TG Blog: Tour Fit For Golf visits Foxhills

In association with

In the fourth of a series of blogs about their experiences on the Tour Fit for Golf ‘money-can’t-buy’ amateur tuition programme – supported by Golfbreaks.com, Europe’s largest golf travel company and endorsed by the European Tour Performance Institute – winners Nick Blunt and Chris Hughman, whose games were initially assessed at a launch event earlier this summer, share their thoughts on the last of three progress review sessions.
In the latest, this time at Foxhills Hotel & Resort in Surrey, they were tutored by Jean-Jacques Rivet, Sports Biomechanics Consultant to the European Tour, renowned coach Simon Holmes, and Rob Hillman, the European Tour’s Director of Physiotherapy.

Nick Blunt
“Armed with brand new golf shoes featuring custom-moulded insoles to further improve my bio-mechanics, I arrived at Foxhills to show off the improvements I had made since the last session.
 
“Following a debrief with Simon Holmes and JJ Rivet we used the About Golf technology to assess the improved swing. After a quick demonstration and a couple of ‘decent’ strikes, Simon and JJ confirmed that although there had been significant improvements since I started this journey, many of my swing mechanics still needed further tweaks and adjustments. The positions I was getting into were down to both physical limitations and a lack of knowledge – reinforcing the programme’s importance in concentrating on not only the coaching element but the physical aspect, too.
 
“As the ultimate prize of the Portugal Masters Pro-Am draws ever nearer, and with the golf drills and physical programme firmly in place, I am more determined than ever to build a swing that I can trust as well as further develop the physical side of my game.”

Chris Hughman
“Teeing off the day with the fitting of special insoles for our new golf shoes, it was highlighted how much of a ‘must’ this is for any serious golfer. The technology, widely used by skiers and runners, is relatively new to golf, but I’m sure will quickly increase in popularity.

“Once at Foxhills, I stepped onto the balance plate and hit half a dozen 7-irons, eventually receiving approving nods and smiles from the gurus! I’m told I am picking up the club correctly, my posture is sound and the movement through the swing controlled. Simon and JJ are keen for me to generate more power through winding up the swing and turning the hips. However, in trying to shorten and slow everything down whilst working on multiple fundamental swing changes, I could feel the strain physically. 

“Now, more than ever, I appreciate the importance of grinding out the hours to work on my core strength and improved flexibility. Despite continuing back problems, I am desperate to be 100% ready for Portugal.”

The venue
Nick Blunt: “Foxhills, with its two excellent championship golf courses, luxurious hotel and health spa, certainly caters for the whole family.

I practised on the newly refurbished driving range and then tried out my game on the exceptional Bernard Hunt course – and neither can be faulted on any count. The course was a delight with many interesting and challenging holes, well-maintained tees and fairways, and quick, subtle greens.
 
The off-course service in the warm and welcoming clubhouse was also well up to par with both lunch and dinner proving delicious.”

Chris Hughman: “Foxhills has a very country club feel about it – although like none I’ve ever visited! The estate is stunning, with facilities to match. The practice facilities are brand-new and understandably well patronised, the bars and restaurants immaculate and the food absolutely delicious.

“We played the Bernard Hunt course that is dotted with interesting par 5s and longish, tricky par 3s – it’s definitely not a course for the wayward driver.

“I would thoroughly recommend spending time here. It certainly leaves you feeling pretty special.”

Deal hunter
One night’s bed and breakfast and dinner at Foxhills Hotel and Resort, plus two rounds of golf on the Bernard Hunt and Longcross courses. Special offer for October. From £155 per person.

Visit www.golfbreaks.com to book.