Are distance measuring devices a vital tool that speed up play, or a menace making golf too easy? This week on The NCG Golf Podcast, Tom and Irwin and Steve Carroll debate whether tech like rangefinders, GPS watches, and lasers have gone too far. Do we rely on them too much? Would the game be more fun – and more traditional – without them? And are the rules around their use too complicated for most golfers to follow? The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Yes, co-hosts Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll really are talking about some of the ways golfers can manipulate – and outright deceive – the World Handicap System. But this is not a guidebook for any golfer with larcenous intent. The duo discuss how they can be countered and what clubs need to look out for if they suspect players may not be treating the game with the integrity it deserves. Is getting someone you haven’t played with to confirm your scores against the rules? What about cancelling a round if you’ve had a bad start? Should you pick up your ball even if you could possibly have scored slightly better on a hole? This is a controversial, but enlightening, listen… The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Doesn’t time fly? It’s very nearly five years since the World Handicap System arrived in the lives of golfers in Great Britain & Ireland and Steve Carroll and Tom Irwin couldn’t let such an anniversary go unmarked. The duo are on familiar ground as they assess half a decade of WHS. What has worked? What hasn’t and what happens next? The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Who doesn’t love a Rules of Golf controversy? Just look at social media after a big decision on tour. It’s full of people debating and disagreeing. It shows how passionate we all are about the Rules and this week, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll dive headlong into a big debate about the ones they would change. With the Rules on a four-year review, we might see some alterations in time for 2027. What would our duo change? Should we look again at slope on rangefinders? Should there be a big change in stroke-and-distance? And, yes, Tom and Steve get into the divot question too. Check out our changes, see if you agree, and don’t forget to get in touch! The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

This week, Tom Irwin is joined by Sir Clive Woodward, the England Rugby World Cup winning coach, and one of sport’s greatest leaders. The pair discuss Stryve, Sir Clive’s golf venture. Stryve’s three stage process helps you understand the Basics of every shot. Each stage is packed with expert insights and coaching points, delivering the knowledge you need to help refine your technique, increase consistency, and sharpen your golfing IQ. But Tom and Sir Clive also get into the Ryder Cup. What role did leadership play in delivering the outcome? What did he make of fan and player behaviour? Should they have called a temporary halt to proceedings? It’s an intriguing discussion with a man who changed the way we think about sporting performance. Sign up to Stryve here: https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-store/id6458591313?pt=126265426&ct=ncg_podcast&mt=8 The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

What has happened to the Ryder Cup? From a pre-event pay-for-play row to the appalling behaviour on show in the galleries at Bethpage Black, it felt like golf’s image has taken a beating. Europe won the trophy but have we lost the spirit of what the near century old event is about? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll break down the last three days in New York. Why did they ruin a fantastic golf course? Why was anyone surprised some fans went too far? What on earth happens to the Ryder Cup from here – is it too late to dial it back? You might think we’re being downbeat in the wake of an historic away victory but does this competition need to regain its soul? The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Bethpage Black is almost upon us and we’ve got a bumper preview show ahead of a mouthwatering match up between the USA and Europe. Tom Irwin sits down with Ryder Cup legend Justin Rose, who’s about to make his seventh appearance in European colours. Tom and Justin talk about his commitment to the sport through the Rose Ladies Series, barriers to participation, as well as his longevity following another successful season. But, of course, they also talk about the Ryder Cup: What does he expect the atmosphere to be like at Bethpage? Should Keegan Bradley have picked himself? He also relives the Miracle of Medinah and Seve’s enduring legacy as a European icon. And, of course, with a vacancy for a skipper at Adare Manor in two years’ time, how does the captaincy look? If that’s not enough, Tom and co-host Steve Carroll also run the rule over golf’s greatest team event. Can Europe defy the New York crowds and bring the trophy back with them? The NCG Golf Podcast is produced in association with GolfClubs4Cash. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

We asked your thoughts about the World Handicap System and you responded in huge numbers – almost breaking Steve Carroll’s email. In today’s episode he joins co-host Tom Irwin to chat through some of what you said about WHS. We discuss the results of Golf Ireland’s survey of its handicap allowances pilot – where many clubs surprisingly opted not to change anything. We talk about what needs to happen with general play to make it more palatable to those suspicious it’s open to manipulation. And what is to come? Are gimmes inevitable? Tom and Steve also review the recent Walker Cup, while discussing pathways for juniors and Steve’s fascination with hickory golf! Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

It’s been a rite of passage in the Irwin household. Tom’s son has just received his first handicap and in this week’s episode we discuss that journey. Is iGolf a way to get new players started without the pressure of a club environment? Should clubs and courses be set-up differently to encourage beginners and younger golfers to get into the game? And a full-sized golf course is massive! Do we need to take more responsibility in providing short form courses and different options for those who just want to get out and play a few holes? Is slapping down a few green tees enough? Tom and Steve Carroll also break down the Ryder Cup announcements. Is this the best chance for a European win in the United States in years? And Steve delves into a real-life rules incident that involved a ball search and a stopped clock. This relatively unheard of rule might save you some shots out on the course! Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

In this episode of our special A Life in Golf podcasts, Tom Irwin chats to DP World Tour winner and podcast host Eddie Pepperell Eddie and Tom got together at The Roxburghe, where he was playing on the Challenge Tour, to discuss his career, the pressures of playing at the very elite level, the state of the professional game, and his role as a podcast star on the hugely popular The Chipping Forecast. They also get into the World Handicap System (of course) and Eddie’s got some incredible insight into self-improvement, Rory and playing with Phil Mickelson. Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

We haven’t nattered about our favourite subject for a while, so Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll can’t resist another yarn about the World Handicap System. Steve is finally starting to see his index fall but is surprised it’s not happening quicker, while Tom has played in some challenging conditions only to see the Playing Conditions Calculation remain stubbornly stable. The duo get into a debate about its merits. Tom has been on an incredible trip to Kent to play the Hagen 54, a one-day journey across Royal St George’s, Royal Cinque Ports and Prince’s. We’ll let him reveal all. And Steve has been asked whether finding a lost club on the course could bring a penalty if you’ve already got 14 in your bag. What’s the answer? Listen in to find out! Don’t miss our new NCG Top 100s podcast: https://podfollow.com/1826546061 Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Tom Irwin has just returned from a week at Royal Portrush where he was both media and family man. Once he’d put away the laptop, he experienced The Open with his wife and two young children. Does the Championship do enough to engage families? Is it really doing its best to inspire the next generation? He discusses this with co-host Steve Carroll and the pair also dive into Scottie Scheffler’s fourth major victory. Is he simply the dominant force, or is there not a lot to challenge him? And Tom asks Steve about the rules dramas with Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy. Was the punishment too strong in Lowry’s case? It’s an interesting discussion on a situation most of us will have experienced at our clubs. Don’t miss our new NCG Top 100s podcast: https://podfollow.com/1826546061 Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Day three of The Open is done, and it’s the same story as most other golf tournaments: Scottie Scheffler is steaming ahead to victory. Tom Irwin and Matt Chivers sit down to reflect on the third round at Royal Portrush, what they saw and experienced, what they make of Scheffler’s dominance and more fun with following Rory McIlroy inside the ropes. Tom isn’t entirely happy with what there is to do for youngsters on-site at the Dunluce Links, while Matt has some digressions about some of the main protagonists on day three, such as Keegan Bradley and Lee Westwood. When you listen, make sure to like, subscribe and comment on all of our podcasts, as we count down to the end of another Open and another men’s major season.

In our wrap of day two at The Open, Tom Irwin is rejoined by Tour Editor Matt Chivers, fresh and excited from following Rory McIlroy inside the ropes in the second round at Portrush. The pair talk about the prospect of Rory contending on the weekend at a home major, the absolutely vast crowds that follow his every movement, how Bryson might have cracked the links code and what we can expect from the weekend, as the leaderboard is stacked with world-class quality

Tom Irwin is joined by Dan Murphy, veteran of 27 Open Championships, to reflect on a monumental day one of The Open. They discuss how big is too big, a very ‘Rory’ Rory, how long is too long and the overarching sense of relief that The Open is delivering once again.

Tom Irwin is at The Open, he is missing Steve but the excitement has got too much and he had to Pod. He has roped in Tour Editor Matt Chivers to join him for an eve of the Open bonus episode of the NCG Golf Podcast. They run through 6 things you will be sure to see this week:   An Open ruined at the 1st A real challenge from the LIV players Hyperbolic Americans. Rory revelling in the attention Ludicrous Irish crowds cheering on the home favourites. The joyous cliché of Sky’s coverage.   Tune in, if only for the Alan Shipnuk /  Swilcan Bridge analogy.

It’s the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush and we’ve got an unmatched preview to get you into the spirit for the final men’s major of the year. Tom Irwin recounts his memories of playing the Dunluce course that will host the championship this week, as well as giving us a behind the scenes tour of some of the town’s highlights. Co-host Steve Carroll passionately argues for the removal of the internal out of bounds that did for Rory McIlroy’s chances in 2019 and tests Tom on his Open rules knowledge. And, of course, we tell you who we think can lift the Claret Jug on Sunday night. Get your Open week off to the best possible start by giving it a listen! Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

A new report says golf is a big turn off for plenty of kids – and huge numbers of parents don’t even try to get their children into the sport. The findings, from American Golf, say the Covid boom hasn’t been reflected in interest from Under-18s and we risk “losing an entire generation” without action. Is the future of our game in trouble? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll, both parents of young children, ask if we need to do more to get our offspring away from YouTube and onto the course. Elsewhere, Tom recounts his mammoth 108-hole marathon as he took part in The Big Golf Race to raise cash for Prostate Cancer, Steve laments a disappointing club championship and we ask whether Lottie Woad should have been given her prize money after the amateur sensationally won the Irish Open on the Ladies European Tour. Are the Rules of Amateur Status fit for purpose? You can donate to NCG’s Big Golf Race here: https://biggolfrace.prostatecanceruk.org/fundraising/toms-big-golf-race395 Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Podcast co-host Tom Irwin has had a through-the-bag fitting with TaylorMade at The Belfry. With clubs costing what they do, it’s essential you buy something that suits. Custom fitting can really help. So if you’re in the market for a new set of sticks, Tom has got eight tips to make the experience worthwhile.  Tom also reveals how he has fallen foul of England Golf’s Championship Entry policy when trying to enter the English Amateur Championship. But why? He reveals all.  We discuss if the policy is working as it should, and we circle round to the thorny issue of whether a handicap system that’s designed for lots of scores is, in this case, having the opposite effect for players. And rules corner is back! Website: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/ X: https://x.com/NCG_com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalClubGolfer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nationalclubgolfer/?hl=en

Steve and Tom have been playing golf. A lot of golf. Yes, we get a rundown of Captain’s Days and Team Championships but there is a deeper message too. Steve reveals the curious WHS situation he encountered where he could play a competition round under his Course Handicap and see his Index still rise. Is it just a quirk of averaging or – for those of us used to being cut for a good score – is it part of the reason WHS has been getting such a hard time? That leaves the duo to delve into general play vs competition scores, whether scores should be time limited, and whether education really is the answer to preventing manipulation of the system. Check out these pieces referred to in the podcast: https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/whs/whs-increase-after-good-round/ https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/rules/stroke-and-distance-rule-change/ https://www.nationalclubgolfer.com/whs/could-weighting-general-play-scores-solve-manipulation/