OTL Vegas The Spring Issue 2023

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The Island of Hawaii has some of the best beaches in the world. Pristine views, black sand, white sand. Welcome to the coast. K.Soltas

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The wonders of desert golf are on full display at the Las Vegas Paiute Resort. It’s a 54-hole oasis. C.Mickelson

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Ringing in spring. It’s that time of the year. Mesmerizing memories from Jack in 86 to Tiger. M.Bailey

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Kohala Coast Las Vegas Paiute Masters Nobu Restaurant Bowfinger, Paris ON THE COVER Golfing at Paiute is an awe inspiring experience. Desert views change your perspective.

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Iconic restaurant brand Nobu is synonymous with elegance, luxury and fine Japanese cuisine. T.Traverse

A memorable experience of a lifetime found under the scarlet awnings of a brasseries with the gold letter “B.” R. Arebalo

Fitness

Trends come and go but the power of pilates endures.

Stop getting stressed over golf. Add a little zen to your game.

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Putt for

Why you should consider freezing your credit.

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Drive for show

dough

2023 Ferrari Purosangue. Next level performance

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Fashion

Golf is not just a sport; it’s a statement of style.

Equipment

Honma’s Beres NX Driver brings next-gen tech to a venerable brand name.

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Yoga Travel

Big Apple, the city that never sleeps, a name by any other name. Start spreading the news. It’s off to New York. S.Laird

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On Your Game

Major Champion Justin Leonard talks about what’s next.

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Bucks Tips

Here are some tips for those are can’t take it from the range to the course.

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Wine

Music and wine pairings create the perfect harmony for your palate.

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Casdagli Cigars - History and luxury blended to absolute perfection.

From the Publisher Origin Story of OTL and its meaning

Recently, I have received many questions as to the meaning of OTL. Since I have always known its meaning and origin, I take for granted that everyone else does.

Back in a small office in late 2001, my best friend and then business partner and I were talking about starting a magazine together. We began to hammer out the details of what our magazine would look like. At that time, we already had a local weekly newspaper in Austin and were doing quite well.

Our newspaper had full color on the front page (a big deal back then) and if you paid for full color on the front page, the back page would also be in color without additional costs. So, we thought about what we could do with the color back page. For the first few years, we ran these full-page recipes for our readers to try. They gained popularity as readers said they would cut them out and use them. Eventually, we thought about how to better utilize this space.

We enjoyed playing golf and played once or twice per week or whenever there was a chance to get out. It was a way to escape out of the small “executive suites” office, clear our heads, and think of new ideas. One evening after a round of golf, we thought, what if we could play a golf course, take a few pictures, and write about it? We could run a few pictures and tell people about how cool of a course it was. All in color on the back page of the newspaper. That was our first lightbulb moment.

So, off we went, ready to shine this light. Some of the best places came to mind. We called the folks at Barton Creek Country Club, Horseshoe Bay Resort, and The Quarry Golf Club in San Antonio. We told them we published a local newspaper and wanted to feature them. They said sure, to our delight, come on out and be our guests.

We played a few courses and published the newspaper with its stunning color back page course review. I wouldn’t be so bold as to say it was groundbreaking, but it was certainly a hit with readers and the courses.

This is where some of the magic was made. We had a client that owned an art gallery, Joyce Hunt, who suggested framing the back page and presenting it to the course/ resort so they could proudly display it in their pro shop or throughout the club.

Great idea. That’s what we did, and it was an even bigger deal. I am very proud to say that to this day, some clubs still have our first framed features displayed on their walls.

Okay, so back to the small office. We realized, what if instead of having a one-page feature on a course on the back of a weekly newspaper, we dedicate an entire magazine to golf?

We asked ourselves, what would we want to see in a golf magazine? Well, it would have to include the best golf courses. It would also have to include more exciting things than just golf. It would have great restaurants, travel destinations, wine advice, financial advice, interesting interviews…It would detail the things we loved about life and get the most out of it. Eureka!

We have never wavered from that original idea. What you see in this magazine today is what we talked about 21 years ago in that small room having a drink.

We said, let’s do it. Yeah, but we need a name first. I wanted to name it Fairways and Greens, but to my surprise, that name was already in use by a clothing company.

Great name by the way. Having both dabbled in writing screenplays, we said, let’s just use a working title for now until we think of the name we want.

The working title was On The Links. And it stuck.

I will explain later why we opted for OTL in 2017. And no, we were not trying to be like KFC.

Hope springs eternal. Welcome to the Spring 2023 issue of OTL. Enjoy.

@otlvegas

PUBLISHER

Sedric Walker

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Tony Dean

ART DIRECTOR

Leticia Galarza

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Natalie Kalbas

@otlvegas

GOLF FEATURES EDITOR

Carl Mickelson

FEATURES EDITOR

Richard Arebalo

TEACHING PROFESSIONAL

Buck Mayers

CONTENT SPECIALIST

Joel McColl

FOR ADVERTISING OR EDITORIAL INQUIRIES

512.777.9879

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kevin Chin, Andon Guillory

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Katie Soltas Leah Gruber, Mike Bailey, Art Stricklin, Haylee Pryor, Hector Ventura

INTERNET & DIGITAL

Karen Kreeps

OTL_VEGAS magazine is published bi-monthly by Pristine Media, Inc. Executive, editorial,and advertising offices are located in Round Rock, Texas. 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. ©2023 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.

The Kohala Coast

Mauna Lani 15th. Hole South Course.

The Royal Gem of Hawaii Island

STORY BY KATIE SOLTAS

I’ve heard many tourists who have visited the Island of Hawaii, say it has the least impressive beaches out of the main Hawaiian Islands. As a former resident, this is not only laughable, but I would go as far as to say that the Island of Hawaii has some of the best beaches in the island chain. Like Maui, the Island of Hawaii’s volcanic activity has created a variety of interesting and colorful coastlines, from pristine white sand to black and even a green sand beach. Its green sheen comes from the olivine rock-forming mineral, commonly known as peridot in gem form.

collection of white sand beaches lines the Kohala Coast on the Northwestern shore, approximately one hour north of Kailua-Kona. This famed region not only attracts modern-day elite crowds but was the home of choice to many of Hawaii’s alii, or royals, including King Kamehameha I (the Great) who is revered for uniting the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. His birthplace can be visited in North Kohala near the ruins of Mookini Heiau, a sacred site.

Thanks to this rich history, coupled with the Island of Hawaii boasting the largest population of Polynesian descendants (12 percent of its residents according to a recent state census), the culture seems to be more preserved and perpetuated on the Island of Hawaii than the rest – and this authenticity is showcased in some of the Island of Hawaii’s most esteemed resorts.

Resort Relaxation

Situated in the alluring Mauna Lani area, the fourstar Fairmont Orchid is flanked by its own private beach and lagoon perfect for snorkeling, relaxing in cabanas and marine activities like stand-up paddling and kayaking. Its tranquil guest rooms and suites all have private lanais with views of the ocean, gardens or Hualalai Volcano toward “mauka,” or up toward the mountains. Upgrade to the Fairmont Gold level for a personal concierge, VIP access to the exclusive lounge serving deluxe breakfast, afternoon tea and evening craft cocktails.

While the amenities are magnificent, the cultural activities are second to none with the Fairmont’s aim to share the Aloha Spirit by connecting guests to the “aina” (land) through culinary adventures in the new Ulu Pono Garden Experience. The resort’s director of Hawaiian culture Kaiulani Blankenfield guides guests through the Chef’s Garden that features native plants and trees and invites them to harvest fruits, vegetables and herbs while

Fairmont Orchid Aerial View.

learning about the importance of specific plants to the Hawaiian culture and the culinary landscape, plus a keepsake collection of Hawaiian chili pepper seeds.

If you’re looking to hit the links, Fairmont has a partnership with the Mauna Lani Resort and a 45-hole award-winning championship golf course designed to capture the unique characteristics of Big Island from lava fields to its lush valleys. When you book the “Golf Fore Free in Hawaii” resort package, you’ll have a complimentary tee time for two, a $50 spa credit and a five-night minimum.

“Fairmont Orchid has a rich history of sharing aloha with visitors from all over the world and we feel it’s our kuleana (responsibility) to invite our guests to care for the land as it cares for us,” said General Manager Charles Head. “This practice of malama (caring for) Hawaii is not only integral in the Hawaiian cul-

ture—it’s reflected in our culinary offerings. We take great care to source a majority of our seafood and produce from local purveyors, so our guests may indulge in authentic Hawaii regional cuisine while dining at our signature oceanfront restaurant, Brown’s Beach House.”

As its name suggests, Brown’s is a beachfront venue with unique menu items such as Kona Prawns, Big Island Kau Coffee Venison or the Filet Mignon with tempura Maui onion, cheddar ulu mash broccolini and wasabi crème fraiche. Book a private beach dinner at sunset to commemorate a special occasion (or just because the view is incredible!).

A thirty-minute drive south toward Kailua-Kona, will take you across ancient and fresh lava fields to Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, named for the dormant volcano perched about the western side of the Island

Fairmont Orchid Sunset Dining.

King’s Pond.

over Kona. This fall, the five-star resort completed a highly anticipated $100 million property-wide transformation, taking its already luxurious offerings and accommodations to the next level. The renovation was culminated with the unveiling of its top three villas: the Hawaii Loa Presidential Villa, Makaloa Villa and the Hoonanea Villa, which Four Seasons claims are the largest and most luxurious villa accommodations in Hawaii.

In addition to the secluded villas, the revitalization included a new infinity pool and lounge deck at the King’s Pond, Hualalai’s 1.8-million-gallon swimmable aquarium ideal for snorkeling without the worry of the open ocean’s threats, as well as an enhancement of all guest rooms and suites, a transformation of the Signature Hualalai golf course and the addition of the Golf Hale, a 3,000-sq. ft. instruction, practice and entertainment facility. The course is the first designed by Jack Nicklaus on the island, and the facelift introduced an enhanced look with the reshaping of the greens and bunkers, among a modern new Platinum Paspalum turf, enhancing the yearround playing conditions.

“With the conclusion of our renovation, we are proud to begin this iconic Resort’s next chapter by defining a new level of luxury in Hawaii,” says General Manager Charlie Parker. “The most dramatic update was to our villas, responding to our guests’ increased demand for this caliber of accommodations in Hawaii. These distinctly designed villas truly serve as a home-away-from-home for our guests and their extended families and friends.”

Dining at one of the resort’s top restaurants, Ulu and Beach Tree, could arguably be the most opulent experience at Hualalai. Executive Chef Richard Polhemus sources 75 percent of the resort’s ingredients from a collection of 160 farms throughout the Island of Hawaii along with the resort’s herb garden and ponds to comprise his surf and turf creations.

“My entire career has been grounded in a farm-to-table approach. I’ve always let nature and seasonality guide the creation of my menus,” said Polhemus, who joined the Hualalai team recently in 2020. Using local ingredients, curating relationships with purveyors, and embracing the skill of butchery and the nose-to-tail approach has been key to my culinary philosophy.”

Exploring Kohala

After visiting the aforementioned cultural sites, a visit to Kohala isn’t complete without a day trip up north to the town of Hawi and Pololu Valley. When you reach the end of the road, a breathtaking view awaits with lush greenery, tropical flora and a magical black sand beach at Pololu Valley Lookout. If you’re game for climbing back up the 500 feet of elevation on a moderately difficult trail, then hiking down the switchbacks to the beach is highly encouraged. According to the visitors bureau, there are guides available to provide hiking information and history about the valley.

En route back to the resorts, stop for lunch and peruse the shops in the quaint town of Hawi, nestled on the edge of the rainforest and best known for being the previous epicenter of Island of Hawaii’s sugar mill industry and the current

turnaround site for the annual IRONMAN World Championship 112-mile bike route. In the town center, you’ll encounter eclectic boutiques, charming restaurants and art galleries with authentic souvenirs difficult to find anywhere else in the Islands.

Kohala is just one region to explore, but the Island of Hawaii is massive – six times the size of Oahu to the north. If time allows, I highly recommend exploring the entire island by helicopter. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters is located in the Waikoloa area of Kohala and can easily be accessed from any of the resorts. Guests can experience the current Kilauea Volcano lava flow from the air, the green valleys and waterfalls often only accessible by foot.

To get more involved and immerse yourself in true Hawaiian culture during your visit, the state just launched “Malama Hawaii,” a voluntourism program that facilitates myriad opportunities for visitors to “take a trip that gives back” through sustainable efforts such as beach clean-ups, planting native trees or helping to restore a Hawaiian fishpond. We’ve all heard the cliché phrase, “Take only memories; leave only footsteps,” when we travel, but this initiative allows Hawaii’s visitors to leave a lasting, positive footprint on the Islands.

The Power of Pilates

STORY BY LESLIE STEVENSON

While Pilates is most popularly known for creating long, lean muscle, its benefits are more comprehensive than simply enhancing physical appearance. Pilates has countless benefits for mind and body; a few that can be highlighted include injury prevention, decreased stress, improved flexibility, mobility and balance.

Contrary to popular belief, Pilates has not always been a female dominating practice. During the First World War, a young German man named Joseph Pilates was working as an orderly with patients that had trouble walking, which led to his idea to attach bed springs to the hospital beds as support to their limbs to help them recover their strength and mobility. After he and his wife immigrated to the United States in 1926, they continued their techniques in a body conditioning gym in New York. Word spread quickly of their success with rehabilitating athletes after injuries, making them popular among the dance community, with approximately 60% of their clientele being men. This method of strengthening one’s body with his created apparatus was originally named “Contrology”, however; after his death it was known as what we call it today, the Pilates Method.

Whether you are a professional athlete, starting out with your fitness journey or a veteran in the gym, keeping the body injury free is pertinent to reaching your health and fitness goals. Part of Pilates is learning how to control your muscles and

achieve overall balance within your body. When all of your muscles are in tune and properly developed, you are less prone to injury while performing other daily activities or sports.

Practicing Pilates also decreases stress due to the controlled breathing techniques, low to no impact movements and overall exercise that releases natural endorphins in your body. Many people feel more energized rather than exhausted after Pilates thanks to these components.

Lastly, Pilates is beneficial as it aids in developing more flexibility and mobility. Not only should our muscles have flexibility for movement, they should be paired with mobility as it allows our body to have optimal range of motion at the joint.

No matter your goals, Pilates will be a beneficial addition to your wellness regimen and entirely deserving of your time and effort.

Fitness trends come and go, making it more difficult to determine which is best for your personal goals. Personal capabilities, time, and accessibility to equipment may be a few of the deciding factors that influence your workout plan, but that still leaves many options.

ADD A LITTLE ZEN TO YOUR GOLF GAME

STORY BY NICOLE PINTER

golfers fear on the course.

Sometimes you have no choice but to try to extricate your ball from a horrendous lie in deep grass. Many golfers freeze when facing this lie, too worried they can’t get it out. If you want to focus and calm your mind, down use some breathing exercises in the moment.

If you think you don’t want to hit the ball into the water many times you will end up in the water. Why? Your mind has a huge effect in this situation. If you are familiar with visualization meditation, the primary focus is a positive image. If you want to avoid the water, you need to think about where your ball should land, on the fairway.

In this situation, your confidence and a good mindset can help. A Zen mindset can help to get out of the bunker if you have the correct technique as well.

This is where a relaxed and calm body and mind can help you a lot. The bad conditions of the green or maintenance cannot affect your game.

Breathing technics, you learn from yoga can help your game

The breathing technics you learn from yoga are the key to getting out of anxiety on the golf course. Being present and not worrying about the result is very important. If you meditate regularly, you have the option for a quick mindset reset during the game. Focusing on your breath and getting to the present moment with a more calm and relaxed body is the best you can do for a good score.

If you are playing in a competition, it can cause more anxiety and obstacles to a good performance. Whether you are an advanced yogi or just bought your first yoga mat, you can practice pranayama, which is the regulation of the breath through certain techniques and exercises. Pranayama is a Sanskrit word that means “extension of the prana (breath or life force).” It also means, “breath control.”

Yoga for golfers teaches you to control your body and mind and helps you deal with difficult situations on the course. The right attitude and mindset can help you get a better score and enjoy the game more.

Fear of failure is born out of high expectations and increased pressure, which is why most golfers have difficulty on the golf course. This causes mental, physical, and technical challenges to the player. Adding meditation and breathing technics with yoga exercises to your daily routine can positively affect your game. These following situations most

Why You Should Consider Freezing Your Credit

STORY BY AUSTIN ASSET

If the latest massive data breach has you wondering if there’s something you can do to protect yourself — there is. The first option is to take the reactive approach and simply monitor your credit.

The second is to be more proactive and freeze your credit, making it very difficult for anyone other than you to take out credit in your name. This means even if a criminal obtains enough information to open an account, they’ll have a number of obstacles preventing them from using it.

Under the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act—effective since September 2018—you can freeze your credit free of charge. This began in 2017 when consumer advocates called on Congress to provide free access as, previously, each of the three credit bureaus could charge for the service and to unfreeze or “thaw” credit (useful for anything requiring a credit check).

WHAT DOES FREEZING MY CREDIT DO?

When you freeze your credit, the credit reporting bureaus can’t give any information to anyone who makes an inquiry about you. Typically, businesses inquire about your credit when you, or someone posing as you, attempts to open a new credit card, buy a car, or rent an apartment. The credit check helps the business determine if they want to lend or rent to you and can help set your rates and lending terms for loans and credit cards.

If your credit is frozen, the business can’t get any information about you which typically stops the process and means a fraudster can’t open an account while using your identity.

WHY DOESN’T EVERYONE FREEZE THEIR CREDIT?

Though freezing your credit won’t guarantee safety, it’s a pretty strong defense against identity theft. You still need to unfreeze your credit if you legitimately want to apply for a loan or line of credit. While this is not a heavy burden, it does add extra steps anytime you do something that requires a credit check.

While reactive, credit monitoring is a viable alternative to a full freeze. When you pay for a credit-monitoring service, you’ll get alerts about any activity involving your credit report. This can quickly bring a potential problem to your attention—but you won’t know if someone has used your identity until after it happens.

You can always request a free copy of your credit report annually from each of the major credit bureaus and check it for any activity you don’t recognize. If you do find anything suspicious, report it immediately and take steps to lock down your credit through a fraud alert or credit freeze.

HOW DO I FREEZE MY CREDIT?

If you want to freeze your credit, you need to do it at each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax (1-800-349-9960), TransUnion (1888-909-8872) and Experian (1-888-3973742). If you request a freeze, be sure to store the passwords needed to thaw your credit in a safe place.

Whether or not you choose to freeze your credit, fraudsters can still take advantage by obtaining information like your credit card number(s) or passwords to online accounts. Make sure you’re taking the proper steps to secure your information and keep it from falling into the wrong hands.

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.

errari unveils its first sport utility vehicle for 2023. The all-new four-door Ferrari Purosangue, which means pure-blood in Italian, is a showstopper for the new year.

The fact that Ferrari, despite its resistance to making an SUV, decided to enter this market space with a bonified slam-dunk. The first Ferrari SUV is proof that this legendary manufacturer can change with the times and offer up something that represents its history and style in an unfamiliar way.

Ferrari designed the 2023 Ferrari Purosangue using its supercar bag of tricks. The result turned out to be a different kind of SUV Ferrari enthusiasts wanted built the Ferrari way. Ferrari says they only build sports cars and that the 2023 Purosangue is first and foremost a Ferrari and by that they mean cars with impressive performance and dynamics that will put a smile on your face, says marketing chief Enrico Galliera.

Understandably, Ferrari stays clear of calling it’s Purosangue an SUV. Instead, Ferrari has coined the Purosangue as a Ferrari Utility Vehicle or FUV. SUV or FUV this vehicle fits the bill for those wanting Ferrari driving excitement in a vehicle that has a hatchback and carries four passengers comfortably.

Engine-wise, Ferrari Purosangue offers a naturally aspirated V-12. Later, a V-8 version and even a V-6 hybrid are said to be available for the SUV. The naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V-12 engine, that wears Ferrari’s signature red painted valve covers, produces 715-hp and 528 poundfeet of torque delivering solid acceleration along with a Ferrari tuned suspension that engineers say will help the Purosangue drive and handle as a Ferrari should. Ferrari claims the Purosangue catapults to 62 mph in just 3.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 193 mph.

The 2023 Ferrari Purosangue adaptive suspension system uses an electric motor at each corner of the SUV to apply force to the dampers during cornering maneuvers to control body roll. As such, the Purosangue has no need for traditional anti-roll bars, and it can also hunker down during hard driving by reducing its ride height by almost a half inch.

This new ride by Ferrari promises to bring some excitement and competition to a burgeoning market for SUVs with supercar tendencies. The expected starting price for the 2023 Ferrari Purosangue is estimated at $400,000.

Driverside Vehicle Reviews

2023 Ferrari Purosangue

Las Vegas Paiute

STORY BY CARL MICKELSON

I know it’s different for locals, but there’s no arguing that, for visiting guests, the Las Vegas Strip is the heartbeat of this destination city with never-ending attractions, adventures, and chances to make a varied and storied array of memories.

ven just now, a fast-flashing highlight reel of my own uniquely Vegas moments has started to play in my head. Like helping break up what would have been a nasty fracas between bawdy comedy quasi-legend Andrew “Dice” Clay and the wiry opening road comic who had just soundly outclassed the Dice Man on the stage. Being pelted by the projectile tears of a stranger, a young woman who was emotionally overwhelmed and entranced by the opportunity to hug a dolphin at the Siegfried and Roy Secret Garden zoo at The Mirage, also stands out. Then, there was an epic 36-minute run at the craps table that ended with an uncommonly fashionable young Armenian gentlemen grabbing my face in his hands, kissing my cheek and shouting, “Hot Hands, you just bought my girlfriend a new f--ing car!” I had wagered significantly less, apparently. That night continued with witnessing a wheelchair-bound, cross-dressing dead-ringer for Fred “Rerun” Berry perform the most spinetinglingly brilliant karaoke version of Prince’s “Purple Rain” at the now long-gone dive, the Laughing Jackalope. I could go on (and on),

but we’re here to talk golf, right?

Sometimes, though, the greatest Vegas memories are made when you venture from the strip and discover the region’s natural wonders. Those wonders are thankfully and graciously on full display at the Las Vegas Paiute Resort, the 54-hole oasis where Pete Dye fittingly carved out an unforgettable collection of thrilling risk/reward holes 25 minutes northwest of the flashing-neon risk/ reward capital of the universe.

There first thing that stands out about the three golf courses at Paiute is that each hole, each vista and everything as far as the eye can see is undisturbed by houses or other manmade infrastructure. The serenity of the land and its surrounding pairs well with Dye’s Snow Mountain, Sun Mountain and The Wolf courses, which each provide a challenging, finely manicure and always-engaging experience.

This is upscale daily-fee golf in a setting the feels like a private club or boutique resort with superb playing conditions and the world-class shot value Pete Dye-designed courses aways deliver.

It all began for Paiute in 1995 when the country’s first master-planned multi-course resort took shape on the Las Vegas Paiute Native American tribe’s land with the opening of the Snow Mountain course. Paiute’s original course stretches to 7,164 total yards from the tips. With generous rye grass fairways, seven holes with water hazards, a layout with no parallel fairways, this is a pure golfing journey. Featuring traditional Dye railroad tie-decorated bunkers and demanding dogleg finishing holes, some golfers still consider the original is the signature experience at Paiute. The 16th, a par 3, is a nervy tester of a par three with water down the left and fronting the edge of the green. The 18th, which flanks the impressive 50,000-square foot clubhouse, provides a final chance for glory or humbling defeat

with water hazard down the left side and daring you to take on the day’s final pin placement with a gutsy swing.

Sun Mountain, plays to a pleasing 7,112 total yards and is the tamest of the courses. A gentler more “in front of you” Dye design, Sun Mountain showcases natural rolling terrain and enchanting scenery thanks to elevations of 2,800 feet. Playing this course makes you feel on the edge of nature as you play away from the clubhouse and deeper into the desert. The wonderfully framed long uphill par-four 12th shows off a backdrop of the majestic Spring Mountains, indigenous desert landscape, and sloping landscapes that epitomizes the grandeur of this desert setting. This a fun, cerebral lay-

out with no shortage of dogleg holes, carries over hardscrabble desert and tempting angles into the greens that beckon you to fire away at some pins.

The Wolf is Paiute’s newest and most-difficult layout, playing a daunting 7,604 yards from the back tees. In fact, it’s the longest course in Nevada. The WOLF delivers showstopping shot values along with the unfettered beauty of the surrounding desert. Everyone remembers the island-green 15th hole. Playing 182 from the tips, it’s a mega-sized version of the famous 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass and every bit as nerve-rattling. Notably, Annika Sorenstam and Karrie Webb officially opened the course by competing in Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf and shot 65 and 64, respectively. Choose the proper set of tees when you take on The WOLF and

you’re guaranteed a fun ride.

Ancestors of the Las Vegas Paiute tribe, the Tudinu (or Desert People) occupied the territory encompassing part of the Colorado River, most of southeastern Nevada and parts of both Southern California and Utah. Being on this land, you still get a sense of the wildness, the freedom and the sense of wonder that must have filled these intrepid natives.

Those of us who are passionate about golf have a cheat code of sorts. We learn how to gravitate to places like Paiute to escape the air-conditioned, spinning-ball distractions in the hearts of our cities and find a respite in nature. That being said, the 50,000-square-foot clubhouse at The Las Vegas Pauite Resort is full of great reasons to chill out

inside for an extended while. The casual and fine dining alone are worth the drive out to Paiute, but the cigar lounge takes things to the next level as does the array of options in the clubhouse’s pro shop which was twice been named “Best Pro Shop” by VegasGolfer Magazine. Relaxing, imbibing, and indulging were never better than with an alluring mountain view to take in as you reflect on the best shots of the day along with the ones that got away.

The Wolf is ranked among the Top 15 in Golf Digest’s List of Best Golf Courses in Nevada, while The Wolf, Sun Mountain and Snow Mountain rank 10th, 11th and 14th, respectively in Golfweek’s list of Best Public Courses in Nevada.

A subtlety of the playing experience at Las Vegas Paiute Resort is the excellent playing conditions derived from the use of rye grass, which reduces the need to overseed and facilitates top-tier turf interaction and playing conditions all year long.

It’s the attention to detail, the boldness of Dye’s design and the richness of the the overall setting that elevate this golf resort - which has Stay and Play options available through a host of MGM properties – to must-play status. Do a little research and plan a couple of days at this desert gem at LVPaiuteGolf.com

Golf Mami looking the part

STORY BY ALEJANDRA BARNHARD - GOLFMAMI

Golf is not just a sport; it’s a statement of style. As a golfer, I take pride in looking my best, and standing out on the course. When you look good, you feel confident, and that can make all the difference in your game.

To achieve my desired look I typically opt for a short-sleeved polo, which I pair with a comfortable golf skirt or a fitted dress. I love to experiment with colors, such as pink, red, and pastels, which complement my skin tone and add a touch of fun to my outfits.

Footwear is another essential aspect of my golf attire and I prefer to wear the classic golf shoes that provide the necessary support for my feet while still being stylish. To complete my golf outfit, I accessorize with a visor or hat to protect my face from the sun and add a touch of glamour.

Dressing up for golf is all about feeling comfortable, confident, and fashionable. By incorporating bright colors, comfortable yet stylish clothing, and accessories, I achieve a look that is sporty, fashionable, and perfect for the golf course.

You can follow my golf journey on Instagram @golfmami_ and visit my website www.mamiunlimited.com

STORY BY MIKE BAILEY

Not coincidentally, I first started watching the Masters intently right about the time I got hooked on golf. I can still remember Seve Ballesteros winning in 1980 and 1983, Tom Watson and Craig Stadler’s victories in between, and Ben Crenshaw and Bernhard Langer in 1984 and 1985 respectively.

I recall how remarkable it was that a German won in ‘85. Having lived in Germany three times myself and being born there, I knew Germany wasn’t exactly a hotbed for golf, which makes Langer’s career so remarkable. (He continues to set records on the PGA Tour Champions).

But it really wasn’t until 1986 that I got hooked on the Masters, watching pretty much every round ever since. That’s about the same time

I became obsessed with playing golf, thanks to a coworker at the first newspaper at which I worked. He was my golf mentor and would become my best friend.

Coincidently or not, 1986 was also most remarkable at Augusta National. It was when Jack Nicklaus won his 18th major, an unlikely feat nobody saw coming at age 46. Watching that cemented the Masters as my favorite major, as it is for many golfers. And because it’s the only major played on the same course every year, I often find myself asking how I would play those holes because we know them so well. So from 1986 to present, the Masters has been on par with Super Bowls for me. Heck, what am I saying, better than the Super Bowl most years since the team I root for is never in it. What follows are my favorite Masters years, led off by ‘86, of course.

Golf gods smile on Fred Couples

This was the one where Couples’ tee shot on the par-3 12th, hit the bank of the green. But unlike most of the other shots that landed at there that week, his didn’t roll back to water, miraculously stopping before it get wet. Couples managed to get up and down for par, then went on to win the tournament over none other than Raymond Floyd. Had Floyd won, his victory would have rivaled Nicklaus’ six years early. As it was, he was the oldest player at the time to finish second at age 49.

‘97 Tiger’s First Green Jacket

After a front nine of 40 on the front nine on Thursday, it sure didn’t appear that Tiger Woods would be in the hunt, but nothing could have been further from the truth. Maybe it was early jitters with this being his first professional appearance in the Masters, but Woods fired a 30 on the back nine, and it was clear he had arrived. He wound up shooting 66 and 65 over the next two rounds, and his 18-under total would be the lowest winning score ever recorded at Augusta National. Oh, and he won by 12 strokes. This would lead officials to try to “Tiger Proof” the course in subsequent renovations. It never worked, obviously.

‘04

Lefty finally breaks through

For the first part of his PGA Tour career Phil Mickelson wore the moniker of “best player yet to win a major.” But that all changed in 2004 when the 33-year-old drained an 18-footer for birdie on the final hole to best Ernie Els by a stroke. He became only the fourth player in Masters history to win by birdieing 18. In fact, Mickelson birdied five of the last seven holes to shoot 69. Els, who finished two holes earlier with a 67, had eagled both the par 5s on the back.

‘12

Bubba Watson’s amazing wedge shot

While everyone will remember the wedge shot Watson hit to win in a playoff, most have probably forgotten how Louis Oosthuizen got into position to win. The South African, in fact, made only the second double eagle in Masters history (the other was Gene Sarazen’s shot heard ‘round the world in 1935) by holing out his second shot on the par-5 second

Ben Crenshaw’s help from above

The day before the first round, Crenshaw flew back to Texas. He was a pallbearer at the funeral of Harvey Penick, the only coach he every had, his mentor since age 6, and, of course, the author of the famed “Little Red Book.” Crenshaw, the ‘84 champion, went into the Masters in a slump, to say the least, signaling perhaps that his best playing days were behind him. But this week he would not only find his game, but he found all the breaks, too. He said, “It was kind of like I felt this hand on my shoulder, guiding me along.” When he drained the putt on the 18th to win by one over Davis Love III, he doubled over with emotion. Was it divine intervention? Crenshaw certainly thought so, and most golf fans probably agree.

‘95 ‘96

Mickelson’s amazing second shot on 13

Mickelson would win the Masters two more times, most notably in 2010 when he hit one of the most famous shots in Masters history, a 6-iron second shot from the pine straw through the trees just a few feet from the hole on the par-5 13th. He actually missed the eagle putt, but made the comeback for birdie. Commentator Nick Faldo called it “the greatest shot of his life.” Mick-

hole. He took a one-shot lead into the back nine, but Watson reeled off four consecutive birdies, starting with the 13th, to finish tied and force the playoff. On the second playoff hole, the left-handed Watson pulled his drive on no. 10 right into the trees. While Oosthui zen found trouble him self and wound up mak ing bogey, Watson hooked a wedge some 40 yards around the trees from the pine straw to find the green and two-putt for par and victory.

elson would go on to win by three strokes over Lee Westwood. On a side note, most golf fans forget that Mickelson had another incredible shot, this one coming in the third round when he holed his approach shot on 14 for an eagle 2.

Faldo’s mastery greater than Norman collapse

Arguably the tournament was known more Norman’s final round 78 than it was for how well Nick Faldo played in the final round to overcome a six-stroke deficit. It would be Faldo’s third green jacket as he shot 67 on Sunday for the low round the day. Norman appeared well on his way, especially after he tied a course record on Thursday with a 63. Had he simply shot even par on Sunday, he would coasted to victory. How bad was Norman’s back nine on Sunday? He carded a 40 with two birdies, on 13 and 15.

‘19 Tiger’s improbable fifth green jacket

Not many saw this coming. It had been 11 years since Woods had won his last major, the 2008 U.S. Open, and 14 years since his last Masters victory. His 2019 win would beat the record for years between Masters wins set by Gary Player, who had 13. The odds were certainly stacked against Woods, who had to overcome injuries and a fall from grace after much publicized personal issues came to a head in 2009 and 2010. Woods played steady throughout at the 2019 Masters. When leader Francesco Molinari, the leader after 11 holes on Sunday, opened the door by hitting it in the water on 12 and again on 15, Woods stepped up. His final round 70 was good enough to win by one stroke over three other golfers.

EQUIPMENT

STORY BY MARC HALL

How so? It’s the brand’s ultra-premium BERES line that for the first time is offered in a more-affordable version without any compromises. And because it’s a game-improvement model that’s made with best-in-class materials, more golfers of varying skill levels can play it –including better players needing stiffer shaft flexes – and expect improved results off the tee. Think more distance, accuracy and consistency.

Available for men and women playing to 6-to30-handicaps, the BERES NX generates speed while yielding loads of forgiveness. Its draw bias will let you find the fairway more often, too. Available in base lofts of 9 and 10.5 degrees for men, plus a 10.5-degree lefthanded model, and 11.5 degrees for ladies, it can be adjusted -1 to +2 degrees.

The club generates high initial ball speed through a new clubface and crown structure that includes a no-weld upper L-CUP face, solid carbon crown, hyper wide slot and keel weighting. Its radial clubface surface expands the toe and heel repulsion areas to the edges, as well – meaning that no matter where you make contact on the face, you can expect the most-possible distance and accuracy. Plus the high MOI and low/deep CG creates high-and-straight ball flight.

Maximizing performance

was the goal that Honma master craftsmen sought when designing this driver that happens to be the first-ever BERES model with adjustable loft and lie angles. To boot, it’s armed with Honma’s proprietary and lightweight VIZARD shaft. At just 45 grams, it’s more flexible in the middle, and then more optimized towards the butt and tip – helping you produce proper spin and fast initial velocity. All you have to do is take a comfortable, easy swing while the shaft does all of the work.

This driver looks modern and stylish and offers responsive feel and trusted performance. (MAll BERES Nx products will be available for retailers and consumers beginning April 1, 2023. Retail pricing for BERES Nx men’s and ladies’ drivers are $750.00

Yellow Tail Sashimi with Jalapeno.

NOBU LAS VEGAS

Iconic Nobu’s Three Las Vegas Locations All Shine

STORY BY TERESA K. TRAVERSE

conic restaurant brand Nobu is synonymous with elegance, luxury and fine Japanese cuisine. Nobu takes its name from Japanese celebrity chef—one of the first major chefs with international renown— Nobu Matsuhisa. He opened his very first restaurant, Matsuhisa, in Beverly Hills, California, back in 1987. His Japanese cuisine made with Peruvian ingredients was as noteworthy then as it is now. After opening its doors, the restaurant quickly developed a celebrity following.

One A-list actor in particular became a very important part of Nobu. Here’s how the story goes according to an excerpt from Matsuhisa’s memoir, “Nobu: A Memoir,” that was published on the website Eater. About a year after Matsuhisa opened his first restaurant, legendary actor Robert De Niro came into the restaurant to dine. De Niro fell for Matsuhisa’s dynamic cuisine and desired to go into business with the chef. Sometime in 1989, De Niro flew Matsuhisa out to New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood to see a building he had purchased that was intended house a future restaurant. After that trip, Matsuhisa originally turned down the offer. But De Niro held out. Four years after he initially approached the chef, De Niro invited Matsuhisa back out to New York City. The actor’s willingness to wait convinced the chef he could trust De Niro. He signed a partnership with De Niro, restaurateur Drew Nieporent and investor Meir Teper, and the Nobu empire was born. Today, you can find more than 45 restaurants all over the world and a collection of hotels—the first opened in Las Vegas in 2013—that are all under the Nobu umbrella.

Las Vegas residents and visitors alike can choose from three different Nobu locations when they’re looking for haute Japanese fare. Nobu’s latest Vegas spot? A locale at Paris Las Vegas

that opened in April of 2022. This is the brand’s second location with Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas Resorts.

“Paris Las Vegas is evolving into a premier culinary destination for some of the top chefs in the world,” said Jason Gregorec, senior vice president and general manager of Paris Las Vegas, in a press release about the opening. “We are extremely fortunate to have Chef Nobu as a longstanding partner and bring his iconic menu and exceptional service to the resort.”

Nobu at Paris Las Vegas is a 140-seat restaurant with an abundance of wood elements. Find wood circular tables, wood-paneled walls, ceilings and a long wood bar that looks over the open kitchen that all lend a zen-like atmosphere to the space.

Menu-wise, look forward to plenty of artfully plated fresh fish dishes. Find soups, salads, cold and hot dishes, tempura, nigiri, sashimi and sushi maki on the extensive menu at the Paris location. You’ll find most of the dishes mentioned below at the other Vegas restaurants too. Diners also can look find vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan dishes. Specifically, guests can feast on salmon or yellowtail tartare with caviar, lobster shitake salad, brick oven Hamachi kama, seabass tempura with amazu ponzu and three different beef tenderloin dishes. Expect fish options that range from traditional like tuna and shrimp along with more daring orders like sea urchin and shima-aji or striped jack.

The menu also includes vegetable, lobster and wagyu tacos along with A5 Wagyu Japanese steaks. The Paris Las Vegas Nobu serves a vegetarian, signature and Paris Las Vegas omakase or a chef-selected multi-course tasting menu that requires participation of entire table.

The food menu might be long, but one of Nobu’s signature and best-known dishes is its black cod marinated in a miso sauce. This flaky, tender fish is perfectly complemented by the sweet sauce. Another stand-out option is

the yellowtail sashimi with jalapeno in a yuzu soy sauce. Both dishes are spectacular and worth savoring.

The dessert menu includes offerings like yuzu cheesecake, date cake served with crème fraiche ice cream and a bento box that comes with decadent flourless chocolate cake and ceremonial matcha ice cream. One unique dessert is the Japanese whisky cappuccino—coffee crème brulee layered with crunch coffee cacao soil, milk ice cream and Japanese whisky form—a crunchy, savory and sweet creation.

Drinks-wise, look forward to a menu packed with fine wines, spirits and sake that are in keeping with the luxe restaurant’s offerings. One notable item: Nobu has the rights to exclusively sell Hokusetsu sake—made on Japan’s Sado Island—in the United States. The drinks menu is rounded out by specialty cocktails, wines including specialty plum wine, whiskey, gin, vodka, beer, liquor and digestifs.

The Nobu at Caesars Palace Las Vegas is noteworthy for several key reasons. For starters, the massive 12,775-square-foot restaurants that seats 325 is

Wagyu Toban Yaki Grilled.

Toro Tartare with Caviar.

the only one in the United States to have Teppan tables where guests can watch as chefs prepare food over a live flame. Each plate is served with the restaurant’s signature sauces, and every item is exclusive to this location. This experience is only available on Friday and Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. Nobu at Caesars Palace is also home to the sleek Nobu Lounge. The items available here are also exclusive to the lounge and only available after the main dining room closes. One noteworthy architectural detail is that the exterior resembles a traditional Japanese ikebana basket.

Nobu at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Nobu, Curio Collection by Hilton, re-opened in 2021 following a renovation, but the history there goes way back. The first Nobu Las Vegas location opened at the Hard Rock Hotel—where the Virgin Hotel currently stands—in 1999. If you’ve ever visited the Hard Rock Nobu, you’ll notice that the bar has been expanded and is now about twice its original size. The refreshed restaurant features dark hard wood floors, an open kitchen and black tables in the dining room for a refined atmosphere. No matter which Nobu Las Vegas locations you choose, you’re guaranteed to enjoy fine Japanese cuisine in a posh setting.

Nobu Restaurant Las Vegas Dining Room.

Cracked Basil.

STORY BY SCOTT LAIRD

There never seems to be any shortage of visitors, but it’s during the holidays, when shoppers hurry between world-famous department stores and luxury boutiques and local residents and visitors from all corners take in the unceasing spectacle of the city’s class-oftheir-own arts venues that the city takes on a special energy. Whether enjoying department stores and hotels with their halls fully decked with the spirit of the season, or braving New York’s famously breezy winter weather for ice skating, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the Big Apple during the holidays.

ravelers with a modernist aesthetic can take up residence at ModernHaus Soho – part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. The hotel specializes in loft-style accommodations with in a chic minimalist style. Most guest rooms have views of Lower Manhattan and the Hudson River. The hotel’s 18 floor is host to JIMMY, a rooftop bar with a working fireplace for wintertime hygge and a pool deck with a view of One World Trade Center for summertime frolics.

Also in SoHo, the AAA Five Diamond The Dominick, part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection, also has languid outdoor pool deck— along with oversized guest rooms with plush fittings. Certain Deluxe rooms have deep soaker tubs with views of the Empire State Building, while many other rooms and suites have views of the Hudson River and the exciting neighborhood surrounding the hotel.

The hotel’s soaring lobby gives all the flash of an arrival experience at a much larger property before wrapping guests in the quiet boutique-like intimacy of calm—there are only a few rooms on each floor, giving the hotel an utterly residential feel. It feels more like a temporary apartment than a grand luxury hotel.

The Dominick is also home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Vestry, where chef Shaun Hergatt turns out seasonal ingredient-driven global cuisine inspired by childhood memories of rural Queensland, Australia.

Across town in the East Village, visitors can dig into Ukrainian eats like hot or cold borscht, cabbage

rolls, and pierogies at Veselka (144 2nd Ave). It helps to go early, as sometimes there’s a line. The nearby Lower East Side is a haven for dive and cocktail bars, including the slice-of-South Florida gem Sally Can Wait (252 Broome St.) where the Pina Colada is made with house’s own blend of rum, and the bites menu skews a little Miami, and a little New York.

Travelers preferring to stay close to the attractions of Midtown Manhattan might try the Lotte New York Palace, which takes up residence in an 1882 mansion commissioned by banker Henry Villard. The Villard Houses served as the historic base for a modern tower, constructed in the 1970s, when the residence was first converted to a luxury hotel.

The hotel has a variety of accommodations from standard luxury accommodations to the exclusive Towers level, a hotel-within-a-hotel with separate private reception, but the hotel is perhaps best known for its 5,000 square foot Royal Suites, one of which is the Jewel Suite by Martin Katz. The Jewel Suite contains some $1.5 million in jewels displayed in floating cases throughout, in addition to the feature two-story cascading crystal chandelier.

The city that never sleeps abounds in attractions around the clock, each day of the year, but the city often feels like a village, even though it’s one of the country’s most visited destinations. Broadway shows often fill with New Yorkers, and

visitors can eavesdrop for a bit of local gossip—even at some weekend shows. The city is filled with art lovers and theatre devotees, and the sense of community is often best highlighted by visiting a Broadway production like a big, banner musical or a dramatic play with notable stage and screen stars.

Sardi’s (234 W 44th) is a Broadway institution, famous for caricatures of celebrities (mostly of yesteryear) adorning the walls, but also for consistent continental cuisine that evokes an earlier time – think hearty sauces, starched linen tablecloths, love-worn upholstery.

Off Broadway, at Lincoln Center, lovers of dramatic arias and vibrant coloratura can sate their need at the Metropolitan Opera, one of the world’s premier opera companies. The dramatic set of theatres surrounding a central plaza are also home to the New York Philharmonic, and New York City Ballet, all of which have programming through most of the holiday season.

Nearby, Bar Boulud (1900 Broadway) is a relaxed Parisian-style bistro with an impressive wine list, notable charcuterie and a faithful steak frites.

A top attraction for Manhattan visitors, particularly firsttime visitors, is the Empire State Building’s observation deck. While the 86th floor observation deck has played prominently in several TV shows and films, there’s a fuller attraction that will be new for many visitors. The Empire State Building Observatory recently completed a $165 million re-do that added a museum that celebrates the history and lore of the famous building in nine themed galleries (including one where King Kong’s paws appear to come through the exterior wall of the

skate can go with the holiday icon—the skating rink at Rockefeller Center (it’s smaller than it looks on TV), but for a more local New York experience skaters can head to Central Park. The Wollman Rink is a full-service ice rink with skate rentals and lockers, and opening hours late into the evening for nighttime skaters. Skating is also permitted at Conservatory Water when conditions permit for visitors with their own skates.

Tavern on the Green (W 67th St & Central Park West) is a Central Park institution since 1934, serving up a contemporary American menu—it’s still a see-and-be-seen location for statement brunches and special occasion fests.

Holiday shoppers can get their fill at New York’s top department stores. Macy’s at Herald Square is the largest department store in the United States, and one of the largest in the world, with over a million square feet of retail space. Macy’s has long been noted for their elaborate Christmas display windows, and for the Santaland display where shoppers can pose for photos with Santa Claus. Shoppers in midtown can head to the subsidiary Bloomingdale’s at 59th and Lexington, or Bergdorf Goodman, the 5th Avenue temple to high fashion, located right next door to the Plaza Hotel.

Downtown, a popular stop for many New York visitors is the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The Memorial is free and open to the public seven days a week. The Museum, which documents the events of the 9/11 attacks, not only in New York but at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania, is open six days a week (closed Tuesdays) with the last entry at 3:30 PM). One of the easiest ways to reach the site is via the subway to the World Trade Center Transportation Hub to take the notable

ON YOUR GAME

Q&A: Justin Leonard

STORY BY MIKE BAILEY

If you want to catch Justin Leonard on the Golf Channel or NBC Sports, you’re way more likely these days to see him on the course with a club in his hand, not a microphone.

The 1997 Open champion and Ryder Cup hero has worked the last seven years for the Golf Channel and NBC Sports as a commentator on golf telecasts. But there have been changes for him, both on the broadcasting front, and on the competitive side. Leonard turned 50 last June, so he decided to take a dip into playing last July at the Senior Players Championship at Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio. He tied for 61st, and it started to get his competitive juices flowing again. Now, his TV duties are pretty much behind him.

Another change is that he and his family have moved from Aspen, Colo., where they had lived since 2016, to Jupiter, Fla., where he can work on his game year-round, as he prepares to play his first full season on the PGA Tour Champions.

So far, so good. Leonard got 2023 off to a solid start as he finished tied for 10th at the Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai in Hawaii. Then after spending a few days at the PGA Merchandise Show on behalf of a company he’s involved with -- GolfForever -he competed in the Chubb Classic at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Fla., and finished 10th again.

As for his involvement with GolfForev -

er, that came about during his years in Aspen, when he met up with founder Jeremy James. As a doctor of chiropractic (DC) as well as a certified strength and condition specialist (CGSCS), James has been helping professional and Olympic athletes as well as recreational athletes train to avoid injuries, overcome pain, and play their best for years. GolfForever, which started in late 2020, also counts PGA Tour players Scottie Scheffler and Ryan Palmer among its ambassadors. More recently, GolfForever has added its GolfForever Swing Trainer, a 44.5-inch training bar with a resistance cord to take the workouts to a new level. Leonard, of course, has been using GolfForever in his training regime to get back into playing shape. We recently sat down with Leonard, who grew up in Dallas, played at the University of Texas, and of course, made the dramatic clinching putt for the United States Ryder Cup team in 1999 at The Country Club in Brookline, Mass.

OTL: When you were playing on the PGA Tour, did you figure at age 50 you’d play PGA Tour Champions?

JL: No, that decision was more recent. When I stepped away from playing and started doing TV with Golf Channel and NBC Sports, I really thought that would be my path for the

next 30 years. And it really wasn’t until maybe just before I turned 49 that one of my sons started playing more and then I realized that if I want to consider playing again, I was going to have to get back into it. So yeah, it’s been pretty recent. And stepping away from TV for now, I decided if I was going to play, I needed to do it now and not wait two or three years.

OTL: Of course, the broadcasting scene has changed, too. Did that have anything to do with your decision to start playing again?

JL: I loved being part of a team with NBC and Golf Channel, but yeah, that landscape is changing quickly. I wouldn’t be completely honest if I said that didn’t have something to do with it, but I also feel like getting back into playing and trying to apply the things I’ve observed over the last five or six years into my own game has been a lot of fun.

OTL: You played four events in between telecasts last year, but at the end of the year, you really started to work in preparation for your first event of 2023, the Mitsubishi Elec-

tric. What was that experience like for you preparing for high-level competition?

JL: I really enjoyed that week a lot because the prior three months I was really able to dive into my own game without having to step away and do TV. In fact, if anything I think I kind of overworked. I enjoyed (the week of the PGA Show) of not touching a club. I felt like I was behind having not competed in six years. I probably had five or six days over those three months when I didn’t touch a club, and I was pretty tired that week. I’m kind of still learning about what I need to do to be ready and prepared and rested, but it’s been fun getting back into it, and I’m starting to see some better results. So that’s exciting.

OTL: How did you get involved with GolfForever?

JL: So Jeremy (James) started out as just wanting to help people with their back issues. He had a clinic in Aspen for a number of years (Leonard used to live in Aspen before moving to Florida in June 2022). He realized the vast majority of his clients played golf. And so we had lunch a couple of times, and he wanted to pick my brain, how to get more into the golf space and market it more towards golfers. I had some time to devote to it, and so I became a partner in this. He probably wouldn’t say it happened quickly, but it happened quickly. And now it’s getting so much traction with PGA Tour and trainers, understanding it’s not just tour players, but everybody needs this. I’ve had access to the best trainers in the golf space. But now everybody has access through GolfForever.

OTL: Was GolfForever a big part of your preparation coming back to playing?

JL: Absolutely, amongst some other things. But I like to do a lot of different things, like Peloton, and Orange Theory. I love to do cardio, after living in Colorado for so long. But this is my real golf-specific workout that I do, and it absolutely helps.

OTL: Do you play pickleball or anything else to cross train?

JL: Yeah, a little bit. Mostly when we’re on vacation.

OTL: Let’s talk a little bit about the game of golf today vs. when you turned professional.

JL: It’s much more of a power game now. The way golf courses are built and set up, it just lends itself more to that. If you look at the top of the world rankings, the vast majority of those players hit the ball a long way. It’s been going that way for the last 10-15 years. When I first started playing on the tour, it was great if you hit it a long way, but you had to hit it in the fairway. Now I think because of the mainte-

nance practices on golf courses, it’s opened up more to where all the data that’s available just shows you’re better off just pushing the ball down as far as you can. Some of that is technology, but some of that is just the type of athlete that now plays golf.

OTL: You had an incredible knack for getting up and down. You were very creative. You definitely approached the game differently than a lot of players today. So If you were starting out today would you approach it differently than you did way back when?

JL: I would work on hitting the ball much farther than I do. At 50, I do some speed training, but not what a lot of the guys do now. A, because I’m not playing 7,600 yards. But B, because my golf DNA is kind of set, and I’m not going to change that too much.

OTL: Take us back to that scene at The Country Club in 1999. The 45-foot putt on 17 in your singles match with Jose Maria Olazabal that essentially cinched the U.S. comeback in the 1999 Ryder Cup. How do you recall that moment?

JL: My memories are very vivid. I got to relive it once every couple of years by doing TV around Ryder Cups. Especially with NBC broadcasting the Ryder Cups. I’ve done three Ryder Cups, and then being at Brookline this summer for the U.S. Open. So I get to relive that quite often.

OTL: What a lot of people forget is that after you made that putt, Olazabal still had a putt (which he missed) to tie the hole, but there was this mass hysteria. Did you try to quiet down the fans?

JL: I certainly did, but that (atmosphere) was throughout the week that especially boiled over on Sunday.

OTL: Have you and Olazabal talked about that moment?

JL: We had a good talk, and actually we got paired together a few weeks later in Valderrama (site of the 1997 Ryder Cup in Spain, where Leonard also competed) in a WGC event. And he was great, and gracious. It’s probably a good thing I don’t understand Spanish because he told quite a few people to lay off a bit (at Valderrama).

OTL: The 1999 Ryder Cup, of course, is remembered for the U.S. team’s incredible comeback on Sunday. U.S. Captain Ben Crenshaw told the press the night before “I’m a big believer in fate. I have a good feeling about this. That’s all I’m going to tell you.”

Tell us about what transpired on Saturday evening.

JL: The night before was pretty quiet until we got the pairings, and I thought it actually looked feasible with the way we front-loaded our lineup vs. the Europeans, who had three rookies playing very early. That was actually going to be their first Ryder Cup match (they didn’t play the previous two days). President Bush came in and spoke. It was a good night because we still had a glimmer of hope.

OTL: What else stands out as most memorable in your playing career? The Open Championship at Royal Troon in 1997 must have been a proud moment.

JL: Yeah, The Open, winning there early in my career and getting to go back so many times was great. The Players Championship (1988), too. I really cherish the Texas Open and winning that three times. And the (92) U.S Amateur (at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Ohio). I also got to play in the ‘93 Masters as an amateur, which was very special. And I played with Tom Kite and Nick Faldo the first two days of the 1993 U.S. Open as an amateur (Baltusrol Golf Club in New Jersey). I really enjoyed my time at (The University of) Texas, too. I got to do a lot of fun things.

OTL: What’s next for you besides playing the PGA Tour Champions?

JL: I don’t know. I’m just getting my game ready, watching my kids (Reese Ella,19; Avery Kate 17; Luke Garrett, 16, Skylar Charles, 12) grow and mature, and spending time with my wife (Amanda). We did our first college-parents weekend last fall, and our other daughter is headed to college next fall. Our oldest is at UVA (University of Virginia), and our next is going to SMU in the fall. The family dynamic now that they are leaving the house is constantly shifting.

BUCKS TIPS

PURPOSE IN PRACTICE

STORY BY BUCK MAYERS

Good golfers understand that you learn what to practice from how you play. Start from the hole and move backwards. Putting is by far the most critical area in scoring and often the most neglected. If it’s not putting, how’s your up and down percentage? Scrambling around the green says volumes about your chipping, pitching and bunker play. What’s important here is to learn from your inability to score from the area that needs the most work.

Many golfers take a lesson and expect immediate results. There is no magic dust or holy grail. If you really aspire to become a better golfer, you must be willing to practice consistently with a purpose. Remember, your poor shots come from a bad habit and fortunately habits can be changed. Many golfers hit a lot of range balls on the range and do not become better players. Every practice session should have a goal in mind.

Here are some guidelines:

• Master the basics

• Make a commitment to become a better player

• Schedule time to practice and play

• Be realistic on how long it takes for lasting improvement

• Be willing to make changes in all areas of your game

• Believe in instruction and trust it

• Every swing on the range has a target

• Change your club and target often

• Only work on one thing at a time

• Practice only as long as you can stay focused

• Practice simulating on-course situations

• Have fun while you work – you will practice longer

Remember, train when you practice – Trust when you play.

Buck

Bofinger, Paris

STORY AND PHOTOS BY RICHARD AREBALO OTL FEATURES EDITOR

’ve been to France many times but never in the late autumn. After one sweltering and crowded summer trip to Paris, I avoided the high prices and huge tourist crowds as much as possible. Business trips could vary, but April was my best bet for vacation.

In October, I was invited to a book launch by my friend, Adrien Motel. He had written a book about the legendary French Ocean Liner Normandie, which was to debut at a 1930s-themed black-tie dinner. The event was phenomenal, and October is my new favorite month to go to Paris.

I stayed at an almost fairytale-like hotel in the Place des Voges. It was covered in ancient vines that had turned a bright red as the season had started to change. The mornings were crisp, and it made walking a joy.

On my last evening, I headed towards the Place de la Bastille, just a few blocks away. The square is known not only for its place in the French Revolution but is now the site of Paris’s (newer) Opera House.

Turning off the main boulevard, I saw a short street filled with restaurants and cafés. One place caught my eye as it had a long row of scarlet awnings with a gold letter “B.”

I had accidentally stumbled upon one of Paris’s oldest and most famous brasseries. – As I found out later, famous enough that in 1981 Francois Mitterrand reserved the entire first floor of the restaurant to celebrate his election victory as the new French President.

First, a word of warning… In France, there is a strong delineation between what we Americans lump into the term “restaurants.” A French café will offer coffee and a limited menu of snacks. A bistro will offer a limited menu focused on home-style meals (think most of the classics,) and a brasserie will have a much more extensive menu and traditionally have a connection with beer. (Indeed, the French word for brewery is “brasserie.”)

My confusion as to why I would not find Coq au Vin or Beef Bourguignon

a French “restaurant” was settled by my French teacher years ago. I was told that “In France, “restaurants” … are for art.”

Frederic Bofinger came to Paris from the northeastern French region of Alsace. In 1864 he established a modest business with a strong focus on beer. He initially catered to the large population of Alsatian workers in the nearby Place de la Bastille.

The Alsace is renowned for great French food but also has a German influence. You can still see this connection in the presence of several sausage dishes and even sauerkraut on the menu.

Over the course of decades, Bofinger expanded, and in 1919, the brasserie was refurbished in the stunning Belle Epoch style. The gorgeous Art Nouveau domed glass ceiling, elaborate ironworks, and beveled mirrors today are much as they were over 100 years ago.

The menu is extensive and contains so many

classics that deciding on dinner took a while.

There is a large selection of fresh seafood, and, a bit unusually, Bofinger does a tremendous business in takeaway fruit-de-Mer (cold seafood).

The menu features four prestigious varieties of oysters (Brittany Cadoret, Saint-Vaast le Tatihou, Fines de Claire, and Galarneau from Bourcefranc-le-Chapus near La Rochelle), each with a family story almost as old as the restaurant itself. “Shrimp” is listed by the desired size: shrimp, (larger) prawns, and (larger still) langoustines. French Crabs, welks, and clams are available alongside Canadian lobsters. All the above can be mixed and matched on various towering fruit-de-Mer platters.

There are many starters, from soups to escargot to foie gras and numerous seafood mains. I was impressed by the fantastic selection of “Meat” courses, including; Supremes of Chicken with Riesling,

Butternut Velouté.

Baked meringue was floating on a pool of vanilla Crème Anglaise.

Normandie Beef Tartare, and Grilled Beef Tenderloin with béarnaise sauce and fries.

In keeping with its Alsatian roots, there is a Sauerkraut selection including a frankfurter, Jura sausage, smoked bacon, salt pork chop; also, one called a “Sea Sauerkraut” that includes haddock, salmon, langoustines, and boiled potatoes.” Their cabbage is homemade according to tradition: candied onions with lard, juniper, coriander, and cumin.

To me, this was a menu of French food fantasies. (Not knocking “art,” but this was a dream menu)

I opted for one of the fixed-price dinners, which allowed me a starter, a main, and dessert for only 35 Euros!

I started with a silky Butternut Velouté followed by a roast chicken breast with a spiral of whipped potatoes and the most delicious (chicken) brown sauce I’ve ever tasted. It had deep flavor, with perfect fat content and perfect sea-

soning. (A baguette was all that was needed to dispatch the sauce completely.) Unlike myself, I ate the meal slowly to enjoy each bite.

My dessert was a picture-perfect “Floating Island.” A substantial baked meringue was floating on a pool of vanilla Crème Anglaise. It was drizzled conservatively (and correctly) with caramel and topped with chopped pecans. I enjoyed the meal with a 2020 Georges Burrier PouillyFuissé.

Not wanting to leave, I treated myself to a late-day espresso.

I shared the last bit of my wine with two lovely ladies visiting from San Francisco. One of them had just attended an early opera at the Bastille nearby. We marveled at the stained-glass dome and our luck for having been able to dine at such a beautiful spot.

Walking back to the ‘Pavilion de la Reine,’ I was treated to the most beautiful pink and purple Paris sky. Life was good.

Roast chicken breast with a spiral of whipped potatoes.

Beautiful pink and purple Paris sky.

Music and Wine Pairings:

The Perfect Harmony for Your Palate

STORY BY HUNTER HAM

ine and music are two of life’s greatest pleasures, and when combined, they can create a truly unforgettable experience. Just as the right wine can enhance the flavors of a dish, the right music can enhance the flavors of a wine. Today we are going to cut loose, open a bottle of wine and explore the art of music and wine pairings, and how to find the perfect harmony

for your palate. Please enjoy some playlists I have made on Spotify for you to enjoy along with the perfect wine!

First things first: what makes a good music and wine pairing? Just like with food and wine pairings, the goal is to find complementary flavors and aromas that enhance each other. A full-bodied red wine may pair well with a strong and bold musical piece, while a light white wine may pair better with a softer and more delicate piece of music. It’s all about finding the perfect balance.

Cab and Chopin?

Let’s start with a classic pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon and classical music. The bold tannins and rich flavors of the wine pair perfectly with the sophistication and elegance of classical music. From the soaring melodies of Mozart to the dramatic symphonies of Beethoven, a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon and a classical music piece can transport you to a world of refined tastes and cultured experiences.

Samba & Syrah!

If you’re looking for something a little more exotic, try pairing a spicy Syrah with some Latin music. The bold flavors and spicy notes of the wine are a perfect match for the passionate rhythms and fiery beats of Latin music. From the sultry sounds of salsa to the energetic beats of reggaeton, a glass of Syrah and some Latin music can take you on a sensory journey to a vibrant and colorful world.

Bebop to Blanc

For those who prefer a more upbeat and lively experience, try pairing a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with some upbeat jazz music. The refreshing acidity and citrus notes of the wine complement the lively rhythms and improvisations of jazz music, creating a playful and dynamic pairing. Whether you’re dancing the night away or enjoying a summer day with friends, this pairing is sure to put a smile on your face.

Bel Canto with Bordeaux

Finally, for a pairing that’s both bold and elegant, try pairing a rich and complex Bordeaux with some classical opera music. The bold tannins and complex flavors of the wine are a perfect match for the dramatic and powerful voices of opera singers: from the grandeur of Puccini to the passion of Verdi, a glass of Bordeaux and some opera music can transport you to a world of passion, drama, and sophistication.

Music and wine pairings are a match made in heaven, and with so many options to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for a bold and energetic experience or a soothing and relaxing one, there’s a pairing out there that’s sure to satisfy. So go ahead, indulge your senses, and let the perfect harmony of music and wine take you on a journey to new heights of taste and pleasure.

Casdagli Cigars History and luxury blended to perfection

STORY BY TOMAS ZILINSKIS

Exploring flavors is my passion and there is no better feeling than finding a brand that just does it for you in every blend and every vitola. It is surprising, exciting and flavors continuously bring back various memories from my life that I love to re-live in that moment.

Finding a cigar that speaks luxury and fine craftsmanship is not easy. Finding an entire brand that is exquisite and with every cigar light-up any aficionado would immediately recognize the uniqueness and impeccable flavor balance of every draw. I chose to share more about this particular brand for this specific reason and. After smoking hundreds of Casdagli cigars there is no doubt in my mind that it has it all for the luxury smoker, thus I want to make sure more readership can get access to those cigars and explore flavors I absolutely love.

Casdagli is a family-owned brand and has a deep roots in tobacco trade. Decades of experience and knowledge that Jeremy Casdagli, founder of the Casdagli Cigars company, has meticulously put into blends that have individuality, back story, and immaculate balance of flavors delivered to anyone wishing to enjoy simple luxury in life.

I have been always fascinated by the history and backstories of cigar blends and after interviewing Jeremy Casdagli who is, in my opinion, a great and humble individual who takes a lot of pride with all cigar lines that his company produces, it was apparent that backstories have had a massive impact on all the blends. In particular I would like to touch up on a recent release of CASDAGLI CYPHER 3311 cigar line

featuring four different vitolas named to commemorate Jaremy’s grandfather and his achievements as a captive of Nazis in WWII. While in captivity Major A.T. Casdagli often produced wartime embroideries to keep his mind at peace. What the enemy did not suspect is that he would stitch hidden cypher messages in his artwork that would be passed to MI9 through clandestine communication network to London. One of the most famous phrases stitched was ‘God save the King,“ and a disparaging message to the head of the regime. The artwork is regularly featured in various museums in UK and all Cypher 3311 cigar sales have a portion of income donated to Red Cross.

As for uniqueness of the cigars, only 16,000 (4,000 of each size) will be produced each year. Tobaccos used for these cigars are rare and very expensive, coming from Costa Rica, Peru, Dominican Republic, and Ecuador. Each cigar is packaged in individual coffin box and sold in a box of box of 8 with MSRP of 400$ per box for Colossus, Enigma and Needle sizes and MSRP of 480$ for Lorenz (diadema) size. Each blend and size bring a little different experience and tasting notes and a truly unique experience backed up by an amazing history and valor.

Since the brand is less known in the USA, you can find Cypher 3311 and other Casdagli blends on www.smallbatchcigar.com. Enjoy and until next time my fellow cigar friends, cheers.