ONCE a month in 2008 we will be featuring an on-course golfing tip from Playgolf professional Ben Trappe

Ben, Styal Golf Club’s former teaching professional, has returned after three years teaching in Switzerland, where he was the head teaching professional at Golfpark Oberburg, one of Switzerland’s best golf schools.

Ben has now joined the North West Golf Academy at Playgolf Manchester near the Trafford Centre, where he is using his 12 years’ teaching experience to give top-class golf lessons while utilising its sophisticated heated video teaching studios.

Ben has always taught all levels of golfers, from complete beginners to some of the country’s best talents.

Each month, Ben will be giving a playing tip for local golfers in the Metro News.

If you would like to book a lesson with Ben or take advantage of the one-hour video assessment lesson , ring 0161 749 7000 or 07765 590 675 or email bentrappe@playgolfworld.com.

Here is Ben’s tip for this month ...

Playing the driver against the wind

The key to playing against the wind is to reduce the effect of back spin on the golf ball as much as possible so that the ball does not balloon into the air.

Try these three simple points not only to hit the ball further but, more importantly, straighter!

• Tee the ball high like normal, encouraging an upward strike on the ball
• Keep the club low to the ground to create a wide arc as you take the club back
• Swing more slowly, resisting the temptation to hit the ball hard
• Remember the old Scottish saying ‘If there’s nae wind, it’s nae golf’

A pro competition at Northenden went in favour of G Denman on 43 points from P Dickenson 42.

Four-man team action at Sale had R Barker, T Nabarro, M Alty and R Stephenson winning a cpo on 75 from B Peacock, S Carr, R Cowell and Bob Torrance. Ashton-on-Mersey’s men have enjoyed BB pairs competitions and in the first one R Magill and I Cooper won a cpo on 36 from M Aldred and B Philips. J Garton and P Gibbons were comfortable winners of the second competition with their 37-point haul leaving them three points clear of G Collins and S Maddox.

It also needed a cpo to sort out the third competition with S Conway and B Nixon getting the nod on 35 points from D Birch and G Collins.

The renowned International Pairs competition is offering a special discount for clubs who register and pay before February 29.

International Pairs has been growing fast during its 10-year history. Now a truly international competition for club golfers involving 30 countries, its final will take place at the Duke’s Course, St Andrews, in September.

Clubs wishing to find out more can ring either 08700 330 633 or 01730 711900 or email info@internationalpairs.com.

Entries are being invited for the Stamford Mixed Open on Sunday, May 4.

The competition is a BB Stableford with maximum handicaps of 24 for men and 36 for ladies off ¾ handicap.

The cost is £20 per pair and hot food will be available on the day, along with a good prize table.

To book your slot contact the pro’s shop on 01457 832126

Winter golf is now in full flow and will continue at all clubs until next March.

To get your club and individual results, achievements and special events in this report contact Geoff Garnett on tel/fax 0161 881 7550 or email him at ggggarnett@aol.com.

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