Tri-State Golf Magazine Fall 2023 Issue

PA • NJ • DE Region’s Most Read Golf Publication

TriState.Golf

Fall 2023

sweet home ALABAMA

More Than Just A Song Or A Movie!

Situated in Pennsylvania’s majestic Laurel Highlands, you will discover a golfer’s paradise at the always-adventurous Nemacolin.

Nemacolin presents two breathtaking courses designed by the legendary Pete Dye: Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock, delivering thrilling shot values, sweeping mountain views, and esteemed recognition.

Golf Digest 2022 Best Golf Resorts in the Mid-Atlantic Golfweek 2022 #1 & #5 Best Courses You Can Play in Pennsylvania Golf Digest 2022 Editors’ Choice: Best Golf Schools & Academies Sharpen your skills at The Nemacolin Golf Academy, where expert instruction, state-of-the-art technology, custom fittings, and multi-day bootcamps improve your game.

Book an ultimate getaway to this incomparable destination for golf, spa, world-class cuisine, art, wine, and all-season adventure. Your trip of a lifetime awaits!

All experiences are exclusive to overnight guests and members.

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Come Play The Links

McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links Home to one of the ‘18 Most Fun Holes in America’ –Golf Digest Located just outside of Atlantic City & Ocean City NJ! McCulloughsGolf.com 609 926 3900 3016 Ocean Heights Ave Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234

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C O U R S E

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE • FALL 2023 10 COVER STORY

Sweet Home Alabama

More Than Just A Song Or A Movie

FROM THE PUBLISHER

GREEN GRASS ACCOUNTS JOE BURKHARDT

14 USGA Tournament News

2024 U.S. Women’s Open Weekly & 2034 Curtis Cup

17 Golf Eyewear

ADVERTISING SALES (PA / NJ / DE / NATIONAL)

Revo– Unmatched Excellence In Eye Protection And Style

ART DIRECTOR

Harbor Shores Golf Club Honored as One of Golf Digest’s

JOE BURKHARDT 610.755.8767 tristategolf@gmail.com

GARO YEPREMIAN JR.

18 Course News

“America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses”

GAROJRDESIGN.COM

STAFF WRITER

NATE OXMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

MATT BIONDI JIM BRINCKMAN DAVE DAUBERT MARK HOGAN MIKE MAY WAYNE MILLS TOM MCNICHOL AL RYDING MATT WARD GARO YEPREMIAN JR. SOCIAL MEDIA

MARC BURKHARDT

19 Golf Tech

Blue Tees Golf Announces Preorder Dates For

GPS Touch Speaker — Player+

21 Golf Shops

Hey, King of Prussia: Topgolf Opens

22 Course News

BOYNE Golf to Open Highlands 9-Hole Short Course

and Himalayan-Style Putting Course In 2024

23 Golf Equipment

Bonfit Announces The Rebranding Of Brush-T

STAFF TEACHER

BERTUS WESSELS CONTRIBUTING ASSOCIATIONS

BIONDI MEDIA GOLF NEWS NETWORK KEVIN FRISCH PR LET’S GO GOLF TRAVEL NETWORK LPGA PGA OF AMERICA USGA TriStateGolfer.net

PO BOX 341 DREXEL HILL, PA 19026 Any opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the views of Tri State Golf. The information in this issue was accurate at the time of publication. All should be confirmed with the golf facility before making tee times and reservations.

25 Day Trippin’

The Pennsylvania Poconos is the Place to Beat the Heat

26 Course News

Shangri-La Resort Names Lance Funderburk General Manager

27 Golf Charity News

God’s Love We Deliver’s 1st Annual Golf, Tennis,

& Pickleball Outing A Great Success

32 Georgia Golf Travel

Golfers Are Headin’ For The Hills In Georgia

48 Scotland Golf Travel

Experience Panmure Golf Club On Your Next Scotland Golf Trip

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COVER STORY

Sweet Home Alabama

S

weet Home Alabama is more than just a song or a movie, although they both certainly evoke the spirit of the beautiful state. It’s also a mantra for the hard-working, friendly folks that travelers encounter along the way. From the bagboys and beverage cart girls on the world-class golf courses to the servers and chefs in the award-winning restaurants, visitors are made to feel right at home, ensuring that time spent in Alabama is as sweet as the tea.

Sweet Home Alabama is a golfing destination unlike any other, as home to the original golf trail, modern and historic golf resorts, and over 32 miles of sugarwhite beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. Both the incomparable Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and the Arnold Palmer-designed Craft Farms Resort in Gulf Shores put Alabama on the radar of traveling golf groups more than two decades ago. The ensuing years have upgraded the state’s position on all types of vacation bucket lists by spawning award-winning hotels, spas, and luxurious resorts; exciting craft breweries with medal-quality beers; world-renowned bass fishing events and red snapper rodeos; and a thriving culinary scene, ranging from fresh Gulf seafood and a unique BBQ Trail to James Beard-recognized chefs and restaurants.

Just a few of the golf resorts that make Alabama so special are Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa in Birmingham, boasting an RTJ Golf Trail golf course, luxurious spa and delectable dining; Pursell Farms just 45 minutes south of Birmingham, which is a unique golf resort with lodging options ranging from a brandnew boutique inn, 4 bedroom golf cottages and an 8 bedroom lodge, along with the award-winning Farmlinks golf course; the century-and-a-half-old Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa on Mobile Bay, considered the “queen of Southern resorts;” and Kiva Dunes in Gulf Shores, Alabama’s only gulffront golf resort offering a Jerry Patedesigned course, clubhouse and fairway condominiums, as well as beach homes to rent.

Here’s a snapshot of some of the golfing locales in the state to allow you to create a custom golf vacation to Sweet Home Alabama.

10 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

US Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville

Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa in Florence/Muscle Shoals

Huntsville is a great place to start your Alabama golf journey, as the most northern location of the golf trail and home to the US Space & Rocket Center. But there’s also two more trails to enjoy while in the Rocket City.

Wet your whistle on either the Downtown Huntsville Craft Beer Trail or the Craft Cocktail Trail, both with ten stops. Lodging

options range from convenient hotels near golf to upscale accommodations downtown.

Just west of Huntsville is one of the newer locations of the Trail. The Shoals area consists of the river town of Florence and Muscle Shoals, the “hit recording capital of the world.” The RTJ Golf Trail at The Shoals

offers 36 holes and a luxurious Marriott Resort both located right on the Tennessee River, although on different sides. Music lovers flock to the studios where so many great songs were recorded, foodies enjoy the variety of restaurants and golfers love the challenge of the courses.

Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort in Gulf Shores

Alabama’s largest city, Birmingham is home to two RTJ Golf Trail sites (Ross Bridge and Oxmoor Valley) and the state’s most luxurious golf resort at Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa, plus the Barber Vintage Motor Sports Museum, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, James Beard Award winning/nominated chefs and restaurants, four craft breweries and exciting nightlife options that only a city this size can offer. You can choose to stay on-site at Ross Bridge, at an historic downtown hotel, a boutique inn or any number of convenient branded hotels.

The sister cities of Auburn-Opelika combine to create the coolest college town and one of the most intriguing small towns in the South. It’s also home to Robert Trent Jones’ favorite location on his trail. The RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National boast 54 holes of scenic and challenging golf along a gleaming lake. These two small towns have an abundance of great eateries too, plus the Red Clay Brewery and the awardwinning John Emerald Distilling Company are located in historic downtown Opelika.

Your overnight choices include the onsite Marriott Golf Resort & Spa at Grand National, the on-campus Auburn University Hotel and a bunch of hotels and B&Bs scattered around.

RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National in Auburn-Opelika Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

11

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa in Birmingham

you stay at either the historic Renaissance Battle House Hotel & Spa or the Renaissance Riverview Plaza, both part of the RTJ Golf Trail collection of hotels and resorts.

specialize in everything from fresh Gulf seafood to sweet Alabama BBQ. And don’t forget to wash down your meal and end your day with a cold beer at Big Beach Brewing Company or an infamous bushwacker (aka adult milkshake) at the legendary FloraBama Lounge & Oyster Bar. At the end of the night, you’ll want a comfy place to lay your head and fortunately Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have an outstanding selection of accommodations from hi-rise condos and colorful beach houses to nationally-branded hotels and resorts.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are home to 32 miles of white sandy beaches that line the pristine turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Add the nine premier golf courses to the numerous adventurous activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking and biking, and you’ll find there’s more to this small beach town than meets the eye. Then, after a full day of fun in the sun you can grab a hearty meal at one of the many locally-owned restaurants that

Sky-high Dining overlooking Mobile Bay

Resort Pool Complex at Marriott Grand National in Auburn-Opelika

Once called the Paris of the South, Mobile has long been the cultural center of the Gulf Coast and you’ll find an authentic experience like nowhere else in the southern United States. As the birthplace of America’s original Mardi Gras, a good time is easy to find in this port city. Attractions include the USS Alabama Battleship, Bellingrath Gardens & Home, riverboat dinner cruises, the Dauphin Street entertainment district and a couple of craft breweries. Not only is the RTJ Golf Trail’s most southern stop, the 54-hole Magnolia Grove, in Mobile, but there are several other challenging courses to keep you in town a bit longer. And choosing to stay longer will be easier when

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, with its eight hotels/resorts and 26 courses at 11 sites around the state, and Coastal Alabama Golf, the booking entity for the Gulf ShoresOrange Beach area, are eager to put together customized golf packages for your foursome or group.

Check out GolfAlabama.org for more information on how you can make Sweet Home Alabama your next golf destination or visit RTJGolf.com and CoastalAlabamaGolf.com to book today.

TSG

RTJ Golf Trail at Magnolia Grove in Mobile

12 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

Direct Flights from Philadelphia (PHL) to Birmingham (BHM) and Pensacola/Gulf Shores (PNS)

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

13

USGA TOURNAMENT NEWS

2024 U.S. Women’s Open Weekly Ticket Packages Now Available

79th U.S. Women’s Open Will Be Contested At Lancaster Country Club From May 27-June 2, 2024

While the world’s best compete for the biggest prize in women’s golf at Pebble Beach Golf Links from July 6-9, fans can purchase weekly ticket packages for their chance to experience next year’s U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster (Pa.) Country Club from May 28-June 2, 2024.

Starting at $150, various weekly ticket options and exclusive packages are available, including Gallery, 1761 Club, Penn Club and Gallery Flex 5-Package, and juniors aged 17 and under can request a complimentary gallery ticket for any day of the event at the Ticket Office with a ticketed or credentialed adult.

“Since we left Lancaster Country Club following the record breaking U.S. Women’s Open in 2015, we’ve been looking forward to bringing the best players in the women’s game back to this community,” said John Bodenhamer, USGA chief

championships officer. “This championship and the players were truly embraced by the fans eight years ago, and the venue produced one of the most exciting U.S. Women’s Opens, which is sure to be the case again next year.”

Ticket options include: Gallery Pass: Gallery passes offer access to the grounds for fans to experience all the action while following the world’s best players as they battle for the game’s biggest prize. Package includes one Gallery Ticket each day (Tuesday-Sunday) of the championship, general admission to the grounds, grandstand seating and complementary parking and shuttle service to and from the course. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on site.

1761 Club: The 1761 Club offers access to a premium experience where fans can enjoy all the action in a sports bar and lounge atmosphere that includes a variety of seating options, upgraded food and beverage for sale, live television coverage throughout the facility and executive restroom facilities. This indoor, climate-controlled facility also has additional outdoor space and seating.

1761 Club tickets also include all access offered by a Gallery Ticket.

Penn Club: The Penn Club, located on the 12th hole, is our most prestigious ticket package and includes a premium climate-controlled facility

with a variety of seating options, all-inclusive food and beverage experience including complimentary open-bar service, as well as upgraded restroom facilities. Penn Club tickets also include all access offered by a Gallery Ticket.

Gallery Flex 5-Package: The flex booking options provide fans five daily gallery tickets that can be used any day (Tuesday-Sunday) of the championship. General admission to the grounds, grandstand seating and complementary parking and shuttle service to and from the course are included. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on site.

Next year will mark the second U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club following the 2015 championship which set records for both player entries (since broken) and attendance. In Gee Chun claimed the 70th U.S. Women’s Open with an improbable final-round performance that included three consecutive birdies from No. 15 to edge fellow countrywoman and 54-hole leader Amy Yang by one stroke.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit uswomensopen.com.

Pine Valley Golf Club To Host 2034 Curtis Cup Match

Renowned Club Will Host Its Third USGA Championship And First Since 1985 Pine Valley Golf Club, in Pine Hill, N.J., will host the 2034 Curtis Cup Match, the United States Golf Association (USGA) announced today. The venerable golf club has previously hosted the 1936 and 1985 Walker Cup Matches.

“We are committed to bringing our championships to the finest golf courses in the country, and over the last several years, that commitment has only strengthened for our women’s championships,” said Mike Whan, CEO of the USGA. “That is why, on the eve of a monumental first U.S. Women’s Open at Pebble Beach, this is a fitting and historic announcement for the Curtis Cup and the USGA.” Pine Valley, which began in 1913 and was completed in 1922, was designed by George Arthur Crump, who died in 1918. For his one and only design, Crump consulted experienced architects such as Harry Colt, A.W. Tillinghast, Donald Ross, Hugh Wilson, George C. Thomas Jr. and Walter Travis to conceptualize the course, which from the beginning has been widely considered the greatest architecture in America.

14 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

“Pine Valley was founded with the mission of celebrating the best in amateur golf,” said club president Jim Davis, “so it’s only natural that we’d want to host the premier event bringing together the best women amateurs of Great Britain, Ireland and the United States. The membership cherishes our heritage with the Walker Cup and now looks forward to creating the same kind of history with the 2034 Curtis Cup.” Captained by Francis Ouimet, the USA Team won the 1936 Walker Cup Match at Pine Valley in dominant fashion, blanking their Great Britain & Ireland opponents, 9-0. The USA claimed the 1985 Match by a narrow 13-11 margin, with a team featuring playing captain Jay Sigel and future PGA Tour winners Davis Love III, Scott Verplank and Duffy Waldorf.

The 2034 Curtis Cup Match will be the 64th USGA championship held in the state of New Jersey, fourth-most among all states. The Garden State last hosted the 2022 U.S. Amateur at The Ridgewood Countr y Club in Paramus, won by Sam Bennett.

The Curtis Cup Match, jointly run by the USGA and The R&A, is contested by two teams of eight female amateur players, one from the USA and one from Great Britain and Ireland. It consists of six foursomes (alternate-shot) matches, six four-ball matches and eight singles matches over three days of competition. The USA leads the overall series, 31-8-3.

The 43rd Curtis Cup Match will be played Aug. 30-Sept. 1, 2024, at Sunningdale, England, while the 44th Match will be played at Bel-Air Country Club in Los Angeles from June 12-14, 2026.

To learn more, visit usga.org.

Kimberton Golf Club

Built In 1961 By Famous Golf Architect George Fazio– First Design, Par 70

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(Located just 20 minutes from King Of Prussia)

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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GOLF EYEWEAR

Revo Sunglasses

Unmatched Excellence In Eye Protection And Style Lightweight and Comfortable: Despite their robust build, REVO sunglasses are remarkably lightweight, providing a comfortable fit for extended wear. The frames are ergonomically designed to sit comfortably on various face shapes and sizes.

Stylish Designs: REVO’s commitment to fashion-forward designs has made their sunglasses a staple accessory for trendsetters and fashion enthusiasts alike. From classic aviators to modern wraparound styles, REVO offers a diverse range of designs to suit every taste.

Annika Sorenstam

By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher

W

hen it comes to sunglasses, there is no shortage of options available in the market. However, for those seeking the epitome of eye protection, style, and performance, look no further than REVO sunglasses. Renowned for their innovative technology, superior lens quality, and iconic designs, REVO has consistently set the benchmark for the best sunglasses available. In this comprehensive review, we explore the reasons why REVO sunglasses stand out among the competition.

Advanced Lens Technology: REVO utilizes cutting-edge lens technology that provides unparalleled visual clarity and comfort. Their high-contrast polarized lenses eliminate glare and reduce eye strain, making them ideal for outdoor activities like driving, sports, and water-based adventures.

Versatility: Whether you’re engaging in outdoor sports, driving, or simply strolling through the city, REVO sunglasses are adaptable to any situation. Their versatility makes them a reliable choice for every activity.

Scratch-Resistant Coating: REVO’s lenses are treated with a scratch-resistant coating, ensuring your sunglasses stay pristine even after extensive use.

Water and Oil Resistance: REVO’s lenses also have water and oil-resistant properties, making them easy to clean and maintain.

Unmatched Clarity: The crystal-clear optics of REVO lenses provide sharp and vivid visuals, enhancing your overall experience in any environment.

Trusted by Professionals: REVO sunglasses have gained the trust and endorsement of professional athletes, outdoor adventurers, and even NASA astronauts, who rely on their

Revo Descend Pro

exceptional performance and protection in extreme conditions.

Warranty and Customer Service: REVO stands by the quality of its products, offering generous warranties and excellent customer service to ensure customer satisfaction.

In conclusion, REVO sunglasses have earned their reputation as the best in the market due to their cutting-edge technology, superior eye protection, and timeless style.

With REVO, you can confidently step into the sunlight, knowing your eyes are shielded by the pinnacle of sunglass innovation. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or making a fashion statement, REVO sunglasses are the ultimate choice for those seeking the best in eye protection and style. TSG

UV Protection: Protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is of paramount importance, and REVO excels in this area. Their lenses offer full UVA, UVB, and UVC protection, safeguarding your eyes from potential sun-related damage.

Durability: REVO constructs their sunglasses with top-quality materials, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle. Whether you’re hiking rugged terrain or hitting the beach, REVO sunglasses are built to last.

Nic Roldan Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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COURSE NEWS

Harbor Shores Golf Club Honored as One of Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses”

Jack Nicklaus Signature Design Earns Prestigious Recognition For The First Time And Moves Up Six Spots On The Best In State List Harbor Shores Golf Club, Southwest Michigan’s premier lakefront Jack Nicklaus Signature designed golf course, has been ranked – for the first time ever – on Golf Digest’s biennial list of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses.” The course came in at No. 90 on the prestigious list, and also moved up six spots to No. 19 on Michigan’s Best in State list.

The celebrated 18-hole layout, part of the Harbor Shores Resort, has also hosted the oldest senior major championship, Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid, every other year since 2012.

The championship will return to Harbor Shores Golf Club in 2024.

The publication’s biennial review of America’s top public courses appears in the recent July/August 2023 issue. Golf Digest used more than 1,100 members of its Course Ranking Panel and asked each to submit ballots based on seven criteria including shot values, resistance to scoring, design variety, memorability, aesthetics, conditioning, and ambience.

“To be ranked among America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses by Golf Digest is tremendous honor, and a testament to the unforgettable design that Jack Nicklaus created and the brilliant playing conditions our team maintains daily,” said Joshua Doxtator, PGA/General Manager. “We are very grateful that Golf Digest course raters appreciate the uniqueness and integrity of this layout and the overall experience we provide our guests.”

Harbor Shores Golf Club has become a must-play among Midwest destinations, courtesy of a captivating layout that winds through a variety of stunning landscapes at the convergence of the Lake Michigan shoreline and the meandering Paw Paw River. Nicklaus’ engaging routing reveals a commitment to naturalism and letting the flow and contour of the land dictate the aesthetics and playability. He boldly tabbed the course as one of his 18 favorite designs of all time.

18 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

Nicklaus crafted a thoughtful, engaging routing that runs over four remarkably diverse terrains in a spectacular topographical locale. The beginning six holes meander the Inland terrain through beautiful wetland areas. Holes 7-9 wind along a dramatic exposed dunes-scape with awe-inspiring views of Lake Michigan.

Holes 10-13 play through woodlands terrain and wind through rolling hills, ravines, and a hardwood forest. The finishing holes, 14 through 18, border the Paw Paw River, Ox Creek and its wetlands, providing scenic and exciting shot values, like the views into the greens at 14 and 15 over the Paw Paw River. The par-4 18th finishes along a serene stretch of the stunning river in a well-treed hollow.

This Nicklaus Signature design is also the centerpiece of a massive development that changed the landscape of the Benton Harbor community. During World War II, local Whirlpool plants and factories were transformed into F.D.R.’s arsenal of democracy, manufacturing components for fighter planes. The city then evolved into a vibrant manufacturing center in the 1950’s and 1960’s, only to see it all disappear over

the next 20 years - prompting community leaders to recognize that change was desperately needed. Over the past decade, revitalized areas and multi-purpose developments have sprung up around the course, including multiple residential communities and a luxurious riverside boutique hotel.

When planning a stay, the new Champions Villa is a perfect space for 4-8 golfers. It’s conveniently located along the first fairway right next to the clubhouse.

This 2,000-square-foot, 4-bedroom/4bath unit exemplifies golf luxury.

Another excellent option for lodging is the beautiful Inn at Harbor Shores, a 92room luxury hotel on the St. Joseph River.

It features 14 luxury suites, two top-floor condominiums, a rooftop meeting space, and a wide selection of dining options such as Plank’s Tavern on the Water, Torch & Tapas, and Rise & Vine. Make sure to check out the Champions Package that includes two nights lodging plus unlimited golf for four guests.

To s che du le your own golf getaway to Harbor Shores, visit www. harborshoresresort.com.

GOLF TECH

Blue Tees Golf Announces Preorder Dates For GPS Touch Speaker — Player+

The Player+ Golf Speaker Is A Category Leader With Superior Visual, Audio, And Touch Sensor GPS Screen

HERO AND SENIORS RATES! Central Bucks Location 1-1/2 miles from Rt 263 & York Road Intersection 440 Almshouse Rd, Jamison, PA 18929

www.NeshaminyGolf.com • 215.343.6930

Stop by the Charles Schneider Clubroom for a Cold Drink, Hot Dog or Freshly Made Sandwich!

Call or Book Tee Times Online 215 343 6930 www.NeshaminyGolf.com

Blue Tees Golf, the market leader in golf technology, is thrilled to unveil the preorder dates for the NEW Player+ GPS Speaker.

This device is designed and engineered to redefine and elevate the golfing experience for all golfers.

Blue Tees Golf is offering the opportunity to preorder the Player+ GPS Speaker to secure delivery of the first shipment. Ever since its debut at the PGA Show, the demand for this innovative device has been immense.

Preorders for the Player+ GPS Speaker will open on July 21, 2023, at 8:00 am (PST). The Pre-Order price is set at $199.

“After conducting extensive market research, we set out to create a golf GPS speaker that surpasses all others with its intentional design and engineering. Our goal was to deliver a product that stands out from the competition, and we’re proud to say that the feedback from testers has placed us firmly at the forefront of the market. There’s simply nothing else like it.,” said Chris Markham, CEO of Blue Tees Golf. “We spared no expense in crafting a truly remarkable golf GPS speaker. Our dedication is evident in the incorporation of an optically bonded glass touch screen, multiple informative screens with access to 40,000+ courses accessible with a simple swipe, and sound quality that rivals the very best speakers in the market.”

The Player+ GPS Speaker combines smart technology with premium audio to create an immersive sound experience. Not only does it serve as a high-quality speaker for music, but it also provides audible distances, thanks to its sleek touch screen display. The Player+ GPS Speaker can be paired with multiple speakers simultaneously, boasts an ultra-strong magnet for easy attachment to any golf cart, includes a built-in USB-C power bank, and is fully IPX7 waterproof.

For more information: www.blueteesgolf.com / Instagram: @blueteesgolf Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

SINGLES CAN WALK ON

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Inniscrone is calling...

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20 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

Hole #11, Par 3

GOLF SHOPS

Hey, King of Prussia: Topgolf Opens SPECIALIZING IN TOTAL BODY FLEXIBILITY AND MOBILITY Tired of waking up stiff and/or suffering with daily Modern Golf Entertainment Leader Topgolf Announced Today It Will Open Its King Of Prussia, PA, Venue On Monday, June 19.

aches and pains? Restore Movement sessions are meant to find the root cause of your muscle pain or

THE BASICS: • Never been to a Topgolf venue? Think of it as a modern golf experience where anyone – including people who have never picked up a golf club and those who want to perfect their swing – can participate in the sport in a relaxed, no-pressure environment. You’ll take aim at giant targets on the field while playing virtual courses or Topgolf’s signature games like Angry Birds – and so you know, Topgolf celebrates the bad shots just as much as the beautiful swings.

joint stiffness, and help you move better and pain

• Located at 588 North Gulph Road, Topgolf King of Prussia will be situated near the King of Prussia shopping mall, King of Prussia Town Center and the Village at Valley Forge.

rid the body of aches and pains, and prevent injuries,

• This will be Topgolf ’s third entertainment venue in Pennsylvania, following venues in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

• Globally, this will be Topgolf’s 89th outdoor venue when it opens on June 19.

• The venue will employ roughly 400 Playmakers. (That’s what Topgolf calls its Associates!)

100% GOLF: • Topgolf King of Prussia will have 102 outdoor climate-controlled hitting bays spanning three levels. Each bay has lounge-type furniture or hightop tables where groups can cheer – or heckle – the other Players.

• The venue is equipped with Topgolf’s Toptracer technology, which traces each golf ball’s flight path, distance and other metrics.

free. Sessions begin with Hypervolt massage, followed by assisted stretching and a functional exercise program. R|M is a health and wellness clinic for individuals looking to increase flexibility, while simultaneously creating a healthy lifestyle.

SERVICES • MOVEMENT ANALYSIS & CONSULTATION • TOTAL BODY RESTORE • 25 MINUTE EXPRESS • PERSONAL TRAINING • WARM UP AND RECOVERY • CORPORATE WELLNESS

• Bonus: On Tuesdays, game play is half-off!

• Players can even partake in lessons through Topgolf’s Coach program, led by the venue’s Director of Instruction.

JENNIFER NOLL

100% NOT GOLF: • Topgolf takes its “not golf” very seriously. That’s why a full-service restaurant manned by executive chefs, a 28-foot video wall, more than 200 HDTVs, music and year-round family-friendly programming is just as much a part of the Topgolf experience.

OWNER, PRACTITIONER

484 372 3633

• Private event rooms and an outdoor area with backyard games also offer the ideal location for team outings, family gatherings, meetings or really anything Players are looking to celebrate.

WHAT SHE SAID: • Topgolf Chief Operating Officer Gen Gray: “We want to bring more play to the world and are thrilled that King of Prussia is our next place to be able to do that. It’s not about how good you are at golf or if you even know how to hold a club – we can help with that. We just want you to have a good time.”

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf 21

contact@restoremvmt.com 121 N Wayne Ave #101, Wayne PA 19087

1

RestoreMvmt.com

COURSE NEWS

BOYNE Golf to Open Highlands 9-Hole Short Course and Himalayan-Style Putting Course In 2024 BOYNE Golf in scenic Northern Michigan, one of North America’s largest golf and resort destinations, is proud to announce that construction is underway on a Ray Hearn-designed 9-hole short course and an adjacent Himalayan-style putting course near its Main Lodge at The Highlands resort property.

This fun, ultra-inclusive short course design, the 11th course at the Northern Michigan based resort, represents a piece of BOYNE Golf ’s long-term vision to meet the resort’s growth needs by developing several short courses at its various locations nationwide. Golf ’s blossoming popularity over the past few years has brought experienced golfers out more often, brought back many who have left the game, and attracted many newcomers.

As a result, many popular golf destinations around North America have introduced upscale short courses, to complement the championship courses already on property.

“Short courses have been gaining in popularity since they increase the opportunities to enjoy the game for everyone. Non-golfers and families can enjoy it as an activity while avid golfers can play few more holes without playing another 18, since fun is paramount to the experience,” says Josh Richter, Senior Vice-President of Golf Operations for Boyne Resorts. “The new short course at The Highlands will add an entirely new dimension to our portfolio. We have plans to build short courses at our other facilities in upcoming years, as well.”

Hearn, a renowned Michigan golf course architect, was a natural fit to work with BOYNE Golf teams on the design for this new golf experience. Over the past several years, he has worked closely with BOYNE Golf and developed a trust modernizing its classic course designs while respecting the original architect’s philosophy and making them more enjoyable golf experiences.

“Designing and building the short course with Stephen Kircher, Bernie Friedrich, Furness Golf and the BOYNE team has been an exciting project to be a

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part of and it will be fun to watch all the varying skill levels of golfers having fun playing the game on this unique course built into the side of the ski hill,” said Hearn. “My favorite part of the project are the famous approximate green complexes I was able to create. Drawing inspiration from some of my favorite greens in Scotland, Ireland, and America (Eden, Punch Bowl, Short, Redan, Reverse Redan, Partial Volcano, Steep Slope, Postage Stamp, and Biarritz) that I have played and studied over the years. I was able to create fun, ‘kinda-sorta’ scaled-down versions of the originals and route them along the ski slope with uphill, downhill, and sidehill holes creating some thrilling golf shots.”

This new yet-to-be-named short course will be lit for nighttime rounds and is located on the site of the former Cuff Links nine-hole par-3 course. It’s designed to first and foremost be fun and allow golfers of all levels to enjoy the experience. Each golfer can determine the level of challenge that suits them for that round. The course will feature downhill, flat, uphill and sidehill fairway lies, generally moving horizontally back and forth across the slope.

Two to three fairway options are available for each hole. Shorter-length options offer fewer hazards in the line of play and longer options offer more hazards

and strategic risks. Additionally, there will be only two heights of grass (green and fairway) surrounded by a sparse fescue secondary rough grass. The greens will feature a slight flavor of some of Hearn’s favorite greens from the British Isles. All skill levels will enjoy playing this course.

Likewise, the new Himalayan-style, nine-hole putting course is being designed to be fun for golf-a-holics and non-golfers alike. The undulations will challenge and entertain all ages in a relaxed setting. The correct “aiming point” will often not be the straightest.

Construction on the new short course began in mid-July and is expected to be completed by the fall of 2023. The planned course opening will be in the spring of 2024.

Learn more at BOYNEGolf.com.

GOLF EQUIPMENT

Bonfit Announces The Rebranding Of Brush-T

brush-T Continues To Be The Performance Bristle Golf Tee

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brush-t by Bonfit America, Inc., the first innovative performance bristle golf tee, is proud to announce that the company has rebranded the brush-t website, collateral materials, and assets. brush-t by Bonfit is an international business with global distribution. In 2002, brush-t was established in the United States and exhibited at the 2003 PGA Show in Orlando. Since its inception, brush-t has been the category leader for performance bristle golf tees. Through the years, the award-winning bristle golf tee brand demographic changed. The new influx of golfers buying brush-t are younger, and new to the game. The brand needed a change to appeal to the new customer.

“We’re thrilled to make this announcement. Jacob Steckmann, our brand manager, has worked diligently to rebrand the brush-t website and maintain its core identity,” said Bonfit President Paul Krok. “We think he’s done a great job and we hope you will feel the same.”

The new website can be found at www.brusht.com. When you visit the new site, you will see that Steckmann took on a more contemporary approach.

His photographs, fonts, and copy are crisp, fresh, and bold, much like brush-t.

“I’m excited for people to see the new look and feel of brush-t,” said Steckmann. “And we will continue to roll out the rebrand with new projects, packaging and testing data that is sure to impress golfers.”

The award-winning high-performance brush-t with its proprietary FastFlex bristle design reduces resistance at impact, restores stolen velocity which allows the ball to travel the maximum distance. It also eliminates deflection to ensure greater accuracy. The brush-t base is inserted into the ground at the same height for ongoing consistency. Some think it provides an unfair advantage, but the brush-t conforms to the rules of the USGA and the Royal and Ancient Golf Society at St. Andrews.

Independent testing on brush-t vs a wooden tee was performed in San Diego, California using the Iron Byron Swing Tester. The results proved that brush-t adds between 3.2 to 7 yards to driving distances and eliminates 2% deflection for enhanced accuracy as compared to a wooden tee. Three leading golf manufacturers’ equipment was used in the test and contributed to the distance variance.

There are four brush-t models: 3 Wood - 2” / Driver - 2.2” / Oversize 2/4” / XLT - 3.1/8” All can be purchased at these golf specialty stores: Roger Dunn Golf Shops, Golf Galaxy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, or Edwin Watts, and online at www.brusht.com or www.amazon.com.

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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24 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

DAY TRIPPIN’

The Pennsylvania Poconos Is The Place To Beat The Heat

By Dave Daubert, Contributing Writer

A

bout 90 miles north of Philadelphia and about the same distance west of Metropolitan New York City you will find the ideal recreational area for yearround fun. Snuggled away in Northeastern Pennsylvania is the Poconos, a four-county collection of resorts and places to stay and play. Be it winter sports like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fun slopes to downhill ski; autumn hunting and fishing while you enjoy the colorful transition of fall leaves; summer boating, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming the cool blue and pristine waterways throughout Carbon, Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties; and golf at the 30 odd golf courses and resort clubs almost year-round.

villages and towns to our next destination, Woodloch Resort in Hawley, where we stayed in two lovely 5 bedroom homes perfect for a buddies’ golf trip. Each bedroom had its own bathroom and each house had a great room, dining room and huge kitchen to accommodate all our goodies and drinks.

For someone who grew up near the Poconos in Allentown, Woodloch Resort was a complete surprise.

Woodloch Resort Jack Frost National

Earlier this summer I took a group of golf writers on a cross-section trip of some of the best the Poconos has to offer. We started at Terry LaGree’s artful design Jack Frost National Golf Club opened in 2007 in Blakeslee and has all the features you would want in a mountain course and none of the shortfalls. Here you can embrace the Pocono Mountains with all its magnificent vistas and elevation changes. Different than most mountain courses, Jack Frost National at 7200+ yards from the tips provides wide fairways, easily identified target areas, few uneven lies, and no blind shots. Before our round, Director of Instruction Ryan Kearn gave us an overview of the course while we enjoyed a light lunch in the new outdoor bar and pavilion. No homes, just flora and fauna.

The Jack Frost and Boulder Ski Resorts are nearby. To learn more or book a tee time please visit JackFrostNational.com.

We took a backroad ride through small

The sprawling resort which has three separate facilities covers 1200 acres and has something for everyone. The Lodge is a ‘Sanctuary for the Senses’ adults-only spa where guests go to decompress and renew. The Pines is the family resort area where most of the activities are found, and the Springs is the 500-acre home development complete with a Rocky Roquemore championship country club golf course under the direction of Director of Golf John Pillar. The Resort has been owned by the same folks for 65 years--the Kiesendahl family treats their guests, owners and staff like family, and their attention to detail shows with the Resort being voted the # 1 Family Resort for the third year in a row by USA Today.

After a challenging round at Woodloch with deer following us around the course, we drove east To the “Granddaddy” of the Poconos, The Shawnee Inn. The historical Inn has been the home of an A. W. Tillinghast designed golf course that plays along the Delaware River and continues onto an island with the river flowing on both sides after

Woodloch Golf

crossing a cart bridge. The parkland-style course is not the norm in the Poconos, but a nice change from the hills and valleys of the typical Pocono offerings. The Shawnee has been entertaining and playing host to the who’s who of celebrities since the beginning of the 20th century. Jackie Gleason learned the game here; Arnie met Winnie here; Sam Snead spent time as the pro. The likes of Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Lucille Ball, Perry Como, and many more came to the Shawnee for recreation and the cool summer nights.

The Shawnee continues to change with the times. There is a craft brewery on the property with outdoor seating and games for the whole family. Tom Doak completed a six-hole par 3 course to complement the championship course where Hale Irwin won his NCAA championship. Recently the Shawnee owners bought Great Bear Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus masterpiece, in nearby East Stroudsburg to give the Inn a new stay-and-play package.

No matter where you decide to go, warm hospitality and cool temperatures are a sure bet. So if you are sweltering in the city, take your game and family to the Poconos. You will love it!

Please visit PoconoMountains/things-todo/GOLF. TSG

The Shawnee Golf Resort

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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COURSE NEWS

Shangri-La Resort Names Lance Funderburk General Manager Lance Funderburk

Hospitality Industry Veteran Completes Journey “From The Hawaiian Islands To Monkey Island”

Shangri-La Resort, Oklahoma’s premier waterfront golf and outdoor recreation destination, has announced the hiring of hospitality veteran Lance Funderburk in the newly created position of General Manager.

“The addition of Lance Funderburk in this important leadership role represents a commitment to dramatically move our resort forward,” said Shangri-La Resort President & CEO Barry Willingham. “His 20-plus years of leadership experience in the hospitality industry provides our team with a seasoned veteran who has the skill set to step immediately into this vital spot to help us move our club forward as an even bigger tourism attraction for our region.”

Prior to joining the Shangri-La team, Funderburk served as Director of Operations at Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort on Grand Wailea Beach, Hawaii. In that position, he utilized his leadership and team-building skills to head all operations activities of the $1.2 billion resort, with oversight of approximately 1,500 employees.

A native of Macedonia, South Carolina, Funderburke served as a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, prior to beginning his hospitality career at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina. He has served in leadership roles at hotels and resorts in Maui, Honolulu, South Carolina, and Virginia Beach, expanding his skill set to encompass management and

26 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

oversight of the full slate of hotel operations.

His career has included key positions in a variety of hotels from privately owned facilities to major brands such as Wyndham, Starwood, Resort Trust, Diamond, and Hilton.

“Once I got here to meet with (Executive Chairman) Jason Sheffield and (President & CEO) Barry Willingham, it was the people who changed my mind. Riding from the Tulsa airport to Monkey Island with Barry, it was clear he and I share the same values and goals.

Everyone was so friendly, so nice, so genuine.

It’s a great culture. The Shangri-La team, the members, the guests and local residents – everyone seems to have everyone else’s best interest at heart,” Funderburk says. “With the marina, golf courses, the hotel, and The Anchor, there is so much to do and everything is so beautiful. I’m excited about the Shangri-La team and the tremendous opportunities ahead of us.”

Shangri-La’s visionary owner Gibbs has transformed the resort into the pride of Northeast Oklahoma and put the lakefront vacation oasis on the map nationally with an investment of more than $100 million into the property’s accommodations and upscale leisure amenities since taking it over in 2010.

Crescent Hotels & Resorts, the award winning, nationally recognized, operator of hotels and resorts with over 120 properties in the United States & Canada, recently added the

Shangri-La Resort & Marina to the growing list of properties Crescent manages under the Latitudes: Lifestyles Helen Georgiaby Crescent collection.

In addition to the 119-room resort hotel, an indoor pool, 6,500 square-foot outdoor resort pool with splash pad and tanning ledge, luxury spa, full-service marina on gleaming, 46,500-acre Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees, and six distinct dining and cocktails venues culminate in an unforgettable getaway for golfers, families, groups, corporate and association retreats, and weddings.

The revered 27-hole championship Shangri-La golf course meanders through rolling parkland landscapes with elevated Bentgrass greens and clever bunkering along with more open, flowing fairways accented by ponds, streams and the breathtaking lakefront.

The Anchor, an award-winning, two-yearold, six-acre indoor/outdoor activity park has basketball, tennis, pickleball, cornhole, and a unique “Mini-Fenway” WIFFLE®Ball park, as well as a catch-and-release fishing pond. The Anchor’s 11,000 square-foot indoor space offers traditional arcade games plus virtual reality games, a LaserShot shooting simulator, and Trackman Golf simulators. A popular spot for drinks and dining, the Sports Bar at The Anchor features dozens of sports screens including two giant video walls, along with ping-pong, pool, shuffleboard, darts, and foosball.

Visit shangrilaok.com for more information.

GOLF CHARITY NEWS

God’s Love We Deliver’s 1st Annual Golf, Tennis, & Pickleball Outing A Great Success The 1st annual God’s (GLO) Love Open, organized by God’s Love We Deliver, was played at famed Westchester Country Club on August 14 in Harrison, New York.

The club has hosted PGA Championships, U.S. Opens, Senior Player Championships, LPGA Championships, and most notably in the past, The Buick Classic. The tournament stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to fostering community engagement while raising crucial funds.

This event brought together supporters, donors, volunteers, and advocates for a day of camaraderie and philanthropy on the golf course. Participants had the opportunity to enjoy a round of golf while contributing to the noble cause of providing nutritious meals to those in need.

Beyond the provision of meals, the organization operates with a profound sense of empathy and solidarity. Volunteers and staff members engage with clients on a personal level, offering not just sustenance but also companionship and emotional support.

This holistic approach acknowledges the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of illness, contributing to the overall well-being of clients.

Founded in 1985 as a response to the AIDS crisis, God’s Love now serves more than 200 different diagnoses. God’s Love addresses food and nutrition insecurity, and supports the health and well-being of their clients, by providing ongoing nutrition assessment. education and counseling, advocating for food and nutrition support, and delivering medically tailored meals. God’s Love is a nonsectarian organization serving individuals living with illness, and their children and caregivers. This is a community with

thousands of volunteers that home-delivered more than 3.6 million medically tailored meals to nearly 13,000 individuals last year.

All services are free to clients and full of love.

Research shows that people on meal programs like God’s Love We Deliver experience 72% fewer emergency room visits and 70% fewer reductions in admissions to skilled nursing facilities. God’s Love We Deliver is the only food and nutrition service provider in the NYC area that serves the five boroughs of NYC, Westchester, Long Island, and Hudson County, NJ. The event was more than just a fundraiser; it was a celebration of the organization’s achievements and a reminder of the collective effort required to make a difference in the lives of others. Participants often include corporate partners, individual donors, and volunteers who share a common goal of alleviating the struggles faced by individuals with serious illnesses.

Since its inception, God’s Love We Deliver has been a beacon of compassion, dedicated to nourishing the lives of individuals who are battling severe illnesses. Founded on the principles of love, care, and community support, this remarkable organization has been a lifeline for countless individuals, ensuring they receive not only nutritious meals but also a sense of hope and companionship.

God’s Love We Deliver was established with a clear and unwavering mission: to improve the health and well-being of individuals suffering from serious illnesses by providing them with nutritious, tailor-made meals and a compassionate support system.

The organization’s commitment to preparing and delivering high-quality, medically tailored meals is rooted in the understanding that proper nutrition plays a vital role in the healing process. By offering meals designed

to meet the specific dietary needs of each individual, God’s Love We Deliver aims to alleviate some of the challenges that often accompany severe illnesses.

Please consider donating to this great cause, at www.glwd.org.

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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GOLF EQUIPMENT

Honma Golf Debuts 65th Anniversary BERES LADY GO Club Set

Women’s Beginner Set Shows Off Refined Styling, Practical Set-Up for Those New to the Game Honma G olf, the leader in stunning performance golf equipment, has introduced a special full set of BERES LADY GO clubs that commemorates the brand’s 65th anniversary.

The ready-to-go, 10-piece gameimprovement set – geared toward beginning female players – includes a driver, 5-wood, 25- and 28-degree utility clubs, irons (7-SW), a chipper and putter. This perfect package also includes with a matching cart bag, headcover, tote bag and shoes case – all accented in a beautiful Tiffany blue hue – to help take your game to the next level.

Available in a limited production, BERES LADY GO clubs are made and assembled at the Honma factory in Sakata, Japan. They’re ideal for lady golfers who want to improve their skills, those with a strong commitment to scoring, and beginners who want to begin playing golf in style with top-quality clubs that can help them improve quickly. All clubs are configured with the same design model, allowing you to hit with the same tempo and feel, making mishits less likely. And each club is exclusively designed, sized and weighted for women.

“Honma’s legacy of bringing the finestprecision, expertly crafted golf clubs to market for the game’s most discerning clientele has also always been about inclusion of every skill level and playability to match each golfer’s aspirations,” said Takahiro Suzuki, senior product marketing manager at Honma. “The BERES LADY GO set is a fun and timely offering that is presented as a limited edition to celebrate 65 years of Honma and look forward to everything Honma can be in the future for a full range of performance- and quality-minded golf consumers.”

The 12.5-degree, BERES LADY GO 460cc driver is a specially designed model that’s easy

28 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

to launch. Made of titanium, it has triple splitgroove slots positioned directly behind the center, toe and heel – to generate plenty of initial ball speed and powerful distance across the clubface by maximizing face deflection at impact. That also means a high level of forgiveness across the entire clubface. The low center of gravity also helps elevate shot trajectory and optimize spin – resulting in longer carry distance.

A 19-degree 5-wood features a low CG, shallow clubhead and large clubface area that all work in concert to give golfers confidence at address that the ball can be easily lifted into the air for higher and longer shots.

Then there are the wood-like, shallowbacked utility clubs that each sport a deep CG. A sole 12-gram sole weight helps raise shot trajectory, while the slightly curved leading edge along the sole eases alignment and also makes for smoother turf interaction.

Low-CG cavity-back irons sport a wide sole, to help maximize forgiveness and a high launch. A deep CG and the bottom cavity thickness also contribute to a higher ball trajectory. The sole shape – chamfered along the toe and heel – helps glide through thicker rough, so that shots get airborne with distance more easily. The increased clubface area helps expand the rebound area, which results in an enlarged repulsion area and longer distance. To boot, Honma used maraging stainless steel in the clubface, which helped strengthen the face and reduce its thickness so that it can flex more at impact and generate additional distance.

Honma’s Original Chipper simplifies greenside play. It’s 34 inches long and has 45 degrees of loft, making approach shots from around the green super easy to hit. That eliminates duffing and mistakes, helping lower scores. Although shaped like a wedge, its 70-degree lie angle is identical to a putter’s, so you can hold and hit the ball in the same way as a putter. It’s also graphite-shafted for responsiveness and feel.

Speaking of putters, the mallet included in this set has a face insert that softens every putt with a satisfying click.

The ultralight shaft used in the entire set is a high-performance, high-quality model that pursues effective flight distance. Because of its extremely lightweight build, it helps significantly increase slower swing speeds and initial ball speed. Its high torque results in a strong square impact. And its softer, moreflexible middle section helps stabilize the butt end to improve temp through impact.

BERES LADY GO 12-Piece Set includes: driver, 12.5°, fairway, 5°, hybrid, 25°, hybrid, 28°, irons 7-10, SW, chipper, mallet style putter, Helen Georgia 33”, cart bag, tote bag, club cover, shoe case, and apparel. Available for immediate delivery.

MSRP $3,000. For more information about Honma Golf visit: https://us.honmagolf.com

610 825 1190

hotelwestandmain.com

46 Fayette Street, Conshohocken, PA 19428 Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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COURSE NEWS

BOYNE Golf Continues Upgrading Michigan Courses

One of North America’s largest golf resort destinations is transforming golf courses for generations to come.

Over the past 60 years, BOYNE Golf in Northern Michigan has grown to become one of North America’s largest golf destinations – now spanning 10 courses and three resort properties, including Bay Harbor Golf Club, The Highlands and Boyne Mountain Resort. Today, the resort’s vision continues to elevate across BOYNE Golf properties with transformations and upgrades that will impact future generations of golfers.

“We’re being more responsible and sustainable in creating the best-possible turf and playing conditions on all our courses,” says Josh Richter, Senior Vice President of Golf Operations of Boyne Resort. “Golfers will definitely notice the improvements in the turf quality and playability. In a nutshell, we’ve invested heavily into smart irrigation system infrastructure on The Heather and Donald Ross Memorial courses at The Highlands, at Bay Harbor Golf Club, and the two courses at Boyne Mountain, that has made us more efficient with water and electricity usage. These behind-the-scenes upgrades are foundational and at the forefront of additional course improvements.”

The Highlands The Highlands, located just north of Petoskey near Harbor Springs, is going through significant transformations both on and off the course. A major part of the resort’s golf transformation is the Donald Ross Memorial course which opened in 1989. A composite recreation of classic Donald Ross golf holes, the BOYNE Golf team together with course architect Raymond Hearn, have been restoring the individual holes through the use of technology like Google Earth, in order to better replicate the original Ross designs, especially the green complexes, bunkers and new tee boxes. This includes holes 1 (Seminole No. 6), 2 (#4 Plainfield), 13 (Seminole No. 15), 15 (Aronimink No. 11), and 16 (No. 10 at Pinehurst No. 2).

Plans are to continue restoring selective holes to improve the accuracy of the hole.

BOYNE Golf was the first resort destination to ever create a tribute course in honor of a legendary architect like Ross.

“We embarked on a vision of getting the

30 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

Ross holes to be dimensionally correct,” says Richter. “We even tapped Google Earth, to help get things right. It is going really well.

Hole 15 turned out stunning. It’s spectacular and will rival the Arthur Hills #13 for the best signature hole at The Highlands. The accuracy of these holes is spot on and done to within inches – not necessarily the topography of the land, but in terms of green sizes, and the size and shape of the bunkers. We replicated those things that are the most noticeable and meaningful to your experience and they are nearly identical.”

At The Highlands, renovations were also made to the popular Arthur Hills course that takes golfers through various landscapes including the rolling hills of Northern Michigan, reaching a pinnacle on the 13th tee with a view of 4000 acres without a visible building. All 18 holes feature new greenside bunker sand, fresh cart paths and improved turf conditions. Further improvements are also happening on the Moor with strategic tree removal, fairway widening, and large mowed short grass areas around the greens to bring more playability to the course.

Improved instruction is also coming to the BOYNE Golf Academy, with the addition of Sportsbox AI software at the BOYNE Golf Academy. This latest golf swing technology uses 3D Motion Analysis and Kinematic AI technology to capture, measure and analyze your golf swing, and can be used indoors or outdoors. “Our academy uses the amazing Gears Golf system to analyze swings, but we can only do it indoors and the golfer needs to put on a reflector suit to be properly calibrated,” says Joe Charles, the Director of Instruction for the award-winning BOYNE Golf Academy. “This new system lets us see the way your body moves, indoors or outdoors. It is app based, and it lets us be more efficient in giving you data points that we weren’t previously able to do. It’s a

reinvestment to our academy and another tool that we now have to continue growing the game. Instruction is a big piece of that.”

Finally at The Highlands, there’s a new Ray Hearn-designed nine-hole short course coming that’s conveniently located right behind the main lodge. The fun new course will be routed at the base of the ski slope, providing some fun and exciting shots. Routed across a sloping site and set among fescue grass, holes will range from 50 to 178 yards, and feature some of Hearn’s favorite greens from Scotland, Ireland, and England. “We’re very excited about it,” says Richter. “It’s one of three short courses we’re developing across our resorts over the next two years. A lot of world class golf resorts have one now. It’s a perfect complement for our championship courses and gives guests a chance to warm up on arrival day or in the evening. Expect it to be visually stunning and interesting to play. It won’t have formal tees, but varying fairway levels will allow you to play from different lies and angles.” Also coming in 2024 near the short course is a one-acre Himalayan style putting green.

Bernie Friedrich, who recently stepped down from the position as the Senior V.P of Golf Operation, is spearheading the courses renovations and upgrades across all the courses. He is also overseeing the development of the new short course at The Highlands as Director of Golf Course Renovations and Development for Boyne Resorts.

Boyne Mountain Boyne Mountain features an enjoyable 36 holes of championship golf – The Monument and Alpine courses – that begins with a scenic half-mile drive up to the top of the mountain where both courses play downward toward Deer Lake offering some of the prettiest views in Northern Michigan.

Hearn has worked with the BOYNE Golf team to create a more enjoyable golf experience by removing hundreds of trees on the front nine of The Monument – that in turn has widened many of the tee shot landing areas and improved the turf conditions. Returning golfers will definitely experience a difference. Long stretches of

cart path have also been replaced on The Alpine. Selective tree removal has also taken place on holes 1,2,3 and 6, lengthening and widening fairways, and extending the fairway cut around the greens to enhance playability.

Bay Harbor Golf Club and Crooked Tree BOYNE Golf ’s flagship property spanning a five-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline, features 45 holes including three Bay Harbor Golf Club nine-hole course combinations designed by Arthur Hills (Links/Quarry, Quarry/Preserve, and Preserve/Links), and the scenic Crooked Tree Golf Club – all anchored by one of America’s most beautiful and iconic hotels.

Continuing the vision of improved playability and more enjoyable rounds, officials at Bay Harbor Golf Club removed trees and brush along the bluffs to open site lines and improve playability across the three nines and Crooked Tree. The major focus was put on Links holes 3 and 4, as well as Quarry holes 3 and 4 for improved playability, views and turf conditions. “We didn’t just

remove trees, we went out there strategically and restored the views and playability, and removed trees that were impacting turf quality by blocking proper ventilation and necessary sunlight,” says Richter. “So we cleaned up some of these areas to improve the golf experience.

We also replaced almost 4,000 feet of cart paths to improve the drivability.”

Finer Touches, Investments in Future Guest Experiences At all 10 of its courses, BOYNE Golf updated the carts with E-Z-GO’s Pace technology to provide golfers a better preview each hole on the GPS screen, improve pace of play, and be able to see live tournament scoring. The system also allows the staff to track and restrict cart access that improve course conditions. And its staff utility vehicles were all updated with more sustainable lithium-ion batteries, which happen to be lighter weight and easier on the turf – making a huge positive impact on the environment.

As the Senior VP of Golf Operations

for Boyne Resorts, Josh Richter oversees the golf teams at all ten Michigan courses, as well as Boyne courses at Sunday River and Sugarloaf Golf Clubs in Maine and the e Big Sky Golf Course in Montana. “Having the opportunity to spend time with Bernie over my entire career has been amazing,” says Richter. “I feel so fresh, excited and restimulated as a PGA professional to lead this team. I’ve been learning the agronomy side every day, which has been most invigorating.

It’s really meaningful to help guys like Casey Powers, who replaced me as director of golf, to help him learn and grow into the role as an individual. He doesn’t have to do things like I did, just like I’m doing in Bernie’s role. There are pieces that you should make your own and look for opportunities to improve. I’m looking forward to build on the tremendous success that Bernie had here in all the years he did it. Once all of our upgrades are finished, this is going to be an even more amazing golf destination.”

For more information, visit BOYNEGolf.com.

Boyne’s Bay Harbor Links

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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GEORGIA GOLF TRAVEL

Brasstown Valley’s 11th green

Golfers Are Headin’ For The Hills In Georgia

By Mike May, Contributing Writer, & Joe Burkhardt, Publisher

M

any golfers assume that the best mountain golf along the Eastern Seaboard is restricted to North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The often overlooked state is Georgia. Many golfers are pleasantly surprised to know that three of the finest mountain golf locations are located in Georgia – specifically, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa in Young Harris; Valhalla Golf Club in Helen; and the Sky Valley Country Club in Sky Valley.

It’s worth noting that those three golf courses are also a part of the Georgia Golf Trail.

Helen Georgia

32 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

“There isn’t a better golf getaway, especially in the late spring, summer, and early fall, than North Georgia,” said Doug Hollandsworth, Founder, Georgia Golf Trail.

“Georgia’s mountain golf courses are terrific.”

Nestled among the mountains of North Georgia, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa (706379-4613) is the quintessential mountain golf getaway. Even though Brasstown is located in the mountains, the golf course was built in a valley, which justifies its moniker – Brasstown Valley. Just a two-hour drive from Atlanta to the south and Chattanooga from the north, Brasstown Valley is easily accessible for golfers in the Southeast.

At Brasstown Valley, the golf experience has clarity.

The mountain air is clearer, cleaner, and crisper.

The atmosphere is refreshing, relaxing, and re-energizing.

The golf course is wel l m aint aine d, cleverly designed, and entertaining to play.

FYI: The golf course winds its way through wildlife preserves, ponds, and streams, as you have spectacular views of the surrounding mountainous terrain.

The Valhalla Golf Club (706-878-2100) is nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia. Some golf pundits have referred to Valhalla’s par-72 layout as “Alpine mountain golf at its finest.” Others have referred to the Valhalla golf experience as “affordable golf in priceless surroundings.”

The most memorable shot at Valhalla will be the downhill tee shot on the par-three 15th hole. FYI: The descent from tee to green is significant – at least 150 feet.

When you visit Helen, you’ll see the strong German theme to its architecture and atmosphere. When walking or driving through Helen, you will feel that an Octoberfest-like celebration will be taking place that day and night. And, in the fall, it does! FYI: An ideal place to spend the night in Helen is at the luxurious Valhalla Resort, which is adjacent to the Valhalla GC. Sky Valley Country Club’s (706-7465302) average elevation of 3,500 feet makes it one of the highest elevation golf courses in

Sky Valley’s 8th hole tee shot

Georgia. The Sky Valley CC is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest. The many tee shots struck from raised tees add an element of excitement, intrigue, and strategy to the Sky Valley golf experience.

FYI: Sky Valley’s tee-to-green course conditions are exemplary.

A great place to eat breakfast, lunch and/or dinner in North Georgia is The Dillard House (706-746-5348) in Dillard. The Dillard House’s food is homemade and is served “family-style” -- Southern cooking at its finest, 365 days a year. Each menu item at The Dillard House comes from a Dillard family recipe. FYI: Famous patrons at The Dillard House include former President Jimmy Carter and the late, great country & western singer Waylon Jennings.

The Dillard House

Stone Mountain’s 1st green

If your travels to Georgia begin or end in Atlanta, play golf at the Stone Mountain Golf Club (770-465-3278), located just east of Atlanta. Located within Stone Mountain State Park, the golf club features “One Lake. One Mountain. Two Incredible Courses.” Those two courses are Lakemont and Stonemont. Both courses are part of the Georgia Golf Trail.

Of the first 13 holes at Lakemont, water is present on eight of them. The course is not heavily bunkered, but its biggest defense mechanisms are the pine tree-lined fairways and Stone Mountain Lake. FYI: Some part of Stone Mountain is visible throughout the course.

‘Variety’ is the one word to describe Stonemont, a par-70 layout which opened in 1969. It features gently rolling fairways flanked by Georgia pines with many dramatic views of Stone Mountain. FYI: Putts at Stonemont tend to break away from Stone Mountain.

After visiting the Georgia Golf Trail (www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.), it won’t be easy leaving Georgia, but it will be easy returning. The Georgia Golf Trail awaits your arrival. TSG

Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

33

COURSE NEWS

Sarasota’s Soleta Golf Club Begins Construction

Soleta Golf Club Announces Plans for Nick Price Design Golf Course, World-Class David Leadbetter Signature Practice and Performance Facility and Luxury Residences Soleta Golf Club announced its entry into the Sarasota/Bradenton/Lakewood Ranch markets with a recently approved private residential club community that will be unrivaled for its exceptional and extensive amenities, including a Nick Price designed golf course, world-class David Leadbetter practice and performance facility and family-focused sporting and social activities.

The planned Soleta community places a premium on quality and Old Florida charm that will appeal not only to golf aficionados but active families who seek a tranquil lifestyle with an oasis of amenities unlike any other in the region. Over 500 pristine acres of preserved land present an unspoiled environment featuring two scenic miles of the Myakka River, freshwater marshes, stands of mossy oaks, towering pines and native vegetation.

A wealth of amenities situated at the heart of the residences will include a spa,

34 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

state-of-the-art fitness center, clubhouse, lagoon pool and children’s splash pad, tennis and pickleball courts, indoor and outdoor play areas for kids, plus an event open space.

Multiple fine and casual dining options also are planned.

Three exclusive enclaves (The Sanctuary, The Ranch and Village Bungalows) will accommodate 93 custom built luxury residences. Two celebrated builders, John Cannon Homes and Anchor Builders, will design your perfect lifestyle retreat. One-acre plus estates will be available. All home sites are conveniently situated within one mile of the clubhouse. Additionally, 14 club cottages will be available for members and guests.

According to Managing Partner and developer, David Turner, “We are excited to introduce Soleta Golf Club and to start construction on this exceptional lifestyle community that places a premium on preserving an intimate environment and relaxed culture that members and residents will enjoy for generations. We’ve made

a commitment to build something very special, with an emphasis on a wide range of recreational amenities for family engagement and social camaraderie. The golf experience, with a must-play course in a pristine setting and unparalleled practice facilities, will be unmatched.”

Construction of the Nick Price designed golf course begins this fall and will be ready for play in late 2024. The 7,400 yard, par-72 Soleta Golf Club course is routed separately from the residences and amenity locations. Holes will wind through the sanctuary-like land and of great importance is the commitment to the preservation of all wetlands with absolutely no impacts to these sensitive areas. Water conservation also is a critical issue, as is the enhancement of wildlife habitat and sound environmental stewardship. Price’s courses focus on the art of strategy and his designs embody a handcrafted approach that requires a significant investment of personal hours overseeing details from start to finish.

“It’s an honor to have the opportunity to design the golf course at Soleta,” said Hall of Fame golfer and architect Nick Price. “We’re part of a great team assembled to create a special place for golfers to play, spend time with friends and have fun. The property has wetlands, uplands, open grassland and some great trees. We’ve laid out the golf course to take advantage and incorporate those natural features into the design of holes. I am also really happy that no wetlands have been impacted or eliminated anywhere on the property. These natural elements will be part of what gives the golf course its natural look and feel.”

Renowned golf instructor David Leadbetter, who has coached touring professionals to major championship titles and worldwide tournament victories, is designing a world-class 30-acre signature practice and performance facility that won’t be found at any private club. In addition to the expansive outdoor practice areas, an indoor center will include a state-of-the-art biomechanics studio, clubfitting, a putting studio, simulators and other advanced training technologies.

“I am very excited to be involved with the Soleta Golf Club project,” stated Leadbetter.

“I really feel it has tremendous potential to be one of the country’s leading new private clubs. The thing I am most pleased about is that we are designing a world-class practice facility which is something I always have wanted to do. This state-of-the-art practice facility or ‘field of dreams,’ as I like to call it, will be comprised of extensive long game, short game and on course situations with all the latest technology to improve performance. We want Soleta to be known not only for its great golf course but also for its phenomenal practice complex.”

Soleta is the name used by indigenous native Americans from the area for sandhill cranes.

A limited number of National Golf memberships, in addition to Full Golf, Sports and Social categories, are available now. For more information, contact Membership Director Alan Pope at apope@soletagolf. com or (407) 284-0888. Visit www.soletagolf. com for further details about the exceptional Soleta Golf Club lifestyle community.

Charles Duff and Nick Price SINGLETARY ROAD

N

W

E

S

Hole

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Out

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

In

Out

Totals

Par

4

4

3

4

5

4

3

5

4

36

4

4

3

4

4

5

3

4

5

E

36

72

BLACK

394

428

186

436

598

440

142

572

465

3,661

453

474

168

416

458

588

210

295

560

3,663

3,661

7,324 6,778 6,430 5,874 5,185

GOLD

364

396

172

403

553

407

131

529

430

3,386

419

439

156

385

424

544

194

311

519

3,392

3,386

BLUE

346

376

163

383

525

386

125

502

408

3,214

398

416

148

365

402

516

184

295

492

3,216

3,214

WHITE

316

343

149

350

480

353

114

459

373

2,936

363

380

135

334

367

472

168

269

449

2,938

2,936

279

303

132

309

423

312

101

405

329

2,592

321

336

119

295

324

416

149

238

396

2,593

2,592

GREEN

S

Soleta GOLF CLUB

MYAKKA RIVER

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

35

GOLF TECH

GameGolf Announces Next-Generation KZN Shot-Tracking Platform

Leading GPS shot tracking platform is rebranded with best-in-class technology for high-level game improvement

GAMEGOLF, the game’s leading GPS shot- and stat-tracking sensor platform, announces its most extensive and innovative upgrades to date with the launch of its next-generation technology “KZN,” short for Kaizen (pronounced KY-zen), w hich me ans “const ant improvement” in Japanese and Korean cultures. The cutting-edge new GameGolf KZN platform supports the company’s reinvigorated vision and reinvestment to maintain its position as the leading GPS stat tracker for golfers and coaches.

GameGolf KZN has launched with updated pricing – the $269.99 price includes the KZN hardware and a free one-year membership (a nearly $120 value) – making KZN the most affordable and technically advanced system in the space while elevating the user experience across the board.

“The release of GameGolf KZN celebrates the complete reimagining and reengineering of golf ’s original GPS shottracking system, with markedly improved design and technology advancements and a tremendously elevated user experience,” says Joe McKnight, V.P. of Engineering at GameGolf. “Golfers and coaches who

36 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

enjoy technolog y in this category are going to be blown away by it s re s p on s i v e n e s s , a c c u r a c y, g r aph i c s , gamified modes and d e e p, ro bu s t s h ot analysis – all designed to dive deeper than ever before into the individual shots and skills they need to shoot lower scores and improve their game faster.”

CUTTING EDGE A.I. AND GPS POWER SUPERB USER EXPERIENCE With an engaging new platform and user interface, GameGolf KZN provides an immersive, data-centric, and improvement-driven player experience – thanks to significant technology upgrades. Users will enjoy unprecedented GPS shot tracking, data collection and stat tracking.

The first thing golfers will notice is the sleek, compact hardware unit and its high-tech black and metallic look.

It clips to the golfer’s belt. Players also attach GameGolf KZN’s 14 lightweight smart tags to their clubs.

What elevates these smart tags above all others: They house replaceable batteries that eliminate the need to buy new tags when the batteries deplete.

GameGolf developers have also made dedicated strides to ensure Exceptional Batter y Life. The smart tags are powerful and work in concert with a stateof-the-art A.I. Neural Network that provides an incredibly accurate shot tracking system and the first to use the same smart tags for woods, hybrids, irons, wedges and putters. Any KZN smart tag attaches to any club.

Then there is the system’s

speed. GameGolf KZN uses an advanced and powerful GPS chip that enables impressively fast GPS shot location uploads – for a highly responsive and seamless user interaction.

GameGolf completely revamped its IT infrastructure, while also adding a new digital User Experience across its Apps and a Performance Dashboard that is more visual, gamified, and highly interactive. Golfers can dive deeper than ever into their data and stats analysis, to help quickly and efficiently improve their game.

ROBUST ANALYTICS FOR FOCUSED GAME IMPROVEMENT In the Post Round Analysis section, the game is broken into Strokes Gained categories that motivate golfers and allow them to compare elements of their game to others with similar, higher or lower handicaps. The system will also pinpoint and suggest practice areas of a game that will help golfers more quickly reach their desired handicap.

ON-COURSE PLAYING MODES Taking advantage of the industry’s most accurate shot-tracking platform is as easy as arriving at the course and pressing a button. There’s no need to tap an external wearable device. GPS location can be detected in as little as 10 seconds from powering your device at more than 36,000 courses, so you are ready to play golf immediately. GameGolf KZN recognizes the location of the course and is ready to go. It operates in three different modes.

The first playing mode is Offline – simply start playing and the system

automatically detects and tracks every shot and yardage by each club, and then automatically uploads the custom data to the companion smartphone app (iOS, Android) or the GameGolf website for review. It’s ideal for people who don’t want to bother with their phone on the course. In the second Live mode, golfers use their phone, on which they can see fly-by hole graphics and their live ball position. Shots are instantly recorded, as well. Plus, golfers can play live competitions with friends who are on the course at the same time.

The third mode is the truly advanced Smart Caddie. Previously available as an add-on subscription, it is now included in the standard price. After about six rounds using GameGolf KZN, golfers can have Smart Caddie recommend customized shots and club selection, based on their unique shot tendencies and current playing conditions. It’s genuinely like having a caddie’s knowledge in hand.

Smart Caddie factors in wind, humidity and elevation. And users

can choose if they want Smart Caddie to feed them advice based on a Safe, Optimal or Aggressive Strategy. It is designed specifically to create a seamless and unmatched immersive, on-course experience for golfers that leads them to make better playing and practice decisions to lower their scores.

POWERFUL DATA FOR FASTER IMPROVEMENT For b ot h pl ayers and co aches (Individual or Team), the Smart Caddie app analyzes 10 key data points to a gamechanging level. Coaches can easily log into a player’s Performance Dashboard and analyze important strokes-gained d at a ( Te e - to - Gre e n , O f f - t h e - Te e, Approach the Green, Around-the-Green, Putting) pulled from both leisure and competitive rounds. For high-school and college golf coaches, this can take overall team improvement to another level.

With video and statistical data platforms similar to the technology commonly used by football and basketball coaches today, GameGolf KZN opens up the power of

deep-dive, performance-improvementdriven data analytics for golf teams everywhere.

Additional data points the platform provides includes individual scores and averages, GPS rangefinder for more than 36,000 golf courses, individual handicaps, club yardages, and overall shot dispersion.

All of this shot data together provides valuable insight on what players need to work on to create strategic practice plans for game improvement.

“Interactivity and social engagement are other incredible ways that GameGolf KZN stands apart,” says McKnight. “From real-time, in-round competitions in KZN’s Live Mode to the ability to share shot data with coaches and instructors for optimal game improvement, this system harnesses, aggregates and shares your shot data in ways that will set you on the fast track to better golf and deeper enjoyment of the game.”

For more information, check out GameGolf KZN at www.GameGolf.com.

TSG

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

37

GOLF TECH

Shot Scope Unveils Advanced Full Course Aerial Maps For Industry Leading Line-Up Of Laser Rangefinders And GPS Golf Watches Proprietary Maps Support Full-Line of Shot Scope Products, Including 7 Innovations Launched in 2023, Which Establishes the Most Expansive Lineup of Distance Measuring and Performance Tracking Devices in Golf Brasstown Valley’s 11th green

On the heels of adding 7 innovations to its product portfolio in 2023, Shot Scope (www.shotscope.com), the golf industryleader in advanced GPS and shot tracking technology, has unveiled advanced fullcourse aerial maps designed exclusively for its laser rangefinders and GPS golf watches.

Available to millions of golfers via the Shot Scope App, the Company offers two different map models, GPS and Preview.

The GPS mode allows current Shot Scope users to view an overhead map of the course during play, while the GPS distances update as the golfer moves around the course. In addition, golfers can measure to any point on the course by simply pressing the circle icon and dragging it to their desired location.

This allows players to measure distances to hazards, layup points, and doglegs, as well as receive accurate yardages to the front, middle, and back of every green.

Alternatively, the Preview mode allows golfers to view any course regardless of their location and access a bird’s eye view of every hole. This feature allows golfers to plan their round in advance of play and devise a strategy for optimal performance. In this mode, while golfers cannot access front, middle, and back distances to greens, they can measure to points on the course by tapping anywhere on the map, while gaining distances from the tee box to their chosen point, and from that point to the green.

“At Shot Scope we want to continuously offer innovative products, features and updates that enhance the playing experience for every golfer,” said David Hunter, CEO, Shot Scope. “One of the best advantages of our aerial maps is that blind holes are no longer an issue as golfers can see every hazard at the tip of their finger. Equally important, the aerial maps are especially useful if golfers

38 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

are playing an unfamiliar course and want to map out a strategy.”

The new Aerial Maps follow the launch of the Shot Scope’s PRO LX+ Laser Rangefinder, the 7th Shot Scope innovation launched in 2023, establishing the most expansive lineup of distance measuring and performance tracking devices in golf and offering golfers the widest and most affordable selection of on course game management products in the industry today. The 2023 Shot Scope new product lineup includes the PRO LX+, the Multi-Function X5 GPS Smart Golf Watch, the easy-to-use G5 GPS Golf Watch with Interchangeable Color Straps, the PRO L2 and PRO LX Laser Rangefinders, CONNEX Performance Tracking Tags and Shot Scope Academy, a program that connects players of all levels with PGA Professionals and coaches.

“2023 has been an exciting year for Shot Scope as we launched a full suite of innovations

and truly created an ecosystem for golfers to choose the distance measuring and/or performance tracking product that best fits their game, as well as their budget,” said Hunter.

All Shot Scope products can be purchased at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, PGA Superstores, golf specialty stores, or online at www.shotscope.com. Keep up to date with all of the Shot Scope news on social media: Twitter @Shotscope /Facebook @Shotscope Instagram @shot_scope.

COURSE NEWS

Mesa Country Club Celebrates 75th Anniversary Architect Andy Staples to Renovate Historic Course Mesa C ountr y Club in Mesa, Arizona, is embarking on a significant renovation of its historic golf course as part of the club’s plans to commemorate its 75th anniversary. According to the club, the project is its largest and most encompassing investment since the William F. “Billy” Bell-designed course opened in 1948. Bell is most famous for his design of the North and South courses at California’s Torrey Pines.

“All the greens will be rebuilt to USGA standards, greenside bunkers will be renovated to improve playability and, importantly, a new irrigation system will ensure significant water reduction usage,” said President of the Board Neil Baier.

“We are also upgrading our clubhouse facilities. In the next few years, Mesa

Country Club will be one of the region’s top membership choices.”

Scottsdale-based Staples Golf Design has been hired to manage the project.

“The big news item here is the water conservation work in relation to the irrigation system upgrade, the lake reduction plan, and the low water use areas in out of play areas,” said Andy Staples, President of Staples Golf. “This will address the water issues and the upcoming state mandates.” Work on the project starts this summer.

Mesa Country Club is one of the few parkland courses in the Valley that features stunning mature and towering eucalyptus and pine trees lining fairways and integrated throughout the routing of holes. With a plateau running through the

course, elevation changes put a premium on shotmaking. The par 72, 6900-yard course, however, is eminently walkable.

PGA TOUR player Joel Dahmen is a Helen Georgia popular member.

Mesa Country Club was one of the first five classic private city golf clubs in Arizona, along with Phoenix Country Club, Arizona Country Club, Tucson Country Club and Paradise Valley.

For more information about Mesa Country Club, visit www.mesacountryclub. com or call 480-964-1797.

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

39

THE OFFICIAL LICENSEE & MARKETING PARTNER OF THE LPGA

With a shared objective to celebrate the power, potential and strength of women, this partnership between FREIDA ROTHMAN and the LPGA will inspire hope through timeless jewelry and shared values of leadership, passion and giving.

Join us in celebrating the remarkable stories of three phenomenal women in sports this year. For this edition of the campaign, we honor Women of Strength who are Champions of Resilience with the LPGA. These exceptional women have shared incredible stories of strength to inspire and empower. With their powerful determination, positive attitude, and strong leadership skills, they have pushed through insurmountable challenges in life.

40 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

FINELY CRAFTED STERLING SILVER JEWELRY

2 nd Generation Jewelry Designer Freida Rothman Designs the Prestigious Mizuho Trophy Renowned for her exceptional jewelry craftsmanship, Freida Rothman had the honor to design the prestigious trophy for the LPGA’s inaugural Mizuho Americas Open!

Freida’s design embodies the fusion of strength and elegance, reflecting the urban landscape of Brooklyn that symbolizes a second chance for her & many others.

By infusing the trophy with the distinctive elements of Brooklyn’s character, Freida has added a touch of authenticity and uniqueness to this prestigious symbol of achievement.

FREIDAROTHMAN.COM Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

41

GOLF EQUIPMENT

SuperStroke Announces Premium Limited-Edition Ryder Cup Themed Golf Bags Leading Grip Brand Releases Luxury-Caliber Red, White, And Blue Stand And Cart Bags On the heels of adding 7 innovations to its product portfolio in 2023, Shot Scope (www.shotscope.com), the golf industryleader in advanced GPS and shot tracking technology, has unveiled advanced fullcourse aerial maps designed exclusively for

42 Tri State Golf | Fall 2023

its laser rangefinders and GPS golf watches.

Available to millions of golfers via the Shot Scope App, the Company offers two different map models, GPS and Preview.

The GPS mode allows current Shot Scope users to view an overhead map of the course during play, while the GPS distances update as the golfer moves around the course. In addition, golfers can measure to any point on the course by simply pressing the circle icon and dragging it to their desired location. This allows players to measure distances to hazards, layup points, and doglegs, as well as receive accurate yardages to the front, middle, and back of every green.

Alternatively, the Preview mode allows golfers to view any course regardless of their location and access a bird’s eye view of every hole. This feature allows golfers to plan their round in advance of play and devise a strategy for optimal performance. In this mode, while golfers cannot access front, middle, and back distances to greens, they can measure to points on the course by tapping anywhere on the map, while gaining distances from the tee box to their chosen point, and from that point to the green.

“At Shot Scope we want to continuously offer innovative products, features and updates that enhance the playing experience for every golfer,” said David Hunter, CEO, Shot Scope. “One of the best advantages of our

aerial maps is that blind holes are no longer an issue as golfers can see every hazard at the tip of their finger. Equally important, the aerial maps are especially useful if golfers are playing an unfamiliar course and want to map out a strategy.”

The new Aerial Maps follow the launch of the Shot Scope’s PRO LX+ Laser Rangefinder, the 7th Shot Scope innovation launched in 2023, establishing the most expansive lineup of distance measuring and performance tracking devices in golf and offering golfers the widest and most affordable selection of on course game management products in the industry today. The 2023 Shot Scope new product lineup includes the PRO LX+, the Multi-Function X5 GPS Smart Golf Watch, the easy-to-use G5 GPS Golf Watch with Interchangeable Color Straps, the PRO L2 and PRO LX Laser Rangefinders, CONNEX Performance Tracking Tags and Shot Scope Academy, a program that connects players of all levels with PGA Professionals and coaches.

“2023 has been an exciting year for Shot Scope as we launched a full suite of innovations and truly created an ecosystem for golfers to choose the distance measuring and/or performance tracking product that best fits their game, as well as their budget,” said Hunter.

All Shot Scope products can be purchased at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, PGA Superstores, golf specialty stores, or online at www.shotscope.com. Keep up to date with all of the Shot Scope news on social media: Twitter @Shotscope /Facebook @Shotscope Instagram @shot_scope.

COURSE NEWS

Saint John’s Resort Names Stan Witko PGA Executive Director of Golf

Harbor Shores Resort Names Jackson Davison PGA Head Golf Professional

Industry Veteran Will Oversee All Golf Operations For The Luxury Resort’s New Golf Complex

Former Golf Operations Manager And Instructor Earns Class A PGA Membership.

Saint John’s Resort, Detroit’s leading hotel and conference destination resort, has hired Stan Witko as its Executive Director of Golf.

The 20-year industry veteran will oversee all golf operations that include the new 18-hole course, short course and putting course opening in 2024.

“When I saw the Saint John’s job posting, I had a feeling it was an incredible opportunity and that my abilities aligned perfectly with the vision Stan Witko of the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation for this remarkable property.” said Witko. “With the addition of The Cardinal Golf Course to our already luxurious resort, Saint John’s will solidify its position as Detroit’s premier destination resort. Our aim is to provide extraordinary experiences not only to locals, but also to visitors and golf enthusiasts from all corners of the world.”

After college Witko shifted career paths and attended The Golf Academy of America. After graduating with honors, he began his golfing career at Diamond Woods, a small course in Oregon. He then worked as the first assistant at The Golf Club of Terra Lago in Palm Springs before becoming the Director of Golf for the Himalayan Youth Golf Organization in Nepal -- a life-changing experience that the country recognized him for changing and growing golf.

“I spent about a year in Nepal, building a program from scratch with sponsorship provided largely through a private donor and from the R&A,” explained Witko. “I was also able to help create new revenue streams for the Nepali Golf Professionals, bring the Faldo Tour to Nepal through a fivecountry agreement, and brought them new teaching equipment and new ways of instructing, including allowing all children access to golf, regardless of their financial situation. My work in Nepal really prepared me for everything else in life, especially my golf career and impacting people.”

Following Nepal, Witko joined Riverside Golf and Country Club in Portland, Ore. where he spent seven years working his way up to General Manager before making the move to Saint John’s Resort. In addition to his passion for golf, Witko is a licensed skydiver and one of a few people who are members of both the PGA of America and the United States Parachute Association.

Selecting Witko for the new position was an easy decision for Saint John’s executives. “We are very excited to have Stan become a part of our team here at Saint John’s Resort,” said Paul Wegert, CEO of Boutique Hotel Professionals and managing director of Saint John’s Resort. “With our golf facility being completely reshaped and the high-end golf product and golf entertainment venue we will now be providing our guests, Stan was the perfect fit to help us provide our guests with the ultimate golf experience.”

“My goal is to be one of the top golf experiences and venues in Michigan, and that comes from creating and running a world class operation, and also from the deeper mission at Saint John’s Resort, which is to truly help those who are less fortunate.”

Harbor Shores Resort, Southwest Michigan’s premier lakefront golf resort destination with its award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature designed golf course, has promoted Jackson Davison to the role of PGA Head Golf Professional.

Davison, who has been in the golf industry for 10 years, previously served as the Golf Operations Manager for Harbor Jackson Davison Shores, overseeing the golf operations and golf instruction at the five-time host of the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship. Having recently completed the requirements to earn his Class A PGA Membership, Davison is more than qualified to take on his new position.

“Jackson has been an integral part of our team at Harbor Shores since 2018. He has all the attributes necessary to be an exceptional PGA Head Golf Professional and has worked tirelessly to create a team and culture that has an impact throughout the entire facility. I couldn’t be prouder,” said Joshua Doxtator, Harbor Shores’ PGA General Manager.

“The PGA Professional Management Program is not easy with only 17 percent making it past the first of three levels. He now stands proud as one of 28,000 PGA Professionals in the world.”

Prior to his golf professional career, Davison had a successful history in competitive golf, winning the 2008 Michigan High School Division 1 State Championship then playing collegiately at both Grand Rapids Community College and Davenport University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a concentration in Sports Marketing.

Davison began his professional golf career in Orlando, Florida as an Assistant Golf Professional at Tuscawilla Country Club, while pursuing his dream of playing competitively as a professional golfer. He competed on various mini tours in Florida and in the Midwest before landing at Harbor Shores Resort, where his focus shifted to operational management, instruction, and player development. He has also held key roles assisting in two KitchenAid Senior PGA Championships in 2018 and 2022.

“I am very excited to accept the role of PGA Head Golf Professional at a golf operation as special as Harbor Shores Resort,” Davison said. “It has been a lot of work, dedication, and very rewarding to be able to obtain my Class A Membership status and continue to expand my career as a part of this team at one of the top golf facilities in the country. Together we are all committed to creating a special golf experience for guests and share one of the best stories in the golf industry. We are very dedicated to serving and empowering the Benton Harbor community and I am proud to be a part of that now under my new role.”

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

43

GOLF TRAINING

Kavooa Pro – New Golf Training Aid Stabilizes Head And Hips Collegiate Golfer Invents New Swing Aid Product During The Pandemic That Produces Consistent Ball Striking

For most aspiring collegiate golfers, the pandemic brought on many challenges including isolation, excess of free time, and many questions as to what might happen with their college golf opportunities. In the case of 19-year-old Dylan Horowitz, now captain of the Chapman University men’s golf team in Southern California, he spent his time in isolation working on his golf swing and fixing one of his major swing flaws and, in the process, invented a new swing training aid – Kavooa Pro. Kavooa Pro, the first swing training aid from Kavooa Golf, will help golfers quickly improve and develop consistent contact with the ball. Kavooa Pro is a tripod-based product that can be adjusted via a patented telescoping device with rods (golf alignment sticks) to stabilize a golfer’s head and hips during the swing. That, in turn, helps solidify pure contact for consistent ball striking.

“My biggest swing fault was caused by growing up playing hockey and hitting a lot of slapshots. I struggled with dipping

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my head down in my swing and having to compensate with my arms,” explains Horowitz. “Kavooa Pro was originally created specifically to stabilize head movement so I could practice by myself instead of needing someone to hold up sticks during drills. We discovered the product does that for you and also gives instant feedback on a variety of other golf skills.”

Horowitz took inspiration from his longtime instructor, PGA teaching pro Dr. Rick Sessinghaus in developing the feedbackbased device. “We used video back in 2020 to show me how my head was moving forward during the swing and Rick mentioned there was no training aid to fix that movement – aside from either having someone hold up a stick to your head while swinging and staying behind it, or placing a beanbag on top of your head. So, we began working on what’s now Kavooa Pro.” It was during Covid of 2020 when Horowitz, who was isolated at home, had time to figure out a way to work on his game

and stay positive.

“I came up with the original model by taping a pool noodle to the top of a punching bag that was around my height. I made the necessary adjustments and would use it while hitting into my backyard net. When the courses opened back up in June of 2020, I then used a tripod, duct tape, a shoelace, and adjustable Star Wars light sabers that I drilled holes through using a burnt screwdriver in my freshman dorm room. After that version we switched to PVC pipe to begin creating the first prototypes.”

Over the next couple of years, Horowitz, with the assistance of his father, Andy Horowitz, who brought significant experience as an entrepreneur building companies and selling them to Fortune 500 corporations, worked on the business side and the design aspect of the product to bring it to life.

“It works through simple cause and effect – providing instant feedback,” says Horowitz.

“And its height can also be quickly and easily adjusted to anywhere between 15 and 65

inches off the ground. No matter your height, it will help stabilize your head. But you can also move it down to prevent your hips from swaying – preventing you from further distance loss. Or you can place it behind you, where it can help prevent you from coming over the top on your downswing because you’ll hit the unit before you hit the ball. So it helps get your swing on the proper plane.”

Kavooa Pro helps golfers improve the following elements of their golf games: • Helps Quiet Excessive Head Movement https://www.kavooagolf.com/drill/headmovement • Eliminates an Over-the-Top Downswing https://www.kavooagolf.com/drill/overthe-top-too-shallow • R educes Unwanted Hip Sliding https://www.kavooagolf.com/drill/hipsliding • Improves a Too-Shallow Downswing Promotes Proper Turn and Rotation • Helps Groove the Correct Top-of-theSwing Position • Helps Dial in Proper Low-Point Contact • Improves Swing Path and Plane for Chipping • Helps Improve Putting Aim and Path The unit also includes a phone clip holder, allowing you to easily take videos of your swing. Kavooa Pro can also be used for chipping and putting. When chipping, you can angle it to the exact degree angle you need for your swing plane.

Many professional golf instructors have been trying out Kavooa Pro, with overwhelming positive feedback. Members of the North American One-Armed Golfers Association are also working with Kavooa Pro, as it’s a product that can be used by anyone. Plus, it will be presented at the PGA Coaches Summit next month, and the PGA Merchandise Show.

“A tool as versatile as Kavooa Pro helps instructors look at a golfer’s swing plane and head motion. We can also do other unique things to help them feel and see the instant feedback. That is quite valuable and the variety of uses for Kavooa Pro is crucial, as is the ease of being able to transition from one

drill to another while teaching,” Sessinghaus says.

Kavooa Pro, which sells for $129.99, weighs just 3.5 pounds and can easily collapse to be stowed in the side pocket of most golf

bags. It can be used on the course, at the range, or in a backyard – anywhere you can swing a club.

For more information, visit KavooaGolf. com.

COURSE NEWS

Cape Kidnappers Issues New Aussie Rate; Plucks Smith From Kiawah Island

Looking northwest, high above Cape Kidnappers GC: 14 green in foreground, 15th hole beyond.

Cape Kidnappers GC, the iconic Tom Doak design that celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024, has issued new pricing for its October-to-May high season. Director of Golf Ray Geffre also announced this month the hire of a new head golf professional at Cape: Eric Smith, freshly imported from the estimable Kiawah Island Club.

According to Geffre, starting 1 October 2023, international visitors to Cape Kidnappers GC (and its sister property Kauri Cliffs GC) will pay a green fee of 850 New Zealand dollars, while domestic fees remain at 450 NZD per golfer. A newly created green fee has been introduced specifically for Australian nationals: 650 NZD. At this writing, New Zealand and Australian dollars trade at roughly 1:1. Each is valued at approximately 1.5 U.S. dollars.

“We have positioned the new Aussie rate between the international and NZ rates, to acknowledge the proximity of Australia and the importance we place on their business here at Cape Kidnappers,” says Geffre, who noted that offseason rates (Int: $650; Aus. $450; NZ: $250) will continue to apply from June through September. “We recognize there are many upscale golfing options for Australians, not only in metropolitan centers across the county, but also in destinations like Tasmania.

“We want to be competitive. Aussies who make the trip over to Napier deserve a special rate. At the same time, we’re confident the golf course here at Cape has never played so well as right now, thanks to Tom Doak’s 2021 greens renovation and our simultaneous regrasssing of all 18 fairways. What’s more,

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Looking southwest: High above the same holes as above, plus a few more at cliffside.

Above, Eric Smith.

if there’s a better stay-and-play option anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere, I’d like to know about it.”

Located just 20 km from the seaside, art deco community of Napier, Cape Kidnappers GC resides in the heart of New Zealand’s wine country and directly beside The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, a luxury boutique hotel routinely ranked among the finest in the world. Doak, for one, is a fan: “It’s the nicest lodge in the country. Maybe on Earth.”

Cape Kidnappers, the landform, is equally distinct. Its Western name eventuated when locals attempted to abduct a member of Captain Cook’s crew aboard the HMS Endeavor, after making landfall there on 15 October 1769. As is often the case, however, the Māori appellation for this sandstone headland, Te Kauwae-a-Māui, is far more evocative. And sacred. According to Māori teaching, the peninsula represents a fishhook used to pull the North Island itself out of the sea.

The golf course and lodge occupy an extraordinary 6,000-acre property protected by more than 10 kilometers of protective fencing — meaning the barrier extends nearly as far below ground as above it, to protect endangered species from predators.

As a result, golfers and guests may avail themselves of superb hiking, ATV adventures all over this working sheep and steer farm, and all manner of exotic bird and wildlife tours. The tip of Cape Kidnappers is, indeed, home to the world’s largest gannet colony.

“I had heard of the golf course here at Cape Kidnappers; I’d seen the pictures

and pored over all the rankings,” says the American Smith, who grew up outside Ph i l a d elph i a , Pe n ns y lv an i a . “But pictures and videos honestly don’t do the place justice. The lodge here, the natural setting: They are nothing short of wondrous — off the charts. And let me tell you a secret: PGA professionals have bucket lists, too. It’s a privilege to be working at one, to be playing this golf course on a regular basis.”

Smith hasn’t exactly led an insular golfing life. He comes to Cape from Kiawah Island Club, a premier private club within a golf Mecca. After graduating from California University of Pennsylvania with a Sports Management degree, he split his first working seasons between the Vineyard Golf Club on Martha’s Vineyard, off the Massachusetts coast, and The Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, Florida. His professional journey eventually took him to Sankaty Head Golf Club, on the island of Nantucket, and The Preserve Golf Club in Monterey, California.

But Smith’s lot was ultimately cast in 2017, when he spent three months traveling the length and breadth of New Zealand.

“I fell in love with the diverse landscapes, the kindness of its people, the core values that make this such a welcoming country.

When I saw the opportunity to join the team here at Cape Kidnappers, as the head golf professional, well, I jumped at it. Everything about The Farm relies on impeccable service standards. It’s another privilege to meet those standards and extend them to guests who come here to play golf.”

TOURNAMENT NEWS

Uneekor Partners with LPGA Tour Golfer Muni “Lily” He

Montclair Golf Club To Host 2026 U.S. Women’s He Joins Team Uneekor As The First Mid-Amateur Female LPGA Professional Golfer

Uneekor, makers of the world’s most innovative and meticulously engineered golf simulator technologies, is proud to announce a partnership with Muni “Lily” He, LPGA Tour golfer. He is the first female LPGA player to join Team Uneekor.

Says Lily He, “Throughout my years of training, I’ve learned how critical understanding data is to improving aspects of my golf game.

In my search for finding the right technology to take me to the next level, I found Uneekor to be the most accurate launch monitor in the industry. I’m thrilled to partner with Uneekor and excited to take full advantage of the SimKit, Uneekor’s full simulator set up in my home.”

Hailing from China, Lily He was introduced to golf at an early age – already playing in tournaments by the age of five. She eventually moved to San Diego, where she won multiple tournaments as an amateur before grabbing headlines as a teenager by qualifying for the 2015 US Open before officially turning professional in December 2017. Lily He continues to compete in the LPGA and has garnered a massive following on social media as an ambassador for the game of golf.

Says Yun Lee, Uneekor Chief Operations Officer, “We are so proud to be working with an amazing young woman and a professional with such a strong passion for improving her game.

Lily is a trailblazer who has broken down barriers in the game of golf since she was a child. Not only is she a role model for women, Lily has an incredibly wide-reaching fan base that will continue to help us make the game of golf accessible to as many people as possible.

Lily He is the perfect addition to Team Uneekor.”

With unrivaled speed, accuracy and consistency, paired with a wide range of software options including Refine and Refine+, Uneekor delivers the technology suite needed to take any player’s game to the next level. Additionally, Uneekor features third-party software compatibility allowing users to play thousands of courses without ever having to leave the comforts of their own environment.

USGA returns to West Orange, N.J., club for first time since 1985

The USGA announced today that Montclair Golf Club, in West Orange, N.J., will be the host site for the 2026 U.S. Women’s MidAmateur Championship. The club has previously hosted two USGA championships, the 1973 U.S. Women’s Amateur and the 1985 U.S. Amateur.

“We are excited to return to Montclair Golf Club, which not only has a challenging golf course, but a supportive and engaged membership,” said Mark Hill, USGA managing director, Championships. “We are appreciative of the invitation and look forward to welcoming the best female mid-amateurs from around the world.”

Montclair Golf Club, founded in 1893, is one of the nation’s oldest golf courses, with its original 18-hole course by Tom Bendelow opening in 1899. In 1920, renowned architect Donald Ross designed the presentday first, second and third nines, and in 1928, Charles Banks designed the fourth.

“Montclair Golf Club is honored to be hosting the 2026 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur,” said Robert Scalzo, club trustee. “Montclair Golf Club has a storied history, and we are proud to once again partner with the USGA for what is sure to be an amazing week. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and all the members, we are excited to welcome this championship to our club.”

Robert Trent Jones Sr. and son Rees Jones, both longtime club members, redesigned and improved the original layouts. Legendary amateur and nine-time USGA champion Bob Jones once spoke of Montclair as the “longest short course” he had ever played.

Carol Semple Thompson won the first of her seven USGA titles at Montclair, the 1973 U.S. Women’s Amateur, defeating fellow seven-time USGA champion Anne Sander in the final. Sam Randolph, a Haskins Award winner and low amateur at the Masters Tournament in 1985 and 1986, won the 1985 U.S. Amateur at Montclair.

Montclair was also one of the founding member clubs of the Metropolitan Golf Association. Club member Isaac “Ike” Grainger served as USGA president in 1954-55, and the USGA’s award that recognizes 25 years of volunteer service is named after Grainger. Fellow Montclair member Charles Littlefield served as USGA president in 1946-47.

The U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur Championship is open to female amateur golfers who have reached their 25th birthday by the first day of the championship and have a Handicap Index® not exceeding 9.4. A starting field of 132 players will compete in two rounds of stroke play, after which the field is cut to the top 64 players for match play. Five 18-hole rounds of match play will determine the finalists, who will square off in an 18-hole championship match.

This year’s championship will be held at Stonewall (North Course) in Elverson, Pa. from Sept. 9-14. The 2024 championship will be held at Brae Burn Country Club, in West Newton, Mass., from Sept. 7-12. The dates of the 2026 championship have not been determined.

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SCOTLAND GOLF TRAVEL

Experience Panmure Golf Club On Your Next Scotland Golf Trip Walk in the steps of legendary Ben Hogan where he prepared for the 1953 Open

Ben Hogan only played in one Open Championship, but he left an indelible mark on Scotland’s east coast because of how he won the game’s oldest major and how he prepared for it.

The Hawk famously captured the 1953 Open at Carnoustie Golf Links by shooting a final-round 68 while battling the flu. He topped four men by four shots in his lone voyage to Scotland, which came four years after an automobile accident that nearly killed him.

That journey, however, began two weeks earlier when Hogan, accompanied only by his caddy, Cecil Timms, arrived at Panmure Golf Club to acclimatise to the terrain of links golf and to acquaint himself with the smaller 1.62 inch British ball that was used at the time.

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Ben Hogan was the only participant in the Open given the privilege of playing at Panmure Golf Club. Panmure, at that time, was an extremely private Club and Hogan was able to practice away from the prying eyes of the public and the press.

Legend has it that Hogan studied Macdonald Smith’s swing intently to improve his own. Macdonald Smith and his family started life in Barry, Carnoustie, before emigrating to America in 1908.

Smith is widely regarded as one of the best players of all time who never won a major championship. When he returned to Panmure in 1931 to qualify for the first Open Championship at Carnoustie, Smith set a new course record of 70.

Panmure is a historic Scottish club,

only 1.5 miles from Carnoustie Golf Links and a 45-minute drive from St. Andrews. It was founded in 1845 by a collection of 17 gentlemen and the Club’s name and shell logo come from the close connection with the Maule Ramsay family. The Rt. Hon Earl of Dalhousie remains the Club’s honorary president and King George VI accepted honorary membership of the Club in 1930.

Panmure is the world’s 21st oldest golf club and moved to its current site in Barry in 1899. The original layout was designed by Old Tom Morris and constructed by R. Duff of Edinburgh, who also built the New course at St Andrews and Muirfield. Many of the original holes remain.

Five-time Open champion James Braid gave suggestions for modifications in the

1920s and those were among the most significant changes over the past century.

Some of the charming characteristics include holes designed by these greats. Braid’s par-3, 180-yard 9th hole, with its undulating green protected by large bunkers and dunes and Old Tom’s par-4, 396-yard 12th hole which requires an accurate approach shot to carry the Buddon Burn guarding the front of the green.

Today the course measures 6,551 yards, plays to a par 70, and combines the best elements of links and heathland, with tight fairways, challenging carries and undulating greens. True to links golf, holes mostly play firm and fast and the rolling fairways wind through dunes and pine trees, leading to greens that are protected by proper Scottish bunkers.

Hogan would never play in the Open again, but his legacy at Panmure remains. The sixth hole, a 414-yard par 4, stroke index 1, was Hogan’s favourite hole and is named after the great man. He suggested to the club that a strategically placed pot bunker should be built to the front and right of the green. It was and it is still known as Hogan’s bunker.

The other legendary story from Hogan’s Panmure experience came on the par-4, 401yard 17th hole. Hogan liked the green and spent much time putting there but he wanted it to run quicker than it did. So, he asked William Falconer, the head greenkeeper, if the mower could shave the green a tad tighter. Falconer said it was possible, but pointed to the mower and mentioned that Hogan was free to do it himself. He did, and word is that he later returned the mower to Falconer in pristine condition after insisting on cleaning it first.

Panmure has hosted many prestigious championships over the years ranging from national amateur tournaments to final qualifying for The Open Championship.

Recently, the club has hosted regional qualifying for The Open, the R&A Girls Amateur Championship, final qualifying for the AIG Women’s Open and the stroke play qualifying for the R&A Boys Amateur

Championship.

The colorfully clad Doug Sanders advanced through qualifying at Panmure in 1970 and later lost to Jack Nicklaus in an 18-hole playoff with a chance to win the claret jug. Nicklaus shot even-par 72 to clip Sanders by one and earn his second of three Opens. Gary Player, Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle and Padraig Harrington are a few Open champions who have played at Panmure over the years.

The Club’s iconic clubhouse is one of the finest old golf buildings in Scotland and was

modelled, both architecturally and spiritually on Royal Calcultta Golf Club. It offers three uniquely charming lounges, perfect for a post round beverage.

Hogan never returned to Scotland, and the victory at Carnoustie marked the last major that he’d ever win. The Scots still refer to him as the “Wee Ice Mon” because of his steely demeanor, determination, and ability to perform best under pressure. The Open victory, combined with his presence at Panmure the preceding weeks, were enough for Hogan to remain a legend in the area forever.

Panmure remains a private member’s club, but they are delighted to welcome visitors to experience their authentic, classic links. Are you ready to take on the Hogan challenge?

Visit https://www.panmuregolfclub.co.uk.

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COURSE NEWS

Saint John’s Resort To Debut First High-End Public Golf Course In Metro-Detroit In 20+ Years On The Grounds Of A 1940s Seminary

The Luxury Resort Will Unveil A New Championship 18-Hole Golf Course, Short Course And Putting Course In 2024 Creating The Ultimate Golf Entertainment Venue Saint John’s Resort, Detroit’s destination resort and leading hotel and conference destination, announces its highly anticipated new championship golf course will open for play Spring 2024. The Plymouth, MI project is the region’s first high-end public golf development of its kind in more than 20 years and is part of a $50-million-dollar resort transformation that began in 2021 under the property’s new ownership group, the non-profit Pulte Family Charitable Foundation.

“It’s hard to believe that a golf rich state like Michigan and the Metro-Detroit area has not had a new high-end public golf facility in so long,” said Paul Wegert, CEO of Boutique Hotel Professionals and managing director of Saint John’s Resort. “We believe the area is prime for a new high-end golf product, and we are very happy that we have elevated the golf experience to match our resort transformation. Our golfers

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and guests, who visit from all over the country, will be excited when they see it.”

Designed by Michigan-based golf course architect Raymond Hearn, the new golf course, named “The Cardinal,” has undergone a complete transformation including a new 18-hole championship golf course, seven-hole Par 3 course with famous template greens and a two-acre putting course to entertain all ages and skill levels.

Hearn has partnered with one of the industry leaders in golf course construction, LaBar Golf Renovations, to completely alter

the Southeast Michigan golf property. LaBar Golf is widely respected in the industry for its renovation work at internationally revered private golf clubs like Merion Golf Club, Muirfield Village Golf Club, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, Winged Foot Country Club and Oakland Hills Country Club.

The Cardinal at Saint John’s Resort sits on 200 acres of rolling land where the original 27-holes were completely removed to build the new course. The golf course presents an original experience with no two holes that look, or play, alike, being routed in all directions factoring in elevation, wind, terrain, and scenic beauty to strategically deliver optimal shot values.

The course also takes full advantage of the flow of the land and the beautiful 100-yearold trees that were saved during the project and now frame many of the holes, providing a classic design aesthetic from the golden age

of golf course architecture. Several holes also feature classic Golden Age green contours and bunkering.

“It has been a thrill to be able to work on this project for Saint John’s Resort and the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation,” said Hearn.

“The land, with its natural glacier forms and beautiful hundred-year-old trees, was a great foundation to work with. We were able to save many of the old mature trees and create a routing that kept them in play around green sites and along fairways, which is a bit unique in today’s golf course architecture that focuses more on tree removal.”

“This also allowed me to draw on my inspiration from previous Donald Ross, Tom Bendelow, and Willie Park Jr. projects as well as one of my favorite courses, The Old Course at Sunningdale by Willie Park Jr. Our goal was to create a fun golf experience and I believe we have achieved that and then some with this project,” continued Hearn.

Hearn, a member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, recognized the importance of making the course entertaining and playable for all levels of players. He created fun and strategic golf holes with multiple teeing areas and approach angles. This was accomplished through a five-tee system on each hole, creating a variety of options and yardages.

Golfers can have fun mixing up the tees playing different combinations.

Complementing the new championship golf course is a seven-hole short course, twoacre putting course, and a short game area.

This multi-purpose golf entertainment venue will wrap around the resort’s driving range and Carl’s Golfland, one of the top golf retailers in the country. The short course offers inspiration from some of the game’s most famous green complexes like the Punch Bowl, Redan, and Biarritz to name a few, while the putting course drew its inspiration from great putting course experiences at St. Andrews and Pinehurst.

“The layout of our property, with the proximity of Carl’s Golfland and the range, was a perfect location to create a pure golf entertainment venue,” Wegert explains. “We have also added a new food and beverage venue near the putting course, which will be a great gathering place for golfers, corporate groups, wedding parties, families, and kids.”

In 2021, the William J Pulte estate purchased the former Inn at St. John’s from the Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit and donated it to the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation, which has since rebranded the property into Saint John’s Resort.

In addition to the golf course development, the resort and hotel transformation includes updated rooms, a 6,200-square-foot pavilion, 17,000-square-foot grand ballroom, new wedding pavilion, wine bar, and other interior upgrades throughout the resort.

For more information on the new golf course project visit https://www. saintjohnsresort.com/plymouth-michigangolf-course-st-johns For more information on Saint John’s Resort visit https://www.saintjohnsresort.com.

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COURSE NEWS

Long Bay Golf Club Reopens Following Greens Restoration Project Long Bay Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus design that is one of the Myrtle Beach area’s most popular layouts, reopened August 14 following a comprehensive greens restoration project.

Founders Group International (FGI), Long Bay’s parent company, closed the course May 17 for an effort highlighted by the installation of TifEagle bermudagrass and the restoration of the layout’s greens to their original specifications. Prior to the project, Long Bay, which opened in 1988, had approximately 70,000-square-feet of putting surface, a number that now stands at nearly 110,000-square-feet.

“We are so excited to welcome golfers back to Long Bay,” said Brandon Mensinger, Long Bay’s head pro. “Our new greens are in outstanding condition, and we have reclaimed more than 30,000-square-feet of putting surface, dramatically increasing the number of pinnable areas on each green. We are ready to go and golfers can look forward to a smooth, fast roll this fall.”

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TifEagle, due to its resistance to mutation and ability to produce an outstanding putting surface, has emerged as the grass of choice for many of Myrtle Beach’s premier courses, including the Grande Dunes Resort Course and Pawleys Plantation, the area’s other Nicklaus design.

In addition to the greens work, Long Bay also removed all the grass on the surrounding collars and resodded them with Tahoma 419, a hearty variety of bermudagrass that can withstand close mowing and is resistant to mutation.

The expansion of Long Bay’s greens increased the number of pinnable areas, maximizing the creativity of the Nicklaus design, and it will enhance course conditions over time, allowing the staff to distribute

traffic across the entirety of each green complex.

Located along the North Strand, Long Bay has long been a favorite of traveling golfers. Nicklaus used fairway bunkers and mounding to frame a course that rewards both power and precision. At the heart of Long Bay’s appeal is a back nine that is among the area’s best.

The short par 4 10th, featuring a fairway ringed by a waste bunker, the island green, par 3 13th, and No. 18, a dramatic dogleg right that plays around a lake, were all ranked among Myrtle Beach’s top 100 holes, underscoring Long Bay’s appeal.

For more information on the course, visit www.LongBayGolfClub.com.

For more information on FGI, visit www.

FoundersGolf.com.

Dramatic Pawleys Plantation Restoration Project Taking Shape As Jack Nicklaus Design Eyes October Reopening The restoration of Pawleys Plantation, a stunning Jack Nicklaus design that plays along a tidal marsh, continues to progress smoothly, and the layout’s plans for an October reopening are on schedule.

Founders Group International, Pawleys’ parent company, closed the acclaimed design on May 22 for a comprehensive greens, bunkers and clubhouse renovation project.

The on-course work is being led by Nicklaus Design and its Design Associate, Troy Vincent, with the goal of reinvigorating a layout that has been among the Myrtle Beach area’s most popular since its opening in 1988.

At the heart of the project is the restoration of the course’s greens to their original size and specifications, an effort that will collectively expand the putting surfaces at Pawleys by nearly 40,000 square feet. To put that in perspective, the average green will be 48 percent larger after reopening, dramatically increasing the number of pinnable areas.

By early August, the greens at Pawleys were all restored to their original size and re-grassed, while the greens surrounds are largely complete as well.

As substantial as the restoration of the greens is, the changes to the bunkers are even more transformative. Every bunker on the course is being overhauled and the sprawling bunkers on holes 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 10, 12, 16

and 18 are being replaced by smaller fairway traps, native areas or expanded fairways, enhancing the course’s playability for mid to high handicappers without reducing the challenge for more skilled players.

“Watching the work at Pawleys Plantation take shape has only served to heighten our excitement about the project,” said Steve Mays, President of Founders Group International. “The restoration of the greens will infuse the layout with creativity, and the reimagination of the bunkers will help ensure that Pawleys Plantation maintains its place among the best courses in South Carolina for years to come.”

“There are a lot of changes to the course, and they are going to be very noticeable,” Vincent said. “The majority of the large bunkers are gone and in their place will be expanded fairway, more traditional fairway bunkers, and native areas. The layout is going to be more playable, but we haven’t taken the teeth away for better players.”

While the golf course work attracts much of the attention, the clubhouse overhaul is no

less significant. A roomier Pawleys Pub will now showcase an expansive view of the par 4 18th hole and an outdoor deck will provide golfers the opportunity to enjoy the area’s idyllic weather and unforgettable scenery.

Featuring six back nine holes that play along a stunning, tidal marsh, Pawleys is one of South Carolina’s most scenic layouts, wowing locals and visitors alike with its beauty and challenge.

Founders Group International owns 21 Myrtle Beach golf courses, making it one of the largest management companies in the Southeast, and FGI has aggressively reinvested in its courses in recent years. FGI has also undertaken significant capital improvement projects at Grande Dunes Resort Course, TPC Myrtle Beach, Pine Lakes, Aberdeen Country Club, River Hills, Tradition Club and the PineHills and Palmetto courses at Myrtlewood over the last four years.

With additional capital improvement projects on the horizon, FGI is reinforcing its commitment to providing golfers with the best golf vacation experience possible.

For more information on Pawleys Plantation, visit www.PawleysPlantation.com.

For more information on FGI, visit www.

FoundersGolf.com.

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Surrounded by water.

Engulfed in greens.

GULF SHORES & ORANGE BEACH 2023 OFFICIAL VACATION GUIDE

GET YOUR FREE VACATION GUIDE Escape to Alabama’s 32-mile island and experience a vacation like no other. Relax on sugar-white sand beaches, indulge in our coastal cuisine and challenge yourself on the greens, all in one unforgettable place.

GulfShores.com/Golf . OrangeBeach.com . 877-852-3618

GOLF TRAINING

Power Tee Drives Surprising Revenue For Courses And Practice Facilities Honeybrooke’s The Golf Zone Among Properties Enjoying a Financial Boost

Sometimes it’s fun and enlightening to learn about the behind-the-scenes companies that make our golfing experiences so satisfying. One such company that is making golf more fun - and helping golf courses and practice facilities increase revenues at an impressive rate - is the Ponta Vedra, FL-based Power Tee. Helmed by UK-born husband and wife team Martin Wyeth and Clare Dibley, Power Tee offers a breakthrough solution in the form of golf hitting stations that feature a proprietary auto-teeing system that always ensures a desirable lie and speeds up practice in teaching sessions with automatically teed balls at desired heights.

Golf industry heavyweights like 2003 U.S. Open champion Jim Furyk and legendary teacher Rick Smith are huge believers and Power Tee, but the biggest fans are the owners and operators of courses and facilities with the driving range space that suddenly need less mowing and maintenance and also see golfers hitting more balls, bringing more people with them, and spending more in the pro shops and on food and beverages. That all represents more success Wyeth pioneered this concept in England and across the UK and, today, an impressive 80 percent of the standalone practice facilities in the UK feature Power Tee hitting stations.

Now, the Power Tee team is looking to spread

its magic formula across North America where a growing number of properties are discovering the benefits of having reliable practice stations that don’t help the painpoints of tedious or costly grass maintenance.

These properties also see the bottom line improve by making their ranges function faster and more efficiently.

As golf participation continues to grow and off-course golf activity reaches an all-time high, Power Tee’s business has escalated. In the past two years, multiple customers have doubled and tripled their initial Power Tee orders due to increases in customer demand and revenue related to their innovative automatic tee systems. For example, The Golf Zone Family Fun Center (a Golf Range Association of America Top 50 Driving Range) in Honeybrook, Pa. recently became a Power Tee convert. Owner Steve DiMarco and his team signed on for 12 Power Tee units at the 2023 PGA Merchandise Show in January. Just 30 days after installation, The Golf Zone ordered 14 more machines bringing their total to 26.

“We are thrilled to have Power Tee installed at The Golf Zone. We were looking for ways to enhance the guest experience when hitting balls. Power Tee is the answer.

So far, they have been a resounding success, so we added more,” says DiMarco.

Another Power Tee believer is Nancy White, who has owned Mulligan’s Golf Center in Harrisonburg, Virginia for 20 years. The double-decker Mulligans range features teeing stations with TrackMan Range and 20 Power Tee stations on the lower level.

The first six Power Tee stations paid for themselves easily, so expanded to 20 stations and it’s made the practice and hitting experience so much more fun for our customers,” White said. “We’ve seen a lot of players who used to be stubborn about only hitting off of natural grass learn to really love the feel of hitting off of the Power Tee mats.

They really enjoy it.”

Power Tee isn’t just for standalone ranges.

Charles Raulerson, former PGA Tour player and owner of Fleming Island Golf Club in Fleming Island, Florida, had Power Tee installed to accompany the Toptracer Range units at the daily-fee course’s gamified Top of Tee practice area. In the first six months, Fleming Island saw a 25- to 30-pecent increase in revenue and now Raulerson is one of the biggest Power Tee advocates.

“Our next frontier of expansion is dailyfee courses, resorts and private clubs who appreciate technology and gamifying the practice process and making practice time more productive and enjoyable for their members and guests,” Wyeth said.

To learn more, visit PowerTee.com.

Fall 2023 | Tri State Golf

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