Golf Pod Cymru

12th Hole - Wales Golf

Golf Pod Cymru – Episode 12: Wales Golf Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for another episode of Golf Pod Cymru as we take a closer look at the organisation behind Welsh amateur golf and ask some big questions about the future of the game in Wales. Welsh Golf Round-Up We catch up on the latest results from Welsh players competing around the world, as well as bringing you an update on the DP World Tour Q School and the players hoping to take the next step in their professional careers. Special Guest – Hannah McAllister, CEO of Wales Golf We are joined by Hannah McAllister, CEO of Wales Golf, for an in-depth conversation about her journey to the top of the organisation and the role Wales Golf plays within the amateur game in Wales. Hannah gives us an insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Welsh golf, including the ongoing work to encourage more women and girls to take up the game and ensure they have the opportunity to progress and enjoy golf at every level. We also discuss the wider role of Wales Golf and its ambitions for the future of the game. Gareth Jenkins – Performance & Pathway Our second guest is Gareth Jenkins, Wales Golf Director of Performance and Pathway. Gareth talks us through the current Welsh performance pathway and how young players are identified, developed and supported as they look to reach the highest levels of the game. We also explore one of the biggest challenges facing Wales as a smaller golfing nation – how do you provide players with the same opportunities and resources as larger golfing countries? With Wales producing elite players in the past, including Major champions, what can be done to give the next generation the best possible chance of becoming the next Welsh golfing hero? Reaction – What Should Golfers Pay? We discuss the number of affiliated golfers in Wales and the fees they currently pay, leading to a bigger question: would golfers be willing to pay more to help develop the next generation of Welsh talent? Could a small increase in the cost of affiliation make a meaningful difference to performance programmes and player development? And, ultimately, would we be prepared to invest more today in the hope of producing the next Ian Woosnam tomorrow? It's a debate that could have a big impact on the future of Welsh golf. Matt's Challenge After suffering a back injury, Matt's challenge takes an unexpected turn. We catch up with him to find out how his recovery is progressing, how much golf he's been able to play and whether he's getting any closer to returning to his best. Can Matt get himself back on the course – and will the injury affect his plans for the rest of the season? Golf Pod Cymru – bringing you the people, stories and big conversations shaping the future of golf in Wales.

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11th Hole - The Welsh PGA Championship

Golf Pod Cymru – Episode 11: The Welsh PGA Championship After a short summer break, Golf Pod Cymru is back! Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden as we return with another packed episode, bringing you the latest news, stories and personalities from the world of Welsh golf. Welsh Golf Round-Up We catch up on all the latest results from the Welsh professional and amateur game, as well as taking a look at some of the Order of Merit standings as the season reaches an important stage. DP World Tour School The journey towards the DP World Tour is underway, and Matt explains the process involved in Tour School. From the different stages of qualifying to the pressures players face along the way, we take a closer look at just how difficult it is to earn your place at the top level of professional golf. The Welsh National PGA Championship The focus of this week's episode is the Welsh National PGA Championship, taking place this year at Conwy. Eryl was at the championship speaking to the players and finding out why this tournament is such an important date in their playing calendars. For many Welsh professionals, it is one of the biggest and most prestigious events of the year – and we hear directly from the players about what competing in the Welsh PGA Championship means to them. Matt Parsley – Conwy Golf Club We also catch up with Matt Parsley, General Manager at Conwy, as we discuss the club's role as host of this year's Welsh PGA Championship. Conwy has become a venue for a number of major tournaments in recent years, and Matt gives us an insight into what it takes to prepare the course and club for elite competition. Welsh Golf Legend and PGA Captain – Dai Llewellyn We're delighted to be joined by Welsh golf legend and current PGA Captain, Dai Llewellyn, who shares his thoughts on the Welsh PGA Championship and reflects on the current state of elite golf in Wales. With his vast experience of the game and his unique position as PGA Captain, Dai offers a fascinating perspective on the importance of the Welsh PGA Championship, the development of Welsh players and the opportunities available to the next generation. We also discuss his views on the future of elite golf in Wales and what is needed to help Welsh players continue to compete and succeed at the highest level. Matt's Challenge With the tournament season coming to an end for Matt, we ask the question: what's next? Has he achieved what he set out to do this season, and where does he go from here? We catch up with Matt to reflect on his year and look ahead to his next challenge. Ask Matt This week's question is all about "flushing" – and before anyone gets the wrong idea, we're definitely talking about golf! Matt explains what golfers mean when they talk about flushing a shot, what it feels like and whether there's anything you can do to experience that perfect strike more often. Comedy Golf Comedy Golf returns with another golfing disaster! This week's story features Nearest the Pin... in 3! A tale that proves that sometimes getting closest to the hole isn't quite as straightforward as it sounds. Welcome back to Golf Pod Cymru – another episode packed with Welsh golf, great stories, expert insight and, as always, plenty of laughs. Golf Pod Cymru – bringing you the people, places and passion that make Welsh golf so special.

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10th Hole - Hunt for a Tour Card

Golf Pod Cymru – Episode 10: Hunt for a Tour Card Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for another packed episode of Golf Pod Cymru as we explore the highs, lows and challenges of professional golf, with one Welsh player on the 'Hunt' for more opportunities on the DP World Tour. Welsh Golf Round-Up We catch up on all the latest results and stories from the Welsh professional and amateur scene, including the Home Internationals and the players flying the flag for Wales on the international stage. We also head to the Legends Tour, where our very own Jamie Donaldson continues to shine amongst some of the biggest names in senior professional golf. There's also a look back at the Men's Team Championship at Wrexham, as well as the winner of the Eisteddfod Golf Day at Cardigan Golf Club. Special Guest – Toby Hunt This week's guest is professional golfer Toby Hunt, who shares his story and his ambitions to secure more starts on the DP World Tour. Toby gives us a fascinating insight into the reality of life as a professional golfer – the opportunities, the challenges and just how difficult it is to earn your place on one of the world's leading tours. We hear about his journey so far and what he needs to do to take the next step in his career. Matt's Challenge Has Matt peaked, or has he finally fallen in love with his putter? We catch up with Matt to see how his game is progressing and whether the putter has become his secret weapon – or whether we're getting a little carried away! Topic of the Pod – When the Weather Turns Extreme Severe weather is becoming an increasing challenge for golf courses and golfers. This week we discuss the impact of extreme conditions, particularly prolonged dry spells and heat, on the game. With courses facing growing challenges around water availability and storage, we look at how clubs and greenkeepers are adapting, what the future might look like and what these conditions mean for the golfers who play on them. Ask Matt This week's question takes us onto the baked fairways and rock-hard greens. Matt shares his advice on how to play golf on baked-out courses, from managing the different lies and unpredictable bounces to choosing the right shots and adjusting your course management when the ground is running hard. Another episode packed with Welsh golf, professional insight, stories from the course and plenty of debate. Golf Pod Cymru – bringing you the people, places and passion that make Welsh golf so special.

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9th Hole - Far Froom Home

Golf Pod Cymru – Episode 9: Far Froom Home Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for another episode of Golf Pod Cymru as we reflect on an unforgettable Open Championship and catch up with one of Welsh golf's most well-travelled professionals. The Open Championship Review The team looks back at this year's Open Championship, analysing the biggest talking points, standout performances and key moments from golf's oldest major. From the eventual Champion Golfer of the Year to the stories that captured the imagination, we give our thoughts on an unforgettable week. Welsh Golf Round-Up We bring you the latest news from the professional and amateur game in Wales, including a fantastic showing by Welsh golfers at the Senior Open at Gleneagles. It's another encouraging week for Welsh golf, with plenty of impressive performances to celebrate. Special Guest – Tom Froom This week's guest is Welsh professional Tom Froom. From learning the game at Nefyn Golf Club to taking his golfing career across the world to China, Tom shares the remarkable story of his golfing journey. We discuss the opportunities and challenges of playing internationally, the experiences he's gained overseas, and what the future holds for his career. Golf Stat App Matt introduces his new Golf Stat app, designed to track every aspect of your game. From fairways hit and greens in regulation to putting statistics and scoring trends, Matt explains how collecting the right data can help golfers identify weaknesses, monitor progress and ultimately lower their scores. Ask Matt Rhys puts himself in the spotlight this week with a question to Matt - Does he need a new putter?! Whether you're looking back at The Open, following the latest Welsh golf news or searching for ways to improve your own game, Episode 9 is packed with stories, insight and plenty of golfing chat. Golf Pod Cymru – bringing you the people, places and passion that make Welsh golf so special.

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8th Hole - The Open

Golf Pod Cymru – Episode 8: The Open Championship Special The biggest week in golf is here! Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for a special Open Championship edition of Golf Pod Cymru as we look ahead to golf's oldest and most prestigious major. The Open Championship Preview The team discusses everything surrounding this year's Open at Royal Birkdale, from the course and conditions to the players most likely to lift the Claret Jug. We also reveal our own predictions and debate who we think will come out on top. Rhys Behind the Scenes at The Open Rhys shares stories from his time working for The Open TV, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes insight into one of the world's greatest sporting events. From the atmosphere around the course to what goes on away from the cameras, it's a unique perspective that golf fans won't want to miss. Special Guest – Oliver Farr We're joined by Welsh professional Oliver Farr, who reflects on the honour of competing in not one, but two Open Championships. Oliver talks about qualifying, what it feels like to tee it up alongside the world's best players, and shares some memorable stories from golf's biggest stage. Welsh History at The Open We take a look back at the proud history of Welsh golfers at The Open, celebrating the players who have represented Wales over the years and revisiting some of the nation's greatest performances in the championship. Matt's Challenge It's the busiest time of the year for Matt with the coaching season in full swing, so Matt's Challenge is taking a well-earned break. We'll be back with more challenges once the summer coaching schedule eases. Ask Matt This week's listener question is all about entering scores digitally. Matt explains the best way to record scores using modern scoring apps and systems, while also discussing why accurate score entry is so important for maintaining a fair handicap. Whether you're glued to every shot of The Open or simply love hearing great golfing stories, Episode 8 is packed with insight, nostalgia and expert analysis from a distinctly Welsh perspective. Golf Pod Cymru – celebrating Welsh golf, one episode at a time.

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7th Hole - Bradley Dredge, playing for peanuts!

Golf Pod Cymru – Episode 7: Bradley Dredge Special Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for another episode of Golf Pod Cymru, bringing you the latest stories, personalities and talking points from the world of Welsh golf. Welsh Golf Round-Up We begin with our regular look at the professional and amateur golf scene in Wales, including the standout performances from the past week. We also shine a spotlight on the Open Championship qualifying events, discussing the players chasing their dream of earning a place in golf's oldest major. Special Guest – Bradley Dredge This week's episode features an extended interview with Welsh golfing legend Bradley Dredge. Bradley reflects on his journey from amateur golf in Wales to competing on the biggest stages in world golf. He shares stories from throughout his career, discusses his greatest successes and The Masters experiences, and offers a fascinating insight into life as a tour professional. Matt's Challenge Has Matt recovered after being well and truly "Slayed" at Slaley Hall? We catch up with him to see how his game is progressing following a tough week at the PGA Championship and whether confidence has returned ahead of his next golfing challenge. Welsh Golf News We discuss the announcement of the Welsh teams selected for the upcoming European Team Championships, highlighting the players who will be representing Wales and what the championships mean for the future of Welsh golf. Ask Matt This week's question comes a little closer to home, as Eryl turns to Matt for some much-needed help on the greens. With the putter refusing to behave, Matt shares his advice on improving confidence, consistency and holing more putts. Whether you're following Welsh golf, love hearing from the game's biggest names or simply want to improve your own game, Episode 7 is packed with insight, stories and plenty of golfing chat. Golf Pod Cymru – celebrating the people, places and passion that make golf in Wales so special.

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6th Hole - Great Days

Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for another episode of Golf Pod Cymru, the podcast celebrating everything golf in Wales. Matt's Championship Debrief Matt returns from the PGA Championship at Slaley Hall to give us the full debrief. From a notoriously tough course and testing conditions to the highs, the lows... and, of course, the quality of the bacon, he shares his experience of competing against some of the country's top PGA professionals. Welsh Golf Round-Up We catch up on the latest news and performances from Welsh golfers, both professional and amateur, celebrating the players making their mark across Wales and beyond. Special Guest – Sean Holley This week's guest is Sean Holley from Great Days Golf. Sean talks about how he first fell in love with golf (alongside his passion for other sports), the journey that led to creating Great Days Golf, and what goes into organising memorable golf events and experiences for golfers across the UK. Topic of the Pod – Why Wales is the Perfect Golf Destination Inspired by Sean's work with Great Days Golf, the team discusses why Wales is one of the UK's best destinations for golf breaks. From championship links and stunning parkland courses to fantastic hospitality and great value, we explore why golfers should put Wales at the top of their list for their next golf getaway. Comedy Golf Comedy Golf returns with another brilliant listener story. This week's tale involves a golf buggy, a very large puddle and a sequence of events that has to be heard to be believed! If you've got a funny golfing story, we'd love to hear it for a future episode. Ask Matt Matt is back to answer another listener's question, sharing practical advice and professional insight to help golfers improve their game. Whether you're planning your next golf trip, looking for expert tips or simply enjoy a good golfing laugh, Episode 6 has something for every golfer. Golf Pod Cymru – bringing you the stories, personalities and passion that make Welsh golf so special.

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5th Hole - To be, or not to be?

Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for Episode 5 of Golf Pod Cymru, the podcast dedicated to golf in Wales. This week, the team rounds up the latest news and performances from Welsh golfers, both professional and amateur, highlighting the players making headlines at home and abroad. Topic of the Pod: Golf Membership – To Join or Not to Join? Golf club membership remains one of the biggest decisions golfers face. Is membership still good value? What are the benefits beyond simply playing golf? And how do flexible memberships compare with traditional options? The team discuss the pros and cons, who membership suits best, and whether joining a club is the right move for today's golfer. Special Guest: Nick Daniels We're joined by Nick Daniels, Resort Manager at Machynys, who gives us an insight into managing one of Wales' premier golf destinations. Nick discusses the challenges of hosting large-scale events, how the team prepares for major competitions, and the aspirations for bringing even bigger events to the venue in the future. Golf Pod Cymru Bacon Bap Leaderboard The competition is heating up as we bring you the latest standings in our very own Golf Pod Cymru Bacon Bap Leaderboard. Who's climbing the rankings and who's in danger of falling behind? Matt's Update Matt gives us an update on his game and preparations for his upcoming tournament at Slaley Hall next week. Recorded while out on the course at Machynys, it provides a unique opportunity to assess his game first-hand in real playing conditions and hear how he's shaping up ahead of a big week. Ask Matt Following our round at a breezy Machynys, this week's question for Matt focuses on one of golf's toughest tests – driving into a strong wind. Matt shares his thoughts on club selection, ball position, swing adjustments and course management to help golfers keep control when the conditions get challenging. Comedy Golf A brand-new section makes its debut! Comedy Golf is your chance to share the funny side of the game. From golfing disasters and missed putts to unforgettable clubhouse moments, we'll be featuring listeners' funniest golf stories. If you've got a tale that will make fellow golfers laugh, we'd love to hear it. Golf Pod Cymru – celebrating the people, courses, stories and humour that make golf in Wales so special.

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4th Hole - Robot Wars

Golf Pod Cymru – Technology in Golf, US PGA Review & A Front Nine to Remember Join Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden for another entertaining and insightful episode of Golf Pod Cymru, the podcast all about golf in Wales. This week, the team starts with a catch-up on where they’ve all been playing and what’s been happening on their golfing journeys. They then review the latest action from the PGA Championship, discussing the standout performances and biggest talking points from one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments. There’s also a full update on Welsh golfers, both professional and amateur, highlighting how players from Wales are performing at home and abroad. Topic of the Pod: Technology in Golf The main discussion explores how technology is transforming every aspect of the game—from the machinery and software used by greenkeepers, to the launch monitors and tracking systems at modern driving ranges, to the clubs and balls we use on the course. One of the standout topics is the growing use of robotic mowers on golf courses. These autonomous machines are becoming increasingly popular for maintaining fairways, tees and rough. The team discusses how robot mowers can deliver a more consistent cut, while also freeing up greenkeeping staff to focus on more specialised course maintenance tasks. Special Guest: Julian Doughty The team is joined by Julian Doughty, Head Greenkeeper at Radyr Golf Club, who provides fascinating insights into modern course management, including how technology such as robotic mowers and advanced turf-monitoring systems are changing the way courses are maintained. Matt’s Challenge Matt shares the story of a remarkable front nine score that has to be heard to be believed. Ask Matt In this week’s listener Q&A, Matt answers all your questions about golf balls—how to choose the right one, what the key differences are, and whether premium balls really make a difference to your game. Golf Pod Cymru – bringing you the stories, insights and personalities that make Welsh golf so special.

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3rd Hole - Dodging Divots

This week on Golf Pod Cymru, Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams and Matt Dearden are back in the studio with a packed episode covering all things Welsh golf. The trio kick things off with a look back at their own golfing experiences over the past week, sharing the highs, lows and everything in between. Matt gives an update on his “Road to the Seniors” challenge, including a recap of his first tournaments in six months and how he’s finding competitive golf again. There’s also a roundup of the latest from the Welsh professional and amateur scene, plus big news as the Seniors Open is set to return to Royal Porthcawl in 2027. This episode features a special interview with Peter Evans, Head Professional at Royal Porthcawl, offering insight into the club, the upcoming championship. As always, the team covers the latest Welsh golf news and announcements, before wrapping up with the popular “Ask Matt” segment—where Matt answers a listener’s question.

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2nd Hole - No caps in the clubhouse!

We’re back for Episode 2 of Golf Pod Cymru, and there’s plenty to get stuck into! We kick things off with a full Masters round-up, reflecting on all the big moments, standout performances, and talking points from Augusta. Our main topic this week is dress code – what’s acceptable on the course, what’s not, and whether golf still needs to stick to tradition or loosen things up a bit. We’ll hear the latest from Matt on his quest to reach the Senior Tour and we bring you an excellent guest interview with Mike Davies from Glyn Abbey Golf Club, sharing insights from his experience in the Welsh golf scene. We also reveal the winner of our latest competition, cover the latest Welsh golf news, and wrap things up with another edition of “Ask Matt,” where your questions get answered. Another packed episode you won’t want to miss

1st Hole - Jitters

Join hosts Rhys ap William, Eryl Williams, and Matt Dearden as they tee off the very first episode of Golf Pod Cymru – your new home for everything Welsh golf. In this debut episode, we introduce ourselves, share our love for the game, and set the tone for what’s to come. We dive straight into the state of professional golf in Wales, taking a closer look at the current landscape and how Welsh players are performing on the big stage. We also launch “Matt’s Challenge” – following Matt Dearden’s journey as he sets his sights on earning a place on the Senior Tour. Expect honest insights, ups and downs, and plenty of behind-the-scenes perspective. Our Guest Golf Club of the Week is Denbigh Golf Club, where we chat with PGA Professional and Director of Golf, Ben Brierley, about the club, its community, and what makes it special. With the Masters just around the corner, we bring you a Masters Special, exploring Welsh connections to Augusta and building excitement for one of golf’s greatest tournaments. We wrap up with a round-up of Welsh golf news and introduce “Ask Matt” – your chance to get expert advice from our resident PGA Professional to help fix your golfing ailments and improve your game. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just getting started, Golf Pod Cymru is here to bring you closer to the game in Wales and beyond. email us with any comments / feedback / questions - golfpodcymru@gmail.com