Tri State Golf
2023 PA • NJ • DE Region’s Most Read Golf Publication TriStateGolfer.net
GOLF SOCIETY Join Now! FUN AND FRIENDLY COMPETITION FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS
Summer
AMATEUR
KURT KITAYAMA
PGA TOUR MEMBER, CHERVÓ ATHLETE
2023 ARNOLD PALMER CHAMPION
EVERY MORNING, YOU MAKE A CHOICE TO FIGHT OR FOLLOW. NOW IS YOUR TIME, LIVE YOUR PASSION. RISE ABOVE THE PACK.
ITALIAN STYLE IN SPORT SINCE 1982
Situated in Pennsylvania’s majestic Laurel Highlands, you will discover a golfer’s paradise at the always-adventurous Nemacolin.
Nemacolin presents two breathtaking courses designed by the legendary Pete Dye: Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock, delivering thrilling shot values, sweeping mountain views, and esteemed recognition.
Golf Digest 2022 Best Golf Resorts in the Mid-Atlantic
Golfweek 2022 #1 & #5 Best Courses You Can Play in Pennsylvania
Golf Digest 2022 Editors’ Choice: Best Golf Schools & Academies
Sharpen your skills at The Nemacolin Golf Academy, where expert instruction, state-of-the-art technology, custom fittings, and multi-day bootcamps improve your game.
Book an ultimate getaway to this incomparable destination for golf, spa, world-class cuisine, art, wine, and all-season adventure. Your trip of a lifetime awaits!
All experiences are exclusive to overnight guests and members. nemacolin.com 844.873.1708
THE GOLF, EPIC. THE TRIP, EASY.
With convenient non-stop flights into TVC from 17 U.S. cities, including Philidelphia, Washington D.C, New York and Newark, these spectacular courses are closer than you think. Call 855.998.9366 to plan your 2023 trip now! BOYNEGolf.com
TURTLE CREEK 100% Golf Environment • Golf Digest Rated 4.5 Stars • Walkers Welcome Grass Tee Driving Range • Event Tent • Top Notch Conditions Family Owned & Operated 610 489 5133 | 303 W RIDGE PIKE, LIMERICK, PA 19468 TurtleCreekGolf.com GOLF COURSE YEARS 25
610.495.6945 • LandisCreekGolfClub.com 765 North Lewis Road • Limerick, PA 19468 Visit LandisCreekGolfClub.com for upcoming events and to book tee times/ best rates
FROM THE PUBLISHER
GREEN GRASS ACCOUNTS
JOE BURKHARDT
ADVERTISING SALES (PA / NJ / DE / NATIONAL)
JOE BURKHARDT
610.755.8767
tristategolf@gmail.com
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NATE OXMAN
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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JIM BRINCKMAN
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MARK HOGAN
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WAYNE MILLS
TOM MCNICHOL
AL RYDING
MATT WARD
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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.
10 COVER STORY
Amateur Golf Society
Fun And Friendly Competition For All Skill Levels
12 Golf Equipment
SuperStroke Congratulates Emiliano Grillo
13
14
15
INSIDE THIS ISSUE • SUMMER 2023
on Playoff Victory at The Charles Schwab Challenge
Golf Refreshment
Your Drink Cold With A SIC Cup!
Keep
Women’s Golf Day 2023
Golf Day Reaches New Heights and Countries
Women’s
Golf Instruction
Nemacolin Golf Academy Announces Two-Day Golf School, July 13-14
Oklahoma Golf Travel Shangri-La Resort and Crescent Hotels & Resorts
Course News Jim Nantz Named Design Consultant For Tepetonka Club’s Short Course 20 Q&A GAP’s Chip Lutz Continues Carving Out Legacy 22 79th U.S. Women’s Open Registration Now Available for Volunteer Opportunities 23 Q&A Inside Nemacolin’s Elevated Golf in a Vacationer’s Paradise 24 Golf Simulators The Indoor Golf Shop Expands SkyTrak Partnership Internationally 27 Golf Game App Play Nine The Card Game Of Golf Is Available On Smart Device 28 Louisiana Golf Travel Golfing And Dining In The Bayou 31 Golf Equipment SuperStroke Congratulates Davis Riley on First-Career PGA Tour Victory at The Zurich Classic
The
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Q&A With Dan Hershberg
General Manager/Founder, Amateur Golf Society of America
By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher
Q What age were you when you first picked a club up?
Dan: I was 13 years old when I played golf for the first time. My family has a lake house in the mountains of Maine and while we almost never watched TV at the cabin, my mom would occasionally turn on golf, a sport she would watch regularly at home in Philadelphia. During one weekend round, I saw Payne Stewart with his famous argyle socks and decided to imitate him, coming downstairs from my bedroom and suggesting to my dad that we play the sport ourselves. My father, who to that point had never picked up a club, essentially told me to bug off, at which point my mom chastised him for being a jerk. Recognizing an opportunity to do something with his son, my father begrudgingly took us to the local muni, Mingo Springs Golf Course, and a combined 300+ swings later over 18 holes, we were hooked.
Q Who taught you?
Dan: It certainly wasn’t my aforementioned father! Thanks to a long run as a successful softball player growing up in Chicago, he swings a golf club like he’s trying to foul off a series of 0-2 breaking pitches and stay alive in the count. I received a handful of lessons in a variety of places from teaching professionals throughout Philadelphia and Maine, but never really committed to a set routine until much later in my golfing life.
Q What made you get into golf?
Dan: Besides the fashion sense of Payne Stewart? Pretty simply, once I began to play, I caught the bug. Golf is the best. It’s a new experience every time you play, providing opportunities for constant improvement and mental focus that are applicable in all walks of life. On top of that, the people you meet on the golf course--the variety of which is a major perk itself--are often some of the most enjoyable folks around. If you’re crazy enough to keep subjecting yourself to constant punishment while chasing that elusive high of a quality shot, you must have a great sense of humor.
Q Did you play junior golf, high school golf or college golf?
Dan: I didn’t have the opportunity to play competitively growing up; my schools never had teams and even if they did, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have added much value to the roster. I did, however, take recreational golf as my two semesters of PE credit at Cornell, and with a Robert Trent Jones course on campus, I applied myself with great commitment to ensuring I earned a passing grade for that class.
Q You graduated from Cornell, what was your major and focus in business at the time?
Dan: I was an American Studies major, more by default than by a particular passion for that field. I wanted to study sports journalism in advance of a career in sports media, but Cornell didn’t offer a program with that particular focus and I probably spent too much time my Freshman year doing anything but considering the best fit. A friend in my dorm was taking a class in the American Studies department with a professor he liked, who happened to offer a class about Baseball, so I chose American Studies in order to ensure I had access to that class. After that, I declared.
Q How did the AGS Tour come about?
Dan: I previously was a Co-Founder at Workhorse Brewing Company, and due to pandemic-enforced closures of our taproom and event space back in 2020, I created an amateur golf Tour (the Workhorse Tour) in order to take advantage of one of the few safe activities people could do outside of their home. The Tour enjoyed sizable growth over its first two years, scaling from 200 to nearly 700 members with 5x weekly engagement, as its unique format allowing amateurs to play competitive, tournamentstyle golf 100% on their schedule solved a real problem in the market. Towards the end of last season, buoyed by its quick success, I made the decision that the concept was easily scalable as a golf company and made more sense outside of Workhorse than it did as a beer-focused initiative in that organization. GAP expressed an interest in coming on board as a partner and the rest is history.
Q How does it work for the Amateur Golfer? Are there different handicap flights?
Dan: Each week-long AGS Tour event is hosted Monday through Sunday at a participating public course. Members can book any open tee time during that weeklong window and post one score to qualify for the individual tournament leaderboard, as well as the season-long standings. All AGS Tour events feature competition in six divisions: four divisions flighted by handicap, plus one each for women and seniors (55+). Each week, golfers will be automatically entered into a flight based on their Handicap Index at the beginning of that tournament week, while women and seniors will also compete in their respective divisions in addition to their net flight. Women over the age of 55 are eligible to compete in all three divisions (net flight, women and senior).
Q How many events in a season? Any commitment?
Dan: The 2023 AGS Tour season takes place at nearly 60 top public courses throughout
10 Tri State Golf | Summer 2023 COVER STORY
Dan Hershberg (seated) with hip hop artist/ entrepreneur Chill Moody. Photo: Dejanaya Spicer
Southeastern PA, NJ and Delaware, running from April-October. There is no minimum commitment required: members can play in as many or as few events as their schedule permits. The more events in which you play, the more opportunities you have to earn weekly and season-long prizes.
Q Are there any sign-up Fees involved or upfront commitments? What do they get for that Fee?
Dan: A standard membership costs $75 for the 2023 season, with a $65 senior membership available for golfers aged 55 and over. We also offer a Premium Membership for $100, which includes early access to purchase spots at AGS Match Play events, a series of five one-day competitions at top private courses in the greater Philadelphia area. The only other costs are greens fees for each Tour event, which are typically identical to the rack rate at the course for that given tee time, so you’re paying the same amount that you’d pay as a daily fee golfer at the course, except
members get exclusive, early access to event tee sheets and can win prizes if they perform well.
Q What kind of prizes are they playing for? How do players find results?
Dan: Weekly and season-long prizes range from gifts with Tour sponsors like TRUE Linkswear, Golf Galaxy and our own AGS Pro Shop, up to custom Bettinardi headcovers for major winners and a 7-night stay at the Hilton Dorado del Mar Beach Resort in Puerto Rico. Players are able to view real-time leaderboards--both weekly and season-long--by accessing our progressive web app upon completing registration.
Q Do you have any strategic partners involved?
Dan: The AGS Tour is presented by the Golf Association of Philadelphia, and we have a relationship with both the PGA Section of Philadelphia and the LPGA Amateurs Organization, a supporting partner of our
women’s division. We’re also thrilled to have sponsorship support from companies like Comcast Business, Sazerac, Meridian Bank, Conlin’s Print & Copy, Five Iron Golf and Destination Montco Golf from the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board.
Q How many states is the AGS Tour in now?
Dan: We currently host events in three states: Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.
Q Where do you see the potential as far as expanding?
Dan: We believe that the problem we solve-increased access and opportunities for amateur golfers of all abilities--is one that adds value anywhere golf is played. We are also confident that our business model adds value to all stakeholders: our members, our course partners, our sponsors and AGAs. As such, we’re planning on taking the Tour across the country to create a community of AGS golfers for years to come. TSG
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 11
AGS Match Play event at White Manor Golf Club, May 7, 2023. Photo: AGS Tour
SuperStroke Congratulates Emiliano Grillo on Playoff Victory at The Charles Schwab Challenge
Two-time winner uses Zenergy Flatso 1.0 XL putter grip to outlast tight leaderboard.
SuperStroke, the No. 1 Putter Grip in golf and the leader in innovative Tourproven golf grip technology, congratulates 30-year-old Argentina native Emiliano Grillo on his second-career victory at The Charles Schwab Challenge. Grillo secured a two-year playing exemption on the Tour courtesy of his two-hole sudden-death playoff win. He closed with a gutsy finalround 68, overcoming a double bogey on the 72nd hole to earn a spot in the two-man playoff. He then drained a tournamentclinching birdie on the second playoff hole to capture his first victory since his triumph at the 2015 Frys.com Open.
Grillo, who earned his spot in the 2024 Sentry Tournament of Champions, The Masters and Players Championship with this victory, used a SuperStroke Zenergy Flatso 1.0 XL putter grip to close out the win and collect the $1.566 million winner’s check.
“The entire SuperStroke team congratulates Emiliano Grillo on capturing his first-career victory in dramatic fashion with his SuperStroke Zenergy Flatso 1.0 XL putter grip,” says SuperStroke CEO Dean Dingman. “Emiliano putted brilliantly all week, gaining 7.439 strokes on the field with his putting over all four rounds and ranking second in Strokes Gained Putting. What a performance!”
Grillo finished eight-under-par over four rounds on the difficult Colonial Country Club layout, holding off the likes of world No. 1 golfer and the player who led the tournament after each of the first three rounds, to reach the playoff.
The SuperStroke Flatso™ putter grip features a distinct pentagonal “Flatso” profile: a wide, flat front grip shape with five pronounced edges. Now with Enhanced Spyne™ Technology and MultiZone Texturing, the Flatso™ Series has been refined to offer even better feel and feedback.
Available in wide array of colorways, the SuperStroke Flatso™ putter grip is one of the most popular grips played on professional
tours. PGA TOUR professional Jordan Spieth trusted the Flatso™ grip for each of his three major championship victories.
As part of Zenergy, SuperStroke’s latest line of putter grips featuring enhanced Spyne technology, the Zenergy Flatso putter grip features new multi-zone texturing, and our patented no-taper shape for unmatched confidence to quiet your hands – and your mind.
FEATURES INCLUDE:
Enhanced Spyne™ Technology – The new Spyne™ Technology has an improved, embossed ridge along the underside of the grip, engineered to make it easier to square the face at impact.
New Multi-Zone Texturing –Strategically placed textured in highsensory areas designed to optimize feedback and comfort from the incredibly soft polyurethane outer layer.
Tech-Port – Located at the top of
SuperStroke grips, Tech-Port allows golfers to easily add game-improvement options including the patented CounterCore weight system and performance tracking sensors.
SuperStroke grips are trusted by legions of top professional golfers. In 2022, SuperStroke users won 61 tournaments on golf’s major professional tours, totaling more than $58.5 million in first-place prize money in those events.
SuperStroke’s putter grip line is a product of relentless innovation, fueled by feedback from more than 450 tour pros. From signature shapes and sizes to the cutting-edge materials, SuperStroke delivers unprecedented features into every putter grip while connecting golfer and putter like no other product on the market.
For more details on SuperStroke’s range of innovative golf grips and to keep up with the latest news from the company, visit https://superstrokeusa.com/.
12 Tri State Golf | Summer 2023
GOLF EQUIPMENT
Keep Your Drink Cold With A SIC Cup!
SIC Cups is an insulated, stainless steel drinkware brand based out of Jacksonville, FL. SIC broke into the golf industry a few years back when they created the Dimpled Golf® drinkware line. The gloss white, dimpled exterior of the tumblers, bottles, and other reusable drinkware products was designed to mimic the exterior of a golf ball. SIC Custom Shop offers the ability to customize our drinkware products in-house. The combination of a golf exclusive design, superior insulation technology and the option of customization, is ideal for country clubs, golf resorts, private clubs, golf tournaments, and so much more. New to SIC Cups in 2023 is the Personalized Drinkware Program which offers the ability to personalize SIC products with your logo AND individual names.
In addition to the exclusivity and novelty of the SIC Dimpled Golf® line is the sustainability aspect and the impact that reusable drinkware products such as SIC Cups is making on the environment. Millions of disposable, plastic water bottles are purchased, used, and disposed of on golf courses alone every single year. In recent attempts to become more environmentally friendly, we have seen golf courses make the switch from disposable plastics and styrofoam products, to reusable drinkware alternatives. SIC Cups has helped many customers save thousands of dollars on disposable drinkware AND help reduce the amount of waste on their golf course.
Feel free to reach out to the SIC Custom Shop at custom@siccups.com or SIC Customer Service at getsic@siccups.com for more information on custom or wholesale orders. GET SIC and GO GREEN!
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 13 GOLF REFRESHMENT
Women’s Golf Day Reaches New Heights and Countries
From Times Square To Tokyo, WGD Brings Global Smiles
• New Countries; Gambia, Greece, Peru, and Zambia joined the WGD community for the first time in 2023 taking the total number of participating countries to 84
• Japan Growth; after running 3 events in 2022, WGD and The Japanese Golf Federation worked in collaboration to grow the number of host locations in Japan from 3 to 139 in under 12 months
The first weeklong Women’s Golf Day (WGD) celebration drew to a close as the last event finished at Moorea Green Pearl Golf Club in French Polynesia on Tuesday evening, the 6th of June. More women and girls were able to access these celebratory events in 2023 than ever before given the new weeklong format and the increase in the number of participating countries and venues.
Starting with WGD Palooza Digital Day and the ringing off the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Opening Bell, the celebration continued throughout the week. New and existing female golfers around the globe dressed in red and white to share their experiences on social media. The new format generated a staggering 194million impressions, an increase of over 100million impressions verses 2022, with an incredible 397,143 engagements and 92million+ reach sharing a collective joy that perhaps can only be measured in smiles.
Key highlights of Women’s Golf Day 2023 included:
• WGD Palooza; a specially curated USGA Museum Tour, Instruction from Callaway and Titleist players, an interview with founding members of Project Ukraine and giveaways from WGD partners including The USGA, PGA, R&A, Callaway, Titleist, FootJoy, PGA TOUR Superstore, Imperial, Marco Simone, and Make Golf Your Thing
• NYSE Opening; WGD Founder, Elisa Gaudet, was joined by a delegation including representatives from Acushnet and LPGA player Danielle Kang as Gaudet rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange
• Championship Venues; More than 1,300 locations have hosted the event since 2016 including high profile venues like Marco Simone host of 2023 Ryder Cup, Pinehurst – host of the 2024 US Open, TPC Sawgrass- The PLAYERS Championship, Firestone Country Club – the World Series of Golf, TPC Scottsdale- WM Phoenix Open, Evian Resort- The Amundi Evian Championship in France, Taiheiyo Club Minori Course in Japan, and Aphrodite Hills Golf & Country Club in Cyprus
• PGA TOUR Superstore (PGATSS) –Official Retailer of Women’s Golf Day held instore activation events. PGATSS held events at all stores across the USA, excluding California, Saturday June 3rd. There were driving contests in the simulators and basic instruction for new golfers as well as a putting contests and the chance to win a Women’s Golf Day branded Callaway Golf Bag.
• Golf Town – Canadian retailer hosted WGD events on Tuesday June 6th at all 47 locations across Canada.
“Every year we work to increase the number of facilities that host Women’s Golf Day and it was very exciting to welcome the 139 courses from Japan and watch on social media, in real time, the impact WGD has on golf around the globe. I experienced firsthand how important it is to have new and existing female golfers participate in WGD events to build confidence, new friendships and skills that do last a lifetime. Our goal is to create more opportunities and unity and we are achieving that on a global level,” commented Gaudet.
She continued, “Growing demand for additional days from host locations prompted us to expand to a weeklong
format, resulting in impactful and significant activation on each day this week. Starting on May 30th with the WGD Palooza digital day and May 31st ringing the opening bell at the NYSE with Acushnet (Titleist and FootJoy). It is important to have retail engagement and in store activation from both PGA TOUR Superstore and Golf Town as well as championship courses around the world hosing events. Having lived in NYC for 10 years it is thrilling to see WGD and Acushnet billboards running for a few weeks in Times Square as well as Silicon Valley. This support includes our partners, RBC, who are hosting the RBC Canadian Open this week.”
Locations are invited to register now for 2024 allowing them to make full use of the promotional opportunities the Women’s Golf Day platform offers them throughout the year. Registered locations are encouraged to update their location page regularly throughout the year to promote other offerings at the club including travel/ trips, instruction, and ongoing events. They will also receive additional support through the WGD social media channels and direct marketing opportunities.
For location registration visit: www.womensgolfday.com/register
14 Tri State Golf | Summer 2023
WOMEN’S GOLF DAY 2023
The Nemacolin Golf Academy Announces
Two-Day Golf School, July 13-14
Top Instructors Andrew Rice, Mike Labella Headline TotalGame Improvement Sessions
The Nemacolin Golf Academy, the game improvement epicenter at Pennsylvania’s premier luxury golf resort destination, announced a special Two-Day Golf School on July 13 - 14. The total-game-improvementfocused school will be led by Nemacolin’s director of instruction Mike LaBella, a Golf Digest Best Young Teacher along with the renowned Andrew Rice, one of Golf Digest’s 50 Best Teachers in America.
“The Nemacolin Golf Academy is offering the ultimate game improvement experience this July,” says LaBella. “The opportunity to work with Andrew Rice, one of the leading minds in golf instruction, and our Nemacolin instruction staff in our stateof-the-art learning environment is the ideal way to turn the weaknesses in your game into strengths that help you play better and lower your handicap.”
Golfers looking to improve any aspect of their full swing as well as the short game won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to work with this duo of top teachers in an
academy setting optimized for fostering better play. The Nemacolin Golf Academy utilizes cutting-edge hardware like TrackMan launch monitors and simulators, Foresight Sports’ GCQuad launch monitor, and Swing Catalyst’s Balance and Dual Force Plates.
The Golf Academy’s four spacious hitting bays, complete with a dedicated, 1,000-square-foot putting room, also opens up to the outdoor 25-station driving range that sits adjacent to two short-game practice areas, a large putting green.
The July golf school with Rice and LaBella also includes custom video analysis and on-course lessons on one of Nemacolin’s acclaimed championship golf courses.
Rice, one of the most sought-after instructors in the game, is the director of instruction at The Club at Savannah Harbor in Savannah, Ga., and has been teaching golf for 25 years. He is a Golf Pass Staff Instructor, a TrackMan Master and one of nine TrackMan University Partners in the world. Rice is also a Swing Catalyst and
Arccos Ambassador. LaBella, who helms operations at The Nemacolin Golf Academy, cites his three most important characteristics for every golfer as course management, a strong short game, and placing an emphasis on specific shot skills rather than pictureperfect technique.
For golfers looking for practical, repeatable skills that breed confidence and consistency, this Two-Day Golf School at the Nemacolin Golf Academy July 13 – 14 is the perfect chance to lower their handicaps in 2023.
“I’m excited to come to Nemacolin and conduct this incredible learning experience in one of the finest teaching academies in the country. If you enroll in this Two-Day School, you’re going to leave with confidence and a working plan for practicing smarter and executing your best shots on the golf course.” Rice says.
To register for this amazing Two-Day Golf School, please email GolfAcademy@ Nemacolin.com.
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 15 GOLF INSTRUCTION
Mike Labella
Andrew Rice
Shangri-La Resort and Crescent Hotels & Resorts to Celebrate Grand Opening of The Battlefield Golf Course
New $15 million, Par-3 Course Features 100+ Feet of Elevation Change; June 30 Dedication Event Scheduled
Shangri-La Resort, Oklahoma’s premier waterfront golf and outdoor recreation destination, and Crescent Hotels & Resorts are celebrating the grand opening of The Battlefield, a spectacularly designed 18-hole par-3 golf course. Oklahoma government officials and other dignitaries – including Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell, State Representative and Gulf War veteran Josh West, and former Broadway performer Ron Young – will be on hand for the official Grand Opening and Dedication hosted by Shangri-La owner Eddy Gibbs, Executive Chairman Jason Sheffield, and President & CEO Barry Willingham, on Friday, June 30.
The Tom Clark and Kevin Atkinsondesigned, 3,000-yard Battlefield layout is a short course of creative, articulated scale and vision, constructed on an exceptional piece of land that features more than 100 feet of elevation change across its acreage. The scenic, strategic course was completed
for $15 million with each hole named in honor of an Oklahoma veteran of WWII.
It’s a memorable, immersive playing experience from any of the five sets of tee boxes, plus up-close “Felix Tees” for beginners, youngsters or those wanting to work on their short game. This short course also has a 165-yard warm-up area and 10,000-square-foot putting green, and there’s also a practice range and short-game facility at the main clubhouse. While challenging from the back tees – the course record since the soft opening is just one-under-par – 12 holes-in-one have already been recorded in this thrilling, hilly funscape.
“The Battlefield is a beautiful, captivating, and purposefully designed short course like no other,” says Director of Golf Operations Rob Yanovitch. “It’s an endlessly fun and engaging experience for golfers of every skill level that also recognizes our brave military personnel, with special
commemorations to World War II veterans on every hole. Daily presentations in The Battlefield Clubhouse also honor military personnel and American veterans. The course has an energy and excitement that, along with our renovated, world-class 27hole championship course, elevates the golf experience at Shangri-La into the ‘Must Play’ category among Midwest destination resorts. We’re living in Shangri-La’s ‘Hello, World!’ era.”
This enjoyable, accessible par-54 course which features holes from 110 to 245 yards, joins the acclaimed 27 championship holes at Shangri-La, the Legends, Heritage and Champions courses (framed elegantly on the shores of the expansive Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees) to present an extraordinary 45-hole golfer’s paradise that buddies’ trip groups and golf aficionados from all over the country will want to add to their bucket list.
OKLAHOMA GOLF TRAVEL
READY FOR THE NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT
Shangri-La’s visionary owner Gibbs has transformed the resort into the pride of Northeast Oklahoma and put the lakefront vacation oasis on the map nationally with an investment of more than $100 million into the property’s accommodations and upscale leisure amenities since taking it over in 2010. Crescent Hotels & Resorts, the award winning, nationally recognized, operator of hotels and resorts with over 120 properties in the United States & Canada, recently added the Shangri-La Resort & Marina to the growing list of properties Crescent manages under the Latitudes: Lifestyles by Crescent collection.
In addition to the 119-room resort hotel, an indoor pool, 6,500 square-foot outdoor resort pool with splash pad and tanning ledge, luxury spa, full-service marina on gleaming, 46,500-acre Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees, and six distinct dining and cocktails venues culminate in an unforgettable getaway for golfers, families, groups, corporate and association retreats, and weddings.
Surrounded by the waters of Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees on three sides, the revered 27-hole championship Shangri-La golf course meanders through rolling parkland landscapes with elevated Bentgrass greens and clever bunkering along with more open, flowing fairways accented by ponds, streams and the breathtaking lakefront. The Legends ninth, “The Mickey Mantle Hole,” uniquely features two separate greens complexes separated by a blissful but daunting waterfall.
It’s named after the New York Yankees legend who hosted his Mickey Mantle Golf Classic charity tournament at Shangri-La from 1991 until his death in 1995 and once holed an albatross on this iconic par five.
The Anchor, a two-year-old, six-acre indoor/outdoor activity park has basketball, tennis, pickleball, cornhole, and a unique “Mini-Fenway” WIFFLE®Ball park, as well as a catch-and-release fishing pond for children under 12. The Anchor’s 11,000 squarefoot indoor space offers traditional arcade games plus virtual reality games, a LaserShot shooting simulator, and Trackman Golf simulators.
A popular spot for drinks and dining, the Sports Bar at The Anchor features dozens of sports screens including two giant video walls, along with ping-pong, pool, shuffleboard, darts, and foosball.
JUNE 30 GRAND OPENING AND DEDICATION
The June 30 open-to-the-public Grand Opening and Dedication event begins at 10 a.m. with the formal presentation of colors by the Ritual Team from Grove American Legion Post 178 and Young’s stirring rendition of the National Anthem. Lieutenant Governor Pinnell (who also spoke at dedication ceremonies for The Anchor Activity Park and USS Oklahoma Memorial at Shangri-La in 2021) will keynote the opening.
As Lieutenant Governor, Pinnell serves as Chairman of the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Commission and as Secretary of Tourism, Wildlife, and Heritage on Governor Kevin Stitt’s cabinet. In that role, he leads
Oklahoma’s efforts to promote tourism, the state’s third largest industry. He is currently leading the launch of the Oklahoma Golf Trail.
The Battlefield’s formal dedication by State Representative Josh West will honor all military veterans, but especially WWII veterans, in keeping with The Battlefield’s theme and mission. West, who earned the Purple Heart and Bronze Star with “V” device for Valor for his service in the U.S. Army, has since founded the Oklahoma Veterans Caucus in the Oklahoma legislature and remains involved in numerous veterans’ organizations.
“We take great pride in Shangri-La having become a beloved destination for outdoor recreation, world-class golf, quality time with family and friends – all in an idyllic natural environment,” says ShangriLa President & CEO Barry Willingham. “The opening of The Battlefield, though, marks an achievement and source of pride that’s difficult to put into words. To have a grandscale living monument that honors our veterans and military service people fulfills a meaningful vision for our team and our commitment to never forget to honor those who have made our freedoms possible. We can’t wait for golfers of all ages to enjoy the special experience of playing The Battlefield.”
Visit shangrilaok.com for more information.
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 17
Jim Nantz Named Design Consultant For Tepetonka
Club’s Short Course
Robust Sales Expected For Groundbreaking New SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor
Tepetonka Club, a new, 228-acre, private golf destination located two hours west of the Twin Cities, today announced Jim Nantz will collaborate with Tepetonka’s design firm OCM Golf on the creation of The Prox, the club’s short course.
“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Mark Haugejorde for over 40 years and Tepetonka is his life’s calling,” said Jim Nantz, who has broadcast sporting events for CBS since the 1980s. “After visiting with Mark and the OCM Golf team nearly a year ago, it became apparent that they were on the brink of building something that will be legendary. I’m proud to be a founding member and honored to join
18 Tri State Golf | Summer 2023 BAYWOOD GREENS ...make us part of your beach vacation this summer! Baywood Greens 32267 Clubhouse Way • Long Neck, DE www.baywoodgreens.com 888.844.2254 • 302.947.9800 Please visit our new website for amazing imagery, www.baywoodgreens.com and please visit our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/baywoodgreens
COURSE
NEWS
2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18 4 5 N E W S Hole Par Yards 5 480 575 2 4 320 430 3 3 110 - 165 4 4 290 330 5 4 350 360 6 4 365 440 7 3 130 - 220 5 450 550 9 4 330 425 36 2825 - 3495 3 160 255 4 320 405 3 120 - 130 13 4 370 410 14 5 440 575 15 3 100 145 4 275 470 17 4 310 - 425 4 300 455 IN 34 2395 3270 TOTAL 70 5220 6765 CARD OF THE COURSE
Geoff, Mike, and Ashley as a consultant on The Prox. I have deep admiration for OCM and the forward-thinking creativity they are bringing to the game.”
Tepetonka is Minnesota’s first entry into the highly popular private golf destination category, despite the state being renowned the world over for hosting events at historic venues. Led by the golf design team of OCM Golf’s three partners—Geoff Ogilvy, Mike Cocking, Ashley Mead—and the architecture firm of Douglas Fredrikson Architects, the goal for each member or guest’s day is summed up in the phrase: “Can’t wait to get there—hate to leave!” The Prox is the club’s short course and practice facility, to which Nantz and OCM will bring their considerable combined golf experience.
“After meeting with my old friend a few times, Jim said he wanted to become a member and I asked if he might be interested in a deeper involvement,” said Club Chairman Mark Haugejorde, a former teammate of Jim’s on the University of Houston golf team. “Jim personifies the three guiding principles of Tepetonka: camaraderie, community, and charity. And given the decades he’s spent calling tournaments at courses that include some of the world’s best par 3s, and the level of attention to detail he brings in all things he does, we know he’ll add his experience onsite with OCM in August. We can’t wait!”
In August, Nantz, OCM, and Doug Fredrikson will present the entire master plan for golf, lodging, and supper club to Tepetonka members in Minneapolis. Founding memberships have been completed, with invitation-only memberships open. Given the interest, members are clearly embracing the club’s innovative, fractional ownership model, where the course is never crowded and the fun is always paramount.
“Having had the opportunity to spend some time with Jim recently, it became apparent that he has a keen interest in golf course design and specifically in short courses,” said OCM’s Mike Cocking. “The Prox will be integrated into Tepetonka’s practice facility, and we’re looking forward to working with Jim on the design. His input and experience will be invaluable in what we’re creating.”
For more information visit www.tepetonka.com.
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 19 Central Bucks Location 1-1/2 miles from Rt 263 & York Road Intersection 440 Almshouse Rd, Jamison, PA 18929 www.NeshaminyGolf.com • 215.343.6930 HERO AND SENIORS RATES! Renovated 6th Green will be Playable in the Spring! Call or Book Tee Times Online 215 343 6930 www.NeshaminyGolf.com SINGLES CAN WALK ON COURSE NEWS
CBS Broadcaster Jim Nantz
GAP’s Chip Lutz Continues Carving Out Legacy
Q Is there a story behind the golf-themed names in your family? Did your Mom and Dad disagree on this?
Chip: I have never heard them disagree on names and it became apparent they needed to do something with 3 boys coming along when they decided to legally name us all John. We each have different family middle names but somewhere along the way we got Wedge, Chip (Chipper) and Putt (Putter). Likely my Father’s sense of humor and it obviously went with our golf history. My favorite is perhaps our dog’s name, Divot. Perhaps if there was any disagreement it came with our sister who they named Courtney (no golf name like Sandy).
Q What are your earliest memories of watching, playing golf?
Chip: My early moments watching golf really revolve around the copious amounts of time we spent at the Reading CC, watching our Dad and many of the other characters playing at the club and having an opportunity to caddy and observe. I remember my brother Wedge who was exactly one year older than I, imitating some of the nuances and idiosyncrasies of the many swings and personalities around the club. I think that helped our games
by observing and seeing what worked best for our games. Of course Dad was always around to give us guidance but that was limited. We knew how good he was and that set a strong example of how to do it. So watching golf on tv came later in our youth but watching Arnie, Jack and the others go at it was fuel for the fire.
Q Was your Dad your primary teacher? If so, what kind of teacher was he? Do you remember specific lessons on/off the course?
Chip: Yes, Dad was our primary teacher but again it was more observation on our part and guidance on his at times when he felt necessary. A great deal of experimentation was extremely helpful with a watchful eye. Later on as I progressed and grew older, Dad was often there to watch and give gentle guidance that was often more of the basic and fundamental encouragement that helped us along the way.
Q Did your dad spend any time with Byron Nelson at Reading CC? IF SO, Is there a story about Nelson that sticks with you?
Chip: Dad took lessons from Byron and my earliest picture of them together was in 1938 of Byron giving him instruction. Byron was the Head Pro at the Reading from 19371939. Henry Clay Poe succeeded him and
also helped my father greatly with his game. Byron won the 1937 Masters right before coming to the Reading and then won the 1939 US Open at Philadelphia CC in his last year in Reading.
Q You played with a bunch of future pros at Florida. Anyone you admired or about their games?
Chip: Yes, I played as a walk-on my first two years at University of Florida in 1972/1973 and 1973/1974 seasons where we won the NCAA in my first year. I did not start any matches and when I realized that with Title 9 reducing scholarships and only graduating one from our championship team that my odds of breaking into the lineup were remote. We had likely the two most notable players, Gary Koch and Andy Bean as our standouts that year. The thing that I recall vividly was how far Andy hit the ball and that was truly amazing. He also had a short game that complemented that as well. Gary was just a great all round player who was also successful as a player but is more well known as a golf announcer. A number of other players did not reach national prominence as players but were successful in many other ways, like Fred Ridley and Steve Smyers.
20 Tri State Golf | Summer 2023
Q&A
Chip Lutz
Q It appears you took time away from competitive golf when you were building your career/family. If so, was it hard to step away and did you just practice more?
Chip: Living in the Northeast I always took time off from the game in the off seasons (winter) so it was never difficult for me to take a break and rather enjoyed that, however my prolonged time away was from 1993-1998 (5 years) where I did not play at all. Family and business took my attention and by the end of 1993 I had done all the things I wanted to do competitively in our local area of Berks County, PA. I decided to take time off and if I was to come back I would look to bigger venues to compete and challenge my abilities. I was nearing the end of my Mid-Am days leading up to the Senior competitions where I focused my energies and time. By then the kids were off to college and beyond and in business I was in a good position to take the time to advance my game.
Q You have had a lot of success on the senior amateur circuit. What accomplishments stand out?
Chip: Besides numerous invitational tournament successes my most important accomplishments in order are the US Senior Amateur, three British Senior Amateurs
and two Canadian Senior Amateur Championships. Close behind were one Silver medal in the US Sr. Open and 4 Silver medals in the British Sr. Open for Low Amateur. Local, Regional, State and National Sr. Hall of Fames are other notable accomplishments.
Q Is there anything you still want to accomplish? Any trophies that have eluded you?
Chip: I am quite satisfied with all I have accomplished and I am slowing my calendar and competitive schedule down a bit but still hope to compete in the National and International events and also play select events more for fun.
Q The game has taken you all over the country and world. Can you give us a quick top 5-10 courses?
Chip: This is a hard one indeed because there are so many great clubs, courses and venues. I have never met one I don’t like for many varied reasons. They are all unique and distinct and whether you consider those for their historical significance, beauty of location or newness in style and character makes this a difficult question. It is easy to look at the top 100 courses and pick any number so I would rather not…
Q Chip, you wear the Chervo clothing brand. Why Chervo?
Chip: It not only looks the best but it feels great on! The fabrics are fantastic and the fit is outstanding. There are very light weight materials and also water resistant ones in addition to warmer models, so they make clothing for all occasions which is extremely important when you spend a lot of time outdoors in many climates! Besides the style is incredible and it makes me feel fabulous!
Q You certainly have your place in GAP history with amateur greats when it’s all said and done. Who are the top 5 Pennsylvania players you would rank in the history of the GAP?
Chip: We are blessed with many greats but I would have to go with Bill Hyndman and Jay Sigel as my top two. TSG
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 21
Bill Hyndman was described by Jack Nicklaus as one of the greatest golfers he’d ever seen
Jay Sigel
chervousa.com
Registration Now Available for 79th U.S. Women’s Open Volunteer Opportunities
Online volunteer registration is now available for the 79th U.S. Women’s Open, which will be contested at Lancaster (Pa.) Country Club, May 27-June 2, 2024.
Approximately 1,600 volunteers are needed to fill positions on 13 committees, including marshals, merchandise and corporate hospitality. Early submission of the application gives volunteers a better chance of being assigned to one of their three committee preferences. Interested volunteers should visit uswomensopen.com.
“The U.S. Women’s Open provides one of the best fan experiences in sports, and we couldn’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers,” said Championship Director Allison Burns. “We’re thrilled to be back in Lancaster, which hosted one of the most popular and successful U.S. Women’s Opens in the championship’s history in 2015 with a community that displayed an incredibly engaged and energetic volunteer base. We are excited to invite you to join us next year as a volunteer.”
Priority groups, including USGA members, Victory Club members, Golf Association of Philadelphia members and those involved with marshal clubs, received early access to volunteer registration, resulting in an impressive 800+ volunteer registrations.
“Every U.S. Women’s Open is special, but I feel especially lucky to have won at my U.S. hometown, Lancaster,” said 2015 U.S. Women’s Open champion In Gee Chun. “The community really embraced the event, and I’m looking forward to playing in front of my Lancaster friends, family, and amazing fans, and seeing the incredible volunteers who help make this championship the most important and special in our game.”
In 2015, more than 2000 individuals filled the volunteer program in under 30 days, so interested parties are encouraged to act quickly. Volunteers can select between Eagle and Birdie package options. A volunteer commitment consists of working six shifts (Eagle) or four shifts (Birdie) ranging from four to five hours each throughout the championship as well as a requirement to purchase an apparel package for $175 (Eagle) or $140 (Birdie), plus applicable shipping and tax. The apparel package includes two golf shirts (Eagle) or one golf shirt (Birdie), a logoed hat, championship compliant bag, a water bottle, a commemorative lapel pin, as well as a volunteer credential valid for all days of the championship week.
Volunteers will have access to a dedicated hospitality tent on the days they are working. This
tent will serve as volunteer headquarters, and the USGA will provide complimentary food, snacks and beverages throughout the week, along with appreciation surprise and delights for volunteers to enjoy.
This will be the second U.S. Women’s Open contested at Lancaster Country Club following the 2015 championship which set records for both entries (since broken) and attendance. Chun claimed the title by one stroke, and due to her strong connection to the club and community, founded the In Gee Chun Lancaster Country Club Educational Foundation, which continues to provide scholarships for local students.
Considered the world’s premier women’s golf championship, the U.S. Women’s Open is one of 15 national championships conducted annually by the USGA. The championship began in 1946 and its winners include Babe Didrikson Zaharias, Betsy Rawls, Mickey Wright, Hollis Stacy, Amy Alcott, Meg Mallon, Annika Sorenstam, Se Ri Pak, Juli Inkster, Cristie Kerr, Paula Creamer, Inbee Park and Michelle Wie West. Most recently, Minjee Lee claimed a four-stroke victory at Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club to capture the championship’s 77th edition, and this July, the U.S. Women’s Open will be contested for the first time at Pebble Beach (Calif.) Golf Links.
22 Tri State Golf | Summer 2023 LINFIELD NATIONAL GOLF CLUB 5 STATE OF THE ART GOLF INDOOR SIMULATORS GREAT CONDITIONS • GREAT STAFF • GREAT EXPERIENCE LinfieldNational.com • 610 495 8455 66 CHURCH RD, LINFIELD, PA 19468 Robert Kleckner – PGA Professional Of The Year, 2017
Inside Nemacolin’s Elevated Golf in a Vacationer’s Paradise Director Of Golf Operations Chris Anderson Offers A Primer On Golf Season In Pennsylvania’s Majestic Laurel Highlands.
Chris Anderson is no stranger to the wonderous Allegheny Mountains resort property known as Nemacolin. In fact, he’s been intimately familiar with each of the resort’s Pete Dye designs there since he joined the staff five years ago as the director of turfgrass, moving from The Greenbrier in West Virginia. In January, he was elevated to the director of golf operations and shares a distinct excitement for the 2023 peak golfing season at Nemacolin.
While Anderson arrived a year after Nemacolin opened its Shepherd’s Rock course, he’s seen plenty in his time. Two years ago, updates were made to Mystic Rock’s bunkers, playing surfaces and tee boxes with Pete Dye associate Tim Liddy on hand for the project. Last year, the resort celebrated its 35th anniversary and earned 22 Forbes Stars for the third consecutive year and with renovations to the property’s storied The Grand Lodge set be unveiled this fall, the future for this larger-than-life destination looks particularly bright.
With such anticipation for another terrific summer in the Laurel Highlands of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Anderson opened up about what his ideal golf trip would look like here, some of his favorite holes and what he tells his peers about what it’s like working at the 2,000-acre beauty.
Q When you talk to your friends in the golf industry, how do you describe to them the uniqueness of Nemacolin as a golf vacation destination?
Chris: I would describe it as a big property with more activities than you can accomplish in one stay. There are so many different things you can do on property, from golf, obviously, to the swimming pools, to jeeps, to rock climbing walls, paintball, and horseback riding. The variety of different things our guests can do from here is one of the things that attracts a lot of people.
Q Nemacolin is home to two Pete Dye courses, and some may assume that each course is exceptionally challenging. But playing from
the proper set of tees makes the experience immensely enjoyable. How do you help set expectations for playing both Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock?
Chris: Mystic Rock and Shepherd’s Rock to me are so different in the design concepts, you can see how Pete Dye designed courses in the 90s and how he was designing courses as his career was winding down. We basically offer two different time frames in his career. Mystic Rock (which opened in 1995) is a tighter, narrowedfairway course with subtle greens. A little more shot-making and angles come into play there. We have tees for everybody. The bunkering on Mystic is a lot different than Shepherd’s as well – they’re a lot grander in size.
Shepherd’s (which opened in 2017) has 10 more acres of fairways, so they’re a lot bigger and wider. There are more fescue areas and bunkering, as I mentioned, there are more, potstyle and smaller bunkers. The kind he used later in his career. It’s a little shorter, but the front side is a lot longer than the back. It also offers tees for every level of play.
Q What are some of your favorite holes on Mystic Rock, and why?
Chris: I like No. 5, it’s a par-5 that’s a riskreward. It’s short enough from the proper tees to go for it in two. But the risk you take to go for it – there’s a double green that we move the pin on, but the bottom green that we use a couple times a week is surrounded by water on two sides. So, if you’re going for it in two you have to mess with the bunker on the right and water on the left and backside of the green.
Thirteen on Mystic is a short par 4, but the
bunkering is some of the best we have. It’s a nice little simple par 4 that if you hit a good drive, you should be able to make a good score on that hole.
Then, 18 really changed from a playability standpoint. We added a bunch of bunkers on the right-hand side, so it’s a good look for a nice finishing hole now.
Q Shepherd’s Rock takes you through some distinct natural settings and landforms. There’s extreme variety. Which holes stand out as some of your favorites?
Chris: On the front nine, the par-3, No. 5. From the Resort Tees, it’s a 150- to 160-yarder, but it has an infinity green look where the green disappears into the big pond behind the green. It’s a nice look.
Playing No. 9 from the back tee, which plays 700 yards – playing that par-5 from the back tee is a pretty fun hole. It’s even uphill the whole way.
On the back nine, No. 11 has a nice wide fairway and a wetlands area down the left-hand side, and a wetlands area in front of the green that you have to carry. It’s in a great spot on the back nine there.
Eighteen has a good waterfall finishing hole there. It’s very nice.
Q What’s your career low score on both courses?
Chris: I shot 75 on Mystic once. At Shepherd’s, I think my low is 78. Maybe 79. That’s one of the unique things about the resort and having two Pete Dyes; they are vastly different. The concepts are the same but how they’re laid out and how they play are so different from each other. TSG
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 23 Q&A
The Indoor Golf Shop Expands SkyTrak Partnership Internationally
Robust Sales Expected For Groundbreaking New SkyTrak+ Launch Monitor
The Indoor Golf Shop, , the largest U.S. distributor, manufacturer, and online retailer of residential and commercial indoor golf simulator equipment, is expanding its partnership with SkyTrak, creators of golf’s most popular consumer launch monitor and golf simulator, to support the recent release of the groundbreaking new SkyTrak+ launch monitor. The Indoor Golf Shop will be SkyTrak’s exclusive distributor in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.
The new SkyTrak+ launch monitor is a game changer, offering tour level accuracy and performance at a remarkably affordable price. SkyTrak+ builds on the success of the original SkyTrak – the world’s top-selling consumer launch monitor – with a new dual doppler radar system that delivers instant club data, including clubhead speed, smash factor, club path and face angle, that’s precise to the level of the industry’s highest end launch monitors. The launch monitor’s improved camera system gives highly accurate and reliable ball tracking data that can power a player’s practice session while also providing better outdoor performance on range mats.
“SkyTrak has long been a leader in launch monitor and golf simulator technology and now brings its latest revolutionary product with SkyTrak+. We’re incredibly proud to expand our partnership with this trusted and innovative brand, especially given the tremendous upside for sales associated with this historic product launch,” said Rene Delgado, president and founder of The Indoor Golf Shop.
Pre-orders have started for SkyTrak+ with the first units shipping later this month. SkyTrak+ can transport golfers on a golf simulator to any of 100,000+ golf courses (courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links, Bandon Dunes, Torrey Pines - South and many more) via the industry’s best gameplay simulation software, letting
them practice, play and compete with friends, anytime and anywhere. The newand-improved SkyTrak Shot Optimizer and Shot Score gauges results against a database of millions of golf shots, objectively measuring a golfer’s progress and improvement.
In addition, SkyTrak+ features a 40 percent larger hitting area, a new onboard processor for faster shot to show, 5Ghz WiFi capabilities for faster and more stable connectivity, and USB Type C charging options for port stability and rapid charging. There’s no need for special golf balls or club stickers to get accurate data. Just plug and play.
The Indoor Golf Shop elevates the buying experience through a full slate of turnkey solutions, including step-by-step
guidance to purchasing and installing top simulator brands, DIY consumer packages, best-in-class screens, enclosures, hitting mats and accessories for homes, retailers, teaching and fitting facilities, along with entertainment companies.
“With the release of SkyTrak+, it’s critical to have a partner like The Indoor Golf Shop whose trusted expertise in the indoor golf space reaches our core clientele,” said SkyTrak CEO Jeff Foster. “The Indoor Golf Shop services the indoor golf community with integrity and proactive solutions, so we’re excited about doing business with them and growing our respective brands.”
The new SkyTrak+ retails for $2,995. Learn more at ShopIndoorGolf.com and SkyTrakGolf.com.
24 Tri State Golf | Summer 2023
GOLF SIMULATORS
White Clay Creek Country Club offers discerning golfers a memorable Arthur Hills-designed golf course with varied and unique terrain, pristine course conditions and inspired customer service - all close to home yet removed from everyday life. We offer a Premier 18-hole golf course, The Veranda Ballroom offers private event space for up to 300 guests and is perfect for any type of social gathering, Upscaled dining - At The Rail Bar & Grille featuring a large dining space and welcoming bar, Golf Academy & Golf Pro Shop, Full-service Outdoor Practice Facility, Large outdoor patio space overlooking the golf course. Great Golf! Perfect Conditions! 879 Delaware Park Boulevard, Wilmington, DE 19804 302.994.6700 whiteclaycreek.com Book your tee time today at whiteclaycreek.com *Monday through Thurdsay Offer good until 10/31/23 - ad must be presented for the offer to apply. 4 Golfers play for the price of 3*
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Play Nine The Card Game Of Golf Is Available On Smart Devices
The Best-Selling Golf Card Game PLAY NINE Can Now Be Played Online Or Offline
Bonfit America Inc., an incubator, manufacturer, and distributor of unique products, announced today that the company’s highly popular Play Nine, The Card Game of Golf, can now be played on an iPhone, iPad and Android based devices. The new easy to download application (APP) allows for friends and family to play online together thanks to the multiplayer game modes. (Play with Friends and Multiplayer)
Play with Friends. The new Play Nine APP can be played exclusively with friends and family. A shared game code will connect all invited players and the custom game setup allows the whole family to participate. The live in-game chat feature keeps the fun, excitement and competition going.
Multiplayer. Players can challenge Play Nine fans from around the world. This inclusive option allows people to join an available game or create their own.
Offline. Players can challenge the Ai bot offline. With unlimited FREE gameplay, players will have endless fun honing their skill and winning in-game prizes. The game can pause whenever allowing players to pick up where they left off. Multilevel game bots are available according to the skill of the player.
PLAY NINE APP FEATURES:
• Easy to learn and simple to play.
• Safe family golf game for everybody.
• FREE t ickets for multiplayer games against your friends and family.
• Collect coins by winning games and earning achievements.
• Win BIG by using coins in multiplayer games.
• Use coins to buy multiplayer tickets and other future items.
• Play offline in Airplane Mode.
• Play time: 15-20 minutes.
Gameplay. Just like golf, the objective of the Play Nine APP is to take as few strokes as possible. Limit the strokes by matching pairs and getting a Hole-in-One. Take the fewest strokes and go for the lowest score after 9-Holes.
For more information, please visit the company website at www.bonfit.com
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Golfing And Dining In The Bayou
Exploring
Louisiana’s Best Courses and Cuisine
By Joe Burkhardt, Publisher
Louisiana is a state known for its unique cuisine, rich history, and beautiful landscapes. It’s also home to some of the most spectacular golf courses in the country. Golf enthusiasts who are looking to explore the golf courses in Louisiana can take advantage of the state’s many stunning courses, including The Golf at Audubon Park in New Orleans, TPC Louisiana, Atchafalaya Golf Course in Patterson, Mallard Golf Club in Lake Charles, The Island Golf Course in Plaquemines, Country Club at Golden Nugget Lake Charles, and Farm D’Allie golf course in Carencro.
One of the most beautiful and scenic courses in Louisiana is The Golf at Audubon
Park, located in New Orleans. The course is located within the Audubon Park, which is known for its beautiful gardens and winding lagoons. The course itself is a par62, 4,220-yard course that offers a unique and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. With plenty of trees and water
hazards, this course requires players to bring their best game but lots of fun to play.
Another course that should be on every golfer’s list is the TPC Louisiana Golf Course. Located in Avondale, Louisiana, this course has hosted the Zurich Classic, a PGA Tour event, since 2005. The course is known
LOUISIANA GOLF TRAVEL
Aerial view of Audobon Park
Aerial view of The Country Club at Golden Nugget
for its challenging layout and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. With a par-72, 7,399-yard layout, this course is sure to provide a memorable golfing experience.
For those looking for a more relaxed and leisurely golf experience, the Atchafalaya Golf Course in Patterson, Louisiana, is a great option. This course offers a beautiful layout that meanders through the Bayou Teche and Atchafalaya Basin. The course is a par-72, 6,958-yard layout that features plenty of water hazards and bunkers, making it both fun and challenging.
If you’re looking for a course that’s both challenging and beautiful, the Mallard Golf Club in Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a must-visit. The course is a par-72, 7,000yard layout that features beautiful views of the Calcasieu River. With plenty of trees, bunkers, and water hazards, this course is sure to test your skills.
If your looking for a unique golfing experience, The Island Golf Course in
Plaquemines, Louisiana, is a great option. This course is located on an island in the Mississippi River Delta and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands. The course is a par-72, 6,800-yard layout that offers a unique golfing experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
If you are looking to do a little golf and gamble trip here a course that should be on every golfer’s list is
The course is well-maintained and offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. After a round of golf, visitors can indulge in a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant, which serves up a variety of mouth-watering dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. From the farm-fresh produce to the succulent seafood, every bite is sure to satisfy. With its charming atmosphere and top-notch amenities, Farm D’Allie Golf Course and Restaurant is the perfect destination for a day of golf and relaxation.
The
Country Club at Golden Nugget. Located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, this course is a par-72, 7,000-yard layout that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. With plenty of water hazards and bunkers, this course is sure to challenge even the most experienced golfers especially when the winds kick up and with the tricky greens. After the round be sure to stay at the L’Auberge Casino Resort that has a great menu and drinks at Barstool Sportsbook.
MORE DINING OPTIONS:
Farm D’Allie Golf Course and Restaurant is a beautiful and relaxing getaway located in Carenco, Louisiana. The golf course itself boasts 18 scenic holes that wind through rolling hills and mature trees, making it a favorite among golf enthusiasts.
The Palace Cafe is a historic restaurant located in the heart of New Orleans’ Central Business District. Originally built in 1893 as Werlein’s Music Store, the building was transformed into the Palace Cafe in 1991. The restaurant’s decor boasts a mix of classic and contemporary styles, with high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and black and white tile floors. The menu features a blend of traditional New Orleans cuisine and modern twists, such as the popular Crabmeat Cheesecake and Andouille-crusted Fish. The Palace Cafe is also known for its awardwinning cocktails, including the signature Pimm’s Cup and the Louisiana Lemonade. With its upscale ambiance and delectable food, The Palace Cafe is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience in New Orleans.
Summer 2023 | Tri State Golf 29
Visit one of the many distilleries on the Louisiana Golf Trail
TPC Louisiana
Island Golf Course
Mallard Golf Club
Atchafalaya Oaks
Farm D’Allie
Another great dining option in Louisiana is Bon Temps Grill in Lafayette. This restaurant is known for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, including dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée. The restaurant also features a lively atmosphere and live music, making it a great spot to unwind after a long day on the golf course.
Extra Holes: The Tabasco Museum, located on Avery Island, is a unique and fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of one of America’s most beloved condiments. The museum is dedicated to the story of Tabasco sauce, which has been produced by the McIlhenny family on Avery Island since the 1860s. Visitors to the museum can explore the history of the sauce, learn about the production process, and see vintage bottles and
advertisements from throughout Tabasco’s long history. The museum also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase a variety of Tabasco-related products, including sauces, clothing, and kitchenware. Overall, the Tabasco Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves this iconic hot sauce or is interested in the history of American food culture.
Overall, Louisiana is a great destination for golfers looking to explore some of the most beautiful and challenging golf courses in the country. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely round of golf or a more challenging experience, there’s a course in Louisiana that’s sure to fit the bill. And with so many delicious dining options nearby, you can enjoy a great meal and a great game of golf all in one trip. So pack your clubs, grab your appetite, and head to Louisiana for a golfing adventure you’ll never forget. TSG
The Palace Cafe restaurant, part of the Brennan’s Family of restaurants, where Bananas Foster is a must have.
Tabasco flavors on display at The Tabasco Museum
SuperStroke Congratulates Davis Riley on First-Career PGA Tour Victory at The Zurich Classic
Mississippi Native Uses SuperStroke Pistol Tour Putter Grip For Maiden Win
SuperStroke, the No. 1 Putter Grip in golf and the leader in innovative Tour-proven golf grip technology, congratulates fourthyear PGA Tour veteran Davis Riley on his first career victory at The Zurich Classic. Riley secured a two-year playing exemption on the PGA Tour with this win. Riley, along with his teammate in the two-man format, closed with five birdies on the back nine to card a 7-under-par 65, 30-under over the four rounds, and a two-stroke victory. Riley used a SuperStroke Pistol Tour putter grip to drop birdies all week, including a nervy, two-and-a-half-foot par save on the closing hole.
Riley’s thrilling birdie putt from off the green at the 17th hole, in alternate-shot play, gave his team the two-stroke cushion they would maintain with that clutch closing par on the water-lined 18th hole. SuperStroke brand ambassadors Patrick Cantlay and Sungjae Im gave a spirited chase at the Zurich, with Cantlay and his partner finishing tied for third and Im’s team placing sixth. Cantlay uses Superstroke’s Flatso 1.0 putter grip, while Im games the 1.0PT.
Notably, nine players on teams who finished in the top 10 in the 2023 Zurich Classic field used a SuperStroke putter grip.
SuperStroke’s putter grips provide golfers unprecedented stroke stability, control, feel and performance. The brand’s No Taper Technology helps golfers minimize grip pressure and quiet their hands while the Spyne Technology on the underside of the grip makes it easier to square the face at impact and start more putts on-line.
“The entire SuperStroke team is thrilled to see Davis Riley secure his firstcareer victory using a SuperStroke Pistol Tour putter grip at the Zurich Classic against such a deep and talented field,” says SuperStroke CEO Dean Dingman. “Davis putted beautifully and made some great rolls down the stretch to race ahead of the packed leaderboard. SuperStroke ambassadors Patrick Cantlay and Sungjae Im also played incredibly well at this event. It won’t be long before they’re both in the winner’s circle again.”
SuperStroke’s putter grip line is a product of relentless innovation, fueled by feedback from more than 450 tour pros. From signature shapes and sizes to the cutting-edge materials, SuperStroke delivers unprecedented features into every putter grip while connecting golfer and putter like no other product on the market.
For more details on SuperStroke’s range of innovative golf grips and to keep up with the latest news from the company, visit https:// superstrokeusa.com/.
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