Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club has celebrated its centenary year with the official opening of a new specially commissioned All-Weather Short Game Area, created by Huxley Golf. The official opening ceremony was attended by President of the European Tour and former Ryder Cup Captain John Jacobs OBE and ex-R&A Captain Air Chief Marshal Sir Patrick (Paddy) Hine GCB GBE.
Nestled in the beautiful natural landscape of the New Forest National Park, the Club is renowned for its superb 6220 yard 18 hole course designed by the great course architect Harry Colt. Often frequented by famous golfers, the friendly welcoming club never disappoints and is highly regarded by all who play there.
The new short game area was the finishing touch, as Club Manager Neil Hallam-Jones explains: “We were keen to celebrate our hundredth year by creating a tangible asset, a new aspect to Brokenhurst Manor that could be enjoyed by our members long into our next century. We’ve been planning for it for some time: seven years ago we invited our members to come up with ideas to mark our centenary and practice facilities came top of that list. Such was the enthusiasm for the concept that members supplemented their annual subscription to enable us to deliver the project without borrowing.” He continued: “We’re delighted with our new Huxley Golf All-Weather Short Game Area, which is a fantastic addition to our already impressive course. The fact that it is operational regardless of weather conditions is of considerable benefit to our members and visitors alike. After all, practice makes perfect!”
John Jacobs, who has been quoted as being ‘the Father of European Golf’ and entered the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2000, is a big fan of Brokenhurst Manor. He said: “This forest course is my favourite! It always presents a challenge and is set in the most beautiful surroundings. I am honoured to be asked to open this wonderful facility which I know will be of great benefit to the Club.”
The brand new facility is positioned in conveniently close proximity to the club house. Designed using a variety of Huxley Golf tournament quality surfaces, it provides a comprehensive yet low maintenance all-year practice zone. It comprises a large golf green measuring 45ft x 60ft (13.72m x 18.29m) complete with six holes, using Huxley Premier Golf Green Turf. Huxley Golf Premier Tee Turf was used to create a practice tee measuring 6ft x 36ft (1.83m x 10.98m) for iron play. Lastly, an attractive fringe surround was designed using the robust Huxley Golf 35mm Leisure Turf.
Club Professional Kevin Saunders is impressed with the new short game area. He commented: “As professionals, we understand just how important the short game is in the game of golf: that ‘hundred yards and in’ is always talked about and now here at Brokenhurst Manor we have a facility which is unrivalled locally and I am really excited about putting it to good use. I have already seen the benefits that the high quality Huxley Golf all weather green has to offer. The response the player gets from contact with the ball and turf is very realistic, and the spin control achieved when the ball lands on the green is as if playing to a grassed summer green. The surface responds like a top class firm green but without the pitch marks or divots to contend with!”
Indeed, feedback has been so positive that a second phase is already being worked on. Three target greens at 50yds, 75yds and 100yds, as well as two additional tee areas are being prepared to enable shots to be played from a variety of positions. The Club believes that, once completed, they will have the best short game area on the South Coast.
Huxley Golf’s Managing Director, Paul Huxley, said: “I was delighted to be invited to be a part of Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club’s centenary celebrations. Not only was it a wonderful occasion, but I’m proud that Huxley Golf has been involved in creating something new, which not only fittingly marks success to date, but also helps the Club to look to the future. I hope very much that everyone enjoys their new practice area.”
Huxley Golf provides premier all-weather surfaces for golf around the world. Clients include training and coaching establishments, golf resorts, ranges and academies as well as many well-known golf courses.
Huxley Golf www.huxleygolf.com
Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club www.brokenhurst-manor.org.uk
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