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THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots
GOLF VACATIONS APRIL 2016
WICKENBURG
RANCH & SOCIAL CLUB
ARIZONA’S WINTER GETAWAY
CANADA’S ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH
CANMORE GOLF COURSES
Plus: CALIFORNIA DESERT’S RAMS HILL GOLF CLUB www.golfvacationsmag.com
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GOLF VACATIONS APRIL 2016
Rams Hill Golf Club, Borrego Springs, California
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Chip Shots
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Rams Hill Golf Club by David R. Holland Driving in to this sleepy, artsy desert town doesn’t prepare you for the rebirth -- the oasis that Rams Hill Golf Club has become. Since reopening after an economic shutdown, Ram’s Hill has become a must play and word of mouth continually champions it as one of the best Southern California public golf courses – that includes anything you can find in Los Angeles, San Diego and Palm Springs.
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Rocky Mountain High
by Tim Cotroneo
Did you know that playing golf in the Canadian Rockies is good for your health? Studies show that living, working, and playing at altitude not only reduces risk of heart disease, it also contributes to losing weight. So if you’ve longed to tee it up with snow-capped mountains as a playing partner, here’s why the Alberta town of Canmore’s three courses may be just what the doctor ordered.
Wickenburg Ranch
by David R. Holland
Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club, the first new golf course to open in Arizona since We-Ko-Pa’s Saguaro Course in 2006 is a prime example of why Arizona started marketing itself as a winter getaway almost 100 years ago. The land is vast, wild, rugged and available.
Sweet Stuff
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by Terry Ross
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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Tim Cotroneo is a Mineapolis-based freelance writer specializing in Caribbean travel, business, and golf. Tim is a long-time contributor to Tee Times Press and he’s also the Travel Writer for American Business Magazine.
Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz
JD Latorre is a freelance travel writer currently calling South Florida his home base. He has a knack for finding himself in some of the world’s most exotic locations, including Bangkok, Montego Bay, Bogata, Havana, Tenerife, St. Kitts, Cancun and Marseilles. His past lives included working for the Miami Herald, Chicago Daily Herald, Boston Globe, Daily News of Los Angles and Southern California Golf Newspaper.
Associate Editor Terry Ross
Features Editor Larry Feldman
Senior Writers Terry Ross has covered sports as both a print and radio journalist for more than 35 years, and also has served as a consultant to the golf industry in a variety of capacities. He has been a regular columnist for the Long Beach Business Journal and is based in Orange County, California.
JD Latorre Andy Reistetter Fred Robledo
For Editorial:
call (760) 774-2655 e-mail: Info@GolfVacationsMag.com David R. Holland is an award-winning former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, football magazine publisher, and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. Holland, whose favorite golf moment was teeing it up with former Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry, splits home time in Colorado and Texas. He has written for GolfWeek’s Superintendent News, Colorado AvidGolfer, Midwest Golfing Magazine, South Central Golf Magazine, and Fairway to Green (UK). He also worked for the Dallas Cowboys Weekly, United Press International and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Regional Advertising Los Angeles Terry Ross • 949-279-7801 terryr@GolfVacationsMag.com Atlanta Harold Chambliss • 770-239-7500 haroldc@GolfVacationsMag.com
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portsMedia publications
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Golf Vacations Magazine is published in digital format monthly and distributed online to over 1,000,000 golfer’s email inboxes each issue. Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2016 SportsMedia Publications, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.
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WE ARE GOLF, Topgolf Expand Partnership for National Golf Day 2016
WE ARE GOLF – a coalition of the game’s leading associations and industry partners – today announces it will once again partner with Topgolf for National Golf Day 2016, offering free golf lessons at the company’s 21 venues nationwide. Taking place on Wednesday, May 18, Topgolf is attempting to set a company record for most golf lessons taught in one day. Any guest who visits a location on May 18 will receive a free five-minute golf lesson. Slow-motion video swing analysis through the Topgolf U instructional program is also available. “Last year’s partnership with Topgolf engaged thousands of its guests who are not core golfers and may not have been aware of National Golf Day and the impact of the game across America,” says Steve Mona, CEO of World Golf Foundation. “Through Topgolf, we are able to reach millennials and engage new audiences by showing how golf is fun, young and cool.” New for this year, WE ARE GOLF will host
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a “National Golf Day Launch Party” on Tuesday evening, May 17, at the Hawk ‘n’ Dove on Capitol Hill and Topgolf will serve as a partner, providing giveaways to attendees. “We are proud to celebrate the golf industry on National Golf Day by offering our guests a fun, free and easy way to improve their swing,” said Topgolf Entertainment Group Co-Chairman and CEO Erik Anderson. “With the recent relaunch of our Topgolf U instructional program, Topgolf is doubling down on our commitment to help grow the game by exposing our guests to the sport in a high-energy, innovative and non-intimidating atmosphere.” For National Golf Day’s ninth consecutive year, golf industry leaders will meet with Members of Congress, the Executive Branch and federal agencies to discuss golf’s nearly $70 billion economy, $4 billion annual charitable impact and many environmental and fitness benefits. Throughout the day, participants will share stories about the game’s 15,000-plus diverse businesses, impact on nearly two million jobs across America, tax revenue creation, tourism
and ecological value. National Golf Day in April 2015 was the most successful to date with more than 100 Congressional meetings in one day. Globally, the #NGD15 Twitter campaign eclipsed 37.6 million impressions and reached 19.8 million accounts, including 3.3 million users in a one-hour span. To join the conversation, visit the WE ARE GOLF social media hub. Use #NGD16 and @ wearegolf on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to show your support for the industry and share why golf is more than a game to you. WE ARE GOLF, created in 2010, is an industry coalition that communicates the economic, charitable and environmental impact of golf, as well as the health and wellness benefits of the game and the affordability and accessibility of golf, to Members of Congress, the Executive Branch and regulatory agencies. The goal of WE ARE GOLF is to ensure that laws and regulations that impact the golf industry are equitable and appropriate to an industry that generates nearly $70 billion in economic impact annually, impacts close to two million jobs and generates nearly $4
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billion in charitable giving each year. For more info visit www.wearegolf.org. Topgolf is a global sports entertainment community creating the best times of your life, with 24 locations serving 8 million guests annually. Players hit golf balls containing computer microchips that track each shot’s accuracy and distance while awarding points for hitting targets on the outfield. Each venue offers an upscale and playful experience, featuring an impressive food and beverage menu, music, games, climatecontrolled hitting bays, and hundreds of HDTVs. Topgolf also brings fun, interactive experiences to the community through its Topgolf U lessons, leagues, tournaments, KidZone parties, and social and corporate events. To learn more about Topgolf, follow @ Topgolf or visit www.topgolf.com.
Viceroy Miami Scores Hole-inOne with Rooftop Putt-Putt Golf and Two New Sporty Packages in April
Need a tee time? Head 50 floors up to the rooftop FIFTY Ultra Lounge at Viceroy Miami for a friendly game of miniature golf. Every Wednesday from 5 to 10 p.m. in April, the stylish Downtown Miami hotel invites guests to play putt-putt poolside while enjoying incomparable views of the city and Biscayne Bay, savor a delectable snack from
a pop-up taco stand presented by Coyo Taco and sip on Arnold Palmers. Whether a golf or wellness enthusiast, hotel guests can also take advantage of Viceroy Miami’s two new sporty packages available April 1-30, 2016. “Viceroy Miami offers a variety of ways for guests to stay fit between our 300-foot long swimming pool, state-of-the-art gym, invigorating fitness classes and neighboring parks,” says Tijs Klerx, director of sales & marketing. “We thought it would be fun to take it up a notch by transforming our rooftop into a happening happy hour scene with miniature golf, as well as feature overnight packages designed to promote wellness or work on one’s golf swing.” In partnership with nearby Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne, Viceroy Miami offers a Stay ‘N Play package starting at $284 per room, per night, featuring the following: - Accommodations in Viceroy King Room - Custom golf welcome amenity - 18-holes at Crandon Golf Course for 2 people (clubs included) - $50 Uber credit for transportation - Early check-in and late check-out, upon availability Additionally, guests can stay in tip-top shape while away with Viceroy Miami’s Sports & Wellness package. It starts at $249 per room, per night and includes the following:
- Accommodations in Viceroy King Room - Sporty welcome amenity - Daily 30-minute personal training class - Daily 30-minute stretch session - Unlimited group fitness classes - Late check-out, upon availability At Miami’s only rooftop putt-putt golf experience, Viceroy Miami creates a fun weekly happy hour vibe with the addition of a 9-hole miniature golf course set-up around the nightclub’s private pool. After playing a round, guest Chef Scott Linquist of Coyo Taco fuels happy hour-goers with his signature bites (April 6th and 13th events only) including freshly mashed guacamole, variety of tacos such as cochinita pibil, pollo al carbon and hongos y huitlacoche, quesadillas, and churros. Viceroy Miami also serves reduced-priced golf-inspired cocktails, like the classic Arnold Palmer with a twist. Viceroy Miami has timed the launch of these new offerings around Miami Sports & Wellness Month, a program created by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau to celebrate all the recreational activities that the city has to offer. The hotel’s overnight packages are subject to availability and exclusive of taxes, gratuities and fees. Certain restrictions apply. To book, a stay, call 866-781-9923 or visit www. viceroymiami.com.
Crandon Golf Course
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Pebble Beach Resorts Gears Up For Spring And Summer With Package Offerings
PEBBLE BEACH, CA – As winter continues to melt away across much of the country, golf is in full swing at Pebble Beach Resorts, and the introduction of several new packages provide both players and non-golfers alike the opportunity to celebrate spring, summer and all of the special holidays that come with them along one of the world’s most scenic coastlines. In addition to a tee time on one of the worldclass golf courses at Pebble Beach Resorts, there are a variety of activities that will leave guests with lasting memories. Enjoy outdoor recreation ranging from horseback rides at the Equestrian Center to beach strolls along the boardwalk, sip on craft cocktails while the bagpiper sunsetserenades guests at the fire pits, or relax at The Spa at Pebble Beach – one of just 47 spas in the world to receive the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating. A meal at one of the acclaimed restaurants at Pebble Beach Resorts rounds out a stay perfect for any occasion. Pebble Beach Stay & Play Package: In this two-night getaway, guests will have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of golfing legends with a round at Pebble Beach Golf Links – named America’s No. 1 Greatest Public
Golf Course by Golf Digest and host to a sixth U.S. Open Championship in 2019 – along with a second round at The Links at Spanish Bay or Spyglass Hill Golf Course. For guests arriving through April 30, 2016, they will enjoy an April booking bonus of one free round on The Links at Spanish Bay. Guests also have the opportunity to book their third night at 20% off the rack rate. This package starts at $2,250, and is valid through September 7, 2016. Memorial Day: As the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day rings in long sunny days, perfect for getting in those extra golf holes. Kick off the season by staying two nights at The Inn at Spanish Bay from $450 per night (35% discount), and play on the world-renowned golf courses of Pebble Beach Resorts at special rates: $445 per round at Pebble Beach Golf Links (10% discount), $295 per round at Spyglass Hill Golf Course (25% discount) and $130 per round at The Links at Spanish Bay (54% discount). Finish off an exciting day on the course with a relaxing treatment at The Spa at Pebble Beach and receive a 20% discount off any spa service. This special offer is valid May 26-31, 2016. Father’s Day And Fourth Of July: Whether celebrating dad’s special day or taking in the Pebble Beach ambience beneath starry skies on Independence Day, Pebble
Beach Resorts provides a unique backdrop for making special memories. Stay two nights at The Inn at Spanish Bay from $450 per night (35% discount) or The Lodge at Pebble Beach from $585 per night (28% discount), and tee it up for $445 at Pebble Beach Golf Links, $295 at Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and $130 at The Links at Spanish Bay. The Spa at Pebble Beach awaits golfers with 20% off any spa service, whether guests are looking to loosen up before or after a round with a sports treatment, or simply to indulge in the award-winning setting. Father’s Day valid package dates are June 1421, 2016, and Fourth of July valid package dates are June 29-July 5, 2016. Pebble Beach Explorers Package: The Pebble Beach Explorers package is a fun opportunity for the entire family to experience the world-class dining and activities of Pebble Beach Resorts, with a kid-friendly twist. The adventure begins at check-in at The Inn at Spanish Bay, where kids receive a scavenger hunt map to explore the hotel and learn about its storied history. Young guests will then be treated to a welcome gift while seated by their cozy in-room fireplace. A sunset serenade by the bagpiper – a favorite attraction for guests of all ages – caps off an unforgettable day on one of the world’s most scenic coastlines. This package includes complimentary meals for kids 12 and
Pebble Beach Golf Links
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS under at STICKS and Roy’s; complimentary tennis, horseback rides and golf at the par-3 Peter Hay Golf Course; and more. Package starts at $625 per night, and is valid for stays through July 31, 2016. For more information, to book a Pebble Beach experience, and to sign up for special email offers, please visit www.pebblebeach. com or call (888) 251-9790.
Oglebay Resort and Conference Center Unveils 2016 Spring Golf Packages
WHEELING, WV – Oglebay Resort and Conference Center – West Virginia’s most popular golf destination set in historic 1,700-acre Wheeling Park in the Appalachian foothills – announces a selection of stay-andplay packages for spring golf getaways. Oglebay’s golf amenities feature layouts for any and all abilities, including two acclaimed 18-hole championship layouts at The Speidel Golf Club designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Arnold Palmer. The resort’s original course – the Crispin which is just over 5,600 yards – is ideal for warm-up rounds, seniors and beginners. Oglebay also offers two driving ranges and a family-friendly par-3 course at Wheeling Park. Highlighted by exceptional value, the spring golf packages include: Early Birdie Package – Available through April 28 (Sun.-Thurs.) and starting at $149 (per person, per night, double occupancy), the offer includes a round of golf on both the Jones and Palmer courses, and stays in the Wilson Lodge or golf cottages. Play on the Crispin Course is included based on availability. Club storage, unlimited practice facility access and daily breakfast buffet also are included. His & Hers Weekday Package – Beginning at $159 (per person, per night, double occupancy) and perfect for couples, this package includes lodge accommodations and a round of golf on either the Jones or Palmer courses. Available Sun.-Thurs., the offer also features daily breakfast buffet and dinner, and a $50 spa gift card towards any service at the West Spa (reservations required). Championship Unlimited Getaway – Available Monday-Thursday and starting at $239 (per person, per night, double occupancy), guests enjoy stays in the Wilson Lodge or golf cottages, unlimited golf (with GPS cart) on the Jones and Palmer courses, daily breakfast buffet and play on the Crispin Course. Eagle Weekend Package – Available Friday-Sunday during the spring and starting at $299 (double occupancy, two-night stay required), this getaway includes rounds of golf (with GPS cart) on both the Jones and
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Palmer courses, as well as daily play on the par-3 courses and Crispin Course (subject to availability, golf car not included). The package includes accommodations in the Wilson Lodge or golf cottages and daily breakfast buffet. Oglebay is an hour’s drive from Pittsburgh and easily accessible from Columbus, Charleston (W.V.), Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit and numerous Midwest and Northeast metropolitan areas. For additional information about rates, restrictions and other package inclusions and details: www.oglebay-resort.com, 800.624.6988.
Pound Ridge Golf Club, Delamar Greenwich Harbor Announce Spring Stay-andPlay Experience
POUND RIDGE, NY – Pound Ridge Golf Club – New York’s only Pete Dye design – and the luxurious Delamar Greenwich Harbor invite golfers to cast off the winter and plan for the upcoming golf season with the re-release of their popular stay-and-play experience. The package is offered seven days a week and includes one round of golf per person and one night’s accommodations. Weekday rates start at $455, weekends at $504 (single occupancy). Value-laden additions include: Golf shoe and club rental 10% off all golf shop merchandise at Pound Ridge Golf Club A bottle of champagne/wine delivered to the room 10% off a sports massage at the Spa at Delamar “Traveling golfers in New York City region for business or leisure can take advantage of the Spring Stay-and-Play to pair world-class golf and accommodations,” says Todd Leavenworth, General Manager. “We have current generation rental clubs and golf shoes, appealing to those who do not want to lug extra gear through airports and in rental cars or taxis.” Ranked in the top-10 in-state by GOLF Magazine and Golfweek and dubbed a “modern marvel” by Men’s Journal, Pound Ridge boasts a sporty 146 slope and 76.1 course rating from the back tees. However, Dye’s use of handicap differential in determining the placement of the five other sets of tees makes the golf course appealing for every type of player. The Delamar Greenwich Harbor features 82 deluxe rooms and suites with 500-feet of waterfront and private docks. Designed to evoke old world charm, it houses a full service spa with services and treatments by the luxury brands Biologique Recherche and Valmont, and an award-winning restaurant and bar, L’escale. Wrought iron balconies, marble bathrooms and working fireplaces grace the guest rooms of this
Mediterranean-inspired “inn.” For reservations, visit www. delamargreenwich.com or call (866) 335.2627. For more information about Pound Ridge Golf Club, visit www.poundridgegolf.com or call (914) 764.5771
Hilton Head Golf Island Announces 2016 Spring Stayand-Play Packages
HILTON HEAD, SC– Hilton Head Golf Island (HHGI) – the International Association of Golf Tour Operators’ Golf Destination of the Year for North America for 2016 – unveils a wide selection of packages available this spring to suit any budget and golf group. Among the spring golf stay-and-play packages offered: The Inn & Club at Harbour Town Package – Perfect for couples, The Inn & Club at Harbour Town Golf Package begins at $375 (per person, per night) and features a stay at The Sea Pines Resort’s boutique hotel with daily breakfast for each guest. Overlooking famed Harbour Town Golf Links, the inn is the only Forbes Four-Star rated property on Hilton Head Island. Play on both Harbour Town and Heron Point is available. Afternoon replays on Heron Point (cart fee only) are offered subject to availability. Complimentary warm-up range balls, wireless Internet and use of The Sea Pines Fitness Center are included. The Heritage Golf Collection “Grand Slam” Golf Package – Starting at $175 per person per night (based on quad occupancy), the getaway includes four nights in villa accommodations and three rounds of golf at The Heritage Golf Collection courses (Port Royal, Shipyard, Palmetto Hall Plantation and Oyster Reef). Daily breakfast and lunch at the golf clubs are included, as are range balls and a Heritage Golf Collection VIP Discount Card. Valid through April 30, the Grand Slam includes all taxes and fees. Palmetto Dunes “Birdies and Beer Getaway” – Guests enjoy four days/three nights in a two-bedroom villa at the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and three rounds of golf on the resort’s three championship courses: Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront, Arthur Hills and George Fazio. Starting at $180 per golfer/ per night, the promotion features breakfast and beers via a resort gift card. Also offered: two hours of court time per day per villa at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, range balls, dining and pro shop discounts, and preferred rates and priority access to all resort activities and amenities. For additional information about rates, restrictions and other package inclusions, or to receive a quote: www.hiltonheadgolfisland. com, 800.523.3373.
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Rams Hill Go
A Must Play Reborn 12 Golf Vacations • April 2016
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olf Club
Rams Hill #18 577-yard, par 5
by DAVID R. HOLLAND
n in the California Desert www.golfvacationsmag.com
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ORREGO SPRINGS, CA – Driving in to this sleepy, artsy desert town doesn’t prepare you for the rebirth -- the oasis that Rams Hill Golf Club has become.
For more than three years Rams Hill returned to brown. Even the landmark resort La Casa del Zorro, dating back to 1936 and less than a mile away was closed. It has hosted Presidents Nixon and Reagan.
Since reopening after an economic shutdown, Ram’s Hill has become a must play and word of mouth continually champions it as one of the best Southern California public golf courses – that includes anything you can find in Los Angeles, San Diego and Palm Springs.
But new ownership and an excellent superintendent named Steven Gregory brought Rams Hill back to life.
It actually borders the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – California’s largest state park. Everywhere you look is tawny desert 90 miles of back roads and winding pavement from San Diego, but still in San Diego County. But if you walk out on the patio of The Yacht Club, the excellent restaurant at Rams Hill, there’s a spectacular panorama of lush green fairways bordered by tall golden grasses, blooming desert flowers sprinkled with succulent plants, water features streaming over rock, and finally a mountain backdrop. Golf praise phrases apply here – ideal conditioning that’s lush, but plays firm and fast, and smooth bent-grass greens normally found only at ritzy country clubs. Hard to believe this beauty was shut down in 2010, a casualty of economic downturn and water rights. Rams Hill was placed in exodus mode with little hope of a future a genesis.
If Director of Golf Mike Setchell has heard it once, he’s heard it hundreds of times. “I’m constantly told this is the best conditioned public golf course I’ve ever played.” Rams Hill: The rebirth Bill Berkley, as CEO of T2 Borrego, a Rancho Santa Fe real estate investor, purchased the property and its 3,000 acres in 2013 for $842,000. Berkley said the company has since invested millions. The irrigation system had to be updated since sprinkler heads had been sold. Bunkers and greens were restored with new sand and seed and dining options were added. “We started in November 2013 and a year later reopened,” Setchell said. Water concerns in today’s California drought? The club now has six wells. “The water is non-potable, has arsenic in it, so we aren’t taking anything from the local drinking water supply. And we added native grasses and drought-resistant plants trying to do our part to conserve.”
Rams Hill #17 Green looking North, 331-yard, par 4
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Rams Hill #5 206-yard, par 3
Rams Hill’s lakes are full again after drying up after closure.
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Rams Hill #18 from behind the green
Rams Hill GC: A Tom Fazio journey you won’t forget Ted Robinson initially designed a 27-hole layout in 1983. That layout was loved, but in 2007 Tom Fazio was brought in to re-design. The new ownership and name -- Montesoro Golf & Social Club only lasted until 2010 when real estate values faced an economic downturn. Thankfully 2014 brought back the must play with a return to the Rams Hill name. “This land is just a perfect fit,” Setchell continued. “We are 72 miles from PGA West, but with an altitude of 1,000 feet it is just cool enough in the evenings to be successful growing bent-grass greens. And a little breeze comes up the afternoon to cool things off a little. It is not tricked up and you can see what is in front of you all day long.” One of the best examples of seeing the entire hole is No. 18, a 577-yard, par 5. It sweeps downhill on the drive, a swinging dogleg right. Hit a down slope and have a breeze to the back and it could be your longest drive of the day. Numerous fairway bunkers are left and right with a pond on the right catching water that rolls downhill from the clubhouse in small water-fall stages over large rocks. Water even wraps behind the green. There’s no excuse to miss this massive fairway and envision your trip to a birdie. Oh yeah, the mountains form a flawless backdrop.
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I can’t think of a bad hole. Back-to-back par threes at 10 and 11 will challenge you at 151 and 213 yards and the 17th hole is only 331 yards, a minefield of bunkers, and a left turn on the approach to an elevated smaller and harder to hit green. This golf course was as fun as any I’ve played in Palm Springs. It is easily as good as any in San Diego County. Stay and Play La Casa del Zorro (lacasadelzorro.com) has a can’t miss stay and play with Rams Hill Golf Club for $192 double occupancy. You will pay twice that in Palm Springs for the value of Rams Hill and La Casa del Zorro. This iconic resort spreads out on 42 acres giving you star-gazing solitude and offers 19 private casitas, with your own pool. Don’t miss the Butterfield Dining Room and the Fox Den Bar & Cantina. Zorro’s 44 poolside guest rooms are perfect rustic desert charm with modern comfort -- high vaulted ceilings, tile floors, wood burning fireplaces and marble bathtubs. Both the guest rooms and the casitas are appointed with free wifi, terrycloth robes, coffeemakers and large flat panel TVs. Zorro has six lighted tennis courts, three guest-use pools, fitness center, yoga studio, conference center and spa.
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ROCKY MO
CANMORE GO
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OUNTAINS
OLF COURSES
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By Tim Cotroneo
Resort Golf VacationsSilvertip • 2016 19
D
id you know that playing golf in the Canadian Rockies is good for your health? Studies show that living, working, and playing at altitude not only reduces risk of heart disease, it also contributes to losing weight. So if you’ve longed to tee it up with snow-capped mountains as a playing partner, here’s why the Alberta town of Canmore’s three courses may be just what the doctor ordered.
Back in the 19th century, the University of Innsbruck in Austria discovered the health benefits of vacationing in the mountains. Tourists found their blood pressure lowered, they lost weight, and they slept better. It so happens that Canmore is home to three of the most beautiful golf courses on the planet. Imagine jumpstarting your intestinal fortitude, as well as your golf game, while being surrounded by mountain scenery that is suitable for framing. Canmore is an international mecca for individuals infatuated with every sport that goes vertical. It stands to reason that 18-hole layouts in this charming mountain town offer the kind of oxygen, scenery, and adrenaline rush that are the closest you’ll find to extreme golf. Silvertip Resort Golf Course, Stewart Creek Golf and Country Club, and Canmore Golf and Curling Club share the perfect prescription for getting physical in an environment that’s so pure, even the elk run marathons. SILVERTIP RESORT GOLF COURSE Before blasting your first tee shot, the Silvertip driving range is one you’ll never forget. Golfers hit practice shots into the face of Mount Lady MacDonald. Topping out at over 8,000-feet, Lady MacDonald leans out so far, not even your highest drive will near its peak.
Stewart Creek Golf & Country Club
You’ll enjoy listening for accents among the Silvertip staff. More than a dozen members of the Silvertip team hail from Australia. Many of the Australian natives are drawn to Canmore’s world-class mountain climbing, biking, hiking, and skiing opportunities. It’s hard not to fall in love with Silvertip’s 18th hole. From the elevated tee box, you’ll feel inclined to duck to keep from brushing your golf cap on the clouds. Upon reaching the green, keep walking to the outdoor deck at Stoney’s Bar & Grill. All Alberta golf courses pride themselves in offering outdoor dining and imbibing options with views that are to die for. Stoney’s features an awesome view of the 18th green. The emerald green lake next to the putting green is blindingly brilliant on a sunny day. STEWART CREEK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB If mountain range photography is what drew you to Canmore in the first place, Stewart Creek features its own version of the Fab Four. Your head will swivel at the Cascade, Pigeon, and Three Sisters mountains, as well as Ha Ling Peak. History buffs will buzz over the fact that Stewart Creek is built on an abandoned coal mining site. The course architect kept two historical remnants of these mine shafts visible on the front and back nine. Before or after your round, it’s hard not to appreciate the visual ambiance of the Stewart Creek clubhouse. This two-tiered facility’s glass exterior features high-def views of the 18th hole and the Rundle Mountain Range. Inside the clubhouse you’ll rub elbows with members and vacationers who’ve played golf around the world. Stewart Creek exudes an international vibe bound by an appreciation for the game. Stewart Creek is also a hub for golfers turned mountain fanatics. Several non-Canadian staffers relocated to Canmore in order to advantage of the area’s plethora of mountain sport opportunities. Beyond the obvious skiing, climbing, and biking options, you’ll often hear mentions of Canmore’s Nordic Center where athletes take part in biathlon training. Spend a couple of days in Canmore, and you’ll observe that this town of 12,000 people may be one of the fittest cities in the world. CANMORE GOLF & CURLING CLUB Canadian Rockies golf makes a point of immediately creating an awareness of someplace special. On the first hole at Canmore Golf & Curling Club, you’re advised to hit your drive toward the crevasse separating the Rundle and Cascade mountains. Is there another course in the universe where your initial target reference is not one, but two mountain ranges? There is something to be said for researching the nuances of your vacation destination. At the Canmore Golf & Curling Club, you’ll discover Canmore is located smack dab in the middle of the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames hockey rivalry. It may be wise to ask
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your playing partner which side of this intense rivalry he or she leans before spewing your take on who should rule in the coming season. Upon commenting that Canmore Golf and Curling Club is even more beautiful in person than in photographs, be prepared to receive a smile and this common refrain, “The photos don’t lie.” Considering the spectacular views and conditions, Canmore Golf and Curling Club’s modest greens fees may be the Canadian Rockies best golf value. An added perk is the way members open their arms to newcomers. PLAY ONE, PLAY ALL Whether you play one or play all of the Canadian Rockies three healthiest golf courses, each venue promises to cleanse your soul. This is extreme golf with a premium placed on magnificent mountain views and an outdoor setting that is so quiet you’ll feel obliged to look skyward before speaking. If God plays golf, Canmore in the Canadian Rockies is where he’d book his first tee time. Canmore Golf & Curling Club
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Wickenburg R
Golf & Social C
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Wide-open spaces meet Arizona’s newest golf award-winner By David R. Holland
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ICKENBURG, Ariz. – Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club, the first new golf course to open in Arizona since We-Ko-Pa’s Saguaro Course in 2006 is a prime example of why Arizona started marketing itself as a winter getaway almost 100 years ago.
Ranch
Club
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The land is vast, wild, rugged and available. As Greater Phoenix grew and suburbia set in, solitude was replaced by hustle and bustle. But Wickenburg Ranch has a renewed lifestyle for those who yearned for starry nights, four-season adventure, and lots of land and plenty of room to spread out. Like saddling up a trail weary pony, Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club provides a slow pace. Tee times are measured 12 minutes apart. No one is there to rush you. It mirrors the almost unbelievable seven-year grown-in period this residential community golf course took because of the economic downturn. The only things frenetic are the lightning quick bent-grass greens. I played on a cool January day enjoying faultless, verdant rye fairways and smooth rolling greens. And any avid travel golfer with his eye on competition lists knows Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club was deserving of its Golf Digest distinction -- No. 6 on its Top Ten Best New Courses in North America for 2015.
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Located on the land that game-show host Merv Griffith used to run a dude ranch Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club was landscaped in hardy high desert terrain by two amateur architects, Wendell Pickett and William Brownlee. That’s right, not Nicklaus, not Palmer, not Player, not Crenshaw and Coore, not Fazio -- Pickett and Brownlee. Three dude ranches are still in the area on historic old west land within view of Vulture Peak where in 1863 a 49er named Henry Wickenburg struck the slope with a pick axe and for the next 79 years more than $30 million worth of gold was dug out. Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club, teamed with a new Trilogy residential development by Shea Homes, hopes to mine the next “mother lode” with a successful development. Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club: Cooler than Phoenix “Several things distinguish us,” said Justin Henderson, head pro. “Because of the higher elevation and relatively mild night-time summer temperatures the course is able to maintain bent-grass greens year round. “Those familiar with bent-grass understand what a tremendous difference it makes in putting surface quality, and that the chance to experience it in Arizona is a special treat. Also, the 7,059 yards, par 71 has a fun configuration of five par fives and six par threes. And finally the Arizona views are unforgettable.” Those views include Vulture Peak, massive saguaros, the occasional coyote and roadrunner, and rolling, rugged arroyo terrain that borders
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Prescott National Forest. You can be sure your new home is going to have all this without another neighbor’s house blocking your panorama. Probably the most memorable hole is “Big Water” the 246-yard par-3 13th that plunges 100 feet to a green surrounded by water, a huge semicircle bunker in front and bail-out only left. “Yikes” is the 595-yard 14th that has water in three places – the drive, the mid-point on the fairway journey left, and front left and behind the green. The notable risk/reward hole comes at No. 6 named “Gutz”. It is only 343 yards at par 4, but the decision is to play safe or cut off a portion of the huge lake that blends into a massive bunker. Combine the $95 rate for Wickenburg Residents, $105 for Arizona residents and $135 for out of state guests, the club opened last February with 100 straight sold-out days. Giving away a Travis Mathew polo and pullover, valued at $170 helped, but Top Ten courses in Phoenix and Tucson usually have $200+ green fees. At the 15th tee look left and you can see the construction of an executive course with no opening date yet announced. Also take advantage of the practice area that Golf Magazine named the third most inspiring in the USA. Your view is an amphitheater bluff looking toward the Bradshaw Mountains. Wickenburg Ranch, which offers memberships, hopes to go private in the future. Might be prudent to giddy up and visit soon.
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Stay and Play Wickenburg is such a scenic, old west experience any city slicker should consider a stay of more than a day. I’d head straight for Rancho de los Caballeros (www.ranchodeloscaballeros.com), a famous 1948 dude ranch that has a spa, nature horseback riding, jeep tours, trap shooting, saloon adventures, yoga, even a hidden gem golf course named Los Caballeros Golf Club. Bird watching at the Hassayampa River Preserve could be on the itinerary, along with the Desert Caballeros Western Museum. Guest rooms are comfortable with all the conveniences and Rancho de los Caballeros offers a full American plan of breakfast, lunch and dinner. But maybe the highlight of my day was walking outside after dark to see a flawless starry sky complete with shooting stars you can only witness far from the city lights of a big city. The experience made me flash back to earlier in the day when the conditioning of Wickenburg Ranch Golf & Social Club was just as unblemished.
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“SCOTTSDALE IS transformative. IT encourages YOU TO BE OUTDOORS AND play.”
200 Area Courses | 70+ Resorts & Hotels | 600+ Restaurants | 100+ Downtown Nightlife Options | EXPERIENCESCOTTSDALEGOLF.COM www.golfvacationsmag.com Golf Vacations • 2016 27
SWEETSTUFF T our Edge has made a name for itself as a company that produces some of the longest drivers and fairway woods on the market for both recreational and professional players, and with its latest contribution, the Exotics EX9 Long 3-Wood, the company might have outdone itself. This latest model by Tour Edge has one of the hottest club faces you will find—even on off-center hits—and its extra distance is readily apparent after only a few swings with this club. As a driver replacement or a fairway wood to get extra yardage off the deck, this club does not disappoint by combining driver length with 3-wood accuracy. The EX9 has a deeper face for more spring-like effect and the 185cc clubhead has great sight lines when setting up on the tee or off of the turf. The engineers at Tour Edge designed the new EX9 Long 3 with a 15-3-3-3 beta titanium cup face and used combo-brazing to combine it with the hyper-steel body for maximum ball speed anywhere on the face. The cup
face also embodies a redesigned variable face thickness technology that produces better results from more contact points on the face. Turf interaction is reduced by the SlipStream™ sole that was specially designed for the EX9 series, and the ‘waves’ of the sole are now shorter from front to back, resulting in a more explosive impact. In addition to the waves, the Power Grid has been reengineered deeper and much more narrow to remove weight close to the face and reposition it in the rear portion of the sole for ideal CG location. “It was imperative that the Long 3 fairway wood provide a different performance than the EX9 and the Tour woods,” said David Glod, president and founder of Tour Edge. “We were able to accomplish that by combining the slightly larger clubhead, deeper face and a super responsive beta titanium cup face with a longer shaft to give golfers fairway wood control with driver-like distance.” Another great feature of this club is that it comes in a 13 or 15-degree head and an adjustable hosel system for lots of customization. The 13-degree club, for instance, can be made stronger to 12-degrees or weaker to 14 degrees, while the 15-degree model can be set in a range from 14 to 16 degrees. In addition to the loft, lie angles can be adjusted. The Long 3 also includes a 9-gram center changeable weight insert to produce a penetrating ball flight, and is adjustable with an optional weight kit that includes a 6-gram, 11-gram and a 14-gram weight to increase or decrease the swing weight. The Adila Rogue Silver 60 and 70, Black 60; and the Mitsubishi Diamana S+, M+ and D+ shafts can be ordered standard and come in 43.5-inch length for extra distance. For more information on the Tour Edge Exotics EX9 Long 3- wood: www.touredge.com
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hen Voice Caddie introduced its original launch monitor two years ago—the Swing Caddie—it was instantly one of the handiest and reasonablypriced of its kind on the market—not to mention deadly accurate in giving swing speed, ball speed, carry distance and smash factor either indoors or on the driving range. Now the Swing Caddie2 has hit the market, and although it looks virtually the same as the original Swing Caddie, it has some very nice improvements and extra features--and still is small and priced under $350.
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For starters, the new SC200 has a new barometric pressure sensor and temperature gauge that increases the accuracy when measuring ball speed. Another nice new feature is the voice distance output that automatically calls out your distance on every shot as well as showing it on the easy-to-read monitor. The volume can be adjusted up, down or off, and with the handy remote you can adjust to give either the carry distance or the overall distance of the shot that includes a calculation for the role. Very few launch monitors will do this, and certainly none at this price point.
The new remote is larger and has more options and is actually easier to handle, and allows you to pick your club and set the loft for every club that is measured, again increasing the accuracy. The device uses Doppler technology to track each shot (just like the super expensive models from Trackman, etc.) and provides instant and accurate feedback, and instantly gives you the statistics on every swing, such as carry or total distance, club head speed, ball speed and smash factor to let you know how efficient your shots really are. The LCD display on a unit that is smaller than many mobile phones and fits in a handy carrying pouch that goes nicely inside a golf bag. It is one of the easiest and most valuable practice tools you will find and has three modes: practice, target and random, which are great for mixing up practice sessions to gain valuable feedback while trying to hit to a selected distance—just like on the golf course. The Swing Caddie2 stores stats (including averages) for each club for the session and
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SWEETSTUFF by Terry Ross
overall, and gives a shot count and time display. The new display shows all of the statistics without moving to another screen, which is a nice feature. In the target mode, you are able to set a distance and test your consistency over a 10-shot round. All of the stats are displayed after each shot, in addition to a score of 1-10 depending on how close you get to the preset distance goal. In the approach mode you can hone your skills instead of practicing one shot over and over. The Swing Caddie2 will give random distances to hit to and after every shot gives you a score of how you did, then switch to another random distance. For more information on the Swing Caddie2: www. voicecaddie.com
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or anyone looking for a flexible, light golf shoe that has as much turf traction as anything on the market, the new FreeStyle shoe by FootJoy is a great choice. Combining the look and feel of a running or athletic shoe, the contemporary styling of the FreeStyle makes this an ultra-comfortable shoe that conforms to your foot and is as light as any shoe on the market. It is somewhat like a hybrid in that it has a durable and breathable mesh upper that allows the foot to flex naturally, while the F.R.O.G.S. outsole
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technology, where traction elements increase ground contact points throughout the swing in all weather and underfoot conditions, provides maximum traction. The F.R.O.G.S. Technology incorporates a super-flexible new SoftMaxTM translucent outsole that offers both a softer feel and extra grip, while a new FTFTM 3.0 midsole compound is the brand’s softest and most comfortable yet. The Softspikes Tour LockTM system and new translucent Pulsar cleats deliver exceptional low-profile grip with
a dynamic, frog-like flex. Beneath the upper is an InnerSokTM Fit System - including both TongueLokTM and HeelLokTM mechanisms – to help hold the foot securely in place throughout the golf swing. “FreeStyle is arguably FootJoy’s most imaginative and distinctive shoe ever and will particularly help golfers who would benefit from increased freedom of movement when swinging the golf club,” said Doug Robinson, FJ Vice President of Design and Development Worldwide. “By drawing inspiration from a tree frog and emulating their incredible grip and flexibility properties in the texture and functional elements of an outsole, our design and development team has created something truly unique in the golf shoe market.” This shoe gets its name from its flexibility that is made possible by a new midsole compound and construction methods that allows for greater torsional flexibility; along with the elimination of the internal shank that encourages maximum freedom of movement and ground contact. Along with a two-year waterproof warranty, the FreeStyle comes in several colors: Navy/Orange/Lime, White/Grey/ Charcoal, Black/White/Grey, Grey/Green/ Navy, Grey/Navy/Berry (Boa closure system), Black/Lime/Grey (Boa closure system). For more information: www.FootJoy. com/Freestyle
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SWEETSTUFF M ore and more golf clothing manufacturers are introducing performance compression socks because players are continually on their feet and any respite from the rigors of swinging a club and walking for hours is always helpful. The benefits of compression socks are becoming more widely appreciated. One of the specialties companies in this arena that is making a splash in golf is Swiftwick, which features its Managed Compression™ socks, that has the feel of second skin and helps stabilize the 200 ligaments and 35 muscles in the foot. Its properties reduce swelling and increase circulation to help your feet feel fresher and recover quicker. Made of 74 percent Nylon, 23 percent Olefin and 3 percent Spandex, these socks have a light but snug feel that is important in preventing blisters with the seamless linked toe construction, and gently hugs the shape of your foot and eliminates negative space. The chemical free wicking performs every time and delivers the ultimate dry-fit while the advanced knit patterns with structured Olefin and Merino Wool fibers pull sweat off the body and repel moisture. Swiftwick also employs natural odor fighting technology that helps keep the socks fresher for a longer period of time. The extreme colorfastness of these socks derives from being “solution” dyed instead of chemically dyed. This process is also environmentally advantageous since it produces no waste. These athletic sock lines are knitted at 200 needles; the highest density found in most socks. The higher the needle count, the tighter the knit. The socks are so tightly knitted that trail debris or foreign material can’t penetrate to cause irritation and blistering. This structure creates a second-skin feel, prevents shifting or bunching and eliminates the risk of friction blisters while making your shoes fit more comfortably. The highgauge construction produces a softer, denser and more durable garment. Made in the USA, Swiftwick golf socks come in a variety of styles and colors. For more information on Swiftwick golf socks: www.swiftwick.com
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veryone and everything needs a second chance, and for golf balls, most get lost before their useful life is up. This is where a Texas company called LostGolfBalls.com comes in to both find and recycle those balls that end up in course lakes and offer them back to the golfing public at a fraction of their original cost. As the No. 1 seller of recycled golf balls in the world, LostBalls. com now is responsible for selling six percent of all the balls sold in the world, and since the mind 1990’s has sold more than 500 million balls. The company uses an assortment of divers to retrieve balls from ponds in nearly every state in the U.S. and cleans and sorts them based on condition at their Texas headquarters. The result is “like new” balls at a fraction of MSRP prices. This includes all major brands. The company has grown tremendously over the past few years and it is no wonder since these balls are indistinguishable from brand new balls in looks and performance, save for the occasional logo. All of these balls are washed with an environmentally friendly cleaner to provide a “like-new” product at a fraction of the original cost. Testing at an independent research facility has confirmed that these balls match-up to new ones in performance, and, as the company points out, all golf balls are used after just one hit. These second chance balls can be purchased online at www. lostgolfballs.com
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