Golf Central Magazine-Volume 27 Issue 7-The Landings Club

W W W.GOLFCENTR ALMAG.COM

With Woods This Beautiful Lining Our Fairways, You Just Might Be Tempted To Aim For Them. Given our 2,087 feet of elevation, fall at Fairfield Glade is more beautiful than most anywhere else in the country. It’s hard to put into words the colorful display you’ll experience on our five Championship Golf Courses. Even out of bounds.

What you feel is beautiful too. Cool, dry fall air that makes golf, hiking, tennis, pickleball, fishing, boating or swimming especially comfortable and fun. Our Stay & Play and Golf Packages make a fall getaway visit to Fairfield Glade Resort beautifully affordable too.

Now the fun begins.

Conveniently located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322) For information or reservations, call 888-334-5233 fairfieldgladeresort.com

Li fe Looks Diffe re nt at P l antat i o n B ay P la nta t ion Bay G o l f & Co unt r y Cl ub Morning tee times. An afternoon on the courts. Dinner at the club. Evenings at home surrounded by the Florida lifestyle you chose. At Plantation Bay, ICI Homes brings together an established club community and homes designed around the way you want to live. Choose from a variety of home styles and discover the freedom to personalize your home through ICI Homes’ in-house design process. Move walls. Expand your entertaining space. Create the kitchen, owner’s retreat or outdoor living area you have always wanted.

Golf. Fitness. Dining. Friends. Home. Because the right home should fit your lifestyle, not the other way around Club membership is optional and available separately.

Scan to Explore Plantation Bay and to schedule your visit, please contact us at 855.272.1009 or visit our website.

Florida Custom Homebuilder Since 1980 | ICIHomes.com Volusia Residential Construction, LLC 2379 Beville Rd., Daytona Beach, FL 32119 CBC#1262114

Firm. Consistent. Dependable.

CitraZoy® Zoysia provides the surface quality today’s superintendents demand, supporting playability, durability and visual excellence from tee to fairway with shade tolerance and disease resistance not found in other grasses. Modern performance for modern golf. Built by Florida, for Florida. CITRAZOY.COM

from the publisher

Practicing Civility Civility means

showing politeness, courtesy, and respect for others in your behavior and speech, even when you disagree with them. It’s football season and we don’t always root for the same team but it’s nice when we’re all cheering for the same team. Da Bears!! Everyone knows him for his high profile playing, coaching and as a commentator in the NFL World. Golf and football lost Mike Ditka, a prominent figure also in the golf world, known for playing in high-profile celebrity pro-am events. Mike served as a member of the prestigious Bob O’Link Golf Club in Highland Park, Illinois, and helped found the private Olde Florida Golf Club in Naples, Florida, which opened in 1993. I hear his civility was not always known on the football field; however, our friend Darren Davis the Golf Course Superintendent who was hired in 1992 at Olde Florida Golf Club said, “Over the past 34 years Coach was nothing but kind, generous and supportive in every way.” A few things about Ditka’s celebrity golf history: In 1990 PGA Grand Slam of Golf, he stepped in as a last-minute pinch-hit amateur replacement for Curtis Strange. Won the 2006 Ron Jaworski Celebrity Golf Challenge and regularly participated in events like the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Known for a passionate, competitive temperament on the links … frequently remembered by friends and club members who occasionally had to re-shaft his broken clubs. The benefits of being involved in golf gives you the opportunity to meet celebrities and learn that “Most” of them are civil and treat people with basic kindness. RIP Coach Ditka! Who knew Pirates had hearts? Most of us think of Pirates as criminals raping and pillaging but our Turf Pirate is far cry from this historical reference. Anthony Williams who started the Turf Pirate feature decades ago just received his new mechanical valve and is recovering at the river house. This new device should last 75 years and allow him continue to plunder the seeds of the turf. We wish Our Treasure Anthony Williams a speedy recovery!

Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum (terrie@golfcentralmag.com) Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates (shannon@golfcentralmag.com) Graphic Design: Melahn Cable Oversight Officer/Uber Driver: Rocky Miller Turf Pirate: Anthony Williams Photojournalist: Greg Corbo Videographer: Ronald Malone Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson, Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway, Madison Coates, Mac Carraway Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Holly Geoghegan, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Anthony Williams, Ronald Malone, Tim King, Rocky Miller, Dave Walker, Gerald White Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail Video Visionary: Amy Fox Business Advisor: Jim Para Media Partners: DSP Media; John Gerber, JP Peterson, Holly Geoghegan, Golf Insiders, GMS; Tony Leodora, George McNeilly, Traveling Golfer, Golf The Wise Way: Greg and Beverly Wise, Photojournalists Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 4313 Berwick Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33859 NEW PHONE: 863.875.6863 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2026 Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Editorial contributions are welcome, but Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

EST. 1980

FLO R I DA CU S TO M H O MEB U I L D ER S I N CE 1 9 8 0

| ICI Homes is Coming to IronCrest

Custom Luxury. Designed Around You. ICI Homes is now scheduling private appointments for IronCrest, offering a new opportunity to create a custom home in one of Ocala’s most distinctive communities. With ICI Homes’ in-house design expertise, your home can be personalized around the way you live. Move walls, expand entertaining spaces, create private retreats, enhance outdoor living and make the plan distinctly yours. Enjoy the lifestyle surrounding The Club at Iron Lake, then come home to a residence designed around you.

C US TO M HO MES FRO M $1.5 MILLION

| Now Scheduling Private Appointments Join us for a private tour | Community: 950 NW 75th St, Ocala, FL 34475 SCAN TO VIEW

Call 855.272.1009 or visit us at ICIHomes.com ICI Homes North Florida Division, 14785-3 Old St. Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32258. CBC #1262120

Volume 27, Issue 7 20

Alabama Golf Central 40 Gulf Shores Cart Girl 14 Mia McCombs– Old Union Cart Girl 14 Amanda Dixon – French Lick Resort Cuisine on the Green 12 Saddlebrook Resort FEATURE 10 The Landings Golf & Athletic Club, Savannah, GA Golf Bachelor 22 Pablo Quintero

Departments

Golf Bachelorette 28 Sheila Tyman

18 Product Showcase– Breast Cancer Awareness Month 20 Competitive Spirits 26 Georgia Golf Traill 32 Grip It & Sip It 44 NFPGA 46 GAPGA 47 SFPGA

Growing the Game 34 Springdale Resort Living on the Links 16 Esplanade at St. Marys Special Events 24 NASCAR and The ANNIKA Stay & Play 38 Springdale Resort

Feature A

Turf Life 48 NorthBridge® Bermudagrass 50 PTI 52 GCSAA 2027 Emerging Leader Award 53 GCSAA Grassroots Leadership Awards

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golfcentralmag.com

feature

ONE CLUB. FIVE UNIQUE CAMPUSES.

ses, 6 championship golf courses, a Golf Only at The Landings Golf & Athletic Club can you find 5 campu pickleball courts , 8 bocce courts , 5 swimming Performance Center, 10 dining venues, 31 tennis courts , 22 all in one membership and all by golf cart. pools and a 52,000-square-foot wellness center and spa – MARSHWOOD

The original home of The Landings Golf & Athletic Club, Marshwood blends championship golf, vibrant dining, and classic island recreation. From Arnold Palmer-designed fairways to poolside gatherings and croquet traditions, this campus offers experiences for every lifestyle. Highlights: Two Arnold Palmer-designed golf courses, eight tennis courts, renovated clubhouse, resort-style seasonal pool, three distinctive dining venues, event lawn, and regulation croquet court

PALMETTO

Set along the southeastern edge of Skidaway Island, Palmetto is known for exceptional golf, diverse dining, and memorable celebrations. It is a hub for gatherings, offering beautiful event spaces and experiences that bring members together year-round. Highlights: Two championship golf courses, Arthur Hillsdesigned Palmetto Course, intracoastal waterway views, Craft Kitchen & Bar, Finjin Sushi & Noodles, and a grand ballroom

FRANKLIN CREEK

The center of racquet sports and family fun, Franklin Creek is one of the most active destinations on campus. With nationally recognized tennis and pickleball facilities, a year-round pool complex, and casual dining, there is always something happening. Highlights: 22 pickleball courts, 19 Har-Tru clay tennis courts, eight bocce courts, year-round heated pool complex, pickleball pavilion, The Deck fast-casual dining

AN AWARD-WINNING CLUB EXPERIENCE Platinum Clubs of America — Ranked among the Top 150 Country Clubs in America. Elite Distinguished Club of America — Recognized for exceptional service, facilities, leadership, and member satisfaction. Above: Marshwood Clubhouse and Pool. At Top: Marshwood Golf Course, Hole 12.

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OAKRIDGE

Focused on wellness, recreation, and connection, Oakridge combines scenic golf, extensive fitness amenities, inviting dining, and unique shopping experiences. It is a destination where members can play, recharge, and gather with friends and family. Highlights: Arthur Hillsdesigned golf course, lighted 18-hole putting course 52,000-square-foot wellness center & spa, indoor and outdoor pools, Oak & Moss boutique, Osteria Oakridge, and The 109th Hole

DEER CREEK

Home to championship-caliber golf and one of the Club’s most scenic settings, Deer Creek delivers exceptional play alongside elevated coastal dining. The campus also serves as the stage for premier tournaments and state-of-the-art golf instruction. Highlights: Tom Faziodesigned golf course, golf performance center, host of the Club Car Championship, advanced fitting and instruction facilities, coastal-inspired dining, and spectacular marsh views Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

IT’S

NOT ABOUT WINNING.

YOU ALREADY HAVE.

The life you’ve been waiting for, the life you deserve, the life you’ve earned, is all right here. To see what it feels like for yourself, schedule your Discovery Visit at thelandings.com

cuisine on the green

BEYOND THE GAME: The Culinary Experience at Saddlebrook Resort Chef Mark Davis brings a fresh perspective to GOAT Kitchen & Bar

The newly renovated

Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Florida, is known for its golf and tennis heritage. With 27 holes, including the Pine and Oak courses redesigned by Rees Jones, the resort offers plenty to enjoy on the course and beyond it. That sporting legacy comes to life at GOAT Kitchen & Bar, where the atmosphere celebrates the competitive spirit of the game in a setting designed for good food, drinks, and time together. Leading the culinary direction is Chef Mark Davis, Multi-Unit Property Chef, whose background spans upscale dining, culinary innovation, and multi-unit operations. For Chef Davis, the goal is to bring care and creativity to familiar favorites while keeping GOAT welcoming and approachable, whether guests are stopping in after a round, catching a game, or meeting friends for dinner. Familiar favorites, made from scratch Working alongside Chef Emanuel and the culinary team, Chef Davis 12

brings a thoughtful approach to sports tavern classics, with scratchmade preparations and ingredients that let each dish stand out. The menu delivers plenty of personality, from the GOAT Wagyu Smash Burger with caramelized shallot jam, aged white cheddar, and black garlic aioli to Saddlebrook’s signature Irish Nachos, piled high with bacon, green onions, and housemade potato chips topped with Saddlebrook Ale cheese sauce. “Our vision for GOAT is simple: deliver the energy and excitement of a great sports bar without compromising the quality of the food. We want guests to come for the atmosphere but return because of what they experienced at the table.” That approach makes GOAT a natural gathering place for golfers, resort guests, and locals alike. It’s a spot to celebrate a great round, settle in for the game, or simply enjoy a good meal in lively company.

The Round Ends. The Game Goes On. After your next round, make GOAT Kitchen & Bar your next stop for a bite, a drink, and the game. At GOAT, the spirit of competition carries on long after you leave the course. See where greatness sets the bar.

GOAT Kitchen & Bar | Saddlebrook Resort | Wesley Chapel, Florida Explore the menu and plan your visit at saddlebrook.com.

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

LPGA International

Play the Courses.

Stay for the Iconic Beach.

Make your next golf getaway a Daytona Beach getaway. Spend your days on area courses, including LPGA International, then trade the fairways for the shoreline. Enjoy fresh local flavors, explore the

area’s history and culture, and unwind along the coast. With plenty to experience beyond the course, there’s more to every round in Daytona Beach.

Plan your golf getaway at DaytonaBeach.Golf

cart girl

Mia McCombs

Where did you grow up? Blairsville, GA What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch? I enjoyed competing in gymnastics and running track and field! My favorite sport to watch is football (Go Dawgs!). Do you enjoy playing golf? Are there any golfers in your family? I enjoy golf, but I am NOT good at it. When I began working at Old Union, I decided I wanted to attempt to pick up golf. Although, I am not that good, I truly enjoy trying! In my family, my dad and brother like to golf and I love playing with them and having golf at the center of our quality time together. What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? What is your least favorite part? I cherish all of the interactions and relationships I make with my golfers. They are so kind to me and I am grateful to know them! I would say my least favorite part is approaching a player right after they’ve made a bad shot (it always becomes the elephant in the room). 14

If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing? Working as a Physician Assistant! I recently graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in biology and am currently in the process of applying for PA school and reaching that goal! What type of music do you prefer? I typically only find myself listening to either christian or country music! What hobbies do you enjoy? I enjoy playing pickleball with my friends! Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? Definitely a relaxed evening at home with a home cooked meal, my favorite show on, and dessert! Favorite type of movie? I enjoy watching comedies or romcoms. My favorites would definitely be Grown Ups and How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days! What else would you like for us to know about you? I am so blessed to have the Lord in my life and enjoy every moment I get to radiate His love by being present with those I interact with and loving them as He would! Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

living on the links

Taylor Morrison Announces Grand Opening of 18-Hole Championship Golf Course at Esplanade at St. Marys in Coastal Georgia Resort lifestyle community features 1,300 homes and extensive amenities America’s Most Trusted® Home

Builder Taylor Morrison is celebrating the grand opening of its 18-hole championship golf course at Esplanade at St. Marys, the first Esplanade resort lifestyle community to come to the Greater Jacksonville market. Designed by award-winning C.W. Golf Architecture, the course features breathtaking views and tee locations for all skill levels—making it both friendly and challenging. The course also features an Aqua Range, Pro Shoppe, and Café. “Esplanade at St. Marys offers an unforgettable golf experience with stunning views of the natural beauty of the surrounding area,” said Mike Block, General Manager at Esplanade at St. Marys. “With five teeing options ranging from 3,500 to 7,000 yards, this course is an incredible golf destination for players of all levels and a place for residents to connect while staying active and enjoying the outdoors.” Upon completion, this highly anticipated 1,250-acre golf course community will bring 16

more than 1,300 single-family homes, signature resortstyle amenities, and wellness programs to the region. Additional planned amenities include: • Culinary Center with casual and upscale dining experiences • Wellness Center with stateof-the art fitness center with saunas and cold plunge • Signature spa services with a full-service Spa and Salon offering skin, hair, and nail treatments • Tennis, pickleball, and bocce courts • Resort-style pool and spa with towel service and pool-side cabanas • Poolside Bahama Bar with full-service dining • Bark Park • Walking trails

“St. Marys offers a nostalgic charm and beautiful, naturerich setting that’s ideal for introducing our first Esplanade community in the area,” said Jeremy Hampson, Jacksonville Division President. “Between the 18-hole championship golf course, extensive amenities, and thoughtfully designed homes, this community reflects how unique the Esplanade lifestyle truly is.” Ideally located near the GeorgiaFlorida border, Esplanade at St. Marys offers easy access to coastal escapes and cultural attractions in both states. Residents will enjoy close proximity to shopping, dining, entertainment, and top-rated schools, as well as transportation corridors that run north/south and east/west across the state including I-95, Hwy 17 and GA 40. Priced from the $400s to $1 million+, homes at Esplanade at St. Marys range from 1,580 –3,730 Sq. Ft. with 2–4 bedrooms, 2–5.5 baths, and 2–3-car garages. Residents can choose from an array of 13 beautifully designed one- and two-story floor plans. “The excitement around Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Esplanade at St. Marys has been building for quite some time, and we’re thrilled to unveil this stunning golf community,” said Cammie Longenecker, Taylor Morrison’s President of Resort Lifestyle. “From spectacular resort amenities to concierge services, wellness programs, and more, residents will find endless opportunities to build meaningful connections and experience an unmatched lifestyle that feels like you’re living on vacation every day.” Taylor Morrison’s Esplanade brand has more than 30 communities across the country and plans for continued growth, most recently launching in markets including Las Vegas, Nevada; Charlotte, North Carolina; St. Johns, Florida; Temecula, California; and Sacramento, California.

For more information about Taylor Morrison and Esplanade, and to receive the latest updates on upcoming communities, please visit www.taylormorrison.com

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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product showcase

DrinkTanks

October is a time for the golf community to recognize the people and families affected by breast cancer. DrinkTanks’ Breast Cancer Awareness Month collection gives people a way to show support, bring people together and keep the conversation going in October. The drinkware pairs pink ribbons with pink, black and white designs across a range of pieces for the course and clubhouse. The lineup includes a 16-ounce Craft Cup, 16-ounce Session Cup, 32-ounce Session Jug, water bottle, wine cups, cocktail shaker, shot and glass set. Some designs place a single ribbon against a solid background; others feature ribbons, stripes or a bold band of pink. Shown with Belwood Country Club branding, the collection demonstrates how a club can bring the awareness theme into its golf shop, tournaments and member gatherings. A display can welcome golfers before a round, while the drinkware can become a lasting reminder of an October event. For many golfers, breast cancer awareness is personal. A pink ribbon might honor someone undergoing treatment, celebrate a survivor or remember a loved one. The collection offers clubs a way to make that recognition part of the shared experience of golf, whether members are gathering for a tournament, enjoying time in the clubhouse or carrying a cup onto the course. The message extends beyond any one event: show up for the people in your community, make room for their stories and continue the conversation after October ends.

www.DrinkTanks.com

SuperStroke Zenergy

Amy Sport

The SuperStroke Zenergy Pistol 1.0 and Pistol 2.0 grip is available year-round in a classic Pink and White colorway. The Pistol series is a modern take on a beloved classic. These putter grips merge a pistol-style top section that helps golfers lock in their upper hand position with “No Taper Technology” to help golfers maintain even grip pressure and boost the consistency of their stroke. While not specifically designed for Breast Cancer Awareness, these grips are the perfect way to have your putter WEAR PINK all year long. SuperStroke also has a customization option that allows customers to place images or logos in the top portion of this grip. Learn more about customization options at

COTTON CANDY, WITH A CAUSE. Meet the Cotton Candy Danni Sherpa—the latest take on Amy Sport’s best-selling Danni Bomber. A signature hero product, the Danni is reimagined season after season in fresh fabrications, pairing the brand’s wit with wearability on and off the course. Soft, bold and unapologetically pink, this edition has something extra to say. Throughout October, 10% of proceeds from every Cotton Candy Danni Sherpa sold will benefit Play for P.I.N.K., supporting breast cancer research. A favorite layer. A meaningful cause.

www.AmySport.com

www.SuperStrokeUSA.com

BREAST AWARENESS MONTH

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Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Ear Sun Gear

Makin’ Shade for a Cure: Bringing Breast Cancer Awareness to the Cap Ear Sun Gear proudly supports breast cancer awareness by branding our universal baseball hat attachment with the iconic pink ribbon. By introducing high-utility, custom-branded options, we empower events, tournaments, and advocates to wear their support on their sleeves—and on their caps. Our specialized pink ribbon gear is designed to transform standard athletic wear into a moving billboard for a cure. During charity golf tournaments, pink-out stadium events, and community awareness walks, advocates can proudly showcase dedication to the cause right at eye level. By integrating the pink ribbon into the outdoor sports lifestyle, the message stays front and center where it matters most. Our pink ribbon gear acts as the gift that keeps on giving!! Instead of promotional items that are quickly discarded, our product provides daily, long-lasting utility. Every day as athletes, fans, and families head out to support their favorite teams, the pink ribbon continues to get exposure… just like the sun. Ear Sun Gear delivers sustained visibility and unwavering commitment to health, community safety, and a cure. Ear Sun Gear never wavers on our support for this cause and believes that keeping the pink ribbon on all baseball hats will bring awareness to this issue. Let’s unite the sports community, and keep Makin’ Shade for a cure.

www.EarSunGear.com

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Onix

PADDLE WITH A PURPOSE THIS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH This October, Onix Pickleball is proud to put pink on the court in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As a brand built around bringing people together through pickleball, we believe the sport can be a powerful way to raise awareness, show support and encourage our communities to come together for an important cause. Our pink Evoke Premier Pro Raw Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle and pink Dura Fast 40 Pickleballs bring a meaningful pop of pink to the court throughout October. Whether you’re playing with friends, competing in a tournament or simply enjoying a game, every rally is an opportunity to help keep the conversation around breast cancer awareness going. Onix is also proud to continue its Paddle with a Purpose initiative, supporting the IWIN Foundation during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Through this initiative, Onix helps raise awareness and support efforts benefiting individuals and families impacted by breast cancer, while contributing to the continued fight against the disease. This month, we’re encouraging players everywhere to grab their pink gear, step onto the court and Paddle with a Purpose. Because pickleball is more than a game, it’s a community, and together, we can use that community to make a difference. Learn more and shop Onix at

www.OnixPickleball.com

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competitive spirits

Lowcountry Blackbird at The Roost at Anson Point Located on the ninth hole of Anson

Point, Palmetto Bluff’s newest 18-hole course designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, one of golf architecture’s top pairings responsible for some of the game’s most celebrated designs, “The Roost” comfort station offers a curated menu from the Palmetto Bluff Club’s culinary team, signature cocktails, convenient grab-and-go options, and a variety of snacks. Designed to overlook the first green and the course’s defining feature, a long-abandoned quarry, The Roost is the ideal spot to relax in between holes or as a destination in and of itself, at charming outdoor tables or on the covered porch. Their signature drink, Lowcountry Blackbird, 20

created by Palmetto Bluff Club bartender, Leroy Simpson, was built around its foundational spirit, Wild Turkey, which was incorporated to highlight the amenity’s turkey theme inspired by Anson Point’s already iconic Eastern Wild Turkey logo which is emblazoned on the specialty cans the drink is served in. A visual emblem of the ecological philosophy behind the course — shaping the game around the land rather than reshaping the land to fit the game — the logo seamlessly aligns with Palmetto Bluff’s foundational mission led by the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, a non-profit organization founded in 2003 to protect the land and wetlands throughout the community. Considered an

“umbrella species” at Palmetto Bluff, the health of the wild turkey population is a key indicator of the broader ecosystem’s vitality. As the Conservancy often notes, “if the turkey thrives, everything thrives.” The Lowcountry Blackbird incorporates fresh basil and a mix of berries, including blackberries and raspberries, from Palmetto Bluff’s farm, to create the signature berry and basil syrup for the cocktail. Leroy and Shelby Duckett, the Palmetto Bluff Club’s Food & Beverage Manager, made several batches of the syrup until the recipe was perfected! Leroy Simpson, Anson Point’s Bartender, is a beloved member of the Palmetto Bluff Club staff and has worked at the property for 15 years! Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Start Planning Your Next Golf Getaway NOW BOOKING SPRING & FALL 2027

golf bachelor

Pablo Quintero Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and yes, I grew up there. Golf had me traveling quite a bit from a young age, especially to the U.S. for training and tournaments. Colombia has always been home, but golf gave me the chance to spend a lot of time in the U.S. growing up. What do you do for a living? I’m a professional golfer and an entrepreneur. My brother and I are building Trade2Golf, a U.S. based golf marketplace we created to make buying and selling golf equipment easier, more transparent, and more golfer friendly. The idea actually came from our own experiences with the game and realizing there had to be a better way for golfers to buy and sell their equipment. I’m also involved in a couple of other businesses with my brother, so when I’m not on the golf course, there’s usually something we’re working on. Aside from golf, what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I’m pretty active even when I’m not playing golf. I like working out, yoga, Pilates, traveling, playing different sports, and watching pretty much any sport. I also love spending time with friends, playing poker with them sometimes, and going out every once in a while. But I’m equally happy having one of those days where I just lie around and do absolutely nothing. I think you need both. Tell us about your first kiss. My first kiss was actually at a golf camp. We were playing laser tag and somehow ended up on different teams. At some point we found ourselves alone in one of those little rooms, counted to two, I’m still not really sure why we counted, and it just happened. Very romantic setting, golf camp and laser tag. Steak, chicken, or seafood? Steak, 100%. Give me a thick, juicy ribeye or tomahawk, hard sear on the outside and basically red on the inside. That’s hard to beat. Although I’m also a huge fan of raw salmon and sushi. Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. Most people who meet me would probably describe me as pretty quiet and laid back. I don’t usually go looking for attention and I’m perfectly happy keeping to myself. But my closest friends know there’s a completely different version of me when I go out. Apparently, I turn into a bit of a party animal. People who have only met the quiet version usually don’t believe it until they see it themselves. What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Slow play. No question. I can handle bad golf, bad shots, bad jokes, pretty much anything, but I cannot handle a five hour round. I think I’d rather shoot 85 in three hours than 65 in six. 22

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Name the three most important things to you in this world. Besides the obvious ones like family and health, I’d say freedom, having fun, and traveling. Freedom is probably the biggest one. I don’t like feeling tied to a schedule. I like waking up and being able to decide what I want to do with my day. And traveling is a big one for me. I love discovering new places and experiencing different cultures. Given the choice, would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Success, but probably not in the traditional sense. To me, being successful means building the life you actually want. That includes love, happiness, financial freedom, peace of mind, and being able to wake up excited about what you’re doing. So if I can cheat the question a little, I’ll take success because my definition includes a little bit of everything. What do you fear the most? I don’t really have one big fear that I think about, but if I had to choose something, maybe being the last person alive on Earth. Not because it sounds scary. I think I’d just get incredibly bored. What are some of your great accomplishments? Becoming a professional golfer is definitely one of them. Golf has been such a big part of my life, so getting to the point where I could compete professionally meant a lot to me. Outside the course, I’m also really proud of building Trade2Golf with my brother. Taking an idea that came from our own experience as golfers and turning it into a real business in the U.S. has been a completely different kind of challenge. I’m still pretty young, though, so hopefully my biggest accomplishments are still ahead of me. Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? Night out, easily. I could probably go out every night if there were no consequences. If someone ever invents a cocktail that gives you a great night, zero calories, and zero hangover, I’ll probably become the most social person on Earth. During tournaments, though, I’m much more disciplined. Golf has a way of forcing you to behave. What else would you like for us to know about you? I’m a pretty extreme person when I get something in my head. If I set myself a goal, I can become almost obsessive about seeing how far I can take it. I’ve done five day water fasts, gone through phases where I made my own shampoo and cleaning products because I wanted to cut out chemicals, and I’m always experimenting with different ways to challenge myself physically or mentally. At the same time, I’m probably one of the most laid back people you’ll meet about things I can’t control. It’s a strange combination. I’m very intense about the things that matter to me and extremely relaxed about almost everything else. Once I decide I really want something, though, I have a very hard time letting it go until I get there.

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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special events Gainbridge℠, Spire Motorsports and The Annika Driven By Gainbridge At Pelican Team Up With Michael Mcdowell for the 2026 Nascar Season Finale At Homestead-Miami Speedway As the NASCAR Cup Series heads

to Homestead-Miami Speedway for the 2026 season finale, World Golf Hall-of-Famer Annika Sörenstam and her namesake LPGA Tour event, The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican (The ANNIKA), is teaming up with Gainbridge℠, driver Michael McDowell and Spire Motorsports to unveil a unique livery for McDowell’s No. 71 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for the Nov. 8 NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race. The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican, Tampa Bay’s signature LPGA Tour event, takes place the following week, Nov. 9-15 at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Fla. McDowell, a two-time Cup Series race winner, will race the No. 71 The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge Chevrolet ZL1 when NASCAR’S premier division returns to the popular mileand-a-half South Florida oval for Championship Weekend for the first time since 2019. Meanwhile, the decklid of McDowell’s No. 71 Chevy will feature a dynamic look, including a roster showcasing many of the players on the LPGA Tour’s “Race to the CME Globe” rankings who are currently eligible to compete at the ANNIKA, a season-long points competition in which LPGA Members accumulate 24

points in every Official LPGA Tournament to gain entry into the season-end CME Group Tour Championship. McDowell will also sport a The ANNIKA-themed driver suit featuring a golf-inspired caddie bib and golf pants on race day. After the checkered flag waves and the 2026 NASCAR season officially comes to a close, the father-of-five will head to Florida’s Gulf Coast for The ANNIKA to share

time with the LPGA Tour players and participate as a celebrity caddie in the Wednesday Pro-Am at Pelican Golf Club on Nov. 11. “I’m definitely not the best golfer in the world so it’s easy for me to appreciate the talented players on the LPGA Tour,” said McDowell. “I’m really looking forward to visiting Pelican Golf Club to be part of the festivities and seeing the event in person. I know how important this tournament is to our partners

at Group 1001 and Gainbridge, so this is a great opportunity for Spire Motorsports to play an important supporting role.” “I’m looking forward to meeting Michael at The ANNIKA at Pelican Golf Club in November and watching the No. 71 ANNIKA Chevrolet hopefully take the checkered flag at the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race,” said Sörenstam. “Thank you to our incredible partners at Gainbridge and Group 1001 for this unique partnership - shining a spotlight and elevating women’s sports.” The ANNIKA is sponsored by Gainbridge, a Group 1001 company and features a $3.25 million purse, one of the largest on the LPGA Tour, outside of the major championships. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the ANNIKA Foundation. With eight races before the close of the 2026 Cup Series campaign, McDowell sits 20th in points while claiming three top-five and five top-10 finishes on the year. The NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race from Homestead-Miami Speedway will be televised live on NBC Sunday, Nov. 8 beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The 36th and final race of the 2026 season will be broadcast live in the Motor Racing Network and Sirius XM Satellite Radio Channel 90. Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Displays of the world's finest automobiles at fabulous venues.

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February, 13th.

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georgia golf trail

Savannah One of America's Oldest, Historic and Most Captivating Cities By Mike May

Without a doubt, Savannah,

Georgia – founded in 1733 -- is one of America’s most intriguing cities. When you consider Savannah’s long history, fascinating architecture, top-flight restaurants, pirate-filled past, music-inspired nightlife, and true Southern charm, there are very few, if any, cities in the U.S. that rank next to Savannah. Charleston,

South Carolina and New Orleans, Louisiana immediately spring to mind as possible peers to Savannah, but both of those cities lack Savannah’s 24/7/365 ‘sizzle’. If you enjoy ‘live’ music, visiting historic sites, such as the nearby Fort Pulaski National Monument, and devouring mouth-watering appetizers, entrees, and desserts, then Savannah is a perfect getaway for you and your family Azaleas inside Bonaventure Cemetary

Forsyth Fountain for a few days, a long weekend, or for an entire week or more. Savannah is such an alluring, attractive and all-inclusive destination that many people who have visited Savannah for business or pleasure have later moved there. “The ongoing appeal of Savannah as a vacation destination is what keeps people coming back to Savannah year after year,” says Doug Hollandsworth, founder, The Georgia Golf Trail. “Very few cities in the U.S. are like Savannah, which has some of the best restaurants in the country as well many historic sites to see, dating back to the days of Colonial America.” Savannah has also become a popular venue for the filming of movies, such as Forrest Gump, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, The Last Song, and Something To Talk About, Glory, and The Longest Yard, among others Sites To See: Savannah’s pedestrian-friendly layout enhances the appeal of its many attractions -- Southern cuisine restaurants, riverboat cruises, architectural tours, spectacular art

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Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

galleries, Civil War reenactments, and the Savannah Historic Theatre, which was established in 1818. Of course, any visit to Savannah would be incomplete without a stroll along River Street or a visit to the Historic District of Savannah, which is the home of the City Market. Both River Street and the City Market are filled with antique shops, classy boutiques, fabulous restaurants, unique nightspots, and locally owned inns, hotels, and B & B’s. The City Market is located in a fourblock area downtown and is in the heart of Savannah’s entertainment district. Every night in Savannah, visitors will find a live, local band or two producing toe-tappin’ sounds. Dynamic Dining Destinations: Savannah’s top restaurants are impossible to rank. It’s a matter of personal opinion whether one restaurant is better than another. It really depends on what suits your taste buds. Some of Savannah’s more popular restaurants include the Cotton Exchange, Alligator Soul, The Grey Restaurant, Common Thread, Brochu’s Family Tradition, Ardsley Station, Olde Pink House, Fiddler’s Crab House, River Street Inn, and Huey’s On-The- River. Seaside Strolls: If you want to escape to the beach while in Savannah, visit nearby Tybee Island. Officially known as Savannah’s Beach, Tybee Island has five miles of public beach along the Atlantic

Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa Ocean. If you spend the night at Hotel Tybee, you will see a brilliant sunrise the following morning. Luxury ‘Living’: A state-of-theart and convenient place to spend the night is the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. If you stay at the Westin, you’ll also receive complimentary water ferry service to and from River Street. Spooky Sightseeing: If you’re searching for a memorable outing in Savannah, book one of the many midnight ghost and gravestone tours through the city. It will give you a chance to see first-hand why Savannah has the reputation of being the number-one rated haunted place in the U.S. Some of

the more popular tours include the Savannah Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour, the Original 90-Minute Haunted Savannah Tour, and the Savannah History and Haunts Candlelit Ghost Walking Tour. An Internet search will reveal more options. And, the vast majority of them have a free cancellation policy. While booking your trip to Savannah, check out www.visitsavannah.com where you’ll find more things to do and enjoy while in Georgia’s oldest and most historic city which is forever filled with fascinating architecture, top-flight restaurants, a piratefilled past, music-inspired nightlife, and true Southern charm.

Aerial View of River Street During Festival

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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golf bachelorette

Where were you born and did you grow up there? I was born in Stamford, Connecticut. I spent my formative years in Springdale, CT, and then my family moved to a rural area of New York right on the Connecticut border. What did you do for a living? I loved teaching high school Earth and Environmental Science. Students asked questions and discovered answers by doing science. Aside from golf, what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Charlie, my dog, and I love to kayak flat water and explore desert trails. The desert tones and shifting textures inspire my artwork. I’m a mixedmedia textile artist and enjoy weaving, felting and slow-stitching with natural fibers. I use Earth pigments and rust to dye and paint textiles. What golf apparel do you like to wear? Most days I’m a basic-solids kind of gal, but lately I’ve been reaching for my blue floral Kastel quarter-zip. In my younger days, though, I would have happily worn a Jamie Sadock Hyped Up tropical sleeveless dress. Steak, chicken, or seafood? Salmon is my favorite when I’m out – seared and served with charred asparagus. But put a medium-rare steak and a good Cabernet Sauvignon in front of me and I won’t complain. At home, I eat chicken. Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I am a genuine introvert – a happy hermit.

Sheila T ymon

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Bad temper, excessive pre-shot routines, and not practicing proper cart etiquette. Name three most important things to you in this world. Faith, Family, Creativity. And, if I’m allowed a fourth: laughter. What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Brooke Henderson, Lorena Ochoa, and Tony Finau. They’re phenomenal golfers, and I’m equally drawn to their kindness and generosity off the course. I’d mostly be there for the conversation – and to watch the professionals make golf look easy. Favorite Charity? The Jane Goodall Institute. I’ve long admired Jane’s work and her commitment to protecting animals and the natural world. What else would you like for us to know about you? I love working in the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings of Tubac Golf Resort, and I’ve come to really enjoy our members and guests. It’s also where I’m now learning and enjoying the game of golf, thanks to the generous tips and encouragement of Head Professional Kristie Fowler and First Assistant Golf Professional Steve Henderson. 28

, Shane and Forrest Sheila with her sons Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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golf travel

A Bucket-List Golf Adventure in Idaho Nancy Lopez Golf Adventures

headed west for an unforgettable experience at The Coeur d’Alene Resort in Idaho, September 13–18, 2026. Nancy Lopez and the NLGA team welcomed 40 golfers for three days of great golf, spectacular scenery and the camaraderie that makes every Golf Adventure special. One of the highlights was the opportunity to play the renowned Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, home of the world’s only floating, movable island green. The iconic par-3 14th hole sits in Lake Coeur d’Alene and can play at different yardages as the green’s position changes. The Adventure began in memorable fashion with a dinner cruise on beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene, giving guests a chance to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones and enjoy the spectacular Idaho scenery. The dinner cruise combined lake views with an evening dining experience on the water. For Nancy and her team, this trip was about much more than golf. It’s about experiencing a special destination, sharing 30

plenty of laughs and creating memories together. Great golf. Great friends. An incredible destination. And, as always, a chance to Play Happy!

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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grip it & sip it

Sun Cruiser is the Official Ready-to-Drink Cocktail of the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open Presented by Ally National partnership debuted during the USGA’s 2026 championship season

Sun Cruiser, the fast-growing vodka iced tea brand made by The Boston Beer Company, and the USGA began a multi-year partnership, making Sun Cruiser the Official Ready-to-Drink Cocktail of two of golf’s most notable championships, the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open Presented by Ally. The national partnership saw Sun Cruiser integrated into the USGA’s two flagship championships through on-site activations and in hospitality spaces, while Sun Cruiser will help promote the championships across retail, social and beyond. Sun Cruiser debuted during the USGA’s 2026 championship season, beginning at the U.S. Women’s Open at the iconic Riviera Country Club, in Pacific Palisades, Calif. And then at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, in Southampton, N.Y., the only club to have hosted the championship in three different centuries.

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“We’re excited to welcome Sun Cruiser as the Official Ready-ToDrink Cocktail of our two flagship championships,” said Jon Podany, chief commercial officer at the USGA. “Sun Cruiser’s rapid growth and refreshing approach align perfectly with how we continue to evolve the championship experience for today’s fans. This partnership enhances our concession and hospitality offerings while bringing a modern, premium beverage option to two of the most iconic stages in golf.” Sun Cruiser’s lineup of readytodrink iced teas and lemonades is crafted with premium vodka and real ingredients, with no bubbles for smooth, all-day sipping. Balanced and refreshing,

Sun Cruiser is an easy choice for any outdoor moment in the sun, especially for a round of golf. “Since launching Sun Cruiser, we’ve seen drinkers naturally bring it along for a day out on the golf course,” said Erica Taylor, senior brand director for Sun Cruiser. “Teaming up with the USGA’s two flagship championships lets us meet golfers where they already are, whether they’re casual players or diehard fans, because those fun, memorable moments on the course are exactly what Sun Cruiser was made for.” Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails are one of the fastest-growing segments in the global alcoholic beverage market, driven by shifting consumer preferences toward convenience, premium flavors, and on-the-go consumption. Sun Cruiser is now the fastest-moving RTD in on-premise (bars and restaurants) locations nationwide and has become the fourth-largest overall RTD spirit offering. Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

growing the game

First Green Pays Off at Springdale Resort The Canton, N.C. resort now boasts several staff who were introduced to the golf course through First Green events. By Jeremy Boone, CGCS, MG

As my sons would attest,

this article has nothing to do with my golf game. Instead, it’s about planning for the future. As golf course superintendents, we often think tactically. What needs to be done tomorrow? Next week? Maybe even next month? We prepare budgets for the coming year and develop capital improvement plans that may stretch several years into the future. But, have you ever thought about your labor plan for 2031? I know what you’re thinking: This guy is crazy. Labor five years from now? I just need enough people to show up tomorrow so we can finish routine maintenance. I understand that feeling. But that’s exactly why we need to start thinking differently. When we hosted our inaugural First Green field trip at Springdale Resort in Canton, N.C., with Bethel Middle School in April 2022, I welcomed a group of sixth graders and joked that they thought they were getting out of class for a field trip. I told them they were actually attending a job fair — it was just four years too early. Of course, First Green is about much more than recruiting. Throughout the day, students experienced STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) education in a real-world setting. They 34

learned about the game of golf, explored soil science, climbed aboard the equipment we use to maintain the course and with the help of my wife, Kelly, a retired math teacher, calculated stream flow to estimate how many gallons of water travel through Long Branch as it meanders across our property each day. The local ABC affiliate covered the event, making it even more memorable. It was the first field trip these students had taken since before the COVID-19 pandemic. During the interview, science teacher Mrs. Clark told the reporter, “When these kids grow up, they won’t remember every day of their sixth-grade year, but some of

them will always remember taking a field trip to the golf course.” Our food and beverage team joined in the fun as well. Executive chef Sid demonstrated how math plays an essential role in preparing meals, especially when measuring ingredients for baking. My station focused on irrigation, the water cycle and water conservation. Before the students moved to the next station, I spent a few minutes talking about something equally important: the wide variety of careers available throughout the golf industry. For many of those students, it was the first time they realized a golf facility offers careers far beyond playing the game. Turfgrass Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

management, golf operations, hospitality, housekeeping, front desk operations, marketing, sales, culinary arts, accounting — the opportunities span a wide range of interests, skills and talents. Will every student who attends a First Green event become a golf course superintendent? Of course not. But if even one student discovers a passion for our industry because of that experience, the investment is worthwhile. The reality is that they don’t have to become superintendents, chefs or golf professionals for the program to make an impact. They might simply become part of your workforce for a few years. In today’s labor market, if a 16-year-old comes to work for you, stays through high school and returns during college breaks, that’s a tremendous success. Now imagine adding a few employees like that every year. Over time, you’ve created your own farm system. As older employees move on, another group is ready to step in. They progress from entry-level positions to greater responsibility, much like baseball players moving from Single-A to Double-A and Triple-A. Not everyone will make it to “The Show,” but every player contributes to the Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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success of the organization — and every employee contributes to the experience our guests enjoy. At Springdale, that strategy is already paying dividends. Our success story now includes five First Green participants. • Player One worked with us for a few months before deciding golf wasn’t for him. That’s perfectly fine, it isn’t for everyone. • Player Two, Eli, is currently edging bunkers as I write this article. At just 16 years old, he’s on time every morning for a 6 a.m. start — no small feat for a teenager. During his first summer, he has learned string trimming, hedge trimming, bunker edging and many of the daily tasks that keep a golf course looking its best. He’s curious, asks great questions, enjoys the work and appears to have a bright future with us. • Player Three, Bryce, attended our second First Green event. Now 15, he started as a pool attendant while also helping maintain the flower beds around the pool deck. Next season, he may transition to the golf course maintenance team or become a cart attendant. • Players Four and Five, Lilly and Jackson, are now in their second season as hosts at the Rocky Face Tavern, our on-site restaurant. It’s remarkable to have two employees with two full seasons of experience before either has reached 17 years old. What’s most remarkable is that none of these young people came to us as junior golfers looking for “golf jobs.” They came because First Green introduced them to career opportunities they never would have considered had they not visited our facility on a school field trip. Five students. Three departments. And more are on the way. I can’t encourage you enough to participate in this program. First Green is more than an educational outreach event. It’s an investment in your community, your facility and the future workforce our industry desperately needs. As superintendents, we also have an opportunity to educate future golfers, customers, neighbors and community leaders about the value of golf facilities. Too often, our industry finds itself responding to misconceptions about golf and golf course management. First Green allows us to get ahead of those narratives by showing young people — and through them, their families — the science, stewardship and professionalism that define what we do. We have an opportunity to change the narrative. We can show students that a golf facility is far more than fairways and greens. It’s a place where science, technology, environmental stewardship, hospitality, culinary arts and business all come together. More importantly, it’s a place where meaningful careers can begin. That’s what playing the long game looks like.

Jeremy Boone, CGCS, MG, is general manager and director of agronomy at Springdale Resort in Canton N.C. A 34-year association member, he is also a First Green liaison. 36

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Without the golf course, there is no game or business of golf!

Your donations support critical research, advocacy, and best management practices, enabling your superintendent team to deliver great playing conditions and keep your facility as a good community neighbor.

DONATE TODAY!

Every donation makes an impact.

Learn more at gcsaa.org/foundation

stay & play

Branson (MO) Golf Celebrates Pointe Royale’s 40th Anniversary Rich history marks golf club’s journey – from home to destination’s live entertainment performers to evolving modern venue

Back when Pointe Royale Golf

Village opened in 1986, superstar performers such as Andy Williams and Mickey Gilley called the community home and the golf club their own. Now, the gated, resort destination and semiprivate venue welcomes owners and nightly-rental guests; to enjoy the club’s many amenities including 18-hole golf course, three pools (one indoor), Tiki Bar, fitness center, tennis/pickleball/ basketball courts, Lake Taneycomo access, and lakeside hiking trail. The championship golf course, The Grill restaurant, and vast banquet space are open to the public. Pointe Royale has hosted John Daly, among other pros, and was the home course for stars such as Glen Campbell, Shoji Tabuchi, the Lennon Sisters, Jimmy Osmond, Charley Pride, and Johnny Lee. Many Pointe Royale golfers revel in playing where the stars of yester-year played and the stars of today’s Branson’s stages still play. This 18-hole track is a true shotmakers’ course and is deemed 38

Pointe Royale Golf Course by some as the most challenging par-70, 6400-yard course they’ve played due to multiple and significant elevation changes and eight water holes. The layout features lush bent grass greens, Bermuda grass surrounds and Zoysia collars and chipping areas.

Boasting over 430 1-to-4bedroom condos open to nightly rental guests—many of which offer value-laden “Stay and Play” packages—Pointe Royale is a sought-after golf destination for vacationers and locals alike. The individually owned condos participating in the Stay and Play package offering are listed on the website at pointeroyalegolf. net and the special rate is $59.99 for 18 holes of golf with cart. Golf clubs are available for rent, too, for those seeking them. Pointe Royale will offer several opportunities to celebrate its 40th anniversary throughout the remainder of the year. There will be specials and discounts in The Grill restaurant for owners and guests, a community shared day, owner’s appreciation lunch, Thanksgiving feast, K.C. Chiefs viewing parties, and more. Owners and guests will also still be able to participate in our standing events such as bingo, game nights, cards, yoga, water aerobics, pickleball, and Bible studies. Come eat, play, and Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

stay at Pointe Royale in Branson, MO, as the club looks forward to being one of Branson’s iconic golf places for another 40 years. For those wishing to pair rounds at Pointe Royale with other courses, the destination’s 12-course lineup includes: Ozarks National (18 holes), Buffalo Ridge (18), Payne’s Valley (18), Branson Hills (18), LedgeStone (18),The Pointe (18), Thousand Hills (18), Holiday Hills (18), Mountain Top (13 holes, par 3), Top of the Rock (9 holes, par 3), Cliffhangers (18 holes, par 3), Top of the Rock (putting course). All 12 destination courses are located near dozens of restaurants, scores of lodging options, and a plethora of after-golf things to see and do. Branson regularly garners top-rated tourism destination status in America from Trip Advisor.

For more information about the destination, visit ExploreBranson.com.

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Pointe Royale Clubhouse

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alabama golf central

Kiva Dunes

Gulf Shores Awaits Your Arrival With Golf Clubs In Tow By Mike May

When considering golf destinations

in the U.S., places like Michigan’s Gaylord Golf Mecca, Indiana’s Pete Dye Golf Trail, North Carolina’s Brunswick Isles, Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, and South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach immediately come to mind. Yet, Gulf Shores, Alabama, is often overlooked. Perched along 32 miles of beaches, Gulf Shores offers quality public-access golf where tee times are available and affordable, along with a wide variety of beachside accommodations, outstanding restaurants, direct flights to Gulf Shores from 13 cities via Allegiant, world-class charter fishing, delightful yearround weather, and the chance to visit the world-famous FloraBama Bar. It’s hard to find a better place to spend time with friends in pursuit of ‘Old Man Par.’ “Golfers will find that Alabama’s Beaches bring together everything you would want in a trip,” said Easton Colvin, a spokesman for Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. “The combination of 117 holes of golf, 32 miles of beaches, endless dining opportunities, and lodging of any shape and size, any trip can be tailored to your

40

Gulf Shores oysters as appetizers at Voyagers at Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach Alabama PHOTO BY MIKE MAY specific wants and desires.” Gulf Shores’ four premier publicaccess golf destinations are the 18-hole Gulf Shores Golf Club, 27hole Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club, 36-hole Craft Farms, and 18-hole Kiva Dunes. Together, they create a “trail-like” collection of golf because of their geographic proximity. With Peninsula’s 27 holes, golfers can enjoy seven different 18-hole layouts across these four clubs.

Gulf Shores’ oldest course, Gulf Shores GC, opened in 1964. Under new ownership, it has been transformed into a delightful golfing experience. Spacious fairways enhance pace of play and enjoyment, while fair and fast greens can challenge even the best putters. Downhill putts, in particular, require caution. GolfAdvisor has ranked Gulf Shores GC among Alabama’s top 15 courses. Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

The 27 holes at Peninsula can compete with any golf course in the South for conditions, layout, and playability. Built alongside the Bon Secour Wildlife Preserve, Peninsula winds through 800 acres of live oaks, cypress trees, and reclaimed marsh. From the bag drop to the pro shop, the customer service matches the quality of the golf. Craft Farms features two Arnold Palmer designs—Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend. With five staggered tee boxes, golfers can select a fair and comfortable tee box for their golfing ability. Excellent course conditions, quality greens, and competitive layouts make Craft Farms one of the Southeast’s most appealing 36-hole golf destinations. Breakfast and lunch are served in the clubhouse. Kiva Dunes, designed by 1976 U.S. Open champion Jerry Pate, is considered one of Alabama’s top three golf courses. Situated between Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, golfers often experience a refreshing breeze from either direction. Its location and playing characteristics give Kiva Dunes a distinct “linkslike” feel. Bump-and-run shots are especially effective around the greens, making this course a memorable test. Kiva Dunes may well be Pate’s finest creation. For accommodations, Gulf Shores offers numerous beachside resorts. But groups of four to 12 golfers should consider the Bunkhouse at Craft Farms, the former clubhouse converted into a firstclass golf lodging destination. The 7,000-square-foot facility includes a 2,800-square-foot common area with comfortable seating and a big-screen TV, a full kitchen, and six spacious bedrooms. Each bedroom features two double beds, a TV, walk-in closet, and double-sink bathroom with an oversized shower. One room is ADA accessible, and a practice putting green sits just off the back patio. For lunch and dinner, visitors have plenty of choices, from Voyagers at Perdido Beach Resort and OSO at Bear Point Marina to the Flora-Bama Yacht Club and Villagio Grill at The Wharf in neighboring Orange Beach. Seafood lovers will find plenty to enjoy. Enjoy your trip to Golf, er Gulf, Shores, Alabama. Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club

Bunkhouse at Craft Farms

Cotton Creek at Craft Farms 41

florida golf central

The Road to Pro Golf Runs Through Sebring This Fall

Three tournaments and a national golf media gathering put Sebring’s golfing tradition in the spotlight Before some of golf’s biggest

names were playing on national television, they were competing in tournaments much like the ones coming to Sebring this fall. From October-December, the Sebring area will host three competitive golf tournaments, along with a gathering of golf journalists and industry professionals from across the country. Together, these events reinforce something longtime golfers already know: the Sebring area has earned a reputation as a proving ground for rising golf talent.

Lauren Clark

Future Pros Take to the Fairways The action began October 12–14 with the Visit Sebring Classic, followed by the Citrus Golf Trail Open, November 18–20. Both tournaments are played on the Deer Run Course at Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club in Sebring and are part of the Minor League Golf Tour (MLGT). “Think of the MLGT as a steppingstone for aspiring professionals,” said Visit Sebring’s Casey Hartt. “Players compete for prize money, experience and opportunities to advance their careers, with many working toward the Korn Ferry Tour and

2022 Citrus Golf Trail Womens Invitational winner with her mom 42

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Peter Bradbeer ultimately the PGA TOUR.” Both tournaments welcome professional golfers and qualified amateurs with a USGA handicap of six or lower. Residents are encouraged to come watch the competition, with free spectator admission. Learn more or register at MinorLeagueGolf.com. A Tournament with a Remarkable History The year’s final tournament may have the most impressive history of all. The 72nd Citrus Golf Trail Ladies Invitational, formerly the Harder Hall Ladies Invitational, returns December 28–31 to Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club. First played in 1956, this tournament has helped showcase generations of talented female golfers, including players who went on to become some of the biggest names in the sport. Nelly Korda, Joanne Carner, Cristie Kerr, Brittany Lincicome, Morgan Pressel, Stacy Lewis and Charley Hull are among the notable players associated with its history. The four-day amateur tournament includes Championship and Forever 49 divisions and awards World Amateur Golf Ranking points, making it an important competition for accomplished female golfers looking to build their competitive resumes. Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

The Orange Jacket: A Sebring Golf Tradition While Augusta has its famous green jacket, the Citrus Golf Trail has created a colorful tradition of its own. The champions of the Citrus Golf Trail Open in November and the Citrus Golf Trail Ladies Invitational in December each receive a distinctive orange jacket, a nod to the Masters’ iconic green jacket and a celebration of Sebring and Florida’s citrus heritage. “The orange jacket is a uniquely local way to recognize outstanding golfers while connecting two competitive tournaments to the area’s identity,” Hartt said. National Golf Media Return to Sebring The spotlight won’t be limited to tournament play. The International Network of Golf (ING) Fall Forum, November 30–December 3, brings golf journalists, media professionals

and industry representatives to Inn on the Lakes in Sebring. The gathering features golf outings, industry presentations, networking and opportunities for attendees to experience the area’s golf courses, hospitality and attractions. More Than a Game While the Sebring name is iconic in auto racing, these golf events help introduce new audiences to the Citrus Golf Trail, a collection of courses that makes the Sebring area an appealing golf getaway. Some of the sport’s future stars are coming to Sebring this fall. And who knows? The next player you watch compete in Sebring could one day be playing for a green jacket of their own.

For more information, visit http:// www.VisitSebring.com or find us on social media @VisitSebring.

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Teaching & Coaching Summit with Dr. Rick Sessinghaus, PGA and Hallam Morgan with Flow Performance Group Provides Tremendous Educational Value NFPGA Members and Associates had the opportunity to unlock the mental game behind a top 10 player in the world at the September 30th Teaching & Coaching Summit at Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate! The NFPGA welcomed Dr. Rick Sessinghaus, PGA (coach to Collin Morikawa) and Hallam Morgan of Flow Performance Group. They provided numerous mental training insights, and Dr. Rick shared some great stories about working with Collin. One special aspect to the summit

was having Dr. Rick conduct a playing lesson with the Head Golf Professional from Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, Dion Muhammad, PGA. His coaching with Dion and the valuable tips to help improve the mental game on course was truly incredible. Attendees came away learning about shifting from a fear state to a flow state, pre-shot and postshot routine, showing students the value of mental training, utilizing technology for the mental game, and applying tips from one of the best coaches in the game. Thank you, Dr. Rick and Hallam, for headlining this summit! Along with hearing from Flow Performance Group, the NFPGA had a Q&A virtual session with our partner for the summit, Club Champion. Nick Sherburne, the President and Founder of Club Champion, took time to talk about Club Champion’s history and mission, the fitting process

at one of their studios, how the company can help teachers when working with their students, and the benefits of the partner program with Club Champion. Having Nick and Club Champion as a part of the summit added terrific value!z

Teaching and Coaching summit

Teaching and Coaching summit 44

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

achievement, shown an interest in golf or other athletic endeavors, and embody the character values Tim lived by, including kindness, determination, and a positive spirit. More than just financial assistance, the scholarship carries forward Tim’s belief in helping others grow, succeed, and feel supported in their journey.

2026 Tim Beckwith Scholarship Recipients - Alexis Castillo, Cooper Zysk

Tim Beckwith Scholarship Recipients Announced PGA REACH North Florida is proud to recognize Alexis Castillo and Cooper Zysk as the 2026 Tim Beckwith Scholarship recipients. Each will receive a $5,000 scholarship in recognition of their leadership, character, service, and commitment to positively impacting their communities. Read more about the recipients here: https://nfpga.com/2026-timbeckwith-scholarship-recipients/ The Tim Beckwith Scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of PGA Master Professional

Tim Beckwith, a cherished member of the Southwest Chapter of the North Florida PGA who was known for his integrity, persistence, hard work, and sense of humor. Tim dedicated his career to teaching and mentoring others, always seeing potential in people and encouraging them to believe in themselves both on and off the golf course. Created by the Beckwith family in partnership with the North Florida PGA, this scholarship supports students who reside within the North Florida PGA Section and are pursuing higher education while facing financial barriers. It is awarded to young individuals who have demonstrated strong academic

TPC Sawgrass hosts a Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier; 96 Participants Competed with the goal of making it to the National Finals On Saturday, September 12, 96 Drive, Chip and Putt Regional Qualifier participants gathered at TPC Sawgrass to compete for a spot in the 2027 National Finals, hosted the Sunday before the Masters Tournament. This special event featured terrific competition, sportsmanship amongst participants, a visit from PGA TOUR pro Sam Ryder, and families enjoying the iconic grounds. Congratulations to the eight juniors in each of the boys and girls divisions from the four age categories who officially qualified for the National Finals!

Drive Chip Putt 2026 DCP Regional Qualifier Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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GA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia PGA Georgia P

The Price is Right: Avery Price Captures Georgia PGA Assistants’ Championship By: Sloan Aubrey

Avery Price

Avery Price, PGA of America

Assistant Professional at The Rose Golf Club, captured the 2026 Georgia PGA Assistants’ Championship at Druid Hills Golf Club, finishing the 36-hole championship at 15-under-par. Price put together an impressive performance across both rounds, opening the day with an 8-under-par 64 first round to take the lead into the final 18 holes. He continued his strong play in the afternoon, carding a 7-under-par 65 second round to pull away from the field and secure the championship. Price capped off his day in fitting fashion, knocking in a three-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole to finish at 15-underpar 129 and put the finishing touch on a three-stroke victory. Nico Escobar, Associate PGA Professional at Capital City Club, finished as the closest challenger 46

Qualifiers (Ben Dulin not pictured) at 12-under-par 132 after 36 holes. The championship brought together the Section’s top assistant professionals for 36-holes of competition at Druid Hills Golf Club, with players competing for the title and coveted qualifying spots into the 2026 Assistant PGA Professional Championship. Price earned one of four qualifying spots alongside Landon Coontz, Associate PGA Professional

at West Lake Country Club; Austin Quillian, Assistant PGA Professional at Reynolds Lake Oconee; and Ben Dulin, Associate PGA Professional at Polo Golf & Country Club. The four will represent the Georgia PGA at the 2026 Assistant PGA Professional Championship, which will take place November 12–15, 2026, on the Wanamaker Course at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Tyler Collet, PGA, has excelled at the Section and National levels over the last six years, previously winning the South Florida PGA Section Professional Championship in 2020 & 2023, the PGA Professional Championship in 2024, and playing in the PGA Championship twice, along with numerous PGA Tour events. And now, the PGA Assistant Professional at John’s Island Club added 2026 South Florida PGA Section Professional Champion to his resume with rounds of 63-66-67, 20-under par. Collet not only claimed the Championship title, but he also earned entry into the 2027 Puerto Rico Open.

The South Florida PGA Section Professional Championship Round one of the South Florida PGA Section Professional Championship began Tuesday morning at 7:45 AM and got off to a hot start, with two professionals standing out among the field. Tyler Collet, PGA Assistant Professional at John’s Island Club, ended the round at the top of the leaderboard after firing a 9-under at Orchid Island. Following closely behind was Justin McCarraher, PGA Director of Golf at Heritage Bay Golf & Country Club, who shot an 8-under at Quail Valley. Ryan Fountain, PGA Head Professional at Hobe Sound Golf Club; Brett Melton, PGA Assistant Professional at APOGEE; and John Bednar, PGA Assistant Professional at Eastpointe Country Club, all finished tied for third at 5-under. “I’m just going to play like I would any other day to be honest with

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

you,” McCarraher said heading into the second round. “Today is over, tomorrow is a new day, but I’m looking forward to round two.” Of the twelve players still left on the course, Collet was not one of them. By the end of round two, Collet had extended his lead to 15-under, continuing to separate himself from the field. Meanwhile, Michael Kartrude, PGA Assistant Professional at The Bear’s Club and the reigning champion, surged up the leaderboard with a 5-under round to reach 9-under overall. Kartrude was not the only former champion making a move in round two. Taylor Collins, PGA Teaching Instructor at Coral Ridge Country Club, fired an impressive 6-under to move to 8-under for the tournament, earning herself a spot in the final grouping for the

championship round. At the conclusion of round two, which was delayed until Thursday morning, the nearly 200-player field was cut down to the top 70. Not as originally planned, players made their way to Orchid Island, where the final round was conducted due to the extreme amount of rain received throughout the week at Quail Valley. As play got underway, the leaderboard shifted early, with Derron Peyton, PGA Assistant Golf Professional at BallenIsles Country Club, and Justin Smith, PGA Teaching Instructor at Bonita Bay Club, getting hot early and moving their way into third after just three holes, taking over Collins. Collet kept pushing through the final round, firing a 5-under 67 to seal the championship victory by eight strokes over Justin Hicks, PGA Teaching Instructor at Stonebridge Country Club. With his performance, Collet also managed to break a section record, scoring the lowest total to par in South Florida PGA history, finishing 54 holes at 20-under, carding a total of 21 birdies and 2 eagles. “I had no idea what the record was coming into today. Honestly, my goal for today was to not make a bogey, but breaking that record is really cool,” Collet said about his accomplishment. The South Florida PGA Section Professional Championship is the premier event for South Florida PGA Professionals, where this 47th Championship was hosted at Quail Valley Golf Club and Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club from September 15-17, 2026.

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Tyler Collet Claims the South Florida PGA Section Professional Championship at 20-Under

Wild Dunes Harbor Course Selects for Major Renovation

Following a comprehensive

golf course renovation, Wild Dunes Resort’s Harbor Course selected NorthBridge® Bermudagrass to deliver improved playability and performance under coastal conditions. Located in the Charleston area on Isle of Palms, S.C., the Harbor Course at Wild Dunes Resort is known for its scenic layout along the Intracoastal Waterway. The course recently reopened following an extensive renovation that included new greens and green complexes, rebuilt tee complexes, new bunkers, a new irrigation system and new cart paths. According to Superintendent Billy Ford, the project was completed in approximately six months. As part of the renovation, NorthBridge Bermudagrass was selected for the golf course’s playing surfaces. The decision was influenced by the variety’s ability to perform under the unique environmental conditions found at the coastal South Carolina property. Managing Coastal Challenges A compromised flood gate allowed saltwater intrusion into the course’s freshwater pond system, while effluent water serves as an additional irrigation source. Those conditions presented an ongoing management challenge and made turfgrass selection an important component of the renovation. “I think NorthBridge does a lot better than 419 as far as salt tolerance is concerned,” Ford said. “We really like the density of it, the color of it, the resiliency of it. We really like it so far.” Green Acres Turf Farm owner Gary Youmans has worked with NorthBridge for years and has seen the grass perform under a variety of environments. He believes one of its strengths is its ability to recover from challenging conditions often encountered in coastal settings. “Even if we had some tides come up on it, it’s gonna burn

48

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

it but not kill it,” Youmans said. “It seems to bounce back really quick, which is the nature of NorthBridge. It grows fast. It’s kind of designed to be abused.” From the Farm to the Course Green Acres Turf Farm supplied the NorthBridge used throughout the renovation. Youmans said maintaining grass that is clean, properly mowed and ready to harvest is an important part of serving golf course projects where timing and quality are critical. The Wild Dunes project brings together the perspectives of both the superintendent managing the finished surface and the grower responsible for producing the grass. Ford and Youmans discuss those considerations, along with NorthBridge’s performance at the coastal property, in the full project video. Watch the full project video and hear directly from Wild Dunes Superintendent Billy Ford and Green Acres Turf Farm owner Gary Youmans:

NorthBridge now provides a dense, consistent playing surface suited to the unique challenges of the Harbor Course’s coastal environment. The project demonstrates the role turfgrass selection can play in longterm course performance. Beyond Wild Dunes, NorthBridge continues to be used at professional sports and golf venues worldwide, earning a reputation for durability and playability across a range of climates.

Learn more about NorthBridgeBermuda.com Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

49

PTI Golf Teams with Gogel for Greens, Tees and Bunkers Renovation at Country Club of Jackson The member-owned Country Club

of Jackson in Mississippi installed new greens in 2009, and for most of the years since they have provided superb putting conditions for the private-club members. But a couple of years ago they began showing some age, and the club knew it was time for renovation. So they contracted with course architect Mike Gogel and PTI Golf out of Las Vegas to take on the project. Gogel and PTI have worked together on numerous projects across the southwest over the years. “We knew it was getting to the time when we needed to replace the greens,” said Country Club of Jackson Director of Agronomy Stanley Reedy. “We also had some wet areas on the course

that we wanted to fix. And as our membership has aged, we needed to add another forward tee box. “So, two years ago we made a plan to get all of this completed. We contacted Mike Gogel to oversee the project. And he highly recommended PTI Golf to do the actual construction work. That’s who we ended up going with.” The work started in February, and for a couple of months the Dogwood-Azalea course remained playable in part for the members. But it finally closed in April, and just reopened before Labor Day Weekend. The PTI crew started with removal of turf and greens-mix removal from the putting surfaces, as well as turf removal from the collars and other areas. The greens were

Fairway Construction 50

shaped and constructed to USGA standards, with installation of drainage and adjustment to existing irrigation heads. The crew then installed 140,000 square feet of TifEagle Stolons on the putting surfaces, and over 265,000 square feet of 419 Bermuda Sod on the tees, SOX Erosion perimeter, misc. areas and sand plated fairways. Along with construction of the 18 new forward tee boxes, the team reshaped the faces of two greenside bunkers, renovated a 20,000-foot practice green, and constructed a 13,000-square foot croquet court, using TifEagle Stolons for the surface, Zeon Zoysia on the collars and 419 Bermuda on the surrounds. The work has been well received by the members of Country Club of Jackson. “The members absolutely love the work that was done,” said Reedy. “We haven’t had one complaint.” The Country Club of Jackson’s Dogwood-Azalea course has a storied history since opening in 1964. The course was originally designed by Dick Wilson, and later renovated by John Fought and Mike Gogel, re-opening in 2009. It was host to the PGA Tour Sanderson Farms Championship from 2014 to 2025, the tournament’s final year. PTI officials understood the history and stature of the golf course and club, and treated the project with special care. “PTI was honored to be chosen for this project, and appreciated all that has gone into making Country Club of Jackson such a special place,” said PTI CEO Mickey Brown, who was on site for much of the project. “It is always very nice to work with Mike Gogel on any project, especially one of this stature.” Reedy was complimentary of the PTI crew’s efforts. “They were Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Green Construction fine to work with,” said Reedy. “We had some ups and downs, but I’ve done enough projects in my time to know that you are always going to have that. They were flexible and worked hard. I would contract with PTI again.”

For more information about this project or PTI Golf, visit www.ptigolf.com, or call (702) 315-5121.

Sox Erosion Island Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

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Mitchell Eickhoff wins GCSAA's 2027 Emerging Leader Award Indiana native’s career includes eight years as an assistant at Augusta National Mitchell Eickhoff, the GCSAA Class A superintendent at Otter Creek Golf Course in Columbus, Ind., is the winner of the 2027 Emerging Leader Award from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). The Emerging Leader Award, presented in partnership with John Deere, “recognizes an individual who serves the industry as a superintendent with less than five years’ experience, student, associate member or assistant who displays continuous growth in service and leadership.” Eickhoff, a 12-year GCSAA member, is a native Indianan who originally attended Purdue University to pursue a degree in chemical engineering. After three years of study there, he was introduced to the golf course management industry by another GCSAA member — Phil Fischer, who now serves as the 52

GCSAA Class A senior grounds

Club in Augusta, Ga. He then served

manager at Brickyard Crossing

as an assistant at Augusta National

Golf Course in Indianapolis. At

from 2013-21 before Brent Downs —

the time, Fischer was seeking

director of agronomy at Otter Creek

summer help at Victoria National

GC and its sister course, Harrison

Golf Club in Newburg, Ind.

Lake Country Club — called to

“After I was introduced to the

offer Eickhoff Downs’ old job as

industry,” Eickhoff said, “it was

superintendent at Otter Creek.

just something I fell in love with.”

Eickhoff and the Otter Creek

Eickhoff, who eventually earned

staff are in the midst of a massive

a business degree from Purdue,

renovation, that will tear down

decided he wanted to make golf

what was a 27-hole facility

course management his career, so

originally designed by Robert Trent

he secured a turfgrass certificate

Jones Sr. into a 43-hole facility,

from Rutgers University’s two-year

upgrading the original 18 plus two

program and landed an internship

new par-3s: a 12-hole pitch and putt

at storied Augusta National Golf

and a 13-hole executive course. Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

Jim Culley

Jonathan Williams

Culley, Williams earn Grassroots Ambassador Leadership Awards from GCSAA Golf course superintendents honored for advocacy efforts, advancement of association priority issues and congressional outreach

Jim Culley, owner of Seed King

Enterprises, LLC, in Thousand Oaks, Calif., and Jonathan Williams, director of science and agronomy at Troon Golf in Scottsdale, Ariz., have received Grassroots Ambassador Leadership Awards from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). The Grassroots Ambassador Leadership Award, presented in partnership with The Toro Co., recognizes and honors individuals who have demonstrated growth in advocacy and advancement of the GCSAA Priority Issues Agenda through congressional outreach and relationship development with a member of Congress. Through Toro, the winners receive a trip to

Golf Central • Volume 27, Issue 7

take part in the annual National Golf Day event in Washington, D.C. The GAL Award is part of the GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador program, which matches GCSAA members with congressional offices to build strong relationships between them. More than 600 GCSAA members currently serve as ambassadors. Culley, a 30-year GCSAA member, joined the Grassroots Ambassador program in 2021 and is currently paired with Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Calif.). Culley has participated in National Golf Day since 2022, which has provided him with opportunities to meet with Brownley and successfully gain her support and co-sponsorship of the PHIT (Personal Health

Investment Today) Act. He also advocates on the state level and has served on the California Golf Course Superintendents Association board since 2011. His sustainability efforts include working closely with GCSAA Director of Government Affairs Chava McKeel to help craft GCSAA’s public comments for the Monarch butterfly designation on the Endangered Species List – an issue recently confronting golf course maintenance. “The most rewarding part of being a Grassroots Ambassador is ongoing. Being a part of how GCSAA provides the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with a workable program for golf superintendents is one of the most important services I can provide,” Culley said. Williams, a 13-year member of GCSAA, joined the Grassroots Ambassador program shortly after its launch in 2014. He is paired with Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), and his advocacy efforts have included encouraging Sen. Kelly’s support of H.R. 1583, the Parity for Athletic Recreation (PAR) Act. During a meeting with Sen. Kelly’s state director, Williams teamed up with GCSAA’s Michael Lee, senior manager of government affairs, and Kelly Lonker, grassroots advocacy specialist, along with the Arizona Alliance for Golf, to discuss common misconceptions about golf, particularly about water usage, and to share their sustainability efforts. The meeting was held at Papago Golf Course in Phoenix, a community-centric facility that perfectly represented the spirit of collaboration in Arizona golf. “I joined the program because I believed that our industry needed a stronger voice in both Arizona and Washington. Advocacy is critical, especially as golf faces increased scrutiny in Arizona and beyond,” Williams said. “Through the Grassroots Ambassador program, I’ve been able to represent our profession, highlight golf’s community and environmental value, and contribute to shaping policies that will influence its future. Golf tells a powerful story of sustainability, community and opportunity, and it’s up to us to ensure that story is told truthfully and proudly.” 53

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