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Golf Insider TEXAS

Spring 2022

The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

The National Golf Club of Louisiana Golf to The Max

Inside: Texas Open

Celebrates 100th Anniversary

Plan Your Summer Vacation Visit Gaylord Golf Mecca

LPGA Strong in Texas

At Old American GC in The Colony

Teamwork puts NGCLA as one of the best in SWLA

Watch our new Facebook Live “Golf After Hours” Podcast! Facebook.com/ TexasGolfInsider

Discover

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There is no limit on golf trails in Louisiana.

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Get swinging in more ways than one in a place where you can get away from it all while getting a little closer to what brings you joy. Come one, come y’all – Come feed your soul in Louisiana. Visit LouisianaGolfTrails.com and plan your custom “golf & more” getaway today. ©2022 Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism

Golf & Music Trails ails Golf & Craft Beer Tr

Cover Stories

6 WELCOME

HOW TO CONTACT US WITH GOLF NEWS AND STORIES

8 THE NATIONAL GOLF CLUB OF The National Golf Club of Louisiana

LOUISIANA, GOLF TO THE MAX 20 TEXAS OPEN

CELEBRATES 100TH ANNIVERSARY

28 GAYLORD GOLF MECCA MAKE YOUR SUMMER PLANS

36 SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

TEXAS STYLE

Valero Texas Open

CONTENTS

54 PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW BACK IN BUSINESS

66 LPGA’S VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA CLASSIC Spice up your life 66

VOAWinner JinYoung Ko 74

Robson Ranch Country Club Follow Us

T G I

TEXAS STRONG

74 WILDHORSE GOLF COURSE AT ROBSON RANCH COUNTRY CLUB

DIRECTORIES CENTRAL TEXAS 47 GENERAL DIRECTORY 50 MAP 51 ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

DALLAS/FORT WORTH 61 GENERAL DIRECTORY 65 MAP/ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY

GREATER HOUSTON/TEXAS COAST 79 GENERAL DIRECTORY 81 MAP/ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

Don’t Just Hit It

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FROM THE FROM THEPUBLISHER EDITOR

Letter From The Publisher Texas

GOLF INSIDER P.O. Box 310652 New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-964-2152 FAX 830-964-2153 thetexasgolfinsider.com Mike Ratchman Texas Publisher Office: 830-964-2152 mike@thetexasgolfinsider.com Director of Marketing: Joe Valentino, DFW Office: 940-735-1265 Editor: Ava Ratchman Contributing Writers: Steve Habel,, Art Sticklin, Contributing Photographers: Connie Black, Mark Lindsay, Steve Giles, Justin Becker, Office Manager/Social Media: Marcede Pullen Production: Pat Gondert 3 ANNUAL EDITIONS Copyright ©2020 Texas Golf Insider. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Golf course rates are subject to change at any time. Texas Golf Insider and its affiliates are not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions or changes in rates or information.

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Learning to live with a worldwide pandemic is not easy. I had it, did not like it at all but I have learned to live with it as millions of others have done. I’m sure 2022 will come up with new strains, just like the game of golf will come up with new players. Outdoor sports have never been in a better place and the game of golf tops the list.While other states still have shutdowns, in Texas its GAME ON!! This is the first time in 24 years of publishing that we have had an out-of-state front cover feature story on The Texas Golf Insider. But I like changes and I hope you do to. I recently made a trip to Westlake, Louisiana a few weeks ago to play a little golf, enjoy a few of my many favorite southern cuisines and for sure lay down cash at the craps table, because that is what you do in Louisiana. For those who are not familiar with Westlake, it’s just northwest of Lake Charles for reference.Westlake is home to one of the best golf courses in SWLA, “The National Golf Club of Louisiana” .With its new waterpark soon to be under construction and a hotel and casino in the plans, the future looks bright. All of this was put together keeping the entire family in mind. Upon completion,Westlake expects a major draw to the Louisiana crowd and Texas visitor as well, which is one of their major traveling markets. Regarding golf in our own state,The PGA has five Tour Events in all major cities in Texas this year, and it all starts off in Austin with the Dell Technologies Match Play. The rest of the schedule you can find inside this issue of The Texas Golf Insider. Hit’em long and straight. Mike Ratchman, Publisher

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

JoeValentino

A forty year veteran of the construction industry, he has marketed products all over the world. Golf is his passion and he has been fortunate enough to play top courses in seven countries. Joe is currently living in Denton and loves calling on North Texas courses for TGI.

Top 100 Clubsfitters in the Country

Steve Habel

Contributing golf writer and correspondent for TGI, managing editor for Texas CEO Magazine, contributing editor for Horns Illustrated Magazine, a publication focusing on University of Texas sports and staff writer for the San Antonio Spurs.

Art Stricklin

One of the foremost experts on golf history and travel in Texas, Stricklin has written a total of seven books and has personally played at a majority of the state’s 800 golf courses.

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The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

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COVER STORY

The National Golf Club of Louisiana SW Louisiana’s Golf to the Max

The National Golf Club of Louisiana is now even better with opening of new clubhouse and restaurant

By Steve Habel, Contributing Writer

Golfers in the know understand that a round at The National Golf Club of Louisiana in the hamlet of Westlake near Lake Charles has earned a place on many best-of lists because of its affordability, playability, routing, course conditioning, and a fun factor that’s off the charts. Now, with the opening of its clubhouse and The Max restaurant, NGCLA stands alone among its competition in southwest Louisiana.

The National Golf Club of Louisiana Clubhouse

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The golf club has become “the” place to spend five and a half hours when you’re not at one of the nearby casinos or out fishing on Prien Lake or the Calcasieu River – three and half on the course followed by two at the fabulous new fine-dining eatery and bar; a sports-bar motif with a Louisiana-inspired menu. The clubhouse has been 15 years in the planning and construction, and the result is spectacular – and a fitting companion to a

COVER STORY

golf course that was ranked in the top 5 public-access tracks in Louisiana last year by Golfweek magazine.With separate restaurant and bar areas inside in a space divided by a freestanding wall and a screened porch outside,The Max has seating for 170 people. “It’s so incredibly nice to finally be able to connect this wonderful golf course to a clubhouse with a great restaurant,The Max,” said Gerry Pockat, the National Golf Club of Louisiana’s longtime general manager. “We’ve been needing and wanting this since the day the golf course opened back in 2009.” The golf course, clubhouse/restaurant, and neighLeft to right: Director of Golf Dave Kaspar; Superindendent boring West Trace Community Chance Walker; General Manager Gerry Pockat Development was a vision of the Westlake City Council beIn a recent trip to the course and an ginning in the early 2000s. One of the main arrival after sunset, the place was alive contributors to the ideas and the drive to with light and activity, an indication of just see all of it completed was the city’s mayor, how well received The Max has been to Bob Hardey. this community and visitors to the area looking for a place to gather with friends and family. “We finally can give our golfers the opportunity and option to come inside after their round of golf and enjoy an

Hardey and the rest of the council had the foresight to see how this type of facility could enhance the small city that was landlocked on all four sides, making any type of growth very difficult. Crabcakes,Tenderloin and much more at The Max TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COVER STORY

The Max Restaurant

ice-cold beer and some great food,” Pockat added. “This is important because golf is not just about the round you play – it’s about the overall experience of the day.We have that here now.” The thing that most struck me about The Max, even more than the sumptuous food and well-poured adult beverages, was that everyone seemed happy and so glad to have this place to meet and be merry. The max of everything at The Max The Max is owned by the City of Westlake and as a public place, the town’s officials wanted everyone to be able to

The Max Sports Bar

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enjoy it. Even though the restaurant has an elegant flair, the prices for dining and drinking are affordable, and people can come as they are to enjoy traditional Louisiana cuisine. The new clubhouse stands tall with its seven gables and majestic presence near the 18th green and the expansive new practice putting surface that will provide its own measure of fun and challenge. The Max is on the second floor of the building as the ground floor is completely dedicated to the 75-plus fleet of new golf carts.The rooms upstairs have 20-foot ceilings, adding to the airy feel of the place, with light colored wood accents and a wall of towering windows facing the golf course. The restaurant is named after the late Frank “Max” Caldarera, who was the head football coach at Westlake High School from 1977-2011. He is a member of the Louisiana High School Sports Hall of Fame, his memory beloved and respected by the denizens of this community. The second floor is also the home to the course’s new pro shop, with the inside entrance made through a neatly designed and cut wrought-iron door that is, in itself, a piece of art.

COVER STORY

Hole # 14 (with #13 in the background) at The National Golf Club

The National Golf Club of Louisiana might be the best in SWLA The National Golf Club of Louisiana is a great golf course, built with hopes for upper-end daily fee-golf in mind. It’s a bigshouldered Dave Bennett design that measures 7,088 yards from the tips and layout features 14 lakes, 65 bunkers and some of the area’s largest and toughest greens. Stately Louisiana pines line the routing, and dramatic vistas are highlights. The National’s fairways are generously wide, but the gentle slopes and rolling fairways can be unforgiving, so be precise with your tee shots. Each of its four par 5s (the longest of which is 552 yards) are reachable with a pair of good shots, and the collection of par 3s (184, 208, 170, and 198 yards, respectively) offer the opportunity to use a variety of clubs off the tee. If you’ve played The National before, there will be some changes besides the clubhouse – the nines have been switched to allow for a start and finish in sight of the pro shop. What makes the National worth the trip are its two-shotters, the best of which

are the 433-yard 12th, the 442-yard first, the 457-yard 7th (the No. 1 handicap hole) and the ninth – a 415-yard dogleg-left with water on the right and a green pinched on each side by sand. “Our vision here at the course has always been to provide excellent, challenging and affordable golf to not only the local community, but also to golf enthusiasts from all across the country,” said David Kaspar, the National’s director of golf. “We have a large percentage of our play from Texas.We feel, now that our new clubhouse and restaurant are open, that we are comparable to some of the top golf courses and clubs in the Houston, Austin, San Antonio and Dallas areas – all of which are in more expensive markets for this type of quality course.” With the golf boom that the COVID-19 pandemic has created, golf has never been more important and attractive to so many people.The National is now in position to provide a top facility and choice for those looking to get out of the house and meet up with their friends in a safe environment. The National Pro Shop TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Welcome to The National Pro Shop

“We had our biggest year ever in 2021, even after two hurricanes and COVID and an ice storm and a flood, and we have been able to really concentrate more and more on improving playing conditions,” Kaspar explained. “We feel that the course is as good as it’s ever been, even with the 1000-plus trees that were lost during the hurricane

The National Pro Shop

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recovery. Few of those affected were key trees on the course, with most being in the rough areas outside of play.” Pockat and Kaspar and their staff are excited to now be able to showcase a top-of-the line proshop with many more amenities not available in the small, temporary facility they were in before. “We’ve gone from a 200-square foot trailer to more than 1000-square feet of floor space, so I now can add more lines of sportswear, equipment, and accessories than ever before,” Kaspar said. “Golfers will be able to shop for just about all their needs now, whereas before we were only able to provide a few options of balls, caps and a few putters and wedges.” If you get the idea that The National Golf Club of Louisiana is set upon being the center of everything in SW Louisiana, you’re on the right track.With stay-andplay options available at many of the area’s lodging choices, the club is perfect for your next getaway and round of golf in SWLA.

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Improvements inside and out make Landa Park Golf Course even better

Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs in New Braunfels is already known far and wide for its fabulous conditions, value, and playability but changes made this winter, both on the course and in the clubhouse’s bar and restaurant, will up the ante and make a great day of golf event better. The course has undergone a “beautification” project that has added trees, native grasses, and river rock beds at areas around and on the non-playing edges of the 6,205-yard track. “We just wanted to make sure Landa Park Golf Course was as aesthetically pleasing as possible,” said Chad Donegan, PGA golf manager at Landa Park GC. “One of the ways to make a round truly memorable is to assure that we are going the extra mile and paying attention to every detail. We take a lot of pride in this place.” The course has been overseeded with rye grass for the cold weather

months, creating deep green corridors among its tee boxes, putting surfaces, and mounded fairways. This is the fourth straight year Landa Park GC has chosen to overseed. Landa Park GC has also secured a mixed beverage permit, a game-changer for the facility. Golfers and visitors can now get liquor on the course or in the bar restaurant where before only beer and wine could be sold. If you’re in need of a pre-round Bloody Mary, a vodka tonic on the course or a post-round tequila shot or two, you can now get them at Landa Park GC. Landa Park Golf Course has an interesting routing, featuring a front-nine with a lone par 3, six par 4s and a pair of back-to-back par 5s that play to a par of 37. The back nine is short at 2,851 yards, but plays much longer than that because of subtle elevation changes and constant doglegs and is carded as a par 34 with 3 par 3s, a single par 5, and five par 4s.

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FEATURE STORY

Let’s have a Texas (Open)-sized party!

By Steve Habel, ContributingWriter

Photos courtesy of Valero Texas Open

From McDonald to Spieth: Valero Texas Open to hold 100th anniversary celebration in 2022

The Valero Texas Open will celebrate its 100th anniversary when it’s contested at The Oaks Course at TPC San Antonio in the northern confines of the Alamo City from March 29 to April 3, the week preceding The Masters Tournament.

Tournament officials have planned quite a party for the 94th rendition of the event, with a concert on April 2, a book on the history of the tournament, commemorative artwork, and the erecting of historical markers at six of the courses that have hosted the Valero Texas Open. Tour players are committing in droves to be a part of this year’s 144-man field. Eight past champions of the event – including Jordan Spieth, last year’s winner – have already pledged to playing in the 2022 Valero Texas Open. The tournament’s winner is automatically granted a spot in The Masters if he is not already eligible. Each of the returning champions have won the event since 2011. Joining Spieth are Corey Conners (2019), Andrew Landry (2018), Kevin Chappell (2017), Charley Hoffman (2016), Jimmy Walker Bob Bob MacDonald-First MacDonald-FirstTexas Texas Open OpenWinner Winner 1922 1922 (2015), Martin Laird (2013)

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

at the Brackenridge Park Golf Course. Two players – Palmer (1960, ’61, and ’62) and Texan Justin Leonard (2000, ’01, 07) – won the event a record three times, and nine men have posted more than one victory in the tournament.

Justin Leonard - three time winner TexasOpen 2000, 2001 & 2007

and Brendan Steele (2011). This group has accumulated 33 career PGA Tour titles, including four major championships. “As we prepare for a historic edition Arnold Palmer Palmer -- three three time time winner winner Arnold Texas Open Open 1960, 1960,1961 1961 & & 1962 1962 Texas of the Valero Texas Open, we are delighted this incredible group of champions from over the past decade will be returnOnly 10 of the winners have been ing,” said Larson Segerdahl, the executive from outside the United States, most director of the Valero Texas Open. recently Conners, who is from Canada. The Valero Texas Open is the sixtholdest professional tournament in golf worldwide, the third oldest on the PGA Tour, and the longest to be held in the same city. It boasts a who’s who list of champions including Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, Byron Nelson, and Arnold Palmer, among countless other fan favorites and World Golf Hall of Fame players. Bob McDonald won the first event in 1922 Ben Hogan, 1946 Champion & ByronNelson, 1940 Champion TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Jordan Spieth, 2021 Champion

Spieth will attempt to become the first Valero Texas Open champion to win back-to-back since fellow major championship winner Zach Johnson accomplished the feat in 2008 and 2009. “As a Texan, winning the Valero Texas Open last year was incredibly special for me and my family,” Spieth said. “I’m grateful to now be among the historic list of past champions. We’re really looking forward to returning to San Antonio to defend my title, and the fact that it’s the 100th anniversary of the tournament makes it even more exciting.” An impressive list of former Tour players and Golf Hall of Fame members will also be on hand during tournament week to help commemorate the 100th anniversary.Those legends include Deane Beman (1969 Texas Open champion and former commissioner of the PGA Tour), Ben Crenshaw (1973 and 1986 Texas Open champion), Hale Irwin (1977 Texas Open champion), Lee Trevino (1980 Texas Open champion), and Tom Watson (1987 Texas Open champion). Crenshaw,Trevino, and Watson will be featured speakers at the tournament’s annual Night to Honor Our Heroes presented by Boeing military appreciation banquet on Friday, April 1. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

The Valero Texas Open has grown into one of the premier tournaments on the PGA Tour, raising $187 million for charity. “We are excited to host the best players in the world and celebrate 100 years of the tournament with the entire San Antonio community while raising charitable funds for those in need,” Segerdahl said. Valero signed a contract extension in 2017 that will keep it as title sponsor through 2028. “Valero is honored to be part of the tournament’s legacy of giving back through the generous support of our business partners and sponsors,” said Joe Gorder,Valero’s chairman and CEO. “With our long-standing relationship through the Valero Benefit for Children

Zach Johnson, 2008 & 2009 Champion

FEATURE STORY

Night To Honor Our Heroes

and Champions fore Charity, the tournament has positively impacted many lives in San Antonio and the communities where we operate across the U.S.” The celebratory initiatives for this year’s historic milestone tournament include: •A one-of-a-kind concert to celebrate the 100th anniversary on Saturday, April 2 with Jason Aldean, the three-time ACM “Entertainer of theYear,” and Darius Rucker, a three-time Grammy award winner.Walker County will be the opening band immediately following tournament play. All ticket holders attending Saturday’s third round of competition will also be able to attend the concert. •A special edition book, “It’s Been a Journey:The True Story of the Oldest Golf Tournament in Texas.”Tournament officials have collaborated with awardwinning sportswriter and author Kevin Robbins to tell the story of Texas Open from its origins to present day.The commemorative volume will be available for purchase in time for the tournament. Robbins did extensive research on the tournament for his tome and said one of the things that stood out to him was the scoring records set at the event. In 1951, Al Brisch became the first player to record a round of 60 in a PGA Tour event. Four years later, Mike Souchak’s 27-under par set the record for the lowest score

recorded in a 72-hole PGA Tour event, a record which stood until 1998. And in 2003, the Valero Texas Open was the site of the 72-hole PGA Tour scoring record of 254 shot by Tommy Armour III that held up until 2017. Since 1934, every tournament winner has finished with a score under-par. •Graeme Baxter, official artist to some of the world’s most important golf tournaments including The Ryder Cup,The Open Championship and The Presidents Cup, has been commissioned to create a commemorative lithograph of Valero Texas Open‘s current tournament course,The Oaks at TPC San Antonio. •Historical markers are being placed at Brackenridge Park,Willow Springs, Fort Sam Houston, Oak Hills Country Club, La Cantera, and TPC San Antonio, six of

Tommy Armour III

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Clubhouse and crowds at TPC San Antonio

(when Oak Hills CC hosted the inaugural the eight all-time hosts of the Valero Texas Open.These markers feature the writings Tour Championship), and 2020 (because of COVID). of Robbins and high“A hundred years – light the tournaments that’s pretty remarkable,” contested along with the said Bexar County judge years and storied champiNelson Wolff, who has ons for each course. been a supporter of San The only six years Antonio sports throughthe tournament was not out his political career. contested were 1933, “It’s been part of our 1943, 1968 (when San fabric, part of our makeup Antonio hosted the PGA as a community for a long Championship at Pecan TheValero Texas Open Prize time.” Valley), 1971, 1987

Valero Texas Open Celebrates 100 Years of Greatness

Walter Hagen - 1923 Champion

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Sam Snead - 1948 & 1950 Champion Ben Crenshaw- 1973 & 1976 Champion

COURSES

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Municipal Course

MAP # 17

RATES

Twilight

Mon-Thur $43 $33* Fri-Sun $50 $38 Holiday $50 $38 Pricing includes cart fee *Twilight Winter months start 2 p.m. Summer months start 3 p.m.

STATISTICS Par: 70 Yards Blue 6453 White 6016 Gold 5184 Red 4826

Rating 70.4 68.4 64.4 67.8

Slope 122 116 108 104

AMENITIES • Putting Green • Chipping Range with Sand Bunkers • Driving Range • Complete Pro Shop • Professional Golf Lessons 1 Country Club Drive Kerrville, Texas 78028

(830) 257-4982 golf@kerrvilletx.gov www.kerrvilletx.gov

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Kerrville

Scott Schreiner Golf Course BEST KEPT SECRET OF THE SOUTHWEST Scott Schreiner Golf Course is an 18-hole course that is nestled among the rolling hills in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Redesigned by renowned golf course architect Joe Finger in 1999, it is one of the best kept secrets of the southwest. The layout features mounded greens in a variety of sizes and shapes. The fairways offer generous landing areas, yet are tight enough to present a comfortable challenge. The signature hole is number 17, a 535-yard par-5. Water comes into play on the second shot, then again on the approach to the green, which is surrounded by water on three sides. A waterfall to the left of the green adds a pleasing aesthetic. Set against the beautiful hills and rustic Texas landscape, this course is fun for all. The course is located in Kerrville, Texas making it an easy drive from San Antonio or Austin. A putting green, driving range, chipping greens with sand bunker, complete pro shop, and available golf lessons with the latest video technology are some of the many amenities at the course. Awarded the number 1 course in Kerrville,Texas by the Kerrville Daily Times in 2020

By : Da veDa ub e r tCo nt r i b ut i ngWr i t e r

FEATURE STORY

The Natural at Beaver Creek

the stunning Masterpiece by RTJ which could easily host a PGA TOUR eventthat is how good it is. What it lacks in length it makes up in superior challenges that even the pros would cringe at. The Natural at Beaver Creek is one of Northern Michigan’s best-kept secrets and sits along the shore of Otsego Lake, blending itself into the beautiful surroundings. Designed by longtime Wolverine State golf course architect Jerry Matthews, the course which is rated Four Stars by Golf Digest winds through elevated, forested terrain and scenic wetlands and is one of the finest values in the northern lower peninsula.

The Lakes of the North is located in Mancelona where I played one of the best 18 hole tracks in northern Michigan with PGA Head Professional Rob Diroff. The course opened in 1968 as a 9 hole country club design by another Michigan architect, Bill Newcomb. Jerry Matthews finished the deal in 1980, cutting through forests with rolling well-bunkered fairways and fantastic bent grass greens. This layout, which stretches to 7,000 yards from the tips, is all about keeping the ball in the short grass and dry with smart approach shots. The course comes complete with

The Lakes of the North

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

The Lakes of the North

a landing strip for small planes where buddies’ groups can fly in, play golf and make it home for dinner. The Garland Lodge & Golf Resort in Lewiston offers 4 superb and uniquely different 18 hole courses to enjoy. Exceptional friendliness abounds from the owners to the staff at Garland. My morning round was on the newest of the quartet, the Fountains, which is ranked as #12 in Michigan by Golf Advisor. Originally designed by Roy Otto in 1995, the course was reimagined by Mike Benkusky in 2010 and has a 6-6-6 layout with an equal number of 5s, 4s, and 3s. Beyond the merely famous, there are legends, and Garland is indeed a treasure of golfing art. I really wanted to play more here. The Gaylord Golf Club was founded

Garland Lodge & Golf Resort

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Baker’s Bar & Grill in 1924 and is one of northern Michigan’s oldest courses. This semi-private club’s course meanders through the hills and hardwoods featuring strategic bunkering and arguably the best greens in the state. With a healthy membership, the course is a classic parkland design reminiscent of the early 20th century Ross designs featuring close proximity from greens to tees. This piece of green velvet is probably the best-conditioned layout in the Mecca. JT Aude, a 40 year PGA veteran, is the head professional at Gaylord Golf Club and the newly elected CEO of the Mecca. JT commented, “2020 & 2021 have been exceptional years for the Mecca with golf being the perfect recreational activity during covid. Our visitors have come from Florida, Texas and different places around the country.” With easy access from the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, golfers can get flights on American, Delta, United and Allegiant and be in Gaylord in less than an hour. Aude added,” Especially direct flights from the hot climates sending us golfers who want to play

FEATURE STORY

Garland Lodge & Golf Resort

2 rounds a day in comfortable summer weather and extended hours.” American Airlines provides non-stop service from Dallas/Ft. Worth starting Memorial Day through Labor Day. Otsego Resort is located just on the outskirts of Gaylord and home to 36 holes of championship golf. It began as a private ski club in 1939 and is still a gathering place for winter sports enthusiasts and members with a Swiss Alpine

theme throughout its lodging and dining offerings. The Classic course is walkable and a great venue for fun family outings and plays around the front of the Resort. I played the Gary Koch designed Tribute golf course with the headwaters of the Sturgeon River meandering through the layout. I stayed in the Hilltop Lodge for two nights with a very spacious and

Gaylord Golf Club

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Otsego Resort - Tribute Course

Pontressina Restaurant with great service and delicious food. The Gaylord Golf Mecca won’t empty your wallet. The cost of golf at the different courses is similar to what I would pay at home for a quality round at my local clubs. They have fine local fare in your choice of 40 restaurants and golf clubs. We enjoyed some extra special meals and friendly service at Bennethum’s Northern Inn, Hunter’s Grille at Treetops and Big Buck Brewery. Take your next golf vacation to the Gaylord Golf Mecca.You won’t be disappointed.

Otsego Resort Clubhouse

Iconic Restaurants are part of the fun when on an epic golf trip

San Saba River Golf Course www.golfsansaba.com

Book your Tee Time

325.372.3212

Stay & Play at San Saba River Golf Course and RV Park 723 CR 102 San Saba TX 76877 1 mile East of town on HWY 190 turn left on CR 104 - 102 1/2 mile

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FEATURE STORY

Hey, sometimes you gotta’ eat

By Steve Habel, Senior Contributing Writer

A big part of a golfer’s Texas travel itinerary is its restaurants When I travel across Texas, I always make my plans around golf, balancing rounds on courses I’ve played before with those I’ve never teed it up on. And as we all know, there are great places to play throughout the Lone Star State, from Lubbock to Port Isabel, from Gladewater to San Angelo, and plenty of towns and cities in between. But as I’ve become older, things off the courses have begun to find their way into my itineraries – most notably visits to some of the state’s plethora of topdrawer restaurants and eateries. Hey,

you gotta’ eat after your round – so when you do, give these places in Texas’ four major markets a try. Galveston I was born and raised on the Texas Gulf Coast, an hour’s drive from the beaches of Galveston and the ferry ride across Galveston Bay to Crystal Beach on the Bolivar Peninsula. I play lefthanded but I learned the game using right-handed clubs at the now-shuttered nine-hole golf course at San Jacinto College in Pasadena. Given that history, I have an affinity for the area, and have grown to love the three golf courses in Galveston County – The Bayou Golf Club in Texas City, Moody Gardens Golf Club and the Galveston Country Club on the island itself. When my father really wanted to take It’s safety first from the ever friendly and always attentive staff at Gaido’s us somewhere

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

nice on our week-long vacations to the area, he would splurge for dinner at Gaido’s, Galveston’s Coastal Classic in its long-time location (since 1911) across from the seawall and down the street from the Pleasure Pier. You can get steak, pork chops or farm-raised chicken at Gaido’s – though I never have – and even some sumptuous pasta dishes like Crawfish Asiago (Crawfish tails cooked with asiago cheese, tossed in fettuccine with grated parmigianareggiano). For me, a trip here is about the seafood, starting with fried oysters breaded in cornmeal or even a half-dozen chucked fresh and served on the half-shell. I like to follow up the appetizers with the American Red Snapper Michael, the restaurant’s signature catch of lean, moist meat with its distinctive sweet, nutty flavor coated lightly in Parmesan flour and pan sauteed. Tell me you can read that description without having your mouth water, and I’ll call you a liar. The folks at Gaido’s still peel their Gulf shrimp, shuck their Galveston Bay oysters and fillet their fresh fish by hand, the same way they have for more than 100 years.

The always popular Crabcakes at Gaido’s

Because the Gaido’s family has always remained passionate about food with a focus on taste, the restaurant’s unique sauces, seasonings, salad dressings and delicious desserts are all house-made from time-tested recipes. And over the decades, they’ve blended in traditional southern deep-frying, Southwest open-flame grilling and rich Creole flavors. This place holds a spot deep in my heart. Once you try it, it will find one in yours as well. Fort Worth We love to golf in the western half of the Metroplex because the options are varied, memorable and always challenging. My favorite round of every year is the one I get to play in advance of the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial Country Club, set on the southern banks of the Trinity River on a traditional and finer-thanfine routing fashioned by Texan John Bredemus. Gourmet Dining at Lonesome Dove On those days we TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Lonesome Dove Western Bistro can’t get on at Colonial (and those times are plenty), there’s the city of Fort Worth’s trio of course options (four tracks at three facilities) that are fun and test even the best players. Waterchase, just east of town, Iron Horse GC, and The Golf Club Fossil Creek are also can’t miss choices, as is Whitestone GC just west of the downtown sector. When we stay in Cowtown, we like to set up shop near downtown and close to the famous Fort Worth Stockyards, a

A delightful lunch at Lonesome Dove TheTexasGolfInsider.com

National Historic District that is every bit Texas, from its original brick walkways to its wooden corrals. This trendy tourist area is also the home to many great restaurants, but for our money we like the Lonesome Dove Western Bistro. Lonesome Dove Bistro has more than earned its reputation as one of Fort Worth’s premiere dining establishments since its opening in 2000. Chef/owner Tim Love, a celebrity in his own right, has designed a menu influenced by all of the ingredients and cultures that have been a part of the West since the first adventure began on the Goodnight-Loving and Chisholm Trails (which ran right through the Stockyards), and has added a level of modern sophistication. Items on the Lonesome Dove Bistro menu range from a selection of steaks and seafood to dishes such as Wagyu Tomahawk, Kangaroo Carpaccio, Rocky Mountain Elk Ribeye, and Wild Boar. You know, just like us Texans make at home every evening (not.) But that’s the appeal, as every dish here offered me a little something that I wasn’t quite familiar with but wanted to get to know a lot better. Appetizers at this swanky joint include “Rosti” potato pancakes with

FEATURE STORY

rabbit-rattlesnake sausage, empanadas enclosing smoked rabbit, and warm, translucent scallops with a sweet corn sauce – have you ever? Well, you should. San Antonio The Alamo City has become like a second home to me over the years, and I know when I want to just get away from it all, for a day, a weekend or a week, San Antonio is only about an hour and a half’s drive away. If you’ve spent any time there, you understand that San Antonio is likely the most cosmopolitan city in the Lone Star State, with a little bit of something for everyone to do, to eat, to recreate in, and to just enjoy. Golf here is also varied, from the Alamo City Golf Trail’s fine collection of tracks (led by the historic Brackenridge

La Fogata enchiladas and tacos

Park Golf Course), to the resort course at La Cantera, TPC San Antonio, and the Hyatt Hill Country, to great public tracks such as The Golf Club of Texas and Olympia Hills Golf Club. When I think about eating out in San Antonio, I think Mexican food, and when I think about Mexican food in the Alamo City, I always think first about La Fogata on Vance Jackson Road, the spot in the city for authentic, fresh cuisine that highlights the best flavors of Mexico.

La Fogata pours the best Margarita

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Don’t forget dessert when at La Fogata

Every meal here must start with the Guacamole a Mano, which is personally prepared at your table using fresh avocados, Pico de Gallo, lime juice, salt and pepper and garnished with Chiles Topeados. I’m an enchiladas and tacos guy, and the Enchiladas de Mole Poblano here make me smile. I’m all about the corn tortillas filled with chicken breast and topped with a homemade mole sauce and queso fresco – they make me warm

Beef is what you eat at Steiner Ranch’

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

all over. For tacos, I choose the Tacos de Discada, corn tortillas filled with a combination of lean beef, pork steak and sausage, garnished with fresh onions and cilantro and served with frijoles charros. I love a good margarita with my Mexican food, and La Fogata is renown for pouring the best such cocktail in the Alamo City. Since 1997, this restaurant has stirred up more than 1.6 million margaritas, placing a signature edible orchid in each generous 16-ounce serving. Most restaurants pour 12 ounce glasses, but La Fogata’s margaritas are too good for such a small glass. Austin The Capitol city of Texas is where this writer makes his home, and one of my favorite parts of town is the Steiner Ranch community about 20 minutes northwest of downtown. The golf course of record here is the peerless University of Texas Golf Club, a thrill-aminute bruiser designed by Roy Bechtol and Randy Russell that’s the base for the nationally ranked Longhorns golf teams. There are a half-dozen other fine tracks within a 30-minute drive from this community on the banks of Lake Austin. The go-to restaurant is one worthy of the community and the locale in general, the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse, an eatery that stands sentinel atop a huge hill overlooking the former cattle ranch and above Lake Travis in the near distance. Western motif is the steakhouse’s calling card, along with sumptuous

FEATURE STORY

Scenic outdoor dining at Steiner Ranch views, live music and people watching avocado, hearts of palm, tomatoes, aplenty. green onions and fennel) or the SteakFor me all those attributes take a house Caesar (served with a true Caesar back seat to the food – this is a place anchovy dressing) has tempted me on where the menu offers a 14-ounce New occasions. York Strip Steak and sides (generous If beef is not your thing, Steiner portions of mashed potatoes and a vege- Ranch Steakhouse also offers Blackened table of the day) for less than $40. I dare Salmon Florentine, Gulf Coast Shrimp, you to get a better steak at any of the and even Chicken Fried Elk. high-falutin’ steakhouses for anywhere Steiner Ranch Steakhouse has plenty near that price. of room to stretch out (always imporFolks with smaller appetites often tant in the days of COVID-19,) with its choose the filet, which comes either 14,000-square foot restaurant encomat seven or 10 ounces. If you’re really passing three levels, four bars, and three hungry, try the “Cowboy” Ribeye (at 22 outdoor dining areas. ounces) or the Porterhouse, all 28 ounces of goodness. All steaks are hand selected Prime beef cuts, seasoned, broiled to order and topped with the restaurant’s house butter blend with caramelized shallots and chives. There are appetizers aplenty (we usually stick with the basics – the crab cakes or the Signature XS Queso) and the salads are darn good, too. I’m a wedge salad Steiner Ranch is the place for special occasions guy, but the Steiner Greens (with TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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CORPUS CHRISTI 4526 South Padre Island Dr • (361) 852-0358 TYLER 410 West SW Loop 323 • (903) 561-8851

SAN ANTONIO 1050 NE Loop 410 • (210) 822-4060 HOUSTON 5395 Westheimer • (713) 627-2411

FT. WORTH 5805 Camp Bowie Blvd • (817) 731-4441 Visit us online at: WORLDWIDEGOLFSHOPS.COM

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Your Next Round Awaits!

Book online, or to book your tee time over the phone, call (512) 252-4653. Book Online at: www.starranchgolf.com Located just north of Austin off the 130 Toll Raod - 2500 FM 685 Hutto, TX 78634 Now Booking 2021-2022 Golf Outings Call 252-4653 ext.2 for details.

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN DIRECTORY COURSE TYPE AUSTIN: Avery Ranch Golf Club Semi-Private Falconhead Golf Club Semi-Private Grey Rock Golf Club Semi-Private Hancock Park GC Public Jimmy Clay/Roy Kizer GC Public Lions Municipal GC Public Morris Williams GC Public Riverside Golf Club Public BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Golf Course Resort BASTROP: Colovista Golf Club Semi-Private Hyatt, Wolfdancer Resort Pine Forest Golf Club Public BLANCO: Vaaler Creek Golf Club Semi-Private BOERNE: Tapatio Springs Resort Resort BURNET: Delaware Springs GC Public CANYON LAKE: Lakeside Golf Club Public CASTROVILLE: Alsatian Golf Course Public COMFORT: Buckhorn Golf Course Public CONCAN: Frio Valley Ranch Semi-Private DEVINE: Devine Golf Course Public FLORESVILLE: River Bend Golf Club Public FREDERICKSBURG: Lady Bird Johnson GC Public HORSESHOE BAY: Blue Lake Golf Club-9 holes Public Horseshoe Bay Resort Resort Apple Rock Resort Ram Rock Resort Slick Rock Resort HUTTO: Golf Club at Star Ranch Semi-Private KERRVILLE: Scott Schreiner Municipal GC Public KINGSLAND: Legends Golf Course Public KYLE: Plum Creek Golf Course Public LAGO VISTA: Lago Vista Golf Course Semi-Private LAMPASAS: Hancock Park Golf Course Public LEANDER: The Golf Club at Crystal FallsPublic LLANO: Llano Golf Club Public

PHONE

WEBSITE

(512) 248-2442 (512) 402-1558 (512) 288-4297 (512) 978-2330 (512) 974-4653 (512) 477-6963 (512) 974-8333 (512) 223-6677

www.averyranchgolf.com www.falconheadaustin.com www.greyrockgolfandtennis.com www.austintexas.gov/department/hancock-course www.austintexas.gov/department/jimmy-clay-course www.austintexas.gov/department/lions-municipal-course www.austintexas.gov/department/morris-williams-course www.riverside-gc.com

(830) 796-7745

www.flyingl.com

(512) 629-4585 (512) 308-9653 (512) 321-1181

www.colovistagolf.com www.wolfdancergolfclub.com/golf-course www.pineforestgolfclub.com

(830) 833-0706

www.vaalercreekgolfclub.com

(830) 537-4197

www.tapatiosprings.com

(512) 756-8471

www.delawaresprings.com

(830) 899-3301

www.lakesidegolfclubinc.com

(830) 931-3100

www.alsatiangolfclub.com

(830) 995-5351

www.buckhorngolfcourse.com

(830) 834-9340

www.friovalleyranch.com

(830) 665-9943

www.devinegc.com

(830) 216-2800

www.southtxgolf.com

(830) 997-4010

www.ladybirdgolf.com

(830) 598-5524 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600

www.bluelakegolf.com www.hsbresort.com www.hsbresort.com/golf/apple-rock www.hsbresort.com/golf/ram-rock www.hsbresort.com/golf/slick-rock

(512) 252-4653

www.starranchgolf.com

(830) 257-4982

www.golfkerrvilletex.com

(325) 388-8888

www.legendslbj.com

(512) 262-5555

www.plumcreekgolf.com

(512) 267-1170

www.lagovistagc.com

(512) 556-3202

www.lampasas.org/147/Golf-Course

(512) 259-5855

www.crystalfallsgolf.com

(325) 247-5100

www.golfllanoriver.com

DIRECTORY SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

COURSE TYPE MANOR: Shadow Glen GC Semi-Private MARBLE FALLS: Hidden Falls Golf Club Semi-Private NEW BRAUNFELS: The Bandit Golf Club Public Landa Park Golf Course Public PLEASANTON: Pleasanton Country ClubSemi-Private PFLUGERVILLE: Blackhawk Golf Club Public ROUND ROCK: Forest Creek Golf Club Public The Golf Club of Star Ranch Semi-Private TeraVista Golf Club Semi-Private SALADO: Mill Creek Inn & Country Club Semi-Private SAN MARCOS: Kissing Tree Golf Club Semi-Private SAN SABA: San Saba River GC Public SEGUIN: Starcke Park Golf Course Public SPICEWOOD: Pedernales Golf Course Public SPRING BRANCH River Crossing Club Private The Club at Rebecca CreekSemi-Private SAN ANTONIO: Brackenridge Park Golf CoursePublic Canyon Springs Golf Course Public Cedar Creek Golf Course Public Gateway Hills Golf Course Public Golf Club of Texas Public Hyatt Hill Country Resort Resort La Cantera Golf Club Public La Loma Grande GC Public Mission Del Lago Golf Course Public Northern Hills Golf Club Public Olmos Basin Golf Course Public Randolf Oaks Golf Course Public Riverside Golf Course Public Salado Del Rio GC Public San Pedro Range & Par 3 Public Silverhorn Golf CLub Public The Palmer Course Public The Quarry Golf Club Semi-private TPC San Antonio Resort Windcrest Golf Course Semi-private Willow Springs Golf Course Public UNIVERSAL CITY: Olympia Hills Golf & Conf. Ctr Public UTOPIA: Utopia Golf Course Public VICTORIA: Riverside Golf Course Municipal WIMBERLEY: Quicksand at Woodcreek Public

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

PHONE

WEBSITE

(512) 278-1304

www.shadowglengolf.com

(830) 693-3300

www.hiddenfallsgolfcourse.com

(830) 609-4665 (830) 221-4340

www.banditgolfclub.com www.landaparkgolfcourse.com

(830) 281-3486

www.southtxgolf.com

(512) 251-9000

www.blackhawkgolf.com

(512) 388-2874 (512) 252-GOLF (512) 651-9850

www.forestcreek.com www.starranchgolf.com www.teravistagolf.com

(254) 947-5698

www.millcreekgolf27.com

(512) 749-1031

www.kissingtreegolfclub.com

(325) 372-3212

www.golfsansaba.com

(830) 401-2490

www.seguintexas.gov

(512) 264-1489

www.cutnputt.com

(830) 904-4653 (830) 885-5168

www.rivercrossingclub.com www.rebeccacreek.com

(210) 226-5612 (210) 497-1770 (210) 695-5050 (210) 671-3466 (210) 504-2550 (210) 647-1234 (210) 558-4653 (210) 222-9386 (210) 627-2522 (210) 655-4148 (210) 826-4041 (210) 652-4570 (210) 533-8371 (210) 222-9386 (210) 349-5113 (210) 545-5300 (210) 558-2365 (210) 824-4500 (210) 491-5800 (210) 655-1421 (210) 226-6721

www.alamocitygolftrail.com www.canyonspringsgc.com www.alamocitygolftrail.com/cedar-creek-golf-course/ www.jbsagolf.com/gateway-hills www.golfclubtexas.com www.hyatthills.com www.lacanteragolfclub.com www.jbsatoday.com/golf/ www.alamocitygolftrail.com/mission-del-lago-golf-course/ www.alamocitygolftrail.com/northern-hills-golf-course www.alamocitygolftrail.com/olmos-basin-golf-course/ www.jbsatoday.com/golf/ www.alamocitygolftrail.com/riverside-golf-course/ www.jbsatoday.com/golf/ www.golfsanpedro.com www.silverhorngolfclub.com www.lacanteragolfclub.com www.quarrygolf.com www.tpc.com/sanantonio/ www.windcrestgolfclub.net www.alamocitygolftrail.com/willow-springs-golf-course/

(210) 945-4653

www.olympiahillsgolf.com

(830) 966-5577

www.utopiagolf.com/www.utopiagolf.com/

(361) 573-4521

www.playriversidegc.com

(512) 847-9700

www.quicksandatwoodcreekwimberley.com

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN DIRECTORY

THE COAST COURSE

TYPE

PHONE

WEBSITE

Alice Municipal Golf Course

Public

(361) 664-7033

Brownsville Golf Center

Public

(956) 541-2582

www.brownsvilletx.gov/431/Golf-Center

Bay Forest Golf

Public

(361) 790-7513

www.bayforestgolf.com

Colony Creek Country Club

Semi-Private

(361) 576-0018

www.theclubatcolonycreek.com

Cottonwood Creek Golf Course

Public

(956) 428-7758

www.waco-texas.com/cms-cottonwoodcountryclub/#gsc.tab=0

Ebony Hills Municipal Golf Course Public

(956) 292-2144

www.facebook.com/EbonyHillsGolfClub/

El Campo County Club

Private

(409) 543-6592

www.elcampocountryclub.com

Edna Country Club

Public

(361) 771-2424

www.ednacountryclub.com

Goliad Golf Club

Public

(361) 645-8322

www.facebook.com/GoliadGolf/

Harlingen Country Club

Private

(956) 412-4110

www.harlingencc.com

L.E. Ramey Golf Course

Public

(361) 592-1101

www.l-e-ramey-golf-course.business.site

Los Lagos Municipal Golf Course Public

(956) 316-0444

www.facebook.com/LosLagosTX/

Lozano Golf Center

Public

(361) 826-8016

www.lozanogolfcenter.com

Oso Beach Municipal GC

Public

(361) 826-8010

www.osobeachgolf.com

Northshore Golf Course

Public

(361) 643-2798

www.northshoretx.com/welcome

Padre Isles Country Club

Private

(361) 949-8056

www.spigolf.com

Palm View Golf Course

Public

(956) 687-9591

www.palmviewgolf.com/contact/

Palmilla Beach Golf Club

Semi-Private

(361) 749-4653

www.palmillabeach.com

Rio Colorado Golf Course

Public

(979) 244-2955

www.riocoloradogolfcourse.com

The Victoria Country Club

Semi-Private

(361) 573-3712

www.victoriacc.com

Tierra Del Sol Golf Club

Public

(956) 702-2320

www.golf.pharr-tx.gov

Tierra Santa Golf Club

Public

(956) 973-1811

Treasure Hills Country Club

Semi-Private

(956) 365-3100

www.facebook.com/TreasureHillsGolfCourse/

Village Executive Golf Course

Public

(956) 968-5616

www.facebook.com/Village-executive-golf-course-584437071605208/

(956) 546-5331

www.valleyinternationalgolf.com

Valley International Country Club Semi-Private

RIO GRANDE VALLEY COURSE

TYPE

PHONE

WEBSITE

Adobe Wells Country Club

Private

(956) 686-8801

www.welcomehomergv.com/business/adobe-wells-country-club

Alamo Country Club

Private

(956) 787-0910

www.myalamocountryclub.com

Brownsville Municipal GC

Public

(956) 541-2582

www.golfcenter.cob.us

Cimarron

Private

(956) 581-7408

www.cimarroncountryclub.com

Cottonwood 21

Semi-Private

(956) 428-0766

www.cottonwoodcreekcountryclub.com

Ebony Hills Golf Course

Public

(956) 381-1244

www.facebook.com/EbonyHillsGolfClub/

Harlingen Country Club

Private

(956) 412-4110

www.harlingencc.com

Jim Paul Golf Course

Public

(956) 943-7520

www.longislandvillage.com/info.php?pnum=2

Llano Grande Golf Course

Public

(956) 565-3351

www.llanogranderesort.com

Los Lagos Golf Club

Public

(956) 316-0444

www.facebook.com/LosLagosTX/

Martin Valley Ranches Golf Course Public

(956) 585-6330

www.1golf.eu/en/club/martin-valley-ranch-golf-course/

McAllen Country Club

Private

(956) 928-0440

www.mcallencountryclub.com

Palm View Golf Course

Public

(956) 687-9591

www.palmviewgolf.com/contact/

Rancho Viejo Country Club

Semi-Private

(956) 350- 4000

www.rvrcc.com

Raymondville Municipal Course

Public

(956) 689-9904

www.facebook.com/raymondvillegolfcourse/

River Bend Resort

Semi-Private

(956) 548-0191

www.riverbendresort.us/

Shary Municipal Golf Course

Public

(956) 580-8770

www.missiontexas.us/Departments/Golf

South Padre Island Golf Club

Public

(956) 943-5678

www.spigolf.com

The MAX Golf Course

Public

(956) 726-2000

www.themaxlaredo.com

Tony Butler Municipal GC

Public

(956) 216-5970

www.tonybutlergc.com

Laredo

127

ConCan

Harper

Utopia

Castroville

1604

Comfort

Kingsland

78 78

473

9 12 3

6 13 11

1431

1604

73 725

Kyle

620

Marble Falls Leander

Spring Brand

87 87

2342

130 1825

Pharr

6917/63.2/120

•

• • 27

(210) 226-5612

P 18

6234/70.3/126 • •

• • 25

Cedar Creek Golf Course (210) 695-5050 37 8250 Vista Colina, San Antonio, TX 78255

P 18

7150/74.1/131

• •

• • 25

(512) 267-1170 M 18

6579/70.0/118

• • •

• • 82

(830) 221-4340 M 18

6205/68.9/112

• • •

• • 17

(325) 247-5100 M 18

6094/69.1/123

•

• • 45

Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Blue Lake Golf Club (830) 598-5524 26 214 W. Bluebonnet Dr., Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657

Type Hole

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

Par

Map Number

SAN ANTONIO |HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN COURSES

www.bluelakegolf.com

Brackenridge Park Golf Course

2315 Avenue B, San Antonio, TX 78215 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

www.alamocitygolftrail.com

Lago Vista Golf Course

20 4616 Rimrock Dr., Lago Vista, TX 78645 www.lagovistagc.com

Landa Park Golf Course

73 180 Golf Course Rd., New Braunfels, TX 78130 www.landaparkgolfcourse.com

Llano River Golf Course

78 2835 West Ranch Road 152, Llano, TX 78643 www.cityofllano.com

Mission Del Lago Golf Course (210) 627-2522 58 1250 Mission Grande, San Antonio, TX 78221

P 18

7044/73.4/132

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• • 25

Northern Hills Golf Course (210) 655-4148 9 13202 Scarsdale, San Antonio, TX 78217

P 18

6602/71.9/123

• • •

• • 25

(210) 826-4041

P 18

6847/71.8/131

• •

• • 25

(210) 533-8371

P 18

6694/71.2/114

• • 25

(210) 349-5113

www.alamocitygolftrail.com

Olmos Basin Golf Course

10 7022 McCullough, San Antonio, TX 78216 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

Riverside Golf Course 11 203 McDonald, San Antonio, TX 78210 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

San Pedro Range & Par 3

(325) 372-3212 P 18

12 6102 San Pedro, San Antonio, TX 78216

•

• • 25

www.alamocitygolftrail.com

San Saba River Golf Course 85 723 C R 102, San Saba, TX 76877 www.golfsansaba.com

Scott Shreiner Municipal Golf Course

6902/ /119 • • •

• 34

(830) 257-4982 M 18

6453/71.6/126

• •

• • 26

Star Ranch Golf Club (512) 252-4653 P 18 3 2500 FM 685, Hutto, TX 78634

7030/71.0/117

• • •

• 46

6211/72.0/125

• • •

• • 53

17 1 Country Club Dr., Kerrville, TX 78028 www.golfkerrvilletex.com

www.starranchgolf.com

The MAX Golf Club

(956) 726-2000 P 18

99 27700 FM 1472, Laredo TX 78045 www.themaxlaredo.com

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Yardage /Rating /Slope

Vaaler Creek Golf Club (830) 833-0706 P 18 87 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX 78155

Par

Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

COURSES SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Type Hole

Map Number

6864/73.0/140

• •

• • 19

7221/74.6/130 • •

• • 25

www.vcgc.golf

Willow Springs Golf Club

(210) 226-6721 P 18

13 202 AT&T Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78219 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

SHOPPING/SERVICES | ACCOMMODATIONS/DINING | TOURNAMENTS/INSTRUCTION ACCOMODATIONS/ DINING

Alabama | Ad Page 2 Alabama | www.golfalabama.org

Kerrville Parks & Recreation| Map #17 | Ad Pg 26 2385 Bandera Hwy. | Kerrville, TX 78028 www.kerrvilletx.gov | 830-257-7300

PGA Tour Superstore | Map #7 | Ad Page 5

Louisiana Golf Trail | Ad Page 3 Louisiana | www.Louisianagolftrail.com

PGA Tour Superstore | Map # 5 | Ad Page5

INSTRUCTION/TOURNAMENTS

10515 North Mopac Expressway,Toll road, Austin,TX www.pgatoursuperstore.com | (512) 382-4000 18450 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78258 www.pgatoursuperstore.com | 726) 336-2666 The Golf Ranch | Map #84 | Ad Page 7 610 N Austin Ave., Georgetown, TX | 35 & Williams Drive at exit 262 www.golfranchshop.com | 512-863-4573

Bash in the Box Boutique style Party Supplies

www.bashinthebox.com

Vaaler Creek Golf Club | Map #87 | Ad Page 19 Golf Lessons with Edwin Dickens | 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX 78606 www.vcgc.golf | 830-833-0706

REAL ESTATE Rockin’ J Ranch | Map# 2 | Ad Page 18 288 John Price, Blanco, TX 78606 | www.rockinjranch.net | 830-833-2266

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www.bashinthebox.com

gentle on your wallet. hard on your Pride.

Year-round warm weather, lush rolling hills and challenging courses like The MAX by Robert Trent Jones II make Laredo the golf destination you’re looking for. Even if you didn’t know where to look.

Learn more at VisitLaredo.com or call 800.361.3360.

FEATURE STORY

Golf Merchandise Show

By Art Stricklin, Contributing writer

Golf’s dreamers and doers gathered for their annual golf showcase in chilly Orlando at the 2022 PGA Golf Merchandise Show, and while the numbers were reduced compared to years past, their enthusiasm for their projects and the game overall was not. “We just wanted to be in front of golf minded people,’ said Miha Bodytec Golf CEO Brian Dillman who came to display his new Electro stimulus magnetization

X-Golf America premium simulator locations offer up lessons, games, food and golf-related, buddy trash-talking fun

system, which delivers low level electronic pluses via a worn vest to various parts of the body to stimulate a full golf workout. “This is something that can’t be explained well from a distance, you have to see it in person.” Dillman and his German founded company now based in Chicago, had a steady stream of visitors to try on the vest and get full information on the new project. The same was true for shoe manufacturer Payntr Golf who came to the show for the first time to showcase his cleatless golf shoes and sandals, with the company name written on the bottom of the shoe sole, to a steady stream of golf pros, and various golf Training session with Electro stimulus magnetization officials.

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FEATURE STORY

“This is the showcase of golf.We wanted to see if we could write enough orders to make it worthwhile and showcase our products, shoes, slides (sandals) hats and gloves, said CEO Mike Forsey. “What’s the state of golf? Just by the people at our booth it’s pretty busy.” The ongoing pandemic, along with supply chain and labor issues kept every major golf manufacturer away from the show this year, some for the first time since it was founded in Orlando in the 1950s.The overall attendance was down 30-40% from recent years (the show was not held in 2021), but that mattered little to those who came to show golf’s next big idea or cement a golf relationship which goes back decades.

Folds of Honor, the Tulsa, Oklahoma based service organization which provides education assistance to children of fallen American service members, has been coming to the PGA Show for more than 20 years thanks to Founder, CEO and PGA Professional Colonel Dan Rooney. His vision and passion for the project led him to connect with PGA Pros and golf courses all around the country to raise money for the worthy cause. “I’m not sure some people recognize that Folds of Honors won’t exist without the help of PGA pros and courses all across this nation,” said Nick Nichols, Senior Vice-President of the organization “Our mission here (at the PGA Show) is awarness and letting pros and courses

Some Gave All

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FEATURE STORY

American Dunes Golf Club, Golf’s Most Heroic Round

here know how they can be involved, to honor their sacrifice and educate their legacy.” The Folds of Honor also officially opened its new American Dunes golf course outside of Grand Rapids, Michigan last year, designed as a gift by Jack Nicklaus, with all proceeds going to the organization. “We opened in May 2021 and three days later we were totally booked solid for the entire year,” Nichols said. “We hope to continue the momentum from the show to the course this year.” Another relatively new PGA Show visitor was X-Golf America which offers premium simulator locations all over the country with lessons, games and food and golf-related, buddy trash-talking fun. Perhaps the largest group on site at the 2022 PGA Show at the Orange Country Convention Center was the golf resort, country and travel industry.They presented the combined message that after two years of pandemic, closures and shelter in place, the place to socialize in 2022 and beyond was on the golf courses. From nearby Disney Golf Courses, celebrating its 50th anniversary, to Florida’s Streamsong Resort to Ireland, Scotland and just about everywhere else, golf trips far and wide are again open for business. “I think the main thing we’ve discovered after two years apart is that Americans TheTexasGolfInsider.com

just get Ireland.They understand the welcome and the beauty and the charm and the challenge and we are eager to welcome them back,” said Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland. Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland was recently awarded the 2025 British Open, known as Open Championship over there, which was a hugely successful staging in 2019 won by Irishman Shane Lowery.The 2027 Ryder Cup is also to be staged at the spectacular new Adaire Manor course and massive resort in the town of the same name. “Our bookings are very strong for 2022 and for 2023 as well, as Americans othGoodand Times ers are eager to return to the Irish links,” said Gerry Maguire from the splendid 27hole Irish gem Carne Golf Links in the tiny Northwest Ireland town of Bellmullet. Closer to home, Streamsong Resort announced its fourth golf addition, an unique 18-hole short golf course by Texan Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, who have already done a full 18-hole course at the large resort, 90 minutes Southeast of Orlando. The short course will consist of a 6 hole turf loop with holes mainly less than a 100 yards which can be played in a brief period of time. A 12 hole facility will have natural grass with longer holes and water coming into play on several of the layouts. Players can play all 18 holes, just play the 6

FEATURE STORY

hole loop or the 12, or both, which will be located closer to the resort lodging. Another unique feature of the new Crenshaw-Coore offering is it has no defined par and players can tee the ball wherever they see fit, changing the yardage every day or every hole. “We think this is just another way to make the game more fun,” said Mosaic’s Ben Pratt, the property owner of the former Central Florida phosphate mine. “I think I can break some news here that the course, (which won’t likely be open until sometime in 2023) won’t be named after a color. (Streamsong already has the Red, Blue and Black course), but will be

named after its unique structure and character.” “We asked Bill Coore to come out and take a look at the property and we were thrilled he and Ben agreed to design another course for us” Another golf themed trip, of a much shorter nature, featured the advance preview of The Mulligan golf movie which will appear in local theaters this spring. It features legendary singer and entertainer Pat Boone as a wise veteran pro teaching a young star student about life and about golf. “I actually played golf in college and really enjoyed it and was going to do it more before the singing and TV career took off,” said Boone, still active and golfing at age 87, and a longtime member of Bel Air Country Club in Los Angeles. Of course, no matter the size of the show, there will be plenty of whacky products and gadgets including a CBD chewing gum to help you make more putts and a golf ball to help you break 80.

Your next great golf vacation may be just around the corner: From Disney Golf to Ireland

With the new PGA of America headquarters scheduled to open in North Texas this spring, the show could be on the move in the future, but the need to exhibit golf’s enduring favorites and new big idea will never die. Coming Soon

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Squawvalleygc.com 254-897-7956

History * Heart * Hospitality

Glenroseexpo.org 254-897-4509

exploreglenrose.org 254-897-3081

DALLAS | FORT WORTH DIRECTORY ARLINGTON: Lake Arlington Golf CourseSemi-Private Tierra Verde Golf Club Semi-Private AZLE: Cross Timbers Golf Course Public BROWNWOOD: The Hideout Golf Club Semi-Private BURLESON: Hidden Creek Golf Course Public Southern Oaks Golf Club Public CARROLTON: Maridoe Golf Club Private Indian Creek Golf Course Public DALLAS: Bear Creak Golf Club Semi-Private Buffalo Creek GC Public Cedar Crest Golf Course Public Keeton Park Golf Course Public Luna Vista Golf Course Public Preston Trail Golf Club Private Steven Parks Golf Course Public Tension Glen Golf Club Semi-Private The Golf Club of Dallas Semi-Private Trinity Forest Golf Club Private DENTON: Wilderson GC at Robson RanchSemi-Private DESOTO: Thorntree Country Club Public EULESS: Texas Star Golf Course Semi-Private FAIRVIEW: Heritage Ranch Golf Course Public FERRIS: Old Brickyard Golf Course Public FLOWER MOUND: Bridlewood Golf Club Public Tour 18 Public FORT WORTH: Hawks Creek Golf Course Public Meadowbrook GC Municipal Pecan Valley GC Municipal Rockwood Golf Course Municipal The Golf Club-Champion Cir. Semi-Private The Golf Club at the Resort Public Whitestone Golf Club Semi-Private FRANKSTON: Pine Dunes Resort/Golf Club Public FRISCO: Frisco Lakes Golf Club Public Trails of Frisco Golf Club Public GARLAND: Duck Creek Golf Course Public Firewheel Golf Park Public GLEN ROSE: Squaw Valley Golf Club Public GORDONVILLE: Rock Creek Resort Golf ClubPrivate

(817) 451-6101 (817) 478-8500

www.arlingtongolf.com www.arlingtongolf.com/tierra-verde

(817) 444-4940

www.crosstimbersgc.com

(325) 784-4653

www.thehideouttexas.com

(817) 447-4444 (817) 426-2400

www.hiddencreekgc.com www.southernoaksgolf.com

(972) 416-2131 (800) 369-4137

www.maridoe.com www.indiancreekgolfclub.com

(972) 456-3200 (972) 771-4003 (214) 670-7615 (214) 670-8784 (214) 670-6322 (972) 248-8448 (214) 670-7506 (214) 670-1402 (214) 333-3595 (214) 646-3570

www.bearcreek-golf.com www.buffalocreekgc.com www.golfcedarcrest.com www.keetonpark.com www.lunavistagolf.com www.stevensparkgolf.com www.tenisonpark.com www.golfclubdallas.com www.trinityforestgc.com

(940) 246-1001

www.robsonranchgolfclub.com

(972) 296-2146

www.thorntreecc.com

(817) 685-7888

www.texasstargolf.com

(800) 579-3089

www.heritageranchgolf.com

(972) 355-4800

www.oldbrickyardgolf.com

(972) 355-4800 (817) 430-2000

www.bridlewoodgolf.com www.tour18golf.com

(817) 738-8402 (817) 457-4616 (817) 249-1845 (817) 624-1771 (817) 497-2582 (817) 750-2178 (817) 249-9996

www.hawkscreek.com www.meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com www.fortworthgolf.org/-pecan-valley-golf-course www.fortworthgolf.org www.championscirclegolf.com www.resortgolfclub.com www.whitestonegolf.com

(903) 876-4336

www.pinedunes.com

(972) 292-3089 (972) 668-4653

www.friscolakesgc.com www.thetrailsoffriscogc.com

(214) 440-2229 (972) 205-2765

www.duckcreekgc.com/ www.golffirewheel.com/

(800) 831-8259

www.squawvalleygc.com

(903) 523-5357

www.ddresorts.com/rock-creek/

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DIRECTORY DALLAS | FORT WORTH

GUNTER: The Bridges Semi-Private GRAND PRAIRIE: Grand Oaks Golf Club Semi-Private Prairie Lakes Golf Club Public Riverside Golf Club Semi-Private Tangle Ridge Golf Club Public IRVING: Cottonwood Valley GC Public Irving Golf Club Municipal TPC Las Conlinas Course Public KELLER: Sky Creek Ranch Golf Club Public LANCASTER: Country View Golf Course Public LIPAN: Sugar Tree Golf Course Semi-Private MUENSTER: Turtle Hill Golf Club Public PLANO: Pecan Hollow Golf Course Public Ridgeview Ranch GC Public The Course at Watters CreekPublic POTTSBORO: Tanglewood Resort GC Semi-Private RICHARDSON: Sherrill Park #1 Public ROCKWALL: Buffalo Creek Golf Club Semi-Private RUNAWAY BAY: Runaway Bay Golf Club Semi-Private WACO: Bear Ridge Golf Club Public WAXAHACHIE: Country View Golf Course Public Waxahachie Country Club Public WEATHERFORD: Canyon West Golf Course Public Oeste Ranch Golf Course Public WYLIE: Woodbridge Golf Course Public

(903) 696-0022

www.bridgestexasgolf.com

(972) 264-6161 (972) 237-4156 (817) 640-7800 (972) 299-6837

www.grandoaksgc.com www.prairielakesgolf.com www.playriversidetx.com www.tangleridge.com

(972) 717-2525 (972) 438-4340 (972) 717-2525

www.fourseasons.com/dallas/golf/ www.irvinggolfclub.org www.fourseasons.com/dallas/golf/

(817) 498-1414

www.skycreekranch.com

(972) 227-0995

www.countryviewgolfcourse.com

(817) 341-1111

sugartreegolf.com

(940) 759-4896

www.playtheturtle.com

(972) 941-7600 (972) 390-1036 (214) 509-4653

www.pecanhollowgc.com www.ridgeviewgc.com www.watterscreekgolf.com

(903) 786-4638

www.tanglewoodresort.com

(972) 234-1416

www.sherrillparkgolf.com

(972) 771-4003

www.buffalocreekgc.com

(940) 575-2225

www.rbgolf.com

(254) 848-7800

www.bearridgewaco.com

(972) 227-0995 (972) 937-3521

www.countryviewgolfcourse.com www.waxahachiegolfclub.com

(817) 596-4653 (817) 441-1044

www.canyonwestgolf.com www.oesteranch.com

(972) 429-5100

www.wbgolfclub.com

Find it all in the Texas Golf Insider

Golf TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Dining

Accommodations

Welcome to the Rock Fort Worth, TX

www.fortworthgolf.org

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

DALLAS | FORT WORTH

Apache Links at Squaw Valley GC (254) 897-7956 M 18 17 2439 E. Hwy. 67, Glen Rose, TX 78043

6731/72.7/131

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• 60

Comanche Lakes at Squaw Valley GC (254) 897-7956 M 18 5 2439 E. Hwy. 67, Glen Rose, TX 78043

6731/72.7/131

•

• 60

Rockwood Park Golf Course (817) 392-6560 M 18 15 1851 Jackboro Hwy., Fort Worth TX 76114

6479/72/

•

• 63

2676/33/126

•

• 68

The Hideout Golf Club & Resort (325) 208-1937 SP 18 44 185 Hideout Lane, Brownwood, TX 76801

6981/73/134

• • •

• • 83

The Old American Golf Club (972) 370-5465 SP 18 10 1000 Lebanon Rd., The Colony, TX 75056

7084/75.2/145

•

The Tribute Golf Links (972) 370-5465 SP 18 9 1000 Lebanon Rd., The Colony, TX 75056

7002/73.9/130 • • •

• • 68

Wildhorse Golf Club (940) 246-1012 SP 18 24 9448 Ed Robson, Circle Denton, TX 76207

6859/73.7/131 • •

• • 74

Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Type Hole

Yardage /Rating /Slope

COURSES

Par

Map Number

www.squawvalleygc.com

www.fortworthgolf.org

Stewart Peninsula Golf Course

(972) 625-8700 100 Cottonwood Springs Cir, The Colony, TX 76112 www.stewartpeninsulagolf.com

www.thehideouttexas.com

•

• 68

www.golfclubsatthetribute.com

www.robsonranchgolfclub.com

GARAGE FLOORS

BASEMENTS

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COMMERCIAL

COUNTERS

DALLAS | FORT WORTH DIRECTORY

3 1

7 4

ACCOMMODATIONS/DINING | SHOPPING/SERVICES | ACADEMY/INSTRUCTIONS

ACCOMODATIONS / DINING

Louisiana Golf Trail | Ad Page 3 Louisiana | www.louisianagolftrails.com

PGA Tour Superstore | Map # 3 | Page 5 8700 Preston Rd, Plano, TX 75024 pgatoursuperstore.com | (214) 778-3850

Coushatta Casino | Ad Page 84 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder, LA | www.CoushattaCasinoResort.com | 800-584-7263

PGA Tour Superstore | Map # 4 | Page 5 4652 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76017 pgatoursuperstore.com | (682) 318-9008

SHOPPING / SERVICES Golf After Hours | Ad Pg 35 Facebook Live Thursdays 7-8pm

TOURNAMENTS/SHOWS Tour Dates | Ad Page 58 2022 PGA Tour Dates

Bash in the Box Boutique style Party Supplies

www.bashinthebox.com

www.bashinthebox.com

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FEATURE STORY

LPGA rides a wave of momentum and interest

By Art Stricklin, Contributing Writer

Aerial view of Old American Golf Club on the edge of Lewisville Lake in The Colony,TX.

The LPGA’s Volunteers of America Classic, the only ladies professional tournament in Texas, will continue to ride a wave of female golfing momentum and interest when it returns to prime fall dates this year at Old American Golf Club in The Colony. After switching dates the last couple of years for the COVID Pandemic, the LPGA event will return this fall, September 29th to October 2nd, where it originally began at the scenic par 71

Tripp Davis/Justin Leonard designed golf course on the Shores of Lake Lewisville. “We were there in the fall in 2019 and that was the best weather, and the course shines the best there for us in the fall,” said tournament director Emily Podzielinski. “We’ll have the showcase all 4 days live on the golf channel, which will give The Colony the national recognition they deserve. Volunteers of America is a

The crowd looks onward to #18 green at the state’s only LPGA Tour event.

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FEATURE STORY

great title sponsor and has been with us since day 1. When you consider everything, we really do have it all here.” Along with the strong North Texas support, great course and huge clubhouse, the LPGA event has already enjoyed a strong local representation, with 2021 Winner Jin Young Ko poses with LPGA legend Kathy Whitworth three top winners and Mike King, President & CEO ofVolunteers of America. over the last three years. former U.S. Women’s Open Champion Cheyenne Knight from Aledo was Jeongeun Lee6, who recently bought a the 2019 champion, Angela Stanford place in The Tribute community where from Fort Worth won in 2020 and Jin the tournament is staged. Young Ko, who calls North Texas home, Once again, the $1.5 million total captured the title in 2021. Adding purse VOA Classic is partnering with the Houston’s Stacy Lewis in 2014 and you Northern Texas PGA to host a top womnearly have a Lone Star Sweep. Texas en’s amateur event this summer, which golf legend Kathy Whitworth, the allawards a place in the LPGA Tournament time LPGA wins leader, is Tournament for the amateur winner. Ambassador. “We want to make it one of the best “I’m extremely excited for the opamateur invitationals anywhere in Texas,” portunity to play in my home state,” Podzielinski said. “We are always strivsaid Stanford, a four-time member of ing for new partners. When you see the the women’s Solheim Cup team. “North LPGA momentum they have generated Texas is a community with a passionate that can only carry over to our tourfan base and I know they enjoy having our nament. Everything will continue to Tour in town.” grow.” “For me, this is a dream come true.” For more information on tickets and Podzielinski said more LPGA Players sponsorship, go to www.voaclassic.com. are buying homes in the area including

The clubhouse at Tribute Golf Links, sister course to Old American Golf Club, embodies the legacy of Scotland’s top courses.

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P a c

Play where the pros play. Old American Golf Club

Volunteers of America Classic Discover a golfer’s paradise, just 20 minutes north of Dallas, complete with rolling lakeside greens and world-class attractions. The Colony offers three award-winning golf courses, including Old American Golf Club, home to the 2022 LPGA Volunteers of America Classic.

TheValero Texas Open at TPC San Antonio

visitthecolonytx.com/golf

FEATURE STORY

STPGA Secretary wins 2021 PGA Professional Development Award In the most recent class of PGA of America’s National Award Winners, Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGA Director of Sam Houston State University’s PGA Golf Management program and current Secretary of the Southern Texas PGA won the 2021 PGA Professional Development Award. This award is given out to an individual for outstanding and continuing contributions to Golf Professional education. All 41 sections that make up the PGA of America nominate deserving winners from across the country for this award and the STPGA is extremely proud that one of our own won this award. Dr. Rich Ballinger spends his days mentoring and raising the next generation of PGA Professionals at Sam Houston State where he has been leading the program since 2005 when the program started. During this time, more than 130 students

Dr. Rich Ballinger 2021 PGA Professional Development Award Winner

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have graduated from the program and became PGA Professionals. His mentorship with his students lasts long beyond their time spent at Sam Houston as he continues to offer guidance throughout their career. Outside of his work each day with students, Rich has taken his experience and been actively involved with the PGA of America at both a Section and National level. Rich has served on the National Apprentice Task Force, the PGA/PGM Task Force, and National Education Committee, just to name a few. His involvement in these groups enables Rich to make contributions to the materials and the delivery of the PGA/PGM program that is offered to Associates and PGA Golf Management students nationwide as well as national initiatives to ensure our PGA Members are the best in the world! At a local level, Rich was elected Secretary of the Southern Texas PGA in 2021 and helps chair the Member Services Committee that focuses on educational programs for the 800 PGA Members within this Section. He has helped expand the Annual Meeting and created a Coaching and Teaching Summit where PGA Professionals learn how to be the best teacher they possibly can be! His proudest accomplishment was starting a mentor program to help retain new PGA Professionals within the industry. Rich’s pursuit for education has led him to becoming a Certified Professional in General Management and Golf Operations, as well as becoming a PGA Master Professional in General Management. Rich is one of 14 PGA Master Professionals in Texas and the only PGA Master Professional in General Management in the state. Rich has also completed a Master of Business

FEATURE STORY

Administration degree and Doctor of Education degree. The Southern Texas PGA is excited to congratulate Dr. Rich Ballinger as the 2021 National PGA Professional Development Award recipient. He will be honored in November 2022 at the PGA of America Awards Banquet in Phoenix, Arizona. Announcing the 2021 Southern Texas PGA Section Award Winners The Southern Texas PGA is excited to announce this year’s Section Award Winners.These PGA Members and junior golfers encompass the love for the game of golf and each recipient is deserving for many reasons. Dale Morgan, PGA Director of Golf at Austin Country Club has been named the 2021 STPGA Golf Professional of theYear, the highest honor within the Section. All of our 2021 Section Award winners were honored at the Southern Texas PGA Annual Awards Banquet at the Omni Houston Hotel on Monday, February 7, 2022.The full list of our winners can be found below.

Dale Morgan 2021 STPGA Golf Professional of theYear

2021 Southern Texas PGA Section Awards Golf Professional of theYear: Dale Morgan (Austin Country Club) Harvey Penick Teacher of theYear: Rudy Gonzalez (Laredo Country Club) Bill Strausbaugh Award: Joe Mitchell (Victoria Country Club) Professional Development Award: Mark Steinbauer (PGA Member) Dick Forester Quarter Century Award: Layne Ricks (Meadowbrook Farms GC) Assistant Professional of theYear: Colton Escamilla (Whispering Pines Golf Club) Player Development Award: Brian McMyler (The Dominion Country Club) Youth Player Development Award: Chris Westerdahl (Sterling Country Club) Patriot Award: Jeff Ulrich (Mac Wylie Golf Center) Golf Sales Representative of theYear: Edwin Fuh (PXG) Junior Golfer of theYear (Boy): Aaron Pounds (The Woodlands,TX) Junior Golfer of theYear (Girl): Mallory Matthews (Hondo,TX) Merchandiser of theYear (Private): Bluejack National Merchandiser of theYear (Public): Golf Club of Houston Merchandiser of theYear (Resort): Hyatt Hill Country Resort TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

NTPGA and STPGA Continue Rivalry in 2022! There is no better place in the country for junior golf than the state of Texas! The two PGA Sections, Southern and Northern Texas have the best and biggest programs in the country with over 7,500 junior golfers! A highlight throughout the year are the two Ryder Cup style events and 2022 will mark another year of great competition.These events feature the top juniors within each Section with players at both events going on to play Division I collegiate golf. The first Ryder Cup style match is the Texas Junior Cup Matches presented by TCG Advisors.These matches are for juniors 12 years old and younger playing 9-hole matches.This fiercely contested rivalry between two sister Sections is marked by close matches, dramatic shots, uncompromising sportsmanship, and new friendships. Hosted by the Southern Texas PGA, the 11th Annual Texas Junior Cup Matches will be held Saturday, September 17 – Sunday, September 18 at Sand Hill Farm Golf Course for a second year. Last year, Team STPGA took a commanding lead on day one and won the Cup with an overall score of 15-9, retaining the Cup for the fourth year in a row. Help the Southern

Texas PGA keep the Texas Junior Cup at this year’s Matches! There are various Championships for players to earn a spot on the STPGA Texas Junior Cup Matches team. Below are the events in which the champion of the listed divisions will earn a spot to represent Team STPGA.

Boys Little Linksters – Spring Series Championship | April 30–May 1 • 11-12 Red • 9-10 9-Hole Modified Srixon Prestige Tour – Southern Texas Jr. PGA Championship (#1) | June 20–21 • 11-12 Srixon Prestige Tour – Southern Texas Jr. PGA Championship (#2) | July 6-7 • 11-12 Junior Tour – STPGA Junior Championship | July 27-28 • 11-12 Little Linksters – STPGA Junior Championship | July 27-28 • 11-12 Red

Girls

Little Linksters – Spring Series Championship | April 30–May 1 • 11-12 Red • 9-10 9-Hole Modified

Team NTPGA member Naomi-Anne Phan and Team STPGA member Carly Marshall congratulate each other after a match

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FEATURE STORY

STPGA member Dylan Knox and his caddie celebrate after making a match winning putt

Girls cont.

Boys

Srixon Prestige Tour – Southern Texas Jr. PGA Championship (#1) | June 20–21 • 11-12 Srixon Prestige Tour – Southern Texas Jr. PGA Championship (#2) | July 6-7 • 11-12 Junior Tour – STPGA Junior Championship | July 27-28 • 11-12 Little Linksters – STPGA Junior Championship | July 27-28 • 11-12 Red

Our second team event is the Ben Hogan Junior Cup Matches and features juniors ages 13-18. Hosted by the Northern Texas PGA, the 7th Annual Ben Hogan Junior Cup Matches will be held Monday, August 8 – Tuesday, August 9 at Shady Oaks Country Club in Westworth Village. Last year Team NTPGA took back the Cup with an overall score of 16-8 after back-to-back wins from Team STPGA the previous year. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to help Team STPGA bring the Cup back home to Southern Texas! To earn a spot on this team for STPGA Junior Golfers, exemptions are awarded at the Srixon Prestige Tour events throughout the year. The Champion of the listed division will earn a spot to represent Team STPGA.

For all information about Southern Texas PGA, visit us at stpga.com or stpgajuniorgolf.com TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Robson Ranch Country Club Now Playing 27 holes

By Art Stricklin, ContributingWriter

Robson Ranch, one of the early pioneers of the North Texas semi-public golf boom, has undergone a nine-hole renovation on its North nine, plus other golf course improvements which has continued its local leadership for community golf challenges and enjoyment. The 27-hole facility, officially known as Wildhorse Golf Club at Robson Ranch, first opened in 2003 designed by architect Gary Stephenson. It’s always been popular for its Denton County location near the ever-growing University of North Texas campus, nearby Texas Motor Speedway and Alliance Airport. In late 2019, Stevenson returned to re-do the North Course and now the facility has three different and enjoyable golfing tests. The North, South and West nine holes course are all three par 36, and play at just under 3,500 yards each from the back tees. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Wildhorse Golf Club at Robson Ranch

“We change the rotations every day during the weekdays and close one 9 every Monday to give our golfers some variety in courses they play,” said Craig Pullen. Robson Ranch Director of Golf. “If you are here 2-3 days you can play a different course every day and 27 different holes.” “Each 9 holes is a different challenge. The wind direction certainly presents a new challenge as well.” The courses themselves are open to both Robson Ranch residents, which has

Wildhorse Grill at Robson Ranch

FEATURE STORY

Robson Ranch Homes, AerialView

400 to 500 members in the women’s and men’s golf association, respectively, but also allows outside play for local residents or those links travelers looking for a new golfing challenge. “It’s a great community course, you can play it every day and have fun. Everyone has their favorite nine, their favorite rotation,” Pullen said. “We probably have 75% homeowner players, 25% outside play.” “We accept all outside play for anyone looking for a new challenge in the North Texas or Southern Oklahoma area or elsewhere. We’ve hosted a wide variety of tournaments, having held the Northern Texas PGA club pro championship with the Texas Women’s Open happening in 2022,” he added. Pullen said the Stephenson renovation of the North Course has increased the challenge and the enjoyment of people who play it. The biggest change with the renovation of the North was the addition of undulating tift eagle greens on the nine hole course. In addition to a general refreshing of the course, bunkers and tee boxes, Pullen added the North closes with quite a kick. “I think we have 3 of the best finishing holes anywhere on the course,” said

Pullen. “We have a long par 3 (Number 7, 195 yards from the back markers), a tough par 4 (8) and a long par 4 (9) with water on the right side at the tee and near the green.” There is a halfway house near the intersection of the three nines to fuel you up for any golfing challenge. In addition, improvements to the practice area allow you to fine tune your game, regardless of what nine you’re playing. Additions to the practice area include re-doing the practice greens, chipping and short game area with new Tahoma 31 bermuda greens. Robson Ranch includes two teaching pros with the Tyler Clark Lone Star Golf Academy and Stephen Zaudtke with Zaudtke Golf. Director of Agronomy is Ryan Coffman, Golf Superintendent Christian Boyd, and Director of Common Area Maintenance Rigo Dominguez, who are all charged with keeping the 27-hole facility including a large clubhouse, tennis and other sports courts looking pristine. Rhett Hubbard is the general manager. For more information on the North Texas golf favorite becoming a newly polished green grass gem, go to www.robsonranchgolfclub.com or call 940-246-1001. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

GOLF AT ROBSON RANCH TEXAS

The Wildhorse Golf Club at Robson Ranch Texas in the Dallas/ Fort Worth Metroplex features 27 holes of championship golf. This exciting course offers Texas countryside vistas with natural habitat areas. Enjoy the green fairways with strategically placed bunkers and hazards that present a challenge for novices as well as avid golfers. The Wildhorse Golf Club and pro shop are open to the public.

9448 Ed Robson Circle Denton, Texas 76207 940.246.1001 robsonranchgolfclub.com

Models Open Daily 9am To 6pm Robson.com The housing at any Robson Resort Community™ is intended for occupancy by at least one person 55 years of age or older per unit, although the occupants of a limited number of dwelling units may be younger. One person must be at least 40 years of age in each unit. No one in permanent residence under 19 years of age. The developer of the project and the seller of homes is Robson Denton Development, LP. © 2022 Robson Communities®, Inc. All rights reserved. 22RC005

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2800 Ted Dudley Dr Texas City, Texas 77592 www.bayougc.com

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