A message from the editor, Neil Tappin:
If you were to create a list labelled Contentious Club Golf Issues, the World Handicap System, slow play and dress codes would all be vying for top spot. Recently, I had my own brush with one of these topics. Having hit their drives, a group of four teenage boys made their way down the fairway. For context, the course was quiet, it was a warm summer’s afternoon and they were wearing normal golf clothing (collared polo shirts, shorts and short socks).
However, just as we passed the four teenagers, a voice from another tee loudly, but politely, asked them to tuck their shirts in. This was, as the man pointed out, in accordance with the club’s dress code. With that, they duly took their bags off their backs, tucked in their shirts and carried on.
The boys I saw looked smart and, more importantly, they were the youngest group I’d seen at the club all day. They wore their shirts untucked because that’s what they felt comfortable doing. This sort of exchange, however well-meaning, risks alienating an important and often under-represented section of the club.
We all have our own ideas about what looks good and those differences are clearly much bigger with those at opposite ends of the age spectrum. The idea that one policy can allow everyone to feel just as comfortable is far-fetched. My hope is that we can reduce dress codes to the bare bones by urging players to simply wear recognised golf clothing. Of course, this leaves more room for interpretation but it is within this grey area that clubs will create a more inclusive environment. That has to be a good thing.
This was one of the topics that featured heavily in our big junior golf survey, which you can find in this issue. Take a look below for more highlights from the current magazine...
Peter Finch Exclusive
In just a few short years YouTuber Peter Finch has become one of the game’s most recognisable figures. He tells Dan Parker about his remarkable rise to prominence and also reveals some of his favourite tips for club golfers.
Pitching Masterclass
Not many club golfers would say pitching was a strong point. Here, short-game guru Dan Grieve looks at those awkward 30- to 70-yard shots, where it’s difficult to consistently hit the numbers.
Jason Day Exclusive
The popular Australian reflects on the highs and lows of his 17 years on tour and tells us why there's plenty more to come.
Know The Rules
Our regular rules section is there to make sure you don't get caught out on the course this season.
The Big Junior Golf Survey
We asked 45 youngsters how they feel about various aspects of golf club life, from dress codes and etiquette to how they are treated by adults.
The Hottest New Gear
We feature all of the best new equipment to hit the market this month, including our review of the Titleist GT2 driver.
Triumph Over Adversity
Double amputee Kushal Limbu recounts the day in Afghanistan that changed his life, and how sport has been an integral part of his rehabilitation.
The Best Courses You Can Play
Our team of course experts travel the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland to bring you a mix of well-known clubs and hidden gems to add to your wish list.
Kris Kim Exclusive
Teenager Kris Kim hit the headlines in May when he made the cut at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson. But, as he tells James Nursey, he’s only just getting started…
