Mark Gausden
About Me:
I’ve been swinging clubs for over 30 years and am still madly in love with the game. Golf has given me everything from friendships that last a lifetime, wild & wonderful competition, mental therapy disguised as sport plus a whole lot of fresh air along the way! Lets be honest … at this point, it’s less of a hobby and more a beautiful addiction.
Membership Clubs:
Burhill, Hayling Island & Vale Do Lobo
Handicap:
12.9 – some days I play like a 6 … other days like I’ve never seen a club before.
Favourite Played Course:
Quinta do Lago South, Portugal – rolling greens, sunshine and enough challenge to keep me humble.
Bucket List / Dream Round:
Augusta National, Augusta – if you’re reading this and have a connection, let’s chat!
Golf Rule I’d Change Yesterday:
If I’ve found a divot on the fairway, I should get a medal and a free drop; not a penalty.
Best-loved Golfing Quote:
“The road to success is always under construction” – Arnold Palmer
Gordon Lyall
About Me:
I’ve been hooked on this maddeningly beautiful game since the age of 9 and I’m still out here chasing the mythical “secret sauce” of a perfect golf swing. Some say it doesn’t exit, I say … not yet! Whether it’s dialing in a draw or battling the occasional blow-up hole, I’m in it for the long haul. Golf isn’t just a bobby – it’s a full-blow obsession.
Membership Clubs:
Burhill, Hayling Island & Vale Do Lobo
Handicap:
7.8 – currently trending in the wrong direction but that just makes the comebacks even sweeter.
Favourite Played Course:
Green Monkey, Barbados – jaw-dropping views, devilish greens and vibes for the days. If paradise had fairways, this would be it.
Bucket List / Dream Round:
Cypress Point, US – gimme cliffside tee-shots, ocean breezes and the ghost of Alister Mackenzie whispering in my ear.
Golf Rule I’d Change Yesterday:
Plugged in the bunker? Free drop, no questions asked – gravity’s fault, not mine.
Best-loved Golfing Quote:
“The most important shot in golf is the next one” – Ben Hogan
Rob Clark
About Me:
I’ve been playing golf for the best part of 40 years inspired along the journey by golfing gods of each era, Big Jack, the brilliant Seve and of course the magnificent Tiger. Only a game where the easiest way to slice a ball is to try and hook it can make sense to those of us who enjoy the craziest of games. It can bring you joy, happiness as frustration and pain all in one hole but would not change the world for it.
Membership Clubs:
Barton-On-Sea
Handicap:
7.0 – managed to maintain single figures for most of the 40 years but not sure how.
Favourite Played Course:
Swinley Forest – it’s a gem steeped in traditions and a beautiful setting. A carvery lunch to die for and yes a jacket still required even if it is 90 degrees outside.
Bucket List / Dream Round:
Any course where I get to take Gordon and Mark’s money.
Golf Rule I’d Change Yesterday:
I wouldn’t – it’s what makes a great game of integrity, skill and luck.
Best-loved Golfing Quote:
“Remember always, every golf match is a test of your skill and experience vs. your opponents luck” – Rob Clark