Happy New Year

As we move into 2012, Golf As It Should Be web editor Huw Thomas recalls some of last year’s highlights.

A new year is always a great time to reflect on recent events. As the calendar ticks over from 2011 to 2012, it also marks the first six months of the revamped Golf As It Should Be website. Over the last half a year, we’ve compiled fresh itineraries, added new features such as Club of the Month and featured a range of contributors highlighting the different golfing experiences that Wales has to offer. If you missed them first time around, here are some of the key stories.

Walker Cup captain Nigel Edwards was one of these contributors. Ahead of his British and Irish team’s victory over the USA in September, he gave us a rundown on his top Welsh golfing experiences and outlined why the country is such a great destination for players.

Former Wales rugby captain and keen amateur golfer Ieuan Evans also got involved. He told us that it’s the choice of fantastic links courses and the warm Welsh welcome that sets Wales apart. He also shared his thoughts on what was for him a supreme golfing highlight, that nail-biting conclusion to our first Ryder Cup.

Unsurprisingly, memories of Europe’s historic triumph over the US at Celtic Manor Resort in 2010 continued to loom large throughout 2011. We heard about a massive event staged to mark the anniversary of the competition, which allowed amateur golfers to relive the 2010 Ryder Cup in thrilling detail. Unfortunately, history didn’t quite repeat itself this time around as the US team snatched victory.

But it wasn’t all about looking back. Last year saw the announcement that Royal Porthcawl would play host to the prestigious Senior Open Championship in 2014. The competition will bring some of the world’s best players to Wales and is a clear indicator of the country’s growing prominence on the international golfing scene.

We’re confident that 2012 will be every bit as exciting as 2011 has been. Hopefully you’ll join us to find out. We look forward to your company.