Golf Central Magazine V18 issue 4 ezine

Central Florida's Players' Course, Where the Pros Play During API W W W . G O L F C E N T R A L M A G . C O M

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Slow-Release and Extended Feeding Sunniland offers several different turf grass weed & feed fertilizers, guaranteed to make turf beautiful, lush and green. Many of these in-stock turf grass fertilizers are available in slow-release version for extended feeding. Each of these fertilizers are excellent to apply on all warm-season grasses including Centipede, St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia.

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Clean and Free of Impurities Sunniland‘s water soluble fertilizers are manufactured on a dedicated line and are the industry standard blends pros have used for years on lawns, sports turf and golf courses including: • 33-0-17 • 0-0-62 • 46-0-0 • 23-0-31 These are the blends are clean and

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ROAD TRIP No. 18

More golf than you can shake a 9-iron at.

When it comes to championship golf, there’s no better destination than Alabama. Come play where the PGA TOUR professionals compete and see why Golf Digest editors picked two of Alabama’s golf resorts among their favorites. For starters there are the 468 holes along the world-renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Stretching from the mountains in the north to the Gulf Coast in the south, America’s original golf trail opened 25 years ago and recently completed a massive renovation of its 26 courses. Then there are the many other impressive courses scattered across the state, designed by the likes of Arnold Palmer and Jerry Pate. Each with its own set of challenges, each with its own rewards. Plan an epic road trip to great golf courses across the state of Alabama.

Download Alabama Road Trips from your app store

header from the publisher

Just Keep Dancing I was listening to a famous Pastor closing his service with an old motivational story about Rain Dancing. When the crops and fields of turf needed rain the Indian tribe would do a Rain Dance. The local farmers and settlers asked the Chief, “How do you make it rain beating your drums and jumping around in dance; what spirits do you interest to bring the clouds by dancing?” To which the Chief answered, “We just dance until it rains.”

The golf industry, and particularly golf publishing has evolved, and taken on crazy changes in the way we communicate to our readers. Be authentic, be honest, and organically grow your message in a way that people want to be a part of the message sharing their golf stories. Well, I don’t see us being any different from the start, that’s how we attract the readers who get behind your team and support your supporters, or just think it’s cool and want to be associated with us.

Our Turf Life brand is a lifestyle brand that was born and bred from the original feature, “Live Golf” when we first published “Florida Golf Central” April 1999. The message was a passionate awareness, and educational piece to respect the Golf Course Superintendents and their staff to better understand “that one does not exist without the other.” For us in the industry: the Pros, both teaching and playing, the architects, the owners, food and beverage, club manufactures, gloves, shoes, apparel, maintenance equipment, irrigation, chemicals, tractors, all things sold…Turf Life is our life. “Not Just a Game a Way of Life!”

A lifestyle brand requires that you start to think of yourself as a leader of a group or culture; that you become firm in who you are; your commitments, beliefs, interests; that you courageously share your original thoughts with the world through media.

Here at Turf Life we celebrate with at least 3 articles a month to help market our products, to embody the golfers and other turf sports interest, attitudes and opinions of our groups and culture. With our brand Turf Life, we are seeking to inspire, guide, and motivate turf sports enthusiasts with our decals as the first method to define the golf and turf industry way of life.

For a good 2 years now we have developed a dance to celebrate with the decals, Loudmouth clothing for men and women, and our ladies line, Champ Stamp www.turflife.club. All this is our message to show pride to be part of the manifestation of this lifestyle brand. The logs are soaked with the fuel and we are throwing a match on it!

Please repair your ball marks and 2 others, (we sell the tools…Pitchfix), pick up garbage, don’t throw butts on the course, go thank the maintenance crew (they love the recognition) and represent Turf Life.

If the band plays and someone sings please dance, and clap.

Celebrate!!!

Don’t stop the Music!!

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Volume 18, Issue 4 Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Chief Fertilizer Spreader: Eric Rasberry Golf Gym: Ken Pierce Media Consultant: Robert Bissell Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. Junior Correspondent: Bella Dovhey

International Correspondent: Dove Jones Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Greg Wise, Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Ron Heller, Rich Styles, Fred Seely, Deb Shuck, JL Quebbeman, Mitch Sadowsky, Linda Williams-Sieg Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, melahn@mac.com Website Design/Network Support: ryjo.com

Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708

NEW PHONE: 321.765.4215 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2017 Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Editorial contributions are welcome, but Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion.

The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

2017 Want to participate in a fun, global species-counting competition?

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Named in Top 25 Clubhouses List by 55Places.com

Explore Your New Active Adult Lifestyle and the Next Phase of Your Life!

There’s more to buying a new home than just building it. It’s about community, and no one understands this like Del Webb. More than six decades of homebuilding experience and homeowner feedback goes into each home designed for how you live with the features that matter most to you.

Ask about our Explore Del Webb program so you can stay, play and see how homeowners live the life they’ve always wanted at their own pace.

6320 SW 89th Court Road, Ocala, FL 34481 • 877-333-5932 • delwebb.com/stonecreek Garden Series: Starting from $160,990

• Fly & Buy: Up to $2,000 to Reimburse Your Travel* When You Buy a New Home

1,289 – 2,315 SQ FT | 2-4 BR 2-3 BA | 2-Car Garage

• Newly Released Home Sites in Brand New Fairfield Neighborhood

Classic Series: Starting from $211,990 1,659 – 3,077 SQ FT | 2-5 BR 2-3 BA | 2-Car Garage

• Environments for Living Energy Efficient Package Included in Every New Home • 18-Hole Championship Golf Course • Private, Guard-Gated Community • Fitness Center, Spa, Heated Swimming Pools

Estate Series: Starting from $274,990 2,384 – 3,656 SQ FT | 3-5 BR 3-4 BA | 2-3-Car Garage

• Tennis, Bocce, Pickleball and Horseshoe Courts • Brand New Dog Park, RV Storage Facility, Softball Field and Fishing Pier Basketball Court Coming Soon

*Fly and Buy offer is valid on new purchase agreements accepted by Del Webb at our Del Webb Stone Creek community between 06/1/17 and 8/31/17. If buyer executes a new purchase agreement accepted by Del Webb during their explore Del Webb weekend and presents a copy of their plane ticket, then at closing buyer will receive a credit of up to $2,000 which can be applied toward closing costs. Buyer is responsible for any closing costs in excess of the incentive amount. Any unused credit is the property of Del Webb, and may not be used to reduce the Total Purchase Price of the home. Offer may not be redeemed for cash or equivalent.

This incentive may affect the amount of loan for which a buyer may be eligible, check with your lender for details. **For the Explore Del Webb offer you are required to attend a sales presentation to be eligible. Stay up to 3 Nights for $207.00 (through September 30, 2017). The approximate duration of the sales presentation is 3 hours. If you do not attend the sales presentation (i) an additional fourth night at the nightly rate of $89.00 (for stays through September 30, 2017) will be charged. Del Webb is a builder of single-family homes. The purpose of the Explore Del Webb offer is to attempt to sell you a home in] this Del Webb community.

The Explore Del Webb offer provides that you may stay either (i) up to 3 consecutive nights at Stone Creek for $89.00 per night through September 20, 2017. Nightly charges do not include applicable taxes and fees.

Explore Del Webb offer valid only on new bookings made for stays from 6/1/17 through 9/30/17 at Stone Creek, with up to two adults sharing the accommodations. Offer expires 9/30/17, is subject to availability of accommodations, and the rate is subject to change at any time without notice. Some blackout dates apply when offer is not available. Valid credit card is required to be provided at time reservation is made, and one night charge of $89.00 will be made to the credit card at that time. Payment in full is due at time of check-in. Reservation may be cancelled and payment refunded if cancellation is made at least 96 hours prior to first date of reservation. Transportation and all other costs or charges that may be incurred by the recipient are not included and are the responsibility of the recipient. Access to amenities and other community features are subject to terms and conditions established by Del Webb from time-to-time. Golf voucher provides for 1 round of golf per person. Dinner voucher is for $40.00 and recipient is responsible for all costs in excess of voucher amount. These offers are subject to conditions, limitations, and restrictions. See a Del Webb sales consultant for details. These offers are subject to change or withdrawal without prior notice or obligation. An individual may only participate in a Del Webb Stone Creek Fly and Buy offer and the Explore Del Webb offer one time at this community. Community home prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Quick move-in homes are subject to prior sale or withdrawal from market, and prices are subject to change at any time without notice. Square footage listed is approximate. At Del Webb communities, at least one resident must be 55 years of age or older, no one under 19 (18 in certain communities) in permanent residence, and additional restrictions apply. Some residents may be younger than 55. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Contact a sales consultant for details. ©2017 Pulte Home Company, LLC. All rights reserved. [7/17] CGC1519936

Volume 18, Issue 4 Carolinas Golf Central 28 Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center Caribbean Golf Central 26 BMW Jamaica Classic

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Cart Girl 20 Bay Guthrie Celebrity Corner 18 American Century Championship

Departments

FEATURE 38 Orange Tree Golf Club

22 Golf History 30 ASCGA 32 Turf Life 34 Turf Life 36 Turf Life 46 Competitive Spirits 43 Grip It & Sip It 44 Freddy's Fairway Thoughts 56 NFPGA 58 SFPGA 64 Product Review

Georgia Golf Central 24 Stone Creek Golf Club Golf Bachelor 52 Jamie Lane Golf Business 58 Golf, Business & Brews Golf Travel 10 England's Golf Coast Improving Performance 50 Nicklaus Golf Academies 68 EduKAYtion Golf

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In Memory Of 46 Robert Fogel Memorial Tournament Living on the Links 16 ICI Homes Plantation Bay 48 Big Canoe Women in Golf 60 EWGA North CFL Chapter 62 God, Country, and Golf

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golfcentralmag.com

golf travel

By Dove Jones

Hesketh Clubhouse and Hitler Tree

The Northwest corner of England takes their golf very seriously. This year’s Open Championship will mark the 10th time Royal Birkdale has hosted the prestigious championship and the 30th time that The Open has been held in the area. Royal Liverpool has been the host venue eleven times and Royal Lytham & St Annes another nine.

Those three Royals can add a barrel full of other significant events to their storied histories – Ryder Cups, Women’s British Opens, British Amateur Championships, English Championships, etc., etc.

But beyond the world renowned

pionship pedigree having hosted the

Royal Clubs, the aptly named England’s

Ryder Cup on two separate occasions –

Golf Coast, boasts numerous other

1933 and 1937.

standouts for not only their wonderful

Just down the road, Formby Golf

layouts but also their contributions to

Club, has given the game many cham-

golf’s storied history.

pions and hosted many significant

Directly next door to Royal Birkdale

tournaments – but no greater gift to

is Hillside Golf Club, whose backside

golf is perhaps the idea of the 19th

has attracted more attention than Pippa

hole. The original clubhouse had a

Middleton’s. It has been praised as “…

loose floorboard that was put to good

the best in Britain,” by Greg Norman

use by hiding a strong box with a bottle

and also lauded by Jack Nicklaus.

of whisky. Depending on your round

Bordering Hillside is the next Jewel

you might leave more or less than the

in the crown – Southport & Ainsdale

recommended “…3 pence for a moder-

or S & A as it is locally referred. The

ate go.”

quirkiest of the trio it also has a cham-

On the other end of Southport is Hesketh Golf Club, which hosted Jordan

Lytham & St Anne's iconic Clubhouse overlooking the 18th green has seen many great championship finishes including the US winning the 2015 Walker Cup

Spieth during the 2008 R & A Junior Open Championship. The club, however, is more famous for Arnold Bentley, a member who with his partner won the Golfpreis der Nationen at Baden-Baden Golf Club in Germany 10 days after the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Hitler himself designed the trophy and the first prize also included a small potted fir tree.

The plate now known as “The Hitler Trophy” and the full-grown tree (no doubt do to the regular “fertilization” by the members during WWII) known as “The Hitler Tree” are both on display at the iconic Clubhouse.

Royal Liverpool members who wanted to expand the Scottish game of golf across the Mersey River founded West Lancashire, fondly known as

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

“West Lancs.” It is the oldest Club in Lancashire and has had three members who have hoisted the Claret Jug – Harold Hilton, Sandy Herd and Arthur Havers.

Across the Mersey River, is Wallasey Golf Club. Golfers who love the Stableford scoring system that allows them to still be competitive after making a mess of a hole or two, can thank the difficult second hole here. Dr. Frank Stableford had such issue with that hole ruining the start of many rounds he developed the scoring system that today bears his name.

Delamere Forest Golf Club is a Herbert Fowler masterpiece just inland from Royal Liverpool. While Americans all clamor to play links golf – DFGC is a pure sand based heathland course, that plays and drains as well or better than any

Royal Liverpool (Hoylake) Clubhouse - The white posts in front are remnants of the fencing around the old racetrack that also used to share the grounds linksland layout. So much so that Tom

to the Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club

Doak has rated it the 2nd best condi-

before they moved up the hill and across

tioned course in England.

the street; and Fairhaven Golf Club

Some other notables include – Fleet-

designed by James Braid and tweaked by

wood Golf Club located just north of

Dave Thomas and Donald Steel, known

Blackpool, certified by the R & A as the

today for its 118 bunkers (down from the

oldest links course in England; Southport

rumored 365 of the sandy devils).

Golf Links, designed by Harry S. Colt, is

For more information to plan a

England’s oldest municipal course; St

trip to the most storied links des-

Annes Old Links Golf Club, so named as

tination in golf start by visiting

it occupies the land that once was home

www.EnglandsGolfCoast.com

Wallasey Golf Club 18th green & Clubhouse - here's always an audience on the terrace to add to the pressure of sinking your putt on the 18th green Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

11

adies orth florida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGA north Ladiesflorida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGAheader north Ladi

Sandra Palmer, Nancy Scranton Inducted into Legends Hall of Fame at French Lick Resort

Sandra Palmer,

a native of Fort Worth, Texas, and Nancy Scranton, a native of Centralia, Ill., were inducted on Saturday, July 8, into the Legends Hall of Fame -- a permanent exhibit featured at French Lick Resort in French Lick, Ind. The induction was held in conjunction with the Senior LPGA Championship presented by Old National Bank, at French Lick Resort. This year’s event was sanctioned by the LPGA as a senior LPGA major championship and will feature many members of The Legends Tour.

“I was speechless – really stunned, but deeply honored to learn that I will be a part of the Legends Hall of Fame,”

Sandra Palmer receives HOF award from Joe Vezzoso and Dave Harner

said Sandra Palmer, who now lives in Long Beach, Calif. “I feel very honored to be recognized in this way by The Legends Tour and by French Lick Resort,” added Nancy Scranton, who now lives in St. Augustine, Fla. “It has been such a blessing to be a part of this great group of women and French Lick Resort has not only hosted The Legends Tour Championship for the past four years, but it also created a home to showcase the best women golfers in our history,” Scranton said.

While she is a native Texan, Sandra Palmer grew up and played junior golf in Bangor, Maine. She attended North Texas State University, where she was runner-up in the 1961 National Collegiate Championship.

She was also a four-time winner of the West Texas Amateur and won the 1963 Texas State Women’s Amateur Championship. Palmer turned profesSandra Palmer and Nancy Scranton pose sional and with Senior LPGA Championship trophy became an LPGA

12

Tour member in 1964. She went on to win 19 professional events, including major championships at the 1972 Titleholders Championship and 1975 U.S. Women’s Open. Palmer also was the LPGA’s top money winner and Player of the Year in 1975, and she finished in the top 10 on the LPGA’s season money list from 1968-1977. She played in her last LPGA Tour event in 1997.

Palmer was inducted into the Texas State Golf Hall of Fame in 1985, as well as into the National Collegiate Hall of Fame in 1988. She is a Class A LPGA Teaching Professional and has been recognized as one of the nation’s top-50 LPGA teachers. Palmer currently is the director of women’s golf at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo, Calif.

In addition, Palmer has played in more than 30 Legends Tour tournaments and routinely still competes in the Legends Honors Division for players Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

The Fergusons and Harners with the trophy age 63 and over.

“It’s wonderful that the Legends Hall of Fame has a home and that a competition for senior women professionals has a worthy stage,” said Palmer. “French Lick definitely brings out the best in your game.”

As an amateur, Scranton won the 1981-1982 St. Louis Metro Championship, the Southern Illinois Championship (1979, 1982-83) and the 1983 Illinois Women’s State Championship. Collegiately, Scranton attended both Florida State University and the University of Kentucky, where she registered three top-five finishes, including two collegiate tournament wins. Scranton was named to the 1983 All-Southeastern Conference list. The Illinois native qualified for the LPGA Tour on her first attempt and was a rookie in 1985. She went on to win three LPGA tournaments, including one major championship – the 1991 du Maurier Classic. In addition, she was a member of the 2000 U.S. Solheim Cup Team After giving birth to twins Libby Jane and Luke Scranton in 2004, Scranton began competing on The Legends Tour, where she has won five times and posted 16 top-10 finishes. Scranton has also been a stalwart on The Legends Tour’s Team USA for its ISPS Handa Cup competitions, on which she has contributed 19 points and compiled an 8-6-3 match record in the team matches event.

With their induction this summer, Scranton and Palmer will become the ninth and tenth members of the Legends Hall of Fame.

“I was really caught off guard when I found out about this induction,” addGolf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Nancy Scranton ed Scranton. “I was out of the country visiting my sister and her family in Italy, so it was fun to get to celebrate the news with her.”

Annual inductions include one active member of The Legends Tour who is still regularly competing in official Legends Tour events and one semi-retired Legends Tour member who has made a significant impact on the game during her LPGA and Legends Tour careers.

Palmer and Scranton joined Legends Tour Hall of Fame members Sandra Haynie and Elaine Crosby (inducted in 2016), JoAnne Carner and Rosie Jones (2015), Nancy Lopez and Jane Blalock (2014), and Jan Stephenson and Kathy Whitworth (2013).

For more information about The Legends Tour, visit www.thelegendstour.com.

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adies orth florida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGA north Ladiesflorida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGAheader north Ladi

Trish Wins!

Trish Johnson (Bristol, England) completed a wire-to-wire victory at the inaugural Senior LPGA Championship presented by Old National Bank on Wednesday on the Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort. She turned in a final-round 73 to finish at 4-under, 212 for the 54-hole event, three shots clear of Michele Redman (Minneapolis, Minnesota).

“I’m often asked what my favorite course in the world is and I always say St. Andrews, but I think this place (Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort) has taken over,” said Johnson, who has now won twice on the course. “It feels fantastic, this is the reason you play golf to try and win something like this. It is going to be a very, very fun evening.”

Johnson posted rounds of 6772-73 to win the first-place check of $90,000. Redman collects the second-place payday of $54,397.

“I hit my driver so well all week,” said Johnson when asked about the keys to victory. “I was quite long so I was hitting a lot of short irons in. Some of these greens are pretty wicked so if you have short clubs in that is a major advantage.”

Redman, a former Indiana golfer and 20-year LPGA veteran, finished in second place at 1-under, 215. World Golf Hall of Famer Laura Davies finished in a tie for third with a finalround 68. Wendy Doolan, a breast cancer survivor, and Helen Alfredsson

14

finished with Davies in a tie for third.

Johnson, 51, started steady with four pars and then made a birdie on five to get to 6-under. Michele Redman started the day three shots back, but made double on three and the lead was six shots. Johnson made bogey on seven and Redman made birdie on nine so the lead was four at the turn.

Redman made back-to-back birdies on 11 and 12 and pulled within three, but that is as close as she would get. Johnson made a critical par save from 10-feet on 14 and held on. She made bogey on 15 and then three pars to end the day.

“It (French Lick Resort) has the same type of feeling as St. Andrews,” explained Johnson. “When I got to St. Andrews I just love it and the first time I came here I sat on top of the road and thought, ‘wow, this is special’. The people here are very special, they are so welcoming. It is like one happy family.”

While Johnson didn’t want to put herself into the conversa-

tion of “legends” at the inaugural event, she said this week was major for players of her generation.

“Hopefully, this is the first of many,” said Johnson, who won three times on the LPGA. “This is so well deserved because all those girls playing for $2 million on the LPGA right now is because of these people here. It’s the same as the guys playing for the amount of money because of Tiger.

This is huge and very special.”

Redman turned in rounds of 73-69-73 to join Johnson as the only players under-par for the three days.

“I’m happy, I wish I had two drives back, but other than that I played really well and hit some great shots,” said Redman, the current Minnesota women’s golf coach. “It was great to see that I could still hit shots under pressure. It was also fun to play with Trish, I really enjoyed it.”

Redman also heard that the event overall was a success including the ratings on Golf Channel.

“I heard from the Golf Channel guys that the ratings were great,” said Redman, when asked if an event like this helps the Senior Women. “That says a lot about the interest in these women so I think it’s great for the future.”

The tournament presented a check for $200,000 to Riley Children’s Foundation. In five years, the tournament at the Pete Dye Course has now raised $700,000 for the Riley Children’s Foundation.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

We’d Like To Put A Few Holes In Your Vacation Plans.

Quite a few in fact. You see, Fairfield Glade Resort in Tennessee has 90 holes of Championship Golf alone, including Stonehenge, named among the top public courses in Tennessee by Golf Digest, GolfWeek and Golf Magazine.

Then there are the many outstanding courses around nearby Crossville, widely known as the golf capital of Tennessee. In all, more than 180 holes of golf just waiting to be played atop the Cumberland Plateau.

But your vacation doesn’t have to be all golf. We offer 11 pristine lakes for boating and fishing, 12 miles of nature trails, a state-of-the-art Racquet Center and remarkable restaurants. This year, plan to spend your vacation at Fairfield Glade Resort and Crossville, Tennessee. The South’s holey land for golfers.

For information or reservations, call 931-707-2061 • www.fairfieldglade.cc Located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322)

Now the fun begins.

www.golfcapitaltenn.com

living on the links

Plantation Bay Prestigious, Private, and Convenient

Few communities offer the kind of resort-lifestyle that has come to be expected at Plantation Bay.

Live the Florida Lifestyle

Miles of pristine natural beauty blends with mature landscaping to provide the backdrop for a sparkling array of amenities all nestled within hundreds of acres of public conservation land and state parks. The history and small town charm of Ormond Beach is a place where an unhurried pace rules the day.

With over twenty years of being among the best of the best, Plantation Bay is one of the best kept secrets on Florida’s east coast and continues to grow and offer the type of resort-lifestyle its residents demand.

Discovery Tour Experience

See for yourself why so many have chosen to make Plantation Bay their home. Play a round of golf, dine at the club, enjoy a little tennis or just relax by the pool. Explore the area, take long walks, and talk to the residents. That’s the best way to decide if Plantation Bay is a good fit for you and your family. We offer a two night/three day stay on property.

24 Hour Manned Gates Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with living in an exclusive gated community. All entrances are guard gated 24 hours a day / 7 days a week.

Community Pools

Tennis, Pickleball & Bocce Courts The tennis complex boasts ten lighted Har-tru courts for members to enjoy year round, day or night. Four Pickleball courts and two bocce courts are conveniently located just steps away from the Wellness Center.

Full Service Clubhouses Two clubhouses provide a backdrop for the community’s social activity and offer a variety of quality dining choices, all framed by spectacular lake and golf views.

Parks & Playground Located in several areas throughout the community, our parks offer a place to walk, mingle and relax while enjoying the Florida sunshine.

The Wellness Center features two seasonally heated pools. The lap pool is a great way to stay in shape while the zero-entry pool is ideal for swimming and water aerobics classes.

Spa & Wellness Center

Championship Golf

Walking & Biking Trails

Forty-five holes allow a congenial test of sport and spirit while offering tee placements to accommodate players of all skill levels.

There’s no better way to take advantage of our 3,600 acres than to take a stroll or go for a bike ride on sidewalks and endless trails.

A 7,000 square foot fitness facility includes a spacious work out center, group exercise studio and private spa treatment rooms.

Come for a Weekend, Stay for Life...

Ask about our discovery experience!

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For those looking to find a community that promises instant social life, warmth, and camaraderie, it’s all right here at Plantation Bay. *$399 pricing good through 9/30/17. Availability is limited.

celebrity corner

Steph Curry Takes On Tahoe Stephen Curry

seemingly had a smile on his face from Wednesday to Sunday at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course.

And who could blame him? The Golden State Warriors point guard, who was named NBA MVP for the second straight year after leading the Warriors to their second NBA title in three seasons last month, was in his own personal heaven at the American Century Championship. And it culminated Sunday in a 4-under-par 68, worth 28 Stableford points. It was the best round of the tournament.

Curry was grouped with singer/actor Justin Timberlake and recently retired Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo on the weekend rounds of the 28th annual celebrity golf tournament, and the trio drew by far the largest galleries.

That was never more evident than on Saturday at the par-3 17th, which runs along the shore of Lake Tahoe and

in front of hundreds of fans in boats and along the ropes, all of whom are in full party mode. Timberlake hiked a basketball to Romo, who dropped back and threw a pass to Curry, who slammed it home in a basketball hoop set up on the edge of the beach. The fist bumps and chest bumps between the three seemed to last longer than it takes to play the hole.

It was a victory weekend all around for Curry, who avenged a one-point loss to his father, former NBA player Dell Curry, at this tournament a year ago.

The younger Curry finished fourth with 60 points, 37 points ahead of dad. Not long after the round was over, dad paid up on their bet by jumping into Lake Tahoe.

this bet and what do you got going for next year, have you thought it out yet?

STEPH CURRY: Yeah, we had the Curry Battle Father/Son, whatever, competition.

Whoever lost had to jump in Lake Tahoe.

Full golf gear and everything. So he was a man of his word, as well as his caddie, and they jumped in.

Next year we’re going to spot him just because, a handicap, we’ll spot him some points and same bet next year.

Q. Dell, how cold was Lake Tahoe?

DELL CURRY: You know what? It actually felt really good.

Q. Tell us about the bet now.

DELL CURRY: Yeah, we were sitting around the house before the tournament started, and a little friendly bet I won last year because I beat him. So he said this year, nothing monetary, we’re just going to, if you lose, whoever loses jumps in the lake.

I lost. I paid up.

Q. You’re a man of your word?

DELL CURRY: Yeah, it actually felt good. It was nice and refreshing.

Q. One quick quote about the bet with your dad. Tell us about 18

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

The Ladies Took on Tahoe, Too!

Paige Spiranac

Paige Spiranac had the round of the day among the four women in the American Century Championship on Sunday, but Blair O’Neal ended up with the bragging rights.

Spiranac, a former San Diego State golfer who competes on mini tours, shot a 1-under-par 71 and had 23 points – the fourth-best point total of the day – to finish 14th with 50 points.

O’Neal, a model and Golf Channel host, edged Spiranac, finishing with 51 points despite a 77 on Sunday. She finished tied for 12th in the field of 89.

Lisa Corwell, a host on the Golf Channel, finished 27th with 39 points, and NHL on NBC analyst Kathryn Tappen finished 82nd with minus-53 points.

Lisa Corwell

Kathryn Tappen

Blair O'Neal

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

19

cart girl

Where did you grow up? Bradenton Fl. Which group of people did you associate most with in high school? I hung out with mostly athletes in high school

since I played sports. I was always pretty athletic.

What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch?

My favorite sport to both watch and play is actually football.

Sundays during football season are treated like holidays at my house.

Do you enjoy playing golf? Are they’re any golfers in your family? I personally don’t play golf…well I should say I just

don’t play...yet! I am currently learning to play golf. My dad does play golf though and is actually the person teaching me.

What do you feel makes this club special? I love the

location of the club. So many people say we are like a hidden gem (I’m guessing because we are out here in the middle of nowhere.) When you have a club in a small town like this it’s nice because you really get to know the guests and regulars and really build a relationship with them.

What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course? Oh geez there’s been a ton… I think the most recent

thing that I’ve seen would have to be the fox squirrel that went up to player’s cart and took his Snickers bar right off the tray while he was golfing. It had me literally LOL’ing, especially watching the golfer chase after the little thief.

What type of music do you prefer? I’m a country girl all the way. Turn on anything with Eric Church and I can sing you the whole song.

What hobbies do you enjoy? I rescue reptiles, such as Bearded dragons, Geckos, and Tortoises.

What is your idea of “the perfect date”? The perfect date for me is just a relaxing night in at home, pigging out on junk food and just hanging out. I’m not in to fancy dinners and spending 5 hours to get ready, I’d rather be in sweat pants keeping it cozy!

Favorite comedian? Jim Carrey all the way! Every time I

watch a movie with him in it I swear I burn 600 calories from laughing so hard!

Favorite charity to support? Turtle & Tortoise Rescue USA.

I’ve been actively involved with this charity for a few years now and love it! I myself have personally rescued 2 turtles and 1 tortoise that I still take care of.

20

Bay Guthrie

If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing? If I wasn’t a cart girl I would be doing something in the animal care industry. I LOVE animals. I have my own little farm at home full of dogs, reptiles and livestock. I’m a sucker for rescuing any and all animals

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

S a d d le br ook R e s o r t • p referred go lfers p ac kag e

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golf history header

‘The Babe’

By Mike May

T he Sweetheart of the Sunshine State

golf course actually was never built.

How good of a course was Forest Hills? Well, if you asked then club professional Jimmy Thompson, it was a very special 18-hole venue.

“I would not say that Forest Hills Babe - HISTORY - forest hills - Babe Zaharias clubhouse - BB 1926 - USF

one,” commented Thompson. He was

The Babe Zaharias Golf Course in

right then and that same comple-

Tampa, Florida may not be known

ment applies to the course today.

as the course that Babe built, but

In 1950, changes took place at

at least she used to own it. Today,

Forest Hills. Firstly, Babe Zaharias

in the northern part of Tampa,

became the club’s winter golf profes-

one of the oldest golf courses

sional. And, in that same year, she

in Florida is named in honor on

and her husband, George Zaharias,

one of the 20th Century’s great-

bought the course and changed the

est athletes (and golfers), Mildred

name to the Tampa Golf and Country

Ella “Babe” Didrickson Zaharias.

Club. While in charge, Babe’s pres-

But, this course had a different

ence at the course was strong and

name when it opened in the mid

visible. While there, she hosted clinics,

1920s. Back in 1926, the first of

conducted exhibitions, and played

two planned golf courses on a

with the Men’s Club. Sadly, Babe,

2,000-acre piece of property – the

already a member of the LPGA Hall

North Side Country Club area -- in

of Fame, died of cancer in 1956 at age

north Tampa was opened. The new

45. After Babe’s death, things changed

course – designed and built by J.

at the club, for unknown reasons.

Franklin Meehan from Philadelphia – was named the Forest Hills Golf and Country Club. The second 22

is a good course, it is an exceptional

Sarazen and Babe Zaharias exhibition 1930s HISTORY - FM JJS2238

The course was closed, the property became a haven for motorcyclists, and Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Babe Zaharias - HISTORY - Babe and George House - from Paul Edelstein at BZGC - FotoFlexer a hangout for teenagers. And, then the clubhouse burned to the ground in 1962. Fast forward to 1974. The city of Tampa got involved – bought and restored the course. Then, the course was re-named the Babe Zaharias Golf Course.

Not surprisingly, the Babe Zaharias Golf Course (www.babezahariasgolf. net) is now listed as one of the 53 courses on the Florida Historic Golf Trail.

Today, at the Babe Zaharias Golf Course (11412 Forest Hills Drive, Tampa, Florida; 813-631-4374), the front nine has been named “Babe” and the back nine is called “George,” in honor of Babe’s former husband, who was also an ex-professional wrestler. And, the 10th hole has its own identity – “Big George.” It’s worth noting that “Big George” is not a long par five. Instead, it’s a classic short par four.

“It is truly an honor to have Babe Zaharias Golf Course selected as a Florida Historic Golf Trail’s featured course,” said Kennie Sims, vice president of golf operations, Babe Zaharias Golf Course. “We are extremely proud to manage a golf course with such historical significance to be named after an iconic athlete like Babe Zaharias.

We take great pride in providing a first-class golfer’s experience and making Babe Zaharias (Golf Course) a desirable destination for golfers of all levels.”

“This course, locally known as ‘The Babe,’ has an impressive history related to one of the world’s greatest female athletes of the 20th Century,” says Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner. “Only 20 minutes from downtown Tampa, this course continues to provide challenges for golfers of all skill levels.”

So, when you are ready to experience ‘The Babe,’ make the trek to Tampa to play one of Florida’s truly historic golf treasures and a sweet-

Babe Zaharias plays in 19th annual Fl East Coast Womens Golf tournament 1947 HISTORY - Saint Augustine Florida - FM c004431

heart of the Sunshine State.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

23

georgia golf central header

By Mike May

As you travel north along I-75 and cross the Florida-Georgia border from the south, your first major Georgia landmark is the city of Valdosta (valdosta. org), the heart of South Georgia. In Valdosta, you will discover wonderful dining options, irresistible shopping opportunities, multiple film/moviemaking locations, hard-hitting Friday night football (in the fall) …….and one of the best golfing opportunities in South Georgia. It’s the Stone Creek Golf Club (4553 Greenway Drive, Valdosta, Georgia; 229-2472527). This year marks the 25th anniversary of this club, which opened its doors to golfers in 1992. Like many great courses

24

around the U.S., this property had

by Franzman-Davis, the Stone Creek

a separate identity prior to becom-

Golf Club is one of the 20+ destina-

ing a golfing destination. Originally,

tions on the Georgia Golf Trail.

this property was a cattle farm which

“This golf course is where Cham-

featured an authentic beaver pond and

pionship Golf meets Southern Hos-

a trophy bass lake. Well, the cattle are

pitality,” says Doug Hollandsworth,

now gone, but the beaver pond and tro-

Founder, Georgia Golf Trail. “For

phy bass lake remain. Instead of cows,

golfers headed north, it’s a great place

this land is now the home of birdies,

to start their trek along the Georgia

eagles, and the occasional albatross!

Golf Trail and for golfers headed home

Because of its brilliant layout, designed

to Florida, it’s a great place for your final round of Georgia golf.”

The landscape of this golf course is dominated by tall pine trees which border the fairways, Spanish moss hanging from many tree branches, and a few wetland areas, all of which are true symbols of South Geor-

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

gia real estate. While the golf course begins with a pair of straight-away par fours and a lengthy straight-away par five, the course ends with water influencing play on five of the last six holes of this par 72-layout, which measures nearly 6,700 yards from the tips. The most powerful and punishing water hazards are the lakes which border the entire length of the 14th hole (from tee to green) and alongside the 18th fairway. Any shots on the 14th and 18th holes which drift too far right will find a watery grave. It’s fair to say that many rounds of golf have been negatively impacted by liquid disasters

grass that is used at North Carolina’s

unobstructed view of the driving range,

on either the 14th or 18th holes…..or

Pinehurst #2, the site of the 2014 U.S.

1st tee, 10th tee, and the 18th hole. It

both. Another memorable shot oppor-

Open. The existence of five tees on every

will be a fitting end to a glorious and

tunity is the tee shot on the 8th hole – a

hole at Stone Creek gives every golfer

memorable day of South Georgia golf.

downhill par three whose entrance to

the chance to find their comfort zone

the green is protected by a small pond

on any given round on any given day.

and a row of rocks. At the 8th, hitting

At the end of your round, transition

To get a sneak preview of Stone Creek, check out the well-produced video from this course’s website (www.gagolf.com)

too much club with your tee shot is a

to the Stone Creek Grill for an ice cold

which offers a visual glimpse of the

better option than coming up short.

glass of the Ole Southern Sweet Tea and

clubhouse, restaurant, pro shop, driv-

In recent years, the greens have been

a side item, salad, or a sandwich. It will

ing range, and all 18 holes. Stone Creek

upgraded with the installation of Cham-

hit the spot. As you bask in the sunshine

looks great on camera and even better

pion Dwarf Bermuda grass, the same

on the outdoor patio, you’ll also get an

in person, with golf clubs in hand.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

25

caribbean golf central header

Kentuckian Wins Inaugural BMW Jamaica Classic Jared Wolfe, a Louisville, Kentucky native, created history as the winner of the inaugural 2017 BMW Jamaica Classic.

Amassing 267 points, Wolfe finished one ahead of Gerardo Ruiz and Jose de Jesus Rodríguez at the Cinnamon Hill Golf Course in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

A part of the PGA Latin America Tournament, the BMW Jamaica Classic featured 144 players from over 20 countries and included a Qualifier on

June 12, a welcome reception on June 13, the Pro-Am on June 14 and the Classic from June 15-18. The final event of the first half of the tournament, the BMW Jamaica Classic provided PGA TOUR Latinoamérica members one last chance to earn Order of Merit points before the midseason reshuffle.

Originally designed by Hank Smedley in 1969, Jamaica’s Cinnamon Hill 6,828yard par-72 course was redesigned by Robert Von Hagge & Rick Baril in 2001.

Jose Pujala, host of Rush Deportivo on ESPN Deportes Radio interviews Janice Allen, Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board during the inaugural BMW Jamaica Classic at Cinnamon Hill.

26

Jamaica’s Director of Tourism Paul Pennicook (left) presents the trophy to winner Jared Wolfe (right), following his big win in the inaugural BMW Jamaica Classic at Cinnamon Hill in Montego Bay

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

carolinas golf central header

By Mike May

A Stay-&-Play Gem If you are seeking a fun, memorable,

and affordable East coast golf getaway with your buddies or your family, then set your sights on the Sea Trail Resort, located in the Brunswick Isles area of North Carolina, just south of Wilmington. Sea Trail is actually in Sunset Beach, where the nearby beaches along the Atlantic Ocean are as pristine and inviting as any sandy spot from Maine to Miami…..where the locally caught fresh seafood is as tasty and delicious as anywhere in the world……where the ice cream at Calabash Creamery is second-to-none..….. where the accommodations are on par with quality of the three championship golf courses (which truly deserve

28

the championship moniker)….and where the weather at Sea Trail allows for golf to be played 52 weeks a year.

When you visit Sea Trail (www.seatrail. com), the quality of the beach experience and the luxurious accommodations cannot be overemphasized. It’s like putting a red bow on a wrapped gift. Truth be told, it’s fair to say that the overall experience at Sea Trail is on par with any stay-and-play destination in the southeastern United States.

When you try it, you won’t just like it. You will love it. There is no stress at Sea Trail, with the exception of the stress associated with trying to drain a four-footer for par on any given hole. The toughest part of your trip to Sea Trail is having to say goodbye

to this slice of oceanside paradise.

Sea Trail’s three golf courses – William Byrd Course, Rees Jones Course, and the Dan Maples Course – are well designed, fair, and player friendly.

Very few golf destinations are like Sea Trail, which have three top-notch 18-hole courses in one location.

Nowadays, locals refer to the courses as the Bryd, Jones, and the Maples.

At the Bryd, there are sand traps on every hole and around every green. The large number of bunkers is somewhat penal, but it is not too harsh. There’s plenty of room to play the Byrd and avoid the sand. The home hole at the Byrd is a par five which only measures 469 yards from the tips, but there are at least 12 bunkers and three water hazards from tee to green. FYI: the 7th and 8th greens are surrounded by five bunkers.

At the Jones, water hazards exist on 11 of the 18 holes. Stay away from the water at all costs, as nobody has ever been known to get ‘up & down’ for par from the bottom of any of those ponds. Many fairways feature large mounds which will impact your stance and club selection as you hit your approach shots to the greens.

FYI: the Jones course was used as a 2006 U.S. Open qualifying course.

At the Maples, there are short par fours, long par fives, and gettable par threes. The one exception is probably the most difficult hole at the Maples -- the right-to-left par four 9th which is more than 400 yards long from three

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

of the four tee boxes. Well-struck tee shots at the Maples will put you in a position to excel. Four of the tee shots must be accurate -- at the 1st, 2nd, 12th, and 15th. Water lurks along the 1st, 2nd, and 15th from tee to green. On the 12th, a waste bunker borders the fairway for three-quarters of the hole. At the Maples, five of the holes are perched along the scenic Calabash Creek. North Carolina Magazine has rated the Maples as the “Top Best Conditioned Course on the Coast.” And. Golf Digest has given the course four stars. FYI: this course may be Dan Maples’ finest creations.

Golf Digest has ranked both the Byrd and Jones courses as “Top 100 Courses in North Carolina,” which is quite an honor considering how many great golf courses are in the Tar Heel state.

One constant about each course is the presence of those tall Carolina pine trees which border many of the fairways. The great thing about those pine trees is that they are devoid of low-level branches so it’s possible to execute an escape shot from the woods without having to worry about a well-struck punch shot clipping a low-hanging branch, thus preventing an escape to the fairway.

So, set your sights on traveling to the Sea Trail Resort (800-546-5748 or 910-287-1156). It’s a true stay&-play gem which is fun, memorable and affordable. And, Sea Trail is ready to play 52 weeks a year.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

29

orth florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida ASGCA PGA north

By Greg Muirhead, ASGCA

A Case for Sustainability: The Nantucket Golf Club

Nantucket Island is home

to a variety of unique plant, animal and cultural resources and therefore one of the most scenic and naturally diverse landscapes in North America.

An exhaustive site analysis process identified critical environmental issues to be addressed while planning and constructing the Nantucket Golf Club in Massachusetts. The design process generated a final golf layout and construction plan that avoided and/or minimized environmental impacts on plant and animal species. Rare plant species and grassland communities were actually enhanced, improving overall animal habitat. Creation of the Nantucket Golf Club became a model for subsequent projects attempting to blend world - class golf facilities with unique natural environments. Golf and the environment can co-exist, without compromising the integrity of either land use.

The starting point was consultation with numerous environmental experts, interaction with local environmental and special interest groups, the involvement of a variety of governmental agencies with jurisdictional authority over the

30

Nantucket Golf Club, Hole #3 property and input from the general island community.

The final plan achieved the desire of a world-class golf experience, while also accomplishing the following environmental objectives: • By implementing a thoughtfully designed program, increased the total acreage of rare, “Sandplain Grassland” and “Coastal Heathland” vegetative communities • No net loss of wetlands • A “Secondary Rough” component, comprised primarily of native grasses, was created to buffer the routinely maintained and “in-play” areas of the golf course, from the undisturbed, adjacent grasslands and wetlands.

• An on-site, “rare plant nursery” was developed to accommodate transplanting of “State – Listed” rare plant species during

construction, as well as to promote future propagation of rare plant seeds.

• An Integrated Golf Course Management Plan was developed to reduce reliance on chemical methods of disease and weed control, as well as to establish appropriate thresholds dictating future use of herbicides and pesticides on the golf course.

• Groundwater monitoring wells were established throughout the project site.

The golf course architect and golf course builder worked together to achieve the desired design intent and meet the environmental objectives for the project. During construction of the project, the golf course builder was diligent in maintaining delineation and protection of the sensitive environmental areas. Over 80 acres of the site were protected by fencing and remained in a completely undisturbed condition.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Gary Player | Class of 1974

Arnold Palmer | Class of 1974

CELEBRATE

Jack Nicklaus | Class of 1974

THE

GAME’S BEST! WORLD GOLF VILLAGE | ST. AUGUSTINE, FL | WORLDGOLFHALLOFFAME.ORG

By Greg Corbo photos by Greg Corbo

Turf Life Technologies

Historic Essex County Country Club remains on the cutting edge

The Eighteenth hole at Essex County Country Club is regarded as one of the greatest finishing holes in the state of New Jersey.

Known as the oldest golf club in New Jersey, the golf course has always been

installed throughout the course (No. 1

keep their bottles constantly replen-

tee, No.6, No.10 and 14) so caddies can

ished and ready for distribution. The general rule of thumb is for the caddie

the centerpiece of attention at Essex

to replace the divot immediately if it’s

County Country Club (West Orange,

still in one piece. If the divot shreds

NJ, 1887) where club members cherish

or splits into small pieces, the Sand-

its classic design features such as:

Kaddy mixture is then applied.

The Principal’s Nose; The Punchbowl

At first, the caddies complained

Green and reverse bank fairways on

the bottles were clunky, cumbersome

doglegs. The club has been rather

and added unnecessary weight to the

progressive when it comes to pro-

freight of an average loop. A forgetful

tecting the turf on its historic piece

accessory, caddies were often leaving

of land where Thomas Edison once

the bottles clipped on the bag after

retained a membership. A few years

the loop. Before the loop, unidenti-

ago, members and staff were noticing

fied bottles would often disappear into

too many unattended divots dotting

the fray of the caddieyard with the

the fairways of their Seth Raynor/

rebuy value of $20 for a new one. The

Charles Banks masterpiece (ranked

catch, to get a loop, you need a sand

No. 12 in NJ, Golf Digest) and decided

bottle. To combat this inconvenience

to take action through the caddie

of misplacement, the caddies began

program. For the past two seasons,

personalizing their bottles so if lost, it

all ECCC caddies have been required

would be easier to locate. Two years

to carry a SandKaddy bottle (www.

later, the sand bottles have taken on a

kaddy-lac.com) which holds a sand/ seed mixture that clips to the side of any golf bag. Four filling stations were 32

culture of their own and tend to reflect ECCC caddie Leonard Woo on his way to the caddieshack with sand bottle in tow.

the personality of its owner. Some simply wrote their names in permaGolf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

After some rain and sunshine, seedlings are already sprouting in less than a week nent marker on them. Some decorated them with skateboard stickers and paint. Vitamin Bob layered his with duct tape. Art, a former Army Officer dressed his up with camoflauge tape.

Jimmy Ski got creative and burned odd markings into his bottle for distinction.

Veteran caddie Jimmy Ski fills his bottle before the loop behind the first tee.

The SandKaddy has gradually been

usage of air fans is certainly not ground-

accepted and become a vital part of the

breaking news for healthy turfgrass as

ECCC caddie gear which has evolved to:

many clubs around the country utilize

Bib, towel, laser and Sandkaddy bottle.

them, ironically, the placement of the

The golf course has responded nicely

five particular fans at ECCC can be used

with the working understanding that

as reference points for the caddies.

caddies fill other divots when they see

Purely out of coincidence, the general

them in their travels. For a busy course

slope of each of those five greens break

that puts out 45-55 caddies on a regular

toward the fan.

weekend day with lots of guest play on

The army green fans blend well into

the weekdays, the recipe for quick turn-

the scenery and even offer white noise

around of regrowth has been parlayed

which can be a comforting distraction

through a proud caddie program led by

while putting. The fans are utilized

Caddiemaster Ken Cooke.

basically May through September on

Fan Fare Within the past eight years, the club

timers depending on weather patterns.

Whether its sand bottles or industrial fans, Essex County Country Club

also installed five removable oscillating

remains on the cutting edge of Turf

Precision air fans (www.precisionusa.

Life technologies to keep the overall

com) behind greens that sit in the lower

presentation nice and tight on a piece

parts of the property and pocketed ar-

of property which gets better through

eas to rid moisture and keep air move-

time thanks to the watchful eye of Golf

ment flowing on those humid summer

Course Superintendent Jason Thompson

days in Northern New Jersey. While the

and his dedicated staff.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

The SandKaddy bottle clips to the side of any golf bag.

33

North Course Gets a Facelift Salamander Hotels & Resorts

is announcing an immediate renovation of the putting surface on all 18 greens of the popular North Course at Innisbrook Resort, near Tampa Bay. The process began June 5, 2017 using a no-till method of turf replacement resulting in a firmer, more consistent playing surface. The greens will be planted with TifEagle Bermuda Grass – the same exceptional putting surface the PGA TOUR professionals raved about in this year’s Valspar Championship on Innisbrook’s Copperhead Course. Commonly referred to as “Little Copperhead” due to the similarities in terrain, the North Course is expected to re-open in early October, 2017.

Innisbrook’s Managing Director Mike Williams’ commented, “We couldn’t be more excited to watch the renovation process take place over the summer months. As a company, we strive to continually improve our amenities and this project reflects our commitment to always make sure our guests and members enjoy one of the finest golf experiences in the country.”

Rob Koeler, Superintendent of the North & South Golf Courses at Innisbrook said, “We are excited to be making the transition to Tif Eagle Ultradwart Bermuda Grass on the North Course Greens. We are confident this will provide a more consistent putting surface for our Members and Guests,

34

1 Green North and they will really enjoy the same putting surface that the PGA Tour raves about on Copperhead.”

The renovation project will also include conditioning of the bunkers, general maintenance and clearing of all storm canals, and trimming and pruning to reduce shading and create access to the greens as originally designed by Larry Packard. The size of the greens will also be expanded where shrinkage has occurred over the years, allowing for additional pin placements. The North Course is one of four champion-

Rob Koehler, Superintendent of Innisbrook's North and South courses ship golf courses at the resort including the famed Copperhead Course – Home of the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship, with this project being the latest of numerous enhancements Salamander has made to the resort.

The Copperhead Course underwent a comprehensive restoration in 2015 to reopen that December to exceptional praise from resort guests and members, and the PGA TOUR in March 2016 as host course of the Valspar Championship. The project included a regressing of all fairways and rough, the rebuilding of each green, and reshaping of the bunkers. The course has been considered one of the top 10 host venues of a PGA TOUR event by the professionals, with special praise of the final three holes, known as the “Snake Pit”.

Innisbrook is located at 36750 U.S. Highway 19 North, Palm Harbor, FL 34684. For more information, visit www.VisitInnisbrook.com or call (727) 942-2000.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

New turf. Same iconic surf.

The Ocean Course re-emerges.

PA L M COA S T, F LO R I DA

Meticulously restored and opening October 2017, the Jack Nicklaus Signature designed Ocean Course is back! Sign up now to lock in your 2017 Initiation Fee and enjoy the Full Golf Membership with privileges on both the Ocean Course and Tom Watson Signature designed Conservatory Course.

For more information and reservations, call 866-841-0287 or visit hammockbeach.com.

Courtesy of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

SUPERSpotlight:

Tom Hieght - Golf Course Superintendent has a blast with pyrotechnics

When Tom Height gets together with his in-laws for Independence Day, it’s always big and loud, and there is bound to be an explosion.

Height, a 16-year member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) spends most of the year as superintendent at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville, Pa. But for Fourth of July celebrations, he trades the fairways for fuses as part of an annual fireworks show in Ralston, Pa. Height married into pyrotechnics.

When he met his wife, Angela, more than a decade ago, he was quickly indoctrinated into her family pastime. Angela’s father, John Orr, and uncle David Orr have been overseeing the Ralston show for 25 years, plus put on a few additional displays every year. Along with other family members, Height now helps with the setup, wiring and firing.

“We’re an old-school display where we do a lot of hand-firing,” Height said. “You light them with a flare at the end of a pole. During the show, I’m right there on the ground, next to the tubes, setting them off.”

While golf and fireworks may seem words apart, Height said both pursuits require a great deal of coordination and attention to safety. And just like his early mornings on the golf course, he’s out on the fireworks field many hours before the audience.

“There is a lot of coordination and

Tom loading 3 inch shells 36

Tom, Angie 4 and 8 inch fireworks

setup for six to eight hours beforehand,” he said as he was preparing for the 2017 show, which took place on July 2. “The actual firing is the easy part.

Safety has to be your biggest concern.”

Fire safety comes as second nature to John Orr, who, when not planning out how fireworks the size of basketballs will burst into the air, serves as Ralston’s fire chief. Height says this commitment to safety is being ingrained in his young sons, J.P., 4 ½, and Russ, 3, who are already showing an interest in the family “business.” The boys are among the 25 or so family members who join the celebration from the sidelines, while seven to 10 others work on the firing crew.

Out among the darkness and smoke near the tubes that hold the fireworks until they are lit, Height rarely gets a glimpse of the show as it’s happening, so he enjoys going to other fireworks shows. But he is rewarded by the reactions of the thousands of spectators who usually attend the show.

“Getting to stand back and see people enjoy your work on the golf course is very similar to seeing people enjoy the show,” he said.

Height began working on golf courses as a summer job in high school, but it took a superintendent letting him know that it could be a career that led him to graduate from

firework view from the crowd Penn State’s turfgrass management program. A native Pennsylvanian, he’s found good support from his employers at Pleasant Valley CC for his explosive exploits off the course.

Height’s interest in pyrotechnics has grown beyond the annual family production. He attends seminars to keep up with the latest trends in fireworks, and sees the day coming when the family show will be fired electronically via computer.

“It’s our family fireworks, and we enjoy it that way,” Height said.

“It’s something that I never thought that I would have the chance to do, but now it’s turned into a hobby of mine. It’s one the greatest adrenaline rushes I’ve ever had.”

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

WORKING FOR ME

STORY #115

David is a General Manager.

GCSAA has had the biggest impact on my career in golf club management. I earned CGCS designation in 1991 and have leveraged this accomplishment to move up into the General Manager role that I have been in for the past 20 years.

David Gourlay, CGCS General Manager – Boca Grove Plantation, Boca Raton, FL

GCSAA has always provided many educational opportunities and over the years I’ve been fortunate enough to take advantage of those to help me acquire the General Manager/COO position with three different facilities.

Whether someone decides to be a Golf Course Superintendent, a General Manager like myself or pursue another career in the golf industry, GCSAA continues to provide the education needed to achieve your goals and advance your career. In the 38 years that I have been a member, I consider my membership the best investment I’ve ever made.

A

ID

OR

FL View more stories about how being a GCSAA member will benefit you, your course, and your career. gcsaa.org/workingforme

feature header With more than 170 golf courses, over 20 golf academies and as host site of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Orlando is a true golfer’s paradise. A showcase of great golf designs by the likes of Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and more, Orlando offers a variety of golf experiences unlike anywhere else.

One of those outstanding venues, often referred to as Orlando’s best kept secret, is Orange Tree Golf Club. Orange Tree is a par-72 layout, designed by renowned architect and Oviedo born, Joe Lee, which opened for business in 1972.

Orange Tree quickly established itself as one of Orlando’s finest private clubs Over the years, it has remained one of Orlando’s most respected clubs located just a few miles away from neighboring Bay Hill Country Club. One of the club’s first prominent members was the

38

late great Payne Stewart. Not surpris-

tennis – these members eat, sleep, and

ingly, a large number of PGA Tour and

compete for golf. “We have a very ac-

LPGA Tour professionals have followed

tive men’s and women’s association,”

Stewart’s lead to Orange Tree. That

said Shannon Wisne Helton, Director of

list of stars includes Bubba Watson,

Membership. “Our members are very

Skip Kendall (now on the Champions

passionate about the game; there’s

Tour), Jim Renner, and Robert Gamez.

always something going on here – both

From the LPGA, Suzanne Petterson,

fun & friendly events for golfers of all

Amy Yang, Paula Creamer, and Lydia

abilities as well as weekly games, char-

Ko are seen working on their driving,

ity events and major tournaments.”

pitching, and putting at Orange Tree.

Unlike other private clubs, Orange Tree is all about golf – no pool, no

“We hosted the 2011 Florida State Amateur, the 2016 Florida State Open, and we have hosted a U.S. Open quali-

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

fier here for the last seven years,” said David Damesworth, Orange Tree’s head golf professional. “Each year during the Arnold Palmer Invitational, a number of the pros spend time here practicing since Bay Hill is just about a mile away from here. Vijay Singh has played here and so has Tiger Woods on four occasions.”

Last November, the club hosted their first Veteran’s Day Tournament benefiting Kissimmee based Fairways for Warriors (www.fairwaysforwarriors.com).

Every branch of the military was represented – both men and women veterans – including several World War II vets.

Orange Tree members sponsor a veteran

comes to turf and golf course operations.

“Rob knows how to grow some grass,” states Damesworth. “He pays great attention to detail. Rob is an accomplished player himself and understands what golfers need to play their best.”

The club has Champion Bermuda greens. The collars of the greens are Tiff Grand.

It also helps that one of the honorary members is Bland Cooper, the chief agronomist for the PGA Tour. Cooper provides some advice on course player or a team so that no veteran has

Orange Tree has an excellent reputa-

to pay to play. U.S. Army retired Colonel

tion for always being in great condition

Bill Scillian, an Orange Tree member who

throughout the year. No easy task in the

served from 1959-1988, is the tourna-

Sunshine State, but Rob Torri, Orange

ment ambassador. This year’s event will

Tree’s Superintendent since 1996, is

take place on Saturday, November 11th.

one of the best in the industry when it

maintenance from time to time.

Water impacts eight holes, and the layout is brilliant from beginning to end.

The closing stretch at Orange Tree – holes 16,17,18 - is known as “The Loop.”

This par 5; par 3; par 4 finish tests the nerves and patience of every golfer on the planet. Playing The Loop in par is an achievement, playing it at 3 under par gets your name on the “Masters of the Loop” trophy on their Wall of Fame.

“This is a tough layout with really challenging, undulating greens,” admits Damesworth.

Vice President of Rules and Competitions for the PGA Tour, Mark Russell, acclaims, “Orange Tree has the best greens in the state of Florida.”

At Orange Tree, there are six sets of tees, four of which have course records attached to them. Those course record holders have some notoriety. Former Arnold Palmer Invitational winner (1990) Robert Gamez’s 63 is the course record

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

39

feature

you can sense the comfortable surroundings. It’s low-key, friendly, and unpretentious.

Besides the superb golf and tour quality practice facilities, Helton says the quality of food is why the restaurant at Orange Tree is always busy, especially on Fridays, when Chef Pete Madden serves his famous clam chowder. The word on the street is that the sesame-crusted salmon is beyond compare, as well!

Chef Pete, who has a long history from the black tees; 2016 Rolex Junior (high school) All American John Pak’s 66 is the course record from the blue tees; LPGA superstar Paula Creamer’s 65 is the best from the green tees; and 3-time Champions Tour winner Walter Zembriski’s 64 is the lowest score from the white tees. There are two other more forward tees.

As for the younger element of the club, Damesworth is proud of how his club caters as much to the resident PGA Tour pro as it does young juniors who are new to the game.

“We have a great junior program, especially in the summer,” states Damesworth. we have at the club,” notes Helton.

as the head chef at the area’s top

ownership of this club is ‘consis-

“From top to bottom, it’s a club for

clubs, excels in customizing dining

tency.’ Orange Tree has been family

families. There’s great camaraderie

experiences from everyday lun-

here at Orange Tree. We have an atmo-

cheons to outside special events.

The best word that describes the

owned and operated since 1988.

“Having been owned by one family lends itself to the family atmosphere

sphere of casualness and friendliness.”

As you walk around this club,

The tranquil setting, elegant dining room, and stunning views of the golf course make Orange Tree the ideal venue for weddings, private parties and corporate events. Orange Tree’s professional staff and servers, some employed for more than 18 years, will ensure the event is impeccable with lasting impressions.

So, whether you are seeking a family friendly club for you and your family; a great golf course to play on a regular basis; a nurturing golf environment for your child, Orange Tree Golf Club offers tremendous added value and options if you are considering a golf membership or a first class venue for your next special event.

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

By

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

43

By Fred Seely

freddy's fairway thoughts

• There are six former U.S. Amateur champions living in the Northeast Florida area and two are Bob Dickson (left,) who won in 1967, and Billy Maxwell, the 1951 winner. Others who live in this area are Deane Beman (1960 and 1963), Steve Melnyk (1969,) Buddy Alexander (1986) and Bubba Dickerson (2001.)

• The big deal here in the area is the upcoming PGA Tour schedule with a rumored return to the March dates for the Players in 2019. Hard to find much opposition, even among the players, even though it means a lot more wind to deal with.

One group that really likes March is the Northeast Florida businesses; May is good business without a golf tournament, March not very much.

• And, when the Tour schedules come out, could the TV networks have enough impact to make a really drastic move, like switch the Champions Tour and/or the LPGA to a Monday-Wednesday schedule with proams the previous weekend? That would mean more real programming for the Golf Channel, plus the PGA Tour becomes the only actor on the weekend stage.

• Short game guru Dave Pelz spoke at the International Network of Golf convention last month at the World Golf Village and here are some of his tips for us so-so golfers: — You think you’ll hit the perfect shot every time, and that’s why 95 percent of your shots are short.

— You spend 92 percent of your practice time on

the long game, 7 percent on putting and 1 percent on chipping. You should spend a third of your time on each.

— The plumb bob method to line up putts is worthless.

— You spend most of the time on short putts when you practice. It should be halfand-half: long putts and short putts.

— The first part of your warmup session should be putting, the last part should be chipping. You need to start by getting the feel of hitting the ball solidly.

You need to finish with chips because that’s probably what you’ll face on the first hole to make par.

• The PGA Tour headquarters, and its practice facility, has lured many Tour pros to Northeast Florida. For some reason, national golf writers are here, too. The most-read golf writer in the world, Doug Ferguson of The Associated Press, is a Jacksonville resident.

Steve DiMeglio of USA Today and Adam Schupak of The New York Times both live at Ponte Vedra.

Schupak is a new arrival; he has a wedding date with PGA Tour official Kristen Wagner in September.

• Quick now: where was the U.S. Open played this year? Made ya think, eh? TV ratings weren’t much and don’t blame the big names from going astray. As a pal said, “Why would I watch an Open on a course I’ve never seen and never will see again.” Indeed, why? The USGA may have had enough of experiments, given the recent tries at Chambers Bay and Erin Hills.

Future sites are set almost through the next decade and they’re all traditional sites. The PGA Championship has a pretty good slate, for the most part, though politics sneaks into their selections from time to time.

• Our area lost another good pro recently when Jim Lohbauer left Deerwood to return to Davidson, N.C.’s River Run Country Club. He was the president of the Northern Chapter of the North Florida PGA. • Understand that the split between Phil Mickelson and caddie Bones Mackay might be due to some personality issues. McKay prides himself with knowledge of the game while Mickelson, according to a business associate, doesn’t like to take a vote. “In the top ten list of stubborn people,” says the guy, “Mickelson is in the top one.”

• If you think golf is booming inside the gates at TPC Sawgrass, you might reconsider when you find out that the third course there is about to lose six holes to residential development. The public course predates the Tour and now is called Oak Bridge and has been in financial trouble for years despite a solid layout. Why it has struggled: daily-fee golfers are hesitant to go through a manned access gate, and cash-strapped operators have cut back on maintenance. The latest owner has permission to develop holes 11-16 (you can see 13 and 14 from A1A) and convert 10, 17 and 18 into a short course. The front nine and range would stay intact, though it’s assumed that the developer will try and put homes there eventually. The PGA Tour once considered buying it but couldn’t justify the cost of replacing the ancient and creaky infrastructure.

Dickson and Maxwell 44

• Comments? I’m at fs4569@comcast.net.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

L I M I T L E S S S U M M E R P L AY

S U M M E R E S C A P E A N D P L AY U N L I M I T E D G O L F PA C K A G E

S U M M E R E S C A P E A N D P L AY PA C K A G E I N C L U D E S This summer, take the golfer’s dream vacation and take on all of the Legendary PGA National Resort & Spa golf courses—in one day, for one unbelievable price. And if that still isn’t enough golf for you, you can take them on again. Summer is a time for freedom. Live yours without limits! Rate includes luxury accommodations, full breakfast daily, unlimited daily golf, Waters of the World mineral pool access, and more. *Rates from $94.50 per person per night, double occupancy. Single occupancy from $174 per person, per night. $50 surcharge for Champion Course. $35 cart fee per person, per day. Tax and resort fee not included. Rates valid from May 25-September 30, 2017.

8 4 4 . 8 9 0 . 8 1 7 1 | P G A R E S O R T. C O M

in memory of

Robert W. Fogle III Memorial Golf Tournament Sponsored By: Pleasant Valley Community Fire Department

Bob Fogle was a 31 year member of the Pleasant Valley Community Fire Department. He was also a 27 year member of The Baltimore County Fire Department, and He was a University of Maryland MFRI Instructor working with the Carroll County “EST” Emergency Services Training Program where he taught Fire and EMS Students for over 5 years. He truly enjoyed teaching the young people who came through his classes and was always well respected by all of his students. Many of his Volunteer Students went on to becoming Career Fire De-

partment Employees in Carroll County

dren. We know he would’ve wanted us

as well as the surrounding counties. Bob

to continue his work helping others.

shared a true passion

Community Fire Department golf

looked forward to

tournament has become The Robert

being the Co-Chair

W. Fogle III Memorial Golf Tourna-

of the Pleasant

ment. Our mission is to provide

Valley Fire Depart-

annual scholarships to individuals

ment Annual Golf

seeking a career position in the field

Tournament and did

of Public Safety, as Fire Fighters, Fire

so for over 20 years.

Administrators, Arson Investiga-

Sadly On May

tions, Emergency Medical Techni-

30th, 2014 while

cians, Paramedics, Police Officers,

training with the

and Crime Scene Investigators.

Baltimore County

46

In the last two years the golf tour-

Department Bob suf-

nament has been able to raise $32,000

fered a heart attack

in scholarship money and will continue

and died in the line

to award scholarships for years to come.

of duty. He is surRobert Fogle III

Now the Annual Pleasant Valley

for golf and always

Robert W. Fogle III was 58

vived by a wife and

years old when he left us to

two beautiful chil-

teach God how to putt.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Come and Grow with Us!

www.TurfLife.club Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 3

47

By Katie Wercholuk

living on thne links

A Place That's Civilized By Nature® For outdoor-enthusiasts with an appreciation for luxury, there’s no better place to call home than Big Canoe® Adventure stirs as a mountain high sunrise promises a bright, new day.

Woodlands and meadows, lakes and streams, wildflowers and wildlife, all waiting to be discovered. There are miles to hike, a picnic to plan, golf balls to hit, a watercolor to paint; and, at day’s end, a sunset aglow with peace and tranquility to enjoy. This is Big Canoe; where nature is the big show—365 days a year.

JUST ONE HOUR NORTH OF ATLANTA, Big Canoe is an 8,000 acre, gated residential community that spans across seven pristine mountains in stunning north Georgia. In addition to long, lush vistas and air so fresh it takes your breath away, Big Canoe offers three championship golf courses, three lakes, a clubhouse, marina, fitness center, swim club, racquet club and an award-winning hiking/trails system.

In today’s nonstop, fast-paced world, time is our most precious gift.

Big Canoe’s convenient, yet secluded location means less time spent driving to your second or primary home, and more time spent breathing the fresh mountain air, teeing off, casting a line, lounging lakeside, reading a favorite book and sharing moments worth remembering with the ones

who matter most. It’s the perfect place for weekend getaways, summer vacations, fall retreats and holidays in the mountains because it’s so close while still feeling far removed from the pressures of the every day. Filled with stunning homes that meld into a forested canopy, Big Canoe is a vibrant, year-round community, with roughly 60 percent full-time residents.

Golf will be forever changed after you

play Big Canoe’s 27-hole championship Mountain Course, designed by Joe Lee. With striking mountain peaks, rushing streams and lush valleys, these three, nine-hole courses offer a wide range of difficulties to test

Spectacular Views

Lake Petit at Sunset

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

players of all levels. Take advantage of a fully stocked Pro Shop, and work on your game at the Practice Greens and recently renovated Driving Range.

Long established as the South’s premier mountain community, Big Canoe is also a leader in green mountain development. Not only have thousands of acres been preserved, they also are accessible. Over 22 miles of awardwinning trails, all the more remarkable with mountains aplenty, entice you to truly experience nature in all its glory.

One key to Big Canoe’s attraction is its proximity to Atlanta and surrounding metro area. It’s only one hour from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet once you pass through the gates and cross over the covered bridge, you feel a million miles away.

Add to that the rare mix of community, friendship, a full set of amenities, national-park like beauty and comfortable, yet luxurious living, and you’ve found your home away from home.

Amid soaring hardwoods and peace-

Outdoor Living at Big Canoe ful meadows, year-round or seasonally, on weekends and vacations, with some of the greatest outdoors in the entire country. Explore it all now, and enjoy it always. This is Canoe Life®.

And you’ll only find it at Big Canoe.

You can call, “the best kept secret

in the Southeast” home, with home sites offered from $40,000 to $300,000+ and new homes from $400,000 to $3,000,000+. Schedule a private tour or book your 2017 Discovery Package today.

Learn more at bigcanoe.com, or call 770-893-2733.

Big Canoe Clubhouse Veranda

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

49

improving performance

Nicklaus Academy at Hawk's Landing

Nicklaus Academies,

the instruction arm of Jack Nicklaus, golf’s only 18-time Major Champion, is the world’s leading golf instruction program. With worldclass facilities in 11 countries and growing, Nicklaus Academies has been instilling its proven instruction philosophy for over 25 years to 1,000’s of students of all ages and ability levels.

Under the guidance of Mike Malaska, 2011 PGA National Teacher of the Year and Nicklaus Academies world-wide Director of Instruction, the dynamic Nicklaus Academy curriculum evolves with the times while maintaining the

basic fundamentals and mentality that were the basis for “The Greatest Golfer of All-time” remarkable career. All Nicklaus Academy instructors are trained and certified on the Nicklaus philosophy and how to deliver ‘a simple and fun experience’ for learning golf.

With the opening of the Nicklaus Academy at Hawk’s Landing GC in Orlando, players and visitors to Central Florida now has access to learn “Jack’s Way”.

Brian O’Neill, PGA; Director of Instruction and a protégé of Mr. Jim Flick, PGA Hall of Fame Instructor and Mr. Nicklaus’ former coach, and Tony Wilson, PGA, Lead In-

structor, bring their passion for teaching to every student, class and clinic. From Orlando World Center Marriott guests, to locals and visitors, corporate clients, golf schools, and the Jack Nicklaus Junior Elite Team, each session is personalized to achieve the goals of the student or group, not the agenda of the instructor.

The Academy incorporates the latest technologies to enhance and speed up the learning process. Technology partners in the Jack Nicklaus Coaching Studio include Swing Catalyst, Flightscope, BodiTrak, K-Vest and Blast Connect, specific tools that allow the staff to quickly

Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

assess, analyze, and chart the best course of action for the students’ improvement.

And to add an entertaining option for groups of players and non-players alike, the Nicklaus Academy features the areas first TeeItUp Golf / Entertainment system that combines fun and easy games for any age and ability level.

For additional information on Nicklaus Academies world-wide, visit www.nicklausacademies.com For information or to book your Nicklaus Academy Orlando ‘experience’, visit www.nicklausacademyorlando. com and look for us on Facebook and Instagram.

Nicklaus Academy at Hawk's Landing

Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

51

Is “acting your age” over rated?

Dothan, AL. Yes

Absolutely

High school group you hung out with the most; nerds, jocks, stoners, preppies?

I was a jack of all trades (still am)

What do you do for a living?

Golf club fitting and repair at Golf Central of Ocala

What would you like to do for a living? Win the lotto. I would like to work on a tour van. Something to see the world on someone else’s dime Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? River life Tell us about your first kiss? At my eighth-grade dance “Under the Stars”.

Probably to a Boys to Men song.

Steak, chicken, or seafood?

Chicken

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Not repairing ball marks.

What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome?

My father, Grandmother, and Arnie. My father got me into golf, my Grandmother who got my father into the game, and an older wiser Arnie.

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? Quiet night at home

52

Jamie Lane

golf bachelor

Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

9685 Lake Nona Village Place Orlando, FL 32827 407.313.0027

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Visit Our New Location!

325 Front Street Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 904.834.7549 โ ข www.nonablue.com

orth florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north

Rod Perry Heads to the PGA Championship Rod Perry, PGA of Crane Lakes Golf & CC, is headed to the PGA Championship! This will be his fifth time playing in the PGA Championship. Perry recently hosted Golf Channel at his home course along with his wife Jaclyn, daughter Vanessa, and son Carson. Golf Channel came out to document Perry’s way to the PGA Championship as well as his extensive work with kids in golf. As a ten time North Florida PGA Player of the Year, the entire Section wishes Perry the best of luck at the PGA Championship!

Junior Championship Winners Head to National PGA Junior Championship The North Florida PGA hosted the 2017 North Florida Section Jr. Championship at Reunion Resort, resulting in two brothers taking home three titles. Cody Carroll and his brother Chase Carroll of Jacksonville, FL conquered the Palmer Course at Reunion Resort in Kissimmee, FL. Cody won in his age division of Boys 16 to 18, as well as winning Boys Overall. Chase won his division of Boys 12 and under. Amy Zhang of Lake Mary, FL took the title for Girls Overall Jr. Champion as well as Girls ages 16 to 18. Chase Carroll and Zhang are heading to the Boys and Girls Jr. PGA Championships. They will be competing with champions from around the country at The Country Club of St. Albans, Lewis and Clark Course in Missouri in late July. You can click visit nfpga.com for all results from the NFPGA Jr. Championship Tournament.

Putting on Smiles Makes Monthly Trip to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Putting on Smiles made the monthly trip to Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Joey Hidock, PGA takes volunteers to the hospital on the first Wednesday of each month to spend time putting with the patients. This week, kids went head to head with the pros, and came out winners! The smiles that came with hitting the bullseye and getting a medal were an inspiration to all the volunteers.

To find out more about Putting on Smiles, or how you can get involved, visit puttingonsmiles.org.

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Reynolds Lake Oconee

Welcome to the Georgia Golf Trail Stone Mountain Golf Club

The Georgia Golf Trail has something no other state has to offer anywhere in the country, 23 top resorts that have first class golf and accommodations second to none.

From the mountains to the coast, come play golf where legendary golfer Bobby Jones lived and helped build a reputation of golf history that you won’t find anywhere.along the Georgia Golf Trail.

Sea Island

• Arrowhead Pointe • Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa • Brazell’s Creek • Callaway Gardens • Chateau Elan • Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee • Harbor Club on Lake Oconee • Highland Walk • Innsbruck Golf Club • Jekyll Island Georgia • Lake Blackshear • Lanier Islands – Legacy Golf Club • Little Ocmulgee • Meadow Links • Old Toccoa Farm • Reynolds Lake Oconee • Sea Island • Sea Palms Resort & Conference Center • Stone Creek Golf • Stone Mountain Golf Club • The Creek • The Lakes • The Club at Savannah Harbor • The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort

Learn more about where to gofor and what Package to see on Quote Lake Oconee by visiting www.Facebook.com/LakeOconeeTracy Call Today 770-266-0331 a Golf | Check us out online at georgiagolfandtravel.com

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By Ana Starr

Gomes & Harkness Capture Title at 2017 Senior-Super Senior

San Filippo Victorious at Senior Series Event #1 The second season of the threetournament Senior Series began at Turtle Creek Club on Thursday, July 13th. Having won the final Senior Series event in 2016, PGA Professional Mike San Filippo started right where he left off. San Filippo posted a 3-underpar 69 to finish atop the leaderboard by one stroke. His round included a fourhole stretch where he was 5-under-par.

The 2017 Senior Series events are proudly supported by Global Golf Sales.

The format consists of an 18-hole individual stroke play competition, featuring two separate age divisions (50-69 and 70+). There is a separate blind draw team four-ball stroke play contest and individual skins game. The 50-69 age division competed under the OMEGA Senior Player of the Year point structure while the 70 and Over division played under the Super Senior Player of the Year point structure. The South Florida PGA would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to PGA Head Golf Professional Joe Bostic at Turtle Creek Club and his staff for their support of this event. We would also like to recognize Steve Sponder and Global Golf Sales for their support with this year’s Senior Series program.

Murphy & Rada Win 2017 Pro-Assistant in a Sudden Death Playoff

Murphy & Rada competed in a 27 hole 9-9-9 contest which consisted of Four-Ball Stroke Play (West #10-18), Modified Pinehurst (West #1-9), as well as Scramble (East #1-9) formats. Both the East and West courses provided a true test of golf. The South Florida PGA would like to recognize PGA General Manager John Lee, PGA Head Golf Professional Joe Allinder, and the entire membership at Imperial Golf Club for generously hosting the event. Lastly, the South Florida PGA extends their appreciation to supporting partners Antigua, Global Golf Sales/ GolfPride, GolfBuddy, The PGA Tour and Tifosi for making the event possible.

The 10th annual Senior-Super Senior Championship was held today on the Golden Marsh course at Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club. Congratulations to the team of Rick Gomes, PGA and Fred Harkness, PGA who took home first place honors with a 10-under-par round 62. They carded a total of eight birdies and one eagle, which included a five-hole stretch of consecutive birdies. Finishing alone in second place and one stroke back was the team of Dennis Meyer, PGA and Jim Jewell, PGA with a round of 63.

The Senior-Super Senior Championship is an 18-hole, two-person team competition in which 9-holes are played in a scramble format and the other 9-holes played in a four-ball stroke play format.

Teams are comprised of two South Florida PGA Professionals; one between the ages of 50-64 and one 65 and older. A total of 42 South Florida PGA Professionals competed in this year’s event, 21 total teams.

The South Florida PGA would like to thank PGA Director of Golf Greg Lecker, golf course superintendent Edward Smith, the entire staff and the membership at Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club for hosting this year’s event. We would also like to recognize the PGA Tour for their supporting partnership.

The team of Kevin Murphy and Patrick Rada of McArthur Golf Club won the 2017 Pro-Assistant supported by Antigua, Global Golf Sales/GolfPride, GolfBuddy, The PGA Tour and Tifosi. The event was contested Monday, June 26th at Imperial Golf Club in Naples on both the East and West courses.

Firing an -11 under par twentyseven hole total, Murphy and Rada ended up in a three way tie atop the leaderboard placing them in a sudden death playoff against Lost Tree Club’s Brian Peaper and Michael Kostelnik, and Alico Family Golf Center’s Trey Sones and Jeremy Wells. Murphy/Rada and Sones/Wells both birdied the first playoff hole, while Peaper/Kostelnik made par. On hole number 2, Murphy/ Rada made par while Sones/Wells bogeyed, claiming victory of the event!

The event featured 72 teams who 56

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Morin & McCurdy Claim Victory at the 2017 Yamaha/Callaway Pro-Pro Championship PGA Assistant Golf Professional at The Falls Club of the Palm Beaches, Alan Morin made 10 birdies while partnering with Assistant Golf Professional from the Breakers Rees Jones Course, Brett McCurdy to win the South Florida PGA Yamaha Callaway Pro-Pro Championship held at the Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club and TPC Treviso Bay. Morin, the South Florida PGA’s Player of the Year nine times since 2002, made six birdies in a seven-hole stretch on Treviso Bay’s back nine. They needed all of them. Morin and McCurdy shot a 9-under 63 for a 17-under 126 to finish a shot ahead of Daniel Heaslip and Justin Bertsch.

“I hit a bunch of great shots and kept making putts … from 10 feet, 12 feet, 8 feet, 15 feet. They were just rolling in,” said Morin, “It was a lot of fun.”

Morin and McCurdy also won the Pro-Pro two years ago when they both played well. Not Tuesday. Once McCurdy saw Morin get red-hot, he wanted to just get out of his partner’s way.

“To be quite honest, that was one of the more humbling experiences I’ve had in golf,” said McCurdy. “I’ve never seen anyone play the way Alan did today.

“I threw in a few birdies and he threw them back on top of me. He’s a heck of a player. It was special to watch.”

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Dan Heaslip and Justin Bertsch also made their run on the back nine with six birdies on their last seven holes for a 64 that left them one shot out of the playoff at 16-under. Heaslip is the PGA Head Golf Professional at Windstar Naples Bay and Bertsch holds the same position at Hideout in Naples.

“I’ve played with Alan multiple times and it’s not surprising when he continues to hit great shots and rolls the putts in,” Bertsch said. “You know you have to elevate your game.”

Heaslip agreed. “Every part of Alan’s game is strong,” he said. “Even he was looking around, saying, ‘I don’t know what to tell you.’ When he putts like that, he’s tough to beat.”

Morin, who also won this event with Chad Kurmel in 2009, said he and McCurdy were fortunate to be paired with the players who came the closest to beating them.

“When they got hot, I knew we needed to stay aggressive,” Morin said. “It felt close.”

Chris Phillips and Justin McCarraher (64) were alone in third at 15-under. Four teams – Gene Fieger-Mike San Filippo, Colin Amaral-Jared Isaacs, Patrick Rada-Kenneth Leach and Steve Delaney-Mark Mielke – tied for fourth at 14-under.

The South Florida PGA Yamaha Callaway Pro-Pro Championship is supported by Global Golf Sales/GolfPride, GolfBuddy, Golf ScoreCards Inc., Hole-in-One USA and The PGA Tour.

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south florida PGA north south florida florida PGA PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southfl north

By Ana Starr

golf business

Orlando Golf Business and Brews!

Local golf industry veterans, Holly “G” Geoghegan, President of Golf Marketing Services and Host of “The Golf Insiders” radio show and co-host Will Perry, CMO of Reason Agency have formed an after-hours networking group called “Golf Business and Brews.”

“Our goal is connecting each other within the local golf community and helping to generate ideas, col-

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laboration and relationships in our network,” said Perry. “It’s a concept that’s long overdue and the response has been extremely positive.”

The group meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month from 6:308:30pm. Orange Tree Golf Club hosted June and July’s events.

“Many of us cross paths at the PGA Show in Orlando and

that’s it,” said Geoghegan.

There are a wide range of golf companies based here – Golf Channel, Golfweek, GolfNow, Volvik, David Leadbetter Academy, Flightscope, PlaneSwing, SIK Golf, The NFPGA – just to name a few. We can all benefit by developing and building more contacts and helping each other grow our businesses and the golf industry collectively.”

Anyone who is doing business in the golf industry is welcome to attend. For more info: www.facebook.com/GolfBusiness-Brews-1979133962317917/.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

Kenny Perry and Trevor Immelman have made Transitions® lenses part of their game.

On the PGA TOUR®, vision is a golfer’s most important equipment. Transitions lenses adapt to changing light to help golfers see more comfortably in all light conditions and help protect eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Visit your local Vision Source doctor, Dr. James Podschun, located at 2828 Casa Aloma Way, Suite 400 in Winter Park, FL 32792, to ask which Transitions lenses are right for you. 407-671-0960

www.TurfLife.club Come see us at the PGA Show booth #3516

P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R

Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Adaptive Lenses is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2012 Transitions Optical, Inc.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

transitions.com

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women in golf

By Linda Williams-Sieg

EWGA’s NEWEST CHAPTER: North Central Florida

“We Take Fun Seriously”

EWGA North Central Florida was founded in September 2016 by Bree Hartlage, Rhonda Rose and yours truly, Linda Williams-Sieg. Our chapter serves The Villages, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties.

By mid-January we grew to 17 members. As the “inaugural “ Chapter Championship (CHA CHA) deadline approached the membership doubled. Over half of the membership entered the competition.

We are so excited that 13 members qualified to advance to the North Florida/Southeastern District Regional Semi-Finals.

This tournament was held

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in Birmingham Alabama At the Robert Trent Jones Oxmoor Valley Country Club. This represents 54% participation in our very first year!

This exceeds participation averages of chapters throughout the country.

We are celebrating our rapid growth and outstanding membership.

Women golfers of all skill levels are welcome. We offer golf clinics, member to member mentoring, evening golf leagues, weekend golf events, socials, Sunday “Fun days” along with various competitions scheduled monthly. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment for golfers of all levels to gain skills, increase confidence, and meet new friends.

For more information visit us on Facebook: EWGA North Central Florida or our website: ewga-ncf.com.

Membership information call 407-314-2365.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

women in golf

Wesley Bauguess

Bauguess Family

Wesley Bauguess,

an army widow and veteran, shares an inspiring story of a how she found purpose and hope after the tragic death of her husband Army Major Larry Bauguess in her newly published book God, Country, Golf: Reflections of an Army Widow. The autobiography released this week from Westbow Press.

Wesley, a Folds of Honor and Patriot Foundation spokesperson, shares the devastation and grieving process she went through after Larry was shot and killed while acting as a human shield, protecting his unit during an ambush on what was supposed to be a peacekeeping mission while deployed in Pakistan on May 14, 2007. Larry’s story received national attention over the next several years as Wesley worked to pick up the pieces of her life and move on with her family’s new reality.

“There is a saying, ‘It can take a lifetime to build something and only seconds for it to come crashing down.’

That’s exactly what it felt like when Larry died,” said Wesley. “My heart broke looking at our beautiful girls, knowing their father would never be there to watch them grow up. I didn’t know how I was going to get through it but over time I realized my life experiences – all the way back to when I was a child – were tools to help me through it.”

It all started when Wesley was out on the golf course with her grandfather.

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When getting ready to hit the ball, he would remind her to concentrate and the importance of overcoming obstacles.

Wesley’s love of playing golf led her to attend Appalachian State University where she joined the college’s ROTC. There she met and fell in love with Larry, who later led her to faith.

“We often don’t see how God uses our decisions and obstacles, big and small, until we look back. Golf was the doorway to my career, husband, family and faith,” stated Wesley. “It is a truly wonderful display of how God weaves everything together for our good.”

From college Wesley and Larry both joined the army, which instilled her with confidence to never back down

from a challenge. Five years later, during her transition to motherhood, Wesley found new ways to be involved and continue to serve. Each season brought new obstacles that provided Wesley with a lesson, all built on the foundation laid by her grandfather.

After Larry’s funeral, I started hearing one of my grandfather’s teachings, ‘Focus on what you know.’ It was a tip to make me a better golfer, but it applied perfectly to what I needed to do to help me through the grieving,” explained Wesley. “I knew how to be a good mother, I knew the army life and I knew I could lean on Jesus as we transitioned into a new season we never prepared for. There were times when it was hard and I struggled, but I knew Larry would want us to keep going.”

In God, Country, Golf, Wesley outlines the lessons and values she learned from each of her experiences and the strength gained by her faith, which helped her continue on her path toward healing and remembering God’s purpose for her life. Throughout this beautifully written memoir, she shares the very best stories of her life with and without Larry.

Captain Chuck Deleot, retired U.S. Navy and President of the Patriot Foundation. said, “Wesley gives us a beautiful, compelling story about how she and her young daughters found the strength to cope with the death of their soldier. This powerful, artfully crafted book should be required reading for anyone who wants to better understand the brave military families whose sacrifices keep the rest of us free and safe. We are all indebted to them.”

God, Country, Golf is available through all major online retailers. For additional information, visit GodCountryGolf.com.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

WE BELIEVE Making a positive change in the life of a child is one of the most significant things you can do.

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Anything Treen - Handmade Wooden Spoons

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Karen Davis of Sunbright, Tennessee is one of the premier wooden spoonmakers working today having made some 20,000 wooden spoons in her 21 years as a wooden spoonmaker. It all begin when she broke her last “skinny store bought spoon” while canning tomatoes.

She took a scrap of poplar from the firewood pile, using the broken spoon as a pattern and tools from her husband’s auto body repair shop, she made her first wooden spoon. Which she is still using. Little did she know that was just the beginning.

She was asked to bring her wooden spoons to Historic Rugby’s Spring Festival.

That started 21 years and counting of Spring Festivals at Rugby which lead to her being juried into the Foothills Craft Guild and TACA, “Tennessee Association of Craft Artists” and made her dream of being a woodworker come true and turning her into a professional “Spoonmaker.”

She expanded on the tools from the repair shop and perfected her techniques and pattern designs. Karen now has over a hundred styles and makes about 1000 pieces a year.

Some styles are similar, and she only has a few styles in stock at a time. Karen uses local woods, poplar, maple, cherry and sometimes walnut. From her property or saw mills around Sunbright. Karen’s “Hobby” soon grew into a business, she now participates in five craft shows each year. She spends five or six days a week in her shop to keep enough inventory.

The name of Karen’s business is Anything Treen. Treen means taken from tree.

She believes she can make almost anything from wood, including a cowboy hat. www.spoonmakerkds.com email: spoonmakerkds@gmail.com

SmellWell

Most golfers tend to leave their “just worn” golf shoes packed down in their bag until the next round. Leaving damp or sweaty shoes in a confined area like a bag or a locker encourages bacteria to grow and often results in an unpleasant and less-than-fresh odor. SmellWell is a cool accessory to your golf gear, they are made from natural salts and absorbents that effectively neutralizes bad smell and moisture without harmful biocides. Simply put one pouch in each shoe after your round and let them go to work.

The product was invented as a solution to a young girl’s smelly football shoes and comes as two small pouches. The idea was to find a solution that was easy to use, appealing to the eye and very effective. The company is based on the West coast of Sweden by the sea, nature and an active lifestyle is always present. Since the launch on the Swedish market in June 2014, SmellWell is available in Europe, USA, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and Korea.

SmellWell is available on Amazon. For more information visit their website www.smellwell.se

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

"Fore" Open-Minded Birkdale Boys

Alfie Fyles, caddy and local celebrity had two regrets when he learned of his impending death. He wished he had stayed married to his beloved Pat, and that he had written the book of his memoires as he had longed to do. Some years later, Friend John Murray approached his sister Mags to write the book and the dream became a reality.

As a teenager, Alfie’s father, Teddy was caught retrieving lost golf balls on the newly opened Birkdale Golf Course to eke out the family funds by reselling them: Empathising with the youngster, the Captain offered Teddy a job as a cloakroom attendant at the club and there he remained until he was almost 90 years of age.

All Teddy and Margaret’s children were expected to help in the household and when 10-year-old Alfie carried his first set of clubs to make much needed pennies for the family, he began dreaming of becoming a professional caddy and “Winning” a major championship at some time in the future. Along with three other neighbours, he did just that and between them they went on to caddy for some of the most famous golfers including Gary Player, Tom Watson, Gay Brewer, Tom Weiskopf, Greg Norman, Peter Thomson, Johnnie Miller, Tom Kite and Billy Casper to name a few.

Between them they assisted their “Man” to win 10 British Opens, numerous Walker Cups, Penfold Tournaments, Alcans, PGA Match Plays and Piccadilly Match Plays, amongst other competitions.

The book relays some of the funny tales Alfie enthralled his family and friends with and tells the story of Alfie and his contemporaries.

Oska Wellness Oska Wellness, (www.oskawellness.com) a technology company committed to developing innovative consumer health and wellness products, introduced Oska® Pulse, a new pain relief health teach wearable device, great for people of all ages who have acute to chronic pain and are looking to find relief.

Oska Pulse is ergonomically designed and will fit anywhere on your body. Pain relief with no drugs or side effects. Relieve pain you’ve had for a week, a month or 10+ years. Great for after workouts, yoga, running, tennis, golf, working all day on your feet.

The Oska Pulse mimics the body’s own recovery processes to relieve pain, muscle stiffness and inflammation, using optimized pulsed electromagnetic field technology (PEMF) to encourage recovery at a cellular level. Oska Pulse was designed to address areas of the body most susceptible to injury or degeneration, including knee, back, muscle and joint pain.

Unlike TENS, you won’t “feel” any pulsing or tingling when using Oska Pulse. Optimized PEMF is intended for you to “feel nothing,” (some people notice a slight warming of the afflicted area due to increased blood flow).

Please note it can take several sessions before you begin to experience relief from pain—this is completely normal.

It measures 5.25 x 3.5 x 1.25 inches in size; weighs 2.12 ounces. Oska Pulse is $399.00 (with free ground shipping to U.S. residents in the lower 48) with a 90-day money back guarantee.

The Oska Pulse mimics the body’s own recovery processes to relieve pain, muscle stiffness and inflammation, using optimized pulsed electromagnetic field technology (PEMF) to encourage recovery at a cellular level. Oska Pulse was designed to address areas of the body most susceptible to injury or degeneration, including knee, back, muscle and joint pain.

Unlike TENS, you won’t “feel” any pulsing or tingling when using Oska Pulse. Optimized PEMF is intended for you to “feel nothing,” (some people notice a slight warming of the afflicted area due to increased blood flow).

Please note it can take several sessions before you begin to experience relief from pain—this is completely normal.

It measures 5.25 x 3.5 x 1.25 inches in size; weighs 2.12 ounces. Oska Pulse is $399.00 (with free ground shipping to U.S. residents in the lower 48) with a 90-day money back guarantee.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

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golf fitness

DeNiro as Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver

Senior?...Are You Talkin’ To Me? “You talkin’ to me? Are you talkin’ to me? I’m the only one here...you talkin’ to me?” That is one of the all-time greatest series of lines uttered by an actor in any movie...ever.

The actor was Robert De Niro and his character was Travis Bickle in the movie Taxi Driver. Do you remember the movie? I guess you have to be a “Senior” to have seen it.

Anyway, a few weeks ago, I uttered those same words in response to a request from a very well-meaning golf blogger who asked if I could write an article about golf exercises for seniors. Wait! Was he implying that because I was in my 60’s (68 at the time of this writing) I could directly relate to the plight of the old folk golfers? You know, the geezers with creaky joints, using “senior” shafts on our clubs, and with a strong case of lumbago (defined as: A painful condition of the lower back, as one resulting from muscle strain or a slipped disk).

OK, I may be over dramatizing it a bit, but I was taken back a little by the request. I don’t consider myself a “senior” person. Actually, I take that back. There are a few times when I am happy to whip out my driver’s 66

license to proclaim my “Seniority”... those being senior discounts at any retailer, the barber shop or the movie theater. Heck, they don’t ask how many jumping jacks I can do, they just go by a number, and to me it is just a number.

I pride myself on working out very hard these days with a high emphasis on golf specific exercises. This is not only to help my golf game, but to keep me feeling like I

Tom Watson can hang in there with the younger guns (at least I like to think so).

A few mornings ago as when I was leaving Planet Fitness after a workout, a lady I see every day at that gym, and who is slightly older than

I, asked me if she could buy some of my “energy”. I was very flattered.

We laughed about it as we walked out the door. As I got on my Honda GoldWing motorcycle to head home, I was sporting a grin a mile wide.

Do you remember the 2009 Open Championship? At age 59, Watson had the chance to win his sixth Open and become the oldest major champion in history during regulation play, but was unable to par the final hole and tied with Stewart Cink. Tom Watson lost in a playoff with Cink.

Watson said afterwards, “The old fogey almost did it”.

Yes, that old fogey, senior citizen, geezer almost did it.

My reason for writing about this age thing is that I think too many golfers who have passed the half century mark look at the numbers and allow it to affect their thinking about how to get back in the game.

Boy, that sure sounds like a line from a Cialis commercial doesn’t it.

Getting older doesn’t mean you have to start slowing down... it means you have to pick up the pace to be able to pick up the pace.

I encourage you to look for some very simple strategies our website http://GolfGym.com, so you can get your body moving really well in order to enjoy the game we love so much for as long as you can.

Good Luck Kiddo!

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

portraits at your place.

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improving performance

By Kay McMahon

Posture - It’s Automatic with Golf 8.5 What if you never had to think about posture?

What if you never had to worry about ball position?

What if you never had to wonder how far to stand from the ball?

What if you never had to know how much to bend your knees?

What if you never had to worry about your alignment?

The answer is Golf 8.5. And if you don’t know about it. . .then we should talk.

Time to de-clutter. Time to get rid of all that pre-shot fussing, diddling and thinking.

Golf 8.5 is comprised of only four things to do in your set-up and 4.5

things to do in the swing. Golf 8.5 puts all the “stuff” that is written about, talked about, over analyzed, over taught, over exaggerated into a simple formula that will make all that “stuff” happen. That’s it - FOUR things before the swing and 4.5 things in the swing and all the rest will happen.

In Golf 8.5 posture happens

automatically. We are on a mission to never have to ever teach posture and we don’t. It is automatic by following our G-CAP pre-shot approach. And by the way. . . this is how the pro’s do it.

G-CAP - the FOUR pre-shot thoughts - is the acronym for your simple and successful set up routine.

• First, the G stands for grip - you grip the club in the air with the leading edge perpendicular to the ground.

• Second, the C stands for setting the club on the ground by “stepping into” your stance, aiming the club head or leading edge perpendicular to the target line.

• Third, the A stands for setting your feet so that the A or Alignment is from toe to toe - your foot line is then perpendicular to the leading edge of the club face.

Note to self and this is important and breaks from convention! Doing the first three steps of Golf 8.5 puts you automatically into your perfect posture position. Step Four, P for Posture is automatic.

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Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

The two most frequent questions I get asked as an instructor: “How far do I stand from the ball?” and “Where should the ball be placed between my feet?”

You will receive a variety of different answers, but my answer is simple: “The club will tell you how far and where to stand.” By setting the club down as it is designed, it will automatically take care of distance from the ball, ball position, and more importantly, POSTURE. It will declutter so many thoughts and simplify your set-up and put you on the path to a successful, consistent swing.

This is only the beginning. Golf is simple and 8.5 proves it ! After you practice G-CAP, then there are only 4.5 things to do in the golf swing. I will cover this in more depth in future articles. If you want to make your golf easier and your swing thoughts less cluttered. . .visit www. edukaytiongolf.com for videos and additional information. Golf 8.5 makes golf simple and it works.

Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 4

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