Golf Monthly News Digest

Marathon men to tackle all 10 St Andrews courses

Four hardened club golfers will attempt a major feat of endurance on Thursday June 28, when they set out to play all 10 of the St Andrews golf courses in a single day. Ally Love, Graeme Dawson, Scott Finlayson and Gary Davidson will tee off on the Balgove Course at 3.30am. The marathon men will tackle 171 holes, covering between 50 and 60 miles and chasing a par of 669. With no buggies and holing out on every hole, it?s no laughing matter. Of course it?s all for a great cause, in fact four different causes: Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, Home Start, Breakthrough Breast Cancer and Sports Aid. The total so far stands at just over £2,000. To find out more about the challenge visit www.standrews10coursechallenge.blogspot.com

Frilford Heath welcomes top amateur ladies

Frilford Heath Golf Club will host the Ladies British Mid-Amateur Championship from July 6-8. With defending champion Martine Pow unable to defend the title, there is guaranteed to be a new name on the trophy this year, from among the 70 strong-field. Several experienced players will be in strong position to take the title, none more so than Emma Duggleby. The 35-year-old has had a successful amateur career including three Curtis Cup appearances. Other talented contenders include Irish international Alison Coffey, Susan Dye and Sara Garbutt.

Belfry plans for 5-star development

The Quinn group, owners of The Belfry, recently announced their plans for a major redevelopment of the venue, intended to transform it into an internationally renowned resort. The hotel will boast a wide variety of new facilities, including 500 luxurious rooms and a wide-range of treatment facilities. The redevelopment will also put more emphasis on the environmental credentials of The Belfry. Throughout July there will be a series of public exhibitions, outlying the plans, in the areas surrounding the resort.

Ladies English Open returns to Chart Hills

After eight years the Ladies European Tour returns to Chart Hills next month. The course, designed by Nick Faldo, will host the fourth edition of the Ladies English Open. Dani Masters will return to her home course after a third place finish in the tournament last year. She can certainly expect some home support but there are many other big names for the fans to get behind, including the 2006 Order of Merit winner and perennially popular Laura Davies. Fellow Englishwoman Trish Johnson is currently leading the 2007 money list. There is also the added incentive for all the European players as precious Solheim Cup points will be available.