Golf Vacations Magazine - August 2018

OUR 17th YEAR!

THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots

GOLF VACATIONS AUGUST 2018

AWARII DUNES

WHERE IRELAND MEETS THE HEARTLAND

GIANTS RIDGE

MINNESOTA’S DOUBLE DIAMOND

www.golfvacationsmag.com Vacations COURSE • August 2018 1 Plus: PINEHURST NO #4 • BOOT RANCHGolfGOLF

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GOLF VACATIONS AUGUST 2018

Giants Ridge Resort, Biwabik, Minnesota

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Chip Shots

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My Turn: Trump, Golf Courses and the Environment Pinehurst No 4: Evolution of a Classic

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by David R. Holland

The Cradle of American Golf. The St. Andrews of America. Whichever title is bestowed upon Pinehurst Resort, one thing is certain. The golf is as good as anywhere in the world. The property continues to develop, including opening of The Cradle, a 789-yard short course aimed at the casual golfer looking to play a quick round, whether it’s before, after or sans a full 18 on one of Pinehurst’s nine golf courses.

Awarii Dunes: Where Ireland Meets the Heartland

by David R. Holland

Awarii Dunes is where Jim Engh meets Nebraska. Ireland meets the heartland. It’s where a Texan reaches the 17th fairway and says, “where the hell is the green?”

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Giants Ridge: Minnesota’s “Double Diamond”

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Boot Ranch Golf Course in Fredericksburg, Texas

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Sweet Stuff

While high heat and humidity can make late summer downright unbearable in many parts of the country, it’s perfect golf weather at Northern Minnesota’s Giants Ridge. The Biwabik golf resort, nestled in the unspoiled beauty of the Mesabi Iron Range, features two of the top-ranked layouts in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” With plenty of daylight to play 36 holes daily, summer is an ideal time to visit.

by Tim Cotroneo

You feel a sense of anticipation building as you take the 78-mile trek from Austin/ Bergstrom International Airport to Boot Ranch Golf Course in Fredericksburg, TX. The landmarks are plentiful as you pass President Johnson’s hometown, the song inspiration for Waylon, Willie, and the Boys, and no fewer than 16 wineries. Your GPS reads five miles to Boot Ranch Circle, and you can’t help but think, “What’s next?”

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

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.

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.

Dave McKibben has been battle-tested in raucous newsrooms and dimly-lighted press boxes for nearly 20 years as an award-winning Los Angeles Times journalist. He’s covered the PGA Tour, Major League Baseball, NFL, NBA, NCAA sports and even local high schools sports. In his career he’s interviewed such greats as Muhammad Ali, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Cal Ripken, John McEnroe, Arthur Ashe, Tony Gwynn and Michael Jordan.

Associate Editor Terry Ross

Features Editor Larry Feldman

Senior Writers JD Latorre Andy Reistetter Fred Robledo

For Editorial:

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

Regional Advertising Los Angeles Terry Ross • 949-279-7801 terryr@GolfVacationsMag.com Atlanta Harold Chambliss • 770-239-7500 haroldc@GolfVacationsMag.com

Published by

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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 2018 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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Bajamar Summer

By Dave McKibben

M

ay Gray and June Gloom have departed! The summer is finally heating up and so are the deals at the Bajamar Golf Resort, also known as the “Mexican Pebble Beach.” Stay-and-play golf packages and the 11th Vendimia Open Tournament highlight the summer action at Bajamar, a spectacular 27-hole seaside resort located just an hour from downtown San Diego.

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The 42-year old course, originally designed by Perry Clifford, is offering 18 holes of golf and a night’s lodging at the elegant Hotel Hacienda for just $109 per person weekdays and $135 on weekends.

This incredible package also includes a bucket of range balls, a welcome cocktail, Continental breakfast and a Fast Pass (for a short wait at the border).

“You’ll not find a better value or a more

picturesque course in this region,” said Rudy Mellado, who played 25 years on the Mexican pro tour and is in his second stint as Bajamar’s head pro.

On August 18, Bajamar will host the Vendimia Open. The tournament celebrates golf, wine, gastronomy and music, coinciding with Fiestas de la Vendimia, a two-and-half week harvest festival held between the first Friday and third Sunday in

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August. The $130 entry fee includes green fees, cart, wine tastings, closest to the pin contests, $2,500 in trophies and golf prizes and more than $6,000 in raffle prizes. Those interested in entering the tournament can call Bajamar from the United States at 888311-6076 or email the club at proshop@ golfbajamar.com.

It’s been 24 years since Bajamar opened the Ocean Course, which features four stunning holes along the Pacific Ocean and was designed by Robert Van Hagge.

The signature fifth hole, a par-3, 185-yard masterpiece, plays over 200 yards with golfers often facing a stiff ocean breeze as they tee it up and gaze over the rocky cliffs below. Holes 6, 7 and 8 also play into the wind, but offer scoring opportunities and wider fairways than most of the holes on the Lagos and Vista nines.

“Vista is our most difficult nine, especially when the breeze kicks up,” Mellado said. “It’s tight and long and you really have to be hitting it pretty straight to score.”

The course record is 63, set in 1976, long before the Ocean Course opened.

The Mexican pro tour stopped in Bajamar

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earlier this year and the winning score was 5-under par over three days.

Sometimes golfers enjoy their Bajamar experience so much they never leave.

Over 1,500 people live in the Bajamar development (80% Americans) of 700 homes and apartments. Single family houses sell for $250,000 to $350,000.

Some of the biggest news at Bajamar this year happened off the course, in the vineyards just off the clubhouse. Barrels of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are aging and will go on sale to the public next spring.

For more information on Bajamar golf packages, events, weddings and residences, visit golfbajamar.com

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Amawaterways Concierge Golf Program

Amawaterways Tees Up ‘Exclusive Concierge Golf Program’ In Time For National Golf Month CALABASAS, CA – AmaWaterways is teeing up an incredible roster of amenities for guests traveling on board the oneof-a-kind AmaMagna when she makes her debut next year– including a brand new Exclusive Concierge Golf Program.

Officially introduced today, the program will give travelers the opportunity to experience five top-level golf courses in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Czech Republic* and Germany while enjoying the beauty and luxury of river cruising. Pricing starts at an additional $2,399 per person on the sevennight Romantic Danube and Melodies of the Danube itineraries beginning in May 2019.

“AmaMagna embodies our invariable world-class service with even more to love, and we are thrilled to add the Exclusive Concierge Golf Program to her line-up of offerings,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways.

“Pairing luxury river cruising with golf gives travelers the incredible opportunity to play top-rated courses in five different countries, in one seamless, memorable trip.”

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In addition to the expansive selection of amenities and immersive shore excursions that travelers can expect from an AmaWaterways cruise, guests participating in AmaMagna’s Exclusive Concierge Golf Program will receive the following: One Welcome Packet, which includes: a dozen Titleist Pro V1 golf balls per golfer, one pitch repair tool, course guides and a leather shoe bag Concierge service, including club care Private luxury Mercedes transfers between the ship and courses A la carte lunch at each course with beer and wine included One round per golfer at each course One shared golf cart per round One range token per round Club cleaning after each round Description generated with very high confidenceAmaMagna provides excellent options for multi-generational groups or those that may have differing interests, with an avid golfer or two amongst them.

She is nearly twice the width of traditional river cruise ships, but welcomes only 20 percent more guests, allowing generous personal space with more than half of the 98 staterooms designated as suites (355 sq. ft. or larger). Enticing onboard amenities include

Sun Deck with a large heated pool, relaxing whirlpool and pop-up sky bar, as well as a Water Sports Platform at the rear of the ship, where complimentary tours will be offered on the intimate Sundowner vessel.

Guests on board AmaMagna will enjoy four unique dining venues – the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table Restaurant, plus the new Jimmy’s Wine Bar Restaurant and Al Fresco Restaurant. The expansive Zen Wellness Studio is complete with large exercise area offering group classes focused on stretching, cardio and core strengthening led by a professionally trained Wellness Host, as well as a juice bar and two massage rooms, along with manicure, pedicure and hair services. *Czech Republic’s Albatross Golf Course is only available with the purchase of the Prague hotel/land extension. If purchasing the Prague land extension, guests can play the fifth course in Prague for an additional $500 per person (add to the land extension price).

For more information or to book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred travel professional, visit AmaWaterways.com or call (800) 626-0126.

Follow AmaWaterways at Facebook.com/ AmaWaterways, Instagram @AmaWaterways and Twitter @AmaWaterways.

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World Golf Village Debuts Summer Golf Packages

The World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida is pleased to announce three new summer escape golf packages. The new golf packages offer guests exceptional golf experiences at remarkable values and include: green fees, cart fees, and range balls for the award-winning King & Bear Golf Course and The Slammer & Squire Golf Course - the only resort golf courses in the world designed as a collaboration between Hall of Famers Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen.

Play All Day Golf Package The Play All Day Package offers guests unlimited golf on either the Slammer & Squire or King & Bear golf courses along with lunch, range balls, and 50 percent off admission to the World Golf Hall of Fame. Rates for this package start at $109 per person.

Florida Georgia Residence Package This new golf package offers Florida and Georgia residents 18 holes of golf with cart and complimentary range balls on either golf course. Rates start at $69 per person. Guests must show a valid Florida or Georgia driver’s license or state-issued identification card upon check-in.

Family Golf Package World Golf Village’s Family Golf Package provides free golf after 3PM at the Slammer & Squire and King & Bear for children (ages

17 and under) when accompanied by a paying adult.

Golf packages are available through September 31, 2018. Stay and play packages, which include onsite lodging, are also available. For more information, visit www. golfwgv.com or call 904-940-6088.

Jw Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa Slices Into Exceptional Fall Getaway SAN ANTONIO - Everything’s bigger in Texas, especially the travel. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa announces another of its highly anticipated luxury packages for indulgence this fall. The crisp fall weather offers the perfect backdrop to an exceptional experience ideal for a couples or guys getaway in the Texas hills. The Birdies, Booze and Buckles experience package invites the most discerning guests to spend a three-day escape in one of the resort’s awardwinning lavish golf suites while savoring activities curated for an over-the-top, Texassized escape. Exclusive amenities include a bourbon tasting, authentic Texas-style belt buckle, experiences at the resort’s on site TPC San Antonio PGA Tour golf course, and a spin through the surrounding Hill Country in a luxury sports car.

Guests will enjoy two nights accommodation in one of the JW San

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

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Antonio’s stunning suites boasting 1,200-square-feet of living space, spacious soaking tub, fireplace that heats up with the push of a button, large screen television, and expansive balcony overlooking the Texas Hill Country vistas and TPC San Antonio PGA TOUR golf course views.

Guests will be greeted with bourbon and cigars upon registration before heading to a private, personalized golf lesson at TPC San Antonio. Already a golf pro? Switch out the lesson for 18 holes of challenging golf on either the AT&T Oaks or AT&T Canyons course.

Apres’ golf, an awaiting handcrafted Texas belt buckle and bolo tie will transform guests into an authentic cowboy or cowgirl complete with bragging rights in the lone star state.

Guests can quench their post-golf thirst with a bourbon tasting at the resort’s Crooked Branch bar where the knowledgeable, highly trained staff will find the perfect bourbon to fit their taste or, if already a connoisseur, there is a selection of more than 60 varieties on hand. Travelers can then sip and savor their favorite bourbon while rocking under the famous Texas starry night sky or enjoying the crisp fall breeze near one of the resort’s outdoor fireplaces.

These lucky guests will rise with the Texas sun on day two and lace up their driving shoes for a unique view of the Hill Country landscape. The day begins behind the wheel of a luxury sports car cruising to explore surrounding vistas and small Texas towns with big treasures.

After returning from a leisurely drive, guests can explore the region’s flavors – and produce – at the resort’s fine dining restaurant, 18 Oaks Steakhouse. Farm-totable dining meets resort-style elegance at this upscale, yet warm and inviting space.

With most produce and meat procured from purveyors within 100 miles of the award-winning restaurant, or from the onsite organic garden, diners are treated to a unique, highly revered menu brimming with the freshest ingredients. The Booze, Buckles, and Birdies experience includes a $200 resort dining credit which can be used in any resort restaurant, bar, or for in-room dining during the three-day stay.

Indulge in all the resort’s standard amenities including the nine-acre River Bluff Water Experience, 36-holes of TPC San Antonio PGA TOUR golf, world-class Lantana Spa, award-winning culinary experiences, stunning hill country views and famous Texas big starry night skies.

To book your stay at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, please contact the resort at 210-276-2500 or visitwww. jwsanantonio.com.

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Pga Golf Club Partners With South Florida Pga Section’s Golf Pass Program

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – PGA Golf Club – the PGA of America’s premier 54-hole facility – has partnered with the South Florida PGA Section’s Golf Pass program, offering special rates for passholders.

Now through October 31, members of the South Florida Golf Pass program can play any three of PGA Golf Club’s courses – Dye, Ryder and Wanamaker – for $42. After 12 p.m., the rate is $32. Passholders can book seven days in advance, and must show the golf pass upon check-in. Other restrictions may apply.

“We are pleased to partner with the South Florida PGA Section on their golf pass,” says Jimmy Terry, General Manager. “The South Florida Golf Pass allows golfers throughout the state to experience our award-winning championship layouts and fantastic offcourse amenities.”

Known as the “Ultimate Golf Resort Destination,” PGA Golf Club is home to

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three highly-decorated courses designed by renowned architects Tom Fazio, and Pete Dye. The Wanamaker Course ranked 18th in Golfweek’s 2018 “Best: State-by-State Courses You Can Play” rankings, while the Dye Course rose to 22nd – making PGA Golf Club one of only a handful of properties with two layouts on the respected list. The Ryder Course reopened this past October to rave reviews following a renovation project that enhanced the greens and surrounding areas.

For more information about PGA Golf Club, visit www.pgavillage.com.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe Extends Exclusive Golf Getaway To Rewards Members With Legendary Hall Of Famer NORTH LAKE TAHOE, CA – For the fourth year, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe has collaborated with World Golf Hall of Fame member Annika Sorenstam to offer members of The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Program an exclusive golf weekend getaway on August

10-12, 2018. The eventful weekend includes a two-night luxury stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, a golf clinic hosted by Annika, a round of golf at the Old Greenwood Golf Course in Truckee, hosted lunch, and roundtrip transportation to all activities. Annika will also host a private reception for guests at the resort’s new lakeside amenity, Lake Club, The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, which made its debut in June 2017.

The Annika Golf Weekend is a unique member experience that begins with guests arriving at the resort on Friday, August 10 and receiving round-trip transportation to the Lake Club for a private reception and the opportunity to meet Annika from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. On Saturday morning, guests will be transported from the resort to the Old Greenwood Golf Course, where Annika will offer a 90-minute golf clinic, followed by an exclusive photography opportunity with Annika, and a round of golf on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course.

Annika is the greatest female golfer of

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our generation, and during her 15-year Hall of Fame career, changed the way women’s golf was played. Through her six global ANNIKA Foundation tournaments, Annika provides opportunities in women’s golf at the junior, collegiate and professional levels while teaching young people the importance of living a healthy, active lifestyle through fitness and nutrition.

Nestled among 600 acres of towering pines in the mountains near North Lake Tahoe, the Old Greenwood golf course offers world-class golf, and has been rated among the 10 Best New Public Access Courses in the Country by Golf Magazine.

The Annika Golf Weekend is available for $1,699.00 USD (plus taxes) for double occupancy.

Single occupancy is available for $1,299 + taxes. Club Level, Suite and Deluxe Two Queen Guest Room accommodations are available for an additional charge.

Space is limited and open only to members of The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Program, which is complimentary and easy to join. To become a Ritz-Carlton Rewards Member, visit www.ritzcarltonrewards.com.

To book this exclusive Member experience, please contact The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe at 530-562-3028 or visit http://ritzcarlton. com/en/rewards/news-offers.

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Shoot Fore Par! Florida’s Most Spectacular Golf and Shooting Package Available at Mission Inn Resort & Club Howey-in-the-Hills, FL – Ready, aim, fire…and Shoot Fore Par! Mission Inn Resort & Club is combining two favorite pastimes – golf and shooting – into one affordable package, starting September 15 through December 30. Guests can experience two award-winning golf courses at one of Florida’s iconic venues with an option for a trap and skeet shooting experience.

The experience begins with the mustplay El Campeón (The Champion), one of the oldest 18-hole courses in the South, honored as the No. 1 golf course in Florida by Golf Advisor. Opened in 1917 – and an original member of the Florida Historic Golf Trail – El Campeón offers a classic design accentuating the landscape’s 85-foot elevation changes that are unique to central Florida.

Las Colinas (The Hills), which opened in 1992, lives up to its name with wide fairways rolling over gentle rises. Las Colinas incorporates water hazards on many holes, with large, undulating greens surrounded by tropical vegetation.

The El Cazador Trap and Skeet Range offers guests a unique opportunity to participate in clay sports. In trap, a single

machine throws targets as the competitor moves through five different stations. In skeet, two machines throw targets while participants move through a semi-circle of stations. Targets, shells, guns, eye and ear protection, safety and instructional advice are included in the package.

The two golf courses, coupled with the shooting experience, present three distinctive challenges and the Shoot Fore Par! package.

Packages start at $273 per person, per night, based on double occupancy and a two-night minimum. This package is available from July 15, 2018 and runs to December 30, 2018.

Mission Inn Resort & Club, 35 minutes northwest of Orlando, sits amid citrus groves in central Florida’s rolling hills. Surrounded by lakes, the picturesque location features classic Spanish Colonial style architecture throughout the property; 176 graciously appointed guestrooms, suites, and villas; as well as three restaurants and two lounges.

Besides golf and the shooting range, amenities include a tennis academy, Spa Marbella, the lakefront marine center, and miles of nature trails.

For more details, to check availability, and to book online, call (800) 874-9053 tollfree, (352) 324-3101 direct, and visit www. missioninnresort.com.

Golf Vacations • August 2018 13

MYTURN

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by David R. Holland

Trump, Golf Courses, and the Environment: Go Figure?

hen I think of environmentalists and golf courses, a thousand thoughts leap gazelle-like through my brain.

After working and editing some Forest Service Environmental Impact Statements, I learned that it’s not bad to cut down trees. It can clean up dead fuels that make forest fires tougher to fight and it makes the forest even healthier – fire regenerates new growth.

Eventually a tree-lined 100-year-old golf course will have a problem with encroachment and grass stops growing in those areas. The solution is to thin out the growth.

So, I started delving into the good and bad of environmental issues and the world we live in. And I decided we have enough golf courses, but if we decide to make some changes and improve the environment surrounding a new golf course then it is a win-win.

I was recently introduced to Pres. Donald J. Trump’s long-time environmental adviser.

His name is Ed Russo and before you close your mind to the words Trump and the environment let me tell you a positive story that is about the President, golf and the environment.

Russo is the former chairman of the planning board of Bedminster Township, N.J., and once co-chairman of the Bedminster

Township Environmental Commission.

When this bird-watching champion for the environment heard that John DeLorean’s 435-acre estate, Lamington Farm, was for sale because of bankruptcy and that it could likely become a golf course project Russo got engaged.

Yep, DeLorean was the guy behind the wing-doored car made famous in the movie “Back to the Future”.

Russo remembers making speeches warning residents that Bedminster’s zoning and land-use ordinances were not strong enough.

“Someday, I predicted darkly, a Donald Trump will come to town, and we will not be prepared to defend its rural character,” said Russo in his book “Donald J. Trump, An Environmental Hero”.

Imagine Russo’s dismay when it was revealed it was The Donald Trump wanting to make the old farm and ranch into Trump National Golf Club Bedminster.

But things changed. He moved to Key West and was happy to hear rumors that Trump was having difficulty with the environmental “landmines stipulated in the Bedminster ordinances”.

Then the phone call came that asked

Ed Russo

Russo to travel to Trump Tower and discuss environmental issues connected to the proposed golf club in Bedminster.

Long story short, Russo went to Trump Tower, told him a lot of things Trump didn’t want to hear and the meeting ended with Trump unhappy and Russo left without even saying goodbye.

Trump International Golf Links, Scotland

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Ferry Point

End of story, right? Wrong. Soon after, while playing at Key West Golf Club, he got a phone call from Trump who told him he was going to build Trump National Golf Club Bedminster and if he had to adhere to environmental ordinances he would do just that.

“I’ll send you a contract you can’t refuse,” Trump told him. “I’m putting you in charge of the property.” Then, Russo said, he hung up the phone without another word.

That’s when the hard work began. Russo found the Bedminster property had significant environment problems. “The habitat was a toxic site,” Russo said. There was a whole list of problems. The property had been neglected for years.

Why can’t we use golf to clean it up Russo asked? Others working on the project fought him day after day, but Trump sided with Russo and the clean-up began.

“David Peifer, Executive Director of the Upper Riparian Watershed, recommended we stabilize the patient before operating,” Russo said.

Erosion control and stream stabilization was tackled first.

“We took open, uncovered, eroding soil along stream corridors and transformed the area into lush, herbaceous layers of grasses that stabilized the soil, filtered surface runoff, and provided new habitats for threatened and endangered species of indigenous and migratory grassland birds.

“A specific seed mix was developed to promote the habitat of grassland birds, a combination of warm season and cool season grasses,” Russo wrote. “We called it Donald Trump Golden Fescue. It looks great, stabilizes soil, provides passive filtration for surface runoff, and creates a perfect habitat for grassland birds.”

That fescue was instrumental in stabilizing the highest dunes in Scotland – at Trump International Golf Links Aberdeen – a breathtaking golf course I have seen and played and will never forget the awesome experience.

“We took the fescue work from New Jersey and transferred that innovation to Scotland. The seed mix we came up with was a healthier bio-diverse version that created tall and short grasses,” Russo said. “That allowed nesting birds areas of tall grasses and the shorter grasses allowed you to find your golf ball.”

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But I have another substantial instance of Trump and the environment.

That would be Trump National Golf Links at Ferry Point located just minutes from Manhattan in the Bronx and underneath the Whitestone Bridge.

“Ferry Point was a toxic time bomb in a spectacular location,” Russo remembered. “It really wasn’t a land fill, this was a dump, owned by the city, and people would just come there just to throw anything and everything away.

“We took it as a challenge to address air quality, habitat enhancement for shore birds, soil stabilization and surface water filtration. It went from a mess to a beautiful golf course,” Russo said.

Final words from the bird watcher turned Trump environmental advocate and adviser?

“Trump was very direct with me,” Russo said. “He deserves all the credit. He made it happen. Most of environmental habitat enhancements are elective. He has planted millions of dollars worth of trees, stabilized shorelines, expanded and created new habitat. I gave him choices and options and he knew more about the subject than I knew. He supported every crazy environmental thing I asked of him.”

By the way, Trump National Golf Club Bedminster hosted the 2017 U.S. Women’s Open and the 2022 PGA Championship is scheduled there.

Trump Internationa No. 18 651 yards minefield of 18 bunkers.

Golf Vacations • August 2018 15

Pinehurst No. 4

• • Evolution of a Classic • • photos by Jaeger Kovich

V

ILLAGE OF PINEHURST, NC – The Cradle of American Golf. The St. Andrews of America. Whichever title is bestowed upon Pinehurst Resort, one thing is certain. The golf is as good as anywhere in the world.

President Tom Pashley and company recognize the Pinehurst standard is not one to be neglected. The property continues to develop, including opening of The Cradle, a 789-yard short course aimed at the casual golfer looking to play a quick round, whether it’s before, after or sans a full 18 on one of Pinehurst’s nine golf courses. Yes, Pinehurst has NINE golf courses, five of which play right off the main clubhouse.

Enhancements to Donald Ross’ No. 2 by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw restored the golf course to Ross’ original intended design. Courses No. 3, No. 5 and No. 6 have also undergone significant improvements in recent years, assuring that Pinehurst is not a one-trick pony.

Perhaps Pinehurst’s most important project, which will reopen to the public in September 2018, is the recreation of the once-acclaimed No. 4 course. Gil Hanse, one of the leading golf course architects of today, was hired to lead what he calls a “reimagination” of the track.

After reopening in 1999 following a remake by Tom Fazio, No. 4 was widely regarded as one of the best courses in the United States, let alone the Carolinas.

Ownership charged Hanse with bringing back No. 4’s original Sandhill aesthetic and authentic Donald Ross design elements.

Hanse, designer of the 2016 Olympic Golf Course in Rio de Janerio, envisioned No. 4 as a “companion course” to its famed sibling, No. 2. The USGA recognized the seamless connection as the two courses will host the U.S. Amateur in 2019. Hanse knew it, now the golf world is taking notice.

Although No. 4 will be a natural companion to No. 2, it will not be a duplicate.

In fact, Hanse believes No. 4 features the most interesting topography on the entire property.

“It is a companion in the landscape, but it is not a tribute in the features.

The greens are different, the approaches are different and we wanted to take

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advantage of the landforms, which are much more dramatic than those on No. 2,” says Hanse.

Hanse equated re-designing No. 4 as a chance to “play in the sand” as nothing in golf compares to the Sandhills region of North Carolina and its underlying soil. They restored No. 4 back to its original landforms by recreating the hole corridors and reconnecting the elevations and natural features.

“The highest compliment we received was from Bill Coore; he was very impressed with how we managed the material onsite,” Hanse says. “And our ability to re-establish a landscape that looked like it had been there forever.”

With a shimmering lake as a centerpiece and natural ridgelines defining corridors, golfers are treated to a brazen blend of sand, native wire grasses and shimmering water. With its vast crossing bunkers and scrubby edges, No. 4 will embody the essence of the Sandhills region of the Carolinas.

Pinehurst offers a wide variety of golf packages, including the Summer Tee Package, which allows golfers to receive their third night and fourth round of golf completely free when they stay for two nights. For all golf packages, follow the link here.

Pinehurst is a very easy trip for most. It’s just over an hour from Raleigh-Durham International Airport, and within a half-day’s journey from many East Coast cities.

With the fun and unique additions mentioned above, now more than ever it’s a golf oasis worthy of an annual pilgrimage.

For more information, visit www.pinehurst.com.

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Across pond around 13, looking at 15 Teeing area

The Crossbunker on 9

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Golf Vacations • August 2018 17

Pinehurst Resort Planning to Open New Microbrewery in the Fall The Pinehurst Brewing Company gives new life to the Village’s historic steam plant VILLAGE OF PINEHURST, NC – On New Year’s Eve in 1895, the steam produced by the Village Power House enabled The Holly Inn to welcome the first guests to Pinehurst with the very latest in luxury amenities - heat and electricity.

For decades, the steam plant powered the homes, hotels and cottages of Pinehurst until it was shuttered in the 1990s, falling into disrepair and, at one time, slated for demolition. Now, after a full renovation by Pinehurst Resort to maintain its original façade and capture the character of the century-old building, the steam plant will re-emerge as the Pinehurst Brewing Company, which is planned to open this fall.

Much of the original steam plant building remains, but instead of turbines and generators, it will feature a 10-barrel microbrewery. An observation platform overlooking the brewhouse will be a focal point of the taproom, and the dining room will be complemented by a bar, a beer garden and an all-seasons patio.

The Pinehurst Brewing Company will operate in the historic building that still reflects its first use. Parts of the brewhouse’s walls remain blackened from the decades it housed massive steam boilers. The unique exterior brick corbeling – rarely seen in architecture today - is preserved, and the vintage arches and windows have been restored. Brick walls that have been standing for over 120 years give way to high ceilings, and the plant’s smokestack

Eric 18 Mitchell Golf Vacations • August 2018

will be rebuilt using its original base, returning a lost but defining feature of the Village’s early landscape.

Portions of the plant have been renovated to include a smokehouse for the restaurant and a greenhouse for herbs, which could be used for both the restaurant and for brewing ingredients. A trellis designed to replicate the train track that brought coal into the plant covers seating outside. The trellis is supported by the same pylons that held the track in the early 1900s.

“For almost a century, the steam plant provided power to the Village. We hope this next incarnation of the building as the Pinehurst Brewing Company provides a surge of energy for the entire community,” says Pinehurst President Tom Pashley.

Beer will be brewed by Eric Mitchell, the former head brewer of Heist Brewery in Charlotte. One of the most highly regarded young brewers in the country, while at Heist Mitchell won recognition from the World Beer Cup and others. His IPA, Citraquench’l, consistently ranks among the Top 10 IPAs in the United States, and in February last year, fans braved the winter cold and camped out in line to be among the first to buy a new release of Mitchell’s bourbon barrel-aged stout, Cataclysm.

The brewery is among the most significant of recent additions to the Resort, which includes its new short course, The Cradle, and a redesign of Pinehurst No. 4 by noted golf architect Gil Hanse.

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Golf Vacations • August 2018 19

Awarii

Where Ireland Me 20 Golf Vacations • August 2018

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Dunes

by David R. Holland

eets the Heartland www.golfvacationsmag.com

Golf Vacations • August 2018 21

AXTELL, Neb. – Awarii Dunes is where Jim Engh meets Nebraska. Ireland meets the heartland.

It’s where a Texan reaches the 17th fairway and says, “where the hell is the green?”

Then it dawns on me. This is Jim Engh -- the guy that loves Irish golf. That huge dune up ahead is hiding a punchbowl green. I retreat to my playing partners, who have puzzled looks, and have also never played the course before, and lay it out for them.

Engh has always said this is a perfect example of a hole that looks intimidating, but plays pretty easy. All of our approach shots gathered right by the pin on a hole that measures 435 yards from the tips.

Awarii Dunes might just be one of the funkier Engh courses I’ve played and I’ve teed it up at all his Colorado courses plus Michigan, Georgia, Arizona and now Nebraska.

“The rolling character of the land reminds me in many ways of some of the softer Irish links courses; it is the gentle and quirky rolls and falls of the native landforms that most inspired me with this project,” Engh said. “Very little, if any, excavation occurred over the entire project. In fact, there was no disturbance to the existing grasses and vegetation.”

“Most first-time golfers tell me they really like the conditioning,” said Jeff Perdew, PGA General Manager.

Awarii Dunes near Kearney.

(Photograph by Paul Hundley)

“We have bent grass fairways, tees and greens and the superintendent and I are the toughest critics.

“The most challenging features are the undulating greens, but I think it is very playable especially the more you tee it up here. Your first round will be the toughest.

It is definitely an approach shot golf course. If you know where to leave your approach you have a chance to score.”

Yep, but, I remember the fourth green. The pin was on the left side, but it was on a high point and the entire right side was a downhill slope. Good luck with that one.

Awarii Dunes from 17th tee

Hotel Paseo Guestroom

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Awarii Dunes features this funky green

Next time I’ll be left. And there are some blind shots.

Awarii means “windblown” in Pawnee – and there was just a light breeze for my morning round.

The surroundings were pure Nebraska – wheat, corn, and some cottonwoods along the northern boundary.

Avoid the rough, but land in the “bunkers” and you can ground your club without a penalty.

“The hazards aren’t really blow-outs,” Perdew said.

“But over time (and wind) they could become that.”

Actually only about 30,000 cubic yards of dirt were moved on this 7,001-yard, par 72 that cost a mere $1.5 million to build. The dirt paths for the golf carts cut down on price big-time. And the clubhouse is modest but fine. If your coming just to play golf who needs a Trump clubhouse?

The original nine-hole course on this spot opened in 2004 and did business as Links at Craneview. It closed in 2006 after its investment group lost it in foreclosure.

So Awarii Dunes really filled a welcome spot in Nebraska’s I-80 corridor golf possibilities.

I’ve played the Grand Slam of Nebraska golf: Sand Hills, Dismal River, Prairie Club, Wild Horse – and Awarii Dunes is a fun one you should put on the schedule – just like my road trip to the 2018 College World Series in Omaha.

Where to stay The Best Western Plus Mid Nebraska Inn & Suites in Kearney was perfect. It is right on the road to Awarii Dunes (five miles away) and next door to Skeeter Barnes BBQ. This place is quiet and my suite, which had a full kitchen, also had the ability to completely close off the bedroom and bathroom to the living room. Enjoy the continental breakfast, manager’s reception and good night’s sleep here before or after golf.

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Golf Vacations • August 2018 23

Giants Ridge: Minne

24 Golf Vacations • August 2018

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esota’s “Double Diamond”

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Golf Vacations • August 2018 25

W

hile high heat and humidity can make late summer downright unbearable in many parts of the country, it’s perfect golf weather at Northern Minnesota’s Giants Ridge. The Biwabik golf resort, nestled in the unspoiled beauty of the Mesabi Iron Range, features two of the top-ranked layouts in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” With plenty of daylight to play 36 holes daily, summer is an ideal time to visit.

A four-season family recreation destination, Giants Ridge was the only Minnesota property to earn a 2018 Golf Digest Editor’s Choice Award for “Best Golf Resorts in the Midwest.” This golf “giant” offers guests a chance to unplug and unwind while enjoying the property’s two distinct 18-hole courses, The Legend and The Quarry. This duo of dramatic designs represents some of Jeffrey Brauer’s finest work.

The Legend The original Giants Ridge layout, The Legend opened in 1997 to rave reviews. Tucked away in the pristine natural splendor of the northwoods, the player-friendly course plays through towering pines and alongside glittering Sabin Lake. The resort course features wide fairways, but undulating greens, strategically-placed bunkers and water hazards create enjoyable challenges throughout.

The Quarry While The Legend is characterized by smooth lines and serenity, The

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Quarry is home to rugged terrain and exhilarating obstacles including dramatically raised tees and hazards forged from reclaimed and repurposed mine land. The exceptional layout – built on the site of a former sand quarry and iron ore mine – provides a beguiling test for even the most skilled golfers. A true “must-play” course, The Quarry is rated the “Best Course You Can Play” in Minnesota by Golfweek and GOLF Magazine. Beware the intimidating par-5 fifth hole, which demands a massive carry to a classically-angled fairway and a precise approach shot to a green guarded by water.

Accommodations The Lodge at Giants Ridge is conveniently located just steps from The Legend’s clubhouse, which means guests can easily roll out of bed and hit the links. Ideal for groups, The Lodge offers a variety of suite layouts from one to four bedrooms. Cozy linens and comfortable beds ensure you’ll be well-rested before your round.

Stock the kitchen with your favorite morning essentials or head to Sleeping Giant Restaurant & Bar – located on the lobby level of the Lodge – for breakfast. Other on-site restaurants at Giants Ridge include Burnt Onion Kitchen & Brews in the new chalet, Wacootah Grille in The Quarry’s clubhouse overlooking the 18th green and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Mine and Bunkers Snack Bar located at the turn between the first and ninth holes at The Legend.

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Other Activities In addition to legendary golf, Giants Ridge also features a wide variety of other outdoor activities including biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, disc golf and climbing on the new 32’ rock wall. New this year are approximately 2.5 miles of purpose-built gravity mountain bike trails, set to open in mid-July. In winter, Giants Ridge becomes a ski and snowboard hot spot offering 35 downhill ski runs, over 60 km of the finest-groomed Nordic ski trails and the best snowboarding terrain park in Minnesota.

Golf Special Through Sept. 3, play both The Legend and Quarry – and enjoy lunch between rounds – for just $145 pp Monday – Thursday or $160 pp Friday – Sunday.

For more information, call 1.800.688.7669 or visit www.giantsridge.com/golf.

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Golf Vacations • August 2018 27

Boot Ranch Go

King of Hill Country G in Fredericksburg, Tex 28 Golf Vacations • August 2018

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olf Course

Golf xas

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By Tim Cotroneo Golf Vacations • August 2018 29

Y

ou feel a sense of anticipation building as you take the 78-mile trek from Austin/ Bergstrom International Airport to Boot Ranch Golf Course in Fredericksburg, TX. The landmarks are plentiful as you pass President Johnson’s hometown, the song inspiration for Waylon, Willie, and the Boys, and no fewer than 16 wineries. Your GPS reads five miles to Boot Ranch Circle, and you can’t help but think, “What’s next?”

The answer comes fast as you turn right and head north on Hwy 965 toward Boot Ranch. The elevations begin to soar, the topography becomes horse, steer, and goat friendly, and you expect the car stereo to belt out the theme from Bonanza as you keep an eye out for Clint Eastwood galloping up from the next ravine.

Upon turning left at the Boot Ranch sign there’s another shift in what you’re seeing, breathing, and experiencing. The surroundings are now luxurious, the air is fresh, and you’re just a clubhouse greeting away from encountering PGA Professional Hal Sutton’s dream golf destination.

Investing in Hill Country Golf Everything you absorbed on your way to Boot Ranch played a part in Sutton’s Hill Country epiphany. After more than two decades on the PGA Tour, you’d think Sutton had seen it all. The truth is, Sutton was so enthralled with the raw beauty of these central Texas surroundings he made it his life’s work to create a multi-generational oasis that is the Boot Ranch Golf Community.

and “how can we help you” service, service, service. Regardless of what you shoot on this challenging 7,100-yard layout, the Boot Ranch team, as well as the membership, will treat guests with a kindness that is warmer than the first bowl of chili on a Friday night.

Wine and Golf Paradise Boot Ranch is more than epic elevations, wind calculations, and undulating greens. Sutton made his course one in which there is a premium placed on course management over gripping and ripping.

Each Par 5 allows for risk reward on the second shot. Sutton didn’t want his Par 5s to follow a bombs-away mentality when there could be dividends reaped from positioning each shot.

Bringing a pullover for your golf trip is part of the Hill Country appeal.

Residents from Houston and Dallas have long-favored Fredericksburg as a vacation destination due to the area’s cooler temps. This breath of fresh air, along with the plethora of vineyards positioned just a stone’s throw from Boot Ranch, had Sutton calling his masterpiece the “Aspen of Texas.”

Wine enthusiasts will thrill to experience Boot Ranch as a golf

In the decade plus since Boot Ranch opened, there has been continual investment in the real estate, the housing, the Clubhouse Village, the amenities, and especially the golf. During the past two years the Terra Verde Group invested $6 million into renovating the bunkers, the rough, the greens, and a 1-acre Putting Park that is the largest of its kind in Texas.

Boot Ranch is a Texas-sized property and this larger than life theme rings true in the opulent clubhouse, pro shop, massive practice facility,

30 Golf Vacations • August 2018

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and wine double your pleasure getaway. The area’s rocky terrain, temperate climate, and acidity helps make Texas the fourth largest wine producing state in the nation. The beauty of staying and playing at Boot Ranch is that the Fredericksburg vineyards are all within a 30-minute drive from the property’s entrance.

House on the Hill When Sutton designed Boot Ranch, the golf course came first, and then the housing. This golf first mentality is definitely appreciated when you’re out on the links. What’s spectacular about Sutton’s philosophy is that because many of Boot Ranch’s mega homes are perched a fair distance from the course’s perimeter and set on extreme elevations, their towering rooftops appear to nearly scrape the clouds.

In fact, the appeal of Boot Ranch home ownership goes well beyond Texans seeking relief from the summer heat. Current home ownership includes members who have relocated from Louisiana, Oklahoma, Colorado, Florida, New York, Illinois, and Vancouver.

The trifecta of privacy, exclusivity, and luxury living amidst small-town friendliness has Boot Ranch experiencing a burgeoning real estate market. On the sprawling landscape that is Boot Ranch, new home owners choose from lots ranging from one-half acre to 14 acres. If your tee shots tend to avoid wide open spaces, the good news is there’s always plenty of elbow room for those who retire to a Boot Ranch Sunday House, Overlook Cabin, Village Home, or Custom Homestead.

Falling for Boot Ranch Amidst all the golf holes that could be claimed signature, the Par 4, 10th hole is so artistic that Sutton calls it “the Mona Lisa.” Drive over a ravine, avoid the Palo Alto creek, and then hit your second shot just long enough to avoid twin waterfalls behind the sloping green. If your golf ball avoided the water on 10, you are rewarded with a comfort station that includes food, your favorite beverage, and a handful of Adirondack chairs to recharge while seeing how the next group tackles Mona Lisa.

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The Par 5, 18th hole is one of the lone reprieves at Boot Ranch. At 473-yards this finishing hole is reachable in two. Before you get too excited, realize that depending on the pin placement, your putt can be up to 100 feet in length.

Once you’ve finished your round there is one last Boot Ranch surprise.

With a little luck one of the members will show you how to navigate 18 holes in a Texas-style fashion. Many of the members have tapped the services of renowned Texas bootmaker M.L. Leddy for designing custom-made cowboy boots with golf spikes. Before you can say, “What’s next,” you’re handed a Texas brewed Shiner Bock beer and a hearty “thanks” for spending a day with Waylon, Willie, and the Boot Ranch family.

For more information visit www.bootranch.com

Golf Vacations • August 2018 31

SWEETSTUFF

Breakthrough Golf Technology

W

hen most people think about improving their putting, the last thing they usually think about is the shaft on their flat stick.

But then Barney Adams is not like most people. The iconic founder of the Tight Lies fairway wood, who revolutionized the design of that club more than 20 years ago, sees things that most people don’t, and his latest venture looks like it could leave its mark on the very underserved industry of finding a better shaft for putters.

Breakthrough Golf Technology, a new company that Adams is bringing to the forefront of the golf equipment industry, is the producer of the Stability shaft—a revolutionary putter shaft that uses a scientifically advanced multi-material design as opposed to steel-with geometries never before used in a putter shaft. The Stability shaft has a unique look, a more solid feel than a traditional steel putter shaft and delivers the face more squarely at impact for improved accuracy. It has a more solid feel and lower launch for a predictable roll, resulting in better distance control.

“When I first learned about the product I knew that it could be significant. It’s a step forward in golf equipment technology,” said Adams, who runs the company as its CEO. “... research had uncovered a basic flaw in steel shafts, which can be described as excessive weights of putter heads vs. putter shafts. Specifically, that they responded with oscillation during the stroke. Because of this ‘wobble’ the head didn’t return to the ball in a perfectly square position and the ability to achieve a consistent roll.

“What has been rewarding for me is that the Stability Shaft works better for amateurs. Pros are great putters and while the shaft does help them, it’s the inconsistency of the amateur that it corrects most”.

He went on to explain that the average player will get a higher

32 Golf Vacations • August 2018

‘Smash Factor’ and hit the clubface more consistently and ultimately make more putts. It’s a perfect synergy of technology and materials to improve putting performance.

This performance was exhaustively tested with hundreds of putters using state-of-the-art high-speed cameras, robots, SAM Putt Lab, Quintic Ball Roll software and Trackman4. The result was to reinvent the putter shaft from the ground up with a feel that is very responsive and an overall result that promotes a more even putting stroke.

There are four basic ingredients to the Stability shaft that work in concert to help improve most players’ accuracy. BGT calls this ‘Advanced Materials Integration’™, and they include eight layers of high modulus carbon fiber specifically layered, wrapped and widened, with a no-taper design to greatly reduce torque; a lightweight 22g aluminum insert was developed and precisely located to reinforce flexural rigidity and a 7075-aluminum connector is inserted that helps to stiffen and reinforce. This versatility allows attachment to virtually any tip diameter of any putter, regardless of the bend profile. Lastly, the stainless-steel tips have extremely consistent wall thicknesses for superior strength and are coated with a smoke PVD finish to add protection from corrosion and rusting.

The company reports that just about any type of putter can be fitted with the Stability Shaft, and it helps with virtually every kind of stroke, including straight-back straight-through, arc path—and testing has shown improvement for low, mid and high handicap players.

Tour players—including a major champion—have been tested with the shaft and even they have found benefits.

The Stability Shaft is available from golf retailers in the US and Canada.

To learn more visit www.breakthroughgolftech.com

Under Armour Sunglasses

A

company known for its athletic performance apparel is now branching out into the golf sunglass arena this summer as Under Armour introduces its Tuned™ Golf sports-specific lens that has some new benefits for players both during and after the round.

These fashionable shades provide several benefits for the avid golfer, including heightened contrast and improved depth perception.

Advanced color definition allows golfers to read the course more precisely and to easily identify and track the ball. They have a

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SWEETSTUFF

by Terry Ross

comfortable feel and the lens technology is such that they are very easy to see through in a variety of light conditions.

One of the unique feature of these glasses is that they are built to help your eyes recover after the round and UA Eyewear’s new Tuned™ Recovery lenses are made to help your eyes refresh from time in the sun and get back to their normal circadian rhythm. They help to produce a “chill” effect for your eyes and calm the mind--and are made to wear during or after a round.

The UA Tuned™ sunglasses are designed to be worn in full bright sun or in overcast weather and come in the Golf Pulse model that is a larger, more full design that has become popular with many players, and in the Golf Big Shot wrap-around look that provides a sportier look--but fits and performs equally as well.

Other features of these glasses include ArmourSight® lens technology that provides enhanced, distortion-free vision, edge-toedge; lenses that defend against 100% of harmful UVA/B/C rays; frames that are built with high grade injected polyamide for maximum strength and durability; and UA AutoGrip self-articulating temples that conform to your head shape without the squeeze. All Under Armour Eyewear is protected for life against manufacturer defects.

For more information on Under Armour Tuned sunglasses: www. underarmour.com/en-us/mens/sunglasses/g/397a

and White Plains (NY). Additional locations coming on board in 2018 include Miami, Delray Beach, Salt Lake City, San Diego and San Carlos (CA).

“We are excited to bring the finest club fitting and building to these new markets,” said Joe Lee, CEO and president of Club Champion. “Our approach is unbiased, with no promotion of any specific vendors. Our only goal is to find the best combination of components to help customers hit longer, more accurate shots, and more often to lower their scores and enjoy the game more.”

Club Champion hires experienced fitters who then receive an additional 150+ hours of training before starting their job; unmatched in the golf industry. The company has a unique coupling system that allows them to combine any head and shaft together, so golfers hit the precise combination to be custom built for them.

Club Champion

P

roperly fit golf clubs are one of the easiest things that players can do to improve their game, yet a Golf Magazine study found that 90% of U.S. golfers may be playing with clubs that are ill-suited for them.

The best players in the world—those on the PGA Tour—are on the other extreme—they have the Tour vans that follow them every week to the tournament sites and players are constantly inside these mobile golf shops and on the practice range during before the competition during the week getting their clubs checked and making changes as they see fit with the help of expert club fitters.

Club Champion, the Willowbrook, Illinois company that has quickly gained a dominant position nationally in the custom club-fitting category in just eight years, now brings both extremes together—and even takes it to another level.

Club Champion fits, sells, and builds custom golf clubs constructed from clubheads, shafts and grips from the best brands in golf including Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping, Titleist, PXG, Fujikura, Golf Pride and many more. The company delivers a Tour-quality fitting with an added feature: they are not limited to a single company or brand of clubs. Tour players usually can only get that brand of club from say a Callaway Tour van, whereas in a Club Champion fitting facility there are 35,000 hittable clubhead and shaft combinations in approximately 3,000 square feet of space that includes two indoor hitting bays with Trackman launch monitors for analyzing performance, a SAM PuttLab’s fitting system to find the perfect putter on their practice green--and a build shop for repairing and assembling golf clubs by hand. Kind of like a tour van on steroids.

By the end of this summer, Club Champion figures to have upwards of 40 fitting studios across the nation, including new locations in Detroit, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Naples, Newport Beach, Dallas, Manhattan, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, Nashville

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Jordan Thomas, Master Fitter and the manager of the new location in Newport Beach, California, notes that distance is not all about swinging faster.

“Center contact can have more to do with distance and better shots than swing speed,” explained Thomas. “Our main goal is to help you find the center of the club face. We can do this by adjusting the shaft length, finding the right shaft, adjust the lie angle by bending the club. Better contact is the real goal for our club fitting. The proper shaft and flex is many times determined on how the player loads the club, the hand action, how fast they get through the ball, their transition—and those factors—not just speed.

“What sets us apart is our ability to build a club using any head and any shaft combination. Many times, manufacturers won’t offer a certain shaft with a certain club head. We can do that. They do it for tour players.”

He also noted that mass-produced clubs—even those custom ordered—are not always the same.

“In 10 years of building clubs, I have not seen one company that regularly checks the specs—you can get a custom set and the specs ordered will be different than what is shipped,” added Thomas.

More information about Club Champion and its national locations is available at: www.clubchampiongolf.com/locations

Golf Vacations • August 2018 33

SWEETSTUFF Bridgestone Tiger Woods Golf Ball

T

iger Woods comeback this season may still be a work-inprogress, but the premium golf ball that he collaborated with Bridgestone Golf in designing is gaining traction in many circles.

Some of the features of this tour-level ball include a gradational core that optimizes energy transfer to create low side-spin and high ball velocity for incredible distance and accuracy gains; a seamless cover design that utilizes injection molding technology to stabilize ball flight on all shots; an aerodynamically superior dimple profile that provide different player types with vastly enhanced length and control and the SlipRes cover technology that increases friction by creating more stability between the ball and club for enhanced control with irons and wedges.

More information is available at: bridgestonegolf.com.

TPT Expands Shaft Offerings

T The Bridgestone Golf Tour B XS Tiger Woods Edition golf ball, which has been used this year by the 14-time major champion in his comeback to PGA Tour play, has the adept feel around the greens that is as good as any premium Tour ball and offers impressive stopping ability on those delicate scoring shots. Its length is right up there with any of the top balls used by better players, but even those with average swing speeds will find this an excellent choice.

During development, company engineers used data from more than three million in-person and online ball fittings, combined with insights from leading third-party industry sources, to identify needs of specific player types. They then drew on more than 800 golf ball patents to determine which proprietary technologies would most benefit each golfer persona identified.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this ball goes to benefit the Tiger Woods Foundation, and his stamp is all over this ball. They feature a custom “TIGER” logo that replicates how Woods marks his competition golf balls and distinct packaging to highlight the charitable benefits and limited, special-edition product. From a performance perspective, the Tiger Woods Edition ball is identical to the standard TOUR B XS model, which Woods currently uses on the PGA Tour.

“We worked closely with the Bridgestone team to come up with a concept that benefits both golfers and my TGR Foundation, which is very important to me,” noted Woods. “The TOUR B XS easily outperforms any ball I’ve ever played. It is incredibly long, but offers excellent feel and spin around the green, which makes me confident in any situation.”

With a decorated career that includes 14 major wins and a record run of 683 weeks as the world’s top-ranked golfer, Woods transitioned to the TOUR B XS before the 2017 Hero World Challenge in December and has since recorded his best professional finishes since 2013.

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PT Golf™ is a relative newcomer to the high-end golf club driver shaft space, but already this year has made some serious inroads into the winner’s circle on the PGA Tour and with its partnership with perhaps the fastest-growing premium custom fitting retailer in America.

In less than two years, TPT shafts have accounted for six professional victories—including three this year with former World No. 1 Jason Day getting two wins and Vijay Singh getting a win on the Champions Tour at the Toshiba Classic in Newport Beach this past spring.

Of the 11 TPT shaft offerings, the 15-LKP-LT-LW is the latest to join the company’s lineup earlier this year as a shaft designed to meet the needs of high-speed golfers. Within the 15 Series, the 15-LKP-LT-LW offers the lightest weight (63 grams). It is also the lowest-torque shaft in the entire TPT Golf lineup.

Like TPT Golf’s 10 other shaft designs, the 15-LKP-LT-LW has a perfectly concentric, seamless design. This is the direct result of TPT Golf’s fully automated manufacturing process called “ThinPly Winding,” which gives TPT Golf the ability to independently tweak each shaft design parameter. This revolutionary, robotdriven process ensures unrivaled consistency and unlocks superior performance for golfers of all abilities. Unlike other shaft manufacturing processes, the patent-pending Thin-Ply Winding Method enables TPT Golf to create shafts that are exactly the same time after time.

On the retail end, TPT has greatly expanded its availability through an agreement with club fitter Club Champion that is nearing 40 locations nationwide--and is fast-becoming the largest custom fitter of premium golf clubs in the country.

“With a TPT Golf shaft, golfers are going to create more distance. They’re going to improve their accuracy. They’re going to gain more consistency. But first, they must be properly fit for our shafts,” said TPT Golf Director Sebastian Sebayang. “Through this agreement with Club Champion, we’re bringing the next level of performance to the vast majority of U.S. golfers while maintaining the high fitting standards that guarantee maximum benefit.”

TPT Golf shafts are available exclusively through the company’s worldwide network of Authorized Fitters, each of which has been vetted by TPT Golf’s team. In recent months, TPT Golf has worked closely with Club Champion to ensure all its master fitters and builders are trained to optimize performance with TPT Golf’s 11 distinct shaft models.

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SWEETSTUFF The control and smooth feel of the TPT shafts are very evident from every-day stock shafts that come standard on even the best driver models. While most players would not hit the 15-LKP-LTLW model that Day uses in his driver, TPT does offer an array of other designs such as the 17 LKP MT SW that comes in at a light, 55 grams and is perfect for more moderate swing speeds.

“With a properly fit TPT Golf shaft, golfers are going to contact the sweet spot more often due to its more axially consistent design,” added Sebayang. “They will also likely swing our shafts a little faster because of their optimized bend profiles. It’s this combination of more consistent impacts and our optimized bending profiles that results in significant distance gains and a tighter dispersion.

“In fittings around the world, TPT Golf shafts have proven to provide golfers of all abilities with additional club head speed and ball speed. With our automated golf shaft manufacturing method, we have been able to overcome the inconsistencies of conventional graphite shafts that have been plaguing golfers for decades.”

And, explained Sebayang, TPT Golf shafts are not sold online.

Being properly fit is crucial to optimizing the performance of a TPT Golf shaft. After a fitting, most golfers find that the best TPT Golf shaft for their game is a different model than they anticipated.

To learn more about TPT Golf shafts, visit tptgolf.com

Umbrella of the LPGA Tour, this state-of-the art umbrella is used by select LPGA players, rules officials and staff. Even World Golf Hall of Fame member Julie Inkster has been added to the roster of players who will be carrying this umbrella during LPGA events.

For starters, the Weatherman is a sturdy but light top-quality umbrella made of Industrial-strength fiberglass that prevents breaking and inverting--and its vented canopies can withstand winds up to 55 mph. Teflon-coated fabric keeps golfers dry and the UPF 50+ barrier provides protection from the sun.

One of the great features that most players will appreciate is the large mesh pocket on the inside of the canopy that offers a dry storage compartment for gloves and a scorecard, while a siliconecoated, non-slip rib is the perfect place to hang a towel. The fastdrying fabric is another nice touch, and the reflective strip around the edges stands out in the dark.

But the real technology in this umbrella is in the Weatherman mobile app that synchs with the Bluetooth tracker that is the size of a silver dollar and fits into a special compartment in the umbrella. The app also provides comprehensive weather forecasts for multiple, customizable locations and allows you to locate your umbrella if you ever leave it behind. Weatherman was conceived by nationally recognized meteorologist Rick Reichmuth after years in the field covering severe weather events, who wanted something that would warn him of incoming storms and provide shelter.

Weatherman’s unique features led Golf Digest to name it “Best Umbrella” for 2018 in its third annual Editor’s Choice Awards.

The limited-edition LPGA co-branded Weatherman umbrellas are available in 62 inches in white and 68 inches in navy and exhibit the LPGA logo on the canopy. The collaboration supports the LPGA Foundation, with $5 from each sale benefiting the organization’s mission of empowering women and young people through the game of golf.

The foundation has benefitted more than 300,000 people since 1991 through various scholarship and financial assistance programs, along with its flagship junior golf program, LPGA*USGA Girls Golf.

“We are thrilled to join the LPGA as the official umbrella,” said Reichmuth, who is the Weatherman founder and CEO. “Many of our customers and employees are huge golf fans, and we are incredibly proud to support their passion, as well as the elite women golfers from around the world who truly excel at their sport.”

The umbrella is available for purchase at www. weathermanumbrella.com/lpga, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the LPGA Foundation.

Weatherman Umbrella

O

ne of the most innovative new products available to the golfing public helps solve a problem that has existed since the very beginnings of the game hundreds of years ago— and with a high-tech flair.

Predicting the rain and protection from the elements is as old as the game itself, but the Weatherman umbrella can take care of both issues in one package. Recently named as the Official

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