2016 Ultimate Golf Guide

G LF e d i u G 2016 ULTIMATE

n n n

Tips From The Pros Area Golf Schedule Lakes Area Golf Course Map

A Br a in erd D i s p a t c h & E c h o P u bl i s hi ng Specia l A d ver t i s i n g S e c t i o n

Minnesota National Golf Course Hole #1

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TABLE OF CONTENTS ON THE COVER:

The Clubhouse at Minnesota National Golf Course in McGregor offers everything you need from tee-off to post round beverage, and is the ultimate 19th Hole.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 2016 Area Golf Tournament Schedule..............4-5 Practice With One-Club To Put Some Feel And Imagination Into Your Golf Game....................6 How To Improve Your Short Game ..................6

STAFF: Publisher..............................................................Pete Mohs Copy Editor............................. Jeremy Millsop, Pete Mohs

Dumbing Down The Newest Golf Technology ...........8 Teaching Junior Golfers .....................................9 Spring Warm Up On The Range .....................10

Marketing.......................................... Leo Miller, Lisa Henry

2016 Area Golf Leagues ..................................11

Magazine Layout................................................. Sue Stark

Crushing The First Tee Jitters ............................12

Ad Design.................................Andy Goble, Angie Hoefs, Cindy Spilman and Sue Stark

Intention + visualization + commitment = Success .. 13 Improve Your Long Putt Skills ...........................14 Bunker Shots – Think ‘U’ or ‘V’ .........................15 Manage The Golf Course More Efficiently ....16

www.brainerddispatch.com • www.pineandlakes.com

Set Realistic Expectations ................................17

506 James Street • P.O. Box 974 • Brainerd, MN 56401 (218) 829-4705

2016 Ultimate Golf Guide Golf Course Map...18

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2016 GOLF GUIDE

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GOLF AREA GOLF SCHEDULE

May 6: Dutch’s Duffer’s Open - Cragun’s Legacy Courses May 6: Brainerd Golf Trail Opener with 1500ESPN - Cragun’s Legacy Courses May 7: Ironman - Cuyuna Rolling Hills May 14: The Tradition Tournament - Breezy Point’s Traditional May 15: Bloody Open - Whitefish Golf Club May 19: MGA Players qualifier - Golden Eagle Golf Club May 20: Fussbusters - Cuyuna Rolling Hills May 21: Spring Fling ‘Go Low’ Scramble Emily Greens May 23: MGA Sr. Tour - Deacon’s Lodge May 27: Lion’s Par 3 tournament - The Vintage at Staples May 29: Veteran’s Appreciation event Cragun’s Legacy Courses May 29: 17th annual Legacy Spring Challenge Cragun’s Legacy Courses May 30-31: Fred-Mark Charity Invite - Grand View Lodge

June

June 1: MGA Senior Tour - Cragun’s Legacy Courses June 3: Jaques Art Center - Cuyuna Rolling Hills June 4: Aitkin Moose Lodge Scramble Crosswoods June 4: Werewolf Open - Whitetail Run June 7: Charlie’s Scramble - Breezy Point’s Whitebirch July 9: The Izzy Cup - The Vintage at Staples June 10: C-I Sports Boosters - Cuyuna Rolling Hills June 11: Knights of Columbus - Crosswoods June 11: 2nd annual Bungalow Open - Emily Greens June 11: Al Erickson Scholarship Event Whitetail Run June 12: Crosslake Community School Fundraiser - Crosswoods June 13: Junior Golf - Crosswoods June 13: Habitat of Little Falls - Pine Ridge June 17: Camp Confidence Classic - The Classic at Madden’s June 17: 9-hole Camp Confidence - Madden’s Pine Beach West June 17: Womanade Golf Event - Whitetail Run June 17: Scandia Valley Lions - Pine Ridge June 19: The Quinn Open - Cragun’s Legacy Courses June 20: Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Foundation Benefit - Cragun’s Legacy Courses

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2016 GOLF GUIDE

June 20-22: 38th MGA Players Championship The Classic at Madden’s June 21-22: Inaugural Golden Eagle Women’s Invitational - Golden Eagle June 22: Northwoods Classic Women’s Invite Whitefish Golf Club June 23: Aitkin Chamber tournament - Cuyuna Rolling Hills June 24: Relay for Life - Eagle’s Landing June 24: Brainerd Sports Boosters Charity tournament - The Preserve at Grand View Lodge June 25: Match Play Madness - Grand View Lodge June 26-27: 2-day Pro Am - Grand View Lodge June 28: Pink Links women’s tournament Cragun’s Legacy Courses June 28: Minnesota State Open qualifier - The Pines at Grand View Lodge June 28: CocoLoco Cup - Whitefish Golf Club June 29: PGA Junior Event - Breezy Point’s Whitebirch June 29: PGA Beginner’s Event - Breezy Point’s Traditional

June 30: Drive, Chip and Putt Championship qualifier - Cragun’s Legacy Courses

July

July 4: Celebrate America Junior Golf Tournament - Crosswoods July 5: Charlie’s Scramble - Breezy Point’s Whitebirch July 6: Whistling Wolf Jr. Mini Golf Tournament - Crosswoods July 9: Babe Winkelman’s golf Against MS Cragun’s Legacy Courses July 10: 4-person scramble - Whitetail Run July 11: MGA Senior Men’s Tour Crosswoods July 11: Minnesota Junior PGA - Madden’s Pine Beach West July 13: Cuyuna Lakes Chamber - Cuyuna Rolling Hills July 14: PGA Juniors - Whitetail Run July 15: Cobber Open Event - Whitetail Run July 17: Emily Day 9-hole “Go Low” Scramble - Emily Greens July 21: Team Foundation Benefit - Cragun’s Legacy Courses

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May

2016 AREA GOLF TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

AREA GOLF SCHEDULE

August

Aug. 2: Charlie’s Scramble - Breezy Point’s Whitebirch Aug 5: Ranger Classic - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Aug. 6: Minnesota State Putting championship Grand View Lodge Aug. 7: Pillager Sports Boosters - Cragun’s Legacy Courses Aug. 7: 11th annual Battle of the Bars - Emily Greens Aug. 7: Dru Sjodin Classic - Whitefish Golf Club Aug. 7: Best Ball Beach Party - Grand View Lodge Aug. 8: Relay for Life - Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge Aug. 8: Tri-County Hospital Foundation Whitetail Run Aug. 9: Ladies Holder - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Aug. 11: St. Francis of the Lakes Benefit Cragun’s Legacy Courses Aug. 11: Men’s Holder tournament - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Aug. 12: Deerwood Open - Cuyuna Rolling Hills

Aug. 13: Swanson’s Melanoma Cancer Scramble - Breezy Point’s Traditional Aug. 14-15: Legacy Pro-am - Cragun’s Legacy Courses Aug. 17: Brainerd Lakes Chamber tournament The Pines at Grand View Lodge Aug. 20-21: Club Championship - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Aug. 27: Woodtick Open - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Aug. 27: Wolfhound Cup - Emily Green Aug. 31: Pink Ribbon tournament - Madden’s Pine Beach East

September

Sept. 6: Charlie’s Scramble - Breezy Point’s Whitebirch Sept. 7: Women’s Invitational - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Sept. 9: Vintage Senior Open - The Vintage at Staples Sept. 10: Cheddar Open - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Sept. 10: The Green Jacket Open - Emily Greens Sept. 10-11: Best Ball tournament - Whitetail Run Sept. 11: St. James Church tournament Cuyuna Rolling Hills Sept. 16: Camp Shamineau - Pine Ridge Sept. 17: Ladies Invite - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Sept. 17: O’Briens Pub - Pine Ridge

Sept. 18: Aitkin Baseball Fundraiser - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Sept. 19: St. John’s Prep Classic - The Classic at Madden’s Sept. 21 Nisswa Chamber’s Pretty Good Golf tournament - The Pines at Grand View Lodge Sept. 24: 12th annual Gary Stiner Ironman Classic - Emily Greens Sept. 24-25: Fish and Golf Tournament - Grand View Lodge Sept. 24-25: Greater Whitefish Scramble Whitefish Golf Club Sept. 25: Ruttyuna - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Sept. 25: Classic 6-6-6 Shootout - The Classic at Madden’s

October

Oct. 1: Inagural End of Year tournament - Pine Ridge Oct. 2-3: Great Northern Couples Shootout Grand View Lodge Oct. 8: Billy Goat Open - Cuyuna Rolling Hills Oct. 8: Golftoberfest Party - Grand View Lodge Oct. 8: Chilly Open - Madden’s PIne Beach West Oct. 9: Legacy 1 Person scramble - Cragun’s Legacy Courses Oct. 15-16: Ironman tournament - Grand View Lodge Oct. 16: Chili Dip Challenge - Whitefish Golf Club

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S P E C I A L S

Seniors

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Walking $11 9 or 18 Ride 9 - $16, Ride 18 or more - $22 Valid Mon - Thurs

Juniors Under 19 Same cost as Seniors Valid 7 days a week

Midweek 9 holes - $11, $17 w/cart 18 holes - $20, $26 w/cart Valid Mon. - Thurs., Not Val. Holidays or July 1-5

Twilight & Early Bird 9 holes - $11, $17 w/cart 18 holes - $20, $26 w/cart Valid Everyday Before 8am & After 3pm

2016 GOLF GUIDE

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July 22: MGA Kid’s Day - Crosswoods July 22: Minnesota Teen Challenge Charity event - Grand View Lodge July 24: Pine River-Backus sports boosters Black Bear Golf July 26: Junior PGA

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GOLF GOLF PRO TIPS

PRO TIPS

How To Improve Your Short Game T

he short game is the area of the game that takes the most time to get back after a long winter. Most players tend to struggle more with partial swings where we are more reliant on our sense of feel and touch.

Try the following exercise to regain and improve your chipping. Go to the practice green with six golf balls. Standing five to 10 paces off the green, take the balls and throw them up so they scatter into a variety of lies.

Play each ball as it lies and chip each to a different hole on the green. If your green only has a couple of holes, don’t chip to the same hole more than one time in a row.

If you chip in, you get three points. A ball within a putter length of the hole is two points. A chip within two putter lengths is one point and outside of that range is minus

one.

Track your points and take the balls to a different side of the green. Repeat this process three times for a total of 18 chip shots. Record your total score for the 18 chips and track your progress each practice session.

To add an element of competition to this exercise, practice with a friend. Use one ball, your chipping clubs, and your putter.

Choose a spot to hit the first chip. Each person will chip to the selected hole and then putt out. A chip in is worth three points and an up and down worth one. Alternate who chooses the next place to chip from Chris Foley and play 18 holes. The player with the most PGA Master Professional points wins. Investing some time in this of Instruction exercise over the next 30-45 days will have Cragun’s Legacy Courses a significant impact on your chipping and lower your scores.

Practice With One Club To Put Some Feel And Imagination Into Your Golf Game I ’ve been coaching high school golf at Staples/Motley for 23 years and one of my favorite exercises is to have the kids play 9 holes with one club (usually a Hybrid or 5 wood).

Playing with only one club teaches the kids how to create shots by adding or delofting the clubface at impact and to make consistent solid contact to control the distance the ball travels. Around the greens they learn how to keep the shaft leaning forward at impact on their chips and putts so the ball has consistent roll.

They also learn how to walk quickly after each stroke and find that a 9-hole round can be played in a foursome in under an hourand-a-half. The final lesson of one club is that they shoot close to their 9 hole score when they use a complete set.

How to play a round bogey golf: 1. No 6

2016 GOLF GUIDE

penalty strokes for lost balls by keeping the ball in play off the tee. 2. Approach shots that miss the green on the safe side of the green. 3. Usually get down in 3 strokes or less on chips and putts. If you want to get in shape, run between shots to add an extra health benefit to your golf game.

The Vintage Golf Club course record is 71 with a 21-degree Hybrid for 18 holes in 55 minutes by a 54-year-old hasbeen with short legs. Beat that?

Bill Israeslon

Head Golf Professional The Vintage Golf Club at Staples

Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and set in a 1,000-acre Audubon Signature Sanctuary, the Dutch Legacy and Bobby’s Legacy offer a superb blend of 3s, 4s and 5s, with multiple tee complexes creating a friendly yet challenging course. The Legacy’s unique 45-holes of golf can all be played out of the beautiful 35,000 square foot Legacy Clubhouse, featuring a sports bar, restaurant and pro shop – all at one location.

Cragun’s Par 3 Reversible 9

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For golf packages and tee times call 218-825-2789 or craguns.com/golf 2016 GOLF GUIDE

7

DUMBING DOWN THE NEWEST GOLF TECHNOLOGY

Dumbing Down The NEWEST GOLF TECHNOLOGY A

By Jeremy Millsop

physics degree isn’t needed when buying golf equipment, but sometimes it can feel like it would help.

Take for instance a brief description for TaylorMade’s new M1 driver found on its website.

“To make our longest, just that for a wide range of golfers, we needed to expand the settings to give golfers more options to personalize performance to fit their game. M1 features the revolutionary T-Track System that consists of both a front and back track with 25 grams of adjustable weight.”

The M1 comes with an actual tuning manual -- a golf club with instructions.

If you’re fine with the golf physics, maybe the chemistry of the sport complicates matters.

For instance, the core of the Titleist Pro V1x is described as:

“The Pro V1x is a four-piece, multi-component technology with a ZG process dual core and responsive ionomeric casing layer.”

And how does that help your game? I don’t know either.

Luckily most of the population doesn’t need to know the science of the game. That’s what your local PGA professional is for.

“Every year, new drivers come out and that’s probably the hot thing,” said Chris Foley, owner of Chris Foley Golf Schools at Cragun’s Legacy Courses. “There are kind of three that are the hottest, most sought after and that perform the best and that would be the TaylorMade M1, the Ping G and the Callaway Great Big Bertha.”

Jack Wawro, head PGA professional at The Pines and Grand View Lodge, is also a Titleist staff member. One thing he’s excited 8

2016 GOLF GUIDE

Taylormade M1 Driver

about is their new hybrid clubs - the 816H2 model.

“I’ve been hitting them on the range and they are unbelievably hot,” said Wawro.

“I think Titleist has stepped up their wood game a little bit. Drivers are the highest-selling club, but hybrids are right behind them. I think 3-woods have kind of gone away.

“I had the 815 version last year but these new ones have some new technology, kind of a slot on the bottom of the club that produces a little bit more ball speed off the face.

They have a sleeker look to them. They have a gray head instead of a black head. So far on the range, which doesn’t tell you much, they’ve been great.”

Foley said, for Irons the Callaway XR and Apex and the Ping I and G, irons are the top sets.

When it comes to putters, there isn’t much new other than the fact those that anchored their putters are now in need of finding something new.

“This is the first year you can’t anchor so you’re seeing people in search of a new putter or a new method,” Foley said.

Wawro said one thing people are trying with putters is finding the right grip or changing grips.

“People are definitely going away from the blade models and going toward the mallet and all these different versions of mallets,” he said. “With that, there are counterbalancing grips as well. Those were brought about because anchoring was going away.

They had to find a new way of getting better balance in the putter.

“If you look on tour each week, guys are switching their grip almost every single week. They’re going to a claw grip, a crosshanded grip, they’re trying everything.

That’s kind of the latest craze with putting.”

Mark Johnson, head PGA professional at

Callaway Big Bertha Driver

Breezy Point Resort, said one thing often overlooked when talking about equipment is pairing the equipment and the player’s ability with the right golf ball.

“It all falls back to playing the right golf ball and if you do that all the equipment works,” Johnson said. “All the companies are coming out with the softer balls for the slower speeds.”

Foley agreed the golf ball definitely makes a difference. He said finding a golf ball that fits a player’s swing profile is key.

“A lot of the premium golf balls perform much better for high clubhead speed players than they do for average clubhead speed players,” said Foley. “At an elite level, those golf balls make more of a difference than they do for the average player. But I always think you should really start off around the green pitching and chipping the ball and see how they react for you and what feels the best. Then, based on what works the best there for you, try them out with the driver and see how it performs.”

For the average player, Foley said any of the balls would work great for them, but they wouldn’t have to spend $50 for a dozen golf balls. A mid-range golf ball is great. A ball like the Callaway Super Soft for $24 a dozen is an incredible golf ball. The Titleist NXT or Bridgestone’s mid- to lower-priced golf balls are great.

For those starting out, or on a budget, the hottest club on the market may not be the best choice, said Foley. He said look online for used clubs. He said to check out 2nd Swing or EBay. The key to finding what works best for you is to get fitted for a set of clubs or a certain club.

“To me it’s the most important thing,” said Foley. “Everybody makes good stuff. It’s just a matter of how it performs for you and getting the right club with the right shaft and lie angle and all the factors that influence the performance.”

Most area professionals can fit interested players for new clubs. It’s painless and could save customers money and headaches.

And don’t worry. You won’t need to dust off your freshmen physics book to understand what they’re telling you.

JEREMY MILLSOP may be reached at 855-5856 or jeremy.millsop@brainerddispatch.com. Follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jeremymillsop

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GOLF

GOLF PRO TIPS

PRO TIPS

Teaching Junior Golfers I it.

am totally into junior golf. My son is age 7 and my daughter is 5. I love how kids learn. So simple. We could all learn from

Kids learn best by watching and imitating.

If you have a junior golfer, the best thing you can do when taking them to the range is have them watch you or other golfers hitting.

Yes, there are a few fundamentals that you can help them with, but it’s mostly common sense stuff. Just get them into an athletic position - feet spread apart, a little knee flex, hands together, and help them aim the clubface.

Everyone has seen the parent who stops their child right as they’re about to swing to lay down a club and correct their alignment.

After a few minutes of bantering the child is allowed to attempt a shot, barely rolls it off the tee and thinks “wow, that worked really well dad.”

Kids are smarter than you think. Ask anyone who coaches. If they hit it wayward they are smart enough to adjust. For parents most important thing is to challenge and encourage them. Let them “play.”

There are lots of opportunities for Juniors in the Brainerd lakes area. Madden’s has a full development program from youth camps ages 4-14 on up to introduction to competition junior leagues. Working with an instructor is a great opportunity. They will drive home the repetitions and fundamentals, but that’s just one piece of the puzzle.

What really takes junior golfers/athletes from beginner to intermediate to advanced to great is to let them be a “rink rat.” Playing the game gives them the opportunity to compete, improve, challenge and ultimately fall in love with the greatest game on earth.

Glenn Hagberg PGA Head Professional, Madden’s on Gull Lake

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GOLF GOLF PRO TIPS

PRO TIPS

Spring Warm Up On The Range I

time spent on all parts of your game, not just one club. Chipping is a critical part of your short game and the time you spend on this portion of the game will pay back to you 100 percent.

One other tip, If you are struggling with your fairway woods and longer iron shots, consider replacement with a couple hybrid clubs to your bag. Remove 3 and 4 irons, 5 irons and replace with a 4 hybrid and 5 or 6 hybrid clubs. There are a variety of manufacturers so pick one that fits your pocketbook as well as your shaft flexibility which is determined by your swing speed.

I recommend a graphite shaft for most golfers, and general recreational golfing.

If your handicap is less than 10, then you

should consult with a golf professional. If at all possible try these clubs out by hitting them either in a controlled net experience indoors, or outside where you can see ball flight, which is ideal. We know that with Minnesota weather that isn’t always possible. Get back in the game scoring with adding hybrid clubs to your bag.

Joni Meyer

LPGA Teaching Professional Grand View Lodge

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n the spring, we might be very anxious to get out on the course, but better yet, consider time well spent on the range for your first swings of the season. Start with higher lofted clubs (9 iron, 8 iron) and with half swings, working into a full swing. The last club you should hit would be the driver.

Working with the higher lofted clubs enable your muscles to get accustomed to this movement of the golf swing. Once you have worked through the irons from your golf bag start working with the hybrid clubs, then fairway woods, and lastly the driver.

Also spend some time chipping and putting for your first session, reminding yourself that consistent play comes from

Top Rated Course in West Central and Southwest Minnesota The Star Tribune Golf Guide

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2016 GOLF GUIDE

GOLF Black Bear

Pine River Men’s - 5 p.m. Mondays Senior men’s - 10 a.m. Tuesdays Women’s - 10 a.m. Thursdays

Breezy Point Resort Men’s - 5 p.m. Thursdays Women’s 9 a.m. Thursdays

Cragun’s Legacy Courses Ernie’s - Monday nights Women’s - Tuesday nights Men’s - Thursday nights

Crosswoods Golf Course

Crosslake Women’s - 9 a.m. Mondays and 9 a.m.

Wednesdays Men’s - 9 a.m. Tuesdays and 9 a.m.

Thursdays Mixed - 5 p.m. Wednesdays

Cuyuna Rolling Hills

AREA LEAGUES

Grand View Lodge

Men’s -- 9:30 Monday and Wednesdays and 5 p.m. Wednesdays Women’s -- 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays

Little Falls Country Club

Men’s - 11 a.m. Wednesdays, 2:30 p.m.

Wednesdays and 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays Women’s - 9 a.m. Tuesdays and 5 p.m.

Tuesdays Couples - 5 p.m Thursdays Seniors - 8:30 a.m. Thursdays

Madden’s Resort

Men’s - 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays Women’s - 5:30 p.m. Thursdays Couples - 1 p.m. Wednesdays Junior - 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays

ities Amenlude: PRO SH Inc

Whitefish Golf Club

Pequot Lakes/Ideal Corners Men’s - Tuesday mornings Women’s 18-hole league - Wednesday mornings Women’s 9-hole league - Wednesday mornings Couples - Sunday evenings

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A sand trap guards the left side of the pitched green. Long puts must be strategized.

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Thursdays Mixed - 9:30 a.m. Mondays and 2:30 p.m.

Sundays

Motley Men’s - 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Women’s - 9 a.m. Mondays Couples - 6 p.m. Wednesdays

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Deerwood Men’s - 8:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays Two-person league - 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays Women’s - 8:30 a.m. Wednesdays (18 hole), and 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays (9 hole) Pepsi Challenge - 1 p.m. Sundays (18 hole) Fort Ripley/Brainerd Monday night scramble - 3 p.m. Mondays Couples - Sunday nights Women’s - 5 p.m. Wednesdays Men’s - 1 p.m. Thursdays (18 hole), 5 p.m. Thursdays (9 hole)

AREA GOLF LEAGUES

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2016 GOLF GUIDE

11

GOLF GOLF PRO TIPS

PRO TIPS

Crushing The First Tee Jitters L

et’s face it, we all get the first tee jitters, especially when you’re playing with new players for the first time, or because you just slammed your trunk, paid your fee and rushed to the first tee. Whatever the reason, even the most seasoned golfers (i.e. touring pros) get the jitters on No. 1. Here’s how to combat them: First, accept that it is part of the game and try to embrace them (and know that your playing partners are feeling them too).

The simple act of acknowledging your nerves and that everybody is feeling them should help ease them a little. You’re not in the boat alone! Begin to think of them positively and as a way of getting you focused for your round. This is how the pros look at their first tee nerves.

Focusing too much on the uncomfortable feelings they produce will only increase

your tension, which is a killer to even the best golf swings. Treat your nerves as a good sign, and know that by your second or third shot they most likely will have vanished. This allows you to then shift your attention to your game plan and how you should play the first hole.

Second, focus on your game plan.

Ideally, if you had time to warm up at the range, then your last shot should be with the club you plan to use on the first tee. If you didn’t warm up on the range, then make sure to hit a club off the tee that you have the best chance of keeping in play. There’s no rule that says you have to hit a driver. If you need to hit a 3-wood or 5-wood, that’s fine. Your job is to give yourself the best opportunity to get the ball in play and move on to your next shot.

Third, work at staying relaxed. More often than not you will have a few extra

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Call now to book your tee time 218-543-4900 2016 GOLF GUIDE

minutes on the first tee. Try to stay relaxed by talking with your playing partners and taking your mind off the shot for a few minutes. Some players work themselves into a state of anxiety as they stand around and do nothing while waiting to hit their first shot. Stay moving, keep it light and keep your mind occupied with other thoughts.

Lastly, when it’s your turn to hit go through your normal pre-shot routine and see and feel yourself making a confident swing. Visualize your shot and how your ball will fly through the air and be specific where you want your ball to land. Then walk into the ball confidently, take one or two looks at the target as you waggle your club, and pull the trigger while swinging at about 70 percent and remaining in perfect balance. Then watch your ball sail effortlessly to your target.

Steve Bengtson PGA Professional Whitefish Golf Club

G

GOLF

GOLF PRO TIPS

PRO TIPS

Intention + Visualization + Commitment = Success D course and wonder why the ball doesn’t go where we want it to.

With all the training aides and technical tips we are bombarded with, it is easy to take our mind off this process and dwell on swing mechanics. There certainly may be a time and place for mechanical swing thoughts that specifically pertain to you, but I encourage you to employ the three steps outlined above.

Almost every Tour Player will tell you they do the same. A great example is current world No. 1, Jason Day. If you’ve watched him during his pre-shot routine, he stands behind the ball and forms an intention for the shot by picking a specific target, then he actually closes his eyes and visualizes that shot before stepping in and swinging through the ball with total commitment toward his intended target.

This process might make most sense

while playing on the golf course, but challenge yourself to do it for every shot you hit in practice as well. While on the practice tee, visualize a golf hole that you are familiar with. Use landmarks on the range to “define” the boundaries of that hole and proceed to “play” that hole. I guarantee your practice time will be more meaningful and fun, and it will transfer to success on the course.

Peak Season 18 HOLES STARTING AT $30 includes range balls

● 18-Hole Championship Golf Course ● 9-Hole Executive Course ● Memberships ● WOMEN’S MONDAYS: $34 includes cart and range balls ● SENIOR TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAYS: Age 55 & Up $34 includes cart and range balls ● COLLEGE DAYS: Under 24 and enrolled in college $34 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays Includes cart and range balls For Tee Times Call 218.678.4646 5 Miles South of Deerwood on Hwy 6

Dave Sadlowsky

PGA Head Golf Professional Ruttger’s Bay Lake

ruttgers.com

MENTION SPECIALS AT TIME OF BOOKING OR PRESENT THIS GOLF GUIDE TO RECEIVE THESE OFFERS

o you have a clear intention for every golf shot you hit, whether in practice or during a round of golf?

Are you able to visualize every single shot before you hit it?

Are you able to stay committed to your target throughout the entire swing?

Think about anything you do in life driving to work for example.

1. You have a clear intention of where you need to go.

2. You probably go the same route each day and can visualize that route.

3. You most likely stay committed to the route without taking any random turns, and you eventually arrive at your target - work.

In fact, most things that we do throughout our daily lives follow this same pattern.

Yet, in golf, we might find ourselves randomly smacking golf balls on the range, or mentally checking out while on the golf

$45 Golf & Dinner at Zig’s per person

9 Holes & Dinner After 4pm

Includes cart. Available Sun-Wed after 4pm only.

Valid through October 12, 2016.

Not valid with other offers.

Unlimited people per offer.

Beverages and Appetizers not included.

Call 218.678.4646 for tee times. ruttgers.com

$65 Golf & Dinner at Zig’s per person

18 Holes & Dinner After 2pm

Includes cart. Available Sun-Wed after 2pm only.

Valid through October 12, 2016.

Not valid with other offers.

Unlimited people per offer.

Beverages and Appetizers not included.

Call 218.678.4646 for tee times. ruttgers.com

Spring $100 Foursome Golf Special Includes Greens Fees & Two Carts on The Lakes course.

Valid Monday-Thursday.

Valid through May 12, 2016

Call 218.678.4646 for tee times. ruttgers.com

Sunday Afternoon

$100 Foursome Special Includes Greens Fees & Two Carts on The Lakes course.

Valid Sundays Only starting at 2pm.

Valid through October 16, 2016

Call 218.678.4646 for tee times. ruttgers.com

$100

Foursome Fall Golf Special

Includes Greens Fees & Two Carts on The Lakes course.

Valid Monday-Thursday.

Valid Sept 12-Closing, 2016

Call 218.678.4646 for tee times. ruttgers.com

2016 GOLF GUIDE

13

GOLF GOLF PRO TIPS

PRO TIPS

Improve Your Long Putt Skills R

• The putting stroke. Long putts require a putting stroke with a strong follow through. Make sure that you are accelerating the blade through the ball. Golfers often think they need a large back swing for long putts and actually decelerate the blade as it comes through the ball, leading to inconsistent results. Back swing only far enough to follow through strongly to make the putt.

• Practice long putts. Don’t spend all your time on the practice green mastering the 10 footer. Stretch your comfort level; pick some putts that span 30 plus feet. Practice long putts that involve challenging sidehill, uphill and downhill slopes.

• Keep a positive attitude. When faced with a long putt on the course, don’t go into 3-putt avoidance mode. Instead, think of possibly making this 40-foot sidehill monster.

Psychologists have proven that focusing on the positive is more effective than trying to avoid the negative. Use this tidbit of advice in all facets of your game.

Mike Stone Owner/Manager Crosswoods Golf Course

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emember the old adage “Drive for show, putt for dough.” Well, on today’s large, fast greens, that saying couldn’t ring more true. When facing a putt greater than 25 feet, feel becomes essential.

Most of us have a very natural ability putt with a great deal of feel.

Trusting our instincts on the golf course is hard to do. We need to build confidence that our instincts are correct. So let’s finetune our long putt skills and improve the confidence in our ability to make some challenging putts.

• Determine slope of the green. Visual inspection for slope is the most obvious method. Visual observation from only one side may not always provide an accurate assessment as to the actual slope. Read difficult putts from all sides. Kinesthetic cues, like feeling the slope in your feet, can confirm visual cues regarding the path a ball will take. Also look for physical cues around the green. Golf greens are designed to shed water. Figure out where the water goes and you will know the slope.

• Visualize the path of the ball. People often boil down their putt reads into “aim six inches to the right of the hole,” or allow their playing partners to make the read for them. Don’t fall into this trap. Take the time to visualize the entire path of the ball yourself. Think about the effect of pace on break. Over time, consistent visualization will translate into an exceptional ability to read a green.

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2016 GOLF GUIDE

“a high quality course without the high prices” 18 holes w/cart

$39

18 holes w/cart

$30 Seniors 62+

Offer valid Monday - Friday • 2016 Season. Up to 4 players. Excludes holidays.

3 4 5 0 0 H i l l c r e s t Ro a d M o t l e y, M N w w w. p i n e r i d g e g o l f c l u b m n . c o m | 2 1 8 - 5 7 5 - 3 3 0 0

GOLF PRO TIPS

Bunker Shots – Think ‘U’ or ‘V’ B

THE

ill Haas, a premier PGA Tour player, uses this secret for playing out of bunkers. He visualizes the clubhead making the shape of one of two letters “U” or “V.” “V” Shape: to be used on shorter shots.

When you want to hit it high and short to land soft on the green. The swing is more vertical, also referred to as a steep swing.

The swing path is up and down and the sand and ball pops straight up and lands soft.

“U” Shape: to be used on longer shots.

Imagine taking a flatter, rounder swing. The ball explodes out with a hotter and lower shot. The ball explodes but not the sand as you are taking a flat “U” shaped swing and skimming the sand surface.

These two different visual swing thoughts simplify your approach to bunker play, which in turn let’s you swing more confidently to achieve success from bunkers. The bunkers on a golf course can be your friend.

PLACE!

Golf, Mini Golf & RV Park

PAR 3 GOLF Dan Loken

PGA Professional Emily Greens Golf Course

A Beautiful Course Designed For All Skill Levels!

NEW RV PARK MINI GOLF DRIVING RANGE MAZE

Our membership fees along with our greens fees are some of the best in the Brainerd Lakes Area.

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Contact us for prices and Tee Times: 218-534-3489 www.cuyunarollinghillsgolf.com

Cuyuna Rolling Hills Golf (Formally Cuyuna Country Club)

Located on the East side of the City of Deerwood 001226570r1

218-534-3489

WWW.WILDWEDGE.COM

218.568.6995

2 MILES N OF PEQUOT LAKES ON HWY 371 NEXT TO AMERICINN

2016 GOLF GUIDE

15

GOLF PRO TIPS

Manage The Golf Course More Efficiently E

veryone wants to shoot lower scores and hopefully enjoy their round more.

One great way to do that is to manage the golf course more efficiently.

Here are things that will help most golfers shoot a lower score: First, pick a ball flight. Everyone watching the PGA tour sees professionals shaping the ball both ways to hit the proper shot. For amateurs this is much more difficult. Instead pick your typical shot shape and go with it. If you know you are going to slice the ball a little from left to right then aim down the left side off the tee and let the ball fall into the middle or right hand side of the fairway. Doing this will always eliminate one side of the golf course and will hopefully limit your time in trouble.

Second, take more club. Many times throughout the year I watch amateurs come up short. They base their yardages off of the best possible hit they can have. Plan for a little mishit and take more club. I promise this will lead to more greens hit and better scores. Lastly, when you are in trouble take the easy shot.

The last thing you want to do is compound a problem. If you are in the woods and there is an easy chip out to the fairway, take it. Everyone wants to hit the hero shot but I will guarantee that the safe shot approach will save you many more strokes throughout the season. Next time you are out on the course try these three tips and I know it will lead to a lower score in the end.

Jack Wawro Head PGA Professional, The Pines at Grand View Lodge

“The Championship Course is pristine!”

Hidden in the forested landscape of Northern Minnesota sits a Joel Goldstrand designed 7,200 yard magnificent golf course. Some call it totally surprising, while those who have played it call it totally perfect. For great STAY & PLAY packages, visit our website or call 218-426-4444.

BUY 3 ROUNDS, GET 1 FREE !

If you golf in a foursome, ask for this offer when you book your tee time and pay for only three rounds. Valid all 2016 season.

mnnationalgolfcourse.com • 23247 480th Street, McGregor, MN 55760

Blackbear Golf is a beautifully manicured

18 hole par 72 golf course

featuring...

Bluegrass Tees and Fairways | Bentgrass Greens Paved Cart Paths | Pro Shop | Snacks Beverages and a Short Order Grill

9 Hole, 18 Hole, Senior and Unlimited Rates Mens, Senior Mens & Ladies Leagues Specials and promotions at:

www.blackbeargolfcomplex.com For tee times call 218-587-8800

(218) 587-8800

HWY 371, 1 MILE NORTH TO 26TH AVE. PINE RIVER 001410078r1

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2016 GOLF GUIDE

GOLF

GOLF PRO TIPS

PRO TIPS

Set Realistic Expectations B

efore you grab your sticks and head to the course, set realistic expectations and remember the first few rounds of the season, you will be a little rusty. Do not get frustrated; instead take notes on what areas of your game need the most help. Usually after a lengthy time away from the game, we find it’s the short game that needs the most work.

Now it’s time to hit the range with a practice plan. I tell my students to spend 25 percent of their time on the long game and 75 percent on 100 yards and in. This includes pitching, chipping, putting and bunker play. If you follow this strategy, you will find that you can shake the rust off and be back to playing your best golf in no time.

Tim Trott

PGA Professional, Golden Eagle Golf Course

2016 golf rates May 20- September 4, 2016 Mon.-Thur.

Come out and play a MN top 20 course!

Golf Digest 2008-2009

Before 3:00pm After 3:00 pm

$68 $50

Fri/Sat/Sun Holidays

$88 $50

Call for spring and fall golf specials!

All green fees include 1/2 cart rental & MN Sales Tax All rates shown are for 18 holes. 9 hole rates available.

2016 Memberships Available • 5 Day ($840+tax) • • 7 Day ($1,265 +tax) •

Add a spouse and/or child too.

Call for Details.

5 day memberships allow UNLIMITED play Sunday through Thursday.

• 10% off regular priced golf shop merchandise •

Call for details 218.763.4653

2 for 1 Weekdays in May Enjoy 2 for 1 green fees at Golden Eagle Monday thru Thursday May 5 to May 19.

Present this Golf Guide at the pro shop to receive two green fees for the price of one! Not valid with any other offers.

Advance tee times are required. One offer per two-some. Offer expires 5.19.16 For tee times call... 218.763.4653 www.golfgoldeneagle.com

BD15

2016 GOLF GUIDE

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Call for your tee times today...866.316.4653 or visit us on the web at www.golfgoldeneagle.com

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GOLF LAKES AREA GOLF MAP

LAKES AREA GOLF COURSE MAP

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Long Bow Golf Club

6516 Long Bow Trail Northwest Walker, MN 56484 www.longbowgolfclub.com | (218) 547-4121

Tianna Country Club

7470 Minnesota 34 Walker, MN 56484 www.tianna.com | (218) 547-1712

Golden Eagle Golf Club

16146 West Eagle Lake Road Fifty Lakes, MN 56448 www.golfgoldeneagle.com | (866) 316-4653

Black Bear Golf Course

2677 16th Street Southwest Backus, MN 56435 www.blackbeargolfcomplex.com | (218) 587-8800

Emily Greens Golf Course

39966 Refuge Road Emily, MN 56447 www.emilygreens.com | (218) 763-2169

Minnesota National Golf Course

23247 480th Street McGregor, MN 55760 www.mnnationalgolfcourse.com | (218) 426-4444

Crosswoods Golf Course

35878 County Road 3 Crosslake, MN 56442 www.crosslakegolf.com | (218) 692-4653

Whitefish Golf Course Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.whitefishgolf.com (218) 543-4900

2016 GOLF GUIDE

I J K L M N O P

Wildwedge Golf

32792 Paul Bunyan Trail Drive Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.wildwedge.com | (218) 568-6995

Deacon’s Lodge

9348 Arnold Palmer Drive Breezy Point, MN 56472 (218) 562-6262

Whitebirch Golf Course

9252 Breezy Point Drive Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.breezypointresort.com | (218) 562-7178

Traditional 18-Hole Golf Course

9252 Breezy Point Drive Breezy Point, MN 56472 www.breezypointresort.com | (218) 562-7166

The Preserve at Grand View Lodge

Preserve Boulevard Pequot Lakes, MN 56472 www.grandviewlodge.com | (866) 801-2951

Grand View Lodge Golf Resort

23521 Nokomis Avenue Nisswa, MN 56468 www.grandviewlodge.com | (866) 801-2951

Cuyuna Rolling Hills

Deerwood, MN 56444 www.cuyunarollinghills.com (218) 534-3489

Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge

25039 Tame Fish Lake Road Deerwood, MN 56444 www.ruttgers.com | (218) 678-2885

Q R S T U V W

Madden’s On Gull Lake

11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 www.maddens.com | (218) 829-2811

Cragun’s Resort

11000 Craguns Drive Brainerd, MN 56401 www.craguns.com | (800) 272-4867

Cragun’s Legacy Golf Courses 11496 East Gull Lake Drive Brainerd, MN 56401 www.craguns.com | (218) 825-2789

The Classic at Madden’s Golf Course 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 www.maddens.com | (218) 829-2811

Pine Ridge Golf Club

34500 Hillcrest Road Motley, MN 56466 www.pineridgegolfclubmn.com | (218) 575-3300

The Vintage

27923 McGivern Drive Staples, MN 56479 www.vintagegolfclub.com | (218) 894-9907

Eagles Landing Golf Club and Grill

14825 263rd Street Fort Ripley, MN 56449 www.eagleslanding-golf.com | (320) 632-5721

Minnesota’s only golf resort with an all-inclusive option.

Almost as good as a hole-in-one.

Traditional Course

218-562-7166

Whitebirch Championship Course

218-562-7166

Deacon’s Arnold Palmer Course

218-562-7166

Deacon’s and Custom Golf Packages Available 1-800-432-3777 or breezypointresort.com

Named #2 Arnold Palmer Designed Course you can play by Links Magazine 001406314r1

Golf.

NEW 9 OPEN! Now 27 holes of Championship Golf

Spring.

Summer.

Fall.

Add $5 on Saturday Present this golf guide or phone picture of guide, offer good for up to 8 people.

Add $5 on Saturday Present this golf guide or phone picture of guide, offer good for up to 8 people.

Add $5 on Saturday Present this golf guide or phone picture of guide, offer good for up to 8 people.

Not valid May 27-30, Expires 6/17/16

Starts June 18, Not valid July 1-5, Expires 9/1/16

$35

Starts Sept 6, Expires 10/31/16

Seniors are always $29 for 18 with cart Mon-Thurs (Excluding Holidays) Book Online

crosslakegolf.com • 218.692.4653

Just 23 miles N of Brainerd, 1/2 mile north of Reed’s Market on County Road 3 in Crosslake

001398044r1

$42

$35