Golf Vacations Magazine June 2015

OUR 13th YEAR!

THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots

GOLF VACATIONS

NEVIS GOLF CARIBBEAN FUN AT

JUNE 2015

CARIBBEAN FUN AT FOUR SEASONS RESORT

Plus: UNFORGETTABLE GETAWAYS AT PEBBLE BEACH www.golfvacationsmag.com

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GOLF VACATIONS JUNE 2015

Four Seasons Nevis Golf Course, Nevis

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Chip Shots

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2016 Ryder Cup Packages

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Pebble Beach Resorts

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Nevis Golf: Four Seasons Resort

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Sweet Stuff

Premier Golf (www.premiergolf.com) – the official licensed distributor of Ryder Cup packages -- unveils today all-inclusive experiences to the 41st biennial international competition between the United States and Europe at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Minnesota, Sept. 29-Oct. 3, 2016.

PEBBLE BEACH, CA. – As the summer season approaches, Pebble Beach Resorts is offering something special for everyone, with a variety of personalized packages that welcome guests no matter what occasion they are celebrating.

by Tim Cotroneo

When was the last time your retelling of a round of golf included the words volcano, vervet monkeys, and Robert Trent Jones?

Those once-in-a-lifetime utterances will all come spilling out after playing 18 holes at the Four Seasons Nevis Golf Course.

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by Terry Ross

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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Tim Cotroneo is a Mineapolis-based freelance writer specializing in Caribbean travel, business, and golf. Tim is a long-time contributor to Tee Times Press and he’s also the Travel Writer for American Business Magazine.

Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz

David R. Holland is an award-winning former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, football magazine publisher, and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. Holland, whose favorite golf moment was teeing it up with former Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry, splits home time in Colorado and Texas. He has written for GolfWeek’s Superintendent News, Colorado AvidGolfer, Midwest Golfing Magazine, South Central Golf Magazine, and Fairway to Green (UK). He also worked for the Dallas Cowboys Weekly, United Press International and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Terry Ross has covered sports as both a print and radio journalist for more than 35 years, and also has served as a consultant to the golf industry in a variety of capacities.

He has been a regular columnist for the Long Beach Business Journal and is based in Orange County, California.

JD Latorre is a freelance travel writer currently calling South Florida his home base. He has a knack for finding himself in some of the world’s most exotic locations, including Bangkok, Montego Bay, Bogata, Havana, Cabo San Lucas, St. Kitts, Cancun and Marseilles. His past lives included working for the Miami Herald, Chicago Daily Herald, Boston Globe, Daily News of Los Angles and Southern California Golf Newspaper.

Associate Editor Terry Ross

Features Editor Larry Feldman

Senior Writers 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 2015 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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TROON LAUNCHES WOMEN’S GOLF MONTH

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – In a continued effort to grow the game of golf, Troon is launching “Troon Women’s Golf Month” in the month of June. While Troon focuses all year long on growing participation amongst all genders and age groups, Troon daily-fee facilities, private clubs and Troon Golf Academies are joining together to host introductory golf clinics, fun social events, and special programs this month.

The clinics are designed to introduce new players to the game in an affordable, fun and educational way. Troon Women’s Golf Month also includes Troon/LPGA Girls Golf Week, held June 5 – 14, 2015. Like other Play Troon endeavors, the goal of this effort is to introduce more golfers to the game and to Troon facilities.

Examples of programming being executed include, but are not limited to the following: The Ridge, Castle Rock, Colo. – Weekly Instruction & “Ladies 9-Hole Wednesdays” The Ridge will host fun and engaging weekly group instruction on June 4, 11, 18 and 25. The cost of each event is just $30 and includes one hour of group instruction, drink voucher for a social-hour following instruction and complimentary happy hour. The Ridge will also host Ladies 9-Hole Wednesdays events that include fun formats, nine holes, drink tickets and nightly contests. The cost of each event will range from $10 to $40. For more details, visit www.playtheridge.com or call 303.688.4301.

Troon North Golf Club, Scottsdale, Ariz.

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– Weekly Instruction & Monthly “Mulligans & Martinis” Troon North Golf Club and its instructional team of Doug Hammer, Ryan Mahoney and Guy Shaw consistently sell out of their weekly instructional programs and monthly “Mulligans & Martinis” events. In June, weekly drop-in clinics will be added each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. The cost of the drop-in clinics is just $20 and includes complimentary use of Callaway club rentals for those without equipment. A special “Mulligans & Martinis” event will also be held on Tuesday, June 16 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The cost of $30 includes a one-hour instructional clinic and happy hour following. For more details, visit www.

TroonNorthGolf.com or call 480.585.7700.

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club, Maricopa, Ariz. – Complimentary Saturday Clinics & “Wine Down Wednesdays” Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club will host complimentary clinics every Saturday in June, covering everything from basic golf fundamentals to a fun day on the #miniDunes short course. Ak-Chin Southern Dunes is also extending their Wine Down Wednesdays, each week in June. For just $25/person, participants receive a complimentary bottle of house wine, appetizer and a 20-minute fun clinic at 5:30 p.m. Additionally, the club will host a complimentary LPGA Girls Golf Day on Friday June 19, 2015. For more details, visit www.golfsoutherndunes.com or call 520.426.6827.

Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club, Ocean View,

Del. – “Sip & Chip” Event Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club will host their popular Sip & Chip event June 13 at 5:30 p.m. Participants enjoy PGA instruction on the chipping green, as well as wine and cheese, along with guaranteed fun. The cost of the event is $35 for members and $40 for non-members. For more details, visit www. beartrapdunes.com or call (302)537-560.

Ras Al Hamra Golf Club – Muscat, Sultanate of Oman – Weekly Clinics Ras Al Hamra Golf Club is hosting weekly golf clinics each Monday and Thursday at 7 p.m. during the month of June. The introductory clinics are geared for women golfers as well as the entire family to encourage both junior golfers and anyone who is new to the game. For more information, visit www. alhamragolf.com.

“While clearly our facilities and instructional teams are dedicated to growing the game throughout the year, we are thrilled to amplify our approach this month and launch the first Troon Women’s Golf Month,” stated John Easterbrook, executive vice president of operations, Troon. “By making golf more accessible and inviting, we strongly believe this effort will have a positive impact on introducing beginners to the game and even encourage current players to play more often.”

Visit www.TroonGolf.com/Women or call the club nearest you to learn more about specific Troon Women’s Golf Month programs. Also visit www.PlayTroon.com for more information on all of Troon’s “grow the game” initiatives.

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Golf in Full Swing this Summer at Blue Harbor Resort

SHEBOYGAN, WI – For golf fans, there’s no better place to be this summer than beautiful Blue Harbor Resort, the top-rated resort on Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan coast. Located just minutes from the 2015 PGA Championship course, Blue Harbor offers special rates and exclusive golf packages featuring another renowned course, The Bull, Wisconsin’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.

Blue Harbor Resort’s “Stay and Play with the Bull” includes your stay at the scenic beachfront resort and round of golf at one of the country’s finest courses, The Bull at Pinehurst Farms. Starting at just $154 per person for May dates and $184 per person for June – August dates, package price includes overnight accommodations on select suites, 18 holes and cart at The Bull, just 10 minutes from Blue Harbor Resort. The offer is valid for Sunday - Thursday arrivals.

Blue Harbor is located less than an hour from Milwaukee, rising majestically from a stretch of coast known as the “Malibu of the Midwest” for its ocean-like waterfront, sailing, boating, paddle boarding and fresh water surfing. The resort is now a mecca of indoor surfing, also, with its recent premier of The Riptide--Eastern Wisconsin’s only indoor double surf simulator--which is located in the

resort’s 54,000-square-foot entertainment area and waterpark. This thrilling attraction is great fun for all ages, with custom boards that allow guests to tackle it boogie-board style or by full-on, stand-up surfing. The waterpark also features an interactive lighthouse water fort and more than 60 guest-activated water effects, along with a 3,600-square-foot lazy river, a whirlpool and four swimming pools suitable for guests of all ages.Blue Harbor Resort’s well-appointed accommodations include Victorian style suites with romantic four-post beds, aquarium- and boathouse-themed family suites with bunk-bed alcoves, and spacious two- and four-bedroom villas. Some offer a scenic view of the Sheboygan River and its quaint fishing boats; others boast a panorama of Lake Michigan, pink-orange sunrises and a working lighthouse, to be enjoyed right from your balcony or patio. “Sheboygan is one of most beautiful areas in the country to play golf, and it is so easily accessible,” said resort general and vice president David Sanderson.

Blue Harbor Resort has a unique relationship with The Bull golf course, ranked as the #77 Public Golf Course in America (Golf Digest 2013-2014). Shuttle transportation, “Stay and Play with the Bull” and other golf packages, and group discounts are all available to Blue Harbor guests. With GPS and live leaderboard scoring on our new golf cart fleet, The Bull is the perfect venue for a team-

building outing.

After enjoying some world-class golf, guests can relax on Blue Harbor’s beautiful beach, rent a paddleboard and glide along Lake Michigan’s scenic shore, or enjoy a relaxing massage at Blue Harbor’s awardwinning Reflections Spa. The resort also offers multiple dining options, including Latitude 43, specializing in fresh seafood and distinctive fine wines. Guests seeking a more casual dining experience enjoy The Beacon, serving Blue Harbor’s famous Beer Cheese Soup and featuring dramatic, elevated views of Lake Michigan, as well as the On the Rocks Bar & Grill in the lobby. In addition, Sheboygan will charm visitors with its scenic breakwater lighthouse, miles of lakefront biking and hiking trails, a historic downtown with eclectic shops, hummingbird and butterfly gardens and more.

To book your golf getaway to Blue Harbor Resort and to view the resort’s live beach cam, visit www.BlueHarborResort.com.

Tee times are limited, package is subject to discontinue at any time without notice. Please call 866-701-2583 to book your package.

Out of the many outstanding hospitality organizations in the area, Blue Harbor was awarded the outstanding “Hospitality Star of the Year” in Sheboygan County. Guests can see why It’s Better At The Blue by visiting www.BlueHarborResort.com.

Blue Harbor Resort

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Five of England’s Finest Heathland Courses Join Forces as Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour

Five of some of the finest heathland courses in southern England have joined forces to market themselves as the Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour.

West Sussex, the number one course in the county, Hampshire’s top heathland layouts of Liphook and Blackmoor, and Hindhead and Hankley Common in Surrey, will together present a formidable golf tour in the heart of the English countryside.

It is the aim of these traditional, yet forward-thinking, clubs that this new offering will act as a catalyst to open up the allure of heathland golf in the area to UK golfers whilst at the same time showcasing a stunning grouping of heathland courses set in England to the international golf market.

These established tracks all bear the heathland trademarks of sweeping swathes of vibrant heather and gorse and fairways lined with pine trees and the occasional magnificent oak which all combine to form some of the most picturesque courses in the world.

Meanwhile the fast-draining sandy soils and typically-undulating landscapes of heathland layouts make the terrain ideal for fast, challenging golf.

“With the launch of the Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour, we have put together a trail of some of the most authentic, yet natural heathland courses of England which until now have been a fairly well-guarded secret as far as the rest of the world was concerned,” comments Andy Stubbs of West Sussex Golf Club. “For any golfers wishing to discover the sheer pleasure of playing classic, well-designed heathland layouts, our collection of courses would be an ideal place to start.”

To launch the initiative, the Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour has joined Golf Tourism England (www.golftourismengland. com) to give itself some immediate profile to the international golf travel market.

Indeed Andrew Cooke, founder of Golf Tourism England, has been instrumental in encouraging the group to link up and to promote themselves as a premier heathland tour to national and international golfers alike.

“By joining together as the Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour, these clubs form an extremely attractive cluster of high quality golf courses in southern England, an area already well known for heathland masterpieces such as Sunningdale, Wentworth and Walton Heath.

Though quieter in profile to date, these courses are all well established and highly regarded and are regularly included in the various UK golf course rankings, with the likes of West

Sussex and Hankley Common often appearing in the top 20,” comments Cooke.

“These clubs are together leading the way in marketing themselves as a credible golf tourism offering to a wider audience and helping to reinforce the country as one of the foremost golfing destinations in the world,” concludes Cooke.

The five clubs in the Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour can all be found within an hour of each other and are easily accessed via the M25 and A3 roadways and are just over an hour and a half from London’s international airports of Heathrow and Gatwick.

The Old Thorns Manor Hotel Golf & Country Estate near Liphook is centrally located to act as a base for golfers taking on the new tour. Set in 400 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside, the Hotel offers a range of rooms and apartments, a spa, various bars and restaurants ideal for the requirements of golfers.

In blazing the trail, the Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour hope to follow in the footsteps of other great heathland trails such as the Melbourne Sand Belt, home to one of the world’s most heralded courses, Royal Melbourne in Australia and the Sand Hills of Pinehurst in America.

More here www.golftourismengland.com/ where-to-play/view/southern-counties-heathland-golf-tour

Hankley Common Golf Club

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Rio Verde Attains Sustainable Community Certification from Audubon International

RIO VERDE, AZ – Rio Verde Community – the award-winning resort style residential development northeast of Scottsdale – was designated a Certified Sustainable Community by the Audubon International Sustainable Communities program after completing the organization’s requirements and meeting its strict criteria.

The designation, which was awarded April 15, makes Rio Verde the first Certified Sustainable Community west of the Mississippi River and fifth overall in the U.S. Boasting 735 acres of desert wildflowers, cacti and abundant wildlife that accent its residential areas and amenities, Rio Verde achieved certification by developing and implementing management practices and policies according to a community-driven Long Term Sustainability Plan (LTSP).

The LTSP included timelines and measurable goals addressing 15 focus areas,

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including wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement, water conservation, energy efficiency, health and transportation. Receiving designation as an Audubon International Certified Sustainable Community is contingent upon the quality and completeness of the LTSP and its implementation.

Among the implemented accomplishments at Rio Verde: • Solar panels installed on the community center serve 25 percent of the building’s average energy demand, resulting in more than 250,000 kWh (and over $28,000) saved annually.

• Fifteen acres of turf on the golf courses were naturalized to desert landscaping, reducing water and maintenance requirements.

• More than 3 tons of citrus from residents’ trees annually donated to local food banks.

• The creation of a native plant landscaping palette for the Country Club and Community.

• An annual educational event held on practices and products for living green, which drew more than 100 residents.

“Rio Verde Community residents have worked enthusiastically to shape our community within the guidelines established

by Audubon International,” notes Gary Holcomb, President of the Community Association. “Our focus on preservation, conservation and sustainability will certainly benefit our current residents as well as those who will follow in their footsteps. We look forward to a long-term partnership with Audubon International.”

Tabbed “the No. 1 “Private Golf Course” and “Active Adult Community” by Ranking Arizona: the Best of Arizona Business, Rio Verde joins Eufaula, Ala,. Williamston, N.C., Coconut Creek, Fla., and Stowe Mountain Resort, Vt. as Audubon International Certified Sustainable Communities.

For more information about Rio Verde, visit www.rioverdearizona.com, or call 877.746.8373.

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Hilton Head Golf Island Announces 2015 Summer Golf Packages

HILTON HEAD, SC – Hilton Head Golf Island (HHGI) -- a collection of premier resorts and courses in one of the worlds greatest golf destinations -- is offering a wide-array of value-laden packages for the summer.

Oceanfront views, Lowcountry scenery, countless outdoor activities and a burgeoning culinary scene converge on the island during the summer months. Ranked top 10 in seven categories by Golf Digest including “Best Courses” and “Best Weather,” HHGI is easily accessible from numerous Southeast, Midwest and East Coast cities.

A sampling of packages offered at www. hiltonheadgolfisland.com: The Heritage Golf Collection “All You Can Play Summer Stay” – Starting at $165 per person, per night, golfers select three rounds from Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club, Shipyard, Palmetto Hall Plantation and Oyster Reef with complimentary range balls and unlimited replays. Three nights lodging at The Hampton Inn, discounts on golf shop purchases and clubhouse dining round out the package.

Palmetto Dunes “Birdies and Beer Getaway” – Enjoy three nights and three rounds on the resorts championship courses: Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront, Arthur Hills and George Fazio starting at $178 per golfer, per night. A breakfast and beer gift card, complimentary range balls, two-bedroom villa accommodations and two hours of daily court time at the Tennis Center are included.

The Sea Pines Resort “Villa Golf Package” – Features villa accommodations

for four nights and three rounds at Heron Point by Pete Dye and the Ocean Course, with complimentary green fees for afternoon replays based on availability (cart fees apply).

Starting at $145 per person, this offer also includes a warm-up bag of range balls per round, 10 percent off select pro shop items and at resort restaurants, and complimentary wireless internet and use of The Sea Pines Resort Fitness Center.

“These packages are loaded with valueadded and are a great opportunity for golfers to enjoy an extended stay and play,” says Cary Corbitt, President of the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association and Vice President of Sports and Operations at Sea Pines Resort.

“Coastal breezes, thick strands of Live Oaks and plenty of shade make summer a great time to experience Hilton Head Golf Island.”

For additional information about rates, restrictions and other package inclusions, or to receive a quote: www.hiltonheadgolfisland. com, 800.523.3373.

Kaanapali Golf Courses to Offer FootGolf Starting Friday, June 12

LAHAINA, HI – Kaanapali Golf Courses, managed by Billy Casper Golf, will begin offering FootGolf to the general public on Friday, June 12 with a ceremony at 3:30 p.m. on the first tee of the Kaanapali Kai Course.

Nine and 18 holes of FootGolf will be available at Kaanapali after 3 p.m. seven days a week starting at $15 to walk and an additional $15 to ride a shared golf cart. Players can bring their own soccer balls or rent one for $5 per round. Kaanapali Golf Courses is the first facility on Maui to offer FootGolf and joins sev-

eral other Billy Casper Golf-managed courses across America to launch the program in 2015.

“We are excited to present FootGolf, a new way for families and non-golfers to experience recreational golf,” says Ed Kageyama, PGA General Manager at Kaanapali Golf Courses. “Summer is the perfect time to kick off (no pun intended) FootGolf as school break has just begun.”

In FootGolf, each hole is assigned a “par” and players tee off using a soccer ball, strategically kicking it until they make it in the 21-inch cup. Holes are cut into the rough to protect conditions of fairways and greens, and to avoid affecting everyday golfers. The American FootGolf League provides a rulebook for players to follow.

More information: www.kaanapaligolfcourses.com, 866.454.4653.

TPC Network’s Father’s Day gifts

exclusive

Home of THE PLAYERS Championship, birthplace of the TPC Network and backdrop to the PGA TOUR headquarters, TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach is the perfect destination for any avid golfer.

• Stay & Play Gift Package, $425 per package • PLAYERS Stadium Gift Package, $320 per package • Dye’s Valley Gift Package, $145 per package (904) 273-3430 or visit http://www.tpc. com/sawgrass-special-offers *Certificates redeemable from June 13, 2015 - September 24, 2015 *Last date of purchase is June 22, 2015 *Reservations made 14 days in advance

RTJ Oceanfront Course at Palmetto Dunes

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Premier Golf Releases High-Demand 2016 Ryder Cup Packages

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remier Golf (www.premiergolf.com) – the official licensed distributor of Ryder Cup packages -- unveils today allinclusive experiences to the 41st biennial international competition between the United States and Europe at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Minnesota, Sept. 29-Oct. 3, 2016.

Sending more than 25,000 fans to golf’s greatest event since 1991, Premier Golf has been a licensed PGA of America partner for 25 years.

“The 2016 matches mark Premier Golf’s 13th consecutive Ryder Cup,” said Premier Golf President Jim Ward. “We provide fans with the experience of a lifetime to become part of the electric atmosphere that is the Ryder Cup and we look forward to helping create a ‘home-field advantage’ for the U.S. team at one of America’s most esteemed golf clubs.

Starting at $2,895 per person (double occupancy), all pack-

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ages include four-nights’ accommodation at a choice of seven area hotels, welcome reception, a Ryder Cup gift, daily breakfast, tickets for all four competition days and round-trip transportation to and from Hazeltine.

Also available are custom “Ryder Cup Extensions” in which Premier Golf facilitates accommodations, tee times, transportation and non-golf activities in Pinehurst, North Carolina; Streamsong, Florida; Sea Island, Georgia; Kohler, Wisconsin or Charleston, South Carolina.

Premier Golf also provides experienced, full-service packages to some of the world’s classic international and U.S. destinations, including Bandon Dunes, Pebble Beach, PGA Village, Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand and others.

To book your Ryder Cup package, or to view all of Premier Golf’s luxury options, visit www.premiergolf.com or call 866.260.4409.

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Pebble Beach Resorts

PEBBLE BEACH, CA. – As the summer season approaches, Pebble Beach Resorts is offering something special for everyone, with a variety of personalized packages that welcome guests no matter what occasion they are celebrating.

From strolls on the beach, listening to bagpipes and enjoying golf on America’s top courses, to indulging in award-winning spa treatments at The Spa at Pebble Beach and acclaimed dining at top restaurants, Pebble Beach Resorts provides the perfect setting for a summer getaway.

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Father’s Day, Fourth of July and summer breaks for children young and old are made even more memorable on one of the world’s most iconic coastlines.

Give Dad the gift he’s always wanted – a trip to Pebble Beach – with the Father’s Day Holiday Special package. Guests will enjoy two nights at The Inn at Spanish Bay, a daily $50 breakfast credit at Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants, and a complimentary round of golf at The Links at Spanish Bay with paid round at Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course or The Links at Spanish Bay. Prices start at $425 per night and are valid for arrivals from June 8-22, 2015.

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Unforgettable Getaways For Summer Holidays

Fourth of July at Pebble Beach Resorts is sure to ring in the summer on a festive note. Available at both The Lodge at Pebble Beach and The Inn at Spanish Bay, guests will celebrate with a two-night stay that includes a $50 daily breakfast credit and complimentary round at The Links at Spanish Bay with a paid round at Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill or Spanish Bay. Prices start at $550 per night for The Lodge and $425 per night for The Inn, valid June 30 - July 7, 2015.

Even the youngest traveler can make favorite family memories while experiencing the Pebble Beach Explorers package, a new tradition to celebrate summer vacation and other special times. Pebble Beach

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Explorers allows children ages 12 and younger to eat and play for free at the resort, offering family-focused activities from scavenger hunts and horseback riding to tennis and golf that utilize the amenities of both Pebble Beach Resorts and the Monterey Peninsula. Visit www. pebblebeach.com/families to find sample trip itineraries, activities in the area, testimonials, an Online Vacation Planner and a “Happy Parents” section, all in one location. The Pebble Beach Explorers package starts at $595 per night, valid through July 31, 2015.

For more information about Pebble Beach Resorts or to plan your dream vacation, visit www.pebblebeach.com or call (888) 251-9790.

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Nevis

Volcano, Caribbean Sea,

By Tim C

Four Seaso Nevis Go

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s Golf

and Robert Trent Jones

Cotroneo

ons Resort olf Course

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W

hen was the last time your retelling of a round of golf included the words volcano, vervet monkeys, and Robert Trent Jones? Those once-in-a-lifetime utterances will all come spilling out after playing 18 holes at the Four Seasons Nevis Golf Course.

The thumbprint-shaped island of Nevis is just 36 square miles and is home to 11,000 people. By comparison, there are an estimated 12,000 vervet monkeys that inhabit Nevis. Many of these green-tinted climbers take up residence in the mango, banana, and palm trees woven throughout the Four Seasons 6,800-yard golf wonderland. The golf course is wonderfully positioned at the rising base of a cloudtopped volcano known as Nevis Peak.

Stand anywhere on Nevis’ outer ring of beaches, villa rooftops, or charming villages, and Nevis Peak stares at you like a lush green sentry in the sky. With a pinnacle reaching 3,200-feet, you can imagine architect Trent Jones designing in wide-eyed delight as he conjured ways to incorporate one of the most unique Caribbean backdrops a beachcomber, let alone golfer, would ever experience.

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Volcano and Coco Advice Ask at the Four Seasons pro shop for advice on navigating this mindbending golf course for the first time, and a single recommendation always rings true. Just as putts break toward the Caribbean Sea, most of your tee shots will roll away from Nevis Peak’s cascading slope. A second question you’d be wise to volley is, “What’s the story on the dog that guides golfers like Tiger Woods’ next caddy.

This canine inquiry would prove prophetic for two golfers from Minnesota who had just teed off on the scenic 4th hole. This photogenic par 4 features a brilliant Yellow Bell tree and Nevis Peak standing in unison just left of the fairway. As the Midwesterners sped by golf cart toward their second shots, a tail and tongue-wagging mutt came galloping up behind them.

The Minnesotans would learn the dog is named Coco, and she knows the Four Season Nevis Golf Course like the back of her paw. Coco wished to turn a twosome into a threesome for the balance of 18 holes.

To be joined by this four-legged Nevis ambassador added even more spice to a golf round that was already flavorful.

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Monkeys and Photo Moments The fourth hole also proved to be the tamer of two monkey sightings.

The more exotic sighting occurred when the golfers plunged down into the rain forest corridor that connects the 10th green with the 11th hole tee box. It was in this Amazon-like existence that the golf cart weaved like a bobsledder beyond the limestone wall outcroppings into a thick forest hosting no less than a dozen Vervet monkeys scurrying the cart path, scaling the railings, and chomping mangos in the treetops. The Four Seasons Nevis Golf Course is like playing 18 holes on the pages of a National Geographic cover story.

and skyscraping elevations that make certain tee boxes and greens scream “selfie” to help chronicle your Caribbean dream round.

Your Four Seasons Nevis Golf Course recollection would be remiss if you failed to mention the remains of a 1600s sugar mill that is perched elegantly above the second hole tee box, a “lonely tunnel” that is rumored to bless travelers with a bounty of good fortune, rainbow colored mega villas whose owners can boast magnificent views,

The Four Seasons Nevis Golf Course shatters all preconceived notions held about Caribbean golf. Sure, the Caribbean Sea welcomes golfers with wistful ocean views, but only in Nevis will your scorecard note a volcano, vervet monkeys, a golf-happy dog, and thoughts of Robert Trent Jones smiling from ear to ear. www.fourseasons.com/nevis

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Looking Back on Nevis Golf As you putt out on 18 and head back to the pro shop, you can’t help but reflect as the clubhouse attendant offers another Four Seasons personal touch, a cold towel to rejuvenate your face after a round in balmy temps. You’ve just danced with Nevis Peak, you’ve enjoyed a bit of monkey business, and you’ve experienced one of Robert Trent Jones’ most treasured creations.

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SWEETSTUFF T

he most popular glove maker in golf— FootJoy— recently released its most technologically advanced glove ever and it has already been a huge hit on the professional tours and promises to be the same for the golfing masses.

The FootJoy SciFlex Tour™ golf glove is a sharp, modern-looking new addition to the company’s stable of golf gloves that not only offers better fitting, softer leather and better grip properties, but also offers better breathability and comfort than in any previous FootJoy glove.

Currently in use by FJ Ambassadors Hunter Mahan, Louis Oosthuizen, Ryan Palmer, and Matt Jones, SciFlex Tour builds upon the performance characteristics of its predecessor, SciFlex™, with several crucial enhancements to this advanced, all-new model. FJ’s research and development team has incorporated state-ofthe-art materials and construction technologies through progressive manufacturing processes to create a combination glove featuring luxury leathers and performance-driven synthetic fabrics.

“With more than 200 of the world’s most renowned golfers choosing its unparalleled allweather performance, SciFlex Tour glove is set to be one of the most successful launches to date from the #1 Glove in Golf,” said Maria Bonzagni, Senior Director of Marketing, FootJoy Gloves and Accessories.

“Our design team has improved several elements of the original SciFlex model to set new comfort and performance standards; including feel, grip, breathability and flexibility, each of which is incredibly important knowing that the

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golf glove is the single critical point of contact between the golfer and the golf club. Equipped with its many outstanding features and benefits, the 2015 SciFlex Tour performance is sure to strike a chord with golfers of all abilities, from tour players to avid amateur golfers.”

Among the new features and/or improvements in the SciFlex Tour glove are Taction 2™ Advanced Performance Leather® ­­­that delivers performance tour feel, moisture management and exceptional grip performance. Strategically-engineered features optimize breathability and comfort, especially in warm, humid conditions. Micro-perforations strategically positioned on the Taction2 APL leather palm and fingers improve grip and enhance moisture management.

This glove has improved flexibility with a proprietary bonded construction across the knuckles that creates a noticeably softer feel with greater comfort. The cool MicroVent® FiberSof material located on the back of the hand enhances breathability and greater feel, while the breathable PowerNet forms across the knuckles and fingers, allowing for built-in flexibility and breathability.

Sizing options include: Men’s Regular Left S, M, ML, L, XL; XXL, Men’s Cadet S, M, ML, L, XL and Men’s Right S, M, ML, L, XL. For more information: www.footjoy.com

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aving an edge on the greens is a goal that most golfers aspire to have—and it has taken players all the way from constantly changing out their choice of putters to tinkering with various sizes and textures of grips—and everything in between.

A unique and novel idea brought to market by Eddie Rogacki, a former “mini-tour” professional golfer from Miami, Florida, now gives

all players a chance to make quick and efficient changes to their putter grip with his SwitchGrips product that allows you to change not only the grip, but the weighting characteristics in just seconds—and without the aid of a club fitter or technician.

With SwitchGrip putter grips, the grip has two sections—an inner core and then the actual grip. The grip and core are applied to the putter shaft in the normal fashion, but the actual grip can be easily slid off of the inner core with a couple of twists of a special torque wrench made for the SwitchGrip--and another grip with a different shape, size, weight and color can easily replace it. For weighting purposes, the interchangeable counter-balance weights allow the player to change the weight from 0 to 5 grams, 10 grams, 15 grams and 20 grams— providing the opportunity to have a fully-customizable putter grip. This is especially useful for the newer counter-balance putters that are becoming increasingly popular in today’s club market.

SwitchGrips were chosen as one of the top three “Best New Products” at the 2015 PGA Merchandise Show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida in January during the annual meeting of golf industry leaders, retailers, manufacturers and media from around the world.

“We believe we have a product that will help any golfer become a better putter, and the feedback we have received since the Show has been incredibly positive,” said Rogacki, president and CEO of SwitchGrip, who spent more than a year and half perfecting his concept.

And while garnering a host of best new product awards during and since the show, most of the media attention has been focused on SwitchGrips Exotic line, made from real

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SWEETSTUFF

by TerryRoss

animal hides, while most buyer interest has focused on the Player Line, the company’s most affordable grip starting at just $35.

The product is made in the USA, and all SwitchGrips and accessories are available on the company’s website: www.switchgripsusa.com and at select green grass pro shops and golf retailers.

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shworth golf apparel is taking a decided road trip this spring and summer as it is using not only its marque golf professional--former U.S. Open Champion Justin Rose--but also featuring some outstanding golf destinations in its promotion of new clothing offerings.

Known as a brand with classic styling and fashions that can be worn on and off the course, Ashworth has produced a unique film as part of its 2015 Golf/Man campaign in support of the brand’s new line of golf apparel and footwear for 2015 that was launched in conjunction with the brand’s new website golfman.ashworthgolf.com.

The campaign focuses on the experiences that surround the game, both on and off the course. It speaks to fashion-forward golfers who seek out travel with friends to unique golf destinations around the world who appreciate the journeys and beauty of the sport’s moments.

Ashworth also produced the first Golf/Man Magalogue--a premium 100-page printed publication comprised of stunning course imagery, beautiful shots of Ashworth’s Spring/Summer 2015 line and compelling editorial content focused on Justin Rose’s trip to Streamsong Resort in Florida.

Justin is one of the top stars of the game, and Streamsong, which is built on a reclaimed phosphate mine, is one of the top new golf destinations in the world. Golf/Man’s feature article focuses on the origins of the links-style course, and includes interviews with renowned course designers Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, and Tom Doak. Ashworth also conducted a Q&A with Justin Rose that centers on Justin’s approach to life and the game of golf.

Ashworth is planning updates to the travelogue in the coming months following trips to other elite golf destinations which include Bandon Dunes, Chambers Bay and Gamble Sands. Also featured will be their fashionable attire that has been worn by some of the best PGA pros and became synonymous with the sport.

The recently released Indigo Collection, emphasizing the brand’s natural performance ethos, is among the new lines Ashworth has for 2015. Ashworth’s natural performance philosophy also pays homage to links-style courses, designs that will be featured in this year’s remaining major championships.

“Natural performance is what inspires Ashworth apparel,” said Jeff Lienhart, Executive Vice President of Ashworth Golf. “We strive to create the connections between experiences, what we see on-and-off course and what we wear.”

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The Indigo Collection, which features apparel made with Merino wool and Ashworth’s newest apparel technology PRIMATEC cotton, is as fashion-forward and performance driven as the golfer who wears it, notes Lienhart. PRIMATEC cotton is a premium performance fabric that quickly disperses moisture, keeping the face of the fabric dry with minimal visible sweat. The Merino 87 capsule, named for the year Ashworth was established, utilizes premium 100% Merino wool, a breathable, natural and renewable fiber that helps regulate body temperature in all conditions. With a variety of short and long sleeve golf shirts, pullover sweaters, quilted layering pieces, pants and shorts, the Ashworth Indigo Collection is suited for the golfer wherever the journey may lead.

For more information on Ashworth’s new lineup: golfman.ashworthgolf.com

O

ne of the most common irritants that travelers encounter is arriving at a destination, unpacking and finding a suitcase or bag full of wrinkled cloths. It happens to everyone at one time or another and no one likes to change and go out for a round of golf or an evening dinner looking rumpled.

With the new and improved Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus, releasing wrinkles from fabric as easy is easy as delivering a renewing spritz of the fabric-relaxing spray. It not only knocks the wrinkles out, but gives fabric a healthy fresh smell and is much quicker than trying to steam clothing in a hotel room.

Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus is much more than a replacement for the hassle of everyday ironing. “The WonderBottle,” as it is known, has over 101 uses for the home, family and traveler.

In addition to its ability to reduce wrinkles in clothes, Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus can be used as a quick-fix solution to remove creases from pillowcases, bed sheets, drapery, tablecloths, cloth napkins, ribbons on holiday decorations and many other household items.

A quick spritz from Wrinkle Releaser Plus can also remove odors and freshen up furniture, pet beds and infant car seats just to name a few items. For those who still want to iron, it serves as a better ironing aid than water without the residue of starch. And in a fashion emergency, Downy Wrinkle Release Plus can even save the day by eliminating static cling.

After thorough research and testing, the design of the spray trigger on the new bottle was perfected to deliver a finer mist of Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus. The new and improved sprayer delivers broader coverage to reduce drying time. Downy Wrinkle Release Plus works to eliminate wrinkles by coating fabric fibers with silicone that allows them to relax and slide apart instead of being frozen in a crease. Simply spray, smooth and tug, then allow fabric to dry for a crisp, fresh smelling and wrinkle-free look in only minutes.

The product is available in a large one liter bottle that is a perfect home size, and the travel-friendly 3-ounce spray bottle is perfect for a travel bag.

For more information visit www.downywrinklereleaserplus.com

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