Having just returned from the 2014 Golf Show at Harrogate, I thought I would share a few in sights as to the importance of my attendance as a PGA Professional for my clients, members and own self development.

This was the first time I had been to Harrogate so had no expectations except to make time to visit Betty’s Tea room! I did just have enough time to purchase a cake and run down the hill to make the Teaching Conference in time. (highly recommended)

I feel as the Head Teaching Professional at Three Rivers Golf Club it is vital to keep up to date with all the latest technology including club advancements, clothing, new manufactures and products which will assist both my members and clients. I am always updating and learning information which maybe as simple as one different method to ensure my information is relayed in the most effective way to my clients when coaching. It is also vital to meet with current contacts within the industry, I did not realise how many and long I have been in the world of golf!

My first seminar was delivered by a gentleman called Fredrik Tuxen who is the world leader in Trackman, a 3D radar tracking club movement, spin and ball flight. It is a highly valuable piece of equipment which is used extensively in club fitting with many of the Ryder Cup team possessing one! It is amazing how when I look back to my old persimmon woods verses the new high tech materials and positioning of the centre of gravity combined with the most suitable golf ball can really assist the player.

The key note speaker this year was Dave Pelz the renowned short game guru to Phil Mickelson for 12 years, he spent 4 hours explaining his philosophies of both putting and wedge play then showed us slides of the most amazing “back yard” we had  ever seen. He would spend every minute he could practicing and experimenting with his 3 x 4 system, showing some 200 attendees his two chip in!

Dave Pelz talking “Apex”

I was delighted to visit my friends at Lynx Golf who will be our major hardware stockists for this coming season. I loved their vibrant stand to colour co-ordinate with their new line of trolleys and wood shafts. The Company have fast become one of the most Pro active in the market and are heavily involved with ladies golf. Their range of equipment is quality merchandise with a competitive price tag. Look out for our custom fit day early 2015 for men and women. Lynx Golf were my first club suppliers on the Ladies European Tour in the mid 90s!

Lynx Golf at Harrogate

Take a look on my “shop” on my website for my  Greensleeves  which will mean no more muddy towels especially with winter approaching fast, this is another golf product and company  I have high regard who have supported my Help for Heroes and Canine Partner charity days.

Looking good at Greensleeve Golf

It was a full two days meeting with many old friends in the industry and some new ones but the highlight was the 2 hr wait for the train at Leeds station, the only table available was in the station pub with the music blaring out, there I was with my teaching diary booking lessons!!! What about technology….On line lesson booking next!!!!!