TRI-STATE
FALL 2025
GOLF Winter 2026
M A G A Z I N E
THE
SKRAMBLE HOUSE OF GOLF
BACK TO HIS ROOTS: JUSTIN RINAS BRINGS SKRAMBLE HOUSE OF GOLF HOME TO ROCHESTER THE TOP INDOOR GOLF DESTINATION AN EXPERIENCE UNLIKE ANY OTHER
2 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
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The Woodlands Club Reserve your stay in one of Nemacolin’s luxury hotels or private homes to experience it all — once you fall in love, you can make it your own with an exclusive membership to The Woodlands Club.
nemacolin.com 866.702.0810 Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
3
INSIDE THIS ISSUE • FALL 2025 10 COVER STORY
Skramble House
Justin Rinas Brings His Vision Home
FROM THE PUBLISHER
14 Women’s Golf Fashion Spotlight Top 10 Apparel Brands Changing The Game
GREEN GRASS ACCOUNTS JOE BURKHARDT ADVERTISING SALES (PA / NJ / DE / NATIONAL)
JOE BURKHARDT 610.755.8767 tristategolf@gmail.com
18 Minnesota Golf Travel Cragun’s Resort Unveils Dutch Red Course and Completes 45-Hole Renovation GOLFTINI • A. PUTNAM • FORE ALL • PXG • CHERVO USA VICTORIA PAULSEN • SWING CONTROL • VARLEY • JOFIT • ERIN BAILEY
ART DIRECTOR
21 Golf Journal
GARO YEPREMIAN JR.
Dear Golf…Thanks for the Memories….
STAFF WRITER
NATE OXMAN 22 Golf Course News
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
FRED ALTVATER KLEA ARMSTRONG MATT BIONDI MARK HOGAN EMILY LYON MIKE MAY TOM McNICHOL AL RYDING MATT WARD GARO YEPREMIAN JR.
The
Harbor Shores Announces the Opening of The Wee Course
Easiest Club They’ll Ever 24 Spotlight
Reinventing Life and Purpose in South Florida
Swing
25 Golf Equipment For Kids
Little Links Golf ’s Big Swing Driver Inspires Young Players For Ages 2-10+
CONTRIBUTING ASSOCIATIONS
BIONDI MEDIA GOLF NEWS NETWORK KEVIN FRISCH PR LET’S GOLF TRAVEL LPGA PGA OF AMERICA USGA TriState.Golf
Follow Us @tristategolfermag
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.
27 Golf Apparel
Trono Belts– Where Style Meets Precision
28 Tournament News
Truist Invests $300,000 To Advance Partnership With The Skills Initiative
MAKE GOLF FUN AND 5X EASIER
Big Swing Driver is built to make fun from the 30 golf Golf Course News very first swing.
Nemacolin Voted #15 on Golf Digest’s “America’s 75 Best Golf Resorts” List
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Flexible Graphite
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1200cc Oversized
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44 Golf Instruction Learn More at The Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort Announces www.littlelinks.golf MAJOR CHAMPION Golf Schools
52 Golf Equipment
Honma Golf ’s New BERES PP500 Series Putters Debut
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Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf 5 (SUMMER 2025 ISSUE)
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Visit LandisCreekGolfClub.com for upcoming events and to book tee times/ best rates
610.495.6945 • LandisCreekGolfClub.com 765 North Lewis Road • Limerick, PA 19468 Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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9
COVER STORY
Skramble House of Golf Expands to Rochester
Justin Rinas Brings His Vision Home
Rochester’s New Scramble House
By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher The Skramble Concept
From the start, Skramble House of Golf set out to create a golf experience that went far beyond hitting balls into a simulator. Each location offers players a mix of state-of-the-art golf technology, comfortable lounge-style settings, and programming that appeals to both serious golfers and those just looking for a good time with friends. Whether it’s practicing on a Foresight simulator, competing in league play, or enjoying food and drinks after a session, Skramble blends sport and lifestyle seamless...
Horsham & King of Prussia: Building the Foundation
The first two Pennsylvania locations laid the groundwork for what Skramble has become. Horsham, located in Montgomery County, quickly attracted both casual players and corporate groups looking for a unique venue. Its welcoming
10 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
design and high-tech setup made it a favorite for league nights, parties, and practice sessions alike. The success in Horsham led to the second location in King of Prussia, one of the Philadelphia region’s busiest hubs. Here, Skramble tapped into a broader audience—business professionals, young golfers, and the evergrowing community of players seeking off-course entertainment options. Both facilities established Skramble as a leader in the golf entertainment and training space.
Rochester: A Homecoming for Justin Rinas
For founder Justin Rinas, the newest location in Rochester, New York is more than just an expansion—it’s a homecoming. Born and raised in the Rochester area, Rinas has always maintained a strong connection to his hometown. By bringing Skramble House of Golf to Rochester, he’s not only
expanding the business but also giving back to the community that shaped him.
The Short Game Advantage
One of the standout features at Skramble House of Golf—available in both the new Rochester, NY location and the King of Prussia, PA facility—is its expansive short game area, covering nearly 5,000 to 6,000 square feet. Complete with a real sand bunker, this dedicated practice zone gives golfers the chance to work on the most critical part of their game yearround. Short game mastery—chipping, pitching, bunker play, and putting—is often what separates average golfers from consistent players, and Skram...
More Than Just Golf
One of the keys to Skramble’s appeal is its ability to go beyond the game itself.
Justin Rinas & Dad, who helped big-time getting Rochester’s new opening ready.
5000-6000 feet KOP short game are with real bunker
While the technology and facilities are world-class, the culture is what sets it apart. Skramble is as much about social interaction as it is about lowering handicaps. Members can join leagues, participate in themed events, or simply spend an evening with friends in an environment that feels both upscale and relaxed.
Looking Ahead
With three successful locations now in operation, Skramble House of Golf is
solidifying its presence in the indoor golf market. Horsham and King of Prussia have built loyal followings, while the Rochester opening represents both growth and a personal milestone for Justin Rinas. As the brand continues to evolve, one thing remains consistent: Skramble is redefining how golf can be played, practiced, and enjoyed. For golfers in Pennsylvania and now New York, the message is clear— Skramble House of Golf isn’t just a place to play. It’s a place to belong. TSG
For more information: SkrambleKOP.com
Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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GOLFTINI • A. PUTNAM • FORE ALL • PXG • CHERVO USA VICTORIA PAULSEN • SWING CONTROL • VARLEY • JOFIT • ERIN BAILEY 12 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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TOP 10 WOMEN’S GOLF APPAREL
The Stylish Chaos of Women’s Golf Apparel The women’s golf apparel market has never been more crowded. With new labels entering the scene almost monthly, touting they are the game changer. The space is overflowing with brands chasing the same audience---often with similar cuts, colors, and price points. Its stylish chaos, and as we noted here in our Fall Issue, oversaturation is both the market’s greatest strength and its biggest challenge. By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher
T
he women’s golf apparel market is in overdrive. In the past five years, dozens of new brands have jumped in, hoping to capture the modern female golfer. The result? An exciting wave of options – but also a market that’s oversaturated, with many labels looking and feeling the same. For Tri State Golf Magazine, choosing our Top 10 Women’s Apparel Brands wasn’t just about popularity or hype. It was about identifying who has staying power to survive the shakeout that’s already beginning to happen. Established players with
clear identities and loyal followings remain strong, while others are already fading into the background, unable to differentiate in the marketplace that’s bursting at the seams. That’s why, for our Fall Issue, and walking the floors at the PGA Show, Tri State Golf Magazine set out to spotlight the Top 10 Women’s Apparel Brands that not only define golf style right now, but also show signs of real staying power. These are the names building an identity beyond the noise – and one fresh newcomer who looks poised to break through.
GOLFTINI GolftiniWear.com
Since 2005, Golftini has been redefining women’s golf fashion under the vision and leadership of owner and designer Susan Hess. Known for bold prints, flattering fits, and a fresh take on traditional golf style, Golftini was created to help women feel stylish, confident, and comfortable both on and off the course. Beyond fashion, Susan has carried a powerful mission: to raise awareness and show support for those impacted by breast cancer. That mission is symbolized in the brand’s signature light pink logo, a constant reminder of strength, hope, and the fight against cancer. With performance-driven fabrics, versatile designs, and a heartfelt cause stitched into its identity, Golftini has secured its place as one of the most influential names in women’s golf apparel today.
A. PUTNAM APutnam.com
Founded by entrepreneur and designer Ali Putnam, A. PUTNAM has quickly distinguished itself as a luxury women’s golf and lifestyle brand that blends tradition with modern versatility. Designed for women who demand both performance and elegance, the line transitions seamlessly from the golf course to workwear, dinner outings, and resort living. Ali often says, “we flex up, not down,” and that philosophy is woven into every piece of the collection—sophisticated, timeless, and intentionally crafted to honor both the game of golf and the dynamic lives of women who play it. As a busy mom of five boys, Ali understands the importance of clothing that can adapt with ease, and her vision for A. PUTNAM is to give women apparel that empowers them to feel confident, refined, and ready for every part of their day.
14 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
FORE ALL ForeAll.com
FORE All was founded by Jen Clyde and Michelle Money with a goal of making golf stylish, accessible, and fun for women of all levels. Their product lines include apparel, accessories, and more, all with thoughtful designs aimed at being both fashionable and functional. They lean heavily on community-building and inclusivity—offering wider size ranges and designs inspired by feedback from female golfers.
PXG PXG.com
Founded by Bob Parsons, with the passion and vision of his wife Renee Parsons, PXG (Parsons Xtreme Golf) has redefined innovation in the game—not only through equipment but also with its fast-growing women’s apparel line. Renee has been instrumental in shaping the collection, ensuring it embodies luxury, performance, and modern style. The women’s line features sleek silhouettes, high-performance fabrics, and versatile designs that transition effortlessly from the course to everyday life. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, offering golfers breathable comfort, stretch, and durability without sacrificing elegance. More than apparel, PXG’s women’s collection delivers a statement of sophistication and confidence, reflecting the bold spirit and uncompromising quality that Bob and Renee Parsons have instilled across the entire PXG brand.
CHERVO USA ChervoUSA.com
CHERVO USA represents the pinnacle of Italian luxury in women’s sports and lifestyle apparel. Founded in Italy, the brand has built its reputation on delivering refined, high-performance clothing that blends elegance with cutting-edge functionality. Known for its sleek designs, advanced fabrics, and timeless European style, CHERVO creates apparel that transitions seamlessly from the golf course to leisure and travel. Every piece reflects the brand’s heritage of sophistication and innovation, making it a premier choice for women who demand both fashion and function in their active lifestyles.
VICTORIA PAULSEN VictoriaPaulsen.com
Founded in 2022 by Victoria Paulsen, this women’s-only golf apparel brand was born from her recognition of a gap in the market—fashion-forward, functional clothing for women, especially the younger generation of golfers. With a background in corporate fashion and a deep passion for the game, Victoria set out to create a line designed by a woman golfer, for women golfers of every level. Her mission is to empower and inspire women through collections that seamlessly blend style, versatility, and performance. Each piece is crafted to elevate confidence both on and off the course, offering premium quality at an accessible price point. By combining modern fashion with true functionality, Victoria Paulsen has quickly positioned itself as one of the most exciting new names in women’s golf apparel.
Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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TOP 10 WOMEN’S GOLF APPAREL
SWING CONTROL SwingControl.com
Born from a lifelong love of golf and decades of experience in women’s fashion manufacturing dating back to 1979, Swing Control was officially launched in 2009 with a vision to merge performance-ready gear with sophisticated style. Recognizing the need for golf apparel that looked as good as it played, the brand set out to design collections that strike the perfect balance between fashion and function, with comfort at the core. Using the finest fabrics sourced from around the world and impeccable tailoring, Swing Control delivers pants, crops, dresses, shorts, skorts, and tops that transition seamlessly from course to cocktails. Known for fresh hues, bold prints, and silhouettes that flatter every figure, the brand has earned a reputation for helping women feel confident, stylish, and game-ready—both on and off the fairway.
VARLEY Varley.com
Founded in 2014 by husband-and-wife team Lara and Ben Mead, Varley is a contemporary fashion and lifestyle brand built on a shared passion for sport, style, and innovation. The two first connected in 2010 while training for the London Marathon, and what began as a vision to merge performance with modern fashion has grown into a global family-run business with over 1,000 points of sale and offices in London, Los Angeles, and New York. Varley’s collections span the seasons, offering knitwear, outerwear, activewear, and everyday essentials that transition seamlessly into a woman’s busy life. Inspired by the women who wear their designs, Lara and Ben strive to instill quiet confidence through timeless pieces that enhance movement, elevate wardrobes, and evolve as women’s lives do. Today, Varley stands as a close-knit team of creators and innovators, delivering understated luxury and effortless versatility for the modern woman.
JOFIT Jofit.com
Breaking down barriers in a sport long considered an “Old Boys Club,” JoFit has become a symbol of innovation and empowerment in women’s golf apparel. Founded by Joanne Cloak, the brand was born from a simple but powerful idea: to design clothing that fits real women, inspires confidence, and performs on the course. Despite early doubts from skeptics who warned her against entering the crowded apparel market, Joanne pushed forward with determination, creating a line that flatters, functions, and motivates women to embrace their love of the game. JoFit’s commitment to empowering women both on and off the course has secured its place among the most influential and enduring brands in golf fashion today.
ERIN BAILEY ErinBailey.com
Erin, an aspiring single-digit golfer, grew up on the course with her grandmother, Eileen Bailey, admiring the effortless style of the women she saw. Years later, struggling to find apparel that felt both timeless and truly functional, she drew on 15+ years in apparel design and distribution to launch ERIN BAILEY—a line built on FIT. FUNCTION. FABRIC. Offering refined, athlete-inspired pieces with details like usable pockets and adjustable-length skirts, the brand is designed for women who want to look good and feel even better while they play. ERIN BAILEY is bringing something different and a fresh newcomer who looks poised to break through - and that’s exactly why she should be here to stay. TSG
16 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
Patent Pending Hidden Ties for Adjustable Length
BOOK MEETING AT
’26 PGA SHOW
FIT. FUNCTION. FABRIC. www.erinbailey.com
Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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MINNESOTA GOLF TRAVEL
Cragun’s Resort Unveils Dutch Red Course and Completes 45-Hole Renovation
By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher
F
or more than 85 years, Cragun’s Resort, Golf and Conference in Brainerd, Minnesota has been a household name in the Upper Midwest— welcoming generations of families, golfers, and vacationers to its mile-long sandy beach, scenic lakeside setting, and warm hospitality. In July 2025, the resort ushered in a new chapter with the completion of a multi-year golf course renovation, led by Minnesota’s own PGA TOUR Champions player and architect, Tom Lehman. The highlight of this project is the debut of the Dutch Red course, completing the transformation of the resort’s 45-hole golf offering and reaffirming Cragun’s as one of the region’s premier golf destinations. Lehman’s vision for Dutch Red was centered on improving playability, strategy, and enjoyment for golfers of every ability. The renovation features striking new bunkering, four redesigned greens, reshaped surrounds, and enhanced scenic corridors. While the routing remains consistent, careful clearing and contouring
18 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
have opened up expansive views across the property. Two holes in particular showcase the design improvements: - Hole #3 now offers a dramatically larger landing area off the tee, nearly doubling the fairway width. The green was moved 50 yards back, with a forgiving chipping area around its perimeter. - Hole #4, once tightly guarded by bunkers and a left-side cart path, has been transformed into a drivable par 4. Bunkers have been repositioned for better risk-reward strategy, the cart path has been shifted to the right, and the new green offers subtle slopes and dynamic pin positions. With Dutch Red joining the Dutch White and Dutch Blue nines, plus the Par 3 Reversible Nine, Cragun’s now
offers a total of 45 holes of championship golf. Golfers can mix and match layouts for different experiences, from leisurely vacation rounds to tournament-level play. Cragun’s has been a four-season escape since its founding in 1940. Today, the resort offers a mile of sandy beach, a fullservice marina, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, biking, and seasonal activities from fishing to snowmobiling. With its conference center, wedding facilities, and spacious lodging, it caters to everything from family reunions to corporate retreats. The resort’s long tradition is now
backed by a new ownership group, who purchased Cragun’s in 2024 in one of the largest resort transactions in Minnesota history. While ownership has changed, the staff, leadership, and commitment to service remain firmly in place, ensuring continuity of the Cragun’s experience.
Dining at Cragun’s: Flavor with a Lakeside View
Cragun’s Resort isn’t just about great golf—it’s also a destination for dining that captures the flavor of Minnesota. - Irma’s Kitchen – Farm-to-table menus in a rustic lodge setting. - Legacy Grill – Overlooking the fairways, perfect for golfers. - L akeside Dining Room – Family meals with sweeping views of Gull Lake. - The Bear Trap Lounge – A casual spot for cocktails and bites. From romantic dinners to family
gatherings, Cragun’s delivers a true taste of Minnesota.
CRMC Championship: PGA TOUR Americas Comes to Cragun’s
Each summer, Cragun’s Resort becomes the center of professional golf in the Upper Midwest when it hosts the CRMC Championship, presented by the Northern Pacific Center. Returning August 28–31, 2025, the tournament will showcase the newly renovated Red and White courses. Past champions include Jake Knapp
(2022), Yi Cao (2023), and Frederik Kjettrup (2024). With rising stars chasing PGA TOUR status, and fans enjoying an intimate lakeside setting, the CRMC Championship has quickly become one of the most exciting stops on the PGA TOUR Americas. TSG For more information: Craguns.com
From left to right: Tom Lehman, Course Designer; Jack Wawro, Director of Golf; Scott Pritchard, Vice President, Tournament Business & Sponsor Relations, PGA TOUR; Eric Peterson, General Manager, and Matt McKinnon, Golf Course Superintendent
Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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VOTED
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INDOOR PUBLIC GOLF FACILITY IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY!
L infield N ational golf club
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5 STATE OF THE ART GOLF INDOOR SIMULATORS Great Conditions • Great Staff • Great Experience Robert Kleckner – PGA Professional Of The Year, 2017
LinfieldNational.com • 610 495 8455
66 CHURCH RD, LINFIELD, PA 19468
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GOLF COURSE NEWS
Harbor Shores Announces the Opening of The Wee Course Harbor Shores, the Lake Michigan shoreline golf destination with its Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf course, announces the opening of its next golf attraction, the Wee Course. This new short pitch-and-putt course, designed by Hall of Fame golfer and 2014 and 2015 KitchenAid Senior PGA Champion, Colin Montgomerie, will open for limited preview play Labor Day weekend. Kids will play for free, and youth programming will be a priority. “I’m thrilled to be part of this special project with Harbor Shores, a place and community I hold close to my heart,” said Montgomerie. “The Wee Course is more than just a golf amenity—it’s a gathering place for every generation. Having seen how short courses bring people together around the world, especially in Scotland, I know this course will create the same sense of community here. With nine holes that can be played in under an hour, resort guests, families, and youth will find it a fun, affordable way to spend time outdoors, away from screens, while learning the values and etiquette that make golf so special. It’s an investment in both the game and the community that will pay dividends for generations.” Montgomerie designed the five-acre, nine-hole Wee Course with fun in mind. The total yardage ranges from just 275 yards to 500 yards. It will consist of short yardage holes from 20 yards up to 80 yards or less with green complexes modeled after the nine most iconic holes of the current Jack Nicklaus layout. This includes the 7th hole that features a miniature version of Nicklaus’s famous 10th green, the site of one of the wildest putts ever made by him. The Wee Course features a combination of two sets of tee markers, allowing the option to play 18 holes. The longer tees (blue) feature more angles and challenging pitch shots or choose the forward tees (white) for shorter pitch shots, perfect for kids and beginners. Golfers can also use a putter from the forward tees on every hole, creating some exciting shots over slopes and hills on their way to the flag. Playing a combination of both sets of tees can also offer a fun golfing option.
22 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
This is an exciting new chapter for Harbor Shores and its continued commitment to the community, according to Joshua Doxtator, PGA General Manager for Harbor Shores. “Growing the game is at the heart of what we do and making the game affordable and accessible for all is the real vision behind the Wee Course,” said Doxtator. “The excitement and anticipation in the community has been electric. From novice to skilled players, the Wee Course provides entertainment value never seen before in SW Michigan. Colin has been exceptional to work with, and his understanding of community impact has been designed into the entire project.” The Wee Course is also complemented by the new 18-hole Highlands Greens
Putting Course. Inspired by similar attractions at St. Andrews and Pinehurst, this fun 15,000 square foot putting attraction and Wee Course will have lighting, music, and food and beverage with Monty’s Place, where fire pits, and casual seating for up to 60 make it a great community gathering space. The Wee Course pricing will start at $30 for nine holes, $40 for 18 holes and $50 for all-day access, which will include the putting course. Kids under 12 with an adult will be complimentary, and juniors ages 13-17 are $20 with an adult. Season passes will also be available. Jeff Fettig, former chairman and CEO of Whirlpool Corporation and a leading contributor through the Fettig Family Foundation, and the visionary behind this Harbor Shores expansion, sees this amenity having a major impact on the youth in the community. “The opening of the Wee Course is another milestone in our mission to make Harbor Shores a true catalyst for community growth,” said Fettig. “This
project is about more than golf—it’s about inspiring the next generation. With support for programs like First Tee Benton Harbor and the Boys and Girls Clubs, First Robotics, as well as our three local public-school foundations, we’re creating a place where area youth can learn, grow, and experience the game in a fun and accessible way. The design, with multiple tee options and lighting for evening play, ensures this course will be a gathering place for families, friends, resort guests, and the entire community. We couldn’t be more excited about the impact it will have, both today and in seeding the future.” This new family-focused amenity at Harbor Shores received support from multiple corporate sponsors, including the Whirlpool Foundation, Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital, Indiana Michigan Power’s Cook Plant Foundation, and United Federal Credit Union, as well as a number of individual donors. The Wee Course emphasizes youth programming and builds on the success of the annual Whirlpool Community Charity Golf Event. This event provides $3M+ in funding annually to community youth. Over its 22-year history, this event has raised over $37 million and positively impacts more than 10,000 local youth each year. Doxtator has seen firsthand the incredible support from the community and is excited to share the Wee Course with both golf enthusiasts and non-players. “Our ability to continue to grow the game has expanded tenfold. Through innovative programming and special events like putting leagues, junior leagues, mixed and late-night leagues, the Wee Course will have something to offer everyone.” This new golf amenity is just one of many exciting developments in the community, including an outdoor park along the canal on Riverview Drive and the continued expansion of walking and bike trails.
Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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SPOTLIGHT
Reinventing Life and Purpose in South Florida Special to TSG
Imagine packing up your life, leaving behind the familiar, and stepping into the unknown—not because it’s easy, but because you believe in a vision for your future. That’s exactly what I did last November when I moved to Florida. I wasn’t just searching for a change of scenery; I was seeking purpose, independence, and the opportunity to build something meaningful. At 38, I’ve learned that life doesn’t come with a roadmap. As an adult with speech and language challenges, I’ve faced barriers others don’t always see. But I’ve also discovered that with passion, persistence, and a growth mindset, those barriers don’t have to define you. Instead, they can fuel your drive to create a life of purpose. This move wasn’t just about geography; it was about reinvention. After years of moving seasonally for work, I chose to plant roots in South Florida. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve found strength in consistency and the courage to step outside my comfort zone.
in sports. From working golf and tennis operations at Shell Bay Club to roles at Winged Foot, Maidstone, Tiburón, and Ibis, I’ve learned what it takes to deliver worldclass hospitality and unforgettable guest experiences. Earlier this year, I had the honor of working the Masters Tournament in Augusta—an unforgettable career milestone. I was also profiled in Met Golfer magazine for the second time in an article titled “Everyone’s Game,” highlighting how I overcame speech and language challenges to build a successful path in the golf industry. My passion for sports extends beyond golf. I’ve worked in fan services and operations for the Red Sox, Phillies, and Mets, even celebrating a World Series win with Boston. As a court attendant at the U.S. Open, I worked on center court during Serena Williams and Roger Federer matches, proof that preparation and persistence can place you in the heart of greatness.
The Power of Community and Connection
An Exciting New Chapter: La Gorce Country Club
One of the first things I did after relocating was seek out a sense of community. My Jewish faith has always grounded me, and attending Shabbat services and connecting with local congregations gave me a sense of belonging. It reminded me that even in a new place, shared values and traditions can open doors. I also began volunteering with the Special Olympics, an organization close to my heart. Giving back has always been a cornerstone of my life. Whether advocating for inclusion, supporting athletes, or mentoring others with disabilities, I’ve found purpose in helping others discover what’s possible when you don’t let challenges hold you back. Every day, I push myself to meet someone new, to network, and to stay visible. That’s how opportunities grow. Platforms like LinkedIn have become powerful tools—not just for showcasing my experience, but for building relationships that have the power to transform a career.
A Career Built on Passion and Persistence
My professional journey has taken me to some of the most iconic venues
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This fall, I’m proud to share that I’ll be joining the team at La Gorce Country Club in Miami Beach—an exciting new chapter in my journey. I’m honored to be part of such a historic and prestigious club, where I’ll have the opportunity to deliver top-tier service while continuing to grow professionally. This full-time role is a major step forward in my goal to build a stable, long-term career in the golf and hospitality industry, and I couldn’t be more grateful. For someone like me, who has worked seasonally and faced challenges navigating traditional hiring systems, this opportunity is about more than just employment. It’s a sign that perseverance pays off and that when one door finally opens, it can lead to something life-changing.
Lessons in Resilience
For individuals like me, the road to success can feel like an uphill climb. I’ve been told I’m overqualified, or that my role doesn’t quite “fit.” But I’ve learned that rejection is just redirection. Each setback has strengthened my determination to create a life where I’m not just surviving, but thriving. The key? A willingness to take chances, believe in myself, and embrace the
unknown. I train regularly, rise early to watch the sunrise, and approach each day with the mindset that the right connection or conversation could change everything.
Paying It Forward
Today, I use my voice to inspire others. I’ve spoken to clubs, companies, and schools about the power of inclusion, resilience, and believing in your potential. Highlights include presentations at the Troon General Manager Retreat, Club Management Association of America, and Major League Baseball’s ADA Anniversary celebration. My dream is to one day host a gala or event to raise awareness and support for individuals with disabilities in the sports and hospitality industries. Everyone deserves a chance to show what they’re capable of and to feel like they truly belong.
The Takeaway
My journey has taught me that success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about showing up every day with the courage to try again. It’s about staying consistent, nurturing relationships, and daring to dream big, even when the odds are stacked against you. To anyone reading this who feels like the door won’t open: keep knocking. Sometimes all it takes is one connection, one opportunity, to change everything. As I continue to build my life in South Florida and prepare for this next chapter at La Gorce Country Club, I’m reminded daily that persistence and passion can create extraordinary outcomes. My mission is simple: break barriers, inspire others, and prove that with hard work and heart, anything is possible. TSG
GOLF EQUIPMENT FOR KIDS
Swinging into Confidence
Little Links Golf’s Big Swing Driver Inspires Young Players By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher
The
Easiest Club They’ll Ever
Swing
At Little Links Golf, the future of the game is in good hands—and on the right track. With a mission to make golf fun, accessible, and confidence-building for kids, Little Links has created a lineup of tools designed specifically to help young players succeed from the very first swing. The highlight of the collection is the Big Swing Driver, a junior-friendly club with a massive 1200 cc clubhead. Unlike simply shrinking down adult clubs, this driver is designed from the ground up for kids, with lightweight materials and proper balance. The oversized head makes it much easier to make solid contact, turning frustration into excitement and sparking smiles on the course. Adding to the lineup is the Little Links Training Glove, a clever teaching aid that helps children learn the fundamentals of a proper golf grip. With simple, visual alignment guides built right into the glove, kids can position their hands correctly every time. Together, the driver and glove eliminate the guesswork of learning the game, while building strong habits that lead to confidence and consistency. The inspiration for these innovations came from founder Jason Streiff, a devoted “golf dad.” When his youngest son grew discouraged after struggling with traditional junior clubs, Streiff set out to design equipment that would not only work but also inspire belief. After years of development, his efforts paid off— creating products that give kids immediate success and, just as importantly, joy. Little Links is more than a golf brand—it’s a movement to grow the game by creating positive first experiences for young golfers. With thoughtfully designed gear like the Big Swing Driver and Training Glove, along with a family-first philosophy, Little Links is helping transform early swings into lasting passion. Parents looking to introduce their children to the game will find that Little Links delivers more than equipment—it delivers confidence, fun, and a love for golf that can last a lifetime. Learn more at littlelinks.com, and follow along on Instagram @littlelinks.golf. Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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For Ages 2-10+
MAKE GOLF FUN AND 5X EASIER Big Swing Driver is built to make golf fun from the very first swing. Lightweight & Kid-
Flexible Graphite
Friendly Balance
Shaft
1200cc Oversized
Training Grip- Proper
Easy-Hit Head
Hand Placement
Learn More at www.littlelinks.golf
UNMATCHED CLARITY DESIGNED FOR PERFORMANCE
TRUE DEPTH PERCEPTION
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Stand Out
GOLF APPAREL
Trono Belts– Where Style Meets Precision
ON & OFF THE COURSE
By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher
In golf, every detail matters—your swing, your focus, and yes, even the finishing touches of your look. That’s where Trono Belts deliver the perfect balance of performance and sophistication. More than just an accessory, Trono has become a name golfers recognize for quality, innovation, and comfort. What sets Trono apart is its stretch-to-fit design, engineered specifically for golfers. Built with premium woven materials and advanced stretch technology, Trono Belts move with your body, providing all-day comfort whether you’re lining up a putt, walking 18 holes, or relaxing in the clubhouse. The innovative flexibility ensures a secure fit without restriction, giving golfers the confidence to swing freely while maintaining sharp, tailored style. But Trono is known for more than just performance. Their belts embody a philosophy that golf is not only a sport, but a lifestyle. Trono’s lineup features a mix of bold colors, classic neutrals, and modern textures, offering versatile choices for every golfer’s personality. The minimalist buckle system ensures a sleek finish, eliminating the need for holes and guaranteeing a precise fit every time. From the first tee to the last green, Trono Belts are designed to elevate both your look and your game. Golfers across the country trust Trono not only for durability and functionality, but also for the way these belts seamlessly transition from the course to everyday wear. With Trono, it’s not about just wearing a belt—it’s about making a statement. Step onto the fairway with the confidence that comes from comfort, precision, and undeniable style. Trono Belts – The stretch-to-fit finish to your game. Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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UNLOCK 20% OFF
TRONO BELTS tronobelts.com @TronoBelts
TOURNAMENT NEWS
Truist Championship Invests $300,000 to Advance Philadelphia Workforce Development through Partnership with The Skills Initiative
Following overwhelming community support during the Truist Championship this past May, tournament officials are proud to announce a $300,000 investment in The Skills Initiative, the West Philadelphia-based workforce development organization. The funding will expand workforce development programs that provide job training, career coaching and employer partnerships to help connect Philadelphia residents with meaningful employment opportunities. “Philadelphia gave us incredible support during the tournament, and this investment is our way of giving back to the community that made it possible,” said Joie Chitwood, Executive Director of the 2025 Truist Championship. “We’re proud to partner with The Skills Initiative to help create real opportunities for local residents and strengthen the city’s workforce.” Founded in 2009 as a subsidiary of University City District, The Skills Initiative connects Philadelphia residents to careertrack jobs through tailored training, coaching and strong partnerships with a wide range of local employers. Over 2,000 Philadelphians have graduated from The Skills Initiative since its formation and have earned over
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$142 million in wages working for local anchor institutions including Penn Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), and many more. “Our purpose at Truist is to inspire and build better lives and communities, and we’re proud to see this support of The Skills Initiative,” said Travis Rhodes, Truist regional president of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. “The partnership reflects a shared commitment to expand access to meaningful employment opportunities for Philadelphia residents and supports economic growth in the region.” Representatives from Truist and The Skills Initiative gathered on Friday, September 5th at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia to meet Skills Initiative graduates who recently completed training for phlebotomist roles at CHOP to celebrate their success. CHOP CEO Madeline Bell, a former board member at University City District, has been a longtime champion of The Skills Initiative and helped connect the non-profit to the Truist Championship. Beyond the initial investment, Truist is committed to fostering a deeper relationship
with The Skills Initiative through ongoing volunteer efforts. Over the next few years, Truist teammates will be able to participate in various opportunities, including mentoring, career coaching, and leadership training. Through volunteerism, Truist aims to create a long-term partnership that will continuously contribute to workforce development and make a lasting impact on the Philadelphia community. The success of the Truist Championship this past May enabled the tournament to generate over $2.5 million in charitable impact for local organizations across the Greater Philadelphia region, including the $300,000 investment in The Skills Initiative. “At The Skills Initiative, we’re very excited to partner with an institution that aligns with our core values and our emphasis on personal purpose,” stated Cait Garozzo, Executive Director for The Skills Initiative. “This generous gift will cover the cost of 40 future participants who will go through our program seeking to connect to meaningful employment.” For more information about the Truist Championship and its community initiatives, please visit www.truistchampionship.com.
GOLF TRAVEL EQUIPMENT
GOLF BOOK
Blue Tees Golf Sets the Pace Charlie Mechem Presents at PGA Buying Summit – the “Arnie and Jack” Unveiling TIPS Travel Line & Audiobook Previewing 2026 Innovations Blue Tees Golf, the brand redefining modern golf technology, made a statement at the PGA Buying Summit in Frisco, TX. With a bold presence across the show floor and the exclusive One2One Buying Summit, the company showcased its award-winning portfolio, unveiled the new TIPS travel line, and gave buyers and media a first look at some of the exciting new product innovations coming to the 2026 PGA Show. “Blue Tees Golf showed up to do more than exhibit—we came to lead,” said Taylor Herber, VP of Sales. “Our goal was to create meaningful moments for buyers, spotlight our new categories, and strengthen our ties within the PGA community.” The launch of TIPS—Travel Inspired by the Pursuit of Simplicity—was a breakout moment at the Summit. The minimalist travel gear line drew immediate attention for its sleek, performance-driven design and was featured in Sports Illustrated as one of the six hottest new brands of the event. Beyond the booth, Blue Tees reinforced its commitment to golf culture by continuing as the Official Rangefinder and Speaker Sponsor of the Jam Golf Festival, a high-energy experience that transformed the PGA District into a hub for golfers, families, and industry leaders alike. From introducing TIPS to teasing what’s next for 2026, Blue Tees left Frisco with momentum—and a growing reputation as the brand pushing golf forward. With innovation that bridges products, software, and culture, the company is primed to make its biggest impact yet at the upcoming PGA Show in Orlando. For those who were unable to attend the PGA Buying Summit and are interested in receiving sales information about Blue Tees Golf and the TIPS Collection, contact Will Carswell at William@ blueteesgolf.com.
Charlie Mechem is proud to announce the release of the audiobook version of his popular book, “Arnie and Jack: Stories of My Long Friendship with Two Remarkable Men.” Mechem himself narrates the audiobook which is now available on most major audiobook platforms. The Arnie and Jack audiobook offers listeners a front-row seat to many of golf ’s cherished moments in historically rich locales, all narrated with Mechem’s trademark wit, humor, and emotion. Through his stories, Mechem transports listeners to iconic courses such as Bay Hill, Camargo Club, Muirfield Village, Tradition, and Augusta National, as well as memorable offcourse locations including Arnold Palmer’s Restaurant, the Captains Club at Jack’s Memorial Golf Tournament, the White House, and Congress. Decades of Friendship and Experience Mechem’s remarkable legal and business career spanned six decades, during which he served as a longtime advisor to both Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. “I was honored and privileged to know Arnie and Jack for many years as good friends and to be blessed by those relationships,” Mechem shared. “My life has been greatly enriched by my friendship with these two men.” The audiobook features a collection of stories—some focusing on Arnie or Jack individually and others highlighting moments they shared together. Collectively, these recollections provide a unique view of two of golf ’s most memorable figures. Jack Nicklaus adds, “I can say with complete conviction that there isn’t a person, past or present, who knows more about Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, and the stories that took place between the two of us — and individually — than Charlie Mechem.” The Arnie and Jack audiobook is available on most major audiobook platforms.
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GOLF COURSE NEWS
Nemacolin Voted #15 on Golf Digest’s “America’s 75 Best Golf Resorts” List Nemacolin, Pennsylvania’s premier luxury golf resort destination, is proud to announce that a group of 1,500 Golf Digest panelists voted the luxe 36-hole mountain golf destination #15 on the list of “America’s 75 Best Golf Resorts.” The Golf Digest article announcing the 75 Best rankings explains “The global competition among golf resorts continues to accelerate with the popularity of golf. It’s dizzying but exciting to reflect on the development happening both at golf ’s most popular destinations and also new ones popping up. We’re living in a moment where it’s never been better to be able to travel to these destinations—both iconic or new and modern—to enjoy the varied golf that we’re blessed with in this country. The toughest part? Choosing where to travel to next.” A golf course with a riverAI-generated content may be incorrect. The 1,500 rankings panelists, all of them avid golf travelers, were tasked with scoring any resort they have visited to play golf in the past five years on a scoring system of 1 (awful) to 10 (perfect). Nemacolin was selected in the upper 20 percent of the 75 esteemed properties honored in this ranking.
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The Mystic Rock course, home of the PGA TOUR’s 84 Lumber Classic from 2003 to 2006, was also ranked 64th on the Golf Digest’s ‘America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses’ list and 11th on the publication’s “Best in Pennsylvania” rankings. The inimitable Shepherd’s Rock course was ranked 21st on the “Best in Pennsylvania” list.
Being home to two standout Pete Dyedesigned golf courses and three distinctive luxury hotels — Falling Rock, The Chateau, and The Grand Lodge, all which earned the prestigious AAA Five Diamond designation in 2025 — sets Nemacolin apart and resonates uniquely in the minds of golf travelers.
Around every corner, Mystic Rock charms and beguiles golfers like few golf courses can. The hole designs are imaginative. They ask the golfer to use creativity, brawn sometimes, and problem solving throughout. The everyday conditions on this layout, and its sister course Shepherd’s Rock, are pristine enough to hold a tour event at a moment’s notice. Shepherd’s Rock, constructed by Dye and his associate Tim Liddy and opened in 2017, is a different kind of enigma. It features more generous landing areas off the tee but tougher approach shots and absolutely vexing greens. While Mystic Rock hits home with a gripping variety of holes a shot values, Shepherd’s Rock does the same in a ruggedly beautiful natural setting with a quirkier flow and fun pace. “We are extremely honored that Nemacolin has been named 15th among the ‘America’s 75 Best Golf Resorts’ by Golf Digest,” said Nemacolin’s General Manager of Golf & Grounds Operations Chris Anderson. “We see every day what a special destination this is for both invigorating luxury travel and
bucket-list-caliber golf, but to have such a distinguished expert panel recognize the quality and allure Nemacolin offers is meaningful and greatly appreciated.” A golf course with trees and blue skyAI-generated content may be incorrect. Before taking on Pete Dye’s challenges at Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock, one
might consider a lesson or tune-up with all the state-of-the-art toys inside The Nemacolin Golf Academy. This golfer’s indoor dreamscape features four spacious, customized hitting bays which can open up to the 25-station driving range that sits adjacent to two short-game practice areas and a large putting green. The Golf Academy, which also features a dedicated, 1,000-square-foot putting room, is optimized for expert golf training and club fitting.
Until you have experienced the eclectic wonders of this larger-than-life resort nestled in the Allegheny Mountains (about one hour southeast of Pittsburgh), it’s simply hard to describe. Imagine a wonderland where one could spend their days luxuriating with world-class spa treatments, relaxing with afternoon tea, admiring breathtaking works or fine art, and taking in a handson Italian Cooking Class. Then, another guest could play 36 holes a day of championship Pete Dyedesigned golf and use their off time to take a challenging ropes course, go whitewater rafting, jeeping, or claytarget shooting. After all that, they can have a world-class dining experience followed by a visit to The Casino at Nemacolin or enjoying a signature Whiskey Tasting or a fine cigar in The Hardy Room. At Nemacolin all of that good living is possible in one 2,200-acre footprint, just waiting to be discovered. And adored. But never forgotten. To learn more about the incomparable golf vacation experience at Nemacolin, visit Nemacolin.com/golf.
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THE ULTIMATE WAY TO PLAY. EXPERIENCE THE GAME YOU LOVE IN THE BEST WAY POSSIBLE. Walk the course completely untethered from your equipment, with the freedom to focus entirely on your game. Discover the greatest walk in golf with our range of Follow and Remote golf carts. 32 Tri State Golf | Fall 2025
WWW.STEWARTGOLF.COM
GOLF COURSE NEWS
Brandon Fowler Joins Bobby Jones Links As Chief Development Officer Bobby Jones Links (BJL), the golf and club management and development company founded on the values of legendary golfer Bobby Jones, is delighted to announce the appointment of Brandon Fowler as Chief Development Officer. “Brandon is a proven leader in our industry with the experience, integrity, and vision to strengthen our growth and deliver outstanding value to our clients,” said Whitney Crouse, Founding Partner of Bobby Jones Links. “We are really pleased to have him join our leadership team.” Fowler joins BJL with more than 20 years of experience in the club industry, including the past seventeen years with one of the largest management companies in the business. “Throughout his career, Brandon has built a reputation for excellence in
sales and marketing, operaGons, project organization, acquisitions, and third-party management,” said Steve Willy, also a Founding Partner of Bobby Jones Links. “He has a comprehensive background which will enable him to fully understand what our prospective clients need and ensure we can make a meaningful difference for them.” A graduate of Hastings College, Brandon was a two-time all-conference golfer and served as team captain of the men’s golf team. Golf is deeply rooted in his family: his grandfather, Les Fowler, was head coach of the University of Colorado men’s golf team for 29 years, mentoring greats such as Hale Irwin and Dale Douglass. Away from work, Brandon is devoted to his family — his wife and three children
— and is an enthusiastic University of Colorado Buffaloes fan. “I’m honored to join Bobby Jones Links and contribute to its mission of delivering exceptional club experiences while honoring the legacy of Bobby Jones,” said Fowler. “This company’s culture, values, and commitment to personalized service resonate deeply with me, and I’m excited to help lead its continued growth.” With Brandon’s leadership, Bobby Jones Links is poised to expand its footprint while continuing to provide the customer service and boutique culture that have set it apart in the club management industry.
Renovation of King’s North at Myrtle Beach National on Track for Early October Reopening
Phase 2 of the highly anticipated renovation of King’s North at Myrtle Beach National is progressing on schedule. Led by architect Brandon Johnson, the acclaimed layout is slated to welcome golfers back for an early October reopening. Johnson completed the front-nine redesign in the summer of 2024, and the Arnold Palmer original closed again on May 26, 2025, for the renovation of the back nine. Drawing on his 17 years with the Arnold Palmer Design Group, Johnson is enhancing King’s North’s rugged aesthetic while reimagining its greens and surrounds. The result will be a course that offers golfers more strategic options on approach and recovery shots, in addition to striking new visuals. “Players will discover familiar features that now stand out more prominently, both aesthetically and strategically,” Johnson said.
“At the same time, several green surrounds have been completely reconfigured to introduce new challenges and greater variety.” Among the highlights are significant updates to holes 10, 13, 15 and 16, where golfers will see dramatic changes in how the greens and surrounding areas play and appear. Johnson’s vision will also come to life most vividly on two of King’s North’s most prominent holes: • The island-green par-3 12th – Johnson has expanded the putting surface and modernized the iconic “SC” bunkers, breaking them into seven distinct traps that still clearly form the letters. • The par-4 18th – Once home to more than 40 bunkers, the hole will now feature fewer but equally impactful hazards, complemented by a green nestled against a linear pond edge on the right and a massive kicker slope on the left. “One of the things that will be fun for players is seeing what’s brand new, what feels very similar, and what remains exactly as they remember it, but with a fresh look alongside the new elements,” Johnson added.
Founders Group International (FGI), which owns King’s North and 20 other Myrtle Beach-area courses, has fully backed Johnson’s vision. “We have given Brandon free rein to renovate King’s North, and we were thrilled with the results on the front nine,” said FGI President Steve Mays. “We are equally excited about what’s taking shape on holes 10 through 18 and can’t wait to welcome golfers back to one of Myrtle Beach’s best courses.” FGI has made significant capital investments across its 21-course portfolio, including recent work at Grande FGI has made significant capital investments across its 21-course portfolio, including recent work at Grande Dunes, Pine Lakes and TPC Myrtle Beach. With nearly a dozen renovations completed in recent years and more underway, the company continues to raise the bar for golf in the Grand Strand, cementing its place as the region’s premier course operator. For more information on King’s North, visit www.MyrtleBeachNational.com.
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GOLF EQUIPMENT
GolfForever Pays Off in Life-Changing Ways for Dallas Amateur Golfer Clint Justice We all need a little inspiration in our lives, whether it’s at work, with our family, or just improving our fitness and health. For the last two, you need look no further than this story from Clint Justice, who at one point wondered whether he would play golf again, to now becoming one of the biggest advocates of a fitness program that has far-reaching benefits. It began a few years ago when Justice, a business and entrepreneur coach based in Dallas, went through his second back surgery to repair a herniated disc and other damage. He couldn’t even hold his newborn daughter at the time. And his orthopedic surgeon told him there was a good chance he wouldn’t be able to do something he loved – playing golf. “That sucked,” Justice said, who didn’t play golf from 2018 to 2023. “For years, I didn’t even let myself think about playing. I avoided the idea altogether because it was just too painful.” But Justice, now 38, wasn’t quite ready to accept that fate. He had always worked out, and gone at it hard in the past, but he knew that wasn’t the answer this time around “I scoured the internet, desperate to find a program that was holistic, physical therapy-informed, and sustainable – something that could carry me forward without risking reinjury,” he said. That’s when he came across GolfForever, which is definitely holistic. The innovative training program, which is online (GolfForever.com) and employs a detailed app, is designed to help golfers gain flexibility, mobility, and strength. GolfForever has been around since 2017, and it also works with the GolfForever Swing Trainer, which is incorporated into the workout programs and can be used as a warmup tool as well. In September 2023, Justice signed up with a new mindset about working out. His goal, he said, changed from improving his golf game to merely getting healthy. It wasn’t a means to an end, but rather a new lifestyle, and he learned to enjoy and embrace each workout, to the point where he looked forward to them.
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Justice said what he loves about GolfForever is the variety of exercises, and how they change from day to day, and how each begins with a warm-up session, which is something he probably didn’t do enough of in the past. “The program met me exactly where I was. It started with a simple assessment and then fed me my daily workout: warmups and stretching, then strength training,” he said. “All of it was tailored to rebuild my confidence, flexibility, and mobility, challenging me just enough each day to not quit. “I found my mindset starting to shift. I went from hyper-obsessed with results, to genuinely loving the process. It was about focusing on small, repeatable actions – just the next step in front of me. Day by day, those steps began to add up.” A year later, Justice returned to the golf course. Not only could he play without pain, but he was seeing the results of his workout regimen on the golf course. He now drives the ball 300 yards and beyond with regularity and with less effort. The shorter approach shots have improved his scoring, meaning his handicap has come down, too. (He currently has an index around 4.) Last December, he finished second in a tournament, and he hopes to compete in a few more this year.
And something else unexpected happened, too. The folks at GolfForever noticed. (GolfForever tracks workouts not only to keep users on track, but to motivate them as well.) As it turned out, GolfForever staffers reached out to Justice and invited him to an event with GolfForever ambassador Scottie Scheffler, the No. 1 player in the world. The event was conducted at PGA Frisco just north of Dallas. “It was awesome,” he said. “I got to meet Scottie, I got to meet the GolfForever team and it was just a great day,” said Justice, who also got to hit a nervy shot in a closest-tothe-pin challenge at the resort His experience with GolfForever, he said, parallels his life. “It’s really funny when you stop trying for certain things, you actually accelerate faster,” Justice said. “It really is about changing your mindset and enjoying the process and finding the joy in the middle of the journey of it. If you do that, you’re going to turn out to be where you want to be, or it’s going to take a turn to where you never thought you’d go.” His favorite GolfForever routines include the Hit/Strength combos, isometric holds, and endurance work. “So long that GolfForever is around,” Justice said, “I’m going to be working at it.” For more information, visit GolfForever.com.
GJ GOLF CHARITY
New Jersey Golf Foundation’s Annual Golf Classic Raises “Record Setting” $325,000 to Support Golf Programming for Youth, Military Veterans and Special Needs Dave West, Partner at Centerview Capital Honored as 2025 Chairman’s Award Recipient
The New Jersey Golf Foundation (NJGF), the charitable arm of the New Jersey Section, PGA of America (NJPGA), announced the 19th Annual NJGF Golf Classic hosted at Baltusrol Golf Club on Monday, August 18th generated a “record setting” $325,000 to support golf programming for youth, military Veterans and individuals with special needs. Founded in 2004, the NJGF is committed to positively impacting lives and communities through the game of golf, and the NJGF Golf Classic is the signature fundraising event on the Foundation’s annual calendar. Thanks to a dynamic line-up of programs, and participation from more than 100 NJPGA Professionals, the NJPGA/NJGF positively impacts more than 125,000 youth, 500+ Veterans and more than 1,000 kids and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities on an annual basis. During the post golf celebration, Dave West was honored as the 2025 Chairman’s Award recipient. The Chairman’s Award is given annually to an individual who works tirelessly behind the scenes to support NJGF programs and initiatives. West is currently a Partner at Centerview Capital, a firm focused on investing in the Consumer-Packaged
Goods industry and he also serves as a board member of three publicly traded companies; Simply Good and he also serves as a board member of three publicly traded companies; Simply Good Foods, FreshPet, and Advantage Solutions. West has been a longtime advocate of the NJGF for many years and continues to work diligently to support programs and special events. “The NJGF Golf Classic is our signature fundraising event and continues to showcase the power golf has to unite and uplift communities,” said Chris Hunt, Executive Director, New Jersey Golf Foundation. “This year we were proud to honor Dave West as the 2025 Chairman’s Award recipient. Dave is passionate about the NJGF’s mission, and his philanthropic qualities truly embody our spirit and commitment to positively
impact lives through this great game.” Led by PGA of America Golf Professionals, and with a focus on 3 core pillars: youth, military, and special needs, NJGF programming provides individuals from all backgrounds with access to the game of golf in a welcoming environment. Proceeds from the NJGF Golf Classic support PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) a rehabilitative golf program for military Veterans living with PTSD and TBI; Special Olympics New Jersey Golf; Els For Autism; PGA Junior League, Golf in Schools and new NJGF Heroes Tour for Active Military, Veterans and First Responders. For those interested in learning more about the New Jersey Golf Foundation, or supporting programs and special events, please visit www.njgolffoundation.org.
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TGR LEARNING LAB
Tiger Woods, TGR Foundation and Cobbs Creek Foundation celebrate ribbon-cutting of Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab
Tiger Woods and distinguished guests gathered Monday at the Cobbs Creek Golf and Education Campus in West Philadelphia to celebrate the ribboncutting of the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab. Woods and members of the executive leadership team from TGR Foundation and Cobbs Creek Foundation were present for the celebration, along with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker and PGA TOUR executive Len Brown. The Cobbs Creek Foundation partnered with Tiger Woods’ nonprofit, TGR Foundation, to provide educational
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enrichment opportunities through the TGR Learning Lab on the Cobbs Creek Campus. Built from Woods’ vision of creating a safe space for students to “learn, grow and chase after their dreams,” the TGR Learning Lab Philadelphia is the second location to be opened by TGR Foundation, the first being in Anaheim, Calif. in 2006. “It’s an honor to be here to celebrate this moment with my Foundation and the kids we’re serving in West Philadelphia,” said Woods. “I’m proud of my team and grateful to Cobbs Creek Foundation and everyone who has worked with us to make
an impact in this community.” Throughout the celebration, guests heard about the positive impact the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab is having on the lives of local students through its programming. Fatima Chouhdry, a Learning Lab member, spoke at the event, reflecting on the impact the programs and staff have made on her journey. As a virtual school student, the TGR Learning Lab provides a safe space for local students like Chouhdry to expand upon what they learn at school while building meaningful relationships
and developing life-long skills. As a member, she discovered a career path in neuroscience and hopes to pursue a pre-med degree at the University of Pennsylvania. “My experience at the TGR Learning Lab has been awesome,” Chouhdry said. “I have gained so many hands-on opportunities I wouldn’t get through my virtual school. I also realized that neuroscience is what I want to major in and pursue here. When I come into the building, I feel so safe and can learn what I truly want.” Earlier this year, the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab first welcomed students with a soft opening. The 30,000-squarefoot facility was built in partnership with Cobbs Creek Foundation and capital campaign lead donors, the Smilow Foundation and the Woodland family. Since opening, the Learning Lab has served over one thousand first-through 12th-year students in Philadelphia. Programs available to local students include a wide range of educational offerings, including tutoring, school-day field trips, after-school classes and academic support along with college and career readiness workshops and resources. Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, guests and local media had the opportunity to take a guided tour of the inspiring spaces inside the Learning Lab, which include nine classrooms, a multi-purpose room, music recording and podcast studio, makerspace and Full Swing golf simulator. Learning Lab members were stationed throughout, highlighting their experiences and the programs offered. The Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab is the first completed phase of the Cobbs Creek Golf and Education Campus. A new short course created by Woods’ TGR Design and the Lincoln Financial Center which includes a state-of-art public driving range, restaurant and heritage center will open later this year, followed by the renovated Old Course in 2026 and 9-hole Karakung Course in 2027. “Today we celebrate the official opening of the Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab and the promise it holds for the future,” said Christopher Maguire, Chairman of the Cobbs Creek Foundation Board of Directors. “Through
our partnership with TGR Foundation, we are advancing a shared commitment to education. We have already seen the students here experience incredible personal growth, and we look forward to continuing this momentum in the months and years ahead. As we welcome our newest young learners to the Learning Lab, we remain dedicated to supporting innovative and inclusive educational programming that uplifts every child who walks through these doors.” The Smilow Woodland TGR Learning Lab will begin its first full session of programs on Tuesday, September 9 with programming available throughout the year. Offering a variety of free courses, workshops and events centered around
science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) educational enrichment, career and college readiness and health and well-being, the Learning Lab programs are designed to help students discover their passions and prepare a plan for their future. With 10 elementary schools and 19 high schools within a onemile radius of the campus, the Learning Lab is projected to serve more than 4,500 students annually. More information on programs, upcoming events and partnership opportunities for the TGR Learning Lab is available at Philadelphia.TGRLearningLab. org. To learn more about the Cobbs Creek Golf & Education Campus, visit cobbscreek.org. Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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GOLF COURSE ASSET MANAGEMENT
College Golf Experience Acquires The Universal Golf Rankings (TUGR) College Golf Experience (CGX), the leading college golf camp company exclusively endorsed by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA), announces the acquisition of The Universal Golf Rankings (TUGR). TUGR provides the most comprehensive, accurate, and transparent player ranking system in junior and professional golf. “TUGR’s algorithm was created to solve one of golf ’s biggest pain points unbiased and inclusive rankings through a head-to-head methodology,” said Joshua Jacobs, CEO of CGX. “The result gives college coaches the most accurate analytics and transparent data to make informed decisions. TUGR ensures the entire junior golf and professional golf ecosystem has access to the most reliable and predictive rankings in the game.” TUGR will be run and guided by three Boards of college coaches shaping the
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platform’s vision and direction domestically and internationally. Building value through additional features and partnerships, TUGR will deliver greater impact for coaches, competitive players, and parents – ushering in a new era of data and rankings. “TUGR is the next greatest thing in rankings, stats, and data,” said Mark Hankins, Head Men’s Coach at USC. “It’s a critical part of our recruiting process at USC. We have thousands of recruits to compare, and TUGR’s technology allows us to customize our searches to prioritize what we feel is most important for predicting future college success. We use it every day, trust the head-to-head datadriven approach, and really appreciate the convenience and depth it provides.” Unlike traditional systems, TUGR evaluates golfers through a strokes-
gained, head-to-head model that accounts for tournament field strength, course conditions, and performance relative to peers. The platform breaks down performance across tournaments, states, and tours played, while advanced scoring analysis highlights everything from birdie and par percentages to strengths and weaknesses on par 3s, 4s, and 5s. Unique resilience metrics like bounceback rate, give-back rate, and blow- up rate provide a true picture of consistency and mental toughness. Even weather is accounted for, with insights on how juniors perform in different temperatures, wind, and rain. By ranking players across a wider spectrum – including 18-hole junior, amateur, and professional tournaments and qualifying events – TUGR offers a more inclusive and predictive measure of talent than other platforms. It also captures 30 percent more tournaments and 25 percent more players than any other junior rankings platform. For years, junior golf rankings have been dominated by platforms that primarily evaluate players based on raw scores and the differential from par to course rating; measurements that parents and players have figured out how to game. By comparing performance relative to competitors playing the same course on the same day, TUGR produces a more pure and accurate ranking; one with no arbitrary assumptions. No scores are thrown out, and every shot counts, which encourages players to compete more often. The result is a universal ranking that reflects not just
who a player competed against, but how well they truly performed in context. For coaches, that means a clearer view of a player’s potential in college golf settings. TUGR also saves valuable time by offering customizable tools to filter, compare, and track players across thousands of rounds of data. Instead of relying solely on exposure through select tours, coaches gain insight into: Consistency and scoring ability across different course setups. Progression over time, showing each player’s development curve. Identification of hidden talent thriving in strong fields but overlooked on traditional lists. For families, it delivers confidence that their junior’s achievements are fairly
evaluated and provides the clarity they need to understand national standing and make smarter scheduling and financial decisions. “We made the decision to move to TUGR because of the variety of data the platform provides our coaching staff,” said Golda Borst, Head Women’s Golf Coach, University of Kentucky. “We really like coaching staff,” said Golda Borst, Head Women’s Golf Coach, University of Kentucky. “We really like that we can see the players’ trends over time, and it has helped us tremendously as we make our decisions about future players for our program. I personally like how quickly the site updates its data so that when I’m
out on the course watching a player, I can get the most up-to-date information. The value of TUGR has been tremendous for our coaching staff.” Since its inception, CGX has become the leading organization connecting junior golfers and their parents with college coaches through educational camps, helping them and their families better navigate the complex college golf recruiting process. Incorporating TUGR into CGX will enhance a new college golf content platform, which will be launching in October. The three companies will present a one-of-a-kind data and education resource for college coaches, competitive players, and parents.
The Club at Olde Cypress Names Jerrod Tumbleson as General Manager
Jerrod Tumbleson
The Club at Olde Cypress, one of Southwest Florida’s premier private golf and lifestyle communities, has announced the appointment of Jerrod Tumbleson as its new
General Manager. Tumbleson brings more than two decades of private club management experience, serving in leadership roles at Grey Oaks Country Club, also located in Naples. Tumbleson succeeds longtime GM Ken Lanigan, whose 24-year tenure at Olde Cypress played a pivotal role in establishing the club’s award-winning culture and reputation for excellence. “We’re thrilled to welcome Jerrod to Olde Cypress at such an exciting time for our club,” said Brian Stock, CEO of STOCK Development, which owns and operates Olde Cypress. “His leadership style, dedication to member engagement, and deep operational expertise make him an ideal fit as we move into the next chapter of our club’s growth.” That next chapter is already taking shape. The club is in the midst of a $16 million-plus clubhouse renovation. The
ambitious project, slated for completion by year’s end, is designed to enhance the member experience through a stunning redesign of indoor and outdoor gathering spaces. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead the exceptional team at Olde Cypress and to continue building on the strong foundation that’s already in place,” Tumbleson said. “With recent and upcoming renovations elevating our facilities even further, it’s an exciting time to join a club that’s as forward-thinking as it is community-driven.” A native of Michigan, Tumbleson was first introduced to the golf industry at age 13 and quickly fell in love with the game, and the community atmosphere of club life. He relocated to Naples in the early 2000s and has been a fixture in the area’s private club landscape ever since. Tumbleson lives in Estero with his wife, Catherine, a former LPGA Tour pro, and their two daughters. An avid golfer, cyclist, and all-around sports enthusiast, he is excited to meet the members of Olde Cypress and lead the club into its next era of growth and member satisfaction. About The Club at Olde Cypress The Club at Olde Cypress is owned by STOCK Development, Southwest Florida’s preeminent residential developer and
builder since 2001, and operated by STOCK Hospitality, which provides innovative solutions uniquely tailored to club communities. Creating exceptional member experiences is the cornerstone of all Stock Hospitality services, which include club operations, golf course maintenance, membership marketing, and programming. New members can choose from three categories of membership carefully crafted to offer something for everyone. Widely considered one of the most vibrant, active and welcoming clubs in Southwest Florida, Olde Cypress is home to the first P.B. Dye golf course in Collier County. Other amenities include tennis and pickleball courts, fitness center, and pool and a 34,000-square-foot clubhouse featuring both casual and fine dining. The club and surrounding 540-acre gated community are located just minutes from Naples’ famous beaches, worldclass shopping on 5th Avenue, and the Southwest Florida International Airport. For more information visit www. OldeCypress.com.
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INDOOR GOLF
Savvy Business and a Local Approach Has Made Golf Lounge 18 an Indoor Golf Powerhouse When Ajit Padda decided to branch out from his 23-year career in investment banking, he wasn’t exactly setting out to reorient a community’s relationship with the sport of golf. Honestly, he was just looking for a place to hit balls with his friends. His Trackman simulator didn’t quite fit into his new house, so he and a partner leased space near a train station in Fairfield, Connecticut, opened the doors in 2018, and called it Golf Lounge 18. Seven years later, Padda and growing team oversee 10 thriving locations across the Northeast, with three more under construction and a freshly minted franchise model gaining traction. What began as a side project has become one of the most thriving indoor golf businesses in the northeastern United States — at a moment when indoor golf is exploding. “Back then, you had to convince people indoor golf was real,” Padda says. “Today, people really embrace the concept. They’ve tried it, they understand it, and many actually prefer it because so few of us have six hours anymore to play a full round of golf. People today love an in-and-out fun experience that still feels like real golf.”
Riding the Indoor Golf Boom
The numbers back him up. According to the National Golf Foundation (NGF), 2024 marked the first year that indoor rounds outpaced outdoor rounds in
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the U.S. Industry revenue, pegged at $1.3 billion in 2020, is projected to top $3.2 billion by 2030 with 8.14 million participants playing golf indoors. Timing has been on Golf Lounge 18’s side. The NGF further reports that simulator and screen usership has grown 126 percent since 2019 and the alreadythriving golf entertainment space grew by another 78 percent in that same time period. COVID accelerated the trend, but Padda points out that lifestyle changes are the real driver. Leagues that start at 8 p.m. and run past 11, kids’ clinics after school, retirees in weekday “early bird” slots indoor golf simply fits modern schedules. “Our core customer is between 35 and 50, younger than your local country club membership’s average age,” Padda says. “That was never the green-grass golf demographic. But here, it works because we have a little something for everyone. Guys finish dinner, put the kids to bed, and then come play league night with their buddies. It’s a new rhythm for the game.”
admits. “It’s another welcoming touch that makes people stay a little longer and enjoy themselves more. Now they stay two and a half hours, order a fresh grill item, and the experience is complete. It’s not overly fancy, but it makes the experience richer.” NGF data suggests offering an attractive food and beverage menu can potentially boost the average customer’s spend per visit by about 73 percent. Golf Lounge 18’s programming evolved organically. Leagues dominate specific nights. Kids’ camps are blocked after school. No lessons during peak weekend hours when beers are flowing and families gather. “It’s about knowing who’s in the building and when,” says Padda. “You just don’t mix kids’ clinics with bachelor parties.”
A Different Kind of Clubhouse
Golf Lounge 18 leans heavily on the “clubhouse” concept — a more elevated, cozy feel and aesthetic than a warehouse simulator joint, more accessible than a country club. Padda knew early that balance was critical. “You have to fight the temptation to just build this like your dream basement and think it will click with all of your clientele,” he says. “It’s a business. And if you don’t run it with discipline—payroll ratios, rent ratios, ROI targets — you run the risk that you won’t last.” Plenty haven’t. Indoor golf is capitalintensive, and Padda has watched poorly planned competitors flame out. Golf Lounge 18’s formula is a hybrid: upscale but approachable, tech-driven but social. Food and beverage offerings (which now consist of a simple elevated pub menu that varies based on local tastes and preferences), for instance, was a bit of a reluctant addition. “Early on, if I had my choice, I wouldn’t touch food,” he
A Tech Business Disguised as a Fun Business
If the clubhouse vibe drives retention, technology fuels consistency. With a background in tech, Padda’s team built a proprietary in-house operations system that links all ten locations. “We have 110-plus Trackman bays, and every system is interconnected,” he says. “A member in Boston can play league night with his partner in Connecticut in real time. Our employees can move between locations seamlessly because everything — from TVs to music to booking systems — runs the same way.”
This backbone allowed Golf Lounge 18 to scale without losing its personalized, local touch. Each site feels familiar but incorporates regional quirks: Boston locations serve local craft beer, New York spots add Yankees-themed murals, menus shift by market. If roughly 70 percent of the design is templated and built off of a ‘best practices’ model, the other 30 percent thrives on local flavor.
A Strategic Partner: The Indoor Golf Shop
Critical to that rollout has been Golf Lounge 18’s partnership with The Indoor Golf Shop (ShopIndoorGolf.com), one of the industry’s leading suppliers and manufacturers of indoor golf equipment, providing comprehensive design and installation expertise. Padda initially worked with multiple vendors but says meeting Indoor Golf Shop founder Rene Delgado changed everything. “It felt different,” he recalls. “His team loves what they do. They’re passionate, they’re on the ground, sleeves rolled up. It wasn’t just a transaction — it was collaborative.” That alignment mirrored Padda’s own values. “Success has to be mutual,” he says. “With other vendors, it felt one-sided. With The Indoor Golf Shop, it feels like home.” Together, Golf Lounge 18 has become one of the largest Trackman customers in the world. Each new location benefits from the standardized systems and seamless installation expertise that The Indoor Golf Shop brings. “They help us scale without compromising the customer experience,” Padda notes.
too slow is a problem too. Striking that balance is hard.” Since 2018, Golf Lounge 18 has averaged just over one new location per year. All are 100 percent equity-owned by Padda and his partner — no outside capital. “We’re still walking before we run,” he says. “I believe in that.” That said, the next 24 months will mark a shift. With franchising legalized six months ago, Golf Lounge 18 expects to double its footprint by supporting franchisees alongside corporate locations. “We’re built to support it,” Padda says. “Our corporate locations already operate like franchisees, paying into a central system for marketing, ops, and tech. The goal now is to share what we’ve learned with others and help them succeed.”
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Padda sees opportunity — and inevitable shakeout.
He predicts consolidation as the industry matures, with weaker players exiting and stronger brands scaling. But he insists indoor golf, even with room to grow, isn’t ready for faceless corporate management just yet. “This industry still needs local engagement,” he says. “You can’t run it entirely from a corporate level. Somebody has to be on the floor, knowing the customers, running the leagues. That’s what keeps it sticky.” And for Padda personally? The inspiration comes less from numbers and more from the clubhouse culture he’s helping foster. “At the end of the day, it’s about building community,” he says. “It’s about giving people who love golf — or who just want to try it — a place to belong. If we can keep doing that, and do it well, the business will take care of itself.” 
Disciplined Growth in a Hot Market
The temptation, of course, is to sprint. With demand surging, investors circling, and competitors ever-present, Golf Lounge 18 could easily chase rapid expansion. Padda resists. “In my view, growing too fast is a recipe for disaster,” he says. “But going Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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GOLF COURSE NEWS
Renovation takes Farm Neck to New Heights
Farm Neck Golf Club here on Martha’s Vineyard has reopened following an extensive, unifying renovation from architect Mark Mungeam, whose work better accentuates and refines the property’s sandy, seaside environs while opening up long views over the salt-water Sengekontacket Pond. “It’s no secret that the two nines at Farm Neck were rather dissimilar, as they were built by different architects, five years apart,” says Mungeam, ASGCA, who’s been consulting to Farm Neck GC for more than 20 years; he refashioned all 18 greens in 2012-13. “We agreed it was high time we bit the bullet, cut back the forest obscuring the ocean views, and replaced it with vegetation and dunes features indigenous to the island. “At the same time, we’ve added more fairway turf out there — nearly all of it in widening the playing corridors. Farm Neck has always been one of the most picturesque courses in the country, in part because it’s a unique hybrid design on sandy, coastal terrain. That aesthetic we wouldn’t dare touch. In fact, we’ve doubled down by
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accenting each hole with sand and native grasses at the edges.” While formalized golf has been played on this property since 1897, the first nine at Farm Neck GC opened in 1976. Designed by Mungeam’s former partner and mentor, the late Geoffrey Cornish, this original loop was joined by another, designed by Patrick Mulligan, in 1980. The combined 18 was quickly hailed as that rare bird: a seaside, resort course every bit the aesthetic equal of any private club. Farm Neck is, in fact, a semi-private club with a diverse and vibrant membership. In the U.K. style, the public is welcome all year round, even if members tend to make tee times rather scarce in July and August. “It gets pretty crazy here in high summer,” attests General Manager Tim Sweet. “But most of the members will tell you: Martha’s Vineyard is truly glorious in the shoulder seasons. It’s unhurried and uncrowded in May and June. The golf course goes technicolor in September and October. We routinely play here through
Thanksgiving and beyond. It’s also worth mentioning that accommodations out here are far more reasonable off season. “Golfers understand the balance that must be struck in resort areas like this one. The club is committed to optimizing that balance, as evidenced by our investment in this renovation. Mark did a spectacular job. I’ve been here almost 50 years and the course has never looked or played this good.” Mungeam’s refurbishment was both comprehensive and inventive. Hundreds of miniature “Cape” pines were removed, most of them replaced with native areas that maximize playing width and vistas. All 18 tees were rebuilt and the entire layout effectively rebunkered. The course used to feature 91 formal bunkers. While that total has been reduced by a third, golfers will nevertheless experience far more sand. And scrub. The best example of this dynamic may be the 3rd and 5th holes, which had been separated dozens of pine that had slowly
overtaken a former sand pit. They’re all gone, replaced by 120 yards of flamboyantly contoured, informal bunkering festooned with erosion-controlling, native vegetation. Such artful clearing also means the dramatic, picturesque 4th — a par-3 native vegetation. Such artful clearing also means the dramatic, picturesque 4th — a par-3 playing down to the shores of Sengekontacket Pond (made famous by the movie, “Jaws”) — can now be enjoyed by golfers on all three holes. “The native area between 3 and 5 is the look we used to pull the two nines together stylistically,” explains Mungeam, who will take the gavel as president of the American Society of Golf Course Architects in October. “We created the same shared, sand-and-scrub features between the 11th, 12th and 16th holes, for example. Between 17 green and 18 tee, too.” Sweet and Mungeam singled out contractor Matt Staffieri for his valuable input in fashioning these naturalized areas. His firm, Hopkinton, Mass.-based MAS Golf Construction, rebuilt the front nine from autumn 2023 to spring 2024, then the back nine from October 2024 to May 2025. Superintendent Andrew Nisbet, assistant Ryan Carey and their crew also played key collaborative roles in creating Farm Neck’s
newly cohesive, naturalistic presentation. “Folks like to talk about making things that are more sustainable, but working on an island requires more than talk,” the architect says. “Bringing sod to Farm Neck requires cutting it somewhere, shipping it by truck to Wareham, offloading it to another truck, then bringing that vehicle across on the ferry. That’s expensive and it uses a huge amount of energy. “At Farm Neck, we significantly reduced our sod imports by ‘flipping’ existing turf. This is a big property, some 425 acres in all. We would identify native grasses along the edges of the course, remove it with a sod cutter, roll it up where we could, put it on carts and move it to these new naturalized areas. We also saved and re-deployed every last bit of fescue and bluestem from areas disrupted by the renovation. When we rebuilt the tees, we saved that bentgrass and used it to expand the fairways — maybe 10 acres’ worth. “People ask me what native grasses we used to build these new areas. I don’t even know! There’s a lot of fescue and little blue stem — the rest we’d need a botanist to identify. But it’s native. We found it growing on site, so we know it will thrive here. Of late, the state of Massachusetts has also been very encouraging when it comes to restoring what
it calls ‘sandplain grassland habitat.’ That is exactly what we’ve done here.” Some of those grasses, along with the attractively sandy soil, are exactly what lured the ancients to this property 130 years ago. According to Farm Neck grounds committee chair and club historian Jonas Peter Akins, the Cottage City Golf Club opened for play in 1897, on this very property, mainly on what is today the back nine. By 1901, the prolific Scots architect Alex Findlay had expanded CCGC to 18 holes. That August of 1901, the magazine Golf and Lawn Tennis reported: The first thing that strikes the eye on reaching the course is the sea, that bounds a number of the holes; then… sand pits, for the most part natural, marshes, small ponds, rushes and coarse grass forming splendid hazards. “I think that’s a lot closer to where we are today, as a golf course, compared to 5 years ago,” says Akins, who notes that CCGC underwent serial name changes and financial difficulties before being abandoned in the early 1970s. “If you squint, you can still make out several former hole corridors on the back nine. But I love the fact that native grasses — that have been growing on and around those old holes for 130 years — are again an integral, natural feature at Farm Neck.”
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GOLF INSTRUCTION
The Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort Announces MAJOR CHAMPION Golf Schools
The Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort – located at the AAA-Four Diamond and Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awardwinning resort, a part of the Crescent Hotels & Resorts Latitudes collection – has announced the first-ever offering of 1- and 2-day Major Champion Golf Schools for this Fall. Veteran PGA Tour star and 2002 PGA Championship winner Rich Beem is teaming up with Horseshoe Bay Resort Director of Instruction Bobby Steiner to provide elite instruction and hands-on teaching at these one-of-a-kind two-day schools. Individual golfers or groups of up to eight students are welcome to enroll in the two-day game improvement experience. The custom school curriculum has been curated exclusively for those looking to expand their knowledge and
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have the chance to glean wisdom and crucial golf skills from a major championship winner while enjoying the state-of-the-art Golf Academy that opened in partnership with Callaway Golf in March of this year.
“My father was a 25-year PGA member and taught the game full-time. Growing up, it was just a given that I would be a lifelong teacher as well, and I would’ve been if I hadn’t found success on the PGA Tour. It’s nice to be on the lesson tee again, helping people get the most out of their game,” Beem said.
Beem competes part-time on the PGA TOUR Champions circuit and is a popular on-course reporter for Sky Sports TV in Europe. His first love, however, was teaching the game, which he practiced at El Paso Country Club before grinding his way through Q-School in 1998 and eventually becoming a three-time winner on the PGA Tour. Every student participating in the two-day Major Champion Golf School at Horseshoe Bay Resort – in addition to daily three hours on the range and short game area – will also benefit from a nine-hole playing lesson with Beem and Steiner. “Some lessons are becer learned on the course, and so in addition to playing my own ball, I play the role of caddie during playing lessons,” says Beem. “It’s more about teaching
people how to think their way around the course. Many 15-handicappers could be single-digit if they just made becer decisions on the course.” Steiner adds “It brings me great joy to help every student reach the level to which they aspire. At these schools, those who join us will enjoy the rare experience of learning from someone who stood toe-to-toe with the game’s greatest players and emerged victorious. Everyday golfers can learn a great deal from Rich’s approach to playing and scoring and keeping a great adtude on the golf course. This will be a very sought-aeer opportunity. Sign up while you can!” Major Champion 2-Day Golf Academies will be held Saturday and Sunday, October 4-5, as well as Saturday and Sunday, November 15-16. Meanwhile, Major Champion 1-Day Short Game Schools will be conducted on Friday, October 3 and Friday, November 14. Major Champion 2-Day School Itinerary (maximum of 8 participants) Day 1: 9 AM to 12:00 PM - Putting, Chipping,
Pitching, and Full Swing (complete with Trackman video analysis) 12:00 PM - Break for lunch (everyone on his/her own) 1 PM - 9 Hole Playing Lesson 3 PM - End of school day, all participants are free to continue playing and/or practicing for the remainder of the day. Day 2: 9 AM to 12:00 PM - Greenside and Fairway Bunker Play, Unlevel Lies, Full Swing 12:00 PM - Break for Lunch 1 PM 9-Hole Playing Lesson 3 PM - End of school day, all participants are free to continue play and/or practice for the remainder of the day Cost is $1,595 per person + accommodations Major Champion Short Game Academy Itinerary (Maximum 8 participants) Major Champion Short Game Academy Itiinerary (Maximum 8 participants) 11 AM - 2 PM - Pudng, Chipping, Pitching, and Greenside Bunker Play Cost is $495 per person + accommodations
The Golf Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort is a purpose-built facility designed to enhance the game of golfers of all levels, featuring advanced technology such as Trackman and Toptracer, dedicated shortgame practice areas, and a partnership with Callaway Golf for equipment and fidng services. The 3,000-square-foot academy, helmed by the experienced instructor and author Steiner, offers personalized instrucKon, golf schools, and clinics in a comfortable and technologically advanced environment. The space features two climate-controlled indoor bays fully equipped with technology that provides real-time swing analysis and golf simulator capabilities; eight covered outdoor hidng stations with technology for detailed shot data, yardage and ball flight tracking; and 4,500-square-foot shortgame area with natural grass pudng and chipping green. To learn more about the Major Champion 1-Day Short Game Academy at Horseshoe Bay Resort, visit HSBResort.com.
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GOLF COURSE ASSET MANAGEMENT
BrightView: America’s Best-Kept Golf Course Asset Management Secret If you’ve driven around the Delaware Valley, you’ve likely spotted BrightView’s white trucks, accented with green foliage and paired with branded landscaping trailers. While many are on their way to maintain HOAs, schools, and campuses, BrightView also manages one of the most specialized areas of landscaping: golf course asset management. Headquartered in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, BrightView is among the nation’s largest and most respected golf course asset management companies. With nearly 80 premier courses under its care, the company blends deep expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver championship-level conditions across the country.
Beyond Mowing Fairways
Golf course management is no longer just about mowing greens and keeping fairways tidy. It has evolved into a sophisticated discipline that requires agronomic expertise, resource optimization, and advanced technology. “Golf asset management has become a highly strategic practice, combining smart resource allocation with advanced technology to ensure healthy turf and exceptional playing surfaces,” explained Terry McGuire, Vice President of Golf Operations at BrightView.
A Trusted Partner in Action
A recent example of BrightView’s impact can be found at Redlands Country Club in Redlands, California. “To bring our course to the level we envisioned, we needed true expertise—and we found it with BrightView,” said Chris Wilson, Golf Chair at Redlands Country Club. “They listened, understood our challenges, and developed a tailored plan. BrightView has proven to be a trusted partner who follows through on every commitment. Best of all, their on-course team is professional, dedicated, and a pleasure to work with.”
Before
What to Look for in a Golf Course Asset Manager
According to McGuire, HOA boards and club leadership should prioritize the following when selecting a golf course asset manager: 1. Partnership: A manager who actively engages with member feedback and collaborates at every stage of planning. 2. Expertise: Certified superintendents supported by specialists, including BrightView’s in-house Ph.D. Agronomist. 3. Customization: Agronomic programs based on diagnostic testing, tailored to each course—no two are alike across BrightView’s 80+ clients. 4. Responsiveness: On-site visibility and quick resolution of member concerns. 5. Transparency: Clear proposals with detailed specifications, fees, inclusions, and exclusions. 6. Accountability: Regularly scheduled meetings to ensure alignment and open communication.
Protecting Value, Preserving Experiences
After
Golf and landscape care always come with a cost. The choice is whether to invest wisely in proactive maintenance—or risk far greater expenses from deferred care, poor decisions, or reputational harm. With the right partner, communities can protect property values while ensuring their course consistently delivers exceptional experiences, no matter the scorecard.
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INDOOR GOLF
The Indoor Golf Shop is Helping Hurricane Creek Country Club Keep its Members Engaged
Come November, the golf course at Hurricane Creek Country Club will close temporarily. For an exciting reason. The club has hired Beau Welling to renovate the course, a Leon Howard design that first opened in 1968. And that means the 460 members at Hurricane Creek will have no place to play at the club until fall of 2026, when the new course reopens. Or will they? The club has set up reciprocal arrangements, of course, to provide its members with other places to play their regular rounds of golf. However, there are other options as well, thanks to some forwardthinking by the board and management at this member-owned club, situated in a rapidly growing area about 40 miles north of Dallas in the community of Anna, Texas. Most recently, Hurricane Creek CC purchased a pair of Uneekor golf simulators from The Indoor Golf Shop, based in nearby Celina, Texas. The Indoor Golf Shop offers an industry-leading selection of residential and commercial indoor golf equipment, which includes a full selection of launch monitors and simulators from companies like Trackman, Uneekor, Garmin, Bushnell, Flightscope, Pro Tee, Full Swing, and Tru Golf.
After a little bit of prep work by the club – which included removing a short dividing wall next to a putting green and doing a little electrical work for power to the units so cables wouldn’t be visible – a crew from The Indoor Golf Shop first installed one simulator in what’s known as the Swing Room in the clubhouse, then another a few weeks later after the response to the first sim space was so positive. The full Commercial Enclosure setup included the Uneekor EYE XO2 launch monitor, SIGPRO Golf Simulator Flooring, a Panasonic projector, and the SIGPRO Premium Impact Screen. While the complete shutdown of the course is still months away, members have already been enjoying indoor golf. For example, after a recent Men’s Golf Association, three-man scramble members came inside for a closest to the pin contest for each flight on the simulator, trying their luck on a facsimile of the famous par-3 12th at Augusta. “We haven’t even had it for a little over two weeks, and there’s been a crazy amount of traction,” said Will Haughey, head PGA Professional at Hurricane Creek Country Club. Where they used to have a net, a launch monitor, and a putting green, there are now two top-of-the-line Uneekor simulator setups with all the teaching tech, which run about $30,000 each. “This is the complete package,” said Haughey. “You’re looking at lessons, fittings, playing courses, contests, social outings, you name it. Pretty much the possibilities are endless… We’re planning on even running season-long or year-long matches, even on the simulator.” Right now, the club takes reservations on paper. But eventually, members will be able to book times on the simulators online, just like they would at another golf course. And they won’t be charged to use it. At Hurricane Creek, the idea is to keep members
engaged and encourage them to come to the clubhouse for dining and other activities during the shutdown and beyond. The simulators will help with that. It’s a great selling point for potential new members who might be touring the club. “Like tennis courts, it’s just another cool amenity, if you think about it,” said Justin Carlson, vice president of sales at The Indoor Golf Shop. And Hurricane Creek may add even more simulators from the Indoor Golf Shop, depending on demand. Once the golf course reopens, they can always find new homes for extras (like with members who might want a home setup), and there are plans to include at least one simulator in the new teaching center by the range, which is part of the renovation. Of course, every club is different, and not all are going through renovations. Clubs in colder climates have off seasons. Installing simulators in those clubhouses provide instructors a place to teach without having to go south. And they can provide local players a place to maintain their swing and even play 18 holes. Hurricane Creek’s Uneekor setup, for example, includes thousands of golf courses through a GSPro software subscription, which is free the first year and around $250 next year. Among the courses Hurricane Creek added were Payne’s Valley, Augusta, (Georgia Golf Club), Pebble Beach, Tobacco Road, and Sage Valley. The recent closest-to-the-pin contest was conducted on the incredible 19th Hole at Payne’s Valley. Carlson said they are seeing a trend of more clubhouses installing simulators. “In all climates it’s a huge opportunity to keep the members coming back to the club,” he said. Haughey believes the simulators will be jam-packed, especially this winter. And for clubs that aren’t member-owned or even some daily fee facilities, Haughey recommends the investment. Many clubs could certainly charge a fee to use the simulators. “I would tell them it’s a 100 percent nobrainer,” he said. Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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NEW ZEALAND GOLF TRAVEL
Kauri Cliffs to regrass fairways with drought-tolerant Bermuda; will reopen Dec. 10 Kauri Cliffs GC will regrass its fairway corridors with a less thirsty Bermuda grass starting Oct. 6, under the direction of Golf Course Manager Andy Wood. The course will reopen for play on Dec. 10, 2025, in time for the high summer season Down Under. Kauri Cliffs first opened in 1999 and made its world-top-100 debut in 2003. Today Golf Digest today ranks it #55. Designed by Nicklaus protégé David Harman, the clifftop 18 and the adjoining lodge, Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, are widely acknowledged to have created the luxury stay & play model that, 25 years later, has transformed New Zealand into the world’s most popular golf destination. Over that quarter century, however, the course has not undergone renovation or comprehensive regrassing. What’s more, shifting climatic conditions here in New Zealand’s sub-tropical “winterless” north have made wall-to-wall bentgrass less and less practical from environmental and agronomic standpoints. The choice
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of Transcontinental Bermuda grass on the fairways will conserve water while provide golfers a more lush, hardy playing environment. “Truth is, while Kauri is among the most beautiful courses on Earth, our bentgrass fairways never looked or played their best in high season — our summer months of November, December, January, February and March,” Wood explains. “With those months getting warmer and warmer, the move to Bermuda grass is something of a no-brainer, especially with the introduction of modern, droughttolerant, high-performing strains like Transcontinental “We take our environmental stewardship very seriously here. Switching over to Bermuda will require far less water. It’s the responsible choice — and the truth is, Kauri will look and play better during those months when everyone’s flying halfway across the world to play it.” Wood oversaw the Covid-era regrassing of Kauri Cliffs’ tees and greens. The
latter undertaking replaced 25-year-old bentgrass putting surfaces with state-ofthe-art, drought-tolerant Pure Distinction bentgrass. “Our regular guests tell us Kauri, today, has the best greens in the country’ Wood says. “Of course, our sister course at Cape Kidnappers might be a close second.” Cape Kidnappers GC, while it’s also located on New Zealand’s North Island, occupies a completely different climate and ecosystem. The Hawkes Bay region lies 500 kilometers to the south of Kauri Cliffs. It’s drier and cooler there — perfect for all strains of bentgrass, old and new. Still, Course Manager Brad Sim oversaw a comprehensive regrassing of his fairways and greens back in 2022. He worked with original architect Tom Doak and shaper Angela Moser on the project, which included a complete greens reconstruction. “We rebuilt the putting surfaces from 10 inches down and Angela put the contours back exactly as they’d been before,” reports Sim, whose golf course opened in 2004 and joined the world top 100 ranking almost
immediately, in 2005. Today, Golf Digest ranks it #15. “Regrassing the greens at Cape addressed our thatch problem, but it also restored the bounce and roll that Doak had in mind when he first built this place 20 years ago.” The natural setting at Cape Kidnappers is unique. The entire peninsula extends 10 kilometers into the South Pacific. The golf course and adjacent lodge, Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, share a 6,000-acre property that also accommodates the world’s most populous gannet colony. Cape Sanctuary is the largest privately owned and funded wildlife restoration project in New Zealand. “During the regrassing,” Sim says, “we also embarked on some strategic tree clearing and we’re determined to keep that going. This is an incredibly diverse and lush eco-system. Between Cape and Kauri, I doubt there are two resorts on earth that takes environmental protections more seriously than we do. Yet we’re also determined to protect our vistas and the original course designs here. “It’s a balance. The vision behind that balance is what makes both properties so unique — and so attractive to traveling golfers.” American financier Julian Robertson and his wife Josie were the originators and longtime keepers of that vision. They
possessed the perspective to identify the coastline at Kauri Cliffs — with its long views over the Cavalli Islands to the South Pacific beyond — as the future home for a world-class golf course. They had the business acumen and good taste to create an adjoining lodge that continues to ooze gracious antebellum charm. It’s the irresistible stay-and-play proposition at Kauri Cliffs (and Cape Kidnappers) that has effectively spread this lux, boutique formula around New Zealand and the golfing world. Yet the Robertons also understood and how this ‘sense of place’ can elevate the resort golf experience. Kauri Cliffs, for example, continues to operate as a working cattle and sheep farm over most of its 5,000 acres. According to Kauri Cliffs Head Professional Mitch McMurtry, there are so many inviting hikes and beaches and picnic spots accessible from the golf course, it’s not uncommon for couples and foursomes to go off the first tee, get distracted, and not return for 7-8 hours. “Sometimes they go off the first tee like any other group — only, we never see them again!” he reports. “We typically check on their whereabouts and well-being before we close the shop. So long as I’ve been here, everyone is accounted for. Eventually.” While Mr. Robertson passed away in 2022, his family maintains ownership of all three of its New Zealand properties.
Starting Dec. 1, 2023, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts was entrusted with the hospitality operations at the Rosewood Kauri Cliffs, the Rosewood Cape Kidnappers, and the Rosewood Matakauri in Queenstown, on the South Island. Rosewood properties are celebrated for exuding and curating their particular “Sense of Place.” “We do feel as though Rosewood is the ideal partner to best preserve and protect the hospitality experience that our parent’s built, and the regrassing projects at both golf courses — alongside water conservation — are part of that commitment to excellence,” said Jay Robertson, Chief Executive. “But we also recognize it is the sense of place, the specific geography of New Zealand, that draws traveling golfers here. Southeast Asians come to New Zealand to escape the heat, or maybe the congestion of urban life. For North Americans, it’s a bit different: They have a tradition of traveling from colder, northern climates to warmer ones in winter.” “Here again,” adds McMurtry, “the sense of place in New Zealand is a gamechanger: Of course, it’s warm here when it’s wintery in New York City or Chicago. But down here it’s not just warm; it’s summer and the days are long.”
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GOLF COURSE NEWS
Cutalong at Tributer Resort’s Golf Clubhouse Grand Opening Marks Milestone for Lake Anna Luxury Living
Cutalong at Tributer Resort, a Reef Capital Partners development along the shores of beautiful Lake Anna, located in Central Virginia, an hour outside of DC and an hour outside of Richmond, Virginia, recently unveiled its new golf clubhouse, establishing the vibrant heart of what will soon be recognized as one of the nation’s most sought-after golf resort communities. Cutalong at Tributer Resort combines championship-caliber golf with residential ownership of luxury villas and cottages, offering a chance to live where the game’s traditions meet the best of modern resort living. REEF has already invested over $85 million and plans to invest over $25 million more in the next 18 months, providing the financial strength to advance development and deliver on its long-term vision. By completing these amenities and infrastructure improvements, these foundational investments not only accelerate growth but also position Cutalong as a transformative economic and cultural driver for the region. Reef Capital Partners’ CEO, Jared Lucero, emphasized the broader vision: “Our commitment to growing Lake Anna’s community extends beyond building a world-class resort—it is about contributing to the environmental health and sustainability of this treasured lake. We recognize the responsibility that comes with development in such a unique ecosystem, and we are proud to lead with investments that balance growth, environmental impact, and regional prosperity.” As the first building to open from the Reef team’s vision, the golf clubhouse
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sets the tone for the community with panoramic course views and luxurious spaces for socializing. Alongside the Golf Shop, Coopers Restaurant—a tribute to one of Louisa County’s largest historic mines, the Allah Cooper Mine, located at the site of the golf course—offers inspiring cuisine in a welcoming setting. From this newly opened hub, the resort development will further unfold into a thoughtfully planned community that blends luxury living with the natural beauty of the lake. Every detail has been designed to preserve the land’s character, stewarding environmental impact and ensuring a resort experience that harmonizes recreation, tradition, and sustainability. Adding to the day’s significance, the event also marked the groundbreaking of the first phase of the luxury Villas and Cottages, expanding Adding to the day’s significance, the event also marked the groundbreaking of the first phase of the
luxury Villas and Cottages, expanding residential ownership opportunities and making ‘Stay & Play’ reservations available for discovery experiences beginning summer 2026. The resort’s amenity program simultaneously launched, introducing members and residents to a collection of curated Lake Anna experiences, access to the new sports courts, and the opening of the wellness center. Together, these milestones demonstrate Reef Capital Partners’ devotion to delivering a comprehensive lifestyle that ties together community, golf, wellness, and lakeside living. With robust investor support, awardwinning partners, and a steadfast focus on community and sustainability, Reef Capital Partners is poised to expand offerings, further establishing the resort as one of the nation’s most desirable golf communities. Whether playing a round on its nationally acclaimed course, enjoying the amenities, or relaxing lakeside, Cutalong at Tributer Resort provides an exceptional blend of leisure, luxury, and community. For more information about Cutalong at Tributer Resort, please visit Tributer. com.
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GOLF EQUIPMENT
Honma Golf’s New BERES PP500 Series Putters Debut
Four new putter models feature high MOI for improved forgiveness and straight roll. Honma Golf, the leader in beautifully crafted performance golf equipment, has released four new luxury BERES putters created by the brand’s Sakata, Japanbased master craftsmen. These four new putter models, which will be widely available in the North American market, are available in distinctive Gold, Silver/Red, and Black/ Silver finishes. Each BERES P500 series putter elevates the designs of the BERES P300 Series models with improved stability, alignment, and MOI properties. The BERES PP500 Series putters feature a high Moment of Inertia (MOI) via two stainless steel weights that stabilize the face even on off-center hits for extreme forgiveness. Each putter face is CNC double milled and deep-milled for optimal roll, sound and feel. The mallet putter designs in this line each feature an aluminum soleplate that helps optimize weight distribution. “Putting is one of the most personalized and nuanced skills in golf, so it’s important for a putter to inspire instant confidence every time a golfer sets up to make their own unique stroke. With each putter model in the Honma BERES PP500 Series, our master craftsmen in Sakata, Japan have created designs that deliver instant feedback for proper alignment and a weight and feel that makes the golfer feel like the putter is a natural extension of their arms and hands. With a blade, mallet, horn and hammerhead model to choose from, there is a PP500 Series putter that will make any golfer feel like they’ve chosen the putter that’s ideal for their stroke,” said Senior Product Marketing Manager Takahiro Suzuki.
BERES PP501
The BERES PP501 is a traditional blade putter with modern styling for players with a straight or arcing stroke. This model is also available with an upgraded ARMRQ grade shaft that enhances stability and helps golfers maintain a stable putting path.
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BERES PP502
The BERES PP502 is a mallet with pronounced visual alignment features to promote confidence at address, as well as a stable stroke. The larger head size and balanced weighting increase forgiveness.
BERES PP503
The BERES PP503 is a horn-shaped, premium bent-neck mallet designed to inspire confident, straight putting strokes. This head design helps achieve more stable putting via a high-MOI head which houses two 10-gram stainless steel weights. Balanced weight distribution helps ensure stable strokes and straighter rolls, even on mishits.
BERES PP505
The unique K-shape hammerhead mallet (a refined design that creates greater MOI than the previous T-shaped head) encourages a linear address
and stroke. This head design’s Low-CG shape makes it easy to create straighter, tighter putting strokes for a truer roll and repeatable path. Golfers who appreciate the ease of rolling a High-MOI putter will feel confident using this modern head design. Honma offers the upgraded and expertly crafted ARMRQ shaft as a custom upgrade option for enhanced stability and a more consistent putter path. The BERES putters suggested retail pricing: Gold models $875, and Silver/Red, Black/Silver models $550. Visit us.honmagolf.com for more information.
GOLF EQUIPMENT
Honma Unveils BERES 09 Black Woods, Hybrids, and Irons Elegant design pairs with top-tier performance in this limited-edition collection by Japan’s most renowned golf artisans
BERES 09 Black Fairway Woods and Hybrids
Is there anything more elegantly beautiful than the color black? Honma’s acclaimed BERES Black Series is back in 2025 with expertly crafted BERES 09 Black woods, hybrids, irons and limitededition golf bags to bring sophistication, power, and touch of mystique to your set. The new premium lightweight BERES 09 Black, Honma Golf, the leader in beautifully crafted performance golf equipment, carries forward six decades of Japanese tradition, innovation, meticulous craftsmanship, and unmatched artistry. Best known for their ultra-lightweight design, BERES 09 Black delivers easy speed and distance for smooth-tempo players. The clubhead technology built into the BERES 09 Black line is meticulously matched with Premium Vizard Shafts that are hand-crafted in Sakata, Japan for responsive feel, increased distance, and confidence-inspiring ball flight. “The BERES 09 Black family of clubs is visually striking with its sleek black and gold finish luxury appeal and timeless styling but it’s the BERES performance, consistency and pleasing ball flight that has made BERES 09 Black one of the most sought after releases we have delivered in recent years,” said Senior Product Marketing Manager Takahiro Suzuki. “For golfers who value premium materials, unparalleled
craftsmanship, and ease of play with forgiving, high-ball-speed performance, BERES 09 Black woods, fairway woods, hybrids, and iron are among the most eye-opening equipment releases on the market.”
BERES 09 Black Driver
Honma’s Distance Technology features a new CG design and clubhead construction, which retains the signature BERES feel plus optimization for maximum yardage. High-strength lightweight carbon material on the toe side of the sole empowers the typical golfer with a draw bias, providing a significant advantage. The surplus weight resulting from the incorporation of carbon is expertly positioned on the heel side for superior performance. The newly developed face incorporates an intricate variable thickness design, precisely engineered to optimize repulsion power. This quadbridge structure provides exceptional support, elevating the power output and significantly enhancing rebound capabilities. A strategically positioned stainless weight (10g) at the rear of the clubhead vs. the sole effectively converts impact energy into a repulsive force, enhancing initial velocity for an amplified impact. Additionally, the back weight promotes a draw bias.
Honma’s engineers constructed a tungsten nickel weight positioned near the back heel, enhancing impact efficiency and achieving a CG angle of +5.0 degrees. A new unique face and crown design featuring uneven thicknesses improves rebound performance by thinning the face and crown. Furthermore, the sweet spot area has been expanded. These new BERES 09 Black features create an extraordinary synergy, delivering unparalleled ball speed and launching the ball high with a controlled draw. The CG has been designed specifically for both fairway woods for optimal performance. The internal weight of the 3W has a CG design that emphasizes long distance, and the 5W has a CG design that emphasizes workability for desired performance. In the hybrid, each loft is precisionengineered to deliver ideal spin and green-stopping performance.
BERES 09 Black Irons
The face design of the BERES 09 Black irons features a combination of uneven semicircles and a L cup face that delivers remarkable distance performance and forgiveness while effectively dampening impact shock for a soft feel and satisfying sound. The revolutionary groove pattern structure delivers exceptional rebound performance, improving off-center hits in both vertical and horizontal directions. An innovative wide L-Cup face expands the face’s surface and enhances the repulsion area, ultimately boosting flight distance performance and minimizing dispersion even on off-center hits. An integrated vibration-absorbing resin mid-layer is crafted with an inner cavity filled with vibration-absorbing resin, to quell vibrations upon impact for a pleasant hitting sensation and sound. PRICING: Drivers start at $900, Fairways/Hybrids at $600, and Irons start at $3,150 for a set of 5-11, AW, PW.
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GOLF TECH
Blue Tees Golf Releases GAME App Version 1.8.0 Featuring Live Leaderboards, True Distance Yardages, and Smarter Scoring
friendly rivalries, weekend skins matches, or tournament-style competition, no extra setup required.
Blue Tees Golf, a leading innovator in golf technology, today announced the release of GAME App version 1.8.0, delivering a major update packed with new features designed to elevate the oncourse experience for golfers of all skill levels. Version 1.8.0 introduces multiplayer leaderboards, a redesigned round setup flow, and a new proprietary metric — True Distance™ — that brings next-level precision to every swing. Combined with upgraded scoring tools, simplified shot tracking, and limited-time reward campaigns, the new release continues GAME’s mission of creating a smarter, more connected way to play.
What’s New in Version 1.8.0:
• Live Leaderboards: Track scores in real time with up to 20 friends and see how you stack up instantly. Perfect for
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• Multiplayer Games: GAME now supports multiple scoring formats, including Stroke Play, Stableford, Skins, and more — with additional user-voted formats releasing each month. • Quick Round Start: Returning to a favorite course? GAME now remembers your last setup and lets you tee off in as little as two taps. Faster starts mean more time playing. • True Distance™ Yardages: GAME’s new True Distance™ feature factors in slope, wind, temperature, humidity, and elevation to deliver more intelligent “plays like” yardages. It’s like having a caddie in your pocket — exclusive to GAME. • Simplified Shot Tracking: No more multi-step logging. One tap now records club, swing type, and shot distance — instantly syncing to your
analytics dashboard for smarter postround insights. • Advanced Scoring Tools: Track bunkers, penalties, lie types, and more with an upgraded scoring widget. Toggle between simple and advanced scoring depending on your needs. • Redesigned Start Round Interface: A cleaner, more intuitive design streamlines the round setup experience and reduces friction from first tap to tee. • In-App Challenges & Rewards: Limited-time campaigns offer points for completing in-app challenges and invite users to unlock rewards like gift cards, free memberships, and exclusive golf experiences. This update also follows the recent announcement of Blue Tees Golf ’s partnership with the USGA, enabling GAME App users to link their Handicap Index® and post official scores with ease. GAME App version 1.8.0 is available now on iOS and Android.
GOLF TECH
Shot Scope Introduces PRO L5 Rangefinder Precision meets crystal clear OLED clarity
Shot Scope, an industry leader in golf GPS, rangefinder, and shot tracking technology, announces the PRO L5 laser rangefinder designed for ultimate clarity. The first in the brand’s line-up to feature an ultra-clear OLED display, the PRO L5 delivers sharp visuals and enhanced readability in all lighting conditions. Designed for performance and visibility, the PRO L5 makes target acquisition faster and more accurate than ever before. The Organic LightEmitting Diode (OLED) display ensures that distances are easy to read, whether in bright sunlight or low-light environments. “The PRO L5 is our clearest rangefinder to date, thanks to its groundbreaking ultra-clear OLED display,” said David Hunter, CEO of Shot Scope. “This enhanced clarity, combined with detailed on-course hole maps, has been incredibly well received by our retailers worldwide. They recognize the value it brings to golfers seeking precision, confidence, and a complete course management solution.”
As with all Shot Scope’s laser rangefinders, the PRO L5 unlocks aerial GPS maps via the free Shot Scope mobile app. Golfers can view overhead maps and tap any point on the course to view distances to hazards, lay-up zones, and front, middle, and back yardages to the green. The rangefinder is packed with technology, including Gen 2 Rapid-fire detection and Target-lock vibration for fast and precise yardages. PRO L5 delivers instant readings over a range of 1300 yards. The Adaptive slope
technology calculates adjusted distances based on elevation changes - ideal for practice rounds. For competitive play, slope mode can be switched off instantly to comply with tournament rules. Built for convenience, the PRO L5 features an ultra-strong built-in magnet, allowing it to securely attach to a golf cart for easy access. A premium carry case also makes it simple to store and attach to your golf bag when walking the course. Available in two sleek colorways, modern white and classic black. The PRO L5 not only performs on the course but stands out, a perfect blend of function and fashion for today’s golfer. The Shot Scope PRO L5 is available now, MSRP $229.99, and can be purchased directly at shotscope.com or through major golf retailers. See the course more clearly, play with greater precision, and unlock your best golf yet.
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GOLF COURSE NEWS
Caledonia Continues Hot Streak with Golfweek Top 100 Public Course Honor
Continuing a banner year, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club is proud to announce its inclusion on “Golfweek’s Best 2025: Top 100 Public-Access Courses in the U.S.” list, reaffirming its place among the nation’s premier public layouts. Golfweek’s Best rankings are compiled by a panel of more than 800 raters from around the world. Panelists evaluate courses based on 10 specific criteria, each scored on a 10-point scale. In addition, they submit a single overall rating (also on a 10-point scale), which is averaged annually to produce a final ranking. The evaluation criteria include routing, integrity of design, quality of shaping, overall land use, greens and surrounds, variety and memorability of par 3s, 4s, and 5s, tree and landscape management, conditioning and ecology, and the “walk in the park” test. Designed by the legendary Mike Strantz, Caledonia is equal parts artistry and architecture, playing through a beautiful piece of South Carolina Lowcountry land. Fairways are framed by
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majestic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss and complemented by scenic marsh views. The course’s par 3s are among the strongest in the Myrtle Beach area, highlighted by No. 17, which is home to one of the layout’s largest greens and it’s encircled by sand. A round at Caledonia crescendos at the iconic par-4 18th, widely regarded as one of golf ’s best finishing holes. A precise tee shot on the dogleg right sets up a nerve-jangling approach over water to a green nestled in the shadow of the clubhouse, an unforgettable finish to a bucket-list round. “This recognition from Golfweek means a great deal to our team,” said Bart Romano, director of golf operations at Caledonia and its sister course, True Blue Golf Club. “We take tremendous pride in delivering an experience that honors Mike Strantz’s vision and the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. To be ranked among the top 100 public courses in the country is incredibly rewarding, and we’re grateful to everyone who helps
make Caledonia such a special place.” The honor is the latest in a growing list of accolades for Caledonia in 2025. USA Today/10Best readers recently ranked it as the No. 4 public course in America, while Golfweek also named it one of the country’s Top 100 Resort Courses and No. 4 in South Carolina, one of golf ’s most competitive states. Just across the street sits True Blue - another Strantz masterpiece - giving golfers the chance to stay-and-play at two of America’s best courses. For more information or to book a tee time, visit CaledoniaGolfandFishClub. com. To book a golf vacation, visit CaledoniaGolfVacations.com.
GOLF FOOTWEAR
Duca Del Cosma is set to unveil its exciting new 2026 Spring/Summer Collection at the highly anticipated PGA Buying Summit in Frisco. The Italian fashion brand has once again renewed its partnership with the PGA of America Duca del Cosma, the renowned Italian luxury brand celebrated for combining high-end fashion with innovative golf shoe technology, is set to introduce the new 2026 Spring/Summer Collection (SS26) at the PGA Buying Summit – Frisco, July 2830, 2025. The event is scheduled to be held at the Omni Frisco Resort located within the PGA Frisco complex. The acclaimed Italian lifestyle brand and golf shoe pioneer, Duca del Cosma, has designed its new SS26 Collection, focusing on essential pillars: contemporary innovation, craftsmanship, comfort and fit. Building on the success of their wellloved existing lines, they have introduced fresh and captivating designs that break artistic and technical barriers, setting new standards in style and performance. Leading the Men’s SS26 Collection is the new Rimini golf shoe – where style meets performance. With a sleek, sporty design and advanced features, the Rimini delivers comfort, support, and confidence—on and off the course. Crafted from a high frequency welded TPU, laminated to a waterproof coated 3D knitted mesh, it offers lightweight durability and breathability. The Waterproof Bootie System keeps feet dry, while INSITE® ArchRelief™ insocks and a technical mesh lining ensure comfort and airflow. Another highlight from the Men’s SS26 Collection is the street-smart Osimo, a golf shoe crafted for top-notch performance. Perfect for players seeking comfort, functionality, and versatility both on and off the course. Made with premium microfibre and sleek leather accents, it offers lightweight breathability, easy-care durability and a modern, sporty look. The Waterproof Bootie System keeps feet dry in wet conditions, while the advanced Venezia outsole provides reliable grip and stability thanks to its smart nub layout. Inside, INSITE® ArchRelief™ insocks
deliver targeted arch support, and a technical mesh lining enhances airflow and moisture control. The Osimo is a crossover golf sneaker – where everyday style meets all-day performance. “We are thrilled to introduce the new SS26 Collection at the PGA Buying Summit. Buyers, merchandisers, and retailers all agree that this is Duca’s most comprehensive line to date,” said Evelien Lauwers, Managing Director, North America at Duca del Cosma. “Our designers have elevated the full collection with brandnew styles, expanded our highly popular models as well as introduced new innovative insole and outsole technologies.” For the Women’s SS25, Duca artistically blended a modern golf-sneaker style with striking and bold abstract prints, to create the ultimate statement golf shoe for women - the Vieste. An edgy stand-out in the new collection, these shoes combine a high-frequency welded TPU, laminated to a waterproof coated 3D vacuum knitted polyester mesh for a sleek look that is easy to clean and maintain— rain or shine. Engineered for comfort and stability, the Vieste features a lightweight, spikeless Airplay Roma outsole, delivering dependable traction on both wet and
dry surfaces. Inside, the latest INSITE® ArchRelief™ insocks provide targeted support where you need it most, while the breathable technical mesh lining enhances airflow and moisture control. “We warmly welcome all PGA Buying Summit attendees to visit us. We are excited to showcase the new models from the SS26 Collection, along with many other fresh styles. This one-on-one experience with our customers, buyers, potential accounts, golf community and the media are invaluable to our Duca del Cosma team.” To schedule a sales meeting, please reach out to Ryan Leahey at Ryan@ ducadelcosma.com. For media meetings, please contact Vanessa Marie at VanessaMarie@ readthegreensgolfmedia.net or Caitie Barber-Owona at Caitiereadthegreens@ gmail.com. Duca del Cosma is committed to the PGA of America and its community. The company takes part in the annual PGA Buying and Education Summit and has been a consistent exhibitor at the PGA Show in Orlando for years, with plans to keep it up. These PGA events play a key role in fostering connections that drive the company’s growth in the golf industry.
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WOMEN’S GOLF APPAREL
Swing Control Debuts SS26 Collection with Fresh Prints, Iconic Fits, and Modern Performance Wear for Women A fresh take on modern golf fashion designed to move seamlessly from course to clubhouse. Swing Control, the Canadian brand celebrated for its polished performance golfwear, proudly introduces its Spring/ Summer 2026 Collection. Known for crafting chic, course-ready pieces that transcend the tee box, Swing Control returns with a fresh assortment rooted in its signature silhouettes and elevated with spirited summer flair. The SS26 lineup reflects Swing Control’s continued evolution and delivers sophisticated, high-function apparel that blends modern femininity with performance precision. Timeless in tone and rich in detail, the collection pairs clean lines and tailored fits with breathable comfort. Fresh patterns and refined accents complete the look, creating pieces designed to move effortlessly through a full day of play and beyond. Among the highlights is the Green Hearts Sleeveless Velocity Dress, a vibrant piece that captures the energy of summer golf with its charming heart motif and retro undertone. The lightweight fabric is engineered for stretch and breathability, while a contoured silhouette, contrast placket
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and collar, and built-in tummy-control shorts provide the perfect balance of polish and playfulness. It’s a dress made to turn heads—on the course and off. Also making an impression this season is the Navy Keys Sleeveless Velocity Dress. Minimal with an eyecatching edge, it exudes tonal elegance with an understated geometric print that adds intrigue without overwhelming. Designed with a flattering fit and crafted from breathable, stretch Velocity fabric, the dress allows for unrestricted movement while offering a clean, modern aesthetic that’s elevated yet entirely wearable. Equally notable is the brand’s signature pant line, an enduring bestseller reimagined in a striking variety of new styles for SS26. The Hounds Vented Techno Ankle Pant pairs a subtle micro-dot motif with tonal hues for an upscale edge that moves seamlessly from morning rounds to midday meetings. For a bolder twist, the Contrast Back-Stripe Ankle Pant stands out with unexpected detailing and a sporty color-blocked stripe—an edgy staple for the fashionforward golfer. The Textured Techno Jacquard Pant delivers quiet luxury with a sleek, architectural texture, while the Black Rain Print and Navy Shields Print versions add a playful dose of retro sophistication through statement geometrics. New minimalist silhouettes include the Armani Twill Cuffed Ankle Pant, a modern essential with clean lines and an urban polish, and the Pocket Ponte Pant, refined in its simplicity with classic hues and a flattering fit made to transition from course to cocktails. “We wanted SS26 to reflect our design DNA while introducing new energy,” said Nancy Robitaille, Lead Designer. “From playful prints to elegant structures, this collection is all about empowering women with apparel that feels beautiful, functions beautifully, and
celebrates the joy of movement. We can’t wait to debut it in Frisco.” Rounding out the collection are thoughtful design elements that fuse performance and polish with moisturewicking fabrics, built-in sun protection, and flattering cuts that feel as good as they look. Whether it’s a sleek dress for a twilight round or tailored pants that anchor any golf wardrobe, SS26 invites women to feel confident, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish all season long. Swing Control welcomes media and buyers to experience the SS26 Collection at Booth #506 during the PGA Buying Summit in Frisco, Texas, from July 28–30, 2025. To schedule a sales meeting, please contact Nancy Robitaille at Nancy@SwingControl.com or book online at SwingControl.com.
FOLDS OF HONOR
Horseshoe Bay Resort’s Folds of Honor Legacy Cup Set for Oct. 27; Fundraising Push Begins Second Annual Central Texas Folds of Honor event honors, supports military and first responder families
The acclaimed 18-hole Apple Rock Course at the AAA-Four Diamond- and Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Awardwinning Horseshoe Bay Resort, part of the Crescent Hotels & Resorts Latitudes collection, will host the second annual Folds of Honor Legacy Cup on Monday, October 27. Last year’s inaugural Legacy Cup event raised $100,000 and funded 20 scholarships distributed for the Folds of Honor’s Central Texas District support of families of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. The event’s affiliation with the worthwhile and well-respected Folds of Honor foundation has brought vital attention to the needs of military and first responder families who have sacrificed so much. Founded in 2007 by Lt Col Dan Rooney, the only F-16 fighter pilot to also be a PGA of America Golf Professional, the Folds of Honor has awarded about 62,000 scholarships to military and first responder spouses and children, totaling roughly $290 million in all 50 states. Among the students served through Folds of Honor initiatives, 41 percent are minorities. It is rated as a four-star charity by Charity Navigator and has earned a Platinum Seal of Transparency on GuideStar. “It’s, once again, a great privilege to join the Folds of Honor and Lt Col Dan Rooney in a vital and inspirational effort to support military and first responder families who need an infusion of hope, joy, and kinship from the community,” said Horseshoe Bay Resort’s Director of Golf Operations Anthony Holder. “Year One of hosting the Legacy Cup was a great success but we’re ready to roll up our
sleeves and do everything we can to raise more funds for deserving families. We’re counting on the community and the state of Texas to help us grow this effort every year. Honoring these heroes who have paid the ultimate sacrifice has now become an annual mission for our team and our membership.” The tournament’s slate of events includes a special presentation by guest speaker Alex McIntosh, father of Army Cpl. Scott A. McIntosh, who lost his life during a bombing in Baghdad in 2008. The annual Scott A. McIntosh Memorial Golf Tournament, which has taken place for more than 15 years and has raised more than $7 million through the years and has touched the lives of countless military families and scholarship recipients. Lt Col Rooney has called the McIntosh’s event “the benchmark by which we judge all other Patriot Golf Days events throughout the country.” McIntosh endeavors for every participant to have a profound emotional and patriotic connection and designs his events to foster that connection. “It’s a privilege to be a part of the 2025 Legacy Cup at Horseshoe Bay Resort,” McIntosh said. “As this event grows and gathers growing support from the community, it’s important to connection
to the people who are touched and helped by the Folds of Honor. Once people have a direct understanding of who the work of the Folds of Honor benefits and why that support is vital, you can do big things to honor our fallen heroes and lifting up the families they have left behind.” McIntosh’s presentation will be immediately followed by the Color Guard’s 21-Ball Salute and a jet flyover. Immediately following lunch, a shotgun four-person scramble format tournament will begin at 12:30 p.m. Afterwards, there will be an awards dinner with raffle items, a silent auction, and a live auction. Bringing the Legacy Cup to Horseshoe Bay Resort was made possible by instrumental efforts of Ron Doherty and Steve Wilkins, members of The Club at Horseshoe Bay Resort, along with Mark Voss from Folds of Honor’s Central Texas Chapter. This core team had a vision to support the worthwhile efforts of The Folds of Honor and wanted to help establish an unforgettable event that, hopefully, endures and raises awareness for the needs of military and first responder families for many years. Visit www.hsbresort.com for more information. Learn more about Folds of Honor at foldsofhonor.org. Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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Ahead of the Ryder Cup: Five Interesting things to know about Bethpage Black The 2025 Ryder Cup takes place at the world-renowned Bethpage Black Course, and ahead of the tournament, we look at some on-course performance data. Before we get into the stats (provided by Shot Scope’s performance tracking users), for those unfamiliar with the course, it is one of the game’s top-rated courses year on year. The Black Course at Bethpage also comes with a warning to golfers that reads: “WARNING. The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we recommend only for highly skilled golfers”. Just what you need to read before heading to the first tee! Here are the five interesting things you should know before the Ryder Cup visits Bethpage:
The 7th hole can make or break your score
According to the data, the 7th hole experiences the greatest fluctuation in scoring based on tee shot results. In layman’s terms, depending on where your tee shot goes, you could either have a chance at making birdie or you could be looking at a bogey, double, or worse. For the amateur golfer, the 7th is a long par 5 (Professional events can play this as a par 4) with sandy scrubland to the right and thick rough to the left - missing the fairway makes it almost impossible to go for the green in two. Should you find yourself in the sandy scrubland you can almost guarantee you are dropping strokes. Even if you dodge the sand, but are too far to the right, you will still be blocked out from a direct line to the green. Finding the short stuff is essential if you want to score on this hole.
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Easy for the amateur, hard for the pros
The par 3 third hole for an amateur golfer typically plays in the region of 146 yards and players have roughly a 2 in 3 chance of finding the dancefloor. However, for the professional golfer, things are somewhat trickier! The tee box is moved back 90 yards, making it an eye-watering 232-yard par 3 with little space to the rear of the green and bunkers swallowing up shots that come up shy of the putting surface. If we were to make the amateur play from this tee box, their chances of hitting the green plummet from roughly 2 in 3 to almost 1 in 50!
The hardest hole for Shot Scope users is the 5th hole
Another tricky tee shot in the opening nine holes is the 5th hole, a 478-yard par 4. This hole favors a fade, but beware, the further right you go, the greater the carry to cover yet more sandy scrubland. Similar to the 7th hole - the tee shot is one of the most important shots here, and players must be brave because a tee shot that misses left will make a shot into the green almost impossible. Those who do find themselves missing the fairway left typically play the hole 1.6 strokes over par. Those who go right, 1 stroke over par. So, all you have to do is hit a nice baby fade about 285 yards through the air to cover the scrubland and have a good line in simple. With the challenge of the tee shot catching most players out, it comes as no surprise that for every 100 attempts at hitting the green in regulation, only 7 are successful. Yes, 7 in 100!
The back 9 is the harder of the two nines - playing 0.7 strokes harder
When we compare the back nine to the front nine, we discover that it plays 0.7 strokes harder (almost a stroke) than the front nine - not a huge difference, but it is statistically harder. Players typically hit one fewer fairways on the back and two fewer greens, meaning that they will be required to get up and down. A tougher back nine can only be a good thing for spectators right?
If you hit one green all day, make it the 11th
When missing the green, Shot Scope users find the 11th hole the hardest to get up and down on. Why? Well, it is one of the more undulating putting surfaces on the course, with bunkers sprawling around the sides and the majority of the front portion of the green. Those who miss the green long will be met with a tricky up-and-down attempt, with the green sloping away from them from front to back, and a false front ready to penalize anyone with poor touch.
The countdown is on to September 26th when the 2025 Ryder Cup gets underway.
How do you think you would handle the challenge that is Bethpage Black? And what do you think the winning score will be?
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Fall 2025 | Tri State Golf
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YOUR ULTIMATE GOLF EXPERIENCE is closer than you think.
Getting to BOYNE Golf has never been easier. Whether you’re driving or flying into either the nearby Traverse City (TVC) from 20 U.S. cities — or our newly-renovated private 5200’ airport at Boyne Mountain, our 11 magnificent courses are closer than you think.
Call 855.998.9366 - booking through 2026!
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