California Golf + Travel May 2019

POPPY’S NEW POWER PLAYER • THE FARMS GOLF CLUB • MEDITATE TO LOWER SCORES

MAY/JUNE 2019

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/ CALIFORNIA GOLF + TRAVEL MAGAZINE /

CONTENTS 8

MAY/JUNE 2019

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Publisher’s Note Recap: 9 Core Values of The First Tee

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California Kid in the Masters UCLA Sophomore Devon Bling makes the cut at Augusta

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Men’s College Golf Cal State Dominguez Hills continues PGA WORKS Collegiate dominance

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Women’s College Golf USC wins regional title by 15 strokes

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Junior Golf Summer programs in California

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Poppy’s New Power Player Steve Schroeder takes the reins at Poppy Hills

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The Farms Golf Club A great club…for great players

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Golf By the Sea Mexico’s only Gary Player-designed course sits on the Sea of Cortez

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2019 U.S. Open Celebrating Pebble’s Centennial

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Father’s Day Gift Guide Give your dad the gift of golf

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Breaking Bad Habits Alignment tips from instructor Devan Bonebrake

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Intuitive Learning Bringing on-course conditions to the practice range

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Up Your Mental Game How meditation can improve your scores A Winning Wine Selection Choice offerings from Brassfield Estate and Winery

COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN/COURTESY USGA ARCHIVES

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32 MAY-JUNE 2019 VOLUME 23, ISSUE 3 POPPY’S NEW POWER PLAYER • THE FARMS GOLF CLUB • MEDITATE TO LOWER SCORES

MAY/JUNE 2019

U.S. OPEN

PEBBLE BEACH CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

GIVING DAD THE GIFT OF GOLF

JUNIOR GOLF

SUMMER PROGRAMS IN CALIFORNIA

On the cover: Tigers Woods, 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach Photo: USGA/J.D. Cuban

Visit us online at calgolfnews.com and be sure to LIKE us at facebook.com/calgolfnews.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

THE FIRST TEE AND THE NINE CORE VALUES OF GOLF

B U I L T FOR

DISTANCE

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stablished by the World Golf Association in 1997, the stated mission of The First Tee, a national, non-profit organization, is “to impact the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and educational programs that promote characterdevelopment and life enhancing values through the game of golf.

Toward that end, the organization established Nine Core Values that represent some of the inherent values of the game. The Nine Core Values have been defined as follows: Honesty – the quality or state of being truthful; not deceptive. Golf is unique from other sports in that players regularly call penalties on themselves and report their own score.

Integrity – strict adherence to a standard of value or conduct; personal honesty and independence. Golf is a game of etiquette and composure.

Players are responsible for their actions and personal conduct on the golf course even at times when others may not be looking.

Sportsmanship – observing the rules of play and winning or losing with grace. Players must know and abide by the rules of golf and be able to conduct themselves in a kind and respectful manner towards others even in a competitive game.

Respect – to show deferential regard.

In golf, it is important to show respect for oneself, playing partners, fellow competitors, the golf course, and for the honor and traditions of the game.

Confidence – self-reliance or trust.

A feeling of self-assurance. Confidence plays a key role in the level of play that one achieves. Players can increase confidence in their abilities by being

positive and focusing on something they are doing well regardless of the outcome.

Responsibility – accounting for one’s actions; being dependable. Players are responsible for their actions on the golf course. It is up to them to keep score, repair divots, rake bunkers, repair ball marks on the green, and keep up with the pace of play.

Perseverance – to persist in an idea, purpose or task despite obstacles. To succeed in golf, players must continue through bad breaks and their own mistakes, while learning from past experiences.

Courtesy – considerate behavior toward others; a polite remark or gesture. A round of golf should begin and end with a handshake between fellow competitors. Players also should be still and quiet while others are preparing and performing a shot.

Judgment – the ability to make a decision or form an opinion; a decision reached after consideration. Using good judgment is very important in golf.

It comes into play when deciding on strategy, club selection, when to play it safe and when to take a chance, as well as making good choices on and off the golf course.

Through after-school and in-school programs, The First Tee helps shape the lives of young people from all walks of life by reinforcing these Nine Core Values through the game of golf. The research-proven programs are having a positive impact on participants, their families and their communities.

For more information or to enroll as a member, please see www.thefirsttee.org Enjoy your walk, Eric Woods

California Golf + Travel Publisher Eric Woods Editor Mark Spinn Art Director Long Tran Associate Editors Mike Stubbs, Suzy Evans, Ed Travis Senior Writers Jim Dover, Tom LaMarre, Feisal Patel Contributors Ian Leggatt, Ed Vyeda, Leonard Finkel, Tom Stankowski, Ken Lane, Chris Lynch, Ryan Noll Photographers Michael Weinstein, Tom Neas, Mark Susson Travel Editor Larry Feldman Equipment Editor Scott Kramer, Ed Travis Wine + Golf John Finney, Dan Weldy Contributing Instructors Eric Lohman, Kris Moe, Perry Parker, Ted Norby, Scott Heyn, John Ortega, John Burckle Accounting Jep Pickett

California Golf + Travel is published by Golf Lab Media LLC 1224 Village Way, Ste. D, Santa Ana CA 92705 Phone: (714) 542-4653 website: www.CalGolfNews.com California Golf + Travel is published bimonthly and distributed to California golf courses, country clubs, practice facilities, golf retailers, hotels, and resorts Entire contents of this publication is copyrighted Golf Lab Media LLC 2015, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner in whole or in part without the written permission from the publisher.

For subscriptions, go to calgolfnews.com and sign up online or send your name, address, phone number, and $20 to Golf Lab Media at the Above address.

For advertising opportunities and editorial information: Please call (714) 542-4653 or email to info@calgolfnews.com

MAY/JUNE 2019

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IN THE NEWS

CALIFORNIA KID MAKES THE CUT AT AUGUSTA evon Bling started his competitive week at Augusta National Golf Club with a hole in one that nearly gave him a victory in the Masters Par-3 Contest, and then wound up alone in 55th place in the 83rd Masters.

However, the biggest thrill for the UCLA sophomore from Ridgecrest came before the final round when he saw Tiger Woods on the practice putting green.

“Tiger wished me luck today on the putting green before the final round,” Bling said in the last entry of a daily diary he wrote of his experiences in Augusta, Georgia, for Golfweek. “I walked right by him and he was just like, ‘Good playing, kid. Play well today.’

I said, ‘I hope you win.’

“It may not have been the best thing to say with everyone else on the putting green, but it’s Tiger. He’s my favorite player.

The first Masters I really understood and watched was 2005 when he beat Chris DiMarco in the playoff.”

And the 19-year-old Bling, who qualified by finishing second in the 2018 U.S. Amateur at Pebble Beach, was there later in the day when Woods claimed his 15th major title and fifth Green Jacket for winning the Masters.

It’s like Bling saw it coming. “(Tiger) just had that intensity and that fire and he wasn’t going to lose,” observed Bling, who hoped to make it back to UCLA for his Scandinavian class at noon the next day. “That’s just how it felt. That’s hopefully what I can be like someday.”

Bling finished with a score of 74-73-7173—291, 3-over-par, making the cut on the number before playing even par on the weekend to beat such pros as Tyrrell Hatton of England, Billy Horschel, Branden Grace of South Africa, J.B. Holmes and two-time major champion Zach Johnson.

Victor Hovland of Norway, who beat Bling for the U.S. Am title, finished as low amateur in a tie for 31st.

Bling dedicated his first major championship appearance to his mother, Sara, who died suddenly of a stroke when he was 13, because this was her dream for him. And he can’t wait for more.

“It’s my first start in a professional tournament, let alone a major, and I made the cut,” said Bling, who had UCLA assistant coach

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PHOTO COPYRIGHT USGA/CHRIS KEANE

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Andrew Larkin as his caddie, as he was at Pebble during the U.S. Am. “The entire week is a huge confidence boost. I might be disappointed in a few of the shots in my (final) round, but overall really excited.

“I didn’t make any putts (on Sunday). I hit a lot of good putts, just nothing went in.

You’re going to have some of those days. It’s golf. … I want to be in one of those groups with all the people making an eagle on 15. I will get there. I just use that as a motivation.

“Everything about this place is better than watching it on TV. It was just a dream come true.”

Bling came home with a piece of Augusta National crystal as a souvenir for his ace with a pitching wedge on the seventh hole of the annual nine-hole Par-3 Contest.

That put him in a tie for the lead with Sandy Lyle of Scotland, the 1988 Masters champion.

“An (Augusta) member told me to hit it 122 yards at the middle of the building in the back, to the right-center of the green,” said Bling, who had his 17-year-old brother, Dillon, as his caddie in the Par-3 Contest. “So I took his word for it. I hit it 120 yards right on that line, with a little spin, and it went right in. I couldn’t see it because there were shadows around it. But everybody went ecstatic, and I did too.

“I told the member, ‘That was a good number.’”

Bling, who missed a 10-foot par putt on the last hole of the event played the day before the start of the Masters, finished one stroke back in a tie for third with twotime Masters champion Bubba Watson and Martin Kaymer of Germany, another twotime major champion.

But he came away from his week in Augusta feeling like a winner.

MAY/JUNE 2019

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/ MEN’S COLLEGE GOLF /

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PGA OF AMERICA

Cal State Dominguez Hills Dominates in Florida

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illiam Yang of Cal State Dominguez Hills claimed the individual title and led the Toros to their second straight victory in the 33rd PGA WORKS Division II Men’s National Championship (formerly Minority Collegiate Championship) at PGA Golf Club www.pgavillage.com/golf in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

It was the fourth time in the last five years that Cal State Dominguez Hills claimed victory.

“This week was very special,” said Dominguez Hills Coach Ron Eastman, as his team won by 32 strokes over Lincoln University. “It had a different feeling as far as what the PGA of America is doing as far as diversity and inclusion. We’re the most diverse team in our conference. It’s special for us to be here.”

The Toros finished with a score of 299-300-309— 908 (48-over-par), followed by Lincoln University at 314-296-330—940, Livingstone at 306-324-340—970, Miles College at 333-330-328—991 and Fayetteville State at 331-328-333—992.

Kentucky State was sixth at 338-337-332—1007, followed by Paine at 327-351-338—1016, St. Augustine at 336-339-347—1022, Virginia State at 336-346350—1032 and JC Smith at 360-344-351—1055.

Yang, a senior from Chico, claimed the title with a score of 75-74-77—226 (11-overpar) and was followed by two Toros teammates Andrew Banuelos at 71-7780—228 and Andrew Fernandes, whose score of

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84-70-75—229 tied for third with Michael Sutton of Livingstone, who finished at 72-75-82—229.

“I poured the last four years into every single shot and every putt,” Yang said. “This school and team have helped make me who I am.”

Jordan Barnett of Lincoln was fifth at 81-73-78— 232, followed by Stephen St. Clair of Paine at 73-8179—233, while Christian Copen of Miles College shot 76-77-82—235 to tie for seventh with Rob Duff of Kentucky State, who finished at 80-82-73—235, and Logan Sessoms of Fayetteville State, who wound up at 82-79-74—235.

Raynard Belmonte of Cal State Dominguez Hills carded a score of 73-80-83—236 to tie for 10th with teammate Dylan Hall, who finished at 80-79-77—236, and Gabe Trowbridge of Lincoln, who came in at 78-71-87—236.

Billed as the most culturally significant championship in collegiate golf, as it combines top-level competition with a one-of-a-kind career development program, the PGA Works Collegiate Championship is a key element in the PGA of America’s drive to enhance workforce diversification in the golf industry. During the event, 111 participants achieved scores that count towards the PGA’s Playing Ability Test – which qualifies them to enter the PGA Education program should they so choose.

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/ WOMEN’S COLLEGE GOLF /

USC WINS REGIONAL TITLE BY

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op-ranked USC rolled to a 15-stroke victory over Washington and the Trojans’ Jennifer Chang sank a sixfoot birdie putt on the 18th hole to capture the individual title in the NCAA Cle Elum Regional at Tumble Creek Club at Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, Washington.

The Trojans finished at 281-285-278—844, 20-underpar, followed by Washington at 285-293-281—859, Northwestern at 284-302-278— 864, Arkansas at 287-296-286—869, San Jose State at 289-293-290—872 and Central Florida at 290-298-286— 874.

San Diego State fell short in 12th at 296-298-295— 889, and Sacramento State was 13th at 302-302-288— 892.

“Patience has been a staple of this team all season and we showed it again this week with a consistent three days of play,” USC Coach Justin Silverstein said after the Trojans collected their seventh victory of the season, including the Pac-12 Conference title. “I’m really proud of the girls for staying focused for 54 holes and playing at a high level on a hard course. We’ve checked off a key goal of ours, and now there’s one more to go.”

Chang, a sophomore from Cary, North Carolina, birdied three of the last five holes to claim her second victory of the season and third of her career at 70-67-68—205 (11-under-par), while Rino Sasaki of Washington shot 68-70-68—206 to tie for second with Ana Laura Collado of Central Florida, who finished at 66-72-68—206, and Kathleen Scavo of Oregon was fourth at 67-72-70—209.

“I didn’t know what to expect going into this week, but I knew that I just had to stick to my game plan each day and stay patient,” said Chang, who started her final run with birdies on the 14th and 15th holes. “I think this is probably one of the best rounds I’ve had in a tournament so it’s definitely a confidence booster going into nationals…I’m so proud of the team and our performance this week.”

At the time of print, USC led the top six teams in the standings into the NCAA Women’s Championship on May 17-22 at the Blessings Golf Club in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

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Brooke Riley of Northwestern totaled 71-74-65—210 to tie for fifth with Maria Fassi of Arkansas, who finished at 69-72-69—210, while Alyaa Abdulghany of Stanford wound up at 70-72-69—211 to tie for seventh with Aneka Seumanutafa of Ohio State, who came in at 70-70-71— 211.

Malia Nam of USC shot 73-70-69—212 to tie for ninth with Natasha Andrea Oon of San Jose State, who finished at 70-71-71—212.

Rounding out the scoring for the Trojans were Gabriela Ruffels in a tie for 15th at 69-72-72—217 and Allison Corpuz in a tie for 55th at 72-78-75—225.

UCLA and Stanford qualified for the NCAA tournament out of the East Lansing Regional, with the Bruins finishing third at 296-285-293—874 (10-over) and the Cardinal placing fourth at 298-290-290—878 at Forest Akers West Golf Club in East Lansing, Michigan.

Kent State finished first at 282-291-287—860.

Patty Tavatanakit of UCLA took home the individual title with a score of 71-66-71—208, while Albane Valenzuela of Stanford shot 76-73-72—221 to finish in a tie for 23rd that included her Cardinal teammate Aline Krauter, who wound up at 76-71-74—221.

Cal State San Marcos finished third in the Division II West Regional with a score of 310-295-289—894 (5-over) and Academy of Art in San Francisco was fifth at 305-300294—889 to qualify for nationals at Amarillo Country Club in Amarillo, Texas, where Dallas Baptist took the title at 303-290-293—886.

Jaime Jacob of Cal State San Marcos totaled 75-75-70— 220 (7-over) to wind up in a tie for fifth that included her Cougar teammate, Breann Horn, who finished at 74-7274—220, and Anahi Servin of Academy of Art, who came in at 75-73-72—220.

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/ JUNIOR GOLF /

u r o K Y ids Can e r e h W T h f l is Summer o G y a l P

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hether your child is advanced, intermediate or just starting the game, there are junior programs up and down California that provide competitive and recreational playing opportunities for your junior golfer.

If you’re trying to decide where your child should play this summer, let us do the work for you. We’ve summarized six of the largest junior golf programs in the state including who to contact, registration details and the ideal level of player.

SCGA JUNIOR CLUB

Overview: The Southern California Golf Association’s Junior Club membership is open to all kids across Southern California and one of the big draws is their Golf Pass. In 2018, 4,500 kids used Golf Pass to play more than 34,000 rounds for $5 or less and hit more than 45,000 buckets of balls for $2 or less. In addition, the SCGA host events for Club members at courses around SoCal in a variety of formats.

Level of player: • The SCGA Junior Club is open to golfers of all abilities and experience level.

Cost and Registration Fees • $60 Annual Membership Fee. Contact Info • www.scgajunior.org • junior@scga.org • (818) 980-3630

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PGA JUNIOR TOUR

Overview: The Southern California PGA Junior Tour is a threetiered program consisting of the Junior Development Tour, Players Tour and Toyota Tour Cup. The program has over 2,750 members and is designed to encompass all ages and playing abilities. The SCPGA Jr. Tour holds 275+ tournaments annually, providing ample playing opportunity for players across Southern California.

Level of Player • Junior Development Tour – Players with limited to no competitive golf experience. Ages 5-18 • Players Tour – Players with competitive golf background who are looking to sharpen their skills and improve their game. Ages 9-18 • Toyota Tour Cup- This tour is invitation only, which can be attained through the Qualifying School, Players Tour Series Points, or local qualifiers. Ages 12-18 Cost and Registration Fees • Junior Development Tour - $100 Annual Membership Fee • Players Tour - $150 Annual Membership Fee • Toyota Tour Cup - $230 Annual Membership Fee Membership fees are in addition to individual tournament entry fees.

Contact Info • www.scpgajrtour.com • Junior Tour Director – Kevin Smith, ksmith@pgahq.com

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NORTH COUNTY JUNIOR GOLF ASSOCIATION

Overview: The NCJGA is a 501(c)(3) with the goal of making golf affordable and accessible to all despite any economic background in North San Diego County. PGA Professional David Emerick revitalized it in 1998, starting with 33 kids. It currently provides instruction and playing opportunities to more than 300 boys and girls.

They also have a relationship with the SCPGA Toyota Tour Cup, with the top three boys and girls from the NCJGA yearlong points race receiving an exemption to the TTC for elite players. In addition, the NCJGA also host limited field events (64 players) for juniors of all skill levels, as well as clinics and instructional sessions. Their home course is Goat Hill Park located in Oceanside, where they also host a Caddy & Leadership Academy. Juniors are not required to be members in order to participate, but only members can earn points toward yearlong prizes.

Level of Player • The North County Junior Golf Association is open to golfers of all abilities and experience levels.

Cost and Registration Fees • The entry fees for each event can be found under “Tournaments” at ncjga.com.

• Levels of annual membership fees: $75, $125 or $150.

• 1-day Championship Tour events cost $70 for members, • 2-Day JGS events $165 for members.

• Executive Tour rates, 18 holes $45 for members and $35 for 9 hole members.

Contact Info • www.ncjga.com • David Emerick, david@ncjga.com

JUNIOR TOUR OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Overview: In 2008 both the NCGA and the Northern California PGA each had their own junior tournament programs for players ages 10-18. Looking to strengthen the opportunities available for kids, in 2011 they began combining their resources and the Junior Tour of Northern California was born. Each season runs from August 1 to July 31, culminating in the Tour Championship.

Past participants include Bryson DeChambeau, USC’s Justin Suh and reigning U.S. Girls’ Junior Champion Yealimi Noh (pictured).

Level of Player • Experienced juniors seeking a high level of competition.

Cost and Registration Fees • $75 Annual Membership Fee. Go to jtnc.org for individual tournament entry fees.

Contact Info • www.jtnc.org • 831-625-4653

MAY/JUNE 2019

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/ JUNIOR GOLF /

PGA JR. LEAGUE GOLF

Overview: PGA Jr. League brings friends and families together around fun, team golf experiences with expert coaching from PGA and LPGA Professionals. Kids learn the game and enjoy relaxed competition in a two-person scramble format that encourages mentorship, builds confidence and teaches sportsmanship. There are plenty of opportunities throughout California, as the SCPGA and NCPGA are two of the largest PGA Sections in the country. There are over 120 teams, including the 2018 National Champions from San Diego, with currently over 1,800 players registered in Southern California alone where there are already 40 leagues for the 2019 season.

Teams consist of 8 players or more and pair off into groups of two and play four, nine-hole matches in a game using the scramble format. Captains can substitute players every three holes, allowing everyone on the team a chance to participate.

Teams typically play six games in the regular season, which runs from March 1 to July 31.

Level of player: • All levels of golfer are invited to participate in PGA Jr. League Golf.

Cost and Registration Fees • Because PGA Jr. League is organized at the local level, many aspects of the program vary from team-to-team and league-to-league. This could include the scheduling of matches, number of teams in a league, practices offered and price of the program. Contact your local PGA or LPGA Professional/PGA Jr. League Captain at your nearest course for information.

Contact Info • www.pgajrleague.com/sign-up

FUTURE CHAMPIONS GOLF TOUR

Overview: Future Champions Golf Tour was started to make the junior golf platform and experience better for the players and the parents. FCG started in 2004 and has quickly become one of the leading organizations in junior golf worldwide with over 120 annual tournaments held throughout the U.S., but mostly in Southern California. There are 4 levels to the Tour catering from beginners to Division 1-bound college golfers. Several alumni are now competing on the PGA and LPGA Tours, and more than 3,000 participants have taken their game to the college level. Junior camps are held all summer at Stadium Golf Center in San Diego. Go to futurechampionsgolf.com for the schedule.

Level of Player • FCGT has playing opportunities for golfers of all levels.

Cost and Registration Fees • Events range from $35-$359 depending on the number of rounds and level of competition.

Contact Info • Go to www.futurechampionsgolf.com or search the App Store for “Future Champions Golf” to download their free app.

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/ INDUSTRY PROFILE /

POPPY’S NEW POWER PLAYER NORTHERN CAL NATIVE STEVE SCHROEDER RETURNS TO RUN TWO OF THE REGIONS MOST VALUED COURSES

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ince taking the reins in February, Steve Schroeder is settling into his new position of Chief Operating Officer for Poppy Holding, Inc. He now oversees and manages property operations for Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach and its sister facility, Poppy Ridge Golf Course in Livermore, which are owned and operated by a subsidiary of the Northern California Golf Association.

“As a member of the NCGA since 1975, it means a lot for me to be overseeing these two great and unique properties, Poppy Hills and Poppy Ridge,” said Schroeder, who grew up in Menlo Park and went to Bellarmine High in San Jose before going on to Stanford.

“Having worked for Robert Trent Jones II, I know all that the Joneses have done for golf and these courses are part of that,” he reflected. “The remodel of Poppy Hills improved the green surrounds and the quality of the shot-making requirements, making it a compelling layout in an area known for its great golf courses. We know the names of all those other great golf courses, but in simple terms Poppy Hills is the value proposition in the Del Monte Forest and the choice of a lot of people who come here.

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“And my position now gives me the opportunity to give back to the NCGA membership, which has meant so much to me.”

The 60-year-old Schroeder, who grew up playing at Sharon Heights Country Club and Menlo Park Country Club, was an All-American at Stanford in 1979 and most valuable player of the Cardinal golf team that season.

After graduating from Stanford in 1980, Schroeder competed in professional tournaments around the world, winning the 1994 Russian Open and finishing second in his title defense the next year. He also played in two U.S. Opens and two World Open Championships.

Schroeder joined the Robert Trent Jones II Group in 1990, eventually becoming Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer in 1994.

In 2003, he was hired as General Manager at was is now TPC Harding Park in San Francisco after renovation of the classic course led it to be selected as host of the 2005 WGC-American Express Championship, which was won by Tiger Woods in a playoff over John Daly.

Schroeder later served as Chief Operating Officer and General Manager of The Club at Pasadera in Monterey from 2006-12, and came to Poppy Hills after being senior sales executive at Clear Creek Tahoe in Carson City, Nevada, from 2012 until early this year.

“We are thrilled to have Steve join the team to lead the Poppy Hills and Poppy Ridge properties,” said Joe Huston, CEO of the NCGA. “Steve’s experience, track record of results and deep knowledge of the golf business will be a great asset to the organization as we look to further enhance the experience for NCGA members and guests.”

V1 Sports, California Golf + Travel, and Golf Lab Academy have teamed up to improve your golf swing. Sign up for a free video golf lesson at CalGolfNews.com/GolfLab

MAY/JUNE 2019

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/ INSIDE THE GATES /

THE FARMS GOLF CLUB:

B uilt on a passion for playing the game W

hen The Farms Golf Club in Rancho Santa Fe opened in 1988 it was a gem, as you would expect from the design team of Pete Dye and his son, Perry, plus San Diego golf legend Tommy Jacobs.

Even Alice Dye got in her two cents worth.

Derived from the imagination of an architect coined “Dyeabolical,” the layout in the coastal foothills north of San Diego delivered a firm test of golf.

It quickly became known as on of the top player’s clubs in Southern California and also earned a reputation as one of the most challenging.

In 1999, the membership bought the course and its 36,000-square-foot clubhouse, and a year later commissioned respected course architect John Fought to refine the layout along with PGA

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Tour pro Tom Lehman, who won the 1966 Open Championship at Royal Lytham & St. Annes.

Fought, who designed Pumpkin Ridge in Oregon and reworked Pine Needles in North Carolina, and Lehman reconstructed and re-contoured the fast bent grass greens, created new tee boxes and bunkers, added several water hazards, installed a stateof-the-art irrigation system and enlarged the driving range. The goal of the renovation was to maintain the course’s challenging nature whilst enhancing its playability.

“I want a player to come away from one of my courses saying, ‘I need to go play that again,’” said Fought, who played college golf at BYU and won the 1975 Pacific Coast Amateur and the 1977 U.S.

COURTESY OF THE FARMS GOLF CLUB/MATT WARD COURTESY OF THE FARMS GOLF CLUB/MATT WARD

Amateur before winning twice on the PGA Tour in 1979. “‘I can do better on that hole.’”

Most golfers who have played the course since would consider that mission accomplished, and The Farms has been selected as one of the top “50 Clubs with the Best Players” in the United States by Golf Digest.

While the golf course is the centerpiece, what truly defines The Farms is the culture and tone set by the membership and staff. There is a shared

love for the game that’s evident among everyone who steps foot on the property. People who join The Farms care first and foremost about playing golf, and operations are structured to support that.

For instance, the number of memberships are limited to 300. That’s not to maintain an air of exclusivity, but instead to limit the amount of oncourse traffic so that the staff can more efficiently provide premium course conditions. Furthermore, it’s a boon for

:

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COURTESY OF THE FARMS GOLF CLUB/VICKI MORTON

/ INSIDE THE GATES /

pace of play as the average round at The Farms takes just 3.5 hours.

“There’s a passion for playing fast out here,” said Scott Heyn, the club’s General Manager. “Our purpose as a staff is to meet those demands for our members, while also maintaining and building upon our golf-centric culture.”

In additon, there are no tee times for members. They show up and tee it up as they wish, as if it was their own personal golfing oasis.

“I’ve had members say to me that the moment they drive through the gate, the rest of the world melts away,” said Heyn. “There’s no other place our members would prefer to be than on the golf course. Every club has those members who would tee it up every day of the week if they could. We just have 300 of them.”

As Heyn further describes, the golfing culture at The Farms is not predicated on playing ability, gender or age. There’s a strong contingency of women and junior golfers that call the club their home. Instead it’s purely based on a love for playing the game and embracing the challenge that golf presents.

“All the members have a shared love for golf that bonds them together.

There’s a closeness among the member-

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ship unlike any place I’ve ever seen,” said Heyn. “By being here, it’s immediately known that you’re a golfer.”

The focus on golf does not come at the sacrafice of other amenties. The food and beverage services are five-star.

The dining expereinces are created by respected local chef Eric Mauritzen, who aims to deliver smells, tastes, textures and visual aesthetics that are unique to The Farms. However, you will not see tennis courts or a swimming pool at this Rancho Santa Fe masterpiece. Outdoors, it’s all about the golf.

The course itself is considered a shot-maker’s paradise that plays to a par of 72. It plays 6,947 yards from the back tees, with a United States Golf Association rating of 73.8 and a slope of 142, but is playable for golfers of all abilities with eight sets of tees – including three for women.

The relatively tight Bermuda grass fairways feature hills and hollows, as water also comes into play on half of the holes. No. 17 is the signature hole, a classic par-4 playing 471 yards from the back tees into the prevailing wind from the west, and is the No. 2 handicap hole. The fairway bends to the right, with three ponds to the right of the fairway, with another lake to the

right of a tricky green and bunkers guarding the left side.

What hole could possibly be more challenging, you ask? The 558-yard third hole is the No. 1 handicap. It’s a legitimate three-shot par-5 with a narrow landing area off the tee because of sand and water to the left, plus out of bounds and thick bushes to the right.

The second shot is no picnic either, with a lake on the right and bushes to the left, before a third shot from between 100 to 175 yards to a long, narrow green. Take par, if you can, and hustle to the fourth tee.

“The Farms is one of the most challenging courses off the tee in Southern California,” said San Diego native Phil Mickelson, a member at The Farms.

“When I’m preparing for a major tournament and really want to test my driver, I come to The Farms.”

Annika Sorenstam, John Schroeder and Liselotte Neumann are among the others who have been members.

Xander Schauffele, who in 2017 became first PGA Tour rookie to win the Tour Championship, recently joined the ranks.

Despite a challenge that appeals to the world’s best players, you don’t have to be a pro to play The Farms; you just have to share their love for the game.

Your City, ST

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/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

A “PEACE” OF

MEXICO

Hole No. 14 at Puerta Cortés

The renovated and rebranded Puerta Cortés offers oceanfront golf and an array of aquatic adventures 28

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L

a Paz aptly means “peace.”

The appropriately named town is very different from the fast paced party atmosphere of Cabo San Lucas, which is just a two-hour drive away on the western shore of Baja.

La Paz is serine, slow paced and offers the ability to experience much of coastal living the way Mother Nature intended.

Antonio Davila is the President of Ascendancy, a Mexico City-based asset management firm that oversees more than $2 billion in assets and specializes in real estate invest-

ments throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. While sailing off the Sea of Cortez in 2013 with his newly wed wife, he discovered a hidden gem resting on the shores of La Paz. “I was dazzled by its beauty, spectacular scenery and extraordinary amenities. I knew I had to live here myself and further build on the aweinspiring foundation set forth by the property’s previous owners,” said Davila. “Puerta Cortés is an exclusive hideaway for those seeking unparalleled, coastal living and adventure in one of the most privileged locations in the world.”

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/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

Hole No. 6 at Puerta Cortés Puerta Cortés, previously named Costa Baja, has been reinvigorated by Davila who has instilled a renewed sense of pride in the only Gary Playerdesigned golf course in Mexico.

Ascendancy purchased the site in February of 2018 and began a comprehensive $5 million renovation and rebranding.

As the new name implies, the property serves as a gateway to the Sea of Cortez, which was famously named the “aquarium of the world” by renowned French explorer Jacques Cousteau.

Known for its peaceful, crystal clear turquoise waters, the Sea of Cortez offers a wide range of watersports including fishing, diving, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, surfing and island hopping. It is home to rare whale sharks, dolphins, grey whales, humpbacks, orcas, sea lions and more – all of which can be accessed via guided excursions from Puerta Cortés.

Furthermore, the championship golf course offers views of the sea on 17 holes (there is only one hole where the ocean is not visible) – with the most dazzling view coming from the tee box

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of the par-5 14th. At 612 yards, this signature hole is one of the longest in all of Mexico. The elevated tees overlook Pueblito Marinero, an inner and outer marina with the capacity for 250 vessels that is home to private yachts of notable figures such as Steven Spielberg.

Pueblito Marinero also offers a variety of fine dockside dining options: Azul Marino, La Barcaccia, Steinbeck’s, Odayaka Sushi Bar and Blau Wine Shop, as well as a newly added coffee shop called DoceCuarenta.

Continued renovations include a brand new ninth hole, which upon completion will be a dramatic downhill par-3 with a daunting water hazard and a view of one of the three secluded beaches on property. Gary Player Design Group will oversee course renovations and construction, as well. The original ninth hole will be replaced by one of two new hotels. Completion dates for the hotels have not yet been announced.

Current onsite accommodations include the Las Colinas Hillside Residences and VistaMar Oceanfront

Residences. Individual owners of the 72 contemporary homes at Las Colinas or 60 luxury condominiums at VistaMar place their residences in the vacation rental program and make them eligible for guests of Puerta Cortés.

Additional property upgrades include a state-of-the-art desalination plant that coverts water from the Sea of Cortez into clean water for the development.

Furthermore, an ultramodern water treatment plant uses a sustainable technology that produces enough methane to virtually power itself – which simultaneously reduces power consumption and provides the golf course and the development with residual waters for irrigation.

“We are very proud of the sustainable measures we’ve installed in just our first year,” says Davila. “Our vision is to make this one of the most environmentally-friendly and self sustainable golf courses in Mexico, while also being a sought after destination. With our proximity to the Sea of Cortez and all its natural wonders, we recognize our responsibility to preserve and maintain this environmentally sensitive region.”

100 YEARS OF / GOLF & TRAVEL /

PEBBLE BEACH

By Ed Travis erhaps like no other golf course, Pebble Beach Golf Links on California’s Monterey Peninsula and the United States Open are connected in the minds of golf fans. This year, the course’s 100th anniversary, the famed layout is the site for our national championship for the sixth time.

Whether in person or from television, Pebble Beach is familiar turf for fans as one of the courses where the AT&T ProAm, formerly the Bing Crosby National

P

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Pro-Amateur, has been held since 1947.

But the lure of Pebble Beach goes back much further and plays a major role in the history, legend and mystique of our game.

The routing at first runs away from the waters of Stillwater Cove, but it loops twice allowing nine holes to play inland and nine parallel to the ocean.

However, this means wind direction and strength can vary tremendously, which often requires a precise rethinking of alignment and club selection.

Pebble Beach for the 2019 U.S. Open

Above: Hole 8 at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Right: In 2010 Graeme McDowell came from behind the final day to win the U.S. Open.

will play to a par of 71 at about 7,000 yards (the 2018 U.S. Amateur played at 6,816 yards), which is very short when compared to modern courses where events of this stature are played. The greens, however, are diabolically tiny so even a slightly wayward drift of an approach shot pushed by the unpredict-

(continued on page 24)

PE B B L E B E A CH A ND TH E 2 0 1 9 U .S . O P EN

Prior to the 119th playing of the U.S. Open in June, three questions are foremost in the minds of fans. Firstly, can Brooks Koepka pull off something no one has ever done, a “threepeat” after his wins in 2017 and 2018? Or will someone else, perhaps a relative unknown, conquer the unpredictable Monterey Peninsula winds? A lot of the early speculation centers on a former champions Dustin Johnson (2016), Justin Rose (2013) or Jordan Spieth (2015) taking home the victor’s share of the $12 million purse. It’s a good bet Justin Thomas and Rory McIlroy will be part of the story on Sunday and some, perhaps a bit wistfully, are even rooting for Phil Mickelson at age 48 to finally complete the career grand slam.

Then of course there is the question of how Tiger Woods will do after the Masters last April, his 15th major. Can he produce another week where everything clicks as he chases history and Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 majors?

From the standpoint of the course, some ask will Pebble Beach be able to withstand an assault from the best players in the world? It will play short, just over 7,000 yards with a par of 71, but here are the winning scores, yardages and par for the five previous U.S. Opens (note for the 2000 U.S. Open the second hole was changed from a par-5 to par-4):

H

Pebble has by far the smallest greens played on the PGA Tour (a mere 3,500 square feet average) with often-severe slopes both side-to-side and back-to-front. There are more than 100 bunkers with many a front putting surfaces. As if that were not enough, players must contend with the always capricious winds. The conclusion is obvious. Pebble Beach Golf Links does challenge, and perhaps even intimidates, world-class players and has for almost half a century.

PHOTO USGA/JOHN MUMMERT

PHOTO USGA/FRED VUICH

1972 – 6,812 yards, par 72 – Jack Nicklaus (+2) 1982 – 6,815 yards, par 72 – Tom Watson (-6) 1992 – 6,809 yards, par 72 – Tom Kite (-3) 2000 – 6,846 yards, par 71 – Tiger Woods (-12) 2010 – 7,040 yards, par 71 – Graeme McDowell (E)

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COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN/COURTESY USGA MUSEUM

/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

able winds can leave an extremely challenging next shot.

The course was originally conceived not as a “championship venue” but as an attraction for real estate development. It’s well known that Pebble Beach wasn’t the creation of a famous architect but two amateurs Jack Neville and Douglas Grant, both former California State Amateur champions.

Interestingly after the course opened in 1919 Grant moved to England and eventually became Captain of the Royal St. George’s Golf Club. Over Pebble’s 100 years many architects have had a hand in refurbishing and modernizing the layout, bunkering and green complexes. The list contains several Hall of Fame names such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Dr. Alister Mackenzie.

Samuel F.B. Morse, a cousin of the Morse code inventor, saw to the building of the course and adjacent Lodge

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and ran it until his death in 1969.

Ownership changed several times in the ensuing 50 years, including when movie maker 20th Century Fox purchased it in 1979 using the profits from the science fiction blockbuster Star Wars.

Finally, in 1999 with the goal of again restoring this “must-play” icon to American ownership, a consortium purchased the Pebble Beach Co. from a Japanese corporation. The group’s principals included Arnold Palmer, actor/director Clint Eastwood, former President & CEO of United Airlines Richard Ferris and former MLB Commissioner Peter Ueberroth.

Though the U.S. Open returns this year and a seventh is scheduled in 2027, the U.S. Amateur also has a significant place in Pebble’s history. Last year’s championship was the fifth going back to 1929. In that first Amateur, Bobby Jones, only a year away from his

Jack Nicklaus in 1972 birdied two of the last three holes including the par-3 No. 17 after his famous one-iron tee shot. grand slam season of 1930, played after winning the U.S. Open. He tied for low score in the qualifying rounds only to be defeated in the first round of match play. Jones’ stay at Pebble Beach was not a total loss though, since he met English golf course architect Dr. Alister MacKenzie who had designed the nearby Cypress Point Club and Pasatiempo Golf Club courses. Jones found in MacKenzie someone with similar course design ideas and four years later hired the Englishman to help him create the Augusta National Golf Club course.

Stories abound about play at Pebble Beach during its five U.S. Opens. In 1972 Jack Nicklaus hit one of the most famous shots in golf history on his way to winning his second U.S. Open by

COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN/COURTESY USGA ARCHIVES COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN/COURTESY USGA ARCHIVES

COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN/COURTESY USGA ARCHIVES

Top: Jimmy Johnston on the beach 1929 U.S. Amateur.

Bottom Left: Johnny Goodman and Bob Jones 1929.

Bottom right: Jack Nicklaus holding 1961 U.S. Amateur trophy.

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PHOTO USGA/JOHN MUMMERT

/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

three strokes over Bruce Crampton and four over Arnold Palmer. The Golden Bear came to the 71st hole, the difficult par-3 No. 17, needing no worse than a three. The green is perilously close to Stillwater Cove and protected by a fronting bunker and that day was playing directly into what was described as a “gale force” wind.

Nicklaus chose a 1-iron intending to hit a “screamer” right at the flag but taking the club back he felt it was going too much to the inside with the face closing slightly. This usually sends the ball rocketing to the left, but his control was so good that week that by delaying the swing’s release he sent the ball dead on line over the bunker. It hit the flagstick and came to rest just two inches away and thereby clinching his title.

In 1982 Tom Watson conquered the both the treacherous Monterey Peninsula winds and Jack Nicklaus with one of the most replayed shots

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COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN/COURTESY USGA MUSEUM

Top: Graeme McDowell putts on No. 18 during the final round of the 2010 U.S. Open.

Bottom: Arnold Palmer 1972 U.S. Open reacting to a shot.

LOCK IN AND

G E N E R A T I O N

INNOVATION FROM THE GROUND UP

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of all time – again at number 17. Using a 2-iron, Watson pulled the tee shot slightly and it flew past the pin, over the green and into some of the thickest rough Pebble Beach had to offer. Caddie Bruce Edwards knew what was at stake and encouraged Watson to play for the par saying, “Get it close,” to which Watson replied, “Get it close? Hell, I’m going to sink it.”

He did of course, which gave him a one-stroke lead over Nicklaus who had already completed the round. Fans cheered as Watson famously ran on to the green in celebration. What is often overlooked is Watson also made birdie on the par-5 18th to better Nicklaus by two.

For the 100th U.S. Open in 2000, Pebble Beach again was the host and again it was the scene of high drama as Tiger Woods claimed his third major championship. One almost runs out of superlatives describing Woods’ victory, but you can start with his margin over Ernie Els and Miguel Ángel Jiménez…15 strokes. Amazing only begins the list of what has been said, however, it can be added that he was the only competitor under par for the week and his score of 12-under tied the lowest ever for the U.S. Open at the time – not to mention the margin being the largest in major championship history.

Often attributed to Els, perhaps the best line is: “Miguel and I won, but Tiger was playing in his own one-man tournament.”

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PHOTO USGA/ ROBERT WALKER

Top Left: Tom Watson’s clinching chip on No. 17 at 1972 U.S. Open.

Top right: Tom Kite, 1992 champion.

Bottom: Tiger Woods in 2000 won by an astonishing 15 strokes.

PHOTO USGA/JOHN MUMMERT

COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN/COURTESY USGA

/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

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EQUIPMENT

FATHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS

BY ED TRAVIS ather’s Day is the annual celebration for dad’s everywhere and, as a card-carrying dad, I for one am not looking forward to getting another “funny” tie nor “Gee, isn’t that nice” sweater. My closet hardly needs any additional inventory.

What I and all the other fathers who play golf appreciate are thoughtful and useful gifts we can use on and off the course.

California Golf News has come to the rescue for those who may be stuck for ideas with some golf gifts we really like. We are hopeful our families will get the hint.

F

Bettinardi Cigar Tray If dad enjoys a good cigar, then he will love Bettinardi’s Custom Cigar Tray. Each is milled from aircraft grade aluminum and has room for a custom logo or message in the center.

It’s available in five stock colors including red, dark green, blue, black and gray. See them and order at Bettinardi.com, priced at $220.

Pedego Interceptor In one word, electric bikes are fun, and Pedego is a leader with 15 models to fit any lifestyle or need. We like the user-friendly Interceptor, made with quality materials and construction. It has a 500-watt motor and the charge lasts up to 60 miles. It comes in four frame colors with prices starting at $3,295. See details at PedegoElectricBikes.com.

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Bettinardi Armlock Putter One of the hottest trends in golf is the putting style made popular by PGA Tour star Matt Kuchar: The so-called armlock method. Bob Bettinardi makes Kuchar’s putters and we like Bettinardi’s 2019 Studio Stock 38 Armlock model. It’s a compact mallet with deeply milled grooves in a pleasing platinum finish. Find them at Bettinardi.com for $450.

Cleveland Golf RTX 4 Wedges Patented Tour Zip Grooves give more control and shot options. Offered in 18 loft and bounce combinations, each has a compact confidence-inspiring shape ideal for shots into the green or those tricky greenside pitches and chips. The RTX 4 wedges offer a choice of Tour Raw, Tour Satin or Black Satin finishes. Check them out at ClevelandGolf. com. Priced at $140 each.

G/FORE MG4.1 Shoe When it comes to golf shoes it is incredibly important for them to be both functional and comfortable, but what can get lost in those mechanics is an attractive aesthetic. The new MG4.1 from G/FORE has all of these qualities.

The one-piece knit upper, stretch lattice midsole, cushioned footbed and sawtooth pattern sole offer stability and easy wearing. In the classic Snow color, MG4.1 will be available June 15.

See GFORE.com, where they’re priced at $185.

B U I L T FOR

DISTANCE

Bushnell Pro XE Rangefinder Golf is a lot easier when you know how far the target is and there’s no better way to do that than the Bushnell Pro XE laser rangefinder. It compensates for uphill/downhill slopes, vibrates when the flagstick is targeted and has a range of over 500 yards with 7X magnification. There’s even a magnetic mount.

See more details at BushellGolf.com. Priced at $550.

Gauge Design M.I.A. Putter Gauge Design makes the new M.I.A. putter by milling 303 stainless steel and T6061 aluminum in a sophisticated two-piece construction. Dad will like the traditional look and the extreme heel and toe weighting, which increases MOI and reduces twisting. For more information or to order, go to GaugeDesignGolfShop. com. It’s priced at $549.

Linksouldier Golf Bag A clever name for this minimalist carry bag from Linksoul. The Linksouldier LS933 weighs just 4.8 lbs. with a dual strap for comfort and pop-out stand legs that spread wide to ensure stability. The convenient molded handle and three pockets including a beverage sleeve make it a real winner. Choice of three colors for $225 at Linksoul.com.

Max Distance with FastLayer Core.

Ultimate stopping power with SeRM Urethane. It’s a totally new, totally different Z-STAR Series.

# B U I LT F O R D I S TA N C E

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EQUIPMENT

FATHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS PUMA Pineapple P Cap Trendy caps are in style, just look at the players on the PGA Tour, and PUMA’s Pineapple P Snapback is leading the way.

The pattern has “instant spring break vibes” combined with a slightly curved brim. It’s made of polyester with a moisture wicking headband and features the prominent “P” logo in front. The one size fits all piece can be found at PumaGolf. com. It’s priced at $30.

Srixon Z Star Golf Balls Every Dad can use more golf balls and the tour-category Z-Star and Z-Star XV from Srixon offer distance plus added spin. Z-Star has three layers with a urethane cover while the Z-Star XV (white or yellow), also with a urethane cover, is four layers. Both have Spin Skin, a coating to help grip an iron’s grooves, and are priced at $39.99 on Srixon.com.

UAG Phone Case Ever drop your phone? You need a protective case, so why not the best? That would be the UAG Monarch. It has five layers of rugged lightweight protection plus it slips easily in and out of your pocket. They offer models for iPhone XS, Galaxy Note 9, Galaxy 10 and Google Pixel 3. Pick your color: black, crimson or carbon fiber at UrbanArmorGear.com. It’s priced at $59.95.

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Tour Edge Exotics EXS Driver Any golfer will love the Exotics EXS driver from Tour Edge, the same model used to set the World Long Drive record for women at a mind-blowing 413 yards. It has all the best technology including movable weights, an adjustable hosel, carbon fiber and Tour Edge’s exclusive Roll Face. All for the golfer-friendly price of $299.99. Check it out at TourEdge.com.

Turtle Shell Speaker 3.0 Let dad take his tunes to the course with the Turtle Shell 3.0 Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker from Outdoor Tech. It’s tough, good looking and produces great sound. It comes with a built in power bank (3600 mAh) and has the ability to connect wirelessly to multiple speakers. Best of all, it lasts 20 hours on a full charge. Check it out at OutdoorTechnology.com, where it’s priced at $99.95.

119TH 119HTH 119T

SUNDAY AY ND SU Y2019– – A2019 D16,16, –N June UJune S – – June 16, 2019 –

U.S. Open Tickets Attending a U.S. Open makes a great memory for any dad, and this year the championship is at Pebble Beach on the Monterey Peninsula June 10-16. A variety of ticket packages are available for both for the tournament and practice rounds, with prices starting at $60 for single-day practice round admission. Visit USGA.org to order.

B U I L T FOR

DISTANCE

GALLERY LER GAL YY LLER GA HAPPY FATHER’S DAY! Y! !

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY HAPPY FATHER’S DA

CONDUCTED BY THE UNITED STATES GOLF ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION STATES GOLF CONDUCTED BY THE UNITED ASSOCIATION UNITED STATES GOLF CONDUCTED BY THE

XXIO Prime Driver XXIO makes the Prime family of woods specifically for those with moderate swing speeds who also want lots of forgiveness. The titanium clubhead and special graphite shaft of the Prime driver make it very light so it can be swung faster, and with its cup face construction the sweet spot is larger. Find more information at XXIOusa.com, where it’s priced at $850.

Max Distance with FastLayer Core.

Ultimate stopping power with SeRM Urethane. It’s a totally new, totally different Z-STAR Series.

Volvik Marvel X Collection If dad is your superhero, or he’s just a superhero fan, the Volvik Marvel X limited edition golf balls are for him. The sets include four Volvik Vivid matte finish golf balls and a magnetic hat-clip ball marker outfitted in Captain America, Iron Man or Spiderman themes. The ball itself is a three-piece construction that produces a mid to high trajectory and has a 75 compression rate for low spin off the driver and high spin off wedges. Check Volvik.com for the limited edition offerings that are priced at $24.99.

# B U I LT F O R D I S TA N C E

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INSTRUCTION

GOOD ALIGNMENT + GOOD BACKSWING = GREAT RESULT

By Devan Bonebrake e all have heard the adage you don’t hit the ball with your backswing. True, however the downswing for many golfers is about three times faster than the backswing. So not only is it more difficult to change, but also more difficult to recover from a poor position. If you can start with terrific alignments – feet, hips and shoulders – and take the club away with the body and arms working together, you are off to a running start!

Set up can be very difficult to assess and is generally the first thing that gets off in a player’s swing. The most important alignment for me as a coach is the upper body. The arms (which are connected to the club) are more affected by the upper body than lower body.

Yet, I almost only see people working on their foot alignment and rarely on their shoulders. I love using a training aid called Swing Align (found on www. swingtrainer.com) because it makes it is so visual and can make a solid set-up a breeze.

Within the last few years the term “Arm Structure” has become larger than life. How the arms orient relative to the body (and each other) has everything to do with how the club can work back and, more importantly, down. I like to see a few things going back that lead to a great look at the top.

1) Lead Shoulder works down and back while trail hip turns back: A flat shoulder turn can make it very hard to keep the club from getting too inside going back.

2) Arms staying the same distance apart: When I see a big breakdown in the arms going back, a flying trail elbow, for example, it is generally because the arms have not stayed connected and moved in unison with the body. This is one of the biggest differences I see among tour players relative to high handicappers.

3) A Trail Arm that stays above the lead arm until at least waist high: The

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1

2

trail arm folding under early not only kills width and distance but also creates a very shallow backswing. This almost always is followed by an outward over the top move coming down.

Talk about a power killer.

These setup and backswing keys, and rechecking your alignment using a device like Swing Align (pictured), will get you into a position that allows the downswing to be much more simple and automatic. So, you might not hit the ball with your backswing, but it’s the best way to find the right move coming down!

DEVAN BONEBRAKE is the Director of Instruction at Rolling Hills Country Club. He is a Golf Channel Academy Lead Coach and was named a “Best Young Teacher” and “Best in the State”

by Golf Digest. You can check out his video tips on www.swingtrainer.com and www.southerncalgolfacademy.com.

3

“

We’ve been asked how the OBAN Steel CT Iron Series compares to other shafts…

Our answer is, it really doesn’t.

ObanShafts.com NOV/DEC 2018

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INSTRUCTION

PLAY GOLF, NOT GOLF SWING

By Bob Madsen While experience is the best teacher, there are drills you can do to replicate these experiences and bring the golf course onto the practice tee. I like to refer to this as “intuitive learning.” You’re creating conditions that require you to instinctively produce a golf swing to achieve the desired results.

Once you’re comfortable doing this, you’ll be more equipped to play the game of golf – not the game of golf swing – and shoot lower scores.

YARDAGE CALL OUT This is a simple drill, but very useful for helping you learn to control trajectory and distance. Starting with a single club (I usually go with a 6-, 7- or 8-iron), literally say random yardages out loud to yourself ranging from 20 yards to a full swing and try to hit that distance with the one club. Many golfers struggle with the “half swing.” This gets you more comfortable with it, while also starting to show you the different trajectories you’re capable of producing with a single club.

9-BALL DRILL I tell my students, “In order to be highly successful at golf, you only need nine shots.”

Straight low, straight middle and straight high. The low draw, middle draw and high draw. The low fade, middle fade and high fade. The next time you’re at the range, take a small bucket of balls and try to hit each one of those shots. Try NOT to overthink each swing. Trust your instincts and your swing to be able to produce the shot you envision. While this is a drill that’s better served for experienced players, it’s also very beneficial for novices. It provides a chance to start seeing and feeling the cause-andeffect relationships in the golf swing.

BOB MADSEN is the PGA Director of Instruction at Singing Hills Golf Resort at Sycuan in San Diego. The three-time San Diego PGA Chapter Teacher of the Year is also the 2017 Southern California PGA Teacher of the Year and current San Diego PGA Professional of the Year. He’s the author of “Easy Bogey: How to Break 90” and has given more than 30,000 golf lessons in a career that spans more than 40 years.

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GAUGE DESIGN Better Putters By Design

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INSTRUCTION

IF YOU WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR GOLF GAME, MEDITATE The breathless commentator (Feherty, Kostis or Maltbie…) puts his arm around Tiger Woods on the 18th green after one of his innumerable, gobsmacking finishes and gushes: “Wow, Tiger! How did you do that?” Each time Tiger gives some variation of this answer: “You know, I just tried to stay in the moment and focus on each shot.”

Staying in the moment. It’s the key to playing great golf…and tennis and basketball and, frankly, any endeavor in life.

Is it easy? No. It’s really hard. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. But why is it so difficult? It’s for one reason: The human mind loves to wander. And think. All on its own…without your permission.

And unfortunately, you have chosen THE HARDEST sport ever invented when it comes to staying in the moment. Why? Because in a fourhour round of golf you are actually performing golf shots for a total of roughly three minutes.

That leaves 237 minutes to think about how well or poorly you’re playing. Time to think about the meeting with your boss tomorrow to go over last month’s numbers. Or about your marriage. About… well, the list is infinite.

Basketball? Things move so fast there’s no time to think, except during timeouts, halftime and when you’re on the bench. Tennis? There’s only time to think between points and on changeovers.

The good news is there’s something you can do to tame that constant rush of thoughts while making your way around the course. Meditate regularly. It’s not that hard, seriously. People tend to overthink it.

Meditation is just the act of sitting quietly and placing your attention on something happening in the present moment, like your breathing. Then when your mind grabs your attention and throws you into thought, you simply notice that’s happened and bring attention back to your breathing.

That really is the whole ball of wax. The key is you just have to do it.

So, you’re asking: “If I meditate, how specifically will that translate on the golf course?” Here’s how.

When you’re walking down the fairway towards your drive, your mind won’t race as much. You’ll be calmer. When standing over a five-footer for par, you’ll focus better. Scientific studies from both Harvard and UC Santa Barbara have shown that meditation reduces mind-wandering and improves focus.

In addition to lowering your handicap, meditation will also make you a better spouse, sibling,

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PHOTO: MICHAEL WEINSTEIN

By David Gerken

friend and overall human being. Turns out, the less we get stuck in our heads, the better we are.

And by the way, Tiger meditated growing up, and probably still does. His mother, Kultida, is Buddhist and taught him. And guess who gave meditation a ton of credit for his great start this year? Rory.

This is a no-brainer, and getting started is easy. The first step: Just go to my website, davidgerken.net, and read my free ebook Five Steps to a Regular Meditation Practice.

Your handicap will thank you.

DAVID GERKEN is a former legislative aide on Capitol Hill and was a writer on the Emmywinning TV series The West Wing. He currently runs a meditative practice and is the author of Five Steps to a Regular Meditation Practice.

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WINE SELECTION

BRASSFIELD ESTATE AND WINERY, THE GEM OF THE HIGH VALLEY AVA

By Matt Palaferri or those who have never had wines from Brassfield Estate, go find a bottle and treat yourself to some fantastic and truly distinctive wines. The Estate sits on some of the most unique land in California, which includes a dormant volcano. It’s in the western section of High Valley where the higher blocks rise to nearly 3,000 feet.

The first time I met Jerry Brassfield, who’d purchased 1,600 hundred acres as a cattle ranch and wildlife preserve, I knew he was my kind of guy. He’s funny, passionate and loves everything about wine and is making it the right way.

Since then, the estate has grown to 2,700 acres of pristine land with vineyards and protected wildlife throughout. I have visited the property on a couple different occasions and am blown away with the tranquil surroundings.

Winemaker Matt Hughes focuses on sustainable farming, classic techniques and letting these beautiful grapes shine by letting them be, wait for it, what they are supposed to be and taste like!

Matt lets the varietal shine and encourages good ol’ Mother Nature to do her thing. If I wanted a pinot that tasted like Syrah or Zin, I would order a bottle of Syrah or Zin. I like wines that are varietally correct and Brassfield Estate is doing it the right way. I’ve chosen three wines that I think are fantastic and hope you do, too.

F

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PINOT GRIS It’s time for summer and that means some wines you can sit on the patio with and have a bottle or two. It’s 100 percent Gris that has hints of key lime, honey, stone fruit and minerality that

screams for oysters or any kind of fish.

The vineyards are on the floor of the High Valley at 1,800 feet, giving this wine ripeness and great acidity. Guys.

It’s summer time; try a bottle of this Gris. No one will tell on you for watch-

ing a ballgame with Pinot Gris in your beer glass!

SAUVIGNON BLANC There’s probably not another grape I enjoy year round as much as SB. Brassfield Estate SB is 100 percent with its own style, which Matt Hughes handcrafted perfectly. Fermentation takes place in steel and then it is transferred to French oak barrels, which creates so many intense layers to this wine. There are so many things that jump out from the nose to the finish that your taste buds will be in overdrive. This wine will not disappoint with any crowd you have around. But, frankly, just get a bottle and drink it. Then open a second one to share.

ERUPTION Amazing. This wine over delivers like no other. The vines are located on Volcano Ridge Vineyard (hence the name Eruption, see what they did there?) on steep slopes of an extinct cinder cone.

The soils are ideal to stress the vines and make it one intense, but balanced, red blend.

If there is a wine that you want to have with some grilled meats, and have your guests rave over, this is your bottle. It’s a blend of Malbec, Syrah, Zin, Petite Sirah and Mourvedre.

It’s full bodied with dark fruit, baking spices and blueberries.

Every time I put my nose to this wine it reminds me of my wife’s berry cobbler. Big roasted berries and a soft finish makes this wine so fun to open with other fans of good wine. It’s a pleaser for sure.

Until next time!

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