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The NCG Golf Podcast

National Club Golfer

The NCG Golf Podcast, by National Club Golfer, brings stories from the world of golf to life. Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll chat about everything from the clubhouse game, to tour, equipment, and courses, and welcome special guests from the world of golf along the way. Available on your preferred podcast platform.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Today · 57 min
I shot an Exceptional Score, so why did my handicap barely move?
Podcast co-host Steve Carroll shot one of the best rounds of his life but failed to get the big handicap cut he craved, because he fell agonisingly short of the threshold for an exceptional score in the World Handicap System. He gets into the subject with co-host Tom Irwin, with the pair asking what makes a round something completely out of the ordinary. Should there be a sliding scale for different handicaps? Is the bar set too high? Elsewhere, Tom thinks he’s just played in the best competition on the planet. You can be the judge. And can you mark a playing partner’s ball on the green? You’ve all done it, but are you at risk of picking up a penalty? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
October 1 · 57 min
Would you sell your golf club for £10 million?
It’s decision time for members of The Glen. They’ve been asked to vote on a partnership that could bring millions of pounds of investment into the club. What would you think if your club was considering something similar? How much control would you trade or, if it’s a sale, would you expect a dividend? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll get into the topic this week, as well as recounting what happened in the big Course Rating match at Dumbarnie last week. Who came out on top and can you play off scratch if you just switch tees? They then get stuck into formats – should we give foursomes move love? – and this time it’s Tom posing the Rules question to Steve. Can you play a practice round before a competition? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 24 · 53 min
Would you report a cheat?
Cheating in golf is almost unspoken. Everyone knows it goes on. It whispers through the corridors of our clubs and explodes onto social media almost every time there’s a drop a few keyboard warriors don’t like. It can be a difficult topic to discuss and even harder to deal with. What do you do? If you’ve seen someone cheating, how would you handle it? Should club players be expected to police themselves in dealing with possible cheaters – even if it could lead to friction on the course? Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll get into the debate: asking if cheating is widespread, what counts as cheating, and whether we just love a bit of drama in our clubhouses and online. The duo also get into the latest on golf ball roll back. Just what is going on in the golf course distance debate? And Steve has an unappealing rules scenario for Tom to solve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
September 17 · 1 hr 8 min
Solheim Cup, member guest abuse and WhatsApp wars
Does the Solheim Cup need to sound like a musical? Are some golfers taking the mickey when it comes to member guest rates? And are golf clubs becoming a more hostile place to be? Hosts Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll break down Europe’s magnificent triumph in the biennial battle with the USA but ask if the event needs a soundtrack. Getting to play a course as a guest with a member, at a much-reduced rate, is a huge privilege but is it one that is being abused? And as a golf legal advisory association reported that enquiries regarding member disciplinary cases at clubs in Great Britain are at an all-time high, we ask if misconduct is becoming a problem in our sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#310
September 11 · 1 hr 9 min
Exclusive: Captain Dean Robertson on how we won the Walker Cup against all odds
In his first interview since returning home from Lahinch, Walker Cup captain Dean Robertson joins the NCG Golf Podcast to take us inside one of the most dramatic weekends in the competition’s history. Dean reflects on that pulsating final day that saw GB&I recover from a Sunday morning foursomes whitewash to overturn a three-point deficit in the singles and bring the trophy home for the first time since 2015. What did he say to his players when the contest appeared to be slipping away? When did he begin to believe an extraordinary comeback was possible? And how did it feel to watch his team complete a victory that will live long in Walker Cup history? In a candid conversation, Dean also discusses the bonds formed at Lahinch, the players who rose to the occasion and the personal meaning of captaining a winning side. For all of us who were gripped to the action at Lahinch, you will not want to miss the inside story of an unforgettable Walker Cup, told by the man at the heart of it – in every sense. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#309
September 10 · 1 hr 16 min
Wonderful Walker Cup & The Ticking Handicap Time Bomb
Tom is back from endless travels and reveals 'The best course is he has played in Europe' *probably. More worryingly, he seems to have taken to stalking Patrick Bamford. Steve is sad because he is leaving the course we shall not name and Tom has been involved in a match play rules controversy that leaves Steve dumfounded. The Walker Cup was just the tonic they both needed and they reflect on the celebration of amateur and match play golf on the Irish Coast, why we all love it and what the game can learn. They look forward to the Solheim, and wonder where all the women are. They get stuck into the ticking time bomb of junior handicaps and wonder where it all ends for the endless manipulation of handicaps - both ways. Tom wins at Rules Corner.. again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#308
August 27 · 1 hr 5 min
LIV, laughs and a love of brown golf courses
Tom Irwin and Steve Carroll are back with another NCG Golf Podcast, and Tom has plenty to catch up on after a golf-filled break. The pair kick things off by talking about the joys of brown golf courses, with Tom reflecting on some of the brilliant courses he's played recently and why firm, fast and natural conditions can make for such enjoyable golf. They also get into the latest debates around LIV Golf, the WHS data report and some of the more unusual Rules of Golf scenarios, alongside plenty of conversation about what makes great golf courses and why we love playing them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#307
August 20 · 1 hr 4 min
What Does the Data Really Tell Us About the World Handicap System?
Steve Carroll steps in for Tom Irwin this week, joining Dan Murphy for a deep dive into the World Handicap System and the latest WHS Data Report. With more than 150 million rounds from over 6.5 million golfers included in the report, the pair discuss what the numbers really tell us about handicaps, general play and competition rounds, the ongoing debate around the system, and participation in women's golf. There's also plenty of golf chat, with Dan looking back on a recent trip to Ireland and Steve sharing his experience at Gilling Castle. Is the WHS working as it should? And why does it continue to divide opinion among golfers? Steve and Dan get stuck into the numbers and the debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#306
August 13 · 1 hr 6 min
46 Years at St Enodoc: A Life in Golf with Nick Williams
Tom Irwin is joined by St Enodoc Head Professional Nick Williams for a fascinating look back at almost 46 years in golf. Nick recalls joining St Enodoc in the 1980s, when the club was a very different place, and reflects on how it has grown from a relatively unknown Cornish gem into a thriving golf club. He also shares stories from his career, including the changing role of the club professional, repairing persimmon clubs, setting courses and handicaps, and the evolution of golf coaching. They also discuss how technology has transformed teaching, whether modern coaching has become too technical, and why Nick still believes getting the basics right is the key to playing better golf. A fascinating conversation about a lifetime spent behind the counter, on the course and in the coaching bay at one of Cornwall's most renowned golf clubs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#305
August 6 · 1 hr 3 min
Was This the Unluckiest Moment in Major Championship History?
The AIG Women's Open had everything. A dramatic final-day charge, a playoff, and one of the most bizarre moments you'll ever see on a golf course. Tom Irwin is joined by Steve Carroll and NCG equipment editor Nicola Slater, who was at Royal Lytham, to unpack the championship. The team also look back on Royal Lytham as a championship venue, the performances of Charley Hull, Lottie Woad and Nelly Korda, and why this year's championship was a brilliant advert for links golf. In this episode: • The playoff incident everyone is debating • Nicola's view from inside Royal Lytham • Why the course was the perfect major test • Charley Hull's week under the spotlight • The biggest talking points from the final women's major of 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#304
July 30 · 32 min
Why the AIG Women's Open Is Bigger Than Ever
Matt Chivers and Nicola Slater are on location at the AIG Women's Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes for a special edition of the NCG Golf Podcast. Nicola shares what it's really like trying to qualify for a major championship, from the pressure of final qualifying to coming agonisingly close to earning a place in the field. The pair also discuss the changes at Royal Lytham ahead of The Open's return in 2028, the record-breaking growth of the AIG Women's Open, rising prize money, why women's golf is becoming more accessible than ever, and which players could thrive in the links conditions this week. If you're following the AIG Women's Open, this is your essential preview from inside the ropes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#303
July 24 · 1 hr 3 min
Who Really Runs Men's Professional Golf?
With Steve away, Tom Irwin is joined by NCG Top 100s' Dan Murphy for a wide-ranging discussion on the biggest questions facing men's professional golf. Has LIV Golf already achieved its purpose, even if its future remains uncertain? Are the major championships becoming the only events that truly matter? And what does Rory McIlroy's changing schedule say about the balance of power between players and the tours? The pair also debate player power, the PGA Tour's signature events, the future of LIV, the role of the DP World Tour, and why golf has become more divided than ever. If you enjoy the podcast, don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#302
July 20 · 1 hr 31 min
Fabulous Fox, bonkers Bryson, brilliant Birkdale and enough TIOs
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#301
July 18 · 51 min
The many layers of the Bryson DeChambeau ruling at The Open
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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#300
July 17 · 38 min
Is the 18th at Birkdale the best finishing hole on The Open Rota?
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#299
July 16 · 57 min
Can Open venues ever win the battle against distance?
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? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#298
July 15 · 49 min
Patience is a virtue at the biggest Open ever
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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#297
July 14 · 28 min
Could it be Tommy’s time at The Open?
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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#296
July 9 · 1 hr 8 min
The Open is here! Our Royal Birkdale preview
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#295
July 6 · 38 min
Curtis Cup Hero, Amateur Champion, Club President: The Remarkable Story of Jill Thornhill
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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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