Tri-State Golfer Magazine by Nate Oxman

golfer Book Your Next Outing at the Areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premiere Semi-Private Golf Course

tri-state

spring 2011 spring 2013

new changes, new era at

limerick golf club This Spring, Come Play & Experience the Change

tristategolfer.com

The Most Read Golf Publication in The Tri State Area

TSG

tri-state golfer inside this issue • spring 2013

Tri-State Golfer Magazine Publisher

Joe Burkhardt Advertising Sales (Eastern PA / NJ / DE / MD)

Joe Burkhardt 610.755.8767 tristategolf@gmail.com staff Writer

Nate oxman Contributing Writers

matt biondi anthony caiazzo jr. Carol Ann Harris Mark Hogan pat mullaly

graphic design/art direction

garo yepremian Jr.

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

www.tristategolfer.com PO Box 341 Drexel Hill, PA 19026 Tri-State Golfer is published quarterly with issues in January, April, July, and October. Tri-State Golfer is a complimentary magazine available at public and private courses, hotels, and restaurants throughout the tri-state area. Any opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher or Tri-State Golfer Magazine. The information in this issue was accurate at the time of publication. All should be confirmed with the golf facility before making tee times and reservations.

day trippin’ Great Bear– Out of Hibernation

garo yepremian celebrity classic Celebrating a Decade of Great Golf for a Great Cause

golf fashion “For That Look and Feel,” King’s Cross Has it All

womens golf Pat Mullaly’s Golf News, Tips, Reviews, and More

michael barkann & friends golf classic With Celebrity Host Brian Dawkins

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Biondi media golfgurls.com golfweek amateur tour philadelphia publinks PSSA TOUR North Coast Golf Show USGA

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Will Arabea kept Blue Heron Pines churning through several changes at the top during his six-plus years at at the Egg Harbor City, N.J. semi-private facility and appeared to survive yet another after Ron Jaworski Management acquired the club last summer before being let go in the off-season. It didn’t take long for the hard-working Arabea to find another gig, and at a familiar spot nonetheless. He’s now the COO at the private Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point, N.J. where he served as director of food and beverage from 2004 to 2007. … A change in ownership has also taken place at Old York Country Club in Chesterfield, N.J. where a group of investors has big plans for the club and its Gary Player Signature Design. … A new golf season always sees PGA professionals in new places as well. Most notably perhaps in the Philadelphia Section PGA in ‘13 is Kevin Duffy as head professional at Riverton Country Club in Cinnaminson, N.J. Duffy, formerly second in command at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, replaces Fred Phillips, who retired back in December after 46 years at the club. Also, longtime Blue Bell Country Club Teaching Professional Mike Dynda departed for nearby Meadowlands Country Club. … A new owner, manager and PGA head professional, not to mention a new name, are on board at Great Bear Golf Club in East Stroudsburg, Pa. Charlie Kirkwood, owner of Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, purchased the club last fall and has since tabbed Dave Korba as club manager and Matthew McKeon, formerly the first assistant at Plainfield Country Club, as PGA head professional. Great Bear Golf Club is set for a spectacular grand re-opening this spring. … Many clubs take advantage of the downtime in the winter months to refurbish their facilities. Paxon Hollow Country Club in Media, Pa. has done just that, renovating its clubhouse to accommodate the addition of Anthony’s Ristorante and Banquet Center, which has taken over all food and beverage operations at the club. … The countdown to the U.S. Open at Merion (June 10-16) is on. Just about two months from now, the world’s best will arrive in the Philadelphia area for the city’s first PGA Tour major in more than 30 years. To help celebrate, the Philadelphia Museum of Art has opened an exhibition entitled The Art of Golf, highlighted by Charles Lees’ famous work The Golfers. The exhibition runs through July 7. —TSG

Contributing Associations

will arabea Will Lands on His Feet at Greate Bay

TSG s ne w

TSG NEWS TICKER

—garojrdesign.com—

liMERICK GOLF CLUB New Leadership Has Limerick Golf Club Set for Stardom

cover story

limerick golf club New Leadership Has Limerick Golf Club Set for Stardom

homas J. Flatley and Jason Hilz were on opposite ends of the spectrum when they joined forces at Limerick Golf Club last summer. Flatley‘s family, who took over the club last May, has lived in Limerick Township for the last 30 years so he was very familiar of the 48-year-old facility ideally located at 765 N. Lewis Road, less than one mile off of Route 422 and one-half mile off of Ridge Pike in Limerick, Pa. Hilz on the other hand, who Flatley lured away from nearby Gilbertsville Golf Club to become Limerick GC’s director of golf and club operations, wasn’t very familiar at all. Once they began operating the Montgomery County daily-fee club last summer, however; they found that they shared the same beliefs regarding the property. With a charming 6,019yard, par 70 golf course, a full-service restaurant/bar and a beautiful banquet facility, both Flatley and Hilz saw that Limerick GC was loaded with promise. All the club needed was a little tender loving care. Under the guidance of Hilz and Superintendent Brett Cuthbertson, the golf course is set to flourish in 2013 thanks to improved turf conditions, especially on the course’s signature,

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

By Nate Oxman, Staff Writer exquisite green complexes. “It is our goal to re-brand Limerick Golf Club so that it is known as a fun, well-maintained and player-friendly course,” said Flatley, one of three in his family involved with running the club, including father, Thomas F., and younger brother, Michael. “They [Hilz and Cuthbertson] are aggressively tackling the conditions of the course and players will immediately be able

to see the results. We really focused on the green conditions last fall and it will carry through into this season. One of the larger spring projects we are tackling is the conditions of the tees. We will be renovating several of the existing tee boxes to create larger and better hitting surfaces. We will also be adding new tee boxes to several of the holes.” “We’re looking into making a first cut in the rough so we’ll have a first and second cut,“ added Hilz. “Yardage markers are going to be added

throughout the course. So we’re adding a lot of the little touches that haven’t been here for awhile, whether it’s dressing the flower beds, cleaning up the trees, cleaning the brush out--cleaning the golf course overall to make it more aesthetically pleasing I think is the number one goal for the golf course this season.” To also aid in the golfer’s experience, Limerick has added a new fleet of 55 golf carts and constructed a bag drop and cart area. A new, fully-stocked pro shop is slated to open this season as well. “I think one of our biggest goals when we came here was to improve the level of customer service to help turn this into a first-rate facility,” said Hilz. “Having starters and rangers out there and cart guys and a bag drop … from the moment they enter the pro shop to the moment they finish their meal in the restaurant, excellent customer service is our goal.” Led by Executive Chef Shawn Kane, The Sandtrap Grille, the club’s familyfriendly restaurant open to both golfers and the general public seven days per week for both lunch and dinner, has also been superbly revamped. “The Sandtrap Grille is a great amenity at Limerick Golf Club,” said Flatley. “It is certainly one of the features that made the property attractive to us.

We have been continuously upgrading the facility from simple things like adding nine flat screen TVs to watch the big game, to adding bar games, upgrading furniture, and behind the scenes things like replacing the air conditioning units. We are committed to making The Sandtrap a well-known and popular hangout.” Judging by the buzz being generated this spring and the events on tap for the 2013 golf season, The Sandtrap is well on its way to becoming just that. “Shawn and his staff do an amazing job,“ said Flatley. “The variety and quality of our food is outstanding. It is our goal to get new people here to Limerick Golf Club. Once they eat, drink and enjoy the atmosphere at The Sandtrap, we are confident that they will come back. We have live entertainment every Friday and Saturday night and a great variety of custom cocktails and drink specials. During the summer time we take the party out to the

patio on Friday and Saturday nights where we have live entertainment, a moonbounce for the kids, nightly food specials ranging from killer crab cakes to full bbq Buffets. We really want to make the Limerick Golf Club a fun and entertaining place for the whole family.” The Loft, the third piece of the impressive puzzle at Limerick Golf Club, remains one of the finest banquet facilities in the tri-state area. Accommodating special events of all sorts and sizes, The Loft not only offers immaculate indoor event space, but an exceptional view from its outdoor patio and the ability to host outdoor functions on the club’s grounds as well. Fullservice catering and an on-site event coordinator round out the resources available at Limerick GC. Those behind the new Limerick are committed to ensuring the club continues to improve. “Most people have some sort of experience with Limerick Golf Club,

whether it was playing the course, eating at The Sandtrap or attending a wedding in The Loft, people are familiar with the property,” said Flatley. “Now it is our goal to have them come back to experience the changes. We are committed to making Limerick Golf Club the best it can be. We want people to enjoy all aspects of the property: our well-maintained golf course, our great food and drinks at The Sandtrap and our first-class banquet facilities. We have something for everyone and we look forward to bringing people back to re-experience Limerick Golf Club first hand.” With refreshingly affordable daily rates, a variety of attractive membership programs, and both build-your-own and all-inclusive outing packages, Limerick GC can meet every golfer’s needs. For more information, including rates, tee times, membership options, and directions, visit Limerick’s new website at limerickgolfclub.com

For a full menu and the upcoming entertainment schedule, visit Thesandtrapgrille.com

For more information on The Loft, visit theloftatlimerick.com

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

Greate Bay Country Club Names Will Arabea Chief Operating Officer

(1922 to 2010)

Timothy Meyers Supervisor

C.W. Stuard III Vice President

Play some of the best holes in the world

Will Arabea was named Chief Operating Officer of Greate Bay Country Club, the region’s premiere private golf and lifestyle facility. In this role, Arabea oversees the day-to-day operations of the club and is responsible for ensuring a top quality experience and complete member satisfaction. “In 2004, Will was the Director of Food and Beverage at Greate Bay,” said Mark Benevento, owner of Greate Bay Country Club. “His deep understanding of the club and southern New Jersey quickly made Greate Bay a leading force in the region for weddings, private parties, and entertainment. We are glad he’s back.” Arabea, who has more than 27 years of hospitality experience, has managed some of the finest establishments in the area. Most recently, as General Manager of Blue Heron Pines, he oversaw every aspect of the facility. Within two years, he guided Blue Heron to 34th place of Golf World Magazine’s top ranked courses in North America. Beyond his country club experience, Arabea spent 14 years as Director of Dining Room Operations at the Ram’s Head Inn and was General Manager and a key member of the team that reopened the Historic Smithville Inn. Will was a consultant for the $2 million renovation of the Golden Inn in Avalon and the Director of Food and Beverage. Throughout his career Will has received several awards, including: • AAA Diamond Award • B est of the Best for 14 years by New Jersey Monthly • Di Rona Award given to the top 2 percent of dining establishments in North America Greate Bay Country Club is one of South Jersey’s premiere private clubs. In providing the full country club experience, Greate Bay offers members championship golf, private dining, a complete racquet and fitness club and excellent facilities for corporate events, private parties and weddings. The golf course at Greate Bay is fully equipped with a classic awardwinning 18-hole design by the legendary Willie Park, Jr., a driving range, and short-game practice facilities. For more information, or to visit the Audubon-certified course, call 609.927.5071, or visit www.greatebay.com. tri-state golfer • spring 2013

Royal Portrush Nairn Turnberry Royal Troon Biarritz St. Andrews Royal Dornoch Waterville Gleneagles Southport & Ainsdale Royal County Down Prestwick

All within minutes to Atlantic City and Ocean City, NJ 609.926.3900 mcculloughsgolf.com 3016 Ocean Heights Ave Egg Harbor Twp, NJ 08234

tri-state golfer â&#x20AC;˘ spring 2013

Free Golf Scheduled for April at Shawnee With spring just around the corner, the historic Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort is rolling out Free Golf in April. Shawnee is offering both day golfers and overnight travelers an opportunity to take advantage of Shawnee’s Free Golf promotion. For day golfers, Shawnee’s Free Golf promotion is just that – free greens fees at Shawnee from opening day until April 25. A special overnight package was created for those interested in lodging at The Shawnee Inn. The value-laden package includes: overnight lodging accommodations, 18 holes of golf with cart and full breakfast. Package midweek rates start at $69 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. The Free Golf Package is available from April 5 through April 25. Guests of the Shawnee Inn are eligible to play the nearby Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, Great Bear Golf Club from opening day until April 30, 2013 for $35 Monday – Friday & $55 Saturday

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

& Sunday (tee times at Great bear are based on availability). Carts are required at Shawnee for all non-members. Shawnee features three distinct nine-hole courses (Red, White and Blue), with 24 of the 27 holes located on a private island in the Delaware River. Tillinghast’s first-ever design was completed here in 1911 and served as the career springboard for one of the game’s greatest architects. The lighted Chip and Put Course, a six-hole, par three layout, accents the resort’s amenities for golfers. Access to the Chip and Put Course is complimentary to the resort’s overnight guests. The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort is conveniently located 70 miles from New York City, 100 miles from Philadelphia, 150 miles from Albany, N.Y. and 200 miles from Washington, D.C. Three airports – Lehigh Valley International, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Newark

International – all are within easy distance of the property. The resort features three dining establishments: The Gem and Keystone Brewpub, The River Room Restaurant and The Bistro. All restaurants feature craft beers brewed on property by The ShawneeCraft Brewing Company. To book a Spring Free Golf package at The Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, call 800-SHAWNEE (742-9633) or 570-424-4000, or visit ShawneeInn.com.

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verdesalonandspa.com 610-495-8200 1690 Old Schuylkill Road, Parker Ford Rte 724 between Phoenixville & Pottstown

The area’s finest celebrity tournament Patrón margarita bar and Outback Steakhouse on course!

Tuesday, June 4, 2013 downingtown, pa

610.268.2299 • www.yepremian.org

10th Annual Garo Yepremian Celebrity Classic at Applecross

Former Miami Dolphin All-Pro Placekicker Garo Yepremian can’t help but smile when asked to reflect on what the 10th anniversary of his celebrity classic means to him. “I’m proud and thankful for the support of our friends and celebrities in the community. They’re the reason for the success of our tournament, and I’m looking forward to the next ten years of fun on the course while supporting our great cause.” Garo’s family faced a daunting challenge when they learned that his youngest son’s

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

girlfriend, Debby-Lu, was diagnosed with an intrinsic brainstem glioma (inoperable brain tumor) at the age of 19. With the help of Jefferson Hospital’s neuroscience program (headed by Dr. David Andrews, MD), she outlived her initial prognosis of six months to live, and went on to live for six years. Sadly, Debby lost her courageous battle at the age of 26. Funds raised through the Garo Yepremian Foundation help Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience in their fight against devastating brain tumors and brain cancers. On Tuesday, June 4, a special group of celebrity golfers will be on hand to at the highly acclaimed, Nicklaus designed Applecross Country Club in Downingtown, PA. Each foursome will be paired with a celebrity– a few regular guests include Ron Jaworski, Bill Bergey, Phil Martelli, John Clark, Bob Kelly, Kevin Reilly, and Lydell Mitchell. A unique feature of this tournament is the chance to win an impressive championship ring as a member of the

from the back tee

th annual

the

winning fivesome. Outback Steakhouse will be grilling their specialties on the course, and the Patrón Spirits margarita stand will help refresh golfers. Participants receive spectacular goodie bags, including Ashworth golf shoes, Donald Ross golf shirts, and more. An evening of food, auctions, and more will follow tournament play. Sponsorship opportunities and individual spots are available. For more information about this one-of-a-kind tournament, visit www.yepremian.org or call the Garo Yepremian Foundation at 610.268.2299.

Golf’s economic impact reported at $68.8 billion The collaboration of leading organizations representing all segments of the United States golf industry -- reports golf’s economic impact of $68.8 billion in 2011. In a study conducted by SRI International, findings are based on several core segments (golf facility operations, golf course capital investment, golfer supplies, tournaments and associations, and charities) and enabled categories (real estate, hospitality and tourism). When indirect and induced economic activity driven by the golf sector is taken into consideration, a total impact of $176.8 billion was generated. Highlights include: • 1.98 million jobs • $55.6 billion wage income • 25.7 million golf participants • 15,751 traditional golf facilities In November 2012, GOLF 20/20 announced the game’s charitable impact of $3.9 billion. Golf as a fundraising vehicle includes an estimated 12,000 golf facilities, 143,000 events, 12 million participants and raises $26,300 average per function. “The economy has endured two significant recessions the past decade and golf has fared well,” says Steve Mona, CEO of the World Golf Foundation, administrator of GOLF 20/20. “The health and growth of the game has a direct bearing on jobs, commerce, economic development and tax revenues for U.S. communities and industries.” Golf ’s core industries alone exceed the economic impact of spectator sports, the performing arts, and the amusement and recreation industries.

experienced since 2006, are backed by findings that show consistent, favorable weather conditions throughout the country, based on reports provided by Weather Trends, International.

A Strong Grip The grip plays a big role in a golfer’s ability to achieve a proper impact position. The primary reason why a strong grip is more consistent, and thus more successful than a weaker grip, is because it allows the golfer to lead with the handle into impact without concern for squaring the clubface. Try this: take an iron and set up. Now push your hands forward, paying attention to what happens to the clubface. Two things should have occurred; firstly, the face should have been delofted. Check...we want that. Secondly, the face should have rotated slightly open...we don’t want that. This is where a strong grip serves to keep the face square while the handle leads the clubhead into impact. A player who utilizes a weak grip is prone to active hands and that decreases the player’s ability to lead with the handle and ultimately compress the golf ball. A secondary reason why a strong grip proves to be more successful is due to the fact that now in order to hit a straight shot, the hands must remain quiet through the hit. We all know that quiet hands are ultimately more consistent than active hands. It is certainly easier to keep the hands passive than to attempt to time a flip through the impact zone.

Rounds Played at Record High Levels For 2012 Golf Datatech, the golf industry’s leading independent research firm for consumer, trade and retail golf trends, announced that rounds played in 2012 have increased significantly and are trending towards record high levels for the year. The trending growth in rounds played, which are at levels not previously

Try to get your grip to fit in between the two options pictured above; essentially anythi sng from neutral to strong should serve you well.

Callaway Introduces RAZR Fit Xtreme Driver Callaway Golf Company has introduced the RAZR Fit Xtreme Driver, the longest fully adjustable driver the company has ever measured. The RAZR Fit Xtreme Driver debuts new technologies to advance overall performance and promote distance gains over its predecessor, the award-winning, Tour-proven RAZR Fit Driver. Headlining the RAZR Fit Xtreme Driver is a powerful new Speed Frame Face Technology that optimizes stiffness and stress distribution across the face for more efficient energy transfer. This produces more ball speed and consistent distance, even on off-center contact. Among other improvements, Callaway’s new driver features the lowest Center of Gravity (CG) of any adjustable driver, further fueling distance gains, and a new weighting system that offers golfers a greater range of shot shaping options. “The RAZR Fit Xtreme Driver is worthy of its extreme designation,” said Dr. Alan Hocknell, SVP, Research & Development, Callaway Golf. “We worked tirelessly to improve on the best distance characteristics of our longest drivers, and the result is incredibly fast ball speed off the Speed Frame Face, plus the lowest CG of any adjustable driver in golf. This driver is very long and consistent. It will not be matched.” Callaway Staff Professionals like Luke List have already seen tremendous distance gains during player testing with RAZR Fit Xtreme. List, who this year led all six major professional Tours in driving distance with a 324 yard average off the tee, gained 16.6 yards in total distance over his current RAZR Fit gamer by adding .6 mph ball speed and reducing his backspin by nearly 500 rpm with the RAZR Fit Xtreme Driver. tri-state golfer • spring 2013

Golf fashion

“For That Look and Feel,” King’s Cross Has It All By Nate Oxman staff writer

aren Arakelian is confident his latest venture in the clothing business would make his predecessors proud. Engulfed in the family trade that began way back in 1898 when, according to Arakelian, his great grandfather invented the buttonhole sewing machine, Arakelian not only comes from a long line of clothing manufacturers, but a long line of golfers as well. Just about a year ago, Arakelian launched Kings Cross Knickers, a niche golf apparel company dedicated to preserving the traditions of the game. With a factory in Latham, N.Y. outside of Albany and operations as well overseas, Kings Cross Knickers is quickly build a reputation for producing exceptional products at

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

friendly prices. Although specializing in the type of pants that dominated the era of Jones, Sarazen and Hagen and was reintroduced 70 years later by the late Payne Stewart, Kings Cross gives golfers the opportunity to complete the look by including in its line button down dress shirts, knee-high socks, ties, caps, and Oxford wingtip dress golf shoes all in a variety of colors. “We offer a complete outfit, from the knicker to the matching cap to an argyle sweater vest and argyle socks--everything to give you a Bobby Jones, 1920s type of look and feel,” said Arakelian, who learned everything from cutting and pattern making to the sewing and distribution from his father and grandfather as a youth before studying textiles and international trade at Clemson University and returning to the family business in New York. “We do this in order to pay respect to the sport. It’s a line that respects the integrity of the tradition of golf while giving it a new spin.” That “new spin” is accomplished with moisture-wicking and waterrepellant fabrics as well as new styles of print. “We do a classic Turnberry print which mimics the Tartan clans of Scotland and then we do some newer types of checks: black and white and reverse checks and then we do seersucker also,” said Arakelian, the fourth generation in his family to run the business. And then of course we carry a number of solids that really go well with the argyle sweaters.” These knicker variations as well as Kings Cross’s traditional closure at the bottom of their pants help set the company apart from its competition.

“We don’t use elastic at the bottom of our pants, which some people do,“ said Arakelian. “Everybody’s leg is different and shaped differently so we use a metal buckle in order to cinch the leg and that accommodates a lot of people in a lot of sizes and also makes it more comfortable for the wear. “We make a nice, comfortable, respectable, knicker with a great feel and that is comfortable to wear for 18 holes of golf.” Kings Cross sells all of the items in its line individually through its website, www.kingscrossknickers.com, and its mail-order catalog, which consumers can request be sent to them free of charge by mail simply by filling out an online form, or together as a basic outfit at just $99. And Kings Cross ships worldwide, having already filled orders throughout Europe, Canada, Japan and Iceland. Kings Cross is also offering tri-state area golfers a special U.S. Open deal. Golfers can go to kingscrossknickers. com, type in the coupon code USOPEN

and purchase a complete outfit in tribute of Payne Stewart for $135. Adding to its versatility (customization capability), Kings Cross recently added customers the option of creating a made-to-order specialty outfit on its website. “A customer will be able to go to our website, choose their fabrics and styles and we’ll make it to their specific measurements entirely from U.S. fabrics right here in our factory.” Customers can also have Kings Cross specially embroider company or group logos or designs on anything in its golf apparel line. Kings Cross has also expanded to include women’s and children’s knickers (ages 6 and up), caps, socks, sweaters, and polos. “We’re finding favor from customers who are a little bit older because there might be mud on the golf course to young players who just want to go for the retro look and in doing so maintaining the integrity of the sport.” Kings Cross has teamed up

with hickoryknickers.com, where hickory golfers can log on to view upcoming hickory golf tournaments worldwide and take advantage of yet another special to those purchasing knickers and more in preparation for participation in those tournaments which require traditional golf attire. Forging a relationship with hickory golfers all over the world will only help Kings Cross continue its impressive growth. “We’d like to expand our line to include even more colors and fabrics and then we’d ultimately like to build our brand so it’s recognized not only in this country, but in other countries as well.” Visit Kings Cross Knickers at kingscrossknickers.com to view its complete line of golf apparel for men, women and children and to sign up for your free mail-order catalog.

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

Gilbertsville Golf Club 27 Hole Golf Course “The Hidden Gem of Public Golf Courses”

Weekday Twilight Membership Available

Buy One Green Fee, Get One Green Fee

$675

with purchase of carts

Good Monday through Friday. Anytime Saturday & Sunday after 12:00. Not valid with any other discounts. Expires 6/30/13

Includes Green fee and cart after 2:00pm Mon.–Fri. Good until Dec. 31, 2013

2944 Lutheran Road, Gilbertsville, PA 19525 • 610.323.3222 • golfgilbertsvillegc.com

Philadelphia Publinks 2103 Schedule Publinks Better-Ball Team Championship

Turtle Creek GC

May 20

PPGA Match Play Championship

Qualifying May 18, 19 or 20

45th Philadelphia Better-Ball Championship

Cobbs Creek GC

June 7, 8 & 9

PPGA Junior Championship

McCall GC

June 19

PPGA College Championship

McCall GC

June 19

Publinks Championship

Jeffersonville GC

June 24

40th Philadelphia Open Amateur Championship

Cobbs Creek CC

July 12, 13 & 14

PPGA Mid-Amateur Championship

Turtle Creek GC

August 2

Philadelphia Senior Open Amateur Championship Kimberton GC

September 27

Atlantic Publinks Challenge

Baltimore

TBD

PPGA Fall Classic

Jeffersonville GC

October 11

Committee Appreciation Day

TBD

October 20

PPGA Scholarship Fundraiser Tournament

Stonewall

November 4

womens golf

womens golf How Important Are Your Feet When You Play Golf? Do You Have Happy Feet?

pat mullaly golfgurls.com

Pinnacle Golf Is Looking For Golfers Who Go The Distance! The people at Pinnacle Golf asked if I would post the following announcement and I am happy to do so. Like most of us, I have several friends and family members who have suffered from breast cancer. I think the statistics are now 1 woman out of 8 will have it during her lifetime. Too many for sure! And fighting against it is something we should all be working towards. One way golfers can get involved is in participating in the annual Rally For A Cure Golf Tournament at your club or in your region. Pinnacle is asking for your participation in the Going the Distance Awards to increase awareness. Read on for entry information: ....... From Pinnacle Golf: We’re looking for golfers who have “gone the distance” in the fight against breast cancer. The golf ball manufacturer has just announced the second annual Going the Distance Awards, a program that celebrates and honors golfers who are making an impact in battling this disease. Ten honorees will have a $10,000 donation made in their name to help fund critical breast cancer research, as well as receive a prize package from Pinnacle. Anyone can nominate a golfer who inspires them by sharing their story at PinnacleGolf.com or Facebook.com/ PinnacleGolf. Honorees will be determined based on four key criteria: • Dedication to the fight against breast cancer demonstrating a personal passion and commitment to furthering the cause (e.g., volunteer, community advocate, medical practitioner) • Impact on others’ lives or the community • Strong tie to breast cancer (e.g., survivor or family/ friend of survivor) • Connection to, and passion for, golf The program runs until March 31. Winners will be announced in May. A judging panel that includes

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

representatives from Pinnacle, Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, a 2012 Going the Distance Honoree and the golf community will choose the final ten Going the Distance Award honorees. The $10,000 donation made in each honoree’s name to Susan G. Komen for the Cure will go toward life-saving breast cancer research at the national level.

The Secret to Power and Balance Could Be In This Band At the PGA show I stopped by a booth to meet LPGA star and Rolex Player of the Year, Stacy Lewis. Got my photo taken with the pro, an autograph and happily, a PowerBalance wristband. Stacy is a big fan of PowerBalance and wears one of these bands while she plays. I had no idea what it was, so I’ve done a little investigating. It’s hard to know if it’s for real or not. All the information that’s available seems filled with conviction, as well as contradiction. Even the people at PowerBand admit there is no scientific evidence to support their claim that it improves your strength, balance and flexibility, but the dozens of athletes who wear the band claim its effects are profound and real. The band is made of a flexible silicone material and contains two circular holograms that sit on opposite sides of the band. The color of the band doesn’t matter, the one I have is black, but they are available in many colors and styles. The purpose of the band is to help balance your energy field and to increase your strength, power and flexibility. It’s even supposed to help you sleep more soundly. I decided to try out the device and put it on my right wrist two days ago. Now, I don’t know if it really works or not. But I will let you know any changes in my attitude, flexitude, realitude, that become obvious. And if I suddenly discover that my golf swing is more powerful, and my drives sail yards further than ever before, I will certainly let you know. Power Balance-The Original Performance Wristband is available at many online stores.

I don’t know about you, but I really care about my feet! Especially when I play golf. If my feet are feeling unhappy, my golf game goes south really fast. Years ago I was one of those women who wanted to look smart, and elegant and about three inches taller than my 5’4” frame allowed. A pair of fancy Stilettos! were the answer—the taller the better. Of course, wearing these horrible shoes did nothing for my feet. Crushed toes, pinched nerves. Yikes! A podiatrist’s nightmare! Thankfully, the pain got to me early and I got off the stilts and into “sensible” shoes so that, today, my feet are just fine. A little wider, but no hammer toes, or bunions or strange bumps. I know I’m one of the lucky ones. Some of the women golfers I play with have feet that show the results of years of abuse, wearing poorly designed shoes. When it comes to buying the right golf shoes for feet that have been too long in tight little leather pumps, it makes a big difference which shoes you buy. Under no circumstances should you buy cheap golf shoes. Big mistake!!! A bargain is no bargain if your feet get hurt. You can recycle your shirt, wear a comfortable old jacket on the course, but if you don’t have good golf shoes, you’re not doing yourself any favors. Your feet are the foundation on which you stand. Your balance, your ability to turn properly, all depend on this foundation staying strong and firm beneath you. If your shoes are too tight, or too loose, if they pinch or cut, your game is in trouble even before the first tee. I’m pretty lucky. I can go to the pro shop or golf shop and pretty much pick out a pair of shoes that fit well. Both my right and left feet are the same size, —maybe the right is a little wider, but not so much as to make a big difference. In any case, I’m lucky. But if you have problem feet, the best thing to do is find a great shoe store where an attendant will actually measure your feet. Even if they don’t sell golf shoes, knowing this sizing information can be very valuable, especially if you are buying golf shoes online.

Get Rid of Those Aching Legs Once and for All Do your legs ever ache by the time you’re ready to tee off at the fourteenth hole? I regularly play golf on three different courses here on Cape Cod… and two of the three have major hills. I walk almost every round for the exercise, but by the time I get to the

fourteenth hole, my body is telling me to slow down! – Better yet, take a load off and sit down! Of course I have to keep going, keep chugging along. At the PGA show this year, I discovered a product that promises to help. If you find yourself standing a lot, walking a lot and aching a lot, you should check out these great new compression socks from Zensah. They really work. Put them on before your round and all those aches and pains just never show up. You’ll focus on your golf game rather than your aching legs, and that’s how it should be. A month or so ago the folks at Zensah sent me a couple of pairs of socks to try out. They come in a wide variety of colors and sizes specific for your shoe size. The colors were great, and the styles they sent — Argyle, is perfect for golf. I gave them to a couple of golfer friends and both loved the socks. One woman was traveling to Jamaica and wore them on the plane. “They are really comfortable, fit perfectly and I really like the fact there is no seam at the toe. That can really be bothersome after a while. I will definitely get myself a pair!” – A. P. “Love the colors and the fit. They really helped my legs feel comfortable all day long. They feel great on, are well made and are very easy to care for. A definite “Yes!” Thumbs up! – N. B. How do they do it? Here’s some info from their website: Zensah compression socks make use of graduated compression to enhance blood circulation and oxygen flow to increase performance. With Zensah Compression Socks, you are able to run farther, bike longer, and train harder. Zensah’s® mission is simple: create innovative products that wow and inspire all athletes to achieve their goals without limits. We use cutting edge, seamless technology to develop products made with the most comfortable fabric and perfect ergonomic fit. Zensah® is the most durable and comfortable athletic apparel you will ever wear. After wearing the socks myself, and hearing the feedback from fellow golfers, I feel confident in recommending these socks. No matter your age, if you are on your feet, running, walking, working… these socks will really work for you. Zensah Socks are available at many retail stores and online. For more womens golf news, tips, and reviews, be sure to visit Pat Mullaly’s blog– golfgurls.com

tri-state golfer • spring 2013

Brian Dawkins

will serve as Celebrity Host of the Michael Barkann & Friends Golf Classic The Barkann Family Healing Hearts Foundation is excited to announce the date of the fifth annual Michael Barkann & Friends Golf Classic. The tournament will be held on Monday, June 24, 2013 at Bala Golf Club in Philadelphia, PA (2200 Belmont Avenue).

ristorante san marco

at Ristorante San Marco, diners enjoy the finest Italian cuisine in a uniquely intimate and elegant setting. Homemade pasta is prepared each day, and every entree is given time and attention in the kitchen. The San Marco bar offers a more casual setting, with live music every night. 504 North Bethlehem Pike • Ambler, PA

215.654.5000

www.sanmarcopa.com

The tournament will be immediately followed by a reception at McFadden’s Ballpark in Philadelphia, PA (1 Citizens Bank Way), with food, drinks, silent auction and an appearance by our celebrity host. For the second year in a row, Brian Dawkins will be headlining the list of celebrity guests that will golf with our supporters. Proceeds from this event will benefit The Barkann Family Healing Hearts Foundation, whose mission is to grant loans to local organizations and families throughout the Delaware Valley who have been overcome by the financial burdens caused by family crisis, long term illness, or sudden loss of life. The Barkann Family Healing Hearts Foundation has recently partnered with St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia, PA. The funds from the Golf Classic will help to purchase a mobile dental unit for the Hospital which will provide dental care to many children throughout the North Philadelphia communities. Information about sponsorships and registration for the Michael Barkann & Friends Golf Classic can be found on The Barkann Family Healing Hearts Foundation’s website, www.thebarkannfoundation.org