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Golf Insider The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

Earn your Professional Golf Management Degree at UIW

Plus Planning a Getaway! 365 Reasons to Visit New Braunfels TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Spring 2015

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Contents 8

Cover Story Professional Golf Management The H-E-B School of Business & Administration at the University Of The Incarnate Word. 6 WELCOME

How to contact us, plus download Texas Golf Insider - New App available on Google play or App store

14 FE ATURE COVER STORY

The Golf Club at Star Ranch, “Home of the All Inclusive” and more.

Bandit Golf Club 18 TEXAS GOLF INSIDER Winner of the STPGA Media/ Public Relations Award.

Cover: University Of The Incarnate Word partners with Foresight Golf to create a state-of-theart education facility for golf management.

22 NEW BRAUNFELS, TX A summer vacation for the family. Golfing, Tubing, Eating and Exploring.

37 HILL COUNTRY GOLF

REGIONS

MAP & DIRECTORIES

GREATER HOUSTON & TEXAS COAST

58 GENERAL DIRECTORY 60 MAP 61 ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

Rolling Hills. RVs, Wineries and Affordable Golf.

66 76 78 79

EAGLE POINTE’S NEW PAVILION DONE GENERAL DIRECTORY MAPS ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

14 TEXAS

Golf Insider Golf Club at Star Ranch TheTexasGolfInsider.com

The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

FROMTHE THEEDITOR EDITOR FROM

Welcome to The Texas Golf Insider Magazine Mike Ratchman Texas 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 Editor: Ava Blair Contributing Writers: Art Stricklin, Steve Habel Contributing Photographers: Gary Perkins, Mark Lindsay, Carlton Wade Office Manager: Marcede Pullen Production: Pat Gondert CIRCULATION 300,000 per year reaching 750,000 readers. 3 ANNUAL EDITIONS

Happy 2015! It is finally here, another season of golf is upon us and I hope you are ready to hit the links. You know for nearly 20 years I have opened up my publishers letter talking about where to play golf in Texas. Or maybe what golf academy to take lessons at. I will continue to do that, and you won’t miss out on it in this letter. But first, did you ever dream about making a living in the golf industry? Think about it, waking up every morning to go to the golf course. If that sounds good to you, one of our front cover feature stories will steer you in the right direction towards earning your Professional Golf Management Degree at the University of The Incarnate Word in San Antonio. Incarnate Word has partnered with Foresight Golf Management Group to create a state-of-the-art curriculum while working at local golf facilities. This will include understanding the many facets of the business of golf, from outside services to pro-shop operations. Dreams do come true at the University of The Incarnate Word. Read all about it on page 8 and start your career in golf today. Like I said earlier I’m all about talking about places to play and another feature story in this issue is the Golf Club at Star Ranch in Hutto Texas. Home of the All-Inclusive. This beautiful course with a rustic ranch theme offers superb golf, a restaurant, meeting facilities, state-of-the-art practice facility and a staff of golf professionals. I give you my word; the drive to north Austin to play The Golf Club at Star Ranch is worth every nickel you put in the gas tank. Now if you are planning a summer vacation for the family or a business trip you should visit New Braunfels, Texas’ great museums, historic districts, and performing arts all with a walking tour straight from your phone with Footprints in Time. Stop by their historical town during the warmer months to have some fun in the sun on the Guadalupe River and Comal River.

DISTRIBUTION Throughout Central Texas, Dallas/Ft. Worth and Greater Houston at Golf Courses, Welcome Centers, Golf Shows, Golf Retail Stores and more.

Enjoy your travels Texas Publisher Mike Ratchman

Copyright ©2014 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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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Melanie Grafe

Regional publisher for the Texas Golf Insider â€“ Houston, with over 15 years experience in marketing and advertising, and CEO of e-Graphics Marketing and Advertising providing marketing and graphic design services.

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 stateâ€™s 800 golf courses.

Steve Habel

Steve Habel is a national correspondent for Cybergolf, managing editor for Texas CEO Magazine and works as a contributing editor for Horns Illustrated magazine, a publication focusing on University of Texas sports. TEXAS

Golf Insider The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

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COVER STORY

Professional Golf Management The H-E-B School of Business and Administration at the University of the Incarnate Word

When the vast majority of people think about golf, they think about playing a game. They think about the great times they’ve had with friends and family on beautiful days, the birdies they’ve made in the heat of competition, and the wonderful vacations they have had while playing famous golf courses. Some think about golf while in front of their television sets as they watch professional players perform at the highest level as announcers with hushed voices comment on the drama of the competition. While all golfers think about golf in these ways, very few think about the game of golf as a business! With 15,000 golf courses making up the business of golf in the United States, golf is nearly a $70 billion industry. And when you consider everything that contributes to and supports golfers and golf courses is combined, the annual economic impact is an astounding $175 billion. Most simply don’t imagine that the golf industry makes a rewarding TheTexasGolfInsider.com

field of employment for 2 million Americans who earn a living in some capacity in the business of golf. Since golf’s emergence as a major spectator sport in the 1920’s, golf has provided lifelong recreation and enjoyment for millions and is a major U.S. industry that generates jobs and economic development for local communities. In Texas there are 819 golf courses, 87 stand-alone ranges and 69 miniature golf facilities that generate over $2 billion in annual revenue. This is more impressive when you compare the business of golf in Texas to the state’s other popular revenue generating sports; football, baseball, basketball, hockey and soccer which combined produce less revenue than does the sport and business of golf! In Texas alone, approximately 81,000 people go to work each day with the anticipation of collaborating with clients, coworkers and customers who enjoy their work because they get to work in an industry they love and have a genuine

COVER STORY

passion to grow and enhance the sport and business of golf. Considering the economic significance of the game to Texas, it makes sense that the industry has a need for highly trained professionals who can manage and improve the business of golf. The H-E-B School of Business & Administration (HEBSBA) at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) has recognized this need and created the new Professional Golf Management (PGM) program to equip students with the skills necessary to manage the vast resources and facilities of the industry. The main focus of the PGM program will be to provide quality management personnel that enables the golf business to continue to thrive. The program is unique to the industry in that not only is it part of an accredited bachelor of business administration degree; it is done in partnership with a San Antonio area golf management company, Foresight Golf. The University of the Incarnate Word has partnered with Foresight Golf and their Republic Golf Club to create a stateof-the-art education facility with access to a highly regarded golf course on-site for hands on

Groundbreaking on December 3rd

instruction, experience and on-the-job training. The technical and golf specific instruction curriculum has been written, developed and will be taught by the professional staff and company officers of Foresight Golf’s management team. This real world golf experience and excellent academic instruction in the H-E-B School of Business & Administration will result in golf course managers prepared to step into well paying positions and the ability to make an immediate contribution to the clubs and courses that employ them. A groundbreaking ceremony was held Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2014 adjacent to The Republic Golf Club for the new building. The $3 million facility will consist of a 13,000-square-foot structure, which will house the PGM program with four large classrooms and will be the home to the UIW men’s and women’s NCAA TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COVER STORY

Division I golf teams. This facility will offer state-of-the-art equipment including hitting bays, simulator labs, club repair facilities, locker rooms and a specially designed practice green. Office space for staff, faculty and advisors are included as well as areas for students to study and learn. The building is scheduled to open in time for the fall 2015 semester. At the groundbreaking ceremony, university President Dr. Louis Agnese stated that he and other UIW leaders had spent the last few years planning the creation of a golf management program where curriculum could take place in partnership with a golf course facility. “Golf is a global sport that attracts all ages, and UIW’s growth and

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diverse student population help to make the institution a choice spot for a golf management program” - Dr. Louis Agnese “This program will be as global as the university is. About 20 percent of our undergraduates and graduate

students are international. Golf is a very big industry around the world, especially in Asia. There are many opportunities for students to be

COVER STORY

involved in our program and to go out and secure well-paying jobs.” “UIW has recently become the No. 1 private university in the country graduating Hispanics and the golf management program is an opportunity for an under represented group, especially Hispanics, to get involved in a growth industry.” Foresight Golf has been involved in the construction, renovation,

ownership and operation of ten golf courses in South Texas and one in Pennsylvania since it’s founding in 1998 by Dan Pedrotti, Jr. and Ed Miller. Originally incorporated to build and own high quality, affordable golf courses, Foresight recognized an opportunity to serve other owners of golf courses in 2008 and subsequently offered their expertise and services to private companies and municipalities.

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COVER STORY

Although far from being the largest management company, Foresight Golfâ€™s management team members have vast experience in every segment of the golf industry. This experience and ability has translated into significant success with their new projects and increasing demand for their management services. In the partnership with UIW in the PGM program, Foresight will bring golf specific curriculum including: Business Planning, Turf Grass Management, Golf Car Fleet Management, Food & Beverage Operations, Golf Shop & Tournament Operations and Player Development & Golf Instruction. In addition to the golf specific curriculum, three paid professional internships will round out a detailed and hands on education in the business of golf. And although Foresight Golf is privileged to initially champion Brian L. Graybeal, Director

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this PGM program with UIW, neither Foresight or UIW envisions it to be exclusive to their organizations. They look at this effort as a golf community outreach in which other great facilities and talented personnel which make up the golf industry in Texas will participate and benefit from UIWâ€™s Professional Golf Management program!

Class sizes are limited so register to start your career in golf today! For information on the Professional Golf Management Program in the H-E-B School of Business & Administration at the University of the Incarnate Word, please contact: Mr. Brian L. Graybeal, Director, PGM Program Office (210) 805-5839 graybeal@uiwtx.edu - www.uiw.edu/hebsba.

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REVIEW

Behind the scenes efforts make golf at Star Ranch good to the last shot

By Steve Habel/Contributing Writer Just the thought of teeing it up at the Golf Club at Star Ranch brings a hop to my step and a smile to my face, both of which likely add at least 10 yards to every drive I’ll hit during a round on the course. It’s always a fun time and one of my favorite places to play golf anywhere. I’ve played the course at Star Ranch, located on the west side of the Texas 130 toll road in Hutto, dozens of times. And I’m happy to report that the experience from the initial ball struck at the expansive practice facility to the first tee shot to the final putt has never been better. The folks at Star Ranch make sure you feel welcome and that attitude tells you how important you are to them. And the course remains one of the area’s most player-friendly yet challenging for every level of golfer, which is a credit to the work done behind the scenes by Star Ranch’s staff. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

“Through the years we’ve added some features to the course and the facility, starting with planting numerous trees throughout the golf course, the waterfall at the 15th green, and the superb practice facility,” said Rob Fulford, Star Ranch’s director of golf. “Most of the time we concentrate on the things that most people don’t see, like doing what we need to keep the turf healthy, the putting surfaces smooth and the aesthetics of the course in perfect condition. “Our goal is always to create a great round of golf for our players and to make sure they want to come and play here again,” Fulford added. Designed by Austin-based golf course architect Roy Bechtol with help from Carter Morrish and Randy Russell, Golf Club Star Ranch opened to rave reviews in 2001. The 18-hole facility plays to a par of 71 and 7,017 yards from

REVIEW

the back set of four available tees. During the past 14 years, Star Ranch has become a destination golf course as its conditioning and overall playability set it apart from other daily-fee options. Located on a scenic hilltop on property that was once the Timmerman Ranch (site of one of the largest cattle operations in Central Texas), The Golf Club at Star Ranch utilizes the land’s natural rolling contours and an inspired routing around a central lake to create an experience both formidable and fun. The course is rated at 73.5 and it has a slope of 130 from the tips. “We designed Star Ranch to be a fun course for every level of player,” Bechtol said. “There are times when you think your shot may be out of play but you find it in the light rough. The course rewards great play and is not as punitive as some courses where you have no way to recover. We want the player to enjoy the round, not to be beat up.” I always have a plan of action when I play Star Ranch and the course allows that because you know its conditions are never

a question. My goal is to try to build some momentum at the start by attacking the dogleg at the 398-yard par-4 first hole and chasing a birdie. A good start allows me to survive the course’s most difficult stretch, which begins with the 455-yard par-4 second hole, includes the 451-yard third and ends with the No. 1 handicap hole at Star Ranch, the 582-yard uphill par-5 fifth.

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REVIEW

I try to carry any momentum from the front-nine to the back, which can be a challenge because of the demands of the hole Nos. 10 and 11, two long par-4s. I’ve always felt that holes 13 (a 532-yard par 5 easily reached in two shots) and 14 (which, at 376 yards, is a two shotter that can be attacked with a wedge on the approach) are places to make birdie. And there’s opportunity to continue that run on the 170-yard 15th, which, with its waterfall and fronting pond, is scenic but dangerous. One final chance to score is presented at the 507-yard par-5 18th hole, but the approach is uphill and the putting surface has a false front and is hidden from view when you’re in the fairway. Take enough club and attempt to fly the shot all the way to the flag.

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Thanks to Star Ranch’s “all-inclusive” package, players get a round of golf with cart, unlimited range balls and breakfast and lunch for one low rate. Replays are included in the All Inclusive rate. Star Ranch also features a wonderful 55,000-square foot driving range and shortgame area with multiple teeing areas, six target greens, five bunkers, two chipping greens and rolling terrain for every golf shot in the bag. The Golf Club at Star Ranch is a great place for tournaments, thanks to a stand-alone pavilion and available turnkey tournament sales packages with hole-in-one insurance, trophies, gifts, prizes, merchandise and much more. The property also plays host to weddings most weekends at its marvelous Events Center.

Green Fee, Cart, Range Balls and Complimentary Hot Breakfast & Lunch Buffets

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www.Starranchgolf.com Located just north of Austin off the 130 Toll Road. â€“ 2500 FM 685 Hutto, TX 78634 Now Booking 2015 Golf Outings Call 252-4653 ext. 2 for details.

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REVIEW

Texas Golf Insider’s Ratchman awarded by Southern Texas PGA By Steve Habel/Contributing Writer

Texas Golf Insider magazine and its publisher, Mike Ratchman, were recognized for journalistic excellence and contributions to the South Texas golf community during the Southern Texas Professional Golf Association section’s annual awards banquet, held Feb. 9 at the Omni Westside Hotel. The New Braunfels-based Ratchman, who is also the host of a San Antoniobased radio show that focuses on local golf, garnered the STPGA Media/ Public Relations Award, one of the organization’s most prestigious honors. Texas Golf Insider and Ratchman were chosen for the award from a list of three finalists and dozens of initial nominees. Eighteen other section winners in separate categories were recognized as well in a lavish ceremony attended by hundreds of the Lone Star State’s most

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Texas Golf Insider Publisher, Mike Ratchman

notable golf professionals, players and industry leaders. Winners of the STPGA Media/Public Relations Award must be active or former members of the working media or have influence in the areas of broadcast, print or other mass communication and provide exemplary support, promotion of the game and PGA golf professionals. Candidates were considered on the basis of their service to the community to the Southern Texas PGA and the game of golf, their contributions to the growth of the game of golf and to its charitable endeavors and to their coverage of the Southern Texas PGA’s tournaments, events and programs.

REVIEW

In an interview on the dais during the ceremony, Ratchman said the key to his success is the relationships he has developed with the region’s golf professionals. “We have been working together for almost 20 years and have developed a measure of trust and understanding that benefits us equally while it informs and enriches the golf community as a whole,” Ratchman explained. “It has been my privilege to work with and get to know many of the people in the Southern Texas PGA chapter, and it’s a great honor to receive this award,” Ratchman added. “It’s very humbling to know that I have been recognized for some of the things our magazine has been able to accomplish. I look forward to continuing the work we all have started.” Ratchman applauded the contributions of Houston-based sales and marketing partner Melanie Grafe, office and project manager Marcede Pullan, editor Ava Blair, graphics production manager Pat Gondert radio co-host Dave Roberts , Robert Cox and his team in distribution

as well as contributing writers Steve Habel and Art Stricklin. Texas Golf Insider’s winter issue marked the 19th anniversary of Ratchman’s contribution to the South Texas golf scene. The magazine was founded at the Central Texas Golfer’s Guide in 1996. “The PGA professionals in this room share with me the understanding that we could not thrive, or even survive, without the support of our customers,” Ratchman said. “Texas Golf Insider is focused on giving our readers the types of stories and information they need, and by doing so we drive those readers to our partner golf courses, manufacturers, retailers and associations. It’s a wonderful symbiotic relationship.”

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TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Join us as some of the world’s biggest stars battle it out at TPC San Antonio including PGA TOUR players Jimmy Walker, Jim Furyk, Zach Johnson, Billy ǡ ǡ ϐ -time appearance by Graeme McDowell. Enjoy Texas hospitality at its best starting at $75. General admission tickets are available for $20 online, at your local HEB and participating Corner Stores. After the last putt drops, stick around on Saturday, March 28 for a live performance by the Spazmatics presented by Kickstart from Mountain Dew.

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ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ วก ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ อดอธ ย ย ย ย อณ Golf Channel 2:00-5:00 p.m. CT ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ศ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ วก ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ อดอน ย ย ย ย อด Golf Channel 2:00-5:00 p.m. CT ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ศ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ วก ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ อดอบ ย ย ย ย อต Golf Channel 12:00-2:00 p.m. CT ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ศ NBC 2:00-5:00 p.m. CT ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย วฏย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Practice Facility ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ฦฌ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย Immediately Following Play in The Michelob ULTRA Backyard ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ วก ฤ ฤ ฤ ฤ อดอป ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย Golf Channel 12:00-2:00 p.m. CT ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ศ NBC 2:00-5:00 p.m. CT ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ศ ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย วค

FEATURE STORY

Family Friendly New Braunfels Continues Reputation as Reunion Capital of Texas

By Art Stricklin

New Braunfels has long been one of most family friendly reunion capitals of Texas, and longtime Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Judy Young is determined to keep it that way and add to the South Texas Hill Country charm with a never ending array of festivals and attractions old and new. “We are the No.1 family reunion destination in Texas and generations of TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Texans keep coming back to celebrate family,” Young said of her hometown. “There are many water parks, but where can you enjoy one next to the crystal clear Comal River like we do at Schlitterbahn? All of our world class attractions are locally owned and operated and that makes your vacation experience personal to us. When you visit New Braunfels you get a personal experience

FEATURE STORY

from people who take your fun and satisfaction to heart.” Indeed, Schlitterbahn which was and still is the largest family attraction in the area, first opened in 1979, is still owned by the New Braunfels-based Henry family. There are now 20 live music venues in the area, two live theaters along with the world famous Gruene Hall, first opened in 1878, and the newly renovated Landa Park golf course, all owned locally and all dedicated to local and vacation family fun. “ Work hard, play hard” that is a german motto passed down from our founding fathers in 1845. We like to celebrate and have unique special events all year long – if we can add the word “fest” to an event – you’ll find it in New Braunfels. One of our wineries has a winter soup fest where they pair wine with soup in the winter time. Anything to have a good thing here. That’s what we’re looking to do.”

The tradition of good clean family fun in this German-founded town is certainly nothing new. Young said she has an article from the Houston newspaper which cites a New Braunfels hotel offering vacation fun to travelers in 1854. The Gruene Dance hall bills itself as the oldest dance hall in Texas. The Natural Bridge Caverns, which were first discovered in the 1960s, have been around much longer than that, and the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch are examples of other longtime natural attractions. The 196 acres of Landa Park, named for Joseph Landa, was first purchased in

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FEATURE STORY

1860 and has been used as a family park and for a variety of other purposes for more than a century. Now, newly renovated Landa Park’s 18-hole golf course and Schlitterbahn are both key parts of the park, interior and exterior respectively, and both a part of what gives visitors to New Braunfels so many options. “ The family is at Schlitterbahn and you get to golf several times during your visit. We also have Natural Bridge Caverns and Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch where families enjoy the largest show cave in Texas and can experience the country’s

only set of Giraffe twins. We entertain generations of Texans at attractions that are owned and operated by generations of New Braunfelsers. “ Young added. Of course if you want the ultimate natural attraction it’s the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers which sneak through the New Braunfels area and have existed far longer TheTexasGolfInsider.com

than Texas has been a state and offer endless watery opportunities for visitors and locals alike. A key part of the continuing New Braunfels success story is what is old is new again even if it’s served as several different stories and commercial outlets. A key case in point is the Phoenix Saloon in New Braunfels which now serves up all manner of food and drink to a loyal crowd, but specializes in chili. “When I was growing up here, the Phoenix was a clothing shop where (Texas President) LBJ bought many of his shirts. “But originally it was a saloon, the first bar in Texas to serve women, and where Willie Gebhardt invented his famous chili powder. It’s just gone back to its roots, ” said Young. “When I was a kid here, it was a clothing store where (Texas President) LBJ bought all of his shirts to take back to Washington, D.C.,” Young said. “But originally it was a salon, the first bar in Texas to serve women, where the first chili powder was invented. It’s just gone back to its roots now.” That’s a another key for New Braunfels success, always going back to your roots, even if new ones are springing up all the time. While the area is still the home to some of the finest and most authentic German food anywhere, New Braunfels also has two sushi bars and one great new place which serves Thai food. New Braunfels has always been one of the leading tourist spots of Texas, and has continued to draw tourists from all over the Southwest and now around the nation. The arrival of Winter Texans as they are known in

FEATURE STORY

the fall and winter months, and recently the attraction of international visitors has been so great that the CVB has added translation stations where visitors can ask questions in a variety of native tongues and get the answer in dialects that they will understand. “Local people are making a difference and investment in our community. They make your vacation fun and hopefully we make some friends for a lifetime.” Young concluded. It’s the formula for New Braunfels family vacation fun which has lasted for more than a century and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down anytime soon. For all of its New World progression, New Braunfels still has plenty of the Old World charm which has drawn visitors here for more than a century. Founded in the mid-1880s by German settlers led by Prince Carl Solms, the New Braunfels newcomers used the power, the industry and the relaxation brought on by the Comal Springs which flowed by Landa Park.

Today, the springs and the park are still going as strong as ever, providing power, industry and plenty of relaxation for the visitors who come from all over the state, the nation and around the world to see the city of charm, beauty and endless adventure. There are more than a half dozen German restaurants in the area where you can eat like local settlers did a century ago. Golfing, tubing, eating and exploring, all as familiar as the 1800s and as new and exciting as the 21st century in this old Texas settlement, always looking for new frontiers.

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REVIEW

Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs Prime Conditions, New Sports Bar have Newly Renovated Landa Park Looking for Historic 2015 By Art Stricklin

After a hugely successful grand reopening last fall at Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs, Head Professional Chad Donegan was looking for the next improvement to follow at his newly renovated course. Donegan didnâ€™t have to look far, as a new Sports Bar recently opened in the enlarged clubhouse and the course prepared some new stay and play packages, which promise to make 2015 a great year. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

While no one doubts the course is a much better links since it reopened last fall, after a nearly $7 million dollar total renovation, Donegan, who has been around the project for almost a decade, was looking for ways to enhance the total experience. The opening of the Sports Bar in time for the 2015 Super Bowl and the close of the NBA regular season and playoffs has proven to be just the right addition.

REVIEW

“Now we have people who come here just to have lunch or will have a company meeting here. It’s still a municipal course, but we have created a club atmosphere,” said Donegan. “Either before or after your round, you can spend time with your buddies watching golf or a game, and not feel like you have to rush off if you want to hang around for a while.” That increases the fun at the 18-hole championship course which is spread around the natural rivers in the area. Schlitterbahn Water Park, another traditional fixture, lines the course’s back nine. Already, the course has added new tournaments, new players and is anticipating a large increase in summer players who want to take advantage of the many local attractions. This year, Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs has partnered with several local attractions to offer stay and play packages for the summer and beyond. “We established several stay and play packages in the area, including one with Schlitterbahn,” said Nicci Krause, Golf Services Coordinator for Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs. “Families can enjoy a round on the course together or separately, if they wish, and still maintain a close proximity to all of the local attractions.” “Additionally, we have developed packages with Marriott River Village and Fairfield Inn and Suites, along with

Gruene Mansion Inn and Hill Country Cottage and RV Resort,” Krause added. “A very high percentage of the locals who play here regularly and many of the new faces who have come, have had excellent feedback for the new course,” said Donegan. One of the early building blocks of success with the new Landa Park Golf Course is the concept that golf should be fun and you don’t have to have a half dozen balls or shoot a triple figure score to prove you are playing a “real” golf course. “If you can shoot in the 70s or 80s here and not lose any balls, it’s a pretty good chance you will have a more enjoyable experience, as opposed to if you shoot 110 somewhere and lose half of your ammo on the course,” Donegan added.

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REVIEW

“It’s a pretty fun round in the golf game here.” The concept of ‘golf is fun’ fits nicely with New Braunfels’ variety of attractions. Everyone is looking for a place to relax, recover or recharge for a few days. “What I really love about people coming to New Braunfels is that you are here for a minivacation,” said Donegan. “So you can come to have a good time and you now have a nice place to play, eat and drink, all while enjoying your stay in a great city.” Even the cool and wet winter months, which kept many of the golfers off the greens over the Christmas holidays, will help Landa Park Golf Course shine in 2015. “We didn’t overseed this year in the winter, but we rolled the greens and they are stimping about an 11. We have mini-verde greens which are in fantastic shape after we opened in October on time and under budget,” said Donegan. “The weather in late December and early January was cold and wet, which is TheTexasGolfInsider.com

good for the golf course in the long term, even if it was bad for the players now. Our Superintendent Jason Wiedeman has been continually working on the course to have it in top shape come spring,” added Donegan. Now the course, which rests along the banks of the Comal River, with large, graceful oaks, natural scenic views and plenty of water and sand - thanks to the master plan of architect Baxter Spann and the loving care of Wiedeman – is prepared for a great season, while Donegan and his staff prepare for the annual surge of spring and summer guests. What’s ready for prime time in 2015 is a wonderfully historic course, restored to peak conditions, that offers both challenge and fun at every turn. “We now have all the tools in place for a great course and a great time,” Donegan said. Words of wisdom for a historic 2015 season at Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs. For more information call 830-221-4340 or go to www.LandaParkGolfCourse.com

COURSES

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Enjoy Championship Golf in the San Antonio Area!!! A Premier San Antonio Golf Course & Event Center! Olympia Hills Golf and Event Center is ideal for weddings, quincenearas, corporate outings, meetings and golf tournaments.

Whether you’re searching for a top of the line golf course with knowledgable staff, or a beautiful location to host your wedding or special event, Olympia Hills offers everything you need to make your visit memorable. Olympia Hills Golf and Event Center in Universal City, Texas, was rated #1 “Best New Affordable Public Golf Course” in Texas and No. 4 in America for 2001 After golfing one of the best courses around, stop in our pro shop for a great selection of equipment and accessories, then grab a bite to eat or a cold drink in our clubhouse bar & grill.

For Weddings, Tournaments, Banquets & Tee Times Call…

(210) 945-4653 www.olympiahillsgolf.com TheTexasGolfInsider.com

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN Open to The Public

COURSES

San Antonio MAP #85

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6819 / 70+8 / 124 White: 6412 / 68.3 / 117 Gold: 5552 / 72.0 / 118 Red: 5235 / 72+0 / 118

Fort Sam Houston Golf Club Salado Del Rio

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Kevin Tucker Director of Golf: Joseph Mendez Superintendent: Tim Blanchard

COURSE AMENITIES t Open to the Public t Banquet Room seats 300 t Practice Area t Full Service Pro Shop t Grill t League Play Available t Tournaments Welcomed

Open to The Public

Salado Del Rio was lengthened to more than 6,500 yards, and thanks to additional mounding, renovated bunkering and an improved drainage system, it will be far more enjoyable to play more days of the year. Salado Del Rio is a scenic course with its tree-lined fairways, additional mounding around the greens and forced carries over hazards. Some you can play out of, some you can’t. The stretch of holes from the fourth through the eighth is particularly breathtaking as they play along and across Salado Creek, offering more pronounced doglegs and dramatic elevation changes. 1050 Harry Wurzbach Rd San Antonio, TX 78209-6443 210-222-9386 www.ftsammwr.com/recreation/golf.html

San Antonio MAP #85

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6857 / 72.8 / 128 White: 6527 / 71.2 / 123 Gold: 5620 / 66.9 / 109 Red: 4989 / 68.6 / 113

Fort Sam Houston Golf Club La Loma Grande

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Kevin Tucker Director of Golf: Joseph Mendez Superintendent: Tim Blanchard

COURSE AMENITIES t Open to the Public t Banquet Room seats 300 t Practice Area t Full Service Pro Shop t Grill t League Play Available t Tournaments Welcomed

The La Loma Grande Course, originally developed by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast, was built by the soldiers themselves in the early 1930s. It is the only military golf course to host a PGA Tour event — two Texas Opens that were won by hall of famers Arnold Palmer and Gene Littler. Now it has been returned to the dream of Tillinghast’s original design. La Loma Grande has always been the flatter of the two layouts, but most regular players also consider it the more difficult course with its pushed-up greens, particularly on the back nine, and its diabolical bunkering and mounding around the greens. 1050 Harry Wurzbach Rd | San Antonio, TX 78209-6443 210-222-9386 | www.ftsammwr.com/recreation/golf.html Advertisements do not express or imply endorsement by any part of the Federal Government, and media involved are neither paid for nor sponsored by any part of the Federal Government

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COURSES

Public Course

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

MAP #29

RATES Monday-Friday $32 Seniors and Military $26 Saturday, Sunday and $38 Holidays Twilight at noon everyday (Green Fee, Cart & Tax Included)

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Director of Golf: Dave Roberts Superindendent: James Fillpot

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6550 / 71.0 / 125 White: 6080 / 65.5 / 119 Gold: 5339 / 66.4 / 118 Red: 4815 / 64.0 / 113

DIRECTIONS From I-35 north, take Exit 178 and turn right onto Country Club Drive. The entrance to the course is on the right side of the street.

Cibolo

Northcliffe Golf Club Home of the Noon Twilight Rate - Mon-Fri Just $24 Northcliffe Golf Club is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained golf courses in the San Antonio and New Braunfels area. The par 72 course is enjoyable for the average golfer, yet a challenge to the low-handicap players. Our rates are hands-down some of the most competitive around as we offer a great value to locals and visiting players alike. Northcliffe Golf Club is the the Home of “Twilight at Noon Seven Days A Week” Originally designed in 1979 by Joe Finger, the links-style design features generous fairways and leaves the golfer several options to play each hole. Northcliffe also has the unique design with 5 par 5’s and 5 par 3’s that wind through the course with no major elevation changes. Now open at Northcliffe Golf Club is the New “America’s first drift fry restaurant” Shifu’s 41 and a 1000 s.f. deck surrounding the pro shop. With a friendly informal atmosphere and customer service that is dedicated to making your golf experience exciting and enjoyable, Northcliffe is easily one of the “best kept secrets” around. We invite you to come relax, take it easy, and have a great round. 5301 Country Club Blvd. Cibolo, TX 77546

830-606-7351

www.northcliffegolfcourse.com

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INSTRUCTION

THE IMPORTANCE OF A COMMITTED DOWNSWING

Ben Hogan shows his commitment to the downswing

Just picture it. You’re on the practice range hitting balls and you look over and see someone at the top of their swing, stopped, looking at their position like a mechanic looking under the hood of a car. What do you think they are looking for? Do you think they even know? My guess is, ‘probably not.’ What happens up there at the top of the swing is not the issue for most people anyway. Don’t believe me? Look no further than Jim Furyk, John Daly and Dustin Johnson. These are all great players who have had a lot of success on the PGA Tour with odd-looking back swings. What did they have in common? A committed downswing. First let me start by saying a committed downswing doesn’t necessarily translate TheTexasGolfInsider.com

into a long hitter. Furyk is not a long hitter. He is, however, very “committed” through the ball. What does that mean exactly...’committed’? It means simply their foot is on the pedal all the way to the finish. For you track enthusiasts it means running through the tape. Sliding head first into home plate Pete Rose style to score the run. Take the other two examples we mentioned, John Daly and Dustin Johnson. Daly’s arms swing well past his torso on the back swing. But I’d challenge you to find anyone on the PGA Tour with a more committed downswing and a more balanced finished. Now I know “commitment” isn’t usually a word that’s associated with John Daly. But when it comes to his downswing/finish there aren’t many out there that are as good as his. Dustin Johnson’s left wrist is so bowed at the top of his swing you could set a glass of water on the back of his left hand and it wouldn’t spill. How does he keep from hitting every shot three fairways over to the left? He’s as “committed” with his lower body through contact as anyone in the game. This is how he squares the club through contact. These are just a couple of examples of good commitment through contact. But there is one other factor that contributes to a committed downswing/finish. It’s not physical, it’s 100% mental. The answer? Guts! Have you ever played a round of golf where, for whatever reason, you got nervous and started hitting wayward shots? Probably 99% of the time this comes from a lack of commitment through

INSTRUCTION contact. You start trying to “steer” the ball to your target and you slow down and lose that committed finish. If you want Dustin Johnson shows commitment to watch something impressive that many people don’t recognize, the next time you watch a major championship keep your eye on the player that wins, and his/her finish. You will see someone with their foot on the pedal. You’ll see someone running through the tape. You’ll see someone sliding head first into home plate. Would you like some examples? OK, here are the top ten major championship winners (in number of wins):

seen Bobby Jones swing a golf club? If you haven’t, go to YouTube and look him up. Even though he had a very graceful and flowing swing, he was as committed and aggressive on his downswing as anyone on this list. Very impressive. And if you want to see one of the greatest female players of all time who had an extremely committed downswing/finish, take a look at Nancy Lopez’s swing. Don’t let her extremely slow back swing fool you. Through contact there was no doubt she knew exactly what she was doing. So the next time you’re on the practice range and you see someone looking at their back swing, remember the champions listed above and work on your finish!

1. Jack Nicklaus (18) 2. Tiger Woods (14) 3. Walter Hagen (11) 4. Gary Player (9) 5. Ben Hogan (9) 6. Tom Watson (8) 7. Arnold Palmer (7) 8. Sam Snead (7) 9. Gene Sarazen (7) 10. Bobby Jones (7) How’s that for a list of champions? Pretty impressive right? Now try to find one player on that list who isn’t/ wasn’t extremely committed through contact. You won’t. We even tried to go through and pull two or three of the most aggressive swings through contact, but you just can’t. How many of you have ever TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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The Hub of the Hill Country, BOERNE Shines as a South Texas Star

For a small south Texas town with a funny sounding name, Boerne, 30 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio is making all the noise for the right reasons these days. It has upscale shopping, great golf getaways and nice weekend relief from the stress, hustle and bustle of the maddening big cities. Typical of a small town, with a full-time population of 10,000-plus, which carries the slogan “Boerne as unique as our name”, it offers a wide variety of options from shopping, dining, golf and recreation to the newly unveiled Hill Country Mile down a path on the historic Boerne Main Street. Indeed, Boerne, named for a German writer in the 1850s, has acquired another well-earned title, Hub of the Hill Country. That’s particularly true when it comes to golf. Within 50 minutes of the town, there are dozens of public access golf courses, from San Antonio and its many golfing gems to Bandera, Kerrville and New Braunfels. Among the many courses you can easily access from the area are Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course in Fredericksburg, Buckhorn in Comfort,

Vaaler Creek in Blanco, Canyon Lake Golf Club in Canyon Lake, River Crossing in Spring Branch and the Resort at Tapatio Springs right here in Boerne, all possessing a top Hill Country 18-hole experience. Then when you’re finished you’re still headed back to Boerne for a continuation of your relaxing stay. Of course, golfers can’t operate on an empty stomach and that’s where the Hill Country Hub has you covered as well. From fine dining to family-owned, even a Weird Dining Tour, there are plenty of eats in Boerne, before and after your rounds. Of course, there is also a wide variety of lodging from romantic bed and breakfasts to charming resorts and familiar lodging stops.

Something for everyone, in the right place and more importantly at the right pace. Thatâ€™s what is drawing extended weekend traffic from the Houston area and many other major cities of Texas. Those who havenâ€™t seen Boerne in a while or have never made the trip are generally amazed by the huge upgrade in shopping, service and quality in the Hub of the Hill Country experience. No better evidence of that is the Hill Country Mile, actually 1.1 miles to the purist, a true Texas-sized mile which meanders along the banks of the Cibolo Creek in River Road Park, past meticulously maintained historic properties, through small pocket parks, notable restaurants, and sophisticated shopping. The Boerne Visitors Center, located on main street, has proven expert in helping to put together itineraries for visitors who want to do a lot or very little during their

brief Hill Country Hub experience. The surrounding area offers Hill Country wine tours, lazy days at the lake, private hunting camps, day spas, batting cages and skate park for kids along with a historic 100-year old bowling center. Of course, if big city beckons you, then San Antonio is only a few minutes away with the Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Sea World amusement parks, the vibrant Riverwalk, the historic missions and the ever-important Alamo. But eventually, all roads lead back to Boerne for rest, relaxation and regeneration. The new Boerne is a very good place to be these days. A place as unique as its name and the Hub of the Hill Country is really hard to beat for a weekend, a week or even longer.

For more information and to plan your own Boerne adventure, go to www.visitboerne.org.

FEATURE STORY

Renovation at Golf Club of Texas will present familiar challenge, different test

By Steve Habel/Contributing Writer

The word “new” is being bandied about a lot during the renovation of the Golf Club of Texas, and there is certainly plenty that will be different about the facility as a whole when the course has its “soft” reopening in late April or early May. But the bones of the course and the overall routing that was originally fashioned by Austin-based golf course architect Roy Bechtol in 1999 will present a familiar challenge. And that’s a good thing. Those who have played the Golf Club of Texas will remember its holes – even as the two nines have been reversed. Bechtol’s redesign of the course, which stripped the track down to the dirt, cost more than $3.5 million and added and reshaped bunkers and mounding. Greens complexes have been redefined and new water features have been constructed. The edges of the course are more varied and rambling, and the entire track is grassed, even its greens, with TheTexasGolfInsider.com

different strains of Zoysia, a hearty, drought-resistant, thick-bladed turf usually found only in top private courses. “Zoysia is the best playing surface you have as a golfer and the Golf Club of Texas is the only course in the world to have it tee to green, even on the putting surfaces,” Bechtol said. “Because the ball sits up so well on Zoysia, I was able to add slopes and mounding to the overall routing in places that other turf wouldn’t allow.” All the changes to the course create a different test and golfing experience, one that is destined to be both unique and memorable. “Using Zoysia gave me the opportunity to enhance the course’s playability and make the whole experience more fun,” Bechtol added. “It allowed me to vary the fairway lines and meander where the grass went, which helps with the overall look and the edges of the course.” The Golf Club of Texas is located on 1,900 acres

FEATURE STORY

at the steps of the Hill Country and incorporates the rugged South Texas landscape where it meets a lush, sprawling flood plain. Four-holes wide and following a meandering creek, the course provides a core-golfing experience at its best. You stand on the deck of the clubhouse here and see nothing but golf across the wide plateau to the south as indigenous plants

are juxtaposed against pristine fairways and greens. Golfers will also love the facility’s expanded and lighted practice area, which includes a dual-sided driving range and a “wedge world” short game zone – one of Bechtol’s favorite design concepts – as well

as a private teaching area. Two new practice putting greens have also been fashioned in the shadow of the updated clubhouse, one with some challenging slopes that will act as its own place for fun and competition. The facility’s clubhouse, putting greens, driving range and restaurant (with expanded and sumptuous menu) and bar are now set to be open by the end of March after weather delays in the fall and winter wreaked havoc on the course’s reconstruction schedule. The whole experience should be online soon afterward. Now owned and operated by the OutLaw Golf Group, Tom Bevans, David Doguet of Bladerunner Farms, Ruffin Moore and Todd Meyers. The Golf Club of Texas will be one of San Antonio’s must-play courses and a shoe-in for national awards and international acclaim for its renovation. I can’t wait to tee it up here.

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COURSES

Public Course

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

MAP #67

RATES

Weekday Weekend Stay & Play

$45 w/cart $55 w/cart $199/night

(includes 2 rounds of golf)

Condominiums: $1250/mo

(includes utilities, TV and personal reserved cart)

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Kite/Bechtol/Russelll

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Gold: 7260 / 74.9 / 137 Blue: 6726 / 72.4 / 131 White: 6148 / 69.6 / 127 Green: 5544 / 67.2 / 116 Red: 5218 / 65.6 / 113

Kingsland

The Legends Golf Course Make Your Golf Experience The Best

he Legends is a lakeside golf course located on Lake LBJ near Horseshoe Bay. Designed by Tom Kite, Roy Bechtol and Randy Russell, this scenic course in the Texas Hill Country offers solitude, elegance and a challenging golf experience. The 18- hole championship course offers players both links style and hill country golf at its very best. The Legends is the longest course in the area at 7,260 yards and, unlike the competitors in horseshoe bay, The Legends is the only course with waterfront holes giving you the pure experience of lakeside golf. The property also sports lakeview condos with a personal cart so you can drive straight from your front door to the first tee. The Legends Golf Course is a spectacular place for any golf outing, either with your regular 4-some, family, or event. Come and join us. We want your golf experience to be the best. For information about rates, tee times, condos and stay & play please contact the golf shop at (325)388-8888.

COURSE AMENITIES t t t t t

1SBDUJDF 'BDJMJUJFT (PMG -FTTPOT 'VMMZ 4UPDLFE 1SP 4IPQ IPVr from Austin IPVST GSPN 4BO "OUPOJP

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105 Rangeway Circle Kingsland, TX 78639

325-388-8888 www.LegendsLBJ.com

228 Jeff Vaughn Blanco, TX 78606

830-833-0706 www.vaalercreekgolfclub.com RATES

TWILIGHT

Mon-Thur $55 Fri-Sun $65 *Twilight begins at 3:00 pm

$45 $55

STATISTICS Par: 72 Gold Blue White Red

Yards 6864 6299 5692 4577

Rating 73.0 140 70.6 129 68.6 121 64.1 111

PERSONNEL Architect: Director of Golf:

Michael Lowry Adam Grosh, PGA

AMENITIES t Online Tee Times t Stay & Play Packages t Golf Instruction t Practice Facilities t Fully-Stocked Pro Shop t Golf Carts have GPS

Slope

COURSES

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

BEACON DEAL

$39.95 A Round of Golf + Hamburger Meal valid Sunday thru Thursday coupon required, expires 6-30-2015 Texas Golf Insider

Public Course

RATES

MAP #41

Twilight**

Weekday $35 $25 Weekend $45 $30 & Holiday Senior (65+) $32 wkdy $42 wknd Prices include Cart ** Twilight begins after 2pm Additional pricing online

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Par: 71 Golf Professional: Katie Dillard Superintendent: Jarrett Eledge

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Gold: 6485 / 72.4 / 129 Blue: 5873 / 69.8 / 121 White: 5424 / 68.1 / 116 Red: 4810 / 70.9 / 118

COURSE AMENITIES t t t t t t t

#BORVFU 3PPN 3FTUBVSBOU 1SBDUJDF "SFB 'VMM 4FSWJDF 1SP 4IPQ 4UBZ 1MBZ 5PVSOBNFOUT 37 1BSL

118 Club Circle Kingsland, TX 78639

Kingsland, Texas

Lighthouse Country Club

olfers looking for the ideal place for an unhurried weekday round or all the trappings of a dead-solidperfect weekend getaway should pencil in the Lighthouse Country Club in Kingsland, Texas. Lighthouse CC is just 15 minutes west of Marble Falls near where the Colorado River widens to form the massive Lake LBJ in the fringes of the Texas Hill Country and in the shadow of the Packsaddle Mountains. North Point Landing RV Park, Now Open Our brand new RV Park is located at the 13th Green, overlooking panoramic views of Packsaddle Mountain. All site rentals include free Wi-Fi, water, sewer and electric. (35 & 50 amp available). Daily, Weekly or Monthly Rentals are available. For more information or bookings call J. Travis Adams at 325.423.1201 or email at lovetogolf325@gmail.com. STAY & PLAY for TWO Stay at the new luxury development,The Lighthouse Landing (2/2 condominium, two car garage, washer/dryer, internet & cable) for 1 night, 2 days and 2 rounds of golf for $149.95* per person.

STAY & PLAY for FOUR Stay 2 nights, 3 days and play 3 rounds of golf for $199.95* per person.

325-388-6660

For more information or bookings call J.Travis Adams at 325.423.1201 or email at lovetogolf325@gmail.com

Lighthousecountryclub.com

(*does not include taxes and surcharges)

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SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

COURSES

Lago Vista G o l f

C o u r s e s

-BHP 7JTUB t Lago Vista Golf Course is a par 72 18-hole championship golf course that offers over 6500 yards of fun and challenging play. The course originally opened as a 9-hole facility in 1971 to help promote lot sales in the young, unincorporated neighborhoods that make up the city of Lago Vista today. Shortly thereafter, under the guidance of course designer Leon Howard, the course was renovated and expanded to 18 holes, and operated as a private country club until the mid 1990s. Today, all golfers are welcome to enjoy the undulating fairways, epic lake views, and abundant wildlife at Lago Vista Golf Course.

)JHIMBOE -BLFT t Highland Lakes Golf Course, designed by Leon and Charles Howard and built in 1978, has been newly acquired and improved by the City of Lago Vista. The multilevel, sloping tifdwarf greens provide a demanding, yet uniquely challenging golf experience. Originally known in the 1970s and 1980s as World of Resorts Country Club, Highland Lakes Golf Course is generally considered the more challenging of the two courses.

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For other offers, tournaments and banquet information call

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512.267.1170 or go to www.lagovistagc.com TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COURSES

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Public Course

RATES

MAP #41

Twilight

Weekday $37 $22 $25 Weekend $47 $27 $33

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Bunker Hill General Manager: Doug Fipps Superintendent: Jason Kelly Course Record: Kyle Jerome,62

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Black: 6891 / 72.0 / 127 Blue: 6329 / 70.3 / 121 White: 5829 / 68.2 / 110 Red: 4931 / 66.8 / 106

COURSE AMENITIES t t t t t

1SBDUJDF 'BDJMJUJFT (PMG "DBEFNZ #BS (SJMM 'VMMZ 4UPDLFE 1SP 4IPQ 0OMJOF 4QFDJBMT

Burnet

Delaware Springs Golf Course One of Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play”

ated four out of five stars on Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play” list, Delaware Springs Golf Course is a Hill Country classic cradled by a variety of native trees and accented by charming scenery. The beautiful 6,891-yard par-72 track unfolds onto gently rolling hills and offers golfers scenic vistas at every turn, making it as picturesque as it is challenging. The aesthetic value is just one reason why Delaware Springs has become a Hill Country favorite. Visitors are often impressed by the attitude of the golf course staff, a friendly and courteous crew that makes strangers feel right at home. In addition to the 18-hole championship course, the facility features a well-stocked pro shop, driving range, putting green, snack bar and dining room overlooking the 18th green. To enjoy Hill Country golf at its finest, come visit Delaware Springs Golf Course, owned and operated by the city of Burnet. Course designers Dave Akland and Dan Procter named each hole after a local feature, such as “Mountain View” and “Roon the Bend” because of its sharp dogleg right. Few homes line the holes.

600 Delaware Springs Blvd. Burnet, TX 78611

512-756-8471

www.delawaresprings.com

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Play A Round. Then Play Around.

Alles in Fredericksburg! Serious golfers will find it “all in Fredericksburg.” At Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course, you’ll play on contoured fairways built to USGA standards with 48 challenging bunkers, water in-play on over half the holes, lush Champion Ultra Dwarf underfoot and spectacular Hill Country views. Your fleet of new electric “chariots” awaits at the clubhouse, featuring the Red Bird Grill and Golf Shop. Plus, your 19th hole is historic Fredericksburg—where you’ll find wineries, spas, gourmet cuisine, shopping, live music and so much more! As far as getaways go, it’s your ace in the hole.

GolfFredericksburg.com

800 950 8147

REVIEW

Who says you can’t have it all

Tucked away in the heart of Texas Hill Country, the Flying L Guest Ranch provides ample accommodations and entertainment for the entire family. The Flying L and its diversity bestows a special and unique ambiance to its guests.Whether it’s a relaxing round of golf with the famous Texas Hill Country as a backdrop, a horseback ride that brings out childhood dreams, a day at the “Lone Star Lagoon”Water Park, a cowboy cookout under the Texas skies featuring the finest of cuisine, a productive meeting away from the distractions of the city, an evening spent with a real cowboy singing classics around the campfire,or sitting in a rocker with your favorite western novel underneath a massive live oak; it is truly a place where “you can have it all”, with a western flair. Lodging at the Flying L is a unique and premier experience. Our one and two bedroom suite style lodging i s spacious, comfortable and professional appointed with Texas flare. As the Texas temperatures begin to boil, guests can cool off at the Flying L’s new 66,000 square-foot “Lone Star Lagoon” Water Park. The water park boasts an array of activities including the 500-foot lazy river that winds through the lagoon, a wave pool, 100 foot water slide, a children’s activity pool with water slides, fountains an bucket dump, waterfalls, water volleyball area and plenty of places to lounge for those looking to just relax. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

The Lone Star Lagoon is just one shining example of why the Flying L is “Texas’ favorite family resort.” A comfortable, year-round climate makes golf at the Flying L golf course a favorite activity. The 18-hole, championship course measures 6,646 yards and welcomes golfers of all ages and ability levels. With majestic hills and remarkable scenery complete with rolling terrain and large oak trees, a distinct memory can be made on every hole. Horseback riding at the Flying L is a one of a kind experience. Mount up on one of Flying L’s famous horses and enjoy the peace and tranquility of true Texas nature. Riding along the banks of the San Julian Creek, you will see an abundance of wildlife and be surrounded by the beauty of the Texas Hill Country. Don’t worry about the little cowboys during your time on the greens, they’ll be busy enough.The Flying L has a full complement of children’s activities including playgrounds, supervised kid activities and an abundance of water sports. Our staff will teach the ways of the “Old West” with roping lessons. The FLying L’s signature slogan accurately depicts the ranch’s style; “Whoever says you can’t have it all has never been to the Flying L.” So whether you’re in the mood to saddle up, cool down or tee off, the Flying L has the horses to make it all happen.

H I L L C O U N T R Y R V P A R K S

Beachcomber Park 800-379-3083 lakebuchananrv.com

Granite Rock RV Park 325-388-8900 graniterockrvpark.com

Big Chief RV Resort 866-922-4433 bigchiefrvresort.com

Heart of Texas Lake Resort 512-756-7766 heartoftexaslakeresort.com

Blanco Settlement Country Cabins & RV Park 830-833-5115 blancosettlement.com

Hidden Falls Adventure Park 830-798-9820 hiddenfallsadventurepark.com

Canyon of the Eagles Lodge & Nature Park 800-977-0081 canyonoftheeagles.com Cedar Lodge Waterfront Resort 512-793-2820 cedarlodge.info Dos Rios RV Park 325-347-1713 dosriosrvpark.com Edgewater Resort 512-793-2818 the-edgewater.com Fort Mason City Park 325-347-2064 Galloway-Hammond Parks and Recreation Center 512-756-6180

Hi-Line Lake Resort 325-379-1065 hilinelakesresort.com Hofbrau RV Park 830-596-2073 hofbrau-rvpark.com Inks Lake State Park 512-389-8900 tpwd.state.tx.us Krause Springs 830-693-4181 krausesprings.net Llanorado Lodge 325-388-4823 tpwd.state.tx.us Llano River RV Park 325-247-5100 llanoriverrvpark.com Miller Creek RV Park 877-868-2622 millercreekrvresort.com Poppyâ€™s Pointe Resort 512-793-3922 poppyspointe.net

118 Club Circle Kingsland, TX

325-388-6660

LighthouseCountryClub.com

Northpoint Landing RV Park NOW OPEN

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Rio Vista Resort 325-388-6331 rio-vista-resort.com Riverview RV Park 830-693-3910 Roadrunner RV Park 830-868-7449 roadrunnerrvparktexas.com San Saba River GC & RV Park 325-372-3212 golfsansaba.com Shady Oaks RV Park 512-793-2718 campingfriend.com/shadyoaksrv Sunset Point on Lake LBJ 830-798-8199 sunsetpointlbj.com

Savor The Hill Country Taste

Alamosa Wine Cellars 325-628-3313 alamosawinecellars.com Becker Vineyards 830-644-2681 beckervineyard.com Bell Mountain Vineyards 830-685-3297 bellmountainwine.com Chisholm Trail Winery 830-990-CORK chisholmtrailwinery.com Duchman Family Winery 512-858-1470 duchmanwines.com Driftwood Estate Winery 512-858-9667 driftwoodwinery.com Dry Comal Creek Vineyards 830-885-4121 drycomalcreek.com Fall Creek Vineyards 325-379-5361 fcv.com Flat Creek Estate Winery 512-267-6310 flatcreekestate.com Fredericksburg Winery 830-990-8747 fbgwinery.com Grape Creek Vineyards 830-990-2710 grapecreek.com McReynolds Winery 830-825-3544 mcreynoldswines.com Pedernales Cellars 830-644-2037 pedernalescellars.com Perissos Vineyards 512-656-8419 perissosvineyards.com Pillar Bluff Vineyard 512-556-4078 pillarbluff.com Rancho Ponte Vineyard 830-324-6704 ranchoponte.com

Sister Creek Vineyards 830-990-8555 sistercreekvineyards.com Spicewood Vineyards 830-693-5328 spicewoodvineyards.com Stone House Vineyard 512-264-3630 stonehousevineyard.com Texas Hills Vineyard 830-868-2321 texashillsvineyards.com Texas Legato Winery 512-556-9600 texaslegato.com Torre Di Pietra Vineyards 830-644-2829 torredipietra.com Woodrose Winery 830-644-2539 woodrosewinery.com

H I L L C O U N T R Y

W I N E R I E S

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

GENERAL DIRECTORY

COURSE

TYPE

AUSTIN: Avery Ranch Semi-Private Bluebonnet Hill Golf Course Public Falconhead Semi-Private Hancock Park Golf Course Municipal Jimmy Clay/Roy Kizer Golf CourseMunicipal Lions Municipal Golf Course Municipal Morris Williams Golf Course Municipal Riverside Golf Club Public BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Golf Course Resort BASTROP: Colovista Golf Club Semi-Private Hyatt, Wolfdancer Resort Lost Pines Golf Course Public Pine Forest Golf Club Public BLANCO: Vaaler Creek Golf Club Semi-Private BOERNE: Tapatio Springs Resort BURNET: Delaware Springs Golf Course Municipal CANYON LAKE: Lakeside Golf Club Public CASTROVILLE: Alsatian Golf Course Public CIBOLO: Northcliffe Golf & Country Club Semi-Private COMFORT: Buckhorn Golf Course Public CONCAN: Club at ConCan Resort DEVINE: Devine Golf Course Public FLORESVILLE: River Bend Golf Club Public FREDERICKSBURG: Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course Municipal GEORGETOWN: Cowan Creek Golf Club Semi-Private Legacy Hill Golf Club Semi-Private White Wing Golf Club Semi-Private HORSESHOE BAY: Horseshoe Bay Resort Resort Apple Rock Resort Ram Rock Resort Slick Rock Resort KERRVILLE: Scott Schreiner Municipal GC Municipal KINGSLAND: Legends Golf Course Public Lighthouse Country Club Public KYLE: Plum Creek Golf Course Public LAGO VISTA: Lago Vista Semi-Private Highland Lakes Public LAMPASAS: Hancock Park Golf Course Public

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PHONE COURSE (512) 248-2442 (512) 272-4228 (512) 402-1558 (512) 453-0276 (512) 444-0999 (512) 477-6963 (512) 926-1298 (512) 386-7077 (800) 646-5407 (512) 629-4585 (512) 308-9653 (512) 321-2327 (512) 321-1181 (830) 833-0706 (830) 537-4197 (512) 756-8471 (830) 899-3301 (830) 931-3100 (830) 606-7351 (830) 995-5351 (830) 232-4471 (830) 665-9943 (830) 216-2800 (830) 997-4010 (512) 864-1244 (512) 864-1222 (512) 864-1244 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 257-4982 (325) 388-8888 (325) 388-6660 (512) 262-5555 (512) 267-1170 (512) 267-1170 (512) 556-3202

TYPE

LEANDER: The Golf Club at Crystal Falls Municipal LLANO: Llano Golf Club Municipal MANOR: Shadow Glen Semi-Private MARBLE FALLS: Hidden Falls Golf Club Semi-Private NEW BRAUNFELS: The Bandit Golf Course Public Landa Park Golf Course Municipal PLEASANTON: Pleasanton Country Club Semi-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: Quail Creek Country Club Semi-Private SAN SABA: San Saba River GC Municipal SEGUIN: Golf Club of Seguin Semi-Private Starcke Park Golf Course Municipal SPICEWOOD: Pedernales Golf Course Public SPRING BRANCH: River Crossing Club Private The Club at Rebecca Creek Semi-Private SAN ANTONIO: Alamo Golf Club Public Brackenridge Park Golf Course Municipal Canyon Springs Golf Course Public Cedar Creek Golf Course Municipal Gateway Hills Golf Course Military Golf Club of Texas Public Hyatt Hill Country Resort Resort La Cantera Golf Club Public La Loma Grande Public Mission Del Lago Golf Course Municipal Olmos Basin Golf Course Municipal Randolf Oaks Golf Course Military Riverside Golf Course Municipal Salado Del Rio Public Silverhorn Public The Palmer Course Public The Republic Golf Course Public TPC San Antonio Resort Windcrest Golf Course Semi-private Willow Springs Golf Course Municipal UNIVERSAL CITY: Olympia Hills Golf & Conference Center Public UTOPIA: Utopia Golf Course Public WIMBERLEY: Quicksand at Woodcreek Public

PHONE (512) 259-5855 (325) 247-5100 (512) 278-1304 (830) 693-3300 (830) 609-4665 (830) 221-4340 (830) 281-3486 (512) 251-9000 (512) 388-2874 (512) 252-GOLF (512) 651-9850 (254) 947-5698 (512) 353-1665 (325) 372-3212 (830) 303-0669 (830) 401-2490 (512) 264-1489 (830) 904-4653 (830) 885-5816 (210) 696-4000 (210) 226-5612 (210) 497-1770 (210) 695-5050 (210) 671-3466 (210) 677-0027 (210) 647-1234 (210) 558-4653 (210) 222-9386 (210) 627-2522 (210) 826-4041 (210) 652-4570 (210) 533-8371 (210) 222-9386 (210) 545-5300 (210) 558-2365 (210) 359-0000 (210) 491-5800 (210) 655-1421 (210) 226-6721 (210) 945-4653 (830) 966-5577 (512) 847-9700

THE PERFECT DRIVE

THE COAST TYPE

PHONE

Alice Municipal Golf Course

COURSE

Public

(361) 664-7033

Brownsville Golf Center

Public

(956) 541-2582

Buccaneer Bay Public GC

Public

(361) 790-7513

Colony Creek Country Club

Semi-Private

(361) 576-0018

Corpus Christi Country Club

Private

(361) 991-2811

Cottonwood Creek Golf Course

Public

(956) 428-7758

Edinburg Municipal Golf Course

Public

(956) 381-1244

El Campo County Club

Private

(409) 543-6592

Fort Brown Municipal Golf Course Public

(956) 542-9861

Ganado Golf and Country Club

(361) 771-2424

Public

Goliad Country Recreation Assoc. Public

(361) 645-2144

Grande Caribbean at Dune Crest Public

(361) 749-1974

Harlingen Country Club

Private

(956) 412-4110

L.E. Ramey Golf Course

Public

(361) 592-1101

Padre Isles Country Club

Private

(361) 949-8056

Palm View Golf Course

Public

(956) 687-9591

Palmilla Beach Golf Club

Semi-Private

(361) 749-4653

Rio Colorado Golf Course

Public

(979) 244-2955

South Padre Island Golf Club

Public

(956) 943-5678

The Victoria Country Club

Semi-Private

(361) 573-3712

Tierra Del Sol Golf Club

Public

(956) 702-2320

Tierra Santa Golf Club

Public

(956) 973-1811

Treasure Hills Country Club

Semi-Private

(956) 365-3100

Village Executive Golf Course

Public

Valley International Country Club Semi-Private

(956) 968-5331 (956) 546-5331

RIO GRANDE VALLEY COURSE Adobe Wells Country Club Alamo Country Club Brownsville Municipal GC Cimarron Cottonwood 21 Ebony Hills Golf Course Fair Winds G.C & Practice Range Fort Brown Memorial GC Harlingen Country Club Jim Paul Golf Course Llano Grande Golf Course Los Lagos Golf Club Martin Valley Ranches Golf Course McAllen Country Club Meadow Creek Golf Club Palacio Real Golf Course Palm View Golf Course Rancho Viejo Country Club Raymondville Municipal Course River Bend Resort Shary Municipal Golf Course South Padre Island Golf Club Tony Butler Municiapal GC

TYPE Private Private Public Private Semi-Private Public Public Public Private Public Public Public Public Private Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private Public Public Public

PHONE (956) 686-8801 (956) 787-0910 (956) 541-2582 (956) 581-7408 (956) 428-0766 (956) 381-1244 (956) 423-2010 (956) 541-0394 (956) 412-4110 (956) 943-7520 (956) 565-3351 (956) 316-0444 (956) 585-6330 (956) 928-0440 (956) 581-6267 (956) 381-0964 (956) 687-9591 (956) 350-4000 (956) 689-9904 (956) 548-0191 (956) 580-8770 (956) 943-5678 (956) 216-5970

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

118

170

127

ConCan

15 15

95 Lajitas 95

Harper

Terlingua

Utopia

Castroville

27 1604

47 47

Comfort

473

56 56 20

1431

3 1604

29 725

87 87 Spring Brand

Kingsland 84

Kyle

620

Leander

67 67 68 Falls 41 2342 68 Marble

130 1825

Robstown

Refugio

Portland

83286 358

Corpus Christi

Sinton

To Ho us to n

ntonio

to SanA

Alpine

Port Aransas

io on nt

xic o Me

lf o f

Sa To

Black Jackâ€™s Crossing 95 HC70 Clay Henry Blvd., Lajitas, TX 79852

(432) 424-5080 S1

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

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Par

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

Type Hole

Map Number

SAN ANTONIO |HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN COURSES

t t t t t

www.blackjackscrossing.com

Delaware Springs Golf Course (512) 756-8471 41 41 600 Delaware Springs Blvd., Burnet, TX 78611

t t t t t

www.delawaresprings.com

Flying L Guest Ranch 49 566 Flying L Drive, Bandera, TX 78003

(800) 292-5134 41

t t t t t

www.flyingl.com

Highland Lakes Golf Course

t t t t t

(830) 598-6561 S1

t t t t t

(512) 382-6529

20 20552 Highland Lake Dr., Lago Vista, TX 78645 www.lagovistagc.com/highland-lakes.html

Horseshoe Bay - Apple Rock

56 2622 Bay W. Blvd., Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657 www.hsbresort.com

Horseshoe Bay - Ram Rock

(830) 598-6561 S1

56 2622 Bay W. Blvd., Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657 www.hsbresort.com

Horseshoe Bay - Slick Rock

(830) 598-6561 S1

56 2622 Bay W. Blvd., Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657 www.hsbresort.com

Horseshoe Bay - Summit Rock

(830) 598-6561 S1

t t t t t

56 2622 Bay W. Blvd., Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657 www.hsbresort.com

Jersey Meadow Golf Course

(713) 896-0900

t t t t t

(830) 997-4010

LaLoma Grande Golf Club (210) 222-9386 85 1050 Harry Wurzbach, San Antonio, TX 78209

t t t t t

(512) 267-1170

t t t t t

(877) 525-4827

t t t t

(830) 221-4340

t t t t t

(325) 388-6660

t t t t t

Northcliffe Golf Club (830) 606-7351 29 5301 Country Club Blvd., Cibolo, TX 77546

t t t t t

2 8502 Rio Grande, Jersey Village, TX 77040 www.jerseymeadow.com

Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course

t t

53 341 Golfers Loop, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 www.golffredericksburg.com

www.ftsammwr.com /recreation/golf.html

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

Lajitas Golf Resort & Spa 95 100 Main Street, Lajitas, TX 79852 www.lajitasgolfresort.com

Landa Park Golf Course

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

Lighthouse Country Club 68 118 Club Circle, Kingsland, TX 78639 www.lighthousecountryclub.com

www.northcliffegolfcourse.com

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Par

Yardage /Rating /Slope

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

COURSES SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Type Hole

Map Number

t t t t t

Map on page 60 Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Olympia Hills Golf and Conference Center (210) 945-4653 35 12900 Mount Olympus, Universal City, TX 78148 www.olympiahillsgolf.com

Salado Del Rio Golf Course (210) 222-9386 85 1050 Harry Wurzbach, San Antonio, TX 78209

t t t t t

www.ftsammwr.com/recreation/golf.html

Star Ranch Golf Club

(512) 252-4653

t t t t

(830) 232-4471

t t t t t

(210) 677-0027

t t t t t

27 13600 Briggs Ranch, San Antonio, TX 78245 The Legends Golf Club (325) 388-8888 67 105 Range Way Circle, Kingsland, TX 78639

t t

t t t t

2500 FM 685, Hutto, TX 78634 www.starranchgolf.com

The Club at Concan 55 520 Mountain Valley, Concan, TX 78838 www.concangolf.com

The Golf Club of Texas

t t

www.legendsgolftx.com

Vaaler Creek Golf Club

(830) 833-0706

87 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX 78606 www.vaalercreekgolfclub.com

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

TOURNAMENTS Cash fore Cancer | Ad Page 13 www.cashforecancer.org | Valero Texas Open| Ad Page 20 www.valerotexasopen.com | March 26-29, 2015

Houston Golf at its finest

Eagle Pointe Golf Club and Recreation Complex TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Enjoy world-class golf and have a blast at the Shell Houston Open! Tickets start at just $30 with net proceeds beneďŹ ting local charities.

COVER STORY

e t n i o P e l g Ea is always on

By Steve Habel/Contributing Writer

If there’s one constant in the Greater Houston area’s golf market, it’s the experience players get when they venture to Mont Belvieu and tee it up at Eagle Pointe Golf Club. Set on a rolling, treed track of land two miles north of Interstate 10 and about 35 minutes east of downtown Houston, Eagle Pointe thrives as one of the region’s best courses and overall facilities because of the attention to detail, both on the links and off. Owned and operated by the city of Mont Belvieu, Eagle Pointe is worlds better than most municipal courses. The folks here stay ahead of the curve with primo customer service with the minute you step on the grounds and TheTexasGolfInsider.com

excellence extends throughout the round and into the club’s après golf offerings. Eagle Pointe’s amenities have been enhanced to include the recent enclosure of its pavilion, giving the club 8,000-square feet of climatecontrolled space for everything from before and after tournament gatherings, to corporate outings and weddings and receptions. Houston-based golf course architect Rick Forester was given a premier site on which to build this 7,168-yard, par-71 course. Rolling terrain and interesting elevation changes and the seemingly constant presence of the Old River, which snakes through the property,

COVER STORY

Golf Club

top of its game

make Eagle Pointe very different from the mostly flat sites of many courses in the region. As golfers meander along through the course’s towering pine trees, they’ll find the ground will rise or fall as much as 40 feet. “Despite the trees, there’s a very open natural feeling here because you’re not closed in by dense housing developments,” said Jeff Strong, Eagle Pointe’s longtime PGA professional. Forester and his crew moved only 50,000 cubic yards of dirt, about 1/6th of what’s usually moved to construct as average golf course. He let the site’s natural terrain dictate his hole locations instead of manufacturing them. With

creeks, gullies and ponds scattered across the property and 27 bunkers, the layout at Eagle Pointe requires more strategy than brute force. Forester’s designs are highlighted by plenty of doglegs and players will get the share of those features at Eagle Pointe. Most are manageable for the average hitter and as a drive into the prescribed landing area will usually give the golfer a shot toward the green. The rough at Eagle Pointe is wide and kept thick, often adding a stroke to the hole when played in a wayward fashion. The course carries a rating of 73.2 and a slope of 128 from the tips, but actually plays much tougher because of the elevation changes throughout the round. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COVER STORY

The putting surfaces at Eagle Pointe roll fast and true, with plenty of tiered greens to make accuracy on the approach a premium consideration. The layout can be a bit tricky for first timers, as some fairways slope severely enough to bounce your ball into a hazard if you don’t hit the correct side of them. Players get a heaping helping of the tests to come on the very first hole, a 536-yard par-5 that plays downhill, then across Cherry Point Gully and uphill to a one of the course’s smallest putting surfaces. There is the triple challenge of length, positioning and elevation change at the 444-yard par-4 sixth, ranked as the No. 1 handicap hole at Eagle Pointe GC. The hole turns hard right to left and then plays uphill to a perched green that’s one of the smallest and least receptive on the course. The hole has been softened in recent years but is still a test of guile and execution. “The difficulty on the sixth is that you have to position your drive,” Strong said. “You also cannot be too short or you’ll

The scenic eleventh hole at Eagle Pointe Golf CLub

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

be cut off by the dogleg. But if your drive goes too far, you can end up in the rough.” No. 9, a 601-yard uphill par-5, and the 495-yard par-4 downhill 10th keep your attention around the turn. The former requires a blind drive to an elevated fairway and a pond on the right and bunkers on the left narrow the approach; the later plays longer than it’s carded but the putting surface is open at the front and will accept run-up The 213-yard 15th is the toughest par3 on the course because of its two-tiered green and huge bunkers right and left. Landing on the green tough enough but that’s just when the challenge begins because of the movement on the putting surface. Much of the word of mouth about the course at Eagle Pointe is about its final three holes. The 469-yard par-4 16th, with its creek, a pond, a waterfall and a smallish green that is narrow and long, makes for the biggest test on the back nine.

COVER STORY

Complete new look and feel to Eagle Pointe’s Pavilion

Then on the 540-yard dogleg-left Membership at Eagle Pointe also No. 17, players must navigate a treeoffers one of the area’s best recreational lined par-5 with ponds on both sides facilities, featuring a 60,000-square foot of the generous landing area and an state-of-the-art recreation complex with approach past heavy bunkering around the most modern fitness equipment and the green. a plethora of sports amenities that any The finishing hole, like the 17th, is active person would enjoy. somewhat more level in terrain than Here you will find two full basketball the rest of the course. It’s a 429-yard courts, a pair of racquetball courts, par-4 with water on both sides of the four outdoor lighted tennis courts, a fairway and a huge bunker at the front heated indoor lap pool, child watch and of the green that forces an approach in outdoor play area and a half-mile nature the air. and jogging trail. The facility also sports Billed as “pure golf experience,” a real wave pool, indoor banquet and Eagle Pointe Golf Club is a combination reception facilities, The Pointe Grill of equal parts peaceful, eye-catching, restaurant and a tanning salon. playable, and fun with excellent conditions and reasonable rates. The course is the host facility of the Texas Senior Open, which was resurrected at the club in 2014, so you know it’s a challenge, even for the best The challenging third hole at golfers. Eagle Pointe Golf Club

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COURSES

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

Public Course

MAP # 5

RATES

Mon-Thur Friday Weekend Holiday

$45 $47 $60 $60

TWLIGHT* $32 $40 $40 $40

*Twilight begins at 1 pm

STATISTICS Par: 71 Black Blue White Red

Yards Rating 7077 73.2 6502 70.9 5927 68.0 5213 67.4

Slope 128 121 116 113

PERSONNEL Architect ........................ Rick Forester General Manager ............. Jeff Strong Course Record ........Justin McKay, 62

AMENITIES t Online Tee Times t Meeting/Banquet Rooms t New Enclosed Pavilion t Two Restaurants t Recreation Complex & Wave Pool t Fully Stocked Pro Shop t Memberships Available

Mont Belvieu, TX (281) 385-6666 www.EaglePointeOnline.com

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

M ONT B ELVIEU

Eagle Pointe Golf Club & Recreation Complex

vid golfers in the Houston area yearning for a pure golf experience set apart from the city and brimming with secluded, natural surroundings can find that true, undisturbed feeling at Eagle Pointe Golf Club. The par-71 Rick Forester design located less than 35 minutes from downtown Houston off I-10 in Mont Belvieu, is equal parts peaceful, eye-catching and playable. The course’s distinguishable characteristics are its rolling fairways, stunningly tall pines, dramatic elevation changes and an abundance of water. With no homes on 17 of the 18 holes, golf is what you get at Eagle Pointe. The trademark of Eagle Pointe is its steeply tilted, undulating greens that will challenge even the most expert players. Strategically speaking, it’s important to place your approach shots below the hole at Eagle Pointe because of the quickness of the putting surfaces. The facility also offers a state-of-the art fitness center and an 8,000-square-foot tournament pavilion that would be the perfect place for corporate outings, weddings or charity events. STPGA Foundation Pro Am – April 20, 2015

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

Public Course

MAP #17

RATES Monday-Thursday $32 Seniors (65+) M-Th $27 Friday-Sunday and $38 Holidays Pitch & Putt Course Opening Soon (Green Fee, Cart & Tax Included)

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Joe Finger; Mike Nuzzo

COURSE AMENITIES t 4OBDL #BS t %SJWJOH 3BOHF t 'amily Pitch & Putt Course Opening Soon t /FX TR GU 1VUUJOH (SFFO t 'VMMZ 4UPDLFE 1SP 4IPQ t 0OMJOF 4QFDJBMT

2800 Ted Dudley Drive Texas City, TX 77590

COURSES

Texas City

Bayou Golf Club A Little Piece of Heaven Near Houston In April 2014, the Bayou Golf Course began an 18 hole greenâ€™s renovation which included the putting green using Mini-Verde Ultra Dwarf. The golf course redesign Architect, Mike Nuzzo, has increased the average size per green to 5,000 sq.ft. In addition, we have rebuilt all sand traps and added new tee complexes on holes #5,7,10,13,16 &17. We have also added a new, one of a kind, 5 1/2 acre Family Pitch & Putt golf course for walkers, local high school golf teams and anyone wanting to spend quality time with friends and family. Designed by Houston-based architect Joe Finger, the 200-acre site on the bank of Moses Bayou boasts a championship layout with elevated greens and tee boxes. Amid the blue sky and palm trees, golfers enjoy the tropical climate for year-round play. The convenient location and spacious club house makes Bayou Golf Course an ideal choice to host your next golf tournament.

409-739-9622 bayougc.com

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

REVIEW

Is it too late for my kid to learn to play golf? The most popular question parents ask is, "When should I start my child playing golf?" We hear that Tiger was playing when he was two. My own son Kyle started when he was three.Young children can have fun and learn to play golf at a very young age. But what I would like to talk about is not â€œwhenâ€? but the importance of â€œhowâ€? to get a child started playing golf.â€? Let's start with the idea that you are going to introduce your child to golf and the best time to do that is right now. Putting is a great way to start, but also have your child swing at the ball, it is fun and should happen very early on. Here is my guide to getting started. r 'JSTU ZPVS DIJME OFFET HPMG DMVCT that fit. Cut down clubs should only be used if nothing else is available.You need a putter, a metal wood and an iron. r 'JOE B DPVSTF PS QSBDUJDF SBOHF where you can both hit golf balls and putt. r 4JODF ZPVS DIJME JT B CFHJOOFS don't worry too much about form and technique. A baseball grip will get them going. r 5FF JU 6Q )BWF ZPVS DIJME UFF UIF ball up at first. I always like to see the child teeing it up rather than the parent. There is some hand eye coordination involved and I like to see the child doing as much as possible independently. r ,JET MPWF UP SJEF JO HPMG DBSUT 8IFO you have the opportunity, take a golf cart and play a few holes. Also, when you are on the golf course, be sure and take some old balls. Kids always like hitting balls into the water. r 'VO JT UIF HPBM

MJLF UP QMBZ XJUI UIFJS QBSFOUT 'JOE B 1(" PS -1(" (PMG 1SPGFTTJPOBM XIP UFBDIFT KVOJPS golfers. If you want to start lessons, and are not sure where to go, you can contact me or BOPUIFS 1(" 1SPGFTTJPOBM GPS BEWJDF " HPPE golf coach will help your child play better and FOKPZ UIF HBNF NPSF 'PS UPVSOBNFOUT UIF 4PVUIFSO 5FYBT 1(" BOE UIF )PVTUPO (PMG Association run tournaments all over south 5FYBT 5IF UPVSOBNFOUT BSF PQFO UP KVOJPS HPMGFST GSPN BHFT TJY UP FJHIUFFO ZFBS PME and all levels of competition are available. The best time to start playing golf is right OPX "TL ZPVS GSJFOET DPOUBDU UIF 451(" PS UIF )(" PS DPOUBDU B 1(" 1SPGFTTJPOBM to find out the best place to get started, and remember to have fun. If you have any questions on how to start your child in golf, QMFBTF DBMM NF BU 5JNCFS $SFFL (PMG $MVC BU 281-993-1140. 4VNNFS +VOJPS (PMG $BNQT GPS BHFT ZFBS PME TIBMM CFHJO JO +VOF BU 5JNCFS $SFFL (PMG $MVC

When should lessons and tournaments start? A few lessons will be helpful in getting off to a good start. This is also a good time for the parent to take a lesson or two. Children TheTexasGolfInsider.com

David Pilsner, Director of Golf Instruction PGA Member (281) 993-1140 x.22 or (281) 734-0177 dpilsner@timbercreekgolfclub.com

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

Public Course

MAP #36

DIRECTIONS I-45 S., exit and turn right on FM 2351, turn right at 2nd light.

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 27 Architect: Jay Riviere

RATES Call the Pro Shop or visit our website for online specials

COURSE AMENITIES t IPMF HPMG DPVSTF t (PMG "DBEFNZ t -FHFOET 3FTUBVSBOU #BS t 'VMMZ 4UPDLFE 1SP 4IPQ t TFBU QBWJMJPO GPS UPVSOBNFOUT and events t 0OMJOF 4QFDJBMT BOE &$MVC

4554 FM 2351 Friendswood, TX 77546

281-993-1140

timbercreekgolfclub.com

COURSES

Friendswood

Timber Creek Golf Club A splendid layout 20 miles from downtown Houston Beneath the towering Oaks and sturdy Pines that permeate Timber Creek Golf Club, golfers are enjoying the game like never before. â€œPeople who play here frequently call this their club and have a sense of belonging,â€? general manager Mike Griswold said. â€œThey donâ€™t pay dues to get that.â€? The courseâ€™s culture is equaled if not surpassed by the design of Jay Riviere, who incorporated dense woodlands, winding creeks and rock outcroppings. â€œOur course isnâ€™t target golf, but the fairways are really defined,â€? Griswold said. With its classic Clubhouse Pub atmosphere and an eclectic menu that appeals to virtually every taste, the Legends Grill at Timber Creek is the place to meet. The Golf Academy at Timber Creek can custom design a program for beginners, recreational players or highly skilled players who are in need of a tune-up. The Academy also offers Custom Club Fitting, the latest in high-end club-fitting technology. Bring your group to Timber Creek for an outing or a tournament that provides a country club experience at a public course price. From its outstanding course conditions to its food and beverage facilities, from its fully-stocked golf shop to its legendary service, Timber Creek Golf Club in Friendswood rivals any private club in Texas. Timber Creek Golf Clubâ€ŚWhere You Belong.

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FEATURE STORY

Awards Season to Tournament Season by: Jake Macauley

Junior Golfers of the Year In late 2014, a committee of PGA professionals in the Southern Texas PGA met to determine several awards for the year, including two for junior golfers. The STPGA Junior Golfer of the Year awards are presented to the juniors who possess strong academic and social character with a high regard for the ideals upon which golf is founded. Will Holcomb (Crockett, TX) received the accolade of being the Southern Texas PGA’s Junior Golfer of the Year for his stellar play on the course as well as positive attitude and community involvement off the course. In the last two years, Holcomb has seen great success on the Southern Texas PGA’s Bridgestone Golf Prestige Tour, with two runner-up finishes and three wins including an under-par victory at the Mid-Summer Showcase at the famed Golf Club of Houston-Tournament Course. In 2014, he also finished second at the Legends Junior Tour Lanny Wadkins Invitational. In the

Kristen Gillman

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Will Holcomb

high school ranks, Will earned All-State honors in both 2013 and 2014. While Holcomb focuses his play in south Texas, the Crockett resident feels he is making an impact right where he is. He encourages friends and classmates to join the golf team and he and his sister organize Friday night scramble events to show area kids that golf can be fun. Holcomb is doing all he can to “push a game that no juniors really played in (his) little town.” Sounds like the spirit of a future PGA Professional. As for the ladies, Kristen Gillman (Austin, TX) and her magical year make her more than deserving of the Junior Golfer of the Year. The Austin junior won the Junior PGA Championship at Miramont by a resounding nine shots and then went on to win the US Women’s Amateur Championship shortly thereafter. She represented Team USA in the Junior Ryder Cup, leading the team to victory with her 3 points. In addition to her on course performance, Gillman was able to contribute both her time and a donation through an event she participated in to the First Tee. Kristen plans to play her collegiate golf at University of Alabama.

FEATURE STORY

An Abundance of Golf in 2015 After a short break for the holiday season, junior golf with the Southern Texas PGA gears back up for an eventful 2015. With over 60 tournaments taking place before the month of May, the STPGA Junior Golf Program’s “Spring Series” will be one of the most active on record. Offering events for every level of junior golfer, the “Spring Series” is the perfect chance to fine tune skills and abilities before the summer. Membership registration is currently open and allows juniors the ability to participate in events for the entire calendar year. For the more advanced golfer, the Prestige Tour continues to grow at a staggering rate. Adding an additional five tournaments in 2015, including an inaugural tour championship at Comanche Trace Golf Club in Kerrville, the competitiveness and turnout around these

events is surely to be at an all-time high. This tour is especially beneficial for those looking to prepare for college golf as well as earn exemptions into state and national level tournaments. The STPGA will be holding two tournaments in March over the spring break vacation, “The Battle at The Republic” (March 11-12) at The Republic Golf Club in San Antonio and the “Spring Break Classic” (March 15-16) at Onion Creek Club in Austin. There will be no shortage of golf in 2015! The Dick Harmon Participation Grants are a unique component of Southern Texas PGA’s junior programs. Through the support of the Harmon Family Foundation, the Southern Texas PGA Foundation offers financial assistance to those juniors with financial need. To learn more about the Southern Texas PGA Junior Golf Program, visit www. stpgajuniorgolf.com

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