Aussie "journeyman" 37 year old Sam Brazel, made his dream come true with a win in last week's Hong Kong Open. Beating off Rafa Cabrera Bello with a birdie at the last. The Aussie now has won the right to play on the European Tour for the next three seasons. It was nip and tuck throughout the last round with 4 players tied for the lead at one point. But an "average" shot down the last with a perfect outcome got Brazel over the line. He sees it as a privilege to play in Europe and can`t wait for the next event. It will be interesting to see how he does, "good on ya" for the win mate.
The golf season is just about over so here are my thoughts for the year...
Win of the year... Henrik Stenson, The Open, Royal Troon and Dustin Johnson, US Open, Oakmont Tough to split these as both players gave everything all week and got the job done.
Best swing of 2016... Rafa Cabrero Bello, the Spaniard makes it look oh so easy.
Shot of the year... Henrik Stenson's bomb on the 71st green to ease the pressure up the last at Troon.
Newcomer of the year... Essex Boy, Matt Southgate, a great season for the big man from Thorpe Hall, some excellent finishes in illustrious company. Let's hope there is more for 2017.
Surprise win of 2016... Danny Willett, US Master. The Yorkshireman played with big balls down the back nine Sunday when required.
Probably never gonna win one... Sergio Garcia, the likeable Spaniard has cost me a fortune again this season in the Majors. Time to park my money elsewhere I think.
Potential Major Winner for 2017... Tiger Woods, only kidding! How about Brooks Koepka or Alex Noren?
Nice to have you back... Tiger Woods, finally returns to the game after back surgery.
Biggest loss to golf... Arnold Palmer, say no more.
Worst decision by a player... Danny Willetts withdrawal from the World Cup team and then Lee Westwood getting the elbow because of it. Or was it all the players who avoided the Olympic Games?
Next year golf looks full of optimism and exciting possibilities. I hope you have the same thoughts about your own game. Remember you are only one swing away from your best. If you require any help, you know where I am and these next few months would be the time to make those improvements...
Getting fitted is a must
For those of you out there considering changing clubs for the new season, please don`t just buy them off the shelf. This is hopefully a timely reminder that each part of the club needs to be bespoke to you personally, that is
A Head style
B. Shaft flex, weight and material
C. Grip thickness and material.
Without getting these to suit, there will always be a doubt that the product being used just might not allow you to hit the best shots possible. For those who do not realise we of course custom fit all clubs, woods, irons, wedges and putters, with the aid of our GC2 launch monitor and N flight technology.
Along with this we use the Mizuno DNA fitting system which will advise in just 3 swings! So get in touch and let me help you get more from your game.
We are also a PING fitting centre so you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to getting fitted for the hightest quality equipment on the market at Orsett GC.
This weekend is every sports persons TV programme they look forward to all year, Sports Personality of the Year. It is fun to look back over the years sporting events and achievements. Of course the sports stars who are in the running have all been announced. Should we be looking any further than the other side of the net for the winner in Andy Murray? Wimbledon Champion again, World No 1 for the first time, umpteen consecutive wins and actually a personality! Other nominees have had a great year too, the cycling Kenny's, Max Whitlock, Nick Skelton, the Brownlees, but do we ever hear them speak and interact with the public? It will still be good viewing whatever the outcome. Let's take Murray out the betting and let's have your prediction for the winner.
Hope you have a wonderful Christmas, thanks for your input this year. See you all in the New Year. If there is anything you would like us to cover a little more next year, rules, shots, clubs, please get in touch.
