Welcome to springtime at Fairfield Glade. When the beauty of our well manicured fairways competes with that of nature. It’s hard to put into words the colorful display you will experience on our five Championship Golf Courses. Even out of bounds.
What you feel is beautiful too.
Thanks to our 2,087 feet of elevation, temperatures and humidity are low. So hiking, tennis, pickleball, fishing, boating or swimming are especially comfortable. And fun. Our Stay & Play and Golf Packages make a spring getaway visit to Fairfield Glade Resort beautifully affordable too.
Now the fun begins.
Conveniently located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322) For information or reservations, call 888-334-5233 fairfieldglade.com
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I Feel LUCKY!
In a golf publishing context focusing on the spirit of the game and the luck of the Irish, “Hunger is the best sauce”.
You all know about the Florida Swing and about the famous host courses. It starts with the Cognizant Classic in stunning Palm Beach Gardens at PGA National, then the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill in Orlando, and next The Player’s Championship at TPC Sawgrass. Then we will see you all at Innisbrook in the Tampa Bay area for the Valspar Championship. Partee!
The state of Florida is also hosting the Epson Tour, the road to the LPGA on 3 beautiful properties. All of this goes on in the middle of “Snow Bird” season. We’re so lucky to have these wonderful commerce creating events here in this gorgeous Florida weather.
“If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, you’re lucky enough”. Even if you’re not, you should surely go check out the casino and the new Jazz Club at the Baha Mar Resort in the Bahamas on our cover. This beautiful Troon managed property is on our readers’ favorites list.
While checking things out, check out Miss Emily May our bachelorette of the month! You might recognize the last name from our staff box Michael May, the famous Golf writer.
I’ll be wearing a “Kiss me I’m Irish” on Monday!
Living Turf Life Luck!
Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum (terrie@golfcentralmag.com)
Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates (shannon@golfcentralmag.com)
Graphic Design: Melahn Cable
Media & PR Consultant: Joe Wieczorek
Turf Pirate: Anthony Williams
Photojournalist: Greg Corbo
Videographer: Ronald Malone
Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson, Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway, Madison Coates, Mac Carraway
Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr.
International Correspondent: Dave Finn
Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Holly Geoghegan, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Anthony Williams, Tres Fenton, Ronald Malone
Media Partners: DSP Media; John Gerber, JP Peterson, Nick Geddes, Holly Geoghegan, Golf Insiders, GMS; Tony Leodora, George McNeilly, Traveling Golfer, Golf The Wise Way: Greg and Beverly Wise, Photojournalists
Baha Mar is the Caribbean’s leading integrated luxury resort of choice located in Nassau, The Bahamas. Perched on Nassau’s storied Cable Beach, the resort destination is home to three iconic oceanfront hotels, the richly refined Rosewood, the playfully hip SLS, and the stylish and modern Grand Hyatt. The destination features a sweeping array of amenities including luxe water park Baha Bay, an oceanfront casino, a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, a championship racquet club, two world-class spas, and an awardwinning arts and convention center. Guests can also indulge in unrivaled dining by celebrity chefs Marcus Samuelsson and Daniel Boulud, and more than 45 restaurants, bars and lounges, over 30 affluent retail outlets, a marine sanctuary, a private island, a stunning selection of tropical pools and a pristine white-sand beach overlooking brilliant turquoise water.
Baha Mar curates authentic, unforgettable experiences for travelers from romantic getaways and family vacations, to large conventions and intimate celebrations.
Baha Mar’s Royal Blue Golf Course is ranked #1 in The Bahamas by Golfweek’s Best 2022 list and Top 20 of top golf courses in Mexico, the Caribbean, the Atlantic islands and Central America. The award-winning course’s pros offer lessons, data analysis lessons, skill assessment, and playing lessons to resort guests and non-guests.
Two Courses in One
Golfers looking to hit the green can tee off on the Royal Blue Golf Course, which was designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. The most acclaimed golf course in Nassau, Royal Blue, features 18-holes unfolding over a gorgeous, naturally evolving landscape. Uniquely designed as two courses
in one, the course begins with a front-nine featuring dramatic views of undulating fairways and rolling white-sand dunes, brackish ponds and glimpses of a turquoise Atlantic Ocean. Players are then transported to a back-nine that challenges them to navigate stunning limestone “moonscapes” and elevation changes through dense jungle and steep downhill terrain to get to the island green on the 16th hole, which precariously borders Lake Cunningham, making for a memorable island golf experience that is majestic to see and thrilling to play.
Freeform Teeing
Royal Blue also features a unique, single set of tees, course set up, ensuring a unique experience each time guests play. Each day the Royal Blue grounds crew places tee locations on the course according to the changing Nassau weather and playing conditions, to create a new and optimal golfing experience for
guests. With freeform teeing areas rather than traditional tee pods, any one hole can change by as much as 100 yards each day. This also allows for guests to play multiple variations of the course throughout their stay, while maintaining a similar overall yardage.
“Better Than Your Own” x PING Golf Clubs
Golfers can also take advantage of Baha Mar’s world-class “Better Than Your Own” golf club rental program in partnership with PING and enjoy an epic round at Royal Blue with a set of carefully curated PING Golf Clubs. PING provides a variety of full bag options from its latest product lineup, including the company’s flagship g430 Drivers, Fairways Hybrids and Irons, and the popular iCrossover, made for long-iron performance through faster speed and further shots. Royal Blue’s “Better Than Your Own” club rental program further
creates the rare opportunity for players to test some of the world’s finest clubs in unmatched playing conditions – as opposed to on the range or in a simulator. Each set of PING rentals are carefully chosen by Royal Blue’s professionals with a player’s skill set and preferences in mind. From forgiveness and advanced workability to distance and dispersion, each set takes personalized performance and fun to the extreme.
18-hole reservations start at $220 per person, which includes green fee and shared golf cart with GPS.
Baha Mar is a breathtaking location with dynamic programming, activities, and guest offerings in one of the most beautiful places in the world – The Bahamas.
For more information and reservations visit https://bahamar.com/golf/ and follow @BahaMarResorts.
LIFE SPECTACULAR
Set on a pristine white sand beach, Baha Mar perfectly balances an array of spectacular experiences with luxurious relaxation in the pure Caribbean sunshine. Exquisite dining experiences from world-renowned chefs, lush tropical pools, The Bahamas’ top golf course, and our new 15-acre luxury water park Baha Bay await you.
Generation VIII
by Herzog Double Creek Vineyard Cabernet
The Herzog family’s winemaking legacy is a story of innovation. The Austro-Hungarian Empire of the late 19th century was known for its progressive culture and innovative manufacturing. Emperor Franz Joseph, familiar with the Herzog family’s wines, made Phillip Herzog a baron and asked him to produce wine for the royal court. So began the story of winemakers who fled the Nazis, sailed an ocean, and then crossed a continent.
In 1985, eight generations after the Herzog family began making wine, David Herzog moved the operation from New York to California’s finest terroirs in Napa Valley, Lodi, and Clarksburg. In tribute to their founder, the Herzog family started the ‘Baron Herzog’ wine label.
For the Herzog family, making wine is not just a business. It is a privilege that enables them to honor their ancestors with each varietal, each style, each bottle.
TASTING NOTES:
Generation VIII by Herzog Double Creek Vineyard Cabernet
Sauvignon opens with intense aromas of blackberry compote, espresso and leather. On the palate, rich notes of black cherry, raspberry and dark chocolate with finegrained tannins and hints of warm vanilla and spice.
Kosherwine.com
Onlinekosherwine.com
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Wine.com
Join us for Golf School, tune up your game, and pick from a TaylorMade Gift Card or Free Lodging at Marriott’s Grande Vista Resort!
It’s the best situation for sharing golfers. In the winter, Michigan golfers head to Florida so they can keep playing their favorite game. In the summer, a booming number of Florida golfers venture north to the heart of Michigan to play their favorite courses of the Gaylord Golf Mecca.
The Mecca offers long summer days with play until 9 p.m. or later, and in comfortable average temperatures in the mid-70s across the great green expanse of Northern Michigan. Combine that with 38 years of partnership, cooperation, vision, investment and hard work by the partners of this unique cooperative marketing model and you have the premier U.S. summer golf destination.
It’s perfect beat-the-heat golf. This year, 17 landmark golf courses, including some designed by legends of architecture, and 20 welcoming lodging partners, are banded together again.
“The real reason the Mecca works and continues to grow is a really great group of owners, managers and golf professionals who have vision and believe in working together in destination
marketing,” says Paul Beachnau, executive director of the Mecca since its inception in 1987.
“We keep getting better. You continue to see Mecca members improve their golf courses and properties with renovations, investment in additions and facilities, all the hard-work items that when you put it together make for a better experience for our visitors.”
The Mecca’s quality and quantity includes:
• Black Bear Golf is the Mecca’s newest member, having joined in 2025 after undergoing extensive renovations and improvements under new ownership.
• Black Lake Golf Club, with its natural setting and award-winning Rees Jonesdesigned golf course.
• Gaylord Golf Club, one of the original Mecca members, with its classic pristine greens that have charmed golfers for decades.
• Garland Lodge & Golf Resort, which is home to four golf courses and is in year 74 as a destination.
• Indian River Golf Club, a classic for over 100 years, which bills itself accurately as the friendliest golf course in the north.
• Lakes of the North Golf Course provides a get-away-fromit-all spot with an affordable hidden-gem golf course.
Gaylord Golf Club
Treetops Resort – Masterpiece
• The Pines Golf Course at Michaywe’, which has been home to classic and competitive golf for 53 years.
• Otsego Resort, a historic landmark resort which features two courses, including the highly acclaimed Tribute Golf Course.
• Treetops Resort, with its unmatched five golf courses including the only Tom Fazio design in Michigan and the famous Rick Smith-designed Threetops Par 3 course.
Golfers continue to flock to Gaylord from all points on the map. The Mecca partners with the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City and that has opened up new national markets. With a scenic 60-minute drive from runway to fairway, this partnership is a win for Mecca courses and southern golfers alike. Beachnau said it boils down to this: “We have 38 years of brand integrity and our best golf is in the summer when it’s too hot to play in other golf destinations. Come on up! Beat the heat!”
Lakes of the North
Otsego Resort – The Tribute
Garland Lodge & Golf Resort – Monarch
Where did you grow up?
Auburndale, Florida
What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch?
My favorite sport growing up was soccer, but my favorite activities now might not be the most traditional sports—I enjoy hunting and fishing. When it comes to watching sports, hockey is my favorite, and I’m a big fan of the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Do you enjoy playing golf?
Absolutely, I enjoy playing golf just for fun. I love the relaxed pace of the game, the challenge of improving my swing, and the opportunity to catch up with friends on the course.
What do you feel makes this club special?
The Country Club of Winter Haven is truly a hidden gem in Florida. One special thing about the golf course is that there are no houses along the fairways, creating a peaceful, natural setting. I’ve been working at The Country Club of Winter Haven for three years, and in that time, the staff, managers, and members have become like family to me. The welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community make this club truly special.
What is your favorite part of being a cart girl?
My favorite part of being a cart girl is getting to interact with members and guests throughout their round. I enjoy creating a fun and welcoming experience, whether it’s serving their favorite drinks or just sharing a good laugh. Plus, being out on the course in such a beautiful setting makes every day enjoyable.
If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing?
Although I love being a cart girl and plan to stay in this position for a while; I do have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida, and I hope to advance my career here at The Country Club of Winter Haven in the future.
What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl?
During one of my first few shifts as a cart girl, a storm rolled in off the lake while I was heading back to the clubhouse. The wind ripped the top off my cart after the Velcro came undone, sending it flying across the fairway. I had no choice but to chase after it in the pouring rain, making for a hilarious and unforgettable lesson!
What type of music do you prefer?
I enjoy a variety of genre’s, from the classic rock my dad used to play (which I’ve come to appreciate) to country and today’s top hits. My favorite artist overall is Zach Bryan.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
I enjoy shopping, spending lake days with friends, going to hockey games, traveling, and hanging out with my dog, Willow.
Favorite charity to support?
Two of my favorite charities to support are ASPCA and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. I love supporting ASPCA because of their dedication to rescuing and protecting animals, and St. Jude’s because of the incredible work they do to provide care and treatment for children battling serious illnesses.
Megan Dennis
Under-Dawg Russell Henley Wins the Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by
By George McNeilly
Mastercard
Russell Henley tied for fourth a year ago and watched Scottie Scheffler claim a $4 Million Dollar payday. This time he returned to Orlando like a man who had unfinished business.
The University of Georgia Bulldog carded a 2-under par 72 to finish 11 under par for the week and took top prize by remaining in contention after each of the opening three rounds. It wasn’t until his final round chip-in eagle from 54 feet on the par-5 16th hole when he took a lead he never relinquished and held off some major winners to leave with a hefty payday, one of Arnie’s red cardigan sweaters and the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard trophy, his fifth career PGA Tour victory.
“I’ve tried to just work really
hard in all aspects of my game to try to put myself in position to win tournaments and compete at the highest possible level on the biggest and best courses, and just crazy that it happened like that. It’s just hard to take in. I
can’t explain it, Henley said. “Also, just the pressure of knowing that Collin was going to play so steady and knowing that I had to play steady. It almost made me kind of realize it was just so far from over, knowing that I knew he was going
Photo by Omar Rawlings
Winner of 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational, Russell Henley
to hit great shots coming down the last two holes as well. So just tremendously hard to win out here.”
Morikawa who led most of the final round shot even par to finish a shot back at minus 10. Corey Conners would up solo third place with a 9-under par performance.
35-year-old Henley moved up to second is the FedEx Cup points race and 7th in the Official World Golf Rankings while defeating the likes of major champions Morikawa, Jason Day and Shane Lowry who were all in position to win, none more than Morikawa who led until Henley’s eagle down the stretch.
““It’s unbelievable,” Henley said. “Hats off to Collin, he played great today, he played super steady, but sometimes
golf is just mean like that.”
Morikawa had birdie tries of 39 and 27 feet on the closing two holes but fell short. Henley saved par with a 6-footer on 17 and then two-putted for par from 43 feet on the 72nd hole for the victory.
“I’ve grown up watching this event and just seeing all the amazing finishes coming down the stretch, and you never really think you’re going to get that opportunity to come down the 18th and make a par to win,” Henley said. “It’s really just hard to take in right now. It’s a tremendous honor, and that’s what’s so cool about this game, is to go play where all the legends have played.”
Henley’s victory at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge was his fourth top 10 finish in
2025. After Saturday’s third round, he said he felt like he’s playing his best golf ever, and went on to deliver when it mattered most.
“I just feel like you can play some amazing golf and not win,” Henley said. “I mean, Collin played so awesome this week and he didn’t win. That’s just the tough part of this game.”
Michael Kim, in search of a second career victory seven years after capturing the John Deere Classic, was fourth at 8-under. Jason Day who won the PGA Championship a decade ago and the Arnold Palmer Invitational in 2016, tied for eighth, twotime API winner Scottie Scheffler tied for 11th, and 2018 winner Rory McIlroy was 15th.
Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images
Photo by Omar Rawlings
Photo by Omar Rawlings
Top 3 Golf Courses You Need to Play in Panama
by Dave Finn
Looking for the next “hot” golf destination? Do you prefer cityscapes, ocean views or the tranquillity of the rainforest?
Panama may be small in size but is big in style. Situated at the lower end of the continental divide that separates North and South
America, the country’s topography has been used to its advantage to create links style, parkland, ocean and mountain courses. There are 13 uniquely different golf courses, and I was fortunate to play nine. Here is my countdown of the top 3 championship golf courses you need to play.
#3 Mantarraya Golf Club
It is located near Farallon, less than 2-hours from Panama City and only steps from the Scarlett Martinez International Airport. Mantarraya is the crowning jewel of the all-inclusive Royal Decameron Resort. Even though the fairways are relatively wide with subtle rolls, I was pleasantly surprised at the difficulty served by this resort course. There are 14 holes where water will come into play, and while the average-size greens have slight undulations, they are extremely fast, so your pace of putting is critical. Green fees for 18 holes range from US$60 to $75.
#2 Club de Golf de Panamá
“Mature and stately” would be the best way I can describe the 105-year-old Panama GC because of the towering trees that line the fairways and the dramatic elevation changes. The entire course appears to be carved out of the jungle, with water evident on 12 holes, but thankfully, I found the fairways wider and more receptive than they looked. This club is private, but members’ guests can play here for a US$125 green fee.
Lucero Golf & Country Club
Casco Viejo –Plaza de la Independencia
#1 Lucero Golf & Country Club
Playing atop a mountain is like playing on top of the world, and Lucero, Panama’s highest golf course, delivers. Sitting almost 3500 feet above sea level in the highlands near Boquete, this course is simply the most visually stunning in Panama. Architect Michael Poellet has taken every advantage of the natural landscape with a 360° view, including Volcán Barú and the Pacific Ocean, more than 90 miles away. It felt like I was playing at the edge of the world. Green fees range from US$80-90.
In addition to offering world-class golf, Panama is a very affordable, exotic destination and one of the safest countries in Latin America for tourists, travellers and retirees alike. Panamanians are among the friendliest people in the world, and many speak English fluently, so it’s easy to get around once you’re there. After taking in the sights and sounds of the Capital, in no time, you can find yourself on the Caribbean or Pacific beach, on a volcano, watching the sun rise or hiking a trail in a national park before indulging in a fabulous meal or taking in the nightlife. As simple or as sophisticated as your tastes, Panama has it all.
Panama City - A contrast of modern and historic architecture
Mantarraya Golf Club
Panama Golf Club
Premier Resort
Discover an endlessly entertaining, totally relaxing waterfront destination where life is so simple - and simply amazing. Stay and play here. Eat and drink here. Meet and greet here. Whether you’re staying for a few days or an entire season, our championship level golf club and the gulf coast’s finest amenities are the perfect accompaniments to creating the ultimate golf getaway.
sunseeker resorts.com
Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was born in SE Michigan and grew up there until I graduated high school. I moved to Harbor Springs, Mi where I built my first house the next year.
Is “acting your age” over rated? Absolutely. Everyone I know says I act like a kid
What do you do for a living? Retired to Florida where I live in a great golf community.
What would you like to do for a living? I had a great job. I wouldn’t change anything I did.
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I like to read, travel and work in the woodshop in our community.
What golf apparel do you like to wear? Fore Fathers and Sunday Swagger
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? The only people I would say I admire or look up to would be my kids.
Steak, chicken, or seafood? I can eat all three. Except liver
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? I’ll give you a literal answer. A desalination device. A very long book series and a fishing pole.
Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? Someone who can fish.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Slow play and I mean slow by hitting extra shots and looking for balls. If I’m behind a beginner that’s slow, I don’t mind at all. We were all there at one time.
Rick Glasgow
Name the three most important things to you in this world. The health of my family. Nothing else is really that important
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? If I had to select, I would say shooting par would make me happy.
What do you fear the most? Losing a family member.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? My grandkids
Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? I’ve done the bar scene, relaxing at home is what I enjoy now.
Last book you read? I’m reading the Outlander series right now. I believe I’m on the sixth book.
Emily May
Where were you born? West Palm Beach, FL. I now live in Miami.
What do you do for a living? I teach Mass Media and coach girls basketball at the best school in the world, Westminster Christian School.
What would you like to do for a living? This is my dream job, in my dream city.
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Anything outside or near the water – beach, runs, pickleball. And I’m a typical girl when it comes to relaxation – spa days, mani-pedi, all my friends hanging out with good food just talking the day away
What golf apparel do you like to wear? My go-to is a cute golf dress. Lately I’ve been obsessed with all things Malbon. The designs and colors are perfect, and the collabs are so fun.
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My mom is who I go to most for anything related to fashion, but she makes me feel beautiful no matter what which is so cool. She’s a big reason why I’m confident in certain areas. My best friend, Mel, is also incredible. She can easily be a model for basically anything, she’s effortlessly pretty, but she’s got a heart of gold and is truly the greatest best friend I could imagine.
Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. If I’m really your friend, I’ll sing in the car with you. Not very well. But I will sing, loud and proud.
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? My favorite bikini, good music, and an unlimited supply of Chipotle (with guac of course)
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Number one would have to be when people don’t fix their divots. I think the etiquette side of golf is something that makes the game special, and these courses are so beautiful, I just think we should all do our part. My dad taught me that. He taught me everything I know. I think I am a bit spoiled because he’s the best teacher ever.
Name the three most important things to you in this world. My Faith, my family, and my passport.
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Love is the greatest thing someone can experience. My family shows me love all the time. I wouldn’t be the same without their love. In my book, success is when you experience God’s love in a way it makes you want to show that love to others. That’s when you’ve cracked the code to life.
What do you fear the most? Not making the most of the time given to us on this earth. That and roaches lol.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? My dad, Caitlin Clark, and Lexi Thompson
Favorite comedian? Can’t go wrong with a good SNL skit
Last book you read? Living Fearless by Jamie Winship – one of the most powerful books I’ve ever read.
Favorite charity to support? Lotus House. It’s so special to see how the small sacrifices of many can have a huge impact.
First University-Certified Professional Caddie Program, Setting the Gold Standard for Tournament-Level Caddies
A landmark moment in professional golf unfolded as the first-ever university-certified Professional Caddie Certification Program debuted at Lonnie Poole Golf Course at North Carolina State University. This groundbreaking initiative is convened by Tour Caddie Collective and NC State Continuing and Lifelong Education, with support from the Association of Professional Tour Caddies (APTC) and the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA). Next course starts July 13th.
Designed to elevate professional caddying to new heights, this program establishes the gold standard for entry-level caddies seeking careers at the tournament, country club, and resort levels. Participants will receive elite instruction in essential disciplines, including rules, statistics, psychology, physiotherapy, advanced course management, green reading, and the latest in golf technology.
In an industry first, attendees will gain hands-on experience working alongside the NC State University Golf Team, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world, on-course scenarios—an invaluable component of the program.
World-Class Instructor Lineup:
• Todd Satterfield – USGA & PGA TOUR Rules Official, with
officiating experience at The Masters, U.S. Open, and other top championships
• Austin Powell – PGA TOUR Statistician
• Josh Nichols – Golf/Sports Psychologist
• Justin Blazer – AimPoint and Green Reading Expert
• Digby Watt, MPT, MTC, CSCS,
CGFI – Tour Physiotherapist
• Grant Berry, Mike Hicks and Heath Holt – Veteran Tour
Caddies with multiple Major, Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup and Championship credentials
Participants will also receive specialized training in AimPoint, green reading, GC Quad and TrackMan systems, course, and player management strategies, and even CPR training, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed at the highest levels of the game.
A Game-Changer for the Caddie Profession
“This program is a game-changer for professional caddies,” said Grant Berry, Principal of Tour Caddie Collective and a professional golf caddie for over 40 years. “By combining expert-led instruction with university certification and oncourse training with the NCSU Golf Team, we’re setting a new industry benchmark for caddie education and career development.”
Mike Hicks, program instructor and co-founder, added: “Graduates of this program will be fully prepared to step onto the tournament stage with
the skills and knowledge required to thrive at the highest levels.” Hicks is best known for caddying Payne Stewart to his iconic 1999 U.S. Open victory, and he sees this program as a way to elevate the profession for future generations.
As the first university-certified professional caddie program, this initiative raises the bar for caddie education and formalizes a direct pathway into professional golf.
“This program represents a major step forward in workforce development for the golf
industry,” said Dan Gerger, Director of Continuing and Professional Education at NC State University. “We are proud to help create a program that will shape the future of professional caddying and open new doors for those looking to establish a career in golf.”
For more information and program details: https://lifelonglearning.ncsu.edu/ professional-caddie-certification-program/ Video promo: https://youtu.be/TM-DKvnhrAs
Your Masters Prep Trip: Play The Georgia Golf Trail
By Mike May
In the days leading up to this year’s Masters tournament (April 10-13), many golf enthusiasts spend their time reading stories about Gene Sarazen’s double-eagle at the 15th hole to win the 1935 Masters, the seven-year stretch from 19581964 when Arnold Palmer won four Green Jackets, Jack Nicklaus’ historic comeback to capture the Masters in 1986, and Tiger Woods’ memorable win at Augusta National in 2019. In addition to spending time getting immersed in Masters history, consider traveling to Georgia and actually playing golf in the days leading up to the Masters or immediately after the Masters. As beautiful as the dogwoods and azaleas
are on television, they are more beautiful when seen in person.
Your Masters-themed golf trip should be spent making pit stops along the Georgia Golf Trail, a series of 20+ golf courses from Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa in North Georgia to Jekyll Island in southeastern Georgia.
A great place to begin your pre-Masters or post-Masters trip is at one of Georgia’s nine state park golf courses, all of which are captivating golf destinations. At this time of the year, four of those courses that are in somewhat close proximity to one another are located in south or south-central Georgia: The Lakes GC at the Laura S.
Walker State Park in Waycross; the Wallace Adams GC inside the Little Ocmulgee State Park in McRae; the Creek GC at the Hard Labor State Park in Social Circle; and Brazell’s Creek GC at the GordoniaAlatamaha State Park in Reidsville.
Creek at Hard Labor State Park
Jekyll Island Club Resort
The Wharf Restaurant
The Wharf Restaurant
Each state park has modern cabins for overnight accommodations. These cabins are clean, comfortable, and spacious. A newly renovated lodge at Little Ocmulgee is another housing option.
The Lakes GC features large, undulating greens. The fairways are defined with gentle, links-style mounds that accent the course’s three large lakes. Loblolly pines are a common sight at the Lakes GC.
The Wallace Adams GC –nicknamed Little Augusta -- is dominated by loblolly pines which divide many of the fairways from one another. And, the pine straw beneath the trees looks the same as it is at Augusta National.
The Creek GC is a true joy to play as the loblolly pines that border the fairway will also remind you of Augusta National. Here, the sternest test is the tee shot on the par-four 10th hole, formerly the opening hole, which used to be considered “the hardest first starting hole in Georgia.”
At Brazell’s Creek GC, a welldesigned par-71 layout, the holes on the front nine are tree-lined and the greens have creative contours while the back nine was built on a windswept open landscape. A 1,500-yard winding bridge built through a canopy of trees connects the front nine with the back nine.
You may want to conclude your pre- or post-Masters trip with a few days at Jekyll Island, located in southeast Georgia. By the way, Jekyll Island is only an hour’s drive north of the Jacksonville Airport in north Florida.
“Jekyll Island is a great place in Georgia to unwind and relax while enjoying golf, fresh seafood, and time off the grid,” said Georgia Golf Trail Founder Doug Hollandsworth.
When on Jekyll Island, you can spend the night at either the historic Jekyll Island Club Resort or along the beach at the Jekyll Ocean Club.
Grill, located on the premises of the Jekyll Island GC, is another appealing dining destination.
Both are first-class destinations.
The Jekyll Island Golf Club features three 18-hole golf courses (Oleander, Indian Mound, and Pine Lakes) and the historic Great Dunes 9-hole course, which has picturesque oceanside views. Each golf course embraces the topography of Jekyll Island.
While on Jekyll Island, make plans to eat lunch or dinner at The Wharf. The quality of the food is only superseded by the brilliance of the nightly sunset which you can see from the deck. Tribuzio’s
While on Jekyll Island, if you want to take a short day-trip for golf, head north to Sapelo Hammock in Shellman Bluff, Georgia. Surrounded by tidal marshes, saw palmettos, and live oak trees, which are dripping with Spanish moss, this golf course is a terrific choice to spend your golfing dollars.
“We know you can’t play all the courses on the Georgia Golf Trail either before or after the Masters, so come back and plan your trips from the mountains to the coast.
Georgia has so much to offer to the entire family,” added Hollandsworth.
To learn more about where to play golf along the Georgia Golf Trail – either before or after the Masters tournament – check out www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel. com for more details.
Wallace Adams Golf Course at Little Ocmulgee State Park
Pine Lakes Golf Course
The Lakes – Signature 18th Hole
Merger in Golf Architecture: Smyers Craig Coyne (SCC)
The design firms of Steve Smyers Golf Course Architects and Craig & Coyne Golf Design have merged to create a new, dynamic design firm—Smyers Craig Coyne (SCC).
“What makes us such a strong team is that we each bring different and specific skill sets to the table,” said Steve Smyers about the recent partnership. Steve, a seasoned golf architect with nearly 50 years in the industry, has held pivotal roles including president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects and served on the USGA’s executive committee. A University of Florida graduate and member of the 1973 NCAA National
Championship team, Steve is also an accomplished amateur golfer, winning the 2008 Senior Crump Cup. His career has taken him around the world, designing courses on all six continents.
Over the years, Steve and Colton Craig have bonded over their shared passion for golf architecture.
“I’m forever grateful for Steve’s mentorship; he’s the Mr. Miyagi to my Karate Kid,” said Colton, an Oklahoma State
Steve Smyers and Coltoin Craig
Tom Coyne and Steve Smyers
graduate with honors in Landscape Architecture. Colton’s journey includes winning the prestigious World 100 Club Architectural Fellowship, which allowed him to study over fifty legendary links courses in Scotland. At 25, Colton started his own design firm, marking the beginning of his journey.
In 2019, Colton met Tom Coyne at Southern Hills during his “A Course Called America” tour. Colton caddied for Tom, and by the 17th hole, the two had already agreed to collaborate. “Storytelling and design have always had parallels, and Tom is one of the greatest storytellers in golf,” said Colton. Tom, an award-winning, New York Times bestselling author and editor of The Golfer’s Journal, brings unique storytelling expertise to the team.
“Tom is one of the most welltraveled golfers of all time, and his passion for golf architecture makes him a rare and valuable asset,” said Steve. Tom, who holds a master’s degree in creative writing
from Notre Dame, echoed Steve’s sentiments. “What drew me to Steve was our shared respect for golf and our common values. Steve is the man—we’re lucky to have his wisdom in our corner,” said Tom.
The new firm brings together a Baby Boomer (Steve), Gen X-er (Tom), and Millennial (Colton), each contributing their unique perspectives to the world of golf architecture. “In a time when generational tension feels high, It’s refreshing to be part of a multigenerational team. We all respect each other, and our combined energy is something rare in the field,” added Tom. Colton explained, “The best part of golf is the people you meet, and the second-best part is that golf is played on an undefined playing field, making golf architecture essential.”
Smyers Craig Coyne (SCC) will focus on creating exceptional, oneof-a-kind projects with compelling stories. The firm’s design philosophy blends the history of golf with
the natural land, emphasizing strategic shot-making. In an era of abundance, SCC champions design through subtraction, focusing on simplicity, timelessness, and creative thinking. Their designs encourage repeat play while honoring the traditions of the game and embracing new innovations.
Instead of focusing on quantity, SCC prioritizes quality in every project. Colton shares, “Steve changed my view on P&L. Early on, I took any project just to get by, but Steve showed me the value of focusing on a few key projects.” Developers often face the choice between a prolific firm or one with direct designer involvement. “We aim to offer both,” said Steve.
“We’re in the business of creating enjoyable experiences, but working with SCC will be an enjoyable experience,” said Tom.
Projects in 2025: New Courses in South Dakota, Georgia, and Florida, and a redesign in Indiana. www.sccgolfdesign.com
ROLEX AND GOLF: The Making of Champions
For almost 60 years, Rolex has been at the forefront of golf. Having fostered one of the most enduring partnerships between a brand and sport, the Swiss watchmaker remains a consistent and integral part of the sport as the 2025 season gets underway.
The 2024 season was defined by thrilling performances and remarkable achievements from Rolex Testimonees, and 2025 promises even greater excitement, as the world’s leading golfers are once again poised to excel on the sport’s grandest stages. With a strong legacy of supporting the sport’s greatest players, Rolex will celebrate not only the victories, but also the journey and the relentless pursuit of excellence, teamwork, and dedication that defines golf’s finest champions.
Rolex’s long-standing relationship with golf dates back to 1967 when Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player became the first Testimonees and seminal figures within the sport, forever shaping its landscape. Known collectively as The Big Three, this partnership was built on a mutual appreciation for and commitment to precision, integrity, humility, respect and
THE BIG THREE, ROLEX TESTIMONEES ARNOLD PALMER, JACK NICKLAUS AND GARY PLAYER
ROLEX CLOCK AT THE LATIN AMERICA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP, 2016
ROLEX TESTIMONEE JORDAN SPIETH ON THE 1ST TEE AT THE PRESIDENTS CUP, 2017
excellence – qualities that are deeply rooted in Rolex’s identity
The 2025 season marks several significant anniversaries and milestones within the sport. It is the 45th edition of The Ryder Cup, and 30 years since Rolex became a partner of the European team in 1995. This year, the tournament will be held at the revered Bethpage Black Golf Course, where both teams will strive to continue the tradition of team spirit and fierce competition that defines this prestigious event.
As the new season unfolds, many Rolex Testimonees are celebrating key milestones in their careers. Notably, it is the 25th anniversary of Tiger Woods’ record breaking season in 2000, during which he won the U.S. Open, The Open and the PGA Championship in a single year. In doing so, Woods became the first player to achieve this remarkable feat, a record that remains unmatched. In 2001, Woods made history by winning the Masters Tournament, becoming the first player in the modern era to hold all four Major championships simultaneously – a feat famously coined as the “Tiger Slam”.
The 2025 Masters Tournament marks the first men’s Major championship of the season and commemorates 40 years since Rolex Testimonee Bernhard Langer’s maiden Green Jacket (1985). This edition will be his final appearance on the hallowed and prestigious fairways of Augusta National Golf Club. Rolex is also a proud partner of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, a tournament dedicated to advancing women’s golf by creating opportunities for players worldwide and inspiring future generations of
female golfers through enriching and impactful pathways. The attention of the golfing world will then head to Quail Hollow Club in North Carolina for the 107th PGA Championship, taking place from 15–18 May, before the 125th edition of the U.S. Open, held at Oakmont Country Club. This will be the 10th time this prestigious tournament has been held at the historic Pittsburgh golf course – more than any other venue. The final men’s Major championship will conclude with The Open, hosted at Royal Portrush Golf Club for only the third time, with the world’s best players battling it out on the challenging links fairways from 17–20 July in the hope of claiming the coveted Claret Jug and being crowned Champion Golfer of the Year.
In the women’s game, Rolex is a long-standing partner of the five Major championships, which are: The Chevron Championship, U.S. Women’s Open, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, The Amundi Evian Championship, and AIG Women’s Open. The Amundi Evian Championship is the penultimate women’s Major of the season and the only Major to be staged in continental Europe. Held annually at the Evian Resort Golf Club in France, 2025 marks the 25th anniversary since Rolex established its partnership with this prestigious tournament (2000).
Rolex’s deep-rooted relationships within the sport reinforce the brand’s constant presence and influence to permeate all levels of the game. Launched in 2017, the Rolex Series is the premier tournament category on the
U.S. OPEN, CHAMBERS BAY, 2015
DP World Tour, comprising of five distinguished events. Rolex is also a partner of the Asian Tour’s International Series, a key component of the Tour that showcases a series of tournaments held across multiple countries, drawing world-class talent from around the globe. The Swiss watchmaker has also been a partner of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) since 1980, further solidifying its commitment by sponsoring the Rolex LPGA Awards, which celebrate and honour the Tour’s top players.
Rolex is a proud partner of the PGA TOUR®. The tour organizer manages many of the most prestigious tournaments outside of the four Majors, with Signature Events including the Arnold Palmer Invitational, THE PLAYERS Championship, and the season-long points competition which culminates in the FedExCup Playoffs. These tournaments offer golfers the unique opportunities to demonstrate their world class ability on the biggest stages throughout the season.
The Swiss watchmaker is also supporting its partners’ initiatives and is a partner of leading amateur and junior team competitions, including the Arnold Palmer Cup, Walker Cup, Junior Ryder Cup and World Amateur Team Championships. These disciplines embody the brand’s core values, reflecting a long-term commitment to inspire future generations by fostering a competitive spirit, a passion for challenges, and an unwavering dedication to excellence.
FAIRWAYS AND GREENS
Jorge has a busy life in Ave Maria. He’s the club champion at Panther Run, which is the golf course in his neighborhood. And when he isn’t playing over there, he’s teeing it up at The National, a golf cart commute from his home. “It’s wonderful for an avid golfer to have two championship courses a half mile from each other,” he says. Jorge is also a cancer survivor. “It made me think about life, think about what I was doing. There’s that old saying: a bad day on the golf course beats a good day at work.
Thankfully, I beat the cancer. And every day’s a great day here.” The life you’ve been thinking about could be just down the road in Ave Maria—A Big Kind of Small Town.
Feeling is Believing with Luxurious New Prime Designs from BIG MAX
BIG MAX is bringing a new level of understated refinement to its golf bag line with the introduction of the Dri Lite Prime and Dri Lite Hybrid Prime. Combining the on-course functionality for which BIG MAX is known, with beautiful new styling and innovative design features, these two new bags offer a level of sophistication usually reserved for the world’s leading luxury brands.
Based on a SoftGuard PU leather, the most soft and durable material BIG MAX has ever used in its bag line, the Prime bags offer the discerning golfer a unique premium, ultra-soft feel with uncompromising style and functionality. Scratch resistant, easy to wipe clean and incredibly soft to the touch, the new Prime bags have to be felt to be believed. Both bags feature minimal branding on the waterproof material and include waterproof pockets designed to complement the seamless aesthetic along with 14 way full length dividers and a unique soft top to keep clubs secure and scratch free.
The Dri Lite Prime is a spacious cart bag featuring 10 pockets and a 9.5” top. Each pocket that requires regular access has the convenience of magnetic fastenings, including the waterproof valuables pocket that features a dedicated sunglasses compartment. Larger pockets feature waterproof zippers, while the cooler compartment can easily fit two bottles, with space for another in the quick access external holder. This stunning cart bag is the ultimate in minimalist luxury.
The Dri Lite Hybrid Prime takes the sophistication of the Prime design and adds the versatility of a Hybrid construction. A flat footless base, leg lock and lower housing of the stand mechanism enables the bag to sit square on a cart or push cart with no twisting, while a lightweight 6.4 lbs construction, padded dual straps and air channel, provide for the most comfortable carry.
Seven spacious waterproof pockets, a host of practical features such as glove and towel holder finish off this impressive design that is perfect for golfers who like to walk, ride and carry in style. In both of these fantastic new bags, every detail has been thought of. Providing unmatched functionality along with a beautiful understated design BIG MAX has elevated its offer and is giving golfers a sense of luxury that goes beyond the ordinary.
Dri Lite Prime RRP: $349. Available in Black or Off-White.
Dri Lite Hybrid Prime RRP: $299. Available in Black or Off-White.
For more information, please visit https://us.bigmaxgolf.com/ Instagram @BIGMAX.GOLF
WKeep Calm and Sink the Putt.
by Roberto Suarez
hile a powerful drive might grab the spotlight, it’s often the delicate art of putting that determines your final score.
Many golfers find that the pressure of sinking a putt can lead to tension, which negatively impacts their performance. But what if you could approach each putt with a sense of calm and confidence? el HappyBreath technique will teach you how to relax and sink more putts when they matter most.
The Impact of Tension on Putting
Tension is the enemy of a smooth, controlled putting stroke. When you’re tense, your muscles tighten, and your movements become jerky and inconsistent. This can lead to several putting problems, including:
• Missed putts: Tension can
cause you to pull or push putts off line.
• Inconsistent speed: A tense stroke can lead to inconsistent speed control, making it difficult to judge the distance of your putts.
• Poor alignment: Tension can affect your posture and alignment, making it harder to line up your putts accurately.
The Benefits of Relaxed Putting
When you’re relaxed, your putting stroke becomes smoother, more controlled, and more consistent. This can lead to several benefits, including:
• Improved accuracy: A relaxed stroke allows you to make more accurate putts.
• Better speed control: A relaxed stroke leads to more consistent speed control, making it easier to judge the distance of your putts.
• Enhanced focus: When you’re relaxed, you can focus better on the task at hand, which can help you read greens more accurately and make better decisions.
el HappyBreath
Technique
el HappyBreath technique is a simple yet powerful breathing exercise that can help you calm your nerves and improve your focus on the putting green. Here’s how it works:
1. Four Sets of Five Breaths: This technique consists of four sets, each containing five breaths. You’ll take four short breaths followed by one long breath.
2. Short Breaths: Focus on making these breaths smooth and continuous. The goal is to connect the inhale and exhale into seamless circles, emphasizing the flow of your breath. You can breathe in and out
of either your nose or mouth.
3. Long Breath: After each set of four short breaths, take a long, deep breath. On the inhale, expand your lungs fully, and on the exhale, release all the air completely.
4. Repeat: Continue this pattern – four short breaths and one long breath – for a total of four sets without pausing.
Incorporating el HappyBreath Into Your Putting Routine
You can incorporate el HappyBreath technique into your putting routine in several ways. Here are a few suggestions:
• Before each putt: Take a few moments to practice el HappyBreath technique before you approach the ball. This will help you calm your nerves and focus on the task at hand.
• Between putts: If you’re feeling tense or frustrated, take a few minutes to practice el HappyBreath
technique between putts. This can help you reset your mental state and get back on track.
• After your round: Practice el HappyBreath technique after your round to help you relax and unwind.
By practicing el HappyBreath technique regularly, you can train yourself to stay calm and focused on the putting green, even under pressure. This can lead to significant improvements in your putting performance and your
For more information or to schedule a free coaching session, visit elhappycoach.com.
overall game.
Zeb Hartline has been named
Director of Culinary Operations for Reynolds Lake Oconee. In his new position, Hartline will be responsible for all culinary operations for the Club’s 14 food and beverage outlets along with banquet and event catering operations.
Most recently, Hartline served as Executive Chef at Houston Country Club, where he oversaw a clubhouse renovation project as well as the opening of five new dining outlets. Previous positions include stints with Marriott International, JW Marriott, Gaylord
Zeb Hartline Named Director of Culinary Operations for Reynolds Lake Oconee
Experienced Executive Chef Takes the Helm of Expansive Culinary Program
Resorts, and Sheraton Hotels in Texas and Florida. While in Texas, he was nominated for the Dallas Tastemaker Awards—Rising Star Chef of the Year. He is the recipient of more than two dozen awards in barbeque competitions.
“We’re excited to welcome Zeb to the Reynolds Lake Oconee community and to benefit from his expertise and talents,” said Tim Hong, Chief Operating Officer, Reynolds Lake Oconee. “Our members and guests have come
to expect only the finest culinary experiences, and we’re all looking forward to new ideas and creations under his
A Michigan native and Magna Cum Laude graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in Orlando, Hartline and his family enjoy fishing, hiking, and trying new restaurants.
Cisco APGA Black History Month Classic
The Cisco APGA Black History Month Classic returned to TPC Sawgrass Dye’s Valley Course as a field of the top 54 players on the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour took on one of Florida’s most challenging courses over 36 holes and battle for a $25,000 purse. The APGA is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering African American and other diverse golfers to excel in professional golf. www.apgatour.com
Chase Johnson
Andrew Walker
Zachary Juhasz
Cameron Riley
Willie Mack III
Luis Gagne
Marcus Byrd
PGA HOPE Graduate Program Success
Story from PGA HOPE Melbourne at Duran Golf Club
Golf is more than just a sport; it’s a source of healing, camaraderie, and purpose for many Veterans. Since 2018, PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) North Florida has introduced over 1,000 Veterans to the game of golf, using it as a tool for
rehabilitation and connection.
One of the Section’s standout programs, PGA HOPE Melbourne at Duran Golf Club launched in late 2023. This program has
quickly become a model for other PGA HOPE programs. The program has welcomed more than approximately 140 Veterans and Instructors Justin Blazer, Ryan Rozic, and Kyle DeCenzo are committed to building strong connections with participants to support them both on and off the course. Duran Golf Club has fully embraced the initiative and provided different benefits for Veterans after a program session ends. They offer discounted course fee rates, club fittings, and merchandise to help Veterans continue their journey in the game.
Along with these benefits, the Instructors at PGA HOPE Melbourne recognized the need for long-term engagement. They introduced PGA HOPE 2.0, an advanced program designed to keep Veterans involved in the game and with the facility. Participants receive 45 minutes of professional instruction at a discounted rate, followed by a round on Duran’s Short Course. This format provides short game improvement and reinforces the social bonds that make the experience so impactful.
Duran’s PGA HOPE 2.0 program fosters confidence, belonging, and a deeper connection to
NFPGA Member, David Moore, PGA serving as a PGA Ambassador
NFPGA Member, Alex Forsyth, PGA serving as a PGA Ambassador
the sport. As PGA HOPE North Florida expands its reach, this program’s success serves as a tool for healing and camaraderie.
NFPGA Members Served as PGA Ambassadors during the Wednesday Pro-Am at the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard Giving back to the game we love is a vital part of being a PGA Golf Professional. NFPGA Members had the opportunity to give back on March 5th as they filled the role of PGA Ambassadors for the Wednesday Pro-Am at the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard. The role of these PGA Ambassadors was to walk along with the Wednesday Pro-Am groups, assist in keeping pace of play moving, and to help create a memorable experience for the amateurs participating in the event. Sometimes that meant pulling flagsticks, looking for golf balls in the deep rough at Bay Hill, or just having a friendly conversation with an amateur and getting to know them. All these things that our NFPGA Members did added up to help the Wednesday Pro-Am be an incredible day at a historic event on the PGA TOUR.
NFPGA Member, Alex Romanoff, PGA serving as a PGA Ambassador
A group playing Duran's Short Course at PGA HOPE Melbourne
South Florida PGA Junior Tour Announces Srixon as Presenting Partner
The South Florida PGA Junior Tour has teamed up with Srixon, agreeing on a three-year partnership as the presenting partner of the SFPGA Junior Tour. The partnership will enhance the ability of the SFPGA Junior Tour, now the Srixon South Florida PGA Junior Tour, to deliver first-class, competitive, and fun tournaments hosted at prestigious South Florida facilities for juniors.
“We are excited to join forces with the Srixon team,” said South Florida PGA Assistant Executive Director Meredith Schuler. “Between the commitment given at the Section Level to our South Florida PGA Professionals and now the relationship with our Junior Tour, we are confident this partnership will raise the standard and professionalism of all Junior events while further promoting our mission.”
The announcement is shared as the Junior Tour is coming off celebrating its 25th year anniversary in 2024, where a record number of members was set at over 1,300. In this partnership, the SFPGA will look to set another record high as each event administered this year has included a sellout field.
“Srixon is proud to partner with the South Florida PGA Junior Tour and support the next generation of talented golfers,” said Srixon’s Marketing Communications Director, Noelle
Zavaleta. “This partnership aligns with our commitment to growing the game by providing young players with premier competitive opportunities and access to toptier equipment. We look forward to seeing these juniors develop their skills and passion for golf through the SFPGA Junior Tour.”
Along with being the presenting partner, the Medalist and Prep Tour Player of the Year Points race, which annually recognizes the top male and female juniors in their respective age divisions, will be renamed the Srixon Player of the Year Points Race.
The South Florida PGA Junior Tour falls under the umbrella of the South Florida PGA and its 501-c-3 not-for-profit, the South Florida PGA Foundation. The Junior Tour is composed of three separate Tours, each offering a different experience based on the level of play.
By Anthony L. Williams, CGCS, CGM, MG
A Turf Pirate's Journal
$ Making Memories and Marking the Day $
Greetings from the River House Turf Pirates! I have traveled a lot over the last year (200 + Hotel stays to be exact) and I am glad to be home for a few days. The more I travel and the older I get the more I am reminded to go out and make memories worthy of the investment. I just returned from the GCSAA conference in San Diego, and it was a great event, and I saw many old friends, learned some new stuff and also mourned the loss of a few old friends (Texas lost several turf grass heroes in the last few months) who had passed on and left us carrying the torch. It is a well-known fact that Turf Pirates celebrate the gathering of elders and the telling of tales but we also at times reflect on those no longer with us. This month’s photo is from the Orlando, 2017 GCSAA Show. It features Mr. Propane Jim Coker, my dear friend, myself, and a gathering of now GCSAA past Presidents who also happen to be good friends. The story behind the photo is that Jim had gone out of his way to pick up his classic convertible Cadilac (I know you
noticed how cool the car in the background was) with the express purpose of picking me up and drive around Orlando, get some seafood for lunch and see who and what we could see. When we hopped in, he said, “today is going to be great because we have all day to make some memories,” and we made the most of it. Jim was many things ranging from a propane ambassador, Tennessee native and ardent supporter of Tennessee football, history expert, avid golfer, and proud owner of his home in Tennessee “Cokerosa.” He was a free spirit, Turf Pirate and since his passing a few years ago is missed by many and I am certainly a part of this group. Jim and I had a lot of adventures together over the years and we played more than our fair share of golf, I never thought there would be a day I could not pick up the phone or plan an adventure with Jim. We taught classes, wrote articles, and talked about football and life. Then there was a day when I called and left a message and did not hear back for four days. He called to let me know he was sick and before I could get to Tennessee to see him, he passed.
If you know Jim or have heard me tell a few tales that involved Jim then you know he lived everyday to the fullest and he is in a better place and would want every Turf Pirate to know he expects us all to be busy living and that’s what the gathering of elders is about, Turf Pirates celebrate the day and days gone by with an eye to the horizon. There are many memories as yet unmade and as you know we only have suggestions in the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates (no rules) so if I might make a suggestion. Get out and do something fun ASAP involve as many friends (old or new) as you can and be INTENTIONAL! It has been 8 years since I rode around with Jim at the Orlando show but I remember it like yesterday, and I am grateful he set that afternoon in motion and that we got a cool picture to mark the day. We are all busy, but life is after all what you make it so take some time to make some great memories and mark the day in some way you will be glad you did. Until we raise another glass, may the grass always be greener on your side of the fence.
Orlando GIS 17B
SUPERSpotlight: Marty Walden Kentucky
Golf Course Superintendent Revitalizing Municipal Gem
Like many golf course superintendents, Marty Walden at Dale Hollow Lake State Park in Burkesville, Kentucky, gained the love of golf at a young age by playing with his dad. Despite being a multi-sport athlete growing up, Marty found golf preeminent in his thoughts, playing as much as he could and working at local courses. While he is humble about his golfing skills, Marty is the type of golfer who can go months without picking up a club and still produce the smooth, relaxed swing of a low handicapper. His passion for golf led him to Western Kentucky University, where he earned a degree in Turfgrass Management. Around 2002, near the end of his studies, he discovered that Kentucky State Parks were beginning to build modern golf courses throughout the commonwealth, including one near his hometown at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Marty interviewed and joined the team at Pine Mountain State Park, the first of many new courses developed by Kentucky State Parks. Marty quickly advanced to the position of assistant superintendent. Under the guidance of seasoned Golf Course Superintendent Ronnie Caldwell, he was well prepared when he learned that construction was starting at Dale Hollow, and they needed a resident inspector overseeing the contractor. Marty took on this challenge while still fulfilling his duties as an assistant at Pine Mountain, making frequent trips back and forth. These efforts led to Marty becoming the first and only
superintendent at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park to date.
Dale Hollow Lake State Park Golf Course made a stunning debut in the golf community. The masterpiece, designed by Brian Ault, quickly gained both state and national acclaim. Every tee offers a picturesque view. The course features bentgrass greens, bermuda tees, bluegrass/fescue rough, Meyer Zoysia fairways and elaborate bunkering and slopes. Carved out of the forest adjacent to the famous Dale Hollow Lake, this gem is a true test for advanced players while also being accessible to higher handicappers due to its generous fairways and teeing locations. As one of Kentucky’s popular golf destinations, the course has
brought tourism and jobs to a rural part of Kentucky that needed it.
As the years progressed, the golf market experienced a downturn, and like many aging golf courses, Dale Hollow faced infrastructural challenges, particularly in the bunkers. Tighter labor restrictions added additional factors for Marty and his team. Marty was among the first golf course superintendents in Kentucky to begin renovating bunkers in-house, utilizing the Better Billy Bunker method. He began updating four to five bunkers a year in the offseason, which improved golfers’ experiences and reminded them of the course’s original quality. His efforts inspired other courses within the Kentucky State Parks system to follow suit, eventually
leading to a significant investment of capital funding to finish all the bunkers in 2024 and 2025.
Kentucky’s governor, Andy Beshear, has committed to investing in Kentucky State Parks, understanding the importance of these destinations for tourism and economic success. The governor’s leadership and advocacy and supporting legislation has helped Kentucky State Parks receive critical funding for improvements. In 2024, $71 million in funding was approved by the General Assembly and signed by Governor Beshear for capital construction projects, including building system upgrades, accommodation improvements and recreational amenity enhancements. Included in those funds is $8.5 million to improve state park golf courses including irrigation replacement and bunker repairs, which includes work at Dale Hollow. Additionally, Governor Beshear also signed House Bill 6, allocating over $66 million for state park upgrades
and improvements. In addition to funding, Gov. Beshear also launched the New Kentucky Home marketing initiative, which will reintroduce Kentucky to the world and further highlight assets like Kentucky State Parks to fuel economic investment, attract and retain talent and increase tourism.
These enhancements at state parks, combined with a dramatic increase in golf participation nationally, have solidified Dale Hollow Lake Golf Course’s reputation as one of the best public golf courses in Kentucky. With weekend rates peaking at $65, this high-quality facility is popular with golfers from across the Midwest. The loyal local golfers find special weekday rates, while the course stays packed with out-of-town guests Friday through Sunday throughout the season. Marty and the dedicated team at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park persevered through a challenging golf economy and a declining infrastructure, providing
excellent service to golfers. Marty is now at the tail end of a distinguished career as a golf course superintendent. The role and visibility of golf course superintendents or greenkeepers have shifted throughout the years. Today, golf course superintendents and PGA professionals collaborate closely to manage the facilities and golf experience with the superintendent being at the forefront of on-course experience from the golfer’s perspective. Marty has raised his family in his hometown and achieved great success in his career. He coaches the local high school golf team and has done several other things to help youth and others for many years. While he is humble in his demeanor, he is a true leader of his community. Someday, he will retire from the Kentucky Department of Parks, but Marty will always be a presence at Dale Hollow State Park Lake Golf Course and will forever be associated with bringing exceptional golf to rural Kentucky.
SUPERSpotlight: Joselyn Kent Even the Smallest Seed Can Grow into Something Strong
I am no one in this industry, or even in this world. Just a little seed in a vast universe of soil, once discarded and left to wither. As an infant, I was abandoned on the streets of Honduras because of my birth defect. I can only imagine how difficult that decision was for my biological parents, but for me, it planted a deep-rooted belief that I was worthless, unwanted. For six years, I crawled through life, quite literally, dragging my clubfoot and skewed knee across the gravel road, begging for food, carrying a cardboard box for shelter. I was barely surviving. In 1999, Reverend Linwood Cook, on a mission trip with the Friends of Barnabas Foundation, saw me. He didn’t see a broken child—he saw potential, something worth nurturing. He asked if I wanted to run and play like the other children, and of course, I said yes. At that time, I was thirtythree pounds, malnourished,
infested with parasites, and barely clinging to life. He made legal arrangements for me to come
to the United States for medical attention, to undergo corrective surgeries so I could walk.
I know I am blessed beyond measure to have been given a second chance, but it has never been easy. Physical therapy was grueling, and even after the surgeries, I had to learn what pain was worth pushing through and what I had to accept. I had to find a support system to remind me to keep going when the world, and my own doubts, told me to stop. You may wonder why I am sharing this story, what it has to do with turf. I share it because my journey mirrors the very grass we care for. Turf does not choose where it’s planted. Some seeds land in rich soil, others in rocky ground, left to struggle. But with care, resilience, and the right conditions, even the
most overlooked patch of grass can thrive. Like turf, I needed someone to see my potential, to water and nurture me, to believe I could grow. The workforce was not kind to me. Many saw my waddle as I walked, my scars, and deemed me a liability rather than an asset. After countless rejections, I felt lost. Then, by chance, I stumbled upon a job listing for a seasonal grounds crew position at a golf course in St. Augustine, Florida, in 2018. I was not good at all. I was slow, constantly in pain, and certain I would be let go at the season’s end. But something about working outside, with my hands in
the dirt, felt right. My stubbornness and determination to show up, to give everything I had, caught the attention of my superintendent. He was a seed planter. He didn’t just see someone raking bunkers; he saw someone worth investing in. He taught me skills beyond the basics, pushed me to be better, and helped me achieve things I never thought possible. Four years later, I took those lessons to TPC Sawgrass as an Assistant-in-Training. Four months after that, I became an Assistant Superintendent at Duke University Golf Club.
Now, my job is more than just
managing turf—I have become a seed planter, too. Whether it’s mentoring new crew members, encouraging women in the industry, or proving that limitations do not define worth, I aim to cultivate growth in others. I know what it’s like to be overlooked, to be told no, to feel like you don’t belong. But I also know what it’s like to defy the odds, to prove that even a discarded seed can take root and flourish. I am no one in this industry, just a little seed in a world of dirt. But with the right care, even the smallest seed can grow into something strong, something lasting.
PTI Golf’s SOX Erosion Solutions Project At Blackstone CC Had An Audience Looking On
The SOX Erosion Solutions
installation that PTI Golf completed last year at Blackstone Country Club in Peoria, AZ, was typical of their previous installations with one major exception. This time the PTI crew had an audience.
Word is starting to spread about SOX Erosion Solutions, a high-tech, less evasive system to counter lake erosion. Based in Florida and active in the southeast for two decades, SOX recently expanded to the southwest by partnering with PTI Golf, a golf construction, landscaping and maintenance company serving the southwestern United States for over 30 years.
Superintendents and course owners in the southwest are growing more curious about the system, so the local chapter of the Arizona Golf Course Superintendents Association – Cactus & Pine – decided to gather on site to watch the installation. About 80 people attended to see first-hand the advantages of the SOX system.
“Blackstone Country Club’s superintendent Andrew Hitchcock and the Cactus & Pine hosted a really great agronomy meeting on the driving range, then brought over the members in carts to watch the SOX installation,” said PTI’s Sam Wolfe, who headed up the project. “We did a presentation as they watched the installation process and reviewed the different stages of the project followed by an informative Q&A. It was an educational and productive day.”
Hitchcock, who serves as Vice President for the Cactus & Pine chapter, agreed with Wolfe.
“I think the onsite demo was really helpful for showing exactly what Sox is and how the installation process goes,” he said. “ SOX is a much less invasive process to restore a lakehead versus a concrete wall or boulders or regrading. That day we showed the phases of the Sox installation. Some areas were already sodded, some areas were filled in front of the group, and some were staked up so they could see every step of the process.”
The PTI crew installed over 1,100 linear feet on the irrigation lake bordering the fourth hole during the eight-day process. While Blackstone officials chose to close the hole during the installation, it wasn’t totally necessary. That’s one of the many advantages of the SOX product.
“SOX leaves a very small footprint,” said Wolfe. “Otherwise you have to drain the lake and bring in large equipment. SOX allows the course to stay open during installation, protecting revenue generated by play.”
Here’s how it works:
First the crew does an analysis of the area, and then develops a restoration plan. Anchor stakes are positioned and staggered during layout. The bottom portion of the Sox is secured with rope, and then the top is rolled over like a taco and filled with organic material that will help wick in moisture from the water in the lake. The wicking of water
eliminates the need for sprinkler heads along the lake edge. The ends of the material are sewn shut. The top is then staked off and the material is covered with sod, vegetation and/or plants, providing immediate stabilization.
After it all settles in, what’s left is a beautiful lake bank with protection against erosion.
“The final SOX product is aesthetically beautiful, but it is also a very powerful defender against future erosion,” said Nate Watkin of SOX Erosion Solutions. “There is not another method available that captures all of that. It’s a pretty significant departure from traditional methods, which usually involves some type of hard material like concrete, and a bladder system. It’s not stable and it’s not a great fit with Mother Nature.
“Our system is about mitigation; about defending the bank from future erosion. This is a longterm solution, creating an active,
Filling SOX with organic matter
living, breathing shoreline.”
Hitchcock and Blackstone are very pleased with PTI’s work on the project.
“Sometimes contactors can get away from you a bit. You hire them and they say, ‘this is how we do it.’ But it isn’t that way with PTI,” said Hitchcock. “They worked like an addition to our agronomy team and hit the Blackstone standards.
They were easy to work with, they were reasonable with timeline and price point, and the quality of the work was as good as I could have enforced with my team.”
Watkin of SOX, who was involved in the Blackstone project, was also pleased with PTI’s work and is excited about the future of the relationship.
“Overall the partnership with PTI has been very good from a support standpoint,” he said. “They are one of our preferred partners in the southwest, and it has been a very strong partnership to start off.”
PTI Golf is a family-owned construction, landscape and golf maintenance company with over 30 years of hands-on experience in the Southwest. They proudly serve the golf, sports and landscape industry to enhance quality and improve conditions in a safe, environmentally friendly manner. For more information call (702) 315-5121, or visit www.ptigolf.com.
After Completion
Prior to SOX Installation
SOX installed and filled prior to Sod Installation
Turfgrass Troubleshooter: Dr. Harmon's Mission to Support Florida's Industry
By Cecilia Johnson
Dr. Philip Harmon is a plant pathology professor and extension specialist at the University of Florida (UF), specializing in warm season turfgrasses and southern highbush blueberry diseases. Harmon, a Purdue University graduate, focuses on developing disease-resistant plants and efficient disease management strategies through collaborative research with breeding programs. His extension work provides rapid and accurate diagnostic services to the turfgrass, small fruit and ornamental industries, delivering research-based solutions.
Background
Harmon’s passion for plant pathology began on his family’s fifth-generation farm in southwestern Indiana, where they grew watermelons, cantaloupes and vegetables. “I grew up working in the fields and gained an appreciation for agriculture early on,” he said. Dealing with crop diseases that required weekly fungicide treatments, Harmon’s early experiences sparked his interest in plant disease.
A pivotal moment came when Dr. Rick Latin, an extension plant pathologist from Purdue University, visited the farm as a vegetable and watermelon specialist. Latin shared a Purdue Extension publication with Harmon, igniting his passion for agriculture and later becoming a mentor who guided him through his education. Harmon’s father and Latin also served on a governor-appointed Pesticide Review Board, strengthening the family’s connection to plant disease management.
Harmon attended Purdue University, earning his Bachelor of Science in Plant Science in 1999 and his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology in 2003. “I always knew I wanted to attend Purdue,” Harmon
reflected, remembering how he had set his sights on the landgrant university from a young age. While pursuing his undergraduate degree, Harmon reconnected with Latin, who had shifted his research focus to turfgrass. After several conversations, Harmon approached Latin about pursuing a Ph.D. in plant pathology. “He told me to come back when I got my degree and sure enough, I did,” Harmon said. “I started right away in his program and pursued a Ph.D. straight out of my B.S.”
Research Focus: Turfgrass and Blueberries
As he finished his dissertation, Harmon interviewed for positions and landed two offers from UF. In 2003, he accepted the role he still holds today, focusing on diseases of warm-season turfgrass and managing southern highbush blueberry diseases. His position is split between extension work, research and teaching students, with 60% dedicated to extension. “That was 20 years ago and
Dr. Philip Harmon also does extension work specializing in southern highbush blueberry disease.
I still work with both turf and blueberries. It’s been a hoot. It’s been a lot of fun,” he reflected.
Harmon described the blueberry industry as a steady niche market, with breeding programs key to keeping it competitive. However, he acknowledged the challenges of producing a fruit crop in Florida, mainly due to disease pressures and labor. His work with breeding programs for both blueberries and turfgrass is critical to improving resistance.
“The best and most efficient way to deal with disease is to have a plant that doesn’t develop it,” Harmon explained. He emphasized that while agrichemical solutions provide immediate control, “long-term, we want grasses and blueberries that don’t require as much pesticide.”
Recently, UF has released several turfgrass varieties that offer excellent disease tolerance, including CitraZoy® Zoysiagrass, CitraBlue® St. Augustinegrass and Brazos™ Zoysiagrass. These grasses help reduce disease pressure and allow growers to push more inputs like fertilizers when needed. Harmon noted that CitraZoy has shown minimal Large Patch Disease, a benefit that gives producers flexibility.
Turf Diagnostic Services
Harmon’s day often begins at the UF IFAS Plant Diagnostics Center, where he works with student diagnostician Alec Dunker, evaluating samples through the Rapid Turf Diagnostic Service. They review findings, examine fungal structures and ensure timely
diagnosis. Though Dunker has become self-sufficient, they still collaborate on specialized cases. Harmon also secures funding through competitive grants and works with chemical companies to develop management recommendations for turfgrass managers, sod growers and golf course superintendents across the state.
When not on campus, Harmon travels to provide extension expertise to county faculty statewide. His outreach includes plant disease awareness and data-supported management strategies to help tackle common turfgrass diseases in Florida.
UF Rapid Turfgrass Diagnostic Service
In 2006, Harmon launched the UF Rapid Turfgrass Diagnostic Service, which now processes about 1,500 samples annually. He credited support from the Florida Turfgrass Association (FTGA) and the Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association (Florida GCSA) Seven Rivers Chapter for helping shape and improve the clinic’s efficiency. Efficiency has been vital, especially for golf course and turfgrass managers. The clinic also handles samples from the Southeast and internationally. Some samples arrive meticulously prepared, while others, like soil without the plant, can’t provide precise diagnoses. To handle international samples, the clinic uses a quarantine lab with specialized safety features, including HEPA filtration and autoclaves, to prevent any spread
of foreign pests or diseases. “We certainly don’t want any new challenges,” Harmon emphasized.
Disease Management and Environmental Conditions
Harmon’s research focuses on integrated approaches to disease management, including testing new chemistries and creating fungicide rotation plans. He noted the shift to single-site fungicides, which are less toxic but need more precision. His team evaluates new products to ensure they effectively address the specific challenges faced in Florida.
Agronomic practices are equally important, helping make grass healthier and less susceptible to disease. Harmon’s approach uses the “disease triangle”—host, environment and pathogen—while collaborating with breeding programs, such as the one spearheaded by Dr. Kevin Kenworthy, a professor in the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Agronomy Department, to develop disease-resistant grasses that reduce pesticide use. In January 2024, unusual weather conditions across Florida stressed turf, making it more vulnerable to disease. Lee and Collier counties saw heavy rainfall, while Palm Beach County experienced a deficit. Due to added environmental stress, these extremes led to outbreaks of Pythium blight and other diseases, typically under control in bermudagrass putting greens. Harmon also noted that these conditions made minor pathogens more problematic, resulting in more sample submissions, particularly from golf courses.
He also highlighted increased testing for Lethal Viral Necrosis (LVN) caused by the sugarcane mosaic virus. The rapid turf diagnostic service has been critical in diagnosing fungal and viral diseases, helping turf managers develop management strategies and address emerging issues.
Lethal Viral Necrosis
LVN has spread across much of southern Florida, with outbreaks reaching as far north as St. Johns County. “We’re still investigating how widespread those are going to become,” Harmon explained. Real-world data from affected
Drs. Rick Latin and Phil Harmon looking at the turfgrass in Purdue’s Ross–Ade Stadium 2002
communities ensures new varieties don’t develop LVN sensitivity. While promising research at the Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center explores RNA interference to disrupt the virus, practical applications are still far off. For now, Harmon’s primary recommendation is to switch to LVN-resistant grass varieties. He also pointed out that cool temperatures trigger LVN symptoms, a factor they can now replicate in lab settings to test new grasses.
New Grass Varieties
Harmon is excited about new grass varieties from UF and other programs but acknowledges the learning curve involved. While new grasses bring favorable traits, they also introduce new pest and disease management challenges. “Sometimes we find that minor pests become major pests,” Harmon shared, explaining that both pathology and agronomy must adapt to new grasses. “There’s no perfect grass,” Harmon admitted, but the goal is to grow these grasses efficiently, optimizing performance and aesthetic value through proper management.
Extension Work
As Florida’s only turfgrass disease specialist, Harmon leverages a network of county faculty and industry associations to extend his work. “I rely on county faculty... and it’s been crucial for us with our LVN response,” he explained, noting the support from Palm Beach and Miami-Dade counties in communicating issues, solutions and where to send samples.
Harmon collaborates with associations like the FTGA and Florida GCSA to understand industry needs and provide solutions. His extension efforts include presentations, an online “e-library” of turfgrass disease topics and the rapid turf diagnostic service, which allows him to monitor disease trends. “Keeping a finger on the pulse of what disease and turf is doing in Florida has been critical for us to stay ahead of the curve,” he stressed.
Passion for Problem-Solving
Driven by a passion for helping people, Harmon finds fulfillment in supporting golf course superintendents, mentoring
students and working with blueberry and sod growers. “Helping folks is what I like the most,” he shared. Despite the challenges, Harmon finds the work rewarding. Looking ahead, Harmon sees environmental challenges shaping the turfgrass industry, particularly regarding public perception of pesticide use. “Turfgrass serves a very important function... it’s still extremely important to our state and to our industries,” he said, stressing the importance of maintaining the industry’s image. Harmon’s wife, Dr. Carrie Harmon, who leads UF’s plant disease clinic, plays a significant role in his personal and professional life. Together, they enjoy Florida’s natural beauty with their two daughters, often kayaking, fishing and hiking in their free time. Reflecting on his career, Harmon says, “It’s been a great 20 years and I hope to have another 10 or 15 more to continue contributing to the turfgrass industry in Florida.” Grateful for the support and rewarding collaborations, Harmon looks optimistically forward to the future.
Drs. Carrie and Phil Harmon and Sod Solutions Director of Florida Operations, Mark Kann, at the UF IFAS Plant Diagnostic Center.
Celebration Bermudagrass: THE PGA TOUR’S GRASS OF CHOICE
Known for its dependable performance and versatility, Celebration is trusted at top PGA TOUR venues like TPC Sawgrass. This spring, Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, SC, home of the RBC Heritage, begins a highly anticipated restoration and proudly reaffirms its choice of Celebration® Bermudagrass for its fairways, tees and roughs.
Tune into these tournaments to see Celebration Bermudagrass in action for the PGA TOUR’s best.
The Sentry at Plantation Course, Kapalua
Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches
January 2–5, 2025
February 27 - March 2, 2025 PGA National Resort (The Champion Course)
Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard March 6–9, 2025 at Bay Hill Club & Lodge
