highlights throughout the year but my greatest triumph has been in the team that I gathered around me and I owe them all a debt of gratitude for their help and support.  It has been a pleasure to work with such a nice group of ladies.  I have said many times that we are a strong and active section, the notice boards in our locker room bear witness to that and it all takes teamwork and I had a great team, both in my Committee and in my team captains, who have all worked well together and done a sterling job.  Particular thanks to Angela for being the most wonderful and supportive Vice Captain and “ex-officio“ Ann Saywell who gave me this opportunity and has been on hand to answer my many questions and give me help, Lynda McCarthy for taking on the demanding role of Match & Comps and Maggie Smith for administering our successful Spring & Autumn Opens which again are fully subscribed.

 My congratulations to Alice Young for her success in once again becoming the Ladies Club Champion this year.   My grateful thanks to Mike & Sally Carrick and Ollie & Vicky Pearman for their generous sponsorship and to Bill Murdoch and his family who always ensure Margaret’s memorial day is a very special event in our calendar.

 On a personal note, one particular highlight of my year had to be Kenilworth Ladies beating a team from Olton to become Warwickshire Inter-Club League Champions.  I was fortunate to be a part of that winning team.  It was a wonderful day and one I shall remember for a long time and I thank Liz Brown for her excellent captaincy.

Good weather accompanied the Captains’ Charity Day and my thanks go to our Golf Professional, Steve and his Assistant, James, for all their hard work in organising the ‘Beat The Pro’ on the 7^th Tee.  My sincere thanks go to Richard Simmons for his generosity in donating the competition prizes, to the many suppliers and members who donated raffle prizes and to Alan Stevens for organising the wonderful evening entertainment.  A real team effort.  Also Terri Marsden and Margaret Welbourne organised a most successful Charity Bridge Drive at the Club in October.  My thanks to all those who supported the day which was a most enjoyable occasion.  Yesterday we held our annual golf fashion show and I thank Steve, and wife Deb, Pat Eden, Rosemarie Hannam and Catherine Midgley for making it such an enjoyable occasion and this raised nearly £300 towards the Captain’s Charity. The Captain’s Charity this year supported The Stroke Association and thanks to the generosity of many, I believe nearly £6,500 has been raised.

 There are so many people whose efforts help make our events successful and I would like to thank Stuart, the Bar Manager, and the Head Chef, Sean, together with the bar and catering staff for all their help throughout the year.  And also Richard Dorrington and his team for their efforts out on the course.  My thanks also to our new General Manager, Rob Griffiths, as well as Kay and Shirley in the office and also to Ali Peebles and Walter Hogarth for all their help behind the scenes. 

I would like to conclude by thanking the Club Captain, David Elbourn, for being a super Captain this year and for all his hard work and commitment.  And of course my thanks to my husband, Ken, for his support, especially on my Captain’s Day in June, when he and son, Glen, did a great job on the BBQ, - and I have almost forgiven him for making me move house twice in my year of office!

 And Finally, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the lady members for their friendship and support which I will always remember with fondness.  

Lyn Harrison

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 New Captain’s Speech for AGM. 15 April 2010

• Address
• Thanks to David  past captain, for his best wishes and promised support for coming year.
• History of Captaincy – 109^th time a captain has been installed. Historic Captain, 1880’s,  was the April Medal Winner.  Still in plaster for this years April medal but Achilles has healed and plan to resume golf for my Drive In.
• Thanks to this year’s team of Chairman, Captain and committees, Steward, Head Chef, General Manager and Head Greenkeeper and teams for all hard work.
• Legacy from this year – Excellent course , new paths, and third medal tee.  Refurbished clubhouse, toilets, showers . Informative web site.
• Thanks to Kay Elliott, local artist for original paintings decorating function room. Paintings are for sale.
• Current Charity fundraising £6.5K - well done Captains and Members.
• This year’s charity – theme  Children’s Hospices – Will share funds raised between Acorn (70%) and Zoe’s Place(30%) - Matching funds of £700 from DHL  Foundation( my former employer) for starters. Both Charities are here tonight for more information.
• Exciting year ahead. Mixed Captain’s Day 12/13 June, Marquee Week with Summer Ball on 19 June, Ladies Charity Luncheon on 23 June  and Gents Sporting Dinner on 24 June. And lots more besides.
• A book has been produced on the history of Club by Walter Hogarth, funded by Bob Taylor, a must, on sale very soon at £10 per copy.
• Join Lady Captain and me for our drive-in on Sunday.

Richard Joyce

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New Lady Captain - Angela Bradley Speech Club AGM 15^th April 2010

 When I joined the club 18 years ago I had only been playing golf for a few months, I really didn’t think that the game of golf and this club would become such a big part of my life.  It is such a great honor to become Captain of our wonderful ladies section within this great golf club which exudes a strong spirit of friendship and support that I appreciate, and my undertaking the Captaincy is to offer something in return for all that I have experienced.  I have been very fortunate to serve as Vice Captain to Lyn who must be congratulated on the time, effort and enthusiasm she has devoted to her Captaincy.  I am looking forward in the coming year to working together with Richard our Captain, and our Vice Captains and Committees, in responding to the requirements of all members to enjoy to the full our superb golf course and clubhouse.  Richard has already told you about our charity and the events we have planned this year. I don’t need to say anymore, except that we both look forward to your continued support in making 2010 a successful year for the club and all its members.

 I am delighted to nominate Liz Brown as my Vice Captain. Liz has been a member since 2001 and is the ladies county liaison representative for the club.  She is a competent and enthusiastic golfer, as our Warwickshire Inter League Captain last year, she successfully led her team to becoming the League champions.  I look forward to working with you and I know that when your time comes, you will be a great captain of the ladies section.

Angela Bradley

CAPTAINS’ SUMMER BALL

SATURDAY 19TH JUNE 2010

 GRAND MARQUEE

3 Course Meal from Local Award Winning Caterer

AUBREY ALLEN

 Fantastic Music for Dancing from

‘The Likely Lads’

Your MC for the evening Derek Cooknell

7.00 PM UNTIL LATE

BLACK TIE/SMART FROCKS

Tickets £45.00 each                        Carriages 1.00 am

Tables of 12

Tickets will be available from the Bar

SUNDAY 25 APRIL 2010 – 1.00 PM

 Enjoy a traditional Sunday Lunch to celebrate

St George's Day

Menu 

Prawn Salad

*

Roast Beef and all the trimmings

*

Apple Pie and Custard

*

Coffee & Mints

 Only £14.50 per head – Book your table with the Bar Staff

* Please note – moved from Saturday 24 April

sponsored by Kenilworth Golf Club

on the following dates

 Friday 16th April 5.00 - 6.00 p.m

Friday 23rd April 5.00 - 6.00 p.m

Friday 30th April 5.00 - 6.00 p.m

Friday 7th May 5.00 - 6.00 p.m

Friday 14th May 5.00 - 6.00 p.m

Friday 21st May 5.00 - 6.00 p.m

Friday 28th May 5.00 - 6.00 p.m

Roll up Sessions From 5 - 6 p.m followed by the chance to play 6 holes after the Session

Open to Juniors 28 handicap and above + those with no handicap

All Aspects Covered, Come Along, Join in Enjoy it

Please contact KGC Pro Shop to book a place

Steve Yates  or James Crompton Tel 01926 512732 

We’ll be There- Hope You’ll be There too

Find out about the free taster sessions for Juniors and Adults being run by our Professional Steve Yates by clicking here.

To reserve places telephone the Pro Shop on 01926 512732 or email syatesprogolfkgc@aol.com

First Junior Session being held on Saturday 27th March 1pm-2pm Book Now!

We are running a series of free taster sessions open to all , juniors and adults .Click here for details. if you or your  friends ,family , children or grandchildren would like to have a go at golf then get in touch with us. 

All equipment will be provided there is no cost involved , give it a go !

Call the Pro Shop on 01926 512732 to reserve a place

Steve

 Kenilworth, have now progressed to the Semi-Finals of the Warwickshire Cup with a 2-1 win over Stoneleigh.

 Robert Owens and Craig Owen Lost 2 Down

John Close and Daniel Lane Won 3&2

James Lemond and Richard Keegan Won 1up

Well done to those involved, and James did save our bacon with a 20 foot par putt on 17, and a miss from Stoneleigh from inside 2 and a half foot.

 Kenilworth move on to play Finham away.

 Kenilworth have also progressed to the 2nd round of the Mail on Sunday with a win over North Warwicks at Kenilworth.

On 7^th April 2010, Kenilworth Golf Club will host the second Kenilworth Junior Masters.  This event, sponsored by the Golf Society of Great Britain, is one of a series of six competitions held annually at leading venues across the country which are designed to give young golfers the chance to enjoy competitive golf. 

The list of former winners of events in this series features some familiar names including Oliver Fisher who went on to become the youngest ever Walker Cup player and is now establishing himself as member of the European Tour.  Other notable participants include Tommy Fleetwood, a member of the EGU’s England Squad, and Jonathan Bell, currently a member of the EGU’s ‘A’ Squad.

This competition is open to boys and girls of all abilities aged under 14 on the day of the competition.  Last year, the Kenilworth Junior Masters attracted talented young golfers from all across the United Kingdom and with the number of entrants limited to just seventy-two, those wishing to take part should submit their entry as soon as possible.

Entry forms can be downloaded from the Kenilworth Junior Masters page of the website or they are available from the club secretary on 01926 858517.

 One of the objectives outlined in the Course Strategy Plan for Kenilworth Golf Course was to achieve a course parity of SSS and Par at 71 for the white tees.

 At the Open Forum in September the concept of achieving this parity was widely welcomed.    However the proposal to significantly extend the 5^th Hole was rejected by the members and therefore an alternative had to be found. To meet EGU course rating requirements for SSS of 71 we  require an additional 40 yards, preferably on one hole, to limit the amount of disruption to  members and to keep the costs as low as possible.

 A solution has now been found where we can extend the 3^rd hole by the required 40 yards by   constructing a new Medal tee behind the 2^nd green. This will increase the yardage from the  medal tee from 342 yards to 382 yards. (being the same length as the 9^th hole). The existing tees will continue to be used as yellow tees.

 The conifers behind the current 3^rd tee will have to be removed, which will help the current tee by allowing more sunlight through.

The conifers behind the 2^nd tee will be left in position until the new tee is constructed to see whether they interfere with the line of play. If they do then unfortunately they will have to be removed. Additional tree planting is already planned for this area with deciduous trees which will  lessen any possible impact that the removal of the conifers may have.

Part of this project will be to generally tidy up the area around the new tee and to the rear of the present 3^rd tees as this area is possibly one of the scruffiest areas on the course.      

This is a large project and will be carried out in-house by the greens staff over a four week period.  There will be disruption while the work is in progress and we would ask members to bear with the staff whilst this next phase of improving Kenilworth Golf Course is carried out.

A plan of the work to be done can be viewed by clicking here

 Bill Murdoch

Course Chairman

2^nd February 2010

Details and entry forms for all the Kenilworth Golf Club Open Competitions for 2010 are now available on the website by clicking here

As I sat down to write this my second news letter, I wondered if other (great writers!) have always found it difficult to know where to start, as there is so much to say, but I don’t want to bore you too much.  Well I suppose you could say the formal golf season has come to an end for 2009, the clocks have gone back and the days are shorter, and whilst the weather has now broken from that long warm spell the course is still playing well. We are now into our annual Men’s, Ladies and Mixed Winter league golf arenas, all of which can produce some hotly contested matches. We also have plenty of Shotguns and Texas Scrambles along with a few Extra Medals to keep us going until the spring.

 KGC has seen a tremendous season with competition entries up on previous years, this has resulted in some very fine individual scoring, and some extremely good results being recorded. There has also been some hard fought match play battles in the knockout competitions, along with some very good club match wins, the most notable being that of the Ladies, successfully winning the Warwickshire Inter League Club Championships and to a lesser extent the Gents regaining the Llandrindod Challenge Shield.

 The President’s Presentation Dinner to award the Gentlemen’s prizes was fully supported and we have to thank our President Michael Carrick for his generosity in providing the wine. Good support was also forthcoming for the Senior and Junior presentation dinners.

All of the prize presentations have now taken place, with successful members from all sections picking up well deserved trophies.  Unfortunately there are too many for individual mentions, but well played to everyone who has taken part.

 In terms of player participation I hope we will see an increase in the number of you playing in the Mixed Scrambles and Shotguns during the coming months, which always turn out to be good fun and are just as much a test of your golfing skills as in Gents only games.

KGC have been well represented at the end of season dinners, and we have had some well earned praise on the prowess of our players and the condition of our course. On the competition front, I am delighted to report that a former Club champion and Walker Cup star, Jamie Elson, has regained his place on the full European tour.

 Our membership vacancies continue to fall thanks to prompt action and initiatives by your committees, but we must not be complacent and need to always be on the lookout for new prospective members. This applies equally to our Junior section which has seen a decline in numbers this year; they are a great accolade to the club and we should realise that the Champion golfers of tomorrow have to start their game somewhere today, that’s for both boys and girls.

I am pleased to tell you that from all the interviews that I have carried out, new members join KGC not only for the course but our reputation of being a friendly and sociable club.

 Our social programme is again proving popular with quizzes, dining and dancing, and I have to say to those of you who didn’t attend the Charity Day evening with the Likely Lads, you missed out on a some tremendous entertainment.  There are more great events being planned for your enjoyment so keep checking the web site and look out for the posters. We would like more members and guests too come along and support these functions as they provide a great night out and keep the club healthy and viable.

 The forthcoming Old Time Music Hall with carols is an event not to miss, and I thank all those participating and helping to put on what in no doubt will be an extravaganza of delectable entertainment. For those of you with children or grandchildren don’t forget the Children’s Christmas party on the 20^th Dec, were I am sure Santa will be present, unfortunately tickets are limited.

 It would be very amiss of me if I failed to mention Charity Day and the people who supported Lyn and I on that day, so our extreme thanks and gratitude goes to Richard Simmons for providing Ice cream on the 13^th and the competition prizes, Steve Yates and James Crompton along with Ladies who acted as their ball spotters and raffle money takers for beat the pro on the 7^th tee, and all our suppliers and members who donated raffle prizes, which raised some £2800 for the Stroke Association.

 Your chairman of Management Jim McCarthy and I attended an EGU Club Liaison conference back in March with a follow up evening session in October to bring us up to date with matters of the EGU/EWGA merger, Equality, Central Database of Handicaps, Funding of Golf, VAT Tribunals and a Golf Central tee booking facility. All of these issues could have an impact on KGC but we are well placed to deal with any situations that may occur, and will keep you posted accordingly.

We may see some changes to our M&C on line booking system and competition running next year as DJB our software provider has merged with Club Systems International. We are currently evaluating various market options to seek out the best, none of this will have any impact on your handicap record or status, and again we will keep you informed as to the outcome.

 As you have seen recently the strategy plan for both greens and house has been published along with targeted action plans; these engendered some lively discussion before gaining final approval.

All of the changes that are due to take place within the clubhouse may not appeal to everyone, but it would be impossible to cater for everyone’s ideas as you know when you start decorating at home. I am confident that in the long term the changes will prove beneficial to us all, it is not until you visit other clubhouses that you realise how tired ours has become, and you can understand why we get jokes made about our facility by visiting speakers.

The targets set in the greens plan will not be accomplished overnight, but with the work that is being undertaken to improve the percentage of bent grasses, and other measures to control thatch and moisture content we should show an improvement year on year, giving us better playing consistency throughout the year. One way members can help is to remember to repair pitch marks!

Work on the additional drainage took place in ideal weather and has hardly left any scares, and I hear very favourable comments on the installation of our new pathways, not all yet complete I should add. Please make use of them and also walk outside any roped area especially adjacent to the greens and tees, as this will allow us to get good growth in the spring and avoid the bare patches and G.U.R. we have seen in the past.  

Just a reminder, help out the fairways by using a mat or taking a divot bag.

 We finished the Captain Pro challenge matches with 8 of us making a trip to Portugal where the weather was absolutely delightful, unfortunately Steve and I came away slightly bruised but we all enjoyed the week along with the golf.

 I am truly enjoying my year as your captain, it is a privilege to work with a team of members and staff, who are enthusiastic and dedicated to see this great club of ours continue to grow and prosper for the years to come.

I look forward to seeing many of you in the Xmas shotgun or the Dennis Mitchell, but to all of you and your families let me wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Keep on enjoying your golf.

 David Elbourn

Captain

CLUB HOUSE PROJECT 2009/10

Dear Member,

Investing for the Future

We launched the Club’s strategy plan some 18 months ago in which we set out our plans to ensure that Kenilworth Golf Club is, and remains, a financially and socially successful members’ golf club. In an increasingly competitive market place for all golf clubs, we recognised the critical importance of continuing to improve our offering to members if we were to enjoy continued success. We had to ensure that our facilities both on the course and in the club house exceeded the standards being set by our local competitors.

In launching the plan, we saw our most urgent need as being investment on the course. Indeed that has been our focus for several years and, over the last five years, we have committed several hundred thousand pounds of investment on course development expenditure, on new equipment and on replacement of existing equipment. In addition, we have increased substantially our expenditure on course running costs.

The result is a course that has never been in better condition. We remain committed to further improvements, as set out in the Course Action Plan, and we will not rest on our laurels.

Whilst the progress on the course has been a success story, financial constraints have prevented us from addressing the improvements required to the Club House. Over the same 5 year period when so much has been invested on the course, the amount spent on new or replacement equipment, fabric or fittings in the Club House has been virtually zero. The result is a club house that is looking tired, unattractive and dated, with a real need for improvement and enhancement. As members, through familiarity, we may ignore these shortcomings but they are certainly seen by visitors and prospective new members. Our club house is noticeably inferior to that of our immediate competitors. We now seek to address some of those shortcomings.

The plan is to spread the renovation over several years, so that we do not make financial commitments beyond that which we can afford at any one time. We will commence by addressing those areas of the Club House identified by your committees as most in need of refurbishment.

In the first phase, to be completed over the next 5 months, we will be working on the Bar, the Function Room, the Ladies and Gents Locker Room toilets, the Gents shower area, the entrance  and inner lobbies and the Bar toilets. The project team have identified the key areas to address and drawn on experience and advice from specialists in design and building to develop a coherent plan that identifies a total solution and seeks to address some of our inherent shortcomings, whilst seeking to retain the essential attractive elements that we have at present. We will, as a result, have a Club House that is contemporary, convivial, attractive and affordable.

We will commence work in January (and possibly in December for the toilet improvements) and seek to complete the work by the end of February. We will ensure that important social diary events are not unduly impacted by the work.

The project will cost £75,000, which will be fully funded from existing funds, without using the “reserve fund” established through the sale of land in 2008, or diverting money from the course development fund. We have been asked by members where the cash has come from, given the financial difficulties experienced in 2007. As we reported in the 2008 accounts, our financial position was significantly improved by the action taken to increase membership numbers, improve Bar and Restaurant profitability and increase green fee revenue. This action increased revenues in 2008 by nearly £100,000 and whilst expenditure has been increased, most notably on the course, we were able to report an operating profit, after tax of £18,000.

The cash inflows from the operating profit and the land sale were further supplemented by prudent control of our capital spend so our cash position was improved in 2008 by £154,000. Our cash management through 2009 has been good so that our cash fund is further supplemented. This provides the confidence that this project, together with the programme for course improvement, set out in the Course Action Plan, can be fully funded from existing funds.

The immediate plan addresses those aspects of the Club House in most urgent need of attention. As we continue to generate cash from our operations, so further funds will be available in future years to refurnish and re-carpet the bar and to refit out our locker rooms. Plans will be developed and discussed for these projects in due course.

For now, our attention is focussed on successfully delivering on Phase 1.

Regards

Jim McCarthy,

Chairman of Management                                                                           

20^th November 2009.

Monday 21 September 2009

Kenilworth Ladies Team played extremely well to overcome all opposition at The Welcome Golf Club at Stratford Upon Avon to win the Warwickshire County Inter Club Championship.

The victorious team included: 

Liz Brown - Team Captain
Maggie Smith
Alison Seymour Mead
Lyn Harrison
Christine Hurcomb
Pat Eden
Val Cushing

All played exceptionally well and thoroughly deserved a marvellous victory.

A majestic win by Kenilworth by six matches to four in the 58th year of the annual home and away match against Llandridnod  Wells played in glorious autumn sunshine on Sunday 12th September. Our Welsh friends apparently succumbed to the balmy Kenilworth climate and the vagaries of the many watering holes of Leamington Spa and Warwick the previous evening....and thus the inevitable defeat followed.! Winning Captain David Elbourn clutches the prized shield and embraces the Welsh Captain Graham Glover -West. Other notable dignitaries in attendance included President of Llandridnod, Bernard Davies.KGC chairman Jim McCarthy, Mike Carrick,Past Presidents Ron Saywell and Bob Holland and a plethora of Past Captains and KGC notables

On Tuesday Bill Murdoch and family, very generously, again hosted the annual Margaret Murdoch competition for the Ladies of Kenilworth.  Despite the heavy rain, 73 members enthusiastically challenged for the opportunity to win the wonderful 'Quiache Cup' donated, by the family,in memory of Margaret - who was a very popular Ladies' Captain.

This year, the grandchildren were fully involved with Callum speaking to the assembled ladies and Clarrie, Archie and Ellie presenting some of the prizes.

The course held up well to the conditions and some good scores were achieved by the ladies.

The oustanding winner was Liz Brown with 39 Stableford points. Dawn Logue in second place (33pts back 9) pipped the long time club house leader, Judith Matthews(33pts) third. Catherine Midgley(32pts back 6), fourth, edged out Anne Evans(32pts), fifth.  Nearest the Pin on the 7th was won by our present Ladies' Captain, Lyn Harrison (9ft 8 ins) and Nina Noon won the 'Straightest Drive' on the 12th hole.

The day was rounded off with a most enjoyable evening meal in the clubhouse restaurant with fond memories  of Margaret being exchanged by one and all.

Ladies' M&C

32 couples competed in the annual Morton Cup mixed foursomes medal.  The winners were Jean Keeling & Glenn Coleman with a net 69 by virtue of a better back nine, with John & Dawn Logue in runners up position also with a 69 and Cecilia & Richard Lane in 3rd place with a net 71.  Best gross prize went to Caroline Durbin and Ben Hammond.

Bob Harrison and Ian Jones lifted the President's Cup at the club on Sunday.
The duo amassed 46 points to win the greensome stableford competition which was hosted by Mike Carrick who kindly provided some Spanish treats at the halfway house.
Jim McCarthy and David Muir finished runners-up with 45 points, while Stephen Price and Stuart Harrison were third by virtue of a better back nine than Martin Bradley and David Edgeller after both pairs scored 44 points.

An intrepid band of 33 players from Kenilworth GC made their annual pilgrimmage to Llandrindrod Wells Golf Club at the weekend of 20th/21st June.
President Mike Carrick and captain David Elbourn headed the travelling party in a long established fixture which has been played for some 62-years. Players from both clubs competed in a stableford competition for the Les Williams Trophy on Saturday, before the two clubs went head-to-head in a team event on Sunday.
The Welshmen certainly made the most of home advantage with Leon Taberner lifting the Les Williams Trophy by amassing 39 points. The prize for top Kenilworth golfer went to John Butler who scored 38 points.
Llandrindrod Wells won the team event 11.5-5.5 and retained the shield.
Kenilworth will be aiming for revenge in the return match at Crewe Lane in September.

DAVE EDGELLER emerged triumphant in the Captain’s Day competition at Kenilworth Golf Club on Saturday 13th June.

Edgeller amassed an excellent 45 points to finish overall winner and top of the C Division from Kevin White 44 and Ollie Pearman 43.

The A Division winner was Philip Chatten with 41 points who just edged out Martin Bradley 40 and Craig Owen 39.

Countback was required to determine the outcome of the B Division with Neil Hubbard pipping vice-captain Richard Joyce and James Leggitt after all three golfers scored 43 points.

Gary Knight posted the best gross score of 74, while nearest the pin winners were Andrew Watts (7th), Sam O’Sullivan (10th) and Malcolm Young (18th).

Captain David Elbourn was the genial host and provided welcome refreshments for the 199 golfers at the halfway house

In form Nuneaton golfer Andy Sullivan beat a high quality field to add the Kenilworth Classic to his already impressive tally of wins this year.

Some 50 golfers from 30 different clubs across the UK contested the ever popular event and Sullivan, currently playing off a plus 3 handicap, returned gross scores of 66 and 67 for a nine under par total of 133 around a challenging Crewe Lane course.

A member of the England Golf squad for several years and a losing semi-finalist in the 2008 British Amateur Championship at Turnberry, Sullivan has already won several significant events in 2009.

These include the Midlands Closed Championship against the top players from all 10 Midlands Counties, the Warwickshire Amateur Stroke Play Championship (by 3 strokes - which included 29 for the last 9 holes at Olton in the morning round) and, most recently, his successful defence of the Warwickshire Amateur Match Play Championship where his combination of power and finesse were simply too much for any of his opponents.

Sullivan clinched the Kenilworth Classic title by six strokes from Shirley’s Jamie Carney (70 and 69) while John Chamberlain (Cold Ashby) finished third with 140 (71 and 69).

A total of 13 prizes with a total value approaching £1,800 were presented by event sponsor Bob Taylor and Kenilworth club captain David Elbourn.

Sullivan now turns his attention to the Open Championship qualifying event at Coventry Golf Club on June 24.

Classic presentation. From the left - David Elbourn (Kenilworth GC captain), Andy Sullivan, Bob Taylor (sponsor) and Nick Wright (Kenilworth GC match and competitions chairman).

The organisers would like to thank all those that took part in this event which raised a magnificent £898.50.

The Family Foundation was setup to help provide financial support to the parents of talented young golfers playing the game to a high level and participating in recognised regional, national or international events.  Presently, the Family Foundation is able to provide assistance with competition entry fees, overnight accommodation, travel and subsistence expenses.  

If any member know of  deserving recipients that they wish to propose, then they should contact Barrie James, Richard Lane or Graham Wright. Any contacts can be in confidence.

Last year's Club Captain, Alan Pulham and Ladies’ captain. Ann Saywell, adopted the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance as their chosen charity for their year in office.

In the previous year the Air Ambulance had made two life saving visits to Kenilworth Golf Club and it offered the perfect opportunity to say thank you. Members were generous in their support and the captains collected £6,400.

Six Kenilworth members, including club president Mike Carrick, have just returned from a memorable links golfing trip to the West of Ireland.

The courses played were Carne, Enniscrone and Strandhill. Carne and Enniscrone are two of Ireland’s top championship links, while Strandhill, also links, is described as the hidden jewel of the west. The weather was blissful and the skylarks were in full voice all week. The other members of the party were Mike and Tony Rossborough, Barry Flick, Terry Bamford and Patrick Fleming.

Happy Band - sun over the yardarm

The party was collected from Knock Airport by local minibus man Shamie Kenny, who was contracted for the week. We stayed at Crockets-on-the-Quay in Ballina, where the healthy breakfast option was an excellent and substantial fry-up, with plenty of toast and soda bread.

Typical links country - Enniscrone 16th

Our President enjoyed courtesy of the golf courses and responded by giving us a big treat on the last day, of which more later. It is not necessary to dwell on the golf, other than to say that getting off the mown stuff was probably a lost ball and a drive down the middle would probably not be found on the line on which it was hit. The rough on those links courses is never touched, which is all part of the charm.

Golf apart, a highlight of the trip was Jack Charlton walking up to us in Paddy Jordan’s Bar in Ballina one evening and chatting away for ages. He was there for the Mayfly, fishing for trout and salmon on Lough Conn and on the River Moy. In fact, Jack only ever went to Ireland for the fishing, although he did get talked into managing the football team and took them to two World Cups. He wanders round happily like one of the boys, with nobody making a fuss of him.

The President - Lord Kenilworth to the locals!

We mustn’t forget to mention The President’s Treat, which was a piloted boat trip on Killala Bay on our last morning. We saw herons, cormorants, various waders and dozens of fat seals lying on the sandbanks, or feasting on the salmon. Our reveries were interrupted by running onto a sandbank, at full speed, in the middle of the channel!! Terry’s comfy chair got smashed to smithereens while the rest of us, shaken but unbowed, held on. After much co-ordinated rocking, we came free of the sandbank and on our way again. The harbour of Ballina was a welcome sight, Declan said good bye, Shamie was ready to load us up, and we headed back to Knock Airport for the bmibaby flight to Birmingham.

This tale would not be complete without a few photos (none of St. Jack unfortunately, but then he’s just one of the lads), but please enjoy the ones we have.

Trip dates were: Mon 18th to Fri 22nd May 2009.

The English Golf Union and the English Woman's Golf Association are to launch a system that will identify the competitive nature of an individual. Approved and supported by CONGU the "Inactive / Active Handicap" will identify by the use of an indicator whether an individual has competed in qualifying competitions and as a result returned information on their playing ability.

The system will be launched in January 2010, but requires players to have submitted at least 3 qualifying scores (including Supplementary Scores, Extra Medals, 9 Hole Extra Medals and Away scores) during the calendar year 2009 if they wish to avoid an inactive handicap for 2010.

Qualifying scores of less than 3 are not permitted to be carried over from one year to the next (no topping up) e.g. 1 score in the current year and 2 in the next year. Non Returns in a qualifying competition will not be accepted as part of the 3 qualifying scores.

Those members not meeting the requirements will automatically be identified by with an "I" (inactive) on any handicap certificate or handicap list published by CONGU. This situation is reversed on a member fulfilling the requirements above. Example: 12(I).

An inactive (I) handicap can still be used for social golf and those competitions for which an active status is not an entry condition.

KGC have not yet decided on whether to impose an entry condition that requires an active handicap for specific competitions Club or Opens and none will apply during 2009. Irrespective of that decision all members will be allowed entry into qualifying competitions to provide as much opportunity for the removal of the inactive (I) handicap. 

KGC will be permitted to exempt players from an inactive (I) handicap for injury/illness that has prevented them submitting the required number of scores during the calendar year, this will also apply to transferring members who have submitted cards at another club and new members entering the club and are being issued with their first CONGU handicap.

Any member falling into these categories should advise M&C before

30th  November 2009.

 You may well be asking yourself what are the benefits of the system.

• Firstly it will enable event organisers to run competitions, both Club and Opens, without the fear of players entering with "false" handicaps.
• The system should encourage more individuals to submit qualify scores, thus improving the accuracy of member's handicaps throughout England.
• Following monitoring and review of the number of scores required to maintain an active handicap it may be possible to review Clause 25 (Lapsing of Handicaps) of the Unified Handicapping System.

 Further information is available on the EGU & EWGA website (www.englishgolfunion.org) or (www.englishwomensgolf.org)

or  email M&C -  comps@kenilworthgolfclub.co.uk

Match & Competitions

04/02/09