The NCG Podcast

On the day after The Open, NCG Golf Podcast duo Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll are joined by Matt Chivers and Dan Murphy in a special episode discussing what they all saw at Royal Birkdale and of course, the winner - Ryan Fox.   Another ruling cropped up on the final day which caused controversy including the World No.1 Scottie Scheffler. As is the nature of the laws of the game, this led to a heated debate about how tour players can take advantage of immoveable structures at events.   The group discuss Birkdale one last time and how the drastic golf course changes presented a championship test at The Open, based on comments made by players throughout the week. And, there is also one more chat about Bryson DeChambeau, who made headlines throughout with his behaviour.

During the third round of The Open at Royal Birkdale, host Tom Irwin and Matt Chivers discuss the controversial two-shot penalty given to Bryson DeChambeau on the 5th hole in round two. Did the R&A make the correct call? And before The Open, was Sir Nick Faldo fair in his criticism of Bryson's links approach? From the media centre, Tom and Matt also talk about the fan experience at The Open, the intricacies behind TIO rulings with scoreboards and the incredible grandstand finish at Birkdale which forces the players to play daring shots

NCG Golf Podcast host Steve Carroll is back at Royal Birkdale, and is joined by Matt Chivers in the media centre at The Open, and there has been quite the action in round two. The men's major scoring record has been equalled twice, and there was rangefinder rules confusion amongst all of that.   Steve has also been out on the 18th hole to analyse what makes it so incredible. Bob MacIntyre didn't speak glowingly about it, but Matt Wallace said it's the best finishing hole on The Open Rota. Steve and Matt get into this, plus a whole lot more on day two of The Open.

Tom Irwin is once again joined by Dan Murphy and Matt Chivers on the NCG Golf Podcast, in the media centre at Royal Birkdale, on day one of the 154th Open Championship. The trio get into the players who they thought could win, and how they have respectively started, before tackling how the golf course is playing. What have been the toughest holes, and which is the hardest nine holes? After discussing the contrast in conditions between the morning and afternoon in Southport Tom, Dan and Matt also get into the distance debate - something that is almost impossible to avoid at these venues. With players like Rory McIlroy driving par 4 greens from over 400 yards away, can golf courses ever win this battle with technology and distance, and what does it mean for the future?

Host Tom Irwin and special guests Dan Murphy and Matt Chivers preview the 154th Open Championship in the media centre at Royal Birkdale. The trio dive into which type of golfer will thrive on the baked Southport links - will it be a bomber or a plodder?    The team also talk about R&A CEO Mark Darbon's press conference, and the discussion around Open venues that might either be returning to the Rota (Muirfield), or joining for the first time (Portmarnock). Tom also goes into the questions he asked the R&A chief regarding the intricacies of the World Handicap System and General Play scorecards

Welcome to the first of our special podcasts from Royal Birkdale where Steve Carroll is joined by Matt Chivers to talk about the opening two days at The Open. The pair discuss how the course is looking and Matt reveals he has been asking some of the world's best players about sports betting and crowd behaviour – will we see an interruption this week? The two also discuss the home favourite Tommy Fleetwood. Is it finally going to be Tommy's time at the majors on his home 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  

As The Open returns to the magnificent Royal Birkdale, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll look ahead to the 154th edition of the game's oldest major. From the Last Chance Open Qualifer and the unique test that Birkdale presents to favourite memories from this iconic links venue, they break down everything you need to know before the first tee shot is struck. And, naturally, they make their picks for who will be lifting the Claret Jug. This is your essential preview. Tune in and get ready for one of golf's greatest weeks.

Few golfers can match the amateur pedigree of Jill Thornhill. A former Women's Amateur Champion, leading amateur at the Women's British Open, Curtis Cup player and captain, and current president of Walton Heath Golf Club, she has spent decades at the heart of the game. In this special episode, Steve Carroll sits down with one of our most respected amateur golfers to relive her greatest memories, discuss her lifelong connection to Walton Heath, and share her views on everything from pace of play and the Rules of Golf to the World Handicap System. It's an engaging conversation with a true giant of amateur golf.

If it's not visitors holding up play by taking endless photos, it is golfer taking calls when they should be playing a shot. So should mobile phones be banned on the course? Is golf's relationship with technology harming the game. In this episode of The NCG Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll tackle one of the game's most contentious debates. From ringing phones and social media distractions to GPS apps, score tracking and way we experience a round, we ask whether golf needs to draw a line. Please let us know your thoughts – get in touch on your preferred podcast app or send us an email at s.carroll@nationalclubgolfer.com 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

Players throwing clubs. Spectators turning on eventual US Open champion Wyndham Clark. Tempers boiling over on the biggest stage. For those who believe etiquette is golf's foundation, recent events have raised an uncomfortable question: has the game lost its way? And is what we see on tour simply reflecting what's happening every weekend at golf clubs across the country? In this week's episode, Tom Irwin climbs onto the soapbox to deliver a passionate and thought-provoking critique of golf's changing standards. Why has etiquette slipped? Are golfers simply copying what they see at the top of the game? And what can clubs, players, and the sport itself do to turn things around? It's a lively debate about respect and whether golf's unwritten rules are under threat. 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

Another month, another record. England Golf's iGolf scheme added more than 6,100 subscribers in May alone, while recorded rounds topped 100,000 for the first time. Nearly 30,000 golfers have gone on to join clubs since the programme launched – but are clubs doing enough to welcome these players? Or are some turning away a valuable source of future members by restricting access to Open competitions? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll dive into the numbers and discuss whether golf clubs are missing a major opportunity. 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 one of golf's most hotly debated questions – and Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll aren't holding back. Has the World Handicap System become too much of a free-for-all? Should competition golf be the only true measure of a player's ability? The pair ask whether the system is baffling newcomers and juniors and get into par, strokes received, and what your handicap really represents. Whether you're a competition regular, or simply someone who's ever wondered how their index is calculated, you'll want to listen in… 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

You've got £500, three days, and a set of clubs in the boot. Where are you heading? This week, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll plan the ultimate budget golf trip. Steve reveals an eye-opening adventure in Northumberland, complete with green fees that seem too good to be true, while Tom makes the case for his beloved Lincolnshire and its collection of top-class courses. If you're looking for maximum golf without emptying your wallet, this episode is packed with ideas. And we want to hear from you: what's the best-value golf trip you've ever taken? 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 Steve Carroll is joined by Sam Barker-Sabido, Rules of Golf manager at England Golf. Catching up ahead of the Brabazon Trophy last week, the pair discuss how the governing body's referees approach a big championship. But they also discuss how you can get involved in refereeing and Sam lists some of the most common rules mistakes golfers make in their competitive outings. If you've ever wondered how you can become a referee, or just how you can improve your Rules of Golf knowledge, make sure to tune in… 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 and Steve Carroll react to Aaron Rai's stunning PGA Championship win and relive their own chaotic debut as a pairing in the NCG Top 100s Summer Match Play. But it isn't long before the conversation turns back to the World Handicap System. Why are handicap allowances still confusing golfers? Why do clubs stick to the same tees every week? And if your score can be adjusted anyway… why can't competitions be more flexible? It's majors, match play, medal tees, and more WHS frustration on this week's NCG Golf Podcast. 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  

From the balls we hit, to the watches we wear on our wrists, technology has seeped into every part of golf. Now artificial intelligence threatens to change the game in ways we probably haven't even imagined yet. But does it enhance the game or detract from it? This week Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll discuss the increasing rise of tech and whether it's chipping away at golf's soul. Should the sport be determined by data or should the golf course be a screen-free zone? 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, we've got a bonus episode for you as Steve Carroll caught up with Lee Westwood at Close House. As well as being one of Europe's best golfers over the last three decades, he's also the attached tour professional at the Newcastle venue, which is marking 15 years since it opened the Colt course. We got stuck into a bunch of club matters, considered if the upcoming golf ball roll back is necessary to protect classic masterpieces like St Andrews, and he revealed the simple things golfers can do to score better straight away. 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 and Steve Carroll are back discussing the latest moves in the World Handicap System. They talk about how Playing Handicaps are applied in competitions, with Golf Ireland now being joined by Wales Golf and Scottish Golf in giving clubs more flexibility. With England Golf the only country in the home nations not to follow suit, what does this mean for WHS? Is the aim of a unified handicap system in GB&I fracturing? Golf Ireland have also brought in a new pilot scheme, which will determine how players qualify for their elite competitions. Are they moving away from using WHS for their top performers by turning to a strokes gained system? What should that mean for clubs? 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 is going on with the breakaway tour? Will PIF pull their funding? Is Bryson DeChambeau going to stay? Is it even going to be able to carry on? With speculation continuing, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll try and unpick what's going on with LIV Golf and what could happen over the next few weeks and months... 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 special episode of the NCG Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy look back on a captivating week at Augusta National, where Rory McIlroy cemented his place in golfing history with a second consecutive Masters victory.   Having captured his maiden Green Jacket in 2025, McIlroy returned in 2026 to prove it was no one-off, holding off a relentless chasing pack to become just the fourth player ever to win back-to-back Masters titles. Tom and Dan revisit their early tournament predictions and reflect on how, despite the twists, turns, and moments of doubt throughout the week, Tom's original instincts ultimately rang true.   The episode breaks down the defining moments of the championship, the key challengers who pushed McIlroy to the limit, and the significance of joining such an exclusive club of Masters legends. They also explore what this achievement means for McIlroy's legacy and his standing in the modern game.   Tune in for expert insight, engaging analysis, and a celebration of a historic triumph at Augusta.

In this Saturday edition of the NCG Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy return to reassess the ever-shifting landscape of The Masters. After the optimism surrounding Rory McIlroy's earlier performance, moving day told a very different story. McIlroy struggled to find his rhythm, leaving the door wide open for the chasing pack. Stepping into the spotlight was Cameron Young, who produced a sensational 65 to surge up the leaderboard and ignite the tournament heading into Sunday. With momentum building behind a host of contenders, the race for the Green Jacket is suddenly wide open. Tom and Dan break down the key moments from the round, analyse what went wrong for McIlroy, and assess the growing list of challengers poised to make a Sunday charge. With Augusta National set for a thrilling finale, everything is still to play for. Tune in for expert insight, sharp analysis, and all the drama from moving day at the Masters.

In this special Masters edition of the NCG Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy dissect a truly memorable round from Rory McIlroy. The episode takes listeners shot-by-shot through McIlroy's sensational performance at The Masters. The duo explore the key moments that defined the round, the strategic decisions that shaped his score, and how this display stacks up against some of Augusta National's most iconic performances. With expert insight and passionate analysis, Tom and Dan place McIlroy's 65 in historical context, examining what it means for his legacy and his pursuit of the Green Jacket. Whether you're a Masters enthusiast or simply appreciate golfing excellence, this episode offers a deep dive into a round that may stand among the finest ever played at Augusta.

Tom Irwin and Dan Murphy break down all the action from an enthralling opening day at Augusta National. From standout performances and surprise contenders to the traditions and quirks that make The Masters truly unique, the duo explore the moments that only happen at Augusta. Expect sharp analysis, behind-the-scenes insights, and plenty of storytelling as the journey to the Green Jacket gets underway.

Augusta National is one of the most famous venues in sport, but what is it really like beyond the perfectly manicured fairways and familiar TV shots? In this special episode of the NCG Golf Podcast, Dan Murphy and Tom Irwin take you inside the gates to share their first-hand experiences from the home of the Masters on the day before the action starts. From the subtleties of the course's elevation changes to the scale of its most iconic holes, they cut through the usual clichés to reveal what makes Augusta National so unique.

It's the best episode of the year! It's our Masters preview! It's the ceremonial opening to the golf season and Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll are very excited about this year's hunt for the Green Jacket. What is the greatest Masters of all time? Why is it so hard to go back-to-back? And is the Champions Dinner actually at the very heart of everything about the tournament? We've got a how to guide to Augusta, break down some Masters myths and, most importantly, tell you who might go on to win. There are a few surprise names on our shortlist. 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 been signing up for every match play competition his club offers and, this week, he tells co-host Steve Carroll why the format is so special. But Steve's not quite so convinced. Is arranging games just too much of a hassle? And what impact does the World Handicap System have on the formats? Does 100 per cent of Course Handicap in singles competitions give some players too much of an advantage? The pair also reveal some of your on-course nightmares and Steve's got a sticky rules situation for Tom to solve. 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  

These are the rounds we would rather forget – the shots that went wrong, the blow ups on and off the course that left us wondering whether we should ever swing a club ever again. This week Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll are in the Confessional, recounting the occasions they cringed and collapsed. From an embarrassing error at Open Regional Qualifying to a Captain's Day disaster, these are the times we just wanted to curl up and die on the golf course. Enjoy them, commiserate with us, and get in touch and tell us your own tales of woe. 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 host Tom Irwin has been to the Sunningdale Foursomes – a traditional curtain-raiser to the golf season – and he absolutely loved it. But in club land foursomes can sometimes be a difficult sell, with golfers arguing over the format or reluctant to hit only half the shots in a normal round. This week, Tom and Steve review foursomes, why it can struggle to gain a fuller foothold in the club game, and why more of us should consider spending more time playing alternate shot. Is it the purest form of the game? Let us convince you… 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

Women's participation in golf is growing – but is it growing fast enough? Does the industry really understand the experience of women in golf? And is the biggest barrier access or culture? This week, we're joined by Nicole Wheatley, founder of the Women in Golf Awards, to talk about participation, accountability, and whether golf is ready to honesty look at itself. The new Fairways Project, launched by the Awards in collaboration with 59Club, is a five-year global study designed to measure women's experience across the industry. Nicole explains why it's so important and why men also need to get involved. 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

Are you one of those players determined to be the best they can be? Are you having regular lessons, staking out the range, and practising like there's no tomorrow? Or are you just happy to play once a week, have a drink with your friends, and not worry about your handicap? This week, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll ask if club golfers are motivated to improve – and what's getting in the way of those who aren't. The pair also go through a busy mailbag, and there's a muddy rules query to match the weather.  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  

Have you ever considered leaving your golf club? How many of your clubs upped your fees last year and are they going to do it again? What keeps you loyal? We asked you about golf club membership in another big NCG survey filled in by more than 1,000 of you and Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll break down some fascinating results. We reveal what you are saying about golf club membership, and whether we're still basking in post-pandemic participation joy or if dark clouds are on the horizon. 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

Music playing, phones buzzing, dress codes pushed to the limit – and that's before we even start dredging up unrepaired pitch marks and unraked bunkers. Was good etiquette about fitting in, and is it now about tolerance and acceptance instead? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll dig into the etiquette question – from pace of play to course care. They share some stories and ask whether standards are dying or just evolving. 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 surveyed 3,390 golfers from across the UK and beyond to ask what they really thought about the World Handicap System Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll reveal the results – breaking down what the data really tells us, where the system is working, and where golfers believe it is falling apart. We'll discuss issues around trust, fairness, general play scores, and whether you think WHS truly reflects ability. 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

It's probably the most fundamental part of the World Handicap System but how many of us really understand Course Rating? This week, Steve Carroll is joined by Gemma Hunter, The R&A's assistant director of handicapping, to discuss this vital piece of the puzzle. How does it work? How is the data put together? Do clubs get to see it? Is it all just about length? 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  

It offers a cheap way to get an official handicap and players don't need to be a member of a golf club. Whether it's iGolf or OpenPlay, independent golfer schemes have been very successful over the past few years – and have also been a useful foot in the door for players wondering if membership is right for them. But with many pundits suggesting numbers could take a hit this year in the face of cost-of-living struggles, could they now provide an escape route? And what will mean for the club game? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll discuss the rise of the independent golfer, how golf clubs engage with them, and whether such schemes could prove ever more attractive if golfers are looking to save their pennies. 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  

Should you have to show basic competency before you are let loose on the fairways and greens? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll ask this week whether rules, etiquette, pace of play, and safety should be tested before players are allowed out onto the course. Would you sit an exam to play golf? 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 can't see off 2025 without a huge quiz and there are reputations on the line as two podcasts collide. Steve Carroll, the pride of The NCG Golf Podcast, takes on NCG Top 100s Podcast's very own Dan Murphy for bragging rights with Tom Irwin as your quizmaster. Who will come out on top in this test of golfing knowledge? 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

There are two certainties at Christmas – countdowns and a good old-fashioned lookahead. Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll get out their crystal balls – even though 2026 is only a week away – to predict what might happen in your golf clubs next year. Will there be a membership crisis? Will you still be able to use cash at your club and what lies in store for the golf professional? 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 always has you shaking your head on the golf course? What are the rules that no one can get right?  Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll reveal the regulations that are flouted most - and most of them have come straight from you! Whether it's dodgy drops, provisional balls that aren't, or what you get up to in bunkers, this is your line-up of the most broken rules in our sport.  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  

England Golf's decision to postpone any changes to handicap allowances ends another turbulent year for the World Handicap System. With dissent as strong as ever – outlined in the many emails you send to us every week – Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll discuss the latest developments and ask what the next 12 months hold for the embattled calculator. Will WHS finally start to settle down? Does there need to be a more joined-up approach to its implementation? What will it take for people to accept it? 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 sits down with six-time major champion Sir Nick Faldo to talk about the remarkable impact of the Faldo Series – an initiative that has helped countless young players reach the top of the game. He also opens up about how equipment has evolved, how modern skill levels compare with his era, and what it takes to succeed today. And, of course, you'll hear his memories from Augusta and the stories behind his three Masters victories. 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

Vital to the running of a golf club, or paralysed decision makers that just get in the way? Do we still need golf club committees and, if so, how could they be improved? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll have some experience in this field. Both have served on golf club committees and they debate the pros and cons of these institutions. Who are they meant to serve, and are they achieving that? Do clubs still need committees as we turn into 2026? 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

Green fees that seem to never stop rising, clubs asking for more from their members, and have you seen the price of equipment? Is it all too much? After a new player survey revealed rising costs and affordability continued to be a concern for club golfers, Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll discuss whether those fears are perception or reality. Are green fees getting out of control, or is it just market forces? Are we asking parents to pay too much as we coax youngsters into the game, and are we even being priced out on the driving range? 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  

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 single 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