Raquel Stevens
“Straighten your arm, don’t hinge the wrists too quickly, bend the knees, tilt your right shoulder, rotate your hips before the club, keep your head down and eyes on the ball.” This is my brain discombobulating on the tee box, and it’s only the back swing!!
It’s hard to believe hitting a small stationary ball can completely mess with your head. The addiction to this sport has engulfed me, so much so that I recently booked myself into a golf school for women.
A friend invited me to join her at a unique golf camp in the Hepburn region. The two-day clinic was held at Goldfields Golf Course in Creswick and Hepburn Golf Course, which is in the process of having an exciting new makeover.
Golf participation by women has surged across the globe, particularly since the pandemic. For many, the allure lies in the combination of physical activity, mental challenge, and social interaction. The demand for coaching is next level.
From left: Jody Hawkins, Michelle Becroft and Michelle Scerri. (Photo: Raquel Stevens)
One of Australia’s leading female golf coaches, Michelle Becroft has tailored a camp to cater for women keen to improve their game. “How most women play golf is entirely different to the men’s game which centres around strength and hitting the ball a long way. Women’s games are much more strategic in shot placement and rely on the short game which is why we mainly focus on managing the course/hole and how to process and play the short shots onto the green.”
Making sure each participant received individual attention, Michelle also brought on board PGA Pro coaches, Jody Hawkins and Michelle Scerri.
The schedule was jam packed, starting at 9am and finishing at 3pm. Just like school, designed to tire us out. Three hours of technical lessons in the morning, followed by on course management in the afternoon.
Specialist coach, Jodie Hawkins says one of the main focuses of the clinic was to teach us how to make the right transition from technique to on course play. “It’s important to separate instruction from playing golf. So, when you get out there, you don’t want to think about posture, alignment, all those things. You want to put that aside and play your game.”
Anyone who plays golf knows it attracts a certain personality. We love attention to detail. Our welcome packs included new balls, a handbook to take notes, hand wipes, a healthy snack, hair ties and nail files.
Each day the clinic started with a stretching session, guided by fitness and nutrition coach, Michelle Scerri. “Apart from preparing your body by raising the body temperature to help increase blood flow to the muscles, it also helps you mentally transition to what you want your body to do. Warming up also improves concentration and establish a mind muscle connection.”
Despite the chilling conditions, there was plenty of reason to smile.
We were put into 3 groups of 4 and rotated through 45-minute sessions. All parts of the game were covered, including bunkers, reading slopes, putting, distance control, alignment off the tee box, along with a strong focus on the short game. At times, I needed a PHD to work out my land roll percentages.
At the start of the clinic we were learning each other’s names, by the end of the clinic we were exchanging phone numbers and organising golf games at our respective clubs. I think it’s fair to say the ladies will be back.
“One of the best things I got from the clinic was meeting you, Raquel! Also, learning to play intelligently, reading the slopes, and thinking about where you want the shot to land.” Loretta, Ballarat Golf Club
A flurry of spectators greeted us on the fairway. (Photo: Raquel Stevens)
“I loved the immersive nature of the clinic with like minded golfers. No judgement, we were all there to improve.” Cathie, Barwon Heads Golf Club
“There were many highlights but the on-course game was a great way to put all the technical work into practice. It was fabulous to reconnect with old friends and make new ones.” Ruth, Albert Park Women’s Golf Club
“We have always loved Daylesford with its beautiful, relaxed environment. The golf courses were surprisingly challenging which was great too.” Annie, Barwon Heads Golf Club
“Many tips to work on from our sessions, with instant improvement in chipping by visualising the landing zone. Location was excellent with top notch restaurants and accommodation. Don’t make these too popular though, or we won’t get in next time!” Philippa, Royal Melbourne Golf Club
The golf wasn’t the only highlight, we were also spoilt with fabulous paddock to plate produce and luxury accommodation. Old friends were reunited, and new friendships blossomed.
Exuding old world charm, we enjoyed a delicious 3 course dinner in the private dining room at Bellinzona.
There is so much to love about golf, and Michelle Becroft summed it up beautifully. “In this modern world finding a like-minded community can be a challenge. The women’s golf community is inclusive and supportive of all women. The fact you can take up golf at any age and experience the joy of improving both your shots, your score/handicap and golf knowledge. You can play golf anywhere in the world, no matter where you go there is a golf course to be played and people to play with.”
I agree and how good is it for the soul.
Whispers have quickly spread about town about Michelle’s golf school. The next one will be held at Hepburn Golf Club on October 11th. Players of all levels are welcome. Contact: Jane on 5348 2185.
Courses: RACV Goldfields Resort – www.racv.com.au
Hepburn Golf Course – www.hepburngolf.com.au
Dining: Bistro Terroir – www.bistroterroir.com.au
Bellinzona – www.bellinzona.com.au
Accommodation: Bellinzona – www.bellinzona.com.au
The Orchard – www.daylesfordcountryretreats.com.au
Raquel Stevens is a former Network Ten News Journalist. She has been a part time local for more than 25 years, and one day hopes to be a full time local.
