Meet Andy Watts: Espiche Golf’s New Club Captain

Espiche Golf is thrilled to introduce Andy Watts as the club’s new Captain. With a strong background in golf and a genuine passion for the club’s community, Andy is ready to lead Espiche Golf into an exciting new chapter. In this exclusive Q&A, we explore Andy’s journey, his plans for the club, and his vision for creating a vibrant golfing experience for all members.

Congratulations on becoming the Club Captain!

Thank you very much. I am honoured to take on this role and excited for what is ahead. I am looking forward to working with all involved to make this a great year at Espiche.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself (personal life, hometown, and career, any curiosity that you like to do, like a hobby for example.)

A: Sure. My name is Andy Watts and I’m originally from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England. After studying Electrical and Electronic Engineering, my first job was as a telecoms systems engineer, which allowed me to live and work in several countries, including Hong Kong, Tanzania, the Netherlands, and the USA. Later, I returned to college as a mature student to complete a degree and an MBA. I then managed telecom programs, but office life wasn’t for me! Seeking a change, I moved to France and ran a boat charter business based in Antibes. During the summer season, most of our days were spent cruising along the coast between Monaco and St. Tropez. Glamorous, yet hard work! Eventually, my wife and I chose to settle in Portugal, where I play golf, and she writes novels. Outside of golf, I enjoy learning about wines, reading mostly fact-based books, and am about to become a gardener!!

Q: Can you tell us a little about your history with Espiche Golf Club?

A: I joined Espiche about four years ago after being introduced by Julio Marcela. The special setting for the golf course and its amazing condition became apparent immediately. After playing it just a few times there was no doubt it would become my club of choice. The members and staff here have all made me feel welcome; it really does feel like a community based club.

As far as the golf is concerned, I was lucky enough to win the Men’s White Net Championship a couple of years ago though, since then, my game seems to have regressed!

Q: What does being Club Captain mean to you, and what inspired you to take on this role?

A: I was honoured to be asked to be Club Captain and delighted to accept the role. The opportunity to give back to the club that has become a big part of my life was too good to turn down. During 2025, I aim to build upon the foundations laid by previous Captains, encouraging members to play in the competitions and raising funds for good causes in the area.

Q: Are there any new initiatives or events you’re particularly excited to introduce?

A: The one initiative I am proud of introducing is the Men’s Blue Charity Day. The ladies have shown the way for the last few years, and I was happy to steal their ideas and enthusiasm to help set up the equivalent of men’s day. We raised a good sum of money for the Associação Oncológica do Algarve whilst having a great time. My one hope as Captain is that this becomes a regular feature on the Espiche calendar.

Q: How do you see the club evolving in the coming years, and what role do you hope to play in that?

A: Judging by the number of visitors that come to play Espiche Golf, it is fair to say that the club’s reputation and standing in the golf world are growing. With a new academy about to open, enhanced practice areas now available, a beautiful clubhouse to enjoy and plans in place to further improve the golf course, I only see good things happening for Espiche in the future. Any minor role that I can play in helping to realise that future, I am happy to do.

Q: Espiche is known for its strong sense of community. How do you plan to engage with members and enhance their experience?

A: I regularly take part in club competitions and can very occasionally be found at the driving range. Any member is welcome to come and chat. I plan to introduce a quarterly newsletter for updates and information as well as being available through the club’s Facebook site. Engaging with me should not be a problem. Getting the answer you want may be!!

Q: What do you think makes Espiche Golf Club unique compared to other golf courses?

A: In my mind, there is a combination of 3 things that make Espiche Golf Club stand out from the rest:

The unspoilt beauty of the nature reserve is home to our club. The sights, sounds and smells of our club are like no other.
The attentive nature of the staff. From walking onto the premises to walking off, I have always found the staff polite and attentive. That cannot always be said of all golf courses.
The membership at Espiche give the club a real feel of a community club. That is something that is difficult to create and easy to lose. The welcoming nature of Espiche’s membership is something that we can be proud of.

Q: What advice would you give to new members looking to get involved in club activities?

A: I would advise any new member to take the plunge and participate in the thrice weekly competitions that are run at the club. It’s a great way to meet new people whilst enjoying a competitive yet friendly round of golf. If you need a partner for the day, let me know!!

Q: What are your favourite holes at Espiche and why?

A: Let me start with my least favourite hole at Espiche, number 10. It has been a card wrecker too many times. I have now relented and take a mid-iron from the tee but the urge to take a driver on a Par 5 remains!!

Hole 11 is a great Stroke Index 2 hole. It is fraught with danger from tee to green. Walking off with a 4 is always satisfying. The tee box at Hole 14 provides my favourite view of the surrounding countryside, but my favourite hole is probably Hole 4. It is a true risk and reward hole from first shot to last. A drive over the hazard can set up a second shot to the green, whilst a narrowing fairway, protective bunkers and greenside run-off areas encourage a safety-first approach with a lay-up and wedge in. Some days it just feels that safety first is the right way to go, other days it’s gung-ho, usually with consequences to pay!

Q: If you could play a round of golf anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

A: I know it’s not very original, but playing at Augusta would be my choice. Having watched the Masters on TV on many occasions and having had the privilege of attending during Tiger’s last win there, those hallowed fairways and greens would take my vote every time. What an experience that would be.

On the off chance that I never get invited to play at Augusta then I would take Pebble Beach as my next choice. The setting, glamour and history of that golf course are the stuff that golf dreams are made of.

We all look forward to a fantastic year of golf and events, and we wish Andy all the very best.