Favourite Golf Courses I’ve Played – James’ Top 5

belfry golf course

Source: The Belfry

5. The Belfry ( The Brabazon)

Location: Sutton Coldfield, England.

The Belfry is truly a course that needs no introduction. Famous for hosting multiple Ryder Cups and British Masters events, it’s steeped in golfing history. I’ve been lucky enough to play here several times, including during my stag do, which made for unforgettable memories. The combination of great weather and fantastic playing partners (one of whom managed to drive onto the iconic 10th green only to three-putt for par) made for a day filled with laughter and enjoyment. The Belfry is beautifully set up for visitors, ensuring an immersive and thrilling golf experience, solidifying its place as my number five course. Each of these courses has left an indelible mark on my golfing journey, offering not just challenges and beauty, but also cherished memories that I will carry with me for years to come. I hope you get the chance to experience them too!

close house golf course

Source: Close House

4. Close House (Lee Westwood Colt Course)

Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne, England.

During a society trip to the North East of England, 20 of us embarked on a golfing adventure to play the Colt Course at Close House. A course that has played host to Asian Tour events and The British Masters. The property itself added a special touch to our experience, and the welcoming charm of the staff perfectly complemented the beautiful presentation of the course. We were blessed with magnificent weather, a rare treat in this stunning corner of England. The layout is challenging yet rewarding, and knowing it’s the home base for former world No. 1 Lee Westwood only adds to its allure. If you get the chance, it’s absolutely worth the visit!

dom pedro old course golf club

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses / Kevin Murray

3. Dom Pedro Old Course Golf Club

Location: Vilamoura, Portugal.

While my international golf trips have been limited to Portugal and Spain, Dom Pedro Old Course left a lasting impression on me. Ranked the 7th best course in Portugal according to Top 100 Golf Courses, its tree-lined fairways and pristine condition year-round make it a true delight. Golf is often about camaraderie, and I cherish the fond memories of a group trip here, where laughter and enjoyment were as abundant as the picturesque views.

hollinwell golf course

Source: Hollinwell

2. Hollinwell (Notts Golf Club)

Location: Nottingham, England.

Steeped in history and nestled within stunning surroundings, Hollinwell comfortably holds a spot among England’s Top 20 courses. The back nine will certainly test your skills, but it’s the 13th Par 3 that captures my heart, a signature hole that exudes charm and challenge. It’s no wonder this course serves as a venue for Open Final Qualifying; every round here is a blend of tradition and excitement.

jcb golf and country club

Source: JCB Golf & Country Club

1. JCB Golf & Country Club

Location: Staffordshire, England.

JCB takes the top spot on my list, and I can’t help but feel fortunate to have played it twice. Thanks to a friend who works as a greenskeeper there, I got the chance to tee off at this exclusive gem. Despite being relatively new, the course feels remarkably mature, with the vision of Lord Bamford and JCB shining through in every detail. The facilities and practice areas are immaculate, and the spacious, challenging layout is clearly designed for significant events. Who knows, maybe a future Ryder Cup is in the works! With risk-reward holes that keep you on your toes and perfectly positioned tee boxes, both tour pros and amateurs can find joy here. The standout moment? The iconic 17th island green, a breathtaking 255-yard par 3 that needs no introduction.


If you want to keep up with my adventures in golf, be sure to follow my Instagram page @golfaddyventures.

VPAR Feature Blog: Nassau Format

Master the Nassau Side Game with VPAR Premium

Looking to add some extra excitement to your next round? The Nassau side game, now available in VPAR Premium, is the perfect way to introduce friendly competition into your golf experience. Whether you’re playing with friends or testing your skills against new opponents, Nassau is a strategic and engaging golf format that keeps every hole meaningful.

What is Nassau?

The Nassau side game is a popular betting golf format that breaks the round into three separate competitions:

Front 9 – The best score over the first nine holes.

Back 9 – The best score over the last nine holes.

Overall – The best total score across all 18 holes.

Each section is its own game, meaning players have multiple chances to win throughout the round. Even if you have a slow start, there’s always a fresh opportunity on the back nine or in the overall game to turn things around.

How Nassau Works in VPAR Premium

With VPAR Premium, tracking Nassau has never been easier. Simply enable the Nassau side game within the app, and VPAR will handle the scoring in real time. Here’s how it enhances your game:

Automated Score Tracking – No need for mental math; VPAR calculates everything for you.

Live Leaderboards – Stay updated on where you stand for the front 9, back 9, and overall.

Increased Competition – Even if you’re out of the running in one category, the other two keep things interesting.

Why Play Nassau?

The Nassau format is great for golfers of all skill levels. It keeps rounds competitive, prevents early blowouts, and adds an extra layer of fun to your regular games. Plus, with VPAR Premium’s seamless integration, there’s no hassle—just pure golfing enjoyment.

Ready to elevate your rounds? Activate the Nassau side game in VPAR Premium and experience a new way to compete on the course!

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!

Favourite Golf Courses I’ve Played – Niall’s Top 5

Kingsbarns golf course

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses/Gary Lisbon

5. Kingsbarns

Location: St Andrews, Scotland

Just six miles from St Andrews, Kingsbarns is a modern masterpiece that perfectly complements Scotland’s legendary links courses. Although one of the few true links courses built in recent times, it has quickly cemented itself as one of the world’s best golf courses.

Kingsbarns co-hosts the annual Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, alongside the Old Course at St Andrews and Carnoustie. This unique Pro-Am event pairs professionals with amateurs, with the final round played at St Andrews after a 54-hole cut. If the dunes at Kingsbarns could accommodate spectators, it would surely be part of The Open rota. It undoubtedly belongs among the UK’s top-tier courses.

Every hole here is postcard-worthy. And the hospitality from the staff ensures that your experience is first-class from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave. All in all, Kingsbarns is a true gem, a place where every round feels like a privilege.

Sentosa Golf Club (The Tanjong)

Source: HSBC Golf

4. Sentosa Golf Club (The Tanjong)

Location: Singapore

Sentosa Golf Club offers two exceptional 18-hole layouts: Serapong and Tanjong. Since 2005, Serapong has hosted the Singapore Open, elevating its status as a premier tournament venue. Though slightly overshadowed, the Tanjong course remains a remarkable layout. It was originally designed by Frank Pennink in 1974 and later upgraded by Max Wexler and Chris Pitman. The 2016 renovation, which rebranded it as “New Tanjong,” solidified its reputation as a modern classic.

Fast forward to 2025, and Sentosa now plays host to Asia’s Major—the HSBC Women’s World Championship, as well as LIV Golf. If you ever play here, take my advice: spend extra time on the practice green. The putting surfaces are lightning-fast and undulating, providing a stern test even for the best with the flatstick!

Trump International

Source: Trump International Scotland

3. Trump International

Location: Aberdeen, Scotland

Other than the 229-yard par-three 13th, all holes at Trump International Golf Links are laid out in a north-south direction along the rugged Aberdeenshire coastline. Some have criticised this uniform orientation. But what the course may lack in variety, it more than makes up for in sheer challenge and beauty.

With multiple tee options, the course caters to a wide range of golfers. But choosing the right set of tees is crucial. Stray into the thick, punishing rough, and your ball is as good as lost. Many of the green complexes feature subtle run-offs into bunkers or swales, classic elements of a world-class links course. The course conditioning is immaculate, with hand-manicured walkways that feel like plush carpets. I played here in 2021, and it remains a course I think about often. If ever given the chance to return, my answer would be an unequivocal yes. Words and even photos fail to capture its full majesty—it simply must be experienced.

Torrey Pines (South Course)

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses/ Patrick Koenig

2. Torrey Pines (South Course)

Location: California, USA

Perched above the Pacific Ocean with mountains to the north, Torrey Pines was built on the site of a former military training center. Designed by William F. Bell and completed in 1957, the course has undergone several renovations. This includes a complete overhaul of the South Course by Rees Jones in 2001. It extended the championship layout to a staggering 7,607 yards.

The panoramic views from the course come free with your green fee but be prepared for unpredictable weather. Fog, wind, and rain can roll in unexpectedly, making an already challenging course even tougher. I had the opportunity to play the famous South Course just after the Junior World Championships. And despite shooting 100+, I relished every moment. With fairways no more than 15 paces wide and a rough that was brutally thick, accuracy off the tee was critical. Playing here truly deepened my appreciation for the skill level of the Tour pros. They make this gruelling test look effortless.

Clearwater Bay

Source: Clearwater Bay

1. Clearwater Bay

Location: Hong Kong

Established in 1982, Clearwater Bay Golf Club boasts a spectacular clifftop setting on a rugged peninsula extending into the South China Sea. Some of its breathtaking seaside holes have drawn comparisons to Nefyn & District in Wales, Old Head in Ireland, and Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand.

A round on the Ocean Nine begins with four stunning holes. It’s often described as “the most thrilling opening stretch in Chinese golf.” The highlight among them is the par-four 3rd, which demands a 180-yard tee shot carry over the ocean—a truly exhilarating experience. I had the privilege of playing a role in organising The Clearwater Bay Open in 2017, an event on the PGA TOUR China schedule. That week, players such as Tom Kim, Callum Tarren, and Gunn Charoenkul competed in what is undeniably one of the most awe-inspiring golfing landscapes I have ever encountered.

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!

VPAR Feature Blog: Split 6 Format

Master the Art of Competition with Split 6 in VPAR Premium

Looking for a fun and competitive way to shake up your next round? The Split 6 side game in VPAR Premium brings an exciting strategic element to your golf experience. Perfect for groups of three, this points-based game keeps every hole engaging and every shot meaningful.

How Split 6 Works

Each hole is a fresh battle for six total points, distributed based on performance. Unlike traditional scoring, Split 6 side game rewards consistent play and creates thrilling momentum swings throughout the round.

1st place on a hole = 4 points

2nd place on a hole = 2 points

3rd place on a hole = 0 points

But what about ties? That’s where it gets interesting:

One player wins the hole, and the other two tie for second → 4pts – 1pt – 1pt

Two players tie for first, one finishes last → 3pts – 3pts – 0pts

All three players tie the hole → 2pts – 2pts – 2pts

Why Play Split 6?

Split 6 side game is more than just a fun alternative—it’s a game that rewards steady play while keeping all three players in the mix until the very last hole. Even if you have a rough start, a few well-played holes can put you right back in contention. It also encourages friendly rivalry and strategic decision-making, as you try to maximize your points while keeping an eye on your opponents.

Seamless Scoring with VPAR

Gone are the days of manually tracking scores and points. VPAR does the work for you, automatically calculating your Split 6 standings in real-time. Just focus on your game and enjoy the competition!

So next time you hit the course with two friends, activate Split 6 in the VPAR app and let the battle for points begin!

Ready to give it a shot? Open your VPAR app, upgrade to Premium and start your game today!

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!

Favourite Golf Courses I’ve Played – Will’s Top 5

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses

5. Jack’s Point

Location: Queenstown, NZ.

In late December 2022, I flew from Sydney to Queenstown to visit this stunning mountain town on the South Island of New Zealand called Queenstown. It is home to the breathtaking Jack’s Point Golf Club, nestled amidst the ‘Remarkables’ mountain range and alongside the shimmering Lake Wakatipu. The clubhouse features a modern, simple design with a fantastic bar and a local community vibe, especially during the holiday period.

The course is seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings, winding through native grasslands, rock formations, and bush, all the way to the shores of Lake Wakatipu. At Jack’s Point, you won’t need a ball tracer for your videos, the mountain range does the job for you. The 7th hole is a standout par 3, with a wedge shot down towards the water. I nearly got a hole-in-one, which would have been a story to boast about forever!

Jack’s Point is truly a hidden gem, and I don’t think any course in the world competes visually with what this place naturally offers. It was so good, I had to play it twice!

Source: Pebble Beach Resorts

Location: California, USA

The Links at Spanish Bay is part of the Pebble Beach resort and sits on the beautiful Monterey Peninsula. I had the pleasure of playing it on a perfect bluebird morning with hardly any wind, making for ideal conditions. The ocean views are truly breathtaking and can be seen on most holes. At times, it feels as though you’re playing right on the beach, with the waves of the Pacific Ocean just steps away.

The par-3 8th hole remains one of the greatest holes I’ve ever played. Situated parallel to the famous 17-Mile Drive and the ocean, you hit over marshland to a green surrounded by bunkers. It almost feels like an island green until you get closer. I found myself in the bunker long and managed to get up and down for one of my favourite pars I’ve made.

During the round, we were fortunate enough to witness a solar eclipse while on the course, which was a surreal experience. A kind woman even brought us glasses from her home so we could safely watch it unfold. It was an experience I may never get to have again.

The course is incredibly fun and more golfer-friendly than its neighbouring golf courses, Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill, which are notoriously tough. One of my favourite parts of the clubhouse was the large painting of a cricket game in the bar area. As a cricket fan, it really struck a chord with me. This is a course I could play every day for the rest of my life and never get bored.

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses

3. Shadow Creek

Location: Las Vegas, USA

Shadow Creek offers a completely unique golfing experience like nothing I’ve ever had before. It’s the Disneyland of golf! As soon as you drive through the gates and enter the property, it feels like you’re in another world, completely different from the surrounding desert landscape. It’s almost as if you’ve suddenly teleported to Magnolia Lane and are about to play at Augusta National, especially when you eventually arrive at the beautiful white clubhouse. The course is so green, tree-lined, and full of beautiful flower beds scattered throughout the complex.

Shadow Creek is all about the experience. You receive first-class service as you step out of the car, then enter the largest changing room I’ve ever seen, equipped with everything you need for a round of golf. As you look at the lockers, you’ll spot names like Michael Jordan, Barack Obama, and Tiger Woods.

When you get to the range, music is playing while you hit balls on the perfectly manicured grass, and you get to see your golf cart, all set up and ready for you. If you’re lucky, you might even spot Michael Jordan’s Carolina Blue personal golf cart parked outside.

The course itself lives up to the entertainment value, offering a true test of golf. There are amazing holes that present plenty of risk/reward decisions, adding to the excitement. The fairways are like carpets, and the greens are incredibly fast. The best part of Shadow Creek is that it feels like you have the course to yourself, as it’s very exclusive, with only a limited number of tee times available each day. Shadow Creek is truly a one-of-a-kind facility, and I would highly recommend it if you ever get the opportunity to experience it.

Source: Pebble Beach Resorts

Location: California, USA.

Anyone who plays golf likely has Pebble Beach somewhere on their bucket list, as it’s such a historic venue that is open to the public. It has hosted numerous majors, and many of golf’s greatest players have won there, which gives the place a unique aura, especially for an amateur golfer stepping onto the course. You can’t help but feel that every shot you hit has been played before by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, it’s the closest I’ll ever get to being like them.

The course is tough, with tiny, firm greens, making it a challenge, but it’s the only course I’ve played where I didn’t really care about my score. I just wanted to take it all in and be as present as possible.

Holes 4 through 10 make up the best stretch of golf I’ve ever played, and every moment feels like a “pinch me” experience, it’s truly magical. My excitement for playing the famous 7th hole was off the charts, and it didn’t disappoint. I hit a low draw into a middle pin with the wind coming off the right, then sank a 10-footer for birdie. In that moment, I felt like I had completed golf!

Playing holes 17 and 18 was especially meaningful, as that’s where champions have been made at Pebble Beach, especially during the majors. You can picture the iconic shots they’ve hit on TV and try to imagine yourself in those same moments.

Pebble Beach encompasses everything that makes golf such a special sport, and it’s incredible to see such a historic masterpiece open to the public. I’ll definitely be back at some point to experience it all again. As Jack Nicklaus once said, “If I had one round of golf to play, I’d like to go to Pebble Beach,” and I couldn’t agree more.

Source: Poppy Hills

1. Poppy Hills

Location: California, USA.

Poppy Hills is a golf course that many golfers may not have heard of, but it holds a special place in my golfing heart. Nestled within the forest of Pebble Beach, it boasts a stunning design and breathtaking natural beauty. The course features a tree-lined layout, with each hole offering a unique experience. It has wide, sweeping fairways and expansive greens that provide a variety of pin positions, a trademark of the course’s designer, Robert Trent Jones Jr.

I’ve never had as much fun on a golf course as I did during the afternoon I spent at Poppy Hills. It was an unexpected treat, considering the neighbouring golf courses I had played during the same trip. The course exudes an aura reminiscent of Augusta National, with its majestic, towering, tree-lined fairways framing each hole. The sight of the yellow pin flags on the large greens only adds to the experience, evoking a feeling of tradition and championship-level play, much like The Masters.

This course is completely unique to what you can find in my home country of England, where such a style of golf course doesn’t exist. I played well, which certainly enhanced the experience, but there was something about the course itself that truly connected with me in a way I’ve never felt anywhere else. I look forward to playing Poppy Hills again in the future, and it’s the course I’ll always mention if anyone asks what my favourite is!

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes.
Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland.
Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.

VPAR Feature Blog: Profile Goals

vpar app profile goals

Stay Focused with Profile Goals in VPAR Premium

If you’re serious about improving your golf game, setting clear targets is the key to success. That’s why VPAR Premium’s Profile Goals app feature is designed to keep you accountable and motivated every time you step onto the course. By setting personal objectives for the season, you’ll have a clear roadmap to push your game further than ever before.

Set Your Targets, Track Your Progress

With Profile Goals, you can set and monitor four key performance targets:

Handicap Target

Dreaming of getting your handicap into single digits? Or perhaps breaking 20 for the first time? Whatever your goal, setting a Handicap Target helps you stay focused on every round, ensuring you’re making the right improvements to lower your golf score over time.

Low Gross Score Target

There’s nothing quite like that personal best feeling. Set a Low Gross Score Target and chase that career-best round. Whether it’s breaking 80, 90, or 100, this goal keeps you striving to fine-tune your game and achieve your best golf score yet.

Rounds Played This Month Target

Consistency is key in golf. By setting a Rounds Played This Month Target, you create a routine and make sure you’re getting enough reps in to improve. Whether it’s four rounds or ten, having a goal keeps you committed to playing regularly.

Rounds Played This Year Target

Long-term progress comes from staying dedicated throughout the entire season. Your Rounds Played This Year Target helps you stay accountable for your overall commitment to golf. More rounds mean more experience, and more experience leads to better performance!

The Power of Staying Accountable

The Profile Goals app feature isn’t just about numbers—it’s about keeping you engaged, motivated, and continuously improving. Every time you play, you’ll have a purpose, knowing that each round contributes to your overall targets.

No more aimless rounds. No more drifting through the season without direction. With Profile Goals in VPAR Premium, you’ll push your game to levels you didn’t think were possible.

Set your goals today and start playing with purpose!

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)

Sub-60 Club on the PGA TOUR

Sub-60 Club on the PGA TOUR

Source: Sky Sports

Jake Knapp was the 15th player to shoot a sub-60 round in PGA TOUR history yesterday. Had he made his eagle putt on the 18th hole, he would have become the second player to shoot a 58 on the PGA TOUR, following Jim Furyk, who did so in 2016 at the Travelers Championship. Below, I’m going to highlight six of these sub-60 rounds and break down how they were achieved.

Jim Furyk

Course: TPC River Highlands

Event: Travelers Championship 2016

Par: 70

Score: 58

Out: 27

In: 31

Eagles: 1

Birdies: 10

Bogeys: 0

Notes: Furyk made seven consecutive birdies on 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. He also shot a 59 at the 2013 BMW Championship!

Jake Knapp

Course: PGA National Resort (The Champion Course)

Event: Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches 2025

Par: 71

Score: 59

Out: 29

In: 30

Eagles: 0

Birdies: 12

Bogeys: 0

Notes: Knapp had an 18-foot putt for eagle on the 18th hole to tie the PGA TOUR scoring record of 58, however, he left it on the low side and tapped it in for birdie.

Scottie Scheffler

Course: TPC Boston  

Event: THE NORTHERN TRUST 2020

Par: 71

Score: 59

Out: 30

In: 29

Eagles: 0

Birdies: 12

Bogeys: 0

Notes: He became the second player to shoot a 59 in the FedEx Cup Playoffs. He finished T4, 13 shots behind the winner, Dustin Johnson.

Adam Hadwin

Course: La Quinta CC       

Event: 2017 CareerBuilder Challenge

Par: 72

Score: 59

Out: 29

In: 30

Eagles: 0

Birdies: 13

Bogeys: 0

Notes: He carded six consecutive birdies on the front nine and five more in a row on the back nine, finishing with a score of -13!

Justin Thomas

Course: Waialae CC  

Event: 2017 Sony Open

Par: 70

Score: 59

Out: 29

In: 30

Eagles: 2

Birdies: 8

Bogeys: 1

Notes: He ended up winning the Sony Open by seven shots. He is one of three people in TOUR history to have shot a sub-60 score with a bogey.

Kevin Chappell

Course: Old White TPC     

Event: 2019 A Military Tribute at The Greenbrier 

Par: 70

Score: 59

Out: 28

In: 31

Eagles: 0

Birdies: 11

Bogeys: 0

Notes: After starting the day with a par on Hole 10, he made nine consecutive birdies!

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes.
Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland.
Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.

VPAR Feature Blog: Multi Tee Times

Golf is always better with more friends, and with VPAR Premium’s Multi Tee Time feature, you can take your games to the next level. Whether you’re organizing a friendly competition or setting up a larger tournament, this feature allows you to add more than two tee times to your game, giving you the flexibility to include more players and create an unforgettable round.

vpar multi tee times

What is the Multi Tee Time Feature?

Traditionally, playing with a group meant sticking to a single tee time or managing just one extra group. But with Multi Tee Times in VPAR Premium, you can seamlessly add multiple tee times, ensuring that everyone can be part of the same game, no matter how big your squad is.

This means you’re no longer limited to just a handful of players. Now, you can build a proper mini-tournament with your golf buddies, tracking every shot, score, and leaderboard update in real time through the VPAR app.

Why It’s a Game-Changer

Bigger Groups, More Fun – Expand your game beyond the usual foursome and include more players, making your rounds even more competitive and social.

Perfect for Tournaments – Whether it’s a casual weekend showdown or a structured event, the Multi Tee Time feature lets you easily manage multiple groups without the hassle of separate scorekeeping.

Live Leaderboards – Keep up with the action across all groups as scores update instantly, keeping the competition tight and engaging.

Seamless Organization – Say goodbye to confusing scorecards and missed updates. VPAR keeps everything in sync so you can focus on your game.

How to Use It

Create a New Game in VPAR Premium.

Select Multi Tee Times when setting up your round.

Add Additional Tee Times to include more groups.

Invite Your Friends and assign them to their respective tee times.

Play & Compete while tracking live leaderboards in the app.

With the Multi Tee Time feature, you’re no longer restricted by limited spots. Build your dream golf day, invite as many friends as you want, and enjoy the game like never before.

Ready to experience golf without limits? Upgrade to VPAR Premium today and start hosting bigger, better tournaments with ease!

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!

Six Players to Monitor Before The Masters

the Masters golf players

Ludvig Åberg

Ludvig Åberg is the ideal modern-day golfer. He’s athletic, hits the ball long, straight, and doesn’t get fazed by the big occasions. He made his debut at Augusta National in 2024. And he did not disappoint, finishing solo second, which didn’t come as a surprise to me.

His game is perfectly suited to the course layout. And I don’t think there’s a better match-up to the course other than the reigning champion, Scottie Scheffler. He has won there twice in the past three years.

The main strength of his game is off the tee, where he ranked fifth last year at The Masters, according to Data Golf. However, the stat that caught my eye the most was that he was ranked first in strokes gained Putting. Arguably the most tested element of your game at Augusta.

The greens are huge, undulating, and absolutely rapid. So, to be ranked first in the field in your debut Masters is an eye-catching achievement. It suggests that he must feel comfortable with the pace of the greens, despite his limited experience. At Augusta National, combining a long, straight driver with someone who can precisely judge the greens is a match made in heaven.

Last week, he recorded his second PGA Tour win at The Genesis Invitational, held at Torrey Pines. I’ll be keeping a close eye on his performances over the next few events. I think he’ll be going into The Masters just behind Scottie Scheffler in the favourites market, maybe even as the favourite if he wins a tournament like The Players beforehand.

Joaquín Niemann

In 2022, Joaquín Niemann made the move to LIV Golf, but his decision was different from most players. He was a young player trending towards the top of his game. To be fair to him, his stock has risen since his move to LIV. He has won five times on three different tours worldwide since joining LIV. Also, he has gone out of his way to earn crucial world ranking points to qualify for all the major championships. Unlike other players on the LIV circuit.

For the second consecutive year, Niemann has received an invite to play in The Masters. This proves he has a real hunger to win major championships.

One of my starting points when looking for potential winners at Augusta National is players’ records at Riviera Country Club, where the Genesis Invitational is usually held. The similarities between the two venues, in terms of champions, are striking. Since 2000, winners at Riviera CC have included Mike Weir (back-to-back in 2003 and 2004), Adam Scott (2005 and 2020), Phil Mickelson (back-to-back in 2008 and 2009), Bubba Watson (2014, 2016, and 2018), Dustin Johnson (2017), Jon Rahm (2023), and Hideki Matsuyama (2024). All of these players are Masters champions.

This ties back to Niemann, who, in 2022, claimed a wire-to-wire win at the Genesis Invitational in a very strong field. He set the tournament scoring record through 36 holes and held on to claim his second PGA Tour victory. While his Masters record doesn’t yet boast much, he has made the cut four years in a row and has been trending in the right direction.

Personally, I believe his game has risen to a new level in the past year, evidenced by his recent win in front of 100,000 fans at LIV Adelaide. He’s definitely worth keeping an eye on in the coming months, especially with a chip on his shoulder.

Tyrrell Hatton

Tyrrell Hatton is a player known for winning big events. He has won five Rolex Series events on the DP World Tour, three Alfred Dunhill Links Championships at St Andrews, the Arnold Palmer Invitational on the PGA Tour, and two Ryder Cups. That’s a very good career to date. However, he does not have the best major record. I think this will be Tyrrell’s year to really cement himself alongside the world’s best players and compete to win a major championship.

With Tyrrell’s links record, some would say his best chance to win a major would be The Open. But I see him as someone whose game should match up well with the test at Augusta National. With a T9 finish in 2024, his best finish at The Masters, I feel he could go one step further this year. He has a naturally high ball flight with his irons, which will aid his approach play when landing on the firm greens. Also, he has one of the best short games in the world. He was ranked fourth in Strokes Gained Around the Green and tenth in Tee to Green in last year’s tournament.

I don’t see a career where Tyrrell Hatton doesn’t end up winning a major championship. So, will he follow the likes of fellow Englishmen Nick Faldo and Danny Willett by winning a green jacket?

Russel Henley

Russell Henley is a very consistent player on the PGA Tour. He has won four times and doesn’t have many weaknesses in his game, other than driving distance. Henley ranked ninth in driving accuracy in 2024, hitting 69.49% of fairways, and he is also a very good wedge player.

He suits shorter courses, however, his major record has been excellent over the last few years, with a T4 in The Masters and a T14 in the U.S. Open in 2023, as well as a T7 in the U.S. Open and a solo 5th in The Open Championship in 2024. That’s a steady record, and I think he has a good chance of a top-ten finish at The Masters, especially if his putter starts heating up like it can in the lead-up to April.

Brooks Koepka

Brooks Koepka has long been considered one of the most formidable competitors in major championships. Known for his calmness under pressure, Koepka has earned a reputation for delivering his best golf when it matters most, often using events before the majors as preparation for the big one.

Whatever his form is statistically beforehand, it’s almost irrelevant to how he turns it on when major season arrives. He is a five-time major champion and has made it clear that he judges his career on how many majors he can tick off.

Augusta National is a course where he has shown glimpses of brilliance, but he has also shown inconsistency. In 2019, he finished T2; in 2020, he finished T7; and in 2023, T2. He has proven that he has both the game and the mindset to win The Masters. I’m sure he’ll be in contention again going into the final round in the near future. He needs to win The Masters to get one step closer to the Grand Slam.

It will be interesting to keep an eye on Brooks’ form on the LIV Tour over the next few months to see how he’s preparing, but don’t be fooled if he’s not performing. His mind switches when the big tournaments come around!

Will Zalatoris

2024 was a tough season for Will Zalatoris after being sidelined for much of the year due to injury. However, he is back for 2025 and stronger than ever. He added 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason. Zalatoris’ major record is very impressive, especially at The Masters. In 2020, he finished T6 at the U.S. Open.

In 2021, he finished solo second in The Masters on debut, T8 in the PGA Championship, and, most impressively, in 2022, he finished T6 in The Masters, solo second in the PGA Championship, and T2 in the U.S. Open. Last year, he also finished T9 at The Masters. He has a solid record at Riviera as well, which correlates well with Augusta National, as mentioned in the case of Joaquín Niemann.

To have a solo second, T6, and T9 in your first three Masters appearances is a record that deserves more recognition. His major resume is near immaculate. One of those results will surely turn into a major win very soon. He will likely be viewed as an outsider in the betting market this year. This makes his value even greater. I’ll be keeping an eye on his progress on the PGA Tour leading up to The Masters. I believe history will repeat itself.

Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.

A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes.
Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland.
Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.

VPAR Feature Blog: Custom Hole Configuration 

Golf is all about adaptability. From adjusting to changing course conditions to tweaking your club selection, flexibility is key. That’s why VPAR’s Custom Hole Configuration feature is such a game-changer, allowing you to set a start hole and an end hole before you even tee off.

custom hole configuration feature

Why This Feature Matters

Whether you’re playing a casual round, competing in a shotgun start, or tackling a unique routing at your local course, being able to predefine your hole sequence provides a seamless experience. No more manually skipping holes or trying to remember where you should be heading next—VPAR has you covered.

Ideal for Twilight & Time-Sensitive Rounds

Sometimes, you don’t have time for a full 18 holes. Maybe you’re squeezing in a quick nine before sunset or playing an abbreviated round due to course conditions. This feature lets you define exactly how many holes you plan to play and ensures your scorecard reflects your custom routing.

Stay in Sync with Your Playing Partners

If you’re joining a group already mid-round or splitting a round across multiple sessions, having the ability to set a specific start and end hole ensures your scorecard stays aligned with the group. Everyone sees the same leaderboard, making competitive and social play more streamlined than ever.

Enhances Course Variety & Personal Challenges

Want to shake things up and play the back nine first? Or maybe try an alternate routing for fresh challenges? The Custom Hole Configuration feature allows you to personalize your golf experience beyond the traditional front-to-back setup.

How to Use It

Setting up your custom holes in VPAR is quick and easy:

Create a game in the VPAR app.

Select your course and confirm your players.

Choose your starting hole and end hole before teeing off.

Play your round with live scoring perfectly mapped to your customized route.

With this feature, your golf round is as flexible as your schedule, ensuring every game feels tailored to your needs.

Try It Today

Next time you hit the course, take advantage of the Custom Hole Configuration feature in VPAR. Whether you’re navigating a shotgun start, squeezing in a quick round, or crafting a unique challenge, this feature ensures your game runs smoothly, no matter how you play.

Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.

A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World.
Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns!
He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!