OTL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY / MARCH ISSUE

Austin Country Club: Ready for a close-up

DESTINATION:

Destin, Florida GEORGETOWN GETAWAY EXQUISITE DINING

Vic and Anthony’s

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Contents Volume 17, Issue 4

FEATURES 12

TAKE 3 Georgetown, TX. Just a few miles up the road can make all the difference. Michelle Keller

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VIC & ANTHONY’S Dining at Vic & Anthony’s in downtown Houston is an exquisite experience. Richard Arebalo

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AUSTIN COUNTRY CLUB

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The name is synonymous with Austin golf. When you step onto the glorious property, you can feel the history. Marc Hall

Austin Country Club: Ready for a close-up

DESTINATION:

Destin, Florida GEORGETOWN GETAWAY EXQUISITE DINING

Vic and Anthony’s

ON THE COVER The breathtaking view of ACC from the Pennybacker Bridge reveals the majesty of the ACC course and the WGC event.

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

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Hyatt Hill Country Come for the golf.

Stay for the experience.

BOOK OUR GOLF GETAWAY PACKAGE

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9800 Hyatt Resort Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78251 210-520-4040 | hyatthillcountrygolf.com Must request golf package offer to receive special rate. Based on availability. The HYATT trademark and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation or its affiliates.

Contents Volume 17, Issue 4

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

COLUMNS 18

FITNESS Jump to it. Propelling your entire body in the air creates gains.

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PUTT FOR DOUGH Titles don’t tell us anything. The service model does.

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DRIVE FOR SHOW Porsche celebrates 2020 with the all electric Taycan 4S.

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MIND GAME How is your mental game? Take a quiz.

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BUCK’S TIPS The state of golf instruction. The hard facts.

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TRAVEL Destin, Florida. Paradise is closer than you think.

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ON YOUR GAME One on one with LPGA legend Nancy Lopez.

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WINE The importance of European wine. Something we can all agree on.

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THE SWEET SPOT Down to earth, savvy, and oh so talented. Meet the Tenors of Rock.

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CIGARS The new tobacco law. As of January 1, the legal age to buy tobacco is 21.

YOUR NEXT

GOLF ESCAPE IS JUST A

SHORT DRIVE A W AY.

Play a round in a true golfer’s paradise. Centered in Austin’s scenic Hill Country, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa features championship courses designed by golf greats like Tom Fazio, Ben Crenshaw and Arnold Palmer. Improve your game with lessons from the pros at Barton Creek Golf Academy and get a custom fit at Barton Creek Fitting Studio. Retreat, relax and recharge with access to some of the best greens Texas has to offer.

OMNIHOTELS.COM/BARTONCREEK 512-329-4000

From the Publisher It’s all about now lot has happened since our last issue.

Let’s start with the story that has rocked the headlines and given us all a reason to pause and reflect. The tragic death of NBA legend, Kobe Bryant, sent shockwaves around the world.

Bryant died in a helicopter crash while on the way to his daughter’s basketball game.

Gianna, GiGi, his 13-year old daughter, was traveling with him. Seven other souls also perished in the crash. At the risk of sounding callous, people die every day. No one knows when it will happen. The only thing we know for certain is that we all must go down that road. We all hope to have a long life, but when someone dies at an early age, we mourn the loss seemingly more. Kobe’s death seems to be hitting many very hard. Perhaps it’s because we have seen him grow up before our eyes.

Kobe was somewhat of a prodigy. He chose to skip college and headed straight to the NBA. He entered the NBA as a young, brash and immensely talented kid. He made some mistakes in his youth, battled with coaches but ultimately became a champion. During this process, he slowly began to mature.

Kobe married at an early age, became a father several times over and became the leader of his team and an ambassador of the game.

Kobe had a stellar career and was beginning his next act after retiring. Not to eulogize the man, but he was a prominent figure in his sport as well as a pop-culture icon. He gave us a glimpse into his greatness on the court but we had just started to learn the true measure of his greatness. His work-ethic, will, commitment and determination is his long-lasting gift to mankind.

As someone who has experienced the death of loved ones, one of the most difficult things to live with is the suddenness of it. One minute, you are

talking as usual and the next minute, you are added what I like to refer to as the “dreaded apostrophe.”

It’s that moment when you refer to someone with ownership of something that you’re not ready for them to own. You find yourself saying, ‘Kobe’s funeral’.

Kobe’s car, Kobe’s wife, Kobe’s kids are all acceptable terms, but it wasn’t time to hear Kobe’s funeral.

As a world-class athlete he took great care of his body. Now the term “body” takes on a different meaning. His “body” will be returned to his family.

It’s hard to fathom. Those are a few nuances of death that we the living have to contend.

His death serves as a wake-up call. We now must try to get the most we can out of every day. We can use this as the teachable moment to intensely and passionately pursue the things that are important to us.

We all can elevate our lives the way he would elevate and take those wonderous shots. RIP Mamba.

This issue is dedicated not to the ones who have passed on but to those we love who are still here.

Do things now. Experience as much as you can, now. Live now. Be all you can be, now.

Now, take a look at our latest issue of OTL. We are excited to enter Austin’s most celebrated club, Austin Country Club. It’s legendary. It’s everything you’ve heard and more. The Dell Match Play event returns in March. It’s a great show and tons of fun.

If you haven’t tried it, make this year the year you attend.

Quick shoutout to all the people who we saw at PGA Show in Orlando. The show was amazing displaying the newest gadgets and equipment the game and industry have to offer.

And, yes, I went to Disney World for the first time. Words can’t describe it. It won’t be my last.

Enjoy the issue. Enjoy those you love and allow those who love you to enjoy you. Do it, now.

Sedric Walker • Publisher

O T L G O L F. C O M

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/OnTheLinks Magazine

@otl_golf

@otlgolf

otlgolf.com

PUBLISHER Sedric Walker

GOLF FEATURES EDITOR Carl Mickelson

PHOTOGRAPHERS Kevin Chin, Andrew Ferguson

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tony Dean

FEATURES EDITOR Richard Arebalo

ART DIRECTOR Leticia Galarza

TEACHING PROFESSIONALS Brech Spradley, Buck Mayers

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michelle Keller, Leslie Sosa, Kelly Vohnn, Tara Lee Maloney, Tony Schlotzhauer, Leonard Finkel

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Natalie Kalbas

CONTENT SPECIALISTS Joel McColl, Susan Campbell

INTERNET & DIGITAL Karen Kreeps

FOR ADVERTISING OR EDITORIAL INQUIRIES

512.657.7533 pr@otlgolf.com

OTL magazine is published bi-monthly by Pristine Media, Inc. Executive, editorial,and advertising offices are located at 210 Grand Isle Drive. Round Rock, TX 78665. Advertising rates furnished upon request. Advertisers warrant and represent that the descriptions and depictions of the products or services advertised are true in all respects. All advertising is subject to approval before acceptance. OTL reserves the right to refuse any ad for anyreason whatsoever. Š2020 by OTL. All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in whole or part without the express written consent of OTL is strictly prohibited. Editorial queries and manuscripts should be directed to the editor via email, editor@otlgolf.com. All letters and their contents sent to OTL are sole property of OTL and may be used, printed, and published in any matter whatsoever without limit, obligation and liability to the author thereof. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and artists and not necessarily those of OTL or its advertisers. Manuscripts should be accompanied by self-addressed, stamped envelopes. OTL assumes no responsibility or liability for the return of unsolicited artwork, manuscripts or pictures. Printed in the USA.

O T L G O L F. C O M

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OTL / TAKE 3 12 4

Georgetown a choice Hill Country Getaway STORY BY MICHELLE KELLER

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

Known for the most beautiful downtown square in the state of Texas, Georgetown has an ambiance all its own. The perfect spot to stay and play or or a quiet getaway, the daycation, Georgetown Olive Tree Inn is exactly where it’s at. Across from has the means to Southwestern University, this B&B offers an eyequench your vacacatching atmosphere. Majestic bedding and a light, tion thirst and airy decor adds to the appeal of this early 20th-century property. satisfy your With a different theme in each of its rooms, you won’t find a cookie-cutter in this game. gem.

PHO

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When breakfast is an experience rather than a meal, you know you’ve hit the jackpot in first-class accommodations. The Olive Tree Inn delivers, dishing up elegant eggs benedict and delectable blueberry yogurt sundaes amongst a plentiful menu of elaborate choices.

Downtown Georgetown offers stories around every corner. Beyond The Facade Tours takes its guests on a walking journey to discover, experience and connect with the Georgetown even many locals don’t know. On a stroll among the community’s historic downtown buildings, tales of both the past and present are told, while discovering current attractions.

With several golf courses, Georgetown has your game covered. Located in Georgetown, between Austin and the Hill Country, Cimarron Hills Golf & Country Club is a stunning 1,000-acre community filled with resort-style amenities, gorgeous homes, and an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. A portrait backdrop worthy drive through the impressive entry and beautiful cascading water feature is a sight you don’t want to miss.

With a collection of luxury residences from the $300s to $1.5 million+, a 45,000 square foot clubhouse, tennis courts, pools, trails and golf course, Cimarron Hills defines “country clubbing.”

Built in a valley, Georgetown Country Club is a historic golf course. The course is regulation length and has water hazards that come into play on 12 of the 18 holes. With narrow fairways scattered with trees, the greens are medium in size and speed.

On 115 acres with lengths ranging from 5,110 to 6,649 yards, Berry O T L G O L F. C O M

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PHOTO BY RUDY XIMENEZ

PA LA C E T H E AT E R

Creek Country Club golf course is situated on approximately 115 acres with lengths ranging from 5,110 yards from the ladies tees to 6,649, ratings range from 69.7 from the red tees to 71.6 from the gold tees. The course is private, but does host outside tournaments.

In 1963, the Texas Highway Department’s core drilling team discovered over 7,000 square feet of cave while taking six-inch core samples to determine if the ground was stable enough to support a large highway overpass. As they were drilling one of the test holes, the bit suddenly dropped 26 feet, and the highway crew knew there was something down there besides rock.

Inner Space cavern opened to the public in the summer of 1966 and is a must-see spot in downtown Georgetown.

Lake Georgetown is a recreational spot with several attractions from camping, boating and fishing to biking, hiking and horseback riding trails as well as swimming and picnic areas.

Blue Hole is a scenic lagoon on the South San Gabriel River. Lined by limestone bluffs, this sce-

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BLUE HOLE

nic park is the spot to cool off in the summer.

Live theater productions including musicals, comedies and dramas can be found at the Palace Theatre in the historic downtown district. A former movie house, the theater was renovated and in 2001 opened as a live theater venue.

On the Town Square, the Williamson Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose proceeds benefit the museum’s educational programming. The Museum offers free and exciting hands-on educational programs to the public through innovative exhibits, tours and outreach.

Immerse in art and the process at Georgetown Art Center & Sculpture Tour. Just a block off the Courthouse Square in the Historic Firehouse No. 1 (circa 1892), the Art Center offers exhibits, with their companion artist talks and receptions. Ranging from solo shows of bronze sculptures to custom installations in wood, ceramics, and many other materials, group shows are held regularly with various themes that are curated by an exhibit committee in collaboration with locally renowned artists.

While you’re downtown, get your chal-

take 3

CIMARRON HILLS

OLIVE TREE INN

PHOTO BY RUDY XIMENEZ

lenge on at Boomtown Escapes. Escape the ordinary and familiar with exciting and challenging experiences. Memories will be made in the Boomtown Lounge where you can enjoy a drink and unlimited play for tabletop games of all types.

From card and dice play to trivia nights and “pitch a puzzle” competitions, there’s something here for everyone. If you’re looking for another level of fun, you can play through the escape (aka puzzle) rooms. Historically themed – The Saloon, The Schoolhouse, and The Candy Shop, your team will have to build skills to work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and race against the clock to “escape.”

The menu of restaurants to choose from in Georgetown is overwhelming.

Where to dine as you are overlooking the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas can be a hard choice.

For breakfast and lighter lunch fare, Sweet Lemon Kitchen offers a gorgeous private dining space. With picturesque charm, this restaurant accommodates a more personalized dining experience.

Time Magazine referred to Wildfire as a “reason to move to Georgetown.”

With the exquisite presentation of hearty, straightforward provisions, dinner here is appealing to well-bred Texans and cultivated tourists alike.

Throw a little spice in your trip by dining at Gumbo’s. From their tantalizing tenderloins to their fresh fish dishes and enticing desserts, this Cajun creole has the divine meal for brunch, lunch or dinner.

Arts/crafts vendors, food trucks and musicians can be seen, visited and heard on the second Saturday of every month from March to November.

Georgetown has an annual Red Poppy Festival held on the last weekend of April. During this festival, all of downtown Georgetown square is closed to vehicle traffic and is filled with vendors, food trucks and plenty of music. Several stages are set up and local dance teams and musicians perform. A headliner musician performs on Saturday night during the festival. The morning of the festival parade is held along with an antique car show. Almost every Friday night during the summer, local mu-

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sicians can be found performing outside near the courthouse. According to sources, it’s fine to just BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair) and just hang out.

The fall/winter also brings festivities to the area with the annual lighting of the square held on Black Friday. Trees, buildings and the courthouse, are strung with thousands of lights, creating a holiday ambiance perfect for photo ops. During this season the mayor/judge has a speech on the courthouse steps right before sunset and then officially lights the square. This is definitely an event that puts you in the holiday spirit. Similar to its Poppyfest, the city hosts a December Stroll with a live nativity scene, Dr. Seuss Who Village, parade, vendors, food trucks, children’s play area and usually an ice-skating rink.

Nearby Sun City, Texas is home to a 55+ community that offers charming small-town living that you’ll fall in love with. An oasis of finely crafted amenities and elegant homes carved into the Texas Hill Country, Sun City, is a short drive from the excitement and culture of Austin. This hidden jewel is situated across 5,300 acres, boasts 8,200 homes and has three 18-hole golf courses at your disposal.

Lined with Majestic old oaks, creeks and ponds, White Wing Golf Club is the first of the three courses at Sun City. White Wing offers five sets of tees

and large, contoured greens for a lively and challenging game.

Next up is Cowan Creek Golf Club. In the rolling, open hill country, Cowan Creek is the perfect canvas and one of Texas’ finest championship golf courses. Challenges are abundant for skilled players with small landing zones off the tee and approach into large undulating greens. If you have several skill levels in your group, a novice can also find himself excelling without intimidation on this course.

The third course at Sun City has beautiful oaks, rolling hills and waterfalls—truly capturing the essence of the Texas Hill Country at Legacy Hills.

Possibly the most attractive feature, the picturesque scenery of natural terrain and sloping greens provide a pleasant aesthetic, while also contributing to the challenges of the course.

Sun City Texas is the largest active adult community in Texas. It is situated 35 miles north of Austin in Georgetown, Texas.

Whichever the season for your visit, Georgetown has the means to accommodate. Take a day trip if you must, but with so much still on the list that we haven’t covered, you may want to go ahead and book your stay.

RED POPPIES

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OTL / FITNESS 18

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

OUTSIDE THE BOX STORY BY LESLIE SOSA If someone told you that you could increase bone density, build and tone your muscles, gain strength, obtain better balance and improve your cardio all in one exercise would you be interested? For some, jumping may seem like an activity for young children or athletes, but it is an exercise that could be incorporated into your routine to improve your health in multiple ways. Box jumps are extremely beneficial and easy to add to your regular exercise regimen.

Maintaining strong bones is crucial to staying healthy throughout your life and the earlier you make a conscious effort to build muscle and keep your bone density levels high, the better. By doing this low impact exercise, you are building strength in your legs, arms and core while gaining more bone density which reduces the risk of injury.

Because box jumps are an explosive exercise, they’ll get the heart rate going in no time, forcing your cells to use more oxygen. This will increase your overall performance inside and outside the gym when it comes to physical activities and also allows for a quick burst of cardio if you don’t have a lot of time. If high impact cardio is not best for you, then jumping rope or box jumps are a great alternative since they are low impact and highly effective for heart health. A stronger heart means that you will have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, reduce bad cholesterol and lower your blood pressure.

We all know that balance is key in life, not just when it comes to work and leisure, but also your body’s ability to balance. Box jumps help improve balance because they work the muscles in your legs and core, but also require balance and agility to properly land both feet at the same time on top of the box. If jumping on top of a box seems daunting to you, then start with a lower box or even a step, until your body is used to the motion and gain the confidence to add height. The more you practice, the easier they will be and the higher you will be able to jump.

Like anything new in life, an adjustment period is expected. Take your time and slowly add height to your box. Adding box jumps into your routine will be satisfying and beneficial as you not only gain muscle and burn fat, but also realize just how powerful and capable your body is.

OTL / PUTT FOR DOUGH

Financial Advisor Titles Do Not Tell Us Anything The service model does STORY BY CLAYTON BOONE, CFA, CFP® WITH AUSTIN ASSET

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I am a Wealth Advisor.

It was not until recently that I realized this statement does not clearly define what I do.

Why? Because there is no consistency in the financial advice business for job titles. For example, the financial services industry uses the title Financial Planner, Financial Advisor, Investment Manager, Asset Manager, and Wealth Advisor interchangeably.

What is consistent, regardless of title, is the two primary service models: Asset Management and Wealth Management.

Asset Management Asset management consists of caring for your investment assets and provides little to no guidance on retirement, education savings, estate planning, insurance planning and tax planning.

The asset management model starts with a brief conversation focused on the assets you have and where your accounts are held.

Next, you may do some high-level goal setting, such as the date you plan to retire. After determining your high-level goal, your advisor will discuss with you the level of risk you are comfortable taking for the rest of your life. Your tolerance for risk is commonly assessed via a series of behavioral questions or a highly impersonal risk tolerance questionnaire.

Once your ‘risk tolerance’ or ‘risk score’ is determined, your advisor will recommend an asset allocation that aligns with your risk profile. Your allocation can be defined as conservative, balanced, growth, or percentage-based, such as 20/80, 60/40, 80/20, with the first number representing the allocation to equities and the second to bonds.

Once your asset allocation is determined, your advisor will choose the investment strategies to deploy within your allocation.

After these steps are complete, your advisor will periodically monitor and rebalance your investment portfolio to stay within the parameters of the allocation determined by your risk profile.

As a bonus, some advisors provide tax-loss harvesting and help with designing tax-efficient

strategies for distributing assets before and during retirement.

While asset management is essential, receiving only this service can leave individuals and families with unanswered questions that a financial plan can help solve.

Wealth Management In contrast, wealth management is a continuous process that integrates financial planning with asset management to create more reliable outcomes for achieving your goals.

Financial planning brings clarity to your goals while making you aware of your financial risks.

The planning process starts by reviewing a variety of information with you. This might include estimated cash flow and spending needs, two years of tax returns, life, disability, property, and liability insurance policies, estate documents, and investment statements.

With this information, a Wealth Advisor will help you define your goals, such as paying down debt, planning for a new home, funding college, philanthropic giving, and planning for retirement.

After defining your goals, your planner will review your financial risk exposures, both in terms of life and disability, but also coverage gaps in property and liability.

Next is to review your investment allocation to determine if it supports your goals or if any changes to your allocation should be considered.

Last, and very important to the plan, is to review your estate plan for up to date beneficiaries and to determine if it is consistent with your legacy goals.

Once your financial plan is finalized, your Wealth Advisor will map out a timeline while coordinating with the other professionals in your life, such as your CPA, Estate Attorney, and Insurance professional to execute the plan.

In addition to the ongoing design and coordination of your financial plan, a Wealth Advisor will manage your investment portfolio. By integrating your financial plan with asset management, you give your Wealth Advisor capabilities to ensure your investment plan supports your financial plan.

However, the relationship and service do not stop after the initial planning and asset management process. Your life is dynamic, with no shortage of complexity. Therefore, wealth management is a continuous process, that evolves to meet you where you are today, as life happens around you.

At Austin Asset, we are Wealth Advisors. We seek to bring clarity and purpose to wealth through authentic and enduring relationships. For life.

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OTL / DRIVE FOR SHOW 22

TAYCAN 4S Porsche celebrates 2020 with the roll out of the Taycan 4S. This all electric sedan confidently upholds the Porsche brand’s reputation of sporty, fast and state-of-the-art performance with a lower price tag than its higher end siblings the Turbo and Turbo S.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

First off this is a beautifully designed automobile. Meticulously crafted to stand tall among the other internationally recognized Porsche vehicles.

The Taycan is Porsche’s first electric ride. The Taycan powers all four wheels using front and rear electric motors.

Taycan is the first production electric vehicle equipped with a two-speed transmission and an 800-volt electrical system providing quicker acceleration and shorter recharge times.

Porsche offers up the 4S with either 522 horsepower or 563 horsepower option, the Turbo edition makes 670 horsepower, and the top Turbo S puts the rubber to the road with a heart pumping 750 horsepower. The range of the Taycan is around 200 miles on a single charge. Recharging times can range from five to 80 percent in 22.5 minutes.

Inside the 2020 Porsche Taycan is relatively comfortable with an option of a 2+1 seating where there is a small center seat in the back. The dash is designed for performance in mind with all the gauges and clusters very accessible to the driver. When it comes to technology, the Taycan is the first car to offer up native Apple Music support, which allows Apple Music subscribers to stream music directly from the car’s infotainment system without pairing a phone. Out back you have 17 cubic feet of storage just enough for an overnight bag.

Porsche offers all types of safety technology on the Taycan from driver’s assistance to an adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning system. And if you are concerned about battery life ask about the high voltage batteries 8 year or 100,000 miles manufacturer coverage. That’s unprecedented for high voltage batteries.

Purchasing a Taycan looks something like this, a 4S sets you back $105,000 and change, while the Turbo hits for a solid $152,250 and the top of the line VIP Turbo S is priced at cool $186,350. Prices can vary of course depending on options.

If you are in the market for an eye-catching electric vehicle then the Porsche 2020 Taycan should be on the top of your vehicle test drive list.

DRIVERSIDE VEHICLE REVIEW

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Vic & Anthony’s 26

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

Equisite dining in Downtown Houston STORY BY RICHARD AREBALO FEATURES EDITOR / OTL MAGAZINE

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Most major metropolitan cities have old, wellloved steak houses in their downtown areas.

If you’re lucky, they’re impressive vintage establishments with amazing food and an atmosphere that’s always perfect for a celebration.

Located near the heart of old downtown Houston, Vic & Anthony’s feels like it’s been there for ages with elegant stone and brick walls and colorful stained-glass ceilings inspired by the ones in the nineteenth century Driskill hotel in Austin.

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B O N E-I N F I L E T S P R E A D he restaurant established only in 2001 by Landry’s owner Tilman Fertitta, is billed as the only property in the Landry’s empire that was “built from the ground up.” Tillman and his father Vic traveled the country to find out what worked best at many of those old storied steakhouses, enabling them to put together the best qualities from each.

Just a few blocks from Jones Hall and across a stone drive from the downtown Westin hotel, the restaurant’s exterior is equally impressive in brick and stone with large columns flanking the entrance.

As you walk in, you are greeted by smiling faces, fresh flowers, and a refrigerated case featuring some really beautiful steaks and seafood.

As we were escorted to our table, it was hard not to notice the row of (8 bottle) methuselahs on the long bar separating the open kitchen. While empty large-format bottles are a common decoration in restaurants, giant full bottles of fine wine are a bit rarer… a large-format bottle of 2003 Opus One will make you take notice.

The dining rooms are lush with extensive wood and metal sculptures in a style referred to as Texas Deco, and the large beautiful stained-glass ceilings and light fixtures created by Bryant Stanton give a festive quality to the elegant surroundings.

As one would expect, the service is very professional and makes you feel at ease, no sense of hurry.

We started with cocktails from the long list of specialties and got to work on choosing appetizers. This evening there were sixteen appetizers on hand ranging from Gulf oysters to A5 Wagyu Carpaccio. Petrossian Caviar was even available alongside Shrimp & Crab Martinis.

The table opted for the very popular ‘Roasted Bacon’, which was very

BONE MARROW O T L G O L F. C O M

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S T E A K TA RTA R E

R E M A R K A B L E D I S P LA Y C A S E W I T H V A R I O U S P R I M E C U T S T O E L E V A T E T H E E X P E CTAT I O N S. meaty and had a bourbon, maple syrup, and root beer glaze – I can easily see going back for that as a main with just a few good sides.

For my own appetizer, I opted for the wild Gulf Oysters sourced from Lavaca Bay. Our waiter Mark assured me that they would be nicer than the average gulf oyster, and he was right. They were served with “Atomic Cocktail Sauce,” a deeply flavored Cucumber Balsamic mignonette, and more atomic horseradish if the sauce wasn’t enough to put you into low orbit.

At this point, I met Rick Stiles, one of the Certified sommeliers on hand at the restaurant. I am usually pretty comfortable ordering wine, but I rarely get handed a 98-page wine list featuring sixteen hundred selections, with a fair number straying into the five-digit range.

To be fair, there are thirty-three very nice wines available by the glass and even quite a few bottles in the thirty to the fifty-dollar range, but the bulk of the menu is a wish book of some of the finest wines from around the globe. Vast selections in stellar years from the best of Bordeaux and Burgundy, and many “cult wine” selections from California. In addition to the beauties on the

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bar, there are 4 pages of large format wines alone.

To go with my oysters, Rick suggested one of their Coravin selections, a 2015 Domaine de Courcel available by the glass. The Pommard Domain Courcel is mostly known for their elegant reds, and for having been in business for a scant four hundred years.

For our mains, Mark recommended the bone-in (wet-aged) Prime Ribeye’s of which we ordered three, the lady at our table opting for a smaller filet. Of the (again) sixteen sides available, choice was the problem we ordered the beautifully browned au gratin potatoes, delicious roasted brussels sprouts, and perfect, fresh steamed broccoli. (The duck fat potatoes and popular mac & cheese would have to wait for another day) One nice touch at Vic & Anthony’s is what is known as “ballet service” – all of our courses were brought to the table at the same time by four servers. It’s a small flourish that makes an already nice meal just that much nicer.

As would be expected, our steaks each requested to a different doneness were just as ordered.

Although I do like a good fillet, the bone in option does indeed add a lot of flavor to a good steak. In the

SEBASS

end, just as Mark commented, the steak did not need the Béarnaise sauce, but it was still a great addition.

Because of the beautiful surroundings and the good company, I chose to spend a bit more on the red wine for our steaks. Again, with Rick’s help, we settled on a 2009 Margaux – Chateau d’Issan. The wine was a classic Bordeaux blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot, with big flavors of blackberry, black currant and hints of flowers and licorice. The tannins were soft, but certainly still up for the steak, and the finish had a nice minerality.

It was perfect with every bite of steak and particularly shined with the extra richness of the Béarnaise sauce.

Large as the steaks and sides were, we couldn’t pass up dessert. Because of my preference for less sweet desserts, bread pudding is not usually something I order, but I had read a great deal about the one here. I have to say Vic & Anthony’s Croissant Bread Pudding with bourbon sauce is one of the nicest I’ve ever had. It was buttery and caramelized, but somehow not cloyingly sweet. Not a forkful remained.

All that was left was a really good expresso, a sliver of lemon, and a safe car service home.

Before leaving, we were able to meet briefly with the restaurant GM Rob Harvey and his AGM Ryan Holyfield, handshakes all around, but in the end, nothing new could really be said… they’ve heard how excellent the experience was many, many times.

Vic & Anthony’s has locations in Houston, Atlantic City, Las Vegas, and Lake Charles.

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OTL / MIND GAME

HOW IS YOUR MENTAL GAME?

TAKE A QUIZ STORY BY BRECH SPRADLEY, PGA DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION BARTON CREEK GOLF ACADEMY

I have been teaching golf for 25 years and have had the opportunity to spend some time around some of the best mental performance specialists not only in golf but other sports as well. Some big influences of my mental performance teaching have been Dr. Deborah Graham, Jon Stabler, Rick Jensen, Lynn Marriott, and Pia Nilsson.

First let me say, I am a big believer in technique and skill acquisition is an absolute must. I teach golf all day and

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spend much of my time developing swings and short game skills with my clients. No matter how well you attempt to think mentally if the skill is not there than the results will not be there. But once a certain level of skill is acquired than the pendulum can swing to the other side and golf becomes much more of a thinking person’s game. Confidence can certainly wain when the swing mechanics get off for sure and there is always a delicate balance between

mind game

mechanics and the mental game. I teach so many competitive players that I know the high importance of the mental strategies. This area is not just important for the competitive player, but for everyone who wants to play their best golf. Everyone has different personalities and will have tendencies they need to be aware of and set their mental goals. The internal challenge of playing and managing the mechanics of technique and the mental performance and

1. I have a strong Mental pre-shot routine which includes picking best shot, committing to shot, visualizing shot, and a good feel of my stroke needed.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

2. I use the Mental pre-shot routine on every shot and putt.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

3. I do not get distracted by other people or external noise.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

4. I visualize every shot I want to hit behind the ball in the “Think Box” before stepping into the shot “Play Box”.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

5. My game plan is based on my current strengths and the golf course set-up.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

6. I can let go of a previous shot and put it out of my mind in preparation of the next.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

7. I do not put my self down with negative self-talk which can lead to poor performance.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

8. I keep a good attitude and strategy and don’t let my score influence that.

strategies is what makes golf such a fun and challenging game (and frustrating at times). Below I want you to take a short 15 question quiz of some basic questions I have my players answer to see where you are with your mental game. I want you to grade yourself honestly of a scale of 1-5 for each question. 1 being you (never) – 2 (rarely) – 3 (sometimes) – 4 (often) – 5 (always). We will discuss results after.

9. After I hit a poor shot, I check the quality of my tempo and pre shot routine before I questioned technical flaws.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

10. I anticipate a good outcome before each shot.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

11. Between shots I will compliment myself mentally on things I have done well.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

12. I am aware of increasing tension in my mind or body (clenching teeth, quick breathing, loss of feel, etc.)

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

13.I have at least one technique I use before and during competition to lower tension. (such as deep breathing, etc.)

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

14. If I notice my thoughts turning negative, I can quickly change those to positive thoughts.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

15. I can rebound with a good shot after a poor shot more times than not.

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

1 (never) 2 (rarely) 3 (sometimes) 4 (often) 5 (always)

Ok. That is the quick mental game quiz. I get more detailed with my competitive players, but this a good start.

Add up your total score out of a possible 75 total points and divide by 15. Here’s a look….

SCORING: 4-5 (Really good) 3-4 (Good but could certainly improve) 2-3 (Not very good and probably holding you back) 1-2 (Needs a lot of work and no doubt is a weakness costing you performance) My recommendation is to analyze the questions and set some goals next time you go out and play based on some of your answers. As an example, if you scored yourself a

3 (sometimes) on having a strong pre-shot mental routine than this area needs some work. Set a goal next time you play to do this well at least 80% of the time. Just improving this one area will help your scoring. Another example would be if scored yourself low on anticipating a good outcome before each shot, then you need to assess why? This could be because your skill is not where you need it and in that case that requires more practice or lessons. But in many cases, it could be that you are attempting shots that maybe are not the best choices leading to stress and negative thinking. Maybe you are playing too aggressively or not playing to your strengths. Everyone will perform better when they are playing to their abilities and making strategy decisions based on their current skill level. In conclusion, make it a point to assess all the questions, improve in these areas and start playing to your potential. Good Luck!

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OTL / BUCK’S TIPS 26 3 4

The State of Golf Instruction STORY BY BUCK MAYERS DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION AT ESCONDIDO GOLF & LAKE CLUB I am not an alarmist but a realists. I spend a good portion of my time studying the golf instruction industry and have come to some alarming conclusions on how many avid golfers are actually taking golf lessons. Less than 10% of golfers who play 12 X a year seek instruction help individually or in a group setting. Golf schools are dwindling at a record pace. Why? Is it too expensive? Is it too difficult? Did you have a poor experience?

Would prefer to buy a better game? Or does improvement really matter?

Here are some interesting facts about the statistics. Of the 10% of those who are taking lessons, half of them are serious/ competitive players or participating in tournaments. That means regardless, of age or gender, these golfers understand that golf is a multi faceted sport requiring instruction to skill sets in mental game, nutrition, course management, swing, short game, trouble shots and blending all of the above from experts. This requires dedication, passion, financial commitment and support from many.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

So this leaves us with the other 5% that are beginners, or might want to just play with their spouse or friends without embarrassing themselves, or maybe just the challenge to go from a 25 to a 19 handicap. How about just having more fun!! What’s disturbing is that half of these give up instruction far too soon to never manifest falling in love with the game, therefore falling back into the other 90%.

Can golf lose another 200 golf courses like 2019? How can the USGA, PGA of America, The PGA TOUR, RNA, The First Tee or Top Golf, etc. move the needle to this struggle? The state of Tournament golf is in great hands. How can the great historians and thousands of passionate professionals come together for the common good. Can we get the game less complicated, less expensive and less time consuming in this millinial age of change?

I certainly hope so, because the time has come for serious discussions for golfs sake.

PHOTO BY OCTAVIO ORTUNO

AUSTIN COUNTRY CLUB

Ready for Another Closeup STORY BY CARL MICKELSON

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PHOTO BY CARRELL GRIGSBY

It happens to DiCaprio. It happens to Lady Gaga. Hell, even after all these years, it still happens to Tom Brady. After every great performance, it’s inevitable that someone will ask “What will they do for an encore?” After the high-quality drama at the past four WGC Dell Technologies Match Play tournaments at Austin Country Club, anticipation is understandable.

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PHOTO BY CARRELL GRIGSBY

n 2019, Tiger Woods joined a field that boasted 64 of the top 66 players in the world while facing questions about whether his body would hold up or if his game was really trending in the right direction. When he survived the preliminary rounds to set up a Saturday morning showdown with Rory McIlroy, Austin became electrified for a match up of Goliaths from different generations.

When Woods closed out McIlroy 2 and 1 in spectacular fashion, he gave fans an inkling that he was prepared for The Masters, which he would go on to win two weeks later. That Woods was eliminated in the next round by Lucas Bjeergaard or that Kevin Kisner would top Matt Kuchar in the final, while amply entertaining, seemed to pale in comparison to the Woods’ promising run at a venue he’d never played in his professional career. Tigermania brought fresh eyes and record attendance to Austin Country Club in 2019 and the striking

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Pete Dye design was more than ready for its close up. And, by all accounts, the golf course and the tournament’s officials are ready to put on a big show again this year.

The Austin Chamber of Commerce couldn’t have asked for better branding than way Austin Country Club shows on television. The views from the 12th tee and the fairway, which cascades down to an inlet of Lake Austin with the iconic Pennybacker Bridge framing the background, are now etched into the memories of millions of golf fans. But that’s far from the only dramatic panorama showing off ACC’s rugged beauty and incomparable Hill Country setting.

As enticing as the holes along Lake Austin are, it could be argued that the holes that play perilously along rocky cliff edges on the property’s easternmost border, like holes 2, 3, 4 and 17, are equally, or more, thrilling in terms of the shot values and unspoiled natural locales. Here’s as good a place as any to acknowledge that the

PHOTO BY CARRELL GRIGSBY PHOTO BY AUSTIN COUNTRY CLUB ARCHIVES

nines are reversed (for strategy, drama, logistics and in a stroke of pure genius) for the playing of the Dell Technologies Match Play, so we’re referring to the holes here in their reversed sequence.

Since its founding in 1899, there have been three different Austin Country Club locations. The nine-hole course just north of town known today as Hancock Park Golf Course was the site of the original ACC and served as such until 1949. The club moved to Austin’s east side off of Riverside Drive and lasted there for 35 years, leaving legacies of Harvey Penick as its longtime professional and his pupils Ben Crenshaw and Tom Kite cutting their competitive teeth there.

The club moved to its current location on a 180-acre expanse of Davenport Ranch in 1984 and brought in Pete and Alice Dye, who were at their commercial and creative peaks, to craft the golf course which would wind through an uncommonly inspiring land. They transformed the ranch land into a tough-willed test of golf that would challenge even the most skilled players. Forced carries, discombobulating sidehill lies and a diabolical system of bunkers were placed over a routing with tremendous rise and fall and a unabated exposure to the Texas Hill Country’s most raw features.

I also never noticed on the scorecards and yardage books until recent years that Austin Country Club knocked it out of the park in giving its holes THE BEST, most clever and distinctive nicknames. Last Mesa? Earth’s Edge? Glensatan? Tumbleslope? Puzzle Landing? C’mon… These are tremendous names for Neil Young albums, but even better names for golf holes.

Holes two, three and four, two demanding par 4s and a short, forced-carry par 3 (easily one of the most scenic in Austin) play along the edge of a rocky canyon, so matches can swing in favor of the straight hitter who excels at placing the ball very early in the proceedings. Another swing hole on the opening nine is the par-5 sixth hole which plays nearly half a stroke under par during the Dell Match Play and yields 10 or 12 eagles almost every year.

By contrast, the 498-yard par-4 eighth plays to a scoring average above 4.2 and

H A R V E Y P E N I C K 1923

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PHOTO BY CARRELL GRIGSBY PHOTO BY OCTAVIO ORTUNO PHOTO BY CARRELL GRIGSBY

has consistently been the site of 60-plus bogeys each year.

“The PGA Tour likes the course to play firm and fast the week of the tournament.

Our superintendent Bobby Stringer and the PGA Tour agronomists will work closely together, but the conditions even in February were as good as they’ve ever been this early in the year,” says longtime head golf professional Dale Morgan.

A pivotal stretch starts at the severely downhill par-5 12th. It’s not uncommon to see pros hit drives that roll out past 400 yards but an approach to a narrow green pinched by water left makes this unforgettably beautiful hole impressively strategic.

The next hole, the 317-yard, par-4 13th is a fascinating place to watch matches. Seeing players situationally try to drive the green or attempt to land a lay-up shot in the small landing area, can prove endlessly entertaining. Tiger Woods hole-out eagle shot provided one of the signature moments of last year’s event.

“When you start down holes, 12, 13 and 14, that’s where many matches come alive.

It’s always interesting to see how golfers handle these lower holes because they’re faced with so many strategic decisions.”

The par-5 16th hole is and uphill test with bunkers lurking in strategic spots in its landing areas. A par-5 this late in the has proven a pivotal spot in many matches as has the next hole, a short par three that

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This golf course was built around the same time as TPC Sawgrass and is actually similar in the movement of the greens. When players get to the greens, that where the challenge really begins,” Morgan says.

features a tiny putting surface that requires an all-carry approach over a treacherous canyon’s edge.

Austin Country Club’s finishing hole plays only 368 yards and features a significant downslope for golfers who can carry a large ridge in the fairway. Doing so guarantees no bargains, however. The second shot plays straight uphill from a deep Valley of Sin-like depression in the fairway. Birdies can be plentiful here as can the opportunities for embarrassment if you don’t play your approach cleanly.

“This golf course was built around the same time as TPC Sawgrass and is actually similar in the movement of the greens. When players get to the greens, that where the challenge really begins,” Morgan says.

The current #1 player in the world, Rory McIlroy agrees that the greens at ACC can be the toughest part of navigating a round there.

“I think you’d see a lot of guys get frustrated if this was a stroke play tournament because of the green complexes,” McIlroy said in 2017. “I played a nine-hole match with Andy Sullivan on the back nine, and there were some pins you couldn’t get it within 20 feet of the hole, just because it was like a crown. You play it and you

start to play it more in competition, it grows on you and you start to appreciate some of the different nuances of some of the greens” As a spectator event, the WGC Dell Technologies Match Play has grown into one of Austin’s can’t-miss cultural events. The same way South By Southwest, Formula 1 Weekend and the Austin City Limits Music Festival have capture the imagination of locals as well as tourists, this golf tournament is now one of Austin’s top times and places to see and be seen.

From technology-driven activations to family-friendly attractions and music to raucous spectator areas and fans lining their boats along the 13th and 14th fairways, the Dell already has its own Uniquely-Austin traditions you could consider rites of spring.

March is in Austin is a sublime time that invariably reminds of past springs in this great city and deepens our appreciation for the area’s natural beauty. When the WGC Dell Technologies Match Play rolls into town March 25 – 29, be a part of the tradition and enjoy witness the skill and power of the game’s top 64 players.

Get your tickets at www.pgatour.com/ tournaments/wgc-dell-technologiesmatch-play/tickets.html.

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PHOTO BY STUART KIME

OTL / TRAVEL

Paradise is closer than you think STORY BY NATALIE KALBAS

Destin, Florida could easily be mistaken for nearly any island paradise in the Caribbean. Crossing over the Destin Bridge, you’re instantly met with a gorgeous view of sparkly multi-hued blue water contrasted by sugar white sand. You’ll see beach-goers soaking up the views and the sun, people hanging out in the ample shallow water as well as various types of boats that come and go just like the tide. The harbor is as accommodating as she is proud while she welcomes you to her home. All of this will have you wondering if you’re driving on Highway 1 in the Florida Keys instead of Highway 98 in the Florida Panhandle.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be fooled into think-

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ing that you’re on island time; your body adjusts and relaxes and a smile spreads across your face. Let’s see what all the fuss is about. Welcome to Destin.

Destin’s roots date back to American Indian inhabitants as early as the seventh century A.D. It was basically settled somewhere around 1850-1852 by a fisherman named Captain Leonard Destin who hailed all the way from New London, Connecticut. According to local history, he was fishing the Gulf for several years prior and through series of mishaps, Destin decided to stay—can’t blame him. Captain Destin is credited to have pioneered the fishing industry and Destin has maintained this heritage to the present.

travel

Like Captain Destin, anglers continue to flock to Destin for sport. Known as ‘The world’s luckiest fishing village,’ Destin has evolved from a sleepy fishing settlement into one of the top Gulf Coast fishing and vacation destinations. Year after year fishing charters take people out to help them get a catch of a lifetime. Evidently, Destin is so popular because the location is in reach of some of the best fishing grounds in the entire Gulf of Mexico. Bay fishing and deep-sea fishing are easily accessible and popular due to the Choctawhatchee Bay AND Gulf of Mexico being right there.

Destin is home to more charter boats than anywhere else in Florida—they’re EVERYWHERE! Whether you join a larger group and go deep sea fishing or you decide to charter a boat for yourself and your friends, there are dozens of options waiting for you. You can fish with light tackle for redfish and trout—amongst others; sight fish in the spring for cobia while on top of the boat(!); bottom fish for huge snappers, groupers, and amberjack, or troll offshore for marlin, mahi mahi, and wahoo. Whichever option sounds like the most fun, you will for sure have an unforgettable time!

Destin has plenty of places to rent boats and it’s recommended (and popular) to rent a pontoon. Pontoon boats allow for leisure, and they don’t go too fast which makes it easier to relax. Don’t worry if you’re inexperienced at being a captain, rental places will show you the basics and you’ll be good to go.

A few places to check out for rentals include: Funday Watersports, Aloha Pontoon Rentals and Luther’s. Jet skis are usually available if you’re wanting something faster (or more exciting)

than a pontoon as are other types of boats. Be sure to call ahead for availability and rates—summertime rentals usually garner a higher price than other seasons. One thing that looks interesting is flyboarding in the harbor. Watching brave people shoot above and crash land in the water is quite entertaining.

Mobile Sports in the harbor is your place to go to check it out and get lessons.

Bring your gear and load up your boat and head over to the legendary Destin landmark, Crab Island! Located just to the north of the Destin Bridge, Crab Island was once a tiny island that was shaped like a crab before a hurricane submerged the island and created the sandbar everyone has come to love today. Once your pontoon gets you there, drop anchor and have fun! Tourists and locals both frequent the spot so the chances are high you’ll make some friends while you’re splashing around. It tends to be a little more crowded on the weekends especially during the months of June to September, but don’t let that deter you from a day of fun at Crab Island.

If getting on a boat isn’t your thing, Destin has plenty of beach front to offer to claim your space and just relax. Those signature sugar white sands of the Florida Panhandle are the end result of quartz eroded from the far away Appalachian Mountains that took about 20,000 years to create, giving us the breath-taking coastline it is today. While searching for your spot on the ample beach, the Gulf provides a relaxing soundtrack to your day. Most resorts make your stay more stress-free by providing umbrellas and beach chairs to enhance your precious downtime. Your only concern should reapplying

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your sunscreen and taking another nap or tackling that next chapter.

Destin is accessible from three surrounding airports.

The closest is Fort Walton Beach Airport in Valpraiso, followed by both Pensacola and Panama City Beach Airports which are each approximately an hour’s drive to Destin.

Most people opt to drive since it’s easily accessible via I-10 East. An added benefit of driving is you’ll have the comfort of your own vehicle to get around while you’re in town. Not surprisingly, it’s faster to get to Destin from Houston than it is traveling Houston to El Paso! Plus, you’ll get to see other states along the way, making it a fun little road trip.

Staying in Destin is easy…determining where to stay is a challenge. You can take in the view of the emerald surf sweeping a crystal white shoreline from a variety of accommodation choices, but one place stands out amongst all the rest. Tucked away on the peaceful shores of the Emerald Coast and nestled along Henderson Beach State Park’s mile of undisturbed beach is the Henderson Park Inn. Considered the “perfect intersection of modern luxury and coastal charm” and featuring only 37 rooms and suites—most having a private balcony with sweeping gulf views—Henderson Park Inn allows its guests to “indulge in all the premier amenities of a true Destin, Florida beach vacation.”

An all-inclusive resort that also happens to be adultsonly (think 25 and up), making it the ultimate romantic getaway with your significant other. The location and seclusion have made Henderson Park Inn a favorite spot for brides and grooms to tie the knot in Destin. It is also a hidden gem for those considering a domestic honeymoon location—no passport required. If you’re in the market to be taken “off the market,” it’s worth noting that In 2017, Destin VIP Magazine voted the resort as “The best place to pop the question,” and was ranked by Condé Nast in 2018 as “The Most Romantic Hotel On The Emerald Coast.” Romance is definitely a calling card here.

For a truly beautiful drive and unbelievable beaches visit the 30A area. Scenic Highway 30A is a 24 mile corridor that hugs the Gulf of Mexico coastline. It begins in Sandestin and makes its way to Rosemary Beach near Panama City.

Along this breathtaking drive you will see sugar-white sand beaches and rare coastal dune lakes. Scenic Highway 30A is a tourist attraction of major proportions.

It is an exciting and eclectic mix of hot Caribbean colors and soft pastels, with architecture to match each community’s charm, whether it be Old Florida’s traditional 2-3 story homes, the cottages of Seaside with white picket fences, or New Urbanism. Miles of greenway trails connect state parks, preserves and residential areas along this byway. If you are looking for one of the most beloved beach spots in Florida – look no further!

Whether you’re looking for a week-long vacation or a quick getaway, Destin is gaining in popularity due to its ideal location, southern charm and the absolutely stunning scenery. The recreational activities are abundant and worth your time while down there. However, nothing beats the feeling of your feet sinking into the cool white sand as you’re making your way down to the blue water. The waves begin to flirt and call your name, beckoning you to come play. Let your hair down, exhale and answer the call of Destin.

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OTL / ON YOUR GAME

Interview with NANCY LOPEZ STORY BY LEONARD FINKEL, COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER – CLUB CHAMPION

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on your game

ancy Lopez visited Club Champion in the hopes that we could help her with her game. She agreed to grant us an interview — enjoy her stories and insights below.

Leonard Finkel: Nancy, you’ve had a Hall of Fame career. What would you consider your greatest achievement?

Nancy Lopez: My greatest achievement on the golf course? I’ve always felt that being a part the Solheim Cup team was a great achievement for me. Being able to play on the first in 1990. Then I was captain in 2005 and no matter how many tournaments I’ve won, it was just really special to captain this great team in 2005 and win the cup for the United States of America.

I always feel like when you represent your country, there’s so much pride involved. That was what I enjoyed the most, being a part of that team; being their leader and being able to win the cup.

Finkel: It’s interesting with all you’ve achieved personally, that you consider your greatest achievement a team event. How do you explain that?

Lopez: The thing is, it’s all about representing your country, not just yourself. Whenever I see any events where you’re playing for your country, I get this great feeling of pride. I absolutely enjoy winning tournaments, winning five in a row my rookie year, winning nine my rookie year. Personally having my three daughters is my other great accomplishment. To play golf, win tournaments while carrying three babies, and the thirty five years I was on Tour. There are a lot of accomplishments that are special to me but golf-wise, it was the Solheim Cup. Finkel: What was your biggest disappointment?

Lopez: Not winning the Women’s U.S. Open. I had four seconds. I always felt pretty prepared to win a U.S. Open. I felt like I worked hard on my game. It felt like my game was there, but I just came up short.

And I think the last one at Pumpkin Ridge in Oregon was probably the toughest because I had worked out for two years with a trainer hoping that whatever the U.S. Open threw at me, I had a chance to win it. I was in the best shape, best mental shape that I’ve been in any U.S. Open. It was pretty devastating, finishing second one more time, knowing that my time was getting shorter in being able to accomplish that. It was very disappointing not to win that U.S. Open.

Finkel: In a way, it’s almost like you’re the Phil Mickelson of the LPGA. Can you give me your insights into how you think Phil feels given your experience?

Lopez: I felt terrible for Phil. I know that he didn’t lose the sixth one. I was crying for him. I’ve been there.

I know that feeling seeing him finish second six times!

Oh my God, it is horrible. I felt really bad for him because I know what it means to win a U.S. Open. I think for the USGA, they don’t truly realize the USGA has always been about amateur golf. I know they have the Major championships, but they don’t realize how important a win in the U.S. Open is for professional players. It’s kind of the icing on the cake for their career to be able to do that.

Finkel: You have been retired from competitive golf for quite a while now. What occupies your time these days, business or personal time?

Lopez: I like to spend time with my daughters, I try to do some trips with them. I have a new husband of two years. He loves golf, I love golf. I try to play some of the top golf courses that I never got to play in professional golf. I’ve had Nancy Lopez Golf for quite a few years now.

We have golf clubs for women and clothing for women.

That’s something I have been involved with for almost 20 years. I just don’t know time anymore; I feel like it flies by. The clothing company has been in operation for about 15 years. Now I have a company called Nancy Lopez Golf Adventures — this is our fifth year. It’s the Top 50 teaching professionals for the TNCP of the LPGA and we travel and go to clubs to teach golfers to play golf and enjoy it. We teach a lot of my dad’s philosophies and our mantra is to play happy. We get to do that. We’ve gone to Ireland and Scotland. We are going to move to Spain in 2020. We were just in Casa de Campo this past October.

So we take people on trips. We play golf, teach, just have great fellowships with this new company. That’s been a lot of fun and that’s probably what I’m going to be doing for quite a while. I still try to do a lot of corporate events and speaking engagements. I play on the Legends Tour; not really the Legends but we play with past players of the LPGA Tour. Pat Bradly’s on there, Patty Sheehan.

Players I played against back in the heyday. For me it’s not as competitive because I just like to go and kind of socialize. I know a lot of them will go there just to play competitively on the Legends Tour. I just enjoy playing golf. In 2010, I got a knee replacement and this past November I had another knee replacement because both of my knees are terrible. And now I’m walking with no pain, hoping to one day walk 18 holes again and play golf for 18 holes at the same time. And maybe play one more tournament on the LPGA Tour. It will be fun to be able to try.

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Finkel: You recently visited Club Champion for a custom club fitting. Why did you decide to come in?

Lopez: The last set of golf clubs that I got, I just never felt good about them. I know I want to enjoy playing golf for the rest of my life. I was not enjoying playing golf with my clubs anymore. In all my career on Tour, I got fitted one time at TaylorMade. But it was nothing like what Club Champion does. I was not able to call it a fitting at the time. I told my husband that I really want to find something I hit well, that I don’t have to swing so hard. Because when you’re older and you don’t play every day, it’s really good to find something that fits you so you’re not laboring over a golf shot every time you step over it. I decided to reach out to Club Champion to see if they would fit me, and I felt like this is a great time to do this. When I was in Orlando, we went over there and I was just amazed. I only had one bad knee, so I was swinging for four hours with a bad knee. Hopefully with two good knees once I get back to playing and getting used to my legs again, maybe I will be able to hit it sharper.

Finkel: Can you share with us how the clubs

are performing for you so far?

Lopez: I love my new clubs. They feel so good even though I just barely started to swing them. I don’t think that I’ve hit a bad shot yet. Right now, I’m using four extra clubs because I can’t swing full tilt. But going there was truly a great experience. Being able to hit different golf clubs. You can’t just do this out in the driving range.

It’s good for someone to always be watching what you do and they either write it down or tell you what this club does, what this shaft does. You will be able to see different heads because golf is more mental and visual.

When you see a golf club and you don’t like it, they have so many different clubs to try. Lots of different shafts.

Finkel: I understand there was some customization with the cosmetics of your equipment.

Can you describe it?

Lopez: Now they are going to be showing my husband’s golf grips, which are really a lot of fun. I’ve got those on my clubs. I’ve got the most colorful clubs of anybody. I’ve got a pink shaft, and all my grips have different colors. My family is in my golf clubs; I’ve got my daughters’ names, my husband’s children names [on the grips]. It’s so cool. I love my golf clubs. Now I’m just trying to get comfortable with the clubs and know how far I’m going to hit them. I think I’m going to pick up some yardage for sure, now that I’m swinging something that feels so easy to swing.

Finkel: How did your fitting at Club Champion differ from the way you were fit on the LPGA Tour?

Lopez: We really didn’t have the opportunity for club fittings. You know the guys on the PGA Tour were more involved in finding the right shaft or finding the right head. On the LPGA Tour, we had people out there with different club companies. They would hand out golf clubs and we would try them. If we like them, we’d use them. It was never a club fitting like at Club Champion. I think that maybe I missed out. Maybe I should have gotten a great fitting back in those days, but I played the clubs I had confidence in even though they were pretty much handed to me. But like I said, I’m really looking forward to swinging my new golf clubs once my left knee is feeling more comfortable. The left knee is pretty new so I’m not swinging very hard yet, but once I can start really using to lower half of my body, I think I’m going to pick up 20 yards and get close to how I used to hit it. I’m so excited about every club that I’ve hit in my bag. They made a great 3-wood, a great 5-wood. It’s going to be experimenting to see what clubs I want. Right now, I have about 16 clubs in my bag.

They made extra clubs for me which I could try if I need them on certain golf courses. I’m excited to be able to test them all when I’m really swinging the way I know I can swing when using my lower body.

Finkel: While custom club fitting seems to be the trend with men, that hasn’t necessarily

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been the case with female golfers. How do you think women of any skill level could benefit from custom club fitting?

Lopez: Well, I think there are a lot of women who want to play really good golf and I think they would be the perfect people to go to club fittings. I think for someone who really just wants to play golf for fun, it’s probably going to be hard to talk them into it. But I’ve always told people that, if you’re going to play golf, you need to have the best clubs so that you can truly bring out your best talent. So many times I’ve seen women swinging golf clubs that are way too heavy. By the tenth hole they’re exhausted from swinging them. Or their husbands are trying to be good hosts and go out and buy them a set of golf clubs that don’t fit them at all. If they want to be a good player, club fitting is perfect because you’re going to find a club that fits you and your style, whatever it is.

I think the thing about golf — it’s more visual. Once you make contact, see that ball fly out there, that’s what golf is all about. The visual of seeing this great shot, getting better. I think if anybody wants to get better, club fitting is the way to do that.

Finkel: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

Lopez: I love golf. It’s a game of a lifetime. I truly believe that. My three daughters never played golf, they mainly played other sports. They were very athletic. I don’t know if it’s because of the pressure of trying to be as good as their mom. But Molly, our granddaughter, she’s now six. She’s taking up the game. She’s not playing yet; she’s taking lessons and enjoying it. I hope to play golf with her someday and see her accomplish something in college. People who want to take up a sport, you know

golf is a great sport. I know there are a lot of issues with time and how long it takes. I always tell people, play nine holes if you don’t have time for 18. It’s okay to play nine. But you get addicted to it. Golf is an addiction. You either love it or you don’t like it. There are not that many people that kind of like it. But when they start playing golf and hitting that shot or even struggling, they want to get better. It’s just such a great game to pick up with your family, with your husband, with your wife. You can travel, see beautiful places, play golf. Just something I want to do forever.

Finkel: Finally, if you could give our readers one tip, what would that be?

Lopez: The play happy philosophy is an important tip. I have a lot of tips. I think that people want to play better, and one tip I think about, mostly when I play with amateurs, is what they don’t do. They don’t keep their eye on the back of the ball. What I mean by that is, when they start to swing, they have to keep their eye on the back of the ball so that I don’t have to tell them to keep their heads still. Some people don’t know that they should be looking at the back of the ball. They look on the side of the ball, on top of the ball. If you want to make good, solid contact, why wouldn’t you look at the back of the ball?

What happens is, once you look in the back of the ball, you take the club back and when you swing, make sure you keep your eyes on the back of the ball until you make contact. Then you swing for the target. If you can’t see the back of the ball, you aren’t going to make contact with the back of the ball. Amateurs don’t keep their heads still, but if they keep their eyes on the back of the ball, their head will stay there until they make contact.

Finkel: Perfect, Nancy. Thank you.

O T L G O L F. C O M

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OTL / WINE

The Importance of European Wine STORY BY TONY SCHLOTZHAUER hen it comes to ideology, religion, politics, etc., the world has always been di vided for the most part. It’s inevitable, we’re only human, and some things are so rooted in passionate disagreement, that it’s impossible to find common ground on. If there are a few things that subscribe to history, culture and artistry that everyone can agree on and share, it’s food and wine. The “golden rule” that has always served me so well when human connection is involved, is that, when at the dinner table, don’t discuss politics or religion. It’s the fastest way for a carefully prepared meal to take a bad turn. We do ourselves justice by focusing on those things that bring us together in the first place, and those things we have in common.

This sentiment is one that should carry over into more facets of daily life than solely just the dinner table. How is it possible that there are people who can’t appreciate the few things that connect us as humans? Wine has been a cornerstone of so many uniting events in history, that the history of wine itself should be something we ought to think about. Especially since the development of the American wine industry was so strongly influenced by the European influx and influence. Keep in mind that the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 over a bottle of Madeira wine, a favorite of George Washington, who was reputed to drink a bottle of it each day. Also, Thomas Jefferson was the first, and possibly greatest wine collector in America who regularly had bottles imported from his favorite wine regions of France and Italy.

The Old World Even though we know that wine predates written records, the oldest evidence of wine

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was traced back to Georgia from as early as 6000 BC where they would age in qvevri, or clay, beeswax lined vessels called amphorae (often still used in Georgia). It was also traced back to Greece (4500 BC) and Sicily (4000 BC). Then Armenia from 4100 BC, where the first evidence of a winery was discovered. Almost all of these wines were used for religious purposes due to its consciousness-altering properties. Civilizations such as Greece and Italy worshipped Bacchus and Dionysus as cult figures. Some early records suggest that wine was also used medicinally in some eastern regions in the Golden Age, due to Islam’s forbidding the consumption of alcohol. During the 780-725 BC, the Muslims and Phoenicians were instrumental in spreading viticulture to the Mediterranean.

In the first few centuries AD through the 15th century, with the expansion and industrialization of Europe, wine consumption and production grew like wildfire. The Romans and Greeks started to spread viticulture into France, which they knew as Gaul, and encouraged the planting of vines in Bordeaux, Burgundy, Alsace, Loire, Champagne, Languedoc and the Rhone Valley. After the fall of the Roman Empire, wine was flourishing in the south of France and largely seen as a status symbol by those in the north. The church, who was using wine as a sacrament in the Eucharist, was a massive influencer in helping the wine industry survive, even though it was often used in Pagan rituals, as well. In 1152, Eleanor of Acquitaine (Bordeaux) married the future Henry II of England, and a beautiful trade relationship was born. The Dutch wine traders soon followed suit and the export market was in bloom.

The 19th century brought boom and bust to the wine industry of France. While the trade market with England had brought a golden

age of prosperity to French wine, Bordeaux in particular, with the rise of the Bourgeoise class. Napolean was so enamored by the wines of the region, he ordered a ranking of the top estates in the 1855 Paris Exposition. This ranking exists to this day, with only one change to the original (Mouton Rothschild elevated to 1st growth from 2nd growth in 1973). In the late 1880s, a small root louse called phylloxe-

ra was brought from North America and nearly devastated the entire French wine industry.

Luckily, a horticulturist in Texas, Thomas Volney Munson, discovered a resistant rootstock that was used to graft original vines onto and saved the world of wine.

The New World When European explorers first came to the Americas, they discovered so many vines, that

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they originally called it Vinland. They soon discovered that they could not make wine of any quality with the indigenous varieties growing there. They brought Vitis Vinifera from Europe and experimented with various areas from New Mexico to Ohio to New York with little success until the 19th century. In 1769, Spanish missionaries planted the first Vitis Vinifera vineyards in California with the Mission Grape variety to satisfy their sacramental needs.

When Jean-Louis Vignes came to California as an immigrant from Bordeaux, he was dissatisfied with the quality of the wines being produced. He started importing vines from France and his Los Angeles based winery was started.

When it was found that the climate in Sonoma was ideal for the cultivation of Vitis Vinifera for winegrowing purposes, the Northern California wine industry was born.

Pioneered by General Mariano Valejo and a host of European immigrants such as Agoston Haraszthy, who was the first to dry farm in the valley and considered as the father of modern Northern California viticulture and viniculture as we know it today. Quality improved as new philosphies spurned innovation from places such as Croatia, France, Italy and Prussia.

Prohibition put a halt to the progress of much of the quality wine production from 1920 to 1933, with only sacramental and wine for personal consumption allowed. There was a lot of wine grapes produced, but from hearty, shippable grapes such as Alicante Bouschet

ABOUT TONY SCHLOTZHAUER, ORIGINALLY FROM ORANGE COUNTY/LOS ANGELES,TONY HAS BEEN A SOMMELIER FOR NEARLY 10 YEARS. HE CURRENTLY WORKS FOR JEFFREY’S IN CLARKSVILLE.

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taking over. But it slowly lifted itself out of it’s jug wine era and went onto dominate the Judgement of Paris in 1976, organized by Stephen Spurrier, a British wine merchant living in Paris. See the movie “Bottle shock” for a loose interpretation. This propelled American wine into the spotlight and was the vehicle for the industry we know today.

One of my favorite things that the wine world has to offer, is the sharing of knowledge, philosophy and passion. And most of today’s greatest American winemakers have had the honor of helping with, and even heading up vintages at some of the most prestigious wineries in the world in countries such as France, Italy, Germany and Spain. Not only do we consume this product of thousands of years of European pedigree, but the export market to Europe from the U.S. is a $469 million industry. I hope and pray we can continue to strengthen the ties that unite us and never take them for granted.

OTL / THE SWEET SPOT 64

Tenors Of Rock STORY BY KELLY VOHNN I recently had the opportunity to meet up with the talented, Jimmy Denning and his powerhouse wife, Yvette Clutterbuck to discuss Jimmy’s show and their life in Las Vegas. First of all, I would like to state that this is a powerful couple for so many reasons. They’re down to earth, savvy, and oh so talented and oh yah, lots of fun to hang out with.

Jimmy Denning was one of the founders of Tenors of Rock along with long time friend, Gareth Richards. They were on tour in the Philippines when they received the call from Caesars Entertainment who offered them a showroom at Harrah’s in Las Vegas. They had six weeks to pack from Scotland, where most of the members originate from, get visas and on a plane to head for America.

This was a dream come true for Jimmy and his wife, Yvette who was well known as a singer and actress in London at the time, was more than happy to leave that all behind to support her husband’s dreams and join him in Las Vegas. Jimmy is originally from Glasgow and Yvette from London where the couple met. Yvette “fancied” the 6 ft something giant sporting a kilt and Mohawk but they didn’t start dating until a while after their first meeting.

Jimmy arrived in Vegas a star and Yvette arrived as his just his wife which led to a difficult year but also

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

a year full of growth both in their relationship and careers. They agree that the last three years have been an adventurous, beautiful journey that has been full of opportunities. Yvette has since made a great name for herself around town fronting several different shows.

I have personally watched the show, Tenors of Rock, quite a few times and absolutely loved it.

They started their Vegas residency at Harrah’s for over two years. They are now located at Planet Hollywood in the Sin City Theatre. They do all your favorite rock songs from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s and they also do the famous “Music of the Night” from The Phantom of the Opera. Their arrangements are unique and transport pleasure to your thirsty eardrums. Their delivery is powerful and sincere night after night. The current band members are Jimmy Denning, Dai Richards, Tommy Sherlock, Jonathan Williams and Dan Schumann.

The Tenors of Rock runs Saturday through Thursday from 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm at Plant Hollywood. Tickets starting at $49.99.

I started coughing a lot due to a cold while interviewing the couple and let me tell you, their improve skills are on point as I replayed the interview.

Thanks for the laughs guys.

OTL / CIGARS

New Tobacco Purchase Law STORY BY TARA LEE MALONEY

As of January 1st, the legal age to buy tobacco is 21; and retailers are not happy about the new restrictions. This is not about a loss of business; most cigar smokers are over 21.

This is about common sense and legal rights of our young adults across the country when it comes to being able to purchase items and do adult things. There were a few exemptions to this law that go back to long-standing policies but now under-21 consumers will not be able to purchase cigars.

The exemption for active military was pretty straightforward and well received. We are in a town that has a base and is close to several other towns with bases. We have a lot of active duty and retired military patrons at my local lounge. Again, most are over 21, but it was pleasing to know that I could sell to these young soldiers, most home for a visit before deployment. I often encourage young men and women who come into my local cigar lounge to stay and visit with the other patrons because it is a great place to make contacts and connections.

I have heard arguments, such as, “if some-

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one can fight for our country, they should be able to enjoy a premium cigar.” “If an 18-yearold can get in debt with an apartment, car, student loan or credit card, get married and vote; they should be able to buy a premium cigar.” These are great arguments for allowing an adult to be an adult. However, the best argument I heard was, “if we allow an 18-yearold to sit on a jury and decide some person fate – death penalty or even just jail time, why would we not allow them to make smoking and drinking decisions for themselves?”

As a mother of 6 children, I understand that we want to protect them for as long as we can, but I want them to be able to make their own decision when they are adults. I remember as they grew, I would base all my decisions for them on how hurt they could get from what they wanted to do. Bones and scratches heal. The heartache from a break up heals. My son is now in the Army; he made that decision.

Who am I to tell him he can make some decisions but not others? Either they are adults or they are not. Is tobacco the last stop on this adult age train? I hope so.

OTL / DIRECTORY

1 Avery Ranch Golf Club 512-248-2442 www.averyranchgolf.com 2 Harvey Penick Golf Campus www.harveypenickgc.com 512-926-1100 3 River Place Country Club www.riverplaceclub.com 512-346-1114 4 The University of Texas Golf Club www.utgolfclub.com 512-266-6464 5 Barton Creek Country Club 512-329-7999 www.omnihotels.com/hotels/ austin-barton-creek/golf 6 The Hills of Lakeway 512-261-7200 www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/ The-Hills-of-Lakeway 7 Falconhead Golf Course 512-402-1558 www.falconheadaustin.com 8 Grey Rock Golf Club 512-288-4297 www.greyrockgolfandtennis.com 9 Austin Country Club 512-328-0090 www.austincountryclub.com 10 Onion Creek Club 512-282-2150 www.onioncreekclub.com 11 Cimarron Hills 512-763-8700 www.cimarronhills.com/golfcourse 12 Balcones Country Club 512-258-1621 www.balconescountryclub.com

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13 Jimmy Clay & Roy Kizer Golf Course 512-974-4653 www.austintexas.gov/golfatx 14 Morris Williams Golf Course 512- 974-8333 www.austintexas.gov/golfatx 15 Lions Municipal Golf Course 512- 477-6963 www.austintexas.gov/golfatx 16 Great Hills Country Club 512-345-6940 www.greathillscc.org 17 Spanish Oaks Golf Club 512-421-8530 www.spanishoaksgc.com 18 Blackhawk Golf Club 512-251-9000 www.blackhawkgolf.com 19 Forest Creek Golf Club 512-388-2874 www.forestcreek.com 20 Teravista Golf Club 512-651-9850 www.teravistagolf.com 21 Twin Creeks Country Club 512-331-5900 www.twincreeksclub.com 22 Georgetown Country Club 512-930-4577 www.georgetowncountryclub. net 23 Lake Cliff Golf Club 830-798-0695 www.lakecliff.com 24 Boot Ranch Golf Club 830-997-6200 www.bootranch.com/golf

25 Wolfdancer Golf Club 512-308-4770 www.wolfdancergolfclub.com 26. Landa Park Golf Course 830-221-4350 landaparkgolfcourse.com 27 La Cantera Golf Club www.lacanteragolfclub.com 210-558-4653 28 The Quarry Golf Club 210-824-4500 www.quarrygolf.com 29 Golf Club at Briggs Ranch 210-670-9400 www.briggsgolf.com 30 Dominion Country Club 210-698-3364 www.the-dominion.com 31 Canyon Springs Golf Club 210-497-1770 www.canyonspringsgc.com 32 TPC San Antonio 210-491-5800 www.tpc.com/sanantonio 33 Cordillera Ranch Golf Club 830-336-3571 www.cordilleraranch.com/ cordillera-golf-club 34 Tapatio Springs Resort & Conference Center 830-443-9681 www.tapatioresort.com 35 Escondido Golf & Lake Club 830-598-7800 www.escondidotexas.com 36 Horseshoe Bay Resort 877-611-0112 www.hsbresort.com/activities/ golf

22

Cedar Park

36

183A

45

OTL / DIRECTRY MAP

Pflugerville 1

12 4

Steiner Ranch

360

3

130

45

45

183

6

79

Round Rock

1

21

18

19

35

183

35

20

11

183A

1

16 183

130

35

9 7 23

1

71

Austin

360

17 5

2 14 183

15

71

1

130

35

290 290

71

8

183

46

24 35

1604

33

30 27

32

281

26

31 35

35

410

San Antonio 37

410 35

35

10

35

130

10

28 29

Bluff Springs

Manchaca

281

10

25

13

10

34

71

410

10 183

87

410

Lorem ipsum

281

Buda O T L G O L F. C O M

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OTL / ADVERTIZER INDEX

Austin Asset 512.453.6622 austinasset.com Austin Infiniti 512.220.0920 austininfiniti.com

La Cantera 210.558.6500 lacanteraresort.com

Austin Subaru 512.323.2837 austinsubaru.co

Lajitas Golf Resort 877.525.4827 lajitasgolfresort.com

Boot Ranch 830.997.6200 bootranch.com

Omni Resorts 512.329.4000 omnihotels.com/bartoncreek

Cascata 702.294.2005 golfcascata.com

Royal Albatross albratross.com

City of Bryan 979-776-0133 bryantx.gov/visit

Rio Secco 702.777.2400 riosecco.net

Club Champion 888.842.1320 clubchampiongolf.com Dell Match Play delltechnologiesmatchplay.com Escondido Golf & Lake Club 830.598.7800 escondidotexas.com Garrison Brothers garrisonbros.com Hyatt Regency 800.233.1234 hyatthillcountrygolf.com Houston Polo 713.681.8571 houstonpoloclub.com

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Kapalua 1.877.kapalua golfkapalua.com

South Padre sopadre.com The Golf Ranch 610 North Auatin Avenue Georgetown TX 78626 The Henderson Inn hendersonparkinn.com 888.853.9050 The Olive Tree Inn 512.210.1210 1310 University Ave. Georgetown TX The George 979.485.5590 thegeorgetexas.com UT Golf Club utgolfclub.com