Venue:- Victoria Park Southport
Date:- Saturday 14th June 2003
THE first Golf World in the Park in this country took place
last weekend (14th/15th June 2003) in Victoria Park Southport.
The event was designed to promote golf for all age groups and
provide facilities for people to 'experience' the world of golf.
Kenny Dalglish, ex-Liverpool legend, cut the ribbon at the opening
ceremony, and then showed the audience at the arena his skills
with various drivers, encouraged by the Pro-player Jamie Donaldson, at his side. He then proceeded to visit the various companies exhibiting at the show to try out their wares.
The UK's biggest driving range with 78 bays, covered almost half of the park and quickly became popular as the visitors poured in, tee off times being bookable.
Companies involved Nike, Callaway, Ping, MacGregor, Pro Gen, Srixon and others.
The Golf Foundation had put aside a special area for children, to try the game with specially provided balls, clubs etc.
The Magic FM stage was the venue for Harold Swash, who lives locally, to entertain the audience with his vast knowledge of putting, as a coach to many top European PEA professionals.
The event began with a trickle of visitors but by mid-morning the gate had swelled as the bright sunshine encourages people to participate.
At £10 admission, £7.50 In advance, Children Free, the event was seen by some to be a little on the expensive side, to what was largely an advertising campaign for the big companies, although others such as Mr and Mrs Prendergart from Churchtown thought it good value for an all day event. So the overall popularity of the 2 days will determine whether the organizers will return next year, to an area which is surrounded by many golf courses, no denying the popularity of the sport.
