Golf Vacations Magazine August 2017

OUR 16th YEAR!

THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots

GOLF VACATIONS AUGUST 2017

SERENDIPITY IN THE HIGH SIERRAS HOT DEALS AND COOL GOLF

FROST CREEK

SOARING GOLF IN BRUSH CREEK VALLEY

www.golfvacationsmag.com GolfGOLF Vacations MONTH • August 2017 1 Plus: THIS MONTH CELEBRATE NATIONAL

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GOLF VACATIONS AUGUST 2017

Genoa Lakes Ranch Course, Genoa, NV

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Chip Shots

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High Sierras Serendipity

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Soaring Golf at Frost Creek

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August: National Golf Month

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by David R. Holland It’s June and there’s a distinctive golfer pointing down the 18th fairway at Grizzly Ranch, a scenic golf haven on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. “Just look around, this is a pretty cool deal, the spot you want to be. There’s our iconic covered bridge in the background, we’re downwind, down sun today, some clouds and blue skies – it’s good golf.

by David R. Holland From the deck of our “luxury member cabin” the view above Frost Creek’s third fairway is eye-opening – it appears you could land a Boeing 767 on the massive, wide fairway.

by JD Latorre August is National Golf Month, giving golfers everywhere the perfect excuse (as if they needed one) to pack their clubs and head for the greens. But for an occasion of this importance – we’re dedicating a whole month to it, after all – why make it just a day on the course when there’s still plenty of summer left to plan a dream golf getaway? Here are a few great options:

Sweet Stuff by Terry Ross

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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS 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.

Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz

David R. Holland is an award-winning former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, football magazine publisher, and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. “Multiple careers” best describes this world traveler (visited 35 countries), who achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force reserve. Holland 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. He also worked for the Dallas Cowboys Weekly, UPI and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Follow Dave on Twitter @David_R_Holland.

Associate Editor Terry Ross

Features Editor Larry Feldman

Senior Writers

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.

JD Latorre Andy Reistetter Fred Robledo

For Editorial:

call (760) 774-2655 e-mail: Info@GolfVacationsMag.com

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.

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

President Jeffrey Diaz

455 NE 5th Avenue, Suite D-151 Delray Beach, Florida 33483 (760) 774-2655

and

Destiny Media, LLC President/CEO James A. Diaz

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 2017 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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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Changing the Taste of Golf in Costa Brava Almost 1000 club golfers across the south east of England will have an appetite for success as they begin their quest to win a fabulous golf holiday in the Costa Brava.

A Taste Of Golf In Costa Brava will see amateur golfers battle their way through club competitions at 12 different venues with the hope of earning their place in October’s grand final.

Aside from the glory of victory, a fivenight holiday for two persons in the popular region is up for grabs for the eventual winner, including five rounds of golf at the stunning Spanish resorts.

This will include rounds of golf at PGA Catalunya (both at the Stadium and Tour courses), Golf D’Aro - Mas Nou , Golf de Pals and Pitch & Putt Gualta. The top prize is brimming with temptation as it also features a hotel stay split between Hotel Camiral and NM Suites Hotel.

With a top-quality dinner for two and

spa passes at Silken Park Hotel San Jorge, an electric bike tour around Girona and return flights to Barcelona courtesy of Monarch and all airport transfers provided by Maype, it’s a huge incentive for members to win through at one of the 12 host venues for the qualifiers.

Camberley Heath Golf Club kicks off the proceedings this weekend, before further rounds at Cranleigh Golf & Country Club, Golf at Goodwood, Hindhead, Mannings Heath, Broke Hill, Cottesmore, Petersfield, North Hants, Liphook, Mid Sussex and Stoke Park Country Club. The top two bestperforming handicap golfers from each course will then progress to the grand final at Old Thorns Manor Hotel Golf & Country Estate in October.

An excellent prize will also be on offer for the runner-up at the grand final consisting of a two-night stay for two persons at Hotel Perelada and Hotel Torremirona. Also included is two rounds of golf at Golf Club Peralada, one round at Golf Torremirona, two passes to the Casino Perelada, return

flights to Barcelona courtesy of Monarch and airport transfers provided by Maype.

Jaume Marin, marketing director for the Costa Brava Tourist Board, said: “We want to give UK golfers a real taste of golf in our region. We believe the Costa Brava offers a unique and fantastic experience for golfers and visitors with so much to enjoy.

“We would like to wish all entrants the best of luck and look forward to hosting our winners in due course.”

Situated 100 kilometres north of Barcelona in a region nestling between the foothills of the Pyrenees and the waters of the Mediterranean, the Costa Brava enjoys average annual temperatures of 16.5C and offers an array of first-class golf experiences in a natural and unspoilt environment.

As well as featuring an outstanding collection of 18 and 36-hole venues from some of the game’s most well-known and accomplished designers - including Spain’s number one golf course, PGA Catalunya the region also has 10 pitch and putt courses Spain’s Costa Brava

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Trump National Doral Miami

for players of all abilities to enjoy, with each providing contrasting landscapes and different playing experiences.

In addition, the Costa Brava provides the ideal chance to combine a golfing break with the chance to experience many historic, cultural and gastronomic delights.

The region is home to Spain’s highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants - with the province of Girona featuring 13 reputed establishments and 18 Michelin stars on its own - while the Empordà area of the Costa Brava is proud to boast more than 2,000 hectares of vineyards.

For more information about playing golf in the Costa Brava, visit golf.costabrava.org

Trump National Doral Miami Welcomes The Rick Smith Golf Academy MIAMI, FL – Trump National Doral Miami today announced a new partnership with The Rick Smith Golf Academy. Recognized as one of the top golf schools in the U.S., Smith’s elite team will bring world-class instruction to South Florida’s premier golf destination. Serving golfers of all abilities, including resort guests, club members and the public, the academy will provide a wide

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range of offerings: private lessons, multi-day golf schools, small group clinics, on-course playing lessons, video analysis and juniors programming. The Rick Smith Golf Academy will move into the former site of the Jim McLean Golf School in fall/winter 2017.

Rick Smith has achieved great success in the golf industry as a teacher, designer and communicator. His skills as a great teacher have afforded Smith the opportunity to coach some of the most accomplished golfers in the world who have collectively won eight major golf championships, including Phil Mickelson, Lee Janzen, Rocco Mediate and Jack Nicklaus. Rick has also hosted his own golf instructional television programs and done color commentary, which have aired on the Golf Channel, ESPN, TSN and FOX Sports.

“I am delighted to welcome Rick and his incredible team to Trump Doral,” said Executive Vice President Eric Trump. “Rick is an exceptional talent, who coaches the most elite and well-known players in the world, and I am truly honored to welcome him to this world-class property.”

“In my career, I have been fortunate to travel and teach around the world. The

opportunity to call Trump National Doral the home of my flagship academy moving forward is an honor,” said Smith. “My staff and I will take this academy to the next level with world-class service and instructional offerings at this amazing facility.”

“Rick and his staff are the ideal fit for our vision: to be the world’s pre-eminent golf resort,” said Trump National Doral Golf General Manager Darrin Helfrick.

“The academy’s award-winning instruction perfectly complements our company mission: ‘Never Settle.’”

Home to the iconic Blue Monster, the Red Tiger, the Golden Palm and the Silver Fox, Trump National Doral boasts some of the game’s most challenging courses while offering picturesque views of South Florida.

Rounding out the resort’s golf offerings are a state-of-the-art LED practice facility for both day and evening use, a cutting-edge True Spec custom club-fitting lab, a 7,000-squarefoot golf shop and a private members’ clubhouse.

For resort information or reservations, please call toll-free (800) 71-DORAL (36725) or visit http://www.trumpnationaldoral.com.

For more information on The Rick Smith Golf Academy, visit http://www.ricksmith.com.

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS

Hilton Head Golf Island Announces Summer Packages

Hilton Head Golf Island (HHGI) – ranked among the top three islands in the world by Travel + Leisure – announces a selection of packages ideal for last-minute summer golf vacations.

Available through August, Heritage Golf Group’s “foresome” golf special starts at $89 (per person, per night) and features seven nights’ accommodation in a spectacular resort villa, unlimited golf at three prestigious clubs (boasting 99 holes), free range balls and cart.

For those just interested in golf, the sevenday unlimited package is available through Sept. 22 for $299 plus tax. For reservations call 843.681.1709.

Golfers can play all three award-winning courses at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort with the “Birdies and Beer” getaway.

Starting at $165 (per person, per night) and available through August, this package includes three nights’ accommodation in a two-bedroom villa, three rounds of golf with cart, complimentary range balls, two hours of court time per day at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, pro shop and dining discounts

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and daily breakfast and beers. For reservations call 855.450.4861.

Offered until Sept. 17, The Sea Pines Resort’s Summer Golf Specials are available for tee times after 1 p.m. and are perfect for experiencing classic Harbour Town Golf Links, host of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, as well as much-praised Heron Point by Pete Dye and exciting new Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III. Play all three championship courses for $389 per person or Heron Point and Atlantic Dunes for $199 per person. A wide array of accommodation options are available for guests including 300 villas, 100 rental homes and the luxurious 60room Inn & Club at Harbour Town. For more information call 866.561.8802.

“Hilton Head Island is an ideal summer vacation destination,” says Cary Corbitt, President of the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association. “With championship courses to suit all playing styles and abilities, Hilton Head is truly a golf lover’s dream.”

Offering unbeatable value, pleasant yearround weather and direct flights from more than 20 major cities, Hilton Head Island is one of the world’s premier golf destinations.

In addition to being named the “No. 1 Island in the Continental U.S.” by Travel + Leisure magazine readers, Hilton Head has also received accolades from Golfweek, Golf Channel’s Golf Advisor and the South Carolina Golf Course Rating Panel.

All packages are priced per person, per night. For more information on the International Association of Golf Tour Operators’ 2016 North American “Golf Destination of the Year,” call 800.523.3373 or visit www.hiltonheadgolfisland.org.

Los Cabos to host Mexico Golf Tourism Convention in Fall The International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) will hold its 2nd Mexico Golf Tourism Convention in Los Cabos this fall. This premier trade event will bring together golf buyers and suppliers in a world-class destination celebrated for its great courses, ideal climate and superb amenities.

IAGTO, which has successfully staged destination conventions in Spain, Ireland, Portugal, Turkey and Tunisia, currently has 636 specialist outbound golf tour operators in 61 countries. Of these, 134 wholesalers

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS in 31 countries feature, promote and sell golf vacations to Mexico. Many of these tour operators are located in the U.S. and Canada, each an important market for Los Cabos.

Last year’s Mexico Golf Tourism Convention, held in Cancun and Riviera Maya, attracted 40 buyer delegates from 18 different countries. Tour operators met with supplier delegates from across Mexico, from Riviera Maya to Baja California. In addition to tourism board executives and golf resort representatives, suppliers included major hotel chains, rental car agencies and destination marketing companies.

Because of Los Cabos’s prestige as a golf destination, the number of buyer and supplier delegates is expected to increase at this year’s event.

“Los Cabos is honored to have been chosen to host IAGTO’s Mexico Golf Tourism Convention,” said Eduardo Regules Bukantz, Commercial Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. “This event will help to highlight why our destination is the ‘Golf Capital of Latin America.’

“Golf is one of the key drivers of tourism to Los Cabos,” Bukantz added. “We are

excited to welcome top tour operators so they can see for themselves why their clientele will have a great experience on and off our fantastic golf courses.”

Peter Walton, President and Chief Executive of IAGTO, said, “I had the opportunity to visit Los Cabos for the first time in 2003, and in my opinion it stands out as one of the most spectacular golf destinations on the planet. What is particularly exciting about Los Cabos is that it has continued to evolve, adding new golf courses alongside an ever-improving infrastructure. This is why it is so important for us to showcase Los Cabos to international golf tour operators so that they can see and experience this great golf destination in order to feature, promote and sell it to their golf traveling customers.

“We will be taking around 50 handpicked golf tour operators to Los Cabos for the 2nd annual Mexico Golf Tourism Convention at the end of October, where they will meet with members of the local golf tourism industry and plan their 2018 golf packages, group promotions and amateur tournaments,” Walton explained. “The MGTC is special in that it focuses not only on

the host destination but attracts golf resorts and golf courses from across Mexico, which makes the MGTC an invaluable opportunity for suppliers and operators alike.”

Walton reported that IAGTO operators last year took 1.9 million golfers to golf destinations around the world, spending over $2.5 billion USD. “I have no doubt that this year’s MGTC is going to have a major impact on the growth of golf travel to Mexico, and we are indebted to the Los Cabos Tourism Board for hosting the event,” he said.

The format of the Mexico Golf Tourism Convention, scheduled for October 29 – November 4, will feature a golf day for buyers (optional for suppliers) at Puerto Los Cabos; a supplier-meets-buyer “speeddating session;” and opportunities for buyers to meet suppliers during prescheduled appointment sessions.

Tour operators who wish to experience Los Cabos golf first-hand can join a 3-night hosted familiarization trip following the convention. Customized itineraries will enable small groups of buyers to play selected courses among the 15 venues currently open in Los Cabos.

Sea Pines Resort

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS

Custom Renovation of Rooms Underway at Mission Inn Resort & Club

Howey-in-the-Hills, FL – A comprehensive $3.5-million renovation of 170 guest accommodations at Mission Inn Resort & Club is underway at the iconic Central Florida destination, with completion of the phased project scheduled for late December.

“The new update adds a modern look to the classic Old Florida resort “said S. Drew Toth, Director of Sales and Marketing. “Guests also will enjoy the refreshed appearance of our six outdoor venues.”

Mission Inn has invested more than $20,000 per guest room in custom furniture, crafted by Artone, to enhance the historic property’s distinct Spanish Colonial architecture. Each room will receive new hardwood nightstands, dressers, desks, and king- or queen-size beds with Stearns & Foster mattress sets.

Also being installed are new mahogany doors with key card lock, new lighting, and bath area make-up mirrors. A soothing beige and taupe interior palette will accent the destination’s classic style.

Mission Inn’s golf clubhouse, which includes Nicker’s Restaurant, Club Room, Champions Room, and Golf Pro Shop, will have new carpet and historic color scheme with silver and bronze “Liquapearl” paint highlights.

La Hacienda, Mission Inn’s main dining room for breakfast and lunch, will feature new carpets, buffet areas, and counter tops. The resort’s main Grand Ballroom, which accommodates up to 600, will be refreshed with new wall coverings and chair rail detailing. All

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hallways have been freshly re-carpeted, as well.

The four-season historic resort, located in the rolling hills of Central Florida’s Lake County, 35 minutes northwest of Orlando, has classic Spanish Colonial architecture features, two championship golf courses, three restaurants, two lounges, and poolside bar.

Recreational amenities include eight tennis courts, trap- and skeetshooting range, jogging and bicycling trails, volleyball courts, outdoor pool and hydro-spa, fitness center, and a full-service nautical center with 52-slip marina, fishing, and boating.

Mission Inn’s Spa Marbella, a 6,200-square-foot oasis of relaxation, is adjacent to the resort’s golf clubhouse and offers five private treatment rooms, two steam rooms, private separate lounges for men and women, plus three manicure and two pedicure stations.

For more details and reservations, visit www.missioninnresort. com, or call (800)874-9053 toll-free and (352) 324-3101 direct.

2017 Troon Challenge National Finals To Be Played August 25-27 In Scottsdale SCOTTSDALE, AZ – The 2017 Troon Challenge National Finals presented by Callaway Golf® will be played August 25th – 27th at the Boulders Resort’s South Course and Troon North Golf Club’s Pinnacle Course. The annual series is Troon’s largest amateur golf event, attracting more than 1,100 competitors in 2017. Two-person teams have competed and qualified in both net and gross divisions

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at regional host sites throughout the country since April for a chance to play in Scottsdale and represent their home club in the Troon Challenge National Finals.

The competitive rounds of the Troon Challenge National Finals will be held on Saturday and Sunday, August 26-27, 2017, with each participant competing on the Boulders South Course on Saturday, and Troon North’s Pinnacle Course on Sunday. On Friday, August 25th, national finalists will attend a special kick-off event at Troon North Golf Club featuring appetizers, beverages and fun activities hosted

by Troon Challenge sponsors. In addition, each national finalist will enjoy a Callaway Shopping Experience and other sponsor gifts and prizes.

The 2017 Troon Challenge is presented by Callaway Golf, along with supporting sponsors that include Experience Scottsdale, Pepsi, and Ship Sticks. Ship Sticks is a preferred partner and is simplifying the way Finalists are traveling to Scottsdale with their clubs. Finalists receive a special discount offer from Ship Sticks to ship their clubs to Scottsdale.

“We’re excited to have the Troon Challenge National Finals return to the Boulders and Troon North again this year,” said Kris Strauss, senior vice president, sales and marketing, Troon. “The Troon Challenge is now in its 15th year and its popularity continues to grow with regional qualifiers held at many Top 100, Best-in-State, and other top courses which host PGA and LPGA Tour events throughout the country. We look forward to welcoming all of the finalists to Scottsdale later this month.”

For more information on the 2017 Troon Challenge presented

by Callaway Golf, visit www.TroonChallenge.com or search #TroonChallenge17.

Pga Of America Forms Strategic Alliance With Lake Hills Resorts Group in South Korea PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL – The PGA of America has formed a groundbreaking strategic alliance with Lake Hills Resorts Group, one of the largest multi-course owners and operators in South Korea, to create PGA of America Academies in the country. The agreement marks the first-ever international facility licensing partnership for the PGA, as it looks to support the global growth of the game.

The PGA of America Korea–Lake Hills Academies and their associated golf clubs will be operated and overseen by PGA of America Professionals. The primary locations of the Academies at the outset will be at both Lake Hills Anseong Golf Club—which is located 90 minutes from Seoul and is currently undergoing a series of renovations—and a brand new indoor golf center in the center of Seoul.

Additionally, to drive sustainable growth-of-the-game efforts in South Korea, the Academies will feature junior and adult development programs, as well as custom education programs to help train local professionals on the teaching and business of the game.

“With an impressive list of major and Olympic champions, golf in South Korea has become a prominent force,” said PGA of America CEO Pete Bevacqua. “PGA of America Professionals are known globally as the gold standard, and we’re excited that through this partnership with Lake Hills Resorts, we will now be able to proactively place PGA of America Members in a position to help drive long-term growth of the game in South Korea.”

“This is an exciting day, for not only Lake Hills Resorts, but also the golf industry in South Korea,” said Lake Hills Resorts President Sukhan Yoon. “Through this partnership, we will establish Lake Hills Resorts as the preeminent golf development destination in South Korea.”

Troon North Golf Club’s Pinnacle Course

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Clear Creek Tahoe

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HIGH SIERRAS SERENDIPITY

BY DAVID R. HOLLAND

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ORTOLA, CA – It’s June and there’s a distinctive golfer pointing down the 18th fairway at Grizzly Ranch, a scenic golf haven on the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

“Just look around, this is a pretty cool deal, the spot you want to be.

There’s our iconic covered bridge in the background, we’re downwind, down sun today, some clouds and blue skies – it’s good golf.

“Come visit – forget the suitcases, we’ll sell you some clothes, bring your golf clubs and tee it up – you will have some fun.”

The golfer speaking is Van Batchelder, winner of the 1994 Arizona Open, and Director of Golf at Grizzly Ranch Golf Club. He’s forever wearing a Cowboy hat and he can play in boots. He can also sell you a pair of boots in the pro shop.

Batchelder is just one of the characters that makes the Reno-Lake Tahoe area one of the more special places on earth for teeing it up – whether it is in the High Sierras, on Lake Tahoe, or the rough, beautiful landscape around Reno and Carson City.

One of the impressive things about golf in this amazing country is you can drive and find an awesome golf course just miles away. Some might think Grizzly Ranch is in the boondocks of Plumas County (population 20,000), but it is only 50 minutes from Reno-Tahoe International Airport and 50 minutes from Truckee along Interstate 80.

Here’s a capsule look at the golf courses I played on a fun week in the High Sierras: Edgewood Tahoe, Stateline, NV Must say this is my favorite place to play out west other than Cypress Point.

Edgewood Tahoe is unmatched in lake and mountain scenery and it hosts the American Century Championship in July that features Justin Timberlake, Steph Curry, Charles Barkley, Tony Romo, Emmitt Smith and Aaron Rodgers. It is a fun golf course, not punishing, and now boasts a $100-million hotel to spend the night – The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe right next to the new ninth green. This impressive hotel was decades in the making.

Lake Tahoe Golf Course, South Lake Tahoe, CA This is one of the more affordable golf courses in the area -- located in a natural mountain meadow just minutes from the southern shoreline of Lake Tahoe and the golf course is located in Lake Valley State Recreational Area. This William Bell design has photo ops throughout, including the Truckee River, natural habitats and a mountain backdrop.

This is a great layout for the entire family.

Incline Village Golf Courses, Incline Village, NV Incline Village has two golf courses on the north shore of Lake Tahoe. The Mountain Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is fun for the entire family. The Championship Course was originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., but Kyle Phillips did the $4.5 million 2003 facelift. My first round of golf here was memorable -- Joe DiMaggio was standing on the first tee box.

Edgewood Tahoe, Hole #16

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Crenshaw and Bill Coore were selected to build their first alpine setting golf course on a 1,600 acres parcel of land. It’s in the eastern shadows of the Carson Range with rugged white-sand bunkers, elevation changes and slopes that will confound you. The first time I hit the middle of a green with an approach and watched it trundle off the green I knew – beautiful and deadly. Clear Creek is located in the center of the fictional “Ponderosa” of Bonanza fame, and has been utilized for over 150 years by various cattle operations.

Grizzly Ranch

Old Greenwood, Truckee, CA Old Greenwood, originally a private club, could be the most playable Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf design I’ve ever played. The golf course is the centerpiece of a premier four-season resort community in North Lake Tahoe. Situated near the historic town of Truckee on 600 acres of towering pines and blue-sage covered hills, the public can play it and also select lots for custom-built homes and fractional residences. It’s also home to the Golf Academy at Old Greenwood.

Grizzly Ranch in Portola, CA Grizzly Ranch was originally a private course, but now this Bob Cupp gem is open to the public. Cupp was given a thousand acres to route this No. 1-ranked course in the Sierra Nevada by Golf Digest (2014). Golfers love the endless combination of shots and it is bordered on two sides by protected federal land. It’s part of a low-density private gated community.

into play on 14 holes. The Ranch, formerly Sierra Nevada Golf Ranch, was designed by Johnny Miller and Harbottle. Over 300 feet of elevation changes, more than 100 bunkers, unpredictable mountain terrain, afternoon breezes and a waterfall challenge players.

Private courses

Schaffer’s Mill Golf & Lake Club, Truckee, CA Even though Schaffer’s Mill (formerly Timilick) is private there are some Monday tee times open for the public. This fun and scenic Johnny Miller and John Harbottle III design has two distinct nines. The back nine displays mountain holes with elevation changes of 400 feet and the opening nine takes you through a beautiful meadow.

Clear Creek Tahoe, Clear Creek, NV After consulting with the usual suspects, Ben

Montrêux, Reno, NV This private jewel is the only Jack Nicklaus Signature design in Northern Nevada, and home to the The Barracuda Championship, slated this year July 31 – August 6, 2017 (formerly the Reno-Tahoe Open). Elevation drops are frequent among towering pines and flowing streams. Nicklaus considers Montrêux one of his top five courses. Looking for a luxury home? Discover Parc Forêt at Montrêux, an outstanding community of old world craftsman homes.

Dining suggestions for your Reno-Tahoe golf adventure

Carson Valley’s Basque Restaurant; Edgewood Restaurant; Alpine Union Restaurant at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino; The Grille at the Chateau at Incline Village Championship Course; and Nakoma Resort Wigwam Room Restaurant.

Lodging suggestions

Grand Sierra Resort & Casino, Reno, NV Carson Valley Inn, Carson, NV Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel at Heavenly, South Lake Tahoe, CA Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort, Tahoe Vista, CA Donner Lake Village Resort, Truckee, CA The Lodge at Nakoma, Clio, CA

Incline Village Championship Course No. 12

The Dragon at Nakoma Resort, Clio, CA This Robin Nelson design has been softened somewhat after its original owners called on Nelson to build the most difficult course imagined.

The Wild & Scenic Feather River can be seen in a canyon left of the fourth fairway, but views are at every turn.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Nakoma teepee design makes a must-visit clubhouse with incredible restaurant.

And the 42-room Lodge at Nakoma is all new and comfy.

Genoa Lakes Golf Club, Genoa, NV There are two courses at Genoa Lakes -the Lakes and the Ranch -- and both of them are fun and different. John Harbottle III and Peter Jacobsen designed The Lakes Course, with the Carson River coming

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Golf Vacations • August 2017 17

Soaring Golf at Frost Creek

by David R. Holland

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Golf Vacations • August 2017 19

Frost Creek Hole #14

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AGLE, Colo. – From the deck of our “luxury member cabin” the view above Frost Creek’s third fairway is eye-opening – it appears you could land a Boeing 767 on the massive, wide fairway.

“Man, if you can’t find a nice landing spot from the tee down there you need to go back to the practice area,” joked cousin Jim Holland of Durango. I nodded “yep, that is one humongous driving area.” Thanks Tom Weiskopf, we approve.

“I think the first time Mr. Weiskopf looked over the 1,100-acre property he was impressed by the huge scope of the land,” said general manager Mike Gibbs.

“You need huge tee boxes, wide fairways and large greens. Little doesn’t fit on this acreage,” Weiskopf said.

Massive is a common theme at Frost Creek nine miles from downtown Eagle and I-70 in the beautiful Brush Creek Valley.

Massive includes the $400,000, 40-foot bronze bald eagle, clutching a human-sized trout in its talons, just in front of the 40,000-square foot clubhouse’s porte-cochere. The Oregon artist has work in the White

Running elk near the 5th green

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House, Vatican and Kremlin.

Fred Kummer, founder of the defunct Adam’s Mark Hotels chain, had massive dreams for the area. He had envisioned the Brush Creek Valley as another Vail Valley with ski runs flooding the surroundings. It just never happened – there was way too much opposition from local residents and a recession.

Weiskopf, however, finished the golf course in 2007. It was a winner. It tried out two names – Adam’s Rib Ranch then Adam’s Mountain Country Club.

But Frost Creek was born when the investment group, Brue Baukol Capital Partners, led by Chad Brue of Denver became the new owner. Because of the acquisition bargain, Brue enticed his young friends on the front range of Colorado to go for the memberships in this four-season private club.

Today, Frost Creek is the fastest growing private club in Colorado.

Many of the new members are under 50 with children and the pricing structure includes Eagle County residents and a better bargain for outside the county members, who can rent member cabins when visiting. And the vision created a family experience that includes something for everyone.

Fishing Brush Creek

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The more attractive pricing took memberships from 32 to 200.

Frost Creek Hole #2

The new name came from a sense of the history of the land. W.E. Frost was an early pioneer who built a homestead on the property around 1880. Also a tributary of Brush Creek is Frost Creek that comes down at the fifth hole.

The golf course Weiskopf’s routing includes eight man-made lakes, an awesome downhill driving range, chipping and putting areas. Ten holes play adjacent to water or around lakes and the creek. And you have Weiskopf’s signature drivable par four included in the 7,181-yard, par 72.

“This is a tale of two nines,” says Ben Welsh, head pro. “The front nine is open into a high mountain meadow with giant greens and some elevation changes. The back nine runs past cottonwoods and adjacent to Brush Creek – holes 12-15 take you right up to the water with 13 (303-yard, par four) going over Brush Creek on the approach.”

Frost Creek Spec Home

The fifth, a par 3 of 188 yards, has a bunker in the middle of the green similar Riviera Country Club’s famous seventh in Los Angeles.

This is stellar golf. Gibbs, a Georgetown, Colorado native, said he was going to play nine holes with us. He ended up playing 15 – it is just hard to say no to just one more hole.

“I’m really proud of the greens here,” Gibbs continued. “They run about 12 on the stimp meter and Derrick Dreyer, our superintendent, has a goal to keep poa annua out of them.”

Family activities away from the golf course With thousands of acres of federal and state-protected wild areas within minutes, Frost Creek’s membership has countless outdoors activities.

Also Beaver Creek Ski Resort is 32 miles away and Vail a bit farther.

Frost Creek Hole #8

Here is a list of activities: pond fishing, fly fishing, standup paddle boarding, hiking, road biking, mountain biking, camping, bird and wildlife watching, junior golf, swimming, swim classes, basketball, tennis, volleyball, archery, disc golf, badminton, ping pong, arts and crafts, yoga classes, cardio burn, group day hikes, road cycling and snowshoeing.

A jeep is also available for members to reserve. Members can use the concierge for guided fly fishing with Vail Valley Anglers, white water rafting, zipline adventures, horseback riding, ice skating, cross country skiing, sledding, ice fishing, hockey, and member ski days/shuttle to Vail and Beaver Creek.

The clubhouse restaurant Open to the public, the clubhouse restaurant is under the guidance of chef Marc Copenhaver and his ever-changing menu is excellent. We tried the smoked trout bruschetta and cod.

Frost Creek Hole #6

Member cabin lodging, and “glamping” in yurts under the stars Members without a home can rent luxury cabins containing four bedrooms and bathrooms and are located just across from the pool and tennis complex next to the clubhouse. There are 137 homesites.

Frost Creek is all about getting outdoors even to “glamping” – two yurts located on the edge of the creek, have skylights so you can sleep comfortably under the stars.

If you have never seen the stars in the boondocks away from street lights you will be amazed – much like the amenities that Frost Creek has assembled in this special part of the Rocky Mountains.

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Golf Vacations • August 2017 21

NATIONAL GOLF MONTH

Pebble Beach

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AUGUST ACTION

by JD LATORRE

A

ugust is National Golf Month, giving golfers everywhere the perfect excuse (as if they needed one) to pack their clubs and head for the greens. But for an occasion of this importance – we’re dedicating a whole month to it, after all – why make it just a day on the course when there’s still plenty of summer left to plan a dream golf getaway? Here are a few great options: Two words: Pebble Beach. It’s on every golfer’s bucket list. And now, Pebble Beach Resorts guests can follow in the footsteps of the game’s greatest players with Summer Stay & Play. Valid through Sept. 6, the package includes two nights at The Inn at Spanish Bay, a round of golf on Pebble Beach Golf Links, and a second round on the guest’s choice of The Links at Spanish Bay or Spyglass Hill Golf Course, which Golf Digest course raters call “a mustplay for any true golfer…” Travelers enjoy a 20-percent savings on their third and fourth nights when they extend their stay. The package starts at $2,295.

For more information, visit www.pebblebeach.com or call 888-251-9790.

18 holes and the Tao of Golf. From its perch above Paradise Valley, Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa is just minutes from some of Arizona’s top courses, including the 36 championship holes at Scottsdale’s Camelback Golf Club. Golfers can play early in the morning to beat the summer heat, then return to their mountain retreat for a cooling dip in the pool and a Tao of Golf treatment at the renowned Sanctuary Spa. The bodywork treatment is designed to stretch, warm and release tight and tired muscles through Thai, therapeutic and resistance stretching techniques.

Book at www.sanctuaryaz.com or call 855-245-2051.

Home, home (near) the range. Perfect for a golfers’ getaway with family or a group of friends, several luxury vacation home rentals in InvitedHome’s Colorado portfolio offer prime, private accommodations within minutes of championship play, not to mention stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.

Just minutes from Telluride Golf Club, where rumor has it golf balls travel 15 percent farther thanks to the high altitude, the four-bedroom Tomboy Retreat sleeps up to 15 on four floors – all accessible by private elevator.

After a round of golf, guests can keep the competitive spirit alive with a game of pool in their own game room.

Near Beaver Creek Golf Club, one of the longest established golf courses in Vail Valley, is Holden Lodge, a vacation rental that’s more log castle than cabin. At a sprawling 7,800 square feet, the five-bedroom retreat sleeps 12 -- all of whom could probably fit in the master bath’s expansive shower.

Other features: a home theater, game room, wraparound deck and gourmet kitchen, plus distinctive design details like a galvanized soaking tub. For reservations, visit www.invitedhome.com or call 866-600-8075.

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Stay More, Play More in the Adirondacks. Tucked into the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid’s Whiteface Lodge is a rustic all-suite luxury retreat near three excellent golf courses –Craig Wood Golf Course, Whiteface Club & Resort Golf Course and Lake Placid Club. With the Stay More, Play More package, guests enjoy a nightly credit of $100, $150 or $200, which they Golf Vacations • August 2017 23

Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa

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Holden Lodge

can apply to a range of activities and products – including golf – when they book a one-, two- or three-bedroom suite respectively. Credits can also be applied to spa services, dining, boat rentals, BMW town car rentals, retail items, and children’s program, enabling guests to custom-create their dream getaway. Rates start at $548. Reserve at www.thewhitefacelodge.com or call 888-582-0505.

North Palm Beach CC

Gold Coast golf. Golfers can go from ocean blue to golf greens in a bestof-both-worlds getaway on Florida’s Gold Coast – all at great summer rates.

Guests of Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa, halfway between Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale, have the beach at their doorstep and four championship courses within six miles: the recently redesigned and renovated Greg Norman Signature Pines Course at the Pompano Beach Municipal Golf Course, just one mile away; two Fazio-designed courses at Palm-Aire Country Club in Sarasota; the Rees Jones-designed Crystal Lake Golf Club in nearby Deerfield Beach; and Deer Creek Golf Club, also in Deerfield Beach. Summer rates start at $101. Book online or call 855-9544683.

Just up the coast from Pompano Beach, the resort’s sister, Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Resort & Spa, also offers proximity to great golf at North Palm Beach Country Club. Set along the Intracoastal Waterway, the course is one of only two Jack Nicklaus Signature Municipal courses in the U.S. and is a stand-out among Florida golf destinations. Guests at the Marriott, Palm Beach County’s only all-suite beachfront resort, enjoy private beach access and expansive accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, all for a low summer rate starting at $180. Make reservations online or call 561-340-1700.

Whiteface Club & Resort Golf Course

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Golf Vacations • August 2017 25

SWEETSTUFF Oska Pulse by Oska Wellness

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elief from the aches and pains of any sport can be an elusive endeavor, but a unique, portable option for an old therapy has made inroads this year into the golf community and had a number of endorsements from the leading advocates of health and wellness.

The Oska Pulse by Oska Wellness utilizes a 60-year old technology called Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) and combines this into a very handy, hands free—and travel friendly—device that can deliver this pain reducing and cell regenerating therapy at a consumer-friendly size and cost.

In the past, PEMF technology was only available through large organizations like NASA and sports organizations like the NFL— and then only by being hooked-up to large machines to regenerate muscles and bones. But Oska Wellness has been able to fit this technology into a small, hand-sized device that you can strap to just about any part of the body easily with the adjustable velcro wrap that it comes with.

Ease of use is another outstanding feature, since you just recharge it with a USB cord connected to your computer for many hours of use. The Oska Pulse is much different than a TENS unit or

other therapy device in that it doesn’t need to be touching your skin, you don’t feel any pulsing or tingling and can be used walking, sitting or lying down. After continued use you can feel the increased blood flow to inflamed areas, which reduces the pain. It delivers optimized PEMF at frequencies that promote capillary dilation, muscle ease, and pain reduction, and can help dilate blood vessels, which may reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and release the body’s natural endorphins. Oska Pulse helps break the cycle of inflammation and pain by activating a cell-specific negative feedback loop that promotes joint and muscle recovery.

Since its introduction early this year, the Oska Pulse has garnered several medical industry awards, and the endorsement of the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI), which has one of the largest collection of golf-specific health, fitness and swing advice on the internet.

“We’re excited to be working with MyTPI, sharing our mission for new ways to provide non-invasive, drug free pain management solutions,” said Greg Houlgate, CEO of Oska Wellness. “We’ve heard from many golfers who have had to cut back on playing due to pain. But thanks to the use of Oska Pulse, golfers can play one more round, pain free. Oska Pulse is a smart, safe, easy-touse, wearable health technology product designed to help reduce muscle stiffness, temporarily relieve minor pain, and increase mobility for people who have acute or chronic pain.”

During the PGA Merchandise Show in January, the Oska Pulse was named “best in show” by several leading golf publications.

“I’ve used Oska Pulse and got great results with mobility and pain relief from this device,” said David Phillips, co-founder of TPI. “Our partnership with Oska Wellness will allow us be able to promote Oska Pulse to our leadership team, our affiliates, and our athletes. I’m a total believer in this product and I look forward to recommending it to our community.”

Phillips also noted that there are several ways to use the device. “After a round of golf, if you feel lower back pain or perhaps you have some wrist tendonitis,” he said. “Or prior to play, if you feel a little tightness in the morning. Use Oska Pulse on your way to the course.”

For more information on the Oska Pulse: visit the company website at www.oskawellness.com

Sidekick Caddy

S

ometimes simplicity works the best. And like most golfers, Mark Remington of Seattle, Washington, figured that was the best approach to the age-old problem of what to do with several clubs that you bring from your power cart to the green or if you are practicing and just need two or three clubs on the range or the practice green.

Most players, when they have several clubs in hand, end-up laying them on the (many times damp) grass or on a towel, but Remington has come up with a very handy product called the Sidekick Caddy Golf Club Stand that threatens to become the 15th club for many players.

The Sidekick Caddy is just what it says, a portable, lightweight metal stand that easily pushes into the ground whether you are in the middle of the fairway on one of those cart path only holes, greenside getting ready to chip or hit out of the bunker, or just on

26 Golf Vacations • August 2017

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SWEETSTUFF

by Terry Ross

the driving range or practice green with a few clubs tuning up the game.

Basically, this device is that third-hand that will hold your clubs, high and dry, at arms-length without having to bend down before and after using each club.

This feather-light stand foot-pushes easily into the ground and provides an instant holder for those extra clubs,

The BroBasket

L

eave it to some enterprising young college guys to come up with one of the season’s coolest gift ideas. Let’s face it, guys love to get gifts from their friends—especially those that play golf—and now there is a company that produces unique gift and delivers custom baskets tailored to what guys like—especially those that enjoy their time on the links.

The BroBasket golf gift concept was first hatched by guys in an MBA program at California State University Channel Islands in Camarillo as a class project, and has blossomed into a thriving business that caters to gifts that can be customized by theme and the individual tastes of the recipient.

That’s why TheBroBasket lets you decide what you want to put in your basket; whether it’s Pellegrino sparkling water, or their favorite beer, wine or spirits. Baskets can be filled out with golf balls, towels, tees, divot tools, whiskey glasses, cigars, snacks--just about anything else you can think of for that guy golfer. Baskets can be customized for any occasion as well.

The web site is very helpful in first selecting a theme, and then customizing it around an individual’s taste with an array of items.

Corporate gifts are also on the menu at BroBasket for executives and include a selection of custom or pre-packed baskets and executive gifts.

In Southern California, the company offers same-day delivery and in other parts of the country overnight and three to five dayground deliveries are available.

The company even offers the ability to select and purchase a gift weeks or months in advance and pick a future delivery date.

For more details on The BroBasket, visit: www.TheBroBasket.com

even a cigar (it is said to accommodate 95% of the cigars on the market) and comes in handy as a holder for your putter cover when on the green with the loop at the top of the Sidekick Caddy.

It has also been designed to fit snugly on a golf bag or cart strap and works well when traveling since it goes in the bag and takes up little room.

Besides keeping your clubs dry and clean, the fact that you can save over 66% of the bending down during an average round of golf, and the clubs standing up are a better visual reminder that you came to the green with more than one club, make for some compelling reasons for the Sidekick Caddy. It can be used with one hand, has no moving parts and blends in nicely with any golf bag.

The product is crafted from high grade materials with a protective powder coating for years of service, has a padded club rest and foot kick, and an ergonomically designed loop that slips over the rim of a golf bag.

Made in America, the Sidekick Caddy comes in five vibrant colors to match any bag or cart.

More information is available at: www.sidekickcaddy.com

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The Best Gift Of The Year!

Enjoy a vicarious trip with Chuck Miller “The Traveling Guy” as he reflects on his incredible, fun and amazing 50-week, 50-state golf odyssey. Golfing The U.S. makes for a delightful and inexpensive birthday or holiday present.

available on Amazon.com at $14.95 and on Amazon Kindle at $8.95.!

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