All photography provided by Gary Evans & Getty Images

After a fourteen year sabbatical from tournament golf, I had the lads at Callaway Golf loft and lie my clubs, I put some serious practice in and jumped back into the world of competitive Senior European Tour Golf on the Staysure Tour…. and what a fantastic experience I had.

A different way to play

So the first difference that I had to acclimate to when joining the Senior ranks was whereas a European Tour event was always a 4 round event with a cut after 2 rounds, The Staysure Tour is typically a 3 round event with no cut! The only Senior Staysure Tour events that have 4 rounds, are the Majors.

The second big difference is that on The European Tour, we would play a pre-tournament Pro-am with the sponsors and their guests. On the Staysure Tour, we would regularly play formats where Amateurs would join us both in pre-tournament Pro-ams, and often for the first, and sometimes the second days of the tournament proper! This brings a whole new dimension to the events, not only for the Pros but for the Amateurs too.

I’m often asked “is it difficult playing with Amateurs when you’re trying to earn a living?” “Do the amateurs get in the way?” “Do they talk too much and are they wanting tips all of the time?”

Quite frankly, I had a great time playing with my Amateur team mates. I found it relaxing, we have a few laughs, I give a few tips (after the round, never during) and generally, we have a great time together. For me personally, I genuinely enjoy their company and like most things in life, the more relaxed you are, the more fun you’ll have and the better you’ll perform.

The other technical element that I love about the Staysure Tour, is that we are permitted to use Laser Measurement Devices.. and in my case, that means that I get to use one of my favourite ever products, the Leica Pinmaster II (as shown below). Not only does this speed up play, it reduces the need for expensive caddies ;-) or at least relying on their ability to add and subtract numbers from a yardage book!

The Senior European Tour has been blessed to have the presence and support of Ryan Howsam and his Staysure Insurance business. Not only is the man a highly successful entrepreneur, he sees the big picture of what being associated with the Senior Tour can offer. I know I speak for my Professional colleagues that we are all hugely grateful for Ryan’s continued support and we’re excited to see what the next few years bring with Ryan taking a more active role in developing the Senior Tour in Europe.