Stroke play contenders get a rough guide

Graham Cowley is proud that The Army Golf Club is hosting The PGA in Hampshire 36-hole Strokeplay Championship, sponsored by Be Wiser for the third successive year, writes Ken Gaunt.

However the club’s PGA Head Professional, who celebrates 21 years at the Army Golf Club on October 1, has warned those who assemble on Wednesday face a stiffer test than in previous years.

That is because his ground staff are already preparing the course for the PGA EuroPro Tour World Snooker Golf Masters on August 3-5.

Cowley said, “It is another feather in our cap, as is hosting The PGA in Hampshire Strokeplay Championship, so in anticipation we are growing the rough.”

He continues, “You would not want to go in there, especially as you are playing over 36 holes and that is a challenge in itself. While it might be argued two rounds in one day might suit the younger players, experience also counts. You need to have the right mentality to get a good score.”

The course stretches over 6,550 yards (par 71) and as a salute to its military history the numerous bridges that span it display cap badges of various regiments.

It is a nice touch and Graham added: “To be in the same place like I have for going on 21 years is a bit of a milestone. It is a good club and we are still attracting new members, which is a bonus these days.”

Martin Adams (Swanmore Golf Centre) will defend the title he won ahead of current Virgin Atlantic PGA South Order of Merit champion James Ablett (Lee-on-the-Solent) last year, while two time championship winner and current PGA in Hampshire Order of Merit champion Jon Barnes (Ampfield) is also in the field.