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New England Summer 2025
Contributing
Mike
Contributing
Summer is Here and We Help You Play Lots of Golf
Golfing Magazine is making summer much more enjoyable for our subscribers with our celebrated “Free Golf” offer that entitles an individual signing up for an annual subscription to our magazine free or reduced rate golf at over 120 of the top daily fee courses (and even several top private tracks) the region has to offer. It’s the largest course list ever.
To take advantage of this tremendous offer, call 860-563-1633, or visit www.FreeGolf.net. Remember, you get five issues of our magazine yearly in addition to Free Golf when you subscribe.
Our Summer Issue is filled with information about where to play and how to play the game properly, with tips from top pros.
We take you on a tour of some Western Massachusetts gems. Western Massachusetts is home to some of the best courses the Bay State has to offer. The area, which includes the Berkshires hills and the scenic Pioneer Valley, is a great area to spend a day playing nine or 18 holes, or even making a week’s vacation out of it and sample a number of courses.
On Cape Cod, we visit Falmouth Country Club in Falmouth. This Cape
Cod gem ais beautifully maintained and provide and enjoyable golfing experience. We also take you to two courses in Rhode Island, Winnapaug Country Club and Louisquisset Golf Club.Winnapaug is a classic Donald Ross design and still features the characteristics he built into the course over a century ago. The unique layout and scenery will certainly impress you, but also challenge you with the shape of the holes. Louisquisset Golf Club is hidden in a neighborhood subdivision in North Providence, RI. Located only 5 miles from bustling downtown Providence, the atmosphere is calm, with no traffic, and the vibes are very chill.
We also visit Norwood Country Club in Norwood, MA. The layout is challenging, but the flat landscape and open fairways make it a great play for golfers of all skill types. It is family-friendly, and it has one of the most active youth programs in the state.
We also take you to Manchester Country Club in Manchester, CT. The course opened in 1917 and was designed by two early 20th century course architects, Tom Bendelow and Devereaux Emmett, the latter creating famed Congressional Country Club in Washington, D.C., and Keney Park golf Course in Hartford, CT.
We have joined the Pickleball craze and bring you some popular Golf & Pickleball resorts and destinations that can satisfy both addictions.
So, enjoy our Summer issue, sign up for a subscription and play lots of golf. Summer flies by, so keep the sticks in the trunk of your car or SUV and enjoy the greatest game man has ever created.
Hit ‘em straight!
All That Is Good,
Tom Landers, Publisher
Norwood Country Club Perfecting Golf in MetroWest Boston
By MYLES MURRAY
Tucked about 20 miles south of Boston, Norwood Country Club is a laid-back spot that makes a good first impression. As soon as I pulled in off Route 1 and saw the driving range stretching out in the background, I got that itch to grab a bucket and start swinging.
It has the full driving range, a chipping green, and 18 holes that are meant for fun. The layout is challenging, but the flat landscape and open fairways make it a great play for golfers of all skill types. It is familyfriendly, and it has one of the most active youth programs in the state.
I played 18 holes there on a hot July day, and got to see the current and potential value of the course. I enjoyed my round and I would say the 3 best things about it are: value, driving range, and playability.
Let’s start with the price - easily one of the biggest standouts.I played a round for $64 with a cart, which is
much cheaper than the other local courses, especially the ones located between Boston and Providence. I appreciated the fact that they charge a normal price based on the conditions of the course. I trust a place that knows its worth and won’t try to maximize profit, instead Norwood shows respect for the customers and provides a solid rate.
The driving range was recently renovated and it looks clean. They have 15 hitting mats and the nets in the back are at 250 yards. A large bucket of balls is only $15, which is another value compared to other ranges in the area. Also, many ranges are being sold for the land value so it was refreshing to see a course invest in their range to make it better. I’m not a traditionalist so I liked the colorful yard markers on the range (bright blue, green, red, yellow) and the chipping nets that are within 100 yards. It makes it
more appealing to the eye and gives you cool targets to aim at.
As for the round itself, it was a hot July day, but the course is relatively flat so it’s easy to walk. It’s also widely forgiving so it isn’t bad for someone who sprays the ball all over the course. There are some water and sand hazards sprinkled throughout but you can play a round with some bad shots and still be able to find your ball. There were some spots on the fairways and greens that needed some TLC but overall it is worth
playing. I have seen courses with worse conditions charging more.
In the past they have had flooding issues, but that problem has been solved for the most part. I played a day after torrential rains and didn’t see any extra water on the course. They are usually packed on the weekends, but they have rangers on the course enforcing pace of play and say that most rounds take 4:15. As an avid golfer this is a huge selling point for getting me to come back. They also have 2 leagues playing
a day so there must be a reason they are at 100% capacity.
I talked to the Operations Manager, Jay Miller, and he told me about the renovations they have planned to improve the playing experience. The renovations will be gradual but ownership is committed to improving many aspects of the course. They are going to renovate all of the bunkers, re-do tee boxes, and put in a new irrigation system. The overall message from all of the staff that I talked to was ‘be patient.’ The renovations will take time, but the potential for a truly memorable track are in the works.
I almost forgot…the kids. Norwood has 350 youth participants in the PGA Junior League and the Youth on Course Program. They host 6500 junior rounds a year, which seems like a lot to me, and seems like they are doing a great job of investing in the future of golf.
All in all, Norwood CC is a solid value with a fresh new range and a layout that works for just about any golfer. It’s in a convenient spot, with plenty of options for food and drinks nearby. If you’re looking for a relaxed round without spending a fortune - this place is worth a visit.
Tee It Up in the Scenic Berkshire and Pioneer Valley Areas of Massachusetts
By Tom Landers
Western Massachusetts is home to some of the best courses the Bay State has to offer. The area, which includes the Berkshires hills and the scenic Pioneer Valley, is a great area to spend a day playing nine or 18 holes, or even making a week’s vacation out of it and sample a number of courses. After or before golf you can spend a few hours visiting the villages and towns of the area, where you can discover fine restaurants and pubs, boutiques, museums, historic landmarks and hiking trails.
Thanks to Golfing Magazine’s comprehensive Course Play Stimulus Program, you can try out a number of courses in this area of Massachusetts. Check out the details of this can’t miss offer in this issue. Call 860-563-1633, or visit www.FreeGolf.net to sign up.
Greenock Country Club (www.GreenockCC.com) in Lee dates back to 1895. Redesigned in 1927 by the legendary golf architect Donald Ross, the ninehole course is an example of craftsmanship and original style. The club is located just one mile from Exit 2 off Interstate 90, within minutes of the historic town
of Stockbridge, and just a few miles from Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The sixth hole is a risk-reward par-five, measuring only 465 yards, but there is water left and right of the green if you are thinking about going for it in two.
Cold Spring Country Club (www.ColdSpringCC.com) is an 18-hole semi-private course located about midway between Springfield and Worcester in Belchertown. Designed by Mary Armstrong, completed in 2010 and opened for play in 2012, Cold Spring Country Club is a par71 course with 6,521 yards set on rolling hills that boast of vistas in nearly every direction. Each hole has up to five sets of tees, enabling golfers of all levels to play an exciting mix of six par-threes, seven par-fours and five par-fives. It all starts with a tough 216-yard par-three. From the highest tee box on the course, enjoy a panoramic view of central Massachusetts facing south. Normally you will need one less club because of the steep drop, but watch the wind here. If prevailing winds are in player’s face it will require one or two more clubs. The trees on either side of the tee box will keep players honest, by making them hit
down the chute. But there’s lots of wide open room the rest of the way.
Also in Belchertown you will find Mill Valley Golf Links (www.MillValleyGolfLinks.com), which features some of the toughest par-threes in the area, with one playing 240 yards from the back markers. There is a great mix of short and long par-fours and those tough par-threes, including the aforementioned fifth hole. The 468-yard par-four 14th demands two lusty shots to find the putting surface on the dogleg right hole. The layout ends with a long par-four, 422 yards, and a short four par, the 323-yard 18th, where a birdie will be a nice way to finish a round.
Gardner Municipal Golf Course (www.gardnergolfcourse.com) is considered one of the “hidden gems” of the region. The layout is nestled compactly along the shores of Crystal Lake on the north side of the city, and offers challenging approach shots due to its small, fast greens. Several of the holes, the 311-yard par-four 10th and 480-yard par-five 11th, play near Crystal Lake and afford golfers a nice moment of relaxation before tackling both.
Agawam Golf Course (www.AgawamGC.com) in Feeding Hills
claims to be a “user friendly” track with a rolling terrain and undulating greens. The course can play anywhere from 4,658 to 5,679 yards. A number of the par-fours are reachable, or almost reachable, for big hitters and are present opportunities for birdie. The number one handicap hole is
the fourth, a 430-yarder that plays as a par four or a five. As a four it’s a tough par, but as a five a birdie chance awaits.
The Ledges Golf Club (www.LedgesGC.com) in South Hadley is routed through woodlands and over and around wetlands and natural areas. You
won’t find two holes alike and they range from long and difficult par-fours, like the 448-yard second, to the 106-yard par-three third, short par-fours, such as the back-toback drivable 15th and 16th holes, long par-threes, and very good par-fives that range from 489 to 579 yards. You have to think your way around the track and proper placement off the tee will likely leave you with a very solid shot at making birdie, especially on the short par-fours. But wander with the driver and you’ll pay a steep price.
The Ranch Golf Club (www.TheRanchGolfClub.com) in Southwick is considered one of the top tracks in the state. The conditions are always top notch as is the routing. The 540-yard par-five ninth and 618-yard parfive 16th roll dramatically downhill and afford great views of the surrounding countryside. A well struck tee shot on the ninth will tumble down a hill and leave the player with a choice of either laying up for a short third shot, or going for the green in two by challenging a wetlands area in front of the
Chicoppee Country Club
Crumpin-Fox Club
putting surface. The 195-yard par-three 17th, which plays across water, is the best short hole on the track.
Chicopee Country Club (www.ChicopeeCountryClub.com) in Chicopee, with its rolling terrain, treelined fairway and fast, sloping greens is generally regarded as a fine championship course by area golfers. Through the years, this picturesque golf course has received accolades from publications such as Golf Digest, USA Today, and the New England Journal of Golf. It has been touted as being among the best public courses in Massachusetts, named one of New England’s top 100 golf courses, and among the courses that provide the best value in Massachusetts.
The setting is superb at the semiprivate Crestview Country Club (www. CrestviewCC.org) in Agawam, which has a beautiful, quarter mile drive form the entrance to the course. A Geoffrey Cornish design, the course is challenging enough to have played host to the PGA Tour Travelers Championship Open Qualifier in 2015, the Connecticut Section PGA Championship in 2013, the LPGA Friendly’s Classic from 1995-1998, as well as several US Amateur qualifiers. A scenic collection of challenging par-threes await as you are guided through the meticulously maintained rolling fairways with a number of risk reward par-fours and par-fives. Big hitters can tee it up from as far back as 7,100 yards, with the red tees bringing that down to a very manageable 5,500.
Elmcrest Country Club
(www.Elmcrestcc.com) is located in the quaint Town of East Longmeadow on the border of Somers, Connecticut. Rock walls, rustic bridges, and floral accents are just some of the allures of this classic New England course that winds through y wooded, rolling terrain and past ponds and streams. The design of this well-conditioned course makes for an enjoyable round for any level of player. The course has hosted the Joe Pagos Western Massachusetts Amateur Championship and MIAA Division I Golf Championships.
Wyckoff Country Club (www.WyckoffCountryClub.com) in Holyoke is an 18-hole, par 69, 6100-yard championship golf course built on the rolling property at the base of Mount Tom.
Wyckoff has an interesting mix of holes; a number of short par--fours that can be attacked with a lusty drive and a short-iron or wedge to the putting surface, only two par-fives, one of which, the 478-yard 13th, can also yield birdie to long hitters that can reach the green in two, two par-fours that play over 400 yards from the tips, and several strong par-threes (there are five short holes in all on the layout). The 18th is perhaps the most difficult par-three and a cool way to finish a round. It’s a challenging 229 yards from the tips.
East Mountain Country Club (www.EastMountainCC.com) in Westfield was designed by owner Ted Perez, Sr., who wanted to have a course that is approachable for golfers of all skill levels and one that is fun to play. The layout measures around 6,200 yards from the tips and all but one of the par-fives is reachable in two by the big hitters. There are several short par-fours where birdie can be made, and a nice mix of holes on the back side, which has three par-threes, three par-fours, and three parfives including back-to-backers at 11 and 12. The toughest hole on the course may be the 429-yard par four 16th. The club prides itself on the quality of its greens.
Wyndhurst Manor and Club (www.WyndhurstManorAndClub.com), located in Lenox, is a traditional New England course that is over 90 years old and designed by noted architects of the early 20th century, Wayne Stiles and John Van Kleek. The course features tree-lined fairways and naturally contoured greens that have been carefully preserved. The first three holes wander near a small club-
Crestview Country Club
Doi Suthep temple
Greenock Country Club
house. The tee box on the third hole, a little 152-yarder, has a huge pine tree guarding the left side of the putting surface. The 11th is one of the course’s signature holes, a 200-yard par-three that plays from a chute of trees to a severely slopped green. Huge bunkers guard the putting surface.
The Crumpin-Fox Club (www.GolfTheFox.com) in Bernardston, 7,007 yards long from the tips and with a par of 72, is considered one of the most challenging tests of golfing ability in the Northeast. Many of the holes are tree-lined with ample bunking and enough water to create a few jangled nerves. The eighth hole is one of the best on the course. It begins from an elevated tee box and a lake plays a factor on the first, second and third shots, as it must be avoided and then cleared on any approach to a rather large green protected by bunkers.
Westfield’s Tekoa Country Club (www.TekoaCC.com), located in the scenic foothills of the Berkshire Hills, can trace its lineage back to Donald Ross. He laid out the original nine holes of Tekoa, and although only five of the original holes
course in 1961 and added 13 holes of his own to the present routing.
Shaker Farms Country Club (www.ShakerFarmsCC.com) in Westfield is a unique track that contains interesting holes. The front side has two great parthrees, the demanding 225-yard seventh and the 165-yard ninth, the latter playing across a small pond. The back side features a nice mix of holes. The 318-yard par-four 10th plays uphill from the fairway landing area. The 12th, a 144-yard par-three, has a green flanked by tall pines and is the first of two very pretty short holes on the side.
The Blandford Club (www.MassGolfTennis.com) is a nine-hole private layout. Only 2,722 yards from the tips and playing to a par of 35, this is a fun, playable track for all levels. Beginners will enjoy the friendliness of the routing and rather short overall distance, while more advanced players can work on their iron and short game skills. The course is one of the oldest in the region, having opened in 1910, and was designed by William Dexter.
Waubeeka Golf Links (www.Waubeeka.com) in South
are the 11th, a 420-yard beast of a par-four that has a deep bunker to the right side of the green that makes getting up and down from there very difficult, and the 501-yard 17th, which has out-of-bounds the entire length along the right side and a lateral hazard almost all the way to the green on the left side.
Oak Ridge Golf Club (www.OakRidgeGC.com) in Feeding Hills is another approachable course for players of all skill levels. The 15th hole is a great parfour, playing as a dogleg right. Your tee shot must be hit as close to a pond as possible to leave a manageable approach shot over water to the green. The course hosts prominent tournaments and charity events each year. In addition to golf, Oak Ridge Golf Club offers an exceptional banquet facility.
E dgewood Golf Course (www. Edgewood4Golf.com) in Southwick is an 18-hole course in Southwick, at the foot of the Berkshire Hills. It’s a family and seniorfriendly course. Geoffrey Cornish designed the course, and it measures 6,500 yards from the championship tees, with a par of 71. The course rating is 69.1, with a slope of
Waubeeka Golf Links
Falmouth Country Club Classic New England Golf
By MYLES MURRAY
Just over the Bourne Bridge on Cape Cod, Falmouth Country Club feels like classic New England golf. With 27 holes, a solid practice setup, and a wellstocked clubhouse, it’s got everything you need for a full day on the course.
My wife’s family has a house in Falmouth, so I’ve played the course at least 20 times, which makes me a self-proclaimed expert. The fact that I keep going back says a lot. It’s a great value for the quality, and it stays playable even during peak Cape traffic.The Osprey is their full 18-hole course, and The Talon is a 9-hole track. In the winter, they combine holes from both to form a different 18-hole layout that keeps things fresh.
The Osprey is a parkland style course with heavy tree coverage, ponds, thick rough, and lush fairways. The round opens with three straightforward holes, but once you cross the street and get to #4, the course starts to show its character. Hole 4 is an
left and try to carry it at least 230. If you are short of this spot, then you are going to have to shape a shot over, or around, the big tree. Hole 7 is another tough dogleg
and long green.
Hole 10 is a demanding par 5 that calls for both distance and precision off the tee. About 230 yards out, a pond creeps in from
only about 100 yards out now, so it shouldn’t come into play, though I’ve still managed to find it with a shank or two. Hole 12 features a massive green guarded by an equally large bunker complex short of the surface.
My favorite hole is #15 - a short par 5 that twists and turns its way to a narrow green. A right-to-left tee shot is key here, as a long row of towering pines along the right side is ready to swallow anything pushed or sliced.
From there, the final three holes wrap things up and they always seem to get in my
head. It’s a tough closing stretch that tests your focus and patience. This course always gives me problems, but in a competitive way. I like the combination of wide and narrow holes and the hidden undulations of the fairways.
The 9-hole Talon course is a completely different golf experience, and what makes the course so compelling for me. This is the perfect course to walk before or after going to the beach on a hot summer day. It is wide open so you can let loose and have fun while
trying to score low. These characteristics are also what make it a beginner and familyfriendly spot on the Cape.
Falmouth prides itself on allowing kids to play free with an adult that paid. They also support youth golf with leagues, local teams, and PGA Junior League events every year. They’re helping grow the game by giving kids the chance to play and learn, something I really appreciate as a teacher.
Another thing I appreciate is their work with the local Audubon Society to help protect wildlife on the course. You’ll see birdhouses and preserved natural corridors that make the place feel wild in the best way.
They also have a free app where you can book tee times, use GPS during your round, keep score, track your stats, and find deals. Between the course quality, availability, and the way they treat players, Falmouth really stands out.
So definitely make the trip to the Falmouth Country Club, whether it’s for a casual round or a full golf weekend with their stay-and-play packages. Either way, you’ll have a blast carving your way through all 27 holes.
Winnapaug Country Club A Rhode Island Coastal Gem
By MYLES MURRAY
Winnapaug Country Club is located in the coastal town of Westerly, RI. A classic Donald Ross design, it still features the characteristics he built into the course over a century ago. It is a par 72 that plays around 6400 from the back tees. The unique layout and scenery will certainly impress you, but also challenge you with the shape of the holes. Every hole is different and there’s never a time you say “this is a boring layout.”
That variety starts right away. Hole 1 is a real tester to start your round. It is a par 4 with a fairway that starts wide but narrows as it gets closer to the green. You then have to hit an uphill approach to a true Ross green that slopes back to front and has a steep false front. If you are short the ball will roll back about 30 yards.
Once you get a few holes in, the character of the front nine really shows. The front 9 plays like a parkland course with elevation changes, some blind shots, and heavy tree cover on the edges. The greens were the standout for me as they offered the most excitement throughout. The undulations and tiny margin for error on each approach shot made it fun to see how well you could hit your wedges or irons. If you have never
played there before then you definitely need to utilize the GPS in the cart to see which direction you want to aim. The GPS also has slope factored into the distance and the green map will show you the direction and speed of the slopes.
The varying hole layouts makes it fun for any golfer. A few holes stood out for how much fun they added to the round. The fifth is a short uphill par 4 that will tempt you to drive the green. Just a couple holes
later, you reach an elevated tee with a huge drop into the fairway where you need to hit it 260+ to be able to see the green on your next shot. Hole 9 is a long winding dogleg right that requires two elite shots to reach it for an eagle putt.
The back nine brings a totally different feel, especially once you hit the stretch along the ocean. Holes 10-13 are on the Atlantic Ocean side of the course and are true links-style holes. They have tall fescue
and no trees. There is always the danger of the ocean breeze affecting your shots as well. These holes take me back in time to when Ross designed the course and used the lay of the land to provide the danger.
A dead-straight par 4 at 11 comes with danger: a row of houses hugging the right side that are just a quick sliced drive away
from broken windows. The signature hole for me was the 12th, which is a short par 3 facing the water and it is just a stunning background with boats, docks, and buoys in view. Hole 18 forces you to carry some heavy fescue from the elevated tee to reach the fairway. It is a great finishing green with a steep false front and it is shaped like a thin
egg so there is little margin for error.
Off the course, Winnapaug keeps the experience going. After the round or when you make your way by the parking lot there is a BBQ grill churning out some delicious burgers and dogs. Our group opted to try each, and were pleasantly surprised by the great seasoning on the burgers. And the hot dogs were jumbo sized and grilled just right.
Beyond the grill, the club’s amenities are worth noting. The club has excellent club car carts and also has the e-bike solo carts that looked awesome (next time I’m using one of those, but my wife was too scared to try it). The free app includes GPS, weather, tee times, deals, and loyalty rewards. The pricing is dynamic so it is great to have the app to find the best deal for when you want to play.
Winnapaug is a throwback course in great shape that delivers a challenging but entertaining round for all skills of golfers. It’s a memorable round that blends classic design with coastal scenery and just enough personality to make you want to come back.
www.Winnapaug.com
By MYLES MURRAY
LLouisquisset Golf Club in North Providence, RI
ouisquisset Golf Club is hidden in a neighborhood subdivision in North Providence, RI. Located only 5 miles from bustling downtown Providence, the atmosphere is calm, with no traffic, and the vibes are very chill. The course is woven between quiet neighborhood streets, and it feels like a typical Florida golf community.
Club Pro Anthony Loiselle and long-time member Ronny shared some of the history of the club with me. I learned that the course used to be a private 18-hole track, but real estate jumbled up the layout and houses were built where planned, so the course had to be reworked to fit. This makes it a little claustrophobic on most holes because you fear smashing someone’s window, but it did not take away from the character and creativity of the course.
When you pull up to the clubhouse you can’t see any of the course and you wouldn’t even know it was there, but on just the other side is a tricky layout with lush fairways and tight cut greens. Once you walk around the clubhouse to the pro shop you get your first glimpse of the first hole, and it is a memorable view. The clubhouse sits atop a steep hill, and down in the valley below you is the 1st tee. This was the most intimidating first hole I have played because you have a pond directly in front of the tee and houses line both sides of the fairway. I was told that a lot of players hit iron off this tee to try to keep the ball in play. If you do manage to keep it in play you have to be careful with your approach shot because the green has a steep slant from the back to the false front.
Anything above the hole is going to be hard to stop, so if you can manage par you are in really good shape for the rest of the course.
The course has four sets of tees with the tips playing at 2675 yards with a par of 35. If you play 18 holes then the scorecard has combination suggestions for mixing up the tee boxes on each side. It has quirky holes and tricky sightlines off the tee, but overall the experience would challenge golfers of any skill level. You will use every club in your bag, with an emphasis on accuracy because it is a target golf layout.
Hole 1 is the toughest on the scorecard, but I also appreciated the challenge of Hole 3. It’s a 440-yard par5 that seems short but actually requires some strategy to score low. The fairway doglegs right, but there is a dead zone on that side of the fairway and there is a tight row of trees forty feet high blocking your view of the
green. The smart play is to hit it around 200 yards on the left side of the fairway unless you can cut your driver high and around the trees. If you land at 200 then you will have about 210 to the green. You can lay up or hit a long iron to the large green. I went for the green and missed it just left, but luckily avoided one of the pot bunkers. A flop shot and two putts later and I walked away with a self-appreciating par.
Every hole on the course has a strategic path to scoring low, so I think the more you play it the more chance you have to be successful. It may be tucked away in North Providence, but it’s worth setting your GPS to find Louisquisett and having a fun round.
www.LouisquissetGC.com
Manchester Country Club A Classic “Old New England” Design
By TOM LANDERS
Manchester Country Club opened in 1917 and was designed by two early 20th century course architects, Tom Bendelow and Devereaux Emmett, the latter creating famed Congressional Country Club in Washington, D.C., and Keney Park golf Course in Hartford, CT.
A.W. Tillinghast, who designed over 265 golf courses, with notable examples including Winged Foot Golf Club, Baltusrol Golf Club, and Bethpage Black Course, redesigned the course in 1935. His designs are recognized for their strategic bunkering and undulating greens, making them challenging and memorable.
Manchester Country Club is a fine example of what is called “old New England design.” To the knowledgeable golf buff, this means the natural
erly used. It means greens that are generally small, contoured and well protected, often in subtle ways. It means alternate ways to play many holes to allow players with different skills to be challenged and be competitive. It means giving a golfer, regardless of his level of skill, the opportunity to leave the eighteenth green and say “the course gave me the chance to use everything I know and did not force me to try things I can’t do. I was tested and had fun.”
Those are the attributes that describe the Manchester Country Club course and make it special…the kind of course everyone likes, but no one will build today, because it doesn’t fit the modern television image.
Manchester has bunkers placed strategically around fairway landing areas and putting surfaces, which puts a premium on accuracy both off the tee and on
The variety offered at Manchester starts right away. Hole 1 is a short par 4 with a fairway that slopes right to left towards water. Most players will hit a short iron into a wellundulated green that makes you concentrate on even the shortest of putts. Most greens at Manchester have undulation and subtle nuances that require total attention if you want to score.
The varying hole layouts makes it fun for any golfer. To us, the back-toback par fives on the front nine (holes 3 & 4) and back nine (holes 14 & 15) stood out for how much fun they added to the round. While not all players will like back-to-back par fives, we thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to swing fairway metals on consecutive holes and have a chance for back to back birdies. Our favorite of these par five holes were #14 and #15. From the tee, number fourteen dares you to swing as hard as you want to a generously wide fairway with the second shot being more strategic as water comes into play on the left as you approach the green. The second shot on hole 15 was collectively our favorite shot on any of the par fives. The hole gently sweeps left on the uphill second shot with plenty of
room both left and right allowing you to take a good rip at fairway metal to hopefully get your ball greenside.
No matter which tee makers you play from, whether you’re a novice or an experienced player, the layout of the course challenges you with its strategic design, while the stunning scenery enhances your overall experience.
In April 2023, the club installed 3 brand
PM 7 days a week and off season (Starting November 1st), they are available Tues to Sun, 9:00 AM- 9:00 PM
The Manchester Open is held each summer in early August. The event is open to Amateurs who play on Sunday and Professionals who play on Monday. It’s a great event open to members and guests, often attracting players from all over the state, who all play under challenging conditions: long rough, tough pins, and fast greens! Caddies and spectators are allowed at The Manchester Open.
new, state of the art golf simulators that are available for use year round for fittings, lessons, practice or indoor competition. During the golf season (April 1st- October 31st) the simulators are available from 8:00 AM- 7:00
Food
The Hollow at Manchester Country Club is open to the public 7 days a week and features grill pub food, including golf-themed Grand Slam burgers, everyday for lunch and dinner. The menu includes a generous selection of appetizers, salads, burgers, and sandwiches, as well as daily chef’s specials. All indoor tables enjoy a beautiful outside view, and patio seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
www.ManCC.com
From Golfers to Picklers Of Course! We still play GOLF!!!
How Pickleball and Golf Changed my Life and I’m not the only one!
By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
Golf, and in particular golf tourism provides me the opportunity to say, everyday, “if you love what you do you never work another day in your life.” From owning a golf destination marketing agency for over 25 years, to now only working for Golfing Magazine and the greatest golf tourism organization in the world, IAGTO, The International Association of Golf Tour Operators. It has been truly unreal to play at the finest golf resorts and destinations in the world, and do it with an amazing collection of people from all over the world. Additionally, I get to help those in the business, to build their business, through the IAGTO. None of my friends believe what I do is work. It is the most wonderful life.
Then came Pickleball, a newbie to say the least. With age comes the myth of “Aging Gracefully.” Long story short, a medical condition had caused me to gain over 30 lbs, a little more care on the eating and drinking, plus my new addiction to Pickleball, 4 times per week, 6 months later, the 38lbs are gone! Pickleball has change my life!
Golf and fly fishing will always have their place, but Pickleball, churns on the brain. It turns out that I am not the only one in the golf tourism industry that have fallen into the Pickleball frenzy. My good friend and now former owner of Golf Packages of South Carolina, Ricky Saucier, sold the business just before COVID, now, blends family life with Pickleball.
Ed Holofcener brings the passion to a whole ne level. The founder/owner of Golf Zoo, North America’s premier golf packaging company has managed to find himself playing in a number of US Open Pickleball Championships. More about these 2 gentlemen later, and we will look at a few options for golf and pickleball trips.
With Pickleball being the fastest growing sport in the world, and not only for older people, that would go into the fast-growing misinformation category. Golfing Magazine
is committing to bringing you Pickleball information on a regular basis. From equipment, shoes, paddles and safety wear to Golf & Pickleball places to Stay & Play, and maybe even some trips to join us on.
The week leading up to Christmas last year, some friend’s aske me to come and try this Pickleball thing. Having been a racquet sports guys most of my life, I thought, let’s see what all the craze is about. One session was all it took, although at a Mickey Mouse facility, (no offence to Mickey), I was hooked. Between Christmas and New Year, I bought
a good mid range Selkirk EVO Control XL 2.0 paddle and immediately went to check out the class act of Pickleball facilities in the area Swing Courts, in Collingwood, Ontario. The next week I joined. You can now find me there at least 4 times per week. Of note, the next few things that I added to my Pickleball collection were a great pair of Skechers Viper Court Rally Shoes with their Goodyear traction soles, most important and a protective glass from Dunlop. Truth be known, because I wear wide shoes pretty much everything, I wear is Skechers espe-
cially for golf and now Pickleball. Swing Courts Collingwood First class from the moment you walk through the door, with well maintained, professional and regulation-sized courts, wonderful staff and many options for memberships. Having come along in the game fairly quickly, and I only say that because I know that opponents are preferring to hit the ball to my partners. That is a good sign. However, after only 5 months, in order to get better I, along with my buddies Sean and Mark we have embarked on a lesson program with one of our toplevel coaches, Rob Williams. The Swing Academy programs are designed for all levels of players. Swing also provides non competitive and competitive opportunities to meet some great people everyday! www.swingcourts.com
Equipment Note: Skechers Viper Court Rally
Whether you’re a tournament competitor or weekend warrior, the Viper Court Rally is designed for players who want agility, control, and all-day comfort on the court. Engineered specifically for pickleball, this lightweight performance shoe features Goodyear® rubber outsoles for superior traction and stability on any court surface—indoor or out. The breathable mesh upper offers secure support without sacrificing flexibility, while Skechers Arch Fit® technology delivers podiatrist-certified arch support for long matches and quick pivots. Offering a responsive feel and confident grip in every step, the Viper Court Rally is a go-to for players who demand speed and versatility, without compromise. www.skechers.com
As your skills evolve, so should your paddle. I took the liberty with my years spent playing, ping pong, tennis and racquetball to move into a little bit more of an mid-range paddle to start with.
Equipment Note: Selkirk SLK EVO Control -XL
The EVO Control upgrades the classic experience for advancing players. Boasting a thicker, 16mm Rev-Control Core and a T700 CarbonFusion Carbon Fiber surface, this thermoformed paddle absorbs impact, improves playability, and delivers excellent control. You will experience pinpoint precision on every shot with a touch of added power, making the EVO Control your perfect partner for dominating the court at the next level. www.selkirk.com
Injury Report: Make sure your paddle handle is the right size for you. A handle to small will cause finger and possibly elbow pain because you will be holding the paddle tighter than you should. A simple handle wrap will take care of that. This is first hand personal experience.
For most of his life, my good friend Ricky Saucier a life long South Carolinian played golf, tennis and ping pong and at fairly highly competitive levels. After selling his Golf Packages of South Carolina business, he needed a new challenge at this time. After 2 years of neighbor hounding him to join him in chasing that silly whiffleball, Ricky at 62 years of age, gave in. That neighbor just happened to be an ambassador for Pickleball in the Charleston area and now Ricky self admittedly says, “I’ve never been addicted to anything like the bug that bit me that first night.” I can understand.
Fast forward, two years later, Ricky is playing play 4 to 5 times a week, a few tournaments from South Carolina down to Florida, even his wife Jan has got-
ten into the act. Together they established a hat and t-shirt company dedicated to Pickleball Players…Blind Squirrel Pickleball, LLC. www.BlindSquirrelPickleball.net Ricky added, “this is great fun for both of us, and just the other week, I read an article that spoke about how racquet and paddle sports lead to a longer life.”
For anyone thinking of taking up Pickleball, Ricky, now playing at a 4.0 level, has some thoughts and advise to make this just as enjoyable for you as it is for us.
• Stretch before and after you play, no matter what your age.
• Hydrate: electrolytes and protein bars; keep them in your bag.
• Footwear; court shoes only—no running shoes. Too easy to fall, the Orthopedist loves Pickleball Players.
• Protective Eyewear is a must. 47% of Pickleball players will get hit in the eye! You don’t want to be one of them. A Pickleball traveling at 40+ MPH can cause some severe damage.
• If you are playing outdoors: Sunscreen; just like the golf course. Sweat Bands, hats, visors and towels. Make sure you have them.
• Have fun; there are loads of great people
out there.
• Lastly, keep the Epson Salt handy. After you’ve been playing for 3 hours; it’s 85 degrees and 90% humidity and you want to crawl to your car; there are those three folks that look at you and say OMG! Come on just ONE MORE GAME!
Ricky also added, “you may also want to consider for your vehicle, especially after getting a severe sweat on, portable seat covers will protect your seats from getting stinky.”
What does a 4.0 rated Pickleballer play with……and understand that Ricky is a believer in “you get what you pay for.” Be it for golf equipment or Pickleball. He says “don’t go cheap to try and get by.” After I played for my first time, I spoke to Ricky on what I should look for in a good introductory paddle for someone who also had played tennis, racquetball and ping pong in the past. That is how I ended up with my Selkirk EVO Control XL 2.0 paddle.
At his level, Ricky is currently playing with 2 paddles, the Selkirk Luxx Control Air S2 which provided him with his biggest game improvement and has added the Engage Pursuit Pro
1, 6.0 Hybrid Raw T700 Carbon Fiber. It just so happens that I have moved on from my first paddle to a Selkirk Luxx Control Air S2, and love it! Wonder how that happened?
Equipment Note: LUXX Control Air –Epic: Where Control reigns Supreme
The Selkirk LUXX Control Air pickleball paddle is the ultimate control paddle for balanced pickleball players, finesse over brute force. The LUXX Control Air is for the tacticians, the players who seek to orchestrate wins with precision, and those who look to celebrate their relentless dedication to the game of pickleball with every shot. www.selkirk.com
Engage Pursuit Pro 1, 6.0
Hybrid Raw T700 Carbon Fiber
One of Engages latest creations for players looking for the perfect blend of Power, Control and Playability. This paddle continues to use technologies from the Pro1 while bringing a new shape to the market.
www.EngagePickleball.com
Paddles, just like your golf clubs, as your handicap goes down, you want to tweak your equipment. It is the same in Pickleball. You will find a paddle to get you started and as
you advance, you will find your niche and the type of paddle to use. Power, Control or somewhere in between. Many local clubs have demo paddles to loan as well as companies online that offer loaners. Try a few before you make that purchase. The game has evolved to a faster pace; its not just dinking anymore.
Playing as much as he does, Ricky has 3 pairs of court shoes on the go, Asics FlyteFoam, Wilson Rush Pro Ace, and his absolute favorite is the new Skechers Viper Court Pro 2.0. Having played about 15 tournaments over the last year and half, Ricky and his partner are looking to defend their title at The Palmetto Indoor Doubles Invitational in Aiken, SC, last year at the 3.5 rating this year moving up to the 4.0 level!
Equipment Note: Skechers Viper Court Pro 2.0 – Where the Rubber Meets the Court
The Viper Court Pro 2.0 features Skechers’ signature advanced comfort technologies found in the first iteration in an updated design constructed with the elitelevel pickleball player in mind. Key technical features include an innovative mesh
upper for breathability with a rubber toe guard for durability, a Skechers Relaxed Fit® proprietary shoe design for a roomy fit, plus lightweight, responsive Ultra Flight® cushioning for added comfort. The Skechers Arch Fit® removable insole system also provides podiatrist-certified arch support and a mid-foot TPU shank for additional stability. Elite players will appreciate the inclusion of a Goodyear® rubber outsole for added stability and durability. This uniquely designed compound allows high-impact athletes to perform more advanced, controlled slides into shots on the court surface. The outsole of the Viper Court Pro 2.0 is indoor/outdoor and non-marking. This court-ready shoe comes in various colorways and is available on skechers.com and select retailers worldwide. www.skechers.com
To reach the level that he did as quickly as he did, just like anything else, lessons and practice in golf, it’s lessons and drills in Pickleball. Ricky has taken his share of lessons, and has even spent 3 days at an Advanced Camp for 4.0 to 4.5 DUPR rated players. Learning drills and how to practice drills, He says, “It is worth it weight in gold” and added, “if you want to get better, you’ve gotta Drill!”
You’ve no doubt heard that old term of saving the best for last. Both Ricky and I want to be the player that my good friend Ed Holofcener owner of Golf Zoo is. Golf Zoo is one of North America’s premier golf tour operators is when it comes to Golf and coming soon, Pickleball.
Note: Upcoming Golf & Pickleball articles will include Stay & Play resorts and destinations featuring just that, and Golf Zoo will likely be able to get you there, should you choose of course.
www.golfzoo.com
Ed grew up playing tennis and skiing. His family owned a ski and tennis shop, so he played a lot of tennis as a kid playing high school and college tennis. After that, he played interclub team tennis. After some tennis burnout golf was added to his repertoire. A good athlete and quick learner, he now plays a few times a week, carrying a 10 handicap and “likes” golf but he, like many others, LOVES pickleball! With Golf Zoo he travels the world playing golf, and he uses that platform to spread the word about pickleball worldwide.
Ed moves back and forth, winter in Florida and summer in Maryland. It was in Florida, in 2017 that he was first introduced to Pickleball and as he likes to say, “It was
love at first slam.” His competitive nature got him into tournaments quickly and in his first year, won a gold medal at the Maryland Senior Olympics at the 4.0+ level in singles and men’s doubles. He was hooked and
has continued to play in tournaments all around the US, won a Bronze Medal at the 2024 US Open at the 4.0 and now will compete at a 4.5 level in the 2025 US Open. Ed has played in well over 50 tournaments, singles and doubles and has over 50 medals to show for his efforts. It was after a number of visits to the US Open that he finally nabbed a medal men’s singles in 2024.
Power 14mm is engineered to elevate your game, delivering explosive power, pinpoint accuracy, and ultimate control—all while meeting the new 2025 PBCoR and USAP Quiet Category standards. Whether you’re crushing winners or executing delicate resets, this paddle gives you the winning edge without compromising on performance. www.GearboxSports.com
The all-important footwear and eyewear. Another guy with a wide foot Ed finds the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1007 (hard court shoe) as his preferred. He has worn New Balance for tennis and now pickleball for many years and finds it has good wear and a comfortable fit. He uses the RIA eyewear, Model One [Court HD+] for sunglasses as he mostly plays outdoors year-round (MD / FL). They produce a very high-quality lens and frame that are light weight and durable and good protection for his eyes.
Equipment Note: Fresh Foam X 1007 Fresh Foam X midsole delivers our most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort while the NDurance rubber outsole technology provides superior durability in high-wear areas to help get more out of the shoes. Breathable upper for comfort through marathon matches with durable synthetic toe guard and stabilizers. www.NewBalance.com
Ed Holofcener, Founder of Golf Zoo
GOLF & PICKLEBALL RESORTS
Golfing Magazine is pleased to have joined the Pickleball craze. Jump on board with us and enjoy a smash or 2, you might even get involved with some dinking and drinking! It has happened before. In the meantime here are a few popular Golf & Pickleball resorts and destinations that can satisfy both addictions.
Arizona
The Phoenician, a luxury Collection Resort: An AAA Five-Diamond award-winning luxury resort showcasing the unique beauty of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert. The Phoenician and Troon Golf partnership provides access to several golf courses including Troon North, Boulders Golf Club, Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club, SunRidge Canyon Golf Club, The Westin Kierland Golf Club and many more. Guess what? The Phoenician Athletic Club offers Pickleball, plus Tennis, badminton and even Table Tennis.
www.ThePhoenician.com
California
Pebble Beach Resorts: It’s dramatic coastline, magical forest, and rich history make it a legendary place. It’s 5 courses include the
Tennis Pavillion featuring 8 fully enclosed Pickleball Courts.
www.PebbleBeach.com
Silverado Resort: Elegance, nestled in the heart of California’s Wine Country, Silverado Resort offers a refined escape where comfort and sophistication come naturally. Home to two championship golf courses, the North and South Courses feature dramatic elevation changes, water crossings, and ancient oaks. The North Course proudly hosts an annual PGA Tour event Procore Championship.
Precision, Play, and Pinot Just Steps Away. Access to Silverado Resort’s pickleball courts is reserved exclusively for resort guests and members, offering a premier playing experience in the heart of Napa Valley.
www.SliveradoResort.com
Florida: A great place to escape cold winters if you are the north, with options galore.
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa: located 25 minutes south of historic St. Augustine, is a premier Florida family vacation beach destination overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With two signature golf courses designed by golf’s greatest legends,
PGA Champions Tour.
The Racquet Center at Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa offers premier racquet sports experiences for all skill levels. Recognized as one of “The World’s Top 50 Tennis Resorts” and a 2025 Gold Medal Tennis and 2025 Silver Medal Pickleball Resort by Tennis Resorts Online. Four new pickleball courts overlooking the Intercoastal Waterway with open play hours, beginner clinics, and advanced sessions, for both tennis and pickleball enthusiasts.
www.HammockBeach.com
Innisbrook Resort : One of Florida’s most celebrated Golf Resorts. Accolades include Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 You Can Play,” and Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Golf Resorts in America.” Innisbrook is home to four outstanding layouts – all designed by the imaginative and innovative architect Lawrence Packard – including the top-rated Copperhead course which hosts the world’s finest players when the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship visits Innisbrook each March.
Pickleball and Tennis facilities include, 10 Har-Tru tennis courts and both indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, programs for all ages and skill-sets, and tournaments through-
Saddlebrook Resort: The iconic 480-acre Resort just north of Tampa, Florida is well into it’s $92 million revitalization project. The expansive redevelopment is reestablishing the legacy property as a premier haven for leisure travelers, golfers, tennis aficionados, and now includes the fastest growing sport in the world PICKLEBALL!
World-renowned golf course architect Rees Jones is spearheading a dramatic redesign of Saddlebrook’s historic golf grounds. The vision: transform the two existing 18-hole layouts—originally designed by Arnold Palmer—into a versatile 27-hole championship experience. The three newly conceived nine-hole courses can be rotated in various combinations to create three distinct 18-hole challenges. Upon completion, the three ninehole layouts will converge near the resort’s redesigned 500,000-gallon Super Pool.
Beyond golf, Saddlebrook continues its legacy as a world-class sports training facility. The resort features 43 tennis courts, eight pickleball courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, serene spa, and a forthcoming multi-court padel complex.
www.Saddlebrook.com
Indiana
French Lick Resort: A place like no other in Southern Indiana. Nowhere else in the world can you play courses designed by Pete Dye and Donald Ross together at one resort. The Pete Dye Course, sketched on a napkin and carved into history. This course hosted the Senior PGA Championship in 2015. Senior PGA
Colin Montgomerie called it “one of the iconic courses” in America.
The Donald Ross Course, built in 1917, this award-winning course maintains nearly all the classic elements of its original design. This par-70 course has been rated the No. 2 public course in Indiana by Golfweek every year since 2011.
The West Baden Springs Hotel (my favorite hotel lobby in the world) is an architectural marvel and one of many crown jewels of the resort. The National Historic Landmark was originally built in 1902 and restored in 2007. The hotel features six circular stories with rooms and suites that offer views of the spectacular atrium. The hotels atrium was the largest free-span dome until the Houston Astrodome was built in the 1960’s. Thus dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
YES, pickleball too! Courts are located at booth French Lick Casino Hotel and in East Park at West Baden Springs Hotel. www.FrenchLick.com
Michigan
Boyne Golf: Eleven golf courses and 3 Resorts, set between the stunning shores of Lake Michigan and the lush and rugged hills of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Eleven courses, each distinctly different, from legendary golf architects like Arthur Hills, Robert Trent Jones Senior, and Donald Ross. The sport taking the country by storm has arrive at Boyne Mountain. Brand new courts nestled in the backdrop of Northern Michigan. www.BoyneGolf.com
South Carolina
Palmetto Dunes Ocean Front Resort–Hilton Head. Three of Hilton Head Island’s Premier Championship Golf Courses and More! The Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course, has been rated by readers of Golfweek Magazine among the best courses in the Southeast. Many golfers regard the George Fazio Course as Hilton Head Island’s most challenging championship course. The Arthur Hills Course, blends the beauty of the Lowcountry with the inherent challenges of the game to produce a unique golfing experience. Named the “#1 Family Resort in the World” by Travel+Leisure, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort is a full-service resort that offers more to do that any other resort in the Southeast.
Put tennis, badminton and ping pong in a cocktail shaker, and you’ve got Pickleball. And no one serves up this unique and fun sport like Palmetto Dunes. Their Tennis & Pickleball Center features 24 dedicated Pickleball courts, 8 lighted for night play, plus one of the most comprehensive instructional programs on the east coast.
www.PalmettoDunes.com
Texas
Horseshoe Bay Resort: Located in the picturesque Texas Hill Country Wine and Lake Region, a short 45-minute trip from Austin, 90-minute trip from San Antonio and a few hours drive from Dallas and Houston, the 7,000-acre, AAA Four Diamond-rated resort
champion
sits along the shores of constant-level lake LBJ. Top-notch golf to add to your bucket list with three golf courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and a signature Jack Nicklaus members-only course.
Slick Rock: Along the shores of Lake LBJ and home of the “Million Dollar Hole” and a 35-foot waterfall, one of the most photographed signature holes in Texas.
Apple Rock: Overlooks Horseshoe Bay and Lake LBJ, making it one of the most scenic championship courses in the state.
Ram Rock: Known as “The Challenger” and recognized by publications as being one of the world’s most outstanding golf courses.
Summit Rock
Their exclusive, members-only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is a 72-par masterpiece with dramatic elevation changes and panoramic Texas Hill Country views.
World-Class Pickleball in Texas, Resort guests are welcome to enjoy a world-class pickleball on 14 dedicated pickleball courts. www.HSBResort.com
Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg Resorts : Nestled in the heart of historic Colonial Williamsburg, amidst the picturesque landscape of Virginia’s Tidewater region, Colonial Williamsburg Resorts stands as a beacon for both avid golfers and history enthusiasts alike. Boasting an unparalleled golfing experience at the prestigious Golden Horseshoe Golf Club, this resort destination
VIP Airport perfect for private jets, an equestrian center, 245 acre shooting facility, shopping, and numerous on-site activities and family programs, all of which surround Altos de Chavon, a replica 16th century Mediterranean artist village with breath-taking views.
Three of the most challenging courses in the Caribbean, each designed by Pete Dye. Teeth of the Dog, #1 Golf Course In the Caribbean. A bucket list layout for those seeking to play one of the premier golf courses in the world. With seven dramatic holes hugging the craggy coral formations rising out of the azure Caribbean Sea. As Dye famously quipped, “I created 11 holes and God created seven.”
offers a perfect blend of luxury, recreation, and cultural immersion.
The Gold Course a Robert Trent Jones Sr. design established in 1963, a Top 75 Public Golf Course in America. Robert Trent Jones Sr. called it “My Finest Design.” It has more accolades than you can shake a stick at!
The Green Course, a beautifully carved Rees Jones design that perfectly blends the challenge of championship golf with a spectacular mix of natural terrain.
A Pickleball Paradise, recently installed pickleball nets allow you and your fellow travelers to enjoy a recreation sensation at The Williamsburg Inn Tennis Club! www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/stay-play/
…..and for some offshore Caribbean considerations…..
Dominican Republic
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas: A private gated community with eight outstanding restaurants, three world-renowned golf courses, an exclusive beach, marina and yacht club,
Not to be overlooked Dye Fore, 3 nines Chavon, Marina and Lagos– are distinct. Chavon features 5 cliff side holes dropping 300 feet, Marina plays down the Chavon rivers and offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and the Marina at Casa de Campo.
THE LARGEST RACQUET CENTER
IN THE CARIBBEAN. Slice, serve, and find your sweet spot under the warm Caribbean sun on the largest racquet center in the Caribbean! Boasting 11 immaculate fast-dry Har-Tru tennis courts, 1 hard surface tennis court, 4 padel tennis courts, and 4 pickleball courts with the Caribbean in the background. The Racquet Center is the perfect place for players of all levels to enjoy a tennis vacation in the Caribbean. www.CasdeCampo.com.do
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club: Set on 380-acres overlooking the picturesque Rendezvous Bay and Merrywing Bay, The Resort offers a soulful sense of place that honors the rich culture of Anguilla in the British West Indies. The Greg Norman newly reimagined 18-Hole International Course, named #3 Best Caribbean Course by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice, offers breathtaking views and challenging, dramatic holes. Players are greeted by spectacular view of St. Maarten and the Caribbean Sea.
Pickleball Paradise Awaits, opportunities include: Exclusive Ladies Packages, Pickle Training Camp, Pickle and Yoga, Spring Fling Pickleball Extravaganza and Dem Days to name a few.
www.AuroraAnguilla.com
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club
Wentworth Hills Country Club
We know golfing is fun. The ownership at Wentworth Hills Country Club in Plainville, Ma. is intent on making it even more enjoyable.
The club has purchased a new fleet of “Shark” golf carts that allows players to remain in contact with the clubhouse throughout a round. They can order food and refreshments while playing the front nine and pick up orders at the turn. In addition, the carts offer yardages and golfers can even watch video tips from Greg Norman between their own shots.
And, the club has developed an app for cell phones that make the user a member of the “Wentworth Hills community” once they get the app. Individuals are notified of discounts on greens fees and other promotions and specials. A map of the course and yardages are automatically available on the user’s phone when accessing the app.
”We are trying to keep up with the younger generation that is so into technology,” said one of the club’s owners, Constant Poholek. “The hole-in-one challenge is a game within the game and money we receive helps out charitable causes. We are trying to do things to make golf even more fun and keep people coming back.”
Wentworth Hills is a fun course to play, offering classic risk/reward holes that dare low-handicappers to
W“go for it,” while allowing for alternate routes to the green for less experienced golfers. The varied natural topography here features rolling, tree-lined fairways, large, receptive greens, ponds and lakes protecting holes, and 60 strategically-placed bunkers.
The course, while playing just over 6,200 yards from the tips, has a slope of 128 and a rating equal to its par of 71. The track places emphasis on proper club selection and accurate approach shots to the putting surfaces.
Wentworth Hills is located between Boston and Providence and only minutes from Route 495, which makes it an ideal destination for golfers from the Metro Boston area to Federal Hill in Providence.
WentworthHillsCountryClub.com
Heather Hill County Club
ith 27 holes of golf, Heather Hill Country Club in Plainville, Ma., makes for a full day of golfing fun. The club offers one regulation 18-hole course and one nine-hole course.
The North Course (nine holes) has a few hills that can cause uneven lies. The fairways are narrow, and the greens are small. The South Course (18 holes) has many more hills than the North Course, but doesn’t have a lot of sand bunkers. The fairways are wide open, but most are tree lined, so you just can’t spray it around and get away with it. The greens are large, and water hazards come into play on three holes.
The 18-hole course plays around 6,000 yards from the tips and has a mix of short- and medium-length par-fours, tricky par-threes, and two par-fives that can reached in two shots by big hitters. One of those par-fives is the 478-yard third that is very straightforward with few hazards complicating matters, although there are two bunkers near the putting surface. The seventh and eighth are solid backto-back par-threes, playing almost 200 yards and 180 respectively.
The back side has three short par-fours that allow you a real chance at birdie, the 334-yard 13th, the 317-yard 14th, and the final hole, a 317-yarder. Number 12 is a good par-five that plays 516 yards from the tips, with the hole doglegging to the right, which may demand a precise layup shot to set up a wedge approach.
The nine-hole layout measures 3,368 yards from the tips. It begins with a 157-yard par-three, with the toughest stretch of holes coming at three through five. The third, a par-four, plays 400 yards, while the fourth is a challenging 500yard par-five.
The club has a restaurant and bar for after-round enjoyment. www.HeatherHillCountryClub.com
Heritage Country Club in Charlton, Massachusetts has long been a favorite of locals and those golfers who like to throw their sticks in the trunk and drive a bit to play a real good course. Heritage offers private club conditions and amenities at affordable rates.
Heritage CC has joined Golfing Magazine’s growing list of courses you can play when you subscribe to our magazine. You get a complimentary round of golf with a small service fee charged when you arrive to take care of a motorized cart for the round.
Heritage Country Club
The 18-hole course at Heritage Country Club features 6,335 yards from the longest tees and a par of 71. The course rating is 69.3 and it has a slope rating of 118. The layout was designed by Donald Hoenig, with the track opening for play in 1964. Shane Bayer manages the course as General Manager.
There are a mix of holes at Heritage CC that will keep you entertained through your entire round. Some of the fairways are rather tight,
The setting is amazing for this semi-private Country Club which exudes pride of ownership. From the moment you enter the property, making the quarter mile country side drive you can’t miss the rolling manicured greens.
so accuracy is called for off the tee to get you involved in the hole from the tee box.
The layout starts off in stern fashion, with a pair of fairly long par-fours followed by a 200yard par-three where par is a good score indeed. The fourth is a 452-yard par-five that is reachable in two shots for long hitters.
The fifth hole is a beast of a par-five, playing around 600 yards and it’s a true three-shot hole to get the putting surface. Number eight is
a par-four of around 300 yards where birdie awaits before moving on to the monstrous 490-yard par-four ninth. The ninth can also be played as a par-five, which makes sense for most golfers.
The back side also starts off tough, with two par-fours of around 400 yards sandwiched around another long par-five of about 600 yards. The 305-yard par-four 14th is a birdie hole and then it is on to a demanding finish that includes another par-five that measures almost 600 yards from the back tees. Better bring a great long game when you play here and tee off from the tips. The wise option the first visit may be playing from one tee up, which will put the total yardage to around 6,000, shortening some of those long par-fives.
85 Sampson Road
Charlton, Ma.
www.HeritageCountryClub.com
Crestview Country Club
Serving golfers in scenic Agawam, MA, and Suffield, CT, area, Crestview Country Club features panoramic views of the Pioneer Valley. Known as the “Gem of Western Mass,” a renowned Geoffrey Cornish design. The course is challenging enough to have played host to the PGA TOUR Travelers Championship Open Qualifier in 2015, the CT Section PGA Championship in 2013, the LPGA Friendly’s Classic from 1995-1998, as well as several US Amateur qualifiers. With it’s 5 sets of tees it is very playable for all levels of golfers. Best to be ready to take on the course right out of the gate. Best not to be tying up your laces on the first tee because the first 2 holes are challenging to say the least. Even from the white tees you are looking at an opening hole (#3 hdcp) of 400 plus yards backed up by a 526-yard part 5.
A scenic collection of challenging par 3’s await as you are guided through the meticulously maintained rolling fairways with a number of
risk reward par 4’s and 5’s to round out you round. Plus, a 19th hole to settle those bets. Big hitters can tee it up from as far back as 7,100 yards, the reds tees bring that down to a very manageable 5,500.
There is no excuse for not being ready when you get to the first as the club has an expansive driving range, practice green and pitching area. If by chance your game needs a little tune up, the professional staff is there offering lessons, clinics and specialized instruction. Not just for the adults in the room but Juniors as well.
Dining here is an art unto itself and you will want that experience, whether indoors or outdoors. The VIEW Restaurant and The California Grill feature panoramic views of the Connecticut River Valley, sumptuous food and an impressive array of cocktails and wine selections.
If you are lucky enough to live close by membership at Crestview Country Club should be a consideration. A classic country club, one of the best semi-private golf courses in the area, other amenities include: pool, tennis courts and fitness area.
www.CrestviewCC.org
Or to book a tee time call: (413) 786-0917
One of the favorite courses of Massachusetts golfers is improving each year.
The ownership of Mill Valley Golf Links in Belchertown, MA is tweaking their property to bring the course and club to an enhanced luster. There’s a new 2,000-square-foot pro shop that will have additional merchandise for sale, a golfer’s lounge with a big screen TV, an outside patio and restrooms for the comfort of visitors. On the course, a new green was built on number three that eliminates a sharp dogleg. The new green features severe sloping to make things interesting. There’s a new par-three 16th hole, and additional parking has also been incorporated into the overall improvement plan.
Mill Valley Golf Links
“Mill Valley is unique because every hole is cut through the woods,” said owner Tim Kurty. “We have exceptional conditions on our greens, tees and fairways. We have a challenging course and relaxed atmosphere for members and guests to enjoy. We are called a links course because many of the fairways follow the natural terrain and feature uphill, downhill and side hill lies that makes approach shots challenging.”
Mill Valley, which plays 6,525 yards from the tips, draws its golfers from the University of Massachusetts, surrounding towns and the greater Worcester area, said Kurty. “We currently have over 400 members and business has been
Since 1960, Crystal Lake Golf Club in Haverhill, Ma. has been one of the premiere public golf courses in the Merrimack Valley, located only 35 minutes from downtown Boston.
The course offers some of the finest rolling bent grass greens in the area, lush wide fairways, light rough, manicured bunkers, rolling tree-lined terrain, and a well-thought out design by Geoffrey Cornish of Cornish Golf Designs.
booming of late as we believe we are in the top 10 percent of courses in condition and the bottom 10 percent in pricing. Every day is special here. It costs $40 to play 18 hole with a cart seven days a week.”
Mill Valley has a number of great holes, including the fifth and 10th, par-threes that can play as far back as 240 yards or more. The 13th hole is a par-four that features a 100-foot drop from the tee to the fairway. Number 15, nicknamed “The Snake”, is a double dogleg par-five that is a true three shot hole.
The course begins in rather unique fashion, with back to back par-fives. There are several par-fours that play at or slightly over 300 yards, allowing big hitters to get on or close to the greens with a big tee shot .The 17th hole is perhaps the toughest on the course. The par-four plays 422 yards from the back makers. The par-fives are a nice mix of three-shot holes, such as the aforementioned 15th, to the 468-yard 15th where birdie awaits with a strong drive, smart layup and wedge into the green.
“We have a 5,000-square-foot bar and banquet area that we are currently seeking a new tenant for,” said Kurty. “We have a full liquor license and currently serve alcohol, beer, seltzers, wine with sandwiches and snack items out of the pro shop.” www.MillValleyGolfLinks.com
Crystal Lake Golf Club
Crystal Lake provides a fun, yet challenging round of golf that will be played under four and half hours on weekends. Every club in your bag will be used and a memorable golf experience is guaranteed.
Blackhead Mountain Country Club
The club is also known as one of the best priced courses for the value in New
England, with a caring staff, and a proactive membership program, including a “fun” tournament event calendar.
Acquired by Sterling Golf Management in 2018, Crystal Lake Golf Club continues to provide guests and members with a
unique and affordable golf experience.
Situated near Crystal Lake, the course features a multitude of challenging yet approachable holes for all types of players. Take the fifth for instance. The parfive plays around 500 yards from the tips and bends ever so softly to the right, which makes going for the green in two shots risky.
The 18th is a very reachable-in-two 448yard par five where birdie, or perhaps even an eagle, can really bring your round to a delightful conclusion.
www.CrystalLake-Golf.com
WAIT…WHAT’S MY RIGHT SHOULDER DOING? ... A Secret for more Power!
By Sue Kaffenburg
Have you been watching too many YouTube golf swing videos?? Buyer beware! (oh wait, they’re free) But, if you’ve been searching there, you’ve undoubtedly heard this good advice… “Make your left shoulder go down, not around, to start your backswing!” Honestly, I’ve described that important move, too, in one of my prior articles! It’s classic, it’s correct… and let’s be real, it IS a good initial movement thought for the start of your swing. That left shoulder going down is what produces rotation and sets up a lovely sequence of moving parts for your golf swing. But here’s the thing… sometimes a swing thought just loses its spark and is ineffective. You do the thing, and it kinda works, but it’s gotten dull. Maybe it has become robotic. And now… your power’s more meh than wow. So, consider a little backswing plot twist: LET’S TALK TO YOUR RIGHT SHOULDER!
Yup. That underappreciated co-pilot who’s been silently tagging along for years. We’ve all just assumed that if the left shoulder does its job, the right one will obediently follow like a golden retriever on a leash. But guess what? Your right shoulder has ambitions. It wants to do something. It wants a role. It wants…direction. So, here’s a fresh way to “feel” and “see” the start of your golf swing: Start your backswing by Moving your RIGHT shoulder UP and BACK behind you. Have a look at the pictures and imagine YOUR right shoulder moving to this identified position. Get in
your golf posture and put your hands in the small of your back, intentionally thinking of just your right shoulder and where it needs to go. Yes, UP and BACK. Not crunched into your neck like you’re ducking after someone yells “Fore.” Not stiff like you’re a robot. Just a confident, upward and backward glide that will set your shoulders on a tilted angle…with your right shoulder high and your left shoulder low. When your right shoulder moves that way, it will create more shoulder rotation. Like, measurable, glorious, launch-monitor-verified rotation. And rotation? That’s the engine for distance. Not some mystically promised power source of three protein shakes. Just a better turn!
So, the next time you’re setting up to hit a full shot and your brain cues up the old “left shoulder down” mantra, try this instead: “Right shoulder UP and BACK, baby.” It’s fresh. It’s dynamic. It’s friendly to your spine. And most importantly…it just might be the best inner conversation you’ve ever had to create your new, powerful backswing.
