With the Farmfoods European Senior Masters tournament right around the corner, and budding amateurs kicking off proceedings, we spoke to golf legends Ian Woosnam OBE, Paul Lawrie OBE and event host, Peter Baker, to get insider insights on how best to play the infamous Forest of Arden course, former host to the British Masters.
Ian Woosnam OBE reminds players to take the seasons into consideration
With many golf tournaments taking place over the warmer, sunnier months, Ian Woosnam OBE, one of the “Big Five” and 29 times winner of the European Tour, reminds players to consider the battle of the elements.
“The Forest of Arden can be a completely different process, it’s a different time of the year, the wind might be high, and every time we played it, it’s been extremely long, but it’s one of my favourite golf courses I play.”
Additionally, Woosie warns players not to be lulled into a false sense of security, as the Forest of Arden course can present a few surprises along the way:
“I think it’s a very underestimated golf course – it’s got some great holes out there.”
Peter Baker says that players must be cool and calculated to dominate the course
Event host and English professional golfer and legend, Peter Baker, a former Ryder Cup representee, stresses the importance of carefully planning your shots to ensure you’re not left in the water.
“For me, if you’re playing that course, try not to be too ambitious with your carriage to the greens,” Peter began.
“You’ve got to plan it a little bit more and be strategic with whether you go for the greens or not, because there’s a lot of water about.”
“If you’re going for these par fives in two, you’ve got to weigh up whether it’s worth it or not. Sometimes you can reach comfortably and other times you can’t – so again, you’ve got to think about it and make the choice.”
Commenting further, Baker reminds players to be wary of the distances and hit accordingly to get a clean, successful shot:
“You’ve got to drive your shots well to the green, and they’ve got to be spot on, because if you get the distances wrong, you’re going to be severely punished.”
Paul Lawrie OBE urges players to have fun and enjoy the course
Finally, when playing at such a fantastic venue surrounded by golf legends, it can be all too easy to feel overwhelmed and lose sight of the whole event, which is to have fun, relax, and play your normal game.
Paul Lawrie, Scottish professional golfer, best known for his victory at the 1999 Open Championship, reminds both pros and amateurs to enjoy their time at the course.
“It’s just great fun when you go to these events,” Paul began.
“They’re a bit more fun, laid back and chilled out as opposed to the hustle and bustle of the main tour.”
“I love my main tour career, but the seniors is way more fun.”
The European Senior Masters will be a true test this week, as the pros and amateurs take to the tee. If you’d like to find out more about spectating, head to our booking page.
