An extract from the "THE BRIGHTON SEASON 1912"

(Reproduced exactly from the original with printing errors left in)

It was a happy thought that prompted Mr J. J. Clark to layout a Golf course on such an ideal spot as that occupied by the West Hove Golf Club. To start with its nearness to Hove and Brighton, and the facilities for reaching it from any part of the town at once recommend it, for the great barrier to golf in the eyes of many Brighton folk is the out-of-the-way position of the various links, and the time it takes to reach them.  Then again, the country in which the course lies, sheltered by surrounding ranges of undulating downland at once appeals to men and women who know anything of the game, for when one brings to mind the gentle zephyrs that blow o'er breezy Brighton from N.E. and S.W., one is given to think the advantages of this shelter, in this the latest course, are paramount to all others. All the links in Brighton and near neighbourhood are situated on hills or rising ground, and as wind is such an important factor in the game, it will be clearly seen that a course in a valley such as West Hove practically is, must necessarily be ideal on a really windy day. These points cannot be overestimated, for it must be remembered the majority of players are not champions, or men and women in the first flush of youth, who do not mind the buffetings of rough weather, of whom it may be said that they play for the enjoyment it brings, but for healthy exercise, and consequently good health. There are of course also plenty of young members of the Club of both sexes who are sufficiently experienced enough to appreciate these advantages. The characteristics possessed by golf, make it a game par excellence for men and women of all ages, the quiet, exhilarating exercise with the interest attached to it, provides ideal physical benefit, minus the spasmodic bursts of energy demanded in many other pastimes. But of most importance is the fact of its being an all-the-year-round game, which cannot be said of many other open-air pursuits. So that when consideration is duly taken of all these things, it must be admitted the West Hove Golf Club offers attractions beyond any other in Brighton.  Before describing the beauties of the Club house and course, it will be of great interest to golfers who perhaps have not an intimate knowledge of the extent of Hove to mention its exact position. Situated on the picturesque Old Shoreham Road, the links are within 300 yards of Portslade Station, a frequent service of trains running to and from Hove station, ,which is 1� miles off, and Brighton Central which is 3 miles. Besides this means of reaching the course, there is a regular motor-'bus service every ten minutes to Portslade station. This affords a cheap and very quick method of communication from Hove and, in fact, all parts of Brighton. Then for those who possess their own means of conveyance, there are spacious sheds close to the Club house for motors, bicvcles, etc.   Special arrangements have been entered into with the L. B. & S. C. R. for the issue of cheap tickets from London and elsewhere. Vouchers can be obtained from the Secretary, so that members and their friends have every consideration.  All that science knows with regard to golf has been brought to bear upon the laying out of the course, and this is easily understood when it is known that no less an authority than James Braid himself designed and carried it out. It extends over 130 acres in charming surroundings, the links are 18 holes, length 6,150 yards, Bogey 79.  The holes vary from 112 yards to 536 yards. There are plenty of two-shot holes, and the absence of cross-play - so annoying and harassing - is a cause for much appreciation by players. A great feature are the bunkers which are so arranged as to provide many problems for the experienced and intellectual golfer, a fact which means so much in giving additional interest to the game. The greens are all perfect in their different ways, and are large and possess a great variety of undulations, are beautifully kept, as indeed is the entire course.  The view from some is particularly charming, especially the fifteenth, from which is seen as fair a country picture as any heart could wish. It has been said that golf should be played on sandy soil by the seashore, this was doubtless the correct surrounding in the bygone age, wherein it found its origin - but times and customs bring about many changes, and certainly the conditions under which the game is played in West Hove leave nothing to be desired both for completeness and the invigorating mixture of sea and country air it enjoys. The scratch player can say nothing too good of the course, in fact all who play there consider it the best in Brighton, and the near vicinity.  Another attraction is the 18 hole putting course that as been laid out on a large space in front of the Club house where competitions and matches take place, this adds yet another link in perfecting the details connected with the club.

THE CLUB HOUSE

This is one of the most magnificent and up-to-date of its kind to be found anywhere, and is a delightful structure of wattle and daub, with brown outside beams giving an artistic effect that is continued throughout, for inside the first glance is convincing to see that the hand of the artist has been at work, and that no expense has been spared in providing every modern requirement and comfort for the golfer.  An air of warmth and invitation is imparted by the full toned, terra cotta walls with their deep friezes whereon hang many old prints of phases of the famous game, while a large telescope enables members to place their friends far off  at the remote parts of the links. The dining-room is a fine airy room also over�looking the downs and country game. Natural coloured oak furniture forms a decided contrast, as well as the luxurious wicker chairs and Oriental rugs which find a place everywhere. The lounge is a spacious apartment opening on to a delightful balcony, and over-looking the first tee and 18th green, and possesses a powerful telescope by which. The large dressing-room is replete with every convenience, and nicely heated with radiators. There is also an excellent drying room, and first-rate shower bath, etc. So what more can the most fastidious desire. Nor, are the ladies forgotten, their comfort too has been studied and practically cared for. A special entrance has been built for them, and a most comfortable dressing-room which leads into a cosily furnished lounge, where a rest can be spent in peace from the disturber of the male persuasion and where letters can be written, papers read, etc. There is also a snug smoking lounge which is shared by members of both sexes, so that every wish has been considered by  masterly mind that designed and planned it all.  The kitchens and stewards accommodation have all received excellent treatment, the former are light airy and spotless from the hygenic point of view and are most conveniently arranged. The catering is in experienced hands and is given careful attention; so that taking it all round the club house is as perfect a place of its kind as could be desired.  How many must feel grateful to Mr Clark for this much needed enterprise it is not possible to state.  It is certain that the West Hove Golf Club affords opportunities under the most congenial of conditions for the indulgence in a pastime so replete with advantages that relentless Time will not cast its votaries scornfully off depite the unerring eye and steady stroke of youthful enthusiasm, but will accompany them gladly and advantageously, making failing steps easier, life more pleasant down the vale of years.  The Captain of the Club is Mr Sidney Johnson, the Hon. Treasurer Mr J. J. Clark, J.P., the Secretary being Mr F. J. Pettyfer from whom all particulars may be obtained as to membership.  The acting Committee for 1911 is composed of the following gentlemen : Messrs. J. L. Bernard, A. J. Clark, E. A.  Downer, C. Gostling, D. D. James, W. Lloyd, C. H. Pettyfer, and F. W. Welch.

 

ETIQUETTE OF GOLF

1. No one should stand close to or directly behind the ball, move, or talk, when a player is making a stroke.

2. On the putting-green no one should stand beyond the hole in the line of a player's stroke.

3. The player who has the honour should be allowed to play before his opponent tees his ball.

4. No player should play from the tee until the party in front have played their second strokes and are out of range, nor play up to the putting-green till the party in front have holed out and moved away.

5. Players who have holed out should not try their putts over again when other players are following them.

6. A player who has incurred a penalty stroke should intimate the fact to his opponent as soon as possible.

 

 
 

THE CLUB HOUSE

ON THE LINKS

 
 

A GOOD DRIVE

 

 

A VIEW ON THE LINKS