WINTER COURSE PROTECTION MEASURES – PRESERVING PLAYABILITY AND QUALITY
Winter Course Protection Measures Preserving Playability and Quality New Rules for Course Usage Winter 2025/26 Effective from Monday, 17 November As we approach the winter season, it becomes increasingly important to implement protective measures that help preserve the quality and playability of our golf courses. Wet and cold conditions decrease growth and accelerate wear and tear, particularly in high-traffic areas. Without proactive management, this can lead to long-term damage that affects both aesthetics and recovery as the season resumes in 2026. To ensure the course remains in the best possible condition throughout the winter months, we will be introducing the following control measures: Increased Use of Posts and Ropes: These will direct foot and trolley traffic away from vulnerable areas, especially around greens and tees. Fairways will also be roped off on a rotating basis to enable greater recovery. All posts and ropes to be treated as movable obstructions, which can be replaced after playing a stroke. Electric Trolley Restrictions: Electric trolleys will be subject to a 90-degree rule, requiring users to walk directly to their ball from the fairway edge, rather than following it along the fairway. Regular pull trolleys will be permitted on fairways, and whilst it is strongly requested that players carry if they can, the lightweight pull/push trolleys do not create the same wear and tear as the heavier electric versions. For players who usually use an electric trolley and who are unable to carry, we have a limited number of push trolleys that may be exchanged to support both our members and protect the course. Carry If You Can: It is understood that many golfers require the use of a trolley to make the game more enjoyable. Whilst access to trolleys via a 90-degree rule for electric and usual access for standard push/pull trolleys has been provided, it is strongly requested that golfers who can carry, follow the ‘carry if you can’ initiative. Quite often, through the winter, with the ball travelling a shorter distance, a half set of clubs is perfect for the time of year. Buggy Usage: Buggies will also be restricted to the 90-degree rule and will be guided by the zone control enabled in the buggies themselves. Fairway Mats: The use of mats has been discussed, and whilst these will not be implemented this year, there are 24 ‘Spurk Golf’ mats available for trial during general play. These can be signed out for trial daily and should be returned to golf reception. Please do wash these down using the trolley wash-down station prior to return. A short survey will be sent to those trialling the mats to help determine future initiatives. These measures are not only essential for protecting the turf but also for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all players. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work together to maintain the high standards of our course. Please view this video for guidance. Rhys Beecher Director of Golf
LADIES’ NINE HOLE CHRISTMAS COMPETITION AND LUNCH (TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER)
LADIES’ NINE HOLE COMPETITION AND LUNCH Tuesday 16 December Old Course with Lunch in the Cedar RoomTuesday 16 December Theme: Birdies and Baubles Time: Shotgun start at 9.30am. Tee allocation will be given nearer the date. Format: Teams of four with the best two scores counting, please play off 85% of your Course Handicap. Price: £42.75 per person which includes competition entry, a two-course meal, mince pies, tea and coffee in the Cedar Room. Lunch will be served at 1.00pm. There is no need to change for lunch, however, a Christmas jumper is required. Sign-up: Please sign-up online from Tuesday 18 November in teams of four. Please email Golf Operations with any dietary requirements. Cancellations will be accepted until Saturday 13 December. After this date you will be charged the full amount.
MEN’S CHRISTMAS COMPETITION AND LUNCH
MEN’S CHRISTMAS COMPETITION AND LUNCH Saturday 13 December Old Course Saturday 13 December, Shotgun Start at 8.30am All men pass holders with a WHS handicap are invited to play in the Men’s Christmas Competition and Lunch on Saturday 13 December. Please sign-up online in teams of four. Single players looking to join a team can do so by emailing Golf Operations. The sign-up for this competition opens on Saturday 15 November. This will be a Stableford Team competition with four players per team and the best three scores will count on each hole. Please play with your Course Handicap. Six holes each are to be played off the white, yellow and red tees. It is the team’s choice which tees you tee off at each hole as long as you drive from the white, yellow, and red tees six times during the course of the round. Please use the men’s indices for this competition. Please collect your scorecard from Golf Reception on the morning of the competition. There will be a shotgun start at 8.30am. Teams playing from a tee with an (a) next to it are to tee off at 8.20am. The team with the best Stableford score will win the competition. Mulled wine and mince pies will be available at the Halfway House. Following the competition, will be a two-course lunch served in the Cedar Room at 2.15pm. If you have any dietary requirements, please email Golf Operations. Dress code is smart casual and the entry fee is £42.75 which includes your competition fee. The afternoon will end with the presentation of the Honours Board trophies from this year. Cancellations will be accepted until Wednesday 10 December. After this date you will be charged the full amount. The maximum number of teams that can enter this competition is 36. We, therefore, advise you to sign-up online early to avoid disappointment. Tee allocation will be finalised closer to the date of the competition. Entries will be taken on a first come, first served basis. Once the competition is full, teams will be placed on a reserve list.
JASON’S TIPS: WINTER GOLF
JASON’S TIP Winter Golf Golf is tough enough in the best of conditions, but winter conditions can make golf even more challenging. If you are a dedicated golfer who keeps on playing, even with frost greens, snow and freezing conditions – here are some further tips to keep you on top of your game! More ClubStop remembering what you are used to doing through the season, your ball will not go as far in the cold. You might have to hit one or two clubs more (so, a 5 iron instead of a 7 iron) on most shots, but at least you will be sure to get to the hole. The ball does not go as far, and consequently you may consider playing one tee up from your normal position. So, play from the yellow blocks rather than the white. You will have more fun, promise! Two BallsCold golf balls do not fly as far as warm golf balls, so have two balls ready for play. Use each ball on alternate holes, keeping the other in your pocket to keep it as warm as possible. If you do not artificially heat the balls during the round, you are within the rules. Proper ClothingMy advice is to wear multiple layers. It is up to you what you like to wear but consider wearing a (long sleeve) thermal t-shirt, thermal underwear, or a skintight with a sweater and a light-weight windbreaker. Do not forget a good winter hat (we generally lose 55 per cent to 60 per cent of our body heat through our heads). The choice of what you wear is so important. Too much bulk will have a detrimental effect upon your flexibility. Softer Golf BallsSome golf balls are softer than others and in cold weather you will want a ball that is easier to compress to achieve more speed when leaving the club face. A hard ball like a Top Flite XL will feel like it is made of steel on a cold day, so go for a softer option. Warm HandsInvest in some proper winter gloves as keeping your hands warm and dry while keeping a good grip is crucial! Ask the team in the Club Shop for their advice. Stay HydratedMany people will substitute water and energy drinks with coffee and hot chocolate when it is cold and their game suffers. Your body needs nutrients and hydration especially when it is cold, and coffee just does not cut it. Have your hot chocolate, but do not forget to sip water or an energy drink every hole to stay hydrated. Yellow BallsNot so long ago, yellow balls were the preserve of driving ranges and rock-hard budget balls. However, now brands like Callaway, Titleist, Srixon or Bridgestone offer some of their premium balls in yellow as well. Yellow balls are easier to spot among leaves or frost because apparently it is the most visible colour in the spectrum. Smart SpottingThe sun is often quite low during the winter. Track your ball from the moment it takes off until just before it reaches the glare of the sun, instead of continuing to follow it and being blinded, turn your attention to the spot where you think it will land; you will soon see it come into view. Potentially investing in glasses that light the course up is a great idea, as it keeps the wind out of your eyes. There’s nothing worse than watering eyes this time of year. Winter RulesIt is good to know what to do during winter time and when local rules apply, like:• preferred lies: this is a local rule, you are able to lift clean and place the ball within six inches no nearer the hole• embedded ball: now a rule of golf relief is allowed in the general area• cleaning the ball: local rule, it allows you to lift your ball and clean it before playing your next shot• casual water: local rule, this entitles you to free relief if water is visible under your feet or the ball when you make your normal stance This time of year, the courses are much more difficult to play. No roll makes them longer; no growth gives some interesting lies. Please move your expectations and targets accordingly. Be good to yourself, enjoy the fresh air and camaraderie. Happy golfing!
LADIES’ NINE HOLE CHRISTMAS COMPETITION AND LUNCH (SUNDAY 14 DECEMBER)
LADIES’ NINE HOLE COMPETITION AND LUNCH Sunday 14 December Old Course with Lunch in the 19th Hole Sunday 14 December Theme: Birdies and Baubles Time: Shotgun start at 9.30am. Tee allocation will be given nearer the date Format: Teams of four with the best two scores counting, please play off 85% of your Course Handicap Price: £34.30 per person which includes competition entry, a one-course carvery, mince pies, tea and coffee in the 19th Hole. Lunch will be served at 12.45pm. There is no need to change for lunch, however, a Christmas jumper is required. Sign-up: Please sign-up online from Sunday 16 November in teams of four. Please email Golf Operations with any dietary requirements. Cancellations will be accepted until Thursday 11 December. After this date you will be charged the full amount.
MIXED NINE HOLE CHRISTMAS COMPETITION AND LUNCH
MIXED NINE HOLES CHRISTMAS COMPETITION With lunch in the 19th Hole Old Course and 19th HoleSunday 7 December Format: This will be foursomes Stableford competition (50% combined handicap). There will be a maximum of 36 pairs. Please can the men play off the yellow tees and the ladies off the red tees using the men’s indices. Please enter into the festive spirit and wear your finest Christmas jumper. Time: Shotgun start at 9.30am on both the front and back nine*. Tee allocation will be given nearer the date. Prizes: There will be prizes for 1st and 2nd place teams on each nine and for best Christmas jumper. Sign-up: The online sign-up opens on Sunday 9 November and you can sign-up either individually or in pairs. Please sign-up early to avoid disappointment. Price: £32.70 per person which includes competition entry, a one-course carvery, mince pies with tea and coffee in the 19th Hole. Lunch: This will be served in the 19th Hole following golf at approximately 12.30pm. There is no need to change for lunch. Please email Golf Operations with any dietary requirements. Cancellations will be accepted until Thursday 4 December, after which you will be charged the full amount. * If you are starting on the 8th or 15th hole you will be able to park at the Halfway House.
CAPTAINS AND PROFESSIONAL CHALLENGE 2025 FINALS
CAPTAINS AND PROFESSIONAL CHALLENGE 2025 FINALS In aid of the Brain Tumour Charity The Men’s and Ladies’ Captains and Professional Challenge matches remain a highlight of the golfing calendar, and 2025 was no exception, with sixty matches played across the both sections. Finals Weekend took place last weekend on the Old Course, with Susan Minihan and Jason hosting the Ladies on Saturday, and Paul Miles and Jason hosting the Men on Sunday. Congratulations to Jane Fraser and Jo Atkins for their victories, and to Maggie Simkins and Giang Chatelan for their success in matches against non-winning teams. In a tightly contested match, Manhee Chough and Duncan Ross emerged victorious on Sunday by a single point. The Challenge is played throughout the year and to raise funds for our Captains’ Charity. Paul and Susan’s chosen charity has been the Brain Tumour Charity. Thank you to all for your support to this great cause over the last year from Paul and Susan.
GOLF BUGGY RESERVATIONS
GOLF BUGGY RESERVATIONS From Sunday 19 October Over the past month, we have been trailing online booking of golf buggies. Currently, whilst Members can book their tee times online, they are then required to call the Club to reserve a buggy. By moving the booking process online, the booking experience will be made more efficient for members, and they will be able to book 12 days in advance when bookings go live. The option is available on your tee time booking screen, under the title ‘Add Service’. Clicking the option will add a buggy to your booking, subject to availability. There is a total of 16 golf buggies available, which will reduce in availability upon each booking. This prevents overbooking and disappointment on the day of play. A ‘buggy’ icon will be visible next to your booking when a buggy has been successfully allocated to you. Buggy use in competitions is through medical exemption only, and therefore, to reserve a buggy for competitions, please email or call Golf Reception, who will be able to book this. Please note that the daily buggy status will still be applicable and in the event of an amber or red status, the booking will be cancelled where appropriate.
TWO TEE START
TWO TEE START ON THE CORONATION COURSE From Saturday 1 November to Tuesday 31 March The Coronation Course will be operating a two-tee start from Saturday 1 November until Tuesday 31 March. The purpose of the initiative is to provide greater playing opportunities during peak daylight hours, which is achieved through providing increased starting times from 8.00-10.00am each day. The nature of a two-tee start requires space for those crossing over from each nine to play the back nine of their respective round. Tee times will therefore be available on the Coronation Course as follows: 8.00-10.00am: two tee start on both 1st and 10th tee. 12.30pm onwards: Single Tee Start 1st Tee. Please remember to select the ’10th tee’ icon in the top right corner of your booking screen to view the 10th tee availability. The Old Course will remain a single tee start from the 1st Tee. Rhys BeecherDirector of Golf
ENHANCING THE USE OF GOLF TEE TIMES AT WOODCOTE PARK
ENHANCING THE USE OF GOLF TEE TIMES AT WOODCOTE PARK What change is going to take place? How will this impact me as a member or Pass Holder? Why is this necessary? As of Wednesday 1 January 2025, the Coronation Course will adopt the same 3-ball minimum from first tee time to 10:50am. Pass Holder priority will not extend to the Coronation Course, but bookings will require 3-ball bookings, or pairing via our Golf Reception Team. The 3-ball minimum rule, which is currently in place on the Old Course for both Saturday and Sunday tee sheets, will now also apply to the Coronation Course. This rule aims to optimise the use of the tee sheet, ensure a suitable pace of play, and provide more Members with access to tee times. We understand that not all Members may know or be aware of potential playing partners. Therefore, our Reception team will assist by maintaining a list of Members who are comfortable being paired with others. This initiative will foster a stronger golfing community and ensure a more equitable use of the tee sheet during peak periods. Members wishing to book 2-ball tee times are encouraged to do so during off-peak hours, as this does not allow for the most efficient use of the courses. Due to the high demand for golf at Woodcote Park, it was essential to evaluate how effectively the course is being used during peak periods. Allowing two-ball golf, which leaves significant space on the course underused, is not in the best interests of the Membership. Consequently, this has led to a change in the existing policy. Whilst ‘anonymous’ bookings are currently not permitted, a dedicated approach will be taken to remove these bookings, by cancelling times booked with ‘anonymous’ and charging Member Guest rate to players booking in golfers who ‘no show’ for tee times. It has come to our attention that some Members are leaving bookings without specifying their playing partners, resulting in ‘anonymous’ entries on the tee sheet. To address this, we will implement a policy to remove ‘anonymous’ bookings at least 72 hours before the tee time. The Golf Team will review the tee sheet and send an email reminder to complete your booking details. Any bookings that remain ‘anonymous’ and do not meet the 3-ball minimum requirement will be cancelled. If you prefer to keep your playing partner’s name private, please enter ‘Guest of [Your Name]’ in the field, and the charge will be applied to your Member account. Due to the high demand for tee times at Woodcote Park, ‘no show’ bookings will also be charged to your Member account. It has been observed that, despite the high demand for golf at Woodcote Park, there has been misuse of the tee sheet, with some bookings listed as ‘anonymous.’ To promote fairness and maintain accurate booking practices for all members, this policy aims to address these issues. Members are entitled to reserve tee times but should ensure they are aware of their fellow playing partners before making a booking. A weekend per month will be kept free, where the golf fixtures diary does not include any competitions or advanced bookings. As the demand for golf at Woodcote Park continues to grow, it’s essential to consider why our Members and Pass Holders choose to play our courses. We recognise that not all Pass Holders are interested in competitive golf. To accommodate this, we will implement a procedure to designate one weekend each month free from competitions. This will allow Pass Holders greater access to tee times within the twelve-day booking window. We will maintain priority access on the Old Course while ensuring that competitions continue regularly on the remaining weekends. Reflecting on the diverse groups of users who enjoy golf at Woodcote Park, it was essential to consider both anecdotal feedback and statistical data that demonstrate the demand for golf beyond the traditional competitions and fixtures. The growing demand for social golf among Pass Holders has been acknowledged with this policy change, providing a balance between the competitive schedule and social play on weekends. Alternate day competitions for non-honours board ladies competitions will be replaced with individual competitions during the week and weekend. By offering competitions on both weekdays and weekends, we can enhance playing opportunities for our female pass holders, while also ensuring access to honors board competitions by preserving the alternate day format for these special occasions. Based on feedback from our members and the growing section of ladies’ golf, it’s clear that we can successfully support individual competitions rather than ‘alternate day’ events. This change will enhance playing opportunities for our female Pass Holders while preserving the integrity of the honours board events, making them accessible to players on both weekdays and weekends. Single-gender advanced bookings will be replaced with additional ‘roll-up’ times on both Saturday and Sunday. Tee times booked in advance will now be accessible to a larger group of golfers who want to enjoy the community of pass holders. For lady pass holders, the previous designation of “ladies golf” has been replaced with a more inclusive calendar of competitions. This change allows both male and female pass holders to access an increased number of weekend roll-up times. The Club and Golf Committee will monitor the usage of these times. A key benefit of being a Pass Holder at Woodcote Park is the access to both the Old and Coronation Courses. Central to this benefit is our commitment to promoting fairness and equality in tee time allocations. Our review of course utilisation has shown that both male and female Pass Holders enjoy equal access through the twelve-day booking window. To maintain this parity, neither male nor female golfers must be granted advanced booking privileges on weekends for non-competitive rounds. By eliminating the designated ‘ladies golf’ tee times on weekends, we can uphold the principle of fairness while still allowing for one weekend free of competitions. This change will introduce roll-up times that are accessible to all golfers, regardless