Golf Coast Magazine Sarasota Spring 2022 by Golf Coast Magazine

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GOLF COURSES

Greater Sarasota Edition

INSTRUCTION

SHOPPING

Spring 2022

SERVICES

BIG SUMMER GOLF CARD

Guaranteed Savings at Favorite Courses. Don’t Play Golf Without It.

INSIDE: LOCAL NEWS, MAPS, DIRECTORY and more

FROM THE EDITOR

Golf Coast Magazine

Contents

Cover Story

Celebrating Big Summer Golf Card’s 30th year! Serving local area golfers with great rates and values as the #1 golf privilege card in Florida.

ON THE WEB 8

Visit GolfCoastMagazine.com to keep up with local news and events.

12 GOLF IN VENICE

Golf in Venice offers three award winning courses

Cover 6 WELCOME Swing into Summer Where to contact us, with some of the plus a letter from our best values in golf. publishers.

Waterford Golf Club - Turnberry Course.

32 TOP NEW PRODUCTS

REGIONS

Golf Products to help you play better and look good too.

MANATEE, SARASOTA & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES

FOR 2022

36 & 42 MAPS 37 SHOPPING, DINING, INSTRUCTION 38 COURSE DIRECTORY

PINELLAS, HILLSBOROUGH, PASCO & HERNANDO COUNTIES 60 MAP 61 DIRECTORY

TurfHound Synthetic Grass Surfacs. GolfCoastMagazine.com

WELCOME LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to

Golf Coast Magazine Pantone 647 C

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2013 Best Publication Award

The days are getting a little warmer, and with that, the

Connecting Golfers on the West Coast of Florida. Mary Raimondo, Publisher Greater Sarasota Area and Southwest Florida Mobile: 410-449-2822 mary@golfcoastmagazine.com Bruz Fellenz, Publisher - Tampa Bay Area Mobile: 727-409-0797 bruzfellenz68@gmail.com Ryan Ruppert, Partner Office: 941.361.1536 ryan@golfcoastmagazine.com Rose Ruppert, Partner rose@golfcoastmagazine.com Tami Vaughan, Production Manager Olivia Baldassari, Digital Marketing Manager olivia@golfcoastmagazine.com Mark Cardon, Golf News - fcardon@aol.com Golf Coast Magazine is published by Golf Coast Magazine, Inc.; 3X’s a year and distributed along the West Coast of Florida. © 2022 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this guide. Golf Coast Magazine and it’s affiliates are not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions, or changes in rates or information.

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feeling that Spring is upon us! With golf participation at an alltime high, we couldn’t be more excited about the days to come. We heartily welcome seasoned golf writers Tony Leodora and Wayne Mills to the Golf Coast Team. Tony and Wayne are talented experts who will be sharing local knowledge on our clubs and the wider industry. In this issue, Wayne gives us a glimpse of Herons Glen Golf and Country Club in North Fort Myers, showcasing their new $6 million renovation, as well as Olde Hickory Country Club. Tony will feature all the top new products of the year, direct from the 2022 PGA Show. We also wanted to highlight Big Summer Golf Card, which is celebrating their 30th Anniversary this year! The card offers preferred rates all year long, and all card holders are eligible to play the Big Money Tour to win thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes. There has never been a better time to hold the Big Summer Golf Card! Golf has continued to be a constant during the past few years, as the pandemic has encompassed our lives and it has given us an oasis where we can safely spend time outside with loved ones and friends. We hope that Golf Coast Magazine can be your guide on all that Southwest Florida has to offer in the golf community. You can visit us at GolfCoastMagazine.com to keep up to date on all the latest golf stories, local golf news, and tips. You can also subscribe to our free e-newsletter that goes out every week. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter as well! We hope that you will enjoy your time on Florida’s beautiful West Coast! Fairways and greens, Mary Raimondo, Bruz Fellenz, Ryan Ruppert, Rose Ruppert

REVIEW

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PREFERRED RATES AND VALUE ALL YEAR LONG SPECIAL PLAY DATES AND OUTINGS

Big Summer Golf Card® delivers consistently great rates at top area courses and special offers to private courses all year long! It pays for itself in Three Rounds Or Less and is Valid All Year!

FALL AND WINTER Reinstated in 2013 The Big Summer Golf GOLF SAVINGS Card hosts The Big Money TourSM every year.

Watch our website for news as this Tour 30 YEAR AS THE evolves allowing more golfers to participate and more prizes to give away. #1 CHOICE FOR TH

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University Park Country Club

REVIEW

For 30 Years Big Summer Golf Card® Has Been The #1 Choice For Golf Course Value!

All Big Summer Golf Card holders are automatically eligible to play the tour and every round of golf played counts toward potential prize winning. Each month, May thru October, thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes are awarded! Since 2013 almost 600 golfers have shared in over $300,000 prize winnings. Go to Bigsummergolf.com for full details on how to take part.

REVIEW

Big Summer Golf Card is valid all year long with benefits available throughout the year. While the main season is May thru October plenty of courses offer special rates and access the rest of the year, including fall and winter If you are not yet signed up, do so at BigSummerGolf.com. Don’t miss out on great opportunities, check your inbox for Hot Deals and specials and visit the website regularly for updates on rates and other offers. Other benefits include Private Club access for Play Dates and Special Events. Watch for regular access to tournament style play in all regions. Use the BSGC to play outside your area and enjoy some great golf in the Orlando area with some new “Stay and Plays” coming soon.

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Calusa Lakes

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nd iamo D k c Bla Whether you are a local resident, visitor or just passing through the region, every golfer benefits from The Big Summer Golf Card. Now in its 30th year the card Pays for Itself in as Little as Three Rounds of Golf!

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Golfers can also take advantage of special offers from leading golf equipment and apparel retailers, as well as physical training routines and instruction. Check your inbox for offers from PGA Tour Superstore, Your Golf Shop, Crunch Fitness, GolfTec and more! One card, great savings to help improve your game and go easy on your wallet.

REVIEW

Big Summer Golf Card is continually expanding and adding more opportunities for golfers to save big on the game. Every email offers you fresh savings - once you know you will never have to look elsewhere again.

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Park

Go to BigSummerGolf.com and click on the “Buy Now” link to get your very own 2022 card. Call 941.923.2232 or 800.391.3665 to buy your card with the “$40/$40 Refer a Friend” program. *Conditions apply. Big Summer Golf Cards can also be purchased from Your Golf Shop in Sarasota, Venice and Port Charlotte as well as some Pro Shops. See our website for details. BIGSUMMERGOLF.COM

Plan tatio n

Riverwood Sara

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Get your own card at BigSummerGolf. com. For just $60 you get 12 months value and recover the cost in just a few rounds. Or, take advantage of our “$40/$40 Refer a Friend” program and save $20 on your card purchase and $20 on your friends purchase*

ista uena V B e k a L Disney

“REFER A FRIEND” Refer a NEW cardholder* and you both get a 2022 card for only $40 each. Call 941-923-2232 to order (*New cardholder is one who has not had a BSGC in 2020/2021)

Roseda le

Chef James Wilfong

Shrimp Corn Dogs with Chipotle-Apple Ketchup

Ingredients Corn Dog Batter: 1 red onion- minced 1 jalapeno- minced 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 cup buttermilk 1 cup all purpose flour 1 cup corn meal

1 cup creamed corn 1/2 cup fresh corn 1 teaspoon cayenne 2 scallions- minced 1/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Chipotle Apple Ketchup 3 apples- peeled, seeded and chopped 2 chipotle chilis 1 1/2 white onion- chopped 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 1 cup orange juice 1/2 cup brown sugar Salt and pepper to taste

For Corn Dog Batter: Mix all ingredients well and let it stand for about 15-20 minutes For Chipotle Apple Ketchup: Cook all ingredients on medium to low heat until slightly thickened (about 20 -30 minutes). Puree and strain. Adjust seasoning as desired. Shrimp: 16/20 or 13/15 shrimp with the tail on. Holding by the tail, dunk each shrimp in all-purpose flour to coat, then dredge in the corn dog batter and place directly into deep fryer or stove top fryer and fry until golden brown. Serve immediately with chipotle-apple ketchup.

Bon Appetit! Visit www.meadowscc.org for more dining information.

COURSES Semi-Private Golf Club

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE MAP #172

TEE INFORMATION

Par 70: Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 5836 / 68.9 / 124 White: 5424 / 66.9 / 115 Gold: 4942/ 64.8 / 113 Ladies Gold: 4942 / 69.0 / 121 Red: 4746 / 68.3 / 119

Punta Gorda

Deep Creek Golf Club

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Mark McCumber General Manager/PGA: Todd Evans Superintendent: Josh Czarnecki

COURSE AMENITIES

• Clubhouse - Restaurant • Practice Facilities • Short Game Area • Walking Allowed • Golf Club Rental • Five Day Advanced T-times • PGA Instruction • 5 Day Advanced T-Times

Now in its 36th year of operation, Deep Creek GC has been voted one of the best golf courses in the Charlotte County area year after year. A Par 70, 18 hole layout designed by PGA Tour player Mark McCumber is truly an enjoyable experience with a friendly welcoming staff. From tee to green, whether high or low handicap your experience will be top notch. Public play is welcome, and a variety of memberships options are offered at an exceptional value. Our restaurant and lounge serves only the best quality food and drinks under a casual setting to enhance your experience. 1260 San Cristobal Avenue Punta Gorda, FL 33983 941-625-6911 www.deepcreekgolf.com

Nice People, Great Golf!

The art of fine golf shoe making

We are offering a rare opportunity to distribute a luxury product of European golf fashion/golf shoes, for the USA! We are one of the leading European suppliers of fashionable golf shoes in classic Italian design and are looking for a business partner to act as a distributor in the USA. Above average profits are achieved with our exceptional products! Our future business partner receives all necessary information and support from us in setting up sale including temporary help on site.

AerogreeN® is our registerd US & EU Trademark

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ur Y IP O ut TAR RSpHly o Ab IMEN MBEMay Ap l l Ca PL MEstrictions M F Re CO GO/L30/22 -4 IALExpires R T

27 holes of Championship Golf Rated 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest *Premier facility with Best Value Between Fort Myers and Sarasota

Annual Practice Facility Memberships are available. A 25-acre practice facility and learning center with 4 USGA spec TifEagle practice putting and 3 short game holes, that is without question the largest and finest in the region with multiple areas to develop your game. Range membership comes with 4 complimentary twilight rounds of golf.

Try our Complimentary Trial Golf Membership www.heroncreekgc.com by calling Richelle at 941-423-6955 or email Call for Tee Times Membership@heron-creek.com

*Restrictions may apply

(941) 423-6955

Member for a day rates: Nov, Dec, & April $79 June - September $59 May & October $69 Name___________________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________________________ Email____________________________________________________________________________

All Member For A Day Rates Exp:12/31/2022

OUT OF BOUNDS

Unfinished By Jeff Thoreson, Golf and Travel Writer j.thoreson@comcast.net

If Schubert couldn’t finish his symphony,

how can we be expected to finish golf? The game is music to our ears, a rainbow to our eyes. We chase the pot of golf gold. But we can’t find it. It’s not there. Or is it there, somewhere? We run through the spectrum looking for an end, for a completeness to the natural circle of start to finish. But the game doesn’t provide that. Golf is forever unfinished.

sion on Monday after work and then think you have it all figured out for the next Wednesday afternoon. But you don’t, so it goes on and on. We can’t just write the last note and call it finished.

A single round may end with a definitive number in the far right-hand box on the scorecard, but that number is never good enough. We celebrate the Other things begin and end – careers, first time we break 100, and then we eye 90. We check off 90 and put 80 marriages, lives. In golf, there is in our sights. Few get there, but those always another shot to be hit. There is always another round to be played. who do, dare they even dream about 70? They must. It’s almost a requireThere is always another pile of striped ment of this game that won’t end, this balls to be practiced.You work your game that constantly demands more. way through an entire pyramid on the And we are happy to give more, to practice tee only to have the range seek more, to pursue the gold. But, boy show up and build another one like the rainbow, there is no end. There for you.You play your Wednesday af- is only more, and more and more. ternoon game and then look forward The first time I broke 70 came just a to your Saturday morning game. month after the first time I shot level You hit balls on Sunday afternoon; squeeze in a chipping and putting ses- par. Both came as a surprise. I didn’t GolfCoastMagazine.com

OUT OF BOUNDS

think my game had yet gotten to that level. These are the rounds that move you on. It’s not so much that the game demands more from you, it’s that you demand more from the game.You can’t shoot 99, 89, 79 or even 69 and think you’re finished.Your career best round had room for improvement. There was a putt that lipped out; an iron shot that wasn’t pure. There was a loose drive or a careless blast from a greenside bunker. There was the chip-in for birdie on a green you missed, and you know that to maintain this level that really needs to be a GIR and one-putt.

attaches itself to our souls and becomes part of us so that by the time you realize you’re no longer as good as you once were, you accept it as another way nature nudges you along her timeline. You say you will recommit; recapture past glory and reason that if a professional can still be good after 50, so can you at your own, lesser level.You feel it still, the game inside you hasn’t changed, but maybe you’re just not yet far enough down the glacial spiral to recognize your new station in golf.

Maybe we accept decline the same way we accept success, in incremental I love golf, but I hate the game because steps sometimes so small you hardly it can’t end on my terms. There will be know you’re going up – or down. no final victory; no last tip of the cap Maybe that’s another attraction of the and no Bobby Jones-like walk off into game.You don’t wake up one mornthe sunset. The game takes you to the ing and realize that the competition peak of your career, however indisis too young, too quick, too strong, tinguishable that may be from the rest but you’re happy to play on; to seek a of your career, then spirals you down new level, and then a few years later at such a painfully glacial pace that another, then another. you’re not sure if you are in permanent There is always more; never an end, decline or just a temporary lull. so we will all leave the game as At any time you can quit; just give up Schubert left Symphony No. 8 in B and walk away, but that is the game minor – unfinished. forcing you out. That is you leaving knowing there was more to be done. That is less an end and more a dismissal. We are not quitters, so we hang in there, clinging to our belief that we can still be better, digging it out of the dirt until we are finally dug into the dirt. Golf is the game – the frustration – of a lifetime. It

COURSES

Semi-Private Course

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE

MAP #112

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Meadows & Preserve Gold: 7182 / 75.4 / 141 Blue: 6619 / 72.2 / 133 White: 6053 / 69.8 / 121 Black: 5600 / 67.4 / 117 Red: 4939 / 68.9 / 117 Orange: 4166 / 64.3 / 106 Preserve & Hatchett Creek Gold: 7009 / 74.3 / 145 Blue: 6477 / 71.6 / 133 White: 5918 / 69.3 / 116 Black: 5326 / 66.5 / 109 Red: 4756 / 68.5 / 114 Orange: 4084 / 63.8 / 106 Hatchett Creek & Meadows Gold: 7039 / 74.5 / 140 Blue: 6526 / 72.0 / 129 White: 6067 / 69.9 / 122 Black: 5412 / 66.9 / 113 Red: 5075 / 70.4 / 118 Orange: 4272 / 64.9 / 104

Venice

Pelican Pointe Golf and Country Club Voted Best Semi-Private Club in Venice 19 years in a row! •

Six Sets of Tees to Satisfy Every Skill Level

•

Beautiful Nature Preserves and Lakes

•

Extensive Driving Range and Practice Facility

•

PGA Professionals to Fine-Tune Your Game

•

Golf Tournaments & Corporate Outings Available

• Golf Memberships Available Conveniently located on Center Road between Jacaranda Blvd (I-75 exit 193) and Bypass 41. 4-DAY ADVANCE TEE TIMES

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 27 Architect: Ted McAnlis PGA Head Pro: Bill Neal General Mngr: Tom Weaver Superintendent: Dan Haubein Assistant Pros: Travis Blauvelt, Brian Todd

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625 Center Road Venice, FL 34285 941-496-4653 www.pelicanpointeclub.com

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE Semi-Private Course

MAP #151

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 3373 / 58.8 / 97 Yellow: 3014 / 56.2 / 89 Red: 2749 / 55.6 / 89

COURSES

Bradenton

Peridia Golf and Country Club ! ch run B ay nd Su

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architects: Jed Azinger and Gordon Lewis General Manager: Tom Donato, CAM Pro Shop Manager: Brian Schmidt Superintendent: Ray Bartels, Jr. , CGCS

COURSE AMENITIES

• Complete Pro Shop • Terrace on The Green Restaurant with Full Bar service • Banquets and weddings • Golf Lessons available

Semi-Private Course

MAP #144

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Men’s White: 3752 / 60.3 / 101; Ladies Red: 3122 / 58.5 / 95

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Dean Refram Manager: Joel King Superintendent: Shane Hilleshiem

Manatee County’s Premier Executive Golf Course offers lush fairways and redesigned Tif-Eagle greens that provide a challenge to golfers of all skill levels and the ability to play in 3 hours. Walk or ride anytime! It’s the perfect course for couples, families, and seniors to improve their short game. Peridia’s full service restaurant and banquet facility is open to the public for lunch and dinner. Peridia has a new Tiki Bar, open every day from 11 am to 8 pm, serving your favorite drinks and offering a limited food menu. Sunday brunch is the Club’s most popular event, every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm, please call to make your reservation.

4950 Peridia Boulevard East Bradenton, FL 34203 941-758-2582 www.peridiagcc.net

Bradenton

Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Club S UB CLBLE L A NT ILA RE AVA

COURSE AMENITIES

• Putting Green • Pro Shop • Walking Allowed • Tournaments and Leagues Welcome • Rental Clubs Available

Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Club is one of the area’s finest executive courses nestled inside a beautiful community. Between the water-bordered fairways and the 37 bunkers surrounding 18 Champion Bermuda greens this 3,706-yard, par-61 course offers a challenge to golfers of all ages and handicaps. The amenities include a pro shop, snacks, refreshments and putting green. 4260 Ironwood Circle Bradenton, FL 34209 941-792-3288 www.PinebrookIronwood.com

COURSES Executive

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE MAP #166

TEE INFORMATION

Venice

Venice East Golf Course

Yardage: 2791 / Par 58

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 General Manager: Lila Purcell Superintendent: Lou Corvo PGA Pro: George Rudy

COURSE AMENITIES

• Rental Equipment • Snacks • PGA Instruction • Walking Anytime • Memberships Available Equity & Associate • Driving Range & Practice Facility • Automated Ball Machine • Special 5 Buckets for $20

GolfCoastMagazine.com MAP #172

Venice East Golf Course is an 18-hole semi-private, executive par 58 course. It is perfect for the beginner, senior, or those that want to practice their short game. The longest hole is 250 yards, so the course can easily be played in 2-1/2 to 3 hours. We have gators, sandhill cranes, and other wildlife watching you, so please watch out for them. The most important thing — Golf Should Be Fun - So Enjoy! For Specials and Coupons see our website at: veniceeastgc.com 107 Venice East Boulevard Venice, FL 34293 941-493-0005 www.veniceeastgc.com

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE Executive

TEE INFORMATION

MAP #119

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 3976 / 59.3 / 100; White: 3445 / 57.2 / 93; Red: 2840 / 56.0 / 85

COURSE FACTS

COURSES

Englewood

Oyster Creek Golf Club UBS L CALBLE A T RENAVAIL

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Ted McAnlis General Manager: Denny Burnham

COURSE AMENITIES • Clubhouse • Practice Greens • Pro Shop • Snack Bar - Lunch • Golf Club Rental

Not your typical executive golf course, Oyster Creek, designed by Ted McAnlis, is both challenging and scenic. Accuracy off the tee is important as water comes into play on 13 of the 18 holes. Distance is critical on only a few of the par 4s, but even low-handicap golfers find they play to their handicap. Oyster Creek offers meticulouslymanicured greens surrounded by environmentally-protected natural wetlands. 6651 Oriole Blvd. Englewood, FL 34224 941-475-0334 www.oystercreekgolfclub.com

COVER FROM THESTORY EDITOR

Herons Glen Golf and Country Club 18-holes of newly renovated Ron Garl splendor

Herons Glen Golf and Country Club

in North Fort Myers has recently reopened their 18-hole golf course after an extensive $6 million renovation. Designed by Lakeland, Florida based golf course architect Ron Garl and opened in 1992, the 6,500 yard- par 72 course received a wall-to-wall upgrade of tees, greens, bunkers and fairways.

players of all skill levels.” said General Manager J.B. Belknap.

The upgrades included installing TifEagle Bermuda grass on the greens, and Bimini grass on the fairways and Bimini grass on the tees, fairways and rough. The greens, which had shrunk over the years, were returned to their original size and now average over “We were very fortunate to work with 6,000 square feet per green and Ron and Clarke Construction during some of the contours were softened the redesign. Our members are to accommodate the increased ecstatic with all of the enhancements green speed capability associated that were made to the course. With with TifEagle. Most of the original six sets of tees, we feel it will provide design was kept intact except for a memorable golfing experience for the relocation of the 10th green GolfCoastMagazine.com

COVER STORY

to accommodate the new 5,000 square foot fitness center and some fairway contouring was done to improve drainage. The course winds throughout the community around lakes and wetlands a full three and a half miles from one end of the property to the other. With a good mix of hole lengths from long par 5s to short par 3s, the golf course is more of a shot makers layout than a big hitting bombers design. Picking the correct tees, avoiding the numerous hazards and picking the right club for approach shots are the keys to a good score at Herons Glen. Prior to the renovation, Garl

met with focus groups from the membership to hear what changes they wanted to see. “It’s their golf course,” said Garl, “they play it every day and talk from the heart.” Some of the changes that grew from those discussions were the installation of more forward tees and what Garl referred to as “gap tees”, tees placed in between some of the prior tees to create more options and angles to play from. Not only were many of the existing bunkers renovated but several were eliminated both in the fairways and several greenside bunkers as well. “We took out several greenside

COVER FROM THESTORY EDITOR

bunkers that closed off the fronts of greens.” said Garl. “It gives players options to play the ball along the ground rather than having to fly it in to carry over bunkers. It also helps tremendously for pace of play.”

square foot clubhouse anchors the community which provides a fullservice restaurant and features a hefty schedule of social events.

Herons Glen Golf & Country Club is a gated community bordering Lee and Charlotte counties. Along with an 18-hole championship golf course, the club boasts amenities such as a new state of the art Fitness Center with on-site physical therapists, a community swimming pool, Har-Tru tennis courts, Pickleball, Bocce, and Shuffleboard. An expansive 45,000

The Herons Glen Recreational District is a governmental entity. Florida law calls it a Special District. Special Districts serve a specific geographical area and are governed by an elected Board of Supervisors. Special Districts are very similar to municipalities, but Special Districts are set up to perform more specific and limited functions.

The golf course renovation is the first of several upcoming capital projects at The membership was so pleased with Herons Glen. This summer, the Club the results that they invited Garl to be is also scheduled to redesign the dining the featured speaker at their annual facilities, build additional pickleball Member-Guest tournament banquet. courts and upgrade the sports complex.

GolfCoastMagazine.com

COVER STORY

Because Herons Glen is legally a Special Recreation District it can issue tax exempt bonds in order to raise capital for special projects. Most recently in 2020, the residents voted to take advantage of favorable interest rates and reissue the bond. This reissuance raised $12.9 million for future capital projects, including the $6 million golf course renovation. The additional funding costs each homeowner an additional $130 per year.

The homeowners had the wisdom and foresight to realize that Herons Glen is in competition with other golf course communities and, again according to Belknap, “In order to stay relevant and stand the test of time, we need to reinvest in our community.”

Herons Glen is conveniently located on US 41 just four miles North of the Shell Factory in Lee County, just South of the Charlotte County line. Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach, Port Charlotte Even though not every resident is & Sanibel are just minutes away. For required to be a golf member, the more information, reach out to the majority recognized the golf course Golf Pro Shop at (239) 731-4520; the to be, in J.B. Belknap’s words “The anchor amenity of the community and Restaurant & Lounge at (239) 7314545 or check out their website at the home values are proportional to heronsglencc.com. the course conditions.”

World Woods Golf Club To Be Rechristened Cabot Citrus Farms New ownership will bring course renovations and lodging to beloved 30-year-old property

For more than 30 years, golfers have been captivated by the rolling topography and gnarly, moss-covered live oaks at World Woods Golf Club. Its two Tom Fazio courses – Pine Barrens and Rolling Oaks – are popular among Florida-bound travelers and in-state enthusiasts alike. One of those travelers is Ben CowanDewar, co-founder and CEO of Cabot, the golf resort development company behind Cabot Cape Breton, the resort in northern Nova Scotia whose Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs courses have become some of the most sought-after by avid traveling golfers in North America over the last decade. Cowan-Dewar, who hails from Canada himself, had visited the property several times, returning repeatedly over 20 years to its unique-for-Florida mix of rolling terrain and quiet environs. World Woods is no longer just a place for Cowan-Dewar to visit. His company recently purchased the property, with the intent to rechristen it Cabot Citrus Farms and take it to new heights. World Woods’ transformation into Cabot Citrus Farms will get underway this spring. GolfCoastMagazine.com

The search for the architects who will renovate the property’s golf complement is finishing up. The plan is to overhaul both championship courses simultaneously during much of 2022 and 2023, with an eye toward welcoming golfers back to the property later next year. Lodging, a component long missing from the mix at World Woods, will help turn Cabot Citrus Farms into a new stay and play mecca. Expect a real estate component to emerge, too, though not until the golf is settled. And with an undeveloped 600 acres as part of the sale, a brand-new golf course could follow in the coming years. Whereas most golf resort and real estate developers focus first on maximizing the lodging and housing possibilities, Cabot takes the opposite tact, as golfers have seen at Cabot Cape Breton and as they will see at Cabot Saint Lucia (opening in 2023) and Cabot Revelstoke in British Columbia (opening 2024). Pre-Renovation tee times for Pine Barrens and Rolling Oaks are available. [Excerpted from the article “WorldWoods Golf Club sold; to be rechristened Cabot Citrus Farms” by Tim Gavrich, GolfPass, January 10, 2022]

REVIEW

It Took an Expanded Search to Find The Top Golf Products for 2022

By Tony Leodora To say that the 69th PGA Show at the massive Orange County Convention Center in Orlando was a bit different this year would be an understatement of epic proportions. But the best news is that the annual gathering of the golf industry took place … generated interest … and provided some energy that will carry throughout the year. Yes, the vendor count was down – about half of the normal 1,000 companies exhibiting their wares. And the number of attendees followed suit. But those who attended this year’s scaled-down edition of the PGA Show found golf industry people who were invigorated by the new boom in golf – in terms of rounds played, GolfCoastMagazine.com

equipment sold, lessons scheduled and trips booked. That energy led to a good business climate, despite the lesscrowded aisles. And a number of great new products were rolled out. Many took to the grand stage of the PGA Show to make their debut. Others were launched on Demo Day – or through massive social media and e-mail campaigns. It may have entailed a more dogged search to compile the list of all-stars ... but nobody ever said this job was going to be easy. At least there was no need for hand-to-hand combat to get through the aisles en route to discovering and analyzing the new products. Without further fanfare, here are the eye-catching new products of 2022.

REVIEW

The secret behind the rise of Tour Edge in the golf equipment industry is simple. The Batavia, Illinois-based company leads in time and money spent on research and development. And that effort produces continued innovation. The latest innovation can be found in the Tour Edge Exotics line of 722 drivers. This line takes innovation from last year’s 721 driver and divides it into two models – C722, E722 – each designed specifically to accommodate the needs of a specific segment of golfers. “Different strokes for different folks,” says Jon Claffey, VP of marketing for Tour Edge. “These are top of the line, ultra-premium, tour quality drivers but made for different swings.” The C722 is made for players with clubhead speed over 105 mph. Players with slower swing speeds are using the E722. “We debuted these drivers and immediately had four Champions Tour players using them,” explains Claffey. “Hard swingers (Alex Cejka, Scott McCarron) are playing the C722 driver and players with more tempo (Berhnard Langer, Mike Weir) are playing the E722.” The Tour Edge question for 2022: “Are you an E or are you a C?” www.touredge.com

Bridgestone Golf focuses on trying to produce the best golf ball for all golfers. And a lot of the technology comes from the roots of the company … rubber. That technology produced the new Tour B series of golf balls, a lineup that was the talk of the PGA Show. “We’re a rubber company,” explains Elliot Mellow, manager of golf ball marketing. “Changing the polymer (rubber) is a big deal to us. That’s what we’ve done with our new Tour B series, which features our new reactive IQ cover that reacts to the impact of each shot. “What that means is, off the driver, the cover actually firms up, producing more distance. The flip side is, with a 9-iron or wedge, the ball has some shock-absorbing properties and stays on the face longer and imparts more spin.” Bridgestone calls it “the smarter tour ball.” It is available in RX and RXS for under-105 mph swing speed, and the X and the XS for high-speed players like Tiger Woods and Bryson DeChambeau. Plus Bridgestone has a unique fitting system on their website to determine the best ball for each player. www.bridgestonegolf.com

REVIEW

The scene is a familiar one. A golfer heads to the range to prepare for golf and sees that the hitting area is limited to artificial golf mats. And the grumbling begins. No more. TurfHound is a company dedicated to producing a performance golf mat – one that replicates the experience of hitting balls off natural turf. Simply put, it is not a carpet or a piece of plastic made into a golf mat … it is the finest performance golf mat in the industry. Made in the USA, completely from American-sourced materials, TurfHound mats are now found in more than 900 high-end golf clubs across the country. “Our founder, Rick Reynolds, set out to design a product that would feel as realistic as grass,” explains Brian Golden, senior VP of sales and marketing. “We have a dual-density foam system that is injection molded and patented. Members like hitting off our mats as much as they like hitting off natural turf.” To make the mat experience even more realistic, TurfHound mats have an area that is similar to hitting off the fairway and another area that is like hitting out of the rough. www.turfhound.com

REVIEW

The Philadelphia manufacturing company, Greenkeepers, has a long history of successful product launches. Their injection-molded plastic products include the Four Yards More Tee, the Survivor Tee and the new training aid, the Bottle Tee. Now they have entered the world of putters by partnering with Bloodline. The new Vale Putter by Bloodline uses the stand-alone alignment technology that drove Bloodline’s launch, but added spaceage polymer to lessen overall weight and increase feel. Another benefit of adding polymer to the putter – suggested retail dropped from $500 to $299. “The whole concept was to insulate any vibration during the putting stroke into your hands,” explained Frank Carroll, president of Greenkeepers. “Unlike machined or milled metal putters, in this putter, no metal surfaces touch the golf ball. So you get no vibration and true roll.” Despite the fact that the Vale Putter is new, it is already getting noticed on the pro golf tours. Ernie Els is using it on the Champions Tour. The Bloodline stand-alone patented technology allows golfers to set the line of the putt, walk behind the putter as it stands alone, and check to make sure alignment is correct – in practice or during competition. www.bloodline.golf

REVIEW

High Heat – the line of drivers, fairway woods and hybrids developed by Knuth Golf – is known for producing golf clubs for amateur golfers. Their innovations have made them an award-winning company that serves the largest segment of the golf market. This year, they entered into a marriage with another well-known company. The new line of High Heat drivers and fairway woods are now equipped with the Fujikura shaft – a shaft that High Heat co-founder Steve Trattner calls “the finest golf shaft in the business.” Dean Knuth developed the heads that made High Heat famous. Fujikura designed a shaft that is specifically made to work well with those heads. “Let’s face it, amateurs need a different center of gravity,” explains Trattner. “They need our three-trampoline technology, where players get the same distance no matter where they hit it across the face. And they need our 257 Turf Glider Sole, which eliminates fat shots and thin shots.” Now that the head has been matched with a shaft that works best for players with lower swing speeds than tour pros and elite amateurs, High Heat has once again captured the attention of educated golfers. www.highheatgolf.com

The “belt with no holes” – Nexbelt – continues to bring new innovation and style to a product that already is a market leader. While there are a number of ratchet belts, following Nexbelt’s lead, no company has been able keep up with the development of new styles and materials. This year’s focus is on two new belts. The first is a Bison belt, made from 100 percent American bison. Not only does the belt have a rich look, there is also a rich, supple feel that works in either a dress or casual setting. The second is the Cayman belt, an impressive addition to Nexbelt’s line of dress belts. While these new belts are similar to the crocodile and alligator styles, they feature striking accent colors and come in navy, black and grey. “All of our belts feature the custom sizing, cut-to-fit system that made Nexbelt famous,” comments Barrett Martens, global sales manager. “The new designs just add to our huge line of styles and colors that can be worn both on and off the golf course.” And, despite the great style and quality, Nexbelt is affordably priced – starting at $56.99. www.nexbelt.com

101

144 151 161

105

135 137

162

107

117 108 112 166

157

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE

DIRECTORY

SHOPPING | SERVICES/ENTERTAINMENT | INSTRUCTION CHARLOTTE MAP PAGE 42 SARASOTA AND MANATEE MAP PAGE 36

SHOPPING AeroGreeN info@areogreen.biz | Ad Page 18 Bloodline - Vale Putter www.Bloodline.golf | Ad Page 34 Bridgestone www.BridgestoneGolf.com | (844) 672-8667 | Ad Page 33 Edwin Watts Golf Shops 32257 US Hwy 19 North, Palm Harbor, FL 34684 | (727) 787-3370 | Map #52, Ad Page 63 www.worldwidegolfshops.com Edwin Watts Golf Shops 11921 North Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 | (813) 960-5330 | Map #53, Ad Page 63 www.worldwidegolfshops.com Florida Aerial Services Team www.fastaerial.com | (800) 723-7425 | Ad Page 25

NexBelt www.NexBelt.com | Ad Page 35 Tour Edge www.touredge.com | Ad Page 33 TurfHound www.turfhound.com | Ad Page 34

Marketing, Promotions, Special Events and Tournaments

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COURSES

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE

Practice Fac. Food Rental Clubs Pro Shop Lessons Ad on Page

COURSES

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Type: PR=Private, P=Public, E=Executive, SP= Semi-Private

Par

See Map on Page 36

Type Hole

Map Number

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE

SARASOTA COUNTY Calusa Lakes Golf Club (941) 484-8995 SP 18 107 1995 Calusa Lakes Blvd., Nokomis, FL 34275; Exit 195 off I-75

6715-5197/72.7 •

• 12

6600-5075/72 • • 12

4182-3268/65 • • 16

(941) 423-6955 SP 27

6869-4820 • • 21

Highlands Course at The Meadows (941) 371-0982 SP 18 135 3400 Longmeadow Sarasota, FL; I-75 to Exit #213; W approx

6669-5090/72 • • 16

7182-4756/72 • • 22

Executive • • 24

27 Holes • • 12

Laurel Rd. W to Mission Valley Rd., Right, 1.3 miles.

Capri Isles Golf Club (941) 485-3371 SP 18 108 849 Capri Isles Blvd., Venice, FL 34292; I-75 off Jacaranda Blvd. (exit 193), R on Venice Ave., R on Capri Isles Blvd

The Groves Course at The Meadows (941) 371-0982 E 18 135 3400 Longmeadow, Sarasota, FL; I-75 to Exit #213; W approx 1 mile, S on N. Honore Ave; S 1 mile to Longmeadow

Heron Creek Golf & Country Club

157 5301 Heron Creek Blvd., North Port, FL 34287; Take I-75 to Exit 182 Sumter Blvd continue on to Heron Creek Blvd

1 mile, S on N. Honore Ave; S 1 mile to Longmeadow

The Meadows Country Club (941) 378-5957 PR 18 135 3400 Longmeadow Sarasota, FL; I-75 to Exit #213; W approx 1 mile, S on N. Honore Ave; S 1 mile to Longmeadow

Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club (941) 496-4653 SP 27 112 625 Center Road, Venice, FL 34285; I-75 to South on Jacaranda Blvd., (exit 193) right on Center Road

Venice East Golf Club (941) 493-0005 E 18 166 107 Venice East Blvd., Venice, FL 34293; I-75 to Jacaranda Blvd (exit 193) West to US 41 S; approx 2 mi on Left

Waterford Golf Club

(941) 484-6621 SP 27

117 1454 Gleneagles Dr., Venice, FL 34292; Exit 195, Laurel

Rd., west to light at Pinebrook, left on Edmunsdson Rd.

MANATEE COUNTY Mocassin Wallow Golf Club (941) 723-0500 SP 72 101 9680 Buffalo Road, Palmetto, FL 34221; Exit 229 off I-75,

7089-4590/73.9 • •

1/4 mile east

Peridia Golf and Country Club (941) 758-2582 E 72 151 4950 Peridia Blvd. East Bradenton, FL 34203; Exit 217 off

5044-4109/72 • • 23

I-75; West on Hwy 70 ; turn R

Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Club (941) 792-3288 E 18 144 4260 Ironwood Circle, Bradenton, FL 34209; Just off Cortez Road between 51st St. W. & 43rd. St. West

3706-3146/59.9 • • 23

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REVIEW

Cape Royal Golf Club Prepare yourself for a unique golfing experience!

Cape Royal features 27 holes of championship golf and was designed by golf course architect Gordon Lewis, who has designed more than 80 courses in the Sunshine State. This unique facility features five sets of tees, so there’s sure to be one that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. As you make your way around this layout you’ll find 180 acres of sparkling lakes, natural wetlands, and all kinds of Florida wildlife including wood storks, ibis, egrets, and herons, both on the fairways and in the community’s preserves. The course is an easy one to walk and to make it even easier, now offers several of the new Tempo Walk carts from Club Car. Tempo Walk is an autonomous caddie that offers carries bags, coolers, and other accessories. When it comes to memberships, Cape Royal Golf Club offers something for everyone, whether you live locally or are only in the area for a short time. Choose from 3, 6, or 12-month memberships. As a member, you’ll receive unlimited greens fees as well as full use of all club facilities, advance tee time bookings,

discounts on merchandise, food and beverage, and special rates on cart and range pass. And, as a member of a Troon facility, you’ll be a part of Troon Advantage, which allows you and up to 3 guests to take advantage of preferred rates at Troon resorts and daily fee facilities worldwide. As clubhouse restaurants go, Cape Royal’s Caloosa Club sets a new standard. They offer casual dining in a laid-back atmosphere that includes a wide variety of food not typically found at a golf course. Chef Andrew and his culinary staff have created a menu of unique and tasty appetizers and dishes including Duck Fat Popcorn, Buffalo Cauliflower, and their signature dish, Taste of Florida Grouper, a large piece of fresh Grouper served over sauteed greens and charred corn puree and topped with a citrus corn salsa. Trust us, this is not your typical golf clubhouse menu! 11460 Royal Tee Circle Cape Coral, FL 33991 239-283-5522 www.caperoyalgolfclub.com

Practice Fac. Food Rental Clubs Pro Shop Lessons Ad on Page

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Type: PR=Private, P=Public, E=Executive, SP= Semi-Private

Par

Map Number

CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE

Type Hole

COURSES

CHARLOTTE COUNTY 172

Deep Creek Golf Club

(941) 625-6911 SP 18

5836-4746/70 • • 18

E 18

3976-2840/60 • • 25

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Long Marsh (941) 698-0918 SP 18

27 Holes/72 • • 64

1260 San Cristobal Ave., Punta Gorda, FL ; Exit 170 off I-75, east on Kings Hwy, R on Sandhill, R on SanCristobal

119

Oyster Creek Golf & Country Club

(941) 475-0334

66511 Oriole Blvd, Englewood, FL; I-75 to Exit 191 River Road to Pine, left on Pine to SR776, left on 776, south 2 miles

121

100 Rotonda Circle, Rotonda West, FL 33947; Exit 191 off I-75, Country Road 775 just north of Boca Grande Island

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Palms

(941) 697-8118 SP 18

6511-4669/72 • • 64

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Hills

(941) 697-2414 SP 18

6304-5072/72 • • 64

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Links

(941) 697-8877 SP 18

4197-3190/60 • • 64

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Pinemoor

(941) 697-7006 SP 18

6000 • • 64

172

119

121

GolfCoastMagazine.com

GREATER TAMPA BAY

Fox Hollow Golf Club Tampa Bay’s Premier Semi-Private Golf Club

COVER FROM THESTORY EDITOR

Fox Hollow Golf Club

This Tampa Bay Favorite Is One Of Florida’s Best

Water comes into play on eleven of Fox Hollow’s 18 holes.

Since opening in 1994, Fox Hollow

has grown and developed into one of the premier semi-private golf facilities in the Tampa Bay area. The course was recently rated 57th by Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Courses Accessible to the Public in Florida”. One of the goals of Fox Hollow’s ownership has been to take the facility to a higher level by elevating course conditions and constantly making improvements. The Fox Hollow golf course has the distinction of being one of the last courses designed and built by Robert Trent Jones, GolfCoastMagazine.com

Sr., one of the most prolific and innovative golf course designers of all time. In his design of Fox Hollow, the legendary Jones created a layout as picturesque as it is playable. Quite simply, Fox Hollow offers a good, fair test of golf. Fox Hollow attracts players from around the state, from around the U.S. and from around the world. There’s no better indicator of the course’s stellar reputation. The par-71 championship layout features five sets of tees and offers new challenges every time it’s played, mixing native trees and vegetation, sparkling lakes,

COVER STORY

sand bunkers and a variety of wildlife. Fox Hollow’s rolling fairways are a delightful departure from the pancake-flat layouts found elsewhere in Florida.

measuring 451 yards from the back tee – that will challenge the most accomplished ball strikers. Viewing the hole from the tee there’s a water hazard left and OB right. A massive oak tree on the right pinches in the landing area, making the tee shot extremely demanding. The approach shot is uphill to a wide, narrow green protected by a deep bunker in front and more sand on the player’s left.

Water comes into play on 11 holes and Jones’ other signature feature – plentiful and penal bunker complexes – abounds. Fox Hollow has hosted local qualifying for the U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur as well as qualifiers for the Valspar Championship, the PGA Tour event held annu- From the tips, Fox Hollow’s finishing ally at Innisbrook Golf Resort. hole is a robust 445 yards. From the white tees it’s a slightly more manageable 429 Holes yards. With water guarding both sides The third hole is a straightaway par 4 – from tee to green, the fairway appears to

COVER FROM THESTORY EDITOR

The 5th hole is a demanding par 3 surrounded by water on three sides.

be an island of grass. Place your drive in play and your work is only half done. The approach demands a long, accurate shot to a large, undulating green protected by yawning bunkers front left and right. Fox Hollow’s putting surfaces feature SeaDwarf Paspalum, a hearty turfgrass that can be irrigated with effluent, reclaimed, or even seawater. This grass also has the ability to deliver fast green speeds (9+ on the Stimpmeter) and requires less fertilizer, pesticide, weed control and irrigation than other grasses. Arguably, Fox Hollow possesses some of the finest quality, most environmentally friendly green complexes in the Tampa Bay area. Another unique feature at Fox Hollow is its fleet of Club Car golf carts. These state-of-the-art electric carts feature the “Shark Experience”, a Greg Norman GolfCoastMagazine.com

technology platform that brings GPS, XM Radio and more to the golf carts. It’s all intended to enhance the golfer’s experience while playing “The Fox”. Convenience and an emphasis on friendly, unobtrusive service also contribute to the Fox Hollow experience. From the time you drop off your clubs until you reach the first tee, everything you need is readily accessible. The 15,000 square foot clubhouse is the focal point, featuring a fully stocked pro shop, locker rooms, private meeting rooms and an upscale dining room that serves as an alternative to the more relaxed atmosphere of the Grille at Fox Hollow Golf Club. Both share spectacular views of the golf course. Events The Fox Hollow clubhouse is available for tournaments, private parties,

COVER STORY

receptions and dinners, all catered by its professional events staff. The staff will help design the menu, handle the details and have the golf course in impeccable condition for your event. They handle tournament groups from 20 to 144 players. Competitive pricing is available. For more information, visit FoxHollowGolfClub.com or call (727) 264-8939. Tournaments, corporate outings, weddings and banquets are welcome. Practice Facilities As you exit the clubhouse, Fox Hollow’s Fox Hollow At A Glance practice facilities are all within easy LOCATION walking distance. There’s a large putting 10050 Robert Trent Jones Parkway green to your left; a pitching green with Trinity, Florida 34655 sand bunker to your right; and a spacious On Little Road, three miles south of SR 54 natural turf driving range straight ahead. STATISTICS Lessons and clinics are available, taught 18 Hole Championship Course, Par 71, by Fox Hollow’s experienced PGA proDesigned by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. fessional teaching staff.

Memberships Three attractive golf membership packages are available: Junior, Intermediate and Regular. Both single and family memberships are available in all three categories. Regular and family members may book tee times up to fourteen days in advance. Daily Fee Players Welcome Fox Hollow is a semi-private club. Daily fee players are always welcome. Rate are competitive with other area courses. Reserve tee times online at FoxHollowGolfClub.com or call the Pro Shop at (727) 376-6333. GCM

Tee Black Blue White Gold (M) Gold (W) Red

Yards 7079 6757 6288 5908 5908 4825

Rating 74.6 72.8 71.2 68.3 75.4 70.9

Slope 134 130 125 122 137 125

RESERVATIONS For tee times up to 6 days in advance, call (727) 376-6333 or toll free (800) 943-1902. Tee times available online at FoxHollowGolfClub.com. Tournaments, Corporate Outings, Weddings and Banquets are welcome. Instruction by PGA Professionals available.

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These Four Fun To Play Golf Cours Southport Springs Golf & Country Club Southport Springs offers a challenging par-69 golf course measuring 5,000 yards from the tips. But don’t be fooled. While short enough for senior players, it is also narrow and challenging for players with lower handicaps. You will be challenged! Located in beautiful Zephyrihills, Florida, the Southport Springs golf course is open to the public. Tee times can be booked up to two weeks in advance. Book online 24/7. 3737 Southport Springs Pkwy Zephyrhills, FL 33541 www.southportspringsfl.com Pro Shop: (813) 780-7637

Riverside Club Golf & Marina The Riverside Club Golf and Marina Community is nestled along the southeastern shore of Tampa Bay in beautiful Ruskin, Florida, The 18-hole Riverside championship course features 6,117 yards of golf from the longest tees with a par of 70. Designed by Ward Northrup, the Riverside golf course opened in 1954. Join their eClub and receive golf specials and promotions. Book tee times online 24/7. 2550 Pier Drive Ruskin, FL 33570 www.riversideclub.golf Pro Shop: (813) 645-2000

Courses Are All Open To The Public

o s

Blue Heron Pines Golf Course Blue Heron Pines offers an 18hole, par-60 executive golf course located in Punta Gorda, Florida. With a length of 3,180 yards from the back tees and 2,362 yards from the forward tees, the course allows players to get out and play in less time and aggravation. The course is semi-private, offering both memberships at very reasonable rates and daily fee play. Tee times can be booked a week in advance. Book tee times online 24/7. 29201 Jones Loop Road Punta Gorda, FL 33950 www.bhpgolfmembers.com Pro Shop: (941) 637-6191

The Hamptons Golf & Country Club Located in Central Florida just off I-4 between Orlando & Tampa in Auburndale, The Hamptons Golf and Country Club features a challenging, 18-hole executive golf course which is open to the public. With par at 61, and the course measuring out to 3,488 yards at its longest, the course is friendly to all skill levels. Book tee times online 24/7. 900 Southhampton Boulevard Auburndale, FL 33823 www.hamptonsgolfcc.com Pro Shop: (863) 666-8442

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

GolfAdvisor Top Rated

Crescent Oaks Golf Club

(727) 937-4653 3300 Crescent Oaks Blvd. Tarpon Springs, FL 34688 Map #3, www.crescentoaksgolf.com

$45 Round of Golf At Crescent Oaks

Anytime Weekdays After 10:00 AM Weekends/Holidays in 2022 (Including Cart • Up to 4 Players) NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS OR COPIES

“Best of the Best” 2020 & 2021 Tampa Bay Times

Plantation Palms Golf Club

NEW (813) 996-4653 23253 Plantation Boulevard with Carts GPS Land O’ Lakes, Florida 34639 Map #20, www.plantationpalms.net

$45 Round of Golf

At Plantation Palms

Anytime Weekdays After 10:00 AM Weekends/Holidays in 2022 (Including Cart • Up to 4 Players) NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS OR COPIES

$19 Round of Golf

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$49/Month

At Both Ace Golf Courses Player Development Membership VALID THROUGH APRIL 2022

12910 Boyette Road, Riverview (813) 672-7750 Ace-Golf.com

PINELLAS | HILLSBOROUGH | PASCO | HERNANDO

Public Course

MAP #14

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 4540/62.3/96 White: 4490/61.8/93 Red: 3556/63.7/107

COURSE FACTS

Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 67 General Manager: Tyson Duane Superintendent: Aaron May

COURSE AMENITIES

• Clubhouse • Snack Bar with beer • Pro Shop • Practice Green • Rental Clubs • Walking Allowed Anytime • Putting & Chipping Green • Practice Cage • Hole-In-One Contest

COURSES

Pinellas Park

Mainlands Golf Club Family owned and operated for over 50 years Family owned and operated for over 50 years, The Mainlands Golf Club is the destination for both discriminating locals and savvy snowbirds. The course is conveniently located in the heart of Pinellas County about 1 mile north of US 19 and Park Boulevard. Great conditions and friendly service are cherished traditions here. A par 67, nine par 4’s, seven par 3’s, and two par 5’s comprise a walker-friendly, links-style course. A completely stocked pro shop is onsite to cater to any and all golfer’s needs before your round. After your round, visit the snack bar, grab a bite to eat and a cold beer and tally up your score on the patio. Come play The Mainlands Golf Club. We look forward to seeing you. CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT mainlandsgolf.com/golf-course-news/ FOR UNCLE JULIO’S SPECIAL OF THE MONTH

9445 Mainlands Boulevard West Pinellas Park, FL 33782 (727) 577-4847 Pro Shop (727) 577-2797 Tee Times www.mainlandsgolf.com

COURSES

PINELLAS | HILLSBOROUGH | PASCO | HERNANDO

lue y Va ount f l Go C st ellas e B in P In

Municipal Course

MAP #30

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6069/68.5/117 White: 5729/67.0/113 Yellow: 5145/64.4/107 Red: 4886/67.6/113 Family (M): 3388/58.7/96 Family (W): 3388/59.6/96

COURSE FACTS

Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 72 Architects: Wayne Styles, John Van Kleek Golf Course Manager: Howard Hunt, PGA Head Pro: Steve Didik, PGA

COURSE AMENITIES

• Clubhouse • Snack Bar • Pro Shop • Renovated Driving Range • Range Memberships Available • Short Game Practice Area • Lessons Available • Rental Clubs • Walking Allowed • Book Online 24/7

GolfCoastMagazine.com

Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs Golf Course Originally built in 1908, the Tarpon Springs golf course follows the architecture of the time with small, elevated greens and quite a few doglegs. The course is very scoreable on your good days, while water hazards can wreak havoc on your bad ones. During the summer of 2014, all 18 greens and two practice greens were reconstructed. The greens now feature new contours and state-of-the-art Seashore Paspalum turf. At the same time, bunkers were re-sanded and the driving range renovated. Tarpon Springs golf course is honored to be a participating course on the Florida Historic Golf Trail. The “Trail” celebrates Florida’s early golf heritage by featuring publicly accessible golf courses throughout the state that golfers can still play today. Tarpon Springs boasts two PGA Professionals, each with over 25 years of experience. Together, they oversee golf operations, leagues, clinics, summer junior camps and much more. PARTICIPATING GOLF COURSE FLORIDA HISTORIC GOLF TRAIL

1310 South Pinellas Avenue Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 (727) 934-5191 www.tarponspringsgc.com

PINELLAS | HILLSBOROUGH | PASCO | HERNANDO

COURSES

At olf ices G hip se Pr s n r pio Cou m e a Ch cutiv Exe

Public Golf Course

MAP #27

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Gator/Panther: 6270/70.8/120 Bobcat/Gator: 6039/69.7/117 Panther/Bobcat:: 6110/70.0/119

COURSE FACTS Holes/Par: 27 holes, Par 71-73 General Manager: Ken Ross Superintendent: Joan Pichardo Arias

COURSE AMENITIES • Clubhouse & Snack Bar • Lounge • Pro Shop • Driving Range • 3-Hole Practice Course • Lessons Available • Rental Clubs • Book Online 24/7 • Saturday AM Junior Clinics • Thursday Ladies Day (1/2 price)

Odessa

Silver Dollar Golf Club 27 Holes of Championship Golf Silver Dollar Golf Club offers a truly great golfing experience for every skill level, with three 9-hole courses that can be played individually or consecutively. This scenic golf club, located on the northwest corner of Tampa, Florida, conveniently located on the Pinellas/Hillsborough border offers a complete pro shop, extensive practice area, restaurant, and a fun, friendly staff. Enjoy the perfect blend of challenge and relaxation on three 9-hole courses with a wide variety of fairways, bunkers and water features designed to test and entertain you. Flanked by stately trees and sparkling waters, nature enhances the beauty of Silver Dollar Golf Club and adds to your enjoyment. Pristine Paspallum turf putting surfaces are a pleasure to play. Practice facilities include full driving range, three putting greens, a pitching and chipping green with sand trap, and three practice holes. Come and round out your game with us at the Silver Dollar! Ask about our rewards program. 12711 Silver Dollar Drive Odessa, FL 33556 (813) 920-3884 www.silverdollargolf.com

COURSES

Semi-Private GC

PINELLAS | HILLSBOROUGH | PASCO | HERNANDO

MAP #9

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Champ: 6898/73.5/129 Blue: 6053/69.4/117 White: 5487/66.9/109 Red: 4773/68.2/116

COURSE FACTS

Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 72 Course Architects: Jed Azinger & Gordon Lewis Pro Shop Manager: John Panno Superintendent: Marty Ford

COURSE AMENITIES

• Renovated Clubhouse • Restaurant & Bar • Banquet Facilities • Pro Shop • Driving Range • Putting Green • Short Game Area • Lessons • Rental Clubs • Book Online 24/7

Lutz

Heritage Harbor Golf & Country Club ”The course has to be challenged. You have to test the players and I think we have all the components out there.” Designer Jed Azinger Heritage Harbor measures nearly 7,000 yards from the back tees and

is one of the most challenging public-access layouts in the Tampa Bay area. Four sets of tees are incorporated into the design, making the course fun for golfers of all skill levels. Swirling winds and strategically located bunkers can wreak havoc with players of this finely manicured links. Course designers Jed Azinger and Gordon Lewis took extra care when laying out the course to preserve the wildlife in residence. Check our website for golf rates and specials. You are invited to experience Double Bogeys Tavern & Grille, a new full-service restaurant and full liquor bar located in the Heritage Harbor clubhouse. Whether you’re playing golf or just want to watch your favorite sporting events, Double Bogeys is open to the public and we are all about having fun. Enjoy our food and drink specials either indoors or on our covered patio. Specializing in comfort food, we put a new spin on an American cuisine by creating our menu from a scratch-made kitchen. Beverage and snack carts are also available on the course. We are happy to be a part of Heritage Harbor’s community and looking forward to becoming a neighborhood staple starting in November 2021.

19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway Lutz, FL 33558 (813) 949-4886 www.heritageharborgolf.com

GolfCoastMagazine.com

PINELLAS | HILLSBOROUGH | PASCO | HERNANDO

Upscale Public GC

MAP #36

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6699/72.6/131 White: 6233/70.6/127 Green: 5869/67.2/121 Red: 5205/70.8/127

COURSE FACTS

Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 72 Architect: Lloyd Clifton General Manager: Jarod Atkinson, PGA Director of Golf: Darryl Spelich, PGA Superintendent: Terry Mounce

COURSE AMENITIES

• Clubhouse • Full-Service Dining Room • Full Liquor Bar • Banquet Facilities • Weddings/Private Functions • Fully-Stocked Pro Shop • Aqua Driving Range • Putting & Chipping Greens • Season Passes Available • Book Online 24/7

COURSES

Tampa

Westchase Golf Club The course winds through acres of lakes, woods and conservation areas. The Westchase Golf Club takes full advantage of its setting… natural lakes and wetlands teeming with wildlife including an occasional gator. Florida golf at its best. The layout, designed by nationally recognized architect Lloyd Clifton, winds through acres of lakes, woods, conservation areas and communities. Westchase offers manicured Paspallum greens surrounded by natural wetlands, wooden bridges and bulkheads. With its 9,500-square-foot clubhouse, full-service dining room, and fully stocked pro shop, Westchase offers a country club atmosphere along with first-class service. The club has established itself as one of Tampa Bay’s best upscale public golf facilities. The National Golf Foundation has ranked Westchase in the Top 10 nationally and #1 in the state of Florida in customer loyalty and satisfaction. Westchase Golf Club’s promise to its customers is the relentless pursuit of perfect conditions and uncompromising service in a fun and relaxed environment. 11602 Westchase Golf Drive Tampa, FL 33626 (813) 854-2331 www.westchasegc.com

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31 20 8 3

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Practice Fac. Food Rental Clubs Pro Shop Lessons Ad on Page

COURSES

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Par

Type: PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private, MIL=Military, R=Resort

Type Hole

Map Number

PINELLAS | HILLSBOROUGH | PASCO | HERNANDO

TAMPA BAY Crescent Oaks Golf Club (727) 937-4653 SP 18 72 6808/73.2/137 • • 54 3 3300 Crescent Oaks Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL; On Eastlake Rd, 1/2 mile north of Keystone Rd. Fox Hollow Golf Club (727) 376-6333 SP 18 71 7138/74.6/131 • • 46 8 10050 Robert Trent Jones Pkwy., Trinity, FL 34655; On Little Rd., 3 miles south of SR 54 Heritage Harbor Golf & Country Club (813) 949-4886 SP 18 72 6898/73.5/129 • • 58 9 19502 Heritage Harbor Pkwy., Lutz, FL 33558; North on Dale Mabry Hwy. to Lutz Lake Fern Rd., west to course Mainlands Golf Club (727) 577-4847 P 18 67 4803/62.3/96 • • 55 14 9445 Mainlands Blvd. W., Pinellas Park, FL 33782; On US Hwy 19 North, 1 mile north of Park Blvd. Mission Inn Resort (352) 324-3101 R 18 72 EC: 7015/73.8/136 • • 7 17 10400 CR 48, Howey-In-The-Hills, FL 34737; On CR 48 .2 miles past San Luis Blvd. (Lake County) Plantation Palms Golf Club (813) 996-4653 SP 18 72 6436/71.1/127 • • 54 20 23253 Plantation Blvd., Land O’Lakes, FL 34639; I-75 to SR 54, 7 miles west to Collier, north 1 mile Riverside Club Golf & Marina (813) 645-2000 SP 18 70 6117/69.3/127 • • 52 46 2550 Pier Dr., Ruskin, FL 33570; Take US 41 to Universal Drive, turn east and follow signs. Seminole Lake Country Club (727) 391-6255 SP 18 72 6501/71.2/125 • • 62 23 6100 Augusta Blvd., Seminole, FL 33777; Take Park Blvd. to Park St., go south 2 miles. Silver Dollar Golf Club (813) 920-3884 SP 27 72 G/P:6270/70.8/120 • • 57 27 12711 Silver Dollar Drive., Odessa, FL 33556; 72 B/G: 6039/69.7/117 SR 584 to Race Track Rd, N 6 miles to Patterson Rd, W 3m 72 P/B: 6110/70.0/119 Southport Springs Golf & Country Club (813) 780-5637 SP 18 69 4846/63.7/109 • • 52 31 5309 Southport Springs Parkway, Zephyrhills FL; Exit 266 Morris Bridge Rd; R on Chancey; E 1 mile Tarpon Springs Golf Course (727) 934-5191 SP 18 72 6243/69.3/127 • • 56 30 1310 S. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689; On Alternate US 19, 1 mile north of Klosterman Rd. Westchase Golf Club (813) 854-2331 P 18 72 6699/72.6/131 • • 59 36 11602 Westchase Golf Dr., Tampa, FL 33626; Take Veteran’s Expressway to exit #7, west on Linebaugh Ave 3.5 miles World Woods Golf Club (352) 796-5500 P 18 71 PB:7237/75.3/133 • • 31 37 17590 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34614; Veteran’s Expressway to Hwy. 98, then east 1/4 mile

Seminole Lake Country Club FAMILY-OWNED, Old-Florida GOLF Annual and Seasonal Memberships available or

Enjoy Our Club as a Member For The Day! (Includes Greens Fees, Cart Fees, Range Balls and Lunch)

6100 AUGUSTA BOULEVARD SEMINOLE, FLORIDA 33777 FOR TEE TIMES CALL THE PRO SHOP OR BOOK ONLINE 24/7

727-391-6255 ~ WWW.SEMINOLELAKE.NET

The Hills

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941-697-2

Long Marsh Book online at www.rotondagolf.com

by reens framed Maintained g and palms. pines, oaks 918

941-698-0

The Palms

’s most o of Floridas. le Featuring tw o h demanding

18 941-697-81

The Links

80 acre rs 35 of thrsise. ve co r te a W u executive co

77 941-697-88

Pinemoor n irways and a Tree lined fa of sand traps. abundance 06

941-697-70