Golf Club Talk UK

In this engaging discussion, industry experts Steven Brown, Heather Moran, and Kevin Fish tackle the complexities of food and beverage operations in golf clubs. They delve into balancing profitability with member satisfaction, shedding light on current trends and the impact of rising costs. The importance of staff training and effective communication emerges as a key theme, underscoring the need for strategic planning. Their insights provide essential guidance for enhancing the member experience while maintaining financial viability in club settings.

In this episode of Trending Topics, we're joined by Sarah Barter, Head of Handicapping & Course Rating at England Golf. Sarah offers an insightful look into England Golf's critical role in managing and supporting the World Handicap System (WHS) in England. We explore how England Golf provides the WHS service under licence to golf clubs, offers general handicap assistance, and oversees a robust course rating system. Sarah also shares highlights from their recent nationwide WHS workshops, which underline the organization's strong commitment to supporting club volunteers. Listen in as we dive into key stats around handicap indexes, average handicaps, and the growing number of iGolfers. Plus, Sarah emphasizes why keeping your course rating up-to-date is more important than ever. Whether you're a club volunteer, player, or just curious about how handicapping works, this episode sets the scene and spotlights the comprehensive support available through England Golf. Key Topics Covered: England Golf’s role in the World Handicap System How course rating impacts your game Supporting clubs and volunteers through education National statistics on handicaps and iGolfers Why maintaining course ratings matters   https://www.englandgolf.org/handicapping Handicap Statistics - England Golf https://www.englandgolf.org/ www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk

In this episode, Leighton is joined by renowned golf course architect Tim Lobb, founder of Lobb & Partners. The conversation charts Tim’s journey from his early days in Melbourne through pivotal roles at European Golf Design and Thompson, Perrett and Lobb, culminating in the launch of his own practice. Along the way, Tim shares how each phase of his career has informed his philosophy of working with the land, rather than imposing upon it. We explore Lobb & Partners' international portfolio, with projects stretching from British Columbia to India, and delve into the nuances of designing for such diverse environments. A spotlight is also placed on their current work at West Hill, located in the historic Surrey Heathlands, where Leighton recently paid a visit. The conversation also touches on Tim's pioneering efforts in emerging golf markets like Turkey and Egypt, and the promising future of India as the next major frontier in golf course development. This is an insightful discussion with one of golf architecture’s most respected figures. https://lobbandpartners.com/ https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintgolf/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/106040189/admin/dashboard/   www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com

Leighton & Eddie catch up for a chat and one of the topics is Eddie's recent presentation at the GCMA London & Home Counties Meeting. Eddie then welcomes golf advocate and community builder Julie Walker, founder of Golfers Experience Consulting and Women on the Tee, a knowledge hub for womens golf.  Julie talks about her passion for elevating the women’s game, the impact of the R&As Women in Golf Charter, the need for an equitable golf experience for anyone and everyone that plays golf, and through her latest initiative, the Golfers Experience, Julie is reshaping what it means to compete, connect, and grow in golf. From grassroots to elite amateurs, Julie shares how she’s advocating for inclusive and memorable golf experiences for women at every level—on and off the course.   About Julie Walker: Julie Walker is the founder of Golfers Experience Consulting, where she is reimagining how women engage with the game by blending competition, camaraderie, and personal growth. Julie brings her love for golf, business savvy, and inclusive vision to everything she does in the sport. Julie is also the founder of Women on the Tee, a knowledge hub for women golfers, where women can learn about the rich history of womens golf, the rules, handicap system, joining a golf club and the golf experiences available to women golfers within and beyond golf clubs. Websites:  https://golfersexperience.com/ Instagram: @womenonthetee LinkedIn: Julie Walker   Connect with Us: Instagram: @golfclubtalkuk Website: Golf Club Talk UK https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk   Rate & Review Please leave a 5-star review and share this episode with your golf circle!

After a brief catch-up between Eddie and Leighton, Episode 117 dives into an important and challenging conversation about the underrepresentation of Black and ethnic minority communities in UK golf. Leighton is joined by three powerful voices driving change in the sport: Julia Regis – Consultant and Board Member of England Golf Nicola Bennett – PGA Professional Randy Plowright – African Caribbean Golf Association Together, they explore the barriers to participation and what it will take for golf—especially clubs—to become more intentional about creating welcoming and equitable environments for all players. The discussion blends personal experiences with practical initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion and boosting awareness. This episode tackles a difficult issue with honesty and hope, showing how meaningful change is not only possible, but already underway. https://nicolabennettofficial.com/golf https://www.acga.co.uk/ https://www.juliaregis.com/   www.golfclubtalk.uk https://www.instagram.com/golfclubtalkuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/   To ensure we can continue to put out great content, support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk

In this episode of GCMA Insights, the focus is on the upcoming Conference from 16th - 18th November 2025 at the stunning De Vere Cotswold Water Park, Wiltshire. 🌟 Now rebranded as the Golf Club Management Conference and Exhibition, the show appeals to anyone in Golf, not just GCMA members.   💡 What makes it unmissable? ✅ Game-changing insights from industry experts ✅ Dynamic & interactive sessions that tackle real-world challenges ✅ Networking opportunities with the best and brightest in golf club management The show also centers aroud the theme of clubs and Managers being "Future Ready" through Strategy, Sustainability and Success!  Leighton is joined by Tom Brooke, Darren Wood and Gareth Morgan who talk us through the details of the show, education program and exhibition.  There's also a deeper dive into the theme of "Future ready"! Bookings are now open.  Go to: https://www.gcma.org.uk/conference-2025/   www.golfclubtalk.uk https://www.instagram.com/golfclubtalkuk/   To ensure we can continue to put out great content, support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk    

In this episode, we're joined by golf course designer and builder Ryan Van Der Veen of Van Der Veen Designs. Growing up in Indiana, Ryan entered the world of construction and design early on—launching his career under the legendary Pete Dye. His time with Dye laid the foundation for a hands-on, design-and-build approach that's remained with him throughout his career. Ryan later joined Norman Designs, where he spent years refining his skills in construction, project management, and design across the globe. Eventually, his journey led him to Australia, where he's now based and continuing to make his mark. We dive into Ryan’s current and upcoming projects, including: The nearly completed enhancement program at Glenelg Golf Club in South Australia, in collaboration with Neil Crafter A new project at Mollymook Golf Club in New South Wales Ryan brings a calm and thoughtful perspective to the craft—shaped by decades of experience and a unique blend of tradition and innovation. There are some fantastic stories in this one, especially around his early days with Pete Dye and life on the road with international projects. Whether you're into golf architecture, design philosophy, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in and enjoy! https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-van-der-veen-b8698a215/ https://www.glenelggolf.com/cms/ https://www.mollymookgolf.com.au/ https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/   Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/gctuk  

In this episode, Leighton is joined by Mike Orloff from Golf Industry Central for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of club life in Australia and New Zealand. Together, they explore what clubs in the region are doing well, with a particular focus on cultural dynamics and modern approaches to governance.  The focus is largely on then clubs in the middle and their need to develop and innovate. One standout example of innovation is Palm Valley Resort in Queensland, a cutting-edge development that’s pushing the boundaries of traditional club offerings. Beyond championship golf, Palm Valley is making waves—literally—with the addition of a state-of-the-art wave pool, blending lifestyle, leisure, and sport in a way that reflects the future of resort-style club experiences. The conversation also highlights the upcoming Field Trips initiative—an exciting series of immersive experiences designed to showcase best practices and spark new ideas. The series will kick off in Asia in April and expand to include destinations in the USA and New Zealand, offering club professionals a unique opportunity to attend education events and connect with peers from around the world. It’s an engaging and informative listen with plenty of takeaways for anyone interested in the business of golf, hospitality, and club leadership. https://www.golfindustrycentral.com.au/   www.golfclubtalk.uk https://www.instagram.com/golfclubtalkuk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighton-walker-2708b627/  

In this episode, Leighton delves into the remarkable transformation of Basingstoke Golf Club, telling the story through the evolution of the course itself. What began as an ambitious project years ago saw the club make a bold move half a mile across the M3 to Dummer Golf Club. The transition included selling the original site for development and acquiring Dummer Golf Course, all while ensuring that the members always had a course to play on. Scott and Bruce join Leighton to discuss the early challenges of this endeavor, including navigating planning hurdles, managing water resources, and crafting layouts that allowed for continuous play. They also talk about how they managed to preserve key elements of the old Dummer course while giving it a major facelift, modernizing the chalk downland course with dramatic improvements. The greens, in particular, stand out with their impressive movement and challenging pin placements. Now entering its first full season, Scott is focused on making sure the course plays hard, fast, and in top condition. This episode highlights how innovation, drive, and a clear vision can not only reshape a golf course but also secure the future of a beloved, long-standing club. https://www.basingstokegolfclub.co.uk/ https://www.golfclubtalk.uk/the-green-print/ The Greenprint on Linkedin  https://www.instagram.com/thegreenprintuk/   "Follow" The Greenprint on your podcast platform to get episodes downloaded straight into your feed 

In this episode, Leighton & Eddie are joined by Phil Grice – industry veteran and founder of Custodian Golf and GC Media. With deep roots in golf club ownership, management (including the transformation of Royal Norwich), and leadership as former Chairman of the GCMA, Phil brings a data-driven lens to the future of club sustainability. Phil shares insights into why data must lead decision-making and unpacks years of research identifying common traits of struggling clubs — insights that are helping others avoid the same pitfalls. He also introduces his compelling analogy of “Lions, Meerkats & Ostriches” to describe leadership styles and behaviours within clubs — a must-hear framework for any club manager or board. The conversation wraps with a look into technology in golf, and why clubs must embrace innovation to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. 👉 Download the Custodian White Paper mentioned in the episode at: https://www.custodiangolf.co.uk/   www.golfclubtalk.uk golfclubtalkuk@gmail.com https://www.instagram.com/golfclubtalkuk/   Follow our other show - The Greenprint, a podcast on Golf Courses.   https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-greenprint/id1801777880