Issuu

Georgia James CHANGING THE GAME

Winter in Vail, Colorado

San Antonio River Walk Boot Ranch Golf Club

Contents Volume 18, Issue 3

FEATURES 12

TAKE 3 San Antonio River Walk: The ultimate stay and play. Bring your walking shoes. Michelle Keller.

RESTAURANT Chris Shepherd is changing the food game with its leading restaurant, Georgia James. Richard Arebalo.

COLORADO’S VAIL VALLEY

It’s winter time and that can only mean one thing, Colorado. Vail is calling. Carl Mickelson.

BOOT RANCH GOLF Living the good life in the Texas Hill Country. Marc Hall.

Georgia James CHANGING THE GAME

Winter in Vail, Colorado

San Antonio River Walk Boot Ranch Golf Club

ON THE COVER Georgia James, Chris Sheppard is doing more than just cooking and he’s doing all over Houston.

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Contents Volume 18, Issue 3

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COLUMNS 18

FITNESS 2020 is behind you. Get smart for the new year by revising your habits.

MIND GAME Practice? Yes we are talking about practice. It makes the world of difference.

PUTT FOR DOUGH COVID-19 has us in the upside down. Let’s explore unemployment benefits.

DRIVE FOR SHOW Luxury RVing can get you out of the house and safely on the road again.

BUCK’S TIPS The new year is here. Make sure all the tools in your bag are useful.

SWEET SPOT Reno is the biggest little city in the world. This city has more than just gambling.

ON YOUR GAME Hank Haney has always been a straight-shooter on and off the range.

WINE Add this fantastic wine to your selection process and it’s around only $20.

TRAVEL Is it travel when you’re only a few hours away? Destination worth it, Dallas.

From the Publisher ’ve never been a person to say “I told you so.” I don’t gloat. I have been saying since the beginning of December that people should slow down on the “I can’t wait for 2020 to be over” mentality. I would often say that the only thing that was going to change was the date on the calendar. 2020 was a special, unique year, and an unforgettable year. But let’s be clear, let’s allow 2021 to do it’s thing. Well, here we go. For me, 2021 delivered a case of COVID-19. How good is that? I survived 2020 and 2021 shows up with a bang. Graciously, I only suffered what can be considered a mild case—losing my sense of taste and smell. Luckily, I dined at Georgia James a few days after Christmas and I had all my senses working. My heart goes out to all those who were not as fortunate. If you happen to be afflicted with illness while reading this, I wish you all the best. Most will have a full recovery, but no matter it’s serious and we will make it through this pandemic as a country. It’s the beginning of the new year

which means my gym will be crowded for a few weeks until people forget their resolutions. Don’t burden yourself with that pressure. Let this be your reminder to take small, incremental steps. Here’s one takeaway from last year, procrastinate less. There is no better time to start than now. Golf teaches us a lot. You’ve heard Tiger talk about the process and trusting it. You can’t necessarily control the results but you can master your effort. All our lives have been altered. Now is the time to restructure and rebuild; this is an opportunity to make improvements. Patience has never been a better virtue—it, too, is a muscle that requires exercise. It’s our Winter issue. In, Texas golf can be played throughout the year, but our friends to the north are stuck inside. It snowed a few inches here in Austin and we were back to playing the same week…gotta love it. That’s where OTL gives you beautiful images and the promise of spring.

Sedric Walker • Publisher

O T L G O L F. C O M

/OnTheLinks Magazine

@otl_golf

@otlgolf

PUBLISHER Sedric Walker

GOLF FEATURES EDITOR Carl Mickelson

PHOTOGRAPHERS Andon Guillory, Loui Shaya

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, Marc Hall

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Natalie Kalbas

CONTENT SPECIALISTS Joel McColl

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INTERNET & DIGITAL Alexandria Moya, Karen Kreeps

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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. ©2021 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.

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OTL / TAKE 3 12

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Let’s go with River Walk San Antonio STORY BY MICHELLE KELLER

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Paseo Del Rio, otherwise known as the River Walk of San Antonio, is one of the chillest spots for walking, talking, eating, relaxing and just all-out vacationing. In under two hours (45 minutes if you’re Mario Andretti) you can skip right out of Austin and put your feet on the River Walk.

ake a reservation at Omni La Mansion so you can step right out of your hotel and onto the river. Go ahead and get the upgrade for the balcony, you’ll face the river and get some good people watching time over coffee in the privacy of your own hotel. This Spanish colonial style atmosphere has a romantic flair all it’s own and you can’t beat the location. You can also grab a room before the paint dries at the new Thompson San Antonio. A 20-story hotel at a luxury mixed-use development on the River Walk is scheduled to open soon. Near the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, the new hotel is accepting reservations for March 1 and beyond, according to a news release. Described as a “lifestyle hotel”, Thompson features 162 guestrooms, including 33 suites and a penthouse suite. A restaurant, a rooftop bar, a pool deck, a 5,000 squarefoot full-service spa, fitness center, and 10,000 square feet of meeting space will be included in the amenities. The Moon’s Daughter’s rooftop restaurant and bar serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine will captivate you from its 20th-story perch with indoor-outdoor seating, twinkling city lights and all the magic of starry San Antonio nights. An expansive pool deck on the

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fourth floor will offer a serene oasis exclusively for hotel guests. Features will include a pool, inviting lounge areas, a pool bar, lively music activations on weekends and private luxury cabanas with lush greenery, a private water ledge, TV and dedicated VIP service. At Landrace Restaurant, a signature meal will be guided by a local celebrity chef and honor the pastoral beauty of foods that can be traced back to the land where they are naturally shepherded over time. A plethora of food, drinks, shopping, history, nature and romance can be found at both ends of the famous San Antonio River Walk. You’ll want to get started on the right foot and relax a bit at the Mokara Spa. Located right on the River Walk this 17,000-square-foot haven redefines luxury with sanctuary lounges and private treatment rooms. A sister property of the Omni La Mansion, Mokara Hotel & Spa houses this world-class spa. Don’t miss an opportunity to drink poolside at the cafe with rooftop views of San Antonio. A San Antonio trip is never complete (fourtime tourist talking) without a trip to La Villita. History is rooted in this cornerstone piece of Texas foundation. The “little village”, which now wears a cultural art hub hat, has been home, refuge and opportunity for people throughout many decades. The cobble stoned streets alone will take you back in time in the evolution of La Villita.

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The roots of La Villita Historic Arts Village go back to the 18th century. Today, La Villita Historic Arts Village is home to local Artisans and Craftsmen. From metalsmithing, to jewelry-making, to painting, to body care, artisanal trades are proudly housed within the historic buildings of San Antonio’s “first neighborhood.” La Villita’s boutiques and galleries showcase over 200 Artisans’ work, with handcrafted items present in every shop. La Villita hosts several unique restaurants specializing in bold flavors, brilliant views and quick bites. On the go or in for a culinary experience, La Villita is home to four diverse options. Little Rhein Steak House and Fig Tree Restaurant tout historical charm and enticing menus, while La Villita Café and Guadalajara Grill offer food on the go. From fine steakhouse fare to fast Tex-Mex grab and go’s, let your taste buds loose behind San Antonio’s favorite little village. Speaking of cuisine, what Texan or human doesn’t love a good Mexican restaurant? Tacos and salsa just make us feel better. The cedar door and fireplace at Casa Rio invite you in to an ever-popular riverside dining experience. Among the first San Antonio businesses to open to the River’s setting of Canoes, paddle boats and gondolas, Casa Rio offers lunch, dinner and a cocktail boat service. Casa Rio provides all the necessary food and beverage services on board the boat. The standard riverboat-dining cruise takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and can accommodate up to a maximum of 20 people per boat for meal service (lunch and dinner).

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With several river cruises available, you’ll have ample opportunity to hop aboard a boat and cruise down the 15-mile stretch of the River Walk. When you get off the cruise, a short walk away you’ll find the historic Alamo. Home of the famous 1836 battle and to living history demonstrations and special events throughout the year, the beautiful 300-year-old former Spanish mission turned fortress is open year-round for everyone to visit, experience the battlefield first hand, and “remember the Alamo.” In its 300 years, the Alamo has shaped the city of San Antonio, ignited the battle for Texas independence, and influenced American history. Led by Alamo history interpreters, a 30-minute history talk explores the heroes and events that have made the story of the Alamo captivating for generations of Texans and visitors. The talk takes a deep dive into the history of the Texas Revolution and describes the events leading up to and including the Battle of the Alamo. A bit of trivia here, the second-most popular attraction in Texas is the Aztec Theatre (behind the Alamo). Built in 1926, the theater was one of the lavish motion picture palaces built during America’s economic boom. Today, the Aztec is

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listed in the National Register of Historic Places, with lavishly restored columns, sculptures and murals. River Walk boat tours include the Museum Reach, an additional 1.3 miles that were added in 2009, with a boat landing at the San Antonio Museum of Art. The Museum Reach also offers views of native landscaping and public art installations. One of the highlights is the Grotto, a cave-like structure created by local artist Carlos Cortes. Don’t forget to get some shopping and dining in at Rivercenter. This four-level shopping complex has over 100 stores, six restaurants, as well as IMAX and AMC theaters, and a 1,000-room hotel to kick back in at the end of the day. During San Antonio’s Fiesta celebration each April, you’ll find the Texas Cavaliers lighting up the River Walk on vibrant floats during their River Parade. An organization of 600 civic and community leaders, the Texas Cavaliers are dedicated to supporting charities in the San Antonio area. The oldest San Antonio River Walk bar, the Esquire Tavern is a must see. Established in 1933, the bar opened with a celebration of Prohibition’s end. While this storied watering hole

take 3

saw an extended hiatus (from 2006 to 2011), it’s since reopened, offering a full menu of food, beer, wine and cocktails. For over a century, the area north of downtown San Antonio operated as a brewery; today it is a popular culinary gathering spot called Pearl. Take a weekend cooking class or pull up a seat at one of its restaurants, from Mexican fare at La Gloria to five-star Italian cuisine at Il Sogno Osteria. There’s always much more to experience than I have space to write about. These are the highlights and what we consider the best of the best at San Antonio’s River Walk. The old saying is that it takes more muscles to frown than it does to smile. I’m not sure if that’s correct, but I do know we certainly need more smiling along with laughing, dancing and relaxing. So plan your trip, jump in the car and put the pedal to the metal Mario. San Antonio’s waiting for you to prop your feet on it’s beautiful River Walk.

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OTL / FITNESS

Get Smart STORY BY LESLIE AWDYKOWYZ CERTIFIED POP PILATES INSTRUCTOR

You did it, you survived 2020 and are ready to tackle 2021, leaving all negativity behind you for good. Undeniably, a new year may cause many to set goals for the upcoming months, ranging from quitting poor snacking habits or spending too much time on social media, becoming more organized, saving more money, creating healthier eating habits and one of the most common goals, taking better care of your physical health.

All of these desires to better oneself are welcomed and should be shared with a friend or family member to hold you accountable, but what happens after that? Studies show that on average, only one in five people reach their goal and maintain it; by setting SMART goals, we can increase that percentage or be one of the select few that can celebrate their victory because as we know, if you fail to plan, plan to fail. Make goals that are Specific. By narrowing down what you’d like to achieve, it will be easier to focus on the best approach. For example, instead of, “I’d like to lose some weight”, try, “I want to lose three inches on my waistline, get my body fat down by 5% and gain ten pounds of muscle.” Create goals that are Measurable. By being ambiguous in goal setting, it will be

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wearisome to track your progress if there is no means to measure it. Write down your current lifestyle and exercise habits, take body measurements and have self check-ins and write them down so you can see your progress and make adjustments when necessary. Remember, not every month will be the same as far as progress goes, so be gracious and thoughtful when making changes to your goals as you measure them. Establish a goal that is Achievable. I get it, the beginning of the year is exciting and we are pumped up and ready to make big changes, however; when shaping your goals, make sure they are reasonable and you are setting yourself up for success. A goal to master a new instrument in one month is hardly realistic, but perhaps establishing an intention to learn how to play

fitness

a new instrument and perform at a recital within the year is more achievable. Relevance is key when creating new goals. Whatever you are desiring to change when setting goals, consider why this is important to you, if it will fit your values and can be maintained long-term. When establishing the “why” behind your desired result, you can self motivate on days where you are feeling burned out or disinterested when you are reminded of why you set these goals in the first place. An example of this would be, “By taking care of my physical body I have increased energy to enjoy more time with my children while setting an example for them to have healthy habits that will last a lifetime.” Having your “why” written down is a great reminder to encourage you during difficult times. Finally, having Time-based goals will help you to stay on track to reach them in ample time. This method goes back to making sure they are measurable and achievable, setting a time-table that also has deadlines will

help you to be consistent and prosperous. If your goal is to complete your first Triathlon by October 2021 but you fail to set monthly check points, you may find yourself ill prepared and unable to compete. Be sure to set deadlines that are reasonable but will also hold you accountable. This next year is going to be different, it’s going to be full of change and adjustments, perhaps a shift in career or addition to your family, but most of all, this next year is going to be what you make of it. No one on earth has more decision making power as to what happens in your life than you. As you take some time to reflect over the past year and consider the changes you would like to implement over the upcoming year and beyond, consider the SMART goals method as you write them down, and share them with someone who cares for you so they can be part of the journey. When Groundhog day rolls around and you realize you’re starting to become stagnant with your new regimen, pull out your SMART goal sheet and remember to only love and consume a lifestyle that loves you back.

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OTL / MIND GAME 20

PRACTICE STORY BY BRECH SPRADLEY, PGA DIRECTOR OF INSTRUCTION BARTON CREEK GOLF ACADEMY

Have you ever wondered why sometimes you hit the ball on the range like a champion and when you step over to the first tee box it seems as if all your skills went MIA? Or on the flip side, have you gone to the range for an hour or two and leave feeling that it was a big waste of time and you actually got worse? Golf is one of the rare sports that we actually do most of our practice off the playing field. Many golfers practice by grabbing a bucket or two of range balls at the driving range and banging away in hopes of finding that special feeling. Next time you go to the range, consider that there are four important types of practice: Block, Random, Variable, and Play Style practice. Block practice is what most golfers do as mentioned earlier. Block practice is important to develop good techniques for the long and short game. Studies show that block practice is especially important for the newer golfer learning the basics of swing mechanics. The more reps, the better. However, as a player’s skill progresses then block practice becomes less of a factor because it doesn’t mimic all the conditions that arise on the course. We never hit twenty 7-irons in a row on the course, yet we do it on the range all the time. We never hit the same five foot putt on the course either. There

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is merit to repetitive practice, but only to a point. Random practice is very important for transference of skills to the golf course. As a golf instructor, I consistently remind my students to do random practice. This means choosing random targets while on the range or short game area and changing clubs constantly. One style of random practice is to never hit the same club twice in a row while also choosing different targets. This is more similar to what it’s like on a golf course. Studies show that after a golfer has developed a certain level of ball striking ability, golfers who engage in random practice are more apt to improve their scoring on the course than golfers who engage more in block practice. Variable Practice is the next step in the progression of skill acquisition. There are many forms of variable practice, but I recommend starting with learning to curve the ball both directions and at various targets. This means putting a target stick 10 yards in front of the line of flight and hitting draws and fades around the stick back to the target. By doing this, you become much more aware of club face and path relationship and can start using this skill when you deem necessary on the course. It will also help you correct your stock swing when it gets off. After hitting some curves, then work on flighting the ball different trajectories. This helps control the ball when dealing with wind. There are many other forms of variable practice but start with these two. Finally, we have play-style practice. This is basically playing imaginary holes, though doing so on the range. This means taking out your driver out and picking a fairway between two targets on the range. Do a full pre-shot routine behind the ball, then step up and hit the driver. Next, take an iron out and go through the same routine at a different target pin. If you “miss” the green, then take a wedge out and hit a chip or pitch shot at a target on the range. So, next time you practice, consider organizing your practice with a bucket of fifty balls around these four styles. Use the first fifteen balls for quality block practice. Put down an alignment stick, work on set-up and your swing mechanics or something technical from a lesson you had with an instructor. Be deliberate, take a lot of practice swings and concentrate on the technical moves. For the next fifteen balls, shift gears into random practice, changing clubs and targets on the range. Concentrate more on the feel and the target. Then, for 10 balls, have some fun and do variable practice working on different curves and trajectories. Finish the last 10 balls with simulated play-style practice. You will start getting the most out of your time and the scores will no doubt start to come down!

OTL / PUTT FOR DOUGH

Receiving Unemployment Benefits STORY BY : AUSTIN ASSET

We are faced with an unprecedented time in our history. COVID-19 has impacted us in ways unforeseen. And for many, this is the first time they have found themselves without employment. Below are answers to some common questions regarding unemployment benefits. Am I eligible? Although specific eligibility requirements vary from state to state, most states have the same basic standards for collecting unemployment benefits. They include: • You must be unemployed or working less than full time • You must meet certain income requirements • You must be ready, willing, and able to work • You must have involuntarily left your job In general, you won’t be eligible for benefits if: • You quit your job simply because you didn’t like it • You’re fired for committing a crime (e.g., stealing) • You’ve never worked before For more information, contact your state’s local employment office. You can also look in the state government section of your phone book under Unemployment Insurance, Unemployment Compensation, Employment Insurance, or Employment Service. Or, you can try surfing the Internet using these same key terms. Where does the money come from? In most states, unemployment compensation is financed by employer contributions through a payroll tax. In a few states, employees are also required to contribute a minimal amount to the fund. How do I apply? Most states will allow you to apply for benefits: • In person • By telephone • By mail When filling out the application, you’ll be asked a lot of questions, so have the following information handy:

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• Your Social Security number • Your last employer’s name, address, and phone number • Your last day of work and the reason that you’re no longer working • Your salary history • Your proof-of-citizenship status How are benefits calculated? Regardless of which state you live in, you’ll receive a weekly unemployment benefit based on how long you were employed and your prior wages. The state will calculate your average weekly wage, and you will receive a percentage of that wage based on your state’s formula. You can figure out your average weekly wage by adding up 12 months’ worth of pay stubs and dividing that number by 52. If you were salaried, just divide your annual salary by 52. How long can I receive benefits? In most states, you can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks. However, federal laws and some state laws provide for additional benefits to be paid to workers who exhaust their regular benefits during periods of high unemployment. These additional benefits may generally be paid up to 14 weeks (20 weeks in some states) and are funded partly by state governments and partly by the federal government. Are unemployment benefits taxable? The answer to this question comes as a big surprise to many people. Yes, the unemployment compensation you receive is generally taxable. In some states, you can ask that taxes be withheld from your unemployment check. This could save you from a big tax bill at the end of the year. For more information, consult your tax advisor. At Austin Asset, we are Fee-Only Financial Advisors. We seek to bring clarity and purpose to wealth through authentic and enduring relationships. For Life.

OTL / DRIVE FOR SHOW

Home Sweet Home Take it to the Open Road, Luxury Motorcoach Travel STORY BY MICHELLE KELLER

The way we travel and the way we live is changing. Masks in public and six feet of distance isn’t a trend, it’s the new normal, at least for now. With cleanliness and safety being at the top of everyone’s list, I can think of no better way to see the world than in the comfort of your own luxury motorcoach or recreational vehicle. Don’t confuse my plan with cousin Eddie’s (Randy Quaid) “tenement on wheels” in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation my friends. Just as travel plans have changed, the world of RV’s has received magnificent transformations. Think more in the direction of Jack Byrnes’ RV (Robert Deniro), in Meet the Parents’ second film Meet the Fockers. Refined and practical with fantastic class, let’s talk about the motorcoach of your dreams. Awarded ‘Best Flightless Private Jet,’ by British GQ, Marchi Mobile’s eleMent and MMpro series is mobility that is tailored to your needs. If you’re looking for a VIP shuttle or an upscale motorhome, Marchi Mobile is the elite. With precise, state-of-the-art materials combined with detail and functionality, this operation combines motor-sports, luxury yachting and aviation, which is notably a first in the land of automotive. In an innovative design, science fiction literally meets reality in the Marchi Element Palazzo. The futuristic exterior design combined with the sharp interior and cockpit-style seating will make you feel like the most important person on the planet. Crafted from marble over 60 mm thick, the outer layer weighs enough by itself to justify the Volvo motor that sits atop the Volvo chassis. Ultimately the best available RV at a cost of 3 million, the latest model includes sensored sliding doors for effortless entry, a rooftop deck complete with expandable dining furniture and every indoor luxury you can visualize. A 600 HP engine, the Newmar King Aire has a fully equipped interior that is a carbon copy of a palatial home.

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This unit offers everything from a completely furnished living room to a kitchen equipped with the latest appliances and a bedroom supplies the ultimate in luxury bedding. Newmar presents four all-new options for its fullpaint Masterpiece™ finish, an industry-exclusive exterior graphics treatment that is carefully applied in-house. You also have your choice among four brand new interior décor palettes and four wood cabinetry stains, which feature a stunning ultra high-gloss finish. With a Harmon Infinity audio system, the sound of music or audiobooks is crystal clear in this motor coach. Wireless charging pads are outfitted in the cockpit along with an additional navigation center on the passenger side. Also a worthy mention is the Samsung notebook that controls the lights, shades, other electronics and many other functionalities. The point of any vacation and/or mini getaway is to relax and be entertained. The King Aire has a list of entertainment options guaranteed to entertain even cousin Eddie’s kids. (I only promised we wouldn’t arrive in a 1972 Ford Condor. Whether or not your family’s cousin Eddie and the kids guest star is your own little red wagon.) An expandable 4K LED Samsung TV will allow you to watch your faves in high definition with a Bose® Bluetooth compatible soundbar that offers. A second Samsung TV is also aboard for multiple viewing, and of course, internet connectivity comes with every package.

drive for show Side awnings, LED lighting and an outdoor entertainment center including another Samsung TV make relaxing outside while Cousin Eddie’s kids and yours torture each other, a relaxing experience. With just over 50 years of experience building high-quality recreational vehicles Newmar handcrafts each of its coaches individually. “We never designed RVs according to what we thought was best. We built the RVs our dealers asked for, based on what our shared customers were asking for from them,” CoFounder Marvin Miller said. “It’s lessons like these that will continue to shape our next half-century, one we will realize with help from each of our carefully selected dealers, highly skilled employees, and incredibly loyal customers.” Now that we’ve toured some examples of your permanent mobile getaway, let’s talk about where you’ll go. The differences between an RV Park and an RV Resort are many, my friends. In 2006’s film “RV”, pressured by work, Bob (Robin Williams), tries to mask a work trip with an adventurous RV trip to the Rocky Mountains with his family. Bob rents an RV from a questionable dealer, which starts a series of hilarious events that Bob must maneuver to keep his work trip a secret from his family. (Don’t be like Bob.) The RV park in the film is just that, a park. On a broader scale, an RV resort offers amenities such as luxury pools, cafes, dining hot spots and much more. In Buellton, California, you’ll love the modern and trendy twist at Flying Flags RV Resort. Attached to the registration office is a cafe with a patio featuring a huge fire pit and cozy environment. Around the corner are a luxury pool and spa with

cabanas and beautifully renovated bathrooms. Aside from these great amenities (and there’s even more – a stage with concerts, yard games, dog park, etc.), Flying Flags has spacious and scenic RV sites, but also cute cottages, vintage trailers, and Airstreams for rent. Located in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, it’s surrounded by breathtaking views, a plethora of wineries, and a short drive to many popular attractions and destinations. Breckenridge, Colorado is an RV destination you can visit any time of the year. It’s one of the few Colorado mountain towns that have a year-round RV resort. Tiger Run RV Resort is only a nine-minute drive from the slopes, so for all you ski enthusiasts, get your snowshoes ready and hit the road. If skiing isn’t your cup of tea, you won’t run out of trails to explore, mountains to climb, and awe-inspiring views. Other mountain towns are at arm’s length, such as Frisco, Copper, and Keystone. A 12-minute drive and you’ll arrive at Dillon Reservoir, where you can paddle and boat in the summer or ice fish in the winter. The fall-changing aspens and clean, crisp Colorado air will be good for your skin and your mood. Tiger Run RV Resort’s location is undeniably everything you’ll need for your visit to Breckenridge. An indoor pool, two indoor spas, a common campfire area, a workout room, a cozy club room, a business center, and a game room assure your stay in complete comfort. Friends, these are certainly only a few of the places you can travel to aboard a luxury motorcoach.

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Long bone dr y-aged

PHOTO BY NURAY TAYLOR

Dining Rooms Divider s.

Dinning r oom (pr e-COVID).

As far back as the 1820s in the United States (Delmonico’s), and a bit further back in France (1760’s - Boulanger), naming an eatery after yourself has been a pretty common thing. It signifies pride of ownership and pride in the quality of the food being served. To me, though, naming a restaurant after your parents is far more intimate and, in addition to pride, undoubtedly carries love and honor.

Chef Chris.

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Potatoes. n 2018, when famed Houston Chef Chris Shepherd transformed his wildly popular restaurant, Underbelly, into a (now) wildly popular steakhouse, he named the restaurant after Georgia (mom) and James (dad). Additionally, as the Steakhouse project was something Chris had wanted for a while, it was important that it keep his passion for authenticity and quality. The restaurant’s credo is they “serve the food Chris cooks at home—cast-iron seared steaks, lots of cold seafood and seasonal sides.” Though best known for his various Underbelly related projects, Chris has been feeding Houston very well from wonderful places as far back as the late 1990s. He started his fine dining career at Brennan’s of Houston, staying seven years at the esteemed satellite restaurant. In 2006, he opened Catalan Food & Wine, which was named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants in America. (John Mariani’s 2006 write-up alone will make you hungry and nostalgic.) Chef Chris’s personal and restaurant accolades have been a steady crescendo ever since. In 2011, Time Magazine named Underbelly the “most anticipated new restaurant in America,” and in 2013, the 32

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restaurant received praise in the New York Times. In the same year, Chris was named a Food & Wine Magazine ’Best New Chef.’ 2014 brought a highly coveted, Best Chefs in America (Southwest) award from the James Beard Foundation (he was also a Semifinalist, James Beard - Outstanding Chef 2019) It’s important to note that in 2015, in the middle of great personal success, Chris launched a charitable foundation called Southern Smoke. It was initially chartered to support folks with multiple sclerosis after a friend and former sommelier Antonio Gianola was diagnosed with the disease. In 2017 the organization shifted its focus to support the vast numbers of people in the food and beverage community impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Fast forward to 2020, and Southern Smoke has again been of tremendous help to the food and beverage community now drastically affected by the Covid economy. To date, Southern Smoke has distributed more than $6.1 million—both directly to people in need via the Emergency Relief Fund and to organizations that represent the needs of people in the industry. As Chris says it, Southern Smoke was

Center Cut King Crab Legs

Bacon Sausage and Hash Browns

PHOTO BY NURAY TAYLOR

created to “take care of our own.” It was this last bit of amazing information that had brought Chris and his Underbelly Hospitality Group to the attention of a friend. We had both started following the fantastic food pictures from both Georgia James and One Fifth Houston over the last few months, and after a few months of various levels of lockdown, we decided to meet in Houston and check out Georgia James. We took a short Uber from our downtown, virtually empty hotel to the Montrose district restaurant. A long corridor past a beautiful glassed-in wine cellar brought us to the reception desk. There is a hard to define friendliness to the staff at Georgia James. It’s not overt; it seems to be a very genuine comfortable friendliness. I’d experienced it a few weeks before over the phone and got the same impression in person. Though the farmhouse look of Underbelly has completely given way to mid-century modern wood and Art Deco metalwork, the thoughtful home cooking and comfort touches have remained. Dinner menus were in keeping with most restaurants these days, and a quick snapshot of the QRcode brought us

W i n e c e l l a r.

Raw Silver Bells Oyster s. O T L G O L F. C O M

Te j a s H e r i t a g e C h i c k e n

to the very straightforward offerings for the night (a nice touch was the center monogram with the beautiful Art Deco “GJ.”) Though the focus of the restaurant is undoubtedly the superb dry or wet-aged steaks, the “beginnings,” entrées, and sides have the splendid diversity that Chris has made his hallmark. “Viet-Cajun” Roasted Oysters share the space with ‘Collard Greens and King Crab Dip.’ Chicken Thigh Yakitori is in the column just to the left of the French Onion Soup. An impressive “Raw Bar” section features East and Gulf Coast oysters, Tuna tartare with Sweet Gochujang (Korean chili sauce), toasted peanuts and sesame, and various King Crab and Shrimp options just to make decisions difficult. Being a steakhouse, the traditional “Slab Salad” made with iceberg lettuce, black pepper buttermilk, Shropshire blue cheese, and lardons is the featured salad along with a Caesar and a local farm mixed green. With four of us at dinner, we managed to spread the selections around a bit. An option for a later date will have to be the “Baller Boards,” large charcuterie boards filled with various steak and seafood entrées for sharing. (though ask for a bigger table if if that’s your plan for the evening) One delightful surprise happened early in the meal; at the center of our table was a small ramekin with a lit, floating wick. When bread was brought to our table, the wick was removed, and we were surprised to be told that the oil was indeed beef drippings and we could use it for our bread! (still smile about that) 34

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On to dinner - I have a particular fondness for east-coast oysters, and the Massachusetts Silver Bells available that evening were perfect; meaty, mild brine, and delicious. I really like a cold Chablis with fresh oysters, and Sommelier Jeffrey Young recommended a fine 2018 Domain Louis Michel Vaillons Premier Cru. There were beautiful citrus notes, white flowers, and peach; overall, it was an excellent pairing. Some of the best steaks I have ever had were dryaged, and the (65 day) Long Bone Ribeye was definitely my first choice for the meal. At 30 ounces, it was easily sharable and was neatly carved tableside. Two of our companions selected wet-aged ribeyes, accompanied with the largest King Crab Legs I’ve ever encountered - only the largest center sections seemed to be served (none of the tapered ends.) They were presented cleanly cut in half and served with garlic butter for dipping. One of the key elements to Georgia James’ success (and indeed all of Chris’s properties) is sourcing their products. All the steaks on the menu (except the Wagyu) were from 44 Farms in Cameron, Texas. The family-owned ranch has been in business since 1909 and is recognized as one of the country’s premier Black Angus producers. Sustainable methods emphasizing livestock health and responsible pasture management are in keeping with Chef Chris’s whole philosophy about the food he serves. In all cases, the beautiful steaks were prepared as advertised, in cast iron pans.

Roasted Banana Pie. A steakhouse can really shine with great sides, and at Georgia James, most of them seem to have a Southern accent. We tried the flavorful Brown Butter Mushrooms, enjoyed the elegant Sweet Potato & White Cheddar Gratin, but the Smashed & Fried New Potatoes with green garlic aioli was simply one of the most delicious dishes I’ve ever had. Our waiter had suggested them, and we completely understand why. Wine is one of my favorite pastimes; I collect it, I study it, and I love sharing it with friends, so it’s always a pleasure to peruse a new wine list. Though a separate QRcode would link me to the drinks and wine menu, our waiter was kind enough to bring me a (fiftypage) bound copy. Somm Jeffery had explained that the general direction of the wine collection is towards smaller, family wineries, but the cellar does host some very celebrated houses. For the seafood and various appetizers, the list has over seventy white wines from France, California, Austria, Germany, and Italy, including some familiar names but many new to me. (A cool surprise was even a white wine from Armenia!) As we were in a steakhouse, the best part for me was seeing the nearly three hundred reds from various regions of the world, some with good vertical selections. The list is wonderfully heavy on the various regions of France; Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Côte du Rhône, but contains many notables from California, Italy, and Spain. Various vintages of Domaine de la Romanée Conti, Chateau Margaux, and Colgin are available for the deepest of pockets, but many reasonable favorites like Chateau Ferrier, Haut Bergy, and Clos L’Eglise are thankfully available. In addition to cocktails and a good selection of Texas craft beers, Georgia James has a massive selection of American Whiskeys, Bourbons, French Brandies, three

pages of Scotch alone, and an impressive selection of Japanese Whiskey. With our dry-aged steak, I went a little more dear than usual and selected a 2009 Calon Ségur; 2009 being an excellent Bordeaux vintage and the celebrated Saint Estephe house getting some of the very highest ratings for that year. The wine was marvelous and interestingly had a different blend than usual. The 2009 was 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, with only 7% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot. Throughout, there were notes of wet earth, tobacco, and spice followed by black fruit/black currant. It was enjoyed throughout the meal, getting better as the evening progressed. The last part of our dinner was on par with the rest. We ordered the We ordered the Roasted Banana Pie, a silky Panna Cotta with a raspberry sauce, and a one in our group opted for a plain (but delicious) bowl of vanilla ice cream. Earlier in the evening, I had noticed a Tokaji on the menu and decided to treat our table to the 2007 Királyudvar Furmint Sec. When we think of history in the U.S., we think in terms of our founding in 1776 or perhaps Pilgrims in the early 1600s — hundreds of years seeming significant time. The scale is so different for things European as the crazy thing about Királyudvar is that the estate has been making wine as far back as the 11th century and supplied wine to the Hapsburg court. The nose was flowers and citrus from the very start and had enough acid to balance the sweet nature of Tokaji. At the end of a beautiful evening, in perhaps a different way than planned, I think we absolutely got the diversity of experience that is the driving force of Chef Chris Shepherd. Georgia James is at 1100 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006.

A Selection of Sides. O T L G O L F. C O M

The New Year is here and the first step to optimize your performance and being more consistent is checking all your clubs. Now is the perfect opportunity to

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Make sure your shaft weighting and length are the right fit for you. Technology has improved dramatically in the last couple of years, especially in shafts. You may be losing 10 – 20 possible yards!

If you have any doubts on selecting your clubs, please go to an accomplished and reputable club fitter. Get fit outside on real grass where you can see the ball in flight and know it is hit solid. Hitting into a net off artificial turf can be very misleading. Lastly, the fitter must use good technology and understand the data provided.

STEP III

Have the lie and loft checked on all your clubs. Often, pulls, pushes, hooks and slices can all be traced to your clubs lie angle. Look at your divots to see if the heel or toe is deeper. The lie angle of your hybrids and fairway woods are equally important. The lofts of your irons should have 4 degrees between each number. Wedges may vary 3 – 5 degrees between them.

STEP VI

STEP IV

Have the frequency of all your shafts checked. Make sure the shaft stiffness is consistent throughout the set. Your shot pattern, direction and the yardage gaps between clubs should be consistent.

Your hands are your only connection to the club. If your grips are worn or slick, your ability to control the club can be reduced up to 60%. Tension is one of the greatest destroyers in the swing and tension or grip pressure can be directly tied to poor grips. You should regrip your clubs a minimum of once a year. If you play three or more times a week, you should regrip them more often.

STEP II I

STEP I

Putter heads are mostly made of soft metal and bend easily. You should check the lie and loft at least twice a year. The lie angle is important to solid contact and aim. The loft is important to controlling your speed and can vary according to the position of your hands and stroke style. If your ball is bouncing or skidding too much, your loft needs adjusting. Your putter’s grip style and size are also important. If you are too handsy with your stroke, get a larger grip. If you are having trouble with your release, go with a smaller one. Also, have a professional check the length and weighting of your putter to make sure it fits you best.

check your grips, shaft flex, weight and length, club head lie angle, loft and bounce. Your putter is the most valuable club in your bag and often the most neglected.

STEP V

OTL / BUCK’S TIPS

DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS IN YOUR BAG?

Buck Mayers is the Director of Instruction at Escondido Golf & Lake Club in Horseshoe Bay, Texas and is a PING Top 100 Club Fitter and a Best in State Golf Instructor with Golf Digest.

PHOTO BY DANIEL MILCHEV

Mountain Golf and Raw Nature Beckon in Colorado’s Luxe Vail Valley STORY BY CARL MICKELSON

Texans vacationing in Colorado… I get it, it’s a well-worn cliché. To be perfectly honest, I never can tell if the locals are celebrating our enthusiasm for the Centennial State or merely tolerating us. My apologies, but so much about an escape to the majestic Rocky Mountains just feels like home-- or, at least a comforting home-away-from-home.

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rom the cool, crisp mornings to the majestic alpine views and hikes along a roaring creek, you can’t help but be inspired by nature when you’re face to face with the ageless Rockies. My favorite childhood vacations were Full-Griswold-Mode road trips across this ruggedly beautiful state. If a landmark was in that dog-eared travel guide, we stopped there. If the stream was running, we took a dip in it. If a chipmunk was minding its own business, we chased it. Time stood still on those trips and whatever was going on back in the city might as well have been happening in another galaxy. Now that our kids are sturdy enough for “real” travel, it’s my turn to play Clark Griswold like my dad faithfully did for us in that reliable old Mercury. On our recent trip to the idyllic Beaver Creek Resort village, however, we discovered the

singular genius of booking the Colorado Mountain Express airport shuttle from Denver International. An uncommonly jovial and informative driver took us on the two-hour drive westward in a pristine, wi-fi equipped SUV. No arguing over GPS routes or cramming too much luggage into a rental car was necessary. Our only worry was not shanking the Starbucks order at the halfway pit stop just past Idaho Springs. With a full day still in front of us, we checked into the posh Osprey at Beaver Creek, a boutique hotel just steps from both the stunning Beaver Creek village and the Strawberry Park Express Ski Lift. Wellness and a cozy, familiar warmth are hallmarks of the guest experience at the Osprey. Depending on your mood, the elegant, shady poolside area and a small pub called the Osprey Lounge (featuring a solid offering of local craft brews) compete neck-and-neck for hottest spots at this quaint chalet.

PHOTO BY JACK AFFLECK

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PHOTO BY JACK AFFLECK

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A short walk from the Osprey’s port cochere is the open-air Beaver Creek Resort village, modeled after the quintessential Swiss alpine village of St. Moritz. An inviting and lushly-adorned collection of shops, galleries, restaurants and entertainment venues, the village is nerve center of Beaver Creek. At once, this complex feels like a friendly small town and Disneyland for adventure seekers. Our crew quickly gravitated to the bevy of kids’ activities near Beaver Creek’s expansive great lawn like the Bungee Trampoline, gem panning, Climbing Wall and mini golf course. Months later, my kids still think they may have struck it rich. An inspiring dinner of pan-seared scallops over rich risotto, hand-made pastas and decadent Italian wine at local favorite, Toscanini capped a perfect first day. OK, tiramisu and berry-topped crème brulee were the real cappers. You got me. Up before dawn the next morning, it was on to the eye-popping Beaver Creek Golf Club, a strategic Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed carved along the exhilarating slopes of Beaver Creek Mountain. This layout has one of the coolest opening sequences of holes in recent memory as the first four holes beckon you into a mountain-framed forest, accented by an ever-present gently-running creek. RTJ Jr. makes you play the angles with numerous diagonal targets—even on the course’s more open holes-- but it’s the scenery that carries the day on this unforgettable 6,784-yard delight. Plan for multiple photo opportunities and save your best for last as this course closes with two demanding par 4s that climb their way back to the stately clubhouse.

A GOLFER PARADISE

One of the finest perks of staying at one of the properties within Beaver Creek Resort is access to the top-ranked Tom Fazio- and Greg Norman-designed courses at the outstanding Red Sky Ranch Golf Club in nearby Wolcott. At more than 7,600 feet in elevation, the 7,113-yard, par-72 Fazio Course at Red Sky Ranch showcases seemingly-endless panoramas of neighboring mountain ranges as the routing plunges through sage-lined hillsides and into a lush Aspen forest. The landscape is dramatic but, in classic Fazio fashion, the challenges are all right in front of you. Ample fairways, bold bunkering and large greens all showcase stellar conditioning. “Tour-quality” hardly does the putting surfaces justice. Tee-togreen, the manicuring is beyond perfect. “These greens have a lot of character and it takes some folks some getting used to putting on greens that roll this perfectly. They really roll beautifully,” says head golf professional Chris Lai.

Red Sky Ranch’s Norman Course is a more daring and daunting design from tee to green. Forced carries over juniper groves, meandering arroyos and sagebrush put a demand on shotmaking. However, the greens and Bentgrass green surrounds are gentle and allow for creative short game shots. At a staggering 7,580 yards from the tips, this course can seem overwhelming and overwhelmingly beautiful at the same time. Many holes play downhill and the course seems to get more manageable as the round continues. The aspen grove framing the back of the par-3 10th green is post-card worthy and is a perfect sneak peek into the wonderfully scenic holes that follow. “The second nine on the Norman Course is my favorite nine-hole stretch in Colorado, followed by the back nine on the Fazio,” Lai says. If you fancy yourself a connoisseur of mountain golf, Red Sky Ranch is bucket-list material.

PHOTO BY JEFF ANDREW

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Beyond the superb golf, the best tip we got was to carve out an afternoon to go nuts at the Epic Discovery adventure park located in the Vail Ski Resort. If all we did was ride the thrilling Forest Flyer mountain coaster over and over, it would have been worth the gondola ride to the 9,000ft elevation. Throw in zipline rides, tube slides, ropes courses and climbing towers and you’ve got one of the most clever twists on an amusement park you’ve seen in a good while. This attraction is a must on a visit to the Vail Valley. Back at the village of Beaver Creek, we’re lounging near the popular and expertly-groomed ice rink and having one of those chill family moments we never seem to get enough of when a local busker starts his evening set. I hardly notice as he coolly shuffles from John Mayer to Bob Marley to John Denver. I have to turn around, though, as he eases into the under-appreciated John Prine rarity “Storm Windows.” Down on the beach, the sandman sleeps… He’s won a fan. Time don’t fly it bounds and it leaps. I see my kids growing more long-legged and wise and I can’t deny time’s wild persistence. But for right now, nestled here in the rapturous Rockies, it always seems to stand perfectly still.

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One more easy morning hike along the soothing creek that frames this luxe mountain community and we’re ready to reluctantly pack for the journey back to Denver. To end the trip on a relaxing note, we made a one-night stop at the stately Omni Interlocken Hotel in the booming Denver suburb of Broomfield. Two large outdoor pools kept us entertained and soothed in the impressively-landscaped setting until it was time for dinner and pre-season football viewing in the resort’s energetic Tap Room. One of the most expertly-operated golf complexes this side of Pinehurst awaits two miles from the hotel footprint. The Eldorado, Vista and Sunshine nines showcase a variety of hilly and demanding holes laid out by Graham-Panks International. Mountain views and wide panoramas make for a memorable round. The 390-room Omni Interlocken specializes in corporate groups and conventions while keeping the guest experience fun. I suppose there are skiers and snowboarders who could not imagine spending any season other than winter in this outdoor paradise. For me, though, summer’s when Colorado shows its true colors. Reflecting on our time in Beaver Creek, we can’t help but wonder what we’ll come back to explore in future summers. To plan a Vail Valley adventure of your own, visit Beavercreek.com.

PHOTO BY JACK AFFLECK

OTL / THE SWEET SPOT

RENO

“The Biggest Little City In The World” 48

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the sweet spot

What a time to be in Reno! The economy is booming. The housing market is prosperous. The scenery is breathtaking and the outdoor activities are endless. You literally have the best of all worlds. STORY BY KELLY VOHNN

eno is approximately 22 miles from Tahoe where hiking, camping, snowboarding, skiing, swimming and boating is just a normal part of life. Reno was originally known for one of the few places in the United States that allowed divorces, gambling, low taxes and easy access into California. Before the 1950’s it was known as the gambling capital of the US. Reno was quite the flourishing little town until the 1980’s when Indian gaming laws eased off and really started to affect casino revenue a few short years later. Then the “Great Recession” hit and the town just took a nose dive. Casinos were closing down with “Good Luck” signs posted on their chained doors. My daughter was going to UNR at the time (University of Nevada, Reno). I felt horrible for her attending school there at such a devastating time. She managed just fine. Several companies started to notice Reno and its vast empty surrounding areas and its inexpensive real estate. Tesla’s Gigafactory is the largest building in the world at 5.8 million square feet located in Tahoe Reno Industrial Center (TRI) which is the largest industrial center in the world. Companies like Apple, Google, Switch and Back-

space who is building a $422 million data center right beside Apple are quickly buying up real estate with some handsome incentives. With this huge growth, Reno may have to change their slogan. I really don’t know how much longer remains for them to be known as a “Little City”. A few years ago the city started to aggressively market themselves as Tahoe Reno and people from all walks of life are taking notice. I was a little worried about their water when it came to my daughter’s and son in law’s health who love residing in Reno. I was very happy to find out their water supply comes from the Truckee River which is fed by Lake Tahoe, one of the cleanest lakes in the world. Not only is it great drinking water, the Truckee River runs right into the downtown area making the city picturesque. The city invested $1.5 million into the river water park making it easily accessible for kayaks, tubing and all sorts of fun water sports bringing life to the downtown area. So whether you’re looking for a new vacation destination or a new home, Tahoe Reno should definitely be on your list. The activities around the city are endless including the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West”. If you’ve never been to a rodeo, you have to add this to your bucket list! They’re so much fun. Drop into Pizza Reno and say hi to Bob on your next visit and tell him Kelly sent you.

O T L G O L F. C O M

The Fine Art of Living: Boot Ranch Golf Club STORY BY MARC HALL

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One of Texas’ most desirable private golf club communities has somehow gotten even better. Fredericksburg’s magnificent Boot Ranch community is quickly blossoming into the thriving Hill Country community its original developer- former PGA Tour star Hal Suttonenvisioned. Living there, or joining Boot Ranch Golf Club, is discovering the difference between having it all and having more than you could have ever envisioned.

ince purchasing Boot Ranch in 2015, Terra Verde Group and Wheelock Street Capital has invested more than $6 million in posh community amenities, striking golf course improvements (overseen by Sutton) and alluring real estate offerings. “A dozen years into this luxury community’s history, it feels like the beginning of a wonderful new era,” says marketing director Barbara Koenig. “We’re seeing record real estate sales thanks to our ownership’s commitment to making Boot Ranch the premier private golf club community in Texas.” A family-friendly Lake Club opened in 2017 on the spring-fed Longhorn Lake, complete with treehouses, jumping platforms and plenty of room to fish and swim. A twomile hike and bike trail leads from the Lake to Ranch Club, its four pools and resort-style gathering spaces. The new five-acre Metzger Park greenspace will be the centerpiece of the community’s newest residential enclave. “Our latest amenities are in-tune with the family-focused desires of our members,” Koenig adds. Only a couple of miles from charming and historic downtown Fredericksburg and famous Enchanted Rock, Boot Ranch’s 2,050-acre luxury community has been art-

fully etched into the quintessential Texas Hill Country splendor surrounding it. The 55,000-square-foot castle-like Clubhouse Village sits high on a bluff, revealing 25-mile views of alluring hills, creeks, meandering oaks, stone formations and rapturous panoramas that somehow exhilarate and soothe your senses all at once. Originally opened in 2006, Boot Ranch was conceived as a destination club and residential community that combined the best elements of all the greatest clubs Sutton had visited and admired (and he’s seen them all). Today, Boot Ranch is widely considered one of the top 10 layouts in the state and the club’s amenities, unique infrastructure and concierge-level service make the community stand tall as one of the most desired zip codes for golf-minded homebuyers and anyone who’s dreamed of living the ultimate Texas Ranch lifestyle. The panoramic Hill Country setting gives Boot Ranch Golf Club an almost-unfair advantage in comparison to other elite golf designs in the state. Legend Jackie Burke once told Sutton “God sure used a lot of paint brushes when he painted this landscape.” The 7,155-yard Hal Sutton signature design winds through a setting so hilly and picturesque, you feel as though you should be taking all that beauty in on horseback. This is the rugged, inspiring beauty that’s made the Hill Country famous.

O T L G O L F. C O M

Clubhouse Aerial.

“The first time golfers play this course, it seems more about taking in all the natural beauty than shot values, but they soon discover this is an exceptional championship layout that challenges you and holds your attention for all 18 holes,” says director of golf Emil Hale. “Whether you’re a scratch player of a 30-handicapper, the golf course is fun to play and the setting is just one-of-a-kind.” The golf course is the essential blend of everything experienced golfers have come to love about playing in the Texas Hill Country. Plunging elevation changes, vistas that go on for days, rippling creeks and rock outcroppings pull you into nature like few other settings can. The memorable par threes, elevated approaches and strategic fairway designs (that are generous but demanding) make Boot Ranch a great shotmaker’s course. The native areas have been thinned out and the bunkers have been reshaped, relined and filled with an attractive new White Bunker sand blend. “The golf course is more playable for the average golfer now,” says Hale. “Many bunkers have been reduced in size and the roughs have been reduced so it’s 52

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easier to find and play your ball when you miss the fairway.” The green formation on the short parfour 4 10th, with its waterfalls and cavernous creek fronting the putting surface, will you wanting to stay around to chip and putt there for hours. A new stocked fishing station just beyond the green supports that notion. This hole was the filming location for a pivotal scene in the golf film Seven Days in Utopia, based on the popular book by local and Boot Ranch member Dr. David L. Cook. Three meticulously-appointed Comfort Stations have been added along the course to enhance the round and show off the local cuisine. An unbelievable spot on the course where you can spend hours is the 34-acre practice park. Inclusive of a finely-groomed short course and massive driving range, this practice area is the envy of every club, or even golf academy, in the nation. A 35,000-sq-ft Chet Williams-designed Putting Park (the largest in Texas) recently opened at Boot Ranch in the Metzger Park section, which

features greenspaces and will be the eventual home of Boot Ranch’s General Store. Boot Ranch marries the best of ranch living with modern luxury, with three an array of options for discerning homebuyers. Home sites range in price from around $250,000 to $2,500,000 (1/2-acre – 18 acres) inclusive of club membership, with custom floor plans ranging from 2,500 to 15,000 square feet. One of the newest offerings within Boot Ranch is the Village Homes, which each comprise three luxury condominium residences priced from $1,250,000 to more than $2 million. House-Lot Packages from preferred builders, who specialize in the coveted local architecture, start at about $1.25 million. An innovative, multi-structure offering, the Overlook Cabins are on 1/2 to 1-1/2 acres properties with floorplans ranging from 1,800 to 4,000 sq ft, including lot, membership and completed structure of from one to four bedrooms. These homes are designed in the traditional Fredericksburg architecture, mirroring the native stone and beloved farmhouse design seen in the area’s historic homes. Fractional ownership is available in one of several “Sunday Houses,” built as an homage to the small homes that area settlers built in Fredericksburg for use on their visits into town to attend stock up on food and supplies Saturdays before attending church on Sundays. Each Sunday House at Boot Ranch is actually a five-building complex clustered around a central courtyard, with four individual bedroom suites and a central “Gathering House.” Each Gathering house features a fully-equipped chef-designed kitchen, a fireplace, room for large family gatherings, and large wrap-around porches for taking in the stunning views and sunsets.

H o l e 2 G r e e n C o n t o u r.

Hole 1.

Hole 9 Green and Lake Final. O T L G O L F. C O M

Fredericksburg is growing in exciting directions. Still one of the most captivating and charming small towns in the South, this German village-inspired town is home to a thriving art scene, a farm-to-table culinary movement and, most noticeably, it’s become home to a wealth of high-quality and popular wineries, including the award-winning family-owned Messina Hof Hill Country Winery. “The quality of life here is hard to describe without sounding like you’re exaggerating, but it’s really incomparable,” says Koenig. Just 75 miles from San Antonio and 85 miles from Austin on scenic routes, Boot Ranch is easily accessible and worth the drive. Just as it does on island time, the clock ticks noticeably slower in the intoxicating Texas Hill Country. And, man, those sunsets... If you think you’ve seen one finer than the ones enjoyed from the fireside terrace of Boot Ranch’s Clubhouse Village, you owe it to yourself to get there and compare. Visit BootRanch.com to learn more about the singular Hill Country experience offered at Boot Ranch.

Far ahead of its time and Texas’ current population boom when it first opened, Boot Ranch recently reported record highs for home and property sales. “We’re passionate about the notion that Boot Ranch is the most beautiful place in the Texas Hill Country. It’s the perfect setting for this resort-caliber community where owners can golf, fish, dine, swim, relax and generally enjoy the Texas outdoors,” says Koenig. “Many people say they just want to get their kids and grandkids out of the city, even if for only a few days or weeks at a time.” Owner and member privileges include access to the immaculate 55,000-square-foot Clubhouse Village (beautifully designed in rustic native stone and hand-etched timbers that recall Tuscan village elegance), casual and fine dining with Executive Chef Casey McQueen, a fullystocked wine cellar, golf shop, ReStore Spa & Fitness Center, the 4.5-acre Ranch Club with pavilion, pools, tennis and sports courts, 10 member/ guest lodge suites, a trap and skeet range overlooking Longhorn Lake, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and fishing.

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OTL / ON YOUR GAME 56

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on your game

Straight talk with Hank Haney STORY BY LEONARD FINKEL

Leonard Finkel: Hank, you’re one of the top golf instructors in the world. Why do you think you’re so successful? Hank Haney: I think the reason I’ve been successful at golf instruction is because I’m just a hard tryer. I’ve always tried really hard. I’ve tried to learn. I’ve tried to understand everything I could about coaching the golf swing. I’ve been very good at making a plan. If you’re going to get better at anything, you have to have a plan. A step-by-step roadmap that takes you from where you are to where you want to be, or where you possibly could be. I’ve always been plan oriented; have a step-by-step plan and stick to that plan. Those would be my two keys to success. I started off with Mark O’Meara and he was my first student. He’s a perfect example of executing a plan. This was his second year on Tour. He was 124th on the money list and as I stood there, he asked if I was going to say anything. This was at Pinehurst Hotel and Country Club and finally I said let’s go inside. We’ll sit down and we’ll talk about what your plan should be. He said Hank, I don’t have time for that. He said he was going to lose his Tour card so could I just give him some advice. I said no, let’s talk about what your plan should be and see if you want to commit to it. We went inside and talked. It made sense to him. He started to follow my plan and two years later he finished second on the money list. It’s a perfect example of making sure you have a plan and then working it. Finkel: You worked with what a lot of people consider the most talented golfer of all time, Tiger Woods. What was that like and what did that experience mean to you? Haney: First, as a coach of anything, if you have an opportunity to work with a player like Tiger Woods, it’s an opportunity of a lifetime. It meant so much to me. It really validated my whole career. To be honest with you, just to get that opportunity to coach him was a highlight, as was being able to watch him have great success while I was

helping him. He won 45 percent of his tournaments. He was top 10, 85 percent of the time. So, to see that kind of success was just further validation of what I had done my whole career. It was an incredible opportunity, a great learning experience because with Tiger there was an opportunity to look up close and personal at someone that was arguably the greatest player ever. I mean, it’s Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. It was a great experience for me as a coach and obviously something I’ll never forget. Finkel: How would you assess his comeback now? Haney: I feel like Tiger is playing very, very well. I think his comeback has gone incredibly well considering where he was. And it’s not just the injuries but the inactivity for so long. He’s been on and off injured, scandals and so forth since 2008. He had the big layoff with his ACL and his broken leg after the U.S. Open. He’s out there playing without pain, at least relatively speaking, and he can swing again. And I think he is going to win more golf tournaments. I think he is going to win another Major. For a 42-year-old professional athlete who’s had four knee operations and five or six back operations, he’s doing pretty darn good. Finkel: Let’s go from maybe the best player of all time to someone with possibly the worst swing ever. What was it like working with Charles Barkley? Haney: It was great. It was phenomenal working with Charles. He’s one of my favorite people in the whole world. He’s a great person, a role model for how every celebrity and sports personality should act and treat people. He says hello to everybody. He takes pictures with everybody. He looks every little kid straight in the eye, tells them to do good in school. I’ll tell you, he loves golf. He’s not very good at it. That’s an understatement, but he loves the game and the game loves him. He plays the American Century Celebrity Championship in Tahoe every year. It’s his big tourna-

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ment, and he is by far the number one celebrity there. Not so good at golf, but you know, that’s why we called it the Haney Project on the Golf Channel when we had my show. And Charles was my first guy because he’s my lifelong project, and it’s probably going to take at least one lifetime to get him right. Finkel: You’ve had many students on Tour. What was your favorite win for one of your students? Haney: Mark O’Meara. Mark was my first student on Tour. I would say everything that’s great that happened to me in golf, and really in my life, happened because I met Mark O’Meara. When I met Mark at Pinehurst in 1982 at the Hall of Fame Classic, he was 124th on the money list on the PGA Tour. Two years later he was second on the money list. All of a sudden Hank Haney must know something and I’m teaching touring pros. But Mark is my guy that got me started. I’ve taught over 200 touring pros during my career but my highlight moment for sure was Mark O’Meara winning the 1998 Masters. And he followed it up that summer by winning the Open Championship. He won two Majors in the same year and was “Player of the Year” that year. Finkel: And he beat Tiger heads up in that Open. Haney: He beat Tiger at Royal Birkdale. And of course, when Mark got inducted to the World Golf Hall of Fame a couple of years ago, that was another highlight. Mark always said, “I’m not a great player, I’m a really good player.” I texted Mark when he got into the Hall of Fame. I said Mark, they don’t have any good players in the Hall of Fame. They have great players in the Hall of Fame. That’s the one that stands out the most for sure, when he won the Masters by sinking that putt on the last hole. Finkel: Do you believe custom club fitting is important? Haney: It’s always been important but today, the advantages of custom fitting are even more prevalent than ever. You really have an opportunity to optimize your equipment for you. Distance is so important and everybody can achieve more distance with better equipment. We see it with the touring pros. And the opportunity is there with Club Champion Golf. You can get a professional fitting, I mean, a real professional fitting. The advancements we’ve had in equipment and in club fitting are just so incredible, that for somebody not to take advantage of it is a wasted opportunity. Finkel: What about custom fitting on Tour? Haney: You custom fit both clubs and balls. When I was with Tiger, he was reluctant to try the newest things. Even when they would bring the TrackMan out and show him the difference. The only thing he would experiment with would be the golf club, but he

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only would do it around the greens. And we would look to see if the ball would spin more or spin less. That’s where he would start off. Even if they told him how much farther the ball went, he didn’t care. He wanted it to react around the greens. For every player who plays, they have to have a hot button. Maybe it’s greater distance, maybe it’s a better trajectory, maybe it’s more accuracy or maybe it’s more spin or less spin. But you have to hit that spot for that player, and nowhere does it happen more than with touring pros. Finkel: What kind of players do you think benefit from custom club fitting? Haney: Everybody! Everybody benefits from custom club fitting. Whether it’s getting clubs that fit you so that you can have a good set up and a chance to swing a golf club to the best of your ability, or it’s optimizing the equipment you have, a fitting can only help your game. Maybe you have a club that fits you, but are you using the optimal clubs for your distance, accuracy or consistency? There isn’t anyone who can’t benefit from club fitting. It’s one thing that is really hard to understand in golf. People just don’t pay enough attention to their equipment. I guess they just think it’s all the same. But it’s not. If you get the right club for you, it can make a tremendous difference in your golf game. Finkel: Do you see custom club fitting working hand-in-hand with golf instruction? Haney: You have to start with a student that has clubs that fit him, at least from a static measurement perspective. If your clubs don’t fit you with length and lie, then you have no starting point because you can’t get a student to set up to the ball correctly. To me, instruction starts with fixing the person’s big miss and the first thing I want to do is make sure I’m not fighting that player’s equipment. If somebody’s slic-

on your game

ing it or hooking or pulling or pushing it, I want to make sure there’s not something in their equipment contributing to that. Then secondly, is there something with equipment that could help to correct those ball flight mistakes? If you don’t get the equipment right first, then you’re going to have to over-correct in order to get a ball flight change and you don’t want to do that. So definitely, to me the starting point is the club fitting. Finkel: How can you help golfers as they’re getting older? Is there a way instruction can help get back some of that lost distance? Haney: A lot of times with older players, their lost distance has to do with a lack of flexibility. As we get older, we tend to lose flexibility. And if you lose flexibility, you lose length to your swing which reduces clubhead speed. We try to get people motivated to do some stretching, do some yoga to get the length back in their swing. But we also do things instruction-wise that can help make it easier for them to turn. It may be adjusting their foot position or getting them to turn their hips a little bit more or focusing on their hand and arm swing. We might try to get their wrist to hinge more and get the club to swing back. But that’s the one place where players that lose distance could get at least some or even most of it back - if they can regain the length of their swing. Obviously, as we get older, we tend to get slower but there’s not much you can do about that. But you certainly can do something about the length of your swing. That you can recapture. Finkel: Do you see any trends in instruction today and if so, how do you feel about them? Haney: Probably the biggest trends are towards technology. TrackMan, the various launch monitors, force plates, all the bio-mechanical stuff. We can hook

everything up to your body and see exactly what’s going on. There’s definitely a trend in instruction and has been for quite a few years where more information is what’s driving the bus. I think to a certain extent it’s good because it helps people with their diagnosis and helps them figure out exactly what the problem is. One of the tough things though, when you have a lot of information, is how can I apply it and what do I do first? What do I do next? You can only think about so many things when you’re swinging a golf club. You can only think about so many things when you’re giving advice and it has to be a step-by-step process. Sometimes when you get more information, it makes things more complicated. But sometimes when you get more information, it makes things simpler. My goal with instruction is always to make it easier to understand, simpler. So, I try to take technology and turn that into a real positive by simplifying things; just getting down to one or two things somebody needs to think about to fix their ball flight. Because all that really matters at the end of the day is ball flight. Finkel: Do you have other golf-related projects? Haney: I do a lot of different things in golf. I have golf schools in Texas and three different academies in Dallas. I’ve got a public golf course in East Texas. I do a whole video series for Hank Haney University. People get my videos and I do a lot of clinics for club fitting. I did clinics last year for over 15,000 people. I’m active on Twitter where I have 150,000 followers. I’ve got a couple hundred thousand people a week that listen to my radio show. I don’t teach individual lessons anymore, but I probably teach more golf now than I ever have in terms of the reach that I have. Golf’s been so great to me. I feel so incredibly blessed by the events that have happened to me in golf and it’s fun to feel like you’re giving back a little bit. Finkel: What are your passions outside of golf? Haney: I’m a passionate sports fan. I like watching all sports. I’ve spent a lot of time the past couple of years playing Pickleball. I’m a Pickleball fanatic. I’m obsessed with Pickleball. In the summer, I played Pickleball three or four hours a day in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Then I play in Scottsdale the rest of the year. I play Pickleball all the time. I love Pickleball and I’m trying to get better. I have played in tournaments and I’ve got a big one coming up. I won a few of them, and I’m getting better, improving. I study it like golf. I watch videos, I watch all the tournaments online. I took lessons this summer from Tyson McGuffin, the U.S. Open Pickleball champion. Finkel: That’s impressive, Hank. Good luck with your Pickleball career. And thanks for your time. Haney: Thank you

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OTL / WINE

Lagar de Cervera Albariño 2017 STORY BY RICHARD AREBALO FEATURES EDITOR / OTL MAGAZINE

The Rías Baixas region in the northwest corner of Spain just above Portugal benefits from a maritime climate – moist springtimes, hot and fairly dry summers, and relatively mild winters. It also boasts a hilly terrain with rocky granite soil. These features are common in many prominent wine-making areas as they tend to be ideal for grape production, but not as much for other crops. The vineyard of Lagar de Cervera founded in 1982 is in the O Rosal subzone, the inlet farthest south in Rías Baixas, and their vineyards actually cover the northern slopes of the Miño River, across from the popular Vinho Verde region of Portugal. In 1988, famed Rioja wine producers La Rioja Alta purchased Lagar de Cervera and brought their facilities to state of the art. To date, the winery has become one of the star names of the Rías Baixas. Albariño has enjoyed a surge in popularity over the last couple of decades with sommeliers recommending it as a fresh alternative to Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for pairings with seafood. Their relatively good price points also make them popular with diners. Galicia (where Rias Baixas is located) is known for a wide variety of delicious seafood; from classic cod and hake to octopus, spider crabs, and clams. It follows that wines that would complement these dished would develop right alongside.

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The Lagar de Cervera 2017 is considered a very solid wine from an excellent vintage for Spanish wines averaging 89 to 91 ratings on various wines sites. The wine is a pale-yellow and brilliantly clear. It has an intense aroma with tropical notes of citrus, pineapple, and ripe melon. The taste carries through the tropical notes plus ripe green apple and hints of dry grass. The wine has a pleasant buttery mouth-feel from a large portion having undergone malolactic fermentation. True to its varietal, the wine has medium-high acidity with a long persistent finish. Though quite nice on its own, we recently served this wine with both Chicken and Andouille Sausage Gumbo and with traditional Seafood Gumbo and found that it enhanced both dishes beautifully. The Lagar de Cervera like most Albariños is at a very modest price point of about $20, making it an ideal wine for large celebrations or for just having more frequently.

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OTL / TRAVEL

Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek Amazing elegance doesn’t have to be so far away STORY BY LESLIE AWDYKOWYZ

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travel

hen looking for an escape from the mundane routine of life, perhaps it is common to travel to a far away beach or a remote cabin in the mountains; but traveling the distance is not necessary to find an oasis of luxury and beauty at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, located in Dallas, Texas. Recognized as the most celebrated hotel in Texas, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is a world-renowned nine-story luxury property located in the heart of vibrant Uptown Dallas, in a private nook adjacent to the city’s most prestigious residential area, Highland Park. History can be noticed throughout the property as it was originally built as a private estate, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek has a heritage steeped in Dallas culture. The original owners, inspired by worldly travels, embarked on a tour of Europe with their architect, curating antique pieces, authentic fixtures and luxurious materials. In 1925, the opulent manor was complete, including a cantilevered staircase and the first private elevator in Dallas. The architecture is influenced by 16th century Renaissance Italy. Ornate interior décor is inspired by grand estates in Spain, Italy, England, France and elsewhere. For the next 50 years, the palatial estate hosted countless society parties as the center of the Dallas social scene. Famous guests included President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Tennessee Williams. A few decades later, in 1979, the Rosewood Corporation purchased the property and transformed it into a world-class restaurant and hotel. Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, the luxury hotel, was added to complement the original residence, with 143 guest rooms and suites designed with an inviting ambiance.

M a n s i o n G a r d e n C e r e m o ny. N i g h t E x t e r i o r.

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Red Rock Canyon National Conser vatio In 1981, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek opened with a grand gala benefiting the local arts and education communities, an early indication of the hotel’s commitment to philanthropic endeavors. Modern design elements have been introduced throughout the years while preserving historic details. Meticulously restored interiors, hand-carved fireplaces, marble floors and stained-glass windows preserve the estate’s original elegance. Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is a destination for some of the world’s most influential individuals. The hotel’s rich history includes presidents, royals and heads-of-state--President Gerald Ford, President Ronald Reagan, President Jimmy Carter, President George H. W. Bush, President George W. Bush, President Bill Clinton and Margaret Thatch-

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er have all visited. First impressions should be a lasting one, and the hotel entrance does not disappoint in the least bit. A dramatic floral arrangement greets visitors at the entrance to the 32-foot-high marble rotunda leading to an elegantly appointed lobby with chic sofas, beautiful wall coverings, a fireplace and oversized chairs. Continuing the upscale and lavish theme, the guest accommodations reflect the enchanting, residential atmosphere. While the hotel holds many years of history and elegance, all 143 rooms offer modern interior styling, with stately furnishings and local art. Part of enjoying time away from the regular work life and staying home includes indulging in world-class cuisine. The Mansion Restaurant offers impeccable

on area

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Executive Suite with Canopy Bed..

L i b r a r y.

Mansion Pool Night.

service in a setting featuring exquisite European decor along with exceptionally delicious food by executive chef Sebastien Archambault. The Mansion restaurant currently offers American cuisine highlighted by French technique and regional ingredients to add a unique flavor. Although the Mansion Restaurant has a Main Dining room, there are also four other areas where meals can be enjoyed. The Library is adorned with hand-carved wood paneling and stained-glass windows while the Veranda’s high, arched ceiling and Palladian windows are highlighted by the natural sunlight, looking over the terrace and gardens. The Garden Room offers tiled floors and 19th century Spanish cathedral doors, and last but most certainly not least, the Chef’s table is private and ideal for proposals, celebrations and special occasions. Before retiring for the night, one might spend some time at the Mansion Bar which features artisanal craft cocktails, including the famous Mansion Gin & Tonic, a dynamic re-imagination of a classic made with Junipero gin, housemade tonic, Kaffir lime leaf and grapefruit zest. Enjoy music performances from local artists with music styles ranging from jazz and piano to rock. For those who enjoy being outdoors, this estate provides ample space and perfectly manicured lawns lined with trees and plants, along with graceful string lights, ideal for an open-air venue for memorable weddings and special events. The Mansion Lawn, Garden and Swimming Pool are new additions to the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, adorned with Italian inspired architecture throughout the garden and pool area, complementing the original Mansion estate built in 1925. Whether looking for a quiet weekend getaway, or celebrating a special occasion, making the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek your escape to paradise is perfect for any time of the year. Treat yourself to a culinary journey, pamper yourself while enjoying fine wine and take in the exquisite architecture of the carefully designed estate at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek.

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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

BlueJack National 281.475.2166 bluejacknational.com

Lajitas Golf Resort 877.525.4827 lajitasgolfresort.com

Cascata 702.294.2005 golfcascata.com

Omni Resorts omnihotels.com/bartoncreek 512.329.4000

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

Royal Albatross albratross.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

Austin Subaru 512.323.2837 austinsubaru.co

Club Champion 888.842.1320 clubchampiongolf.com

Houston Oaks 936.372.4311 www.houstonoaks.com

Rio Secco 702.777.2400 riosecco.net Sewell 737.255.4100 JaguarNorthAustin.com / LandRoverNorthAustin.com South Padre sopadre.com The Olive Tree Inn 512.210.1210 1310 University Ave. Georgetown TX The George 979.485.5590 thegeorgetexas.com