VPAR Feature Blog: VPAR Fitness

vpar fitness premium feature

Unlock Your Full Potential with VPAR Fitness

Are you ready to take your golf game to the next level? Introducing VPAR Fitness! The latest addition to the VPAR app designed to enhance your performance on the course through targeted training. You can improve mobility, build strength or increase flexibility. VPAR Fitness has everything you need to optimize your swing and overall game.

Why Fitness Matters in Golf

Golf is more than just technique—it’s about how your body moves, generates power, and maintains endurance throughout a round. With VPAR Fitness, you can now train smarter and improve key areas that directly impact your swing, ball striking, and overall consistency. A stronger, more flexible body leads to greater distance, better accuracy, and reduced risk of injury.

What You Get with VPAR Fitness

By upgrading to VPAR Premium, you gain exclusive access to our detailed fitness section. It focuses on four essential elements for every golfer:

Mobility – Improve your range of motion for a smoother, more efficient swing.

Power – Generate more clubhead speed and increase your driving distance.

Strength – Build core and lower body strength for better stability and control.

Flexibility – Enhance movement patterns to maintain a repeatable, effortless swing.

With over 15+ exercises and home workouts, this feature provides easy-to-follow drills that you can do anytime, anywhere—no fancy equipment needed! Whether you’re warming up before a round or looking to build long-term strength, our expertly designed routines will help you unlock your full golfing potential.

Achieve More This Season

Golf is a game of inches, and the right training can make all the difference. Upgrade to VPAR Premium today and start training like a pro with VPAR Fitness. Your best golf game is just one workout away!

Download the VPAR app now and take the first step towards lower scores and a stronger game.

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: Defender Format

vpar side games defender format

Introducing Defender: A Thrilling Side Game in VPAR Premium

Looking to add an extra layer of competition to your rounds? The Defender side game in VPAR Premium brings a strategic twist to your golf experience. It’s perfect for groups of three or four players. Also, regardless if you’re a seasoned competitor or just looking to mix things up with friends, Defender format is designed to keep every hole engaging and every shot meaningful.

How to Play Defender

Basically, Defender format is all about taking turns as the designated player for each hole. The goal is to protect your score while the rest of the group tries to take you down. Here’s how it works.

Rotating Defender: One player per hole is assigned as the Defender. The rotation follows a set order—Player 1 on Hole 1, Player 2 on Hole 2, and so on. Once all players have defended a hole, the cycle repeats.

Objective: The Defender’s goal is to shoot the lowest score on their designated hole.

Challengers: The other players aim to outperform the Defender and claim points for themselves.

Scoring Breakdown

The scoring system in Defender format keeps the competition tight and rewarding.

Defender wins the hole (posts the lowest score): Gains 3 points, while all other players lose 1 point each.

Defender loses the hole (any challenger beats them): Defender loses 3 points, while each winning challenger gains 1 point.

Defender ties for low score: Defender earns 1.5 points, while the challengers each lose 0.5 points.

Why You’ll Love Defender

Adds Tactical Strategy: Every hole plays differently when it’s your turn to defend. Do you play aggressively to secure the win, or play it safe and hope for mistakes from the challengers?

Keeps Every Hole Competitive: Even if you’re having an off day, you’ll have multiple chances to be the Defender. Every hole is an opportunity to regain points.

Great for All Skill Levels: Defender is easy to learn and adapts well to different playing abilities. It’s a perfect side game for any group.

Try It in Your Next Round!

With Defender in VPAR Premium, every hole is a battle, every shot is crucial, and every player has a stake in the game. Activate VPAR side games in your next round and experience the ultimate test of golf strategy and execution!

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 – Joakim’s Top 5

Growing up with both my parents in the golf and hospitality industry, I’ve been fortunate to tee it up on some truly spectacular courses, both near and far. Yet, my top five selections aren’t just about prestige or difficulty. They’re about the unforgettable moments, breathtaking scenery, and pure joy the game has brought me. These favourite golf courses hold a special place in my heart. And not just for their beauty, but for the memories they’ve created along the way.

Old Course at St. Andrews

Source: Top 100 Courses Kevin Murray

5. Old Course at St. Andrews

Location : St.Andrews, Scotland

The Home of Golf needs no introduction. Walking the fairways of the Old Course at St. Andrews is a pilgrimage for any golfer. From the iconic Swilcan Bridge to the daunting Road Hole, every step is steeped in history. The undulating fairways and massive double greens provide a unique challenge. And the unpredictable Scottish weather only adds to the drama. The course required a steady hand and major focus, but at times, the nerves were hard to control! The only reason this isn’t higher on my list is that I played it during winter repairs and had to hit off mats—though that did lead to some interesting shot-making and extra spin on the ball!

TPC Tampa Bay

Source: Heritage Golf Group – TPC Tampa

4. TPC Tampa Bay

Location – Lutz, Florida, USA

A former Champions Tour venue, TPC Tampa Bay delivers a challenging yet enjoyable test of golf. It was a last-minute tee-time decision—we hadn’t even researched the course. But upon arrival, we were greeted by pristine fairways, gleaming white bunkers, and the natural beauty of Florida’s wetlands. The friendly, welcoming staff added to the experience, and the clubhouse had some of the most creative, one-of-a-kind merchandise, including gear inspired by NFL legend Tom Brady. I still have my Brady-themed hat to this day! If TPC Sawgrass is fully booked, this course is a fantastic alternative just a short drive away.

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

Source: Las Colinas Golf

3. Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

Location – Alicante, Spain

Las Colinas holds a special place in my heart—it was one of the first full 18-hole courses I ever played. Nestled in the hills of Costa Blanca, this championship course is known for its immaculate conditioning and strategic layout. The Mediterranean setting, peaceful atmosphere, and world-class facilities make it no surprise that Las Colinas is consistently ranked among Spain’s top courses. From a young age, every visit felt like an adventure, filled with great holidays, family memories, and incredible experiences on the course. With my golf ability changing over the years, I was facing new challenges every time I played (and I might have been a little too young to drive the buggy back then, but what a great time that was!).

London Golf Club

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses

2. London Golf Club – Heritage Course (England)

Location – Kent, England

Set in the rolling Kent countryside, the Heritage Course at London Golf Club is a Jack Nicklaus design that rewards strategic play. Not only have I had the pleasure of playing the course multiple times, but I also worked at the venue for six spectacular years. During that time, I was part of two Senior Tour events and a European Tour competition, experiencing the course in every possible condition. The balance of beauty and difficulty makes it a memorable challenge, but for me, it’s the late summer rounds, the amazing people I met, and the memories I made that truly make London Golf Club special.

Dumbarnie Links (Scotland)

Source: Top 100 Golf Courses – Patrick Koenig

Location – Leven, Scotland

A modern links masterpiece, Dumbarnie Links offers breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth, with wide fairways, dramatic dunes, and exciting risk- reward holes. This course is an absolute thrill to play. Beyond the incredible golf, the experience was elevated by the American-style clubhouse and bar, which provided the perfect setting to relax before and after the round. Sharing food and drinks while overlooking the course made for an unforgettable memory. Dumbarnie was the ideal way to round off a St. Andrews trip. I wish this could be a Top 10 or even a Top 20—there are so many incredible courses, unforgettable experiences, and amazing people I wish I could thank and praise. To every course that has welcomed me, thank you, and I’ll see you soon.

Joakim is VPAR’s Events Manager.

With golf and hospitality in his blood, growing up in the industry was inevitable. His first taste of the professional golf world came through an internship at London Golf Club, an experience that led to a six-year career at the prestigious venue.

On the course, he enjoys a steady 14.1 handicap, embracing the art of bogey golf while still chasing the dream of single figures.

After an amazing time in club operations, he made the leap into the events and tournament world with VPAR, where he has spent the past two years helping deliver over 400 golf events across the UK and Europe. With each event bringing new experiences and incredible people, the journey is just getting started—let’s see what year three has in store!

VPAR Feature Blog: Las Vegas Format

vpar premium las vegas format

Master the Las Vegas Side Game with VPAR Premium

Looking to add an extra layer of competition and excitement to your next round? The Las Vegas side game feature in VPAR Premium brings a unique team-based challenge to your golf experience. If you’re playing in a group of four, this golf side game is the perfect way to test your strategy and skill while keeping the stakes high!

How It Works

Las Vegas is played with four golfers, divided into two teams of two. But unlike standard team scoring formats, this game takes a creative twist—team scores aren’t added together; they’re paired instead.

Scoring Format

The player with the lower score on each team goes first, and the player with the higher score follows. This forms a two-digit number representing the team’s score for that hole.

The team with the lower combined number wins the hole.

The winning team earns points based on the difference between the two team scores.

Special Rule: High Score Pairing

If any player scores worse than a net double bogey, their team must use the higher score first when forming their number. This increases the potential points at stake and adds an extra layer of risk to every hole.

Example of Play

Let’s say we have two teams:

  • Team A: Player 1 scores a 3, and Player 2 scores a 4. Their team score is 34.
  • Team B: Player 3 scores a 4, and Player 4 scores a 5. Their team score is 45.

Since Team A has the lower score (34 vs. 45), they win the hole. The points awarded are the difference between the two team scores: 45 – 34 = 11 points to Team A.

Why Play Las Vegas Format with VPAR?

With VPAR Premium, the app seamlessly calculates scores and point differentials, keeping gameplay fast and competitive without the hassle of manual tracking. Whether you’re playing for pride, drinks, or something a little more exciting, the Las Vegas golf side game ensures a thrilling round every time.

So, the next time you tee up with three friends, add the Las Vegas format to your VPAR Premium experience and take your competitive edge to the next level. 

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: Flags Format

vpar premium flags side game

Master the Flags Side Game with VPAR Premium

Looking for a new way to challenge yourself and your playing partners on the course? The Flags side game, available in VPAR Premium, brings a fresh competitive twist to your rounds, testing your strategy and shot-making like never before.

How Does Flags Work?

In the Flags side game, each golfer is given a set number of strokes to advance their ball as far around the course as possible. When you reach your last allocated shot, you plant your virtual flag at that spot. The player who places their flag the furthest around the course wins!

Calculating Your Stroke Allowance

To ensure fair play and that all flags remain within the 18 holes, your stroke allocation is calculated as:

(Par + Playing Handicap) x 75%

This formula ensures a balanced challenge for players of all skill levels, rewarding both consistency and smart course management.

Strategy Tips for Success

Plan Your Route: Since you need to get as far as possible in a limited number of shots, think ahead about which holes will give you the best opportunity to maximise distance.

Risk vs. Reward: Taking aggressive lines can help you extend your flag placement, but it also increases the chances of trouble. Balance risk and reward wisely.

Know Your Strengths: Play to your strengths. If you’re great off the tee, use that to your advantage. If your short game is solid, consider a more tactical approach.

Why Play Flags Format in VPAR Premium?

Track progress in real-time through the VPAR app.

Compete with friends in a fun and strategic format.

Add an extra layer of excitement to any round, whether casual or competitive.

Next time you tee it up with VPAR Premium, try out the Flags side game and see how far you can take your flag around 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!

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!

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.