OTL Vegas Winter Issue 2024

SandfishSushiandWhiskey Eclectic Tastes

Bali Hai, Vegas On the Strip, bet on it.

McKayla Holmes

PXG Clubfitter measures up

Cayman Islands Caribbean Charm

CAYMAN ISLANDS

Unspoiled beauty. A destination that balances the vibrancy of international flavors with serene, uncrowded landscapes, all set against the backdrop of stunning Caribbean charm. Scott Laird

SANDFISH

With his colorful background, chef and founder of Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey, Engin Onural, seamlessly blends dynamic and unexpected ingredients to create exquisite Japanese cuisine. Teresa Traverse

BALI HAI

Bali Hai Golf Club on the Las Vegas Strip, a tropical vibe, top-tier golf and a hint of high steaks. Mike Bailey

MCKAYLA HOLMES

McKayla Holmes is only 24 years old, but already she’s an inspiration to others in golf, especially women. Whether as a PXG clubfitter, manager, mentor to young women or helping other women get comfortable on the golf course. She has a passion to make a difference. Mike Bailey

BRONCO OFF ROADEO

Dare to defy gravity with a heart-racing journey through the Texas Hill Country, where the sky is your only guide. Marc Hall

On 7th Avenue in Phoenix’s hip Melrose District, Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey exudes a vibe that’s as cool as the neighborhood it calls home.

COLUMNS

New Year, new swing. Stronger is always better.

Improving lower body strength and flexibility can significantly impact your swing and overall game.

REAL ESTATE, LIVING ON THE LINKS

The ever-changing tides of the real estate market. Resilience meets innovation, and evolving workspaces are reshaping the way we buy, sell, and live.

DRIVE FOR SHOW

The future of luxury with the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre. Unlock the door to an extraordinary fusion of opulent sustainability and groundbreaking electric performance.

GOLF FASHION

Empowering female beginner golfers: Building confidence and community.

BUCK’S TIPS

Playing good golf requires understanding that the club face, more than the swing path, dictates ball flight.

TRAVEL

Branson, Missouri: Explore Branson’s short courses, resorts, and live entertainment in the Ozarks.

EQUIPMENT WINE

TRUE’s 2024 collection elevates golf wear with innovative footwear and a sleek rain jacket, merging a decade of comfort-focused design with modern style for the course.and beyond.

Uncorking Impressions: Winning over your in-laws with savvy wine knowledge.

CIGAR

The Big Smoke Cigar Event merges the opulence of Sin City with the art of cigar appreciation. A luxurious experience of premium tobacco sampling, expert pairings.community of enthusiasts.

YOGA FOR GOLFERS

From the Publisher

As we warmly embrace the winter season, I’m thrilled to present to you our latest issue, a testament to new beginnings and the boundless potential that each new year brings. Winter, with its serene beauty, reminds us that even in the quietest moments, there’s a bustling undercurrent of transformation and growth.

Speaking of aspirations, the onset of a new year often brings with it resolutions. This year, I encourage you to approach your goals with a blend of ambition and realism. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and the path to success is often a journey rather than a sprint. Set challenging yet achievable goals, and don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s okay to falter; what’s important is your resilience to get back on track. Our time is our most valuable asset – let’s invest it wisely in pursuits that enrich and fulfill us.

This issue also embraces the theme of luxury that transcends seasons. While golf might be seasonal in some areas, the essence of travel and luxury knows no bounds. We bring you stories that highlight yearround splendors, from sun-kissed beaches to snowcapped mountains, reminding us that the world is our playground, regardless of the season.

On a personal note, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some truly remarkable individuals recently. Dare I say, they have made me feel part of a family. Once upon a time, I said, “I have enough family and friends,” I was wrong, there is always room for more love, respect, and quality. Their presence has been a vivid reminder of the importance of the company we keep. I urge you to take a moment to reflect on your surroundings. Sometimes, the key to unlocking our full potential lies not within us but in the environment we cultivate. Challenge yourself to step out of your

comfort zone, whether it’s through exploring new art, diving into unfamiliar books, or changing up your routine. Remember, what we consume – be it through our eyes, ears, or minds – shapes who we are.

To achieve your goals, you must be prepared to set a clear direction and confidently pursue it. However, it’s equally important to possess the awareness, foresight, and flexibility to alter your course if needed, no matter how significant the change might be. This ensures that you’re truly working towards the results you deeply desire, rather than just going through the motions.

Ultimately, the power to make these decisions and to continuously reassess your true objectives lies in your hands.

At OTL’s core, we remain committed to bringing you content that uplifts, inspires, and drives you towards being the best version of yourself. We are your direct link to a world of inspiration and insight, and we promise to continue delivering excellence in every page.

In this spirit, we are excited to introduce a new feature in our magazine – the Real Estate Column. This addition is a celebration of our continual evolution, catering to your diverse interests and aspirations. Real estate is more than just properties; it’s about the dreams and the futures built within them. Welcome to Living, On The Links.

So, as you turn these pages, I hope you find motivation, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose. Here’s to a year of growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences.

Play through.

Sedric Walker • Publisher

WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS 5-9PM

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS 5-10PM

PUBLISHER

Sedric Walker

ART DIRECTOR

Leticia Galarza

FEATURES EDITOR

Richard Arebalo

GOLF

Carl Mickelson

TEACHING PROFESSIONAL

Buck Mayers

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ruta Zilinske

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Teresa K. Traverse, Tomas Zilinskis, Hunter Ham, Mike Bailey, Michelle Keller Alejandra Aguilar

INTERNET & DIGITAL

Mario Rossi

Hide Out in the Cayman Islands

STORY BY SCOTT LAIRD

On the surface, one could be forgiven for thinking of Grand Cayman, the largest of the Cayman Islands, as a typical Caribbean island. After all, it has all the hallmarks—a gorgeous white sand beach, shimmering aquamarine surf, multicultural Caribbean culture.

But visitors who spend time on the island will notice something a bit different from other Caribbean islands, and it’s hard to quite put a finger on it. Perhaps it’s the destination’s commitment to food culture, with a focus on international fusion, local ingredients when possible, and a large expat culinary staff bringing celebrated cooking styles from around the world.

It could also be the uncrowded feeling. Although Grand Cayman receives calls from cruise ships, the local government has thus far resisted building large piers or expansive docking facilities to accommodate the industry’s largest ships. So, for now, cruise tourism is limited to a handful of ships each

day, and generally from medium-sized ships (the large behemoth vessels carry too many passengers to shuttle passengers from offshore, where the ships anchor during their calls).

Or perhaps it’s simply the island’s natural beauty—long preserved. The Cayman Islands were one of the first islands in the Caribbean to designate large portions of land and surrounding ocean as nature preserves, limited impacts from tourism and other commercial development.

Where to Stay

Most of the hotels and resorts on Grand Cayman are clustered along Seven Mile Beach, a wide beach where soft white sand gently slopes into the warm, bright waters of the Caribbean. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven

Westin Grand Cayman. Pool Deck North.

Westin Grand Cayman. Hammock Cabana

Stingray City. Diver, fish and stingrays.

What To Do

One of the most popular activities on Grand Cayman is a visit to Stingray City, a shallow sandbar in the lagoon where stingrays congregate. Visitors can wade into the water and hold the stingrays for photos. Many of the tour operators will include roundtrip transportation from area hotels. Many of the trips to Stingray City (operators range from large group tours to intimate luxury yachts) also make snorkeling stops at a nearby reef.

Another popular stop on many of the dayboat excursions is Rum Point, a white sand beach with shallow waters for wading and calm surf. There are several bars and restaurants lining the beach, and the frozen beverage the Mudslide was invented here in the 1970s. Visitors can spend the afternoon with their toes in the sand enjoying a mudslide or another beverage with beachfront bar fare.

Turtle lovers and families will enjoy the Cayman Turtle Centre. Visitors can stop in for a short visit to see and learn about turtle conservation, and take a photo opportunity with year-old turtles called yearlings, stop into the Predator Reef for close up views inside a shark tank, and visit the aviary to see colorful Caribbean and Grand Cayman endemic birds, including the Cayman Parrot—

the national bird of the Cayman Islands. Longer stays allow for swimming and snorkeling in the Turtle Lagoon and access to the Turtle Twister waterslide.

To explore more nature, visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Visitors can stroll through the Floral Colour Garden, a curated garden of tropical flowers picked for their vibrant colors, followed by The Heritage Garden, designed to showcase plants that figure prominently in the history of the Cayman Islands. There’s also a dedicated orchid garden, which includes four orchid species that are only found on Grand Cayman. But the most popular attraction at the garden is the Blue Iguana Habitat, part of the National Trust’s Blue Iguana Conservation Programme. Here, visitors can see the famous blue iguanas in their captive breeding grounds, which helped bring them back from the brink of extinction.

Where to Dine

The quality and variety of food available on Grand Cayman is some of the best in the Caribbean—in fact, the islands bill themselves as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. The Cayman Islands are known for a large, diverse expatriate workforce—not

PHOTO BY: SCOTT LAIRD

Westin Grand Cayman. Beach Center

only in hospitality, but in other sectors, so the islander’s global tastes are well looked after by a global cadre of culinary professionals, working everywhere from top resorts to local restaurants, offering virtually all types of global cuisine in addition to long cherished Caribbean favorites.

With a visitor profile that skews toward the luxury end, many restaurants are accustomed to serving to top standards. Vegetarians will typically find a number of available alternatives, and most restaurants are eager to accommodate dietary restrictions.

For the island’s largest selection of gins, including its own bespoke Orange Blossom variety, visit Anchor & Den at the Marriott Grand Cayman Resort & Spa. The hotel’s beverage program by famed mixologist David Rios employs the hotel’s selection of gins and other liquors from around the world into complex, inventive flavors.

Visitors should also indulge in oceanfront dining during their visit. Restaurants like The Wharf, Grand Old House, and the laid-back Rackam’s Grill have dining rooms set right over the water, and encourage guests to toss their leftovers to the tarpon fish in the waters below.

Representative dishes of local Caymanian cuisine include Conch Stew (which is the national dish of the Bahamas, but the recipe varies slightly on Grand Cayman), Cayman-Style Lobster (here it’s often curried or cooked with Scotch Bonnet Peppers and hot sauce), or “Heavy Cake” made with cassava root. Other favorites include Fish & Fritters or Cayman-style Beef, which is stewed, shredded, and tossed with hot spices.

One of the best places to seek out Cayman-style cuisine and global gastronomy is at the Camana Bay shopping and dining development.

Good To Know

The Cayman Islands are a self-governing British Overseas Territory. Once part of Jamaica, the islands elected to remain a British Territory after Jamaica declared independence in the 1960s. Culturally, the islands are similar to other parts of the British Caribbean—cars drive on the left (although many of the vehicles are imported from North America, with the steering wheels on the left), and British spellings and vocabulary are used in local language.

The Cayman Islands issue their own currency, the Cayman Islands Dollar, which at press time is worth roughly 20% more than the US Dollar. US Currency is also widely accepted on the island at a set exchange rate.

Many Caymanian business and dining establishments require shoes and coverups over a bathing suit.

Some non-resort restaurants and grocery stores close on Sundays.

Tipping practices in the Cayman Islands are similar to those elsewhere in North America and the Caribbean, although it’s worth noting that many restaurants automatically add gratuity to every check, so be sure to check totals carefully to avoid tipping twice. Otherwise, tip servers and resort staff similarly to how you might in the United States.

Anchor & Den at the Marriott Grand Cayman Resort & Spa. Lobster.

New Year, Better Swing: Stronger is always better

STORY BY WEST MONARCH

As the new year rolls in, it’s time to tee up not just your golf balls but also your fitness routine! Committing to strength and flexibility can significantly enhance your swing, stamina, and overall performance on the greens. Here are three fun and effective exercises to power up your play:

Rotational Lunges with a Twist: Stand tall, step forward into a lunge, and twist your torso toward the front leg. Hold a golf club horizontally in front of you for added resistance. This move mimics

Russian Twist with Medicine Ball: Sit with knees bent, lean slightly back, and hold a medicine ball. Rotate your torso side to side, tapping the ball on the ground. This powerhouse move boosts rotational strength, critical for that perfect swing path and speed.

Remember, consistency is key. Integrate these exercises into your routine, and watch as your game transforms from the fairway to the green. Here’s to a stronger, more agile you on the golf course this year!

Embrace the Journey: Yoga for Golfers

Golfers, it’s time to roll out the yoga mat alongside your golf bag! Enhancing lower body strength and flexibility can significantly impact your swing and overall game. Here are three yoga poses designed to boost your performance from tee to green:

Step into a wide stance, turn your right foot out and left foot slightly in. Bend your right knee and extend your arms parallel to the ground. Gaze over your right hand. This pose strengthens the legs and opens the hips,

From a wide stance, extend your arms and tilt at and lifting your left hand to the sky. This stretch targets the legs, hips, and groin, promoting flexibility crucial for a fluid swing.

Stand with feet together, bend your knees, and lower your hips as if sitting in an invisible chair. Extend your arms overhead. This powerful pose builds leg strength, teaching you to root down and rise up, mirroring the dynamics of a powerful golf drive.

Incorporate these poses into your routine to enhance lower body strength and flexibility. Embrace the journey of yoga, and watch as it brings a calm focus and improved physicality to your game. Namaste and happy swinging!

Enjoy the journey of integrating yoga into your golf training, and may your newfound flexibility and strength lead you to your best game yet.

Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II):

Extended Triangle Pose (Utthita Trikonasana):

Chair Pose (Utkatasana):

STORY BY ORNELLA SHAYA

Navigating the Dynamic Landscape of the 2024 Real Estate Market

STORY BY RUTA ZILINSKE HILL INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Welcome to the vibrant world of Real Estate. As we step into the year 2024, the real estate market continues to be a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, shaped by a multitude of factors ranging from economic conditions to societal trends. In this article, we’ll explore the state of the real estate market in the new year and the key trends influencing it.

One of the defining features of the 2024 real estate market is its resilience in the face of global challenges. Despite uncertainties in the broader economic landscape, the real estate sector has shown remarkable adaptability. The market has leveraged technological advancements to streamline processes, making property transactions more efficient and accessible. Virtual tours, blockchain in property transactions, and AIdriven analytics are increasingly becoming integral parts of the real estate ecosystem, enhancing the overall experience for both buyers and sellers.

A notable trend in the residential real estate sector is the shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly living. Homebuyers are placing a premium on environmentally conscious features, such as energy-efficient appliances, green building materials, and smart home technologies that reduce carbon footprints. This shift reflects a growing awareness of environmental issues and a desire for homes that align with eco-friendly principles.

On the commercial front, the rise of remote work has reshaped the demand for office spaces. Companies are reevaluating their office needs, with a focus on flexible and collaborative workspaces. The traditional office setup is evolving into hybrid models, accommodating remote work while maintaining physical spaces for team collaboration and engagement. As a result, commercial real estate is witnessing a transformation that emphasizes adaptability and technological integration.

Despite these positive trends, challenges persist in the form of affordability and housing

shortages in certain regions. The demand for affordable housing continues to outstrip the available supply, leading to increased competition and rising property prices. Policymakers and real estate professionals are working collaboratively to address these issues through innovative solutions, such as mixed-income housing developments and incentive programs for affordable housing initiatives.

The state of the 2024 real estate market is characterized by adaptability, sustainability, and technological integration. As the industry continues to navigate global uncertainties, the focus on resilience and innovation positions real estate as a key player in shaping the future of urban living and workspaces. Buyers, sellers, and industry professionals alike must remain attuned to these trends to make informed decisions in this dynamic and ever-evolving market.

In this current whirlwind world of real estate, our team stands tall as your trusted ally for success. Navigating the dynamic market with precision, we focus on delivering tangible results that go beyond transactions—they transform lives. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or dreamer, our commitment is unwavering. As you’ve discovered a glimpse of our expertise in this article, consider it an open invitation to delve deeper into a world where real estate provides for extraordinary outcomes. Embrace the future, where each client’s transaction is not just a deal but a testament to our dedication to success.

2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre

repare to be electrified by the pinnacle of automotive luxury—the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre, a game-changer that seamlessly blends opulence with sustainability. The Spectre’s exterior is a symphony of elegance and innovation. Its sleek design, adorned with signature Rolls-Royce aesthetics, conceals the cutting-edge electric powertrain beneath, setting a new standard for eco-conscious luxury.

At the heart of the Spectre lies a silent powerhouse with a fully electric powertrain consisting of two electric motors that pump out a combined 577 horsepower. The driving range is estimated to be as high as 291 miles per charge. This electric set-up delivers not just performance but a whisper-quiet, seamless driving experience.

The acceleration is instantaneous, propelling you from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, a manner befitting the Rolls-Royce legacy. The Spectre’s handling is nothing short of magical, providing a smooth and responsive ride that’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence.

Step inside the cabin, and you’re enveloped in an aura of sophistication. The interior is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship synonymous with Rolls-Royce. Luxurious materials, exquisite detailing, and state-ofthe-art technology seamlessly come together to create a haven of comfort and style. The Spectre’s electric nature doesn’t compromise on the lavishness that defines the Rolls-Royce experience.

Safety is paramount in the Spectre, with a suite of advanced features ensuring a secure journey. From autonomous emergency braking to adaptive cruise control, Rolls-Royce leaves no stone unturned in prioritizing the well-being of its passengers.

Now, let’s talk about the price at $450,000 the Spectre is testament to Rolls-Royce’s commitment to the future of luxury, electric mobility. While it represents a significant investment, it’s not just the acquisition of a car, it’s a statement of commitment to sustainable, high-end living. The Spectre stands as a beacon of eco-friendly luxury in the automotive world, showcasing that opulence and environmental consciousness can seamlessly coexist.

The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is more than just a car, it’s a paradigm shift. It redefines what luxury means in the electric era, offering a driving experience that is not only sumptuously indulgent but also environmentally responsible. The Spectre represents a fusion of innovation and elegance, proving that Rolls-Royce remains at the forefront of the luxury automotive landscape. For those who seek a future-forward driving experience without compromising on opulence, the Spectre beckons an electric journey into unparalleled luxury.

Driverside Vehicle Reviews

Eclectic

Tastes

With his colorful background, chef and founder of Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey, Engin Onural, seamlessly blends dynamic and unexpected ingredients to create exquisite Japanese cuisine.

STORY BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE

ocated on 7th Avenue in Phoenix’s hip Melrose District, Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey exudes a vibe that’s as cool as the neighborhood it calls home. The gray exterior features an allwood outdoor patio. Inside, the atmosphere is equally as chic and soothing. The restaurant features soft lighting throughout and windows that let just enough sunshine into the space. Think a wood bar complete with underlighting and wood tables throughout the perimeter. The feeling is minimalistic, neat and also warm. Out back, find an open-air seating area that features a fireplace that roars during chilly nights in Phoenix.

Sandfish started in Palm Springs, California, back in 2018. A Phoenix location opened in late 2022. During that time, Sandfish has established itself as a high-end sushi destination. The restaurant’s chef and owner is Engin Onural. The native of Turkey attended the Sushi Chef Institute that’s in the Los Angeles metro area nearly two decades ago. At the Institute, he trained under renowned chef Andy Matsuda. According to Onural, “He has probably taught sushi to everybody in the world.”

“That place definitely gave me the foundation, and the framework that I need,” says Onural, of the Institute. In addition to that framework, at

the Institute he learned about how to “understand the importance of the traditions, culture, how to respect the culture, and the fish and all of the very important, unique things came through [Matsuda]. Understanding the basic techniques and understanding all of that definitely came through him. And then what I did afterwards in the past 20 years is I was able to create my own ecosystem, my own world. That’s why I’m happy to say, ‘We do sushi, literally our way.’”

What makes Onural’s approach to sushi different is that he’s combining three different worlds into one: his Turkish background, his training in creating Japanese food and his love of Scandinavian culture. You see the Scandinavian influence in the architecture of his restaurants and in the salt that comes from his favorite Scandinavian country, Norway. He loves to travel and try different dishes from wherever he happens to be. He says he will often bring back one ingredient from his many different bites to incorporate within his menus. Just don’t call his food “fusion.” He doesn’t like that word.

A great example of his unique cooking style? The tuna tostada, a guest favorite.

“Within that tostada, there’s a Japanese aspect, of course, with the spicy tuna, but then, I added the feta cheese with my background. And this one worked wonderfully,” he says.

He opened his first restaurant, The Venue, in Palm Des-

ert. Next up, he opened up the first location of Sandfish—a playful nod to serving fish in an arid environment—in Palm Springs. He created Sandfish to offer a unique understanding of sushi and whiskey.

“Sushi is love. Whiskey is love,” he says. Sandfish is his dream realized.

“A good way to say it is that this is my mood board coming to life,” he says. “When you walk in, I want that feeling of that warmness that both cultures, Japan and Scandinavian, carries. Not so much cluttered, but with the right tones with the right stone and the wood and the elements.”

The Melrose District was an interesting choice for the restaurant’s location. Many restaurants of the same caliber as Sandfish tend to call swankier parts of town like Scottsdale home. This is a fact that the chef acknowledges. He told us that Melrose spoke to him in a way that other parts of the city simply did not.

“It’s a place where you feel comfortable, and you enjoy the food and your company. Not where you go to be seen,” says Onural.

Sandfish hosted us for a meal back in December. The menu was curated by a chef and was expertly coursed. Our meal started off with an oyster that was perfectly seasoned. Next up, was that aforementioned spicy tuna tostada. What we loved most about this dish was the nice crunch the tostada gave this fish that was seasoned with feta and a few spices. The grilled octopus was served laying over a circle of green edamame hummus and topped with small balls of babu arare or rice crackers for a colorful presentation.

The most artfully plated dish, by far, was the duck liver mousse. The mousse was served with grilled bread and a curved dash of mousse—as if applied with a paintbrush. Next up, was what Sandfish is perhaps best known for: its stellar sushi. We enjoyed tuna, salmon and yellowtail over rice. Each fish tasted fresh and was expert-

ly flavored. We also sampled piece from three of the restaurant’s signature sushi rolls. Our personal favorite was the Sandfish roll. This colorful creation features spicy tuna, crab meat and avocado topped with fried potato threads, spicy aioli, teriyaki sauce, micro greens, green onions and black truffle zest. This over-the-top roll features a plethora of tasty flavors and is a true decadent feast for both the eyes and mouth.

The meal concluded with matcha cream puffs that were topped with a pink lily flower. We quickly fell for the flaky chilled pastries that were filled with matcha cream for a nice sweet and savory finish that concluded a perfect dinner out.

What’s next for Sandfish? He also may open up a small speakeasy modeled after the one has in Palm Springs called Tailor Shop. Onural also says he hopes his Phoenix location, much like his Palm Springs Sandfish location, becomes a true part of the community.

“Palm Springs became truly a part of the neighborhood, and I really hope in a year or two Sandfish Phoenix is going to become that as well for not just Metro district but for Central Phoenix as well,” he says.

Empowering Female Beginner Golfers: Building Confidence and Community

STORY BY ALEJANDRA AGUILAR WWW.GOLFMAMI.COM

Golf, often seen as an intimidating sport, can be especially daunting for female beginners. The fear of stepping onto the range, where other golfers may observe or judge your every move, can be paralyzing. However, rather than criticism, let’s foster an environment of encouragement, support, and motivation to empower women starting their golf journey.

Golf is undeniably challenging, but every seasoned golfer was once a beginner. It’s crucial to remember that we all started somewhere, with lessons, practice, and patience. As experienced golfers, we can play a pivotal role in welcoming newcomers to the sport.

Here are some ways to support and motivate female beginner golfers:

Offer friendly advice and share your insights. Simple tips can make a world of difference to someone just starting out.

Invite beginner golfers to join you for a round of golf. The camaraderie and shared experience can boost their confidence.

Suggesting a trusted golf instructor can be invaluable. A professional’s guidance can provide a solid foundation and boost a beginner’s skills and confidence.

Establish a supportive community of female golfers where beginners can connect, share experiences, and seek guidance without judgment.

Encourage regular practice, but emphasize that it’s okay to make mistakes. Improvement takes time, and every golfer has their own pace.

By embracing an inclusive and supportive approach, we can ensure that more women feel welcomed, motivated, and empowered to embark on their golf journey. Let’s remember that golf is not just a sport; it’s a community that thrives on camaraderie and encouragement. Together, we can help beginner golfers overcome their fears and build their skills, fostering a love for the game that will last a lifetime.

Golf is undeniably challenging, but every seasoned golfer was once a beginner. It’s crucial to remember that we all started somewhere, with lessons, practice, and patience.

Bali Hai, LAs Vegas

STORY BY MIKE BAILEY

Billy Walters’ premium golf experience on the Las Vegas Strip really is an escape to the extraordinary

“Most people live on a lonely island, Lost in the middle of a foggy sea. Most people long for another island, One where they know they would like to be.

“Bali Ha’i may call you, Any night, any day, In your heart, you’ll hear it call you: Come away... Come away.”

hose lyrics come when I think of Bali Hai Golf Club. Maybe it’s because I was part of a high school group that performed the song “Bali Ha’i ‘’ from the Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, South Pacific many decades ago, albeit many years after it came out in 1949. I still can’t get that out of my head.

The first time I played Bali Hai, which came in 2000 right after it opened, I did feel like I was transformed a bit into a South Pacific world.

After all, thousands of palm trees were imported as well as other tropical plants and black volcanic rock. There are seven acres of opulent water features, including waterfalls, and the turf is a deep green that goes wall to wall in contrast to massive amounts of bleached white sand on this once barren property. Located right on the Strip next to the South Pacific-themed Mandalay Bay casino resort hotel, Bali Hai Golf

PHOTOS BY BRIAN OAR

Club fits right into the theme of almost everything on the Strip -- like the Paris or Venetian casino hotels, for example. It takes you out of the Mojave Desert and into the Indonesian tropics.

And since Day 1, Bali Hai remains one of the top conditioned courses in the area, known for its perfect undulating greens and lush fairways. And service is always first-rate.

At one time, Bali Hai was the flagship facility of the several courses owned by Billy Walters, the legendary sports gambler turned entrepreneur, who was convicted of insider trading in 2017, a charge of which Walters still maintains his innocence. The other courses, which included Royal Links and Desert Pines were sold, leaving the Walters Group with just Bali Hai, which hasn’t rested on its laurels.

While the course has always maintained a standard, it has evolved over the years. You can still get forecaddies, or Parmates, which are attractive female caddies, which can really enhance the experience. And you can play music through the speakers on the state-of-the-art golf carts, which also offers GPS.

There also are opportunities to bet on yourself on the signature island green par-3 16th. Hit the green there and you double your money in pro shop credit. If you don’t hit the green, you at least get golf shop credit for the amount you bet. So, in a manner of speaking, you can’t lose.

And speaking of the golf shop, it’s premium as well with not only plenty of quality logged merchandise, but some pretty unique gifts, too.

Bali Hai is also the perfect place for a corporate outing. Nearly half who play the course are corporate customers, many attending conventions in the city. Another 40 percent are from out of town, many of them part of wedding parties, perhaps members of a bachelor party, or simply friends who put together golf trips. And because Bali Hai is on the Strip, you certainly don’t need a car if you’re staying on the Strip, and you don’t even have to bring clubs, since Bali Hai has plenty of quality Callaway rental sets for anyone who wants to play. Speaking of, it’s not uncommon for a visitor to Las Vegas simply to notice the course, and just head over for a quick round.

As for the course, here’s what you can expect if you’ve never played it before. The fairways are generous, so you can basically hit your driver all day on this 7,000 yard plus layout. Wa-

ter comes into play on almost half the holes, particularly on the par-3s like the aforementioned 16th, and the par-3 sixth, which is one of my favorite holes.

The sixth is unique because it’s a dogleg right around a lake. If you can hit a pretty hard slice, you never have to go over water. But if you hit a draw, it’s all carry. When I played it, the pin was all the way on the right side of the green, which meant in order to get my right-to-left tee shot close, I had to take it over the water and a little bit right of the green, where there was plenty of trouble.

The par 5s at Bali Hai are certainly birdie opportunities because none of them are too long. And there’s the short par-4 fourth that long hitters may try to drive from the tee.

The finishing stretch, starting with the aforementioned island green 16th (nicknamed Pacific Rim) is most memorable. The 17th and 18th are both long par 4s. The 18th is a great finishing hole. After a good tee shot, you’re left with an intimidating approach over water to a very wide green. Leave it on the wrong side of the putting surface, and a three-putt is a real possibility because the green slopes pretty hard.

Afterwards, you might want to stick around and check out the action at the Tiki Sports Bar and Grill, which offers plenty of South Pacific style cocktails, beer, and an excellent menu of appetizers like coconut shrimp as well as ahi tuna, fresh fish, and incredible desserts like coconut flan and berry cheesecake.

As for booking tee times for yourself or your groups, be sure to check out all the golf packages offered. Many include accommodations at nearby casino resorts, and there are special bachelor party and corporate rates. Just visit www.balihaigolfclub.com for more information.

PHOTOS BY BRIAN OAR

Understanding your club face

STORY BY BUCK MAYERS

Many golfers spend most of their time working on the path or swing plane of the golf swing. This is certainly an important aspect of improvement; however, most golfers would be better served by improving the club face. The club face is 3 to 4 times more important to ball flight than swing path. Unfortunately, golfers have been told the club face should be facing the target at impact and at address. I’m sorry, but this is not true. Why?

If you’re a right-hand golfer and your tendency is to slice the golf ball and your club face starts at the target and is at the target at impact, but the path of the swing as too far out to in or over the top, the ball will start at the target then curve far to the right. Why? Because the club face is too open to the path which produces a slice! We know this from using data given by tracking devices like Trackman. Example, if you swing 10° left of the target, and your club face is at the target, the difference is 10° from path to the face relationship. Again, this is a big slice.

If you were to close the face to

the target by 5° and return it to the same position at impact, you will still hit the target. The ball would start slightly left or the direction of the club face at impact and curve back to the target. Bull’s-eye! To understand this simply, the club face must be approximately 50% to the club path in the same direction. Again, the club face determines where the ball will start, and the club path will discern how much it will curve back to the target or away from the target.

Obviously, if you’re righthanded golfer and your tendency is to over hook it, you would need to do the opposite. Please see an accomplished golf teacher to better understand what you need to do to apply the right strategy to manage your misses. Golf information and education has improved over the years, and we now can measure it.

Buck Mayers is a Top 50 Instructor in Texas by Golf Digest and the Emeritus Instructor at Escondido Golf & Lake Club in Horseshoe Bay, TX. He can be reached at

Perfectly Fitting

STORY BY MIKE BAILEY

PXG’s McKayla Holmes has found her fit in the golf world with passion, perseverance and personality

ometimes the most important thing you can do in life is simply answer the call. McKayla Holmes is glad she did.

It was just a couple of years or so ago, and Holmes was fresh out of college, trying to figure out what to do in life. One day, she had just gotten out of the shower when she noticed she had a call from a number with a 480 area code. In fact, she accidentally called the number back, then hung up. But then the phone rang again. It was the same number.

“I had a gut feeling I should answer it,” Holmes says. So she did.

It turns out that the person on the other end was a recruiter from PXG. He had seen Holmes’ resume on LinkedIn, and the folks at PXG were looking to hire sales associates for a new store in Oakbrook, Ill., in the Chicago area, not too far from Holmes’ hometown of Shorewood. A recent graduate of Benedictine University in Naperville where she also played on the golf team, Holmes wound up applying and joining the PXG team, and she’s been

on fast track ever since. Now, at just 24 years old, she’s the retail manager at PXG in Houston, but in between and onward, she’s been part of pioneering movement among women in clubfitting, and is making a difference already in golf, especially when it comes to women’s participation in it.

But the first thing you need to know about Holmes is that she’s passionate about everything she does -- whether it’s playing golf, helping others enjoy the game through better equipment and better fit clubs, or mentoring young women to set them up for success, no matter what they wind up doing in life. This enthusiasm and values were instilled in her growing up, and an unfortunate accident when she was in high school has made her appreciate just about everything in life.

‘It never feels like work’

The youngest of two children -- she has an older brother who’s a successful securities engineer -Holmes enjoyed a childhood where the family ate meals together, and the parents supported their children’s hopes and dreams.

Oddly enough, her parents really didn’t play golf, but when she made the decision as a youngster to give it a try, they found a set of TopFlite irons on Craig’s List for $60, and she was off and running. A few lessons and the next thing you know, she was playing junior golf and on her high school team, playing well and looking forward to college.

Then, during her senior year, she had a car accident, hit by a truck when she was at a stop sign. She suffered back injuries that still affect her today. With rehab and cortisone shots, she tried to play, but it was difficult. But by her senior year in college, she managed to play in her team’s conference tournament. Though Holmes -- who has a beautiful swing with flawless tempo -- finished 12th in a field of 48, the most important part of playing was finishing all three rounds, she says. She was also consistent, with each round varying no more than two strokes.

“I might not have scored the best, but to have that consistency, and to know I fought and didn’t give up is what I’m most proud of,” Holmes says.

She graduated in 2021 with a degree in finance with a concentration in business analytics with a minor in Spanish for good measure. She wasn’t sure what she wanted to do in life, except she knew she loved golf.

“I knew I had to be part of golf for the rest of my life. That’s where my passion was,” Holmes says. “My dad always said if you find your passion, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

So she worked at a local golf course out of college and also served as an assistant coach for the girls golf team at her old high school. The latter gave her much satisfaction, and she still

keeps in touch with some of the girls from her hometown, always willing to lend a little advice or just hang out when she’s back home. She also worked on getting her certifications from the Titleist Performance Institute.

Then came the call.

After a short while as a retail associate, PXG started to train her as a clubfitter, which means putting clients on a Trackman launch monitor and analyzing all the numbers as they hit different clubs with different shafts, trying to dial up the right combinations. Holmes loves golf, but she might love looking at numbers just as much. The combination of the two was right in her wheelhouse.

“All that data flying around,” Holmes says, “I could just look at numbers all day.”

Texas bound

As it turned out, it wouldn’t be long until Holmes had an opportunity to transfer to a new PXG store in Houston, an opportunity she couldn’t pass up, given the 12-month golf season and the opportunity to explore a new part of the country for her. She moved there in April of 2022, and was just one of three female clubfitters in the company, and only just one of a handful of women clubfitters throughout the United States.

This is significant on a couple of fronts. PXG has been looking to recruit more women anyway, but clubfitting hasn’t been an area that women golfers gravitate to, for whatever reason. And secondly, golf is already intimidating enough for women entering the game. Women golfers might quite naturally feel more comfortable with a female clubfitter.

“As a female fitter you always feel a lot of pressure,” says Alexandria Oren, Holmes’ friend, who also fits for PXG, but in Atlanta. Oren said of Holmes: “The way she fits, she pays attention to every detail of the club she’s giving you and most importantly she’s always listening to the customer. She shows no fear and is so confident. You can tell she fits with passion and really cares about her customers.”

Of course, open-minded men players might want to consider going through a fitting with a woman as well. In Holmes’ case -- though clubfitting isn’t the main part of her job anymore -- she’s as thorough as they get, leaving no stone unturned.

Roger Kendrick Jr., an auto mechanic from Houston, remembers the first time Holmes worked with him on a fitting.

“She let me take my time to get warmed up, and just talked the whole time as if we were old friends,” recalled Kendrick. “This made me feel so at ease, and I felt as if I was the most important person in the world.

“The attentiveness in which she gave to this fitting was beyond my expectation. At one point I remember her crouching behind the target line watching my swing, making adjustments ever so often. We spent about an hour and a half that afternoon. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but afterward I was blown away by her knowledge of the clubfitting process and the professionalism in which she goes about it.”

The bottom line is that Holmes got Kendrick into some clubs that have really helped him improve his game. “I nicknamed her ‘the guru,’” he says. “And I nicknamed my driver and 3-wood after her, ‘McKayla, and McKayla Jr.”

Holmes loves it when players report back that a set of PXG clubs properly fit has elevated their games. “Just being able to inspire confidence in somebody with a piece of equipment is incredible.”

But Holmes has further aspirations of growing the game.

Recently, she became involved with an organization called the Ladies Executive Golf Society (LEGS). Founded in Florida, Holmes currently serves as the Vice President of the Houston chapter, helping to set up both social and golf events, while leveraging her connections at PXG. The idea is to get women professionals from being behind the tables at charity events to being comfortable on the course, whether it’s at a scramble tournament or an outing with clients.

“What’s been awesome is watching the ladies drop their guard on the golf course, and get them out to giggle and have more fun” says Holmes, noting that the group’s slogan is “play nine and drink wine.”

Having more fun at golf and life is what Holmes is all about.

STORY BY MICHELLE KELLER

“Short Courses” have been popping up around the globe, and the trend is so prevalent that Golfweek recently unveiled its first list dedicated to the niche –

“Top 40 Par-3, Short and Non-Traditional U.S. Golf Courses in the U.S.”

ranson, Missouri, has ten courses garnering top rankings, including two in the top 20 and one in the top 10.

• No. 8 – Top of the Rock, the 9-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, is the firstever par-3 course to be included in a professional championship (PGA TOUR Champions Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf.)

• No. 19 – Mountain Top, the 13-hole, walking-only course designed by Gary Player, showcases stunning Ozark views amid diverse, dramatic holes that wind around 300-million-year-old limestone formations.

Both courses are amenities of Big Cedar Lodge, which also has three 18-hole courses. All are ranked among the best in the state and country and are Audubon International certified for their best environmental and sustainability practices.

An 11th course in the destination is under construction. It is an 18-hole, par-3 design called Cliffhangers located adjacent to Payne’s Valley. The championship layout was authorized by Tiger Woods and his TGR Design partners.

Branson is a league-of-its-own family vacation destination nestled in the lakeside beauty of the Ozark Mountains, with dozens of live performance theaters, three pristine lakes, an international award-winning theme park, dozens of attractions and museums, a Historic Downtown district, a Town Center-style shopping complex, a full range of dining options, and a host of hotels, motels, resorts, RV parks, campgrounds, sports venues, and meeting and conference facilities. Branson is less than one day’s drive for one-third of America’s residents.

In the last issue, we traveled to a Johnny Morris establishment in Memphis, TN, the Big Cypress Lodge. Recently, we followed up at another Johnny Morris resort, Big Cedar Lodge.

Natural rustic beauty and luxury form a hybrid in all Johnny Morris resorts. Covering 4,600 acres, this rugged landscape of the Missouri Ozark Mountains overlooks Table Rock Lake. Committed to conservation, Johnny Morris, noted conservationist and founder of Bass Pro Shops, created Big Cedar Lodge as a destination for families, and friends to connect in the

great outdoors. With luxury accommodations, tantalizing restaurants, and two full-service marinas, five (yes, I said five) golf courses, a 50,000-square-foot activity center, a spa, unparallelled fishing, and countless outdoor adventures, Big Cedar is a world-class resort.

In December, Branson was decked out for the holidays with Christmas-themed variety shows, light displays, and plenty of activity. We cruised the waters of Table Rock Lake on our first evening aboard the Branson Belle Showboat. The dinner cruise included a delicious three-course meal. Music and comedy were the main focus of the show. During the holiday season, an additional show was presented, which made the occasion a permanent holiday memory.

Themed after the majestic showboats of the 1800s, the Showboat Branson Belle evokes the spirit of a bygone era when riverboat adventure, glamorous travel, and star-studded entertainment converged into what some remember as ‘Those Grand Old Showboatin’ Days.’

The live show offers guests a chance to relax and take in the beautiful views of the Ozarks. You can sit in one of the comfortable Adirondack chairs, stroll along one of the four grand decks, or simply look out the window from your table. The extended intermission between the meal and the beginning of the show gives you ample time to enjoy the scenic views. This is one of the most unique vantage points in Branson to experience the beauty of the Ozarks.

A fun fact that our host shared is that the Showboat Branson Belle was launched from her lakeside shipyard on August 13, 1994, using two tons of bananas as a lubricant for the nine-second slide into the water. She traveled 14 mph during the launch, faster than she’ll ever travel on water. This sightseeing cruise combined with entertainment is a must for a Branson visit. Boat enthusiasts and everyone in your group will enjoy some part if not all of this variety show.

While Branson has plenty of breakfast spots, Billy Gail’s is legendary. Leave your worries at home, but don’t forget your appetite. Among specialty offerings, the location is famous for pancakes that mirror the size of an average hubcap. Other offerings include Texassize French toast and savory omelets. With these generous-sized eats, you’ll have plenty of energy to explore the city for hours. Noteworthy, this cafe was once a service station, but it now hosts cozy seating and subtle touches that make it a comfortable and casual spot.

An early round of golf is a perfect way to work off

a hearty breakfast, and Branson is a magnificent spot. Few things can compare to teeing off in the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains. Ozark Mountain topography includes elevation changes at Branson, such as Ledgestone Country Club. From the peaks, you’ll be able to see the rolling hills for miles as you tee off. In the valleys, the stunning mountain views are stunning at sunrise and will test your shot-making skills.

Branson’s golf courses incorporate water as both a visual delicacy and a challenge to your round. I can think of no better example of water inclusion than Top of the Rock, a par three course with mesmerizing backdrop views of Table Rock Lake. The course features an alluring lake with an island green.

Morris developed another course in 2020 that joins Top of the Rock, Buffalo Ridge Springs, Mountain Top, and Ozarks National in Big Cedar Lodge’s stable of incredible golf amenitiesPayne’s Valley.

Payne’s Valley is America’s first TGR Design public access golf course. An interesting feature of this course is the extraordinary 19th hole. Known as “The Rock,” the 19th hole can be used for settling unfinished wagers. The walkable course ends with a breathtaking natural cavern system, which returns to the clubhouse after the 19th hole is completed.

With changes in elevation, ample water features, and rolling fairways, prepare to bring your best game to Branson. At Branson Hills Golf Club, the challenge escalates as seven holes on the back nine play more than 400 yards from the

gold tees. The golfing experience in Branson is as rewarding as it is intriguing. You might be trying to hide eraser marks on your scorecard after your rounds are finished.

If you’ve followed me for any length of time, you know that Dolly Parton is one of my favorite people on the planet. In the last installment, we visited a Dolly-themed hotel in Nashville, TN, and this time we went a little bigger. The Dolly Parton Stampede in Branson includes 32 horses and a cast of incredible trick riders inside of a 35,000-square-foot arena that transforms into a fantasyland at Christmas. Complete with a dinner show, this attraction offers competition, stunning special effects, and phenomenal musical productions. Our visit included falling snow, twinkling lights, old-fashioned holiday costumes, and a lot more.

Gatherings with family and food are numerous during the holidays; next year, why not plan to take it on the road. The Stampede includes a four-course meal. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate with family and friends than to let someone else do the cooking and the cleaning. Plus, memories will be made that will last a lifetime. When the first course arrives, you’re watching the horse show with the famous trick riders showing off their competitive stunts. By the time you get to the main course, you’re watching a comedy bit, and the dessert hour includes a complete musical production. There are several opportunities in this show to laugh and enjoy your friends and family and meet some new ones.

When you’re on vacation, it’s time to splurge. Breakfast is what I like to do, that way I can work it off throughout the day. If a restaurant is able to close by 1 p.m, that speaks volumes about the offerings. If it’s good, people will come especially if you close early. This is the case at the Hungry Hunter, which opens at 7 a.m. and closes by 1 p.m. daily. I confess to having a homemade cinnamon roll that was as warm and gooey as any food lover could hope for. It passed the coffee test, but there was no way it could be eaten by one. This decadent roll is meant to be shared.

Working off that sugar was easier than you probably imagined. It’s not too cold to hike in the fall. Lace up your hiking boots, put on your warmest coat, and hit the trails in Branson to explore the natural winter beauty of this area. With trails of all lengths and difficulty levels, all that’s left is to pick the best trail for your group. It’s a great opportunity to see the lay of the land in an area known for its outdoor attractions, including swimming, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding among many others.

If you’re an adventurer looking for a thrill, Branson has five different ziplining opportunities. The Branson Zipline Canopy Tours offer one-of-a-kind eco-adventures through a series of ziplines, sky bridges, walkways, and platforms. The Canopy Adventure Combo takes you over running creeks, past majestic bluffs and through the Ozarks. Prepare for a thrill if you ride on Wolfe Creek Preserve’s fastest zipline, the Blue Streak Fast Line, standing 25 feet off of the top of Wolfe Mountain. An incredible view with a life-changing thrill at the end of the line.

My favorite part of the action in Branson is the shows! For more than 50 years, live music shows have been a staple of Branson vacations. Morning, afternoon, and night, Branson hosts a variety of entertainment options including comedy shows, dinner shows, shows on boats and shows for kids.

Among those shows is Legends in Concert. Since its debut at the Imperial Palace on May 5, 1983, the Legends in Concert show has earned entertainment industry awards for “Show of the Year,” “Entertainers of the Year,” “Grand Slam” and the prestigious “Show of Shows” awarded by the International Press Association. Legends in Concert is the longest running show in Las Vegas history.

Legends in Concert also has long-running productions in Myrtle Beach (South Carolina), Branson (Missouri), Crown Melbourne (Australia), Foxwoods Resort (Connecticut), The Fireside Theatre (Wisconsin), Atlantic City, Long Island, Niagara

Falls, Waikiki (Hawaii) and aboard the Norwegian Pearl. Each legendary performer not only looks like the star they portray, but uses their own natural voices to pay homage to their iconic music counterpart. Legends in Concert live tribute shows are known for their elaborate theatrical sets, magnificent costumes, and the full array of incredible special effects, including three-dimensional multimedia and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.

An outstanding cast of accomplished tribute artists, talented singers and dancers, and a live orchestra composed of some of the top musicians in the industry support each Legends in Concert production. What started in 1983 as a limited six-week engagement at the Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada (now the LINQ), celebrates 40 years of entertaining more than 40 million fans around the globe.

Nashville Roadhouse is a weekly show for TV and Concert offered each Friday and Saturday night. Featuring guests like Wynonna Judd, Jo Dee Messina, Nelson, Wade Hayes, Jeff Carson, Warrant, Quiet Riot, Steve Miller Band, Blackfoot, and many others, the Concert series began in 2021 with Wynonna Judd kicking it off.

Six Voices is a show you don’t want to miss. There are zero physical instruments used and all music is shown at this jawdropping show. Six multi-talented brothers, Barry, Kevin, Lynn, Jak, Owen, and Charles, sound like a band using only their mouths. It really is an incredible experience. One of Branson’s premiere shows, SIX® offers something for everyone with their high-energy musical interpretations, utilizing a palpable rhythmic bass, driving beatbox style percussion, and an impeccable vocal blend that they’ve been developing since they were teens. Infusing lively choreography and fun family comedy that only brothers can do, they perform a wide variety of musical genres for fans of all ages; SIX® repeated accolades such as “Production Show of the Year”, “Entertainers of the Year”, “Vocal Group of the Year”, and many others. This is also a must see production in Branson.

Everyone can experience the wonder of Silver Dollar City at peak season in the warmer months or during An Old Time Christmas festival. The child in everyone will come back when you see the millions of lights covering the city. Live Christmas music shows, 1,000 decorated Christmas trees, an eight-story Christmas tree with special effects, and the Holly Jolly Christmas Light Parade are all a part of the park’s holiday lineup. Still thinking about hosting the holidays at home again this year? A holiday here is one for the books.

There is so much to see and do in this city that I haven’t covered it all. Shopping is key for any vacation and Branson doesn’t disappoint at the Branson Landing. With a scenic boardwalk along the 1.5-mile Taneycomo Lakefront. At the center of the Landing is a vibrant town square terracing down to the $7.5 million spectacular water attraction that features the first-ever merging of water, fire, light, and music. I was fully mesmerized by the interplay of water fountains shooting 120-foot geysers and fire cannons blasting, all choreographed to light and music.

The water and fire spectacle is a creation of internationally renowned Wet Design, the producers of world-class shows for Downtown Disney marketplace in Orlando, Universal CityWalk in California, and the Bellagio in Las Vegas.

I’ll leave you with the knowledge that Branson is a perfect spot for Winter and Summer vacations and anything in between. The rolling hills, gorgeous forests and sprawling lakes of Branson are perfect for exploring. Branson lakes offer all kinds of water sports and leisure activities. Rent a boat at one of the many marinas in town and enjoy family time on the water at Lake Taneycomo, Table Rock Lake or Bull Shoals Lake with jet ski rentals, wake boarding, and even water skiing. And for the true adventurer, there are plenty of opportunities for scuba diving and exploring what lies below Table Rock Lake. There is quite a lot to do in Branson, and it is all dedicated to creating unforgettable memories.

Until next time, travel often, and hold your standards and your sheet thread count high. Cheers to your next adventure.

Eyes on the road. It’s literally the first rule of driving, right? The only trouble is all I can see out of the windshield of the two-and-a-half-ton 4 X 4 behemoth I’ve agreed to drive through the rugged Texas Hill Country is rich blue sky contrasting with some lazy, pale stratus clouds. Behind the wheel. Staring straight up at the sky. Nothing resembling a road is anywhere in sight and my Ford Bronco Off Roadeo Experience instructor “Hollywood,” who was the one who told me drive up this impossibly steep granite wall, keeps assuring me that I’m doing great. Do I believe her? I’m pretty sure only three of our Bronco’s 35-inch tires are touching terra firma and I just heard audible gasps from the people in the Bronco behind us.

t turns out that, with some strategic turns of the wheel along with calculated and gentle intervals of gassing and braking, a Ford Bronco can climb absurdly steep and rocky terrain without breaking a sweat.

The Ford Bronco Off Roadeo Experience at Horseshoe Bay Resort’s Grey Wolf Ranch was designed to help Bronco owners, dealers and salespeople to learn to dizzying array of technological features of their state of the art Ford Broncos, like Trail 1-Pedal Drive, 4x4 operation and G.O.A.T. Modes.

Now this luxury adventure experience is open to all Horseshoe Bay Resort guests. When you get to Grey Wolf Ranch, a magnificent and majestic hunk of class Hill Country land, Trail Guides orient guests on the safety features of the Ford Bronco and prep them to hit these purpose-built trails. Every group of drivers has a Trail Guides assigned to them who coach drivers at the front, middle, and back of the off-road caravan.

Bronco owners and adrenaline lovers from all over flock to Grey Wolf Ranch to test the Bronco’s all terrain capabilities while doubling down on a healthy adrenaline rush. Drivers navigate stone washes, rocky terrain, tight turns and climbs that would require AAA intervention in most of our

personal daily drivers. The Horseshoe Bay Resort Off-Roadeo property is one of only four in the United States. The other facilities featuring Bronco adventures are in Gilford, NH, Las Vegas, NV, and Moab, UT.

More than 7,000 people per year take in this experience and it’s expected to grow now that the experience is open to resort guests. It’s the perfect way to add some adventure to a golf getaway or casual long weekend.

Bronco owners have access to a 10-hour Off Roadeo Experience. For Resort guests at Horseshoe Bay, the experience is shortened to four hours but covers a ton of exciting elements along the trails. Ford provides the full fleet of completely equipped Broncos that guests use for the off-roading fun. Bronco owners use their own vehicles for the purpose of getting used to driving them and maxing out their skills on the Bronco’s features.

Guests learn key basics like appropriate seating and handon-the-wheel placement, ideal mirror angles,

and also the fun stuff, more advanced offroading lessons. In the full class, you can learn skills like forging water, navigating ditches, surviving steep hills, left-foot breaking, crossing boulders, and how to select a route when you come to obstacles. Guests can take turns practicing these maneuvers and also learn important hand signals they can give to other driver to help them traverse the uneven terrain.

While resort guests only borrow a Bronco for this experience, Ford reps say eight percent of guests have ended up buying a new Ford not long after their Off Roadeo experience, and 63 percent of those purchases were Broncos. Whether your charmed into buying a Bronco or you’re just looking for a fun escape full of adrenaline-charging times, this is one experience you won’t soon forget.

To learn how you can add this one of a kind experience to your next visit to Horseshoe Bay Resort, visit hsbresort.com.

TRUE-ly Golf’s Most Comfortable Footwear and Underrated Apparel

STORY BY MARC HALL

We all have the golf apparel and shoes brands we’re loyal to and know will always have an item we’ll be happy to add to your closet. Now more than ever, TRUE linkswear, the Pacific Northwest brand founded by PGA TOUR player Ryan Moore and his brother Jason, is becoming known for headto-tee coastal cool fashions and reliable comfortable all-day golf shoes in a variety of styles.

The company started with a simple principle to make shoes that are comfy enough to encourage golfers to walk the course and even be relaxed enough to keep TRUE footwear on even after the round. In 2024, TRUE will debut two new breakthrough footwear offerings and a fashionforward rain jacket.

TRUE CEO Jason Moore says that 2024 will include TRUE’s most robust offering ever. It represents a culmination of a full decade of ideas, effort and energy into an expansive line that serves players of every level. “In 2024, TRUE exists to make your next golf trip as enjoyable as possible. If you’re packing TRUE gear, it’s going to work, it’s going to hold up, and you’re going to feel good wearing it. For our team, that’s the ultimate testament. If you fill up that duffel bag for your next golf trip with nothing but TRUE gear, we’re going be extremely proud as a brand who prides itself in outfitting golfers with comfortable, functional, durable and timelessly stylish footwear, apparel and accessories.”

Launching in April, the LUX G was designed with next-level fit, comfort and performance in mind.

“Utilizing our Tour-level LUX model and incorporating new performance features, it’s designed to take the Tour by storm,” says Moore. “It’s a shoe that you can compete in, wear through the mud and hose down

afterwards, and it looks as good as new when you’re done – the wear-and-tear is better than anything we’ve ever made. The durable mesh toe is coated to be completely stain- and water-resistant. It’s fully waterproof and designed with style and performance in mind. We applied our tour-level innovation and two-year waterproof guarantee to a shoe that we felt would actually hold up to the elements. Players will also love the new comfortable fit and feel that are unlike anything on the market. It has a sock fit opening, so it’s snug like a very comfortable, customizable fit that locks in your feet. This shoe combines some of our best ideas from our other popular styles.”

The OG Cush, which will hit the market in June, sports an entirely revamped zero drop, wide toe box outsole and midsole construction; a first-ever refresh on the brand’s fundamental differentiator back in 2010.

“The OG Cush is the first refreshed zero-drop, wide toe box model on an all-new outsole,” says Moore. “It’s really our first new iteration, that heritage fit and feel but now with boosted cushioning. Working with podiatrists and foot health experts, we made the OG Cush as a first-of-itskind cushioned zero drop shoe, meaning you’re in for a comfortable ride while maintaining a healthy, ergonomic fit and feel. The improved cushioning is for people wearing these shoes beyond the golf course – for anyone on their feet all day, these will be their go-to shoe but they’ll have plenty of tread to lace them up and play competitive rounds. It’s a natural, ergonomically inspired fit. The zero-drop platform means it’s completely level from heel to forefoot. Boosted cushioning will wear into your foot shape over time, and you will create your own natural arch. So this will give you more arch support as you’re stepping into the cushion. We also built this to be a great all-weather shoe that you can wear comfortably in the heat or in a mild rain. It’s not a snug fit opening, so it’s easy to get your foot into and then lace up to your preferred level of stability.”

Future Staples 3L Rain Jacket

Now available, the TRUE Future Staples 3L Rain Jacket is ideal whether you’re facing a light drizzle at your local muni or gearing up for a five-day Bandon downpour. A full-nylon shell with both a 20,000mm waterproof and breathability rating, it keeps you dry in any environment without becoming sweaty or clammy inside. The thermoregulating interior liner ensures your body stays at the proper temperature. It’s patterned for frequent movement with a 4-way stretch material and extra-

flex in just the right places for your swing. The cherry on top? The hood clips to the back of the jacket – ensuring it stays in place. This is technical precision perfected. Featuring an industry- leading five-year warranty. It’s available in three colors, with an MSRP of $500.

“We didn’t want to skimp on rainwear,” says Moore. “We live in the wet Pacific Northwest, so we only used the best materials available here. And we wanted a rain jacket you’d be proud to wear after the golf round. A lot of performance golf rain gear looks like something that should be rolled up in your golf bag and never worn elsewhere. And we wanted to make a golf rain jacket that would look great and perform great on the course but also one you wouldn’t be embarrassed to wear to dinner afterwards. Or you actually might actually look forward to integrating into your outfits. Its temperatureregulating liner is my favorite part. Our temperatureregulating liner keeps you in the comfort zone so you stay nice and warm on colder days but not too hot on hotter days. It was a pretty substantial investment but is a game changer. Technology has come a long way, so we have 20k waterproof and breathable ratings in this jacket – that’s the type of materials you’d find on high-end performance snow gear or a mountaineering jacket. We’ve integrated an intense amount of spandex so that this actually feels lightweight and comfortable, and moves with your swing with a 15 percent spandex rating. It’s going to feel like your favorite flexible rain jacket.”

For more information on all of the new TRUE products, visit www.truelinkswear.com

Uncorking Impressions: Winning Over Your In-Laws with Savvy Wine Knowledge

STORY BY HUNTER HAM, WINE DIRECTOR OF PORTERS AND RESIDENT SOMMELIER

Navigating the social intricacies of impressing your in-laws can be as complex as understanding the subtleties of a fine wine. But fear not, with a splash of knowledge and a pinch of confidence, you can turn the art of wine selection into an impressive display of sophistication and savoir-faire. Here’s a sommelier’s guide to dazzling your in-laws with your wine wisdom.

Understanding Their Preferences

The first step is akin to understanding the palate – know your audience. Observe and inquire subtly about your in-laws’ wine preferences. Do they favor reds over whites? Are they inclined towards bold flavors or subtle notes? This insight is crucial –it’s the foundation on which you will build your wine list.

Vintage

Wisdom

Mentioning vintages can be a double-edged sword – it impresses but can also seem pretentious if overdone. A simple tip is to remember that certain years were excellent for specific regions. For example, 2010 was a fantastic year for Bordeaux. A casual mention, when pouring a glass, can subtly showcase your knowledge.

Wine Tasting Etiquette

Engage your in-laws in a mini wine-tasting. Show them how to assess the color, smell the bouquet, and savor the taste. Explain terms like ‘tannins’, ‘body’, and ‘finish’ in a simple way. It’s a fun activity and shows your depth of knowledge without being overbearing.

The Magic of Pairing

Nothing screams ‘wine connoisseur’ like the perfect food and wine pairing. If you’re hosting a dinner, align your wine choices with the menu. A classic pairing is to match the intensity of the wine with the food. Light fish dishes go well with delicate whites like Sauvignon Blanc, while a hearty beef stew would pair beautifully with a robust red like a Cabernet Sauvignon. Explain your pairing choice at the table, but keep it light and engaging.

Share Stories, Not Just Facts

Everyone loves a good story – maybe the Pinot Noir you’re serving is from a boutique vineyard you visited, or the Chardonnay has a unique fermentation process. Stories add a personal touch and make the wine tasting experience more relatable and memorable.

Explore Beyond the Usual

Impress with your knowledge of lesser-known wine regions and varietals. Instead of a traditional Bordeaux or Napa Valley Cabernet, why not introduce them to a Tempranillo from Spain’s Ribera del Duero, or a bold Malbec from Argentina? Discussing the unique characteristics of these regions shows depth and a willingness to explore the road less traveled in the wine world.

The Art of Decanting and Serving

The ceremony of decanting and serving wine can be theatrical and impressive. Explain why you’re decanting a particular wine – perhaps to aerate a younger wine or to separate sediment from an older one. Serve the wine at the right temperature – cooler for whites (around 50°F) and slightly warmer for reds (around 60-65°F). These small details can make a significant impact.

Conclusion: Sip with Confidence

Ultimately, your goal is to create an enjoyable experience, not to lecture. Share your knowledge with enthusiasm and humility. Remember, wine, at its core, is about bringing people together. Your in-laws will appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness you put into making the evening special.

By the end of the night, you’ll have not only impressed your in-laws with your wine savvy but also created a warm, inviting atmosphere that speaks volumes about your character. Here’s to many more toasts and shared bottles in the future!

Cheers

Las Vegas, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, opulent casinos, and electrifying entertainment, recently played host to a different kind of spectacle — the Big Smoke Cigar Event. Organized by aficionado favorite Cigar Aficionado, the Big Smoke is a celebration of all things cigar-related, bringing together enthusiasts, industry experts, and premium brands for an unforgettable experience.

This year’s Big Smoke unfolded at the magnificent Resorts World, capturing the essence of Las Vegas’s glitz and glamour. The sprawling convention space provided a perfect backdrop for indulging in the fine art of cigar appreciation. As attendees entered the venue, the scent of premium tobacco hung in the air, heightening anticipation for the smoky festivities that lay ahead.

The heart of the Big Smoke lies in its unparalleled showcase of cigars. Attendees had the unique opportunity to sample an extensive selection of premium cigars from some of the industry’s most esteemed brands. From rich, earthy Nicaraguan

THE BIG SMOKE UNVEILED: A Luxurious Cigar Experience at Resorts World Las Vegas

STORY BY TOMAS ZILINSKIS

blends to the nuanced flavors of Dominican cigars, the event catered to a diverse palate, ensuring that every aficionado found their perfect smoke.

Expert cigar makers and brand ambassadors were on hand to guide enthusiasts through tastings, sharing insights into the meticulous craftsmanship and artistry that go into creating each cigar. The event wasn’t just a chance to enjoy cigars; it was an immersive journey into the world of tobacco, an education for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the pleasures of premium cigars.

What elevates the Big Smoke experience is the emphasis on pairing cigars with equally exquisite companions. The event featured curated pairings of premium cigars with top-shelf spirits, including aged whiskies, fine wines, and craft cocktails. Attendees were treated to a sensory delight as they explored the perfect harmony between the flavors of their chosen cigars and the libations available at spirits and cocktail stalls.

Whether savoring a robust Nicaraguan cigar with

a peaty Scotch or enjoying the delicate nuances of a Dominican blend alongside a craft cocktail, the Big Smoke curated an experience where every puff was complemented by a sip of perfection. These pairings elevated the appreciation of each cigar, transforming it into a multisensory journey.

The Big Smoke wasn’t just about smoking cigars; it was an educational extravaganza. Renowned industry experts and cigar makers hosted exclusive seminars and workshops, offering attendees a chance to deepen their knowledge of the craft. From discussions on the art of rolling to insights into the latest industry trends, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the world of cigars.

Beyond the cigars and pairings, the Big Smoke provided a unique platform for enthusiasts to connect and share their passion. Attendees mingled in an atmosphere of camaraderie, swapping stories, and forming connections with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. The shared love for cigars became the common thread that wove together a vibrant tapestry of friendships and community.

In summary, the Big Smoke Cigar Event in Las Vegas, held at the splendid Resorts World, is a cigar connoisseur’s paradise, where the love for premium tobacco converges with the glitz of Sin City. Attendees immersed themselves in a world of luxury, savoring the finest cigars, expertly paired libations, and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. The Big Smoke is not merely an event; it is an annual pilgrimage for those who appreciate the artistry and sophistication that define the world of premium cigars. For anyone with a passion for cigars, the Big Smoke in Las Vegas is an experience not to be missed.