9 Tips For Playing Golf In Winter

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When the sun sets early and frost touches grass, many golfers call it a day. Little do they know, playing golf in winter can be most enjoyable. The clear winter mornings, quieter courses and fabulous deals can make it feel like you’ve hit the jackpot.

What’s more, if you want to improve your game, giving up completely during winter is not the way to go about it. To ensure you hit the ground running when the new season starts, here are 9 ways you can keep your game up to scratch when playing golf in winter…

1. Keep playing

Yes, it might sound obvious – but keeping up the momentum is vital at this time of year. Apart from anything else, you’re likely to improve your skill by testing yourself when playing conditions are at their most trying.

You’ll learn to perfect a wide range of shots when you’re braving the elements, whether it’s the low punch into the January wind or the runner that scampers across a frozen fairway to find an icy winter green.  

After all, these shots will stand you in good stead when the milder weather returns. It might be useful to read Bernard Gallacher’s top tips for playing golf in the rain.

2. Make sure you have the right winter clothes

Playing at your best requires feeling comfortable in what you’re wearing. Here are some of the essential garments to help you brave the winter weather and keep your game at an optimum level…

  • Wet weather gloves – keeping your hands warm and dry is essential when playing golf. These gloves are a great purchase because the more wet they get, the firmer the grip, making holding your clubs a lot easier.
  • Efficient base layer – Wearing layers upon layers is likely to limit your movement, particularly your golf swing. But at the same time, you don’t want to allow your body to stiffen up in the cold. That’s why a thin base layer is the way forward.
  •  Thermal socks – Wearing more than one pair of socks, or a thick pair of winter socks is likely to make all the difference to your body temperature.

3. Have the correct equipment

Playing golf in winter comes with unpredictability, so having equipment that can tackle a range of climates – from wind and rain to frost – is essential. Take a look at the gear you need to make your time on the course more enjoyable this winter…

  • Purchase some winter wheels – they’ll pick up less mud making them easier to move and they’ll also cause less damage to the ground. Though if you can, ditch the golf buggy and carry your bag. The course will thank you for it and you’ll be a lot warmer.
  • Use a high vis yellow ball – they are a lot easier to spot and nowadays there are some premium model balls in yellow, such as Titleist and Srixon.
  • Add loft to your driver – when the ground is boggy and soft your ball simply won’t roll as much. Adding loft to your driver will add more carry and distance.
  • Umbrella – how can we make a list of essential winter golf equipment and leave off a brolly? Rain, sleet or snow, a good-sized umbrella will ensure you stay dry and protect your bag when you’re taking your shot.

4. Keep your golf balls warm

It’s believed that for every ten degrees the temperature drops, a golf ball will carry two yards shorter. If this is the case, you’ll want to keep your golf balls toasty on the course. Keep them in your pocket as much as possible and even throw a hand warmer in there for extra measure.

Having said that, the construction of certain balls makes them ideal for cold weather. Check out this article to find out which balls hold up best in winter and why.

5. Make the most of the driving range

We’re all guilty of making excuses for not going outside in the cold winter months. It’s definitely easier if you’re heading down to a covered (and sometimes heated) driving range.

Visit the driving range as often as possible and work out a practice routine – don’t just bludgeon balls wildly without an objective in mind. Pick a flag or other spot to aim at and work your way through the clubs, hitting different types of shots.

6. Take lessons

Whether at the driving range, down at the club’s practice area or on the deserted course, a series of lessons could make all the difference to your golfing fortunes next season.

The off-season is the perfect time to make changes to your game – you don’t want to make major alterations when competitions are just around the corner.

If you’re not sure where to turn, a simple Google search like “golf lessons near me” will do the trick.

7. Use a golf simulator

Golf simulators are a great way to help your game and let’s face it – practising indoors is a lot more appealing. Although indoor simulators aren’t great for putting, they are fantastic for driving and iron shots.

If you are really into golf, you could purchase your own simulator and practise in your own home. From the value SkyTrak to the state of the art aboutGolf’s Curve, there are plenty  of options out there.

8. Buy a net

If you have space, it might be an option to buy your own golf net so you can practise in the comfort of your own home. Some of the best nets on the market include The Net Return Golf Practice Net which automatically returns the ball back to you, the Rukket Pop Up Golf Net and the IZZO Golf Tri-Daddy Golf Hitting Net.

9. Read and watch

It’s amazing how much you can learn about golf without actually swinging a club or hitting a ball. There are many instructional books that might just strike a chord or spark a thought that could change your game. If not, re-watching golf tournaments or YouTube videos may help you pick up on strategies that will help your game.

The 8 Best Golf Balls For High Handicappers

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No matter what level you play at, there’s a golf ball that will suit your game. Selecting the right one shouldn’t be overlooked, for it’s the one piece of equipment you use on every shot.

Just because you’re a high handicapper, your equipment choice isn’t any less important. In fact, high handicappers have a huge amount to gain from playing with a golf ball that suits their swing and ability.

First of all, what kind of high handicapper are you? For example – not everyone with a 20 plus handicap, or thereabouts, swings the club slowly or struggles for distance.

Often, players hovering around 20 or higher lose more shots around the green and don’t actually require a ball that delivers explosive distance.

That’s why the best balls for high handicappers comprise a selection of models that offer different performance benefits.

These balls can all be purchased for under £30.00 because, generally speaking, high handicappers struggle for consistency and can get through a fair amount of ‘ammo’.

Here are the 8 best golf balls for high handicappers.

1. Callaway Warbird Golf Balls, RRP £14.99

golf balls for high handicappers

The latest Warbird features an extra-large, high energy core with a revolutionary Hex aerodynamic cover for exceptional carry distance and improved flight.

A thin ionomer cover adds an element of feel, but this two-piece ball is aimed at players seeking more distance. If you’re someone who tends to lose a few balls, and you need help getting it out there, £1.25 per ball represents very good value.

2. Titleist TruFeel Golf Balls, RRP £21.99

golf balls for high handicappers

While many golfers will be drawn to the Titleist Pro V1, the manufacturer’s flagship model, high handicapper golfers would do well to start with its least expensive option.

The entry-level TruSoft represents a very good all-rounder; it’s a ball that offers improved driver distance compared to the previous model. In fact, it should deliver extra distance in the long game full stop.

While it may feel soft, it doesn’t possess the same short game control as premium balls, but there’s still plenty to like about it, including a new side stamp design, which helps with alignment on the green, plus it’s available in yellow and red.

3. Pinnacle Rush Golf Balls, RRP £19.99

golf balls for high handicappers

The Pinnacle name goes back a long way, and in the Rush, you have a very good value distance ball – perfect for beginners as well as high handicappers.

As is the case with many distance balls, it has a high-energy core, which helps generate fast ball speeds through the bag. For anyone looking for a consistent, more powerful flight, the Rush is well worth trying.

4. Srixon Soft Feel Golf Balls, RRP £25.00

golf balls for high handicappers

The Soft Feel – now the 12th generation – is one of Srixon’s most popular models. It’s aimed more at golfers with moderate swing speeds, with a core designed to ‘snap back’ into shape more quickly after impact for extra ball speed.

At the same time, this will reduce long-game sidespin, which can be especially useful for higher handicappers who struggle for accuracy. More fairways hit, and your scoring should start to improve.

5. Wilson Staff Duo Soft+ Golf Balls, RRP £21.99

Wilson Staff claims that this is the softest and longest premium two-piece ball on the market. However, you’re only like to see the benefit if your swing speed is under 90mph.

Another benefit for the higher handicap player is that its low-spin properties can help to soften slice and hook spin, therefore boosting the chances of hitting straighter shots.

And, unlike the all-out distance models, this ball should give players a little more control around the greens, too.

6. Mizuno RB566 Golf Balls, RRP £29.99

The Mizuno RB566 ball is designed primarily for distance and is suitable for those with mid to slow swing speeds.

Its core generates a straighter, more stable ball flight, while the 566 micro-dimple design delays the rate of descent to help players gain valuable extra yards. It might sound complex but simply put, good strikes should stay in the air longer.

Its durability is another plus, and as well as white, it’s available in yellow and orange – so, in theory, they stand a better chance of lasting longer.

7. Srixon AD333 Golf Balls, RRP £27.00

The Srixon AD333 has been on the market for nearly 20 years, and its popularity shows no sign of slowing down.

It features a Fast-Layer Core, which starts soft in the centre and gets progressively firmer towards the outer edge to maximise speed while keeping the spin low.

Meanwhile, the 338 Speed Dimple Pattern helps reduce drag through the air to create a more penetrating ball flight. It might lack a urethane cover, but it still offers good short game control, which makes it one of the best all-rounders on the market.

8. TaylorMade RBZ Soft Golf Balls, RRP £17.95

golf balls for high handicappers

TaylorMade’s RBZ Soft offers good all-round performance and is wallet-friendly. The fast REACTcore is designed to store and release energy efficiently throughout the bag, helping golfers eke out extra yards.

As well as that, the LDP 342 high-lift, low drag dimple design promotes a high launch and keeps the ball up in the air longer for optimum distance. Higher handicappers should also find that the Iothane cover offers a decent amount of feel, which is a big plus for the short game.

5 Hip Exercises For Golfers

Posted by & filed under Golf Tips, Miscellaneous.

Most of us probably spend a fair bit of time seated – perhaps even more so over the last couple of years, when lockdowns have meant lots of Zoom calls and hours upon hours in front of computers.

While being seated is not bad for us, it can mean we lose range of motion in certain parts of the body, as strength and conditioning coach Jamie Greaves explains.

As well as causing general aches and pains on a day-to-day basis, this can also have a detrimental effect on our golf swing, especially where the hips are concerned.

Think about it: we load into our trailside during the backswing, and as you come through into impact, you’re internally rotating that lead hip. So, in terms of the swing mechanics, hip exercises for golf are extremely important – at least if you’re serious about swinging your best.

If you can get that big hip turn, you can generate a lot of power – and more power equals more distance. We’ve all seen the best players in the world – they have that incredibly fast hip unwind.

While it might be a stretch to say the following exercises will give you 20 extra yards – perhaps not initially, at least – there’s no doubt these 5 exercises for golfers can help you produce a more powerful and effective swing.

Here, Jamie Greaves offers his top 5 hip exercises for golfers.

1. Frog Pumps

Start in the frog position, with the wrists under the shoulders, the knees as wide as you can go, and the feet in line with the knees, with the inside of each foot flat to the floor.

Then, gently pulse backwards towards the heels with each repetition. Be mindful not to round or extend excessively through the spine as you push back.

You also want to be careful to go slow each time and through as much range as you can.

This exercise is really going to open up your hips. It might not be one to do on the first tee, but give it a go at home, and it can work wonders for your golf!

2. Doorknob Squat

Start standing, holding onto a squat rack (or something similar). Slowly walk your hands down the rack, coming into the bottom part of your squat using the rack for some assistance to help improve range of motion and form.

It’s important to hold at the bottom before walking the hands back and repeating the process.

As you perform repetitions, ensure that you don’t round excessively through the spine or sit back too far as you hold on too much. You are using the assistance of the rack to help improve the pattern, but you don’t want to rely on it.

To progress the movement, simply let go of the bottom position before standing up to take ownership of that position.

If you do this exercise properly, you’ll feel as though you’re pushing the ground apart as you perform repetitions to give you room for the hips to sink down.

You must be careful not to shift to one side as you move or let the knees cave in excessively. Push the ground apart, keep the chest proud, and use the rack to improve range of motion and form.

3. Bear Sit Rotations

This is a nice simple exercise to perform at home – and it’s really effective.

In the ‘bear sit position’, your knees are bent, heels are pressed into the ground, and the torso is nice and upright.

The aim is to gently rotate the hips internally so that the knees come together and then externally to split the knees.

Perform the exercise slowly and ensure that you feel the movement in the hips and not in the knees.

4. Airplanes

Begin in a standing posture and hold on for balance. Then, kick one leg back to get as long from head to toe as possible.

Work on keeping the standing leg stable and simply rotate everything else as much as possible one way and then the other.

It’s important to try and keep your original starting posture as best as you can and just rotate while staying strong on the standing leg.

Repeat the movement on the other side  – and there you have your airplanes!

5. Standing Hip CAR (Controlled Articular Rotation)

Begin standing and take hold of something that can help you stay balanced.

Then, flex one knee up as high as you can, and open out from the hip. From here, bring the foot up as high as you can to internally rotate the hip as the leg moves behind you.

Reverse the process to complete one repetition. Imagine a hurdle on the outside of your body that you’re trying to clear in one direction and then the other.

As you perform the movement, make sure you minimise the torso lean and tilting from the body, and keep a 90° angle between the ankle, knee and hip the whole time.

Focus on going slow and controlled, so you can really feel the movement in the hip joint. The goal should be to perform two repetitions in each direction on both sides.

Can Senior Golfers Perform These Exercises?

The beauty of these hip exercises is that they’re scalable.

As Greaves explains, you don’t have to look like that person in the gym who performs every move perfectly.

For example, take the standing hip CAR.

“You might not be able to get your knee up to above hip level,” says Greaves, who works with golfers of all levels.

“As you make a circle, it might only be fairly small to start with.

“You might also have a bit of trunk lean, and whilst this is not perfect, if you’re really immobile, it might just help you to get going.”

Greaves’ top exercise tips for senior golfers?

“Scale it to an appropriate level for you, and don’t be put off by these exercises because you can improve over time.”

For more golf exercises and advice on how you can improve your game, visit jggolffitness.co.uk.

The Best Waterproof Golf Trousers

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It’s not just the upper half of your body that needs protection from the elements. Whether you’re faced with light drizzle or driving rain – the type that comes in sideways and leaves you soaked through – you also need a reliable set of waterproof trousers.

The best waterproof golf trousers will help you stay bone dry in even the most adverse weather conditions. Of course, whilst we’d rather not have to pull on a pair at all, modern waterproof outwear has come on leaps and bounds in the last 15 years.

Here are some of the best waterproof golf trousers on the market.

1. Galvin Green Andy GORE-TEX Waterproof Trousers, RRP £219.00

best waterproof golf trousers

True, spending this much on a set of trousers might seem a little extravagant, but you can’t put a price on staying dry, and in Galvin Green, you have one of the most trusted golf clothing brands on the market.

Its best-selling trousers are crafted with a GORE-TEX waterproof membrane, so you’re pretty much guaranteed to stay dry no matter how bad the rain gets. They’re also designed with breathability properties to keep you comfortable.

As you’d expect from such a premium brand, there are plenty of other touches that set this garment apart, such as the elasticated waist and drawstring to aid a perfect fit and front pockets with fleece lining. Meanwhile, the fabric at the leg hem is extra abrasion-resistant, so you can be sure your investment will stay in good condition for many seasons.

2. FootJoy HydroTour Waterproof Trousers, RRP £170.00

best waterproof golf trousers

The name says it all – they’re actually storm-proof. Even if you’re a fair-weather golfer, you’re going to get caught out at some point, especially given the changeable British weather.

With 4-way stretch fabric, zippered leg closure and reach through pockets, every detail has been considered, making them comfortable and hugely effective in keeping you dry and focused on your golf game.

Other design features include an elasticated waistband and belt loops, plus you have the FJ branding on the leg and back pocket for maximum appeal. Bring on the rain!

3. Abacus Pitch 37.5 Waterproof Trousers, RRP £199.00

best waterproof golf trousers

The aim of these trousers is to keep your temperature at 37.5°, the body’s ideal body temperature. For that reason, they’re light and breathable – but how do they perform when it’s hosing it down?

Well, they have a waterproof rating of WP2000, and they’re fully seam-sealed to prevent any moisture from creeping in. In other words, you’re unlikely to feel any uncomfortable trickles when you’re standing over an important putt.

The 4-way stretch also means you can repeat that athletic swing of yours, despite the extra layers. Meanwhile, finer details include a front button and zip fly with velcro at the waist to help you find that perfect fit.

4. PING SensorDry 2.5 Waterproof Trousers, RRP £140.00

best waterproof golf trousers

These trousers have been designed for lightweight waterproof protection and playability. The same SensorDry technology is used in many of the Ping’s other garments, helping golfers stay comfortable no matter how bad the weather turns.

These trousers are fully seam-sealed, while the pockets are spacious and well-positioned. The adjustable waist gets the thumbs up, too, as does the zip leg opening that makes getting them on and off easy. This is no small detail, as there’s nothing worse than struggling to get trousers on and off over muddy golf shoes mid-round.

5. Adidas RAIN.RDY Waterproof Trousers, RRP £100.000

If you’re not looking to fork out more than £100 on a pair of waterproof trousers – perhaps you’re more of a fair-weather player – the Adidas RAIN.RDY waterproof trousers would represent money well spent.

As well as offering waterproof protection, they also provide 50+ UV protection to keep your skin safe from harmful rays. After all, even the winter sun does come out occasionally.

The design also features front and back pockets, velcro adjustment, and hook and loop leg openings, while the use of stretch performance fabrics means you’re able to move freely without feeling at all hindered.

6. Under Armour Storm Proof Waterproof Trousers, RRP £109.99

Under Armour’s Storm technology repels water without sacrificing breathability. They feature an adjustable hem cord, velcro side adjusters, lower leg zips and secure hand pockets, while the brand logo is situated on the back, completing the look nicely.

The contemporary style is very popular with golfers, and despite being feature-packed, they’re not going to set you back a large sum of money. It’s one of the reasons why they’re one of the brand’s best sellers.

7. Puma Ultradry Waterproof Trousers, RRP £129.99

With a fully seam-sealed stretch StormCell fabric that helps reduce weight and improve mobility, Puma’s sporty Ultradry trousers won’t impede your swing in the slightest.

On top of this, they feature fully waterproof zippers and pockets, so you can keep your scorecard dry, plus any other items you like to have close throughout the round.

With velcro zip leg openings, they’re easy to pull on and off quickly, so you’ll never get caught out when an unexpected shower passes through.

8. J.Lindeberg Avery Waterproof Trousers, RRP £189.99

best waterproof golf trousers

The premium fashion brand’s Avery waterproof trousers are a modern offering designed with performance and style in mind. Like many other waterproof golf trousers, they feature a technical 4-way stretch design to enhance mobility, allowing you to move with freedom.

Meanwhile, the fully seam sealed construction provides waterproof and windproof protection. They’re finished with a tapered fit, zippered hand pockets and a silicone ‘JL’ bridge rear logo for added style.

This garment is a perfect example of how waterproof golf clothing has moved on from the days of baggy, uninspiring designs. In fact, J.Lindeberg is a brand that’s right up there where ‘trendy’ is concerned. 

9. Sunderland Quebec Waterproof Trousers, RRP £80

Constructed from a soft, NEVERWEATHERBEATEN protected fabric, these waterproof trousers will keep you warm, dry and comfortable in all conditions.

Established in 1964, Sunderland has a long history of creating high-performing wet weather gear, and it’s no different with the Quebec trousers. Golfers demand a lot, especially in terms of comfort when playing in bad weather, so the half elasticated, cord-adjustable waistband and anti-snag velcro ankle adjuster are nice touches.

Talking of which, everyone will appreciate the fleece-lined hand warmer side pockets, while the articulated knees that provide additional support when crouching also boosts comfort levels.  

The Best Golf Umbrellas To Keep You Dry On Course

Posted by & filed under Golf Equipment.

Anyone who plays golf in the winter will appreciate the classic umbrella. But if you like playing whatever the weather, you need your umbrella to tick certain boxes.

Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, it has to be able to keep out the driving rain. Secondly, it needs to be strong, robust and able to withstand strong gusts. And thirdly, it needs to be comfortable to carry.

Here are the 11 best golf umbrellas that offer all the above – and more.

1. Motocaddy Clearview Umbrella, RRP £44.99

golf umbrellas

What separates this umbrella from most other models is its unique clear viewing panel. It means you can see what’s ahead of you, which isn’t always easy in a heavy downpour and with the wind coming in sideways, making life difficult.

The Clearview is also 65mm longer than standard golfing umbrellas and has an extended handle length, as well as an auto-open mechanism – so you won’t find yourself faffing around trying to get it open when the heavens open.

It’s also compatible with the brand’s umbrella holder, making it a popular accessory with Motocaddy trolley owners.

2. Under Armour Golf Umbrella, RRP £40.00

golf umbrellas

Anyone who owns a set of Under Armour waterproofs will appreciate just how effective its gear is at keeping out the rain. The brand’s UA Storm technology is also mightily effective in repelling water to keep you dry and comfortable on the course, as well as all your clubs and accessories. With dual action opening and a textured rubber handle for a comfortable grip, it ticks all the boxes.

3. PowaKaddy Double Canopy Clearview Umbrella, RRP £44.99

golf umbrellas

Here’s another umbrella with that rather rare feature of transparent panels, so even in the worst weather, you’ll be able to see as clearly as the conditions allow. Meanwhile, the double canopy design reduces the risk of the umbrella blowing inside out, which is frustrating in any situation, but especially on the golf course.

Other clever design features include an ergonomic non-slip handle for a comfortable grip and an autonomic push button, making it quick and easy to open.

4. PING Tour Double Canopy Umbrella, RRP £62.95

golf umbrellas

If the idea of coming into contact with just a single drop of rain puts you off playing golf this winter, then here’s the umbrella for you.

Designed with an extra-large tour sized 68″ canopy made from waterproof fabric and a robust frame material for long-lasting protection, this is the sort of umbrella you’ll see a caddie hold over his employer. It also has a rain stripe pattern and PING authentic logos for added appeal.

5. Sun Mountain H2NO Vision Umbrella, RRP £44.99

golf umbrellas

Not only will the H2NO Vision keep out the wind and rain, but it also offers UV protection from harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause damage to the skin.

As well as this, it also has a double viewing window for clear sight and a robust fibreglass shaft material for long-lasting durability. Go for the red (there are four colours to choose from), and you’ll be doing your bit to brighten up the fairways in the winter.

6. BIG MAX Aqua Umbrella, RRP £29.99

golf umbrellas

It’s never ideal when you have to pull out an umbrella, especially if you have one that’s a touch heavy. However, one of the most appealing features of this model from BIG MAX, appropriately named ‘Aqua’, is that it’s super lightweight. More of a fair-weather golfer? This umbrella also offers UV protection.

7. Titleist Tour Double Canopy Umbrella, RRP £69.99

The Pro V1 branding says it all: premium. This umbrella ensures you’re fully protected in either rain or sun. The clever double canopy allows fast air to pass through each one to resist inverting in high winds, while the lightweight but strong materials guarantee long-lasting performance.

It’s a smart and effective offering, making it a great gift, too.

8. PXG Single Canopy Umbrella, RRP £100.00

Anyone who’s invested in PXG hardware before will know that this is not particularly a wallet-friendly brand. So, what does top dollar get you?

For a start, it’ll protect you from the sun as well as some of the most extreme weather conditions. In fact, it also has a lightning-resistant double fibreglass shaft – plus, it’s water and bleed proof, so it’s ready for whatever elements you’ll face.

9. TaylorMade Tour Double Canopy Umbrella, RRP £44.99

It’s not just the heavy rain that can ruin our scores. Strong winds often accompany the dark clouds and make it difficult to focus on your game, too. TaylorMade’s WindPro technology is designed to withstand the strongest of gusts, and while this won’t necessarily help you to flight the ball in tricky conditions, it will mean you find it easier to stay on your feet when walking between shots – plus, it will keep you a little warmer.

10. Callaway Tour Authentic, RRP £49.95

The dual canopy on this umbrella helps resist inverting in high winds by allowing air to pass through the ventilation gaps.

It’s robust, too, thanks to its strong fibreglass shaft and frame. With the Tour Authentic branding, you’ll be letting everyone know you’re a golfer when you’re out and about.

11. Galvin Green Tromb Umbrella, RRP £44.95

Galvin Green sets the bar pretty high when it comes to protecting golfers from the elements – and the Tromb umbrella will do just that.

If you like playing golf all year round, you can rely on this storm-proof offering, with an extra-strong frame and double-layer top cover/pressure release vent.

The black/silver looks the part, too, while the red will help you get spotted should you get lost on a foggy fairway.

Classic 19th holes: The Sacred Nine’s legendary Pink Jug

Posted by & filed under Miscellaneous.

The article below was written by Dove Jones of National Club Golfer

Dove Jones headed to Suffolk to hear all about the legend that is Royal Worlington and Newmarket’s Pink Jug.

Royal Worlington and Newmarket has a storied history as the home course to the Cambridge University Golf Society and the annual match against the Oxford team.

The course received its Royal title from Queen Victoria and the Prince of Wales at the time, Edward VII, was the club president in 1895. Three venerable journalists were associated with the club – Bernard Darwin dubbed it “the Sacred Nine”, Henry Longhurst, a member of the Cambridge team from 1928 to 1931, had a lifelong membership and love affair with the club, and Herbert Warren Wind, the man who coined Augusta’s “Amen Corner”, said it is the “best none-hole course in the world”.

Then there’s the club’s Pink Jug – a potent cocktail that has become not only an historic club’s signature but a beloved club logo as well.

As legend goes, the cocktail was invented during a never-to-be-forgotten weekend house party hosted by members John Morrison and the wonderfully-named Boxer Cannon in 1934. It seems that during the first night of the festivities all of the usual mixing spirits such as vodka and gin were consumed, leaving behind a collection of spirits not normally combined in the same glass.

Their solution was to mix everything left together into a potent punch and serve it in a cranberry glass pitcher, partly to conceal the colour of the finished product.  Not that anyone cared after the first few sips. The party continued and a club tradition was born.

The drink is not only still served but a club staple. Mark Allcorn, Worlington’s secretary, told me that during the latest Cambridge University Golf Club selection dinner the 25 guests drank 34 Pink Jugs between them!

So what’s in it?

  • 1 bottle of Champagne (sparkling wine or Prosecco)
  • 1 measure of Pimms No 1
  • 1 measure of brandy
  • 1 measure of benedictine
  • Ice and a slice of lemon to garnish
  • Pink Jug to serve optional

It will set you back £49 with Champagne and £29 with Prosecco.

While no one knows exactly when the image of the Pink Jug, one of my all-time favourite logos, started adorning club ties and other merchandise, according to long-time member Ian Pattinson it predates his time on the Cambridge team almost a half century ago. Being a “Royal”, the club also sports a more traditional logo as well.

The club welcomes visitors and societies with prior arrangement. The day I visited the Woodcocks were enjoying multiple Pink Jugs on their way to afternoon foursomes making for a most welcoming and jovial dining room.

Whether enjoying the actual cocktail or spotting a “Pink Jug” logoed item on the course, it never fails to bring a wee smile.

Dove Jones is an American whose heart lives on the links of Great Britain and Ireland. She has been involved in international golf for over two decades and a member of National Club Golfer’s Top 100s course ranking panels.