Golf Central Magazine-Vol 27 Issue 2-Hammock Beach
Come Play Our 5 Championship Gardens This Summer.
If you’re planning to summer in place, make Fairfield Glade the place. You won’t find five more beautiful and challenging golf courses anywhere. Our summer weather is beautiful too. Thanks to our 2087 feet of elevation, temperatures and humidity are milder than most places this time of year.
Our cooler temperatures make golf, hiking, tennis, pickleball, fishing, boating or lounging by one of our several pools especially comfortable and fun.
Our Stay & Play Packages are beautifully affordable too. So don’t settle for just any garden variety getaway. Come play all five of our beautifully challenging 18-hole gardens. And while you’re at it, stop and smell the roses, lilies, zinnias, blue indigo, daisies, blue violets, periwinkles…
Conveniently located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322) For information or reservations, call 888-334-5233 or visit fairfieldglade.com Now the fun begins.
Commitment, Passion, Accomplishments
When you’re looking for social media help, the universe delivers. Meet Marisa Snyder. She was born in Rhode Island and moved to Florida in 2014, where she quickly traded snow for sunshine and never looked back. She has spent more than 8 years working in the sports industry and earned her Master’s (yes Master’s) degree in Sports and Entertainment Management, combining her passion for sports with a career built around people, events, and storytelling. A longtime golf lover, Marisa enjoys everything from being out on the course to working within the industry itself. Outside of work, she loves being outdoors, doing pilates, and going to the farmer’s market. When she’s not working, she spends most of her time with her lovely stud husband, Garrett, and their two dogs Brady and Duke. We feel grateful to have this young ambitious heart on team GCM and Turf Life!
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, Angela Kiska, 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, Rocky Miller, Sara Rogers, Dave Walker
Speaking of young ambitious hearts! Twenty-four years ago Shannon Coates came to work as the Editor in Chief, her daughter Madison was 4 months old. Cindy Streeter, Shannon’s mom volunteered to babysit Madi and that she did and she did it very well!! Madison came to the office often with her grandmother and I got to see her grow from those early years. Watching Kenny and Shannon as dedicated parents encourage, nurture and drive this accomplished young lady into getting her Master’s (yes Master’s) and Special Education degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Florida State University. Madi got a lot of experience growing up around the team. I’m so proud to have witnessed this accomplishment. National Golf Day 2026 returned to Washington with Advocacy Service and a Unified Voice. The industry leader attendees headed to Capitol Hill to meet with their members of congress about issues facing the golf industry and highlight the games economic, community and legislative impact. The group of golf industry advocates represented 40 different states and attended over 260 meetings. NGD had attendees from GCSAA members, the PGA, CMAA, NGCOA, American Society of Golf Course Architects, industry partners and more. To learn more #NationalGolf Day. According to the American Golf Industry Coalition the total economic impact of golf in America (direct, indirect, induced impacts) was $226 Billion!! And Yes it was Billions with a B! Thank You and You’re Welcome.
Oversight Officer/Uber Driver: Rocky Miller
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
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa o ers a truly distinctive golf experience—where world-class play meets the natural beauty of the oceanfront. Home to two award-winning Signature courses, Hammock Beach is a destination designed for golfers who appreciate challenge, scenery, and championship-caliber conditions.
The JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE OCEAN COURSE, host of the Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS presented by Circle K on the PGA TOUR Champions, delivers one of the most dramatic rounds in Florida - featuring six holes directly along the Atlantic and eight with sweeping ocean views. Set across more than 100 acres of Platinum Paspalum turf, the co urse weaves through pristine wetlands and sparkling lakes, culminating in the legendary closing stretch known as The Bear Claw— four unforgettable holes that consistently earn top rankings from golf’s most respected publications.
Continuing to elevate play, the Ocean Course recently underwent a comprehensive bunker renovation, enhancing both aesthetics and performance while preserving the strategic intent of Nicklaus’ original design—ensuring exceptional conditions for golfers at every level. This multi-month renovation introduced Capillary Concrete bunker technology, advanced liners, and premium angular sand across all 18 holes.
For a contrasting yet equally compelling round, the TOM WATSON SIGNATURE CONSERVATORY COURSE spans 140 acres of rolling terrain inspired by classic linksstyle design. Waterfalls, babbling brooks, intricate field stonework, and a picturesque island green create a scenic and strategic experience that’s rare in Florida golf.
Beyond the fairways, guests enjoy oceanview accommodations, a full-service spa, multiple dining experiences, pools, tennis, pickleball, and resort amenities designed to complement every stay.
For Matt, McLemore isn’t just where he works. It’s where he hikes, runs the trails, plays the course, and builds the kinds of relationships that outlast any transaction.
The mountain is his playground.
Matt Bateman has spent four years doing one thing: helping people find their place at McLemore. He joined as Membership Director, came to know the community from the inside out, and never left. An avid golfer, hiker, and trail runner, Matt doesn’t just sell the lifestyle. He lives it. That depth of connection shapes every conversation he has with buyers, because he knows exactly what you’re gaining.
“My favorite part of my job is building meaningful relationships while showcasing all the incredible experiences this mountain and surrounding areas have to offer.”
REALTOR®
828-421-0535 mbateman@mclrep.com
Matt and his son on the Highland course at McLemore
“This grass is not Celebration®. It is really unique. It has a finer texture and a darker green color. It requires considerably less nitrogen and develops a deeper root system than any other grass I have ever seen.”
—MATT TAYLOR , Director Of Golf Course Operations and Facilities, Royal Poinciana Golf Club
SHARPER DEFINITION, FASTER RECOVERY AND TIGHTER DENSITY. CELEBRATION HYBRID HAS BEEN ENGINEERED FOR THE GOLF COURSE DEMANDS OF THE FUTURE.
FOR GOLF COURSE QUOTES, SCAN HERE
FOR LICENSING INFORMATION VISIT CELEBRATIONHYBRID.COM
Where did you grow up? Chicago, IL
What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch?
My favorite sport to play is golf, and my favorite sport to watch is baseball.
What do you feel makes this club special?
There are so many things that make this club special—the location, the members, and my coworkers are what keep me here. The view of the water on holes 8 and 9 is beautiful, and they’re definitely my favorite holes on the course. Over the past two years, I’ve gotten to know a lot of our members, and they’re all super friendly and make coming to work fun. I’ve also gotten really close with some of my coworkers and built friendships that I truly cherish.
What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? What is your least favorite part?
My favorite part of being a cart girl is being out on the course and seeing all the different critters. My least favorite part is having to work on beautiful days instead of getting to golf.
What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course?
The funniest thing I’ve seen on the course was our Head Pro’s club sticking straight out of one of the ponds after he threw it because of a bad shot. (No, he never got it out of the pond)
What type of music do you prefer?
I love all genres, but I listen to house music, country, and indie music the most.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
Hobbies I enjoy are golfing, going to the beach, and diamond art.
Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?
It depends on my mood but usually nightclub and cocktails!
Favorite comedian?
Tim Robinson and Theo Von
What else would you like for us to know about you?
Being a cart girl has helped me become more sociable and learn more about golf. I’ve definitely opened up a lot since I first started working at The Bridges.
Margueritte Konkel
Mayfair Country Club Opens Stunning
8,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse in Sanford
In 1927, two of golf’s biggest star’s 11-time major champion, Walter Hagan, and seven-time major champion, Gene Sarazen, both World Golf Hall of Fame members, ventured their way to Sanford, Fla to compete in an 18-hole exhibition at Mayfair Country Club. The match ended after 14 holes with “The Haig” defeating “The Squire” 5 and 4.
Mayfair is one of the oldest and most historic public access courses in the state, hosting many legendary golfers over the last century. A new chapter in Mayfair’s history dawned earlier this year with the completion and grand opening of a new, stunning and spacious, 8,000 square foot clubhouse adorned with a “Wall of Fame” honoring the club’s historic past.
The original Mayfair clubhouse (then known as Sanford Country Club) was built in the late 1870s after Henry Sanford, the city’s namesake, sold some of his 20,000 acres to a retired sea captain, Charles Armory. Armory planted a double row of oak trees that line the welcoming main entrance
that remain today and built the original golf clubhouse with design principles like those of a ship.
By 1922, the city bought over 150 acres and hired golf architect, Donald Ross to design an 18-hole course.
In the 1950s, the Professional Golfers Association, PGA, held the Mayfair Inn Open at the golf course after it was bought by the New York Giants. The Giants used Sanford as their Spring Training headquarters from 1948-1959. The course was renamed the Mayfair Country Club based on the hotel they owned downtown. Baseball Hall of Famer and avid golfer, Babe Ruth, played the course frequently.
PGA Tour champions such as Arnold Palmer and Doug Sanders played in the Mayfair Open. In 1959, Mayfair hosted a one-time event on the LPGA Tour, the “Sanford Women’s Open”
won by LPGA founding member and Hall of Famer, Marlene Hagge.
This incredible history is commemorated in a hallway just outside the pro shop with framed pictures, documents and newspaper articles displaying the history of the clubhouse and the professionals who played there.
The expansive, vaulted-ceiling design of the clubhouse includes a large fully stocked, best brands, pro shop, a beautiful veranda overlooking the golf course, and a $3.5 million stateof-the-art kitchen. The clubhouse can host up to 120 people for
tournaments, weddings, corporate gatherings and community events.
The restaurant has a full bar and offers a diverse menu with appetizers, handhelds, greens, and dinner fare including a kids menu. It is open to the public seven days a week and offers catering for events.
One long-time golfer, Reverend Willie Miller of the Calvary Temple of Praise, spoke at the official ribbon cutting (January 20, 2026) on the history of the clubhouse and how he was denied entry to it fifty years ago.
“Now in the 60’s, it was a young boy, he was a caddy out here, he was 15 years old. But at the time, he was limited to do certain things, because back then, you had segregation,” spoke Miller. “Fast forward, 50 years have passed and y’all are looking at the 15-year-old, that caddied here at that time.”
According to Sanford Mayor Art Woodruff, the process to rebuild started in 2014. For many golfers and
new construction. “It’s a great venue, not just a golf club,” said Woodruff. “The fact that the city (of Sanford) has this makes it a better place to live.”
Mayfair Country Club is managed by Down to Earth, and the head golf professional is Scott Bennett.
over power. Practice facilities include a chipping area and putting green. Lessons are provided by Jack Stumpfig. Jack played professionally and accumulated five wins on multiple tours. Coming soon is an electronic video driving range.
locals, the history of the clubhouse, the course, and personal memories shared by many was the driving force for the City Commission to fund the
The 18-hole par-72 course features traditional, old-Florida style holes and smallish Donald Ross style greens designed to test accuracy
For more information, call 407-3222531 or visit Mayfaircc.com For the restaurant or to book an event call 407-915-5002.
Brunswick Islands, North Carolina Birdies, Bunkers, Bogeys, and Beaches
By Bob Bolton
This story is much bigger, beautiful, relaxing, and compelling than the next couple of pages can contain, so for that reason we
will be breaking this up over the next two issues. I’m going to take you on a fun ride, so buckle-up. I was blessed to be chosen to represent the magazine on a four-day, five-rounds of golf, more delicious meals than I can count (and I won’t count the calories), golf media tour, of the Brunswick Islands. If you have not heard of Brunswick Islands, stay tuned, you will rush to find it on the map after reading this. To give you a headstart, it’s near Myrtle Beach, but so different. Day 1 – “Tough Guy Alligator”
Lockwood Folly Country Club hosted us for lunch, and our first round of golf. With a marsh-side environment that included a challenging golf course, alligators, waterfowl, and opportunities to enjoy nature in ways you can’t find everywhere, everyone enjoyed the experience. Our hosts at the course were as casual and comfortable as the scenic vista that surrounded the clubhouse. I had to laugh when I took a picture on the 5th hole and posted it on social media. The picture included a small alligator proudly poised next to a “Warning, Be Aware” sign that included a graphic of an alligator. The alligator couldn’t have been any bigger than 3-4 foot in length, but I guess he wanted to be the poster child for his brethren. Lockwood Folly is located at the intersection of the Folly River and the Intercoastal Waterway, which makes it nature’s habitat. The water, marshland, massive
oaks, and abundant wildlife make it a peaceful round of golf. www.lockwoodfolly.com
If you’ve been on a golf trip with family or friends, you know that food, drink, and stories are a BIG part of the experience. After walking off the 18th green at Lockwood, enjoying a 180-degree view of the marshland, we boarded the bus and headed for “The Boundary House” in Calabash. (Is there anyone that remembers Jimmy Durante’s reference to Mrs. Calabash?) Being hungry was a thing of the past, after enjoying appetizers (Fire Cracker Shrimp, Crab Bites, and Scallops), and main entrées that included plenty of seafood, chicken, beef & pork options. www.boundaryhouserestaurant.com After “waddling” back to the bus, we checked into our spacious and well-appointed townhomes and villas at Sea Trail Golf Resort. A great destination for couples, golf-buddies (girls and guys), and families looking for a comfortable place to enjoy time together, the resort has a variety of housing options to choose from. Our new Sawmill Townhome included 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, full kitchen, family room, and a screened in porch. The Sea Trail Golf Resort has everything you need on property to enjoy a relaxing retreat. With 54 holes of golf, a variety of dining destinations, and on-property venues that can host everything from a corporate gathering to a beautiful wedding, the Sea Trail
Rivers Edge Golf Club
Bob Bolton at Rivers Edge Golf Club
Golf Resort will welcome you with southern hospitality and open arms.
Day 2 – “Arnie’s Revenge”
Opened in 1999, Rivers Edge Golf Club has twice been in “Golf Digest’s” Top 100, and dramatically blends riverfront views, with a challenging, memorable layout. The ninth hole, aptly named, “Arnie’s Revenge” is one of the most visually scenic, and strategically poignant golf holes I’ve ever played. If you score a birdie or better on the hole, you are rewarded with a special coin, and bragging rights. www.playriverssedgegolf.com
Rivers Edge Golf Club is a mental and physical challenge. The visual beauty of the course lulls you into a false sense of euphoria, while each hole necessitates accuracy. The unique synergy of rolling hills, dramatic elevation changes, and inlets of marsh from the Shallotte River, create a stunning and strategic experience. A golf trip to the Brunswick Islands won’t be complete without a round at Rivers Edge. With plenty of stories to share about our collective respect and admiration for the course, we settled into the Double Eagle Grill for lunch and laughs. While no one in the group scored a birdie on the ninth hole, we all shared our admiration for the beauty of the course and desire to return to play it again.
After golf, our afternoon provided an opportunity for us to enjoy a Dolphin Cruise, facilitated by Calabash Fishing Fleet. www. calabashfishingfleet.com. With plenty of “beverages” to keep us hydrated, and the desire to enjoy a cruise through the marsh, out to
the Atlantic Ocean to enjoy seeing frolicking dolphins, we kicked back and welcomed the sea spray and camaraderie of the “3 Hour Cruise”. Yes, we sang the theme song to “Gilligan’s Island”, then turned to “Petticoat Junction”, and “Green Acres”. It wasn’t “American Idol”, but it was fun!
After returning to Sea Trail Golf Resort to get cleaned up and ready for dinner, we rallied on board the shuttle and took a “side trip” to Ocean Isle Beach. If you’ve ever been to North or South Carolina beaches, you know the texture of
the sand, the persistent breeze, and laid-back atmosphere, which leads to long walks, playful dips in the water, and relaxing naps. These ingredients were not lost on us.
Dinner at Jinks Creek Waterfront Grill was pleasant for the palate and provided a front row seat for sunset over the marsh. We enjoyed Baja Shrimp Tacos, Oyster Rockefeller, and Southern Style Egg Rolls for appetizers, and I had a tough time choosing from the myriad of delicious choices, but ultimately the Pan Seared Sesame Crusted Tuna won out. It was important that I try out the grill’s unique twist on an Old Fashioned. A normal version, until you top it with North Carolina Cheerwine Soda. An excellent way to bring a day full of golf, dolphin watching, beach and dinner, to a close. www.jinkscreek.com
This trip was so “packed-full” of golf, dining, fun, and camaraderie, that we will tell the “rest of the story” in our next issue. If you can’t wait that long to book your trip to Brunswick Island, contact John Sneed, Executive Director of Brunswick County Tourism, www.ncbrunswickgolf. com , 800-795-7263.
Sea Trail Townhome
Lockwood Folly Country Club
Redefining the Modern Golf Experience
prioritize playability, pace, and profitability can be constructed on as little as 20-25 acres. These smaller-format courses are not intended to replace traditional golf—they are designed to enhance the broader golf ecosystem by making the game more accessible, more social, and better suited to modern lifestyles.
What truly sets Six12 Golf apart is its ability to think beyond the course itself. Every project is approached as a complete, integrated experience. This includes technologydriven driving ranges, illuminated putting courses, and thoughtfully curated food and beverage concepts that extend guest engagement well beyond the round. The result is a multi-dimensional
Six12 Golf is redefining how golf is designed, built, and experienced in today’s evolving landscape. At its core, Six12 Golf is a development and consulting firm focused on creating modern, efficient, and highly engaging golf environments that align with the needs of today’s players, developers, and communities. Unlike traditional golf course models that often require expansive land and significant capital investment, Six12 Golf specializes in smarter, more adaptable solutions. The company designs and delivers 6-, 9-, and 12-hole golf experiences that
destination where golf, entertainment, and hospitality converge—creating strong, diversified revenue streams and memorable experiences.
At the heart of Six12 Golf’s design philosophy is lead designer Terry LaGree, who brings decades of experience in golf course development, design, and construction including projects such as Jack Frost National in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania and Skyview in Hernando, Florida. His deep understanding of course playability, construction efficiency, and long-term maintenance ensures that every project is not only visually compelling, but also practical, sustainable, and built for success.
Recently, Six12 Golf further strengthened its platform by adding Party Par 3 as a strategic partner. This collaboration enhances Six12’s ability to merge innovative course design with entertainment-driven concepts, supported by data-backed site selection and market analysis. Together, the partnership delivers golf destinations that are both highly engaging and strategically positioned for strong returns.
As golf continues to evolve, Six12 Golf is helping lead the way—bridging tradition with innovation and building a more inclusive, experiencedriven future for the game.
Art, Golf, and Philanthropy
Cassy Tully, golf artist and philanthropist, meticulously creates each of her original paintings using her signature relief-painting technique. Based on her research of Italian relief artwork, she blends traditional sculpting techniques with modern painting materials, increasing the surface texture and the illusion of perspective. Her passion for philanthropy and mission to make a difference is grounded in partnerships with the PGA of America REACH Foundation and Jack Nicklaus; and through her work with the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Arnold Palmer Foundation, The U.S. Olympic Ski and Snowboard, and more. Her artwork has been commissioned and auctioned at the exclusive Indian Creek Country Club to benefit PGA REACH. Cassy is dedicated to supporting our military and veteran community including partnering with the
Cassy Tully - Live Painting at Indian Creek Country Club Member-Member Tournament.
The Service Academies Golf FoundationCommander-In-Chief's Cup Cassy Tully live painting at Winged Foot Golf Club.
Veteran Golfers Association; the Service Academies Golf Foundation; PGA HOPE and many others.
Cassy’s studio is near Pinehurst, NC, the ideal location to thrive as a golf artist. Her large-scale painting for The University of Alabama capturing the signature hole of a newly designed 9-hole course by Davis Love III.
She recently painted live at the LPGA 75th Anniversary at Pebble Beach where her painting was signed by LPGA and World Golf Hall of Fame legends. Her travels for Member-Guest Tournaments and fundraising events have taken her to iconic clubs and destinations including Winged Foot Golf Club, San Antonio Country Club, Yellowstone Country Club, Desert Mountain Club, The Cliffs at Mountain Park, Lake Forrest Country Club, and The Old Course Hotel in St. Andrews.
In addition, Cassy’s collaborative spirit includes commissioned art and being styled by Marie Birdie. She has also created art for XXIO tournaments at Whistling Straits, Pebble Beach and Kiawah Island. Her love of championship golf also includes creating the official artwork for the the Ryder Cup; Junior Ryder Cup; PGA Championship; U.S. Women’s Open; U.S. Amateur; U.S. Kids Golf World Championship; BMW Championship; Pinehurst North & South; and Western Amateur.
Cassy’s roots are in Wisconsin, and her paintings are featured across Kohler properties along with commemorative artwork celebrating the Milwaukee Brewers 50th anniversary. Her art is available in her online shop at www.cassytully.com. For custom projects and event inquiries, please contact 262-424-7476.
Ryder Cup Captain Jim Furyk signs Cassy's Ryder Cup painting created live on the first tee at Bethpage Black, auctioned to benefit PGA REACH.
Cassy Tully at her studio and gallery near Pinehurst, North Carolina.
Jim Furyk and Cassy Tully with her original Ryder Cup painting, created live on the first tee at Bethpage Black. Auctioned to benefit PGA REACH.
Where are you from? A small town north of Boston, Massachusetts called Rowley.
What do you do for a living? I am currently an Events Coordinator for the South Florida PGA.
Aside from golf, what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I love music and concerts, specifically country concerts. I just saw Luke Combs in Virginia, and it may have been the best day of my life. Outside of that, I spend most of my free time at the beach with a book or golfing with friends.
Name the three most important things to you in this world. My family, friends, and my dog, Luna.
What’s your earliest golf memory? Going to the driving range with my dad on Father’s Day with my two younger brothers. It eventually became a family tradition as we got older to play golf on Father’s Day just the four of us, followed by a family cookout.
What’s your favorite part of working in golf? Seeing the impact the game has beyond competition play. It’s really special to see how a community can come together and support one another through golf, especially in the South Florida area.
Favorite golf course snack or drink? Easily a chicken quesadilla—never misses.
What does a perfect weekend look like for you? A perfect weekend probably involves grabbing a coffee and a bagel breakfast sandwich, then heading to Juno Beach for the day. I also enjoy going to see live music and grabbing a drink with friends. I’m still fairly new to the South Florida area, so I’ve been trying to find new spots and just see where the weekend takes me.
What’s something you’re really proud of? Might sound simply but moving to South Florida to take my role with the South Florida PGA is something I’m really proud of. It was a big leap of faith and definitely outside my comfort zone, but that’s what made it exciting. I left home, started fresh in a new place, and got to immerse myself in the golf industry in a completely new environment. I’m really grateful for the people I’ve met along the way, and I’m excited to keep pushing myself, growing from the experience, and seeing where this path leads next!
Caitlin White
Collin Maisch
Where were you born? Fort Walton Beach, FL. Did you grow up there? No, grew up in Lakeland FL
What do you do for a living? IT Sales.
What would you like to do for a living? YouTube golf with the boys.
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Playing soccer, working out/ exercising, and watching sports.
What golf apparel do you like to wear? Nike, Callaway, Travis Matthew
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? Food, water, soccer ball.
Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? David Attenborough, the narrator for many nature documentaries. Probably would know all the animals and his voice is awesome.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Playing slow.
Name the three most important things to you in this world. Family, friends, peace.
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Success
What do you fear the most? Letting people down.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Tiger, Min Woo Lee, Ricky Fowler
Favorite comedian? Dave Chappelle
Last book you read? Never Lose A Customer Again
Favorite charity to support? Breast cancer
What else would you like for us to know about you? I am just a chill guy.
Collin with his niece Cleo Collins Maisch.
LIFE SPECTACULAR
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 you.
Matchup at Adventure Land Golf: The
Epic Quest of Two Fearless Boys
Golfer and best-selling author Gene Walden spent more than two years creating the story and illustrations for his first children’s book Matchup at Adventure Land Golf: The Epic Quest of Two Fearless Boys. The book educates as it entertains, subtly weaving in the terms, traditions, and history of golf as the boys traverse the treacherous 18-hole course. Gene has written over 30 non-fiction books and is an award-winning writer, reporter, and columnist. For more information, please visit www.SpinSpeedBooks.com. www.SpinSpeedBooks.com
A Collectible Future for Golf
In a game defined by memory—of shots struck, courses conquered, and rounds shared—Course Cards taps into something deeply personal: the desire to hold onto those moments in a tangible way.
At the core is a fresh twist on a familiar concept: collectible cards designed for golfers and built for golf courses. Each Course Card captures the golf course’s identity and visual appeal into a format that feels both nostalgic and modern. It’s the trading card reimagined— not for players, but for the courses themselves.
More than a guide, each card is a keepsake. Rooted in course architecture, Course Cards allow golfers to take a piece of the course with them. For traveling players, they become a kind of passport—a growing collection that documents where they’ve played and how each course challenged them.
Beyond the player experience, Course Cards present a compelling opportunity for golf facilities. Courses can purchase custom card sets at a wholesale price, creating margin for resale in pro shops or inclusion in premium golf packages. The model is simple but effective: a unique product that enhances the round while generating incremental revenue.
The potential expands further in tournaments, leagues, and corporate outings. Branded or limitededition cards can be integrated into entry fees, sponsorships, or tee gifts—serving as both a functional tool during play and a lasting souvenir.
Blending utility, storytelling, and retail appeal, Course Cards offer a new way to experience the game— inviting golfers not just to play the course, but to understand it, remember it, and ultimately, collect it.
www.CourseCards.com
Gene Walden
Golf Legends Built “Fields of Dreams” in Gaylord Golf Mecca
By Greg Johnson
The Gaylord Golf Mecca perfected the “build it and they will come” idea in golf a few years before the 1989 movie Field of Dreams and baseball popularized the concept.
The Mecca, a cooperative marketing group established in 1987 and now featuring 16 courses and 21 lodging partners, is in year 39 as the favorite U.S. summer golf destination.
Robert Trent Jones and Tom Fazio are among those who designed courses in the Mecca, and resorts and standalone golf courses have worked together since to make the dreams of traveling golfers come true.
The building process started long before 1987, but working together started when Harry Melling, an auto industry supplier and NASCAR team owner, purchased the Sylvan ski resort and decided to add golf courses to the property.
The Masterpiece, the last championship design by the legendary Jones, started attracting golfers to Treetops Resort, and quickly pinned Gaylord as a golfing must-stop in the Midwest. The Masterpiece was the first of five award-winning
courses Melling would build, including the only Fazio design in Michigan, the Premier.
Also, in 1987, the Gaylord Area Tourism Bureau formed the Gaylord Golf Mecca. Five area properties, Treetops, Otsego Resort, Gaylord Golf Club, Michaywe’ Pines
Treetops Resort
Lakes of the North
Course and Lakes of the North, remain among today’s members.
Rick Smith, whose fame would blossom as a teacher for Phil Mickelson and others, added two more highly regarded 18-hole designs at Treetops (Signature, Tradition) and the famous par 3, Threetops.
Wilfred Reid, who designed the famous Olympic Club in San Francisco, did the original design at Indian River Golf Club. Warner Bowen kept it classic with his redesign.
Rees Jones, son of the legend, created an award-winning championship course and short course at Black Lake Golf Club.
Rick Robbins and Gary Koch designed The Tribute at Otsego Resort, a tribute to Northern Michigan beauty. William Diddle, a co-founder of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, did The Classic, the original course at the resort.
Prolific designer Jerry Matthews created nine of the holes at Lakes of the North to go with an original nine by Bill Newcomb. Don Childs, another noted Michigan designer, created Michaywe Pines Course and Gaylord Golf Club, two standout parkland courses.
And the late Ron Otto, who owned Garland Lodge & Golf Resort, did the original designs of the four courses at that popular resort, which are now complimented by a par 3 called The Sawyer.
Otsego Resort
Gaylord Golf Club
Known as “The Drinking Coach”, Tiffanie Barriere is a renowned Atlanta-based bartender, educator and beverage influencer celebrated for her innovative cocktail programs and commitment to hospitality. Tiffanie is Palmetto Bluff’s May 2026 Artist in Residence where she will lead a number of unique and fun workshops, cultural journeys examining how different drinking traditions have shaped the cocktails we know and love today. A Tastemakers of the South award winner, and James Beard–recognized public historian, Tiffanie has crafted creative menus for world-class chefs, hosted mixology classes globally and showcased her expertise on Netflix’s ‘High on the Hog Drink Masters’ and Amazon Prime’s ‘Three Drinkers’. Her work celebrates the history, culture and craft of cocktails with a focus on equity, education and community. Tiffanie will lead interactive mixology workshops at Palmetto
Bluff guiding participants in exploring the spirits, techniques and creativity behind every pour. “Pecans go back to the 1500’s. The word comes from the Algonquin pacane — meaning a nut you need a stone to crack. Indigenous communities even made a fermented pecan drink called powcohicora, the root of the word “hickory.” Long before sugarcane and plantations, it was Native food, Native knowledge. Oak Alley Plantation in Louisiana — then called Bon Séjour — was built in 1837. Plantation records list a Black Creole man named Antoine, born around 1809 to parents Zaire and Zephyr. No last name was ever written. Just “Antoine.” But his work changed American agriculture. By 1876, Antoine had become a master grafter. He grafted 126 pecan trees by hand. From those trees came more than a thousand pecan varieties still growing today across 14 states and almost every continent. That same year, one of his pecans won “Best Pecan Exhibited” at the Philadelphia
Centennial Exposition. After the Civil War, new owners cut most of the pecan trees to plant sugarcane. But the ones Antoine grafted survived. They showed his pecans, accepted the awards, renamed the nut Centennial, and built an entire industry on top of his work — without ever saying his name again Finding his story inspired me, and that’s why this cocktail exists. For Indigenous roots. For Antoine’s hands. For the ones who grew, grafted, and nourished — without credit, but never without impact.” - Tiffanie Barriere
Centennial:
2 oz Cognac
3/4 oz fresh squeezed orange juice
3/4 oz pecan-ginger syrup
3 dashes angostura bitters
Shake and serve however you’d like.
Tiffanie Barriere
Historical Sites to See Along the Georgia Golf Trail
By Mike May
When you play golf along The Georgia Golf Trail, you’ll see there’s much more to The Georgia Golf Trail than playing golf. After you finish playing golf at any one of the 20+ golf courses along the GGT, you’ll get to visit many of Georgia’s most historical sites and learn about the many significant moments in time since the days of colonial America.
“Clearly, as you travel along The Georgia Golf Trail to play golf, you’ll see that there’s as much to do for non-golfers as there is to do on the golf course for golfers,” said Georgia Golf Trail Founder Doug Hollandsworth. No historical trip to Georgia
is complete unless you visit the City of Savannah, which is the oldest city in Georgia and was the state’s first capital. Savannah was founded in 1733. After playing golf
at The Landings, which is one of the golf courses along The Georgia Golf Trail, you should walk the city streets of Savannah where you can check out the city’s many ‘attractions’ -- Southern cuisine restaurants, riverboat cruises along the Savannah River, architectural tours, spectacular art galleries, Civil War reenactments, and the city’s number-one attraction -the Savannah Historic Theatre, which was established in 1818.
After playing golf at the Highland Walk Golf Course located at Victoria Bryant State Park in Royston, Georgia, visit the Traveler’s Rest State Historic Site, which is located near the intersection of Old King’s Highway and Unicoi Turnpike. Traveler’s Rest is Georgia’s last stagecoach inn and the long-time residence of the Jarrett family. The inn provides visitors a glimpse into
Savannah Georgia Riverboat Cruioses are popular
FDR's old car on display at Little White House - Warm Springs Georgia
Tank at outdoor museaum - Lake Blackshear
early American travel and will give you a look at life in 19th Century Georgia. This stagecoach inn, and later a plantation home, was first built around 1815 by James Wyly. Because of its architectural significance and its role in the early history of the area, Traveler’s Rest was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964. Today, visitors can tour the house and see many original artifacts and furnishings. When you visit Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia, you get access to the Mountain View and Lake View golf courses. Mountain View is the former home of the PGA Tour’s Buick Challenge. Lake View is the original golf course at Callaway Resort & Gardens.
After golf at Callaway, visit nearby Warm Springs, Georgia, specifically the Little White House that President Franklin Delano Roosevelt had built in 1932 when he was the governor of New York, just before he was inaugurated as U.S. President in 1933. Roosevelt visited nearby Warm Springs as he hoped that swimming in the nearly 90-degree spring water might help him cure his infantile paralysis (polio) that struck him in 1921. The therapeutic water did help improve
his physical mobility, but it did not cure him of polio. Visitors who tour FDR’s home get to see it as he left it when he died on April 12, 1945.
If you visit Cordele, Georgia to play golf at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Golf Course at the Lake
Blackshear State Park & Lodge, there’s a military museum on the premises of the park which is guided by the theme: “Serve the Living, Honor Our Heroic Dead.” The museum blends indoor and outdoor exhibits to honor U.S. veterans from the Revolutionary War through to the present day. The indoor exhibits and outdoor installations include a B-29A Superfortress, jets, tanks and a helicopter. This is a mustsee exhibit for families, school-age children, and U.S. military veterans.
For more information about the Georgia Golf Trail, please access www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com.
Travelers Rest Historic Site
Savannah Georgia features unique architecture
Making Moves in Mississippi Golf in the Gulfport
By Greg Corbo
When it comes to golf in Mississippi, the southernmost Gulfport region should be near the very top of any list for one obvious reason - it’s positioning on the Gulf of Mexico. There are roughly 20 courses to choose from along the 62 miles of coastline between Bay St. Louis and Ocean Springs plus a total of twelve casinos. There’s something about being near the water that adds an extra layer of possibility and relaxation to the mix, making the Gulf’s coastal connection significant. High-rise casino hotels on the water with uncrowded beaches and enough seafood restaurants will make your head spin. The Gulfport and its endless array of attractions will certainly keep you occupied for a week or more. Most of the golf courses feed off the waterways and winds from the Gulf provide healthy turf conditions yearround. Below are a few locations that check all the boxes in terms of service, playability, price point, overall scenery and of course that Southern Hospitality the Magnolia State is known for.
WINDANCE COUNTRY CLUB
(GULFPORT, MS)
Designed in 1986 by Marc McCumber, Windance County Club was a former tour stop on both the NIKE and Ben Hogan tours in the 1990s. Situated on rolling terrain with tight fairways and small Tif-Eagle greens, the course plays longer than it measures at 6,600 yards from the tips. Guests staying at either Island View or Beach View Casino Resort get preferred rates and optional golf packaging. Windance Head Pro
Micky D’Angelo and his staff run a tight operation evidenced on the overall presentation of the golf course and clubhouse. The club will have a new fleet of carts by early May. www.windancecc.com
THE BRIDGES GOLF CLUB at HOLLYWOOD CASINO GULF COAST (BAY ST. LOUIS, MS) The Bridges Golf Club stands alone as the only Arnold Palmer signature golf course in the state of Mississippi. Set on a 600acre property, golfers traverse
Grand Bear Golf Club
Island View Resort and Casino
over 21 wooden bridges spanning almost one mile, over 17 lakes, and pockets of marshes and wetlands. As a result, many bulkheaded greens are incorporated into the scenic routing around the 14-story waterfront Hollywood Casino Hotel with soothing views of the St. Louis Bay in the backdrop. Stay and Play packages are readily available at www.hollywoodgulfcoast.com.
THE CLUB at DIAMONDHEAD (DIAMONDHEAD, MS)
Thirty-six hole facilities are typically smooth when considering pace of play. Enjoy either or both of Diamondhead’s two championship courses. Pines and Cardinal were both renovated in 2016 and known for towering tree lined fairways. A private club-feel welcomes the public with a robust practice facility, while it’s set up to run outings and big events based on the size of its footprint. Diamondhead is also the
only club in the area possessing an indoor/outdoor state of the art golf academy. Finally, Diamondhead also features a tennis club and marina with direct access to Bay St. Louis. wwww.theclubatdiamondhead.com
GRAND BEAR GOLF CLUB (SAUCIER, MS)
A mere 35 miles from the Gulf Coast, Grand Bear Golf Club is a signature Jack Nicklaus design (1999) built six miles into the National DeSoto Forest. Host of the 2025 Mississippi State Amateur, the course is very generous off the tees and around the greens with ample room to shape shots if you get a little off the grid. Measuring 7,204 yards from the Grizzly tees, no two holes are parallel to one another allowing players to really focus on what’s ahead. Grand Bear hosted a PGA Tour Champions event in 2022, the Rapiscan Systems Classic. Grand Bear has
also been ranked a Top 50 Public Course in the US. Grand Bear is a championship venue with a rustic clubhouse. www.golfgrandbear.com
With just under 1,000 rooms and suites on the beach offering twenty-one drink and dining options and two fully loaded casino floors, there’s no reason not to stay at either the awardwinning Island View Casino or Beach View Smoke Free Casino Resort. Make a reservation at Carter Green Steakhouse (voted Top 20 restaurant in the Gulf) where prime cut steaks, seafood and lobster line the menu. Island View purchased Windance Country Club in 2007 and continues to make annual upgrades for resort guests. Stay and Play golf packages are available. www.islandviewcasino.com
Windance
Please, don’t let me Win on Wednesday
Founded in 1960 as a familyfriendly tradition for players, family, and their guests, the Par Three Contest on Wednesday of Masters week is an event you don’t want to win.
Picture yourself as the world’s
No. 1 player in the world: you’ve logged practice rounds at famed Augusta National, your family and friends are in town, and when Wednesday arrives, the last thing you want is to play your best, or as we heard it described… just bad enough for second place.
Sam Snead won the inaugural Par Three Contest in 1960. Arnold Palmer won that year, birding the final two holes to finish with a score of 282 (−6), defeating runner-up Ken Venturi by one stroke to secure his second Masters victory. Snead finished 11th in that year’s Masters. He didn’t win the Par Three Contest again until 1974—one month shy of his 62nd birthday.
Played over a nine-hole layout measuring 90 to 155 yards, the contest features shots across DeSoto Springs and Ike’s Pond.
For Patrons, it’s as “up close and personal” as golf gets—nothing brings you closer to the action than the Par Three Contest.
Sixty-six years later, the Par Three Contest has produced 119 holes-in-one—and countless family moments, like Keegan Bradley’s ace on No. 8 this year, when his young son pulled the ball from the cup and danced around the green.
And here’s the statistic that stops players in their tracks: no one has ever won the Par Three Contest on Wednesday and then gone on to win The Masters title on Sunday in the same year.
Hence - Please… don’t let me win on Wednesday!
Story and Photos: Beverly and Greg Wise – Golf the Wise Way
Bryson DeChambeau playing the 7th OH MAN… It missed!
Just a quick shot moving the patron from the number 6 tee with Desoto Springs to the right connecting holes 1 through 6.
for a snack… on the golf
Andrew Novak… out for a family walk on the Short Course.
Documenting the hole-in-one for Keagan. Yep… time
course.
2026 Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Club
By Tony Leodora
It’s a beautiful thing when a plan comes together.
In this case, the plan is the one that began after the turn of the century when America’s greatest golfer, Jack Nicklaus, and England’s venerable star, Tony Jacklin, put their heads together with the idea to create a golf course in what was then the scrub lands and cattle pastures of Central Florida.
The story behind the cooperative design effort is now almost as famous as the original piece of golf history. The Concession Club was founded as a tribute to Nicklaus’ grand gesture in the 1969 Ryder Cup, conceding the final putt to Jacklin and clinching the first tie in Ryder Cup history. Nothing less than a majestic golf course could match one of golf’s finest moments. And that’s what they produced.
It was mandated to be an extremely challenging course, one that could test the greatest players in the world. It also was designed to be a stadium course, one that would afford the ultimate viewing pleasure
to spectators who might come out to follow a major championship.
From the moment The Concession Club opened in 2006, there was no doubt it had accomplished the first goal. It debuted as Golf Digest’s “Best New Private Course.” Soon after, the ferocity of the course was validated when the Slope and Rating numbers were assigned.
From the back tees, 7,490 yards, it was assigned a Slope of 155 – the highest possible. The Course Rating was an even more staggering 78.1.
Thus, the reason members
and guests have changed the name of the course from Concession to Concussion.
As for the other goal, of creating the ultimate course for viewing a professional golf tournament, it had to wait a few years to see if it made the grade.
A couple of test runs paved the way.
The Concession Club first hosted the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Championships in 2015. Then, in 2021 when COVID caused a move of the World Golf Championship tournament out of Mexico City, it hosted its first PGA Tour event. And, in 2023 it hosted the World Champions Cup that pitted teams from America, Europe and the World.
Having satisfactorily proved its mettle, The Concession Club was awarded a three-year contract by the PGA of America to host the Senior PGA Championship. Aside from Augusta National, it is rare to see a major championship show that much confidence in a venue.
At this 2026 Senior PGA Championship, The Concession
Club validated that confidence.
First, it was a spectacular week of weather – with sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-80s every day. A gentle breeze made the playing and viewing conditions even better. And the course stood out like an emerald gem in the midst of Florida’s rugged natural terrain.
The spectators were treated to all of the splendor that was designed into the course – wonderful sight lines, natural viewing areas and an easy walk from hole to hole. Add the fact that there is no housing along any of the fairways and it becomes a stadium course in a pristine natural setting.
Then there was the competition – of the highest level, by the best players in the world, in a highly regarded Senior Major Championship.
At first, there was speculation about the extreme difficulty of the course and the fact that it might embarrass too many of the over-50 players. Many players, including well-regarded names like Jay Haas, Steve Stricker, Fred Funk and Rocco Mediate withdrew from the tournament. Upwards of a dozen players got a look at the course and pulled out of the competition. That may have been a record for the Champions Tour, although nothing could be confirmed.
As a result, precautions were taken. The course was shortened to 7,002 yards for the opening round, and closer to 6,900 yards for the three following rounds. Green
speeds, which typically approach 13 on the stimpmeter for member play, were visibly slower. Nobody would confirm the speeds but they were estimated to be closer to 11.
And hole locations were generally benign. On greens that range from very undulating to bordering on demonic, aggressive hole locations could have been a disaster. Tucked pins could have resulted in more tragedies than the PGA of America could have stomached.
Throughout the first three days, the top players on the leaderboard showed that they could handle Concession, under the gentle setup and excellent weather conditions.
Then came the final round and 52-year-old Stewart Cink, who had been lurking in a quiet spot on the leaderboard all week,
absolutely took the course apart.
He shot a course-record 63 to win his first Senior Major Championship by 6 shots over Ben Crane. His 19-under-par total was the second-best score in the history of the event.
Cink stunned the field with an amazing stretch of golf around the mid-portion of the final round. It all began with an eagle on the par-5 7th hole. He then closed out the front nine with back-toback birdies. He also birdied the 11th hole to claim a 5-under-par mark for that 5-hole stretch.
“I just got into a rhythm with my putter everything seemed to find the hole,” said Cink, who won for the fourth time in his last six Champions Tour events.“I honestly never dreamed there would be a score of 19-under-par on this course,” Cink admitted. “It is a course that really requires a lot of discipline. It is a strategic golf course that really tests you at every turn.”
And it will continue to test the best senior golfers in the world for two more years. The threeyear commitment by the PGA of America is a real vote of confidence for the golf course and for the infrastructure that has developed in this quickly changing area that lies east of the Gulf Coast cities of Sarasota and Bradenton.
The plan, which began way back when Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin first got together, was that the players and the community would develop into a mutual admiration society. And golf would be the beneficiary.
Escalante Golf Acquires Nationally Ranked Hawks Ridge Golf Club
Nine-Time U.S. Open Qualifying Site Is Masterfully Routed Over Gently Rolling Terrain One Hour North of Atlanta
Escalante Golf – a boutique owner and operator of luxury golf properties across 17 states – has acquired Hawks Ridge Golf Club in Ball Ground, Georgia.
Since opening in 1999, Hawks Ridge has been regularly ranked among the country’s Top 200 Modern Courses by Golfweek and Georgia’s best courses by Golf Digest. This June, Hawks Ridge will be one of 10 U.S. courses to host final qualifying for the 126th U.S. Open Championship, marking the ninth time it has been selected for this honor.
Childhood friends Mike Nixon and Joe Jillson founded the club after searching far and wide for the best land they could find in greater Atlanta. Their quest led them to a secluded parcel about one hour north of downtown.
After an extensive nationwide process, they selected Bob Cupp as the course designer. Cupp –whose credits include Pumpkin Ridge outside of Portland, Oregon and Liberty National just west of New York City – had worked with
Jack Nicklaus on Ohio’s Muirfield Village, one of the founders’ favorite courses. Presented with an ideal canvas of 550 wooded, rolling acres, Cupp created a golf course that has received acclaim for its strong shot values, thoughtprovoking mix of shorter and longer holes, and exceptional conditioning.
From day one, these oncourse attributes have been complemented by a welcoming off-course vibe. Beyond the 18-hole course, other feature amenities at Hawks Ridge are a nine hole par-3 course, spacious clubhouse, tavernstyle restaurant, state-of-the-art training center, helipad and two four-bedroom member cottages. This atmosphere of great golf and comfortable luxury has been key to attracting a club membership that includes some of Atlanta’s most prominent athletes and accomplished business people.
“We’re honored to become the
next stewards of Hawks Ridge, and to continue its legacy as a club known for great golf and genuine camaraderie,” said David McDonald, President & Partner at Escalante Golf. “Mike and Joe possessed incredible vision when they successfully combined world-class golf course architecture with a laid-back club vibe. They established a standard for excellence that seamlessly aligns with our team’s mission to deliver an amazing golf experience every day to our members and their guests. The Membership at Hawks Ridge is one composed not only of higher-caliber players, but great people as well. Mike and Joe built a true players’ club, one to be enjoyed for generations to come. We’re prepared and honored to preserve that legacy.”
Golf course architect Tripp Davis has been retained to create a masterplan for the Club. In 2022, Davis completed an extensive renovation of Atlanta Athletic Club’s Riverside course and is currently putting the finishing touches on an original design, The
Rose Golf Club, outside of Athens, Georgia. Davis and Escalante enjoy a close relationship, as the heralded architect has worked with the team at The International’s Oaks Course (Bolton, Mass.), BlackHorse Golf Club (Cypress, Texas) and Black Diamond
Ranch (Lecanto, Fla.).
“Our team is committed to ensuring the Hawks Ridge practice facility, instruction programming, tournament schedule and culinary offerings are complementary to its exceptional on-course golf
experience,” added Jeff Kindred, COO, Escalante Golf. “We are excited for the opportunity to bring this iconic club – one with such a strong culture of excellence shared by both members and staff – into its next chapter.”
About Escalante Golf
Founded in 1991, Escalante Golf is a boutique owner and operator of 26 luxury golf properties across 17 states. The Fort Worth, Texas-based company has quietly assembled an impressive collection of exclusive clubs in key markets that have hosted prestigious amateur and professional golf tournaments including the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Mid-Amateur Championships, the Charles Schwab Cup, the WGC Match Play Championship, the WinCo Foods Portland Open, the Shell Houston Open and five LIV Golf events in Portland, Boston, Tucson, Nashville and Houston.
Operating partners David McDonald, Elcio Silva, Robert Silva and David Matheson direct the Escalante team.
For golfers who spend long hours under open skies, protecting yourself from the sun is nonnegotiable - which is where Stream2Sea comes in. Founded by cosmetic chemist and diver Autumn Blum, the brand was created with a clear mission: develop high-performance sun and body care products that consider both human health and the environmental impact of what washes off our skin.
The ingredients of every product have been consciously chosen, avoiding chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that have been shown to disrupt hormones. Every formula has also been rigorously tested for aquatic toxicity, so you can rest assured that your sunscreen is safer for marine life, including corals.
One standout for the fairway is the SPF 40 Sport Sunscreen Zinc Balm. Powered by non-nano zinc oxide, this balm delivers reliable mineral sun protection and is easy to apply. Designed to go on sheer,
it’s ideal for targeted areas like the nose, ears, and neck, places that are easy to miss but where sun exposure is highest. The formula is enriched with Stream2Sea’s proprietary antioxidant blend of green tea, aloe, wakame seaweed, olive leaf and holy basil that gives you an added layer of protection from the sun’s damaging rays.
For full-face and body coverage, the Every Day Active Mineral Sunscreen (SPF 45) offers a lightweight, fragrance-free option built for performance. It absorbs quickly with no greasy residue and is formulated for sensitive skin, making it a reliable daily companion on the course. Plus, like our Zinc Balm, it won’t sting or burn your eyes - an important advantage when sweat and heat can cause sunscreen to migrate. Designed to stay comfortable, it helps prevent the eye irritation that can distract from your focus so you can see clearly for every shot.
After a day in the sun, the Sun & Sting Soothing Gel provides fast-
absorbing relief. Formulated with Stream2Sea’s antioxidant blend plus essential oils like cinnamon bark, lavender, and tea tree, it helps cool and replenish skin stressed by sun exposure or insect bites, common and unwelcome distractions during early morning or late afternoon tee times.
Stream2Sea brings together science-driven sun care and environmental responsibility, so golfers can focus on their game, not the damage, while making more informed choices on and off the course about their health and the planet.
South Florida PGA Foundation Hosts 10th Annual PGA Hope Classic at Lost Tree Club
The South Florida PGA Foundation hosted its 10th Annual South Florida PGA HOPE Classic May 7th at Lost Tree Club, raising $125,000 in support of the Foundation’s flagship military initiative, PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere).
Celebrating a decade of impact, the annual event continues to serve as one of the South Florida PGA Foundation’s premier fundraising efforts benefiting Veterans throughout the South Florida community. For the fifth consecutive year, Lost Tree Club graciously served as the host venue, welcoming 23 teams of four competing in a better ball format on one of South Florida’s premier golf courses.
The PGA HOPE Classic brings together PGA of America Golf Professionals, community leaders, supporters, and Veterans for a day centered around camaraderie, philanthropy, and the game of golf. In addition to the on-course competition, participants enjoyed a raffle and silent auction that generated additional funding to support future PGA HOPE programming across the South Florida Section.
Adding to the significance of the day, eight South Florida PGA HOPE graduates volunteered throughout the event, assisting with operations and engaging with participants. Their involvement highlighted the life-changing impact the program continues to have on Veterans
and the meaningful community fostered through PGA HOPE.
“This program saves lives, and I just want to say thank you to everyone here for your support in this program,” said SFPGA HOPE Ambassador Christina Alaverez.
Established in 2015, the South Florida PGA HOPE program has impacted the lives of over 2,000 Veterans through six-week instructional programs led by PGA of America Golf Professionals
across South Florida. PGA HOPE introduces Veterans to the game of golf as a means to enhance their physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, while fostering lasting connections both on and off the golf course. All programming is provided at no cost to participating Veterans.
The continued success of the PGA HOPE Classic reflects the unwavering support of the South Florida golf community and the growing impact of PGA HOPE throughout the region. Through events like the HOPE Classic, the South Florida PGA Foundation remains committed to positively impacting Veterans’ lives through the game of golf for years to come.
Titled by Keiser University, this year’s event was also supported by PXG, Firemaker Brewery, Garmany Golf, 2nd Swing, Raymond James, The City of Boynton Beach, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, whose continued partnership and generosity help make the event possible year after year.
NFPGA Members Volunteer at the Practice Area for the 2026 Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Golf Club
As the Host Section for the 2026 Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, FL, our members had the opportunity to be a part of this major in a unique way. NFPGA Members assisted in working the Practice Grounds for the entire week. The duties included preparing the practice balls in buckets for players, keeping the Practice Range clean of used tees, assisting with player name plaques on the Practice Range, sorting player name plaques throughout the day, and keeping the Short Game Area clean throughout the day.
We are profoundly grateful to all our members who volunteered at the 2026 Senior PGA Championship. Thank you for giving your time and representing our Section so proudly on a national stage.
The Concession Golf Club is hosting the 2027 and 2028 Senior PGA Championship. We look forward to continuing to be a part of this event and help make it a great major!
A Special Full Circle Moment for NFPGA Member, Robert Schwab, PGA at the 2026 Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Golf Club
While volunteering over the
weekend at the 2026 Senior PGA Championship, NFPGA member Robert Schwab, PGA shared that his grandfather, Harry Schwab, won the 14th Annual Senior PGA Championship in 1953. He even brought along his grandfather’s champion’s medal and a photo to share with us, a meaningful reminder of family and PGA history.
Rod Perry, PGA and Tom Walters, PGA Competed at the 2026 Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Golf Club
The field for the 2026 Senior PGA Championship at The Concession Golf Club included two known names in the NFPGA: Rod Perry, PGA and Tom Walters, PGA. For both NFPGA Members, competing in a major in their
Section was a special moment. While neither player made the cut, they still played some good golf in major championship conditions. Rod carded 9-over 81 in Round 1 and 1-over 73 in Round 2. His steady play in Round 2 included two birdies and three bogeys, showing a marked improvement from his first round. Tom carded 8-over 80 in Round 1, but he got hot in Round 2. He shot 2-under 70 with a total of 5 birdies! His impressive play included back-to-back birdies on the par 4 5th hole and par 3 6th hole. Both players showed tremendous poise playing amongst the best players and highlighted one aspect that means so much to being a PGA Golf Professional; playing the game we love at the highest level and making the Section proud.
2026 Senior PGA Championship Section Volunteers
Robert Schwab, PGA at the 2026 Senior PGA Championship
Tom Walters, PGA
Rod Perry, PGA
Sandra Changkija, PGA and Greg Koch, PGA make the 54 hole cut at the 2026 PGA Professional Championship
The 2026 PGA Professional Championship was hosted at beautiful Bandon Dunes, April 26th – 29th. Participants competed at both Bandon Dunes and Pacific Dunes with a chance to be a part of the 20 PGA of America Golf Professionals that are a part of Corebridge Financial Team at the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club.
The NFPGA had a total of 8 members in the PGA Professional Championship field: Matt Borchert, PGA | Sandra Changkija, PGA | Hayes Farley, PGA | David Hronek, PGA | Greg Koch, PGA | Andrew Lanahan, PGA | John Reynaud, PGA | Mark Rummings, PGA. Ultimately Sandra and Greg made both the 36 and 54 hole cut.
Sandra finished T69 with rounds of 73(BAN) - 70(PAC)76(BAN) - 81(BAN). Greg shot 72(BAN) - 74(PAC) - 76(BAN)74(BAN), good for a T57 finish.
Each of our members competed
at a high level, and it was great to see Sandra and Greg make it to the final round!
Sandra Changkija, PGA
Greg Koch, PGA
Georgia PGA Professional Francisco Bide Set for PGA Championship Debut at Aronimink Golf Club
By: Sloan Aubrey
This week, Francisco Bide will step onto one of golf’s biggest stages as he makes his debut at the PGA Championship as part of the Corebridge Financial Team. The 2026 PGA Championship will be contested May 14-17 at Aronimink Golf Club, where Bide will compete alongside many of the game’s top players.
The Head Golf Professional at Capital City Club earned his place in the field following a T-10 finish at the 2026 PGA Professional Championship at Bandon Dunes, continuing an impressive run of success within the Georgia PGA Section and beyond.
Born and raised in Argentina, Bide played collegiate golf at Georgia College before pursuing professional golf, competing in 59 events on PGA TOUR Latinoamérica. Since becoming a PGA of America Golf Professional, he has established himself as one of Georgia’s top players and professionals.
Bide’s recent accomplishments include being named the 2024 Georgia PGA Player of the Year and 2024 Georgia PGA Assistant Player of the Year. He also captured victories at the 2024 Georgia PGA Honda Classic and
2024 Georgia PGA Match Play Championship, while finishing runnerup at both the 2025 Georgia PGA Professional Championship and 2025 Georgia PGA Atlanta Open.
In 2024, Bide also competed in The RSM Classic, adding another PGA TOUR start to his growing resume.
“Playing in the PGA Championship is something every golf professional dreams about,” said Bide.
“To have the opportunity to represent the Georgia PGA, Capital City Club, and everyone who has supported me along the way means a lot. I’m excited for the experience and ready to compete.”
Now, after years of dedication to both coaching and competition, Bide will tee it up alongside the best players in the world at Aronimink Golf Club for his first PGA Championship appearance, representing Georgia on one of golf’s grandest stages.
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A Turf Pirate's Journal
$ ICONS GARY PLAYER $
Welcome Turf Pirates to a special edition of a Turf Pirates Journal. This month we will walk through the well-turned pages of the past and talk a bit about Golf Industry ICON Gary Player. Now there are literally millions of words and pictures out in the world about Gary Player and he is by any measure amazing not that winning golf’s grand slam and countless other tournaments would require anything else but I have a few ties to Gary that make him a personal hero and his passion for environmental stewardship makes him even greater in my eyes. Perhaps I should state for those not in the know that Gary was one of the Designers of my first course, PineIsle on Lake Lanier. Gary worked with Ron Kirby and Associates (a young Art Davis included) on the project before he had his own design firm. PineIsle opened in 1972 and hosted five LPGA World Championships from 1985 to 1989. PineIsle flew the Stouffer and the Renaissance flags during her time. And she only knew four GCS, construction GCS Charlie Scott handed her to Allan Baston who handed her to Bob Thompson who handed her to me. She closed in 2005 as these things sometimes happen even to the best of clubs. I had a few occasions to meet Mr. Player at multiple golf industry events, and he was always gracious and more than knowledgeable. In 2023, while I was Director of Agronomy at TPC Four seasons in Dallas (The Nelson is her call sign these days) Director of Golf James Williams and I had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Player and a group on the TPC Course. Mr. Player, at the vintage age of eighty-seven, shot a smooth 65 from the white tees. He took the time to visit the staff at GCM and told stories and encouraged everyone to be their best. He also signed every flag and as-built
copy that I had from PineIsle and as we walked through each hole virtually, he clearly had a memory and passion for his work which is rare. This month’s photo was taken that day of James, Gary, and I on the first tee. He did not want any fan-fair but there was a bit of a gallery as he hit his tee shot off the first tee, a frozen rope right down the middle in perfect shape. He picked up his tee and looked back at the gathering of admirers and said, “the last time I missed a fairway the Pope was an altar boy,” well done and well said Mr. Player. Three years have passed since I spent some time around legendary Golf Icon Gary Player, but I feel that much of my golf and Turf Pirate career have been certainly influenced by the man and his amazing endurance and vision. He focused on health and fitness
before it was mainstream. He won majors and dominated the game like few others. Even at this year’s Master’s he was one of those chosen to hit the honorary tee shot at 90 years young. What I remember most is that he took the time to speak to and encourage a bunch of wide-eyed greenkeepers when he did not have to. The walk away this month Turf Pirate’s is that no one is perfect but there are those rare ICONS that overcome the odds and win big at life and golf. Gary Player is one such individual and his kindness to my staff and I will be treasured always. What say, you Turf Pirate’s who do you consider an Icon and why? Wishing you all a safe and prosperous summer golf season from the nearly completed Galactic Headquarters of the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates.
One of the best First Tee memories ever, (L to R) James Williams, Gary Player and Anthony Williams at TPC Four Seasons.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
In 2026, the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America proudly marks 100 years of innovation, dedication, and growth for the golf course management industry. From humble beginnings to becoming a leader in the industry, our journey has been one of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to our members.
COLONEL JOHN MORLEY
CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN
Donor Wall Plaque
To support the Colonel John Morley Centennial Campaign, please donate to receive your personalized plaque on the plaza at GCSAA Headquarters.
Scan to donate, or call (800) 472-7878.
$500 LEVEL
WALL PLAQUE with three lines of text and front entrance placement at GCSAA headquarters
GCSAA
HAT AND GOLF BALL
REPLICA PLAQUE
As we reflect on the past century, we are filled with gratitude for the incredibly loyal members, valued allied and industry partnerships, and talented team members who have helped shape our success. We have always been driven by a single mission:
“Dedicated to serving our members, advancing their profession, and improving communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf.”
And we are just getting started!
Join us in celebrating this monumental achievement as we look back on a century of milestones and forward to the exciting possibilities ahead. Together, we have built something extraordinary — and the next 100 years are sure to be even more remarkable.
The GCSAA Foundation has embarked on a Centennial fundraising campaign to establish a new endowment honoring GCSAA’s founder, Colonel John Morley, with a goal of raising $1 million to fund new and innovative initiatives for the next 100 years. Please consider supporting the Foundation in its mission to ensure the long-term sustainability of our industry.
$300 LEVEL
WALL PLAQUE with three lines of text and premium wall placement at GCSAA headquarters
GCSAA CENTENNIAL HAT AND GOLF BALL
$100 LEVEL
WALL PLAQUE with two lines of text
America’s No. 1 lawn care company crashed Facebook Marketplace to stage a DIY lawn care intervention, and now every homeowner can benefit This week, PGA TOUR golfer and TruGreen partner Jason Day did something no one saw coming – he listed his personal lawn care equipment on Facebook Marketplace for just $10 — but this wasn’t your typical garage clean-out. In partnership with TruGreen, America’s No. 1 lawn care company, Day’s social media digital “Yard Sale” takeover intercepted DIYers in search of lawn tools midscroll with a compelling pitch: let the pros handle it. Over the past week, Day
dropped two listings each day on Facebook Marketplace. The catch? Rather than a used sprayer or dusty spreader, the lucky scrollers who found his listings received a full year of pro-worthy lawn care from TruGreen. They traded grueling weekend yard work for a golf course quality lawn without the hassle of doing it yourself.
Even if you didn’t find one of Jason’s lucky listings this week, TruGreen is making sure no homeowner misses out on a golf course quality lawn this season. Now through May 21, homeowners can sign up to get their first TruGreen lawn care service for only $9.95 — no Facebook scrolling required.
“I’ve spent my career chasing perfection on the course, and you don’t get results like that without the right team behind you,” says Jason Day, PGA TOUR golfer. “That’s what I like about TruGreen. Showing homeowners there’s a better option than doing it all themselves. A real upgrade to their lawns and getting their time back. If you want the golfcourse quality results, you trust the pros at TruGreen.”
As the lawn care company trusted by more than 2.3 million customers, TruGreen brings decades of localized expertise, customized treatment plans and ongoing professional support to deliver consistent, reliable results all season long.
“Partnering with Jason on this was a fun, unexpected way to intercept homeowners in the middle of their lawn care decision-making as they’re gearing up for another season of yard work,” says Alyssa Puketza, Chief Marketing Officer at TruGreen. “Now we want every homeowner to experience the same science-backed, locally tailored expertise and year-round support that convinced Jason Day to go pro (off the course) and quit DIY lawn care for good.”
Visit TruGreen’s Instagram and YouTube channel for a recap of Jason Day’s takeover, then head to TruGreen.com and claim your first professional lawn care application for just $9.95 and get a golf course quality lawn.
TruGreen wants everyone to have a lawn they love. That’s why they also offer an exciting referral program for existing customers — because great lawns are meant to be shared. Not only will your friends and family benefit from pro-level lawn care, but you’ll also be rewarded with a $100 gift card of your choice for spreading the lawn love.
To learn more about TruGreen’s range of lawn care services, referral program and current promotions, visit TruGreen.com.
Registration Open for Audubon International BioBlitz 10th Edition Competition documents large diversity of
species living on golf courses
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 — invites golf courses of all kinds and sizes to take part in the 10th annual BioBlitz competition open from June 1-July 1, 2026. The friendly competition offers courses the opportunity to identify the diverse species of flora and fauna thriving along their fairways though a one-day event for friends, family, members, and employees. Audubon International will announce the winners later this summer.
With support from Seed King Enterprises LLC, the event provides a unique opportunity for golf courses to engage their community members in activities designed to showcase and record the abundance of wildlife thriving on golf landscapes in a wide range of natural settings.
Audubon International provides all participating courses with a detailed handbook about holding a BioBlitz as well as personalized assistance from staff members.
In last year’s BioBlitz, a
committed and passionate collection of nature lovers gathered at courses across the United States and beyond, from Canada to Costa Rica. Local participants included club members, golf course employees, community members from surrounding neighborhoods, entire families, school children, and other nature enthusiasts.
The 2025 winners are strong testament to the breadth and variety of participants. Glencoe Golf Club, a Chicagoland course established on the North Shore of Lake Michigan in 1921, won first place in the Community Engagement Award after two third-place finishes in previous years, while central Michigan’s family owned and fully public Ironwood Golf Course took the Biodiversity Award, with participants tallying 409 species on one day. The award for Best Photograph went to Naples Lake Country Club in Naples, Florida, for member Mike Powers’ stunning shot of an Eastern Blue Bird with Golden Polypod on Sabal Palm.
“As we strive to embrace and integrate all of the standards set forth by Audubon International, Outreach and Education is a standard that carries on beyond
çcthe golf course grounds,” said Stella Nanos, Glencoe’s General Manager. “Bio Blitz helps to convey the importance of milkweed, pollinator gardens, wildlife trees and other environmental features that support habitat for insects and wildlife. Our goal is to have every patron learn something about the benefits of the golf course to the environment and hopefully carry some of that education back to their own gardens.”
To learn how to expand initiatives through Audubon International’s numerous environmental certifications, visit www.auduboninternational.org or call toll free: 1-844-767-9051
On Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/ AudubonInternational/ https://twitter.com/AudubonIntl
GCSAA’s Rounds 4 Research continues record-breaking streak
GCSAA Foundation program raised nearly $1 million in 2026 auction
For the fifth straight year, the GCSAA Foundation’s Rounds 4 Research program supporting turfgrass research broke its fundraising records, yielding $936,298 during its April 2026 online auction, an increase of $182,529 over 2025. The GCSAA Foundation is the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). Rounds 4 Research helps address a critical shortage of funding for ongoing, universitybased agronomic research, education, advocacy programs and course operations.
"From coast to coast, Rounds 4 Research is making an impact on the future of the game thanks to our generous donors and bidders," GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “The continued success of Rounds 4 Research and our ability to fund vital turfgrass research would not be possible without them.”
More than 2,000 rounds of golf were donated for an online auction, the highest number of donations in the program’s history. For the first time, rounds were available in all 50 states. The 2026 auction also featured an opportunity to play alongside the hosts of the popular golf podcast "We Need a Fourth" (Kenny Mayne, Brian Baumgarter and Cooper Manning) at TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course.
Lobo® Zoysia Shows Early Strength in Texas Parks
by Cecilia Johnson
In a state where heat, shade and heavy use all collide, finding a grass that can handle real conditions matters. That is exactly what Travis Sales set out to test in Texas.
Sales, the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Rockwall, oversees everything from sports fields and playgrounds to irrigation across the park system. As he put it, “If it’s in a park, we manage it.”
After retiring from a 32-year career with the City of Mesquite, he stepped right back into the work, retiring on a Friday and starting with Rockwall the following Monday in July 2017.
With more than 40 years in the industry, Sales has been heavily involved with the Texas Turfgrass Association (TTA) over the past two decades, including serving as past president in 2010 and 2014 and as a long-time board member.
Through that involvement, he stays closely connected to new varieties entering the market and stresses the importance of trialing them in the field.
One of those is Lobo® Zoysia, a newer grass developed by North Carolina State University, released in 2021. Sales first heard about Lobo through TTA and conversations with Sod Solutions. “I decided to do some real-world testing,” he said.
That testing includes multiple sites with very different challenges. Installations at the city’s historic museum include both full-sun and shaded areas, while the police station site is “almost 100% shade.”
Another location sits under a large live oak where grass has struggled to grow in the past. All were sodded in July 2025 by Sales’ team using Lobo supplied by Murff Turf through Sod Solutions Professionals for sourcing and logistics. Early performance has stood out, even through recent swings in Texas weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-90s one day to the low 60s just days later.
“The one thing I did notice about Lobo is that it rooted extremely quickly for a zoysia,” he said. “We were throwing down roots at the end of week one.” He
added that the establishment paid off, with foot traffic within a few days of installation.
“Once it’s on the ground, you cannot dig through the canopy and touch soil; it is so thick,” he said, noting the density even affected mowing early on. He added they had to adjust mowing with a push mower and that it requires slightly more attention than bermudagrass.
Compared with previous grasses in these areas, Lobo is showing improved performance, especially in shade. “Some of the areas I’ve got it in get less than two to three hours of sun a day, and so far it’s doing great.” While zoysia does require some adjustment compared
to bermuda, management has been straightforward with only minor changes, such as slightly higher mowing heights in shaded areas. Sales is now looking ahead to a full growing season, but early observations are strong.
He is also evaluating Cobalt Hybrid® St. Augustine alongside Lobo at the police station and said he has been very happy with its performance so far.
Sales has also begun sharing those early observations, recently speaking to more than 150 attendees at a Rockwall County course, Homeowners Guide to Landscaping, where he included Lobo Zoysia and its maintenance in the discussion. Hosted in
partnership with the North Texas Municipal Water District and AgriLife Extension, the program focuses on practical tools and guidance for homeowners. Another session is scheduled for April 25. Through that work, Sales emphasized the importance of continued education on turfgrass, especially as newer varieties improve drought tolerance and water-use efficiency. “It doesn’t have to be a water hog anymore like the varieties did in the past.”
Now managing several thousand square feet of Lobo, Sales is among the early end-users of the variety in Texas, with more insight expected as it moves through its first full growing season.
CHANGING LIVES
THROUGH THE GAME OF GOLF
Patriot Golf Day® has become the largest grass-roots golf fundraiser in America – a joint initiative of The PGA of America and the USGA, Patriot Golf Day enlists the support of public and private golf facilities across the country. Funds support Folds of Honor, providing educational scholarships to the children and spouses of service members killed or disabled while serving in America’s Armed Forces.
Although the national promotion of Patriot Golf Day is over Labor Day weekend, you can play golf any time of the year to support the families of our fallen and disabled service members. Here are a few ways to get involved.
