Junior golfers set to swing into action in north

The north's mini tour for junior golfers goes from strength to strength '“ with more events and new sponsors for 2016.
A charity golf day is being held at Ponteland.A charity golf day is being held at Ponteland.
A charity golf day is being held at Ponteland.

The competition is now in its eighth year and features a string of qualifying events in Durham, Cumbria and Northumberland before the leading players from each area take part in the end of season regional finale.

Last year it was the team from Durham that emerged triumphant at Carus Green GC in Cumbria.

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This year’s competition is being backed by lead sponsor Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, with further support from junior golf clothing company Chinny Dipper.

The 2016 schedule includes an additional qualifying round and entries are now open.

Qualifying events are played out over nine holes, which gives the next generation of players competitive experience over a series of different courses.

The competitions are open to boys between the ages of eight and 12 with girls also able to play up to the age of 13.

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Each round is split into different age and ability categories, with novice players using forward tees and adapted rules.

Each of the five rounds costs £6 each – although if all five are entered together

the entrance fee is just £25. The sponsors are providing prizes for the overall winners.

The Northumberland qualifying events are:

Sunday, April 24 at Alnmouth GC (2pm).

Sunday, May 15 at Morpeth GC (2pm).

Sunday, June 19 at Ponteland GC (2pm).

Sunday, July 24 at Allendale GC (2pm).

Sunday, August 7: at Arcot Hall GC (2pm).

This year’s final takes place a Macdonald Linden Hall GC in Northumberland on Sunday, September 4.

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Jason Budd, England Golf Regional Officer said: “This Junior Tour is an ideal introduction to competitive golf for younger players and we are grateful for the support of new backers Macdonalds Hotel & Resorts, and Chinny Dipper.

“The international hotel group has been extremely impressed by how the Tour provides more opportunities for younger players to participate in a fun and competitive environment across the region, opening up a pathway from grass roots golfer to elite level.

“Players of different ages and abilities can all take part – even those new to the sport.

“Competing on different courses against players of a similar ability is a great way for the young players to develop their golfing skills and test themselves against their peers.

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“I would also like to thank all the host venues and volunteers for their support in making the Tour such a success.”

He added: “We are pleased to announce that specialist clothing company, Chinny Dipper, are also supporting us in 2016 and are already involved in a number of junior tours across the country.”

Last year more than 160 took part in the competition.

For more visit www.northumberlandcgp.co.uk or contact county development officer Paul Whittaker on 07949 566122 on [email protected]