2021 Golfing Magazine New Jersey / Eastern Pennsylvania Summer Issue

New Jersey and Pennsylvania’s #1 Golf Magazine www.GolfingMagazine.net

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INS ra ve IDE l & Fo Eq r uip m

golfing

New Jersey / Pennsylvania

m a g a z i n e

™

Creating Memorable Experiences for All New Jersey / Pennsylvania Edition Summer 2021

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LOVETHEAPPROACH You work hard on your game, you put in the time.

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your permanent golf vacation

begins now.

You’ll feel it the moment you enter the community. The tree lined streets, lush landscaping and brick walkways. With its magnificent Clubhouse as it’s centerpiece, the feeling is traditional and memorable. Then there’s the worldclass Baywood Greens golf course that winds it way through the community, creating backyard vistas like nothing else around. And if that weren’t enough, there are marinas with boat slips with access to Rehoboth Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, beaches, restaurants and shopping all just minutes away.

Known as the “Augusta of the North,” Baywood Greens is by far the most visually spectacular golf course in Delaware and is consistently ranked #1

by Golf Digest’s Best in State.

A COASTAL GOLF COMMUNITY

NEW HOMES FROM THE MID $200 S | BAYWOODGREENS.COM Home Sales | 32851 Greens Way, Long Neck, DE 19966 DIRECTIONS: From Route 1 in Lewes or Rehoboth Beach take Route 24 West for approximately 8 miles. The entrance to Baywood Greens will be on your left.

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Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

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New Jersey Pennsylvania

From The Publisher

Golfing Magazine and Summer on the Course a Perfect Combo

G

olf remains as hot during the summer of 2021 as the weather. And that’s a good thing for the game we love.

In this issue of Golfing Magazine, we give you the lowdown on the Links at Union Vale in New York State is a true “links” style golf course that offers blind shots, pot bunkers, and a bit more.

The course, designed by architects Stephen Kay and Doug Smith, lets the shape of the land--with its swells and troughs--influence the shape of the holes. The fact is there aren’t many courses like it in the region. Between the challenging course and the quality of service, playing The Links at Union Vale offers golf in a whole new light.

We also tell you about The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge, also in New York, created by legendary golfer and world-renowned golf architect Jack Nicklaus. This is a stunning track that was carved out of the mature forests and rolling hills of a 220-acre estate. It features rock formations, extreme elevation changes, and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

When you visit Jack Frost National Golf Club in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania feel free to embrace the layout figuratively and literally.

The course covers over 200 acres of some of the most beautiful terrain in northeastern Pennsylvania and is routed on the crest of Jack Frost Mountain, which reaches an elevation of 2,000 feet.

Ron Jaworski Golf properties continue to fine tune their operations to create best in class when it comes to an all-around golf experience.

Jaworski’s impressive portfolio of public daily fee courses includes New Jersey properties Blue Heron Pines Golf Club in Galloway, Valleybrook Country Club in Blackwood, Ramblewood Country Club in Mount Laurel, Running Deer Golf Club in Pittsgrove, RiverWinds Golf and Tennis Club in West Deptford and Downington Country Club in Downington, Shore Gate Golf Club in New Jersey has earned a reputation as one heck of a challenging layout as well as one of the most visually pleasing courses in South Jersey. The par-72 track can be stretched to 7,227 yards and is routed over 245 acres of pristine forestland.

The ShopRite LPGA Classic Presented by Acer will be played this fall as part of a shift in the LPGA schedule. The tournament will be held September 27 through October 3 with the best female golfers in the world competing for $1.75 million in prize money at Seaview, A Dolce Hotel, in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.

We also tell you about the latest gadgets and toys from golf equipment companies, let you in on a few real nice golfing getaways, and tell you about other courses you simply must play this summer.

Enjoy our digital magazine and keep playing golf. We hope you enjoy this issue and that you always hit ‘em straight and long.

Volume 32

Issue 4

Summer 2021

Must Play …………….…………………………..….………… 8 These courses are a “Must” this season This month: The Club at Mansion Ridge, Shore Gate Golf Club and Jack Frost National Pros …………….…………………………..….……………… 14 This month: The ShopRite LPGA Classic Physical Therapy ….…………………………..….………… 23 This month: Myokinetix Physical Therapy and Performance

Company Profile …………….…………………………..…. 24 A local company in the Golf Industry This month: Ron Jaworski Golf

golfing m a g a z i n e™

1924 Route 35, Suite 10B Wall Township, NJ 07719 732-449-0515 Publisher Sean Fitzsimmons ph: 732-449-0515 fax: (860) 307-7469 golfingmag@verizon.net

Contributing Photographer Mark William Paul Graphic Designer Heidi Dyer

Senior Writer John Torsiello ph: (860) 482-9101 jtorsiello@sbcglobal.net Editorial Contributions should be mailed to above address or emailed to the publisher. Material accepted is subject to revisions necessary to meet requirements of the publication. The act of delivering material shall express a warranty by contributor that material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Reproduction of the contents of this publication is prohibited without written permission of the publisher. Publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Golfing Magazine New Jersey / Eastern Pennsylvania is published four times annually.

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Must Play

The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge A True Joy to Play

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

C

reated by legendary golfer and world-renowned golf architect Jack Nicklaus, The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge in Monroe, New York is a stunning track that was carved out of the mature forests and rolling hills of a 220-acre estate. It features rock formations, extreme elevation changes, and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Nicklaus, known for his uncanny ability to put just enough challenge into his routings to test the very best players while not overpowering the recreational golfer, designed the course at Mansion Ridge to test your shotmaking skills and stamina. You will be asked to negotiate wetlands and strike crisp shots over and around bunkers, as well as some water. The layout measures 6,899 yards from the tips and plays to a par of 72.

Mansion Ridge’s course is a unique golfing experience, with a layout and design that will challenge all individuals, regardless of handicap. In addition to the recreational golfer, the course draws metropolitan New York’s best players, PGA professionals, and even a few Tour players to give it their best against the master’s work.

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“The Club at Mansion Ridge continues to push for the highest possible standards in guest service and golf course conditions,” said General Manager, Patrick Wynn. The property is managed by Troon Golf. “Our Superintendent, Rob Capecelatro, has now been with us for four years, and really has the place dialed in. Nick Schremser, our Director of Golf, continues to work with his team to ensure a smooth and friendly round from the bag drop to the pro shop to our on course player assistants. Our pricing is done dynamically meaning that it is always based on availability. The further out you book the lower the rate you will receive most of the time.”

As mentioned, Mansion Ridge is a tough but fair test, reiterated Wynn. “The course has some holes with scoring opportunities and others where you are happy to walk away with a par. Playing from the right tees it can be a fun test for all levels of golfers.

“This has been a busy year for us,” continued Wynn. “We’ve still seen an increase in the public play similar to last year, but more of the golf outings are returning. Most of our golfers live within about an hour of club. That includes a lot of northern New Jersey, New York City, Westchester County

Golfing Magazine Magazine •• New NewJersey/E. Jersey/E.Pennsylvania PennsylvaniaSection Section Golfing

in New York and into Connecticut. We do see some guests coming from a little further like out on Long Island which is great to see, and we hope they can make the trip back again soon.”

Manson Ridge is “always” running a variety of specials in its restaurant on various days, said Wynn, “but with our dynamic pricing, your best bet for golf is to book as far in advance as possible. We do throw in some tee time specials on slower days as well.”

Mansion Ridge is a stunning routing.

“We have what is known as Bear’s Corner, which is holes 12 through 16,” explained Wynn. This is the toughest stretch of holes on the course and can make or break your round. Nine, a 540-yard par-five, is the hardest hole, but is surrounded by a few easier ones. The Bear’s Corner starts with a 167yard par-three over water (the 12th) with large bunkers and a hazard directly over the green. The 13th is a medium length par-four but requires a good approach shot in to a small green, a large bunker left is a hard place to get up and down from.”

Wynn continued, “On 14, you have to be positioned on the left hand side of the fairway to have a clear shot in to the green. The green sits on top of the hill so your blind sec-

ond shot is a real challenge. The par-five 15th requires a good tee shot to get to the top of the hill but thick woods left and trouble right could lead to a big number. Longer hitters may try to go for it in two, but the greenside bunkers swallow up a lot of these attempts.”

Wynn said the 16th doesn’t look intimidating on the scorecard but with a straightup-the-hill tee shot and out of bounds left and trees right you need to be very pre-

cise. “The second shot is also uphill in to green with a false front. We call this Bear’s Corner not only for our course designer Jack Nicklaus but also this area sits up against a state park where you can see bears crossing the fairways on occasion.”

A little about the holes prior to Bear’s Corner.

The course gives you a little time to warm up before you’re hit with a tough par-four,

the sixth, measuring 422 yards. There’s a forced carry off the tee, and a good drive will leave you an exacting mid-iron to a kidneyshaped green.

The eighth is a great, short par-four, playing 356 yards from the tips. Favor the left center of the fairway to avoid a sharp drop off to the right. Figure an extra club to the uphill green and watch out for a huge bunker that guards the right side of the putting surface.

Number 10 gives you a bit of a rest as you open the inward nine. The 363-yard par-four will leave you a short iron to a tired green, as long as you hit the fairway.

By the way, the 18th is one of the best finishing holes in the region. It’s 478 yards, but a well struck drive will tumble down a hill and leave you a mid-iron to a green protected by a pond to the left. It is simply a super way to finish a memorable round.

“The club is always looking for new ways to improve on our services and offerings,” said Wynn. We have golf carts with fully equipped GPS and Bluetooth speakers that you can connect your phone.” Mansion Ridge also specializes in group/corporate golf outings, fundraisers, and charity events, with a full-service catering facility onsite.

The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge Monroe, New York www.MansionRidgeGC.com 845-782-7888

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Elevated above the rest...naturally Golf on 45 acres of pristine forest

Lessons for all skill levels 7 days a week Practice on driving range, putting greens, and bunkers Shop at the stocked Pro Shop Memberships to a premier course located adjacent to OVR

Shore Gate Golf Club 35 School House Lane Ocean View, New Jersey 08230 About us...

Shore Gate Golf Club has been perpetually ranked as one of the top public golf courses in New Jersey. Carved out of the trees, Shore Gate allows each group to feel unbothered as they navigate the course from start to finish. Whether you are looking for a round of golf, a membership to a premier golf course, lessons, or just a driving range, we have it all. Located just two miles from the beach, Shore Gate is the perfect place to relax.

Book your tee time online or call!

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Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

(609) 624-TEES (8337) www.shoregategolf.com

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Must Play

The Golf is Surely Sublime at

Shore Gate Golf Club By, JOHN TORSIELLO

S

hore Gate Golf Club in Ocean View, New Jersey has earned a reputation as one heck of a challenging layout as well as one of the most visually pleasing courses in South Jersey.

The par-72 track can be stretched to 7,227 yards and is routed over 245 acres of pristine forestland. The tees, fairways and greens are bent grass and the rough is blue grass and fescue.

There are 88 bunkers scattered about and there are seven ponds and lakes that make navigating this beauty a real test of playing ability.

Said Gregg Johnson, Director of Golf/General Manager, “We renovated some bunkers over the winter and we are making an effort to keep the tall grasses down in order to make the course playerfriendlier. Pricing has pretty much stayed the same for the year.”

What makes Shore Gate special is that it contains “18 unique looking holes”, said

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Johnson. He expounded, “Not two holes look or play the same. There are no houses on the course. You are basically out in nature with different types of wildlife roam-

ing around. Shore Gate will challenge every aspect of your game.”

It has been a very busy year at Shore Gate, Johnson reported. “Mornings have pretty much sold out every day and we have had a lot of late afternoon nine-hole play as well. A majority of our customers are vaca-

Golfing Magazine • New New Jersey/E. Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Section Section

tioners visiting the beach towns between Memorial Day and Labor Day. A lot of them come from the Philadelphia area, Northern New Jersey, and even Maryland and Delaware. We do have a good following from South New Jersey locals as well. In the off season (spring and fall) we have a lot of groups on golf trips.”

Shore Gate has a bevy of great holes. “The ninth is the hole that most people talk about,” said Johnson.

“It measures 648 yards from the back tees and 577 from the middle tees with a waste area that borders the left side of the tee shot landing zone. After the waste area, a large lake comes into play and runs along the rest of the left side of the dogleg left fairway and in front of the green. The safest way to play the hole is with a drive down the right side. The layup shot is a true risk/reward. You can lay up to the right side of the fairway and

leave yourself with a middle to long iron or fairway wood into the green or you can try and take your second shot over the lake to a generous landing area that leaves you with a short iron into a very undulating green.”

Johnson said management will be “tweaking things” on the course “here and there” in the offseason. “We will be doing bunker repairs and reseeding different areas on the course, although no major renovations are planned for the immediate future.”

Let’s take a look at some of the other holes at Shore Gate Golf Club.

The second is a 432-yard par-four with two lakes that flank the left side of the hole.

A well-placed tee shot over the first lake must stay to the right to avoid a second lake. The fairway widens to present a generous landing area just ahead of the first lake. The landing area is a generous 47 yards wide, but is difficult to see from the tee. The idea is to hit the left hand side of the landing area to avoid adding 40 to 50 yards to your second shot.

A well-placed drive will leave you with an approach of about 170 yards to a guarded green.

Avoid the bunkers on the right on your approach shot.

The 163-yard third is the first of Shore Gate’s parthrees. It’s protected by a lake and a bunker, both of which you must carry to reach a tiered green. The putting surface is comparatively narrow, presenting the challenge of a fairly small target protected by front and rear bunkers.

The sixth, a 589-yard parfive, is called “Riptide” because of the substantial sculpting in the fairway. It’s best played as a three-shot hole. The drive must be placed along the left side of the fairway to avoid a bunker on the right. The smart golfer will play for accuracy, not distance. Steer left and avoid driving through the fairway. There are no waste

areas on this hole, as all hazards are bunkers.

The 13th, a 556-yard par-five, is the first of three holes known as “The Kingdom”.

Thirteen is a dogleg left, guarded by waste areas on the left and lakes on the right.

A 45-yard patch of rough cuts across the fairway, so be careful to hit your drive short of the rough. Your second shot should also favor the right side of the fairway to avoid

waste areas and traps on the left but not too far right so as to avoid a bunker about 100 yards out. You want to hit your approach shot to the middle of the green because if you miss to the right, you’ll be faced with a waste area that is 14 feet deep in some spots.

The 144-yard 14th is the shortest hole on the course. The smallest green on the course is guarded by deep bunkers.

An environmentally protected area runs along the left side of the green and plays as a lateral hazard. Make sure you pull the right club out of the bag and aim for the center of the green.

The tee shot on the 406-yard 15th should be aimed at the barber pole in the middle of the fairway. An environmentally protected area runs along the entire left side. A layup to the 150-yard marker is the smart play but if you hit the driver straight it is a great risk/reward. A large lake comes into play on the right side from the 150-yard marker and runs all the way along the front and right side of this undulating green. If the wind is blowing, make sure to take an extra club on your approach.

The finisher is a 460-yard, dogleg right par-four. The ideal tee shot would be a fade aiming down the left side of the fairway. The longer hitter can hit it straight over the left edge of the waste bunker on the right side of the fairway into a generous landing area, leaving a mid- or short-iron approach shot. Pay attention to where the flag location is and pick your club accordingly as it could be a three-club difference from the front to the back of the largest green on the golf course.

Shore Gate Golf Club Ocean View, New Jersey 609-624-8337 www.ShoreGate.com

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Pros

Fans Welcomed Back to the

ShopRite Classic this Fall By, JOHN TORSIELLO

T

he ShopRite LPGA Classic Presented by Acer will be played this fall as part of a shift in the LPGA schedule.

The tournament will be held September 27 through October 3 with the best female golfers in the world competing for $1.75 million in prize money at Seaview, A Dolce Hotel, in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey.

The tournament was held last year without spectators due to COVID-19 concerns and restrictions. Despite having no pro-am or spectators, ShopRite still donated over $1.5 million to local and regional charities. ShopRite felt these organizations likely needed the assistance more than ever and it’s was a testament to the company that is was still deliver to those on the front lines and in the community.

“The tournament is preparing for as normal an event as possible,” said Bill Hansen, Tournament Director. “We have no restrictions on fans or hospitality structures, so for those fans that attend or watch on Golf Channel, it should look similar to what they’re used to.”

Hansen said the tournament is also welcoming back the largest pro-am in professional golf, which takes place over two days at three-courses each day. “For the format of the event, it will be a three-day tournament, Friday through Sunday, where 132 of the best players in the world will compete.

Our normal field is usually 144, but since we’re playing a bit later in the year, with less daylight, we’ll reduce the field a bit.”

Hansen said the tournament is “absolutely thrilled” to welcome back “the best golf fans in the world”. He added, “It was great that we were able to hold the event last year and give the ladies a chance to compete for $1.75 million, but it just wasn’t the same without the electricity of the large crowds.

Grounds and hospitality tickets are on sale at www.shopritelpgaclassic.com/tickets.

Thanks to ShopRite, Price Plus Card holders can download two free grounds tickets 14

from our website by entering their card number.” The event’s past two champions, Lexi Thompson and Mel Reid, are expected to be in the field “Fans will also be able to enjoy our fun-filled expo area,” said Hansen, “where the Oreo Family Fun zone will have games, bounce houses and free Oreos. A Junior Golf Show will take place on Saturday

Presented by

Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

afternoon at the driving range, where kids can watch and learn from LPGA stars and receive free snacks and gifts, courtesy of ShopRite. We will also bring back the Patriots’ Pavilion presented by Kleenex and SERVPRO, which is a private hospitality structure for military, service personnel and front-line workers. Free grounds tickets and Patriots Pavilion tickets for these heroes are available for download on our website.”

“The tournament venue,” said Hansen, “is such a fantastic course for spectators.

It’s very easy to walk, and given the lack of trees, you can see and hear action on multiple holes throughout the course from one location. The course is one of the shortest on Tour, but the small greens and the frequent wind makes this a true test for the best players in the world. It’s pretty common to play the course and hit every club in your bag. It’s a true test for shot-makers.”

For more information about ticket sales, volunteers, pro-am player packages and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.

ShopRiteLPGAClassic.com.

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Ballamor GC

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Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

Have you beaten Bear’s Corner?

Come try your best against the hardest stretch of holes at this Jack Nicklaus Signature design

A Jack Nicklaus Signature Design Awaits The Golf Club at Mansion Ridge | 1292 Orange Turnpike, Monroe, New York 10950 | 845.782.7888 /mansionridgegc.com

/mansionridge

@mansionridge

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Must Play

Jack Frost National A Visual and Playing Delight

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

W

hen you visit Jack Frost National Golf Club in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania feel free to embrace the layout figuratively and literally.

The course covers over 200 acres of some of the most beautiful terrain in northeastern Pennsylvania and is routed on the crest of Jack Frost Mountain, which reaches an elevation of 2,000 feet. The track, which opened two years ago, offers sometimes stunning views of the Pocono Mountains and the natural oak forests through which is ambles. Although technically a “mountain course,” Jack Frost National features wide fairways, target areas that are easily identifiable, very few uneven lies and no blind shots.

The course has five sets of tees and can be stretched to 7,246 yards when played from the back markers. The more enjoyable and manageable yardage for first timers will be the second set of tees down, 6,741 yards, or third set of tees, which plays 6,197. Even at those rather modest distances, Jack Frost National plays to slopes of 136 and 133 respectively, which tells you something about the challenge you’ll be facing here.

“We have been very busy last year and this, in fact we are up in 2021 over last season,”

said Robert Birk, Director of Golf. “We really haven’t made any changes to the layout recently but we do have our head teaching pro and director of instruction, Ryan Kearn, with us for a second season after coming over from Lord’s Valley Country Club. He’s helped us boost our lessons, especially for juniors and women and he does a great demo day every Saturday that has been very popular. Growing the game has been one of our marketing themes.”

Birk said the club brought in “Finn Scooters”, basically mini motorbikes suitable for use by one golfer carrying his or her clubs.

“We have done over 1,000 rentals of the scooters in two years,” said Birk. “They have been well received.”

Birk said the course was in superb condition, “something it has been in for the past two years”. He added, “The weather patterns have been conducive to good growing conditions.”

The attraction of Jack Frost National is its challenge, playability for all skill levels and location, the latter presenting the golfer with beautiful views on many of the holes. Said Birk, who has been at Jack Frost National eight years, “We have panoramic views and wonderful aesthetics on the entire course, which is routed through thick oak forest. You don’t get the same look on any two shots during the

entire round. There are elevation changes and five sets of tees, ranging from 7,200 yards from the tips down to around 5,400 yards.”

Jack Frost National gets a lot of tourist play during the summer months when the city folk head to the Poconos, especially on the weekends. During the weekdays, the locals make up a good portion of the clientele. The peak weekend greens fee is $85 with rates dropping on weekdays. There are twilight rates and special rates for individuals living within a 30-mile or so radius of the course. Play this year began in late March and Birk hopes the course can remain open until around Thanksgiving, weather permitting.

“As for the future, we do have plans for a new clubhouse to replace the small one we are operating out of now. We would like to add some simulators to our practice feature when we do that.”

As mentioned, Jack Frost National is an interesting design that gives golfers of every skill level an enjoyable experience. The course has a real nice mix of holes, long and short parfours, demanding par-threes and four par-fives that can be reached in two by long hitters.

Designer Terry LaGree did a fine job using the natural terrain to create a course that rewards wise club selection and proper place-

Scotland Run Club 18 18

Golfing Golfing Magazine Magazine •• New NewJersey/E. Jersey/E.Pennsylvania PennsylvaniaSection Section

ment of tee shots and approaches to the rather large greens.

LaGree, who joined Barbaron, Inc. in 1995 after 25 years in golf operation, construction, management, marketing and sales, has designed a number of high profile courses during the last 10 years. They include Royal Oaks Golf Club in Ocala, Florida, The Short Course at the acclaimed Black Diamond Ranch in Lecanto, Fla., the Diamond Player Club in Clermont, Fla., Sky View Golf Course at Citrus Hills in Hernando, Fla., and Pennbrooke Fairways in Leesburg. Fla. His work at the Diamond Player Club, which has been called “Florida’s Mountain Golf Course,” was lauded as one of the Sunshine State’s top new tracks when it opened in 1999.

Of his design style, LaGree says, “It’s a read of the land, and I think any of the great architects do that. Tom Fazio, to me, there’s no one better. He simply never forces any issues and creates an environment for the golfer that is pleasant and fair and beautiful.

You can’t ask for much more than that. But the land really dictates it. You have to look at what’s given to you on the palette and use those to your full advantage.”

LaGree’s work at Jack Frost National, which spanned 2005 and 2006, created an opener that is a beefy, 461-yard par-four that plays shorter than its scorecard yardage because the tee shot is downhill. Hit driver to the catch a down slope and you’ll pick up 30 or more extra yards.

Number two is a 431-yard par-four that is fairly straightforward, although you’ve got to steer clear of a marsh that sits at the rear of the

putting surface.

The third hole is the first of four strong par-threes on the track. It plays 181 yards from the tips and the tee shot must clear an environmental area that sits in front of the tee box.

There are several bunkers guarding the green.

The 222-yard par-three eighth demands a precise fairway wood or long iron off the tee.

The first shot is best played with a low trajectory to find the turtleback green framed by three bunkers.

The course’ number one handicap hole finishes the front side. The par-five is only 516 yards from the tips, but the hole winds its way uphill and finishes at an elevated green. The drive is fairly uncomplicated as it is to a flat spot in the fairway. But there are four bunkers guarding the fairway landing area and then two

more near the green to further complicate successful navigation.

The 10th hole, like the first, is a long par-four, measuring 451 yards from the championship markers. But again the hole plays downhill, allowing a well-placed, crisp drive to gain yards. The second shot is also dramatically downhill, which makes selecting the proper club for the approach critical.

Number 11 is considered the course’s signature hole. It’s a pretty par-three that plays 169 yards from the back. The green is protected by a pond.

The 12th hole is a monstrous, 599yard par-five that plays slightly uphill. It is considered by some to be more difficult than the ninth hole because of its terrain and the fact that it is one of the narrower holes on what is a fairly wide-open golf course.

The 13th is a 367-yard par-four that is one of the more visually appealing holes on the track. There are a number of fairway bunkers that must be avoided to set up a short iron approach to a small, elevated green.

The course finishes with a fun parfive. It’s 523 yards from the tips and plays shorter because the drive tumbles downhill.

Strike a driver with fervor and accuracy and you’ll be rewarded with the distinct possibility of landing on the putting surface in two shots.

Jack Frost National Golf Club Blakeslee, Pa. 570-443-2414 www.JackFrostNational.com

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JACK FROST NATIONAL E M B R A C E T H E P O C O N O M O U N TA I N S ON THE GOLF COURSE

•

Spectacular Views On And Off The Golf Course

•

Relax, Drink, And Eat After Your Round At The Pavilion

•

Take Golf Lessons Or Shape Up Your Game At The Practice Facility

•

Ride The Course On A Finn Scooter

•

Host Your Outing At Jack Frost National

WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU jackfrostnational.com • 570.443.2414 20

Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

GREAT BEAR GOLF CLUB turns 25 Only one golf course designer could do justice to the natural beauty at GREAT BEAR GOLF CLUB-the one known worldwide as the Golden Bear, Jack Nicklaus. His 18-hole championship design demonstrates why he has been considered the master of his game for decades. Nicklaus has taken the natural advantages of the site and worked harmoniously with them to create a course that is an experience in golf and aesthetics.

Integrating the three lakes, several streams, wetlands, small bridges and rolling terrain, Nicklaus has created a course that presents itself differently to golfers of varying skill levels. for the experience player, the course offers interesting challenges and pro tee that will bring out the best in even the strongest golfers.

GREAT BEAR GOLF CLUB 1 Great Bear Ct. East Stroudsberg, PA. 18032 570-223-2000 www.golfgreatbear.com 2021 ISSUE 1

GREAT GOLF - DELAWARE VALLEY

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PHYSICAL THERAPY

Stay Active on the Golf Course by Avoiding these Common Injuries

E

ven though golf is a low-impact sport, that doesn’t mean that golfers are not prone to aches, pains, and bruises.

Aside from an occasional accident, most injuries on the golf course come from overuse or repetition. Some of these include low back pain, a rotator cuff injury, golf elbow, tendonitis of the wrist, and knee pain, just to name a few. Scroll down to learn more about each one.

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Common Golf Injuries ● Low Back Pain Your lower back is extremely engaged during golf, specifically while swinging your golf club.

To produce a powerful swing, you must rotate your torso in both directions while both feet are firmly planted in the ground.

Over time, doing this motion repeatedly can cause low back pain, especially if your form could use some work. A lack of hip flexibility and core strength are also major contributors to low back pain on the golf course.

The most effective treatment for low back pain related to golfing to rest. When you’re feeling better, create a workout routine with core stabilization and strengthening exercises for the back, hip flexors, glutes, and hamstring muscles.

● Rotator Cuff Injuries Poor technique during your golf swing 22

can also lead to shoulder injuries, most notably problems with the rotator cuff.

Made of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and the subscapularis), the rotator cuff supports and holds the shoulder joint in place. An injury to the rotator cuff muscles or tendons may cause a deep, aching pain deep in the joint at night or with activities like reaching above your head. Fortunately, most rotator cuff injuries in golf can be treated with antiinflammatory medication and strengthening those four muscles.

● Tennis Elbow vs Golf Elbow Elbow tendonitis is a chronic, nagging injury that affects the tendons on either side of the elbow. Inflammation from repetitive motion at the wrist and forearm can result in what’s known as golf elbow pain, or medial epicondylitis. Ironically, those on the golf course also frequently suffer from “tennis elbow,” known as lateral epicondylitis.

Tennis elbow vs golf elbow can be difficult to diagnose because the signs and symptoms are largely the same. Both conditions will cause: · Limited range of motion in the elbow, forearm, or wrist · Pain and swelling along the elbow · Stiffness To read more about some common golf injuries including, tendinitis of the wrist, and knee pain, in addition to learning how to get back on the golf course after injury, look out for Part 2 coming soon!

Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

If you’re struggling to get back on the golf course after an injury, then don’t hesitate to call the experts at Myokinetix Physical Therapy and Performance, a premiere physical therapy clinic in Essex County, New Jersey. Their doctors of physical therapy are highly trained in common and not-so-common sports injuries, including golf, and will show you how to get back on the golf course in no time. Give them a call today at 973-281-4853 or visit their links at Poland Spring website at: The myokinetix.com

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23

Company Profile

Ron Jaworski Golf Strives for Best in Class

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

R

on Jaworski Golf properties continue to fine tune their operations to create best in class when it comes to an allaround golf experience.

Jaworski’s impressive portfolio of public daily fee courses includes New Jersey properties Blue Heron Pines Golf Club in Galloway, Valleybrook Country Club in Blackwood, Ramblewood Country Club in Mount Laurel, Running Deer Golf Club in Pittsgrove, RiverWinds Golf and Tennis Club in West Deptford and Downington Country Club in Downington, Pennsylvania. .

With an Eagle Pass Membership, golfers receive unlimited playing privileges to six amazing golf courses for the price of one. The variety of courses and pricing for membership is second to none.

Jaworski, a former National Football League star quarterback, football analyst parexcellence, and avid golfer and fan of the game, has built a superior stable of courses.

His solid and well-known name, reputation and likeability factor has no doubt helped his golf company maintain a high level of success over the last three decades. He plays as much as he can and is a single digit handicap.

“All of Ron Jaworski golf courses are open to the public,” said Jamie Riley, Director of Marketing and Promotions. “Conditions of all RJG courses make them a great places to play and or join, and the staffs provide

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an exceptional experience every day with prompt and courteous customer service.”

Here’s what’s happening at each facility.

At Blue Heron Pines Golf Club there’s a new addition to the staff, Chris Mandia, assistant golf professional. “He has been a great addition to our outstanding golf staff.

The course has been very busy,” said Riley.

Blue Heron Pine’s signature hole is its 15th. You need to hit a solid tee shot to carry the waste area and if you attempt to keep your tee shot up the left side there is a possibility it could roll out into the pond that runs up the left side of the fairway and fronts the left portion of the green. If you hit a solid tee shot to the middle of the fairway it will leave you with a mid to short iron into a large green. Aim for the middle of the green and walk away with away a par after two solid putts.

Lots of things are happening at Downingtown Country Club, said Riley.

“Jim Coffey was announced as our new general manager in March and Andrew Braun was promoted to director of golf. We received an entire new fleet of golf carts in April, which feature Bluetooth speakers in addition to club and ball washers on carts. We also started the year with Dynamic Pricing.”

Downingtown boasts “immaculate” course conditions and a welcoming, friendly staff that provides top level customer service

Golfing GolfingMagazine Magazine•• New NewJersey/E. Jersey/E.Pennsylvania PennsylvaniaSection Section

that makes all RJG courses places to be.

The course has been very busy this year.

Downingtown draws from Chester, Bucks, and Montgomery counties in Pennsylvania and has recently been seeing more people coming from Philadelphia, and South Jersey.

The 12th is Downingtown’s signature hole. A par-three, often into the wind, it can be very difficult. Although the hole appears downhill, it typically plays the entire distance listed on the scorecard, or more. A shot anywhere on the green is a great start to this difficult short hole.

Dynamic Pricing has also come to Ramblewood Country Club; book early and save. “You are family when you play or join a Ron Jaworski course,” said Riley. “From the environment and customer service to the conditions and quality of venue. We provide nothing but the best.”

This has been an especially busy year at Ramblewood. “Golf is at a premium,” said Riley, “and it is showing in all areas.

Ramblewood draws most of its customers and members from Mount Laurel and the surrounding areas.”

Number nine on the Red Course is Ramblewood’s signature hole. The par-three has a beautiful backdrop and there are bunkers short and long left. A solid tee shot leaves a fair chance for birdie to wrap up the Red Course.

“At RiverWinds Golf and Tennis Club, course conditions have been outstanding the last two years, a testament to the club’s grounds staff and their hard work and dedication to the property”, said Riley.

“It’s been a busy year and on pace for most rounds ever. A lot of new customers coming from the Philadelphia area with our proximity to the city, a lot explaining how easy it is to get here from Center City.”

The signature hole is number 17. A low-flighted shot is necessary when playing from an elevated tee box right next to the Delaware River, as the wind is always a major factor. Trajectory is everything when playing this short but tricky par-three.

Running Deer Golf Club is a course that will test every level of golfer. The course provides a truly unique experience where membership is accessible to all while retaining a private club feel.

At Running Deer Golf Club, in order to provide more options and amenities for membership, the club increased member-exclusive tee times seven days a week.

Members’ guests receive a prorated rate if with a member. Public times are still available in the afternoons.

“Our season has been unprecedented,” said Riley. “We expect to break records with membership and public play. We draw our members from the whole tri-state area.”

A classic risk-reward signature hole is the third, a short par-four that can play between 300 to 390 yards, depending on which tee box you play. Your tee shot is safe playing to

the right and safely played with a shot that will put you between 100 to 150 yards out.

An aggressive line with driver can reward you with a shorter approach. There’s a hazard on the left that runs the length of the elevated fairway. It’s a tricky approach into one of the bigger greens on our property that is undulating and tiered. Any shot short will roll back down this elevated green. Be sure to look back and admire the view heading to the next hole.

Valleybrook Country Club has expanded the tee boxes on holes one and 10 and there was a redesign of number nine’s green complex. The club also has a new cart fleet.

It’s been extremely busy at Valleybrook,

said Riley. “We draw our customers and members from a 30-mile radius. Valleybrook has established its own junior program, offering private instruction and junior camps.

This gives the junior the ultimate learning experience where one on one attention is provided to the student. Their teaching professionals are available seven days a week and offer appointments during the daytime and evenings for the convenience of the student.”

The par-five ninth is one the course’s signature hole It presents options of the tee to an undulating fairway. If you find the fairway, your second shot is an intimidating one.

At the par-three 12th, you must carry your tee shot to the center of the green to avoid a false front.

And, don’t miss out on Ron Jaworski Golf ’s best deal of the year, Buy Now Play Now! Starting October 1, you can by a 2022 golf membership and receive three free months of golf in 2021. All six of Jaworski’s courses will be offering this superb membership deal.

Let’s sum it up, shall we? TJG offers six great golf courses from which to choose, each one a unique experience, with attention to detail you’d expect from private clubs, but open to the public and available to all. Gather up your foursome or group, schedule a tee time, book an outing, tournament or that special banquet or wedding, or just simply stop by for a cold one in any of Jaws’ pubs and taverns.

You can’t go wrong with Ron Jaworski Golf. www.RonJaworskiGolf.com.

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The Links at Union Vale Award-winning golf course, wedding venue, and home of the Harp & Eagle Pub Open 7 Days a Week Weekend Breakfast, Craft Beers, Daily Specials, and Scenic Outdoor Seating!

The Links at Union Vale is an award-winning course often described as “a bit of Ireland in Dutchess County” with the best five finishing holes in New York State.

2021: Named by Golf.com #33 of the “Top 100 Value Courses in The U.S.: The best courses you can play for $150 or less.”

2020: One of the best golf courses you can play in New York by Golfweek 2018: Golf Advisor’s Best of 2018 at number 34 in the U.S. and number two in New York State.

2016: Golfweek.com named The Links as one of its top 15 courses in New York State on a Best State-byState list, and Northeast Golf Magazine also nominated the course “The Best Overall Course” and “Best Conditioned Course.”

The Knot “Best of Weddings” (2011) WeddingWire.com “Brides Choice Award” (2011 - 2013) “Couples Choice Awards” (2014 - 2016, 2020) Luvgolf.com 153 North Parliman Road, Lagrangeville, NY 12540 Call Today! 845.223.1000 26

Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

Wyckoff Country Club

www.GolfingMagazine.net The 9th hole of The Links course at Bay Harbor Golf Club overlooking Lake Michigan

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Must Play

A Unique `Irish’ Experience at

The Links at Union Vale

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

A

s its name indicates, the Links at Union Vale is a true “links” style golf course, so it offers all that you’d expect, including blind shots, pot bunkers, and a bit more.

The course, designed by architects Stephen Kay and Doug Smith, lets the shape of the land--with its swells and troughs--influence the shape of the holes. The fact is there aren’t many courses like it in the region. Between the challenging course and the quality of service, playing The Links at Union Vale offers golf in a whole new light.

The course has five sets of tees that stretch from 5,198 yards to nearly 7,000 yards from the tips. Simply said, it’s a blast to play (don’t get beyond your talents and play the proper set of tees to match your ability), and you’ll certainly want to come back for more once you’ve tested this special layout. It’s that unique and fun course to play.

“It has been a great year so far,” said Patrick Sullivan, Golf Professional for the club. “Despite rounds being down slightly from the pandemic year of 2020, we are still busy every day. Our junior summer program

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is having its busiest season ever. This year we have 140 junior golfers participating in our youth program.”

The staff at The Links at Union Vale has remained virtually the same as in previous years. But, said Sullivan, “Pricing went up minimally. We now charge $105 on weekends until 2 p.m., while on Mondays through Thursday is $77 with a cart, and Friday is $88 with a cart. The fairway bunker on the sixth hole has been reconstructed and now features a replica sod face wall consistent with other bunkers currently on the course.”

The Links at Union Vale is an awardwinning course often described as “a bit of Ireland in Dutchess County’’ with the best five finishing holes in New York State. For 2021, the Links was names by Golf.com #33 of the “Top 100 Value Courses in the U.S.: The best courses you can play for $150 or less.” The Links was named one of the best golf courses you can play in New York and was Golfweek’s best for 2020. In addition, it was also named Golf Advisor’s Best of 2018 at number 34 in the U.S. and number two in New York State.

In addition, Golfweek.com named the course as one of its top 15 courses in New York

Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

State on a 2016 Best State-by-State list, and Northeast Golf Magazine also nominated the course “The Best Overall Course” and “Best Conditioned Course.

The course draws locally from Dutchess, Putnam, Westchester, Sullivan, Orange, and Ulster counties and west of the Hudson River and western Connecticut.

“It’s a fantastic course–in great shape, the greens are fast and well maintained,” said Sullivan. “We work hard to make sure that golfers have a pleasant experience and a proper pace of play is monitored by the club’s staff.”

He added, “We’ll be featuring this summer Take 5 Hard Seltzer on the course at The Turn, the Harp and Eagle Pub and the beverage cart for $4. We also offer craft beers on tap and the beverage cart. And, make sure on the weekends before heading out to play to check out the best Irish breakfast around.”

The course has a ton of holes with unique features. “Our 16th (a 451-yard par-four) is considered our signature hole,” said Sullivan.

“It features a split fairway divided by three bunkers set in a slight diagonal from right to left. Course designer Stephen Kay refers to this bunker set up as his `Trinity Bunker’ design.

The addition of the carpet bunker or sod wall replica bunker on the sixth hole fits the bunkering design of the course and makes the hole more aesthetically appealing. Bunkers, in general, are best avoided, if possible, of course. Regarding playing the 16th hole, the right fairway offers a better straight-on look at the green but plays longer. The left fairway plays shorter but requires a blind second shot.

Here’s a look at some of the other holes at The Links at Union Vale.

The first is a challenging way to start your round. It’s a 421-yard par-four that plays downhill then up to an elevated putting surface. You must be careful off the tee as wetlands cross the fairway about 240 yards from the back tee markers. The safe play is a fairway wood off the tee and a long iron or fairway wood to the putting surface.

The second hole is a dogleg left par-five that plays 505-yards from the back markers.

The wise shot is not to try and drive across a stream that dissects the fairway but rather lay the ball up and then hit a second shot that will leave a wedge into the green. You can try and clear the stream, but it’s risky. If you attempt the risk and make it, you will be rewarded with a second shot that might get you on the green.

The fourth hole is a very cool, 385-yard par-four that does a sharp turn left about halfway to the putting surface. Cut off as much of the dogleg to the left as you dare.

Hit a fairway off the tee and have a mid-iron into the green or take a driver and try to get as close to the green as possible. You’ll be left with a pitch shot into the putting surface and a shot at birdie.

The seventh is a 198-yard par-three guard-

ed by bunkers on the front left side of the green. Again, a well-struck long iron or rescue club will find a large putting surface.

The ninth is a birdie hole, playing only 364 yards. But there is a bevy of sand bunkers scattered about the fairway, and you need to steer clear of them to leave an unfettered approach to the green.

The 12th is a sweet little 169-yard parthree that has bunkers protecting both sides of the green. Running a shot up and onto the green is risky because of these guardians.

Number 13 is a great short par-four playing just over 300 yards. Big hitters can get on or close to the green off the tee, but there are

bunkers aplenty all around and water to the left side of the fairway that can cause a big problem if you pull your tee shot. A mid-iron layup and a short-iron second shot are the safe play.

The 14th is a tough par-five, playing 603 yards. The fairway is again dissected by a natural area, which makes this a true three-shot hole to get to the green. A good drive and second shot onto the second portion of the fairway leave a short iron into the green.

The 18th is a strong finisher, playing 618 yards for the championship markers. However, it is just as difficult as the prior par-five and demands two strong shots to set up a mid-iron approach to the putting surface.

If you can navigate the final few holes wisely and stay out of trouble (a bogey isn’t a bad score on the final two par-fives), it will leave a smile on your face as you walk off the course.

“We are always looking at ways to enhance the golf course,” said Sullivan.

“This year we addressed bunker needs.

In years past, we updated and paved cart paths and redesigned the green surrounding the 18th hole. Credit goes to the members at the club for prioritizing improving and updating the course, clubhouse, and golf programs each year.”

The Links at Union Vale Lagrangeville, N.Y. www.TheLinksatUnionVale.com 845- 223-1002

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getaway

North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands

A Coastal Treasure That Keeps Golfers Coming Back

P

laying golf in the fall is a pleasure.

Taking a fall golf trip to North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands is unbeatable.

The Brunswick Islands are home to more than 30 immaculate golf courses boasting 120 miles of stunning fairways and 540 of one-of-a-kind holes. The numbers alone make it easy to see why NC’s Brunswick Islands, also known as NC’s Golf Coast, has become a must-play destination for those who love to golf. But there’s more.

On this treasured southern stretch of the North Carolina coast, legends of the great game paired their eye for design with the unique coastal landscape to craft courses that incorporate the area’s rivers, marshes, and maritime forests. The result? Awe-inspiring designs and distinctive challenges, all set against a scenic backdrop that is beyond compare. Names like Palmer, Byrd, Maples, Jones, Couples and Cate have left their mark here, and they invite golfers from all over to come walk in their footsteps.

The location on the coast also gives way to a year-round golf climate, so any time of year is a great time to play. But there is something about the onset of autumn that beckons golfers to escape to the Brunswick Islands for an all-golf getaway that is second to none.

Notable courses like Cape Fear National, Bald Head Island Club Golf Course, and Leopard’s Chase – one of the famed Big Cats

courses, designed by local legend Tim Cate – call the Brunswick Islands home and have been named among the best courses you can play in North Carolina. Other must-play area courses feature special signatures like the 9th hole at the Arnold Palmer-designed Rivers Edge Golf Club, a par-5 known as “Arnie’s Revenge,” or the 767-yard par-6 at Farmstead Golf Links that traverses state borders.

The destination is perfect for staying and playing. Whatever you’re searching for in accommodations, from a villa right on the fairway, to an oceanside inn, or the perfect beach vacation rental home to welcome a group of any size, you’ll find it in the Brunswick Islands. Plus, the area’s two

golf resorts – Sea Trail Villas and Brunswick Plantation Resort and Golf – offer top-rate amenities in addition to great golf. And our local professional golf packagers are ready to help line up all the details of your trip for you so you can spend more time lining up your first drive.

Between the welcoming climate, the accommodations, the breathtaking views and the memorable courses, everything comes together here to create the perfect golf getaway. You’ll come with a passion for the game and leave with a love of a place. Make the turn at NC’s Brunswick Islands this fall.

You won’t regret it. www.NCBrunswickGolf.com

River’s Edge #9

Leopard’s Chase #18 30 30

Golfing Magazine • New Jersey/E. Pennsylvania Section

Leave some holes in your schedule

With more than 30 championship courses and 120 miles of fairways along the coast, you’re going to want some time to play NC’s Brunswick Islands. Request your Brunswick Islands Golf Guide: ncbrunswickgolf.com Runner-Up Kramer Hickok tees of 18th hole in play-

ncbrunswickgolf.com | 800-795-7263 The Club at River Oaks, 17th Hole

SUNSET BEACH • OCEAN ISLE BEACH • HOLDEN off BEACH • OAK ISLAND • CASWELL BEACH • BALD HEAD ISLAND • LELAND • SHALLOTTE • SOUTHPORT • CALABASH 31 www.GolfingMagazine.net 31

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Great

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