Lancs club unveils new layout which is designed to encourage an increase in participation
Bolton is the latest club in the north of England to create a short course, designed to fit unobtrusively into the main layout, as part of a drive to attract more players.
The project, suggested by former Lancashire County president Michael Yates, will help encourage younger players and beginners to take up the game, whilst also benefitting senior golfers by extending their playing years.
“I know seniors can become disillusioned with the game because of health problems, decreasing stamina and the length of time it takes to play even a friendly round,” said Yates.
INTEREST
“Juniors, especially the very young, soon get bored and frustrated if there is no prospect of playing a competitive match on a proper course. Hopefully, this scheme will solve the problem for everyone.”
Yates, a member of the Lostock Park club, added: “With the shortened course and the England Golf Passport to Golf initiative led by Ian Orrell, our PGA pro, there will be lots to keep their interest.”
The course measures just over 3,700 yards, has a par of 68 and meets the regulations of the Council of National Golf Unions, the authorised body for handicaps.
It also has the backing of England Golf, Lancashire Union of Golf Clubs and Lancashire Ladies County Golf Association.
Club chairman Roger McMullan said the idea came about after analysing the club’s ‘membership profile’.
“When we analysed our membership profile we realised that we needed to do something to make the game more appealing to seniors, novices - particularly ladies - and juniors and through a variety of initiatives the club has recruited more than 80 members during the last 18 months,” said McMullan.
“Just over a year ago an academy membership was introduced to appeal to beginners and they see the short course as a natural progression after introductory lessons on the practice range with the professional team.”
Meanwhile, 124-year-old the club, which is the PGA in England & Wales (North) headquarters, will host the Lancashire County Amateur Championship on June 5-7.
For further information, log-on to boltongolfclub.co.uk
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