Founder: Bill Daniels
Publisher: Dave Weretka
Editor: Dave Silbar
Art Director: Stephen Hawk hawk@hawkdesign.net
Senior Writer: Neal Kotlarek
Editorial Contributors: Joe Aguilar, Dave Lockhart, Dr. Kevin McGarry, Todd Mrowice, Dr. Ryan Pokrywka, and T.J.
Editorial Inquiries Dave Silbar dsilbar@silbarpr.com 847-845-7548
Advertising
The distance game isn’t only being won at the Pro level, but thanks to technological advances by every golf manufacturer, the average golfer can now hit the ball longer, not to mention straighter, than ever before. It’s hard to argue with the direction the game is going when it comes to distance gains, because in the end, as has always been the case, it’s your short game that’s going to determine whether you’ll be buying drinks for your buddies at the end of the day or not.
Speaking of your short game, it was also only a matter of time that putter costs would near that of some of the pricier drivers on the market. Manufacturers like Lab Golf are pushing technology to the brink and setting a standard that other manufacturers are falling in line to emulate.
Given that nearly 33% of your shots tend to be on the putting green, a $350 putter is no longer considered such a crazy expense.
Speaking of driving and putting, our Spring issue of GOLFChicago will introduce you to four Chicago youngsters who represented the area at this year‘s Drive, Chip & Putt Championships held at Augusta National on the heels of this year’s Masters Tournament. The Illinois PGA was kind enough to throw a celebratory send off for this mini foursome. One of them, nine-year-old Brielle Downer of Lockport, who stands roughly four feet tall, can hit drives nearing 200 yards and missed winning her age division at Augusta by a mere one inch in a putting playoff.
Our cover story takes us back north, to Wisconsin’s Sand Valley, where they’re unveiled yet another unique offering. The 12-hole Commons course will be the sixth layout on the 12,000 acres of natural sand dunes that encompass the property. Celebrated as the 2024 Best New Resort Course in America by Sports Illustrated, the 6,159-yd. Sedge Valley introduced Sand Valley guests to a distinctive look, feel and style that contrasts greatly to the resort’s other courses. The Commons course seeks to replica a bit of the Sedge Valley feel but in a round that will take roughly one hour less.
Another highlight of this month’s issue is everything you need to know about the legendary Pinehurst area, as well as a tribute to Carl Jackson, one of the most famous Auugusta National caddies of all time.
You will also read about Mike Munro and the foundation that he has established to give a bunch of area youngsters, who otherwise might not be able to afford to play, an introduction to the game.
And then there is this month’s installment of Chicago Proud, where we are introduced to Chicago native Stacy Borkowski, a St. Charles High School golfer-turned sales and marketing expert for some of the biggest names in the athletic equipment and apparel business.
PGA Professional Chris Oehlerking provides terrific insight on how to ease your way into the golf season and how to navigate spring conditions and set yourself up for success after golf’s hibernation season.
In a return to our Designer’s Corner Department, Greg Martin writes on the evolutions of golf course architecture which have continued over the years from classic, penal, heroic and strategic to modern and “stadium,” to minimalism and again back tothe template holes.
So here’s to another great season of golf in Chicago. May you play your best and hit further than you’ve ever thought possible.
Outta This World
If you haven’t heard of Pluto Golf, chances are your golf shoes aren’t as stylish as you think. This new kid on the block is producing some serious kicks that you’ll love on the course. The Pluto 1 is made from soft leather and features a spikeless design for easy transition off the course.
$159 www.pluto.golf
Comfy Stroll Walkers rejoice. The new Sun Mountain Eclipse E 2.5 stand bag was designed with you in mind. This superlight bag caters to those that stroll, but Sun Mountain still brings you nine pockets to store all of your essentials. The X-Fit strap system ensures a comfortable haul and the materials are durable enough to standup to all weather conditions. 10 colors to choose from!
$249.99 www.sunmountain.com
for Everyone
Srixon’s iron lineup skips no handicap this year, with three different ZXi models to fit your game. The ZXi7 is a true player’s iron intended for low handicaps. The ZXi5 is a forgiving yet workable iron for mid handicaps. And the ZXi4 is Srixon’s game improvement iron for players looking for launch, distance and forgiveness. All three models can also be blended as a combo set. $1,300 www.us.dunlopsports.com
We all know that good putting is paramount when it comes to compiling a good score. An up-and-coming manufacturer to take a look at is the Detroit Putter Company based in the Motor City. This family-owned operation makes some seriously solid flatsticks that can help you roll in more putts. Their M-10 Model is DPC’s newest style, which is a mid-mallet design featuring 431 stainless steel and a milled face. They have six distinctive models to choose from, all with a sweet leather headcover. From Motown, to mo’ putts going in!
$399 retail www.detroitputterco.com
On the Ropes
The new Birdie Putt Rope Hat from Callaway might come in five colorways, but in April it’s all about the yellow and green combo. This lid merges a retro design and a contemporary fit for a look that will have you stylin’ throughout the spring.
$34.99 www.callawaygolf.com
Chicago’s spring temps can be a mystery, particularly morning tee times. Prior planning should include the Terrapin Vest from Turtleson to avoid poor performance. This vest is the perfect balance of lightweight insulation and flexibility to have you swinging freely. If it’s part of layering, the Terrapin Vest folds easily into your golf bag.
$195 www.turtleson.com
Cobra continues to be a sneaky contender in the driver market with the new DS-Adapt MAX K. Achieving a combined 10,000 MOI, this big stick is tops for stability. Meaning longer, straighter drives even when your game is less than stellar. Available in 9, 10.5, and 12-degree heads and a variety of True Temper and Tensei stock shafts.
$549 www.cobragolf.com
For golfers, this time of year is magical.
Life outside is awaking and golf courses are being populated again. The budding of azaleas and the crowning of the green jacket always seems to be the unofficial kick off to the golf season in the midwest and across the country.
As we head outside and get back onto the golf course, there are some things we can do to ensure we have a pleasant spring and get off to a good start.
Golf is unique in that it’s the only sport in which the place we practice is different from the field the game is played on. The driving range, domes or indoor facilities are uniquely different than the golf course. That’s why you hear so many bemoaning their inability to “take it to the course.”
The situations you encounter on the golf course are too challenging to replicate in traditional practice areas.
Here are some suggestions to help with that transition to outside this spring.
The Hibernating Golfer
If you weren’t able to do much in terms of swinging a club this off-season, not to worry. Wake up your swing and get ready for the course.
1. When we take time away from the game, we often loose overall rhythm, sequence and coordination. In order to regain these all important functions, we need to get in swing reps.
My recommendation is making 15 to 30 thoughtful swings per day. Start out slow, but as you increase speed, work to increase range of motion. This will begin to coordinate mind and body connection,
in addition increasing overall swing awareness. No ball needed!
2. After thawing out and getting moving again with your swing reps, it’s time for the driving range. Take this time to introduce the ball. Notice how it distracts you from being aware of your swing. The intention should be to continue to stay aware of your personal swing cues, which help you reproduce a quality swing. Observe how the excitement of hitting the ball changes things. Do you get faster? Do you shorten your backswing? Do you begin to fill up with tension? Does balance begin to falter? Whatever you observe, work to come back to the feelings and effort you experienced when making practice swings at home.
3. Lastly, early in the season use the golf course as a practice ground. I often hear from students that their only experience son the golf course are ones where they are playing for money or competing for a score. It’s hard to get comfortable on the course if you always have external pressure present. You would be better served if you found a early morning or evening time to go out by yourself and experiment, taking your swings fromhome and the range to the course.
You’re been practicing all off-season and sos are eager to take it to the course. It’s important to understand the indoor practice experience has less stimulus to navigate through than that of a course. So as we work our way outside for what I like to call “spring training,” let’s be intelligent about how we work ourselves back into playing form and set our expectations.
1. When outside for the first couple of rounds, understand that it takes time to acclimate to turf conditions, wind, wearing multiple layers, and pressure. Try playing without keeping score. Drop second shots when pace of play allows for it.
2. Have realistic expectations — your skills will be rusty, and the mind will be overwhelmed by the outdoor experience. Give yourself ample time to settle into form.
Setting up for Success on
Golf courses usually play hard, as spring usually comes with high winds and soft and cool conditions. So the course plays long.
1. Consider moving up a tee box. The course is playing longer than the yardage, and most likely you are hitting the ball shorter at the beginning of the season. Ease your way into it.
2. Don’t play for money. Golf has enough external and internal pressures. Give yourself a fighting chance this spring to get acclimated with being outside. No need to add more distraction.
3. Play nine holes in the evening or early morning to get practice on the course. Don’t be critical or over analytical of poor shots. Most likely they came from discomfort which arose from over stimulation from the new environment. Give yourself time to settle into being outdoors, hitting from uneven lies, and navigating the conditions before upping the stakes with competition.
Chris Oehlerking, PGA
Co-Owner and Dean of Instruction at The Golf Practice
2024 Illinois Teacher of the Year www.thegolfpractice.com
Walk up to your ball in the fairway landing area of the 1st hole at Kankakee Elks Club and you are immediately taken back to golf’s Golden Age. First-time players to the course may be astonished by the challenge in front of them. Out in the distance some 130 yards or so away is a flagstick proudly waving back at you. While you are right to assume that this flagstick is located somewhere on the sliver of a green in your sightline, you’ll need to trust your rangefinder as the putting surface is perched upon a sizable berm. Hopefully, you are adept at executing this shot, as over the next 17 holes you will be called upon to repeat this motion again and again and again. Because that’s what any golfer expects when challenging the fascinating and artful works of architect William Langford and his shaper Theodore Moreau.
Located just off the banks of the Kankakee River in St. Anne, Kankakee Elks Country Club takes golfers back to an era when golf design was about natural land features, entertaining holes and massive undulating greens. The 6,430-yard course was built in 1926—during the period when the likes of Alister Mackenzie, Donald Ross and A.W. Tillinghast were unveiling design strategies that would influence golf architecture forever. Throw into this pantheon both Langford and Moreau, whose distinguishing flourish to protect par were, indeed, the aforementioned plateau greens which were often supported by deep bunkers. Miss a green on a Langford/Moreau course and the price exacted tends to be a chip or pitch from a challenging bunker either filled with sand or overgrown with rough. While bunkers have been a constant since golf’s origins, those built by steam shovel by Langford/ Moreau have a scale and grace to them that a generation later inspired the works of Pete Dye. Setting aside its historic nature, the course is just plain,
unexpected fun. Following the first two short par-4 holes, the layout winds across rolling terrain to serve up a daunting 440yrd. dogleg left par 4 and a short par 4 protected on the left by forested land.
As a tribute to the original intentions of the two designers and in honor of the course’s upcoming 100th anniversary in 2026, the course is in the midst of a renovation which will see the 5th hole restored to its original design. More significantly, both the fairway and greenside bunkers across the property will transition from sand-filled to grassed over. “This was the way the course was originally intended to be played,” said general manager Jim Weber in a March interview. “Almost half of that work is already done.” Both the restoration of No. 5 and the bunker renovation project will be completed ahead
of the next year’s anniversary festivities. Planned events marking the occasion will include an amateur tournament and logoed merchandise.
The highlight of the front nine is No. 6, a true three-shot par 5 that starts from a high spot on the course and climbs even higher to a plateau green with steep dropoffs short, right, back and left. Basically, it’s an island green without the water! Just don’t miss short on your approach shot as the result will be a long awkward chip from the bottom of the knoll.
Your 65-mile drive from Chicago is justified just for the pleasure of taking on the majestic par No. 15. This 203-yd. par 3 finishes on a stunning massive plateau green that even includes a flat chipping area for shots landing short of the green. But go right and you are faced with a daunting chip shot from a bunker. Go left and watch your ball careen into no man’s land.
“We always like to hear the reaction of first-time visitors,” said Weber, who was a club member for 35 years prior to becoming GM. “Not only are they in awe of the Langford/ Moreau design, they appreciate the conditioning of the course and the reasonably priced green fees.”
Way back in 1951, over 1,000 patrons lined the fairways of what was then called Kankakee Valley Country Club to watch a 38-year-old Slammin’ Sammy Snead fire a 6-under-par 66 (and would have shot 64 but for two errant short putts). According to the next day’s Kankakee Daily Journal , he never missed a fairway and rarely missed a green. Renamed Kankakee Elks Country Club in 1960, the club was voted the #1 Course of the Year in Kankakee County in 2024 by that same newspaper.
Experience the 99-year history of Kankakee Elks Country Club by visiting the web at: www.elksgolf627.com.
Dave Silbar
Thanks to numerous junior golf programs such as Junior PGA League, AJGA, and several others, the future of golf seems in good stead. Nothing may point more towards this upward trend than the popularity of Drive, Chip & Putt, receiving a full day’s worth of national exposure on Golf Channel thanks to the Finals being held each Spring at Augusta National.
The Illinois PGA marked the occasion by providing four Chicago area finalists a celebratory sendoff on March 31 at its Golf (IL) headquarters. During a wonderful afternoon that included introductions, interviews and even coverage by Channels 2 and 9, the foursome shared laughs, thoughts on heading to August National, and plenty of swings for the crowd on hand.
Conducted in partnership with the USGA, Masters Tournament and PGA
of America, Drive, Chip & Putt is a free, nationwide youth golf development program open to boys and girls ages 7 to 15 in four age divisions.
This year’s group, all winning their age categories at the Qualifying Finals held earlier this summer at TPC Deere Run included Brielle Downer of Lockport (Girls 7-9), Hudson Hodge of Clarendon Hills, IL (Boys 10-11), Chloe Lee of Plainfield (Girls 12-13), and Jack Kemper of Winnetka (Boys 12-13).
In the end, Downer would finish in 2nd place, missing out by one inch on a putt that barely lipped out. Lee would finish in third place, while Hodge took 4th and Kemper a respectable 8th place. Still, it was an experience of a lifetime and one that none of these amazing and maturebeyond-their-years youngsters will not soon forget.
Short in stature but bubbly as all get-out with a giant-sized ability to focus like a Tour pro, Brielle is one of those kids that others want to be around. The 9-year-old can also outdrive most of her peers, hitting one drive on a recent vacation according to her dad that went almost 225 yards. Although she lost in a heartbreaking playoff at Augusta National—literally by an inch of a putt—we have a feeling that she’ll be back there soon.
The third grader has one prior year experience with Drive, Chip & Putt and didn’t get past the first round. This year, she made it all the way to the Holy Land of American golf. Playing out of Cog Hill, Brielle took up the game after tagging along to her brother’s lessons. “It seemed like fun and I started out with plastic clubs
and then moved up to real golf clubs,” she grins.
It’s the focus on the course that sets her apart from her peers and even those many years older who play golf. “The thing I like most about golf is having fun with my friends,” Brielle explains. “But then I get to my ball and I have about 40 seconds of focus time, hit my shot, and then I go back to having fun and being with my friends.”
Hudson Hodge
Playing since he was 2½ and competing in tournaments since the age of 6, Hudson Hodge is already a seasoned junior. Advancing to the second round of Drive, Chip & Putt last year, Hudson was excited and grateful for his chance to experience Augusta National for the first time this April. The 11-year-old, says putting is his strong suit and names Max Homa as his favorite player. “I like his swing and he just seems like a really nice person.”
Playing out of Medinah Country Club, Hudson has his sights set as a Hinsdale Central golfer one day.
“Hudson has put in so much work into his game,” said mom Carolyn. “One of the goals he set for himself last year was to get to this step and we’re so happy to support him and so excited to have him here. He made it to the second round two years ago, missing out by just one or two points from advancing to the semifinals at Deere Run. After that, when he knew he was close, he was ready to get there the next year.”
As far as emotions for Carolyn and husband, Greg, that day at TPC Deere Run was a whirlwind, literally. “First off, the weather was absolutely crazy that day,” laughed Carolyn. “The wind was strong, and things were flying all over the place. But Hudson was so focused. He went up to hit his drives and they flew straight down the middle each time. Chipping was challenging for a lot of kids, and he knew exactly what he needed to do to get the ball close to the hole, and the same went for putting. He was just really focused. He goes through a great routine when he’s playing in tournament
golf and that set the stage for him on this particular day.
Chloe Lee
Soft-spoken but commanding a powerful swing, 12-year-old Chloe Lee is a state champion high school golfer in the making. Set to attend Plainfield North in a few short years, she says her favorite golfer is Lydia Ko. “She is incredibly focused on the golf course and stays really calm, whether she is playing good or even poorly. Golf is a hard sport and it’s easy to get frustrated. (Lydia) sets a really good example and that’s why I admire her.”
Conducted in partnership with the USGA, Masters Tournament and PGA of America, Drive, Chip & Putt is a free, nationwide youth golf development program open to boys and girls ages 7 to 15 in four age divisions.
Playing out of Naperbrook Golf Club, Chloe says her strength on the tee box while chipping tends to give her the most trouble. Chloe’s sharpness extends beyond the golf course, according to mom, Mimi. “She’s pretty focused on and off the course,” mom says. She’s a straight A student, is always responsible for her actions and she’s also focused on the task at hand as well as achieving whatever goal she sets for herself.”
Jack Kemper
New Trier High School golf coach Pete Drevlin get ready. A program with several state championships under its belt is set to get another top caliber competitor in a couple of years. With four prior attempts to make the Drive, Chip & Putt Finals, the fifth time proved a charm for the 7th grader. A baseball player and black belt in Taekwondo, golf is atop the
leaderboard when it comes to Kemper’s favorite sport.
A regular on the junior tournament circuit during the summer, Kemper didn’t hesitate when asked who his favorite golfer is. “Nick Hardy,” he said. “He grew up in Northbrook, really close to here, and he made it to the PGA Tour. So it’s pretty cool to have somebody that lived like 10 minutes away from where I grew up get onto the PGA Tour.”
“We’re so proud of this accomplishment said Jack’s dad, Scott Kemper. “Obviously when your kid accomplishes something like that, it’s a moment of pride. But to have it attached to Augusta National and The Masters, something you’ve loved for your whole life, and just to see him doing what he loves is so gratifying.”
Having multiple children meant the couple had to divide and conquer the day of the final qualifier at Deere Run, with mom Jamie being there with Jack while Scott was on soccer duty. “The scores were coming in really well but we knew he had scored what he needed,” reflected Jamie. “As everything progressed, we were realizing that he was still in first and were completely shocked before it really sunk in. I mean, it was, just the elation after so many years of trying. It was just really incredible.
Local qualifying for the Drive, Chip & Putt season began in May of 2024 and was held at 342 sites across the country last summer. No more than three top scorers per venue, in each of the four age categories in boys and girls divisions, advanced to subregional qualifiers in July and August. The top two juniors in each age/gender division then competed at the regional level in September and October. Regional qualifying was held at 10 facilities around the country, including several U.S. Open and PGA Championship venues.
The top finishers from each regional site’s age/gender divisions – a total of 80 finalists – earned a place in the National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club held this past April 6. To learn more or to register your child for the 2026 Drive, Chip & Putt, visit www.drivechipandputt.com.
Dave Silbar
In life, when your skills and passions align, it’s easy to love what you do and never feel like you are actually ‘working.’ Take Callaway Golf’s Stacy Borkowski for instance.
Growing up in west suburban St. Charles, Stacy caught the golf bug at an early age. A four-year member of the St. Charles High School girls’ golf team Stacy [nee Springer] helped lead her team to the rarest of rare, an IHSA state championship during her sophomore year in 1999. It had followed a second-place state finish the year prior.
She then took her talents to the University of Kentucky, where she played alongside and against some of the best talent in the country, not to mention the world. As a Wildcat, Stacy would play herself to All-American honors while graduating Summa Cum Laude.
But with all her accomplishments on the golf course, Stacy knew that she was destined to be something other than a professional golfer once it came to life after college.
“I was blessed to be able to play golf at a top Division I university, but I don’t think people understand how good the best players in the world, the ones that we see on TV every day, really are, “she laughs. “They are in a class above the rest and I knew that wasn’t me.”
What she was, though, was in a very fortunate position come graduation, facing two very different offers ... one a job with a PR firm and the other an internship with Nike, one of the biggest sporting brands in the world. With a degree in Integrated Strategic Communications, she chose the obvious for any golf and sports fanatic.
“In high school, I dreamed of being a sports broadcaster on ESPN,” she recalls. “After studying communications and marketing at Kentucky, I initially pursued a career in public relations. However, my dad was a VP of sales and always told me I would thrive in sales. When Nike offered me a junior sales rep position out of college, I took the leap and have loved sales ever since.”
At the time, when Nike was flying high, especially on the golf side with its legendary relationship with Tiger Woods, Stacy’s role with the company would begin in Washington D.C. as a field support representative, managing the Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia territories.
Two years later she moved to Nashville, Tennessee, as Nike Territory Sales Manager, where over the next 12 months would help increase the company’s total sales by 23% to finish in the top five in the company in year-over-year growth. During that time, she also grew the green grass business by 212%.
In early 2009, she found herself back in Chicago, serving as senior territory manager and earning recognition as Nike Golf Footwear & Equipment Rep of the Year in 2011 and Illinois PGA Sales Representative of the Year in 2013.
“Growing up in Chicago, I have deep roots here,” she says. “My parents and brother, who played on the St. Charles boys golf team at the same time when I was on the girls’ team, still lives here. I knew that this is where I wanted to be and one day hopefully raise a family of my own.”
That dream would eventually come true as Stacy married Chicago area golf
instructor Willy Borkowski in 2012. The two now raise two sons in northwest suburban Lake Zurich.
Following an 11-year run with Nike, Stacy pivoted in about the most opposite direction possible, landing a job as district sales manager for Nucor Corporation, a steel production company. That experience helped her grow both professionally and personally, and less than two years later she changed companies again, this time working as a sales rep and key market manager for Adidas.
At Adidas, her outgoing personality and business acumen would earn National Sales Representative of the Year honors in 2019, helping grow the Chicago market from $500,000 to $1.8 million in her first year.
She spent four years with Adidas before moving to, of all things, a golf startup, whose sole focus was not only fitness, but whose spokesperson was World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler. It didn’t take long before GolfForever became a household name, and you can credit Vice President of Sales Borkowski for that.
“I knew I wanted to make a greater impact on the industry, so when my friend Courtney Trimble with GolfForever told me about the chance to build out the wholesale division for this startup company, I leaped at the opportunity,” she says. “I never felt this gratification selling shirts and shoes, so it was incredible.”
Borkowski also expanded on the different roles you can find within the golf space.
“As someone who has spent almost my entire career in golf, I have seen firsthand how we can make a difference,” she says.
“Whether you are a pro at a club, a golf instructor, work in a retail store, sell for a manufacturer, design product, recruit, manage PR or marketing efforts or are an agronomist, there is such a wide variety of roles that could fit with your skill set.
Getting back to her GolfForever friend Trimble, her husband Billy was well known by Chicago area
courses and professionals, serving as Callaway Golf’s area sales rep since 2017. His taking a new role with Titleist last September left a door open with Callaway, one that Stacy knew she wanted to enter.
With the encouragement of Courtney, Borkowski got the interview and late last year was hired as Outside Area Representative for Callaway, handling its northern Illinois territory.
“The best part of my job at Callaway is building genuine relationships with my customers,” Stacy says. “Through years of working closely with them and getting to know them personally, many have become true friends. Some of the golf pros and buyers I work with today are people I have known for over 15 years, and the connections I have made make what I do really rewarding.”
In an industry predominantly led by men, the fact that she has excelled in the golf world is certainly a feather in her cap and something that she is not shy about discussing when asked about it.
“Being a woman in a male-dominated industry like golf is both a responsibility and an opportunity,” she explains. “It shows other women and young girls that they belong in this sport in any role they aspire to. For me, it means leading by example, proving that success in golf isn’t determined by gender but instead by passion, skill and hard work.”
“I want young girls to see that by believing in themselves and putting in the effort, they can accomplish anything they put their mind to. The more women who step into these roles, the more we can change the landscape for future generations.”
What’s in Stacy’s Bag
Elyte Driver, 10.5 degrees, Denali men’s regular shaft
Elyte 3 & 7 woods, Denali men’s regular shaft
Ti Fusion irons 5-PW, Elevate 95 regular flex
Opus wedges, 56 and 60 degree, Elevate 95 regular flex
Jailbird putter
Chrome Soft golf balls
Greg Martin
Golf architecture is ever evolving, and thankfully so. Golf course architects’ endeavor to provide an engaging experience, unique to the site that will capture the imagination of golfers. Those unique perspectives give the game of golf its exceptionality.
Evolutions of golf course architecture have continued over the years from classic, penal, heroic and strategic to modern and “stadium,” to minimalism and again back to the template holes. These evolutions are the result of impacts like club technology, pace of play, construction budgets, maintenance, water, environmental conditions, golfer expectations and even carts and cart paths.
Some of the general golf architecture periods are:
Golden Age The golden age architects created ingenious designs with minimal earthwork, using grades and drainage to present challenges, strategy and playability, and used simple philosophies that have inspired generations of architects with those strategies. We marvel today at the simple subtlety and cleverness of those designs.
Give Your Course a Signature The Great Depression and WWII halted golf in the ‘30s and ‘40s. Enter Robert Trent Jones Sr., who offered the phrase ‘Give your course a signature.’ Subsequently, developing ‘signature’ holes, protecting par, larger and longer tees offering varying yardages and creating challenges enamored golfers with expanded irrigation capabilities, all while Arnold Palmer and broadcast television brought the game to the masses.
Dream Big As golf became more popular, the size and scale of the golf course grew too. If you could dream it, you could build it. Fazio, Nicklaus & Dye aimed high, and nothing was off limits. Spectacular landforms and waterscapes fostered a new appeal and maintenance budgets grew too. Residential golf developments boomed, and the influence of golf carts impacted design, allowing golf holes to be distanced from one another, making development easier but reducing the attractiveness of green to tee relationships. Worse yet, unique site features
were destroyed to accommodate yardage and par, creating ‘target golf’ and massive, maintenance intensive hazards.
Fast & Firm Enter Coore/Crenshaw, and Tom Doak, who ushered a return to designs using the ground game. A more natural and sustainable approach allowed the ball to bounce again, trees were removed, and wind once again influenced design decisions. Mike Keiser recognized the value of this approach and set out to create and expose wonderful destination facilities with multiple options for fast and firm conditions.
Restorations and Templates Restoration inspired masterpieces of the early 21st century have been intense. The Lido at Sand Valley is a good example. Template holes of the golden age are fantastic inspirations for current architects because those concepts and strategies are time-tested and lasting.
What influences will continue to change golf architecture?
Firmness and minimalist design haveproduced a noticeable change from an aerial game to an appreciation of the ground-game influence. Golf courses built on sand with more prominent topographic features, firmer and faster conditions and more unpredictability has had a profound effect on design, coinciding with reduced irrigation requirements and water management demands.
These “firm and fast” philosophies help solve some of the challenges of length and club technology.
Golf club and golf ball technology continue to change the game. Ultimately, length remains an issue. The ‘bomb and gouge’ philosophy adopted by some golfers has influenced the weekend golfer to destructive levels and made revered golf courses obsolete. This is unfortunate. The result is less ball striking and shaping of shots and more swing speed. Golf courses need to be longer and wider to accommodate looser shots and wider misses. This only compels architects to create more defensive strategies, rather than open and engaging designs.
Environmental sustainability has always had a profound effect on what we do and
how we do it. In many ways, the overlapping of natural features into the golf course makes the golf experiences richer and more fulfilling, more authentic and more restorative. Golf courses are reacting to environmental features and challenges more directly and creatively, rather than developing an artificial landscape.
Simultaneously, there is a dramatic change to adapt for wider golfer ability with higher
expectations and far more discriminating golfers. Golfers are more knowledgeable and eagerly share their opinions.
But I believe the most impactful influence has been maintenance improvements and turfgrass technologies. Greater expertise by golf course superintendents, improved maintenance equipment, more sophisticated irrigation, turf advancements and improved varieties has been impact-
ful to the game and golfer expectations. Interestingly, the sand-based projects of the last two decades illustrate a more rough-edged, ragged capriciousness of courses that run counter to the high expectations of condition for golf courses.
Architecture is ever evolving, and every professional brings a unique perspective of practice. The promise of strategy, engagement and challenge
hasn’t changed. The reverence for natural beauty hasn’t changed – from either golfer or architect. And our passion for the game hasn’t changed.
Golf course architecture really hasn’t changed.
It has only evolved.
g.martin.mdp@gmail.com www.martindesigngolf.com
On a brisk October morning in 2020, I stood on a porch above the 1st tee box at Central Wisconsin’s Sand Valley golf course and feebly attempted to follow a story being shared by the starter. “You see that area of the property over there?” he asked, pointing toward the northwest border of the property. “That is where Sedge Valley is going to be located,” he said. “The design was completed. Everything was set to begin and then . . . a new plan got rolled out.” Like a human weathervane, the starter wheeled around 90-degrees and then pointed out toward a couple of sand dunes to the southwest. “So the Sedge Valley course project was put on hold,” he continued, “and our focus transitioned to The Lido course over that way.”
I darted my eyes left, then right, and attempted to envision the scope and scale of both projects. “Has a timeline been established yet for these courses to be completed?” I asked. The starter chuckled. “Things happen pretty fast around here,” he said. “We’ve got to get those courses finished so we can start working on a whole bunch of other projects!”
In the four short years following that conversation, Sand Valley Resort has—surely to no surprise of the starter—not only opened both The Lido and Sedge Valley courses to broad acclaim but has indeed unveiled a whole bunch of other projects at the same time. This former tree farm in Nekoosa has reinvented itself in myriad and surprising ways. Today, a five-course golf property, the resort has also added to its accommodations; evolved into a four-season destination; opened multiple dining options, and expanded its unique tennis offerings. And a whole bunch more of other projects are already underway.
“Sand Valley is constantly evolving,” affirmed Brandon Carter, marketing and communications manager of Dream Golf Resorts—a collection of four premier US golf resorts, including Sand Valley. “We’ve listened closely to the needs, passions and expectations of our guests and members to provide them with amenities that make the property unique and special.”
The next golf amenity that perfectly fits that description is scheduled to finish construction and seeding in 2025. The 12-hole Commons course will be the sixth layout on the 12,000 acres of natural sand dunes that encompass the property. Located just north of Sedge Valley, the course was designed by Jimmy Craig, a shaper who worked for Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw (designers of the Sand Valley course) and was the lead associate
on their 17-hole Sandbox par-3 course.
Craig’s familiarity with the property and his keen understanding of the vision of Sand Valley co-owners Michael and Chris Keiser led to the brothers supporting his first-ever design project. The Commons shares a similarity to Sedge Valley in that the design emphasizes strategy and finesse over brawn. Stretching to around 4,000 yards, the Scottish links-inspired course incorporates a single par 5 (the 1st hole), four par 3s and seven relatively short par 4s. While the original design was located over a relatively small piece of land near the Sedge Valley residences, it was expanded to allow for holes within a peninsula originally designated for real estate. The end result was three spectacular holes alongside and across Luna Lake.
“The idea for the Commons came from the success of the Sandbox. We wanted to offer another ‘alternative course,’” said Tom Ferrell, vice-president of media and communications at Dream Golf, in a March interview. “The 12-hole format means that it can be a great morning or afternoon round that doesn’t require the stamina or take the time of another 18. This is not a short course – it’s 12 great holes, including a stretch of three holes on the shores of Lake Luna that might be the most dramatic on the entire property. But you can play it in two and a half hours.” Like every course at Sand Valley, the Commons is designated as a walking-only experience.
The Commons course will be the newest amenity added to the northwest corner of the resort, which is presently home to the Sedge Valley course, Luna Lake, the Sedge Valley community residences, a neighborhood and the Tennis Center (which incorporates both the indoor “court tennis” court, a fully-stocked pro shop and the bistro-style The Gallery Italian restaurant).
Celebrated as the 2024 Best New Resort Course in America by Sports Illustrated magazine, the 6,159-yd. Sedge Valley introduced Sand Valley guests to a distinctive look, feel and style that contrasts greatly to the resort’s other courses. The layout was the work of master architect Tom Doak. Inspired by the English Coast heathland courses, it was built firm and fast on fescue turf. Fairways go up, down, around and over rolling topography. When originally shown the property, Doak focused on the most dramatic landscapes for greens and bunkers, then worked around those to create a unique 18 holes consisting of one par 5, five par 3s and 13 par 4s playing to a par of 68.
The course places a premium on approach shot values rather than sheer length off the tee. Three of the par 4s are under 300 yards. And only two of the par 3s are over 200 yards. The modest length of all those holes is quickly forgotten when staring down the fairways and green sites from off the tees. Sprawling bunkers have been cleverly placed to reduce tee shot landing areas or to demand precise shots to the flagstick.
“My idea for Sedge Valley was to make the targets long and skinny,” said Doak in an exclusive interview with GOLFChicago, “or occasionally wide and shallow, to make the approach shot more testing one way or another. We weren’t trying to make it easy. The course is short overall ,so it’s not exhausting, but we wanted it to have an edge to it. The greens aren’t surrounded by trouble, but there’s a place on nearly every hole where you’d better not miss. So you have to pay attention if you want to make pars.”
Keen local knowledge is a true asset when tackling the course. In fact, the best way to experience all of Sand Valley’s courses is to use the resort’s caddie services. The caddies not only know spots on the course to avoid; they can talk you through where to aim on Doak’s classically-contoured putting surfaces.
The 303-yard No. 6 is the highlight of the front nine for reasons that are obvious even as you approach the tee. This gorgeous downhill par 4 can very well lead to eagle opportunities for long hitters as the fairway opens to a landing path to the green. Asked to name his favorite hole on the course, Doak remarked that this slightly angled hole was near and dear to his heart. “The 6th hole was the first one I found on the map,” he said. “The narrow shelf for the green was always there, and the way the fairway sloped to the right was going to make it hard to leave yourself a straight-in approach.”
The 18th hole serves up a host of possibilities from off the tee, and the steeply elevated landing area to the right will provide a direct line to the green assuming your tee shot climbs up and over an embankment. The landing area on the lower left tier is the easier shot. But that outcome requires a daunting short-iron to a hidden target. Whichever the execution, you must next confront a putting surface with multiple intricacies. Approach shots directed from the upper right side may spring forward as the landing area just short of the green is severely sloped. Approach shots from the lower tier have a restricted angle to the hole particularly when the flagstick is tucked on the far backside of the green. All that said, a par on this short hole is in all likelihood a winning
score.
The Sedge Valley community residences are discreetly located near the golf course and alongside Luna Lake. Each cottage design follows various elegant floor plans inspired by the Sedge Village sites. Estate homes offer owners more architectural design flexibility and add variety and scale to the project. Owners of both the cottages and estate homes participate in the Sand Valley Rental Program that provides a shared rental split when resort guests use those facilities.
The lightning-speed development of the Sedge Valley golf course, the Tennis Center and Sedge Village almost obscure the fact that Sand Valley Resort opened a mere eight years ago. The property has evolved from a relatively modest footprint of a single golf course with limited lodging on 1,700 acres of tumbling sand dunes to a vast recreational community with a wide variety of accommodations that caters to active lifestyles. The premiere of the spectacular Sand Valley course in 2017 was followed only one year later by both the delightful Sandbox course and the thrilling Mammoth Dunes course, designed by David McLay Kidd.
The origins of Sand Valley Resort date to the early 2010s when golf construction executive Craig Haltom came across a parcel of sand, trees and wild vegetation that he sensed would make for a great golf property. Haltom shared his discovery with the Keiser family who very quickly shared his enthusiasm. After the land acquisition from the Plum Creek Timber Company, the Keiser’s hired Coore and Crenshaw to shape the land into a championship course unlike any other in Wisconsin. From emptied lakebed and forested dunes emerged the humble beginnings of what would quickly evolve into one of America’s premier golf destinations.
Honored as the Best New Course of 2017 by multiple national golf magazines, the Sand Valley championship layout appears at first glance to have been designed by Mother Nature. Sand dunes flow into wide expanses teeming with red pines, native grasses and even prickly cacti. The course design is amazingly varied and dramatic. Fairways play hard and fast; thus, tee shots spring forward by 10, 20 and even 30 yards if the ball catches the back end of a hill. Greens are large and massively undulating as they challenge players to consider angles and pin positions on every approach shot.
While it is tempting to compare Mammoth Dunes to its sister course, the fact is that the two layouts reside on completely different landscapes. Sand Valley is wide-open with saplings and
shrubs lining the layout’s perimeters. Trees are a prominent feature on Mammoth Dunes—not necessarily as obstacles but to frame holes. Named Best New Course of the Year by multiple national golf magazines in 2018, Mammoth Dunes was inspired by McLay Kidd’s earlier work at Bandon Dunes in Oregon. His stated philosophy is to create courses “as natural as possible, as seamless as possible and as sustainable as possible.” Given 500 acres of pristine land, the architect produced a feast for the eyes, complete with remarkable panoramas, extravagantly wide fairways, contoured greens and even a pair of drivable par 4s. The end result is a course that is unique, fun and visually thrilling.
The Sandbox is an ingenious 1,757-yd. 17-hole creation that serves up loads of fun in a fraction of the time it takes to play a regulation course. Laid out over 25 acres of sandy soil, The Sandbox features holes that vary in length from 40 yards to 150 yards. The green complexes are the featured attractions on the course, with undulations and tiers challenging players to calculate landing areas sometimes far away from the flagstick locations. Depending on the greenkeeper’s inclination, some flags on the course have to be ignored as their position just behind a greenside bunker basically eliminate any chances of landing the tee shot anywhere near the hole.
One of the most talked-about projects among the national golf community over the past few decades, the aforementioned Lido is a faithful re-creation of a New York course repurposed as a WWII military base in the early 1940s. Golf historian Peter Flory studied old photographs and source materials to create 360-degree models of each hole. In the midst of working on Sedge Valley, Doak and his Renaissance Golf Design team suspended that operation to adapt Flory’s meticulous reproductions into physical reality right down to every hump, hollow and hummock of the original Lido Club. What made this massive engineering feat even possible is that the original course had been laid out on a parcel of flat, rectangular shoreline property using 2 million cubic yards of sand and topsoil. Thus, the course was far easier to replicate than one placed atop rolling land that had been shaped by nature for 16,000 years or so.
In December, 2023, Sand Valley Resort was selected by the USGA to host four prestigious USGA championships. The Lido will be the primary host of the 2026 U.S. Mid-Amateur and of the 2029 U.S. Junior Amateur. In 2030, the resort will host the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur and will follow that event in 2034 with the U.S. Girls’ Junior Amateur.
Dining options across the property beyond The Gallery include Bill’s BBQ at the Sandbox; rustic indoor or outdoor dining at the clubhouse’s Mammoth Bar, and scrumptious food sourced from local farmers and purveyors at Aldo’s Farm-to-Table Restaurant. Looking for a quick bite before or after your round? Craig’s Porch overlooking the 1st tee on the Sand Valley Course serves up $1 egg-bacon and egg-sausage sandwiches in the mornings and phenomenal $1 carnitas tacos in the afternoons. These are both can’t-miss treats.
Five years ago, Sand Valley Resort transitioned into a four-season resort complete with holiday and wellness events as well as cross-country skiing, fat-tire biking and snowshoeing during the winter months. During spring, summer and fall, hiking trails and grass court tennis are the primary non-golf amenities. “The transition from a seasonal resort to a full-season property was the result of demand from our guests, many of whom consider Sand Valley Resort their home away from home,” said Carter. “The obvious benefit is that our resort staff can stay in place year ‘round.”
Sand Valley Resort is part of the Dream Golf collection of destinations. The first diamond of this bracelet was the Oregon Coast’s Bandon Dunes Resort. The vision of Mike Keiser (father of Sand Valley’s Michael and Chris Keiser), the resort today encompasses seven true links courses all located along a breathtaking, remote coastline. Bandon Dunes, Old Macdonald, the Sheep Ranch and Bandon Trails have captivated scores of golfers from around the world ever since the original course opened in 1999. Each and every one of these championship layouts has been cited by national and international magazines as residing within the top 100 public golf courses in America. Key elements to the experience are two short courses—the 13-hole Bandon Preserve and the new Shorty’s 19-hole course—as well as the 100,000 sq. ft. Punchbowl putting course designed by Doak with Jim Urbina., which are free of charge to resort guests. “You will find every kind of putt you can imagine out there, and probably a few you’ve never dreamed of,” said Doak.
Two additional destinations are under construction.
A 40-ft. high sand protrusion nicknamed “Old Baldy” will become the starting point for three holes over two courses at Wild Spring Dunes in East Texas. Set to open for limited play at the end of 2025, the first course was designed by Doak and was built on 2,463 acres of land incorporating dense areas of towering pines, steep elevation changes, spring-fed creeks and open savannas. The resort is located in an isolated
part of the state a few hours’ drive from both Dallas and Houston. Along with firstclass accommodations and dining options, planned amenities include a short course and a practice center. The second course was designed by Coore & Crenshaw.
Sand dunes towering up to 90-feet high inspired the construction of the first course at Rodeo Dunes in Colorado, less than an hour’s drive from the Denver airport. Scheduled to open in 2026, the course was designed by Coore & Crenshaw on a rolling site that Coore has called “gifted land” that provides a natural canvas for greens and fairways.
“Rodeo Dunes will surprise a lot of guests,” promises Ferrell of Dream Golf. “What looks like flat farmland from a distance is actually a rolling, sandy site that may remind golfers of the amazing Sand Hills course in Nebraska that was built by Coore and Crenshaw.”
The first course at Rodeo Dunes will be succeeded by a second course designed by the same Jimmy Craig who designed the aforementioned Commons course at Sand Valley. Craig traveled throughout Scotland and Ireland for ideas and inspiration for routing the course alongside a dramatic landscape teeming with sand dunes.
In November, still another Dream Golf Resorts project was announced for a golf course to be built in Florida’s panhandle, about 30 miles from the Panama City airport. To be called Old Shores, the course was designed by Doak over a rugged, sand-based landscape.
“The support we’ve received from founders on all of the projects has really helped motivate these ambitious construction plans,” said Ferrell. “The name ‘Dream Golf’ is based upon a single vision of great golf experiences accessible and affordable to the general public. We take lots of pride that on any given day—at any of our locations—our tee sheet includes just as many machinists and welders as it does lawyers and doctors. This game is a true melting pot. All of us seek a dream golf experience!”
To create your own dream golf package, visit the Sand Valley Resort website at www.sandvalley.com or Dream Golf Resorts at www.dreamgolf. com.
Pine Meadow Reinvigorates Junior Programming, Revives Junior Club Championship for Lake County Pine Meadow Golf Club in Mundelein will enhance its junior program presence this season. Having hosted the PGA Jr. League and served as a venue for the local Drive, Chip & Putt qualifier, Pine Meadow continues to promote golf for juniors in its community and beyond. With Tyler Wollberg taking over as general manager and head golf professional, he is elevating that commitment to juniors to a new level. He has introduced programs for children as young as 5 to 8 through the club’s “Little Pinesters” program. Tyler, a Mundelein native, recalls the early years when Pine Meadow hosted one of the premier under-18 junior tournaments in Lake County.
As general manager Wollberg has made a commitment to revive the Junior Club Championship and is proud to host one of Northern Illinois’s only Junior Club
Championships. For more information, contact Pine Meadow at (847) 566-4653.
The Illinois PGA Open Series is a brand-new multi-event competition open to IPGA Professionals as well as to amateurs with a 10 handicap or lower. The series will feature six 18-hole stroke play events, bringing together top talent for a competitive and rewarding experience. Participants will compete for a single purse, with professionals earning cash payouts and amateurs receiving pro shop credit. Senior men (50+) and women will play from a modified yardage in the competition.
The inaugural season of the Illinois PGA Open Series will make stops at White Eagle GC, Flossmoor GC, Hinsdale GC, Elgin CC, Aurora CC and Bull Valley GC. After the fifth event on July 28, the top five players on the points list (not already exempt) will earn a coveted spot in the 76th Illinois Open, taking place August 4 through 6, 2025, at Kemper Lakes GC.
For more information or questions regarding eligibility, please contact Adam Gracik of the Illinois PGA via agracik@pgahq.com.
Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein returns to the Greg Norman-designed Royal Melbourne Country Club in northwest suburban Long Grove on Monday, August 11. This is your chance to play a great private club while supporting a fantastic charity, with proceeds benefiting Carmel’s tuition assistance and tuition assurance programs. The programs enable Carmel to continue fostering excellence and opportunity for its students. The tuition assurance program supports students who have experienced the loss of a parent, helping them complete their Carmel Catholic journey. Heartbreakingly, 14 Carmel Catholic families have relied on this program over the past five years alone.
Cost is $450 for a single player or $1,600 per foursome. Lunch, dinner, on course games, raffles and much more will make the day a memorable one. For more information, contact Denise Spokas via dspokas@carmelhs. org.
Orchard Valley Closes for 2025 Season, Undergoes Major Renovation
Orchard Valley Golf Course, a staple in the far west suburban community for decades, is set to undergo a comprehensive renovation to modernize its aging infrastructure and enhance playability. The course will be closed for the 2025 golf season with plans to reopen in the Summer of 2026, featuring significant improvements designed to benefit golfers for generations to come.
This renovation will be all encompassing and touch all aspects of the course. This includes bunkers, irrigation system, greens and tee boxes, fairway enhancements, cart paths and retaining walls. The plans are to seed and sod the entire course between August and October of this year.
The end goal is to have a better course for the future. This is a large investment for a very popular course that tallied 80,000 rounds over the past two golf seasons.
This renovation project is an investment in Orchard Valley’s long-term future, ensuring it remains a premier golf destination for both casual and competitive players. The enhancements will significantly improve course conditions, sustainability and overall playability while preserving the course’s natural beauty and challenge.
for June 12
A one-day college golf showcase with college coaches from 18 universities across the Midwest and within a fivehour drive from Chicago will be held on Thursday, June 12, 10 a.m., at The Glen Club in Glenview.
The event will be a great opportunity to meet with coaches, learn what it means to play college golf, and gain exposure by playing 18 holes with personal interaction from these coaches.
The showcase is for boys and girls who are in high school classes of 2026, 2027 and 2028. The day will start with a short check-in and introduce the coaches in attendance, then have them run a tournament style warmup at stations (full swing, short game, putting). After a break for lunch and interactive discussion with the coach -
es on what it means to play college golf, participants will play 18 holes with coaches watching.
Cost is $325 and the field will be limited. Players must submit his/her golf resume no later than May 1 to event coordinator Peter Hendrick via pchendrick5.0@ gmail.com for consideration.
Roan Named Host for TV’s
Longtime WGN-TV sports anchor/reporter Dan Roan will serve as the new host of Golf360 TV, replacing former Chicago Bear long snapper Patrick Mannelly. The show will be starting its 10th year on the air with the first episode running throughout the month of June on The Marquee Sports Network.
Roan picked up numerous local Emmy awards and many other accolades during his stellar 38-year career at Chicago’s Very Own, WGN/Channel 9. Roan is an avid golfer who participates in numerous local tournaments and volunteers as a Director with the Chicago District Golf Association.
Purdue University’s Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex in West Lafayette, Indiana, will host the 2025 Junior PGA Championships, July 29 - Aug. 1, 2025. The 49th edition of the Championships will feature 312 players—156 girls and 156 boys—playing concurrently in a four-day, 72-hole stroke play competition.
One of junior golf’s major championships, the Junior PGA Championships are open to amateurs no older than 18 years of age on the last day of competition. All players must qualify through a PGA of America Section Championship or be granted an exemption into the field.
The Junior PGA Championships have been springboards for many of the PGA and LPGA Tours’ most accomplished players. Tiger Woods, Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas have competed on the Boys side, while the list of past Girls Junior PGA winners includes Inbee Park, Yuka Saso, Lexi Thompson and Rose Zhang.
By Dave Weretka
Pinehurst, North Carolina, holds a unique place in the world of golf. Revered as the “Birthplace of American Golf,” Pinehurst is more than just a destination; it’s a pilgrimage site for those who love the game. The area is steeped in history, boasting legendary courses, a charming village, and a golf culture that is second to none. With its rolling fairways, towering pines, and storied past, Pinehurst offers an experience unlike any other. Among its many gems, Pinehurst No. 4, No. 8, No. 10 and The Cradle stand out as must-play courses.
Before diving into the legendary golf courses, it’s essential to appreciate the Village of Pinehurst itself. Established in 1895 by James Walker Tufts, this idyllic village was originally conceived as a health retreat. However, it soon became a golfing mecca, thanks to the influence of the great Donald Ross, who designed many of its courses. Today, Pinehurst retains its old-world charm, with tree-lined streets, historic inns, and quaint shops that make visitors feel as though they have stepped back in time.
The Carolina Hotel, a grand Southern icon, is the heart of Pinehurst’s hospitality scene. It exudes elegance and tradition, offering guests an immersive experience in golf history. The Pinehurst Resort also boasts an impressive spa, fine dining and a rich legacy that adds to the area’s appeal.
Pinehurst No. 4: A Modern Classic
Pinehurst No. 4 has undergone several transformations over the years, but its most recent redesign by Gil Hanse in 2018 cemented its status as a modern masterpiece. Hanse stripped away excess trees, expanded natural sandy waste areas and restored the course’s rugged beauty. The result is a visually striking, strategic layout that blends seamlessly with its surroundings.
With dramatic elevation changes and undulating greens, No. 4 offers a stern but fair test of golf. The course challenges players to think their way through each hole, rewarding precision and creativity. Signature holes such as the par-3 ninth, with its breathtaking carry over a native area, and the drivable par-4 11th, offer some of the most exciting moments in Pinehurst golf. No. 4 is not just a worthy companion to the famed No. 2; it is a standout in its own right.
Pinehurst No. 8: A Fazio
Designed by Tom Fazio and opened in 1996 to commemorate Pinehurst’s centennial, No. 8 offers a blend of classic and contemporary golf course architecture. Unlike many of the other Pinehurst layouts, No. 8 stands alone, providing a secluded experience amid rolling terrain, wetlands, and natural water features.
Fazio designed the course with Donald Ross’s philosophy in mind, emphasizing strategic shot-making and natural beauty. The course features wide fairways, deep bunkers, and contoured greens that demand accuracy. Water hazards come into play on multiple holes, adding another layer of challenge.
Among No. 8’s standout holes is the par-4 14th, a risk-reward challenge that dares golfers to take on a daunting carry over wetlands. Meanwhile, the par-3 17th, with its elevated tee shot over water, is one of the most picturesque holes in Pinehurst. This course provides a different feel from the other resort courses, making it a favorite among those seeking variety.
Pinehurst No. 10: The Newest Addition
The latest addition to Pinehurst’s storied collection, Pinehurst No. 10, opened in 2024. Recognized as the Best Public Course of 2024, this massive course sits on land branded as the Pinehurst Sandmines. The land was once home to another course, The Pit. The course closed in 2010 and the Pinehurst Resort group acquired the land at that time. The parcel is only three miles from the main resort, yet it feels remote and secluded on this giant-sized parcel. Designed by Tom Doak, this course introduces a fresh perspective while maintaining the essence of Pinehurst golf. Doak, known for his minimalist approach and naturalistic designs, sculpted No. 10 to blend seamlessly with the Sandhills landscape. Pine forests and sandscapes welcome you with open arms as you try to tackle this par-70 course. Embrace the blind shots that await over old mining sand mounds, raw bunkering and greasy greens.
One of the most talked about holes on the course is the par-4 8th hole that is nothing short of a wild ride. A frumpled, mounded fairway will propel your ball hither and fro. The approach shot must navigate more large sand mounds to a long green that cascades from back to front. Take note of the flag position to minimize your three-putt prowess on these greens. Unlike the turtleback greens of No. 2, these greens offer funnels and collection bowls. Hole 15 is a par 4 that offers a drive over a water feature that almost plays parallel to the fairway. Bite as much as you think you can chew and trust this engaging two shooter. No. 10 offers a unique mix of wide fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and rugged waste areas. The course showcases Doak’s
signature design elements, such as short par 4s that tempt aggressive play and large, undulating greens that challenge putting skills. With its incorporation of natural sandscapes and rolling terrain, No. 10 adds another layer of diversity to Pinehurst’s world-class lineup. Talks are already taking place for course No 11 to accompany No. 10. Sandmines is the first new design on property in nearly 30 years and now there might be a sister course joining the ranks in the next couple of years. Cottages were in construction during our visit last Fall and would be a welcome addition to those looking to rest their weary bones after a healthy walk around this unspoiled turf.
The Cradle: The Ultimate Short Course Experience No trip to Pinehurst is complete without a round at The Cradle. Designed by Gil Hanse and opened in 2017, The Cradle is a nine-hole short course that encapsulates the spirit of Pinehurst in a fun, relaxed setting. Dubbed “the most fun 10 acres in golf,” The Cradle offers holes ranging from 56 to 127 yards, making it accessible for players of all skill levels.
What makes The Cradle truly special is its atmosphere. Music plays throughout the course, groups of all sizes are welcome, and the emphasis is on pure enjoyment. It’s the perfect place for beginners to get a taste of Pinehurst golf or for seasoned players to hone their short game. With its playful design and vibrant energy, The Cradle embodies the joy of the game.
Tot Hill Farm and Tobacco Road: Unique Golfing Experiences Nearby
While Pinehurst is the epicenter of golf in North Carolina, two courses just a short drive away offer additional must-play experiences. Tot Hill Farm Golf Club in Greensboro, designed by Mike Strantz, is often described as a hidden gem with its dramatic elevation changes, rock formations, and challenging greens. Strantz’s artistic design philosophy is evident throughout the course, making it one of the most visually striking and demanding layouts in the state.
Tobacco Road, another Mike Strantz masterpiece, is located in Sanford, NC. Known for its bold, almost surreal design, Tobacco Road challenges golfers with its deep bunkers, blind shots and massive undulating greens. Often compared to playing a round of golf on a roller coaster, the course is an unforgettable experience for those willing to embrace Strantz’s unconventional style. Both courses add to the region’s reputation as a premier golf destination. Tobacco Road is always near the top of our playlist when we visit the Sandhills and one that leaves you smiling or shaking your head at the creative quirkiness of the layout. Why Pinehurst is the Ultimate Golf Destination Pinehurst’s allure goes beyond its incredible courses. It’s a place where golf history meets modern excellence, where every fairway has a story, and where players can immerse themselves in the traditions of the game. The resort has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the U.S. Open in 2024, and will continue to be a cornerstone of American golf.
The combination of championship-caliber courses, a rich history and the charm of the Village of Pinehurst ensures that this North Carolina gem remains a bucket-list destination for golf lovers.
Whether you’re walking in the footsteps of legends, tackling the strategic challenges that each course offers, exploring the modern beauty of No. 10 or simply enjoying a casual round at The Cradle, Pinehurst offers an unmatched golf experience. It’s more than a place to play— it’s a place to connect with the soul of the game. Visit www.homeofgolf.com for more information.
Joe Aguilar
The only shots Chase James sees on summer days at Oak Park Country Club soar high, touch down on manicured fairways, splash in powdery sand and land softly on smooth putting greens.
Assuming, that is, that the man whose bag he’s lugging is playing good golf that day.
All shots are pleasant, regardless, for James, a 14-year-old high school freshman who lives in the rugged Austin neighborhood on Chicago’s west side, for these shots don’t whiz by his ears and threaten his life.
All life is appreciated.
“There are all sorts of animals on the course,” said James, who caddies at OPCC when not attending Rowe-Clark Math & Science Academy in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. “There’s deer. I saw a coyote once. There are all sorts of ducks. I’ve seen a turtle and a couple of cool birds.”
It’s the hope of Mike Munro that golf provides an escape for inner-city kids, providing them a chance to appreciate nature and smell life’s flowers, whether they be on a golf course or at a park, far away from the violence seen almost daily on Chicago’s toughest streets. About seven years ago, Munro, the former owner of White Pines Golf Dome in Bensenville, founded Aspiring Youth of Chicago, and today he serves as the non-for-profit organization’s CEO.
“I don’t want to say we’ve changed kids’ lives around, but we’ve opened their eyes to opportunities that are out there that they typically wouldn’t experience,” said Munro, 69, a graduate of Fenton High School and Illinois State University, where he played golf for the Redbirds.
The youth, who range in grade from first to high school, get to experience more than golf. Aspiring Youth of Chicago arranges about 10 field trips a year. The organization has taken inner-city kids to Klein Creek Farm in DuPage County, White Sox games, Brookfield Zoo, McDonald’s corporate headquarters, UIC, Malcolm X College and Dominican University.
The kids have been on picnics, where volunteers cook, taken swings at driving ranges and batting cages, and have
hopped aboard a boat to take a tour on the Chicago River.
Aspiring Youth of Chicago works with three after-school programs: Kidz Express in Austin, Maryville Academy youth center in Austin and Marillac St. Vincent in West Garfield Park.
“We have a pretty vibrant program,” Munro said. “We’re doing some good things. The kids really do love golf. Some of these kids, the only [sport] they’ve ever been taught is basketball.”
James met Munro at Maryville, where Juan Espejo heads up the golf academy. James and other inner-city youths learned the basics of golf and were introduced to caddying opportunities. James said when Munro told him all he had to do was carry a bag and watch out for a ball for a couple of hours, it didn’t sound bad. It sure was better than watching bullets fly.
When he was younger, James said his friend’s brother got shot on the corner where he lived. James remembers crying, begging his mom to move out of the neighborhood because he didn’t want to be the next innocent person to get shot. Recently, on his way to his other part-time job in Chicago, James heard four shots go off down the block from the bus stop. He saw two people running. He jumped. It wasn’t the first time he was startled by gunfire.
“New Year’s, oh my, New Year’s was horrible,” James said. “It went on for 30 minutes. I’m pretty sure there was shooting in this back alley right behind my house. It sounded like somebody had a sniper rifle or a cannon.”
Munro hears similar stories. On the bus ride home from Kline Creek Farm, after a fun day devoid of violence, a young boy approached him.
Said Munro: “He said, ‘This was the best day of my life.’“ Which beats any best day on the golf course.
On the bus ride to Klein Creek, two girls asked where they were going that day. Munro said West Chicago. One girl asked if West Chicago is the same as Chicago. He told her no, that it’s about 30 miles west.
“The girls both laughed,” Munro. “They said, ‘Good, then we won’t get shot.’
That’s kind of what you’re dealing with. There’s a lot of anger and a lot of fear in these kids. It’s not a safe area [where they live]. This fear of getting hurt, or killed, is real. It’s always in the back of their minds. So whatever we can do to eliminate that fear, even for a portion of the day, I think goes a long way toward improving their mental well-being.”
Munro was 10 when his father, Bill, died unexpectedly. His mother, Mary, lived to the age of 95.
“He used to transport under-privileged kids to church every Sunday for years and years,” Munro said of his father. “And my mother was the nicest person I knew.”
Like father and mother, like son. So now Munro gives back and keeps giving
with a heart bigger than his old White Pines Golf Dome, which he owned for 24 years and once dwarfed all things around it at 500 W. Jefferson St. in Bensenville. The dome is long gone, but golf is forever. It welcomes all, no matter one’s age or background.
“I think part of what Mike’s doing is helping and finding yet another way that golf can be a benefit to the community,” said Ed Stevenson, a longtime friend of Munro and who’s director of golf at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.
Stevenson worked with Munro to bring his program to the driving range at The Preserve of Oak Meadows, and it turned out to be an annual excursion. He also knows Munro from being on the board of
the Illinois Junior Golf Association, which like Munro’s Aspiring Youth of Chicago endeavor, recognizes the importance of working with other entities to help grow the game and introduce it to different areas and populations.
“As golfers, we know that the game of golf is special,” Stevenson said. “We see how it can inspire and motivate people.”
“There are a lot of kids from the city who are learning golf and who are really enjoying it, and they want to play more,” Munro said. “This year we’re trying to get them on a golf course. Some of these kids have never been out of the Austin neighborhood.”
James, the precocious teen, boasts he scored the highest in his ninth-grade class on the ACT for math and science.
He sees a shot — a shot to escape to a world less violence, through golf.
He plans to keep carrying sticks at OPCC, which offers caddies an opportunity to earn full scholarships through the renowned Evans Scholarship Foundation. Maybe other kids living in the Austin neighborhood or other dangerous ones nearby will follow his lead.
“One reason I plan on sticking at Oak Park Country Club is because of the Evans scholarship,” James said. “If my grades stay this good, I’m kind of planning on being an engineer.”
The opportunity for him, and other inner-city youths, awaits.
To learn more about Aspiring Youth of Chicago, contact Mike Munro at mmunrogolf@aol.com.
Stephen Hawk
Eric and Amy Gale are the owners and sole full-time employees of Anchored Roots, Door County, Wisconsin’s newest winery, founded in 2020.
The couple make an ideal front-ofhouse/back-of-house duo. Amy grew up in Milwaukee, with hospitality at the forefront of her career path. Her initial focus was event planning, from non-profit fundraisers and catering, to corporate events and weddings. This was followed by experience in tasting room management at Airfield Estates in Prosser, Washington.
Eric was born and raised in Luxemburg, Wisconsin. Perhaps predictably, while he was growing up he worked summers at a neighbor’s 60-head dairy farm. However, his academic bent led him to a Bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in chemistry. He then pursued a Masters in Viticulture at Washington State University. After graduation, he landed a job at Chateau Ste. Michelle, Washington state’s oldest winery. His primary responsibility was overseeing the Cold Creek vineyard, Ste. Michelle’s first, originally planted in 1972.
Although their lives in the wine world were nurtured in Washington, when they decided to open a winery of their own, Wisconsin beckoned. As Wisconsin natives, they both grew up spending time on the Door Peninsula with families and friends, and they felt that the story of Door County terroir was worth telling.
Eric believes that 80 to 90 percent of a wine’s quality resides in the grapes. He sources his from growers in northeastern Wisconsin as well as from growers he worked with while in Washington. However, because of his commitment to local sourcing as well as transit challenges, Anchored Roots also has a six and a half acre estate vineyard where he is experimenting with a dozen cold-weather varietals. The first planting in 2020 of three acres of vines included Marquette, Frontenac, Itasca, St. Croix, St. Pepin, Petite Pearl, La Crescent, and Louise Swenson. In 2021, an additional three acres were planted with Adalmiina,
Frontenac Gris, and L’Acadie Blanc, as well as an expansion of the Itasca, Marquette, and Petite Pearl blocks. In 2023, came a half-acre planting of Frontenac Blanc. Eric expects his first estate harvest in the fall of 2024.
A voracious reader, Eric is largely self-taught as a winemaker. This has freed him from many of the hide-bound traditions and prescriptions of the wine industry. The winery is steam sanitized, reflecting his commitment to cleanliness. He practices dry farming, which simply means growing grapes without adding additional water. This requires both patience and nerve, as the grower is at the mercy of natural precipitation. He relies on Integrated Pest Management, also known as integrated pest control, a broad-based approach that integrates both chemical and non-chemical practices for economic control of pests. The winery uses no capsules on the bottles, as Eric feels this is both a needless waste and expense.
reduces transit costs. Traditional barrel staves are about 35″ long, but since the Squarrel staves are 14″ long they are essentially scraps from the barrel-making process, further reducing costs.
Eric states that the Squarrel offers the best of both worlds for a small producer. It is much more cost-effective than a traditional barrel (the infinitely reusable frame is about half the cost of a barrel), but offers more integrated oak texture and flavor than wood chips, especially because the staves can be custom toasted.
Moving forward, the Gales plan to invest in even more innovative winery
Perhaps Eric’s biggest innovation is in the use of wood in his winemaking. Because new oak barrels can cost $1400 or more and are only used three or four times, many small wineries use wood chips for aging their wines, or forego wood entirely. However, Eric uses Squarrels, a rather goofy yet apt name for a product from the Minnetonka Brewing and Equipment Company.
The Squarrel is a reusable square stainless-steel frame that uses individually-cut flat staves. The staves are American White Oak or French Oak (although there are plans to offer additional species), in cross-cut or uncut wood, and four toast, or char, levels. Replacement staves are delivered in shoebox-like shipments, which greatly
equipment, to expand the vineyard acreage, and explore new varietals, especially those suited for sparkling wines.
Anchored Roots “The Summit” Red Blend 2018
This wine is a blend of 76% Syrah, Eric’s favorite varietal, and 24% Merlot, both from Washington’s Columbia Valley AVA. In the glass it is a moderately transparent deep red, with a tinge of brick on the edges. The subtle nose features dark fruit. On the palate, there is an intentional Old World restraint, offering flavors of black currant, violet, cocoa, black pepper, and oak. The savory profile is supported by gravelly tannins. ABV is 14.2%.
For more about Anchored Roots wines and many other wine and spirits reviews, be sure to visit www.winervana.com.
I’m Seeing Green Spring is here and fragrance fills the air. The Augusta Azalea gift set could be the perfect gift for that special gal. The set includes a magnetic microfiber towel, waterproof accessory bag and a reversible fleece fabric golf cart seat cover. All adorning the Augusta Azalea floral pattern, this set will be sure to turn some heads. www.birdiegirlgolf.com $139
Spring Showers
BLUNT Umbrellas offer sun or rain coverage with convenience. The compact, lightweight umbrellas come in over 25 colors. The Metro UV model offers a UPF rating of 50+ so you can stroll the fairways in style and confidence. With over 39” of coverage, yet small enough to fit in your bag, you might struggle choosing just one. www.bluntumbrellas.com $99
The Kalea Gold Spider S Putter is turning heads. Not you while you’re putting though. The aluminum body provides a flat stick that is high in MOI and consistent and trusted with results.
The TPU Pure Roll insert creates a softer feel. Look good while sporting confidence and sinking more putts. www.taylormadegolf.com $279.99
The REVA golf ball by Callaway provides an oversized core that promotes lower spin. Does anybody remember the Magna golf ball from 20 years ago? What this ball lacks in compression (30) it makes up in performance.
www.callawaygolf.com $24.99
It’s All About the Children RJ Stevens youth golf accessory brand offers towels, gloves, putter and driver headcovers. The fun and playful designs were created to engage and fuel junior golfers’ passion for the sport. Their mission is “to spark a lifelong passion in sports for the next generation of young athletes”. Kudos. www.rjstevens.com
The OG signature glove in green is a perfect complement to your spring attire. Made of 100% cabretta leather and offering increased air flow via perfectly placed perforations, this glove is bound to be your go-to this spring. www.gfore.com $38
Chicago-born Little Sundays Golf offers personalized canvas golf bags for young golfers. Their goal is to have families embrace the joy of golfing together. LSG also offers shirts and hats to round out their wardrobe. A bag that is as unique as their swing. www.littlesundaysgolf.com
Greg Johnson
You’ll barely even need a map to make the 360-mile trip from Chicago to your ultimate golf getaway. It only takes a few turns from Chicago to find the Gaylord Golf Mecca’s collection of destination golf in the heart of northern Michigan. An easy route taking I-94, U.S. 131 and finally M-32 rolls you right into America’s Summer Golf Mecca.
“I think the Chicago-area golfer realizes they can make it here in part of a day, and then they find a quantity of quality golf courses and great lodging options at prices more affordable than other destinations,” says Paul Beachnau, executive director of the unique cooperative marketing group of 17 courses and 20 lodging partners. “If they time it right, they can squeeze in a round on the same day they arrive, too.”
The Mecca group attends the golf show in Chicago each year and directs marketing dollars to the Windy City, too.
“Chicago is one of our top markets, and seems to keep growing for us,” Beachnau says. “Our website is visited by golfers from the Chicago area on a regular basis. They know us, visit us often and recognize a great value when they see it.”
Located in the Eastern Time Zone, the Mecca offers long getaway summer days with play until 9 p.m. or later, and in comfortable average temperatures in the mid-70s across a great green expanse. They have been doing it for 38 years with cooperation, vision, investment and hard work. The goal: To be the premier U.S. summer golf destination with all price points and levels of luxury requested or required.
“The real reason the Mecca works and continues to grow is a really great group of owners, managers and golf professionals who have vision and believe in working together in destination marketing,” says Beachnau, the Mecca leader since its inception in 1987.
“We keep getting better, too. You continue to see Mecca members improve their golf courses and properties with renovations, and investment in additions and facilities. Chicago golfers know quality
in golf, they find a great deal of it here and they are surprised, I think, most of all at the affordability.”
J.T. Aude is the head golf professional at Gaylord Golf Club, one of the original Mecca members that last summer celebrated 100 years as a club and over 50 years at its current site. He says his course, just one of the offerings of the Mecca, promises a country club experience for the day, including greens that compare with top private courses in the Midwest.
Together we all strive to offer quality and quantity. We have unmatched price points, getaway golf, classic golf, resort golf, great country-club style golf and some of the best-conditioned courses in the country.
“Just come check us out,” he says. “It’s the thing we are known for. Golfers from everywhere, including Chicago, tell us we have the best greens in northern Michigan.”
Aude says the Mecca, which includes three flagship resorts in Treetops Resort, Otsego Resort and Garland Lodge & Golf Resort, and nine properties total, is unique because it’s a wide variety of partners who share the same goal of getting golfers to the Gaylord area.
“Together we all strive to offer quality and quantity. Together, we have unmatched price points, getaway golf, classic golf, resort golf, great country-club style golf and some of the best-conditioned courses in the country. While we are competitors, we know what’s best for all of us is to work together to be the best summer golf destination we can be,” he says.
The Mecca’s quality and quantity includes:
Black Bear Golf, a new Mecca member in 2025, with new owners that have renovated and revitalized this scenic property.
Black Lake Golf Club with its award-winning Rees Jones-designed golf course.
Gaylord Golf Club with its classic pristine greens that have charmed golfers for decades.
Garland Lodge & Golf Resort, which is home to four golf courses and is in year 74 as a destination.
Indian River Golf Club, a 100-year classic which bills itself accurately as the friendliest golf course in the north.
Lakes of the North Golf Course provides a get-away-from-it-all spot with an affordable hidden-gem golf course.
The Pines Golf Course at Michaywe, which has been a home of classic and competitive golf for 52 years.
Otsego Resort, which is continuing multi-million-dollar improvements and features two courses, including the highly acclaimed Tribute Golf Course.
And Treetops Resort, with its unmatched five golf courses including the only Tom Fazio design in Michigan and the famous Rick Smith-designed Threetops par-3 course.
Golfers from the Chicago area who prefer not to drive have options, too. The Mecca partners with the Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, which has opened new national markets and has multiple direct flights to and from Chicago.
“It’s a quick flight from Chicago to Traverse City, then a scenic drive of about an hour,” Beachnau says.
Gaylord, fondly known as the Alpine Village, started its journey to being a U.S. golf destination in 1987. Harry Melling, a flamboyant auto industry supplier and NASCAR team owner who had earlier purchased a ski resort on the edge of town, unveiled the Masterpiece, the last major golf course design by the legendary architect, Robert Trent Jones Sr.
The award-winning work by Jones attracted golfers to Treetops Resort, but also quickly put Gaylord in the national golf conversation as a must-stop in the Midwest.
When golfers stop, they find uncommon variety in golf fashioned by not only Jones, but multiple highly regarded architects, including Tom Fazio, whose only Michigan design – the Premier – is at Treetops.
Rick Smith, best known for working on the swings of Phil Mickelson and several other top pros, picked the brains of Jones and Fazio when he was the director of golf at Treetops and then designed Signature, Tradition and Threetops.
Wilfred Reid, a Michigan Golf Hall of Fame member who designed over 20 courses in the state, as well as the Olympic Club in San Francisco, did original design work that remains a part of the classic Indian River Golf Club, since redesigned by Warner Bowen.
Rees Jones, one of Robert Trent Jones’ sons, created one of his personal favorites and an award-winning course at Black Lake Golf Club.
Rick Robbins and PGA Tour player and NBC golf analyst Gary Koch built
The Tribute at Otsego Resort, a tribute to northern Michigan golf and vistas.
The list goes on and the golf they created is just three turns from Chicago in a peaceful, tranquil setting. “It’s an easy trip for Chicago
drivers, and they like what they find,” Beachnau says.
Check out www.gaylordgolfmecca. com or call 800-345-8621 and get help planning. Check flights at www.tvcairport. com. Or drive … it’s only a few turns.
Since opening in the mid-1990s, Harborside International has been a premier spot to tee it up in the Chicagoland area. While it helps to have 36 holes of championship-style golf, proximity to the city of Chicago has always been a major plus for Harborside. Which is why if golf enthusiasts are in town to catch any of our great city’s summer attractions, the Port and Starboard courses call their names. Both courses were designed by the masterful Dick Nugent, who aimed to bring links golf to the Chicago area. As years have gone by, Nugent’s Harborside designs are no-brainers when outlets compile their top course lists for Illinois, public or private. If you’ve played at Harborside (which I hope you have) you’ll know that the challenging layouts, visible skyline, Todd Mrowice
and the way the wind blows in from the lake makes it a truly special place.
“If you haven’t visited Harborside lately, you can expect a meticulously maintained course that continues to uphold its reputation as one of Chicago’s best public golf facilities,” said General Manager, TJ Wydner.
In 2025, the aforementioned Port Course celebrates its 30th anniversary of being on our local golf scene. There are 18 holes of some of the most strategic shots you’ll play, paired with undulating fairways and some incredibly deep bunkers. The Port Course is a fun day on the links, but your round can go awry in moments. That’s not to say the layout isn’t fair. The par 3s can play long, but you’ll likely find them to be manageable if you hit them in regulation.
Perhaps the best closing stretch of holes in our area starts on hole No. 15, which is a par 3 with Harborside’s famous “anchor bunker.” The stretch concludes with one of my all-time favorites, as hole No. 18 just begs you to hit it left into hazards for over 500 yards.
“The Port Course epitomizes Chicago’s premier public golf experience, blending challenging links-style play with unparalleled views of the city skyline,” said Wydner. “It’s where golfers come to test their skills against a backdrop that’s as iconic as it is exhilarating.”
What better time to head to the Dick Nugent layout than during the Port’s 30th anniversary?
www.harborsidegolf.com
Abbey Springs
262-275-6113
One Country Club Dr. Fontana, WI 53125 abbeysprings.org
Abbey Springs has been rated 4.5 Stars by Golf Digest. With spectacular views of Geneva Lake, Abbey Springs underwent a major green renovation in 2021, featuring state of the art 007 bent grass on all greens. Make your reservation at the web site above.
Arrowhead Golf Club
630-653-5800
26W151 Butterfield Rd. Wheaton, IL 60189 arrowheadgolfclub.org
Arrowhead Golf Club is recognized for its beautifully maintained course and inviting atmosphere.
Arrowhead is a public course which offers impeccable golfing conditions at affordable rates on three separate par-72 18-hole layouts surrounded by forest preserve. The West, East, and South Courses feature new bunker renovations and enhancements. The practice area includes a lighted driving range, putting green, and chipping green. Group and individual golf lessons are available.
The Bluffs
Public Golf Club
815-467-7888
24355 W. Bluff Rd. Channahon, IL 60410 heritagebluffs.com
18 Holes: Par 72
Yardage: 5,035 - 7,171
Located near the intersection of Interstates 80 and 55 just south of Joliet, Heritage Bluffs is the pride of the Channahon Park District. The tranquil surroundings make a day playing golf fun and relaxing.
Along with our award-winning course we also feature a large all-grass practice range, along with a large putting green and a separate chipping green and bunker. After your round you can relax in our Grille Room or out on the patio, enjoying a full menu of delicious food and beverage choices.
Balmoral Woods Golf Club
708-672-7448
26732 S. Balmoral Woods Dr. Crete, IL 60417
balmoralwoods.com
Balmoral Woods offers a demanding, superbly conditioned, magnificent round of golf. Laid out over 280 acres of wooded, rolling hills, the course will test the skill of golfers with its 6700-yard, 72.6 rated, 133-slope layout. It is a public 18-hole golf course, has hosted many local and state events and tournaments, and is the annual home of the Will County Amateur Championship. Check out our website for new rates, reservations, and more information. Follow us on instagram for the latest updates and events.
Bullseye Golf Club
715-423-2225
2800 Ridgewood Trail Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 bullseyegolfclub.com
Designed by Larry Packard featuring towering pines giving a feel of the Carolinas right in Central Wisconsin. The Wisconsin River provides a picturesque view for the finishing holes across our rolling terrain. Warm up before your round on our new 30,000 sq. ft. bent grass practice tee!
Belmont Golf Club
630-963-1306
2420 Haddow Ave. Downers Grove, IL 60515 belmontgolfclub.org
The historic Belmont Golf Club is a scenic 9-hole par-36 course featuring mature trees, natural areas, elevation, and water hazards. A driving range with 24 hitting stations, a practice putting green, sand trap, and chipping area includes a 10-station covered shelter.
Cantigny Golf
630-668-8463
27W270 Mack Rd. Wheaton, IL 60189 cantignygolf.com
Part of the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, Cantigny Golf opened in 1989 and is managed by KemperSports. A renovation of Cantigny’s highly rated 27 holes begins in June 2025 with the Hillside nine, followed by the Woodside and Lakeside nines. Eighteen holes will remain open for play throughout the three-year project. Cantigny Golf Academy offers TrackMan Range technology, installed in 2023, plus club fitting and repair services, junior clinics, private lessons and climate-controlled hitting bays. Cantigny Youth Links is a 9-hole, par-3 course for families.
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club
866-264-4455
12294 Archer Ave. Palos Park, IL 60439 coghillgolf.com
Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, a Jemsek Golf Facility, is a historic 72-hole public golf facility located 30 miles southwest of Chicago. The yearround facility includes a driving range equipped with lights and heated Toptracer stalls, two golf shops, patio dining, and a pavilion for events, along with a 280-seat banquet hall.
• Rated in“America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses” by Golf Digest
• 2020 GRAA Top 50 Public Range in the Nation
Fox Bend Golf Course
630-554-3939
3516 Route 34
Oswego, IL 60543
foxbendgolfcourse.com
Fox Bend Golf Course, Oswegoland Park District’s fun and challenging public course, boasts plush fairways, mature trees, and challenging greens. This 6,925-yard par-72 course tests skills of all levels with well-positioned bunkers and water in play on 11 holes. Fox Bend has hosted three Illinois Opens, USGA Qualifiers, Illinois State Amateur Qualifiers, and is home to the annual Fox Bend Amateur. Visit foxbendgolfcourse.com for more information or to book your next tee time. Visit Christina’s Pub & Grill before or after your round to enjoy spacious outdoor seating with great course views and American fare done right!
Golf Factory
224-248-8163
63 Randhurst Village Dr. Mt Prospect, IL 60056 golffactory.golf
The Golf Factory is a 9000-square-foot indoor golf haven created by golfers for golfers. Our vibrant space boasts top-tier indoor golf technology, including 10 state-of-the-art Trackman golf simulators. With over 350 golf courses, games, video, and practice modes, our facility caters to everyone from beginners to seasoned players. Apart from personal enjoyment, Golf Factory is an ideal venue for parties and corporate events,.
Fountain Hills Golf Club
708-388-4653
12601 S. Kedzie Ave. Alsip, IL. 60803 alsipparks.org
Fountain Hills Golf Club is a par- 36 9-hole layout measuring 3,233 yards. It has a nice collection of golf holes, unique in character and strategy, making this course playable for the beginning golfer, with plenty of interest and challenge for the experienced player.
Additional amenities include a 30-station lighted driving range, practice putting green, sand trap, and chipping area, along with a 100-seat banquet hall. After your round unwind at our BackNine restaurant and bar.
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
262-248-8811
7036 Grand Geneva Way Lake Geneva, WI 53147 grandgeneva.com
Tee off on two award-winning 18-hole courses that make Grand Geneva Resort & Spa one of the Midwest’s favorite golf destinations. Enjoy individual tee times offering dynamic pricing, private instruction led by certified PGA staff and fully customized group outings.
717-745-8524
goforitgolf.com
The RightSize Adjustable Putter is the ultimate all-in-one club for kids and families. With its patented extendable shaft, it grows with your child, eliminating the need for multiple putters. Perfect for mini golf, the basement, or the course. It’s fun, durable, and easy to use!
The Golf Facility
708-694-4014
19031 Old LaGrange Rd. Suite 200
Mokena, IL. 60448
thegolffacility.com
Golf Facility is an indoor golf club located in Mokena, Illinois, that hosts eight golf simulator bays powered by Foresight Sport’s GC Hawk and FSX Play sim courses, a 750 square foot putting green powered by Puttview, a golf instruction room powered by V1 Sports high speed cameras, and V1 Sports teaching software. Finally, we host a state-of-the-art putting fitting studio powered by Quintic who offers the #1 launch monitor for putting in the world. We have it all to grow your golf game of any level!
Harborside International Golf Club
312-782-7837
11001 S. Doty Ave. East Chicago, IL 60628
harborsidegolf.com
Harborside International Golf Center, home to the Port & Starboard Courses, is Chicago’s home for golf. Located minutes from Chicago’s Loop, Harborside offers a premier golf experience in the Chicagoland area. Harborside is the only facility with two of Golfweek ’s “Best Courses You Can Play in Illinois” and is home to an expansive practice facility. Harborside is owned by the Illinois International Port District and managed by KemperSports.
Heritage Oaks Golf Club
847-291-2351
3535 Dundee Rd. Northbrook, IL 60623 heritageoaksgc.com
Conveniently located between the Edens Expressway and Interstate 294, 30 minutes north of Chicago. Featuring 27 holes of tree-lined golf, a practice range equipped with TrackMan® technology, our golf academy, and indoor golf simulators, Heritage Oaks offers something for everyone. With the elevated Acorn Grill + Terrace overlooking courses certified by the National Audubon Society, Heritage Oaks Golf Club welcomes you for golf, for a meal, or for a timeless experience.
The Highlands of Elgin
847-931-5950
875 Sports Way Elgin, IL 60123
highlandsofelgin.com
The Highlands of Elgin has become a premier destination for thousands of golfers throughout the region. Nine new holes reclaim an old stone quarry, and take maximum advantage of the unique and dramatic landforms that were left behind, including a twelve-acre quarry lake. Four holes hug the top of the bluff thirty to forty feet above the water, providing golfers with incredible views and numerous shot options on each hole. The prairie-style clubhouse features an expanded golf shop, locker rooms, event rooms, and a full-scale food and beverage operation.
Naperbrook Golf Course
630-378-4215
22204 W. 111th St. / Hassert Blvd. Plainfield, IL 60585 golfnaperville.org
Located in Plainfield, scenic Naperbrook Golf Course is a “links style” course that features rolling hills and wide fairways. Challenges in the way of ponds, a double green, and hidden bunkers await golfers of all levels. Additional amenities include a recently updated and expanded practice area featuring a one-acre turf range tee, large practice green, and practice bunker. Enjoy post-game refreshments on the picturesque patio. Naperbrook also offers lessons, outings, a well-stocked golf shop, and much more.
Kankakee Elks
Country Club
815-937-9547
2283 Bittersweet Dr. Saint Anne, IL 60964
elksgolf627.com
The Kankakee Elks Country Club is an 18-hole par-72 course. It is one of Illinois’ premier Langford @ Moreau design courses, featuring some of the best green complexes in Illinois, 40 miles south of Chicago along the beautiful Kankakee River with very affordable rates. Chose from one of our four tees to accommodate all levels of play.
Driving range, chipping area, and putting green with newly remodeled bar and snack shop.
Bay Resort and Marina
608-339-2090 ext. 2 1844 20th Avenue Arkdale, WI 54613 northernbayresort.com
Play where the pros play. Experience our unique replica golf course inspired by the most celebrated holes in the game and situated on the shores of Castle Rock Lake.
Northern Bay offers all the amenities of a Wisconsin Dells resort without all the hustle and bustle. Bring your golf buddies to play our one-of-a-kind replica course, or relax around the lake with your family. However you choose to stay, we look forward to greeting you at Northern Bay. Get started and book your tee time.
Lake Arrowhead
715-325-2929
1195 Apache Lane Nekoosa, WI 54457 lakearrowheadgolf.com
Located in the heart of Central Wisconsin, Lake Arrowhead boasts two of the Midwest’s elite 18-hole golf courses. Here you have the rare opportunity to enjoy not just one, but two 4½ star championship golf courses in one incredible experience.
The Golf Courses of Lawsonia
920-294-3320
W2615 S. Valley View Dr. Green Lake, WI 54941 lawsonwia.com
The Golf Courses of Lawsonia offers two distinctly different 18-hole layouts of magnificent design, astounding panoramas, and unmatched beauty. Experience the award-winning Links Course and charming Woodlands Course for yourself. Stay & Play packages with on-site lodging are available.
Pine Meadow Golf Club
847-566-4653
1 Pine Meadow Ln. Mundelein, IL 60060 pinemeadowgc.com
Pine Meadow Golf Club is known for our beautiful 220 acres of fairways, greens, pine trees, and meadow areas. Golfers of all abilities and ages enjoy the serene setting and fun playable design of the “Pine.”
The Pine, due to its challenging design, has been host to all types of competitive events ranging from PGA Jr. League, to Men’s and Women’s State Ams, to Illinois PGA Championships.
This is truly a golf facility for everyone.
PrairieView Golf Club
815-234-4653
6734 N. German Church Rd. Byron, IL 61010
prairieviewgolf.com
Recognized by many suburban golfers as a hidden gem, PrairieView Golf Club boasts beautiful views of restored dolomite prairie land that is well worth a short drive west out to Bryon, Ill. (south of Rockford). With challenging greens, dramatic bunkering, and supreme conditioning, the course will test the skills and nerves of every golfer. PrairieView is also home to PrairieFire Golf & Grill, a year-round Toptracer Range® with heated bays, lounge seating, and great food and drink selections.
Purdue’s Ackerman-Allen Course
765-494-3139
West Lafayette, IN purduegolf.com
The Ackerman-Allen Course, a Pete Dye design, is an 18hole, parkland-style, par-72 championship golf course featuring large bent-grass greens, fairways and tees. The layout presents a challenge for golfers of all abilities with rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, white sand bunkers, and minimal water hazards. Ackerman-Allen offers five sets of tees with the championship tees playing over 7,500 yards and the forward tees playing at 5,300 yards.
Purdue’s Kampen-Cosler Course
765-494-3139
West Lafayette, IN purduegolf.com
The Kampen-Cosler Course, a Pete Dye design, is an 18-hole, links-style, par-72 championship course features large bent-grass greens, fairways, and tees. The layout is a challenge for golfers of all abilities with vast sand bunkers, native grasslands, ponds, and a natural celery bog. There are five sets of tees with the championship tees playing over 7,400 yards and the forward tees at 5,300 yards.
The Sanctuary Golf Course
815-462-4653 (GOLF) 485 North Marley Rd. New Lennox, IL 60451 golfsanctuary.com
Explore The Sanctuary Golf Course. Spanning 6,900 yards it offers a challenging experience. Also available is the Toptracer practice facility with 20 heated bays, along with a 30-station grass area and state-of-the-art short game and putting green. Unwind after your round at our Bunker Bar and Grill.
The Shack Indoor Golf
847-904-2905
1717 Chestnut Ave. Glenview, IL 60025 theshackgolfclub.com
The Shack Indoor Golf Club features TrackMan® simulator technology for an immersive golf experience. Enjoy delicious food and drinks from our full bar while practicing your swing. Perfect for socializing or improving your game, come and tee off at our state-of-the-art facility.
Kampen-Cosler, one of the top collegiate courses in the nation, has been awarded 4.5 stars on Golf Digest ’s “Places to Play.” It receives high marks as one of the most difficult golf courses in Indiana.
Springbrook Golf Course
630-848-5060
2220 W. 83rd St. Naperville, IL 60564 golfnaperville.org
Springbrook GC commands some of the finest views of Naperville’s open space and trails. This 18-hole parkland-style championship course was renovated in 2022, and is expected to reopen in mid-year of 2023 with exciting updates including new tees and bunkers. Work on your swing at the one-acre turf practice tee, or fine tune your short game at the large practice putting green or two short-game practice greens with bunkers. Enjoy post-game refreshments on the expansive patio with great views of the course. Springbrook also offers lessons, outings, a well-stocked golf shop, and more.
Stonewall Orchard Golf Club
847-740-4890 25675 W. Highway 60 Grayslake, IL 60030 stonewallorchard.com
Cutting through hundredyear-old oak and pine trees, Stonewall Orchard Golf Club has quickly become one of Chicago’s most prolific public golf courses.
Since opening in 1999, the Arthur Hills-designed gem located in northwest suburban Grayslake has served as Final Stage Qualifying site for the U.S. Open, and currently sits in rotation with Olympia Fields and Medinah Country Club as host site for the Illinois PGA Section Championship held every Spring 1.
Sand Valley
888-398-8671
1697 Leopold Way Nekoosa, WI 54457 sandvalley.com
Sand Valley is known for its three award-winning golf courses, Sand Valley, Mammoth Dunes, and the Sandbox, which were modeled after the great heathland courses of London. Enjoy dramatic views, a magnitude of strategic playing options, modern lodging, and a culinary experience to match.
Tam O’Shanter Golf Course & Learning Center
847-965-2344
6700 W. Howard St. Niles, IL 60714
golftam.com
One of the most important courses in popularizing the game of golf in America is located right here in Niles. In 1953, Tam O’Shanter Country Club hosted the first-ever nationally televised golf tournament. Today, a public 9-hole par-33 course remains, maintained with the goal of providing playing conditions reminiscent of those Hogan, Palmer, and Nicklaus enjoyed years ago. Swing out for a scenic round and walk in the footsteps of legends at Tam O’Shanter! Year-round instruction available!
University Ridge Golf Course
608-845-7700
9002 County Rd. PD Madison, WI 53593
universityridge.com
University Ridge is home to the University of Wisconsin Men’s & Women’s Golf Teams. Since 2016, University Ridge has been the host site of the PGA Tour Champions, American Family Insurance Championship, which is hosted by Ryder Cup Captain Steve Stricker. Play where the Badgers and the Pros play! University Ridge!
White Pines Golf Club
630-766-0304
500 W. Jefferson
Bensenville, IL 60106
whitepinesgolf.com
Whitetail Ridge Golf Club
630-882-8988
7671 Clubhouse Dr. Yorkville, IL 60560
Willow Hill Golf Course
847-480-7888
1350 Willow Road Northbrook, IL 60062
willowhillgolfcourse.com
Wilmette Golf Club
847-256-9777
3900 Fairway Dr. Wilmette, IL 60091 golfwilmette.com
Wilmette Golf Club is the closest 18-hole facility north of Chicago. This par-70 course will test all skill levels with the purest greens on the North Shore. A 30-station driving range and large putting green are available for working on your game. Enjoy a drink or dinner on the patio overlooking the 18th green at The Lawn. Contact us directly to book your next outing or special event. Take advantage of tee time specials by booking online at golfwilmette.com
The White Pines Golf Club’s two 18-hole championship courses, situated on more than 260 acres, have been a favorite among Chicago area golfers since 1928. The public course, owned and operated by the Bensenville Park District, is an excellent choice for players of all skill levels. Whether it’s an evening at the lighted driving range, a casual round with friends, an outing or special event, White Pines Golf Club offers the perfect setting to get “away from it all.” Enjoy food and drink at 37 Bar & Grill. Take advantage of Monday-Thursday tee time specials and book online.
X-Golf Libertyville
224-504-2940
1177 S. Milwaukee Ave. Libertyville, IL 60048
xgolf-libertyville.com
We spent 15 years engineering, learning from golf experts, and creating a simulator of unparalleled accuracy. The result?
A completely new experience that lets golfers play on the world’s top courses, compete in a wide variety of game formats, and of course – enjoy some of the best golf they’ve ever played in a high-energy indoor entertainment facility. Whether a tee time or PGA Professional lesson, X-Golf has it all: a full bar with beer and cocktails, shareable appetizers, and courses designed for all ages and levels from amateurs to professionals.
whitetailridgegc.com
Experience a “tail” of two Nines at Whitetail Ridge Golf Club. Our Front Nine flows through a beautiful valley featuring a creek that splits through its relatively flat landscape. Our Back Nine begins on #10 with a climb up the slopes and follows the rolling hills into some towering trees. Finish your day in The Persimmon Room. This newly renovated space features an indoor/outdoor dining area with shareable dishes, scratchmade entrees, an extensive list of bourbons and whiskey, and the most spectacular sunsets around!
X-Golf Orland Park
708-966-0486
15876 S. LaGrange Rd. Orland Park, IL 60462
xgolforlandpark.com
We offer eight state-of-the-art simulators which are designed for golfers at all stages of their game. Whether you want to sharpen your game to gain that competitive edge or are just starting out and want to learn new skills without battling the outdoors, this is the place for you. The simulators can give you data about your swing and ball striking to improve your game and along with that, we can help you take your game to the next level by having a PGA-qualified Professional on our team.
Willow Hill Golf Course is a Scottish links-style par 35 9-hole course with amazing views of Chicago’s skyline and breathtaking sunsets. The course and clubhouse have recently undergone major renovations. New tee boxes and renovated bunkers have been added throughout. A brand new 35-station all grass driving range is scheduled to open in late spring of 2025. Expansive new patios surround the clubhouse and a new kitchen ensures that after your round, you can enjoy a drink and delicious food from our new restaurant, Landmark on the Hill!
X-Golf Schaumburg
847-380-1848
1100 American Ln. Schaumburg, IL 60173
xgolf-schaumburg.com
We spent 15 years engineering, learning from golf experts, and creating a simulator of unparalleled accuracy. The result?
A completely new experience that lets golfers play on the world’s top courses, compete in a wide variety of game formats, and of course – enjoy some of the best golf they’ve ever played in a high-energy indoor entertainment facility. Whether a tee time or PGA Professional lesson, X-Golf has it all: a full bar with beer and cocktails, shareable appetizers, and courses designed for all ages and levels from amateurs to professionals.
WJoanne Levine
hen the storied Masters golf tournament began its 89th edition on April 10 at Augusta National, Chicago filmmaker Maryilene Blondell – who never knew much about golf –might not have been watching, but she has forged an enduring bond with one of its legendary figures: caddie Carl Jackson.
People who know the name know Jackson was “on the bag” for Ben Crenshaw when he won the Masters in 1986 and 1995. Blondell’s internationally award-winning 2024 film, “Rise Above: The Carl Jackson Story,” lets the veteran caddie step out of Augusta’s and Crenshaw’s shadows and into the limelight.
How Blondell, whose expansive career has ranged from TV news to nonprofits to social and environmental activism to feature film, made Jackson’s acquaintance and came to write, direct and produce a documentary (her first) about him, sounds like Kismet. And it has blossomed into a friendship that transcends age, race and geography.
“That’s how America ought to be,” Jackson, now 78, says in the film.
Carl Jackson grew up adjacent to the course in the poverty-stricken African American enclave of Sand Hill and caddied at Augusta National for more than 50 years. His career began at age 11, when he dropped out of school and joined his Sand Hill neighbors as a caddie at Augusta National to support his family of 10. At the time, all of Augusta’s caddies were African American and wore the iconic white coveralls.
Learning at the knee of Pappy Stokes, who was on the Augusta National construction crew, young Carl soon became the leading expert at reading Augusta’s devilishly tricky greens. He first teamed with Ben Crenshaw in 1976 and, together, they won two Masters.
Jackson not only became the longest serving caddie in Augusta National history, he also worked 30 years for Jack Stephens, one of the wealthiest men in America at the time and chairman of Augusta National. Jackson moved with his family to Little Rock, Arkansas, where Stephens ran a major private investment bank. Stephens invited Jackson to play
Jackson not only became the longestserving caddie in Augusta National history, he also was the first Black nonprofessional to play Augusta and the first to stay in one of Augusta’s 12 guest cabins.
Augusta as his guest, making him the first Black nonprofessional to play Augusta and the first to stay in one of Augusta’s 12 guest cabins.
Jackson retired in 2015, and all his stories went with him. Then, about seven years ago, Blondell got a phone call that would eventually set the documentary in motion.
“A friend of mine was friends with Carl’s brother, Jimmy,” she recalls. “Carl had signed an entertainment contract for an independent production company to make a feature film about his life starring Denzel Washington.
“It was a typical Hollywood flim-flam deal, and I helped Carl get out of it. I didn’t know him, or much anything about golf, but we became close friends after that.
“You should tell your story; I kept saying to him.”
A few years later, Jackson told her that he had decided to do so, and Blondell said, “Good for you, Carl. I’m thrilled.”
“And,” Jackson continued, “you’re the one to tell it.”
“I said, ‘Mr. Jackson, you've got the wrong woman. You need a nice Southern lady who will tell a little story about tee shots, not an Irish woman from Chicago who has only golfed twice and feels strongly that your story is more than just golf.’
“But when Mr. Jackson tells you to do something, you do it.”
If anyone had reason to be filled with rage and anger over racism and poverty, it was Carl. “But he wanted to tell a love story, an inspiring story, a story to bring people together, not tear them apart,” Blondell says.
She had never made a documentary before. “They’re very difficult to make. In a feature film or TV show, the script is the guardrail that keeps the project on track. In a documentary, you have an idea, you start interviewing, and then all of a sudden, the story takes very unexpected twists and turns.”
And as with all productions, “it all boils down to money.” This is where Kismet came into play again, when a Chicago financier, Paul Purcell, called her and said, “I hear you’re making a documentary about my friend Mr. Jackson. If he says he believes in you, I believe in you. What do you need?”
“The remarkable thing about Paul is that he had never done anything in entertainment,” Blondell says. “There would not be a ‘Rise Above’ without Paul Purcell. Period.”
Since its release, “Rise Above: The Carl Jackson Story” has been a 10-time Official Selection in film festivals worldwide and won Best Documentary Feature at the Cannes Indie International Film Festival in 2024. Now streaming on Apple+ and Prime Video, it is touching viewers from all walks of life, not just those within the golf community.
Blondell says she hasn’t really been surprised at the reception the film has received.
“Here’s what I know,” she says. “In a world that seems to be falling apart and 100 percent of the people I know are distraught, confused and angry in a land of chaos, negativity and disrespect, I believed in my heart that people needed a message of kindness, gentleness, humility and love.
“That is Mr. Jackson's story and I am humbled to have had the privilege of telling it."
More golf than ever, find it at Sand Valley.