Golf: Membership on the rise at York club (From York Press)

Golf: Membership on the rise at York club

10:39am Saturday 9th March 2013 in Sport

YORK Golf Club are celebrating bucking a national trend in membership.

A survey of clubs in England published this week revealed a trend of falling numbers of members.

But the Strensall-based York GC have had an increase in the number of playing members.

To build on their success, the Strensall course is about to see major changes and improvements during 2013.

After consecutive years of “six months of winter and six months of bad weather”, recalled Mark Rogers, York GC’s head professional, the club is spending £50,000 to adapt their drainage system to cope with climate swings.

Said Rogers, pictured at a junior coaching session, and who is soon to celebrate five years as the head pro: “We want the course to be in tip-top condition throughout the year.

“We’re already seeing a dividend on the money being spent.”

In addition to the drainage programme, the club is about to unveil an extensive course development plan, which will see a variety of improvements including new bunkers, repositioning of tees and, on some holes, extra length.

Added Rogers: “These are very exciting times and it’s great to be based at such a vibrant club.”