For more than 60 years, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa has welcomed players to its storied fairways. Today, a dramatic Gil Hanse redesign of the North Course sets the stage for the NCAA DI Golf Championships through 2028, inviting you to be part of a new era of golf. Stay, play, and make every round unforgettable.
Eachyear, the Southern California PGA Section proudly recognizes the remarkable achievements and selfless dedication of its PGA Professionals—individuals who elevate the game through passion, leadership, and service. Headlining this year’s class of honorees is Holly Kennedy, PGA, of Emerald Isle Golf Course, who has been named the 2025 Golf Professional of the Year. Kennedy is recognized for her outstanding performance as a Golf Professional, her exemplary leadership, and her unwavering commitment to growing and promoting the game.
The 2025 SCPGA Section Awards celebrate PGA Professionals like Kennedy who have made lasting contributions to their facilities, communities, and the Section as a whole. These distinguished honorees will be recognized for their accomplishments at the 2025 SCPGA Presidents Dinner on December 14, 2025, at South Hills Country Club—an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of the game.
Below, you can explore the full list of Section Award winners and the incredible facilities they represent, each a shining example of the talent and dedication that make the Southern California PGA one of the strongest Sections in the country.
SCPGA Golf Professional of the Year
Holly Kennedy, PGA Emerald Isle Golf Course
Awarded for overall performance as a Golf Professional and for leadership, service, and promotion of the game of golf. Also considered are the overall performance at their facility, the level of service to the Southern California Section and the Association as well as
their image as a Golf Professional.
SCPGA Eddie Merrins Teacher & Coach of the Year
Roger Gunn, PGA
Golf Development Complex
Awarded for excellence in golf instruction and coaching along with overall performance as a Golf Professional. Promotion of golf, use of teaching aids, involvement in junior golf activities, teaching techniques, and articles published are some of the criteria considered for this award. Recently renamed to the Eddie Merrins Teacher & Coach of the Year in honor of the late Eddie Merrins, a true legend of the game and longtime PGA Professional at Bel-Air Country Club. “The Little Pro” was 91 when he passed away in 2023.
SCPGA Tom Addis III
Professional Development Award
Dr. Alison Curdt, PGA
Wood Ranch Golf Club
Bestows special recognition for a PGA Professional for outstanding service and contributions to developing and improving educational opportunities for the PGA Golf Professionals in Southern California. In 2020, this award was renamed to honor SCPGA and PGA of America Past President, Tom Addis III, PGA.
SCPGA Bill Strausbaugh Award
Terry Beardsley, PGA
Eldorado Country Club
Presented to a PGA Professional who, by their day-to-day efforts, have made significant contributions through the mentoring of PGA Professional’s employment. The award also considers the integrity and character of the PGA Professional, their service to the Association, and their involvement in community and charitable organizations.
SCPGA Player Development Award
Tony Chavez, PGA
Los Serranos Country Club
The Player Development Award is designed to recognize a PGA Professional for extraordinary and exemplary contributions and achievements in the area of player development. This award considers the PGA Professional’s growth of the game leadership commitment at the Section and National levels and the impact of their efforts at their facility.
SCPGA Assistant Golf Professional Award
Reina Kearns, PGA
North Ranch Country Club
Awarded for overall performance as a Golf Professional in leadership, service, and promotion of the game of golf. This Professional reflects the qualities and image that promote the PGA Professional to their members and their facility.
SCPGA Youth Player Development Award
Natalie Vivaldi, PGA
Emerald Isle Golf Course
Bestows recognition to a PGA Golf Professional who is a leader in junior golf. This Professional reflects the image and qualities that juniors can emulate and provides opportunities for juniors to learn and play golf.
SCPGA Clubfitter Award
Adam Accica, PGA
The Vintage Club
This award bestows recognition to a PGA Golf Professional who is an expert in the field of club fitting. Some of the considered criteria for this award are promoting club fitting at their facility, helping both PGA members and associates further their knowledge on the effects of properly fitted equipment.
SCPGA Merchandisers of the Year
Private Category: Steven Van Leeuwen, PGA
Lakeside Golf Club
Public Category: Jeffrey Munak, PGA
Encinitas Ranch Golf Course
Resort Category: Carrie Matlin, PGA
Monarch Beach Golf Links
This award recognizes those PGA Professionals who have demonstrated superior skills as merchandisers in the promotion of golf and retail at their facility and in the Section.
SCPGA Golf Course of the Year Award
Goose Creek Golf Club
Awarded to the facility that has significantly and consistently supported the Section on all levels (hosting tournaments and events, Chapter and
Division support, community outreach and support, etc.), and encourages growth in the game of golf throughout the year.
SCPGA Partner of the Year Award
Acushnet Golf
Awarded to the partner that has significantly and consistently supported the Southern California PGA throughout the year.
SCPGA Patrick Rielly President’s Award
Kimberly Falcone, PGA
La Jolla Country Club
This annual award is selected by the current SCPGA President to recognize someone for their outstanding contributions to the Southern California PGA.
SCPGA Honorary Life Members
Jamie Mulligan, PGA
John McNair, PGA
Don Knabe
The Southern California Section was established in 1924, and today it consists of over 1,800 golf Professionals working at over 450 facilities within the Section. The mission of the Southern California Section (SCPGA) mirrors the purpose of the PGA of America: To promote the enjoyment and involvement in the game of golf and to contribute to its growth by providing services to golf professionals and the golf industry. For more information on the Southern California PGA, visit scpga. com, follow @scpga on Instagram, X, and find us on Facebook.
Thedream of playing an exclusive course seems out of reach for many golfers. Even here in California, with its world-class layouts and stunning landscapes, access to exclusive fairways usually requires the right membership or the right connections.
That’s exactly the challenge that inspired the creation of TTShare Golf, a person-to-person tee time sharing app that connects golfers (Guests) with course members (Hosts) who are willing to share access through their guest passes to their exclusive golf course. TTShare Golf is a unique platform designed to enhance your golfing experience.
Unlike traditional booking platforms, TTShare Golf is not a resale service or broker. Instead, it serves as a digital handshake between golfers. Under their home courses’ bylaws, Hosts decide when to post, set their own pricing that covers guest-related costs, and have full control over who joins their group. On the other hand, Guests can discover new courses, request specific tee times, and expand their network.
Much like a social platform, TTShare Golf is about connection and community. It’s a way for golfers to network, meet new playing partners, and foster genuine relationships around a shared love of the game. The platform also opens doors for reciprocal hosting, visiting other courses, and engaging in events or leagues that members might not otherwise access.
The platform’s mission goes beyond just connecting golfers. Golf has a long-standing history of philanthropy, so, TTShare Golf has a donation feature that allows Hosts to dedicate part of their earnings to local or global charities. For Hosts, it’s a chance to not only share their course but also to make a difference.
Whether you’re a course member in California looking to meet new playing partners, or a traveling golfer eager to play at a dream destination, TTShare Golf offers a range of services to meet your needs, proving that golf is more than a sport; it’s a shared journey.
Free to sign up and no membership required! Limited time offer: Earn up to $100 credit when you sign up!
Download now on iOS: https://apps.apple.com/ us/app/ttsharegolf-book-host/id6478196805
Coming soon to Android - Join the waitlist here at www.ttsharegolf.com/download
For more information, please visit TTShare Golf’s official website www.ttsharegolf.com
Set against the stunning backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains and adjacent to the legendary Rose Bowl Stadium, Brookside Golf Club is a Southern California treasure. With over 95 years of history, Brookside blends timeless tradition with modern luxury, offering an unforgettable experience for golfers and guests alike.
Designed by renowned architect William P. Bell, Brookside features two 18-hole courses—the C.W. Koiner and E.O. Nay—each offering a distinct challenge and set against vast and beautiful mountain vistas. The greens are consistently in excellent condition, and the courses are rich in history, having hosted prestigious tournaments such as the Los Angeles Open and NCAA Championships—a true testament to Brookside’s enduring commitment to excellence.
Brookside’s story is deeply intertwined with the Rose Bowl Stadium, one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world. Opened in 1922, the stadium has hosted countless legendary events—from the annual Rose Bowl Game to Olympic competitions and
global concerts. Brookside followed in 1928, envisioned as a recreational complement to the stadium and a gift to the Pasadena community.
Brookside redefines hospitality with its VIP offerings. Enjoy exclusive tee times, personalized service, and upscale amenities including the Tee Time Tavern, where guests can virtually play world-famous courses like Augusta National. From corporate outings to private celebrations,
Brookside’s attentive staff ensures every moment is exceptional.
Beyond the fairways, Brookside fosters a vibrant community. With active men’s and women’s clubs, youth programs, and year-round events, it’s a place where friendships flourish and memories are made.
Go enjoy a round at a classic course. Visit brooksidegc.com or call 626.585.3594 for more info.
Few golf resorts in the world can match the extraordinary natural setting of the Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale. Carved from the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon State, the two championship courses deliver an unparalleled Southwestern golf experience. Each designed by Jay Morrish to make the most of the breathtaking atmosphere, these layouts feature dazzling panoramas of soaring saguaro cacti, massive granite rock formations and seemingly endless desert expanses. Indigenous plants and friendly wildlife – quail, desert cottontails, roadrunners, deer, coyotes and even baby bobcats that make their homes in the desert – add to the eye-popping setting throughout the 1,300-acre resort grounds. The North Course measures 6,959 yards from the tips and challenges golfers with forced carries over desert washes, all while delivering picture-perfect views of Black Mountain. In contrast, The South Course – which stretches to 6,888 yards – boasts dramatic rock outcroppings and narrow fairways that
are guaranteed to challenge golfers’ skill and focus. Signature holes include # 5 South Course that plays right up to the backdrop of a dazzling spectacle called the Boulder Pile. Hole #7 South includes big balancing rock boulders that sit precariously atop a tiny one, just an arm’s length from golfers on the tee. Bring your camera!
Need help with a loopy swing?
The Boulders Golf Academy offers private, one-on-one instruction with expanded programs including the popular “Golf Simplified” --an innovative yet simple & practical hands-on instruction technique that combines digital video analysis and on-course playing lessons.
As you can imagine, the Boulders Resort has received dozens and dozens of golf awards honoring golf’s finest properties, the excellent condition of the manicured fairways, sculpted tee boxes, and clubhouse facilities. Now, the completion of another extensive golf refinement project further enhances the playability of these two iconic golf cours-
es. On the heels of a $multi-million Boulders South course renovation, the Boulders North Course completed an extensive enhancement project that included upgrading and leveling all tees, restoring the green complexes to their original shape and size, and adding more pin locations. The greens on both courses have been resurfaced with new Tiff Eagle, an ultra-dwarf hybrid green that offers improved speed, consistency and playability as well as smooth transitions during seasonal weather changes. In addition, a comprehensive bunker refurbishment on both courses includes new tee boxes, new pump stations, and the chipping and putting practice areas have been renovated.
Golf is not the only way to enjoy this celebrated destination. The Boulders Resort also offers court time at the Tennis Garden and 12 new pickleball courts. If you are anxious to learn about the region and enjoy outdoor activities, you can go on a guided desert hike or take a guided night-time bike tour to wit-
ness the quiet desert landscape lit up by the multitudes of bright stars throughout the sky. How about the thrill of climbing the face of a 75-foot granite boulder? The Rock-Climbing Clinics include the necessary gear and experts to teach the basic skills. The Walk the Rock Tour or the Sonoran Explorin’ Nature & Wildlife Tour via golf cart, offers fascinating information about the surrounding region and even desert survival tips. The concierge staff can also arrange hot-air ballooning, horseback rides, desert jeep tours and even excursions to the Grand Canyon.
For a more relaxed option, guests can soak up the Arizona sun at one of the resort’s four swimming pools or get pampered at the legendary Spa which brings the outside in
with its rejuvenating treatments that incorporate the area’s indigenous herbs and rituals. The 33,000 sq. ft. facility includes an expansive fitness center, movement studio, Yoga Studio, meditation labyrinth, luxury spa amenities, Spa Café, and an abundance of complimentary fitness classes. Golfers will appreciate an array of spa services that are customized for golfers and the Golf Fitness class, powered by Orange Whip, that focuses on increasing flexibility and strength, enhances coordination, helps change ball flight and creates a perfect balanced tempo within your golf swing.
At the Boulders Resort, you will feel like you are a million-milesfrom-everywhere to relax in “splendid seclusion.” The private Casitas offer wood-burning fireplaces, spacious bathrooms and private patios— each with its own unique view of the desert or golf course. For a golf getaway with friends, 1–4-bedroom Villas offer all the comforts of a private home. Five on-site restaurants range from casual to fine dining incorporating fresh ingredients that are foraged daily from the expansive Organic Garden.
The value-added Fall Stay & Play Golf Package includes a nightly stay
in a private Casita, one round of golf per registered guest, complimentary access to the Boulders’ Spa facility, unlimited fitness classes and complimentary parking.
Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale combines inspiring golf, an exceptional spa, luxurious accommodations, superior services, endless amenities and a nature-lovers para-
dise surrounded by the 12-millionyear-old granite rock formations that pepper the landscape. The result is a stunning mix of manmade and natural beauty that serves as the perfect backdrop for an incomparable golf getaway.
For more information visit www.theboulders.com
Engineered with Simply Balanced™ zero torque technology, the Bettinardi Antidote series offers unrivaled consistency on the green.
Simplify your stroke with the Antidote.
By SCOTT KRAMER
On a beautiful early evening in June, I was finessing a pitching wedge downhill into the 9th green on the brand-new par-3 Doon Brae course at The Highlands in Harbor Springs, Mich. Beyond the green and the adjacent freshly renovated lodge, I could see for miles as the sun lowered in the sky. Right then, I thought to myself how this creative layout built into a ski slope truly adds a new dimension to the already full golf experience at mega-popular BOYNE Golf.
You can’t visit any top golf resort these days without encountering a short course to complement the full-length tracks. Bandon Dunes, Pinehurst Resort and Pebble Beach all have one. And now you can add this amazing destination to that list. You can play a round on Doon Brae in about an hour. Experienced
players will love it, but it’s also a really great venue on which to learn the game. Designed by renowned Michigan course architect Ray Hearn, the first seven holes gradually zig-zag up the hill and the last two back down – it was strategically sculpted to be an easy and steady climb. Each green is inspired by a famous golf green around the world. Officials encourage golfers to play their tee shots from anywhere on the tee box they want. That way, smaller children can enjoy the course even more, while low handicaps can make it an extremely challenging experience. Holes can play from 57 yards and up to 150, depending on where you tee it up. The traps are well placed, too. What I love most: To keep the conditioning top-notch, BOYNE officials mow the grass at the same height as the resort’s other courses –and ensure it’s in amazing condition.
Doon Brae is flanked by the Back Yaird (Scottish spelling for “yard”), a 65,000-square-foot, 27-hole Himalayan-style putting course that also opened in 2025. Inspired by great putting courses like the Himalayas at St. Andrews and Thistle Du at Pinehurst, it features subtle slopes and swales and is a blast to play. It’s just off the back patio of the hotel’s Slopeside restaurant, where our group ordered dinner and then held a putting contest while we waited to be served. I can truly say that of all the massive putting greens I’ve played, this is far and away the most fun and fair. And honestly, I would expect nothing less from BOYNE Golf. This 11-course, four-location golf resort offers every type of golf experience you can imagine. That June week, I also played the outstanding Alpine and Monument mountainside courses at Boyne Mountain, followed by the Links and Quarry nines along Lake Michigan at Bay Harbor Golf Club (coined by many as the “Pebble Beach of the Midwest” because of the breathtaking holes and views) and then The Heather and Ross Memorial courses, as well as Doon Brae – at The Highlands.
I’ve been visiting Northern Michigan to play golf most of my life and feel like BOYNE Golf perpetually offers a collectively amazing golf variety for any visitor. The courses always seem to be in spectacular condition from tee to green, very playable, and with excellent and friendly service all along the way.
Also new for me this year was that a series of famous Donald Ross holes have been updated through the use of amazingly sophisticated technology on the Donald Ross Memorial course, to accurately match the originals in terms of yardage, slopes, and green and bunker size and shaping. The course is billed as a “Greatest Hits” compilation of 18 Ross holes from around the world. These recreations have been getting renovated one at a time since 2020. The latest transformation was the 10th hole – inspired by the 14th at Royal Dornoch Golf Club in Scotland. It’s the sixth hole to be upgraded. Officials modified the mounding on each side, added fescue, more than doubled the green size, and lowered it by 4.5 feet for accuracy. It’s stunning. I may never get to play the original, but now I feel like I’ve at least experienced it.
The thing that strikes me most about my trips here over time is that BOYNE Golf officials never stop making improvements – whether it be to the golf, lodging, restaurants, or amenities. They just always seem to raise the bar, which becomes evident every time I visit.
For example, this time I stayed in all-new rooms at both Boyne Mountain and The Highlands. Both suites were super upgraded, wellappointed, and even had in-depth TV channel offerings, in-room Nespresso machines, and amazingly comfortable beds. Not sure if it was the fresh air up in these parts or the bed — or the combination of both — but I had some of the best sleep all year dur-
ing my visit. The Highlands’ iconic ivy-covered Main Lodge has undergone the most significant transformation – turning into a high-end boutique hotel. It’s reminiscent of an English country estate with Scottish Highlands charm. And at Boyne Mountain, I found Chalet Edelweiss to be a luxury getaway just steps from a year-round ski lift that I used to check out the mountaintop vistas.
Just for fun one day, my friend and I rented e-bikes on the property there and rolled some 25 miles around the area on tranquil, tree-lined bike paths. It was such a nice way to see this beautiful part of the country. I have no idea what they have planned next, but I can make an argument that this is currently one of America’s best and biggest golf resorts. The golf courses are perpetually maintained to pristine
conditions. The variety of holes is expansive. And the destination is also known as “America’s Summer Golf Capital” for its long days and cool summer temperatures. You can easily fit in 36 holes or more daily, playing well into the evening hours.
And I’m guessing that was part of Everett Kircher’s vision when he founded Boyne Resorts back in 1947 by acquiring 40 acres of land with a modest ski hill for $1. Since then,
he and his family have built North America’s largest family-owned golf and ski company. In the 1960s, the growing demand for golf warranted a championship layout from a renowned architect, which, at the time, was Robert Trent Jones Sr. So Kircher commissioned Jones to create The Heather course. It opened immediately as one of America’s top public golf courses. That helped catapult the resort to its world-class status today. Kircher’s son Stephen, an accomplished golfer, is in charge these days and continues to further elevate the BOYNE Golf experience. With air travel being way more accessible now, it’s so much easier than ever to get to Boyne, with nonstop flights from 22 U.S cities now offering service to nearby Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport. There are also short connections through Chicago or Detroit to Pellston Airport in Emmet County, or private service directly into Boyne Mountain’s Airport with a 5,200-foot runway that recently underwent a $4 million upgrade. The destination also remains easily accessible by car throughout the Midwest. To score a great golf package – or for more information – visit BoyneGolf.com or call 866-535-0790
By STEVE ZELDIN
Golf is a huge sport and lifestyle for so many, with tons of fantastic options for gear and apparel to select from. How can one possibly know what to choose? Well, your prayers are answered! When Adrienne Cass took the reins at FairwayStyles.com, golf aficionados gained ultimate access to all the most stylish, modern gear for the course and beyond.
Fairway Styles makes the shopping experience fun and easy for men, women, and juniors, featuring the latest product drops from top brands like J. Lindeberg, Peter Millar, G/Fore, and RLX Ralph Lauren, as well as newer brands like Calliope, Macade, Criquet, and many more. The boutiquestyle site is an ever-changing progression of the newest, coolest gear curated by Adrienne’s experienced team, who see a wide range of offerings and then select their choices for the best golf wear, lifestyle pieces, and equipment. Drawing on over two decades of experience in golf fashion, Adrienne cut her teeth with golf fashion leader, J. Lindeberg, then moved on to start TRENDYGOLF.COM, the first world-recognized online destination for high-end golf apparel. After 10 years building them to the forefront of e-commerce, she moved on to work with legend Tiger Woods in the TV space, collaborate with other pro golfers in editorial, and consult for thriving new brands like Greyson Clothiers. Two years ago, Adrienne’s experiences landed her at Fairway Styles. With the backing of the golf industry’s biggest retailer, Worldwide Golf (Roger Dunn), Fairway Styles has become the one-stop shopping dream for the modern golf fashion-conscious purveyor.
Adrienne oversees buyers across the country for Worldwide Golf and relies on field soldiers to test gear, ensuring it gets the green light before featuring it on Fairway Styles.
“THERE’S A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GOING TO ST. ANDREWS TO PLAY VERSUS HITTING A BUCKET OF BALLS AT YOUR LOCAL RANGE. YOU PLAY YOUR PERSONALITY, AND WHAT ULTIMATELY DICTATES WHAT YOU WEAR IS WHERE YOU’RE PLAYING BECAUSE OF THE WEATHER, RULES, OR REVERENCE TO THE SPORT.”
Coming soon, the site will also highlight select hard goods for the equipment junkies. Adrienne and her team have access to all the latest, cutting-edge gear and will offer limited-edition drops like the U.S.A. and European Ryder Cup drivers from Taylor Made, exclusive Titleist Pro V-1 balls, the best rangefinders,
Foot Joy footwear premieres, special-edition Bettinardi and Scotty Cameron putters, and more.
“Our focus is to be able to hit different price points, and offer different items for personal preferences, but we’re always going to be responsible to the sport. We filter everything down and discern what we think the customer should know, so we’ve already done a big edit on what we think is great.”
Beyond the dedicated golfer, Fairway Styles is for everyone. Golf courses have showcased and influenced some amazing styles over the years, and if you play golf, you know how core Roger Dunn stores are. Picture Fairway Styles as the highlight reel from a walk through one of their retail havens, like the Santa Ana Roger Dunn Superstore. Adrienne adds, “We now have a Fairway Styles dedicated room inside the Roger Dunn Superstore
in Santa Ana, so there’s an in-person iteration to experience.”
In a store that offers so much variety, the Fairway Styles “store-withina-store” offers the newest, trendy picks. “The DNA of Fairway Styles is to educate, inspire, and make quality on-trend and timeless fashion attainable for everybody.” Log on to FairwayStyles.com for all the latest golf fashion, and sign up with your e-mail for first-time buyer discounts, and V.I.P. early access to new gear and sale items - but mostly get expert suggestions on the brands and products you really enjoy.
tion seamlessly from the golf course to everyday settings. The brand’s conversational print polos bring personality to the course and clubhouse. Heritage fleeces, crafted from recycled T-shirts, anchor the lifestyle collection by blending sustainability with comfort. The Optic Quarter Zip, a performance waffle knit that has become iconic for the brand, is recognized for its versatility and lasting appeal. The lineup extends beyond men’s product to include footwear and a full women’s collection, offering golfers a complete wardrobe that embodies both authentic style and playability.
Looking ahead, Straight Down remains committed to innovation while honoring its roots. The company’s pride in American values is woven into its story and celebrated in its campaigns. With a focus on quality, integrity, and authenticity, Straight Down continues to grow as a brand that golfers trust and respect.
WhenMike Rowley founded Straight Down in 1989, few would have guessed that a small T-shirt venture would grow into one of the most respected names in golf lifestyle apparel. What began as a modest beach volleyball line with bold neon prints evolved into a full collection designed for golf and travel.
The name “Straight Down” originated in volleyball, describing the powerful spike hit directly downward. In those early years, the company sold graphic tees at surf shows and beach shops before expanding into windbreakers, shorts, and lightweight outerwear. As trends shifted away from neon, the brand found its natural place in golf, where performance fabrics, layering, and versatile styles matched its identity.
From the start, Straight Down has been a family-owned business rooted in tradition and community. Based in San Luis Obispo, the company has grown from a regional apparel line into a nationally recognized golf brand carried in more than 2,000 pro shops and resorts. That growth has been guided by Rowley’s own perspective as both a lifelong golfer and entrepreneur, which has helped ensure each piece meets the performance needs of players while staying true to the company’s California identity.
Straight Down is distinguished by its balance of performance and lifestyle. The guiding phrase, “Designed for Sport, Crafted for Life,” reflects apparel built to transi-
There’s a certain confidence you feel when your style lines up with your swing. From the fairways of California to the greens of Texas, Zilker Belts has been redefining what it means to bring personality and craftsmanship to the game with belts that are always in the leather.
Founded in 2015 in Austin, Texas, Zilker Belts built its reputation on being bold. Their handmade products blend timeless Argentine craftsmanship with unique designs that stand out in a sea of brown and black. Each piece is made in Buenos Aires by skilled artisans using premium Argentine leather and vibrant handwoven textiles. The result is a belt built to turn heads both on the course and off.
For golfers, Zilker strikes the perfect balance of form and function. The full grain leather holds up round after round and the refreshing designs add some personality to the course. After all, your belt is one of the few accessories you bring to every tee box, so why not make it unforgettable?
What makes Zilker especially unique is its connec-
tion to culture and community. Bold patterns, rich textures, and modern interpretations fit seamlessly into life on and off the course. Giving back is woven into everything they do. Brand collaborations include familiar faces such as Tito’s, Austin City Limits, and SXSW, while also supporting many great non-profits in the process.
Whether you are walking 18 holes at Pebble Beach, enjoying a weekend round in Palm Springs, or heading straight from the clubhouse to dinner, Zilker Belts deliver versatile style that moves with you. They are conversation starters, statements of individuality, and testaments to craftsmanship in an era of fast fashion.
More than a belt, a Zilker is a reminder that the details matter.
As golfers know, the perfect round is not just about the scorecard. It is about the experience, the atmosphere, and yes, the style. With Zilker Belts, every round becomes a little more distinct, a little more bold, and a lot more memorable.
Discover the collection at zilkerbelts.com
Centerline Athletics isn’t just another activewear brand, it’s purpose-built, performance-driven apparel designed for the modern athlete. Founded on the pickleball court and fueled by the fast-growing community around it, Centerline creates technical, stylish gear made to move seamlessly from match play to off-duty moments, and now, from court to course, with equal ease.
Engineered for the dynamic movement of racket sports, Centerline’s apparel easily transitions to golf. Shirts made from lightweight, ultra-breathable AirLite™ fabric offer the flexibility, cooling, and comfort needed for full-range swings and long rounds. Shorts and skorts
feature custom GripTek™ sweat patches, ideal for quick grip resets whether you’re mid-rally or lining up a putt. Every stitch is thoughtfully crafted to enhance mobility and confidence in motion, no matter the sport.
But Centerline is more than performance, it’s a lifestyle. Elevated silhouettes and sleek, tonal color palettes are designed to transition effortlessly from active moments to everyday wear. Whether you’re competing in a tournament, teeing off with friends, or heading to brunch postmatch, you’ll look the part and feel your best.
The brand’s reputation is backed by industry recognition, including a Today Show Gear Award for Best Travel Product, proving Centerline is as packable and versatile as it is stylish. From quick getaways to wellness retreats, it’s gear that moves with you.
As the Official Apparel Partner of USA Pickleball and a strategic partner of Life Time and Troon, Centerline is committed to growing the game, and building community, at every level. The brand collaborates regularly with athletes, ambassadors, and creators to spotlight the people shaping the future of sport.
Whether you’re discovering pickleball, expanding your golf wardrobe, or simply searching for elevated athletic essentials, Centerline Athletics is setting the new standard for how we dress, move, and live.
Explore Centerline and level-up your game with their performance-driven apparel.
Learn more at www.centerlineathletics.
By ED TRAVIS
Purchasing a gift for a golfer is not as hard as it may seem and California Golf has stepped up to give you some ideas that will help. Frankly, the staff here would be thrilled to receive any of these so we think your number one golfer will be as well.
The Simply Balanced (SB) putters from Bettinardi are offered in the modern blade (SB1) and mid-size mallet (SB2) shapes. Both are “zero torque” models designed so the face stays square to the swing arc throughout the stroke. The face insert is milled from stainless steel with a nice soft feel for maximum speed and distance control. The standard loft is 3° and multiple shaft length options are available. $450
The Swing Shift by 2UNDR delivers premium comfort and everyday performance with a touch of luxury. Crafted from ultra-soft modal fabric, it keeps you cool, dry, and supported all day. The patented Joey Pouch® provides lift and separation for natural airflow and unmatched comfort. Choose from a variety of patterns (including Grid Iron/Hoops/Upper Deck pictured) as well as many traditional solid colors. $89.95
The Wingman HD is the first of its kind to combine dynamic yardages, detailed hole layouts, and your favorite tunes — making every round more fun and connected. The powerful magnetic mount snaps securely to your cart, positioning the bright 3.5” color touchscreen right where you need it. Get precise GPS distances to the front, back, and center of the green, plus full hole layouts, green views, and key hazard and layup info. $199.99
Here’s a wallet-friendly rangefinder packed with features including elevation compensation to dial in the perfect club for uphill or downhill shots and it’s USGA tournament-legal with a handy on/off switch. Golfers will also like the no charge; no subscription fee GPS mobile app giving access to course and hole maps plus Shot Scope’s My Strategy personalized course management. $149.99
Honoring Jackie Robinson, this striking driver headcover is made from full grain leather in a deep navy-blue color. It features hand lacing in contrasting red and blue leather with the “D” identifier puff embroidered for a distinctive look sticking out of your bag. The exclusive Dormie Designated Hitter patch adds the perfect finishing touch, completing a truly one-of-a-kind look. $210
Vessel Golf bags are consistently rated among the best and those wanting a classic stand bag should look at the Player V Pro. Choose between either a 7-way or 14-way top, both featuring a self-adjusting double strap and carbon fiber legs. The base is a patented rotator design for maximum stability, and the bag comes with ten exterior and six interior pockets. Made from quality weather-resistant materials.
Here’s a terrific addition to your golf cart or when hiking or picnicking. A portable cooler in a backpack that carries ice, your lunch and beverage cans in choice of two sizes. The M20 ($325) holds up to 36 cans or 22 lbs. of ice and the M12 ($275) 20 cans or 12 lbs. of ice and both easily hold a bottle of your favorite wine. Great insulation to keep everything cold and the liner is leakproof. Lots of colors from which to choose.
Whenit comes to the golf swing, few moments are more important than the transition—the instant when the backswing ends and the downswing begins. This move sets the stage for everything that follows, influencing your power, timing, and consistency.
A good transition starts with a solid backswing. As you turn your chest behind the ball and load your weight into the inside of your back foot, your body is storing energy—ready to be released. From this fully loaded position, the downswing begins not with the hands or arms, but with the lower body
Look at Xander Schauffele at the top of his swing. He’s perfectly coiled, his weight loaded and his body ready to move. His first move is a subtle shift from his back foot to his front foot, as his hips and lower body start to unwind. Importantly, while his weight shifts forward, his shoulders and upper back remain momentarily turned
away from the target. This separation between the lower and upper body creates tremendous coil and torque through the midsection—what many instructors call “the engine” of the golf swing. His arms and hands naturally follow, generating the powerful lag and sequence that produce his trademark speed and control.
In the next frame, Xander’s weight has fully transferred into his front leg, a clear sign of a balanced, efficient transition.
The takeaway: the transition is the heartbeat of the golf swing. Master this move—starting the downswing smoothly from the ground up, while maintaining that coil in your core—and you’ll see more consistent strikes, better rhythm, and effortless power.
By JOHN BURCKLE Director of Instruction at Golf Lab Academy www.golflabacademy.com
Golf is about returning to the basics—perfecting your grip, stance, and that elusive drive. It’s a lifestyle rooted in authenticity, where the thrill of a birdie or the calm of a sunset on the 18th green captures why we play. Matíari Tequila channels this same spirit into a drink that honors the origins of Mexico’s agave heritage. Crafted with unwavering dedication, Matíari elevates post-round rituals for golfers, offering a sip as rewarding as a long putt.
“Matíari” means “The First” or “Beginning” in the Huichol language, reflecting the ancient tribe’s early agave distillation in pot stills. Based in Amatitán, Jalisco, on a historic 1830s vino-mezcal site, Matíari is led by Master Distiller David Partida, a third-generation tequila maker. His mission is simple: reject modern shortcuts and additives, embracing traditional methods for unmatched flavor. In a market of mass-produced tequilas, Matíari prioritizes quality and authenticity.
Matíari’s process is pure craftsmanship. It begins with handselected Weber Blue Agaves from
a single farm, matured for a minimum eight years under the Jalisco sun. The piñas are slow-baked in clay brick ovens, then crushed with a Tahona stone wheel for rich, nuanced flavors. Open-air fermentation with natural fibers and special yeast precedes double distillation—first in stainless steel, then copper pot stills—for a smooth finish. The result is small-batch runs of just 1,233 cases, delivering premium lowland tequila with classic notes.
Matíari offers two expressions perfect for the golf lifestyle. The Blanco, vibrant and clear, bursts with fresh agave, citrus zest, and white pepper, with a silky taste of honey, pear, and earthy minerality—ideal for a crisp mixer after a morning tee time. The Reposado, aged three months in ex-bourbon barrels, has a warm golden hue. It blends roasted agave, caramel, and vanilla aromas with flavors of cooked agave, butterscotch, and peppery spices, accented by oak-driven vanilla and dark chocolate. It’s perfect for evening unwinds.
What makes Matíari stand out? It’s additive-free, unhurried, and authentic, delivering complex flavors that discerning palates crave. Like golf, it’s about memorable moments and tradition.
Matíari is your new course companion. Toast to personal bests or savor the game’s simple pleasures with a sip that feels as pure as a perfect swing.
Available now, you can find where to buy Matíari near you or purchase online for delivery to your door at MatiariTequila.com. PLUS, all California Golf + Travel readers can get FREE shipping on online orders of 2 or more bottles using code ‘FORE’ at checkout.
