THE DAWN OF A NEW VISION FOR GOLF
The JCB Golf and Country Club reflects the bold, ambitious vision of Lord Bamford, Chairman of the iconic construction and agricultural equipment manufacturer -JCB: nothing less than the creation of a tour-ready contemporary masterpiece in course design. Set amid the lush green rolling countryside of Staffordshire, the course along with luxury accommodation and dining offers the ultimate in golfing retreats.
After opening in just 2018, we are thrilled to be hosting LIV Golf UK as we welcome some of the world’s best players to our beautiful course.
The Trip
Terry Bishop kindly hosted Larry St Croix, Paul Stephen and Rod Bird at JCB on Tuesday 23rd May.
A big thank you from the group to Terry for arranging this event. The Captains Charity, Jamies Farm, will also benefit from a £210 donation from the players.
Terry’s Report
The day began promptly at 6 am, kicking off an exciting journey ahead. Smooth traffic allowed us to reach the JCB VIP Visitor Centre with ample time to spare. We seamlessly joined a captivating theatre presentation alongside esteemed VIP guests, delving into the rich history and innovations of JCB.
Your correspondent then guided the group through a whirlwind tour of the remarkable Story of JCB’s evolution.
The best drive of the day
Then on to the main event and into the JCB golf and country club for breakfast, Paul had the haggis muffins, and I joined him, Rod tucked into eggs Benedict and Larry chose the full English breakfast and didn’t manage to finish it.
Breakfast overlooking the driving range
After hitting a pyramid of balls in the driving range we strolled down to the 1st tee to play what appeared to be a simple par 4 hole showing 368 yards on the card until on arrival you realise that you play it over water on the drive and second shot with a few bunkers thrown in to make it a bit more interesting getting onto the green.
Hole 1
The greens were the fastest (10.5 on the stimp) I have personally ever played on and approach shots resembled a graceful swan attempting to land on a frozen lake before hitting the bank on the other side, then when it came to putting the only way I can describe it would be to try putting a marble on a gymnasium floor and getting anywhere near an egg cup, this resulted in several 4 putts by all of us.
Once we got into our stride and we progressed through the card and the holes became very challenging and interesting to say the least, however like any course hitting the fairway is a must on this course as it will severely punish you if not.
The 17th
In a previous visit the signature hole 17 par 3 on to an island I had been part of a 4 ball consisting Ken Robinson, Rod Bird, Tom Roberton and yours truly and following Tuesday’s visit our record of 3 of us parring the hole and 1 bogey remains in tact
In defence of my fellow players on this visit the tee was 3 additional tees up the hill adding about 40 yards to the carry
Optimistic club selection Paul and Wet, Wet, Wet comes to mind
We finished the round, had a few drinks etc. then travelled home getting back circa 9-45pm
So long drive was the most used words on the day as the yellow tees are 6,599 yards
There were several other comments such as I don’t believe the ball just done that, wow that was fast, but I was on the green before that putt, this looks impossible.
Highlights, Rod parred 4 holes and along with Larry won the match versus Paul and your correspondent on the 14th par 3 with a wonderful chip onto the green and putt
Albeit I am unable to guarantee being able to do these days on request I do get opportunities from time to time dependant on various factors, so please have a chat with me at the club and I will explain
Best regards
Terry Bishop
Hi Terry .
Looks like you all had a good day . I remember the 23 May last year when we went,
fantastic course with the memorable 17 th hole never to be forgotten .
thanks again Terry.
Regards Ken
Hi Guys
Clearly a super day out and a wonderful set-up at JCB. I have seen the famous JCB digger ballet before and have always been impressed with JCB as a business with vision. I love their idea of asking invited teams to contribute to their home club’s charity. Jamie’s Farm will be delighted and you will know that your donation is going to an excellent cause.
Many Thanks
Tim P, KGC Captain 2024