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Golf is a sport that demands a combination of skill, precision, and physical fitness. While refining your swing technique is crucial, maintaining overall fitness plays a significant role in improving your performance on the golf course. 

In this blog, we’ll explore a series of exercises suggested to enhance both your swing mechanics and stamina, ensuring you’re in top form for every round.

Core Strengthening:

• A strong core is fundamental to a powerful and controlled golf swing. Incorporate exercises such as planks, Russian twists, and leg raises to target and strengthen your core muscles. A stable core provides the foundation for a more consistent and efficient swing.

Flexibility Training:

• Golf requires a full range of motion, especially in the shoulders, hips, and spine. Regular stretching exercises like shoulder rolls, hip flexor stretches, and torso rotations can improve flexibility and allow for a smoother, more fluid swing.

Cardiovascular Conditioning:

• Endurance is key to maintaining focus and precision throughout a round of golf. Engage in cardiovascular activities such as jogging, cycling, or brisk walking to enhance stamina. Improved cardiovascular fitness contributes to sustained energy levels during your time on the course.

Leg Strength Exercises:

• A powerful golf swing originates from the legs. Squats, lunges, and calf raises can help build strength in the lower body, providing stability and generating the necessary force for an effective swing.

Balance and Stability Workouts:

• Golf involves maintaining balance and stability throughout various phases of the swing. Incorporate exercises like single-leg stands, stability ball exercises, and balance board drills to enhance your proprioception and stability on the course.

Achieving peak performance on the golf course requires a holistic approach that goes beyond mastering the mechanics of your swing. By incorporating these golf-specific fitness exercises into your routine, you can enhance your overall physical conditioning, leading to improved swing mechanics, increased stamina, and a more enjoyable golfing experience. Remember, a well-rounded fitness regimen is a valuable companion to your golf practice, contributing to both your athletic performance and overall well-being.

As the new year unfolds, golfers around the world set their sights on fresh challenges and opportunities to improve their game. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting on your golfing journey, these New Year’s resolutions will help you step onto the fairways with renewed enthusiasm and purpose in 2024.

 1. Master the Mental Game:

Resolve to cultivate a positive mindset on the course. Embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and focus on the joy of the game. A strong mental game is often the key to unlocking your full potential.

2. Commit to Consistent Practice:

Dedicate regular time to practise and refine your skills. Whether it’s hitting balls at the driving range, working on your short game, or fine-tuning your putting technique, consistent practice breeds improvement.

3. Embrace Fitness for Performance:

Make fitness a priority to enhance your overall golf performance. Strengthening core muscles, improving flexibility, and maintaining cardiovascular health can contribute to increased power, endurance, and injury prevention.

4. Set Realistic Performance Goals:

Define achievable goals for your golfing journey. Whether it’s lowering your handicap, consistently hitting fairways, or mastering a challenging aspect of your game, setting realistic targets provides motivation and direction.

5. Expand Your Golfing Knowledge:

Make a resolution to deepen your understanding of the game. Stay updated on rule changes, explore different course strategies, and learn from the experiences of seasoned players. Knowledge is a valuable asset on the golf course.

6. Build a Golfing Community:

Foster connections with fellow golf enthusiasts. Join a local golf club, participate in tournaments, or engage in online golf communities. Building a supportive network of fellow golfers can add enjoyment to your golfing journey.

7. Prioritise Self-Care:

Recognize the importance of rest and recovery. Ensure you get adequate sleep, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. A well-rested and rejuvenated golfer is better equipped to face the challenges of the course.

8. Celebrate Small Victories:

Acknowledge and celebrate every improvement, no matter how small. Golf is a journey of continuous learning and growth, and recognising your progress fosters a positive and motivated mindset.

As you embark on a new year of golfing adventures, these resolutions provide a roadmap for personal and skill development. Whether you’re aiming for a single-digit handicap or simply seeking to enjoy the game more fully, these commitments will guide you toward success on and off the fairways. Here’s to a year filled with birdies, eagles, and unforgettable moments on the golf course!

Mastering Your Short Game in Cooler Months

As the leaves start to fall and temperatures drop, golfers face the challenge of adapting their game to the changing conditions. While driving distance might be affected by the cooler weather, this time of year presents an excellent opportunity to focus on an essential aspect of golf: the short game. In this blog, we’ll explore why honing your putting skills during this season is not only beneficial but can also lead to improved performance in the long run.

The Importance of the Short Game:

The short game, which encompasses putting, chipping, and pitching, constitutes a significant portion of a golfer’s overall performance. In fact, many professional golfers credit their success to a strong short game. During cooler months, when courses might be damp or have slower greens, a sharp short game can make all the difference in achieving lower scores.

Tips for Effective Putting:

• Adapt to the Greens: With potentially wetter conditions, the greens might be a bit slower. Adjust your putting stroke to accommodate for this. Practice on the putting green to get a feel for the speed.
• Invest in Quality Equipment: Ensure your putter is well-suited for the conditions. Consider a putter with a slightly heavier head, which can provide more stability on wet or slow greens.
• Focus on Alignment: Proper alignment is crucial for successful putts. Take your time to set up correctly, ensuring your eyes are directly over the ball and the putter face is square to the target.
• Practise Different Distances: Work on putts of varying lengths to build confidence and accuracy. Focus on short putts for consistency and long putts to develop a better feel for distance.

Utilising Chipping and Pitching:

• Mastering the Wedge: You may find yourself faced with more opportunities for pitch shots due to slightly damp conditions. Hone your skills with a variety of wedge shots to adapt to different lies.
• Chipping Techniques: With leaves potentially covering the ground, precision chipping becomes even more critical. Practice controlling your distance and trajectory to navigate around obstacles.

The Benefits of Putting Practice:

• Improved Confidence: A strong short game breeds confidence on the course. Knowing you can rely on your putting skills can positively impact your overall game.
• Lower Scores: A solid short game can lead to fewer strokes per round. Mastering putting, chipping, and pitching can significantly impact your final scorecard.

Now offers a unique opportunity to fine-tune your putting, chipping, and pitching skills. By focusing on the short game during this season, you can enhance your overall golf performance. Embrace the challenge, invest in quality practice time, and watch as your game reaches new heights. Remember, the journey to becoming a better golfer is a continuous one, and mastering the short game is a significant step in that direction.

When the days grow shorter and the air a bit crisper, many golfers tend to hang up their clubs until fairer weather returns. However, for those with a passion for the game, there’s a world of opportunity waiting in the off-season. Transitioning from a fair-weather golfer to an all-season pro can be a refreshing journey, opening up new challenges and experiences on the course. Let’s explore how to embrace the elements and master the transition for year-round golfing success.

1. Gear Up for the Season

The first step in becoming an all-season golfer is ensuring you have the right equipment. Invest in quality cold-weather gear, including thermal base layers, waterproof outerwear, and specialised winter golf gloves. Additionally, consider adding winter-specific golf balls to your arsenal for improved performance in colder conditions.

2. Course Management in Changing Conditions

Embracing the elements means adapting your gameplay to different weather scenarios. In winter, the ball may not travel as far due to denser air, and wet fairways can affect ball movement. Adjust your club selection and approach to account for these changes, and practise your shots in various weather conditions to build confidence.

3. Mastering Mental Toughness

Playing golf in less-than-ideal conditions requires a strong mental game. Stay focused, remain patient, and adopt a positive attitude towards the challenges posed by the weather. A resilient mindset can be your greatest asset in mastering the transition to year-round golfing.

4. Utilise Technology to Your Advantage

Take advantage of golf technology designed for all-season play. Consider using all-weather golf gloves, which provide superior grip even in wet conditions. Additionally, invest in golf footwear with excellent traction to maintain stability on damp or slippery surfaces.

5. Hone Your Skills at the Driving Range or Take Lessons

Maximise your off-season by refining your skills at St Ives (Hunts) Golf Course’s driving range. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, dedicated practice can make all the difference. Consider booking lessons with our expert instructors who can provide personalised guidance to help you elevate your game. With top-notch facilities and professional guidance, you’ll be on your way to becoming a year-round golfing sensation.

Transitioning from a fair-weather golfer to an all-season pro is a journey that promises to broaden your skills, deepen your love for the game, and introduce you to a new world of golfing experiences. By gearing up appropriately, adapting your gameplay, maintaining a strong mental game, utilising technology, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts, you’ll not only survive but thrive in the off-season. Embrace the challenge, and you’ll undoubtedly reap the rewards of year-round golfing success. Get out there and enjoy the course, no matter the weather!

As the Christmas party season approaches, St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club is gearing up to spread the festive cheer with our highly anticipated Christmas Party Nights! From November 30th to December 22nd, get ready to embark on a merry journey filled with good company, great music, and delicious cuisine.

A Feast Fit for the Season: Our Christmas Party Nights promise a culinary experience that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the season. Indulge in a delectable three-course menu that offers a delightful mix of traditional festive favorites and specially curated options. From succulent roasts to flavourful vegetarian dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. And let’s not forget the grand finale – an array of tempting desserts that will leave you wanting more!

Dance the Night Away with DJ Orv: The atmosphere will be electrified with the beats of DJ Orv, ensuring that you’ll be on your feet and grooving in no time. Whether you’re a dance floor pro or just looking to let loose, our Christmas Party Nights are designed for everyone to revel in the joy of the season.

Private Events Tailored to You: Looking to host a private event for your team or group of friends? We’re here to make it a memorable affair. Contact us to arrange your bespoke Christmas Party Night, where we’ll work with you to create an experience that suits your preferences and ensures a night to remember.

Reserve Your Spot Today: To ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic festive celebration, simply reach out to us via email at [email protected]. Our team will be more than happy to assist you in securing your spot. If you’re looking for a private hire evening, get in touch and we’ll be happy to arrange this for you. 

Join us at St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club for a festive celebration that promises great food, fantastic company, and memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to welcome you into our holiday wonderland!

If you’re passionate about golf and looking for a thriving golfing community, look no further than St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club! With strong membership offerings and a wide range of benefits, our club caters to players of all ages and abilities.

Membership Options

Our club offers a comprehensive range of membership options, ensuring that each golfer’s needs and preferences are met. From flexible schemes that allow you to pay only when you play, to reduced fees for younger players and distant golfers, or unlimited golf with all the perks of club membership, we have a plan tailored just for you.

For those keen to support and nurture the future of golf, we offer heavily discounted membership rates for our Junior golfers in full-time education and those under the age of 18.

Membership Benefits

As a member of St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club, you will enjoy an array of benefits, including:

• Participating in a variety of club competitions and social fixtures against other clubs in the County/Region.
• Unwinding with fellow members and guests in our comfortable clubhouse, offering full bar and catering services, along with regular social events.
• A Membership Card providing a 15% discount on all beverage purchases.
• Full access to our exceptional 18-hole course, outstanding practice facilities, and a floodlit Driving Range.

Find Your Perfect Membership

Discover which membership category aligns best with your lifestyle and requirements by completing our membership selector. With your preferences in mind, we’ll send you a personalised membership recommendation straight to your inbox.

Enquire Today

If you have any questions or require further information about membership, our General Manager, Thomas Munt, would be delighted to assist you. He’ll be more than happy to show you around our superb facilities at the club.

Call James Hart at 01480 499920 (Option 1) or Email us at [email protected]

Spread the Cost – 0% Interest

We want to make membership accessible for all. That’s why we offer the option to spread the cost of your membership over 10 months at 0% interest. Embrace the joy of golfing without financial strain.

Enquiry Form

For further information or to make an enquiry, please complete the form on our website. We’ll get back to you promptly to assist with any queries you may have.

Join us at St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club and become part of a thriving golfing community. Experience the thrill of golf in a picturesque setting with friendly members and outstanding facilities. We look forward to welcoming you!

Visit our website and fill out the enquiry form to get started.

Don’t wait! The greens are calling, and we can’t wait to see you shine on the course! 

Are you on the lookout for the perfect venue to host your upcoming event in a truly stunning location? Look no further than St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club! Our clubhouse is more than just a venue – it’s a breathtaking setting that offers uninterrupted, awe-inspiring views of the golf course. Imagine celebrating your special moments with a backdrop that will leave you and your guests speechless.

Our clubhouse is available for private hire, catering to a wide range of events to make your day nothing short of unforgettable. Whether it’s a grand wedding, an intimate baby shower, a joyous christening, a glamorous gala dinner, a milestone birthday bash, or a festive Christmas party, we’ve got you covered. Our goal is not only to be one of the finest golf venues in the East of England, but also your go-to destination for creating unforgettable memories.

Picture exchanging vows against the backdrop of panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Imagine celebrating birthdays and special occasions while immersed in the natural beauty of our surroundings. The possibilities are endless, and we’re here to help you bring your vision to life.

No matter the scale of your event, our team is dedicated to ensuring that every detail is meticulously planned and executed. We understand that each event is unique, and we take pride in offering a space that can be tailored to suit your individual preferences and requirements.

Ready to transform your event into a truly magical experience? Get in touch with us today to learn more about our venue hire options and to start planning your unforgettable event. Reach out to us at Tel: 01480 499920 or visit our website at https://www.stivesgolfclub.co.uk/. Let’s create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime!

#StIvesGolfClub #GolfClub #CambridgeshireGolf #VenueHire #Weddings #Birthday #Christening #BabyShower #Cambridgeshire #StIvesCambs

Are you ready to join us on an exciting sporting adventure with St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club? We have fantastic news for all sports enthusiasts and those seeking a fresh, exhilarating experience. Get ready to ‘padel’ into a new era of fun as Game4Padel is set to arrive at St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club! We’re thrilled to announce that we are hoping to host the first padel tennis facility in Cambridgeshire, and one of only a few in the country. It’s time to get excited about this fast-growing sport that’s taking the UK by storm. 

What is Padel? Padel is a dynamic racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, played on a smaller court with solid paddles and a depressurised tennis ball. It offers a unique blend of strategy, skill, and physicality that will keep you on your toes and craving for more. With its fast-paced gameplay and thrilling rallies, paddle tennis is an absolute delight for players of all ages and skill levels.

We’re proud to bring Padel to St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club with our partners at Game4Padel, marking the beginning of a new era of sporting excitement in our community. This state-of-the-art paddle tennis facility is set to revolutionise the way we play and enjoy sports. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, padel offers a vibrant, inclusive environment that will leave you wanting more.

The arrival of padel at St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club is a game-changer, and we can’t wait to unveil this exciting addition to our sports offerings (subject to planning). Whether you’re a golf enthusiast looking to expand your horizons or someone who simply loves trying new sports, padel is an experience you won’t want to miss. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates, as we’ll be sharing further details, including launch dates, registration information, and special events. Get ready to unleash your competitive spirit, make new connections, and enjoy exhilarating moments on the padel court.

Day 1

The sun shone brightly as competitors arrived at the St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club  for the 74th County Championship, first held in 1950 and played for every year since. It was a special occasion for the St Ives Golf Club to host this prestigious event in their Centenary year.

Course Manager Rob Duff and his staff prepared a course in excellent condition, especially the putting surfaces which were praised by the players throughout the two day Championship. The rough was up and to be avoided at all costs and hitting fairways was a priority with the firm approaches to greens.

As the scores from the 1st round started coming in, it was evident that the golf course was winning the battle. The best of the early starters was Ross Wilson with a one over par score of 73. Ross held the lead for some time before young Sam Marshall of the St Neots Golf Club came in with a level par round of 72.

Former champion Owen Cousins, also of St Neots showed his undoubted class by racing to   4 under par after only 6 holes. Unfortunately he couldn’t maintain this but still came in tied for the lead on 72.

It only remained for the defending champion Jake Plumb of Gog Magog to spread eagle the field, returning a 69 which included 6 birdies. Jake recently finished 4th in the Brabazon Trophy at Sunningdale and 8th in the Lagonda Trophy at Gog Magog. In August this year he goes to college in the USA on a golf scholarship.

The warm breeze strengthened in the afternoon and it was very hot for the players who were provided with water at the halfway point and by the referees on buggies.  

James McLaughlin of Ely City backed up his morning 74 with a two under round of 70 to take the lead in the afternoon with 144. He was joined on this score by Sam Marshall with two steady rounds of 72.

Leader Jake, after birdieing two of his first 5 holes went on a disastrous run, with 2 double bogeys and 2 bogeys in his next 4 holes. Three more dropped shots on the back nine saw him finish with a disappointing 79 and a day one total of 148 which left him 4 strokes off the lead but still in contention.

Owen Cousins joined Plumb on 148 and was still very much in contention, along with another 6 competitors who were within 6 strokes of the leaders.

The cut came at a very high 164 where 28 competitors made it to the final day.

The winner of the January Cup, awarded for the best net score on the Saturday was Mark Todd of the home club with 150-4=146.

Day 2.

One player dropped out with sun stroke before round 3 commenced on the Sunday morning so it was left to the 27 remaining competitors to battle it out for the Championship.

It was going to be another scorcher as the competitors teed off for the 3rd round. Early leader in the clubhouse was Simon Crick of the home club who returned a splendid 70, which contained 2 birdies and 16 pars, for a total of +4 for the tournament.

Disaster struck for Matt Pearce of Ely City on the final hole after hole scores of 3,4,4,3,4,3,3,4 on the back nine he unfortunately took 8 at the last for a 73.

The leader going into the final round was James McLaughlin of Ely City who followed his 74, 70 with a 71 for a total of -1.

James narrowly missed out on the County title in 2021 when he finished runner up to Ed Dimambro at the Gog Magog Old Course.

He held a commanding lead of 4 strokes from 16 year old Sam Marshall of St Neots.

Four players shared 3rd place on +4 namely Danny Loveday, Owen Cousins, Paul Hodgkin and Simon Crick. A shot further back was the defending champion Jake Plumb.

The final round started with fireworks from Sam with 5 birdies in his first 7 holes and at this point he shared the lead with James. Disaster struck for James at the 9th hole where he ran up a triple bogey 7 after visiting the water.

This left Sam with a two strokes lead going into the final 9 holes. James pulled one back birdieing the 11th and they scored the same until they reached the 72nd hole with Sam holding a slender lead of 1 stroke.

Sam putted up almost stone lead for his par and watched in disbelief as James holed a 20 foot birdie putt to take the Championship into extra holes.

The 4 hole play saw some excellent recovery shots with James moving ahead after a birdie 4 on the 11th. The highlight being Sam’s recovery shot from deep rough on the 17th hole to make his par. This was followed by James’s miraculous par on the final hole where he twice only just avoided the lake and ended with another long putt which gave him the Championship by just one stroke. 

James was over the moon in getting his first County Championship finally in the bag, earned not only by his fine play, but in his tenacious, dogged desire to win.

Young Sam would have been very disappointed to lose out due to the brilliant putts by James on the 18th hole but a super final round of 68 followed by level par in the play off, just shows what a fine golfer he is and what an exciting future he could have in golf.

The Championship Shield was won by the St Neots Golf Club, represented by Sam Marshall, Danny Loveday, and Andrew Grimwood.

The under 21 prize was won by 16 year old Sam Arthur, the son of former champion Karl, and the Senior prize by Robert Setchell of the Ely City Golf Club

All of the Championship scores can be found at the CAGU Website.

Our thanks must go to the St Ives Golf Club for their tremendous support during this championship, especially Club Captain Michael Smith whose enthusiasm was infectious! 

Michael helped out with the starting on day 1 and the live scoring on day 2.

A special mention for the clubhouse staff for their friendly helpful service at the bar and the lovely food over the two days.

Also, a special mention for Titleist and FootJoy for their much valued support of this Championship.

A comprehensive gallery of photographs of the Championship can be found at the website Kevin Diss Photography.Next year’s Championship will take place at the Links, Newmarket Golf Club on 8/9 June.

Neil Hughes

CAGU Director of Championships