Good course and teaching pro near Wimbledon

[HomerJSimpson]

Homer

Thinking back my father probably left Wimbledon Common sometime around 75-77, as he was a member at Leatherhead when I got married in 1979. Was you at WC then?

Funny enough my first job was working in the little offices at the back of the clubhouse, the old stables. Our address was 19a Camp Road. We moved from there (to Croydon)during the very hot summer of 1976, and can you believe it, we moved whilst the Tennis Championships were on, great planning. , not by me I hasten to add.

I joined late 76 but I was only 10 then so probably didn't know your dad as juniors weren't encouraged to mix with members in those days. I know exactly the offices you mean. Think they had some chatered accountants or something in by the time I left.

 

[HomerJSimpson]

I know Mitcham very well too but haven't played there in ages. The condition of the course went downhill as did the clubhouse and last time I was there it looked very jaded on and off the course. Once you get into WC we'll have to meet for a game. I haven't seen Jeff in a few years now so it'll be good to meet up (he still owes me some wages ). Don't be fooled by the total yardage. It is a tricky course especially the par 3's as the majority are 200+ yards of the whites. In my opinion, you can make some easy birdies (3, 5, 9, 10, 15 are all relatively short par 4's and some are driveable in summer) but then have to defend your scores when you play the par 3's.

It takes some learning especially the small greens which are mainly bowl shaped and have some interesting borrows. Not sure who is still up there but Phil Hales, and any of the Abberton clan are worth getting to know and are all good golfers but will help you with your game

Preciate that Homer, much obliged, as long as you dont mind going round with a beginner

Also, in answer to your other question later down, yes, Jeff said we could play a round first and then he would go through all the club details etc once we were done. If they dont usually allow non members through on weekends then thats pretty decent of him.

Im playing Hawkstone Park next week on Thursday and Friday with my cousin too, so that should prepare me nicely. I tell you, Im really getting the bug....

No problem. I'm happy to play with anyone and to be honest it'll bring the memories flooding back. I love the long par 4 2nd (tee off by the putting green) and the 14th is definitely the feature hole. A lot of the course is about position off the tee as the greens are small and so it's important to leave a good yardage in and come in from the right side to leave a better angle