Golf Central Magazine- Volume 19 Issue 5 by Golf Central Magazine

Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort, Birmingham

W W W . G O L F C E N T R A L M A G . C O M

January 17-20, 2019 â&#x20AC;˘ Orlando, FL

Brooke Henderson

Alfonso Ribeiro

7x LPGA Tour Winner

Jeremy Roenick

Qualified to play.

Carson Palmer

LPGA Champions. World-Class Celebrities.

One Unforgettable Week. This coming January, LPGA winners from the past two seasons will play alongside top celebrities from the world of sports and entertainment in Orlando for a combined purse of $1.7 million.

Live on

Jack Wagner

Roger Clemens

Michelle Wie Ray Allen

Qualified to play.

5x LPGA Tour Winner

Find out more and get your tickets today at

DiamondLPGA.com Celebrities scheduled to appear.

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Held at Tranquilo Golf Club at Four Seasons Resort Orlando, the tournament will kick off the 2019 season and be nationally televised on Golf Channel and NBC. Check your local listings.

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header from the publisher

Jan Fan! I’ve met many

wonderful people in the golf industry in my 20 years in the business. Back in the day there weren’t many women to help pave the way and mentor a newcomer like me who had a passion for the game and a dream of publishing a fun, non-intimidating, golf lifestyle magazine that had sex appeal. The year was 1999 and I was attending a celebrity charity golf event at LaCita Country Club in Titusville. I walked into the clubhouse saw Jan Stephenson – the infamous glamour girl and LPGA star Jan Stephenson – sitting at a table having lunch. I was scheduled to have a meeting with her to discuss her future plans (post LPGA) and business ideas to continue her legacy. Her then boyfriend accompanied Jan and I was with mine (aka: “The Jerks”), along with my photographer, the late great Lynn Pelham. Lynn was a huge Jan fan and as a former Time-Life photographer, had photographed many major celebrities including Liz Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Arnold Palmer, Tiger Woods and countless more. He couldn’t wait to get Jan in front of his camera. As a green publisher in the golf business, I admired Jan, what she had accomplished, how she balanced her feminine charm and her athletic ability and was grateful for the opportunity to interview her. I was impressed with how humble she was and how special she made me feel when all the guys in the group were vying for her attention. Today, I am proud to consider her a friend. She takes my calls, we check in on each other, we see each other at events and she truly understands how women like us have to posture ourselves and command the respect that we do. When it was announced on October xyz that Jan was nominated () into the World Golf Hall of Fame (Thank the baby Jesus!), we spoke the next week and I loved hearing her Aussie accent and laughter in her voice. We talked a little about her wine, her rum, a little bit about our men, but mostly about her long overdue and well deserved honor. I love Bob Hope and I’m glad he’s in the Hall, but without doubt Jan’s exhibit will be one of the most visited, extremely attractive, and legendary. I’m proud to know her - a HALL OF FAMER - and one cool ass wonderful women. Big coo for you World Golf Hall of Fame for bringing sexy back!

Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth,

Volume 19, Issue 5

Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Chief Fertilizer Spreader: Eric Rasberry Golf Gym: Ken Pierce Ambassador of Buzz: Jennifer Jolly Associate Editor/Photographer: Greg Corbo 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: 321.765.7550 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2018 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 selfaddressed 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?

Ask the staff at your local golf course if they are participating in BioBlitz 2017! 518-767-9051

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

www.auduboninternational.org

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

ROAD TRIP No. 44

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

Volume 19, Issue 5 Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort, a member of the RTJ Golf Trail Resort Collection (photo by Brian Weis, golftrips.com) Story pgs 38-39

Carribbean Golf Central 34 Abaco Club at Winding Bay Carolina Golf Central 28 Champion Hills Cart Girl 22 Jennefer Willams FEATURE 38 Alabama Golf Florida Golf Central 56 The Club at Ibis Fore Your Health 40 Golfer's Elbow 42 Strike Absorber

Renassanc

Georgia Golf Central 20 The Landings at Skidaway Island Golf Bachelor 12 Bryan Ingrande Golf Fore Charity 18 BMI 9th Annual Charity Tournament Golf Travel 24 The British Isles In Memory Of 26 9/11 Caddie Walk Leader on the Links 16 John Ritenour Living on the Links 10 Waterlefe Golf & River Club Special Events 48 German Rainbow Open

e Ross Brid

ge Resort

, Birmingham

C O M M A G . T R A L F C E N . G O L W W W

Departments 14 30 46 50 52 54 58 60 62 64 66 68 70

LPGA Tournament News Grip It & Sip It SFPGA Freddy's Fairway Thoughts Golf History Product Showcase Turf Life Turf Life Turf Life Turf Life Golf Fitness Golf Fitness

What's New 32 Glove Ride 44 Jack Grace

golfcentralmag.com

living on the links

By Bob Bolton

Water Left, Water Right, Waterlefe– From Golf to Gulf When you enter the Waterlefe community in Bradenton, Florida you really have no idea of the unique nature of this “Golf and River Club”. It’s rare to find a community that makes it easy to play a round of golf and then within minutes of putting the flag in the hole on the 18th green, find yourself cruising down the Manatee River. At Waterlefe, you have that and so much more. This is a golf magazine, so we will take the time to give you the lowdown on the Ted McAnlis designed golf course that has hosted a U.S. Open Qualifier an unprecedented six times. I don’t know if I coined the phrase, “Water left, Water right, Waterlefe”, but I’m going to act like I did. The course is a natural beauty, I’ve found it to be always in great shape, and with new bunkers, there’s a certain sparkle that’s been added. The natural vegetation, wildlife and water features that adorn the course make it challenging and visually stunning (especially at sunrise and sunset). From the tips the course plays 6,897 yards, but with six tee boxes there’s a distance that will fit your game. I’m trying to remember if there’s a single golf hole at Waterlefe that isn’t adorned with water. There are a couple that have small ravines that have a small trickle in front of the greens (#2 and #13), but the rest of the course has water that provides a definitive border to every hole. Some of you may wonder, do I need to bring 10

GOLF & RIVER

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an extra box of golf balls with me when I play Waterlefe. The answer is “No”. Don’t get me wrong, if you wander too far from the fairway, you will dunk a ball or two, but the water is more of a frame, for a beautiful work of art. The front nine has a myriad of doglegs that carefully guide you through and around the water that borders the fairways and greens. Depending upon what set of tees you play, you may find that driver isn’t the club of choice from the tee. Hole #8 is a good example of water left, water right. Your tee shot carries a pond to the right, with the goal of landing within 150 yards of the green. Your second shot will carry over another pond, to a green that is tilted toward you and back-lit by the Manatee River. Finishing the front 9 with a par 3 is different than most courses and in this case, from the tips, it’s 230 yards over a marsh (a must carry of 210). A recent tour of the course with Head Pro - Matt Hill required me to “give it a go” from the tips. I made it with a 3-wood, but only by the hair of my chinny-chin-chin. The back nine starts with a challenging par 5, with (guess again) water down the left and trees down the right. I find the back nine really gets fun at

the 14th hole. A par 5, the 14th teases you with the opportunity to get there in two, but beware, if the wind is in your face, you may want to lay up to within 130-150 yards before trying to fly the marsh that runs in front of the green. The par 3 15th gives you an opportunity to wave at the passing jet skis and boats that are cruising down the Manatee River. The right side of the hole is bordered by the River, with the green leaving very little room for error. The 16th-18th holes are beautifully designed doglegs that use water and topography to shape your eye and your shots. As I mentioned before, rarely can you play 18 holes and quickly jump in your boat and cruise the Manatee River, ultimately finding yourself in the gulf, after golf. The River Club at Waterlefe is the hub of social activity for dining and enjoying beautiful sunsets. With a state-of-the-art fitness center, saltwater lap pool, Tiki Bar and children’s playground, the River Club is a great combination for residents and members. Behind the Club is the Waterlefe Marina, which has 59 slips, ranging in size from 20 to 29 feet. Waterlefe is a semi-private golf course, which means anyone can enjoy an opportunity to play. Memberships come in a variety of shapes and sizes and there are incentives to join for 2019. To make a tee time, or for more information about memberships, call (941)-744-9771, or visit www.waterlefegolfandriverclub.com. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

GOLF & RIVER

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Six-Time Host to the U.S. Open Qualifier Golf Advisor’s Top 25 Courses in Florida Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence Voted Manatee County's Best Golf Course Community Semi-Private – Single & Family Memberships Available – Open to the Public

1022 Fish Hook Cove, Bradenton, FL | www.waterlefegolfandriverclub.com Membership (941) 718-4848 | Tee Times (941) 744-9771

golf bachelor

Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was born in Del Mar,

California and lived there until I went to college.

Bryan Ingrande

Is “acting your age” over rated?

Yes. It’s a state of mind…. You are as young as you feel.

High school group you hung out with the most; nerds, jocks, stoners, preppies? Jocks. I was actually a

crossover jock/surfer.

What do you do for a living?

I am the Vice President of Global Sports and Entertainment for Diamond Resorts.

What would you like to do for a living?

I would love to teach and coach football full time.

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I like to create adventures with my children.

Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My daughter Mia.

Tell us about your first kiss?

My first smack came via tetherball in the 4th grade.

Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I was adopted.

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? Red Bull, Tylenol PM, and a nice blanket

Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why?

Bobby Kennedy because he was a sportsman and we could have some great island competitions. He would be fascinating to talk to.

Success. I would be successful at being a good father, successful in my job, and successful in my relationship.

What three people weould you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Mohamed Ali, Mickey

Name the three most important things to you in this world. My family, my

Mantle, and Phil Knight

Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep

What are some of your great accomplishments? Earning a college

beliefs, and my close friends.

yourself happy?

scholarship, my children, and making a positive impact in the lives of student athletes.

Favorite comedian? Dave Chapel

Last book you read?

Sydney Sheldon’s Master of the Game

Favorite magazine?

Tiffany and Co. catalog Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

R A I SI NG

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Liu Wins Tour Championship

For a third time

this season Ruixin Liu (Dalian, China) found her way into the winner’s circle, only on this occasion with a 19-under par overall performance to capture the 11th annual Symetra Tour Championship at LPGA International. Entering the final round, Liu was tied with Pavarisa Yoktuan (Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand) at 18-under par overall. The two battled all afternoon, neither yielding an inch until a bogey on the par-3 17th by Yoktuan sealed the deal for Liu. The victory makes it back-to-back wins for the second-year professional, as she captured the IOA Golf Classic title on Sept. 30. Her third piece of

Ruixan Liu - photo by Greg Wise hardware this season came from the Island Resort Championship in late June. “Last week and this week my putting has been really good and it means a lot to me to win three times,” said Liu, who finished No. 4 on Tour this year with 230 sub-par holes. “It is a really big step forward from season one to season two. It shows me that I have improved a lot and everything that I have worked

for is worth it.” In addition, Liu climbed to No. 1 in the Volvik Race for the Card thanks to the $33,750 winner’s check. That spot earns her Player of the Year honors and is the icing on the cake for a monumental season. “It means a lot to me because after 21 tournaments, being able to be the No. 1 on course, it feels really good and gives me momentum to move forward

Cheyenne Knight - photo by Greg Wise 14

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Pavarisa Yoktuan - photo by Greg Wise for next year on the LPGA,” Liu said. “For next year it helps knowing that I can do it here, so now make sure I can do it there.” Meanwhile, an even par 72 today left Yoktuan one shot short of forcing a playoff in shooting for her first Symetra Tour victory. Three birdies helped Yoktuan tame the windy conditions, but three matching bogeys proved to be her downfall. Nonetheless, she secures a LPGA Tour card for 2019 with a solo second finish in the Sunshine State. “I wish I could have done better than this, but today was really hard, the greens were tough and it was very windy,” said Yoktuan, who ended the year No. 3 on Tour in scoring average at 70.208. “I did my best and Ruixin

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

played so good, making a lot of putts. Even tough I finished runner-up I get my card. That’s the best part, so I’m really glad I can go next year.”

VOLVIK RACE FOR THE CARD STANDINGS Following the 21st and final tournament of the 2018 Symetra Tour season, the Volvik Race for the Card top-10 is finalized and 10 players have earned a full LPGA Tour card for 2019. The victory and $33,750 winner’s check launched Ruixin Liu into the No. 1 position with $124,839 earned. She was one of three players in the top-10 that competed in all 21 events, joined by Stephanie Meadow (Jordanstown, Northern Ireland) and Charlotte Thomas (Guildford, England).

Ruixan Liu - photo by Greg Wise Below is a look at the 10 individuals that secured full LPGA membership for next season with their finish in the top-10. 1. Ruixin Liu - $124,839 2. Dottie Ardina (Laguna, Philippines) - $97,822 3. Pavarisa Yoktuan - $80,313 4. Elizabeth Szokol (Winnetka, Illinois) - $76,612 5. Linnea Ström (Hovas, Sweden) - $70,685 6. Stephanie Meadow - $70,617 7. Kendall Dye (Edmond, Oklahoma) - $63,579 8. Charlotte Thomas - $60,952 9. Isi Gabsa (Munich, Germany) - $60,386 10. Dana Finkelstein (Chandler, Arizona) - $60,168

By Bevrlee J. Lips

leader on the links

Growing Leaders and Dreams

John and Valli Ritenour

Few stories are as cool

and inspiring as the journey of John and Valli Ritenour. While golf would come to play a key role in their future, it was far from part of the plan in the beginning. From their early days in the projects and a trailer park in Pennsylvania to the quiet tranquility of Alaqua, their story has been consistent—work hard, give back. The couple are the founders of Insurance Office of America, which has grown to employ over 1,200 people in over 50 locations in the U.S. and London. But where their story gets even more interesting is when golf enters the picture and the impact of their integrity and leadership takes off. Getting into golf in your 30s is a later start than most, but John saw it as a way to meet people, grow the business, and provide for his family. It was an unlikely expense choice for a young business, and Valli didn’t see golf as a practical cost at the time. John assured her it would pay off, and within a few months, he wrote the 16

biggest account he’d ever written. John’s love for the game grew, and when he bought his dream home in Alaqua, located near IOA’s Longwood, Florida, headquarters, things went to whole new level. Just months after moving into the community, the country club owners decided to close

it down. The equity owners found themselves in a quandary about the club’s future. That’s when John and Ed Postal decided they would purchase it. When asked what led to the purchase of Alaqua, John says it was “a weak moment.” For great leaders, weak moments often are the gamechangers and what inspires others to trust their gut and take chances too. Ever on board with John’s seemingly crazy decisions, Valli was behind him 100 percent. As he puts it, “Valli doesn’t like the credit, but she deserves all the credit.” Fast forward and the golf community is now a passion for both of them. Ironically, neither Valli nor their son, IOA CEO Heath Ritenour, are golfers. There is a possible legacy, however, with an 11-year-old grandson who golfs and a 7-year-old granddaughter taking up the game (future LPGA player?). Over the years, John has entered into many sports relationships—including Orlando Magic—with the philosophy, “We do business with people who do business with us.” In 2012, LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan, a businessman new to the position who lived near Alaqua, asked to meet with John and liked his philosophy. The result was perfect with IOA taking over their insurance needs and, in turn, IOA would become a sponsor of the Symetra Tour. Dubbed the “Road to the LPGA,” the tour has nearly doubled and IOA now sponsors tournaments in three cities. The Ritenour family has a deep respect for how hard these young ladies work to fulfill their dreams. IOA’s relationship with Diamond Resorts began similarly. Many organization leaders live in the Orlando area, so they were aware of IOA. When conversations turned to sponsorship of a tournament,

Alaqua Director of Sales Amy Curry, Executive Chef Michelle Giannone, General Manager Jason Throop, and Director of Golf Johnathan Hanes provide excellence at every level for Alaqua members and guests.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

John’s response was no surprise, “We’d like to do your insurance too.” While hammering out details, the tournament transformed into an exciting new LPGA event for players and celebrities—the Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions—which will be held at the Four Seasons’ Tranquilo Golf Club Jan. 17-20, 2019. The tournament opens the 2019 season and features winners from the past two LPGA seasons with a $1.2 million purse. There’s nothing like it. “Being right in our backyard is really cool for us,” says John. “We’ll get to entertain clients, and some will be able golf in the tournament, which will be televised on the Golf Channel Thursday and Friday and NBC Saturday and Sunday.” While his reasoning for golf started as simply business, it’s turned out to be a lot more than that. It’s evolved into a passion to make difference in the golfing

Winner Ruixin Liu accepts the 2018 IOA Golf Classic trophy from John Ritenour

community, especially with the young ladies on the Symetra Tour and LPGA, who John says are underrecognized. “It’s been 30 years since Valli and I started,” says John. “With all the success we’ve had, it would be easy to take care of just a few core people, but I want to share the wealth. I want everybody to win.” What’s led up to today might be enough for most, but not for John. He’s been hard at work launch-

ing the new Alaqua Golf & Gun Club. Now the most exclusive country club in north Orlando, the club boasts a limited membership (150 golf members), no tee times, great golf conditions, and excellent food and staff. Today, there are untold present and future leaders and a host of professional women players who’ve been impacted by the Ritenours’ simple philosophy. Never underestimate the power of passion, hard work, and giving back.

John Ritenour, Steve Thompson, and Mika Hans look on as Cheyenne Woods continues a drive at Alaqua during an IOA Golf Classic

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Benefitting Education Through Music On September 17th,

Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI)’s Assistant Vice President of Creative- Film, TV & Visual Media, Ray Yee, hosted music industry executives, songwriters and composers for a day of golf with all proceeds benefiting Education Through Music – Los Angeles (ETM-LA), an independent 501(c)(3) L to R-BMI’s Ray Yee with 1st Place team - Josh Collum, organization that partners with disPerrin Lamb, Scott Cresto, and Alex Edwards advantaged inner-city schools to provide and promote music. Twenty-four teams competed in the highly-anticipated golf tournament held at Angeles National Golf Club in Sunland, CA. The day concluded with an awards ceremony where BMI’s Ray Yee awarded Josh Collum, Scott Cresto, Alex Edwards, and Perrin Lamb 1st place trophies. During the ceremony participants were treated to a special perforL to R- Derek Syverud, Joe Fischer, mance by Jose Santiago, on Matt Lilley, Scott Schirle trumpet. Santiago a former student of ETM-LA’s program ETM-LA's Victoria Lanier, BMI's Ray Yee, ETM-LA's Nicole at Castelar Elementary School, Shorthouse, BMI's Evelyn Rascon, ETM-LA's Katie Boon

L-R Noah Becker, Chad Irvin, Andrew Korn, Edwin Cox shared his positive experience with the organization and how it has molded him into the confident high-school sophomore he is today. Celebrating over 78 years of service to songwriters, composers, music publishers and businesses, Broadcast Music, Inc.® (BMI®) is a global leader in music rights management, serving as an advocate for the value of music. BMI represents the public performance rights in 14 million musical works created and owned by more than 900,000 songwriters, composers, and music publishers. The Company negotiates music license agreements 18

and distributes the fees it generates as royalties to its affiliated writers and publishers when their songs are performed in public. In 1939, BMI created a groundbreaking open-door policy becoming the only performing rights organization to welcome and represent the creators of blues, jazz, country, and American roots music. Today, the musical compositions in BMI’s repertoire, from chart toppers to perennial favorites, span all genres of music and are consistently among the most-performed hits of the year. For additional information and the latest BMI news, visit bmi.com.

BMI's Matt Koskenmaki BMI composer Perrin Lamb

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

THE PERFECT GIFT

For Your Golfer

This holiday season, treat the golfer in your life to something special. Whether new to the game, looking to improve, or in need of top-of-the-line equipment, the PGA TOUR Golf Academy has everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for!

Junior Golf Camps Custom Club Fitting Gift Cards Available

ALSO OFFERING Located At The World Golf Village 326 World Golf Village, St Augustine, FL 32084

www.pgatourgolfacademy.com 855-228-7978

Private Instruction Custom Club Fitting Elite Training Programs Group Outings Trackman Evaluation Golf Clincs

By Bob Bolton

georgia golf central

“You’ve Landed at the Right Place” We’ve all heard

of great golf courses and beautiful golf communities. When we have a chance to visit one we get all excited as we approach the entrance gates, look around at the well-manicured landscaping, the upscale look and feel, and we start to imagine how great the golf will be. Well, when you enter “The Landings Club on Skidaway Island” prepare to have your expectations exceeded. During a recent trip to Savannah, Georgia I had the pleasure of visiting The Landings and playing the Palmetto course. It was the kind of day we all wish for when we play golf. Warm and sunny, a nice breeze and my visit started off with a friendly welcome by the Pro Shop staff. I’m sure the Palmetto course is a wonderful example of the condition of the other 5 courses within the community. Meticulously manicured fairways, beautiful fauna and water features in all the right places. Speaking of water, the 2nd hole a 516 yard par 5 is a challenging dogleg right with a pond that begs for you to try to

reach the green in two. After dunking my attempt to fly it, I redirected my efforts to the path I should have taken and saved a double, ouch. The rest of my front nine went much better than expected, after parring the 4th (#1 handicap hole), I proceeded to par the rest of the front nine for a 39. The 6th , with a well-placed bridge and water down the left hand side, and the 7th, a “post-card” hole with the marsh

down the right hand side, were some of the most picturesque on the front The back nine highlights include a collection of holes that are bordered by the marsh. The par 5 14th has marsh down the left hand side and the 15th hole, a par 4, has a slightly elevated green with the marsh serving as the backdrop. The 18th hole is an interesting dogleg right, with the green sitting down in a bowl. After a well-placed tee shot I pulled my approach shot a little left, leaving me in the thick rough beside the green. If only the cameras were rolling as I hit a Phil Mickelson-esque flop shot that left me with a tap-in par. I happily bid my hosts farewell after a nice 79. I only wish I had time during my visit to play the other 5 courses. The Landings on Skidaway Island is a private luxury golf club with members who love an active lifestyle and resortclass amenities in a vacation setting. In plain English – if you are looking for wonderful community to become a resident and member – The Landings needs to be high on your prospect list. Located just 12 miles from historic Savannah, Georgia, members have access to six championship golf courses, two marinas, 33 tennis courts, seven restaurants, five swimming pools and an innovative fitness and wellness center. For more information and to schedule a visit – www. landingsclub.com, 912-598-8050. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

! e r e h e iv L . e r e h y a l P . e r e h Stay

Whether you’re a family looking for a perfect holiday destination, a couple who wants to be alone and away from it all for Christmas or a group of friends who want to spend the holidays together, a destination holiday getaway at Rumbling Bald Resort on Lake Lure may be just the right thing for you! Accommodation options at the Resort include attractive private homes, spacious condominiums or comfortable villas. Each of our properties come with its own unique qualities, whether a stunning mountain view or just a few steps to the golf course, they are sure to please!

BOOK NOW AND SAVE 20% Couples Getaway starting at $373* • 2 Nights Lodging • 2 Rounds of Golf (each) • Plus a 50 minute Swedish Massage( each) *Per person based on double occupancy in a standard Apple Valley. Includes all tax and fees. May not be combined with other offers, discounts or previously booked reservations. Exclusions may apply. Offer valid through 12/31/18

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cart girl

Where did you grow up? West Palm Beach, FL What is your favorite sport to play? Softball & volleyball Favorite team to watch? Alabama roll tide roll Do you enjoy playing golf? My dad tried to get me to play but I always went back to softball.

What do you feel makes the club special? Our members that

come out and play regularly

What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? Getting to be outside on my shifts and laughing and joking with all the golfers.

If you weren’t a cart girl, what job do you think you’d be really good at? Police officer What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl?

When our boss flew in deep style Chicago pizza all the way from Chicago!

How would your friends describe you? Crazy, fun and loud

What type of music do you prefer? Country ‘cause yes, I have friends in low places

What hobbies do you enjoy?

Playing co-ed softball on Friday nights and playing poker with friends

What is your idea of “the perfect date”? Going to a concert and dancing the night away

Favorite comedian? My kids, they keep me entertained Favorite charity to support? Juvenile diabetes foundation, my younger sister is a diabetic.

What is your pet peeve? Slow drivers What’s your favorite drink? White Claw What else would you like us to know about you? I work ev-

ery Wednesday Thursday and Fridays come & check out the course you won’t be disappointed

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

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2/21/17 3:33 PM

By Mike May

golf travel

Hidden Lodging Gems of the British Isles

The Lodge at Prince's and the Gallery Identifying top links courses to play in the British Isles is many times easier than knowing the best places to stay when journeying abroad. I get just as excited discovering the hidden lodging gems as I do when I play lesser known but challenging links. For avid golfers who are also golf historians The Lodge at Prince’s is a must stay. Just as the neighboring trio of past Open Championship venues – Royal St. George’s, Royal Cinque Ports (Deal) and Prince’s – are must plays. Built with modern construction in 2012, the exterior of The Lodge is basic with no romantic charm of older accommodations. But, remember the adage – “Don’t judge a book by its cover” – for once inside it is a welcoming oasis catering to golfers. Sitting on the doorsteps of some of the most dramatic moments in golf

history, the intimate 38-room property enjoys an unobstructed view over the English Channel and the neighboring beach out one side and their back patio is literally steps from the 5th green of Prince’s Shore Nine. The interior has truly been designed with the modern golfer and all their gear in mind. The rooms are spacious and comfortably appointed. After a round spend some time on the adjacent, first-class practice putting green before retiring inside. The fully stocked bar with its intimate setting is

lamb that satisfies not only visiting

the perfect place over a whisky to relive

golfers but is popular with the locals

the day with your foursome of meet

and returning members of the three

other like-minded enthusiasts.

clubs.

Playing in the shadows of some of

What truly sets The Lodge apart for

golf’s greats always works up an ap-

any student of the history of the game

petite. The Brasserie on the Bay, Head

is The Gallery. Be sure and pre-book a

Chef Ricky, has created a diverse menu

guided tour around your games of this

of fresh local offering from seafood to

fascinating mini museum of historic

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

golf artifacts from Prince’s Golf Club. “The Gallery attracts golfers with a curiosity of the history of this wonderful game,” said John Gardner, curator. “They then develop a keen interest in the history of our golf club. They are always enthusiastic to learn that they are playing in the footsteps of Winston Churchill, Francis Ouimet, Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazen and many others. I think the founding fathers can rest easy that their beloved Prince’s will still be making history in another hundred years.” On display, among scores of interesting objects – from clubs to hand written notes to sterling silver trophies – is the original sand wedge Sarazen devel-

Ancient golf clubs in the Prince's GC History Gallery

oped and used to win the 1932 Open at Prince’s; Winston Churchill’s signature in the Visitor’s Book; nods to Bobby Jones’ visit in 1930, his Grand Slam year and Francis Ouimet’s visit in 1914; and memorabilia from the 1956 Curtis Cup. While many Americans may have come to this corner of Kent to play the world renowned Royal St, George’s and Royal Cinque Ports, after a visit to The Gallery they will always remember Prince’s GC as well. Suffice it to say, it won’t be easy leaving The Lodge at Prince’s and The Gallery, but it will be easy making plans for a return trip to this historical area of coastal Kent. www.golfinkent.co.uk. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Winston Churchill's signature in the Prince's visitor book 25

in memory of

9/11 Be A Hero For Zero Caddie Team reunites in 2018 They walked, talked and never forgot why Greg Corbo (center) John Pasquale (left) and Jimmy Czerwinski take a moment to recognize the 9/11 victims in downtown Newark with the special edition United States golf bag donated for the walk by Jones Golf. (photo by Rob Swenson)

On September 11, 2018, the Be A Hero for Zero caddie team of Northern New Jersey resurfaced and walked (12.11 miles) with full sets of clubs in golf bags from West Orange, N.J., to the Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center to honor and remember the victims of the Trade Center attacks in 2001. The trio of Greg Corbo “Corbs” (Baltusrol, Streamsong) James Czerwinski “Ski” (Essex County, Upper Montclair CC) and John Pasquale “Squally” (Montclair Golf Club, Essex County) marched in special memory this year for James Leslie Crawford, Jr, 33, Christoper Robert Clarke, 34, Patrick Aloysius Hoey, 53, and Paul Andrew Acquaviva, 29. 26

Ski and Squally on the move in the 9/11 Memorial Oculus. (photo by Greg Corbo)

Both Crawford and Clarke were former members of Baltusrol Golf Club (Springfield, NJ) where Corbo works. Jimmy Ski caddies regularly for Michael Hoey, the son of Patrick, who was the former Executive Manager for bridges, tunnels and terminals for the Port Authority. Acquaviva is a Wayne Valley High School graduate (1990) along with Corbo (1992). Both played football and won state championships for the program. “As we’ve indicated over the years, we do this walk to remember all 2,977 victims that were lost that day 17 years ago,” said Corbo, the founder of the walk in 2008. “But every year we like to highlight certain individuGolf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

als whom we had connections within the golf industry which was how this originally started. I work at Baltusrol full-time now and once I discovered a few members were lost from our club back in early May, I began making plans to get the guys back together again for another walk to the Freedom Tower.” Due to varying circumstances, this was the first time in three years the Be A Hero for Zero caddie team made the walk into Ground Zero. They did not participate 2015-2017, but a few caddies were compelled to reunite this year and resurrect the cause. Clearly a sense of guilt had a lingering effect. “Last year when I was doing a loop on 9/11, I had a lump in my throat the entire day,” said Ski. “I felt horrible and today I’m making up for that. I’m very glad we decided to kick this back up and take a day out of our lives to remember what happened to those people.” Corbo experienced a similar feeling in 2017 when the group was idle: “I was still living in Pennsylvania at the time and the day before 9/11, Johanna Gavin, the Director of Caddie

The Be A Hero for Zero caddie team take a breather above the Garden State Parkway en route to Ground Zero. (photo by Greg Corbo)

Scholarship for the New Jersey State Golf Association reached out to me and asked if we were making the walk in? When I informed her that we were not, I felt like I was letting people down and it was upsetting. But I did explicitly tell her, ‘Not this year, but I promise you haven’t seen the last of us,’” said Corbo. “Every year I’ve done this it’s been a

soul cleansing experience,” said Squally. “God Bless the victims and their families. I wish we could do more for them.” Since 2008, the Be A Hero for Zero caddie team has now walked in special memory for 10 individuals from golf and country clubs in the North New Jersey area:

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

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Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

transitions.com

By David Theoret

carolinas golf cart central header girl

Looks Hard. Plays Easy. Beautiful to Look At.

Champion Hills is an upscale

residential community and home to Champion Hills Golf Club; a year-round facility nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Both the community and the club are made up of residents and members that hail from more than 36 states across the US; people with an array of diverse interests, experiences, and passions, who have embraced the welcoming culture of Champion Hills. The majority of residents are year-round, affording them the opportunity to take advantage of everything Champion Hills has to offer. The golf course at Champion Hills is a Tom Fazio design which is nothing less than a collection of 18 signature holes, each one more breathtaking than the previous. After playing one hole and not thinking the view can get any better, you head to the next tee and have to start that thought process all

over. Champion Hills is still considered to be Fazio’s home course and although he doesn’t live in the community anymore, you’ll still find him on the property from time to time with friends and business associates, enjoying one of his favorite creations. The golf course is ranked by Golf Digest Magazine among the top private courses in North Carolina and the #1 year-round course in Western North Carolina. In his own words Fazio said that Champion Hills was love at first site because of the magnitude and scale of the property and how truly unique it was. He realized that he could use the dramatic landscape around him to create a golf course that would be truly magnificent and admired by everyone who visited. Look around in any direction and take in all the beauty that God has created in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. There’s a lot more flora and fauna out here than just all of the color-

ful flowers and shrubbery you see as you play your way around the course. Deer, turkey and white squirrels are prevalent and the occasional black bear has been spotted as well. Champion Hills offers players 5 sets of tees. At only 6,527 yards from the back tees, it won’t be mistaken as one of the longest course in the area, but with a slope of 144, it is certainly going to test any golfer. The way the course is routed, 14 of 18 holes play downhill off the tee, although this doesn’t make it any easier. The Burgundy Tees (6,195 yards 70.4/140) and the White Tees (5,836 yards 68.9/132) also offer a fitting challenge. Just be sure to pick the set of tees that match your game if you want to maximize your enjoyment. With so many spectacular holes to choose from, it’s not easy to pick a single standout hole, but if I have to, I’m going to agree with the majority and give the nod to Number 9. It’s a par 3 and, although the scorecard says 196 yards from the back tees, it actually plays about 160. Regardless of what tees you’re playing from, you’ve got to drop a ball and give it a go from back here. At over 100 feet of elevation drop from tee to green, this hole is considered by many golf pundits to be one of North Carolina’s most spectacular holes. The green is large and protected by long bunkers on the right and back left. Miss it left of the green and you’re most likely in the trees. Chose the right club and you’re bound to do well. Of the remaining 17 holes, the par 5, 5th would have to be one of the favorites. It plays 543 yards from the Burgundy Tees and trees line both sides of the landing area, putting an emphasis on accuracy off the tee. The hole opens up a bit for your layup shot but the highlight of number 5 is the Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

green. It’s long and narrow with water guarding the left side and slopes back to front. Getting on in regulation can be easier than the two-putt you face for par. Number 10 is a dogleg right par 4 that plays 385 yards from the White Tees. Your tee shot is downhill and anything well struck will leave slightly more than 100 yards downhill into another large multi-tiered green. The left side of the green sits considerably lower than the right; be sure to take enough club on your approach shot to cover the massive false front. Don’t let the length of Number 14 lull you into a false sense of security. This par 4 plays a mere 312 yards from the White Tees, yet the hazards that lie in front of you tell a different story. Step one is to play your tee shot downhill and avoid the fairway bunker on the right side. Complete this task and all that’s left is a short approach shot, uphill, over a large bunker in the middle of the fairway to a wide but shallow green with incredible undulation. Number 15 is another short but absolutely beautiful par 4. From the White Tees, the hole plays 306 yards with another downhill tee shot and uphill approach. If you have any control over the situation, play up the right side of the fairway off the tee, but beware of the large fairway bunker that awaits errant tee shots too far right. That beautiful stream that runs down the left side crosses the fairway just in front of the green and makes for an interesting approach shot. The green slopes back left to front right and the false front can make front pin placements somewhat tricky. Number 18 is yet another spectacular hole and the culmination of what has been an amazing four hours (give or take). Keep left as you make your way down the fairway, that will keep the stream on the right out of play. The hole plays 388 yards from the White Tees and the downhill tee shot should help you pick up a few yards. Most players will face a long to mid-iron approach shot uphill into a small green closely guarded on the right side by brush and bunkers on the left and in back. The green slopes gently from right to left. After your round, take a look around and take it all in; you’ve just played one of North Carolina’s finest courses. Step inside the clubhouse and you’ll find well appointed, airy rooms with terrific views of the mountains that surround Champion Hills. Within the clubhouse is a well-stocked pro shop with apparel from all of the industry’s top designers as well as the equipment Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

from leading manufacturers. There’s also spacious men’s and women’s locker rooms. In the back corner is the Fazio Grille, where you will find your favorite post-golf libations; you can also grab a quick bite after your round. Many country clubs are judged by the dining they offer and if that’s your criteria, your search is over! The food in the dining room at Champion Hills is not only extraordinary, it’s anything but ordinary. Dishes such as Asparagus Di Parma, an appetizer that combines asparagus, prosciutto, parmesan cheese and a soft poached egg will leave you wanting more. Or how about a Peach Rocket Salad: Arugula, local bleu cheese, pistachios and peaches, mixed together and topped with an apple cider poppy seed vinaigrette. The Sunburst Trout features a generous piece of fish with a basil almond crust, served with green beans and Three Graces Flamenco Cheese Smashed Potatoes. The social calendar within the Champion Hills community consists of over 50 different activity groups, ranging from various skilled card games to fitness groups to brewery visits. Don’t want to travel outside the gates to a brewery, no problem. Champion Hills offers seminars on how to craft your own brew. No matter which group you choose, you’re sure to have some fun, meet new people and make new friends. If your hobbies include hiking, traveling, yoga or piloting, or you simply enjoy a good cigar, chances are that others at Champion Hills that share your interests. The membership at Champion Hills is very philanthropic and is deeply committed to giving back to the local Hendersonville community through volunteer efforts. Many members are involved with such organizations as the American Red Cross, the Community Foundation of Henderson County and the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County. There are many people within the community

of Champion Hills that share in the vision of an improved local community. Champion Hills offers several types of memberships. Golf Members and their children, grandchildren, parents and grandparents can enjoy year-round, unlimited access to Champion Hills’ highly-rated Tom Fazio golf course, as well as all other club amenities. Social Members and this same vertical family line enjoy all aspects of the clubhouse, fitness center, tennis courts and more. You don’t need to live in Champion Hills or own property in the area to be a member. If you simply visit the area periodically for business or pleasure, then their National Membership could be a good fit. National members enjoy many of the same benefits as golf members, just not year-round. For more information about the membership options available at Champion Hills, please email the director of membership & activities, Heather Myers, at heatherm@championhills. com or give her a call at 828.696.1962. Whether you’re looking to relocate to the mountains of Western North Carolina and make it your permanent residence or you’re looking for a seasonal mountain retreat, you’ll find that Champion Hills is the perfect mountain golf community. Their website, www.championhills.com is filled with all kinds of information on the community and the club. 29

urnament news tournament news tournament news tournament news tourn

Story and photos by Greg Wise

A 43rd Champion is Crowned 2018 Champion Steve Humphrey with Doug Oswald

2018 Super Seniors Champion Robert Hess

The 43rd Annual Doug Oswald Seniors Tournament was held in Ocala, Florida in Mid-October. With a field of 160 golfers over the age of 50+, vying for the Championship, over a 2 day period at Ocala Golf Club on Silver Springs Blvd. The Championship was won by Steve Humphrey, from Lexington, KY who began the day one stroke off the lead, and outshot the field, winning by 3 strokes with a total of 138 (69/69) over 2nd place finisher, Walter Himelsbaugh of Leesburg. Ten years ago a Super Senior (65+ years of age) classification was brought in the tournament. Winning the Super

Steve Humphrey – Lexington, KY 30

Seniors Championship this year was Robert Hess from Castleberry, Fl with a final total 139 (69/70) for a one stroke victory over Berger Warner of Ocala. Many people traveled to play in this great event that continues to grow every year. Mike Suess from North Carolina mentioned that he was from Ocala… in his terms a “Long Time Ago.” He had come back this year to play in the event and what he had heard from many on the condition of

Ocala Golf Club. He stated that there wasn’t a bit of disappointment, the course was in awesome condition. He would be back to play again, Mike explained. He continued “My first job in High School was working picking the range for Mr. Yancey. After 2 weeks, I went in to Mr. Yancey and said, they are trying to hit me out there. Mr. Yancey looked at me and said… You’ll be okay. You’ve lasted longer that the last one we had out there.”

The most intriguing piece of the Doug Oswald Senior Tournament is Mr. Doug Oswald himself. Now 95 years of age. Mr. Oswald was the starter on both days of the event, making sure we were in the correct playing order. Mr. Oswalt is a gentle, soft-spoken man… but so well respected. From 19631975 he served as a member of the City of Ocala Golf board, enthusiastically promoting the interests of the golf community. Honored as the Outstanding Man in Florida Agriculture in 1970, Chairman of the Committee of 100 in 1971, Mr. Oswald was always active in Civic Organizations to better their awareness in the community. A native of Marianna, Florida, he served three years in the U.S. Army including a Greg Wise and Mr. Doug Oswald World War II tour of duty in Europe. He was a member of the “Golden Era” football team at the University of Florida where he received his B.S. degree in Agriculture in 1949. His closing comment to me, showing what type of gentleman Mr. Oswald truly is… “If you make it back to play in the Oswald… You are already a winner.” Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

H T 2 8 019 2 N A J b r e a h vegolf.co t e r o f . w w m w

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GloveRide: Made in the USA with Family Pride I by Rhett Campbell

have been around the game of golf since I was seven years old. My grandfather who passed away at the young age of 88 played his whole life and did his best to get me in the game. I enjoyed hanging out with him and constantly working on my swing every time we spent time together. He always used the term “GAP” - Grip, Alignment, Posture which is embedded in my mind. My grandfather made his first holein-one when he was in his late 60’s at the 13th hole (Alcatraz) at Otter Creek Golf Course in Columbus, Indiana where he played for many years. I will never forget that moment as long as I live. Golf was his life. I still have his old wooden sign in my office with an epitaph of a golfer that reads, “Under the wide and open sky, dig the grave and let me lie; Gladly I’ve lived and gladly die, away from this world of strife; This be the epitaph for me- “Here he lies where he longed to be, lies in death by the nineteenth tee, where he lied all his life.” I didn’t really get the bug for the game until I was in college where I played every spare moment. Over the years I worked at the game and eventually

got down to a 4 handicap. My wife, Kelley, and I raised two outstanding young men. Chase (the oldest) was a great player from 7th grade through his senior year going to the Indiana State Championship multiple times and playing varsity at Hamilton Southeastern all four years in high school. This is not an easy feat where we live as he had 1000 kids in his graduating class and they are usually a state contender. My wife and I became golf crazy following this kid around high school golf and all the junior tour events he played in all over the Midwest including one in Florida at Sawgrass that we will never forget.

In the late 90’s, early 2000’s I worked for a company that manufactured Velcro strapping for the voice and data industry. At some point I decided to take a piece with a couple strap accessories and added a fastener to it so it could hang off my golf bag. This allowed me to attach multiple golf gloves and allow them to

GloveRide owners Rhett & Kelley Campbell debut the GloveRide Glove Caddie at the 2018 PGA Merchandise Show.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

hang freely and dry in a natural position. It wasn’t much to look at but it served its purpose. I noticed I didn’t need to buy as many golf gloves over the summer as I learned to rotate two or three gloves. As my oldest son Chase began to get serious with golf, my Velcro strapping that had hung from my bag for years started disappearing. He decided it worked well for him and kept taking off with it. At some point I searched online to try and find something similar but I couldn’t find anything. For years, I struggled with marketing a piece of Velcro until the advent of the poker chip ball mark. Being able to customize the chip gave us the marketing piece we were missing. We were able to design an opening with “locks” to allow constant use of the chip and a place for safe-keeping. GloveRide was officially launched at the 2018 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. Shortly thereafter, we got a call from Jack Sammons, president and general chairman of the FedEx St. Jude Classic, who had stopped by our booth. It was so exciting to get our first order from such a prestigious PGA Tour event.

The FedEx St. Jude Classic has been held annually since 1958 and has such a great history and relationship with St. Jude Children’s Hospital. A few weeks later, we got an order from Golf Channel. We’ve been off and running ever since. The next big decision between Kelley and myself will be who gets to quit their day job as the company continues to grow. When Kelley and I started this venture, we had two non-compromising goals in mind: we would give back to the game by supporting junior golf and GloveRide would be manufactured in the USA. A portion of every GloveRide sold goes to The First Tee and we make the product 35 minutes from where we live in Indianapolis. Mission accomplished! For more info, visit gloveride.com.

The GloveRide Glove Caddie is a convenient, permanent residence for one or more of your golf gloves. It easily clips onto your golf bag, securing your gloves and keeping them dry, unwrinkled and accessible.

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caribbean golf central

By Dove Jones

The Abaco Club on Winding Bay TEEING OFF IN 2019 The Abaco Club (TheAbacoClub.com) started life in 2004 as a unique luxury oasis in the Bahamas, quite unlike anything else that time had to offer. Since Southworth Development’s involvement from 2014, it has only enhanced both its offerings and reputation and looking ahead to 2019 and beyond is no different – just even better. As much as I love to play on verdant green fairways around the world – I’m a water baby at heart. And while playing the great links of the British Isles looking out over endless seas is wonderful, more than occasionally I also like to get in the water and not shiver. Here at The Abaco Club at Winding Bay, before and

after every round I’m also experiencing the water – fishing, swimming, water sports, excursions to Hope Town, swimming with the sea turtles, etc. I can’t wait to get back early this coming year, since the much-heralded Abaco Yacht Club is scheduled to open in January. The Yacht Club will follow in the footsteps of every other member amenity offering the very best in boating and marina services found anywhere. With slips ranging from 30 to 50 feet, members will have the option of bringing their own vessel or taking advantage of a variety of rental and charter options. On-shore services will

Paddleboarding on Winding Bay

The Abaco Club's guests enjoy truly "on the beach" refreshments

The Great House Rendering

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

The Coral House Rendering

include a clubhouse, electricity, fresh water access, storage, security services, and a harbormaster’s office. The Clubhouse at The Yacht Club will provide lockers, rest rooms, showers, laundry facilities, fresh bait and ice, sundries and beverages. After a long day on the water you also can reward yourself with a delicious meal and adult beverages at the neighboring world-famous Pete’s Pub.

NEXT UP ON THE TEE Southworth is never one to rest on their laurels at any of their unique properties – Machrihanish Dunes, Creighton Farms and Willowbend to name a few. And even more is planned to enhance the barefoot luxury island experience here at Abaco. As the resident membership grows and members extend their stays, expanding the dining options is a priority. Two eagerly anticipated facilities are in the works. The Marketplace will fill that void

Estate Home at The Abaco Club

between the fine dining at The Cliff House and the casual fare at Flippers on the beach. Still casual, The Marketplace will offer indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy pizzas, salads, sandwiches, and delectable casual fare or to sip a cup of coffee or enjoy a glass of wine. The Marketplace will also be a convenient on-property stop to pick up essential retail items—and that all-important bottle of wine with which to enjoy sunsets from your own balcony. Because the water is such an integral part of the experience at The Abaco Club, the planned Beach Club will rival facilities currently available at other beachfront communities in the Caribbean in amenities and surpass them with a view that is coveted the world

over. The facility is slated to feature a resort-style beach-side pool, casual café dining, a state-of-the-art fitness and movement facility, meeting rooms and a kid’s activity center. Best of all, the top two floors will feature 1- and 2-bedroom guest rooms for members and their guests who never want to be far from the beachfront action. Already priding themselves on having a residential option for almost everyone, Southworth’s new residential living options at The Abaco Club will again take barefoot luxury to a new level. The next two proposed offerings – The Coral House and The Great House – have an eye towards long-term livability with single-floor living plans. Views over the tranquil signature

An array of water activites await you at The Abaco Club

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Estate Home at The Abaco Club

azure waters of Winding Bay from sunup to sundown are some of the most relaxing in the Caribbean. The Great House will be perfectly positioned to take full advantage of the views in a locale that’s convenient to all the Club’s amenities. The 3- or 4-bedroom luxuriously appointed residences are being designed with modern living and entertaining in

mind and feature an open-concept living plan. All the residences will be accessible by elevator. Equally stunning will be the views from the proposed Coral House, which will overlook the verdant green of the 18th hole of the golf course and cobalt blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Again, an open-concept, single-floor plan The Abaco Club's pristine private beach along Winding Bay

is the centerpiece of these four, 2-bedroom, 2271-foot residences accessible by elevator.

ALREADY ON COURSE Recognized as the No. 1 course in the Bahamas, the Club’s Scottish-style tropical links golf course will once again play host to the Web.com Tour’s Bahamas Great Abaco Classic January 17-23, 2019. Designed by Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie, two of the United Kingdom’s storied architects, the true links-style course’s playability has been enhanced by the Southworth team. It’s a course you can play everyday and not tire of as the constant changing wind and stunning views hold your interest throughout each round. Professional golfers and homeowners Darren Clarke and Thomas Aiken love being able to practice year-round— that is if you can get them away from fishing and scuba diving respectively. I’m not the only water baby that relishes their time on Winding Bay. While new dining outlets and options are welcome, you’ll never currently go hungry at the club. Flippers on the beach is in my worldwide Top 10 for views and delicious casual fare, not to mention colorful, tropical, adult beverage concoctions. I love their fish Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

sandwich so much I’ve been known to have it for breakfast on departure days. The Cliff House is casually elegant with exceptional chef’s creations to match. Watch out for the Bahamian Junkanoo dancers to make an appearance and spice up any night out. The Marina will enhance the availability to access the water, but there are currently plenty of opportunities to take advantage of all the area has to offer, from fishing to sightseeing and enjoying the neighboring islands. On the beach, there is an abundance of water toys from Hobie Cat sailboats to kayaks and snorkeling equipment. Then there’s the large infinity swimming pool with stunning panoramic views down to the beach and across Winding Bay. It’s located at the top of the ridge near The Cliff House. Next door you’ll find the fitness facility and full-service spa offering both physical and beauty treatments. While the club allows non-members to visit as guests, the best way to experience The Abaco Club is

Darren Clarke loves fly fishing for bonefish and permit as much as the golf!

as a member, and there are six basic membership categories to cover almost every lifestyle from full resident to international non-resident. There is a sports category for active members and a social membership for those that only want basic access to barefoot luxury. There are also many varied catego-

ries of residential ownership available, from 1-room, recently renovated cabanas to multi-bedroom cottages and multi-million dollar estate homes. For more information on Memberships and Real Estate please contact Kristi Hull at KHull@TheAbacoClub. com and for general information or rentals info@TheAbacoClub.com. Another Abaco C:ub estate home

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

feature header

Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort, Gulf Shores

Farmlinks at Pursell Farms, Sylacuaga

Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa, Point Clear 38

Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 19, Issue 5

Sweet Golf Alabama Sweet Home Alabama is more than just a song or a movie,

sports bar, a world-class spa and the 8,200-yard RTJ Golf Trail at

although they both certainly evoke the spirit of this beautiful

Ross Bridge course.

state. It’s also a mantra for the many smiling folks that travelers

Two additional Marriott hotels are located along the Trail.

encounter along the way. From the bag boys and beverage cart

One is north of Montgomery at Capitol Hill and the other, lo-

girls on the world-class golf courses to the servers and chefs in

cated just 90 minutes from the Atlanta airport, is near Auburn

the award-winning restaurants, visitors are made to feel right

at Grand National. Both resorts have just been renovated and/or

at home, ensuring that time spent in Alabama is as sweet as the

expanded, are adjacent to their respective RTJ Golf Trail courses,

tea.

and offer first-class lodging and restaurants with lounges.

For stay and play excitement, Alabama boasts world-class golf resorts from north to south and the world-famous Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail leads the way with five stay and play resorts. At the top of that list is the newly, re-branded Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear on Mobile Bay. It’s now a member of the one-of-a-kind Autograph Collection Hotels. The Grand’s recent transformation blends the best of the resort’s Southern charm and traditions with the modern amenities today’s guests demand. The resort’s iconic fireplace lobby, live oaks and Bucky’s Lounge remain, while new pool cabanas, restaurants, meeting space and an immense golf training facility, called The Experience were added. The all-in-one destination features a full-service spa, two RTJ Golf Trail courses, seven restaurants and lounges, two beaches, and multiple pools along Mobile Bay near Fairhope.

Off the trail, south of Birmingham, Pursell Farms in Sylacauga is a multi-faceted stay and play spot offering golf cottages, an 8-room lodge, and the new Inn. The Inn, with its restaurant and pub, sits along the 18th fairway of their FarmLinks Golf Course. Gulf Shores is home to the state’s only beachfront golf resort. Kiva Dunes offers condos along the 18th fairway of the Jerry Pate-designed course and above the 6-story clubhouse, plus beachfront homes. The resort also offers a restaurant, tiki bar, fitness center, three unique pools, and a beach club right on their half mile of private beach along the Gulf of Mexico. The incomparable Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail put Alabama on the radar of traveling golf groups more than 25 years ago. The ensuing years have upgraded the state’s position on all types of vacation bucket lists by spawning the aforementioned

The Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa in Florence is also a mem-

award-winning hotels, spas, and luxurious resorts; exciting

ber of the RTJ Golf Trail Resort Collection. It is located in the

craft breweries with medal-quality beers; world-renowned bass

Northwest corner of the state, just across the Tennessee River

fishing events and red snapper rodeos; and a thriving culinary

from the 36-hole RTJ Golf Trail at the Shoals. The hotel ameni-

scene, ranging from fresh Gulf seafood and a unique BBQ Trail

ties include a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool complex, and two

to James Beard-recognized chefs and restaurants.

on-site restaurants, one of which is 360 Grille, the state’s only revolving restaurant. Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort, near Birmingham is, arguably, the state’s most luxurious resort, featuring fine dining, a Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

From Coastal Alabama in the south to the Mountain Lakes region in the north, Alabama is truly a special place to visit and experience some of the most challenging and affordable golf courses in America. Visit golfalabama.org to learn more. 39

By Seung Jin Yi, M.D. Florida Orthopaedic Institute

for your health

Golfer’s Elbow: Can Golfers Prevent It? • Weakness in your hands and wrists. • Feeling stiff in the elbow area, and you can have problems making a fist. • Numbness or tingling sensations that affect one or more fingers of the arm. • The pain can come suddenly or gradually. Now that you know how the condition works, we can talk about the ways of preventing it.

Golfer’s Elbow is a widespread condition, and it affects more than golfers. It can affect many types of athletes, and in many ways, it’s similar to the more widely known tennis elbow. The difference is that golfer’s elbow affects the inside of your elbow, not the outside. More specifically, the condition causes pain in the area where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony bump that’s right inside your elbow. Golfer’s elbow usually comes from playing golf or any racket sport, throwing sport, and weight training (when using incorrect techniques.) In addition to these, the condition can develop from any activity that requires you to bend and straighten the elbow often. Furthermore, you have a higher risk of developing the condition if you are older than 40, obese, a smoker, and you perform repetitive activities two or more hours every day.

The Symptoms of the Condition To recognize golfer’s elbow, you will need to check for the following symptoms: • Pain and tenderness within the elbow, on the inner side. It might move and affect other close areas, and you should know that it’s typically stronger with some movements while not with others.

Preventing Golfer’s Elbow First of all, there is no one full-proof measure that you can attempt that will eliminate the possibility of the condition ever appearing. That’s impossible. However, there are things that you can do which can significantly reduce the chance of you eventually getting the condition. 1. Stretch before playing golf. Most golfers don’t feel that it’s necessary to stretch before playing, but you should. As with any sport, stretching is always important to prepare your body for the strain that it’s about to experience. 2. Strengthen the muscles in your forearm. Strong muscles in the forearm are the best way to prevent any significant problem from occurring within or around them. Try lifting light weights or squeezing a stress ball.

6. Take rest when you need to. It is usually the best manner of preventing any health-related problem. Don’t overuse your elbow, and often rest, whenever you feel that you need it or if you start feeling pain in the elbow area. If you combine all of these methods, you will be able to reduce the risk of developing golfer’s elbow significantly. If you require more advice, or if you want to book an appointment with a proper physician that can help you with this condition; contact the Florida Orthopaedic Institute.

3. Use the right equipment. Don’t use old golfing irons; get lighter, graphite clubs. 4. Improve your form. Learn to be a good golfer and respect the proper form if you’re not already doing so. 5. Lift things properly. It applies to lifting all heavier objects. You need to keep your wrist stable and rigid to reduce the strain for your elbow.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

fore your header health

Avoid Practice-Related Injuries With the StrikeAbsorber I

njuries are a big concern for players on the PGA TOUR. As the 2018 FedEx Cup Playoffs and Ryder Cup matches came to a close last month, we saw some of the world’s top ranked players conspicuously wearing a product called Kinesio Tape on their wrists and necks to help heal a variety of debilitating injuries. Both Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth were battling tendonitis; Thomas in his right wrist and Spieth in his left. Hours of beating balls on the driving range whether you’re a

professional golfer, serious amateur or developing player, can take its toll. Now golfers of all abilities can practice without the risk of injuring their joints or tendons with the StrikeAbsorber ultimate practice mat. The patented mat prevents injuries with its unique inflatable bladder design, which naturally absorbs and cushions the impact of every golf swing. Manufactured with the industry’s leading premium synthetic turf, the StrikeAbsorber simulates the forward motion of real grass by giving way to the forward impact of the clubhead during the swing. Golfers can hit down and through the ball producing the optimal angle of

attack that recreates the feeling of taking a real divot when hitting a shot on the golf course. Whether you’re at a driving range or using it at home, the StrikeAbsorber mat adds realism to your practice. No more hitting shots off thin, unforgiving artificial turf with those thick plastic rubber tees. The StrikeAbsorber’s plush and premium artificial turf allows you to insert a real tee into the impact zone area and adjust it to your specified height. “I invented the StrikeAbsorber because I injured my wrist from the resistance of hitting golf balls off an artificial mat on concrete at my local driving range while trying to simulate taking divots,” said Zane Sites, President of

The StrikeAbsorber’s inflatable design allows you to hit down on the ball providing a more natural feel.

Lowell Z. Sites Innovative Technologies. “The Strike Absorber’s inflatable bladder is designed to absorb the impact of a golf club strike and dissipate the energy when practicing shots that require you to hit down on the ball.” Standard practice mats are hard, unforgiving and provide golfers with poor shot feedback when practicing. Using a bicycle pump, the StrikeAbsorber can be inflated or deflated to simulate real conditions on the course. The StrikeAbsorber simulates the ground and accurate levels of spin and compression on the ball. Hit it fat or hit it flush – the Strike Absorber will let you know. Three-time major champion and new

World No. 1 Brooks Koepka, missed more than three months at the start of the year including the 2018 Masters Tournament due to a partially torn tendon in his left wrist. He noted at the 2018 U.S. Open, it was “the The patented StrikeAbsorber’s cushion technology allows you to lowest point” of place real tees in the surface. his professional career. The StrikeAbsorber ultimate practice mat is an essential piece of equipment that helps prevent shock, strain and injury to your hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders and back. The StrikeAbsorber comes in two Helps avoid injury ••• models: the 180° and 360° practice Provides comfortable, enjoyable mats. Both retail for $149.00. The practice inflatable mat can be used indoors ••• or outdoors and is especially helpful Holds a real tee for aspiring junior golfers who spend Allows for a true natural swing excessive time practicing. Custom ••• commercial installations for driving Adjusts for more effective ranges and teaching academies are practice available. For more information ••• Provides a divot feel with no visit www.strikeabsorber.com or club bounce contact Zane Sites, 760-408-5178, ••• strikeabsorber@gmail.com. Drastically improves your golf game ••• Allows for play and practice year-round ••• • Offers instant feedback

StrikeAbsorber

what's new

Jack Grace Shoes launches Gridiron Collection and Alma Mater Series Jack Grace, the premium leather golf shoe company with interchangeable saddle patterns, announces the release of its Gridiron Collection and Alma Mater Series. Now you can support your favorite NFL or college team on the course with Camo saddle patterns that match your team’s colors. Jack Grace’s INNOVATOR men’s and women’s golf shoes come in three standard colors: white, black and grey. With one shoe and more than 500 swappable saddle patterns to choose from, Jack Grace gives you the ability to coordinate any look and feel you want. Be a Super Fan. Be Playful. Be Trendy. Be Traditional. Be You! Jack Grace shoes can be customized to fit your personality and style both on and off the course. “When it comes to supporting your favorite team, we’ve got you covered with this line up of great looking saddles,” said Brad Smith, COO of Jack Grace. “The Gridiron Collection and Alma Mater Series for men and women come in a variety of eyecatching Camo designs. Jack Grace Shoes are the coolest shoes in golf and you will become a raving fan once you try them.” Designed with its patent-pending Hidden Channel Technology, Jack Grace shoes attach securely to provide a seamless look when changing out the saddles. The shoelaces are fully functional and tighten for perfect support and a great fit. The diamond-shaped spike-less outsoles provide excellent traction and stability as well as being extremely comfortable. Jack Grace launched its women’s product line this fall and retail buyers have welcomed the fashion forward, fun and trendy designs. “The success of our presale of the women’s INNOVATOR shoe was very exciting,” said Erinn

Walker, Vice President and Co-Founder of Jack Grace. “The women's INNOVATOR offers a variety of saddle patterns and colors from polka dot, floral, zebra, gingham, crocodile prints and more. Women are buying saddles in multiple pairs. The patterns are so fun and playful, it’s hard to just pick one.” Saddle patterns can be custom designed to create a cool and lasting tournament gift. Jack Grace designed a custom saddle for the Latrobe Classic, Sept. 9-10, benefiting Arnie’s Army Charitable Foundation. The unique two-day event offered players a chance to compete and play at both Bay Hill and Latrobe Country Clubs. Participants received shoes with custom saddles featuring Arnold Palmer’s signature umbrella. Jack Grace also supplied shoes for the PGA Tour’s Sanderson Farms Championship Pro-Am, Oct. 25-28, in Jackson, Miss. The men’s and women’s INNOVATOR shoes (black, white or grey) retail for $160 with black saddles included. Additional saddles are $40. One shoe. Endless possibilities. To purchase direct, visit www.jackgraceusa.com. For group or retail sales, contact Matt Jones, 602-5707176, or matt@jackgraceusa.com.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Presented By

RITZ-CARLTON ORLANDO, GRANDE LAKES RESORT. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2ND CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF PORSCHE. Legendary driver Hurley Haywood will be attending and signing his new book! CELEBRATING ITALIAN AUTOMOTIVE & MOTORCYCLE DESIGN.

SAVE 20% OFF ALL TICKETS WITH DISCOUNT CODE “GOLF”

LUXURY LIFESTYLE BALLROOM RECEPTION

Saturday, December 1st / 8:00 pm-11:00 pm $125.00 per person. THE RITZ-CARLTON ORLANDO, GRAND BALLROOM.

Enjoy a fabulous display of exotic cars, custom motorcycles, fine jewels, rare timepieces and luxury brands all placed for display inside this magnificent ballroom. Premium brand open bars will serve craft cocktails, fine wines & unique spirits. Themed food stations will be presented by the Ritz-Carlton culinary team. Our internationally recognized Samba team will keep things moving while guests enjoy casino style gaming tables, cigar lounge, a live band, charity auction and much more.

FESTIVALS OF SPEED MOTORSPORTS DISPLAY THE RITZ-CARLTON ORLANDO, GRANDE LAKES.

Sunday, December 2nd / 10:00 am-4:00 pm $20.00 per person. CELEBRATING THE 70 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF PORSCHE AS WELL AS ITALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN. The motorsport display will showcase 250+ exotic cars, motorcycles & luxury brands all placed for display on the pristine lawns of this magnificent resort. Automotive designs by Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ferrari, Aston-Martin, Mercedes, McLaren and others will all be onsite.

JOIN THE FUN AND SHOW YOUR CAR OR MOTORCYCLE! FOR SPONSORHIP DETAILS WWW.FESTIVALSOFSPEED.COM 352-406-9325

grip it & sip it

Give the gift your friends and loved ones won’t soon to forget. This year, Feuillatte’s brand new limited-edition offerings include “Enchanted Meadow” Réserve Exclusive Brut NV bottle and “Wonderland Tin” (SRP: $36 each). Aged for a minimum of 3 years, Feuillatte’s Brut Réserve NV is and is a delicately structured fruity champagne offering elegance and finesse. Featuring fresh fruit aromas, the bouquet becomes more expressive as you enjoy. *both bottles are the Brut Réserve Delicate and Elegant The Brut Réserve is aged for at least 3 years in our cellars, even though the legal minimum ageing requirement is 15 months. A range of different crus make up the blend. Blend: Quintessential Nicolas Feuillatte style. A delicate, structured and fruity Champagne, offering boundless elegance and finesse.“THE BRUT RÉSERVE IS A CHAMPAGNE THAT SUBTLY FOCUSES ON SHADES OF WHITE FRUITS AND SPICES, AND WHOSE REFINED CHARACTER IS A CONSTANT SOURCE OF SURPRISE.” Appearance: Pale yellow with silver tinges, brilliant and crystalclear revealing a persistent ribbon of delicate bubbles. Nose: Initially restrained, fresh white fruit aromas of apple, pear and peach intermingle with curry and turmeric spices. As the bouquet becomes more expressive, ripe fruit notes jostle for position. Palate: Clean on the attack, elegant and complex, a delicate bead imparts freshness on the finish. Food and wine pairings: Aperitif: Smoked salmon crostini Starter: Pan-fried king prawns with coriander Main: Pigeon tagine and quince, served with bulgar wheat Dessert: Rhubarb Tarte Tatin

Grip it and Sip it. 46

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 19, Issue 5

By JL Quebbeman Photos by Martin Meinert

special events

Everything is Coming Up Rainbows in Germany! The 14th annual German Rainbow Open (GRO) was held on September 29-30, 2018 in Vorbeck, Germany. GRO is an end of season event held by the German Rainbow Golfers, an informal group of gay & lesbian golfers of all playing levels and ages throughout Germany. This event has four (4) groups of players based on handicaps. Prizes are presented to the top three male and female finishers in each group with the group A male and female finishers being awarded pink jackets, similar to the green jackets awarded in The Masters. The host course is Winston Golf in Vorbeck, Germany. Located 90 minutes east of Hamburg, Germany, Winston offers three courses for play; a 9-hole par 3, the 18-hole Open championship and the 18-hole Links course. The Open course is home to the Senior Open on the European Staysure Tour and the Links course earned the title of best new golf course in 2011 by GOLF MAGAZIN in Germany as well as the #1 course in Germany in 2018 by Golf Journal. Winston Golf also has an exceptional restaurant, full pro shop, an extensive practice facility and golf academy. For information on the course, visit their website at https:// www.winstongolf.com.

The program for this championship event included two rounds of golf, halfway catering on the course, a formal dinner and the awards ceremony. First, second and third place mens and ladies placements for 4 net handicap categories were determined

using Stableford scoring rules for categories C and D and strokeplay for categories A and B. The total number of players in this 14th annual event was 171 with players coming from Germany, France, Finland, Great Britain, Denmark, United States, Hong Kong, Netherlands and Sweden. The overall gentlemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and ladies winners, and the winners of the pink jackets, were Andreas Iken and Stefanie Sperber, both of Hamburg, Germany, representing gross scorers. The ladies winners for Classes A, B, C and D, respectively, were Manel Miled, Ursa Kraenzlein, Imke Huntemann & Kristina Reynolds, all of Germany. The gentlemen winners for Classes A, B, C and D, respectively, Martin Fichter, Rene Boerhoop, Armin Wallnoefer & Mario Limberg, all of Germany. The German Rainbow Open is held annually around the first weekend of October. For more information on them, visit their website at http://www. german-rainbow-open.com/. Their host group, the German Rainbow Golfers, has a website with more information located at www.german-rainbowgolfers.com as well as their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ groups/131269786901418/. Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 19, Issue 5

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 19, Issue 5

outh orth florida PGA north south florida florida PGA PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth south

14 SFPGA Professionals Play in the Senior PGA Professional Championship

Fourteen SFPGA Professionals play in the Senior PGA Professional Championship this week, Thursday – Sunday, at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie. Good luck to the following PGA Professionals for qualifying for this event:

Tom Dyer

Mark Mielke - EXEMPT

qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

Tied for 4th 2017 Senior PGA Professional Championship

Gene Fieger - EXEMPT

Pete Oakley - EXEMPT

2013 Senior PGA Professional Champion

1999 Senior PGA Professional Champion

Daniel Heaslip

Brian Peaper

qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Champion

Chris Kaufman qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

Roger Kennedy qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

John Lee qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

Dennis Meyer qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

Mike San Filippo – EXEMPT 2002 & 2004 Senior PGA Professional Champion

Nevin Sutcliffe qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

Victor Tortorici qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

Eric Veilleux qualified at the 2018 SFPGA Senior Section Championship

Top Coaches/Instructors Across the Nation Share their Stories & Techniques Four very impressive coaches joined us for our Annual Teaching Symposium supported by SuperSpeed Golf and PXG at Grey Oaks Country Club. Those individuals included the football coaching legend Bobby Bowden, LPGA Professional Donna White and PGA Professionals Rob Akins and Stan Utley. Each of them shared a different message with the sixty

plus professionals in the audience. Their messages were focused on how to motivate your students, how to relate to your students and how to help your students get to the next level. They shared short game and long game techniques that have benefited their students over the years. Special thanks to each of them for them for sharing their time and knowledge.

Team South Florida PGA Retains the Challenge Cup

Earning 14 points over North Florida PGA’s 10, the 38th Annual Challenge Cup matches have concluded in a victory by team South Florida PGA. This two day Ryder Cup style event featuring four ball matches during round one, modified pinehurst matches during round two and singles matches in round three makes the end of a great season for both Sections. 50

This year’s matches were contested at The Old Collier Golf Club in Naples. In the team format, Player of the Year Andrew Filbert and Mike Valicenti paired well as they were victorious in both their matches during rounds 1 and 2. Senior Dan Heaslip proved his value to the team going undefeated during all three rounds of play. We congratulate this year’s team captained by Danny St. Louis, PGA Director of Golf at The Breakers Rees Jones Course and comprised of PGA Professionals: Colin Amaral (The Country Club at Mirasol), Justin Bertsch (The Hideout), Andrew Filbert (Royal Poinciana), John Lee (Imperial Golf Club), Justin McCarraher (Fiddlesticks Country Club), Mark Mielke (High Ridge Country Club), Alan Morin (The Falls of the Palm Beaches), Patrick Rada (McArthur Golf Club), Mike Valicenti (The Country Club at Mirasol), Jeff Waber (Broken Sound Club – Old Course), Dan Heaslip (Windstar on Naples Bay) and Gene Fieger (Club Pelican Bay). Both the North Florida PGA team and South Florida PGA team were outfitted by FootJoy. The next team competition for both Sections will be held in just a few short weeks, with the Senior Challenge Cup matches taking place October 31st and November 1st at Lakewood National in Lakewood Ranches. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Congratulations to the SFPGA Annual Award Winners Congratulations to the 2018 Golf Professional of the Year, Ken McMaster, PGA and Hall of Fame inductees Warren Bottke, PGA and Brendan Cunningham and the following 2018 Annual Award Recipients: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Teacher of the Year - Bill Scott, PGA Horton Smith – Judy Alvarez, PGA Bill Strausbaugh – Dan Gawronski, PGA Player Development – Susan Vail, PGA Youth Player Development – Neil Lockie, PGA Deacon Palmer – James Muir, PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year – Rick Sutton, PGA Merchandiser Private – Morgan Jewell, PGA Merchandiser Public – John Miller, PGA Merchandiser Resort – Jeff Willenberg, PGA Salesperson of the Year – Scott VanDame, FootJoy Player of the Year - Andrew Filbert, PGA Warren Bottke

Brendan Cunningham

Ken McMaster

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

By Fred Seely

freddy's fairway thoughts

Illustration by Greg Wise

status with the “faster, faster” chant.

It's going to sound different out there in 2019, folks. You can blame the Ryder Cup (or maybe the Senate Judiciary Committee) for the added noise. The PGA Tour has dabbled in heckling from fans before (see: Colin “Mrs. Doubtfire” Montgomerie); now it will be rampant. The United States vs. Europe has been contentious between players in recent years but the spectators have maintained a level of decorum. For one thing, it's a gentleman's game. For another, the U.S. and England get along, and the Ryder Cup teams have been heavy on the English. Finally, the matches almost always have been in the U.S. and the United Kingdom, where spectators respect each other as well as the game. France has changed all that. A bit of background to explain, if you will. Over there, sports fans are a game-within-the-game. The Euros were raised on soccer, where fan vs. fan antagonism is rampant and accepted. If you think Alabama vs. LSU is nasty, you haven't seen Manchester United vs. Liverpool. (If you can make out the words in those songs they sing back and forth at games, your kids can, too, so cover their ears.) Golf isn't much to the French. Putting the Ryder Cup in Paris was a blatant cash grab by the PGA of America, and there were all sorts of pronouncements about” growing the game” there, a lot of baloney because the main marketing was to sell skyboxes and party tickets to rich people from other counties. Golf? Nah, the game in France is soccer. If you think Georgia vs. Florida is nasty, you haven't seen Paris St. Germain vs. Lyon. The French heckled the enemy (in this case, the U.S.; the French don't like other Europeans, but they dislike Americans more) and their soccer heritage was on display. While the international fat cats sipped Champagne in the skyboxes, the locals roamed the fairways. The Euro team loved it and carried the post-match display a bit too far, much like the U.S. team and their wives/girlfriends tend to do in winning years. Rub it in, boys and girls. So, bring on the 2019 PGA Tour. Not just Phoenix's 16th hole, where heckling is part of the game, but also at other beerheavy events like the Players (Sergio Garcia has always been a target, and now the bullseye on his back will be huge) and the PGA Championship (New York City!)

You can see it coming: • Americans getting even with chippy Rory McIlroy by singing “Sweet Caroline” at every Tour stop, even though his dalliance with tennis player Caroline Wozniacki is very past tense. • Americans hastening Garcia's quick slide into backmarker 52

• The Euros rubbing it in, maybe even wearing their Ryder Cup caps in practices rounds here. Maybe even at Augusta. And, very likely, the Americans will start questioning the Americans. Uh, maybe those bright-and-shiny guys on the PGA Tour really are what we kinda sorta believed. A bunch of spoiled brats who are sorry losers, both in ability (England 17 ½, USA 10 ½) and demeanor.

A few examples: • Patrick Reed was mad at everyone. So was wife Justine, who also took on the Golf Channel as having “bias and hatred.” • Brooks Koepka and Dustin Johnson were mad at each other, even though they said they weren't. • Paulina Gretsky, who gets attention because of a famous father and an accomplished boyfriend, deleted Koepka from her Instagram account even though he says he didn't do anything. • Phil Mickelson said it was all a “waste” of his time. That, added to his U.S. Open putting antics, is leaves us to suspect that Mr. Mickelson is a waste of our time. • Since the players denied any responsibility, they created an undercurrent that it was all the fault of captain Jim Furyk (and the behind-the-scenes pushing of the PGA of America and NBC) to select soon-to-be has-beens Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, compounded by the other picks of not-quites Bryson DeChambeau and Tony Finau.

Can any good come out of this? YES! • The President's Cup might be worth watching! The event is the proverbial red-headed stepchild, a cash grab by the PGA Tour (Quick now: who won in 2017 and where was it played?) to gravy train on the Ryder Cup, and it will be in Australia, where spectators don't hold back after a few XXXX Tallies. (see: Australian Open tennis tournament.) • Football news on Thanksgiving weekend! There certainly won't be a media glut on the Woods vs. Mickelson rip-off match play. Not even the fawns at the Golf Channel will go 24/7 on it. • Maybe we'll get the Ryder Cup played where people can go without a monumental hassle. Paris may have zero golf history but it sure has airports and hotels. When you get fired up for the 2020 Ryder Cup, you won't get New York or even Kansas City. Quick now, name the nearest airport to Whistling Straits (PGA politics strike again!) • Finally, watching golf may become more fun. The tiresome chants of “You da man!” and “In the hole!” will be replaced by some real creativity. “Sweet Caroline” may be the nicest thing we'll hear.

Comments? fs4569@comcast.net. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

By Mike May

golf history

Miami Shores C.C. – A Dynamic Destination

Give credit to

the Administration of the late President Franklin Roosevelt for providing most of the funding needed to build what is now the Miami Shores Country Club (10000 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami Shores, Florida; 305-795-2360). With the assistance of a federal contribution of $67,946 from the Works Progress Administration (WPA), as well as $20,040 from the city of Miami Shores, ground was broken in early 1939 on this golf course. The club opened for play in the fall of 1939 and was originally called the Miami Shores Village Golf and Country Club. The architects of the course were Robert F. ‘Red’ Lawrence and Louis Wilson. This course’s historical roots are a big reason why the Miami Shores Country Club is one of 53 golf courses in Florida that comprise the Florida Historic Golf Trail. Like many other golf courses on the Florida Historic Golf Trail, the Miami Shores CC has

‘attributes’ which help make it stand apart from other golf courses. Those ‘attributes’ are its clubhouse and a pair of hazards – a waterway and railroad tracks. The clubhouse is the original structure, built in 1939. The waterway is the Biscayne Canal Number C-8, now classified as a hazard. while the railroad tracks, affiliated with the Florida East Coast Railroad, are now classified as out-of-bounds. While playing golf at the Miami Shores CC, golfers will cross that canal on five occasions. Conveniently located 15 minutes 54

from downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and the Miami International Airport, the Miami Shores Country Club is easily accessible for many golfers in Miami-Dade County. This course has a certain amount of star appeal as it has hosted many Florida State Open golf tournaments over the years and has welcomed a number of celebrity golfing greats such as Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, and Lee Trevino. Also, the late, great entertainer Bob Hope and baseball Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio both

condition,” according to its website. “We stand apart from other golf courses because of our tremendous customer service,” said Chris Baetzel, director of golf, Miami Shores Country Club. “Our course is not your typical Florida golf course with many water hazards. Instead, our course has a few changes in elevation and our fairways are tree-lined. Our superintendent always does a tremendous job with our greens. We have great greens.” The most talked-about and most-

played golf at the Miami Shores CC. In 2011, Miami Shores CC – an 18-hole, par 71 layout owned by the village of Miami Shores -- experienced a major facelift and upgrade. MiniVerde Bermuda was installed on the greens, tees, and fairways; the bunkers were restored; the putting surfaces were reshaped; and a number of upgrades were made to other parts of the golf course. The course, which features a number of majestic oak trees and a gently rolling terrain, is “always in excellent

photographed hole at Miami Shores CC is the par three, 2nd hole, which used to be the 11th hole. While standing on the tee, the green actually angles from right to left. Your tee shot must clear the Biscayne Canal in order to reach the putting surface, but if your tee shot drifts too far left, it will probably end up in the canal, whereas tee shots that veer too far right will end up in the bunker complex to the right of the green. Former U.S. Open champion (1925) Willie MacFarlane simply referred to this short par-three as “the hole.” Not only is the Miami Shores Country Club an attractive venue for golfers, it’s a gathering place for residents in the village of Miami Shores. “If there’s something going on in Miami Shores, it’s happening at our club in our clubhouse,” added Baetzel. “Our annul Mother’s Day Brunch attracts more than 800 people.” Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

florida golf central

By David Theoret

Live the Resort Lifestyle in a Private Golf Community To say The Club at Ibis

is a residential golf community is a gross understatement; it’s a community that relishes in a lifestyle that has it all. Behind the secure gates of this West Palm Beach community are 33 neighborhoods with over 1850 homes. Ibis is a mandatory membership community which boasts some of the finest conditioned golf courses, and recreational facilities in South Florida. Members must purchase

the Platinum Club of America award, as determined by Club Leaders Forum, the preeminent consulting source in the private club industry. The latter recognizes the top five percent of private clubs in the nation, as elected by club managers, presidents, and owners. The centerpiece of the community are the three Nicklaus golf courses, which all play out of the same Clubhouse and seem to draw people to-

at minimum a social Membership level, but when a golf Membership grants you access to three championship Nicklaus family-designed courses by Jack himself as well as sons Jack Jr. and Steve, why would you consider anything less? Over the years, The Club at Ibis has received numerous awards, including most recently BoardRoom Magazine’s Distinguished Emerald Club award and

gether. As a Member, there is no need to get in your car and drive off property to play golf. Just hop in your own private golf cart, drive to the Clubhouse and play. It’s that simple…and convenient. The Legend Course was designed by the Golden Bear himself, while the Heritage Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus II and the Tradition Course was designed by son Steve.

The Legend Course opened for play in 1991 and underwent a major renovation in 2017; it has been described by Jack himself as a “masterpiece.” Golfweek Magazine has named the Legend Course one of the country’s “Most Distinctive Courses.” The signature hole is the par 3 13th; an elevated island green with a beautiful stone bulkhead. Number 13 plays anywhere from 81 – 167 yards and will definitely test your distance control and accuracy. The course winds its way through the community and provides many scenic views of what a golf community is meant to be. When Jack Nicklaus II designed the Heritage Course, he was probably thinking “fun and friendly,” and built the course to give you a fair test of your golf skills, no matter what caliber of player you are. When it opened in the fall of 1991, Golf Digest named the Heritage Course one of the “Top 20 New Private Courses in America.” It’s also a favorite among the ladies and has been named the “Most Women-Friendly Course in America” by Golf for Women Magazine. It’s also the course where a number of Club tournaments are played. The most challenging hole on the Heritage Course is Number 5, a par 4 that plays as long as 428 yards and requires you to think your way from tee to green. The Tradition Course was designed by son Steve and was completed in 2001. In designing the Tradition Course the team took ideas and concepts from many of golf’s original layouts; consequently you’ll find smaller greens and wide-open fairways. The Tradition Course has a lot of Florida vegetation and, in true UK fashion, the outward nine doesn’t play back to the clubhouse! To score well, you’ll have to Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

execute your tee shots and approaches into some very undulated greens. If you’re new to the game or are looking to improve, the professional staff at the Ibis Golf Academy can help put your game on the right path. They are led by Director of Golf Instruction Martin Hall, who has been named one of only four “Master Instructors” in America by Golf Magazine. Hall and his staff are dedicated to helping Members realize their potential and get the most out of their game. Other world class amenities at The Club at Ibis include a state-of-the-art tennis operation and fitness center. Their 16 Har-Tru tennis courts are designed with a sub-surface irrigation system and are fast-drying; they were specifically designed for senior players with comfort and playability in mind. If you love to play, the staff can find a game that fits your personal skill level. Men’s, women’s, and senior leagues, round robin social events, and “drop-in” doubles’ games will keep your tennis schedule full each week. The Club also features four new pickleball courts. The Club’s fitness center is stocked with a large selection of cardio equipment, strength building machines, and fitness classes; everything a Member needs to maintain a healthy body, mind, and spirit. After your workout enjoy a refreshing massage in the Ibis Spa, which offers Members and their guests the ultimate relaxation experience. When it comes to dining, The Club at Ibis offers Members and their guests a number of options, from casual to elegant. The Bistro offers comfortable seatGolf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

ing inside and out and poolside dining is a Member favorite. The Bistro features an open kitchen design and is a popular choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Atrium offers panoramic views of The Legend Course. It’s the main dining venue in the Clubhouse and during lunch, Members and their guests can enjoy an elaborate buffet, complete with culinary and carving stations. The Pub has proven to be the go-to gathering place for Members and is the ultimate sports bar. Should you choose to dine outside, The Pub Terrace overlooks the 10th and 18th holes of The Legend Course. If you’re looking to take your significant other somewhere special, Panache offers Members and their guests a fine dining experience similar to acclaimed restaurants in South Florida. The Club at Ibis is also a great place to host your next family gathering or event. From baby showers to weddings to family reunions, The Club at Ibis has the perfect space for your event with accommodations for groups of 10 - 480. The attentive catering department will provide you with professional event coordination and ensure that every detail is taken care of.

Membership As I mentioned earlier, the Club at Ibis is a mandatory Membership community meaning new residents must join the club at one level or another. The club offers new residents four Membership categories to choose from; all built to suit their individual lifestyle needs. All Memberships include unlimited access to the fitness facilities, four unique dining venues, the spa, pool complex, pickleball, and a full calendar of social events. The club’s most popular Membership is their Premier Golf Membership and offers unlimited access to 54 holes of Nicklaus golf, the 20-acre practice facility, and 16 Har-Tru tennis courts. Other options include the Signature Golf, Tennis, and Social Sports Memberships. With this much to choose from, there is something for everyone. This private West Palm Beach Country Club is conveniently located within the high-energy lifestyle communities of the Palm Beaches, just seven miles west of I-95 on Northlake Boulevard. For more information on The Club at Ibis, visit their website at clubatibis.com or call the Membership Director, Karla Bass at 561.625.8500, ext. 5142.

product showcase

Athalonz EnVe

Athalonz newest golf shoe, EnVe, was inspired by professional golfers and their desire to maintain maximum power, performance and comfort. Athalonz EnVe Golf Shoe is a scientifically engineered golf shoe that is created using a patented technology. The performance enhancing shoe is formulated from a physics perspective to provide players with unparalleled firmness in their stance from set-up through the finish. The design is based on the concept of reducing losses, as some of the power a golfer generates is typically lost due to their shoes. Reducing losses in the shoes allows a golfer to stay more firmly connected to the ground and allows a golfer to use more of the power they generate. With its sleek and modern design, the golf shoe is purposefully built for power and control. The midsole is tuned for maximum output, while the Grip & Glide outsole allows for efficient transfer of energy from the back side to the front side during a stroke. This intrinsic outsole also provides intelligent on course and off course traction. Performance is paramount with the EnVe Golf Shoes, but they also provide ultimate comfort to their wearer. They’re designed with natural flex zones that move with your feet and a roomy toe box, both of which aid in maintaining comfortability to keep golfers playing longer. Athalonz EnVe Golf Shoes can maximize the look and performance for a golfer of any skill level. Athalonz EnVe Golf Shoe is available for purchase online at www.athalonz.com.

GolfLogix

With the addition of its breakthrough Putt Breaks feature, GolfLogix is now the most complete game improvement app around. It provides amateur golfers with intelligent 3D green maps, accurate GPS distances, in-round pro-level stat and club tracking, and more! From tee to green, GolfLogix provides golfers with the information they need to reduce strokes and Play Smarter. Offering over 35,000 interactive 3D course maps, virtually every golf course in the world is mapped to give users the exact distance to any point on the fairway or green, as well as every hazard and layup spot. With the information for thousands of courses right in their pocket, GolfLogix users can play every course like it’s their home course. www.golflogix.com

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Tomboy ~ Our Own Brand of Women

I have been a Tomboy my entire life. My Mother was a Tomboy. She was holistic before the word existed and lived close to nature. She was a freespirit, a dreamer, a doer and lived life her own way. Fearless. She taught me herbalism, nutrition and life skills mostly from the back of a horse. She was her own brand of woman. I am much like my mother. Tomboy is a skin care brand that uses herbs and roots from the forest floor to create sustainable, clean skin care products including cleansers, lotion, body balms and makeup. They are for women like my mother and myself.

About Us

Tomboy’s founder was a Forestry, Wildlife & Fisheries Biologist with degrees in Chemistry, Anatomy & Physiology and Environmental Science. She created sustainable skin care products with ingredients from the forest floor. Tomboy’s ethos is firmly rooted in the belief that outer beauty is an echo of your nutritional, emotional and physical fitness. She and her two daughters founded the company in 2004. Tomboy is a family business, privately-held, woman-owned company. They manufacture in their hometown of Deer Lodge on the Cumberland Plateau, Tennessee. For more information: www.tomboyskincare.com

Weatherman Umbrellas

Weatherman represents the convergence of technology, engineering and state-of-the-art design. The result? The best umbrella ever created. Weatherman was conceived by nationally recognized meteorologist Rick Reichmuth. After years in the field covering severe weather events, Rick couldn’t find an umbrella that met his high standards. Leveraging his meteorology expertise, Weatherman was born. For more information, please visit www.weathermanumbrella.com and follow @weathermanumbrella on Instagram. The Weatherman mobile app is available in the App Store and Google Play Store.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Audubon International’s BioBlitz

Highlighting the Large Diversity of Wildlife Living on Golf Courses

Wildlife is likely not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of golf. However, by their very nature, golf courses have a unique opportunity to provide significant natural areas for wildlife in an increasingly urban1st Place Photo in the Bioblitz 2018 photo contest Photo Credit: Deborah Repasz, Bay Oaks Country Club, TX

ized society. With this in mind, in 2015 Audubon International, the notDuring this year’s event, which

for-profit environmental education

species that call these important green

organization dedicated to sustainable

was sponsored by the United States

spaces home. Collectively, this group

property management, developed the

Golf Association (USGA), thousands

of dedicated citizen scientists—rang-

golf course BioBlitz – an annual species

of community volunteers gathered at

ing from school groups to birding clubs

counting competition that creates an

local events to document the variety of

to professional naturalists—identified

opportunity for school children, com-

over 2,000 unique species of animals,

munity members, golfers, and more to

plants, and fungi that inhabit golf

discover the natural habitats provided

courses. “It’s wonderful to see so many golf

by golf courses.

courses embracing BioBlitz as a fun and exciting way to help people spend time outdoors and learn about their local environment,” said Christine Kane, CEO at Audubon International. In addition to showcasing the exceptional diversity of species on golf courses, BioBlitz also engages local interest and builds support for the green space and recreational opportunities they provide to their towns. Local events held during the fourth annual competition included school field trips, naturalist led tours, and Earth Day golf tournaments. Evening tours were 2nd Place Photo in the Bioblitz 2018 photo contest Photo Credit: Gregg Steward, Okeeheelee Golf Course, FL 60

also popular and gave participants the chance to discover nocturnal wildlife Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

you may not usually see. All of the courses involved participated in a friendly competition for three awards: most species counted, most participants, and best photo. Southwinds Golf Course in Boca Raton, FL received the Community Engagement Award for most participants. “Our team enjoyed creating activities to engage golfers from juniors to seniors in recognizing the rewards of environmental stewardship,” said Sharon Painter,

Participants at Southwinds Golf Course, FL’s Junior BioBlits Day Photo Credit: Sean Steinemann and Cheryl Glick

General Manager at Southwinds Golf

natural habitats that surround our com-

Course. The course’s activities included

munity,” said Bryan Roe, General Man-

Ladies’ Night and Junior BioBlitz outings,

ager at NLCC.” The federally threatened

won the Best Photograph Award for their

as well as BioBlitz themed drink specials.

Wood Stork and the state threatened

spectacular photo of a hummingbird.

Stork, and Peregrine Falcon. Bay Oaks Country Club in Houston, TX

The Biodiversity Award for most spe-

Little Blue Heron and Tricolored Heron

If you would like to get your lo-

cies went to Naples Lakes Country Club

were among those species identified at

cal golf course involved in next year’s

in Naples, FL. “Our residents truly look

NLCC. Additional at-risk species docu-

BioBlitz, please visit https://audu-

forward to participating in the annual

mented during BioBlitz 2018 include the

boninternational.org/BioBlitz2018

event and coming together to enjoy the

Florida Panther, Gopher Tortoise, Wood

for more information.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Harmony Links Golf Introduces “The Tribute Series”

Tribute Series Rendering

1st Course will be at The Grand Patrician Resort in W.VA Harmony Links Golf is introducing its newest Design Series concept, “The Tribute Series” that reflects the world’s most famous golf holes from around the world. Its first location is a 9-hole, par 3 course and is in the final stages of golf course design and civil engineering as part of the Grand Patrician Resort in West VA. Designed by co-founder Terry LaGree, an award-winning golf course architect and builder, this tribute golf course incorporates holes inspired by the most famous golf holes in the world. The vision and development of the Grand Patrician Resort is led by the Hoops family of Milton West Virginia. Jeff Hoops, a prominent W.VA CEO, had a dream of transforming a historic site into an extravagant destination. Truly unique, this property features 189-acres, incorporating a luxurious resort and spa, convention center, wedding chapel, residential properties including condo units, duplexes and town homes, amphitheater for major concerts, 4 baseball fields inspired by Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field and Camden Yards, office space, soccer field and its 9-hole, par 3 “Tribute Series” golf course. “Last December, I contacted Harmony Links Golf to share my vision and since then the partnership has worked extremely well. “We’ve been greatly pleased with the design, attention to detail and responsiveness we’ve seen during the master planning phase, preliminary golf course design and now the final golf course design phase from Terry LaGree,” said Jeff Hoops. “Jeff Hartson and I are crafting a joint venture that will enable us to jointly participate in integrating synthetic turf into mainstream golf courses. Once owners realize the savings and playability provided as I did, they will begin to move to this new, more profitable concept for their courses.” Jeff Hartson, co-founder of Harmony Links Golf added, “When Jeff Hoops 62

contacted us, he had already gone through our website (www.harmonylinksgolf.com) and realized the playability and profitability advantages of our vision for “next generation golf.” Our ability to deliver synthetic turf into mainstream golf courses and amenities separates Harmony Links Golf from any other vendor. Synthetic turf companies can’t design and build/renovate golf courses. Golf course architects have little to no experience with synthetic turf green design or how to build them. Terry LaGree said, “No more watering or mowing greens, doing aerification 3 times each summer, transitions to overseed, fighting mole crickets, fertilizing, herbicides/pesticides. The profitability from Harmony Links has a 3 to 4-year ROI with a lifecycle of 10-12 years. When you replace the first generation of synthetic turf the ROI will be approximately 1.5-2 years. This means out of 20+ years of operation, there are approximately 15 years of profitability and much more consistent play. Harmony Links is committed to bringing the Hoops’ family vision to reality.” When high handicap players have a golf event at the Grand Patrician

Resort, the forward tees and easy pin locations are used and a simple 10-minute brooming slows the speed of each green to an 8 on the stimpmeter. Conversely, when low handicap players have an event, the greens can be rolled and speeds of 12 can be attained, coupled with difficult pin locations (each green has 10 pin locations of which 9 are covered) and back tees, it is a completely different level of challenge. Over the last 9 years, Harmony Links Golf has delivered full-service design/build services for “Next Generation Golf” by designing golf courses that elegantly integrate synthetic turf greens and tees, unique golf amenities comprised of 3-hole and 6-hole loops with synthetic turf greens and tees and private golf estates featuring 9 synthetic tees going into 9 fairways and terminating into 3 large synthetic turf greens. Additionally, Harmony Links and its sister company, SIX12 Golf, (www.six12golf.com) have re-designed 18-hole courses into 12-hole courses for developers, offering more property for the developer to increase their ROI. Our Resort/Development Series addresses this need on our Harmony Links website. For more information on Harmony Links Golf visit www.harmonylinksgolf. com or call: Jeff Hartson at 352-3028048 or Terry LaGree at 352-302-6319. For more information on the Grand Patrician Resort visit http://www. grandpatricianresort.us or contact Joshua Huffman at 276-220-9232. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

SAVE THE DATE

REGISTRATION OPENS OCTOBER 16 Presenting Partners

Participating Partners

Visit golfindustryshow.com for more information.

President John Mascaro and Dr. Phil Busey

Dr. Phil Busey Awarded FTGA Wreath of Grass Award The Florida Turfgrass Association

In addition, Dr. Busey is a Certified Crop Adviser (CCA), a Certified Profes-

awarded Dr. Phil Busey the 2018

sional Agronomist (CPAg), and he has at-

FTGA Wreath of Grass Award. The

tained the benchmarks of professional-

award is the FTGA’s highest honor

ism recognized by the American Society

and pays tribute to individuals who

of Agronomy for practicing agronomists.

have shown outstanding service to

The FTGA was founded in 1952 and

the FTGA and to the turfgrass indus-

is dedicated to education, research

try. The award was presented by Past President John Mascaro at the asso-

suited to answer your specific issue.”

and the promotion of environmentally responsible and scientifically based

ciation’s 66th Annual Conference &

Currently, Dr. Busey is a University of

Show Sept. 18, at World Golf Village

Florida professor emeritus, independent

management practices for the turfgrass

Renaissance in St. Augustine, Florida.

consultant with Brookside Laboratories

industry. Florida ranks No. 1 in the

Mascaro said, “I have known Dr.

Inc. and president of Phil Busey Agron-

nation for turfgrass related economic

Busey for 30 years, and he is always

omy Consulting Inc. With more than 35

activity with total revenues estimated

willing to help people seeking knowl-

years of service at the University of Flor-

at $7.82-billion and a total employment

edge, not only in turfgrass areas but in

ida in Davie, Fla., he taught many class-

of more than 173,000 jobs. The FTGA

many other facets as well. He is also the

es including Turfgrass Culture, Golf and

continues to advocate for and promote

go-to person for difficult turfgrass prob-

Sports Turf Management, Genetics and

the turfgrass industry with extensive

lems, turf identification or weed issues

Grass Biology and invented three pat-

research, continuing education and

and is always ready to lend a helping

ented turfgrasses. He is a prolific author

opportunities for turfgrass profession-

hand or refer you to someone better

and a frequent lecturer and speaker.

als to network with their colleagues.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 19, Issue 5

Superintendents Doing Their Part to Grow the Game of Golf

A fifth-grade STEM

(Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) class from Eldersburg Elementary visited Westminster National Golf Course in Westminster, Md., for hands-on cross-curricular environmental science activities. They studied soil samples, learned about putting green maintenance and water conservation, and had a fun putting contest. Students were not the only ones learning on the golf course. Observing and helping at the field trip were golf course superintendents from the Mid-Atlantic Association of Golf Course Superintendents who will also host their own field trips. This field trip is part of First Green’s STEM program, which uses golf courses as learning labs. Golf course superintendents need to be highly-trained in STEM to manage their golf courses; they share this knowledge with teachers and students, showing real world applications that inspire student interest in STEM.

About First Green • First Green is an innovative environmental education outreach program using golf courses as environmental learning labs – the only program of its kind. First Green has extensive

resources for golf course superintendents, including online lesson plans. • First Green has been providing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning since 1997. • Golf course superintendents and/ or local golf course representatives host students on field trips where they test water quality, collect soil samples, identify plants, design plantings, assist in stream bed restoration and are involved in the ecology and environmental aspects of the golf course. The students are also introduced to many other aspects of golf. A tax-exempt nonprofit, First Green was founded in the State of Washington in 1997 and is expanding nationally. For more information and to view introductory First Green videos, visit www.thefirstgreen.org.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

The 2018 Landscape Show/SHARE Golf Tournament: An annual tradition

FNGLA

FLORIDA NURSERY, GROWERS AND LANDSCAPE ASSOCIATION

Leading Florida’s Green Industry

The 2018 Landscape Show/SHARE Golf Tournament is where industry vendors and customers mix fun and business while spending the morning on the greens. The event typically takes place the day prior to Opening Day of the trade show. Proceeds from the tournament support the FNGLA Research Fund at SHARE/UF. The Landscape Show: Organized by the Florida Nursery, Growers and

FNGLA Allied Member Matt Antos, left, and Mike Agate of tournament champion sponsor SiteOne Landscape Supply, announce the tournament winners of The 2018 Landscape Show/ SHARE Golf Tournament

Landscape Association, The Landscape Show is the Southeast’s premier landscape and horticulture conference and trade event. The show takes place each year at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, and features more than 800 booths spread across more than 200,000 square feet. That’s nearly five acres of trees, shrubs, equipment and more. There’s also a robust array of thought-provoking, relevant and hands-on workshops to keep participants in-step with industry competition which take place each year at the event – part of FNGLA’s Knowledge College. The three-day industry trade show is where industry professionals connect with others. The Landscape Show (L to R) FNGLA 2018-2019 President Will Womack, Mike Agate of tournament champion sponsor SiteOne Landscape Supply, and Ed Bravo, FNGLA immediate past president, gather on the greens during The 2018 Landscape Show/SHARE Golf Tournament. 68

is the connection point for Florida’s nursery and landscape industry. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

What is Sunniland? Sunniland

Professional Grade Fertilizers and Weed & Feeds Specially formulated for Southern Growers, Sunniland Corporation, Inc. offers a full line of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and many other products that enhance plant production.

#1 Choice for Turf Management Turf management professionals are constantly battling weeds, insects, weather and more. With unfettered access to Sunniland experienced representatives and a full range of quality turf and ornamental products, turf grass managers have a powerful ally to ensure that their turf looks and performs its best! 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.

Custom Blended Fertilizers Take control with Sunniland’s uni-

form granular custom blended fertilizer. These blends use premium nitrogen and micro-nutrients to out-perform the competition. Pesticides are disbursed evenly as each granule of fertilizer is coated with the best type of pesticide for the job.

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

free of impurities and are most efficient for delivering the nutrients needed for growing quality turf. Plus, Sunniland’s 23-0-31 blend has a stabilized nitrogen source for the highest efficient delivery of Nitrogen.

Better for the Environment and You A pioneer in fertilizer technology, Sunniland Corporation manufactures and distributes its Professional line of advanced slow-release fertilizers, which are better for the environment and better for you. Helping professional turf grass managers chart and maintain an effective, cost-efficient and environmentally sustainable turf program is job one. Sunniland offers extensive blending options on all of their professional use products. The company builds unique formulation programs to satisfy each customer’s specific need to better meet their requirements.

Who Uses Sunniland Pro? Sunniland Professional products are used every day by: • Athletic Field Groundskeepers – including the Florida Gators • Golf Course Superintendents • Ground Maintenance Supervisors • Landscape Contractors • Nursery’s – including Lukas Nursery • Turf Grass Management Professionals With the Sunniland Family of products, you can’t go wrong!

www.sunnilandcorp.com

golf fitness

What I Learned From Tom Brady

By Ken Pierce President, GolfGym, LLC

As I noted in a previous article, we at GolfGym. com are huge proponents of using resistance bands to train our body and our brain in the development of your best golf swing. My wife Vicki and I travelled to Raleigh, North Carolina to visit a good friend of ours who trained many PGA Tour professionals when he had his facility in Jacksonville, Florida. His name is Jeffrey Fronk. His background in training athletes is extensive. He told me about a book he got that identified in detail more ways to utilize bands in his F45 Functional training facility. The book is “The TB12 Method” by Tom Brady. Yes… that Tom Brady. In the book Brady discusses training, hydration, nutrition and healthy habits that have helped him be and stay one of the greatest quarterbacks in football history. In one chapter he describes the difference between weights and resistance bands. He says, “After a lifetime of lifting weights, for the past seven years I’ve used bands almost exclusively.” There are over fifty exercises illustrated in the book using bands. I have picked three that I think will help you to develop strength, stability and power in your golf swing.

The Core Angel Using the GolfGym® bilateral PowerBandz, start with the bands affixed high in the door. Pull the handles down and back while engaging your core and butt muscles. Perform a movement just like a “snow angel” bringing your hands above your head and down again. Perform about 8 to 10 repetitions. This strengthens your shoulders, lats, back and your core. Turn around and perform the same movements facing the opposite direction. The affixed point will then be behind you.

Core Leg Up Start with the bi-lateral bands in the same affixed point as in the Core Angel. Pull the handles down and back to engage your core. While keeping the tension on the bands, lift one leg at a time bringing your knees up as high as you can. Alternate knee lifts while maintaining a strong posture. This will get your heart rate up and will challenge your hip flexors. Perform as many as you can safely.

Rotate and Punch Using the single PowerBand (heavier resistance) start with the band affixed at chest level with the handle in your right hand. Your left hand is there for guidance. Begin by facing forward perpendicular to the affixed point. Rotate all the way around to the right with your hands close to your chest. Then rotate to your left side while punching out into full extension. Engage your hips and legs for more power. Increase the speed as you get more comfortable with the movement. Be sure to turn around and perform the same movement in the opposite direction to balance out the body.

To learn more about using Resistance Bands and to view a library of Golf Specific Swing Training videos, tips and drills, go to: https://GolfGym.com 70

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 5

If your vision of Florida is unspoiled nature-loving waterfront bliss, then this one-of-a-kind property is your dream come true. 3/3 Home features lifestyle of casual elegance; Private floating dock, wrap-around deck, luxurious pool/spa/waterfall. Property includes a true golfer’s paradise - 12 teeing spots to hit into 2 custom synthetic turf greens. Located on the Salt River, which has much less boat traffic than the Crystal River, only 2 miles away. World-class fishing for redfish, snook, trout and 10 minutes away from scalloping in the Gulf of Mexico. Wild eagles come in daily to drink fresh water on the small green.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS ONE-OF-A-KIND PROPERTY OR SCHEDULE A SHOWING? Scan the QR code or visit us online:

WWW.PARADISEFOUND.ESTATE To contact Jane O’Gwynn, Agent - O: (352) 746-0744 M: (352) 302-1926 ©2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

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CHANGING LIVES THROUGH THE GAME OF GOLF

Patriot Golf Day® has become the largest grass-roots golf fundraiser in America – a joint initiative of The PGA of America and the USGA, Patriot Golf Day enlists the support of public and private golf facilities across the country. Funds support Folds of Honor, providing educational scholarships to the children and spouses of service members killed or disabled while serving in America’s Armed Forces.

GET INVOLVED Although the national promotion of Patriot Golf Day is over Labor Day weekend, you can play golf any time of the year to support the families of our fallen and disabled service members. Here are a few ways to get involved.

HOST AN

EVENT CONDUCT A GOLF

MARATHON PARTICIPATE IN THE

DONATION BOX CAMPAIGN

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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.

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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