Torquay golfers finding their range

Every amateur golfer knows that a proper warm-up can make all the difference, both to a good round and a bad one.

Practise makes perfect in all sports, but the golfing mind is a complex one. Warm-up on the range, play the first few holes brilliantly, and it was all down to that preparation. The flipside to that familiar tale: warm-up on the range, play the first few holes like a newborn giraffe, and it’s all the fault of too much preparation.

The key component is having a choice, and the superb range facilities at Torquay Golf Club has changed the game for members and guests. As well as bays to practise longer irons, the facility has a dedicated short game area to un-duff those pesky chips.

We caught up with two members, Carl Shoesmith and Barry Foster, who were having a dabble on the range before embarking on their round with some beautiful winter sunshine bathing the course.

Carl said: “We’ve both been members for around four years and the driving range is a big addition to the club. It just helps players to relax and warm-up before a round, hit a few balls and get in the swing.

“It is something the club has always needed and also the short game area. I can’t wait for the full golfing season to get underway and take on some competitions. There is nothing better than a round when the sun is out a nice dry course to enjoy.

Barry added: “I’m very keen on practising my chipping, one of the parts to my game that isn’t too bad, and you can make it a little sharper here. The short game is so important to a good round of golf.

“The range has been a great addition to our golfing experience and sets me up for the round. I’m a warm-weather player, I love the sun on my back and a good warm-up beforehand is a great help.”

Please note, the range is only open to members and those booked for a full round at Torquay GC.