SWIFTS STROKEPLAY CHAMPIONSHIPS
In recent years the level of interest in golf in schools has grown considerably, as has the standard of play. Whilst the foursomes event continued to be popular in schools, it was decided that individual strokeplay events were also necessary.
Previously known as HMC golf, in 2015 an HMC Singles event was organised for the first time at The Berkshire Golf Club. This was for any single figure handicap boy or girl within school education and played as an 18-hole scratch medal. The competition has proved popular, attracting a very strong field with many impressive scores posted. In addition to the individual competition, the event maintains a team element by having prizes for team scores within schools.
In 2022 the HMC Strokeplay Series was created to cater to the increasing number of students wishing to pursue golf in further education. Adding to existing event, the strokeplay schedule now includes one day (18 hole) events, as well as 54 hole multiday Championships, plus a 54 hole Tour Championship. The addition of the multiday championships has allowed the events to become WAGR ranked with the R&A and ranked with Junior Golf Scoreboard - a system used by US College coaches to track potential talent for their College programmes.
Schools enter designated teams of up to four players into the events with prizes available for the top 3 boys and girls scores. Furthermore, prizes are on offer for the leading girls’ and boys’ team (best 2 scores from school each round), and an overall school team prize (best 3 scores from 4 each round - any combination of gender).
Throughout the season there are order of merit (OoM) points available for both teams and individuals. At the one day series there are 1 x OoM points available to individuals and school teams. At the multiday WAGR events there are 1.5 x OoM points available and at the Tour Championships, typically held at the end of April, there are 2 x OoM points available. Throughout the season we will take the top 3 event OoM points earned by a team and/or individuals to calculate overall season standings. In order to fairly incorporate girls scores within the overall team score, we will be comparing course ratings and to the best of our ability aim to match course ratings. This typically means the girls play from the Ladies tee boxes and the boys whites. Each venue will have varying course ratings, and the tournament committee will decide from venue to venue how to best allow for differences in course ratings for boys and girls. This will be communicated in advance of the 1st tee time.
In 2022, we started to work closely with the Swifts Trust to deliver all our offerings as Swift Schools Golf events. These series, formerly known as HMC golf, will have new and exciting opportunities to come. Full details on the rules, format, and prizes for the Strokeplay series events can be found on the event webpages, including how to enter. Follow the event links in the schedule above.