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 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.
Rocky (GCM Oversight Officer) and I at the opening of the new PopStroke
New Perspective
The landscape of Golf Central is constantly evolving! I’m proud to introduce our new wave of influential voices shaping the conversations surrounding our sport. Let’s get to the heart of the matter.
Speaking of big hearts let me introduce Tim King (AKA Coach King). Tim’s career spans more than three decades molding today’s “golf yout”. Tim has an MBA in Sports Management and Leadership from Northcentral University and has been a PGA card holder since 1999. He incorporated Fore Junior Golf in 1994 in Madison County, Alabama and formed the North Alabama Junior Golf Association (NAJGA). His other junior golf experience includes the First Tee of Northwest, Fl. where he served as Tournament Director of the Greater Pensacola Junior Golf Association. In 2019 he served as coach at the renowned International Junior Golf Academy in Bluffton, S.C. working with kids from all over the world. Coach King lives in Alabama with his wife Rachel, has two boys, a French Bulldog named Khloe and a cat named Ted (pg 12).
In this month, Fore Your Health, we preview on page 26, Yoga for Golf by Lauren McMillin. A yoga and movement specialist and the founder of YoGolf Performance, Golf’s Online Golf Studio. You might recognize her from the Main Stage at PGA show in Orlando as a speaker for the last several years.
Paul Kiska who penned the Toski article last month (which delivered a ton of positive comments on social) shares his take on Empty Nesting this month page 36. Paul is a husband, father and has 30 years of experience as a news writer and reporter, with 20 of those years in his home town of Cleveland. He has interviewed many sports greats in his career including Tiger Woods. As always, I’m mighty grateful to have these new voices sharing the GCM love.
Signing off with Coach Kings motto:
“Mo-ti-vate: inspire, influence, propel “Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do”
Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum (terrie@golfcentralmag.com)
Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates (shannon@golfcentralmag.com)
Graphic Design: Melahn Cable Solutionist: Sara Rogers
Turf Pirate: Anthony Williams
Photojournalist: Greg Corbo
Videographer: Ronald Malone
Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson, Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway, Madison Coates, Mac Carraway
Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr.
International Correspondent: Dave Finn
The Needle: Bill Bona
Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Holly Geoghegan, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Lauren McMillin
Anthony Williams, Tres Fenton, Ronald Malone, Paul Kiska, Tim King
Media Partners: DSP Media; John Gerber, JP Peterson, Nick Geddes, Holly Geoghegan, Golf Insiders, GMS; Tony Leodora, George McNeilly, Traveling Golfer, Golf The Wise Way: Greg and Beverly Wise, Photojournalists
Barbara moved with her husband to Ave Maria, but lost him to cancer a little over a year ago. “He was the golfer. I’d just ride along and caddy. But I started to play, and then I started a league.” She is the leader of the Ladies Wednesday Golf League at Panther Run. “It started with four of us who wanted to play together. It’s grown to about 140. We really have a great time. You don’t have to have a handicap, just a good attitude. Everyone is very supportive.”
Getting out there with friends and making new ones is part of life in Ave Maria—A Big Kind of Small Town®.
Clarity is the foundation of purposeful competition. Without it, golfers can easily become distracted, discouraged, or inconsistent in their approach. When a golfer knows why they compete, practice, and push themselves, it fuels motivation, enhances focus, and provides a long-term vision for success.
Why Clarity Matters in Competitive Golf
1. Increases Motivation & Resilience When a player has a clear reason for competing, they are more likely to push through challenges.
Example: A junior golfer aspiring to get a college scholarship will approach practice with greater intensity and purpose than someone who is unsure of their goals.
2. Reduces Anxiety & Distractions Golfers who lack clarity often get caught up in external pressures— score, rankings, or what others think. A clear purpose shifts focus from external validation to internal progress.
3. Enhances Decision-Making on the Course. Clarity helps players make better strategic choices based on
Playing
Golf with Purpose and Peace Part #1 - Clarity: Knowing Your Why
their long-term goals.
Example: A golfer aiming to win a tournament might play more conservatively when needed, rather than taking unnecessary risks.
How to Develop Clarity in Competitive Golf
1. Define Your “Why”
Ask yourself: Why do I play competitive golf? Your answer should be personal and meaningful. Some examples include:
• I want to become a college golfer and earn a scholarship.
• I love the challenge of competing against the best players.
• I want to prove to myself that I can master the game.
• I use golf to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Action Step: Write your personal “why” statement and place it somewhere visible (golf bag, locker, or phone wallpaper).
2.
Set Short- and Long-Term Goals
Once you have a clear purpose, break it down into achievable goals.
• Long-Term Goal Example: Qualify for a U.S. Amateur Championship in two years.
• Short-Term Goal Example: Improve my scrambling percentage
from 45% to 55% in the next three months.
Action Step: Create a written roadmap for your goals, outlining specific steps to track progress.
3. Align Practice & Performance with Purpose. Every practice session and round should have intentionality. If your goal is to improve approach shots, don’t just hit 100 balls aimlessly—track accuracy, ball flight, and dispersion patterns.
Example: If your “why” is to be a top junior golfer, ask yourself before every practice session, is this helping me become the player I want to be?
Action Step: Before every round or practice, set one specific intention that aligns with your purpose (e.g., Today, I will commit to every shot with confidence).
Final Thought: Clarity Creates Commitment
When a golfer knows their why, their game transforms. They show up to practice with purpose, handle adversity with resilience, and compete with confidence. Clarity doesn’t just make you a better player, it gives you a deeper sense of fulfillment and joy in the journey.
Coach +K
Where did you grow up? I grew up in Northeast Ohio. Small town roots, big personality!
Which group of people did you associate most with in high school? I was in band and still stay in touch with three of my closest friends from those days. We’ve shared a lifetime of laughs and memories.
What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch? I love playing softball and golf, but when it comes to watching, football is my favorite, especially on a crisp fall day.
Do you enjoy playing golf? Are there any golfers in your family? I do enjoy playing! My last round ended with a splash, literally, when my pitching wedge flew from my hands and landed in someone’s pool (screen and all). My family is full of golfers: my Uncle Mike, Stepdad Tom, Aunt Karen, and Cousin Tommy who recently played at Pebble Beach!
What do you think makes this club special? The team at Waterford is something truly special! Positive, experienced, and always supportive. We’re like a second family, and our golfers bring such great energy that it never feels like “just a job.”
What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl?
One time, I saw a golfer fall into a pond. Without thinking, I jumped off my cart and into the water to help, got stuck in the mud, but managed to push him from behind while two others helped pull him out. Wild moment… especially with some very large gators nearby!
What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course? A crow swooped in and flew off with a lady’s golf ball mid-hole! She was not amused, but I couldn’t stop laughing!
What hobbies do you enjoy? Photography! I love capturing wildlife while cruising the course. There’s something magical about catching nature in action.
What is your idea of “the perfect date”? Getting my hair done, picking out a cute outfit, then dinner at an authentic Italian restaurant followed by a beach walk. Bonus points if there’s a drum circle, dancing under the stars is my kind of night!
Favorite comedian? Nikki Glaser
Favorite type of movie? Anything with a sci-fi twist or magical powers. I love escaping into a different world.
Favorite charity to support? CaringBridge, it’s such a beautiful way to keep families connected during tough times.
What else would you like us to know about you? I take great pride in everything I do, whether it’s restocking the cart, remembering someone’s usual drink, or simply offering a kind word to someone having a rough day. I genuinely love spreading positive energy, it’s amazing how far a smile or laugh can go out on the course. I believe in showing up with heart, being reliable, and treating everyone like family. Whether it’s a golfer’s smile or a teammate’s high five, I bring my full self to the job, every shift, every round, every day. This role has given me the chance to not just serve, but connect, and that’s what makes it so meaningful to me.
Jennifer “Jen the Whip” Whipple
Where were you born?
What do you do for a living? I am a Golf Course Superintendent at Boca Grove Golf and Tennis Club.
Brian Distel
What would you like to do for a living? I’m doing just that! Living my dream career in the Golf Business for the past 38-years while traveling the world!
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I love to travel. From hiking to beautiful beaches, watching the sunrise and sunset with a Mai-Tai!
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? Definitely my parents, they are beautiful from the inside out. They seasoned me into the man I am today.
Tell us about your first kiss? In my younger years, I was shy around girls. But I knew Rebecca wanted to kiss me. So, my first kiss was in 5th grade with my best friend in North Michigan at my uncle's campground, catching frogs. She kissed me and changed my life forever.
Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I’m an extroverted Gemini with a socially fun and exciting personality. I truly enjoy spending time with good friends who add value to my life.
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? A fishing pole, a tiki hut and an endless supply Vodka.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? I’d have to say it is probably just that most people do not understand the dynamics of managing a golf course. With over 80 billion grass blades or approximately 50 million individual living plants, anything can present issues and significantly alter the playing conditions, as Mother Nature constantly changes the climatic conditions in the environment. Turf Managers around the world struggle with Mother Nature and trying to educate and communicate those things to our Members and Guests.
What do you fear the most? I really don’t fear anything. I’m very adventurous.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Tiger Woods, Jack Nicholas and my father.
What are some of your great accomplishments? Taking the opportunity to work and live overseas for 16 years as a Director of Agronomy/Golf Course Superintendent in places like Singapore, India, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Mongolia. This has given me a worldly perspective on life. Embracing different cultures, teaching others how to maintain International Golf Course Standards. From owners, management, golf members, to most importantly, team members. Teaching them to embrace the changes needed to elevate standards in extreme climatic conditions. These experiences have made me a better person and fostered lasting relationships and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Last time you spewed something through your nose from laughing so hard? On the Stuart Sand Bar, a friend was fishing from the boat, who had been drinking throughout the day. A fish hit the pole, and he became so excited that he slipped and fell overboard with the fishing pole, but managed to catch the fish.
Favorite comedian? Nikki Glaser
Last book you read? Applying Pesticides Correctly (for my Florida Pesticide License.)
Favorite charity to support? St. Jude “Hope Lives at St. Jude / Every Child Deserves a Chance”
What else would you like for us to know about you? I’m fun, enjoy good company and a good laugh. I work hard, but I can enjoy playing hard too. Whether on the course or on the water, I like to have a blast and make memories every chance I get. From Golf Tournaments to Fishing Tournaments, you can find me right in the middle of the party having a great time.
West Bloomfield, Michigan
Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was born in Fresno, CA. I grew up in Philly + Boston and then I moved to Lakewood Ranch, Florida when I started college.
What do you do for a living? I’m a real estate agent with Suncoast Dreams at Fine Properties! My team specializes in golf and waterfront properties in the Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota area.
What would you like to do for a living? Probably still real estate! Maybe write too! I’d love to just turn all my hobbies and interests into jobs!
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Anything that gets me outside in nature! I’m always down to go to the beach. I love taking road trips. I’m spending time with family, friends and my German Shepherd, Josie!
What golf apparel do you like to wear? Lululemon’s golf clothes, especially the Align dresses!
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My mom, of course! She was the one to teach me that inner beauty comes first.
Steak, chicken, or seafood? Seafood. I felt so spoiled growing up in New England. That’s where the seafood is.
Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I almost became an actress when I was younger! I walked into a talent agency in Boston. I met the agents and they wanted to interview me. They called me back later and said they wanted to work with me and send me off to New York. At the time I didn’t realize how big of a deal all of it was until I told my aunt, who used to be an international model. She started freaking out. She said “they don’t just take anyone off the street like that!”
Name the three most important things to you in this world. Faith, family + friends
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Definitely love. Not just romantic love, but connection in general. Success and money don’t mean much to me if I don’t have anyone to share those things with.
What do you fear the most? Settling for less and too quickly in a relationship. I don’t like to rush or force a connection. I believe in waiting for the person where we’re each other’s first choicenot just the convenient or comfortable option.
Favorite comedian? Jimmy Fallon
Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? I’m an absolute sucker for romance movies. I love Western movies and mystery movies too. I also love scary movies because I love scaring myself, as long as they aren’t gory!
Last book you read? Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann.
Favorite charity to support? Jimmy Fund
Samantha Walsh
Data-Driven Golf Innovator features New Rangefinders and GPS Watch
Golf has always been a game of precision, patience, and performance. For David Hunter, founder and CEO of Shot Scope, it was also a game of data obsession. Long before launching one of the golf industry’s most respected GPS rangefinders and data tracking platforms, Hunter was a mid-handicap player in Scotland, manually tracking every shot in a series of notebooks. Applying philosophies he learned from competitive martial arts— where every small improvement was measured—he meticulously charted distances, dispersion patterns, and performance trends. Over six years, that process transformed his handicap from 16 to 5, and sparked an idea: there had to be a better way to collect, analyze, and apply golf data. With a background in electronics engineering and a passion for the game, Hunter developed a concept for automatic shot tracking that wouldn’t interrupt play. This evolved into Shot Scope’s first technology:
club tags communicating with a GPS-enabled device, capturing 35 pieces of data per swing. Since its founding in 2014, Shot Scope has grown into a global brand with more than 220,000 users across 160 countries, half of them in the U.S., and an ecosystem that offers lifetime free data tracking with no subscription fees—a rarity in today’s sports tech landscape, and remains one of the category’s biggest draws, turning on-course data into post-round learning without a monthly fee.
In 2025, Shot Scope has expanded its portfolio with three major product launches designed to enhance accuracy, personalization, and on-course decision-making. Leading the way is the PRO X laser rangefinder, which brings a new level of customization to the category. With interchangeable design plates, golfers and golf courses can personalize their devices with logos, graphics, or commemorative designs, making it ideal for tournaments, corporate events, or
golf trips. Performance-wise, the PRO X delivers yardages accurate to within one yard over 800 yards, features Adaptive Slope Technology, Target-lock vibration, Rapid-fire detection, and a builtin cart magnet—all for $199.99.
For those seeking the ultimate in visibility, the PRO L5 offers Shot Scope’s clearest optics yet. As the company’s first rangefinder to feature an ultra-clear OLED display, it delivers crisp yardages in any lighting condition. With a range of 1,300 yards, Gen 2 Rapid-fire detection, and slopeadjusted distances, the PRO L5 blends tour-level precision with user-friendly features. Like all Shot Scope rangefinders, it
Shot Scope PRO X
integrates seamlessly with the Shot Scope mobile app, unlocking aerial course maps and hazard distances—giving golfers the ability to plan every shot strategically. The PRO L5 retails at $229.99.
Rounding out the new lineup is the G6 GPS watch, a lightweight (42g), no-setup device preloaded with over 42,000 courses worldwide. Designed for simplicity, it now includes full-hole maps— previously reserved for Shot Scope’s higher-end performance watches—allowing players to see every hazard, dogleg, and lay-up point from their wrist. It offers distances to the front, middle, and back of greens, a digital scorecard, large digit display mode, and up to two rounds of battery life. With 12 interchangeable strap options and multiple clock faces, the $179.99 G6 also serves as an everyday watch. These launches coincide with Shot Scope’s largest brand campaign to date, “My Game. My Story,” focusing on expanding its presence in the United States and Canada, where the brand sees its largest runway. Building on strong momentum with retail partnerships, the company is positioning itself as both a leader in performance tracking and game improvement.
The brand’s core advantage remains its free, data-rich analytics platform. Every swing recorded is stored for life, providing golfers with long-term insights into performance trends. After the round, the data platform translates shots into trends—club-by-club distances, strokes-gained style insights, and course management cues. On average, Shot Scope users improve their scores by 4.1 strokes within their first 25 rounds—a testament to how actionable data can transform a game.
For Hunter, the mission is unchanged from the day he started jotting numbers into a notebook: “Give golfers the best tools to improve, without distracting from the game they love.” And with its 2025 lineup, Shot Scope is proving that the marriage of technology and tradition can help players of all levels unlock their best golf yet.
Visit www.shotscope.com
Shot Scope PRO L 5
Shot Scope G6 GPS Watch
Shawn Benson Executive Chef at Clear Creek Tahoe
Shawn Benson brings years of culinary expertise to Clear Creek. Shawn previously worked at the Glenwild Golf Club & Spa in Park City, Utah, where he served as the Executive Sous-chef for 14 years. While at Glenwild, Shawn also assisted the sister DMB Club, Kukuiula in Kauai. Most recently, Shawn was the Executive Chef at Cottonwood Club in Salt Lake City, Utah. He is dedicated to running an uplifting kitchen that embraces learning, teaching, leading by example, and creating a strong family atmosphere while maintaining a high bar of excellence.Clear Shawn Benson’s culinary skills were put to the test early on in
life, like about 8 or 9 years old. He shadowed his mom through the kitchen as they whipped up meals for a family of seven kids. And they didn’t take the easy way out either by opting for spreads
of canned beans, macaroni, and a TV tray of Salisbury Steak fresh from the freezer. Nope, this was a matter of making meals that his siblings enjoyed eating as much as he and his mom enjoyed making. Like fine wine, Benson’s skills in cooking and passion for pleasing only got better with time. “My mom set the table for me to become what I am today,” said Benson, Executive Chef at Clear Creek Tahoe. “I learned creativity from her and have even refined a few of those recipes that I work into a menu now and then,” he added.
www.clearcreektahoe.com for more information
Sweet Potato & Leek Dumplings with Soy-Sesame Glaze & Salsa a La Huancaina
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
150g all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
2 tsp vegetable oil
100ml boiling water
For the Filling:
1 leek, sliced
2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and diced small
1 tbsp soy sauce
½ tbsp sesame oil
½ tbsp sugar
For the Glaze:
30ml water
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
To Garnish:
A drizzle of vegetable oil
Sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Slowly add the boiling water while stirring with chopsticks or a fork. Add the vegetable oil and knead until a soft dough forms (about 5–7 minutes).
Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the sweet potato cubes and cook for 6–8 minutes until just tender.
Add the sliced leeks and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Cook for 1–2 more minutes. Let the filling cool.
3. Form the Dumplings
Divide the dough into small equal balls (about 12).
Roll each ball into a small circle (around 3 inches wide).
Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough round.
Fold and pinch the edges to seal (you can pleat or simply press closed).
4. Cook the Dumplings (Pan-Fry & Steam Method)
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
Place dumplings flat-side down and cook until the bottoms are golden brown, 2–3 minutes.
Add 30ml of water to the pan and immediately cover with a lid. Let steam for 5–6 minutes until water is evaporated and dumplings are cooked through.
5. Make the Glaze
While the dumplings steam, mix the soy sauce, water, and sugar in a small saucepan.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat and reduce slightly to form a light glaze (2–3 minutes).
Salsa a la Huancaína (Peruvian Spicy Cheese Sauce)
If using fresh peppers: Remove seeds and veins to reduce spiciness. Blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain. If using paste or jarred peppers: No prep needed, just measure and use.
2. Blend the Sauce
In a blender, combine:
Aji amarillo (or paste)
Crumbled cheese
Crackers
Garlic
Evaporated milk
Vegetable oil
Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness by adding more milk if too thick, or another cracker if too thin.
3. Taste and Adjust
Add salt as needed.
Add more aji amarillo if you like it spicier.
Serve
Drizzle the glaze over the dumplings or serve on the side for dipping.
Garnish with a drizzle of oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve on a bed of the Salsa a la Huancaina
PopStroke Arrives in West Orange County, Florida
By George McNeilly
Central Florida’s newest attraction just opened its doors in Winter Garden, West Orange County. Golfers will be highly pleased, and so will foodies.
PopStroke has been popping up all over since 2019. It’s an experiential golf and casual dining concept, combining a lively, technologically sophisticated mini-golf environment that is open to guests of all ages.
This is the 18th location to open and the second in the Orlando area, following the success on the east side of the city in Waterford Lakes Town Center. PopStroke
Entertainment Group is co-owned by Greg Bartoli, Tiger Woods, and TaylorMade Golf Company.
The Jupiter, Florida-based company opened its first location in Port St. Lucie and Bartoli says the growth has been non-stop since.
“We’ve seen huge momentum across the United States, with Florida leading the way. PopStroke resonates with our guests because it brings something new to the market: an all-ages experience that blends competition, food, and fun in a way that’s easy to access but still feels elevated,” said Bartoli. “We’re continuing to expand in
metro Orlando because the demand is here. People are looking for more ways to spend time together and PopStroke is filling that gap.”
Much like TopGolf or FootGolf at Disney’s Oak Trail, PopStroke introduces the sport to new participants in a fun, inviting and flavorful way.
“PopStroke is more than a round of mini golf. You’ve got two 18hole courses designed to test your short game, plus BarTenders, our full-service restaurant and bar with a scratch kitchen, cocktails,
craft beer, and a full-service ice cream parlor,” Bartoli added.
There’s an outdoor playground and games like foosball, ping pong, and corn hole. A great environment to hang out with friends and stay awhile. It’s familyfriendly and a place to watch a game on the big screens as well.
With the east side of Orlando thriving, Bartoli and the team set their sights on the vibrant energy near Disney and the west part of town.
PopStroke fits right into the
lifestyle that’s being built here, and Woods, the 15-time major winner, was also very deliberate in his investment in this proven concept.
“I’m passionate about PopStroke’s mission to grow the game of golf in new and exciting ways.
The Winter Garden location is a fantastic addition to the Orlando market, and I look forward to seeing more families and golf fans experience the game in such a fun and innovative environment,” Woods said.
Dining and Technology Converge at PopStroke
If delicious dining is also your thing, you will want to eat at “BarTenders.” The focus is on providing a made-fromscratch menu with something to please almost anyone.
PopStroke is particularly proud of its chicken tenders, wings, smash burgers, freshly prepared salad options, and unique items such as ahi tuna nachos.
Bartoli says this newest location features PopStroke’s
“PopStroke’s grand opening in Winter Garden is a fantastic example of how technology and new experiences keep Florida’s attractions fresh and relevant. As someone who’s seen our industry grow and evolve, I’m thrilled to see PopStroke leading the way with innovation and family fun— exactly what keeps Florida at the top of the tourism game!”
Bill Sims, charter member & lifetime honorary Commissioner of Florida Commission of Tourism (visitFlorida.com); past Chairman of International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA.org)
most advanced technology to date, enhancing your experience from the moment you arrive.
The PopStroke mobile app enables electronic scoring, food and drink ordering, and more. It provides a seamless and personalized experience. The PopStroke staff also engages with proprietary technology. This helps provide what owners describe as a bestin-class experience, ensuring every guest is welcomed and
served in the most efficient and personalized manner possible.
The venue has customized interactive elements. There are also 36 strategically placed TVs at every hole to maintain an engaging experience.
Guests can stay cool with Mister Fans installed throughout the course. The indoor/outdoor climate-controlled restaurant and event space is designed to provide year-round comfort.
Savory Summer Experiences with the Salamander Collection
For those whose favorite part of a martini is the side of olives, visit Packard’s Steakhouse for a special stuffed olives menu. From jalapeno to feta, this is your escape from the ordinary martini.
STUFFED OLIVES MENU
Garlic
Jalapeno
Blue Cheese
Feta
Pimento (Regular)
Lester's Bar is proudly recognized by Forbes Travel Guide as a 2025 Hotel Star Bar, an honor awarded to Star-Rated properties whose bars exemplify the highest standards of service.
Named for Michael Lester, the artist whose artwork adorns the stunning space, this chic bar offers expertly crafted cocktails, a large selection of Caribbean rums and premium brands, and live entertainment. Try Half Moon’s signature cocktail, LEGACY 65 , and cheers to years gone by and those to come.
Experience a new martini offering, Fountain of Youth, available at The Butcher’s Club. Enjoy an interactive way to sip on seasonal flavors directly at your table.
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH 125
Crafted with peakseason, locally sourced ingredients and curated by our mixologist to delight the table— designed to be savored by 4 or more guests
Our venue is perfect for a wide range of events, from weddings to corporate conferences and seminars, banquets, and private parties. •
We offer on-site catering for a seamless experience. Our events coordinator is awaiting your call!
Yoga for Golf ®
By Lauren McMillin
When I ask golfers if they’ve tried yoga, I often hear one of three responses: “I’m the least flexible person on the planet,” “I’m too old for that,” or, “I don’t have the time.” I get it. But regardless of how old, stiff, or busy you may be, if you play golf, you will benefit from yoga.
Yoga for Golf® is not about standing on your head or bending like a pretzel. It’s about restoring your body’s natural movement patterns, nourishing your joints, and learning how to move in a way that supports both your body and your golf swing. It’s about calming your nervous system, preventing injuries, prepping your body before your next round, recovering faster, and enhancing your focus. It’s about increasing the longevity of your game - so that golf can actually be a sport that you play for life. Now, before you push back and
say that your schedule is already full or you’re not interested in going to a yoga studio, let me assure you: it doesn’t take hours a week or even leaving your living room to reap the benefits of yoga. Simply taking a few minutes a day can work wonders for your mobility,
flexibility, and balance.
And if you’re not sure where to even begin, let me take out the guesswork. Follow this quick, fullbody warmup the next time you’re preparing for a round. Your bodyand your game - will thank you.
https://youtu.be/z-EsILfDdsE
Lauren McMillin, yoga and movement specialist, is the founder of YoGolf Performance®, Golf’s Online Yoga Studio®. For nearly a decade, she has worked with yoga practitioners and golfers of all levels, using yoga, Pilates, and functional movement to help them move and feel their best. In addition to being featured in articles for Golf Digest and PGA.com, Lauren has been a speaker at the PGA Show, and is co-author of The Ultimate Golf Fitness Program. To learn more, and to download her five favorite yoga moves for golf, visit https://lauren.yoga/.
Set on a pristine white sand beach, Baha Mar perfectly balances an array of spectacular experiences with luxurious relaxation in the pure Caribbean sunshine. Exquisite dining experiences from world-renowned chefs, lush tropical pools, The Bahamas’ top golf course, and our new 15-acre luxury water park Baha Bay await.
LUXURY OF CHOICE
Georgia’s State Parks: Where Mother Nature Awaits Your Arrival
By Mike May
State parks in Georgia offer some of the most diverse sights to see, scenes to enjoy, and things to do for families.
“In Georgia, we have more than 60 state parks, of which nine of them actually have golf courses, all of which are part of the Georgia Golf Trail,” said
Georgia Golf Trail Founder Doug Hollandsworth. “Overall, the state park system in Georgia does a great job of catering to the recreational needs of its visitors.”
Georgia’s state parks offer a long list of natural attractions and entertaining options such as camping, fishing, boating,
canoeing swimming, hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, bicycling, backpacking, and golfing, among others.
Here’s an editorial snapshot of a few of my best memories while traveling around a handful of Georgia’s state parks in pursuit of some rest and relaxation.
Little Ocmulgee State Park & Lodge (McRae, Georgia)
Visitors to the Little Ocmulgee State Park enjoy swimming in the outdoor pool, playing miniature golf, taking bike rides around the park, and spending the night in one of the 60 air-conditioned rooms in the lodge. BTW: Here, the sweet ice tea is delicious.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa (Young Harris, Georgia)
The atmosphere at Brasstown Valley is refreshing, relaxing, and re-energizing. Here, you can go horseback riding, book a massage at the Equani Spa, play tennis, swim in the indoor pool, or enjoy hiking around the surrounding North Georgia Mountains. BTW:
horseback riding at Brasstown Valley
fishing is a popular pursuit at Georgia State Parks
Brassie’s Grill has great burgers, salads, and sandwiches.
Hard Labor Creek State Park (Social Circle, Georgia)
Boaters and fishermen are attracted to Hard Labor Creek State Park because of the presence and access to Lake Rutledge. A day on the water of Lake Rutledge and/or Lake Brantley is time well spent. BTW: Both lakes here were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Richard B. Russell State Park (Elberton, Georgia)
Many visitors to the Richard B. Russell State Park enjoy coming here because of the camping opportunities – in campers and motorhomes -- along Lake Richard B. Russell. This park, which also has spacious and modern cabins to rent, has a large swimming beach along the lake which is a popular destination for families with
children. Lake Richard B. Russell also provides some of the best boating and fishing opportunities in Georgia. Canoe and kayak rentals are available, as well. BTW:
Richard B. Russell State Park is known for its first-class disc golf course, which is free to play. Unicoi State Park (Nacoochee, Georgia)
Located on the outskirts of Helen, Georgia, the Unicoi State Park and Lodge is located in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest in North Georgia. At Unicoi, you can canoe, paddle-board, fish, and kayak on Unicoi Lake. Here, the hiking trails are another popular recreational choice. BTW: Unico is also an 11-minute drive from the scenic Anna Ruby Falls.
You now have a few great reasons to make a trip to visit many of the more than 60 state parks scattered around Georgia. If it’s your first visit, I can guarantee you that it won’t be your last. Georgia’s 60+ state parks (www.GaStateParks.org) await your arrival
Disc Golf at Richard B Russell State Park
Sightseeing opportunities abound in Georgia State Parks
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Experience the World Through Golf With 8am Travel, Where Every Trip Is a Story
8AM Golf, the world’s leading golf-focused holding company, is pleased to announce the launch of their new brand: 8AM Travel.
Unlike average trip planning services, 8AM Travel is designed to create unparalleled golf experiences that bring global destinations to life. 8AM Travel was created to cater to discerning travelers who are seeking more than just destinations. The meticulously crafted itineraries unlock the secrets of each locale, promising unique experiences that are both intimate and grand.
8AM Travel golf experiences are curated by some of the most well-traveled golfers in the world— including the esteemed panel of GOLF.com course raters who each year collaborate on creating the premier ranking of the best golf courses in the world. Whether you’re teeing off at the world’s most prestigious golf destinations, or exploring hidden treasures, 8AM Travel promises a journey as extraordinary as the game itself.
“Global reach, local spirit — that’s our credo,” said Simon Holt, CEO of 8AM Travel. “We pass along our first-hand knowledge and provide
both well-known and off-thebeaten-path options for discerning and globally curious clients. We
created 8AM Travel to exceed our travelers expectations by delivering authentic moments that craft stories, forge connections, and inspire memories. We want them to consider us their travel partner who ‘gets it’.”
The goal of 8AM Travel is to deliver high-end, culturally immersive journeys with warmth and authenticity. The new service utilizes an expansive worldwide network, yet still maintains the ability to deliver a genuine connection aligned with the unique character of each destination. It is that rare ability
Cabot Highlands (Castle Stuart) in Scotland: Credit: Eric Karlsson.
Te Arai Links in New Zealand: Credit: Ricky Robinson & Te Arai Links.
to balance scale with intimacy that separates 8AM Travel.
“With the creation of 8AM Travel, we’re providing an opportunity for our clientele to design bespoke travel retreats that not only include exceptional golf experiences, but also entail some extremely rare and unique off-course related experiences,” said Hoyt McGarity, CEO of 8AM Golf. “Thanks in part to our wide-ranging 8AM Golf family—including GOLF Magazine, Nicklaus Companies, Miura Golf, True Spec and other premium brands and partnerships—we can deliver coveted and luxurious experiential options that go well beyond what anyone else in the travel space can offer.”
8AM Travel’s holistic approach
opens up a world of possibilities for everyone who takes part in the journeys—including those who are not primarily golfers. Although golf is at the core of the trips they design, 8AM Travel is a full-service luxury logistics company. Whether it’s couples, families, or multigenerational trips, 8AM Travel goes beyond the ordinary, offering something for everyone at each of our global destinations. From luxury shopping, fine dining and worldclass entertainment, to arts and culture, to refined relaxation and rejuvenation, your 8AM Travel team has the ability to organize options that are sure to surprise and delight. For more information and to begin your unforgettable journey, visit 8amtravel.com.
At 8AM Travel, every moment is a masterpiece, every service premium, and every story yours to treasure.
Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania: Credit: Gary Lisbon.
Rosapenna - St. Patrick’s Links in Ireland: Credit: Rosapenna – St Patrick’s Links. Image courtesy of Clyde Johnson.
St. George’s Hill in England: Credit: Jason Livy.
Trump Turnberry (Ailsa): Credit: Trump Turnberry.
The Renovations of River Hills Country Club in Valrico, Florida
By Tony Leodora
The COVID pandemic had harsh and long-lasting effects on every part of the American society. Except the golf industry. That’s correct. As soon as lockdowns went into place, golf activity began to rise. And the popularity of golf – at both public and private clubs – has never been greater. Tee sheets are full and golf courses are bustling with activity on a daily basis. Now, five years after the COVID panic, there is a second benefit
to the favorable reaction of Americans toward golf. A great number of well-run golf courses are re-investing the newfound profits into efforts to improve their facilities. Golf course renovations are taking place at an all-time high.
“We have been incredibly busy with renovation projects,” says Ron Garl, the renowned golf course architect who is based in Lakeland, Florida. “Not that many new courses are being built but the old courses are being
renovated at a record pace.”
That is of great benefit to the golfers of America, as well as the overall golf industry.
For many years, through the golf nadir of 2007 through 2020, golf courses were suffering due to neglect. Needed maintenance and renovation projects were not being undertaken due to a lack of revenue. For the first time since the Great Depression, more courses were closing annually than new ones opening.
Wherever zoning restrictions would allow, public courses were being sold and converted into housing developments. Private clubs saw membership lists shrink at an alarming rate. Now, thanks to golf’s new gold rush period, that trend has reversed.
A prime example is River Hills Country Club in Valrico, Florida – about 20 miles east of Tampa. This mid-level private club has experienced all of the highs and lows of the 21st Century golf industry. But reinvestment is now the marching order of the day at this Joe Lee design that opened in 1989. Significantly, Joe Lee was the first architect to hire Ron Garl when he came out of the University of Florda. Now, Garl is involved with the longterm renovation process at River Hills. Along with longtime chief designer Ricky Nix, the newly named GarlNix Design company is carrying on the Joe Lee tradition at River Hills.
The greens were completely redone with high-tech Champion Bermuda grass in 2024. The bunkers also were renovated and filled with high-end brilliant white sand that improves aesthetics, as well as playability. Now, attention is being turned to other areas of the property.
“The renovation has been a step-by-step process,” explains Head Golf Professional Eric Pacana. “There are a number of items on
the improvement list but there always is a concern for membership access to the golf course.”
One area of improvement that has been of utmost importance in recent years is the tree maintenance program. River Hills is cut through a forest of magnificent live oak trees. Attention has been given to limbing-up all the trees, as well as maintaining wide corridors of play. Also the giant trees are kept well away from the greens and tees, allowing a desirable amount of sunlight and air flow.
“Over the years a huge number of trees have been removed,” adds Pacana. “However, River Hills is far from a barren property. There are still plenty of trees but they are in the right places.”
River Hills was one of the later designs in the 50 year career of the architect know as “Gentleman Joe Lee.” He designed or renovated 250 courses until the time of his death in 2002. Some of his most famous designs include Abacoa in Jupiter, FL, two of the courses at Jekyll Island in Georgia and Hawks Landing in Orlando. River Hills is perched on the doorstep of joining that elite group.
Although a private club, River Hills is part of the GolfNow “Member for a Day” program that allows limited access to nonmembers and provides exposure for the club. The reasonable price of $50 during the week and $70 on weekends, combined with the quality of the course, makes River Hills a “must stop” for anyone visiting the Greater Tampa area.
The first fairway at River Hills is a prime example of the wide corridors through majestic live oak trees.
Unlike many courses in Florida, River Hills has a limited amount of water hazards.
How
my wife buying
a golf skirt saved our marriage, and so did ‘Shinrin-Yoku’
By Paul Kiska
I was anxiously planning to talk to my wife Angela, because I felt we were drifting apart, until she called me and said with a smile in her voice, that she had just bought a golf skirt. While that might sound a bit provocative, it truly brought us closer together.
After 22 years of marriage, our lives changed in a flash, when our daughter Olivia went away to college. Suddenly, it was only the two of us, my wife and me. Our careers always kept us busy, but any extra time was used to focus on the three of us having fun, getting ice cream, watching sunsets, meaningful talks, and some travel as a family. I guess you could say we were the three amigos, but the third member of our posse for 18 years left for distant pastures.
THE THREE AMIGOS BECOME A TWO-SOME OVERNIGHT
“Couples in the empty nest transition often expect to return to who they were before kids,” said Psychologist, Well Being Coach, and Author, Dr. Lori Stevic-Rust. “Somewhere along the way of marriage, the identity of “us” can quietly be replaced with the identity of being parents,” she added.
THE SILENCE WAS DEAFENING
But, poof…it was just my wife, me, and a very quiet house as our daughter started her life as an independent young lady. We missed the sounds of joy as our daughter sang along loudly to her favorite music in her room every night. When Olivia’s friends were over, my wife and I got them pizzas. I started a fire pit, got all the fixings for s’mores, then got out of the way. My wife and I always savored the sounds of their laughter. Now, Olivia’s room,
the basement, and backyard were suddenly silent. My wife was quieter, and so was I. Before we knew it, we weren’t connecting as a couple for months.
“Without meaning to, many parents stopped doing the daily work of being a couple, and as parents we can become busy managers of a household, caretakers, drivers, etc.,” StevicRust said. “Then, when that shared job disappears, so can the sense of connection, if we haven’t worked on our identity as a couple.”
DRIFTING APART AND BUYING A GOLF OUTFIT
I was thinking anxiously all day how to bring up to my wife, that we were drifting apart. I wanted to talk about ideas to bring us closer together, and so was my wife. Then, the moment that started to put us back on track, and on the fairways. She called me from the sporting goods store, and said “guess what? I just bought a golf skirt, and a cute golf outfit.”
IMPULSE PURCHASE LEADS TO TEE TIME
My wife said her impulse buy of a “golf outfit,” was because she wanted us to start golfing together like we did while dating, and in the early years of our marriage. She
already thought of a way for having fun together, while enjoying the outdoors. When we finished our phone call, I immediately called the golf course to book us a tee time. As we drove along the lush green fairways, colorful flowers, and birds whistling, Angela and I remembered how much we enjoyed spending time in the outdoors together.
“Golf is an excellent activity that adds time in nature, which is always good for mental and physical health, as well as our well being,” Stevic-Rust said. “Most importantly, golf is a sport that allows for one-on-one engagement, camaraderie, and connection.”
ENGAGED IN THE SNOW BECAUSE WE LOVE WINTER WALKS, BUT, THERE’S NOTHING LIKE WARM BREEZES ON A GOLF COURSE.
After my wife and I played our first round of golf together in years, we headed to the clubhouse for a refreshment. We talked about where I proposed to her. It was on a cold, snowy day on the icy Lake Erie shore near Cleveland. I chose “our spot” because it’s where we would go with a cup of coffee to walk the beach early on wintry Sunday mornings. It would be just us, and nothing but 50 miles of wide open frozen
Great Lakes water to Canada. But, we realized how much we missed golfing together, enjoying the sun, and warm summer breezes on a golf course.
‘SHINRIN-YOKU’
“It is a common practice in Japan for physicians to advise patients to spend more time in nature, so the doctor actually writes a prescription for ‘forest bathing,’ or ‘Shinrin-Yoku,’ as it’s called in Japan,” according to Dr. Tanuja Sharma, Family Medicine Physician, and Medical Director of the Integrative Medicine and Arts Program at Tampa General Hospital.
FIVE SENSES, NATURE & MOOD
“Studies show that immersing yourself in nature by mindfully using all five senses reduces blood pressure, and lowers anxiety, while improving mood,” Sharma added. She also said, that enjoying the natural beauty of golf courses, and the outdoors in general has additional benefits, “Nature has a
calming effect by lowering stress, and boosts serotonin which is the feel good brain chemical,” According to Sharma, “Outdoor time has been linked to lower rates of depression, particularly in natural green spaces,” Green spaces! Golf courses are the epitome of green spaces!
WELCOME HOME! THE THREE AMIGOS RIDE AGAIN.
Now, when our daughter comes home from college, and especially all summer, we welcome the noise she and her friends fill our home with, and the smell of s’mores on a fire pit. And talk about fire, yes, my wife’s tennis skirt has delivered some heat to our marriage.
RECONNECTING DOESN’T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT
“Our identity as a couple isn’t something we just have, it’s something we build day-by-day by trying to stay in touch with each other on an emotional level, not just talking about the kids but about “us”.
REPAIR YOUR DIVOTS. REPAIR YOUR MARRIAGE
My wife and I discovered that we’re going to be okay, more than okay, because we realized just the two of us can also enjoy getting ice cream together, watching sunsets, and discovering our own adventures.
Plus, when our daughter comes home from college, we embrace her, the boundless energy, and fun she, and her friends fill our home with, and oh how the smell of s’mores on a fire pit, warms are hearts.
We made another tee-time, but it’s just for a two-some, my wife, her “cute golf outfit,” and me.
Paul Kiska is a husband, father, Emmy, and Associated Press award winning writer, and reporter who has 30 years of sports and news reporting. He’s also still trying to break 80 from the tips!)
Paul Kiska, and his wife Angela hit the club house to enjoy more time together, after a round of golf.
Starter Swings Big:
Inside the Original Tee Golf Classic Where Culture, Icons & Style Collide, ft. LaRee Pearl Sung + More Celebs!
The Original Tee Golf Classic teed off last weekend with style, substance, and a powerful show of community, marking another unforgettable chapter in one of the most culturally significant events in golf.
The tournament founded by Wendell Haskins, was once again elevated by a partnership with Starter, whose support underscored the brand’s deep commitment to celebrating heritage, excellence, and cultural legacy. As a brand long woven into the fabric of Black sports and culture, Starter’s
partnership with the Original Tee Golf Classic was a statement.
Additional sponsors included the NBA, which teamed up with Starter for an unforgettable activation at the 1st hole, complete with the official NBA trophy on display and a pop-up hoop that brought the energy of the court to the course as well as the LPGA, USGA, Delta Air Lines, Yeti, Tito’s Vodka and more.
The event which was held on Sunday, July 27th at Crystal Springs Resort in NJ, about an hour from NYC drew a standout lineup of athletes, creatives, and
LeRee Pearl Sugg
Tony Shellman Starter Head of Marketing, Wendell Haskins and their children
changemakers, including Original Tee Honoree LaRee Pearl Sugg, the third Black woman to earn an LPGA Tour card, alongside New York Knicks legend John Starks, actor Malik Yoba, journalist Roland Martin, golf influencer Teal Barber, content creator Tristan Jass, former NBA player Aaron McKie, former LPGA player Sadena Parks, analyst Jaime Diaz, artist Mike Field, and Christian Brunone, VP of Marketing at Dunning.
Additionally, the event featured a competition between two Howard University golfers Kendall Jackson and Laniah Moffett in the Battle of the Bison that went down to the 18th hole where Laniah won the match, 2 up.
Those unable to attend sent their love and respect in a powerful tribute video honoring LaRee, featuring heartfelt messages from Alonzo Mourning, Allen Iverson, Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Anthony Anderson, Johnny Newman, Shasta Averyhardt, and Beverly Johnson, further reinforcing the impact and legacy celebrated that day.
From fairways to friendships, the 2025 Original Tee Golf Classic once again proved it’s more than a tournament, it’s a cultural moment.
Attorney and Howard Alum, Matt Middleton with Howard University competitors Laniah Moffett and Kendall Jackson
Brent Ross, Jovan Goldstein, Napoleon Brown, Henry Lopez, Aaron McKie, and Eric Pryor
Vivian Tozaki, Esq. - OTGC board member
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The Sky’s The Limit
By Jay Golden, PGA
Alfredo Ortiz is 6‘7“ but that’s only a glimpse of the heights that he hopes to bring the First Tee of Central Florida as their new CEO. His realization of the advantage of sports was born as a 13-yearold while growing up in growing up in Puerto Rico. Alfredo observed a group of teenagers playing basketball being directed by adults. He had an interest but no money and believed he couldn’t participate. However, one of the adult coaches waved him over and said, “If you’d like to be part of this group, we would like you to join us. It’s free.”
As part of this program and their traveling team, he was exposed to new experiences and adventures. It opened his world. He learned how to order food in a restaurant, to have good manners and experience things that were brand new to him. That led to getting a scholarship in high school as well as to Buffalo State College. Alfredo says with a grin, “Going from warm Puerto Rico to frigid Buffalo, at first I wasn’t sure if this was a gift or a punishment.” Similarly, he knows that being introduced to the great game of golf, youth
can learn numerous life skills as well the game of a lifetime. Alfredo moved to Orlando in 1999 and obtained an MBA from Florida International University. He then followed a path of meaningful employment including: YMCA of South Orlando, Orange County Parks and Recreation, City
of Orlando Recreation Division, Orange County Public Schools and most recently working as a consultant for the government of Puerto Rico assisting with the disaster recovery efforts for FEMA funded projects. The relationships that he forged and people he met will certainly be an asset for First Tee and he looks forward to partner with business leaders for win-win opportunities . Additionally, with personal experience in the special needs community, he intends to introduce golf to special needs children.
Although the First Tee of Central Florida has always been a success, the addition of Alfredo Ortiz as the new CEO is a slam dunk!!!
Horseshoe Bay Resort’s Annual Beer by The Bay Music Festival Returned
A summertime music tradition in the scenic Texas Hill Country continues at Horseshoe Bay Resort as the 12th annual Beer By The Bay Music Festival returned Friday August 8th and Saturday August 9th. The resort’s fun-packed signature seasonal fest again showcased a diverse and exciting collection of country musicians and Texas-based breweries.
Headlined by two popular stars of country music – multiplatinum artist Tracy Byrd on Friday night (“Watermelon Crawl” and “The Keeper of the Stars”
) and country music hit-maker Randy Rogers Band (“Kiss Me in the Dark” and “In My Arms Instead”) – this 12th rendition of the annual event promised to be the best yet, combining world-class entertainment, beer, cuisine and fun by the lake.
For more information, please visit www.hsbresort.com
The tournament season is well underway in the North Florida PGA
During this time of year, our NFPGA Golf Professionals compete in a variety of events, display their skills as players, and even qualify for national events.
The 2025 LPGA Professionals Championship included numerous NFPGA Golf Professionals; Stephanie Connelly Eiswerth, PGA and Sandra Changkija, PGA finished T6 in the Championship Division and Qualified for the 2026 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship!
This year’s LPGA Professionals Championship took place at the Hermitage Golf Course –President’s Reserve in Nashville, TN. This event has a variety of divisions – Championship, Senior, Super Senior, and Challenge. Nine NFPGA Golf Professionals competed in different divisions: Championship – Stephanie Connelly Eiswerth, PGA, Sandra Changkija, PGA, Missy Williams, PGA, and Kristina Carvalho,
PGA; Senior – Pat Shriver, PGA, Cheryl Anderson, PGA, and Nancy Henderson, PGA; Super Senior – Cathy Edelen, PGA and Linda Nevatt, PGA. Six of our members made the 36-hole cut. Below are the finishes for those that made the cut:
Championship
T6 – Sandra Changkija, PGA
T6 – Stephanie Connelly Eiswerth, PGA
T24 – Missy Williams, PGA
Senior
T16 – Pat Shriver, PGA
Super Senior 9th – Cathy Edelen, PGA 10th – Linda Nevatt, PGA
Both Sandra and Stephanie qualified for the 2026 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship at Hazeltine with their T6 finishes! Congratulations!
Sandra Changkija, PGA
Stephanie Connelly Eiswerth, PGA
David Hronek, PGA
Rod Perry, PGA
John Reynaud, PGA
David Hronek, PGA captures the NFPGA Senior Section Championship and Senior PPC; Hronek and six other NFPGA Members Qualify for the 2025 Senior PGA Professional Championship in October!
Two days of championship golf at Belleair Country Club made for an incredible setting for the 2025 NFPGA Senior Section Championship and Senior PPC. David Hronek, PGA shot a two-day total of 7-under 137, good enough for a two shot victory! Hronek led the group of seven total qualifiers for the upcoming 2025 Senior PGA Professional Championship at PGA Golf Club, October 23rd - 26th.
The list of qualifiers includes:
David Hronek, PGA
Barry Cheesman, PGA
Bob Wallace, PGA
Dan Gage, PGA
John Reynaud, PGA
Rod Perry, PGA
Aaron Russell, PGA
Congratulations to the 2025 E-Z-GO Pro-Scratch Team Champions –Stephanie Connelly Eiswerth, PGA and Andrew Morgan
Stephanie Connelly Eiswerth, PGA and Andrew Morgan shoot a blistering 13-under par 59 to win the 2025 E-Z-GO Pro-Scratch at San Jose Country Club! The E-Z-GO ProScratch is one of the most popular events in the NFPGA and provides great competition and camaraderie.
John Somers, PGA captures the 2025 E-Z-GO Stableford Championship
A Champion at the 2025 E-Z-GO Stableford Championship at Grand Cypress Golf at Evermore Resort. Congratulations to John Somers, PGA on the victory! John is no stranger to the winner’s circle or playing at the highest level. John was a part of the 2024 United States PGA Cup Team and played in this year’s PGA Championship at Quail Hollow.
Dan Gage, PGA
Barry Cheesman, PGA
John Somers, PGA
Aaron Russell, PGA
Bob Wallace, PGA
E-Z-GO Pro-Scratch Team Champions
Gahman Weathers the Storm to Win 74th Georgia Open
By: Sloan Aubrey
Amateur Nate Gahman of Albany emerged victorious at the 74th Golf Pro Payments Georgia Open, held July 31st–August 3rd at Dalton Golf & Country Club. Gahman finished at 9-under par to win by two shots over professional Anthony Maccaglia of Duluth. Challenging weather conditions added an unexpected twist to the final round, making his win even more impressive.
A powerful overnight storm on Saturday brought 4.5 inches of rain to the area, forcing officials to delay Sunday’s final round an hour as the course staff worked to restore playability. Due to significant flooding, the 4th hole was deemed unplayable, and the championship was officially shortened to 71 holes.
Despite the disruptions, Gahman maintained focus and composure to outlast a competitive field that featured some of Georgia’s top professionals and amateurs. “I made the turn at three-under, and then the rain really picked up. Rain and wind. I think the weather almost helped me a little bit to really take it one shot at a time,” said Gahman. His consistent play over the four-day tournament secured him a place in the Georgia Open’s rich history.
Maccaglia, representing Duluth, made a strong push in the final round but ultimately finished two strokes behind Gahman, taking the low professional honors and the $9,500 check. Tied for third at 6-under par was professional Ruan Pretorius from Augusta and amateur Dalton Burts of Peachtree Corners. Rounding out the top five at 5-under par was Rahul Rajendran, an amateur from Alpharetta.
The 74th playing of the Georgia Open, presented by Golf Pro Payments, continues its tradition as one of the state’s premier golf championships. Dalton Golf & Country Club, despite the weather challenges, provided a scenic and demanding backdrop for this year’s dramatic finish.
The Georgia PGA is proud
to announce the continued partnership with Golf Pro Payments, as a new three-year contract was signed this week extending their involvement
through 2028. In 2026, the 75th edition of the Georgia Open will take place at Kinderlou Forest Golf Club in Valdosta.
The 2025 Brendan Cunningham Junior Open concluded today with standout performances and a heartfelt tribute to a cherished figure in South Florida golf. Held at Hammock Bay Golf & Country Club in Naples, Florida, the event welcomed 71 players. While taking a year off in 2024, the tournament returned this year.
Sebastian Eterovic of Coral Gables, a 2029 graduate, opened with a bogey-free round of 64 and carried that momentum through the final two rounds, posting scores of 64–70–71 to finish at 11-underpar and capture the Boys 13–18 division title. Kaden Latreille of Naples surged up the leaderboard on the final day, carding a 6-underpar 66 to finish in second place, three strokes behind Eterovic.
In the Girls 13–18 Division, Yool Her of Pembroke Pines led wire-towire, recording four birdies in the first round and staying consistent throughout the tournament. Her scores of 71–72–71 earned her
Eterovic, Her and Bustos Secure Brendan Cunningham Junior Open Titles
the division title. Lilly Parker of North Palm Beach kept the pressure on with rounds of 71–74–71, finishing in solo second.
The Boys 11–12 Division saw a dramatic finish as Simon Bustos of Chattanooga, Tennessee, overcame a six-stroke deficit after round two. Bustos posted an even-par 72 in the final round to secure the win by one stroke over Linus Castro of Jupiter, Florida.
A special highlight came from Spencer Ives, who recorded the tournament’s only hole-in-one with an ace on Hole 2, a 173-yard par 3—his first career hole-in-one.
Formerly known as the South Florida Junior Open, the event was renamed in 2020 to honor Brendan Cunningham—a longtime supporter, dedicated volunteer, and true ambassador for junior golf in South Florida, who passed away in September of that year. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the game, Cunningham was the recipient of the 2016 South
Florida PGA Distinguished Service Award and was inducted into the South Florida PGA Hall of Fame in 2018. Known for his charismatic personality, colorful socks, and welcoming smile, Brendan left a lasting impact on players, families, and staff. In his memory, participants and spectators wore green and their favorite socks throughout the week—a tradition that continues to celebrate his legacy and love for the game.
The South Florida PGA extends its sincere thanks to Hammock Bay Golf & Country Club, led by PGA General Manager Anthony Schmid and PGA Director of Golf Scott Lien, and staff for their hospitality and continued support of the South Florida PGA Junior Tour.
The Brendan Cunningham Junior Open marked the fifth of eight majors on the 2025 SFPGA Junior Tour calendar. Up next: the SFPGA Junior Cup, set for July 28–30 at BallenIsles Country Club on the North Course.
PXG Hellccat ZT Putter
PXG® is proud to introduce the latest innovation in its acclaimed Zero Torque (ZT) putter lineup – the allnew PXG Hellcat® ZT Putter. Priced at just $249.99, this blade-style beauty delivers all the performance benefits of PXG’s groundbreaking Zero Torque Balance Technology at a price that invites every golfer to make the switch. Precision-engineered from MIM 303 stainless steel, the Hellcat ZT putter features a clean, streamlined design that delivers elite performance without the need for adjustable weighting. PXG’s signature Pyramid Face Pattern Technology enhances feel and ensures consistent roll across the face. The patented S-hoselTM positions the shaft axis just above the center of gravity, creating a designated toe-up balance point that increases stability and resists twisting throughout the stroke. This blade-style model is designed with 4-degrees
of measured loft but plays like a standard 3-degrees thanks to its integrated 1-degree of forward press.
“I love this game. And I love helping people play it better,” said PXG Founder & CEO Bob Parsons. “With the Hellcat ZT, we’ve packed top putting technology into a badass blade that feels amazing, rolls pure, and performs like nothing else out there — all for a price that makes you say, ‘Why the hell not?’”
The PXG Hellcat ZT Putter comes standard with a 34” straight chrome shaft and PXG’s Slant 1.5 grip. It is available now in both right- and left-handed configurations. Golfers can schedule custom fitting or shop the new putter at PXG. com, at PXG Retail Stores, or through PXG Master Fitters.
ECCO® GOLF and Fore All Women's Golf Shoe Collaboration
ECCO GOLF, global leaders in golf footwear innovation, released a collaboration with Fore All, a female-founded women’s golf lifestyle brand that is on a mission to change the way women experience and are introduced to the game of golf. The two revolutionary golf brands have teamed up to launch a chic, two-shoe drop, delivering high-quality, luxurious women’s styles to the modern female golfer.
This limited edition, fashion-forward capsule leads with the FORE ALL STREET 720. The new mid-cut high-top is an edgy statement-maker, featuring a streetwear-inspired design and Fore All’s signature green-and-white checker print on the leather upper. The shoe (MSRP $249.99) is accented with embroidered logos and a playful “Golfing Optional” stitching - Fore All’s iconic tagline and a reminder that these shoes are made for action on or off the course.
Joining it is the FORE ALL BIOM C4 HYBRID LACE. Known for
its 360-degree breathability and GORE-TEX waterproofing, this versatile performance shoe features a stretchy sock-like construction for all-day comfort. The leather sneaker style (MSRP $199.99) boasts a sleek combination of pink, green, and white styling.
The ECCO x Fore All collection blends ECCO GOLF’s signature craftsmanship, including premium leather comfort and tech-focused waterproof performance, with Fore All’s functional and trend-setting design elements that the brand is known for. The pairs will be available starting July 11, 2025, exclusively online at foreall.com and ecco.com.
A Turf Pirate's Journal $Heroes and Legends $ Cushmand the Wonder Dog
Greetings and salutations Turf Pirates and while I know summer is bringing the heat I thought I might make things a little easier with another episode of Heroes and Legends straight from the River House Headquarters of the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates. We are going to pay homage to the Golf Course Maintenance (GCM) shop/course Dog. That best of friends, PR machine and defender of all things sacred. I see a lot of golf courses on my travels, and I would say 98% have a GCM shop or course dog. This month we are going to focus on a particular legendary GCM shop/course dog, namely Cushman the Wonder Dog. Allow me to tell you the tale of this most excellent course dog. It involves a few, now vintage Turf Pirates. This month’s photo is of Cushman on #1 Lakemont at Stone Mountain Golf Club summer of 2006, photo by Matt Park current GCS at the big Rock.
Cushman was around 6 weeks old when he was abandoned at the local Burger King. Tough break for our young hero but out walks Jim Dixon (AGCS then, now GCS), as a true Turf Pirate Jim sees the puppy picks him up and brings him to work hoping to find him a home. Jim puts him on the crew table, and everyone wants to keep him but fate steps in. Jim (Golden Wrench) Suart our world-famous equipment manager asks me a cool question, if you let me bring him to work and train him to chase geese and such, can I keep him? The answer was absolutely. Then he was dubbed Cushman by the Golden Wrench himself, the Wonder Dog part came later. Jim and Cushman were like peas and carrots. Cushman served
with us for over 15 years at two Marriott properties, PineIsle and Stone Mountain. He had his own name tag and employee Bio. If you think you have seen him, he was Mr. January in the 2007 TurfNet Media Dog Calendar and really hammed it up at the luncheon held in his honor for the milestone achievement. The Executive Chef cooked chicken breasts for our hero that were served by our General Manager as part of a goodspirited wager that memorable day. He was featured in quite a few turf publications and videos over the years, but he never let stardom change who he was. He was never late for work, wrestled his food everyday (Facebook sensation) and he never met a stranger on the golf course. He ran like a million miles a day and when he passed it was a sad day for all of us, even
now I miss him. Cushman was part of our crew and the property lore. He lifted our spirits and protected turf from nefarious geese and sounded an alarm if ninjas or bears happened by. He was simply Cushman the Wonder Dog, and he is one of many such mystical creatures that bless the fairways and maintenance shops across the industry. Jim Stuart is one of my dearest friends and in the 30 years we worked together we had many adventures but his choosing to adopt that stray puppy and all the magic that happened afterwards is exactly why we should see the high road and do the right thing whether it’s puppies or turf conundrums. What say you Turf Pirates, is the shop dog part of the crew? IYKTYK. Thank you to all the dogs that love coming to the course every day.
Get the Proven Zoysia Grass
Columbus Baseball Returns on NorthBridge® Bermudagrass
By Cecilia Johnson – Sod Solutions
Professional baseball is back in Columbus, GA at Golden Park, now renamed Synovus Park. The Atlanta Braves’ Double-A affiliate, now the Columbus Clingstones, opened its first season in town earlier this spring with a soldout crowd on opening night. The stadium dates back to 1926, but the field and infrastructure have been extensively renovated. NorthBridge® Bermudagrass, grown at Green Acres Turf Farm and installed by Precision Turf, gave this historic ballpark a surface built for modern play. Gary Youmans, owner of Green Acres Turf Farm in Furman, SC, supplied the NorthBridge Bermudagrass for the field. He started growing the variety in 2023, and demand took off quickly. Youmans said the project went far beyond installing new turfgrass, describing it as a full stadium
renovation that still preserved elements of historic Golden Park.
Built for Performance
With a stadium renovation underway, turfgrass selection was one of the most critical decisions ahead of opening night.
The Clingstones’ Director of Field Operations, Brendan Seaver, led the selection process, which he recalled as very intense and detailed. Seaver said they were looking for a variety that could handle the demands of the site.
“NorthBridge fit that mold of cold tolerance, disease resistance and more resistance to action.”
The Clingstones opted to work with Precision Turf, a trusted athletic field contractor known for large-scale sports projects and past experience with NorthBridge and Sod Solutions. AJ Gower, project manager at Precision, first stepped into the park in late October 2024,
facing a short window to complete the rebuild. His team reconstructed the field from the subgrade up, adding new drainage, soil layers and irrigation before laying sod.
Gower said NorthBridge is a strong choice for sports fields because it offers flexibility in mowing heights and management. He also noted its ability to stripe well and retain color later into the cool season.
Grown for the Game
Once NorthBridge was selected for the project, it was up to the team at Green Acres to produce a consistent, game-ready product on a tight schedule. The farm spans over 2,500 acres and produces a range of grasses including centipede, zoysia, bermudagrass, St. Augustine and paspalum.
NorthBridge, Youmans noted, has quickly become a top variety across sports and golf markets, and said they’ve moved a significant number of acres this year.
He explained that Precision Turf came to the farm and managed the overseeding rate and planting to ensure the grass met expectations. Then, just days before harvest, winter weather moved in. “Mother Nature blessed us with a snowstorm in mid-late January. Everything was under four or five inches of snow the week before sod was scheduled,” he said. Despite the delay, the sod held up and stayed on track for the
NorthBridge Bermudagrass harvested at Green Acres Turf Farm in January 2025
NorthBridge Bermudagrass ready for play at Synovus Park
field build. “It’s just a testament to the NorthBridge’s durability, cold tolerance and wear tolerance. It transitioned really, really well.” With the installation completed at the end of January and opening night set for mid-April, Youmans added, “That’s not a lot of time.”
Gower explained he wasn’t concerned about the snow impacting the quality of the sod for the project. “Snow acts as an insulator so I knew the grass underneath would be good because Gary’s a very proactive owner. He’s in the field all the time and knows his plots and what he has in the field. We weren’t really concerned at all.”
Fast Track to the Finish
With eight truckloads of sod on the road, the next phase of the project shifted to Columbus, where installation crews had just weeks to finish the field. Gower and his team at Precision Turf laid the sod in three days. He said Seaver worked hand-in-hand with them throughout the installation, checking the seams and perfecting the surface ahead of Opening Night.
“He got on the field as we were rolling and started fertilizer applications and topdressing. Two to three weeks later the grass was tacked down with good roots already,” Gower said, noting he wasn’t surprised by the quick rooting ability of NorthBridge.
Seaver was eager to get started with the new playing surface as
soon as it arrived. He passed the sod trucks at 6:30 a.m. on his way to work and was the first to arrive at the field. He set up his phone behind home plate and recorded the entire process.
“I was so excited to not be staring at sand anymore and to see the sod go down. Now it looks like a baseball field,” Seaver said. “It was as strong as you could ask for sod to be. There was no fraying. There was nothing. You could see all the stolens of NorthBridge in the sod. It was overseeded when it came in.”
Seaver first mowed the field about three weeks after installation, followed by a brief warm spell in the 70s. “If you picked through the rye, you could see that NorthBridge already greening up,” he said.
“Like all it needed was that little bit of heat, and it was already coming into it.” By mid-April, it was choking the ryegrass out. Now in his tenth year in the industry, Seaver said NorthBridge is the fifth grass type he’s worked with, including two cold-season and three warm-season varieties, and he remains impressed by what he’s seen so far.
Opening Night on NorthBridge
By first pitch, the grass held its stripe, played clean and looked as sharp as it performed. The sold-out opening night crowd watched the Clingstones secure a win on a field that delivered on every detail. From farm to finish, the collaboration between Green Acres, Precision Turf, the Clingstones grounds crew, Sod Solutions and other project partners brought Synovus Park to life and proved NorthBridge was more than ready for the moment.
Follow along on @SodSolutions social channels to catch all the behind-the-scenes footage from this project and watch the highlight video on the Clingstones’ field transformation: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=f04GNwEyUBM
Brendan Seaver prepares the field for the Clingstones’ home opener.
Columbus Clingstones’ debut at Synovus Park
Audubon International Names Michael Williams to Board of Directors
Audubon International – the environmentally focused nonprofit organization offering members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we all live, work, and play – has named Washington, D.C.-based journalist, communications expert, and speaker Michael Williams to its Board of Directors.
With a wide-ranging career including success in banking, technology, media and communications and as a leading advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the golf industry, Williams brings a wealth of interdisciplinary experience to the board.
“Adding Michael to our board will help broaden our reach to the larger golf community,” says Christine Kane, CEO of Audubon International. “His wide range of relationships within and outside the golf sphere and his sharp communication skills will also strengthen our mission and message among potential members who want to embrace sustainable culture and best practices. We welcome his deep experience and fresh perspective.”
A Washington, D.C., native who majored in English Literature at the University of Maryland, Williams’ work as a journalist has been honored by the Golf Writers Association of America, the PGA of America, and the National Association of Black Journalists. As a sought-after speaker and communications expert he has counseled influential individuals and organizations,
including some or the largest owner/operators in golf, on crisis management, corporate re-branding, and Diversity Equity and Inclusion issues. His pioneering work in Emotional Intelligence has been cited as a model for promoting empathy and understanding in organizations and communities. He has also been tapped by major companies outside of golf to consult on DEI and corporate culture issues, including the National Peace Corps Foundation, The National Governors Association, Wikipedia, Michter’s Distilleries and others.
As a political correspondent, Williams is also a longtime contributor to Voice of America’s flagship political program, “Issues in the News,” heard by over 19 million listeners weekly. He also serves as the Washington correspondent for Project 10 News in Australia and is a Senior Correspondent and Contributor to
the National Golf Course Owners Association. He has contributed to a wide range of charitable organizations, including The First Tee of Greater Washington, DC.
“It is truly an honor to be given the opportunity to contribute to Audubon International,” Williams says. “During my career, I have had the pleasure of working with the organization to protect and preserve the environment at the East Potomac, Langston and Rock Creek Golf Courses into Nation’s Capital, and I will do my best to contribute to the essential role that organization holds in the industry.”
To learn more about how your local golf course, community or resort can gain recognition for your environmental efforts or to learn how to expand your initiatives through Audubon International’s numerous environmental certifications, visit www. auduboninternational.org or call toll free: 1-844-767-9051.
Michael Williams
Puerto Rico Golf Courses Increasingly Embrace Enviro
and Sustainability Best Practices
Proactive, responsible initiatives mirror destination’s commitment to responsible tourism
Puerto Rico’s commitment to protecting its culture and environment includes encouraging visitors to adopt eco-friendly practices, nurturing the Island’s status as one of the most biodiverse places on earth.
With incredible flora and fauna – from El Yunque Rainforest to rare bioluminescent bays –Puerto Rico is an extraordinary place to rest, recharge, and immerse in the tranquility and wonder that safeguarding nature provides.
Discover Puerto Rico, the Island’s Destination Marketing Organization, recently announced The Green Path, a program that helps people respect and support responsible tourism through a series of eco-friendly practices. These support local businesses and help ensure a sustainable future through certifying people who complete four learning modules found here (https:// thegreenpath.discoverpuertorico. com/). Achieving certification unlocks exclusive travel perks and celebrates bolstering Puerto Rico’s natural and cultural preservation.
Mirroring Discover Puerto
Rico’s forward-thinking actions, Island golf courses are dedicating resources that increasingly promote enviro and sustainability best practices. For example, Fort Buchanan Golf Club, St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort and Golf Club, and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Rainforest Golf & Beach Resort (River Course) have joined Monarchs in the Rough.
An Audubon International-led program, Monarchs in the Rough is a sustained habitat-building program aimed at boosting monarch butterfly breeding and migration support – especially along key migration pathways – by turning unused golf course areas into ecological sanctuaries.
Further, both the golf course and resort at Bahia Beach, are certified independently by Audubon International for their successful achievements in sustainability and environmentalism.
Like Discover Puerto Rico’s Green Path program, these efforts illuminate the destination’s and its stakeholders’ dedication to preserving the Island’s natural gifts through positive, eco-friendly program implementation.
“We designed The Green Path as a modern approach to education and engagement,” said Dalissa Zeda, Digital Marketing Director at Discover Puerto Rico. “By making sustainability personal and actionable, we’re helping visitors align their values with their vacation plans, fostering more meaningful travel experiences while supporting the long-term well-being of our Island. That our golf courses are actively joining in this crucial cause means one of our key tourism niches understands the importance of green practices and proactivity.”
For information about Puerto Rico visit www.DiscoverPuertoRico.com
John Foy Awarded the FTGA Wreath of Grass
The Florida Turfgrass Association (FTGA) has announced that John Foy will be honored with the FTGA Wreath of Grass award. Distributed annually since 1960, this award is FTGA’s highest honor and recognizes individuals who have shown outstanding service to the association and the turfgrass industry. The award will be presented at the Annual Florida Turfgrass Conference on October 2, 2025, during the Annual Meeting and Awards Lunch.
John has dedicated his 30-plus-year career to helping others perform their jobs more effectively by understanding the issues they face and providing suggestions based on his knowledge and experience. He is well known and highly respected across the industry.
FTGA President Eric Dixon says, “It is an honor to recognize John Foy as the recipient of the Florida Turfgrass Association’s highest award, the Wreath of Grass. Throughout his distinguished career with the USGA Green Section, John has provided invaluable guidance to superintendents across Florida and beyond, through his course site visits and numerous contributions to turfgrass education and research. His leadership, technical expertise and dedication have advanced our industry in meaningful and lasting ways. This award reflects not only his professional excellence but also the deep respect he has earned throughout the turfgrass
community. Congratulations, John, and thank you for a lifetime of impactful service.”
FTGA Vice President Mark Kann joins a chorus of accolades received from industry experts: “I was fortunate to be the USGA Greens Section’s first intern back in 1998 and spent time with John visiting several golf courses in Florida. John and his family were incredibly welcoming, and he was more than willing to share his experiences with me, teaching me quite a bit over a short period of time. We have been friends ever since and enjoy sharing ideas on agronomic issues.
“John’s ability to teach is surpassed by his ability to listen. Other strengths include his attention to detail and ability to form well-thought-out responses and solutions. It was a great experience to watch him in action when dealing with high-level officials at high-level courses.
John always had the golf course superintendent’s interest at the top of his priorities. He consistently adapted to the evolving practices and priorities in the golf course industry. He was still able to share those updates through regional seminars and publications, even before the advent of emails or Zoom.
“I’m looking forward to celebrating this award with John and his wife Shelly along with his many colleagues and friends in the turfgrass industry.”
The Florida turfgrass industry has a $5 billion economic impact in the state and provides about 84,000 jobs. FTGA, founded in 1952, advocates for and promotes the turfgrass industry with research, continuing education, and networking opportunities for turfgrass professionals.
