Golfers can get off with a bang this winter when they visit The Belfry, with the rare opportunity of playing the four-time Ryder Cup course The Brabazon on a shotgun start, guaranteeing they finish their rounds in daylight.
Every morning at 10.30 am until the end of February, The Brabazon starter will fire the gun to signal the start of play on a course still in first-class condition thanks to a dedicated team of 34 green keepers.
“As well as guaranteeing a daylight finish, this innovation gives players the ultimate golfing experience,” said Gary Silcock, Director of Golf at The Belfry. “Extended preparation time for green keepers and the added option of holding back the tee time if the weather is poor ensures that golfers will get the very best of conditions.”
He added: “The 10.30 shotgun start also gives visitors the chance to get here in plenty of time and enjoy the facilities at the PGA National Golf Academy or even a ‘golfers grill’ and coffee before teeing off.”
During the darker months, the shotgun start can get 104 golfers around the course, but a rolling start would only be 72 golfers (tee times from 0800 to 1100). But any early morning frost delays would reduce this obviously, so that number could go down to 50 or less.
The shotgun has the additional advantage of avoiding freezing cold starts at 08:00!
Throughout the shotgun start period, golfers can enjoy The Brabazon for only £75, as well as winter coaching deals at the PGA National Golf Academy, where visitors can take advantage of a ‘six for five’ deal on lessons.
The Belfry www.TheBelfry.com