Golf Vacations Magazine December 2016

OUR 14th YEAR!

THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots

GOLF VACATIONS DECEMBER 2016

DANZANTE BAY GOLF CLUB MUST PLAY IN BAJA CALIFORNIA

A LUXURIOUS TRIP TO

SOUTH AFRICA

www.golfvacationsmag.com Golf GOLF Vacations •COURSE December 2016 1 Plus: RESORT REPORT: THE ABACO CLUB

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GOLF VACATIONS DECEMBER 2016

Danzante Bay View, Loreto, Baja California South, Mexico

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Chip Shots

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The Most Luxurious Trip To South Africa

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by Barry Lotz

Today, South Africa is the best country in the world to visit! Due to the strength of the US dollar, you basically are getting a minimum 2 for 1 on goods and services. Since leaving South Africa many moons ago, I have returned at least 20 times, if not more. It is one of the most beautiful countries inhabited by wonderful people, in wonderful destinations.

Danzante Bay Golf Club

by David R. Holland

There is a feeling of excitement and anticipation when you play any golf course that has a signature hole so spectacular that it ranks among the best in the world. That happens at a new must-play Rees Jones design in Baja California.

Resort Report: Abaco Club Golf Course

by Tim Cotroneo

Scotland’s Old Tom Morris would love the ocean views, the plunging pot bunkers, and the balmy weather at The Abaco Club at Winding Bay. Old Tom would be proud to see how his rolling Scottish links thumbprint found its way to a Bahamian setting of palm trees, parrots, and pristine paspalum fairways.

Sweet Stuff

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, whose favorite golf moment was teeing it up with former Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry, splits home time in Colorado and Texas. He has written for GolfWeek’s Superintendent News, Colorado AvidGolfer, Midwest Golfing Magazine, South Central Golf Magazine and Fairway to Green. 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.

Barry Lotz is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America.

He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and serves both as a consultant and mediator to the golf industry. He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers” and “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf”. His latest book, “The Right Mind for Golf”, is now in its 8th printing. He can be reached at www.pgtaa.com or drlotz@cbsgolf.net

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 2016 SportsMedia Publications, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Four Troon Managed Courses in Scottsdale Introduce Caddie Services

SCOTTSDALE, AZ– Boulders Resort & Spa, The Phoenician Golf Club, The Westin Kierland Golf Club and Troon North Golf Club have all introduced new caddie programs to provide an additional level of service for guests. When playing at any of the four golf properties, guests will have the option of playing with a Forecaddie, a Double Bag Carry Caddie (available at Boulders, The Phoenician and Kierland), a Single Bag Carry Caddie or choose to play without a caddie.

A caddie’s primary job is to help golfers navigate the golf course, but caddies also assist with speed of play, improve course conditions by replacing or filling-in divots, properly fixing ball marks on greens and raking bunkers. Caddies are also ambassadors for the golf properties

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and for the destination, spending four-plus hours with guests and offering suggestions on restaurants, shopping, spas and more.

When booking a tee time at least 48 hours in advance, guests can choose the following caddie options: Forecaddie – Forecaddies will be positioned ahead of the group and will track shots for each player in the group. Forecaddies will also offer advice on how to play the course and help players select the proper target lines.

When appropriate, Forecaddies will also care for the course, raking bunkers, replacing divots when necessary, tending flagsticks, cleaning balls and clubs, and help golfers manage the course.

Double Bag Caddie – Double Bag Caddies will work with two golfers in the group and will describe the best play for each hole, assist with yardages, rake bunkers, replace

divots, help around the greens, tend the pin and perform any other duties required.

Single Bag Caddie – A Single Bag Caddie will work with a single golfer and will describe the best play for each hole, assist with yardages, rake bunkers, replace divots, help around the greens, tend the pin and perform any other duties required.

“If you’ve ever played golf with a caddie, you know how much more enjoyable it makes a round of golf,” said Mike Ryan, division president, Troon Golf. “The new caddie service at these four Scottsdale properties not only elevates the golf experience, but also greatly enhances Scottsdale as a golf destination.”

Caddie services range from $30 per player for a Forecaddie to $100 per player for a Single Bag Carry Caddie. The recommended gratuity is $20 and up per player for Forecaddies and $30 and up for walking caddies.

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The Best Gift Of The Season!

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 Christmas, birthday or Hanukkah present.

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

Golf Vacations • December 2016 9

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Pebble Beach Resorts Offers Exciting New Packages For Memorable Winter Getaways

PEBBLE BEACH, CA – With some of the year’s most beautiful skies and temperate conditions, the winter season at Pebble Beach Resorts is a time for making special memories to last a lifetime.

Long a beloved setting for a holiday celebration, family reunion, girls getaway or golfers retreat, Pebble Beach Resorts caters to whatever the occasion. Golfers can tee it up on the famous courses of Pebble Beach – including Pebble Beach Golf Links, a fivetime U.S. Open host, site of the 2019 U.S. Open and 2018 U.S. Amateur Championships, and named the No. 1 golf course by the golf industry’s top publications.

Families can enjoy a leisurely getaway with children of all ages along the Central California coast while forming new holiday traditions. Guests can enjoy award-winning dining, retail, The Spa at Pebble Beach, equestrian trail rides, enchanting nightly bagpiper performances at The Inn at Spanish Bay, the world-famous 17-Mile Drive and more, including simply taking in the stunning Pacific Ocean panoramas for which Pebble Beach is known.

Guests can take advantage of one of the many packages available: PEBBLE BEACH WINTER STAY & PLAY PACKAGE: In a memorable two-night getaway, guests will have the opportunity to

create their own championship moments with a round at Pebble Beach Golf Links, along with a second round at The Links at Spanish Bay or Spyglass Hill Golf Course. The package also includes a $100 resort credit, perfect for enjoying The Spa at Pebble Beach or one of the acclaimed restaurants or shops at Pebble Beach Resorts. For even more added savings, guests booking a third and fourth night at 20% off the regular rate will enjoy a complimentary round of golf at The Links at Spanish Bay when they do so. Package starts at $2,095 for The Inn and $2,435 for The Lodge. Offer valid through March 31, 2017.

PEBBLE BEACH CULINARY GETAWAY: Pebble Beach invites guests to stir, sip and savor at the inaugural Pebble Beach Culinary Getaway on January 27-29, 2017.

This unique three-day retreat combines handson demos with memorable meals, designed to satisfy the taste buds and sharpen cooking skills. From port-tasting, flatbread-making and sushi-rolling, to a five-course sensory dinner, guests will savor the best in California cuisine through interactive experiences led by hospitality’s finest chefs. A two-night package with accommodations at Casa Palmero starts at $2,600 per couple ($1,700 single).

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT SPANISH BAY: Pebble Beach invites guests to “Dance Through the Decades” on December 31 at this year’s New Year’s Eve Bash at The Inn at Spanish Bay. During this fun and sought-after celebration, guests can wear their finest attire from classic eras including the Roman Empire, Paris Exposition and Roaring Twenties, while cutting a rug through exquisitely decorated rooms featuring the groovy 1960s, a disco dance party and futuristic fun, among other adventures. Grand buffets, bubbly beverages, live music featuring dueling DJs in the Grand Ballroom, casino games, a psychic, raffles and more are among the action that attendees will experience while they ring in 2017. A one-night package starts at $1,499 and twonight package starts at $2,099; both include two tickets to the party. Party-only tickets are $395 per ticket, ages 21 and older.

PEBBLE BEACH EXPLORERS PACKAGE: The Pebble Beach Explorers package affords endless hours of family fun.

The adventure begins at check-in at The Inn at Spanish Bay, when kids receive a scavenger hunt map to explore the hotel and learn about its storied history. Young guests will then be treated to a holiday welcome amenity while seated by their cozy in-room fireplace. A sunset serenade by the bagpiper – a favorite attraction for guests of all ages – caps off an unforgettable day on one of the world’s most scenic coastlines.

This package includes complimentary meals for kids 12 and under at STICKS and Roy’s; complimentary tennis, horseback rides and golf at the par-3 Peter Hay Golf Course; and more.

Package starts at $525 per night, and is valid for stays through March 31, 2017.

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

Pebble Beach

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

Barefoot Resort & Golf Named North America Golf Resort of the Year By IAGTO

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. -- Barefoot Resort & Golf, home to a quartet of courses designed

by Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Tom Fazio and Pete Dye, has been named North American Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO).

“We are honored to have won this award and it’s a testament to the entire team at Barefoot Resort, beginning with the ownership of the Puglia family and their dedication to making Barefoot a premier resort,” said Dave Genevro, Barefoot’s General Manager. “Everyday our goal is provide an outstanding golf experience and that begins at the bag drop and extends through the 19th hole. This award is validation of that hard work and one we are extremely proud of.”

“Barefoot Resort & Golf is richly deserving of this honor,” said Bill Golden, President of Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday. “The golf courses are outstanding, but what really helps separate Barefoot from a crowded field of America’s best resorts is the attention paid to customer service, conditioning and delivering an experience - on and off the course - golfers fondly remember long after they’ve headed home.”

As the global trade organization for the golf tourism industry, IAGTO conducts annual awards to recognize the best performing golf resorts in three regions: North America, Europe, and the Rest of the World. Over 500 IAGTO golf tour operators in 62 countries vote based on criteria including customer satisfaction, course

quality, accommodations, accessibility to tee times, overall value, levels of service, and the professionalism which the organization works within the industry and with tour operators.

In 2000, Barefoot Resort became the first American facility to open four courses simultaneously and it has delivered on its immense promise. The Love, Fazio and Dye Courses have all been ranked among America’s top public layouts and the Norman Course, with seven holes that play along the Intracoastal Waterway, might be the most visually pleasing.

Barefoot succeeded Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill, a long-time PGA Tour host, as the winner of the award.

Troon Golf Vacations Unveils New Bermuda Golf Getaway Vacation Package

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Troon Golf Vacations recently unveiled a new Bermuda Golf Getaway vacation package. The four-night vacation includes luxurious accommodations at Rosewood Tucker’s Point Resort and golf rounds at Tucker’s Point Club and the award-winning Port Royal Golf Course. Port Royal hosted the PGA Grand Slam of Golf from 2009 through 2014 and features one of the greatest par three holes in the world, the 235-yard, 16th hole with both tee and green perched on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Bermuda Getaway Package Four nights at Rosewood Tucker’s Point Resort – Rosewood Tucker’s Point Resort

is the centerpiece of Tucker’s Point Club, Bermuda’s premier resort, golf club and residential community. Gracing 200 acres of the most beautiful waterfront property in Bermuda, the award-winning tropical hideaway features 88 rooms and suites all with breathtaking views of Castle Harbour, Harrington Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

One round at Port Royal Golf Course – Designed by world-renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1970, Port Royal Golf Course underwent a significant renovation in 2009. With the support of the Bermuda Government and Board of Trustees, Port Royal is one of the world’s premier dailyfee golf courses, boasting immaculate course conditions and sweeping ocean views from nearly every hole.

One round at Tucker’s Point Club – The 18-hole, par-70 Tucker’s Point Golf Course is Bermuda’s premier golf experience and is as scenic as it is challenging. Originally designed in 1932 by Charles H. Banks, the course was completely redesigned in 2002 by Roger Rulewich.

Bonus – Troon Rewards points are available for the golf portion of this vacation.

Visit TroonRewards.com to join Troon Rewards today!

In 2017, Bermuda will host the 35th America’s Cup as the best sailors and fastest boats in the world will battle for the oldest trophy in international sports. The 20.6-square mile island is conveniently located within a twoand-a-half hour flight from New York or Miami.

Barefoot Resort & Golf Fazio Course

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

The Bermuda Getaway Package is priced from $244 per person, per night and can be scheduled by contacting Troon Golf Vacations at www.troongolfvacations.com or 800-369-0679.

Vidanta Resorts Announces Grand Opening of New Norman Signature Course at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta

NUEVO VALLARTA, NAYARIT, MX – Vidanta Resorts and Vidanta Golf, Mexico’s leading developer and golf course operator, along with KemperSports, the leading golf management company in North America, celebrate the opening of the newest course in the Vidanta Golf portfolio, the Norman Signature Course at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta.

Vidanta partnered with internationallyrecognized golf legend and course designer Greg Norman to build this championship course. It joins the renowned Nicklaus Design Course as the destination’s second venue for

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golf. Open for preview play this summer, the official grand opening was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony, clinic and question and answer session with Greg Norman for platinum members of Vidanta Resorts.

“As Mexico’s leading golf course developer, Vidanta is consistently on the forefront of golf development and tourism,” said Iván Chavez, Executive Vice President of Grupo Vidanta. “We strive to bring the very best in the industry to our guests, which is why we partnered with Greg Norman for the design of this signature course.”

The Norman Signature Course encompasses the finest in golf with unsurpassed course conditioning on wall-to-wall Paspalum playing surfaces. The exciting layout winds along the banks of the Ameca River providing views of the Sierra Madres from every hole.

Generous landing areas give way to large undulating greens protected by cavernous bunkers. Indigenous trees, native grasses and jungle surround the core course layout which is uninterrupted by housing and civilization

throughout. Playability and enjoyment were key in the design process for this 18 hole par 73 that is as challenging from the championship tees as it is forgiving from the forward tees.

All this begins with a trip across the world’s longest golf cart suspension bridge spanning the Ameca River from Nayarit to Jalisco.

“When designing this course, respecting and promoting the conservation of ecologically sensitive areas was of primary concern. As a result, routing was dictated by nature, according to dense vegetation corridors, streams and wetlands,” said Greg Norman. “We really enjoyed working with the Vidanta team on this design, as they know and understand golfers’ needs and expectations for a world-class course. Ultimately both high and low handicappers will really enjoy playing, as it offers the perfect trifecta of beauty, fun and challenge.”

For more information on Vidanta Golf visit www.vidantagolf.com or follow on social media @vidantagolf. For more information on Vidanta Resorts visit www.vidanta.com.

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Golf Vacations • December 2016 13

The Most L Tintswalo & Rovos Rail are Elegance Personified Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge - (top, middle and bottom)

T

oday, South Africa is the best country in the world to visit! Due to the strength of the US dollar, you basically are getting a minimum 2 for 1 on goods and services. (R14 to $1.00).

Since leaving South Africa many moons ago, I have returned at least 20 times, if not more.

It is one of the most beautiful countries inhabited by wonderful people, in wonderful destinations.

Getting to South Africa, whether Johannesburg or Cape Town, is a long flight from the West Coast (24 hours actual flying), and the most recommended air carrier is Qatar Airways from LAX or Atlanta. The service on Qatar’s Business Class/First Class, is beyond amazing. The seats with their oversized TVs and sleeping pods are so enjoyable and on-call food service is over the top.

The Tintswalo Group, without any fear of contradiction, is simply South Africa’s best collection of 5-star boutique hotels I have ever had the pleasure of visiting.

Tintswalo is a Shangaan expression meaning “the intangible feeling of love, gratitude and peace bestowed upon someone offering you a meaningful and worthy gift”, and personifies the owners, Ernest and Gaye Corbett, and their second generation of family member’s Warwick and Lisa Goosen (née Corbett), family and business philosophy.

Starting off in Johannesburg, the country’s business center, staying at the Tintswalo at Waterfall, you are removed from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs. This is not your typical “business hotel”. The ambience and welcomness, if there is such a word, is so very inviting from

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Luxurious Trip to South Africa

By BARRY LOTZ the moment you enter through the massive front doors. The staff, their attitude, and their service are way above average, without being overbearing.

Tintswalo at Waterfall lies within the elite Waterfall Equestrian Estate. Perfectly located within the city’s proximity and only a five minute drive from the Mall of Africa, South Africa’s largest, this 5-star luxury boutique hotel and business facility enjoys all the conveniences of urban living, as well as the open spaces and natural beauty of the estate grounds. The hotel overlooks a lush polo field, a kilometer-long expanse of green lawn, as well as a sizable dam, which attracts local bird life all year round.

and characteristics of specific horse breeds. All suites boast a private balcony, a super-king or twin bed setup and all the comforts of a 5-star hotel. The suites are fully air-conditioned and equipped with DSTV, a bar fridge, tea and coffee facilities, heated floors and heated towel rails, a luxurious, modern bathroom with a bath and separate shower, and deluxe amenities.

The level of detail that has gone into creating a unique experience that is both authentic and immersive is sometimes breathtaking. Rates as of September (R14.5 to $1.00): $275 for a single, $365.00 double (two persons).

A decadent English breakfast feast is included in each guest’s stay.

The hotel was designed to be a lavish, double-volume barn, decorated with equestrian paraphernalia and beautiful horse-themed artworks.

The hotel offers a quirky countryside experience to city-dwellers seeking a respite from the stresses of a metropolitan lifestyle.

If you are in the mood for a spa visit, the Waterfall Spa on the property offers an extensive range of relaxing spa, beauty and body treatments, from facials, massages, manicures & pedicures and waxing. The spa offers top of the line products and features brands such as Dermologica, Mary Cohr and O.P.I. and Waterfall Body products.

With candlelit tables and fire places roaring, dinner at Tintswalo at Waterfall is set to impress. The fresh aroma of lemon infused asparagus being sautéed while the scent of seared salmon is lingering in the air, sets the mood for an evening to be remembered.

These meals can be paired with a superb selection of wines and rounded off with fine cognacs, whiskeys and Cuban cigars. www.http://tintswalo.com/waterfall

There are packages for ladies, men, couples and groups, and the staff can customize packages to suit your needs.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge – recognized as one of the top 5 safari lodges in the Kruger National Park by Forbes and Connoisseur Golf & Travel Report.

Each of the 16 spacious suites are individually decorated to the colors

Sharing an unfenced boundary with the renowned Kruger National Rovos Dining Car

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Golf Vacations • December 2016 15

Tintswalo At Waterfall

Park, the private Manyeleti Game Reserve, is a pristine wilderness reserve nestled between the Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Kruger Park. The Manyeleti abounds in big five game and spectacular bird watching and is home to the luxurious Tintswalo Safari Lodge and Tintswalo Manor House. Boasting one of the lowest vehicle densities in the Greater Kruger, Tintswalo Manor House guests are spoiled to uninterrupted game viewing experiences in an almost untouched African wilderness.

Tintswalo Manor House is a fully-catered, home style villa with 4 double or twin rooms, and an additional adjoining room suitable for two children. Hosting up to ten people, Tintswalo Manor House offers an idyllic safari getaway to families or traveling groups.

The lodge is equipped with fireplaces, heaters, blankets and cozy couches for guests to stay warm. Cuisine, like freshly baked breads, soups and hearty winter dishes, warm visitors from the inside out.

Curl up on the couch with a good book, the fire-crackling, and a delicious glass of red wine - all while listening to the sounds of nature and embracing the best parts of both summer and winter.

is significantly more open this year as a result of the extremely dry weather, with bare trees and lower grass, causing animals to migrate towards watering holes in search of water. Some camps are even pumping in water to these watering holes to help ensure the wellbeing of these magnificent animals.

Visibility of game is exceptionally heightened and guests are privy to active wildlife and unbeatable animal sightings, so much so, that we saw the Big 5 on our first day! The Lodge’s tracker and guide were true bush professionals and their knowledge encyclopedic. We even got to see an Aardvark! Our guides, Christof, and Foster (our game tracker), had not seen one in the past 13 years.

One of the most intriguing sites was that of a funeral of vultures, all 20+ sitting on a tree awaiting their turn on a carcass that the lions were not quite finished devouring.

Of course, early 5 a.m. wake up calls for game viewing are a bit rough, though hot water bottles and blankets are on the open air tracking vehicle. And, at some point along the crisp, fresh drive, the guides stop at a special place with a view, for hot chocolate, coffee or tea, and biscuits, dried fruit, game biltong (jerky) and nuts, offering a truly warming and soul soothing experience.

One morning we even had a full breakfast, with eggs, sausage, bacon and toast cooked to perfection over open fires, while sitting at beautifully set tables in a dry river bend … What an unexpected treat, without any uninvited visitors looking for a quick meal!

Tintswalo Safari Lodge

The 8 lodge suites are authentically decorated to reflect the intricate luxuries of colonial times and evoke the adventures of 19th-century explorers after which they’re named; such as Livingstone, Stanley and Burton to name a few. Up to 16 visitors can be accommodated at the Lodge Suites.

Winter in the bush is magical and, for me, the best time to visit the Kruger National Park. This year was no exception. The bushveld

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There is also an evening drive prior to dinner and this too is awesome, especially for viewing the stars and experiencing a “Sundowner”, aka Happy Hour, with cocktails at sun down.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge is situated a short drive from the nearest local airport in Hoedspruit, or a scenic six-hour drive / shuttle from Johannesburg for those who enjoy a road-trip and excellent roads.

Suite rates vary, and include all meals the standard of which is excellent, as is the service.

Per person from $400 to $700 per night. Manor House rates from $275 to $350+ per person per night. www.tintswalo.com/safari

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Tintswalo Atlantic - the Hidden Gem of Cape Town There are many beautiful beach hotels throughout the world. The 5-star luxury Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge has to be one of the top ten boutique hotels anywhere! What an amazing venue. And it is only twenty minutes from downtown Cape Town.

The hotel boasts an exclusive and unique shoreline location within the protected Table Mountain National Park, one of South Africa’s eight World Heritage Sites, situated just outside of Hout Bay, on the scenic Chapman’s Peak drive. The pebbled beach directly in front of the lodge is secluded and sheltered from winds. There is excellent access to the natural beauty found along the mountainside’s winding hiking trails.

This gorgeous, dramatic and romantic destination needs to be on your Bucket List! When we sent some photos to a friend, she replied “you didn’t say you were travelling to heaven”. And every vista is truly “heavenly”.

Superlatives cannot do the hotel justice. From its location, the structure, the access, the rooms, the service, the food and the staff, attention to details are the hallmarks of Tintswalo Atlantic. Every member of the staff is so amazingly kind, attentive, professional and genuinely pleasant.

Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge

produce exquisite and orgasmic cuisine. You really do not want, or need, to leave the lodge. Cuban cigars are available as is Sherry to enjoy on your balcony.

Don’t forget to ask for your personal wishing rock at reception before leaving. You do really want to wish to come back regularly when you toss the rock, specifically over your left shoulder into the ocean.

Melissa and Ryno, the GMs are superb hosts who make Tintswalo even more fabulous.

Rates will vary depending on the season. Expect to pay somewhere between $400 - $700 per couple, per night, for one of the suites. The Presidential Suite is going to come in at about $2,000.00 per couple per night. Breakfast, house drinks, coffee and teas are included. Guests who join you for dinner will be in the $50-$60 per person range without wine. (R14.5 to US dollar at time of writing).

If you are not able to stay overnight, at least try and make a reservation for breakfast, lunch, or early dinner – you will not be disappointed! www.tintswalo.com/atlantic

Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge

Your first thrill is the arrival from the entrance - the drive down to the lodge (at the base of Chapman’s Peak), from there makes you realize you are going somewhere very special. You are greeted with champagne and smiling faces. The warm hospitality didn’t stop until we left 2 1/2 days later.

One obviously has to get from Johannesburg/Kruger National Park to Cape Town or vice versa. You can fly, drive or take “The Train”. Leaving from the Johannesburg and Game Reserve area, “The Train” leaves from Pretoria which is about 40 minutes north of Johannesburg and about 5 hours by car from the Kruger national Park.

Go Visit South Africa – It’s a Trip of a Lifetime!

Rovos offers Cape to Cairo trips, trips to Victoria Falls and Safari and Golf trips.

All 10 Island Suites, as well as the Presidential Suite, face the Atlantic Ocean with breath-taking panoramic views of the Sentinel shown in the photo and Hout Bay. All the suites are uniquely themed after different islands and feature chandeliers, warm décor, and wooden floors. All come with sitting areas, satellite TV, fireplaces and balconies. Airy bathrooms offer free-standing tubs with water views.

The regal Presidential suite, sitting above the other suites, is stunning, opulent and luxurious. The two master suites, each with the largest and most lavish bathrooms I have ever enjoyed, together with heated floors and fireplaces in each room are tantalizing. The enormous bath overlooking the waters of Hout Bay was, without a doubt, my wife’s favorite feature. And to top it off, there is another room, the sitting area, also with a fireplace, making being spoiled a wonderful experience.

Having all your meals at the lodge is simply amazing with the sea lapping against the rocks making a wonderful backdrop. The menu choices available for breakfast, lunch and dinner are terrific. The chefs

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RATES: CAPE TOWN

October 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018

Pullman Suites Deluxe Suites Royal Suites

R 18,950 - $1350 R 28,650 - $2046 R 38,150 - $2725

PRICE PER PERSON SHARING includes: accommodation, meals and excursions as well as all beverages, incl. alcohol, while on board.

Single supplement +50% on all suites Golf Vacations • December 2016 17

Rovos Rail Luxury Train What a thrill it is to go back to a bygone era of travel on a train as luxurious as Rovos Rail.

Rovos Rail, otherwise known as “The Most Luxurious Train in the World,” is, indisputably, the world’s most luxurious train with an international reputation for world-class travel experiences. It is a fantastic and slow way to travel and a great way to relax and destress with the country air and the dream ride enhancing the whole experience.

The 5-star treatment begins at the rail station in Pretoria with Champagne, sandwiches and red carpet service. Meeting fellow passengers and inspecting the Rovos Rail’s steam engine puts you in the right frame of mind immediately. You can even pull the train’s steam whistle!

Each of the carriages on the Rovos Rail have been impeccably and lovingly restored to capture the lavishness of days gone by with each of the carriages carrying its own story. Some date back nearly a hundred years, others have transported royalty—but all are utterly opulent. It is the only train in the world with a private bathroom in each cabin. The library carriage offers peace and solitude. There are no radios or television sets on board and the use of mobile phones and laptops are confined to the privacy of your suites only. Smoking is only allowed in the privacy of your suite and in the Club Lounge.

The Rovos Rail stops in Kimberly, to see the Black Hole, (a onceoperational diamond mine, which descends a staggering 840m below the earth), and a stop in Matjiesfontein to see a South African museum, chock-full of historical and interesting memorabilia. Plus the museum is fascinating, especially their collection of toilet bowls, costumes of the day, and a fully-stocked 1930’s apothecary.

Giving you a chance to stretch your legs and fully experience the countryside, a 5K walk alongside the rail is offered outside of Matjiesfontein. Rovos personnel accompany you just in case you experience any difficulty.

If you embrace the atmosphere around the nostalgia, and embrace unexpected stops in the middle of the Karoo giving you the opportunity to walk for an hour, you will have an experience for life. The scenery, especially going from 5,000 feet above to sea

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level, is outstanding, especially as you approach Cape Town.

Rovan Ros and his family have painstakingly ensured that every detail has been considered; wood-paneled walls featuring intricate art and traditional furniture and finery recall turn-of-the-century elegance.

The linens are soft and cozy, the bathroom is more than adequate in each cabin, especially the Royal Suite. The Victorian dining room provides world-class ambiance for five-star cuisine, and suites are very spacious, melding Edwardian elegance with modern amenities.

A fine selection of Cape wines are available, such as Haute Cabriere – try the Chardonnay Pinot Noir. What a great wine!

Led by Daphne, the train master, the food was exceptional, the service marvelous and the staff goes out of their way to ensure your enjoyment and cater to your every need. Meeting people in the Observation carriage, while the professional bar men and women fix your favorite drink, whether tea, wine or liquor, coupled with deserts and sandwiches, is part of what makes this rail trip so entertaining.

This is truly a travel experience unlike any other—travelling through a storied land in unmatched luxury… riding on a legendary “iron horse” with a singularly velvet touch.

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Danzante Ba Newest Must-Play

Danzante Bay View

L

ORETO, Baja California South, Mexico – There is a feeling of excitement and anticipation when you play any golf course that has a signature hole so spectacular that it ranks among the best in the world.

This new Rees Jones’ design just celebrated the grand opening of 11 ocean-facing holes that features the stunning 178-yard par 3 that’s every bit as good as No. 7 at Pebble Beach.

That happens at a new must-play Rees Jones design in Baja California.

The transition from the uphill 16th fairway and green to the 17th tee is filled with anticipation. You crest a ridge and discover a dazzling vista of the Sea of Cortez 250 feet below the tee.

From the lofty perch of the par-3 17th hole at Danzante Bay Golf Club one can view a Sea of Cortez panorama that Jacques Cousteau once proclaimed “The Aquarium of the Word”. You don’t want to leave. You want to play this hole over and over.

Your stroke is to a peninsula green surrounded by a horseshoeshaped bunker. The putting surface seems to cling to a rock plateau with distant islands in sight. Scan the horizon and you might see a breaching whale.

“I have no doubt that No. 17 will be one of the best in the world,” Jones said.

Danzante Bay’s downhill 18th hole, a par-4 journey of 520 yards from the back tee, is a fitting finale to this fun quest.

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ay Golf Club in Baja California

by DAVID R. HOLLAND

Diverse landscape might be Danzante Bay Golf Club’s legacy “This is the most diverse landscape I’ve ever had the opportunity to work with,” said Jones, whose redesign of Torrey Pines South and Bethpage Black got him the moniker of “The U.S. Open doctor.”

So why did Danzante Golf Club open with just 11 holes completed?

“People staying at the hotel kept asking to play,” said hotelier Owen Perry, owner of the Villa Group. “So one day this February we did and everyone who played loved it and wanted to play again.”

This land features dunes, mountains, foothills, desert, arroyos and ocean holes. And the final seven valley holes, set to open in a year, remind you of a Jurassic Park journey. It is very much like an Arizona with giant saguaros (called cardón cactus in Mexico) and rugged terrain minus an unspoiled ocean.

“Most of the world’s most popular golf courses that have stood the test of time were built slowly,” Jones said. “Golf holes aren’t really designed and built from a plan – you feel them in the land. This land is so good it tells us what to do. The holes fit the land naturally.”

The 7,107-yard, par-72 course also features a nine-hole putting course inspired by the famed Himalayas course in St. Andrews, Scotland where families can enjoy playing together. And the practice facility is an unusual uphill reverse funnel into the mountain face.

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“This is a golf course that both avid and casual golfers will want to travel to play,” said Jones. “The golf course has open entrances, pockets and sandy areas to capture the ball and keep it from going into the desert.

We’ve kept the green contours mild so that the putting surfaces are manageable in the wind. People will want to play this course over and over again because the conditions change with the wind.”

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“Being located in a protected marine park, we adhered to stringent environmental rules, and we gladly accepted the challenge, because we feel that that is going to keep the Islands of Loreto unique,” said Perry. “When I first saw the land where we are building this golf course, I was stunned by the amazing beauty of both the mountains and water that surround it.

“Sunrise each day gives the mountains a brownish hue and when the sun sets at night, they turn a vibrant red. And the views of the bay are without question some of the best I’ve ever seen. We’re literally carving this golf course into this incredible setting while maintaining all of its natural beauty.”

Danzante Bay utilizes two strains of Paspalum turf, the salt-tolerant, disease-resistant grass that has accelerated the growth of golf in the tropics and has proven to be ideal for the Baja climate. The turf grass is irrigated with water drawn from a recently upgraded reverse-osmosis plant.

Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa at the Islands of Loreto Villa del Palmar has been called Baja Mexico’s first billion-star resort -- the absence of a dense population and city lights or street lamps, makes the night sky a sight to behold.

The beautiful Islands of Loreto transports you back to historic Mexico. And the resort, flanked by the rugged landscape, leads

you to one of the last virgin coastlines. The five islands of Loreto create a sanctuary for more than 1,000 species of marine life and in 1996 the area was declared federally protected as Loreto Bay National Marine Park.

This pristine meeting of land and sea offers a luxurious beachside resort complete with excellent dining, water sports and spa days.

Adventures include snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding or just enjoy the warmth of the water.

Complimentary shuttle service enables guests to explore historic Loreto and visit the 1697 mission that made the town famous. A short, direct flight from LAX on Alaska Airlines, the resort is located just 25 minutes from Loreto International Airport.

Danzante Bay real estate opportunities also include a 734-acre master planned resort community and timeshare condos are also available.

Sabila Spa Named one of Mexico’s Best Spas by SpaFinder, experience an extraordinary spa experience within the resort’s 39,000-square foot facility. Expect to be captivated at the Sabila Spa and Wellness Center, where the menu takes inspiration from the soothing plant and herb extracts native to the Baja California area.

18th Hole (photo by David R. Holland)

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17th Hole - Par 3 Green on Ledge

Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa

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Golf Vacations • December 2016 23

RESORTREPORT

The Abaco Club Golf

Where the Bahamas Meet

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GREAT ABACO, BAHAMAS

by Tim Cotroneo

Course

t Scotland

S

cotland’s Old Tom Morris would love the ocean views, the plunging pot bunkers, and the balmy weather at The Abaco Club at Winding Bay. Old Tom would be proud to see how his rolling Scottish links thumbprint found its way to a Bahamian setting of palm trees, parrots, and pristine paspalum fairways.

In 2004, Golf Architect Tom MacKenzie brought Old Tom’s coastal sand dune legacy to the 90-mile long Great Abaco Island. When most golfers think links, thoughts revert to gray skies, brown-hued fairways, and donning layers to combat the elements. At the Abaco Club, links-style undulations enter a whole new world. Golfers thrive amidst exquisite fairways, perfect island temperatures, and ocean views worthy of a swimsuit magazine cover.

If that’s not enough, recharging your spirit between rounds is spent in beachfront and golf course accommodations that house a wealth of island amenities. The Abaco Club would have Old Tom believing he was born 150 years too soon.

Practice, Parrots, and Paradise Why is the Abaco Club regularly recognized as one of the best courses in the Caribbean? For starters, the course is home to a massive world-class practice area. Tour professionals like Clarke, Westwood, and Fowler find the Abaco Club to be the perfect retreat for getting away from it all while still honing their game.

If you’re someone who gravitates toward an island vacation because of the potential for an “only in the Caribbean” surprise, then you’ll love the Abaco Club. Each afternoon the golf course receives a multi-colored group of visitors with a strange sense of humor.

Around the 13th hole you’ll hear a clattering of laughter atop the palm trees flanking the fairways and greens. On Abaco, the saying goes that you’ll “hear them, before you see them” when talking about an species of parrots who’ve chosen golf as their favorite spectator sport. The Abaco parrots are so beloved that you’ll see their mascot image on each flagstick.

18 Holes- Two Personalities Ultimately, the Abaco Golf Course’s reputation is earned from the quality of golf experience. In two words, Abaco Golf Course delivers “personality plus.” Then again, the difference between Abaco’s two nines can be as contrasting in personality as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

This personality shift can be tested by holding your finger to the sky and feeling if the tradewinds are present. The front nine is typically library calm with barely a breeze coming from the tranquil Sea of Abaco. The front side also features Blue Lagoon moments that will have you digging for your camera as much as your sand wedge.

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Golf Vacations • December 2016 25

The back side is where extraordinary sounds are exceeded only by dramatic island views. Once you get past the jovial chatter of the parrots, there’s a more foreboding sound that makes golfers pause.

Despite Abaco’s perennial sunshine, when you reach the 16th hole it’s possible you’ll fear thunder is on the horizon. The source of this pounding is present at the tee box of the Par 3, 17th hole.

It’s from this vantage point you’ll experience a crescendo of ocean waves on the Atlantic side of the course. It’s like nature’s drum preparing you for an Abaco finale that heightens to a Caribbean Manheim Steamroller encore. Add this reverberation to finishing holes that are straight out of architectural digest, and it’s likely you’ll remember Abaco Club as a visual and auditory symphony at sea.

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Let’s Do It Again After turning in your golf clubs at the Pro Shop, you flash back to what just transpired. Abaco Club at Winding Bay just delivered epic ocean holes, canyon-like pot bunkers, artistic paspalum fairways, parrots that double as comedians, roller coaster greens, and a trio of finishing holes that invigorated your senses.

Your playing partners aren’t quite ready to call it a day, so you head over to Buster’s Beach Bar for a cold one. As you gaze out on the Sea of Abaco, your group raises a glass to good friends, great golf, and a man born 150 years too soon. http://theabacoclub.com/golf www.golfvacationsmag.com

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Golf Vacations • December 2016 27

SWEETSTUFF F

inally, a driver that is technologically advanced but built for golfers who are not tour pros or low handicap amateurs and possess a more moderate swing speed.

Tour Edge Golf recently came to market with its ground-breaking XJ1 driver that features loads of new technology and is built to help players get the most from more normal swing speeds. In addition to the lightest Titanium alloy available, it also has one of the finest premium shafts in a new, revolutionary super light-weight design that is offered as the stock option—something you never see in a club aimed at the everyday player.

“Most technologies of the past decade have benefitted players with higher swing speeds—eliminating the majority of golfers,” explained David Glod, president and founder of Tour Edge Golf. “We have been developing the XJ1 driver for over four years, working on each characteristic of the club, moving critical amount of weight around for the best results, and waiting for technology to catch up to our goal of bringing this extremely lightweight driver to the market, which will benefit golfers with real swing speeds.”

This club is very light to the touch and you don’t have to hit it very hard to get a lot of production from it.

In construction of the head, there are four main technology stories.

The super metal 9-1-1 titanium body is remarkably light and 10 percent lighter than the old 6A4v titanium that has been used in the past. This allowed engineers to save significant weight in the club body and with the super strength of this metal, allows the face to be thinner and more reactive, even at lower swing speeds. This is just one of the club’s aspects that allows for more clubhead speed—and distance.

The new Kevlar-Carbon crown is also ultra-lightweight, durable and very strong and weights a mere 12-grams—saving significant weight and lowering the center of gravity for better launch conditions. The increased firmness of the Kevlar-Carbon crown results in greater ball speeds higher on the face.

Utilizing SP 700 beta titanium in the face plate provides superior results because it is thinner and more reactive, and allows it to be larger than on a normal driver. Along with being larger, the face incorporates thinner edges that allow it to be robotically laser-bound to the body of the club, saving additional weight and increasing C.O.R. all over the face.

The near-perfect weight distribution in the 460cc head is achieved with three tungsten weights, including two heel and toe stability bars at 10-grams each. The stability bars widen the sweet spot and increases M.O.I. substantially for even greater forgiveness.

For those that prefer to hit a draw, the weighted tungsten screw in the heel is positioned strategically for draw enhancement and faster release of the clubhead through impact. This can also be changed with the variable weights that are available in a kit—3,6,12,14 grams.

One of the big stories for this club is the ultra-light 45-gram Fujikura Air Speeder shaft, making Tour Edge the first company to use one of these premium shafts in stock production. This shaft helps the club provide high launch and a soft feel--and really helps increase ball speed and the ability to increase distance even with a moderate swing speed.

With the lighter head in this club, you don’t lose feel because the light shaft does a good job matching up with it to keep things in balance.

The XJ1 driver is available in 9, 10.5 and 12 degrees of loft, right hand only.

For more info on the Tour Edge XJ1 driver: www.touredge.com

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SWEETSTUFF W

ith some of the most cutting edge designs and feature-rich appointments you will find, OGIO International has a new lineup of golf bags for 2017 that they call adrenaline-driven in style—and they are all of that.

The company is offering five new styles that are very distinctive in look and have some of the newest features you will see in a modern golf bag, like a pocket for your range finder, a sleeve for your divot tool and one for your pencil—not to mention the usual assortment of pockets and sleeves for a water bottle, raingear and all your other equipment.

A zipper-less ball compartment makes for easy access and the easy grab molded trunk handles makes these bags one of the most ergonomically friendly you will find, whether you walk or ride.

The stand bag collection from OGIO includes the Diamond Ultralight Performance Top, patented Woode top, Ball SiloTM, Cart Strap Channel and Fit Disk and SHOXX

by Terry Ross

X4TM Strap System.

And the five new styles each have their own flair, color and features: Cirrus – OGIO cut its teeth in the sports and fitness world, working with elite athletes across the globe. Being the official sports bags for Ironman competitions and the Rock & Roll Marathons helped put the focus on packing a lot of gear in a confined space as lightly as possible. That knowledge and experience was applied to the creation of the Cirrus collection – the lightest cart (under 5lbs) and stand bag (under 4lbs) in their history. Available in a selection of bright colors, the Cirrus collection features OGIO’s unique top configurations and the carry bag introduces the innovative FIT DISK, an adjustable strap system to custom-fit and self-balance any player.

Urban Camo integrates the ever-popular, yet OGIO infused, camouflage print found in today’s men’s lifestyle fashions and combines it with subdued hues of red, orange, green or gray to bring together a sleek, yet subtle,

urban look.

Paranormal is a simply out-of-this world design putting an OGIO-style twist on your daddy’s plaid pants. It’s plaid with an attitude mixed with artistic touches of red, olive or blue. Paranormal is perfect for players looking for the latest technology and features in a golf bag who relish the thought of railing against the dying light.

Vortex represents a design interpretation of a virtual world golf bag pattern. It features clean lines and subtle shades of cool colors.

While it doesn’t have macros or icons, it comes equipped with the latest technological advances in the world of golf and travel bags.

Gray Noise and Dark Static are the Yin and Yang collection inspired by OGIO’s expertise in crafting a multitude of business bags, briefcases and more. Gray Noise features heavier lines and a flashier color palette. It’s got pizazz that will get you noticed. On the other end of the spectrum is Dark Static, a line featuring a more conservative, non-black design denoting strength and power.

For more information, visit the OOGIO website at: www.ogio.com

N

ew fabrics and diverse options for layering highlight the smart new styles from the Antigua Group as they roll out their spring collection of outerwear for men for the spring of 2017.

“It’s a diverse offering of style, fabric, weight and content,” explained Sean Gregg, Antigua’s Vice President of Product Development and Marketing Support.

“Designed for practicality and style appeal, this season has all that’s needed in outerwear to complement Antigua’s polos while offering

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Golf Vacations • December 2016 29

SWEETSTUFF offering looks to mirror the design direction incorporated in the polo collection, there’s also an element of sophistication that’s interpreted in the outerwear offering,” added Gregg.

Lightweight style Tsunami is created with heather and solid feed stripes undulating as a horizontal all-over repeat. The color’s subtlety is circumstantial to the heather yarn being used to define the stripe pattern. A derivative of the tight repeating feed stripe seen in the main fabric has been isolated and knit into a

golfers the ability to layer as needed.”

One of the most versatile outerwear pieces from this collection--style Regime-combines a heather neutral twill knit with a solid jacquard lightweight stretch woven style--it’s a great lightweight outerwear layering garment. Golfers can barely feel the fabric’s weight throughout their swing.

Because of its lightweight breathability, it can be left on even as morning temperatures progress towards midday.

Style Vista is a creatively constructed loopback, two-color twill face fabric.

Designed as a mid-weight, long sleeve, halfzip outerwear garment, the tonal twill knit in this season’s rich shades is set off with contrasting elastic tape sewn into cover stitch seam details--creating a color block pop of complementing color. Its reverse coil zipper is enhanced with the same corresponding accent colors, to bring the accent front-andcenter.

Style Promenade is a mid-weight complement to the polo collection and more specifically to the bird’s eye effect used throughout the fashion pique offering. Its use of primary color and white yarn evenly knit into a solid fabric optically creates a mid hue shade of its originally saturated primary color. It uses both sides of the fabric, creating a tonal color block effect style, and can be worn actively or casually.

“As Antigua’s Spring ’17 outerwear

30 Golf Vacations • December 2016

The fabrics are overdyed in deep hues corresponding to bright shades. This halfzip, long sleeve pullover is handsomely sophisticated and is a multifunctional lifestyle garment that can complement golf wear, dining out, and a casual pair of jeans.

For more information on Antigua, go to: www.Antigua.com and ShopAntigua.com

I pattern variation of the main fabric.

This derivative fabric is then utilized as a complementing inset fabric in the garment’s side panels, to enhance the design of the long sleeve, half-zip outerwear style. The placket zipper showcases contrasting color nylon coil teeth that tie the garment to the season’s vibrant color stories.

Perhaps the most directional outerwear style of the Spring ’17 performance fashion collection is the Arctic Pullover. With two uniquely different fabric constructions that make up this long sleeve mid-to-heavyweight garment, it’s intentionally understated. Its front body panel is double knit into a quilted diamond pattern using heather yarns and is pieced together with singularly knit jersey heather sleeves and back fabric.

t is not only adults who love to see some shiny new golf clubs under the Christmas tree. For the junior golfers in the household, TGA Premier Junior Golf, one of the nation’s leading introductory and recreational golf programs, is offering an innovative custom program of golf clubs designed especially for girls and boys.

Making it both convenient and affordable, TGA has color-coded sets in color-coded sizes based on height—with right and left handed options for parents to fit their young golfers. The sets range in price from $89.99 to $149.99 and include 3-6 clubs, a stand bag and headcovers. Yellow is for boys/girls under 3’ in height; while Orange is for 3’-3’8; Red and Pink for 3’8-4’4; Blue and Lavender 4’-45’ and Black for 5’-5’.

“Since 2003 TGA has become a leading expert on introductory and recreational junior golf instruction,” said TGA’s founder and CEO, Joshua Jacobs. “By experiencing first-hand how juniors learn, swing and react

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SWEETSTUFF to equipment, we have developed junior clubs that kids will find esthetically pleasing and well performing, which will further expand our expertise and credibility among our golf consumers.”

To bring the new clubs to market, Jacobs called on 30-year golf industry manufacturing veteran Ross Kvinge of Plus One Sports, who has worked with high profile manufacturers like Nicklaus Golf and Spalding. Kvinge has witnessed first-hand the impact that TGA has on the industry and believes adding equipment to its model will only increase its market presence and exposure.

“As a long-time veteran in sourcing, manufacturing and distributing golf equipment, I am proud to be part of TGA’s grassroots model and develop the TGA Premier Junior Golf line of equipment,” said Kvinge. “In addition, as a TGA franchise owner myself and seeing the rapid success of the model, providing properly fit golf equipment and

creating a pathway from enrichment to equipment was only natural.”

TGA’s equipment is designed with technology that makes it easier for beginning and experienced junior golfers to excel. This is especially true with the driver, which is one of the largest driver heads on the market for juniors featuring a lightweight hot forged design.

Not to be outdone is the technology in the TGA junior irons. In its continued efforts to provide a fun golf experience for kids, TGA distributed weight from the hosel out along the top-line of the club creating a well-positioned sweet spot in the center of the clubface creating easier and more consistent shots.

“Our TGA equipment was created and designed with the ultimate focus group; junior golfers themselves along with junior golf instructors and PGA Professionals through enrichment programs at schools, camps and leagues nationwide,” explained Kvinge. “Through our equipment, junior golfers will have a fun experience, improve quicker, and become vested in the sport long-term.”

TGA will offer its junior golf equipment through national retail outlets, golf facilities and online club sales through its website. TGA will also offer a trade up program for families to keep their kids fitted properly, and a percentage of each purchase will be donated to the TGA Sports Foundation.

For more information about TGA Premier Junior Golf, visit www.playtga.com

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Golf Vacations • December 2016 31

“SCOTTSDALE IS transformative.

IT encourages YOU TO BE OUTDOORS AND play.”

200 Area Courses | 70+ Resorts & Hotels | 600+ Restaurants | 100+ Downtown Nightlife Options | EXPERIENCESCOTTSDALEGOLF.COM

32 Golf Vacations • December 2016

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