00886 igo igolfmag summer2014 090314 by Kelly Gaughan

Summer 2014

Official Publication of the Indiana Golf Office

BOWDENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BACK

Our 99th Indiana Open Champion and a Look into his Life on the PGA Tour

Next on the Tee

Jeffrey Potter, President of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants Official Publication of the Indianaon GolfWatson Office Waiting

Q&A with the Ryder Cup Captain

Contents 4

Guest Editor’s Letter Life on the PGA Tour

Around the Heartland

Next on the Tee Jeffrey Potter, President of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants

Pro Tip Drawing the Driver

Rules Revealed

What’s in the Bag?

Great Indiana Golf Hole Grand Oak Golf Club

The 10 Minute Warm Up Five Exercises to Prepare you for the First Tee

24 BOWDEN’S BACK Our 99th Indiana Open Champion and a Look into his Life on the PGA Tour

Golf Goods

A Chat with Chad Chad Ayres Talks Life as a Golf Professional

22 Executive Director Assistant Executive Director Director of Junior Tournament Operations Director of Junior Golf Development Tournament Director Director of Accounting and Membership Services Director of Player Development/Handicapping Communications Director Director of Marketing and Women’s Golf NSP Coordinator/Director of Indianapolis Programming Director of Major Gifts Communications Intern

Contributors Ted Sturges Chris Smith, PGA Trey Holland

Waiting on Watson Q & A with the Ryder Cup Captain

Indiana Golf Ofﬁce Staff Mike David Cyndi Lawson Ryan Lambert Roger Lundy Todd DeHaven Judy Deiwert Stacey Rice Kelly Gaughan Julia Potter Ali Beam Jim Ferriell Scott Stewart

Summer Steals

For advertising information, please call Cyndi Lawson, clawson@indianagolf.org 800-779-7271 ext. 225

The 19th Hole The Covered Wagon at Prairie View GC

Golf Getaways Kohler Resort

So you think you want to be a Tour Pro Mike David

iGolf Indiana (Issue #2) is published irregularly by The Indiana Golf Foundation/P.O. Box 516, Franklin, IN 46131. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to threads/ P.O. Box 516, Franklin, IN 46131/Non-Proﬁt Postage Paid in Indianapolis, IN.

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

Play Legendary Golf

GUEST EDITOR’S LETTER

Life on the PGA Tour By: Chris Smith, PGA Golf, much like life, is a journey. Craig Bowden winning his third Indiana State Open Championship recently reminds me of how easy it appears but how difficult it really is. Craig is now my KBS shaft representative on tour and is no longer a part of the daily grind trying to make a living playing golf. However, he was still able to take his “part time” game and win a tournament that has always been on my bucket list. Congratulations Craig! The world of PGA Tour golf is both tough and vicious. How tough? I have been a member of the PGA Tour for 18 years and my 325 tournament starts have yielded just 17 top 10 finishes and fortunately one win. Growing up in Indiana, I enjoyed some golf success with two Boys’ State Junior titles, an IHSAA win and a State Amateur victory. At Ohio State, I was fortunate to win a Big Ten Championship and be named Big Ten Player of the Year. When I turned professional after graduation, I felt confident about my chances on the Tour. Then something happened. I grew up, had more responsibilities and stepped out into international competition. Suddenly the game and winning became much more difficult. I am in the middle of finding myself and my game again on this journey. Life gives you great pleasures along the way and then will hand you some difficult situations and hardship, much like the game of golf! Every time you tee it up in a tournament you enter a position of vulnerability that offers no hiding place. It purely is you against the course. A lifetime of work and practice comes down to nothing more than a number to be posted after 18 holes. Again, from the outside it seems so simple and easy but in the middle of it is a monster mental and physical 4

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

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challenge. I have seen my brother Todd dominate Indiana golf with State Open titles and countless section wins. I saw Craig win again this year; 17 years since his last win. Winning is fun and it is very rare in golf. We all play golf for different reasons; developing business relationships, catching up with old friends, or even to earn a living. In the end, we are all lucky to be involved in such a great game. The world of golf offers a community and a connection where anyone can participate. The challenge and fun of trying to achieve perfection at an imperfect game continually brings us all back. We are all going to continue to work at it and search for that perfect shot or record low round. It truly is the greatest game and journey in the world. Enjoy! IndianaGolf.org

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

Indiana USGA Boatwright Intern Donates Bone Marrow

AROUND THE HEARTLAND

#Twinning

Evansville Twins Secure Simon Scholarships The Haas boys share another thing in common, their place of work. Both boys work at Oak Meadow Country Club cleaning carts, maintaining the driving range, and interacting with members on a daily basis. “My favorite part of working at Oak Meadow Country Club is talking to the incredible members,” Ryan said. “I also enjoy playing a role in the continued growth of the club.”

Kyle Hass (left) and Ryan Hass (right) winners of the David E. Simon Scholarship

he David E. Simon Scholarship is an award established by the Indiana Golf Foundation with the intent to reward students who have worked at an Indiana golf facility to pursue a college degree. This year’s David E. Simon Scholarship winners have a little more in common than past winners. Kyle and Ryan Haas are twins, and in almost every sense of the word. Both Kyle and Ryan are hardworking, intelligent young men who have excelled both in the game of golf and in their schooling, both finishing with GPAs of 3.9 on a 4.0 scale. “In my life I’ve been blessed with great opportunities, and I wanted to challenge myself throughout my high school career,” Kyle said. “It’s just something I enjoyed doing.” In addition to their hard work at school, both boys are members of the National Honor Society, and Kyle was a participant in the Academic Math Bowl.

When Kyle and Ryan aren’t spending time at the golf course, they are competing for their school’s swim club, Kyle for four years and Ryan for three. On the side, Kyle helps coach a swim team and Ryan volunteers with the Greater Evansville Aquatic Team. “Usually, when my brother and I volunteered for the swim team we were helping elementary and middle school students at the swim camp,” Kyle said. “This is where we taught them the fundamentals of different strokes and proper technique. Learning how to communicate this to the young swimmers took a lot of effort and patience.” With their similarities also come their differences. Kyle is a member of Student Council, while Ryan helps with Student Government. When asked about their futures, Ryan said he looks forward to helping others in the field of physical therapy, while Kyle is just looking forward to new experiences. “I’ve lived in Southern Indiana my whole life, and I’m excited to see what else is out there especially at Purdue.” Congratulations to Ryan and Kyle Haas, the 2014 David E. Simon Scholarship Award Winners. Other Simon Scholarship winners include: Benjamin Hammon, Taryn Trusty, and Jackson Wright.

Indiana Junior Golfers Excelling in College Golf 350 Indiana Junior Tour Alums play collegiate golf

2 00 bo y

150 girl

Most Common In-State and Out-of-State College Choices

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

In-State IU Purdue Butler DePauw Ball State Franklin College Trine Hanover Wabash

Out-of-State Stanford Oklahoma State Dayton Iowa Eastern Kentucky Western Kentucky

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s a freshman at Purdue University in 2009, Andrew Gridley stood in line with hundreds of others at his Farmhouse fraternity bone marrow registration drive. A year earlier a fellow fraternity members lost his battle with Hodgkins Lymphoma and his parents chose to honor his memory with a philanthropic event. With a simple swab inside his cheek, Gridley’s tissue sample was entered into the National Bone Marrow Registry. Fast forward five years, Gridley was notified this spring that he and a handful of others had tested positive as a potential match for an individual in need of bone marrow. Gridley proceeded to give an additional blood sample and within a week was informed he was the best match for the patient. There are two different procedures for collecting blood forming cells for bone marrow transplants; bone marrow donation or Peripheral Blood Stem Cell (PBSC). Bone Marrow donation is a surgical procedure where marrow is extracted from the pelvis bone. However, the same blood-forming cells that are found in bone marrow are also found in the circulating (peripheral) blood. PBSC donation is a nonsurgical procedure, called apheresis – much like a plasma donation. The donation takes place at an experienced blood center or outpatient hospital facility. The type of donation is determined by the patient’s needs. “There was an 80 percent chance my donation would be the less invasive blood swap but there was a 20 percent chance I would need to give through the actual bone marrow collection,” said Gridley. The idea of anteshisa and surgery would give most people pause on making a decision like this, but not for Gridley. “It was always going to be a yes.” Back in the office the day following his donation, Gridley said it was pretty easy. All he knows about the individual who received his bone marrow is their age; 66 years old. In the last four –five years, there have been four other matches of his fellow fraternity brothers thanks to their bone marrow registration drive. If you are interested, visit www.bethematch.org to learn more about bone marrow donation.

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Crooked Stick and Otter Creek Celebrate 50th Anniversaries Otter Creek Golf Club was designed by legends Robert Trent Jones and Rees Jones, and opened in 1964. Since it’s beginning, Otter Creek GC has been ranked among the top 25 courses in the country and celebrated its 50th anniversary in June. Otter Creek, a public golf course always in tournament condition, has been rated among the top public courses in the U.S. since it opened. Located in the midst of a serene countryside, Robert Trent Jones Sr. created the original 18 holes of this championship course. His design harmonizes the gently rolling hills of southern Indiana and his incredible knowledge of the game by utilizing the existing contours of the land to ensure that each shot is as natural as it could possibly be. Robert’s son, Rees Jones, was given the challenge of designing an additional 9 holes that would compliment his father’s original course. Chad Cockerham serves as the Director of Golf at Otter Creek. For more information visit www.ottercreekgolf.com. Founded by worldrenowned designer Pete Dye in 1964, Crooked Stick Golf Club is one of the focal points of Indiana golf. Being one of Dye’s earliest courses, inspiration comes from courses all over the world like St. Andrews, Muirfield, and more. The story goes that as Pete Dye and Bill Wick, one of the original Directors, were walking over the uncompleted back nine, when Pete picked up a gnarled stick and swung it at some stones. The likely beginning of the game was the inspiration for the name “Crooked Stick Golf Club,” which was ratified by the members on April 8, 1965. Tony Pancake serves as the Director of Golf at Crooked Stick GC, most recently the home to the 2009 U.S. Senior Open and the 2012 BMW Championship. For more information visit www.crookedstick.org.

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

NEXT ON THE TEE

How did you become interested in golf?

My dad liked to play and he would take me out when I was a kid. I think I really started to make an effort when I got out of college and more of my friends were playing on a regular basis. How would you describe your golf game?

I would say that my golf game is a work in progress. I still struggle with a lot of different parts of my game, but I think I am getting better. The biggest issue for me is getting the time for practice. When I played basketball, I would spend hours in a gym working on footwork, shooting, ball handling, etc. However, with golf, I don’t get that kind of time, and it hurts my game. How often do you get the chance to play?

During the summer, I am out at my family’s lake house in Culver, Ind. often and I am able to play a couple of times each weekend at Lake Maxincukee Country Club. I am also getting out to my favorite course, Fort Wayne Country Club, with greater regularity and really enjoying myself. Do you see any similarities between playing the game of golf and playing professional basketball?

I think the amount of time to practice and repetition needed to refine one’s game, whether it is a jump shot or a golf shot, make the two games very similar. What is the best golf tip you have received?

Jeffrey Potter

Jeffrey Potter (holding trophy) with Fort Wayne Mad Ants

The best golf tip I received was to stop babying the ball and step up and hit it. The other was to relax, have fun, and stop worrying about how lousy my golf game is.

Who comprises your dream foursome?

I would love to say something profound like Lincoln or Gandhi, but I want funny guys out on the course with me. I would love to play with Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan, and Bill Murray. Why is the NBA development league such a great stepping stone to becoming an NBA player?

It is such a great stepping stone because the NBA D-League provides overlooked players an opportunity to prove their abilities in the second best basketball league in the world. Many players sometimes need just a bit more time to develop their games so they can play at the highest level, and we are able to provide that for them. That is why it is so fun to see so many players with D-League experience like Ian Mahinmi and CJ Watson of the Pacers doing so well in the NBA. What did it mean to you to see the Mad Ants win their league this season?

It was the culmination of a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication by everyone involved with the Mad Ants, and I am so happy that we were able to share such a special season. We have had our struggles, but seeing the way everything came together this season certainly made it all worth it. I honestly cannot remember feeling that amount of joy!

Basketball President & Golf Fanatic, Fort Wayne Mad Ants

t the age of six, Jeffrey Potter played in his first basketball game. Potter excelled in high school basketball and played professionally before giving up the game for good and deciding to coach. Potter, a Redmond, Wash. native, attended Oregon Law School before being prompted by father-in-law John Zeglis, former CEO and Chairman of AT&T Wireless about forming a minor league basketball team in Fort Wayne, Ind. Potter and Zeglis agreed that forming a team in the NBA Development League was their best option for creating a successful franchise.

New in 2015

The NBA D-League is the official minor league of the NBA and serves as a stepping stone for NBA hopefuls. Since its creation, 2001, the NBA D-League has grown from eight to seventeen teams. Each NBA D-League team has an NBA affiliate, but the Mad Ants are the only D-League team with three NBA affiliates; Indiana Pacers, Detroit Pistons, and Milwaukee Bucks. In 2014, the Mad Ants defeated the Santa Cruz Warriors to win the NBA D-League Championship, a victory that Potter calls “the culmination of a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication.”

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

IndianaGolf.org

Introducing iGolf Indiana, where members enjoy exclusive golf perks and discounts that make playing the game more enjoyable than ever.

www.iGolfIndiana.com

In 2007, their dream became a reality with the creation of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, one of the most recognizable D-League teams with one of the highest attendance rates. 8

iGolf Indiana, Do You?

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

PRO TIP

RULES REVEALED

Indiana Section Professionals share their secrets to improving your game

Drawing the Driver

When Options Are Not Options

2013 Indiana Section PGA Taylormade Assistant Player of the Year Chris Clemens – Winding River Golf Course

In the final round of the 2013 Masters Tournament, Phil Mickelson’s tee shot on the difficult par-3, 4th hole hit the railing of a grandstand located to the left of the putting green. The ball ricocheted into a large area of dense shrubbery that created significant interference with his area of intended swing for his second shot. He and his caddie considered several strategies, including declaring the ball unplayable.

Rules Question:

If he elected to declare the ball unplayable, what options would he have had under the Rules of Golf?

Answer: Rule 28 specifically states that a player may deem his or her ball to be unplayable anywhere on the golf course, other than a water hazard. The Rule goes on to state that if a player deems the ball to be unplayable, the player has three options. Under penalty of one stroke, the player must: (1) proceed under the stroke and distance provision of Rule 27-1 by playing a ball as nearly as possible at the last spot from which the original ball was last played; or

Setup: • Position ball near left shoulder. • Align clubface approximately five yards right of target and hips and shoulders approximately 10 yards right of target. • Keep shoulders and hips on the same line visualizing a neck tie hanging from your collar to the right of the zipper on your pants. This will align your body and give you a nice tilt in your spine helping you hit up through the ball at impact. • Balance is 50/50 or slight more weight in right foot with balance in arches to balls of feet.

Train smaller muscles: • On downswing feel hands close to right hip and right forearm turning over left forearm in the follow through.

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

Give yourself feedback: • Place a rolled up towel in front of your ball and to the inside left. This helps you keep your path to the right. • Place an alignment stick in the ground at roughly a 45 degree angle outside your ball to keep your hands closer to your right hip through the downswing (see diagram).

Learn from ball flight: • If you are drawing the ball but it is starting left you should path the club more right by moving the towel closer to the target line. • If you are pushing the ball with no draw spin then feel more forearm rotation, right-over left. • If you are still pulling the ball left of target, you need to swing out right of target with more forearm rotation and then close the club face. IndianaGolf.org

(2) drop a ball behind the point where the ball lay, keeping that point directly between the hole and the spot on which the ball is dropped, with no limit to how far behind that point the ball may be dropped; or (3) drop a ball within two club-lengths of the spot where the ball lay but not nearer the hole. From a practical standpoint, however, Mickelson had only one option – proceeding under penalty of stroke and distance – as there was not a point behind the ball that would allow him to escape the shrubbery and have a viable shot, and dropping a ball within two club-lengths would not improve his position within the shrubbery. Ultimately,

he decided that he did not like the option of returning to the tee to replay such a difficult shot. Therefore, he decided to play the ball as it lay by turning the club upside down and playing right-handed, taking two shots before he escaped the thicket. It is interesting to note that had he elected to declare his ball unplayable after the first right-handed shot, which traveled approximately two feet, he would no longer have the option of returning to the teeing ground because the stroke and distance provision of this Rule would have taken him the two feet back to where the original ball was last played. Consequently, his only remaining option under this Rule would have been to drop the ball within two club-lengths, not nearer the hole, as many times as it took to escape to a playable position, incurring a penalty stroke with each drop. The message here is that it’s important to think ahead a shot or two when proceeding under the unplayable ball Rule. It’s possible that a shortened list of options under that Rule may become even shorter if a heroic shot does not come off as planned.

Trey Holland Trey Holland served as USGA President from 2000-2001, was Chairman of the USGA Championship and Rules of Golf Committee, and has officiated several PGA Tour events. He was inducted into the Indiana Golf Hall of Fame in 2007.

IndianaGolf.org

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

WHAT’S IN THE BAG? Need to make your message stick? 2013 Indiana Section PGA Senior Player of the Year Bill Schumaker – Crooked Lake Golf Club

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Q&A

with Bill Schumaker To what do you attribute your successful season?

My main reason for success last season was that I was able to continue to play consistently. How do you prepare for an Indiana Section PGA tournament?

I first and foremost try to play and practice as much as my job will allow. To prepare myself mentally, I try to start focusing on tournament golf two to three days ahead of time so that I feel ready for the event. What is your biggest strength and weakness on the course?

My biggest strength is hitting the ball straight and almost always keeping it in play. My biggest weakness is my lack of length off the tee. What is your go-to shot under pressure?

My go-to shot is always a fade because that is the only shot I fully trust. How did you feel about the way you played in the Senior Professional National Championship?

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

GREAT GOLF HOLE

Great golf holes from around the state By: Ted Sturges

rand Oak Golf Club is a unique golf course built into the hills in rural Dearborn County. This daily fee golf course is located in West Harrison, just minutes north of interstate 74. The course was originally built in 1969 by Robert Von Hagge as a nine hole course and was called Carolina Trace, no doubt in homage to the golf courses built near the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains in North Carolina. In 1989, with new ownership and a desire to expand the golf course to 18 holes, Ohio architect Michael Hurdzan was brought in to redesign the course. Dr. Hurdzan’s creativity and vision resulted in a terrific 18 hole layout that was renamed Grand Oak Golf Club.

Grand Oak Golf Club

West Harrison, IN No. 11 | par-5 | 495 yards

Grand Oak, located in a remote corner of Indiana, is better known in Ohio golf circles due to its proximity to the Cincinnati area and the “Tri-State” (Indiana/Ohio/Kentucky) golf region. Indeed, Grand Oak today is recognized as one of the top ten public courses in the Tri-State area. Hoosier golfers should make it a point to travel into southeastern Indiana to experience this “hidden gem”. The routing of the course utilizes the corridors from many of the original Von Hagge holes, and takes advantage of the unique and hilly terrain of the property. The 11th hole stands out as the “grandest of the grand” at Grand Oak. Playing at 495 yards, this downhill par-5 is reachable in two shots with a well struck tee shot. This tree no doubt was the inspiration for the course’s name. Standing on the tee, high above the landing area, the golfer is presented with one of the most spectacular views on the course. Down below stands the Grand Oak that every golfer must pass by in their pursuit of par or better on the 11th hole. Make it a point to visit Grand Oak Golf Club this fall. When you are standing on the tee overlooking the 11th hole below, you’ll have no doubt that you are playing yet another

GREAT INDIANA GOLF HOLE. Opened Architects Superintendent Director of Golf

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

1969 Robert Von Hagge/Michael Hurdzan Alex Hamberg Mark Martin, PGA

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Help improve your most important piece of equipment: Your body.

Prescription Golf & Fitness™ A customized way to make the most of your game. You can have the best equipment. You can have the best mental attitude. But unless you’re aware of what your body can accomplish, you can’t take your golf game to its full potential. That’s why two physicians trained at the Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) created Prescription Golf & Fitness™. Based on more than ten years of research, this golf-specific program was designed to enhance your game by focusing on your body mechanics. We analyze your swing to create a unique program to bring out the best of your body and optimize your golfing potential. • Increase your power, strength and flexibility • Create a more consistent, repeatable swing • Take advantage of the same methods and physicians that professional athletes used for performance development • Multiple programs available to match your level of commitment

Developed by Indiana’s only TPI-certified physicians

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For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 317-415-5795. LIMITED TIME OFFER: Receive 10% off your first Golf & Fitness package! (Mention Code “INDIANA GOLF” when you call)

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

THE 10 MINUTE

Capital T’s

Forward Leg Swings

Lateral Leg Swings

Thoracic Turns with Club

WARM UP

Every golfer knows what it feels like to rush to the course and have little or no time to warm up before the round. If all you have is 10 minutes, what do you do? Most people would spend the time on the range trying to hit as many shots as possible before stepping up to the first tee, and wonder why three holes later they still feel stiff. Instead of spending even a moment on the range, take those 10 minutes to warm your body up through muscle activation exercises. According to Drs. Patrick Kersey and Todd Arnold, both Performance Medicine Physicians and TPI Certified Instructors at St. Vincent Sports Performance, muscle activation exercises better prepare golfers for a day on the course than hitting ball after ball. “On average, most golfers do not feel warmed up for about three to five holes,” Arnold said. “That is because they do not take the time to wake up their muscles. If muscles aren’t activated, golfers will not get the most out of their swing right away. By waking these muscles up and putting themselves into positions that make up the golf swing, golfers will be prepared from the moment they step on the first tee and not make bad swings to compensate for tight muscles.” Kersey and Arnold demonstrated five simple muscle activation exercises for the iGolf Indiana staff that can be performed in just 10 minutes.

Stand on one leg with your arms to the sides of you in a T position.

Lean forward until your arms and back leg are at waist height.

Bring arms above your head (close to your ears) and bring yourself back into a standing position.

Repeat 5-8 times on each leg.

Stand to the side of the golf cart with nearest arm holding on to cart for balance.

Stand on one leg and lift opposite leg forward as far as possible.

From forward position, bring leg backwards as far as possible.

Repeat 5-8 times on each leg.

Shoulder Circles 2

Stand with feet together and arms in a T position with thumbs facing up, forward, and down (Repeat with hands in each position).

Make 20 small, medium, and large circles with arms in a clockwise fashion.

Repeat in a counterclockwise fashion.

Face golf cart and place arms out in front you with hands braced on cart for balance.

Assume 5-iron stance.

Stand on one leg and lift opposite leg as far to the side as possible.

Place 5-iron in the bend of each arm and behind your back.

From lateral position, swing leg across body to the other side as far as possible.

Rotate backwards and forwards (exactly like you do in a golf swing).

Repeat 20 times.

Repeat 5-8 times on each leg.

MUSCLE ACTIVATION EXERCISES BETTER PREPARE GOLFERS FOR A DAY ON THE COURSE THAN

HITTING BALL AFTER BALL For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Arnold or Dr. Kersey, call 317-415-5795.

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

GOLF GOODS

Nike Dri-FIT Two-Color stripe Polo shirt - $70

Best gifts for the golfer in your life

-Fabric protects up to 30 SPF -Keeps you dry and comfortable using Nike’s comfort system - www.nike.com/golf

SUMMER STEALS

Although this summer has been cooler than most, 90 degree temperatures tend to pop up when we least expect it. iGolf Indiana has compiled a list of the top golf merchandise to help you stay cool so your game can stay hot!

Sun Mountain Front 9 Bag - $169 Compact and lightweight, the new-for-2014 Front 9 is designed for the golfer who walks a majority of rounds. The X-Strap Dual Strap System provides a balanced, easy carry and works well as a single strap, when needed. The flared top maximizes useable club space and allows for easier club retrieval. Offered in both a men’s and women’s model. www.facebook.com/MillerGolfSales

Adivista A164 - $179 -Two sizes for a perfect custom fit -Quick-change Lens System -Colored Double-Snap Nose pads to avoid disturbing light reflections -Quick-Release Hinge temples to prevent slipping -Comes in own hard case -www.adidasgolf.com

Nike Dri-FIT UV Solar Golf Sun Sleeve - $25 Kuma Cross A415 - $99 -Lightweight for comfortable fitting -Soft nose; gripped temples -SPX frame material and polycarbonate lenses for optimal protection -www.adidasgolf.com

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

Callaway Sun Hat - $40 -UPF Protection -50+ UV Coating -Poly Fabric Material - www.callawaygolf.com

-UV fabric to keep you dry and comfortable -Protects against UV rays up to 30 UPF -Flat-seam to minimize chafing -Elastic cuffs for added grip - www.nike.com/golf

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iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

After attending the University of Cincinnati on a golf scholarship, Ayres was offered a summer job as a bag boy at Landfall GC in Wilmington, NC. “A friend of mine was a Golf Pro in Wilmington and invited me down the summer after college,” Ayres said. “I had never been to a facility that nice so I thought I would give it a try and started working as a bag boy with a college degree. Monday through Friday I assisted with outside services and Saturdays and Sundays I spent eight or nine hours in the shop. I loved the facility and I loved working with people. That’s when I knew I wanted to become a Golf Professional.” In 2006, a Head Professional position became available at Hillcrest and Ayres’ interest was peaked. He liked the proximity of Hillcrest to Cincinnati, which was close to where both he and his wife grew up, and he decided to apply.

A Chat with Chad Chad Ayres Talks Life as a Golf Professional 20

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

Make yourself visible, engage your members, and promote the game of golf. According to Chad Ayres, these three things are key to becoming a successful Golf Professional. After nine years spent as Head Professional at Hillcrest CC in Batesville, Ind., Ayres was recognized for his hard work and recently named the 2014 Indiana PGA Professional of the Year. The game of golf has been Ayres’ focus since a very young age. Growing up in Southern Ohio with the luxury of playing at small nine-hole golf course his uncle owned, Ayres developed a true passion for the game, one which continues to grow today. IndianaGolf.org

Despite his busy summer schedule, Ayres makes time to play in Indiana PGA events. The common phrase used amongst Golf Professionals is that there is never enough time to play. Ayres’ response to this is “make time.” “If someone were to ask me why I got into the golf business, it would be because I absolutely love the game,” Ayres said. “You have to find time and make time to play. I think that is one of the main reasons I have been successful. I have a very large passion for playing. I grew up playing in junior events, went on to play in college, and continue to play even though I may not be as competitive as I would like to be. The excuse that you are too busy is just that, an excuse.” Ayres is also very involved with junior programs at Hillcrest. The First Tee of Indiana recently planted roots in the Batesville area and will begin programming this fall.

“At the time my wife and I had a three year old daughter and another child on the way,” Ayres said. “We have always loved Cincinnati and Hillcrest is only 45 minutes away from the city. Immediately I was intrigued by this job so I decided to give it a shot, and I got it! Prior to my interview I had only been to Indiana one time, for the Brickyard 500.”

“The goal of The First Tee of Indiana – Batesville is to get every child in Batesville involved with golf through the National School Program,” Ayres said. “By providing them with the tools, the clubs, and the education behind the game, hopefully more and more kids will learn to play and continue to play after advancing through the program.”

After one season at Hillcrest, Ayres felt like he was meant to become even more involved at the club, and proposed to the Board of Directors his intent to become the Director of Golf, an offer to which they accepted. Today, Ayres serves as the Director of Golf, the Head Professional, and the Director of Membership.

Recently Ayres gave a lesson to a young boy from Batesville, whose first love was baseball. Within three weeks of taking golf lessons he was hooked, as was his mother who attended his lessons.

Ayres did not necessarily feel prepared for these positions right off the bat, but through networking and making smart hiring decisions, he has become one of the top Golf Professionals in the state. “If you can find the right people that are passionate, young, and hungry, give them clear expectations and the autonomy that they are going to do a good job, then I think you can be successful,” Ayres said. “We have been fortunate with the hires we have made at Hillcrest in the nine years I have been here. We have made some great improvements to the club and after celebrating our centennial year, we look forward to continuing to grow our club and make it the best it can possibly be.”

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“His mom had never played golf before but she attended her son’s lessons for three weeks,” Ayres said. “Not only is he now hooked on the game, but his mom is playing too. What is so cool about the game of golf is that it can be played at any age. The First Tee program will get more people involved in general, children and possibly even parents. It’s a win win.” Ayres consistently strives to make Hillcrest a better club, to make his students better players, and to make himself the best he can be. Ayres believes in the golf business and advises all Golf Professionals to do the same. “Inspiring my fellow golf professionals involves a commitment to lead with enthusiasm,” Ayres said. “We must all have a positive outlook both on life and on our industry.”

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RYDER CUP FACTS: September 26-28 Gleneagles Hotel • Perthshire, Scotland Rydercup.com

Where to Watch The Golf Channel: Friday 2:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. EDT NBC: Saturday 3:00 a.m. – 1 p.m. EDT NBC: Sunday 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. EDT

What’s on the Line The US has not won the Ryder Cup since 2008 and has not won on European Soil since 1993, when Watson was last Captain.

TEAM USA POINTS STANDINGS as of 08/01/14

Who’s in and who is waiting on a call from Watson? Photo courtesy of the PGA of America

Waiting on Watson

The World Waits on Tom Watson’s Captain’s Picks At the conclusion of the PGA Championship on August 10, the top nine players in the USA Points Standings received automatic slots for the Ryder Cup. iGolf caught up with Tom Watson and Ted Bishop in June to discuss how Ryder Cup plans were coming along, where the public can grab official USA Team gear, and what Watson is looking for in those all-important captain’s picks. How is your plan coming together for the Ryder Cup? Tom Watson (TW): Andy North, Ray Floyd and I are looking very actively at the players and how they are competing. The list is starting to solidify for the Ryder Cup team. Bubba Watson is going to be on the team. It looks like Jimmy Walker is going to be on the team without any problem. Then there are four others that are most likely going to make the team but the rest of the team is really up in the air. There will be some familiar faces on the team but there will be a bunch of newcomers too. We are trying to meet the players who are up on the list and trying to get to know them so that we have a relationship and could go into the Ryder Cup knowing each other. What are you most looking for in your three Captain’s picks? Players on a hot streak or players with consistency? TW: They are both part of the formula but the most important element that I want in the players is how much 22

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heart do they have? Can they finish a golf tournament with the lead? I think that’s a critical part of the type of player I would like for my Captain’s picks. What kind of input does the PGA of America have on the Ryder Cup team and how often do you and Tom talk? Ted Bishop (TB): I totally trust Tom and the understanding we have had since day one is the PGA of America is there as a resource to put our team in the best position to win. We totally trust him to make all the decisions pertaining to the team and the competition to bring the Ryder Cup home. With that said, rarely a week goes by that we don’t exchange some kind of an email about the Ryder Cup and certainly we talk at the different events when we see each other. I think all of us at the PGA of America had high expectations for Tom as Captain because he has been here before, he’s done it, he’s a proven winner (as a player and as a Captain) but he has still exceeded our expectations as a Captain. IndianaGolf.org

Ryder Cup Captain Tom Watson and PGA of America President Ted Bishop Photo courtesy of the PGA of America

For the first time ever, golfers around the country will have the opportunity to buy one of the official Team USA golf shirts. How did this come about? TB: All in for the win. Really cool if when our Ryder Cup team is playing on that Sunday morning in Scotland it would similar to what you would see on a Sunday in the fall in an NFL football stadium with everyone wearing their NFL team jersey. I thought it would be pretty cool if we gave golf fans the same opportunity to buy the Sunday shirt that the Ryder Cup would be wearing. Talked with Tom about it because of the exclusiveness of the team uniform. For more information on purchasing Ryder Cup Team uniforms, please visit www.rydercup.com or www. ralphlauren.com. Ted, do you expect to find out the Captain’s picks before the rest of the world? TB: Every Captain does it differently. TW: He’ll want them. TB: I’m not really worried about it. It’s not my job. I try to stay out of the way and let him do his job. My analogy is that the PGA of America to the Ryder Cup is like what George Steinbrenner was to the Yankees. We provide the resources and then get out of the way. IndianaGolf.org

RANK

PLAYER

POINTS THRU 08/01/14

Bubba Watson*

6,828.138

Jim Furyk

5,875.194

Jimmy Walker

5,510.205

Rickie Fowler

5,403.253

Dustin Johnson

5,133.807

Matt Kuchar

4,999.665

Jordan Spieth

4,781.827

Jason Dufner

3,516.345

Zach Johnson

3,450.894

Patrick Reed

3,301.393

Phil Mickelson

3,252.838

Brendon Todd

3,250.483

Chris Kirk

3,226.883

Ryan Moore

3,118.872

Webb Simpson

3,086.070

Keegan Bradley

3,016.698

Harris English

2,966.569

Kevin Na

2,878.818

Matt Every

2,471.806

Erik Compton

2,458.793

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

Champion Craig Bowden and 4th Place Finisher Tyler Duncan

Craig Bowden stood in the 16th fairway at Otter Creek Golf Club with an 8-iron in hand, 160 yards to the pin, and a two shot lead. It had been 19 years since Bowden participated in the State Open, and 19 years ago he won it for the second year in a row. Bowden, a native of Bedford, Ind., learned the game of golf at age five and has been hooked ever since. Growing up, he played in local tournaments around the Bedford area before attending the University of Indianapolis on a golf scholarship. After one season at U Indy, Bowden decided that the school was not a good fit for him and he transferred to Vincennes University. There, he became the first golfer to individually qualify for the NCAA National Championship. After graduating from Vincennes University, Bowden knew he wanted to be a professional golfer so he did what he had to do. “I wasn’t a very good player when I first started out, but I stuck my nose to the grindstone and had a lot of goals and a lot of guts,” Bowden said. “Once I thought I had the game to play professionally, I raised sponsorship money at Bloomington Country Club and began playing on the Mini Tours in ’89.” In 1996, Bowden joined the Nike Tour (current Web.com Tour) and decided to go to Qualifying School in attempts to get his PGA card. He gained PGA status in ’97, but things didn’t go according to plan. Champion Craig Bowden and Indiana Golf Office Executive Director Mike David

Bowden’s Back Our 99th Indiana Open Champion and a Look into his Life on the PGA Tour 24

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“I didn’t fare very well when I first joined the PGA Tour,” Bowden said. “I bounced back to the Nike Tour and got my first win in Dayton Ohio, but playing on Tour was more difficult than I ever expected.” From 1999-2012, Bowden played on the Web.com Tour, the Nationwide Tour, and the PGA Tour, trying to make cuts and support his family. It was in those years, however, that Bowden had the most success in his career. In ’99, Bowden participated in his first US Open, and although he did not make the cut, he had a chance to feel the greatness of such a prestigious event. “To play at the highest level that you possibly can in your sport feels tremendous,” Bowden said. “I love the carrot dangling in front of you that could change your life. If you play well, you could win hundreds of thousands of dollars. You could wake up tomorrow and life would be completely different.” In 2002, Bowden participated in his second US Open and this time finished 50th. “Playing in your national open in front of hundreds of thousands of people is a

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feeling unlike any other,” Bowden said. “I won three Web. com events, but finishing 50th in the Open I would say is the highlight of my career. I played with Greg Norman that Saturday, and that is something I will never forget.” Bowden went on to play in three more US Opens during his 13 years on Tour. But in 2011, his life drastically changed, and playing professionally was no longer his priority.

At age 46, Bowden decided to give tournament golf another try and signed up for the 99th Indiana Open Championship. “I wanted to play this week just to see if I still had it,” Bowden said. “I played in four Web.com Tour events last year, but my heart just wasn’t in it.” When he hit that 160-yard 8-iron on the 16th hole, he knew it was good, and it was. He holed out for eagle and earned his third State Open victory.

“I went through a really bad divorce and I truly lost my drive to be good,” Bowden said. “I no longer wanted to put in the time I needed to. It just didn’t seem important. Going through something like this really puts things into perspective. I had a lot of anger and disappointment and I knew the only way for me to get through it was to lay it all on God. He has given me new life and a completely different perspective.”

“I finally feel like I am ready to start playing again and winning this event makes me feel like I can still play competitively,” Bowden said.

In November of 2012, Bowden took some time off from the Tour and began working for KBS Shafts fitting PGA Tour players for new clubs. The relationships he built on Tour and the credibility he developed as a player helped make him very successful. Now, a full-time employee at KBS and recently remarried, Bowden no longer plays on Tour, but instead spends time with his wife Tisa and children Lizzie (20), Gabbie (17), Noah (11), Quinley (9), and Kirin (6).

“What makes golf so unique is that you can play it, and play it well at any age,” Bowden said. “To all Tour hopefuls out there my advice would be to stick to the process and remain patient. Never stop dreaming and don’t get discouraged. There will be struggles, but there will also be glimmers of hope and moments of true success.”

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Within the next couple of years Bowden hopes to play on the Champions Tour. His goal is to have both his game and body in decent shape by 2016 and give it a shot.

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Photo courtesy of Harbour Trees GC

THE 19TH HOLE

The best food at the best golf courses

When it’s time for your main course, the quesadilla is a must. Filled with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and your choice of chicken, ground beef, or pulled pork, this hearty portion will leave you satisfied. The IGO staffers also are suckers for grilled chicken wraps, making the Southwest Chicken Wrap a go-to. The combination of grilled chicken, lettuce, pico de gallo, spicy mayo, and shredded cheddar cheese may seem somewhat ordinary, but a touch of guacamole makes this wrap a fan favorite. Everything is better with guacamole, right? If you don’t have time to sit down for lunch or dinner, no problem! The Covered Wagon provides an excellent menu for golfers making the turn. Whether you are in the mood for a deli sandwich, wrap, or spicy brat, it will just take a minute to grab one for the road.

Harbour Trees Hosts USGA Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship This September, Harbour Trees Golf Club in Noblesville, Ind. will make history as the first ever Indiana club to host the USGA Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship. The event will take place September 6-11. Harbour Trees, an 18-hole Championship golf course, is located on beautiful Morse Lake surrounded by North Harbour, one of the finest residential areas in Hamilton County. Pete Dye, the world renowned golf course designer, had the golfer in mind when he designed this course. Players of all skill levels can enjoy their round of golf. It is challenging but fair and difficult even for highly skilled golfers, making it a perfect site for the Women’s Mid-Am.

ach tournament season, the Golf Office Staff makes its way to Prairie View Golf Club for two reasons: a challenging round of golf and the food. Recently remodeled, The Covered Wagon Restaurant aligns perfectly with the theme of Prairie View Golf Club. From its saloon doors to its outdoor patio, The Covered Wagon is both rustic and modern. With several beers on tap, large televisions, and tasty appetizers, The Covered Wagon is the epitome of the 19th hole.

Defending Champion Julia Potter of Granger, Ind. looks to repeat at this year’s event. Potter defeated Margaret Shirley of Roswell, Ga in 19 holes during the final match in 2013 for her first USGA win.

“Trying to defend my title will be the biggest challenge I have ever faced in golf,” Potter said. “It’s one thing to win a tournament, it’s another to defend, and it’s definitely a whole other thing to defend in your home state where you grew up playing golf. My focus will be on trying to forget all those things and just go out there and play my game. If that happens and I am able to defend my title, it will mean everything to me.” Harbour Trees hosted the LPGA Mayflower Classic from 1977-1980 and has hosted the Indiana Open Championship in 1974, 1984, 1992, and 2006. If you are interested in volunteering at the Women’s Mid-Am, please visit www.harbourtrees.com.

It’s no secret that IGO staffers love bar food. After a long day on the golf course, you can usually find the staff at a local eatery enjoying wings, fries, and tall craft beers. After a round of golf at Prairie View, there is no need to look for a local hangout. Instead, relax on the patio and start off your meal with some Traditional Wings. You can choose from BBQ, buffalo, hot, or plain sauces with a side of ranch or blue cheese. The crispy wings lathered in tangy BBQ sauce do not disappoint.

About the USGA Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship

The Pretzel Bites are another sure-to-please appetizer. Served with house-made beer cheese sauce or spicy mustard, the choice is yours. If you enjoy a hint of Guinness, go with the beer cheese sauce. The combination of sweet and salty is one you’re sure to remember.

The U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship originated in 1987 and was created for women golfers age 25 and older with a USGA handicap index not exceeding 9.4. The starting field will consist of 132 players determined by sectional qualifying and past champions. There will be two days of stroke play, Saturday and Sunday with a cut and the top 64 scores continuing. Monday, Sept. 8 begins the match play portion with eliminations each day. Last year’s champion, Julia Potter, an Indiana native, will try to defend her title at this year’s event.

Covered Wagon Restaurant at Prairie View GC • 7000 Longest Dr, Carmel, IN 46033 • (317) 816-3100 26

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GOLF GETAWAYS

For Hoosiers with a passion for golf and travel

and bunkers found all over this property today. On the Whistling Straits property, the unique Straits Course was built and opened for play in 1998. This course utilizes nearly two miles of shore line property on Lake Michigan and has eight holes that play right on the shoreline. The Straits course boasts some of the finest golf holes in the United States and is a golf course that must be seen to be believed. Though there are a few hints that immense earth moving was done to build the Straits course, the untrained eye would believe that these seaside holes have been here forever. The Straits course at Whistling Straits has hosted the 2004 and 2010 PGA Championships, as well as the 2007 USGA Senior Men’s Open. It has been selected as the site of the 2015 PGA Championship as well as the site of

represents a wonderful complement to the Straits Course. The Irish course, the 4th course affiliated with the Kohler Golf empire, was opened for play in the summer of 2000. Holes of note on the Irish course are the strategic par-5, 8th, with multiple options for the player to consider, and the handsome two shot 16th, which showcases the architectural merits of width in its thoughtful design. The final part of the golf resort experience in Kohler is the luxurious American Club where golfers can experience AAA Five Diamond Resort amenities. The American Club is an elegant hotel and is an authentic example of the Tudor Revival Style of architecture. Designed by Wisconsin architect Richard Philipp, the American Club was built

Kohler Resort Photo courtesy of Kohler Co.

Kohler, Wisconsin • (920) 451-7650

By: Ted Sturges

ndiana summers can wreak havoc on golf course turf conditions in the state, and cause golfers to seek shade over the hot sun-baked fairways of our state’s golf courses. When these summer weather challenges surface, and they always do, why not head north for a low humidity golf adventure? One appealing summer destination for Hoosier golfers seeking a cooler climate is Kohler, Wis. Located near the shores of Lake Michigan, approximately two and a half hours north of Chicago, Kohler is a small town that has been the home of the Kohler Company since the early 1900’s. The Kohler Company is a worldwide leader in plumbing products, and is the largest employer in this town of 2,100 people. Besides plumbing, Kohler is best known for golf. Boasting four world class golf courses designed by Indiana’s own Pete and Alice Dye, this small Wisconsin town is a place serious Hoosier golfers need to check out. Kohler golf is presented in three parts; Blackwolf Run, Whistling Straights, and American Club Resort and Spa. Let’s start with the golf. In the mid 80’s, Mr. Herbert Kohler, Jr., CEO of the Kohler Company, decided to add golf to the local landscape. With the help of Indiana architects Pete and Alice Dye, the Blackwolf Run golf courses were built. In 1988 the River Course and the Meadow Valleys courses at Blackwolf Run were introduced to the golf world. 28

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Built in the Sheboygan River Valley, these two courses are prime examples of the Dye strategic design style, and have entertained countless golf visitors for more than two decades. A composite course comprised of some of the best holes from each Blackwolf Run golf course hosted the 1998 USGA Women’s Open won by Se Ri Pak. Holes of note at the River Course at Blackwolf Run are the long, par-5, 1st, the short and quirky par-4, 2nd, and the long and demanding par-4, 18th played back towards the clubhouse. The home hole is ironically named “Dyehard”. This author’s favorite holes on the Meadow Valleys course are the unique, par-4, 2nd hole, an obvious tribute to Seth Raynor, and the gorgeous two-shot 18th, which requires the golfer to carry the river with his or her approach shot. Nearly a decade later, Mr. Kohler decided to add more golf options, and secured a piece of land that was formerly an airfield, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. A bit north and a little east of the Blackwolf Run property, this site has proven to be very well suited for golf. Once again enlisting the expertise of the Dye’s, Kohler dreamed of a seaside golf experience similar to what he had enjoyed in Ireland. This presented a true challenge for the Dye’s, as airfields are generally located on flat land, and this was the case with the property that is now the site of Whistling Straits. To address this deficiency in the land, over 7,000 truckloads of sand and soil were brought in to create the many dunes IndianaGolf.org

Photo courtesy of Kohler Co.

the 2020 Ryder Cup. Holes of note on the front nine are the demanding two-shot 4th, played to the south and laid handsomely along the shore of the lake, and the par-3, 7th, named “Shipwreck” on the scorecard, and no doubt the cause for many a scorecard to be wrecked. This author’s favorite holes on the back nine at the Straits are the par-5, 11th, played back toward the shore and reminiscent of the early Dye design style (think Crooked Stick in the early days) with the rough edged bunker look and wood planks to help define some of the hazards. Also noteworthy is the intimidating 249 yard (from the championship tees) one shot 17th, which plays to the south and is the final seaside hole on this amazing golf course. The second course at the Whistling Straits Property, called The Irish Course, was built on acreage adjacent to the Straits Course. The Irish embraces the “on the ground” game made popular in Scotland and Ireland, and IndianaGolf.org

in 1918, and was originally constructed to house the Kohler Company’s immigrant workers. The hotel has been immaculately maintained for decades, and today boasts 240 guest rooms. The hotel pampers their visitors with a variety of amenities including a swimming pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, the spa, and a business center. Non golfing travel companions will be well cared for as they await the return of the golfers. For golfers on a mission to see the best work of the Dye design team, a visit is a must. For anyone seeking a respite from the searing Indiana summer heat, consider a visit to the east coast of Wisconsin and the tiny town of Kohler. Once there, you’ll be greeted by the friendly and accommodating staff at the American Club, four wonderful golf courses and the milder weather that is so desirable when Indiana gets into the dog days of summer.

iGolf Indiana Summer 2014

remarkable 14 times and the IGA Senior Player of the Year four times. Randy tried unsuccessfully four times to qualify for the Senior PGA Tour.

FINAL WORD

Bill Schumaker, arguably the most accomplished Indiana PGA player ever, has won 37 Indiana PGA individual and team events, with his victories spanning over five decades. He still competes at a very, very high level in our State Championships. In 1984, he was the National PGA Club Professional Player of the Year and won captured the National Club Professional Championship that same year. “Schu” has tried, unsuccessfully, two times for the Senior Tour.

So you think you want to be a Tour Pro? We at the Golf Office will inevitably get a call sometime this year from someone who asks, “what tournaments should I play in to get me ready for the Tour”.

Right now, Indiana has 10 guys who have some kind of status on the PGA or Web.com Tours. All but two have won the State Amateur or the State Open. However, one of those two is Patrick Rodgers. I think 11 Collegiate Titles while at Stanford and being the #1 Ranked World Amateur makes up for any hole in his resume from not winning an Am or an Open. Obviously, the Patrick Rodgers’ don’t come around very often. So the bottom line is, unless you are beating everyone in Indiana, by a bunch, you might reconsider your Tour aspirations. Remember, Those Guys Really Are Good!

That’s a tough question to answer. Generally, the caller is someone who has never played in an IGA or Indiana PGA event. However, they have just experienced a career low round and now are ready to play on television. Obviously it’s not quite that easy. If you haven’t seen the commercials, Those Guys Really Are Good. Any ideas I had of playing golf professionally were quickly erased when I experienced golf at the national level. I was fortunate enough to qualify for the National Insurance Youth Classic my senior year in high school. I had won a few local events and felt like I was better than the average player. Back then, there were far fewer national junior tournaments to test your meddle, compared to today’s competitive junior golf opportunities. So, I traveled to Augusta, Ga. to play in the National IYC Finals at Augusta Country Club. The night before the event I was reading the tournament program, and saw one of my fellow competitors had his picture on the cover of the program. I had no idea who he was but clearly I was paired with the defending champion. The first day of the tournament I shot an opening 79 and Billy Andrade, my fellow competitor, fired a 7-under par 65. As our tee time approached for the second round people began flocking to the first tee from just about everywhere. The third person in our group was disqualified after round one for practicing on the competition course so it was just me and Billy Andrade, and about 100 people for round 2. I made it through the first three or four holes before things began to unravel. Funny how a double bogey can bring focus to 200 eyes staring at you. I fired an 85 to solidly miss the cut. Billy fired a 69. He went on to repeat as champion by a measly 12 shots. Eye opening experience number one.

Later that same year, I would have eye opening experience number two when I was asked to participate in the AJGA Junior Classic at Tarpon Springs, Fla. After qualifying for match play my first opponent was someone named Davis Love III. Aside from being one of the nicest people I had ever played golf with, Davis also could hit it by me about 75 yards. The match was really over before it began but the official result was Love 5 & 4 over David.

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It was around this time I realized I was not Tour material. While I had two very personal wake-up calls about my game, let’s look at some eye opening facts for everyone. Three years ago the Indiana Section PGA was tasked with running the Monday qualifiers for the Web.com Tour’s United Leasing Championship at Victoria National in Newburgh. It was our first experience with Monday qualifiers since the Hogan, then Nike Tour, made a stop in Ft. Wayne. We ran two qualifiers, one at Quail Crossing and one at The Country Club of Old Vincennes. We had 120 players in each qualifier and seven from each site would make it to the Championship.

317-261-1900

The low score at each of the sites was 61 and it took a 63 to qualify at Quail Crossing and a 64 at The Country Club of Old Vincennes. The kicker to the story is, of the 14 players who Monday qualified by shooting in the low 60’s, only two made the 36 hole cut in the Championship proper. Here are a couple of other facts to ponder. Randy Nichols, arguably the best amateur golfer in Indiana history, has won over 29 individual and team Indiana Golf Association events. He was the John K. David IGA Player of the Year a

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SEVEN NIGHTS FOUR STAR ACCOMMODATION Five Nights in the Randles Court Hotel, Killarney Two Nights in Vaughan Lodge, Lahinch

SIX ROUNDS OF GOLF

Waterville Golf Links: Founded in 1889 & Top Five in Ireland Old Head Golf Links: Worlds Most Spectacular Course Ballybunion Old: World Renowned Links, boasts Tom Watson as past Captain Tralee Golf Club: Arnies First European design and certainly his best Doonbeg Golf Links: Stunning links overlooking the Atlantic Ocean Lahinch Old: Old Tom Morris and Alistair Mackenzie amongst the designers here Chauffer driven transfers Included (where applicable); Daily breakfasts, Welcome and Farewell dinners; Welcome Gift and much more. €2,140 per golfer* (Euros) Approx. $3,085 USD based on 20 golfers. *Based on double occupancy, additional €335 Euros for single occupancy

Sullivan Golf and Travel www.sullivangolftravel.com Cathal O’Sullivan, Managing Director cathal@sullivangolftravel.com Toll Free: 1855 709 1209 “I’ve made several trips with Sullivan Golf and Travel...and referred them to friends. I would not plan a golfing trip to Europe without Sullivan Golf and Travel." –David Schlaff

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