PLAY MORE GOLF FOR LESS
Our subscribers have called the Golfing Magazine Subscription program
THIS IS A VERY SIMPLE PROGRAM
Step 1) Subscribe to Golfing Magazine
Purchase a subscription to Golfing Magazine for $49.95 and you become part of the Golfing Magazine Ambassador Program entitling you to complimentary rounds of golf at over 65 courses by just paying a cart fee. You also receive deep discounts at 75 other courses and resorts in the area. Plus receive discount coupons at local retailers including Golfers’ Warehouse. Plus receive Golfing Magazine 4 times annually.
Step 2) We’ll mail you the Golf Magazine Ambassador program certificate. This is your ticket to complimentary or discounted rounds of golf at all the participating courses.
Step 3) Play lots of golf
With over 120 courses to choose from, feel free to play a lot of golf. Call the course as you would normally to book a tee time within 72 hours of your requested tee time. Let them know you have a Golfing Magazine certificate. At check-in, present your certificate and then head out to play golf!
TESTIMONIALS
In case you think this program is too good to be true!
I only played 4 of the courses and still think this is the best deal in golf. I’m buying one for my 3 buddies I play with each Tuesday. I know I’ll be using it a lot more next year!
Dick R. Danbury, CT
Great magazine! The free golf deal is outrageous! I hope you do it again next year.
Brian K. Norton, MA
I played more courses this summer than ever. My Golfing Magazine subscription was the best investment I made. I’m definitely renewing.
George L. Middletown, CT
When my daughter gave me a subscription to your magazine and I received the certificate I thought it meant I got a free round at any one of the listed courses. Then I found out I got a free round at EACH of the courses. I don’t know how you do it but I hope you keep it up. Thanks!
Steve C. Worcester, MA
I gave up my country club membership and ended up playing more golf last summer than ever. Playing a different course every week has me hooked all over again.
Roger W. Waterbury, CT
My subscription saved me over $600 in greens fees this year.
Brett P. Quincy, MA
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CONNECTI CUT COURSES
Blackledge Country Club
Crestbook Park Golf Course
Elmridge Country Club
Farmington Woods Country Club
Gillette Ridge Golf Course
Hawk’s Landing Country Club
Hunter Golf Course
Keney Park Golf Course
Laurel View Golf Course
Manchester Country Club
Norwich Golf Club
Portland Golf Course
Quarry Ridge Golf Club
Simsbury Farms Golf Course
Stanley Golf Course
Tallwood Country Club
The Golf Club at River Oaks
The Golf Club at Windham
Tumble Brook Country Club
Twin Hills Country Club
Western Hills Golf Course
Whitney Farms Golf Course
Windham Golf Course .... plus more
Brattleboro Country Club
Green Mountain National
Mount Snow Golf Course
Stratton Resort Golf Course
Mount Washington Resort GC
Newport Golf Club The Shattuck
MASSA CHUSETTS COURSES
Blackstone National Golf Club
Captains Golf Course
Cold Spring Country Club
Chicopee Country Club
Crestview Country Club
Crumpin Fox Club
Crystal Lake Golf Course
Dennis Pines & Dennis Highlands
Falmouth Country Club
Heather Hill Country Club
Kings Way Golf Club
Ledges Golf Club
Newton Commonwealth GC
Norwood Country Club
Tekoa Country Club
Wentworth Hills Country Club
Waubeeka Golf Links
Wycko Country Club .... plus more
RHODE ISLAND COURSES
Bethel Inn Resort
Dunegrass Golf Club
Poland Spring Resort Spring Meadow Golf Club
Sunday River Golf Club
Sugarloaf Golf Club .... plus more
Golf Like No Other
Blackstone National Golf Club was designed by renowned golf course architect Rees Jones. Rees put a great deal of his heart and soul into coming up with a player’s course that took full advantage of the best landscape and scenery that central New England has to offer.
508.865.2111 www.bngc.net
A Barn Wedding Venue
Celebrate your special day with us, where our stunning features including a semi-private golf course and pavilion, will make your day truly unforgettable.
508.865.7300
www.thebarnatblackstonenational.com
New England Spring 2026
Creative
Travel Editor Claudio DeMarchi Claudio@LakeviewProductions.com
Contributing Writers
Myles Murray Claudio DeMarchi
Mark William Paul
George Connor, PGA
Sue Kaffenburg, PGA
Dave Souza Steve Hancock
Contributing Photographer
Mark William Paul
1077 Silas Deane Hwy #117 Wethersfield, CT 06109
860-563-1633
www.GolfingMagazine.net
Even though some of us in New England were fortunate enough to get out on the courses down south, spring in New England is still a splendid time to reboot the game and prepare for months of fun and competition. And is there anything that smells as sweet as freshly mown grass on a sunny spring morning?
Golfing Magazine is making it easier
It’s Time For Golf
for readers to “Play Golf for Less” this year with our celebrated “Free Golf” program that entitles an individual signing up for an annual subscription to the magazine the opportunity to play free or reduced rate golf at over 100 of the top daily fee courses and private tracks in the region.
We have worked to enhance our course list for 2026, and your subscription promises to be worth more than ever. To take advantage of this tremendous offer, call 860-563-1633 or visit www.FreeGolf.net Remember, you get five issues of our digital magazine in addition to discounted rounds of golf when you subscribe.
In this issue, we explore the redesigned Mohegan Sun Golf Club. The multi-year project modernizes the 18-hole championship course with improvements designed to enhance playability. Also recently renovated was Farm Neck Golf Club on Martha’s Vineyard. Now, expect 2.5 acres of newly transplanted native grasses to establish deeper root systems, create more diverse color palettes, and sustainably create scrubby rough areas.
We tell you about the private golf courses you can access through the Golf Stimulus Program, a nice added bonus for signing up this year. And we check out the ninehole courses included in our program. We also have a line-up of some of our favorite instructors in the area to get you ready for golf this season.
We also highlight some of the golf resorts in the New England States and tell you about the best nine-hole layouts in New England.
Sue Kaffenburg, New England PGA Teacher of the Year, and George Connor, 3-Time CT PGA Teacher of the Year, give you some tips to improve your game this season.
Also in this issue, we introduce you to the launch of the Tennessee Golf Trail.
You will also find some of our “Must Play” New England courses that you can access at a discount with the Golfing Magazine subscription program.
For those who enjoy Pickle Ball as well as golf, we bring you the latest news and equipment in our Paddles & Putters feature.
We thank you so very much for staying with us, and promise to stay with you so that as we put our clubs in the trunk, we can hit the fairway running.
Hit ‘em long and straight.
Tom Landers, Publisher
Poland Spring Resort A Historic Stay & Play Destination
By, MYLES MURRAY
Some golf courses feel historic before you even tee off. Poland Spring Resort in Maine is one of them. The Donald Ross course has been part of the landscape for over a century. Babe Ruth blasted drives here. Charles Lindbergh once tried to land a plane on the fairways. That’s not some New England folklore - that’s just what happened.
My wife and I spent four nights at the resort, and it didn’t take long to understand why golfers keep coming back. The historic buildings, wide porches, and classic Ross layout right outside the door all point to the same thing: this place hasn’t tried to be anything it’s not.
Owner Cyndi Robbins and her husband originally took over the course in 1982, and have worked tirelessly to not only provide
wonderful experiences for the guests, but also honor the history of the resort.
The Donald Ross course is the main draw. It looks friendly from the tee and shows its teeth near the green, which is exactly how Ross designed most of his layouts. Fairways roll with the terrain. Bunkers are exactly where your miss tends to go. The greens have subtle breaks that will make you second-guess every read. It rewards strategy over power. Walking it feels right.
Before we headed out, the starter and resort historian Walter gave us a quick rundown. He pointed out a rock pile sitting between
the 16th and 18th fairways - a classic Ross detail. Ross would keep fieldstones from construction on-site in case they were needed later. Walter started caddying here in 1958, so he probably knows what he’s talking about.
Playing in mid-August meant firm, dry fairways and plenty of roll off the tee. You had to account for that extra distance on every approach. The layout has a links feel - wide fairways, fescue, and bunkers that do real damage. Like most Ross courses, the greens are where things get serious. Some are small and tight. Others have false fronts that feed balls back into trouble. Miss long and you’re in rough or worse.
The signature hole is number 4. It sits high on a hill looking down a narrow, tree-lined fairway with a pond behind the green. The tee box feels a little tight, but the view is worth the pause. It plays just over 400 yards, and the downhill slope makes it feel shorter than it is. The real test is a large bowl-shaped green that collects aggressive tee shots and punishes them accordingly.
story
Lindbergh landed - or tried to - near the fairways after crossing the Atlantic. Even
Sonny Liston trained here before his fight with Cassius Clay, though whether he ever played a round is still up for debate.
outdated way, but in a “these walls have stories” kind of way. You wander through the halls and find old photographs, artifacts, and feel like you are in Maine’s version of the “Dirty Dancing” movie.
Of course, no resort experience is complete without good food, and Poland Spring delivers there too. Mel’s Hilltop Restaurant serves hearty, satisfying meals that hit the spot after a day on the course. Big portions, classic dishes done right, and a staff that treats you like you’ve been coming there for years. It’s the perfect cap to a day spent golfing, hiking, or playing pickleball.
The history woven into the course is hard to ignore. Every tee box has a sign with
But what really sets Poland Spring apart is the history woven into every corner of the property. The resort dates back to the 1800s, and you can feel it - not in a dusty,
But honestly, in a fast paced world driven by social media and screens, Poland Springs offers a welcome throwback to a simpler, quieter time. With the exception of the two courses you can play as part of the “Maine Trifecta” (Fox Ridge in Auburn and Spring Meadow in Grey), you would have no reason to leave the resort during your stay. Everything you need is right here. Slow down, play golf, repeat.
a
from Poland Spring’s past. Hole 10, a short par 4, was reportedly driven by Babe Ruth.
Mohegan Sun Golf Club Transformed by a Major Redesign
Mohegan Sun Golf Club (MSGC), a short drive from Mohegan Sun Casino, is unveiling the results of a multi-million-dollar renovation to enhance the overall player experience and pace of play. This investment positions one of the Northeast’s premier golf destinations with an elevated experience for all golfers, including Mohegan Sun’s Momentum members. To explore the newly renovated course and book tee times, visit www.mohegansun.com/golf
The extensive renovation project focused on improving every aspect of playability and aesthetics at Mohegan Sun Golf Club. Featuring design guidance and expertise from renowned architect Ron Garl, the redesign introduced strategic bunker reductions, upgraded cart paths, selective tree removal, and other adjustments to optimize sightlines and overall play. The initiative prioritized an enhanced golfing experience for all players— and delivering a noticeably smoother pace of play—an achievement brought to life by the MSGC team under the leadership of Philip Krick Jr., VP & GM of Golf Operations.
Additionally, the project involved introducing two entirely new designs into holes #3, #6, and #11. A multitude of upgrades also included all-new irrigation and drainage
systems, ensuring elevated playing conditions.
Key highlights of the renovation include:
* Strategic bunker reduction and repositioning to streamline play
• Selective tree removal to improve sight lines and sunlight
• New design elements introduced on holes #3, #6 and #11
• All-new irrigation and drainage
• Upgraded cart paths
“Mohegan Sun Golf Club has undergone a significant course upgrade after our multiyear, multi-million-dollar renovation,” said Philip Krick Jr., VP & GM of MSGC. “We’ve made key improvements not just to the overall course, but also to our online booking systems, making it easier than ever for guests to secure tee times and enjoy a seamless experience from the moment they book to the moment they step onto one of the most beautiful courses in the region.”
Enhanced Experience and Amenities
Mohegan Sun Golf Club offers a full suite of amenities, including the Greenside Grille & Pub for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the famous Triple Tee Snack Bar, and beverage cart service. MSGC is also home to the Mohegan Sun Golf Academy, which features newly enhanced indoor and outdoor coaching facilities and impactful programs for golfers to learn from PGA Professionals through state-of-the-art video, shottracking technology, the adaptation of the Drive, Chip, & Putt skills challenge, and more. Operating on a coactive coaching model that emphasizes personalized feedback, the Academy provides
The multi-year project modernizes the 18-hole championship course with improvements designed to enhance playability, pace of play, and course flow while preserving the natural beauty that has long made it one of the region’s standout courses.
sions, and a full suite of programs, including group lessons and custom club fittings with leading brands. Golf Academy details and enrollment are available by appointment; call 860.862.9235 or email jmentz@mohegansun.com.
For general play, groups of 13 or more should be made directly through the MSGC Golf Shop by calling 860-862923. Momentum members benefit from additional Mohegan Sun Golf Academy perks, enhanced online tee time reservation opportunities, and more.
Mohegan Sun Golf Club will also host multiple premier Connecticut State Golf Association (CSGA) events this season, including the 20th Senior Match Play Championship from June 29th to July 2nd, and the Connecticut Open & Connecticut MidAmateur Qualifier on June 16th. These championships bring top amateurs and professionals to MSGC for strokeplay qualifying and matchplay competition across several divisions, showcasing the course’s newly enhanced playing conditions. For more details, visit www.csgalinks.org
Mohegan Sun Golf Club, located at 7 Dows Lane, Baltic, CT 06330, continues its legacy as a top-tier golf destination, now with a significantly elevated course ready to welcome players for the new season.
www.MoheganSun.com/golf
By, TOM LANDERS
Farm Neck Golf Club Re-Imagined More Color, More Gnarly
The folks who look after the newly renovated Farm Neck Golf Club believe a second growing season will all but snuff out the track’s parkland past. In place of wall-to-wall turf, they expect 2.5 acres of newly transplanted native grasses to establish deeper root systems, create more diverse color palettes, and sustainably create scrubby rough areas.
“In short, come September 2026, they anticipate the course will more comfortably inhabit and reflect the “sandplain grassland habitat” that once dominated this island landscape.
“That was the goal: to improve the course by ensuring it rested more naturally on this property,” says Farm Neck general manager Tim Sweet. “This has been a semiprivate club for 50 years, and it’s always been a gorgeous setting. But few visitors understood that golf was played here, on this property, starting in the late 1890s.
“It’s that legacy-informed Mark Mungeam’s course renovation, in a very direct way: The turf that golfers played back in the 1920s — those are the native grasses Mark, our superintendent Ryan Carey, and his crews, alongside contractor MAS Golf Construction, identified and
transplanted in the lines of play. Today, the natural areas they created don’t just harken back. They tie the whole course together.”
Farm Neck GC occupies an enormous, ecologically diverse footprint on the north shore of Martha’s Vineyard, some 425 acres in all. In the late 19th century, when Oak Bluffs was a burgeoning collection of summer cottages, Cottage City Country Club first took shape at the north end of the property. The venture changed names and ownership several times through the 20th century before finally petering out in the late 1960s.
The original nine holes at Farm Neck GC debuted in 1976. They occupy the south-lying portion of this property, meaning these new holes — laid out by Mungeam’s former partner and mentor, Geoffrey Cornish — didn’t follow the old routing at all. Three years later, the back side, designed by Patrick Milligan, debuted on and around the original Cottage City golfing ground, though just one modern hole (the seaside 14th) follows that routing.
Conceived by different architects, the modern nines never quite synced up stylistically. It was Mungeam’s job to unify them. By the fall of 2023, the architect had been
consulting for Farm Neck for 15 years. The wide variety of blue stem, sedge, and fescue growing hale and hardy in nearly every direction was hard to miss.
“By mining the edges of existing golf holes — by exploring long abandoned golf holes and land occupied by an old grass airport runway — we found varieties that had been thriving here for more than a century,” says Mungeam, sitting president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects. “That’s the aesthetic element we used to tie the nines together. This sandy, scrubby look is very much in vogue today, but out here? It’s naturally occurring. It’s literally sustainable.
“You know it’s going to thrive, and that’s huge. If you take fescues off a sod truck, from farms off the island, they’re likely to fade. That sort of fescue monostand won’t blend well, either, especially with little blue stem. They won’t look the way we want. We saw great progress last season. I’m confident that Ryan and his crews are going to see even more extraordinary color from these native grasses come September.”
As it happens, according to Sweet, the shoulder seasons beginning in September and April are the best times to visit Farm
Neck, a semi-private club with a diverse and vibrant membership. In the U.K. style, the public is welcome all year round, though members tend to make public tee times scarce in July and August.
Sustainability is a new buzzword in golfing circles, but Farm Neck has been living this ethic since the 1970s. From Day One, it has operated under one of the country’s strictest conservation covenants. According to Sweet, the first redevelopment proposal for this property was entirely real estatebased. The town of Oak Bluffs rejected that and opted for golf, with a smattering of homes, all of it permitted under strict environmental oversight.
The course renovation project, first undertaken in fall 2023, included an erosion-control component on holes 8 and 14, where the routing meets Sengekontacket Pond. Some 20 feet of shoreline had already been lost in the decade before 2023, along with a cart path and the back bunker at 14 green. Mungeam and the club secured town permitting for revetments made of beach stone, dune grass, and rolled cylinders of naturally fibrous matting. As part of the renovation, several of these coir logs were installed end to end along 8 and 14, then held in place with cables.
“The town is very involved in anything
related to our saltwater buffer zones — the areas around the pond,” says superintendent Carey, who’s worked the land at Farm Neck since 2019. “So we deal with the town on environmental matters routinely. Tree removal, for example, was another renovation item that required negotiation and consent.”
Mungeam’s master plan often called for removing trees to make way for these newly established natural areas.
“It all fits together,” Carey continues. “We call these native grasses ‘fescues,’ but they’re mainly wild sedges, and they’ve thrived here for 45-50 years or longer. They could be 100 years old over on the back nine, because that’s where the old golf holes were. Even so, in transplanting them, we cut the roots and sometimes moved them a quarter mile or more. It takes time to reconstitute those root structures, and that’s a focus for us this year: Get that stuff to blossom and come into its own. Golfers want to play from that thin, sandy rough. They also want that links aesthetic. The fact that it’s native here? That’s our distinct advantage.”
Indeed, sand & scrub are ever more prized by savvy traveling golfers these days. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has a name for this specific vegetative environ-
ment: “sandplain grassland habitat,” so identified because it’s ever more rare in the state’s southeast, home to Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket.
“Of late, the state of Massachusetts has been very encouraging when it comes to restoring sandplain grassland habitat, and that is exactly what we’ve done at Farm Neck,” Mungeam explains. “But once restored and protected, you have to rough it up to maintain that habitat, which is home to certain birds and animals that don’t fare as well in forest or regular grassland settings.
“I’ve worked at other courses in this region where they cordon off these areas, but then they become overgrown, and that habitat is lost. You need golfers trudging through these sandy scrapes and playing from them — to keep them thin, wispy, sandy, and playable. Back in the day, they would’ve burned those areas off to keep the habitats intact. That’s not so easy today, from a permitting perspective, so we rely on people like Ryan and his crews to maintain them. They’re doing a great job: The scrapes looked amazing last September. They’re going to look even better this fall.”
www.FarmNeck.net
Stratton Mountain Resort
There’s always something happening at Stratton Mountain, Vt. during the summer, with live music slopeside and in the Village, mountain top yoga, and a season of special events from Fourth of July fireworks and family fun to brewfests and chili cookoff.
If those activities don’t tickle your fancy, how about scenic gondola rides, downhill mountain biking, pickleball and tennis. And, there’s great shopping and dining in Stratton Village.
Of course, the golf is superb at this all-inclusive resort, which boasts a scenic and challenging championship 27-hole course that played host to six LPGA tournaments.
There are three distinct ninehole routings at Stratton, the Forest, Lake, and Mountain. All three have their own charm and danger, and are designed to be playable for any level golfer.
The third hole on the Forest course is a wonderful, short par-four. It measures only 317 yards from the tips, but position off the tee is critical to avoid the right fairway bunkers, or being blocked by trees on the left. A blind, uphill second shot follows to a green with grass bunkers left and a bunker right.
The following hole is a short, 139-yard parthree but don’t hit your tee shot with anything less than determination, as a stream closely guards the right portion of a two-tiered green. Three bunkers surrounding the green make accuracy important.
The Lake Nine’s fourth, a 291-yard par-four,
does not require driver because of its short overall length. Make sure you avoid the trees on the right. A deep bunker protects the front of the elevated green, so take care with your short-iron approach.
On the Lake’s eighth, a very demanding 435-yard par-four, aim your tee shot at the right side of the fairway to set up the approach. A medium- or long-iron approach to a slightly elevated green must carry a bunker in front. Avoid going long on your approach because trees lurk very close to the green.
The Mountain Nine’s ninth hole is a good one. It’s a monstrous, 621-yard par-five where the drive must thread the needle between trees on both sides. A stream is on the right and small brooks cross the fairway in two locations. A well-bunkered green slopes front to back and concludes a challenging journey.
Stratton Mountain offers a number of golf programs and lessons and has great stay and play packages.
www.Stratton.com
Bethel Inn Resort
The Bethel Inn Resort golf course in Bethel, Me. is a venerable layout, built over 100 years ago.
The course takes full advantage of mountain vistas and the natural beauty of the area. Large, well-trapped greens, tree-lined fairways and five tee positions make play challenging for golfers of every ability. There is a pleasant mix of short and long par-fours, tough parthrees and demanding par-fives that will test the ability of golfers of all abilities.
The course was just nine holes for a number years before an additional nine holes was added in 1988 to bring it to championship caliber. The course was redesigned and expanded by the renowned New England architect Geoffrey Cornish. The existing layout has been recognized not only for its natural beauty but also as a very good test of playing ability.
The 6,663-yard, par-72 layout was listed by America’s Greatest Golf Resorts among the top 10 resort courses in the Northeast, and Golf Digest magazine awarded it 3 1/2 stars.
The Bethel Inn Resort offers complete and affordable stay, play and dine golf getaways and PGA golf school vacation packages.
There are 158 guest rooms at the Inn in both traditional accommodations and luxury townhomes. There’s a formal dining room or the more casual Millbrook Tavern and Grille to enjoy. The resort offers a health club with spa
Geoffrey Cornish designed the18-hole, 6,943-yard (there are three other sets of tees) championship Mount Snow Golf Club has also been named one of the top 10 resort courses in the country by SKI Magazine. It has also been rated one of the top five courses in Vermont by Golf Digest.
services, a lake house, tennis and other lawn games, and several state parks are located nearby for the adventurous. The property offers a truly all-around, funpacked experience for individuals, couples and families.
www.BethelInn.com
Vermont’s Mount Snow
The course meanders through stunning picturesque countryside and provides stunning views of the Green Mountains, including the peaks of Mount Snow and Haystack Mountain. Tamaracks, oaks, birches, and sugar maples line the fairways while the mountains provide a majestic backdrop. The front nine is spread over rather wide expanses and the back nine winds its way through wooded terrain. Water comes into play on no fewer than 11 holes, and 41 sand traps are strategically located around nearly every hole.
The resort also has a fully-stocked pro shop
with the latest in equipment, accessories, and apparel. Mount Snow’s Original Golf School, founded in 1978, was one of the country’s first golf schools and continues to be a trusted program for those looking to improve their games. There is a multi-day curriculum that includes instruction and evaluation on every aspect of play, with daily on-course instruction.
During your visit, stop by Fairways Restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh food, cold beer, or your favorite cocktail on a large deck overlooking the course. Or relax inside watching the game on flat screen televisions. Fairways is open daily for lunch with frequent menu specials and to-go service, as well as Sunday brunch. The area around Mount Snow has historic towns, antique shops, artisans, craft producers, farms open to visitation, performing arts venues, and outlet shopping centers. Extend a vacation with a few days of hiking, mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, and horseback riding, learn fly fishing, or go canoeing, sailing, and kayaking on any of the numerous pristine rivers and lakes.
www.MountSnow.com, or 802-464-4254.
Omni Mount Washington Resort
The 18-hole Omni Mount Washington Golf Course was designed by legendary Scottish architect Donald Ross and was completed in 1915. Its backdrop features New Hampshire’s spectacular Presidential Mountain Range.
The par-72, 7,004-yard-course has hosted four New Hampshire Opens, plus the prestigious New England Open Championship, the New England Senior Amateur Championship and several New Hampshire MidAm, Senior and High School Golf Championships.
Reopened in August of 2008, the Omni Mount Washington Golf Course has been restored to Donald Ross’ original plans by noted golf course architect Brian Silva, including bunkers crafted in a classic flair and infinite varieties of recovery shots in the closely cropped areas around the putting greens. The par-five 11th hole and the par-three fifth hole feature stunning views of Omni Mount Washington Hotel and surrounding mountains.
The Omni Mount Washington Golf Course was voted Golfweek’s Best Course You Can Play in New Hampshire since 2009.
The nine-hole Mount Pleasant Course first opened in 1895, and has been host to generations of golfing enthusiasts from New Hampshire and beyond. Greats like U.S. Pro Golfer Gilbert Nicholls, Golf Course Designer Alex Findlay,
British Golf Champions Harry Vardon and J.W. Taylor, and U.S. Open Golf Champion Willie Anderson have all played the historic par-35 course.
In 1989, the course was restored and upgraded by Cornish & Silva Golf Course Architects, with advice from world-renowned golfers Gene Sarazen and Ken Venturi, and now offers players a more challenging round alongside New Hampshire’s scenic Ammonoosuc River.
You will want to stay and play when you visit,
as the Omni Mount Washington Resort is a grand masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture, conceived by industrialist Joseph Stickney, and named a National Historic Landmark. The Hotel originally opened in 1902 and has served as a retreat for the famous and every day folk ever since. The all-new Presidential Wing opened in December, 2020, and features views of the surrounding mountains and golf courses from private balconies and patios. Other recent resort enhancements including the newly renovated Main and Sun Dining Rooms, the new roof-top Observatory Bar and the stunning Rosebrook Lodge on top of Bretton Woods’ famed ski trails. A full-service spa, year-round canopy tour and seemingly endless outdoor recreation are sure to enhance your golf getaway.
The resort’s Unlimited Golf Package allows for unlimited daily golf on both courses from day of arrival through day of departure including cart. In addition, as the proud Official Hotel Partner of the PGA TOUR®, Omni Hotels & Resorts is excited to offer an exclusive golf package at 12 select resort destinations across the country including a round of golf per day, unlimited use of driving range, a $100 resort credit and PGA TOUR welcoming amenity.
www.OmniHotels.com/MountWashington
Sunday River Resort
Sunday River Golf Club in Newry, Maine is a spectacular Boyne Golf property in a classic New England setting.
A Robert Trent Jones, Jr. design, the course is perched on a sloping hillside, overlooking the Sunday River Valley with the Mahoosuc Mountain Range towering above, offering panoramic views that stretch all the way to “Old Spec”, Maine’s third highest peak. Tree lined fairways offer dramatic elevation changes with the natural topography striking the perfect balance between challenge and playability.
The par-threes, several of them playing from dramatically elevated tees, as well as the par-fives, are strengths of Sunday River. The 499-yard par-five first hole sets a stunning tone for the remainder of the round. The fairway runs downhill to the green and the putting surface can be reached in two shots, providing you play your ball down the right side and avoid two bunkers on either side of the green.
The 425-yard-par four fifth plays shorter than its length because it’s all downhill, and the ninth, a 339-yarder, is a great example of a superb, short par-four. The tee shot and approach must carry waste areas.
The 17th, par-four, top handicap hole is just a beast from whichever tee box you are playing. Finding the fairway off the tee of this demanding hole is critical for success. Bunkers guard the right and left side of the landing area. Carrying the fairway bunker along right side will allow the best angle of approach from the right center of the fairway to a dramatically elevated green.
For the most part here, the fairways are generous, greens are spacious, there are only a few blind shots and, of course, uneven lies. The key to scoring is your shot into the green. Pick the right tees for you and you will be fine.
Sunday River has received numerous accolades from golf publications, including Golf Digest’s Number One Course in Maine, and list among its Top 10 Upscale Public Courses.
The resort has over 700 condominiums, ranging from studio condos to three-bedroom townhomes, all with access to indoor and outdoor pools and saunas. Sunday River offers attractive stay and play package at the property’s Jordan Hotel, which is just two miles from the golf course.
For more information on Sunday River check out the website www.SundayRiver.com
Wyndhurst Manor & Club
The Wyndhurst Manor & Club, located in Lenox, Ma., features an historic 18-hole course (actually 19 holes).
It’s a picturesque, traditional New England resort course routed over the hills surrounding the resort and through mature woodlands of the area. The course features tree-lined fairways and naturally contoured greens that have been carefully preserved in the more than 80 years since the course was built.
The eighth hole is one of the best on the course. You tee off next to the resort hotel and can cut the distance to the hole on the 347-yard par-four dramatically if you take the drive over trees that hug the left side. It’s all downhill to a small green that is easy to miss if you don’t concentrate on the pitch shot.
You need to score well on the front side because the inward nine is much more difficult, with several brutal par-fours and some very good par-threes waiting. 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.
which allows you to take in the scenery and tally up your score.
The finishing hole is a wide open 393-yard par-four that allows you to hit driver and follow up with a mid- or short-iron into the slightly elevated green. Then it’s a bit of a drive, or walk, back to the clubhouse,
And remember that 19th hole? The par-four is situated near the eighth green and plays toward the clubhouse, allowing golfers who need to get back for dinner or a spa treatment to enjoy a shorter round.
www.WyndhurstManorAndClub.com
Private Courses
You Can Play with Golfing Magazine
Golfing Magazine’s Golf Course Stimulus program has some superb private courses you can play if you join. We have around 130 courses this year in our program, all with no greens fees. To take advantage of this tremendous offer, call 860-563-1633, or visit www. FreeGolf.net.
Let’s take a look at the private courses that are part of our list for 2023.
A premier addition to our lineup is The Golf Club at River Oaks (www. clubriveroaks.com) , located on the Sherman/New Milford town line in western Connecticut.
River Oaks has a number of holes on its back nine that hug the Housatonic River, which is visible through the trees in late autumn or early spring. The look from the tee box on the par-four dogleg left ninth hole reminds one of playing golf in northern New England rather than Connecticut. Many consider this to be one of the top two or three courses in the state. PGA star Phil Mickelson was said to have called it a superb layout when he visited.
Robert McNeil designed the course that opened in 2003, and he built into it challenge and fairness. The fairways are rather generous on the par-fives and longer parfours and tighter and strewn with fairway bunkers on several of the shorter par-fours.
The greens are fairly large and kept on the fast side. The rough is manageable and the greenside bunkers challenging yet not unfair.
While the course is no push-over, it is eminently playable for any golfer, as long as you tee it up from the proper markers. The tips play 6,730 yards with a slope of 138 and a course rating of 73.8. The layout plays to a par of 71 and has five par-threes, which cut into the overall length, so don’t be fooled into thinking even the white markers, around 6,100 yards, are easy. They are not, even for the better players.
The finishing holes at River Oaks are all very good, which adds to the satisfaction of playing the course.
The ninth hole features that stunning view of the hills in the distance and is as
visually pleasing and challenging a hole as you can want. The drive is to an area well below the tee box and the second shot is across a natural area. Push you drive to far right and you are left with a 180-yard or more approach into a narrow green.
A well-designed golf course should always reach a stirring climax and River Oaks fills the bill. After a nice par-three in the woods at 15, there’s a downhill par-five (503 yards from the tips) that can be reached in two by the big hitters. And then comes the course’s signature hole, the 210-yard parthree 17th that plays across a pond to a narrow green. It’s another great look from an elevated tee.
Farmington Woods Golf Club (www. farmingtonwoods.com) is a real treat, it is a well-maintained, interesting and challenging track that was designed by renowned American golf course designer, Desmond Muirhead, who also crafted the famed Jack Nicklaus Muirfield Village course in Ohio. It is unique to the area in that each hole is challenging, stunning, and memorable. The course is located in a gated condominium community, with ample woods and wetlands surrounding.
One of the best one-two punched on the routing is the par-five 12th that is a dogleg right and tumbles down a steep hill to the
Farmington Woods Country Club
Tumble Brook Country Club
putting surface. The 13th is a sweet little par-three that plays across a pond with trees framing the green.
The club is family-oriented due to its emphasis on introductory programs, and other facilities available for its members, including a full-service restaurant, and a pub and banquet facilities, as well as seven tennis courts and four pools located around the community. A wide range of events and activities are available to residents and members.
Tumble Brook Country Club (www.tumblebrookcc.com) in Bloomfield, Ct. was named for a brook that flows through the property. It was incorporated and organized in October of 1922 and features 27 holes.
Willie Park, one of the foremost golf course architects of the time, was commissioned to design the first nine. The Park nine is by far the most popular of the three nines at Tumble Brook. Due to its walkable layout and rewarding par-fives, the nine holes are the busiest at Tumble Brook. The original nine opened in 1924 and consisted of current holes 1 through 3, 8, 9, 19, 20, 26 and 27
A second nine, designed by Orrin E. Smith, was opened to play in the spring of
1949. The holes were based off Park’s original layout for the course, although Smith followed very little of Park’s design. Smith was a construction supervisor for Park and Donald Ross. The Smith holes form one of the more challenging nines due to its length (between 100 and 200 yards longer, based on which tee you play, from the two other nines).
The third nine, designed by George Fazio, opened for limited play in the fall of 1970, and was eventually integrated with the rest of the golf course in 1971. Fazio created holes that in the present day are 4 though 7 and 21 through 25 to combine with the original front nine, now holes 1 through 3, 8, 9, 19, 20, 26, and 27. This addition to the course was not blended into Park’s original design, as Fazio characterized his course with flashes of sand in the bunkers and green sites well protected and often requiring the ball to carry onto the green. The Fazio nine is the shortest of the three but it provides plenty of challenge with the most complex greens of the 27 holes.
In 2002 the club began a renovation program for the golf course. Mark McCumber and Associates was the architects for the renovations, and in 2005 the course work was completed.
The seventh hole on the “Green Course,”
a combination of two of the three nines, is a 440-yard beast where par is an accomplishment for any level of player.
Woodstock Golf Club (www.woodstockgolf.com), located in Woodstock, New York, is a historic and scenic private golf facility that has been an integral part of the Hudson Valley’s sporting tradition since its opening in 1929. Situated approximately 100 miles north of New York City, the club features a well-maintained nine-hole course with a par of 35. The course offers golfers a rewarding experience as it winds through classic landscapes and along Sawkill Creek, providing stunning views of the surrounding Catskill foothills. Its greens and fairways are known for their excellent upkeep, and the club regularly hosts events and play for both members and guests. In addition to golf, the clubhouse enhances the overall experience by providing a welcoming space to socialize after a round, with food and drink options that reflect the local vibe. With its nearly century-long history and beautiful natural setting, the club is a cherished part of Woodstock’s community and sporting culture.
To have access to these premier private courses, call 860-563-1633, or visit www.FreeGolf.net
The Club at River Oaks, 9th Hole
Keney Park Golf Course
Hartford’s Timeless Treasure
Located in the Blue Hills neighborhood of Hartford, Connecticut, Keney Park Golf Course has become a shining example of how history and modern craftsmanship can blend to create a truly exceptional golfing experience. With roots dating back nearly a century, the Devereux Emmet design embodies classic golf architecture while offering a fresh, vibrant playing field that continues to capture the admiration of golfers near and far.
The front nine, with its traditional lines and timeless feel, sets the stage for a round steeped in history. It’s a stretch of golf that invites strategy and rewards accuracy, with obvious elevation changes and tree-lined fairways creating a peaceful yet challenging layout. One of my favorite holes is #8, a 370-yard par-4 gem that features churchpew bunkers down the right side. A large green, sloped back to front, offers the golfer a unique opportunity for a birdie or, if the approach is off target, a challenging chip and putt to save par.
The back nine, in contrast, brings a more modern flair. Bolder contours, sweeping vistas, and imaginative design features ensure that no two holes feel alike, keeping players engaged from start to finish. The short par-4 12th hole, which I like to call the cemetery hole, features a beautifully built stone wall along the entire right side. I highly recommend playing the upper blue tee box on this
hole to experience all it has to offer.
What makes Keney Park so memorable is its balance of charm and challenge. The greens themselves are a particular highlight — undulating surfaces, gentle tiers, and clever slopes that keep every putt interesting. Golfers quickly learn that precision and creativity are just as important as power, making every round a true test of skill and imagination.
“Keney Park Golf Course is a landmark in Connecticut golf,” stated Steve Madison, Head Golf Professional at Keney Park. “The course was built in 1927, and is more than
just a piece of history—it is a welcoming place where we look forward to greeting all golfers who respect the traditions of the game. We are incredibly excited for the start of the 2026 season and invite everyone to join us on these beautiful grounds.”
The experience extends beyond the fairways as well. A welcoming pro shop, modern amenities, and a rustic New England-style restaurant and bar area give golfers everything they need to sharpen their game or relax after a round. A beautifully designed outdoor dining area awaits casual players and seasoned competitors alike. Keney Park offers a setting that feels both comfortable and inspiring.
For anyone seeking a golf destination that combines historic charm with contemporary excellence, Keney Park Golf Course delivers in spades. It’s more than just a municipal track — it’s a living piece of Connecticut golf history, wonderfully restored and proudly maintained.
Since its revitalization back in 2016, Keney Park has blossomed into one of the most beloved public golf courses in Connecticut. Fairways are well-maintained, greens roll smoothly and true, and the overall presentation rivals that of private clubs. Yet despite its high quality, the course remains accessible and welcoming to all, earning praise for its value and playability.
www.KeneyParkGolfCourse.com
By, JOHN TORSIELLO
ANine-Hole Courses for Your Golfing Pleasure
ccording to the National Golf Foundation (NGF), the number of nine-hole rounds was up over 15 percent in 2024. The NGF also reported that 33 percent of core golfer rounds in 2024 were of the nine-hole rounds, while occasional golfers reported that 48 percent of the rounds they play are nine holes.
While some golfers may look down their noses at nine-hole courses, saying they are too short or that they attract too many beginners, nothing could be further from the truth. Many private clubs have a nine-hole courses that are often historic in nature, some dating back 100 years or more. Some public courses can say the same thing. These courses tend to be a bit quirky in nature and are fun to play.
One of the best things about playing nine holes is that you get onto and off of the course in rather quick fashion. Unless you have the slowest golfers in the world in front of you (sometimes that does happen) you can play nine holes in an hour and a half or two hours at the most. Thus, a nine-hole round can be easily fit into a normal working day. Skip lunch and take the clubs with you to your local nine-hole course and you will find yourself refreshed; you can have something to eat while you play after all.
Take advantage of Golfing Magazine’s Free Golf offer and test out the following
nine-holers. Call 860-563-1633, or visit www.FreeGolf.net.
CONNECTICUT.
Walking onto the Hotchkiss School Golf Course (www.Hotchkiss.org) in Lakeville is akin to stepping back in time, that is, from a golfer’s viewpoint. The course is located on the grounds of a prestigious private school, and has been virtually untouched since it opened in 1924.The course was originally built Seth Raynor, one of the legendary
names of American golf course architecture. Raynor’s’ work was routed over the existing terrain, which makes for mounding in the fairways and sometimes wildly undulating greens, as well as deep greenside bunkers.
Canaan Country Club (www.CanaanCC.com) in Canaan is a scenic routing in the northwest hills of Connecticut The par-35 course, which borders the Blackberry River and crosses over wetlands, has several holes that feature a picturesque view of Canaan Mountain. The par three eighth, which plays from 170 to 210 yards depending upon tee placement, has made several “Ten Toughest Par 3’s in Connecticut” lists over the years. It plays over a deep gully to an elevated green. The green is deep, so a back pin placement adds 10 to 15 yards to the shot. There’s OB left, but a bailout to the right is possible, which leaves a finesse pitch shot to the green.
Eastwoods Country Club (www.EastwoodsCountryClub.com) in Torrington is a great place for beginners and accomplished players alike. The layout plays to around 3,000 yards from the tips and features one of the toughest par-fives in the state. The 564-yard ninth hole demands a right to left tee shot that must steer clear of trees on both sides. The second shot is uphill and needs to clear
Minnechaug Golf Course
Vineyard Valley Golf Club
a pond to set up a mid-iron approach to a table top green.
Copper Hill Golf Club (www.CopperHillGolf.com) in East Granby is a very good test of golf, with a nice mix of short and long par-fours, two very demanding par-threes, and two par-fives that are reachable in two for long hitters. Copper Hill measures 3,030 yards and has two par-fives, the 473-yard fourth and 459-yard eighth, that are reachable in two for the big hitters, and a cool par-four, the fifth, measuring 265 yards, where you can drive the green.
Pomperaug Golf Course (www.HeritageSouthbury.net) is sited near the Pomperaug River in Southbury. The course isn’t long but there is water on every hole, which can play havoc with your tee and approach shots to the modest-sized greens. Number nine is a good, short par-four. The drive must lay up before the river to set up a wedge across the water to a very wide green. Get too greedy if the pin is tucked up front and your ball might fall back into the river.
The par-three ninth hole at Vineyard Valley Golf Club (www.VineyardValleyGolfClub.com) in Pomfret is one of the coolest short holes in the region and is northeast Connecticut’s answer to the famous island green at TPC Sawgrass in Florida. Playing anywhere from 110 to 160 yards, the green is fronted by a marsh that has been the end of many a good score. If you’re even a foot shy of landing on the green your destiny is a double bogey at best.
Minnechaug Golf Course (www.MinnechaugGolf.com) in Glastonbury offers excellent conditions and a fun test of
golf. It also has one of the few true island greens in New England, the 126-yard eighth, which some consider to be the first of its kind in the nation. Graham Clark did the original routing for the course, and Al Zikorus and William F. Mitchell undertook some redesigns years later.
The Orchards Golf Course (www.bristolgolfpark.com) in Milford, Connecticut is a public, 9-hole executive golf course with a par-32 layout that stretches about 1,625 yards from the back tees. Opened in 1997, it offers a friendly, accessible setting ideal for beginners, juniors, and casual golfers looking to sharpen their short game or enjoy a quick round. The course is relatively flat with forgiving fairways and smooth greens, making it easy to walk and play. With affordable rates and a community
atmosphere, The Orchards provides a relaxed golfing experience in the heart of Milford. https://orchardsgc.com
The Chanticlair Golf Course (www.Chanticlair.com) in Colchester opened in 1972 and was designed by Hy and Gigi Stollman. The course has undergone continuous improvements. The track measures just under 3,000 yards and its signature hole is a pretty, 138-yard par-three, the fourth that plays to an island green. The layout boasts some of the state’s best conditioned greens.
Highland Greens Golf Course (www.HighlandGreens.com) in Prospect is a lighted, nine-hole par-three course that is ideal for beginner and senior golfers who may shy away for the country club or highend daily fee golf course scene. You can play nine holes here in about an hour and a half, and those new to golf enjoy the shorter holes that don’t beat them up as they attempt to learn the nuances of the game. Accomplished players can work on their iron play. As mentioned, Highland Greens is lighted, so you can spend a great evening with family and friends at the course.
Gainfield Farms Golf Course (www.GainfieldGolf.com) in Southbury is an executive layout located between Waterbury and Danbury. It is ideal for beginners, women and children, as well as for working on your short game or when you have limited time. The course can be played in less than two hours, a plus when trying to fit some swings into a busy work day. Gainfield Farms Golf Course has eight par-threes ranging in length from a short 94 yards up to 195. The latter hole, plus the 188-yard third hole, are tough to par even for the best
Quaboag Country Club
Hotchkiss School Golf Course
players. The one par-four plays around 260 yards and can be reached off the tee by big hitters.
Quarry View Golf Course (www.QuarryViewGolf.com) in Canaan, along with its full-service golf center, is a great place for the beginner golfer. You won’t feel intimidated if this is your first time out. Experienced players will enjoy the quick play and the ability to concentrate on improving their iron shots and short games.
Quarry View has the feeling of playing on two unique types of golf courses, for each hole has fairways lined with fescue similar to a links course, while the surrounding woods is typical of a traditional New England layout. The course, driving range and short game area are well manicured and designed with excellent drainage that enables Quarry View to remain playable even after a heavy rain when other courses are under water.
Sleeping Giant Golf Course (www.SleepingGiantGolfCourse.com) in Hamden is set in the shadows of the Sleeping Giant Mountains southern Connecticut. Drop the notion that you need a collared shirt, a ranger, and the most expensive golf carts in the world to enjoy a round; the club is laid back. The course plays 2.671 yards from the tips and has a par of 35, with six par-fours, two par-threes and one par-five. Several of the par-fours are stern, such as the 407-yard second and the 374-yard fourth. The final four holes are all birdie holes, with the seventh and eighth playing only 207 and 227 yards respectively. The only par-five can be tricky. It plays 459 yards from the back markers and the green can be reached in two shots by long hitters, but it’s three good shots
to find the putting surface for most golfers.
MASSACHUSETTS
Blue Rock Golf Course (www.bluerockgolfcourse.com) in South Yarmouth is a par-54 18-hole executive course designed by Geoffrey Cornish. It measures from 2,150 to 2,800 yards from five different sets of tee boxes. The course was built in 1962 and has been consistently ranked in the Top 10 executive courses in the country.
From the manicured tee boxes to the meticulously maintained greens, Blue Rock would be an excellent choice if you are looking for a course to work on improving your irons and short game.
The top handicap hole is number, play-
ing at a robust 255 yards from the tips. Hole number 9 is rated one of the Cape’s Top 18 holes, playing 170 yards from the back markers. The hole requires the experienced player to navigate a well-placed tee shot over water to a large, undulating kidney shaped green. Par on this hole is a great score.
For those golfers who prefer to take a cart the course offers an easy walk through picturesque landscaping.
Quaboag Country Club (www.QuaboagCountryClub.com) located in Monson is a splendid 9–hole course with a championship layout and private club conditions. The course offers sweet views and was ranked a 9 out of 10 by the Worcester Telegram & Gazette golf review. The second hole is a 215-yard par-three and the next hole is a very demanding, 440-yard par-four. The seventh, a 255-yard par-four, can be reached from the tee by big hitters. There’s a fully stocked pro shop, full service restaurant, and golfers lounge.
Greenock Country Club (www.GreenockCC.com) in Lee was established as one of America’s first courses, dating back to 1895. Redesigned in 1927 by the legendary golf architect Donald Ross, the 9-hole course has stood the test of time, a masterpiece 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 short 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
Blue Rock Golf Course
Rockland Golf Course
about going for it in two.
Unicorn Golf Course (www.UnicornGC.com) in Stoneham has an interesting history. It was originally designed as an 18-hole private golf course. The layout was crafted by the renowned architects Wayne Stiles and John Van Kleek, and covered portions of the towns of Stoneham and Woburn. In 1972, the town of Stoneham purchased the property within Stoneham and redesigned the course to play as a nine-hole course now known as Unicorn. The course traverses a hilltop piece of land, with some holes playing out in the open, and others surrounded by huge old oak trees lining the fairways.
While an 18-holer we include Rockland Golf Course (www.RocklandgGC.com) in Rockland because you can be fit it into a busy day with ease, as it contains all parthrees. The course was carved out of a piece of land featuring tall oaks and rock outcroppings lining some fairways. Due to its friendly layout, the course also provides an ideal learning environment for the beginner golfer, while presenting a challenge to even the most skilled player due to the beefy length of some of its holes.
The Blandford Club (413-848-2443) in Blandford is a delightful nine-hole layout nestled in the scenic hills of the western portion of the Commonwealth State. Only 2,722 yards from the tips and playing to a par of 35, this a fun track for all skill levels. The course is one of the oldest in the region, having opened in 1910. It was designed by William Dexter.
Maynard Country Club
(www.MaynardCC.com) in Maynard, Ma. offers pleasing atmosphere and a very solid test of golf, with the course playing more difficult than its overall yardage of 2,783 yards suggests. The ninth hole is a 280-yard parfour and has a green that can be reached off the tee by longballers.
The Stoneham Oaks Golf Course (www.StonehamOaks.com) in Stoneham is a par-3 executive course open to the public that was established in 1994 and is owned by the Town of Stoneham. Located right off the I-93 highway and only eight miles North of the heart of Boston it is in the perfect location for commuters traveling from around the Boston area to grab a quick nine holes of golf. Featuring a 1,125 yard course Stoneham Oaks recently, has undergone a change of management and is now being
operated and maintained by Sterling Golf Management. The course, while short in length, provides golfers with unique challenges and beautiful greens which run true to form. The short length of the course creates the perfect opportunity for players of all ages and abilities to be able to enjoy the course and work on their short-games.
Bedrock Golf Club (www.BedrockGolfClub.com) in Rutland is a privately owned, challenging, nine-hole, par-36 golf course operated by the Carr Family. Former PGA Tour Professional and current PGA of America member Joe Carr has served as Bedrock’s Golf Professional since the club’s inception on May 23, 1992. The amenities offered include a scenic course carved through the Rutland woods, fully stocked pro shop, practice putting green, motorized carts, pull carts, tournament schedule and the “Back Nine Pub”, a full service bar and grille. Bedrock is located 10 miles west of Worcester. The well manicured course weaves through woodlands and measures 3,443 yards from the longest tees. The course was designed by Bill Greene and Joe Carr.
RHODE ISLAND
At Louisquisset Golf Club (www.louisquissetgc.com) in North Providence, past U.S Open Champion, Ken Venturi designed a course that is fun yet challenging, player friendly and offers fantastic course conditions.
Carved through natural wetlands, rolling hills, and oak trees, Louisquisset offers golfers a setting that is in the middle of the city where they can get away for a great round of golf, fantastic food and beverages
Copper Hill Golf Course
Louisquisset Golf Club
at the Pub On One and a relaxing patio with golf course views.
Louisquisset Golf Club offers terrific views and challenging play for golfers at every skill level. Well-groomed fairways and greens keep Louisquisset Golf Club difficult yet friendly, and the staff can offer tips and tricks for playing your best round. Louisquisset Golf Club is a terrific choice for your regular rounds of golf or a new destination for you and friends when visiting North Providence.
What Louisquisset lacks in length in more than makes up for in creativity. The course offers three par threes that are three completely different shots – No. 4 is a midlength shot, No. 5 requires a little more length and No. 8 puts a scoring iron in your hand on a green that’s deceptively small.
Kings Crossing Golf Club (www.KingsCrossingGolfClub.com) in North Kingston was originally designed by renowned golf architect, Geoffrey Cornish and opened in 1964. From the beginning of the round players will find an unexpectedly meandering and flowing landscape with holes that offer variety, aesthetic charm and flexibility. The course is uniquely laid out to allow players to enjoy a round of 4 holes…
which we call the “shorty”, a solid 9-hole test or, with a truly flexible tee marker system, 18 holes that provide enough variety to challenge all abilities. The greens are softly moving and fair, while the bunkering on the course bring a classic style to the eye. Another characteristic of Kings Crossing is playability.
Bristol Golf Park (www.bristolgolfpark.com ) in Bristol, Rhode Island was established decades ago, the course features a par-32 layout with bent grass fairways and greens, making it a pleasant spot for a quick round or to work on your short game. It’s nestled within the charming coastal town near Narragansett Bay, giving golfers a casual, community-oriented setting without the formality of a private club. Green fees are typically affordable, and the course’s friendly atmosphere makes it popular with locals and visitors alike.
Pinecrest Golf Club (www.PinecrestRI.com) in Carolina is a sweet nine-hole course. The layout is kept in splendid condition, and the routing is fun and challenging at the same time. While not overly long, Pinecrest is fairly tight and has several doglegs and uphill shots that complicate navigation.
Rose Hill Golf Club (401-798-1088) in South Kingstown is a par-three layout in that has holes ranging from 118 to 218 yards. You can play nine in an hour and 18 in perhaps less than two hours. The course is well maintained. Three holes, the second, fourth and fifth, play across water and test your nerves.
The owners and management at Coventry Pines Golf Course (www.CoventryPines.com) in Coventry have invested dollars and labor into refurbishing their nine-hole course. Coventry Pines is a little tester, measuring 3,170 yards. Two of the toughest holes are back to back, the 408yard par-four fifth and the 520-yard par-five sixth. The latter is listed as the course’s number one handicap hole.
Midville Golf Club (www.MidvilleGolfClub.com) in West Warwick is a sweet nine-hole course. Ownership and the superintendent place a premium on superb playing conditions. The layout measures just under 3,000 yards from the tips, and there are several par-fours that are almost reachable off the tee by big hitters. The number one handicap hole is the 6th, a par-five that measures 535 yards.
Rose Hill Golf Course
www.FreeGolf.net
Fundamentals of Putting
By George Connor
There are multiple ways to move the putter to create a stroke. I like to get my golfers to create a stroke that is as simple as possible. Of all the motions in golf, full swing, pitching, chipping, bunker shots etc. the putting stroke should be the most simple motion from a mechanical basis. Like every aspect of golf, you can find great golfers that have their way swinging a golf club. So this piece and the video are a preference of mine and I have had a lot of success with folks having them use this as the engine of their stroke.
• You can use your wrists to flick the putter back and through.
• Your arms can move the putter back and through.
• You can rotate the middle third of your body to create a motion.
In my opinion, the above options are choices to move the putter however each of them will introduce a lot of variety from one putt to the next. Moving your hands/wrists, or arms independent of your body will be quite different from one swing to the next because your hands, wrist and arms are very versatile. Versatility in some parts of life is great, “It’s the Spice of Life” However, versatility is also the opposite of consistent.
In my opinion and based on the success that I have had the shoulder blades are the optimal way to move the putter both back and through. Watch the video and try it out yourself. If you give it a little practice, I think you will both simplify the stroke and improve your putting stroke.
George Connor, PGA ConnorGolf at Farmington Woods Golf Club in Avon, CT Three Time CT PGA Teacher of the Year 860-830-6969 or George@ConnorGolf.com
A SIMPLE SYSTEM TO BECOME A “FEEL” PUTTER
By Sue Kaffenburg
2026…a new season, a fresh start, and yet another chance to finally understand that mysterious thing we call “FEEL” in putting. Yes, your shoulders, arms, and hands are all involved. And yes, somewhere along the way you’ve probably been told to “just rock your shoulders.” Challenging advice because your shoulders have about as much feel as a rock. So now what? Good news…it’s simple. There are only TWO things to master. Start your season as a great putter and your scores will drop!
First: recruit your dominant hand. You know…the one you trust to pour coffee, sign checks, and scroll your phone with alarming accuracy. Let’s put it to work. Find a nice, straight 4–5 foot putt. (Spring still behaving like winter? No problem, putting indoors into a glass works fine.) Now putt with one hand only. Tiger used to do this. Righties: right hand. Lefties: you know the drill. And for those overachievers out there…yes, you can drill with the “other” hand, alone, too. Especially if you’re a lefty living a righty golf life.
Here’s the fun part: you’ll quickly realize you’re not terrible. In fact, you’ll see your own improvement, fairly quickly. Spend about 10 minutes rolling putts this way. Then gently add your other hand back on. Light grip, no squeezing the life out of it. Now something magical happens: your dominant hand brings its “feel” to the party. It’s as if your right hand and the clubface just signed a long-term partnership agreement.
Second: master ARRIVAL speed of the ball to the hole. Don’t be
a smasher! If your ball charges the hole like it’s late for a meeting, it’s not going in. The faster it moves, the smaller the effective opening becomes. The hole literally gets smaller! Be in charge of PACE. You are responsible for delivering the ball with intention! Your goal? Deliver the ball to the hole so it arrives with just 2 or 3 gentle revolutions left before it would stop. That’s it. That’s the secret sauce. Want to really own this? Go to a green and ROLL balls with your hand only…no putter. Just you, a ball, and your sense of touch. Let your eyes coach your hand until you can consistently deliver the right energy. Then grab your putter and recreate that sense. Same feel. Same intention.
Bonus: when your speed is this dialed in, your misses don’t run off to another zip code. They stay close. Very close. The kind of close that produces tap ins. To deepen the feel even more, try putting while looking at the hole. Yes, really! You’ll be frightened that you’re going to miss the ball entirely. You won’t. In fact, you might make a few. (Tour players have done it, so you’re in pretty good company.)
And just like that, you’re no longer guessing at “feel.” You’ve created it.
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-inone 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 “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
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.
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.
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 par-five 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 448-yard par five where birdie, or perhaps even an eagle, can really bring your round to a delightful conclusion.
www.CrystalLake-Golf.com
Gillette Ridge Golf Club in Bloomfield, Ct. stands as a tribute to the traditions and challenges of golf, and is considered one of Palmer Course Design Company’s best creations.
As you journey through Gillette Ridge, you’ll appreciate its natural beauty and a dynamic layout. The course will challenge and excite you as you maneuver through a variety of terrain; treelined fairways, spectacular carries, and several natural obstacles.
Gillette Ridge Golf Club
Gillette Ridge was named to honor Francis Gillette, a local 19th century reformer, politician and business leader, whose house still stands on the site. The course features elevation changes and mature trees.
Gillette Ridge closed briefly and fell into a state of disrepair several years ago due to management problems.
Century Golf has addressed many issues and refurbished much of the golf course, as well as the clubhouse. A main issue
Twas with course’s the bunkers. A design team fixed bunkers, coring them out, fixing drainage issues and filling them in with all new sand. All 21 greens (including practice greens) on the property were redone. In addition new forward tee boxes were added. The clubhouse got a new carpet, new paint, new televisions, and new tables for the restaurant.
Gillette Ridge has had a bit of a reputation as being a very difficult golf course that caters to the better player. But the own-
ers’ new goal has been to keep the course challenging, while adjusting it to accommodate all levels of player without compromising the original intent of the design.
There are four sets of tees at Gillette Ridge, making the course play anywhere from 7,191 yards at the tips to 5,582 from the forward markers. The course has been given a slope of 135 and a rating of slightly over 74 from the back markers. Play up if it’s your first time, you’ll enjoy your round to a far greater degree.
The eleventh hole is the course’s signature. The tee box affords a view of the Heublein Tower in the distance, and the 505-yard, par-five winds down to a peninsula green. This is a true risk-reward hole as a long drive will leave the player with an opportunity to go for the green in two. But a pond guards the right side of the putting surface all the way to the green, and long is bad.
www.GilletteRidgeGolf.com.
Tallwood Country Club
allwood Country Club in Hebron is known for its classic New England landscape. Situated on over 200 acres of rolling country farmland, it’s a perfect place for a golf getaway. The course offers a pleasingly eclectic mix of strong par-threes, long and demanding and then shorter and tricky parfours, as well as par-fives that sometimes are reachable in two for long hitters and other times, not so much. The 505 yard parfive eleventh hole is one of our favorites. A good tee shot to the generous fairway leaves you the decision of whether to go for the green which is guarded by water to the left. Maybe the most picturesque hole is the 373 yard par-4 fifteenth. With water to the right and short of the green, this hole provides a nice challenge and plays as the hardest hole on the back side. A public course with a private feel, it’s easy to see why Tallwood is chosen to host some of
Connecticut’s top men’s and women’s amateur tournaments year after year. The course features your choice of four tee placements sure to meet or challenge
anyone’s playing level. Tallwood also boast one of the best public practice facilities in the state.
The Captains Golf Course
The Captains Golf Course in Brewster, Ma. features two very distinct 18-hole layouts. The Captains’ Port Course plays to a yardage of 6,724 yards from the tips and has a slope of 131 and a rating above its posted par of 72. So, it’s no pushover. One of the best holes on the Port Course is the beefy 573-yard, par-five eighth. There is a pond that guards the putting surface and several large fairway bunkers are placed along the hole to make precision on the drive and layup a prerequisite to making birdie or par.
The Captains’ Starboard Course plays a tad longer than the Port Course, around 6,800 yards, and has a slope of 122. Most players who tackle both tracks say the Starboard Course it also a bit more player friendly than its sister layout, with wider fairways, large greens, and fewer bunkers than the Port Course, which makes it more suitable for mid- and higher handicap players. But we are here to tell you that it isn’t a pushover either. The course’s 18th is a great finishing hole, a challenging 534-yard par-five that can be reached in two by big hitters. But the smarter play is two strong shots followed by a wedge into the green.
The conditioning on both course, which have very affordable greens fees, is always excellent at all times of the year, the golf is challenging but
approachable for players of all abilities, there are two practice greens and a driving range, a restaurant, a friendly staff that is available for lessons, and a fully-stocked pro shop. Indeed, what more could locals and visitors to this special section of New England want in a daily fee golf club. www.CaptainsGolfCourse.com.
Dennis Highlands and Dennis Pines Golf Courses
Dennis Highlands Golf Course in Dennis, Ma. is a perfect start to a golf vacation on Cape Cod.
The Highlands tends to be forgiving off the tee, but don’t get too comfortable around the greens, as the rolling terrain requires focus and concentration on tee shots and approaches to the greens. Dennis Highlands is situated on 175 acres of pine and oak forest on the north side of Dennis.
Designed by Jack Kidwell and Mike Hardpan and opened for play in 1984, Dennis Highlands is considered by some to be one of the “crown jewels” in the traditional list of fine Cape Cod golf courses. It boasts a spectacular practice range and a visually enjoyable golf experience.
The Pines Course is a bit more dramatic and challenging than the Highlands, with pine groves squeezing the fairways, putting a premium on more accurate shot-making.
The Golf Committee for the Town of Dennis, Massachusetts approved a Comprehensive Enhancement Plan
developed with noted golf architect, Robert McNeil, for far-reaching improvements at Dennis Highlands Golf Course and its sister course, Dennis Pines. The improvements will include all new bunkering, new tees, cart path revisions, drainage, tree management, and fairway recontouring.
www.DennisGolf.com
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.
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
Trisk 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
The Ranch Golf Club
he Ranch Golf Club in Southwick, Ma. has gained a reputation as one of the elite daily fee clubs in the region for good reason. Management takes great efforts in making a visit an extremely pleasurable, stress-free experience offers some of the most sublime views of fall foliage in all of southern New England.
The golf course layout climbs up and down steeps hills as you amble your way along fairways lined by mature woodlands. And there are valley holes, where the fescue grows high in the warm weather months and foliage around wetlands turns various gorgeous hues during the fall.
.The Ranch is a thoroughly enjoyable routing, challenging yet playable for all golfers because of several sets of tees. The layout is a mix of open and woodland holes, plays 7,175 yards from the tips, and has a rating of 75.4 and a slope of 143 from the back markers.
While difficult, you can score at The Ranch, as long as you hit the ball straight off the tee and don’t get too greedy on approach shots to the undulating greens, which are usually well protected by sand, water or rough.
The 441-yard par-four fourth is one of
the prettiest holes on the course. It starts with a carry across a small ravine to a fairway that flows up toward the green. The hole is framed by tall pines and guarded by fairway and greenside bunkers.
The 540-yard par-five ninth and 618-yard par-five 16th play dramatically downhill and afford those 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 putting surface.
www.TheRanchGolfClub.com
Blackstone National Golf Club
The par-five 18th at Blackstone National Golf Club in Sutton. Ma, is a favorite for anyone who has played it. The hole measures just 485 yards from the tips, but it’s loaded with all kinds of trouble if you wander.
The tee shot must be true to find a landing area protected by wetlands and woods. Big hitters can reach the putting surface in two shots after a strong drive, but the approach is uphill and there are a number of deep bunkers guarding the putting surface. The smart play is to lay up in front of the green and knock the ball onto the putting surface with a wedge.
of the Bay State.
The 18th is a solid finisher and just one indication of the thoughtful approach Rees Jones put into the layout. The course is tucked into the wooded countryside of the Blackstone Valley area of southeastern part
One of the sweetest aspects of the track is that while it is challenging for the best players, Jones incorporated only a few forced carries, which makes it playable for mid- and even high-handicappers. Ample fairways allow a player to stay in the hole
even after a less than perfect tee shot. There is bunkering guarding the rather large greens, so it is important to choose the proper club to find the target.
Blackstone National, which can stretch to almost 7,000 yards from the tips and plays to a par of 72, has some superb short holes that are also visually enticing. One of the most stunning parthrees on the layout is the 173-yard 11th, which demands a tee shot over a small pond. It shouldn’t be difficult to find the green. But any pulled tee shot may find the wet stuff. www.BNGC.net
SHARING SUCCESS Gaylord Golf Mecca Courses Cooperate, Grow, Impress
By Greg Johnson
Sharing in success is a proven method in the Gaylord Golf Mecca
America’s favorite summer landing spot for golfers has spent 39 years moving forward as a premier U.S. summer golf destination. In 2026, through its time-tested cooperative destination marketing model, the Mecca supports 16 golf course members and 21 lodging partners.
“The reason the Mecca works and continues to grow is a tremendous group of owners who have vision and believe in destination marketing,” said Paul Beachnau, executive director of the Mecca since its inception in 1987.
“We simply keep getting better together. Our members, our partners, improve their courses, turf, bunkers, tees, it seems all the time, and those with lodging keep up to date with regular room renovations. I see all the improvements the properties keep making, and our Mecca partnership with the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City has opened up national and international
markets to us. We, as a group, share ideas to serve visitors. The Mecca is a true meaning of cooperative, and as a group and as individual properties there is a commitment to always being the best golf destination Gaylord can be.”
Gaylord, a Northern Michigan community fondly known as the Alpine Village, at first glance is not your typical major golf destination.
It started in 1987 when Harry Melling, a flamboyant auto industry supplier and NASCAR team owner who had earlier purchased Sylvan ski resort on the edge of town, unveiled the Masterpiece, the last major golf course design by the legendary architect, Robert Trent Jones.
The award-winning Jones creation attracted golfers to what later became known as Treetops Resort and quickly put Gaylord in the national golf conversation as a must-stop in the Midwest. It was also Jones who coined the name Treetops. During construction, he observed the stun-
ning view over the Pigeon River Valley from the ridge and tee 180-plus feet above the green of the course’s iconic signature Par 3 sixth hole. It’s treetops for miles.
The Masterpiece was the first of five top-flight and award-winning golf courses Melling would go on to build at the resort, including the only Tom Fazio designed course in Michigan, which is called the Premier.
The Golf Channel launched its popular “Big Break” series in Gaylord and ESPN’s “Par 3 Shootout” at Treetops on the Rick Smith-designed Threetops par 3 course. Both productions, pushed forward by Smith who was then Treetops’ head golf professional, helped spread the Mecca message across America as Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson, Fred Couples, Lee Trevino and others came to town.
During that same summer, the Gaylord Tourism Bureau had formed and in turn spawned the Gaylord Golf Mecca – a coordinated marketing effort and label officials
Craft Farms , Cotton Creek Course
hoped would draw attention to the original six Mecca member golf courses. Five of those six –Treetops, Otsego Resort, Gaylord Golf Club, Michaywe Pines Course and Lakes of the North – remain part of today’s Sweet 16.
At the Masterpiece grand opening in 1987, Jones called the Gaylord area, and specifically Treetops, a place “waiting for golf to find its way here.” Golf had already found its way in limited amounts to Gaylord, but Jones envisioned what is now found in 2026.
The golf pro Smith was a 23-year-old fresh-faced, floppy haired PGA pro from Toledo armed with endless enthusiasm and yetto-be-discovered wide array of skills. He nodded his head as Jones talked that day.
“It’s so perfect here,” Smith said as he made his
rounds on the practice tee a few minutes later offering tips like he would to Phil Mickelson and many others later in his career. “Just wait until you get out there and play.”
Jones, Fazio, Smith, and many other golf architecture greats have their artistry included in the Mecca collection, primed and ready each golf season for people to get out and play.
Wilfred Reid, a Michigan Golf Hall of Fame member whose most notable design is the Olympic Club in San Francisco, did original design work that remains a part of the classic Indian River Golf Club since redesigned by Michigan’s Warner Bowen.
Rees Jones, one of Robert Trent Jones’ sons, created one of his personal favorites and an award-winning course at Black Lake Golf Club
Rick Robbins and PGA Tour player and NBC golf analyst Gary Koch built
Indian River Golf Club
The Monarch at Garland Lodge & Golf Resort
The Tribute at Otsego Resort, a tribute to Northern Michigan golf and vistas. William Diddle of Indianapolis, a co-founder of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, designed The Classic, the friendly course along the road at the resort.
Jerry Matthews, the most prolific Michigan Golf Hall of Fame designer, crafted nine of the holes at Lakes of the North to go with an original nine by Bill Newcomb, another Michigan designer.
Don Childs, another noted Michigan golf course designer, created Michaywe Pines Course and Gaylord Golf Club, two shining-star parkland style courses in the Mecca.
The late Ron Otto, a Detroit businessman who invented the insulated garage door and later developed and owned Garland Lodge & Golf Resort , also became a golf course designer. His four popular designs at the resort are a clear reflection of his creative talents, including the popular Reflections course. The resort also added a new par three short course, The Sawyer, in 2025.
everybody-is-welcome affordable addition and the improvements keep happening to a course built on rolling, beautiful land created long ago by glaciers.
Black Bear Golf Course, which has been revamped and renewed by new local owners Olivia and Rob Smith, is the latest addition to the Mecca. It’s a perfect, full-service,
“We are unique in this country as a destination in the north because of the quantity and the quality of golf,” Beachnau said. “I believe only Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday has been together as a cooperative marketing
effort in golf longer than the Mecca. And right now, I see a resurgence in cooperative action and golf travel. Plus, it is easier to get to Northern Michigan now with more flights offered through the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, which opens us up to other big golf markets, too. It’s exciting. We have a bright future as long as we keep the quality of our great courses at an
Gaylord Golf Club
Michaywe Pines Golf Course
elevated level and keep working together.”
In what is almost four decades, Gaylord has earned the right to be called America’s Summer Golf Mecca
“The first budget for the Mecca was $15,000, the tourism bureau contributed $7,500 and we had a formula for the golf courses to put in $1,500 each to make up the rest,” Beachnau said.
“The initial Tourism Bureau budget for Gaylord was just over $100,000 and is now well over $1 million with about $300,000 budgeted for the Golf Mecca’s marketing and advertising.”
The first year of the Mecca saw courses record 60,000 rounds of golf with revenues of $2 million. The high-water mark set in 2025 for the Mecca was over 280,000 rounds with revenues of $26 million.
Beachnau said he and the early founders of the Mecca were comfortable in the golf product they were selling, but he is amazed by the level of success now being experienced.
“If you had asked me if I ever envisioned the growth in the number of quality golf courses I would have to say no,” he said. “I imagined us to be reasonably successful in developing a cool niche of the golf market, but what it has led to in terms of the number of golf courses in Northern Michigan, the quality, and the number of world class designers that have found us, is just amazing.”
Judy Mason, the head golf professional at Michaywe Pines Course, said the group has long realized that together they are stronger. “Together we have great inventory, more to offer and sell and it gives us as a
many talents, and the current leaders of the Mecca believe it’s a collection of golf variety unmatched by other golf destinations.
Corey Crowell, the general manager of Indian River and current president of the Mecca, said traveling golfers can’t beat the Mecca variety or bang for the buck. “You can play two completely different styles in one day easily, and three or four completely different styles of courses easily on one trip,” he said. “And the price you pay is incredible if you compare it to other parts of the country. We give you world class golf at affordable prices.”
marketing group more to talk about,” she said. “Beyond that, we know the key is to bring more golfers to Gaylord and we can all grow stronger together. Cooperation and competition can work together. We prove it in the Mecca.”
The Mecca is a collective reflection of
JT Aude, the head golf professional at Gaylord Golf Club which serves as a busy club for a bevy of golfers daily through the summer, calls the Mecca destination unique. “I can’t think of any other destination in the country that has a similar combination of quality and quantity combined with affordability, ease of access and a clear effort to make sure the golfer comes first,” he said. “There are places with affordable golf, but not with quality of courses we offer at our combination of prices. There are places with more courses, but not in a variety from family friendly golf to classic country club style golf to award-winning resort golf all designed by some of the world’s top architects. You only find all that here, in Gaylord.”
Visit www.GaylordGolfMecca.com to plan your trip.
The Tribute at Otesego Resort
Teeing It Up in the Golf Capital of Tennesse
By, DAVID THOERET
The state of Tennessee has several big cities, each with its fair share of upscale daily fee golf courses, private clubs, and resorts. But it’s the small town of Crossville, with a population of less than 15,000, that is recognized as “The Golf Capital of Tennessee.”
Crossville is located in Cumberland County, up on the Cumberland Plateau. It’s right off I-40, two hours east of Nashville, and about an hour west of Knoxville. Crossville garnered this distinction because of the high concentration of championship courses, a wide variety of layouts suitable for all skill levels, and a mild, year-round climate. The temperature on the plateau runs 5 – 12 degrees cooler than cities like Knoxville, Nashville, and Memphis.
Of the ten or so golf courses in the Crossville area, three facilities offer “golf packages” that include both golf and accommodations on the property: Fairfield Glade, Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain State Park, and Lake Tansi Golf Resort.
Fairfield Glade is the most recognized golf property in the area, if not the state.
It’s a resort/retirement community in eastern Cumberland County. Fairfield Glade is home to over 9,000 residents and five stunning championship golf courses: Druid Hills, Dorchester, The Brae and The Crag at Heatherhurst Golf Club, and Stonehenge. It’s the biggest reason that Crossville holds the title.
Druid Hills Golf Club is where it all started at Fairfield Glade. The first 9 holes opened in 1970; the 2nd nine wasn’t completed until 1973. Druid is located at the property’s highest point and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There’s a plaque behind the back tees on the 14th tee with the names of all of the mountains you see off in the distance. The course has some modest elevation changes and features tree-lined fairways, lots of water hazards, and well-undulated Bentgrass greens. It’s not the longest course out here, so keeping driver in the bag on most holes is the best way to score well.
Druid Hills is also home to The Golf Garage, an indoor/outdoor teaching, training, and practice facility with two Trackman
hitting bays. These bays are used for private lessons, club fittings, clinics, and training; they can also be rented and used as virtual golf courses. The Garage also does grip replacements and club repair.
In August of 2024, Druid Hills unveiled The Quarry, an 18-hole putting course that will challenge the best of putters. Each hole has multiple breaks and undulations, many of which break a lot more than you think. It’s a great place to settle bets or recoup some of your earlier losses. It too can be rented out for private functions.
What Dorchester Golf Club lacks in length, it more than makes up for in accuracy and control. Many of the fairways are narrow and framed by trees, starting with Number 1, the course’s No. 1 handicap. Water comes into play on 6 holes, and bunkers dot the landing area on many holes. Several holes have some noticeable elevation changes, but nothing like what lies ahead. Well-groomed fairways lead to challenging Bentgrass greens that can leave you shaking your head.
The Brau, 10th Hole
Heatherhurst is home to two challenging courses, The Crag and the Brae. The Crag is the more player-friendly of the two and begins with a short par 5 that is easily reachable with a good drive. Rolling fairways rise and fall as you play. Bentgrass tees and greens, wide fairways, plenty of wildlife, and stunning views on the 17th tee are several reasons why you’ll enjoy your round on the Crag.
The Brae features two unique nines. The front nine is home to arguably the most challenging par-5 in Tennessee. The 4th hole is a double dogleg par 5 that requires two carries over Otter Creek. The back nine has three par 3s, three par 4s, and three par 5s. It starts with one of the most visually stunning courses on the property, a downhill par 5 with a green that overlooks Lake Dartmoor. The Brae is the area’s only course with Zoysia fairways, which is a very tolerant hot-weather grass. Golfweek ranks The Brae #5 in their list of the Best Public Golf Courses in Tennessee for 2025.
he could find on the property and carved out the golf course. As you play, you’ll pass large, natural rock outcroppings and walls of native stone, which is where the course gets its name. Stonehenge’s signature hole is the par 3, 14th, which plays about 80 feet downhill and is photographed by just about every player who’s part of a golf package! Stonehenge Golf Club features Bentgrass
nicely with its surroundings, capitalizing on several elevation changes that create a mix of both uphill and downhill shots. Mother Nature adds some natural features like flowing streams and clusters of mature pines, and Nicklaus adds strategically placed bunkers and a handful of risk/reward opportunities. Recently, the course underwent a huge transformation that involved switching 28 acres of cool-season grass to warmweather Bermudagrass. Not only does it make it better for golfers, but it also looks a lot better. Everyone I’ve spoken with raves about the conditioning.
Stonehenge is Fairfield Glade’s premier layout and is ranked #3 on that same list. The course was designed by legendary architect Joe Lee, who took the best piece of land
from tee to green, providing optimal playing conditions.
Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain was designed by Jack Nicklaus and was quickly named “One of the Top Ten Courses You Can Play in North America” when it opened in 1999. The course blends in
As you make your way around the course, you’ll find native woodlands bordering many of the rolling fairways and rock formations that need to be avoided at all costs. Elevated tee boxes offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and the Nicklaus greens will keep even the best of players guessing. There’s nothing better than hitting a drive from an elevated tee box and watching it fly over valleys and ravines and catching a downslope when it lands. It’s the downhill shots I’m not fond of!
In my opinion, the most underrated golf
The Crag, 4th Hole
Shonehenge, 14th Hole
course in Cumberland County is Lake Tansi. Over the years, Lake Tansi Golf Course has received numerous accolades, including being rated one of the Top 10 courses in Tennessee by Golf Advisor. Golf Course Superintendent Todd Mathews and his staff do a tremendous job keeping the course green yearround with a closely guarded secret mixture of Bentgrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Fescue. “Lake Tansi lies at an elevation of 1,900 feet, making the daytime temperatures considerably cooler than other areas of the state. The grasses don’t lose a lot of their color when they go dormant in cooler weather,” says Mathews. Early in the season, the greens may throw you off. They are various shades of green until fully grown, but still roll true.
It’s probably my favorite, not because I had a hole-in-one a couple of years ago on the 15th hole while playing with Head Pro, Gavin Darbyshire, but because the staff is great, the course is challenging, yet fair, and green year-round. But seriously, it’s the hole-in-one!
A couple of the par 5s are reachable in two with a good drive, and the par 3s, while not the longest, will challenge your
shot-making and putting abilities. The two par-3s on the front side feature greens with a lot of slope, and if you’re not below the hole, putting can be an adventure. Number 17 is a long par 4 with an approach shot over water, and unless you’re long off the tee, you’ll have a long to mid iron into the green. Number 18 is a three-shot par 5 with an elevated green that also has a lot of slope to it. Good rounds are often spoiled on these finishing holes!
This charming lake-resort community has a lot going for it besides the golf course; there’s the 550-acre lake, complete with a beach area and boat rentals.
All three properties offer accommodations, whether it’s a cabin at Cumberland
Mountain State Park, a lakeside cottage at Lake Tansi Village, or a condo rental at Fairfield Glade. Each one also has a restaurant or two on the property, with plenty of choices nearby. So, when you’re done with golf for the day, and you’ve enjoyed a good meal at one of the restaurants, sit back on the patio and look around at all of the wonderful views up here on the Cumberland Plateau. With a low cost of living, a modest climate where golf can be played year-round, and the friendliest people you’ll meet, it’s enough to make Crossville your home. I did.
For more information or to book your next golf vacation to Tennessee’s Golf Capital, visit them online www.explorecrossville.com/explore/golf
Bear Trace #7
Lake Tansi
By, DAVID THEORET
IBlackthorn Club Become Part of the Family.
n the 1990s, golf’s popularity flourished. The “Tiger “effect was in full bloom, dramatically changing the game’s demographics as the younger crowd began to see golf in a whole new way. Media coverage increased as new digital platforms emerged. Golf equipment was quickly evolving. Manufacturers were using lighter yet stronger graphite shafts and titanium clubheads to increase swing speeds and add distance. Resorts in the planning stages began including golf courses and training facilities. Golf courses were popping up in new “master-planned” communities, which linked the game to an upscale lifestyle and social status.
Robert “Rab” Summers has been in the road building industry since May 12, 1946. His grandfather, Lines R. Taylor, founded the firm of Taylor-Summers and became the 69th firm licensed to serve the State of Tennessee on important construction projects. They have built many of the roads
and highways you drive on in northeastern Tennessee.
Duke Ingram has been in the insurance and financial securities industry since graduating from college in 1969 and has enjoyed uninterrupted membership in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) ever since. In 1997, these two men, along with a few friends, decided to build a residential golf community in Jonesborough, TN, and The Ridges Golf and Country Club, now known as Blackthorn Club at the Ridges, was born. After a successful build-out of the community, the golf course and community were sold to the members. Unfortunately, the 2008 recession took its toll on The Ridges Golf and Country Club. The Club saw its membership numbers fall to an unsustainable number, and the members were being forced to sell. Grace intervened when two of the original owners, Ingram and Summers, stepped in and repurchased the club, renaming it
Blackthorn Club at The Ridges. It became a “for-profit” company that needed no committees to govern it. The two quickly assembled an all-star management team and set their sights on becoming a full-service, family-centric private club with a wide range of vibrant amenities and programs.
Evergreen Partners owns several golf and country clubs and has built its reputation on offering unparalleled hospitality, long-term visions, and creating a sense of belonging within each club, making each member feel like part of the family. They achieve this by assembling a staff at each club that provides exceptional service and empowers each member of the team to think and act like owners. Many staff members have worked at the club for a long time. The Director of Racquets, John Lucchesi was the club’s first employee when it was founded in 1997.
When Evergreen Partners sought to purchase a club in East Tennessee and
make it their first property, there were several criteria they wanted to meet. They wanted a club that was well respected in the area and had a strong, loyal membership base. Preferably, the course would be in an upscale community that offered room to grow and had an ownership group that
members felt strongly about.
Although Blackthorn Club was not for sale at the time, Ingram and Summers decided to meet with Matthew Hobbins and Lincoln Duff from Evergreen Partners. The previous owners were so impressed with Evergreen’s vision for the Club and
its commitment to maintaining its legacy that they decided to entertain an offer, and eventually, a deal was made. After all, both Summers and Ingram resided in the community and would frequently interact with the Club’s new ownership.
Blackthorn Club met all of Evergreen’s purchasing criteria and more. Average home prices in the community exceed $1 million. East Tennessee State University’s Medical School is helping them reach a whole new demographic, as many medical school graduates look to stay in the area. Young professionals with high earning potential are bringing down the average membership age, a great sign for any club.
The centerpiece of this upscale community is the 18-hole Arthur Hills championship golf course and practice facility, which includes a full-length driving range, a short game area featuring challenging bunker shots, and a practice putting green.
From 1998 – 2023, the Club hosted the Bank of Tennessee Intercollegiate golf tournament, which featured East Tennessee State University and
other schools from around the country. Many PGA TOUR players have participated, including Matt Kuchar, Graeme McDowell, Jason Duffner, Luke Donald, and Will Zalatoris. According to Head Golf Professional Michael Davenport, the new owners plan on reviving the tournament in the fall of 2026.
The golf course winds through several neighborhoods in The Ridges and can play anywhere from 4,846 to 7,147 yards. There are seven sets of tees to choose from and a couple more hybrid yardages on the scorecard, so finding a suitable distance should be easy. When in doubt, play it forward!
Arthur Hills had a great piece of property to work with, and as you look over the holes on your drive onto the property, you wonder if you’ll ever find a flat lie. As you make your way around the layout, you’ll encounter meandering creeks, challenging fairway bunkers and green complexes, and a couple of water hazards. The Crenshaw Bentgrass greens are quick and roll true. They feature subtle undulations and are a lot of fun. The course is always in immaculate condition.
Russell Lutz has been the Head Superintendent for 15 years and led the charge 12 years ago to obtain Audubon certification. He is quick to recognize that when Hills built the golf course, he did a good job with the drainage, an amazing feat
given how hilly the terrain is. The course has never undergone any major renovations since being built.
Pawleys Plantation
When prospective members are deciding on a new club, the dining and culinary department usually rate high on the list. Certified Executive Chef James Allen and his team cannot be beaten. Allen joined the Blackthorn Club over 15 years ago and is dedicated to his craft. The food is prepped in such a way that he and his staff can easily handle special orders and create dishes that exceed the expectations of even the most discriminating diner, something they will request on their next visit. Menu selections such as Crab Rangoon Tacos, South Meats Far East, and Uncle Boudreaux’s Pasta showcase his outside-the-box thinking.
In addition to fantastic golf and incredible dining, Blackthorn Club features all the amenities you’d expect at an upscale club. If you prefer the courts over the course, there’s a 16,800-sq. ft. indoor tennis/fitness/lounge facility and three new outdoor pickleball courts.
Get back in shape – or in better shape –at the Club’s indoor fitness center. Choose from weight benches and free weights to cardio and strength training machines. There’s a separate studio for fitness and stretching classes, and a personal trainer is also available.
Burn off what energy you have left at
Blackthorn’s large, heated pool with lanes for swimming laps, and a smaller kids’ pool. The Club offers swimming lessons for all ages, aquatic fitness classes, youth programs, and poolside dining. It’s the summertime gathering place for the whole family. Other amenities include a children’s playground and the barn on Hole No. 13, a replica of the original barn from the farmland on which the Club was built and now serves as an outdoor entertainment venue with the best view in East TN.
I’ve been writing about the golf industry for over twenty years and have found that many golf club sales are fueled by necessity and often lead to resentment between the two parties. This is not so at the Blackthorn Club. Neither party can find enough good things to say about the other! And with the former owners on site, Evergreen’s management staff has a wealth of knowledge at their fingertips.
What struck me about Blackthorn Club is the camaraderie between the members; it’s not the typical cliquish feel you find at many clubs. The relationship between the members and the staff is incredible and is built on mutual respect. It’s the type of club I’d want to belong to.
For more information on becoming a member, call them at (423) 913-3164 or visit www.blackthornclub.com
By CLAUDIO DEMARCHI
Paddles & Putters
Golfing Magazine’s, Paddles & Putters Team has grown. We are very pleased to announce that our Product Review Team has 2 new members.
Kyle Hermetz: After only 3 years of playing pickleball, at 29, Kyle represented Team Canada at the Pickleball World Cup this past October in Fort Lauderdale. Back home, just west of Toronto, he is a leader on the York Yeti’s, competing professionally in the Canadian National Pickleball League. He sports a Dupr Rating of 5.8, and has attained Level 1 and Level 2 Certified Pickleball Coach. Kyle is dedicated to helping players elevate their game through structured training methods and game-based coaching. Although Kyle did play some racquet sports, he attributes his success
to his multi sports background provides him with the athleticism, hand eye coordination and game knowledge to make quick time decisions and understand in game strategy. Currently is sponsored by Skechers and plays the Franklin C45 Dynnasty 14mm Elongated Paddle. Paddle review below.
Holly Landers is an intermediate level pickle ball player, like the rest of us, with aspirations to “play better pickleball” and beat her husband, Tom. She has joined into the pickle ball craze, for the new friendship and community amongst players. She is a lifelong tennis and volleyball player. Outside for pickle ball she enjoys hiking, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Kyle Hermetz
Hot Paddles For You!
Paddletek Limited-Edition Reserve Honeyfoam™ No. 001
By Claudio
For the Bourbon drinker in me, I could not see how this could not be a good thing!
“Limited -Edition Reserve.” Maybe Single Barrell or Small Batch is next?
I will admit that in moving from a 19mm to a 14mm paddle, I had some concern. That did not last long! In no time at all I picked up on the benefits of Paddleteks first foam-based design.
The latest in technology, their proprietary multi-foam floating core is designed to expand the sweet spot and lengthen dwell time. There is no doubt the shock-arrestor Edge Guard help, absorbing impact, dampening any vibration and balls seam to rocket off the raw carbon hitting surface. Concern of moving from a spin/control paddle to the Reserve Honeyfoam, that did not last long either, working the ball, that same surface allows you to generate plenty of spin and all the control you want. Add confidence to your game. Get one while you can!
The Reserve Honeyfoam is a Limited Edition, priced at $249.99 and is available exclusively through Paddletek’s website and Pickleball Central while supplies last, with additional Reserve releases planned in the coming months. Paddletek began as a small family business inspired by a love for the game and a vision for improving paddle technology. They have now grown into one of the leading names in Pickleball, with a mission to help you reach that next level of play! www.Paddletek.com
By Kyle
When evaluating a paddle’s on-court performance, I focus on three key attributes: control, spin, and power. If I were to rank them in order of importance, it would be control first, followed by spin, and then power. I am confident in my ability to generate my own power, so I prioritize the elements that help me manage the pace of play and apply strategic pressure. Control allows me to slow the game down, execute high-percentage shots consistently, and avoid unnecessary pop-ups. Spin enables me to shape the ball effectively, create offensive opportunities, and force opponents into uncomfortable or defensive positions. The Franklin C45 Dynasty 14mm elongated paddle delivers on all three. I’ve always preferred thinner paddles because they allow me to generate strong drives without needing to swing at full effort. The 14mm core provides a responsive, lively feel while still maintaining the touch required for controlled play. The textured carbon surface offers significant grit, which I value highly. I can feel the ball engage with the face, making it easier to shape shots, apply spin, and maintain pressure throughout rallies. As a professional player in the Canadian National Pickleball League, customization is an important part of my setup. I tailor my paddles with added weight and overgrips to optimize performance for my game. With the 14mm C45 Dynasty’s stock weight ranging between 7.7–7.8 oz, it provides the perfect foundation for customization. I’m able to build it up to my preferred playing weight of 8.6 oz, achieving the stability and balance I look for at the highest level of competition. Overall, the Franklin C45 Dynasty 14mm elongated paddle offers an excellent blend of control, spin, and accessible power — making it a strong choice for players like me who value precision, customization, and aggressive shot-making.
www.FranklinSports.com/Sports/Pickleball
Franklin C45 Dynasty 14mm Elongated Pickleball Paddle
Gearbox Power Paddles the Company that brings you Power brings Precision and Control
By Claudio & Holly
GBX Power - Power and Precision too!
The newly released GBX Power is a Gen-3 Honeycomb paddle with an expanded sweet spot for consistency and control. The NEW SSTCore 2.0 Carbon Fibre Rib Core defines the future of paddle cores. Built differently it keeps the core from breaking down prematurely.
Playing this paddle, 16mm, with the elongated handle for a few weeks, I can confirm that power, control and consistency. Who doesn’t want control under pressure.
This will be subjective, but I know many people prefer longer handles these days. I find the 5.5″ handle length that Gearbox is using to be the perfect length, enabling smooth two-handed backhands whether at the baseline or the kitchen. The elongated paddle face also gives you some extra reach, power and control. Importantly the paddle’s consistent response gives you confidence whether defending, attacking or preparing to put away a wayward lob.
Coming from a Tennis background this Power paddle shines for me. It gives me the ability to drive with confidence and hit those precise shots and come out on top with mid court volleys and fast paced kitchen exchanges.
precise feel on dinks and a confidence builder on drops and resets. The revolutionary SST 2.0 CarbonRibCore™—the next generation of paddle technology stands out. From drives to dinks you can feel the energy. The power is akin to a launch from a trampoline on drives and punch volleys, in addition to providing you the dwell time to shape or spin the ball at will. All while maintaining stability and control. I personally love the elongated handle, it also available in the hybrid model.
I’ve really enjoyed playing with a Gearbox paddle. Delivering explosive power with precise control without sacrificing touch. It’s a winner in my books!.
Skechers More than just Shoes, It’s FASHION
By Holly, Kyle and Claudio Skechers Men’s Court Viper 2.0
“As a professional athlete in the Canadian National Pickleball League, I go through footwear at a high rate, so performance and longevity are critical. When evaluating pickleball shoes, I prioritize two key factors: comfort and durability.”
The Skechers Viper Court Pro 2.0 delivers on both. It features enhanced protection in high-wear areas—particularly where players commonly slide—along with strong arch support that contributes to overall stability and comfort during play. Additionally, the Goodyear rubber outsole provides exceptional durability, making it well-suited for the demands of competitive play.
With a range of modern color options, the Viper Court Pro 2.0 also offers a clean, athletic aesthetic. For players seeking a reliable, comfortable, and long-lasting pickleball shoe, and is machine wash-
If you are looking for a paddle that gives you forceful power, extended reach and precision spin the GBX Power would be the one for you. Well rounded strong performer.
GX2 Power – “Controlling the Energy with a face that is One Big Sweet Spot!”
You only get one chance to make a first impression, they say! My first experience with a Gearbox paddle, I suspect that it won’t be my last. Whether you are a power or a control player or perhaps a power player looking for a little more control this could be the paddle for you. I was particularly impressed with the
able. An excellent choice.
Skechers Slip-ins Viper Court Elite 2.0 is a strong option for players who value comfort, durability, and convenience. On court, the Goodyear outsole provides reliable traction and holds up well to aggressive movement and sliding. The shoe also offers solid stability, helped by its structured design and secure fit. Comfort is a standout feature. The Relaxed Fit gives extra room in the toe box, while the Arch Fit insole delivers noticeable support during long sessions. The hands-free Slip-in design makes getting the shoes on and off effortless without sacrificing lockdown.
I would personally recommend these to any player from the amateur to pro level.”
Pushing those Court Viper 2.0’s to the limit
Skechers Fashion Collection Comfort & Style
You know that the Skechers are the most comfortable shoes, you’ve got to think that it would be no different when it comes to sporting fashion. For the Skechers Pickleball Apparel Performance line, Skechers went right to the courts and teamed up with pickleball pros Tyson McGuffin and Catherine Parenteau to introduce a oneof-a-kind collection.
Tyson and Catherine were involved in all aspect of design with state-of-the-art print, bold color selection and materials that keep you cool while you are getting hot and sweaty. Their lineup blends all-day comfort with court-ready performance so you can move, compete, and look your best. Comfort made easy, setting a new standard for pickleball gear. The best part, Skechers keeps it affordable.
Men’s Ideas For You!
Digiwave 5 Inch Short: No need for undies here, they are built in! Double layered construction provides the ultimate in comfort and functionality. Each pair is crafted from our innovative SKECHWEAVE™ fabric for superb breathability and quick drying when you need it most. Featuring a drawcord elastic waistband, front slash pockets, back zipper pocket, and a geoprinted inner mesh short for coverage and support.
Skechers Performance™ Fade Tee: A perfect match for the Digiwave shorts. Providing all-day active comfort with silky smooth design. This short sleeve crewneck shirt is made from moisture-wicking GO DRI VAPOR™ ombre fabric and features flatlock seams and branding at left chest.
Women’s Ideas for You!
Skechers Court Classics Short Sleeve Tee: crewneck t-shirt is made from exceptionally soft SKECH-JERSEY™ fabric and features a Skechers® tennis club graphic at left chest.
Skechers Performance™ Court Skort: designed in collaboration with professional pickleball player Catherine Parenteau, this athletic skirt/shorts combo showcases her professional court experience. The elasticated doubleknit waistband provides superior support to prevent rolling down during intense play. Made from lightweight SKECHWEAVE™ fabric, this dynamic piece features a breathable underlay short with pockets and mesh overlaps at side seams.
Skechers Performance™ Court Classic Polo Crew is a shortwaist pullover sweatshirt is made from breathable SKECHSWEATS™ French terry and features a flat knit collar and placket with contrast sport striping, ribbed cuffs and hem, plus a Skechers Performance™ logo graphic at center chest. Part of a coordinating apparel collection.
www.Skechers.com
Viper Court Elite 2.0’
Protect Those Precious Eyes
By Claudio DeMarchi
Did you know - Over 47% of Pickleball players sustain eye injuries. Don’t be one of them!
From the makers of some of the best Paddles in the world....
Gearbox Vision Eyewear – Clear Vision and Anti Fog
It goes back to that same old thought process, if you don’t know that you are wearing them, they are a perfect fit. Needless to say, lightweight, with crisp clear vision, Anti-Scratch and the AntiFog coating, you are in business every time you are on the court. Playing indoors 95% of the time, being up here in Canada, I noticed the reduction in glare and better depth perception. Better vision will give you better timing, all important for those killer smashes.
The glasses are available in slim and regular (for big heads like mine) fit. You will love the adjustable nose bridge and temple arms rest comfortably above the ears.
For those playing outdoors and in need of sunglasses all lenses feature UV protection.
The Gearbox Vision Eyewear was designed with safety in mind. Tested for safety and loved by their professionals. Remember, you are only as good as your sight. www.GearboxSports.com
Joola Protective Eyewear
When you forget that you are wearing eyewear, you know that it is a perfect fit.
I was sent 2 pairs, the RJX Boost and the RJX Enhance, both with clear lenses as being in Canada we play indoor for a good portion of the year. They are also available as sunglasses. Ideal for golf as well. The Enhance is a full frame, I generally prefer the open bottom style, it was automatic that I went to the Boost first. For hour 2 of play I made the switch to the Enhance and absolutely delighted with the fact that there was virtually no difference in feel or perspective during play.
JOOLA RJX Enhance
A sleek design offers incredible comfort and durability. lightweight, designed specifically for pickleball. Featuring:
• Anti-reflective: Backside anti-reflective coating minimizes glare
from artificial light
• Enhanced color vision: AI-powered COLORBOOST™ lenses strengthen your awareness, sharpen target recognition, and boost overall reaction time by up to 25%
• Durable design: High-quality rubber that enhances grip strength
JOOLA RJX Boost - is the most complete pickleball eyewear ever created. Each pair of lenses uses revolutionary COLORBOOST™ lens technology. The artificial intelligence leveraged by COLORBOOST™ lenses are designed by proprietary software, that boosts the contrast between the ball and background, improving your competitive reaction time by upwards of 25%.
Joola’s team of engineers performed numerous successful impact tests to earn RJX-Boost a certified American National Standard (ANSI) rating of Z87.1, making RJX-Boost one of the safest pickleball glasses on the market today.
Both frames are comfortable, durable, and designed to keep you playing without worrying about your eyes. Give your vision the competitive edge it deserves, and take your game to the next level. www.Joola.com
Need to get a BETER GRIP On Your Game
Hesacore Grip and Hesatac Overgrip
You don’t need the over grip but it is my personal preference. For me it is such a solid comfortable feel. Who would have guessed that Hesacore’s patented Hexagonal Grip technology would prove to be the perfect ergonomic fit for the hand.
A few of things that really stand out for me are 1.) how it minimizes or absorbs vibration from those shots from bangers.
2.) the hexagon or honeycomb design gives a feel of exactly how the paddle sits in your hand, 3.) finally it might be slightly larger than your conventional grip, therefore no need to tighten on the grip, which should reduce the amount of wrist in your game. Tight grip and vibrations are traditional causes of injuries.
Hesatac Overgrip is designed for Hesacore’s signature grip system. Delivering comfort, precision, and sweat-proof performance for pickleball, tennis, and padel. www.Hesacore.com
Have Paddle Will Travel
The Scottsdale Resort & Spa: Golf & Pickleball Why would you want to go anywhere else?
Situated in the heart of McCormick Ranch, The Scottsdale Resort and Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton, more than Resort & Spa, it’s an escape, a portal to a world were relaxation and restoration reign supreme. Where your next story begins.
The McCormick Ranch has 2 courses, The Pine and The Palm,
offering up vast panoramic mountain vistas and sparkling lakes. The Palm Course has water in play on 10 holes, and the signature hole, number 9 has been featured in Golf Illustrated’s Top 18 Water Holes of America. Being located at the center of Scottsdale’s most iconic golf corridor you have 30 courses within reach Silverado Golf Club, Talking Stick Golf Club, Kierland Golf Club, and Camelback Golf Club to name a few.
Following a $40 million transformation in 2024, the resort has emerged as one of Scottsdale’s most deluxe resort retreats. This full-scale renovation includes all guestrooms, public spaces, and the debut of four distinct dining venues, blending historic charm with modern sophistication. Guests can enjoy Sonoran-inspired cuisine in La Fogata, The Madam Speakeasy, Barnaby’s Café & Wine Bar, and The Social Boardroom with interactive games. The upgraded fitness center and revitalized Luna Spa round out the experience with tranquility and rejuvenation. www.TheScottsdaleResort.com
CordeValle
Nestled in the countryside of San Martin, California, just 30 minutes south of San Jose, CordeValle is a golf lover’s dream and the ultimate choice for a golf vacation. Let me rephrase that, “a golf and pickleball vacation.”
Cordevalle Golf Club is the award-winning crown jewel of the resort. Tucked into the golden foothills of the Santa Cruz mountain range, the CordeValle Golf Club offers the quintessential Northern California golf experience. Designed by internationally acclaimed golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. Ranked #7 on Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play list, CordeValle has hosted many PGA TOUR events including the 2016 U.S. Women’s Open.
A little over a year ago, the luxury retreat announced the grand
opening of its new state-of-the-art 8,000 square-foot Pickleball facility, lounge, and training space. This exclusive outdoor facility adds eight pickleball courts to round out the four existing Plexicushion tennis tournament courts, two crushed oyster shell Bocce courts, a viewing area, lounge, outdoor patio, and entertainment space for members and guests.
For more information about CordeValle and its luxury offering, please visit www.CordeValle.com
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Where the sugar-white quartz sand meets emerald-green waters of Florida’s Emerald Coast. More things to do and styles of accommodations that you can’t help but feel at home. One feel good experience after another.
Voted #3 Best Resort in Florida & #50 Best Resort in the World - Condé Nast Travelers Readers’ Choice Award 2025. On the Courts: You will find yourself in a most picturesque and welcoming atmosphere. Six well maintain pickleball courts await, along with 12 world-class HydroGrid clay and three hard tennis courts. Players of all skill levels welcome, you will find friendly competition and camaraderie. Lesson’s, clinics and round robin play is available for all to improve their play.
Sandestin offers some of the best of Florida Golf with the accolades to prove it! Many holes featuring stunning views of Choctawhatchee Bay. 4 courses on site, Baytowne Golf Club, The Links, Burnt Pine and my personal favorite Raven Golf Club. This Robert Trent Jones Jr. stunner, traditional in style, carved through marshes and pine trees providing challenging shot options for those who dare.
Scottsdale Resort & Spa
CordeValle
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Accolades include:
• 4 1/2 stars, Golf Digest “Places To Play”
• #14 in Florida, The Best Courses Near You, GOLF Magazine
• #39 Best Tour Courses You Can Play, Golfweek Magazine www.sandestin.com
Saddlebrook Resort
Putting on the Final touches to a $100 Million Transformation
The latest chapter is already in motion for the iconic Saddlebrook Resort The resort just north of Tampa Bay, considered a destination within itself known for world-class golf, tennis, leisure and group getaways.
The renovation, restoration and upgrades have touched every aspect of the resort, from the lobby, accommodations, restaurants, event spaces, outdoor areas, swimming pools and most importantly for anyone reading this is the pickleball courts and golf courses. Renowned golf course architect Rees Jones has undertaken the redesign of Saddlebrook’s courses. There are now 41 tennis courts, 8 pickleball courts, a fitness center for cardio and strength training, a spa, plus a planned multi-court Padel area, and more. Saddlebrook’s legendary fairways are entering a bold new era. Under the direction of renowned designer Rees Jones, our courses are being revitalized to enhance playability, aesthetics, and overall experience, while honoring their original spirit. The first milestone is here: the Oak Course has officially debuted, featuring refreshed greens, reimagined bunkers, and a layout designed to
challenge and delight golfers of all levels. This is just the beginning of Saddlebrook’s multi-course transformation, set against the backdrop of our iconic Florida landscape. www.Saddlebrook.com
The Backyard of My Dreams and Maybe Yours? My or Your Own Pickleball Court
The Pickleball Management Group rolled one out in no time at the Toronto Golf Show this past February. They can have one “Court-Ready” in most places in as little as a day! California based, with a Canadian office in Calgary, Alberta, they offer affordable solutions when it comes to Pickleball Courts, be it for a backyard, a parking lot or even a school yard.
The system provides a PickleDeck Sub-floor topped with a Premium Rollout Surface for Competition Grade performance. What I find remarkable is that there is no major evacuation or concrete needed and it can be moved. Should anyone require accessories they can provide those as well.
With decades of equipment product development and event management expertise they also provide permanent courts. Endorsed by: USA Pickleball, APP Tour, Pickleball Canada and the US Open Pickleball Championships. www.pickleballmanagement.com
Contact: Scott Winters: scott@pickleballmanagement.com or Charlie Hauser: charlie@pickleballmanagement.com
Saddlebrook Resort