California Golf + Travel March 2019 by California Golf + Travel

2019 EQUIPMENT SALES • PHENOM TURNS PRO • WHAT’S NEW IN GOLF BALLS

MAR/APR 2019

UTAH’S RED LEDGES EXPERIENCE YEAR-ROUND WORLD CLASS ACTIVITIES CURE YOUR SLICE!

TIPS FOR FINDING MORE FAIRWAYS

THE QUARRY AT LA QUINTA

COACHELLA VALLEY’S ONLY TOP 100 GOLF COURSE

JAN/FEB 2019

M AT T G I N E L L A / L I N K S O U L.C O M

JAN/FEB 2019

THE GOLF MART SERVING CALIFORNIA GOLFERS SINCE 1984

GET FIT BY OUR EXPERTS IN-STORE FOR FREE!

EXPERTS + TECHNOLOGY=

THE PERFEFT FIT

UTILIZING THE BEST FITTING TECHNOLOGY IN THE RETAIL GOLF INDUSTRY!

ALL NEW!

ALL NEW! NEW! NEW!

ALL NEW!

PING

ALL NEW! NEW! NEW!

TAYLORMADE

ALL G410 FAMILY NEW! 499.99 NEW! NEW! NEW!DRIVER FAIRWAY 289.99

ALLM6 FAMILY NEW! NEW! DRIVERNEW!499.99 NEW! FAIRWAY 299.99

ALL NEW!

$ $

RESCUE 8PC IRONS

ALL NEW!

NEW!

ALL NEW! NEW! NEW!

NEW!

NEW! NEW! NEW!

ALL NEW! NEW!

TITLEIST

NEW!

718 AP2 & 3 $ 1139.99 7PC STL

ALL NEW! NEW!

NEW!

ALL NEW!

Shop Online: worldwidegolfshops.com 4

JAN/FEB 2019

cal-golf_16.75x10.75_Feb2019.indd 1

249.99EA 899.99STL $ 999.99GRA $

NEW!

ALL NEW!

ALL CALLAWAY FLASH NEW! NEW! NEW!ALL NEW! EPIC DRIVER 529.99 FAIRWAY 299.99 NEW! ALL NEW! NEW! NEW! EA

RESCUE 8PC IRONS

NEW!

ALL NEW!ALL NEW! NEW! $

249.99EA 999.99STL $ 1099.99GRA $

NEW!

ALL NEW! NEW! NEW! CUSTOM

ODYSSEY

NEW! NEW! NEW!

STROKE LAB PUTTERS $ 249.99EA

NEW!

90-DAY 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE

If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, return it to us within 90 days of purchase, and you will receive 100% store credit towards your next purchase. Buy with confidence!

OGY=

FIT

INSTANT SAVINGS 3/23 -4/23

BUSHNELL HYBRID

BUSHNELL PHANTOM

BUSHNELL TOUR V4 SHIFT

NOW $349.99EA

NOW 99.99EA $

ADIDAS

INSTANT SAVINGS 3/23 -4/23

ALL NEW!

100

NOW $399.99EA

ALL NEW! NEW! NEW!

ALL NEW!

NEW! NEW! NEW!

ALL NEW!

NEW! NEW! 169.99NEW!

ALL NEW!

NEW!

ALL NEW!

NEW!

TOUR360 XT SHOES $ 199.99PR

CALLAWAY

CHROME SOFT & CHROME SOFT X $ 44.99DZ CUSTOM ORDER 3 DOZEN CHROME SOFT OR CHROME SOFT X

GET 1 FREE! EXPIRES 4/15/19

NEW!

ALL NEW! NEW! NEW! FOOTJOY $

FJ FURY PR

NEW!

TAYLORMADE TP5 & TP5X $ 44.99DZ

CUSTOM ORDER 3 DOZEN TP5 / TP5X

GET 1 FREE! EXPIRES 4/15/19

W! Over 80 Stores to Serve You! JAN/FEB 2019

3/8/19 2:10 PM

SEE THE FUTURE STARS OF THE LPGA!

Stephanie Meadows 2018 IOA Championship Winner 2019 LPGA Player

PRESENTED BY MORONGO CASINO RESORT & SPA

MARCH 29 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 31 Played at Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon GREAT FREE EVENT THAT IS FUN AND EXCITING TO ATTEND!

36211 Champions Dr, Beaumont, CA 92223 (951) 845-0014 | www.tukwetcanyon.com

/ CALIFORNIA GOLF + TRAVEL MAGAZINE /

CONTENTS

MAR/APR 2019

Publisher’s Note A brief history of The Masters

Local Phenom Turns Pro 17-year-old Yealimi Noh competes on Symetra Tour

Men’s College Golf USC’s Justin Suh continues to roll

Women’s College Golf Stanford rises to No. 4 after early season victories

Numbers Don’t Lie 2018 Financial results from Acushnet and Callaway

Utah’s Red Ledges Experience year-round world-class activities

Major Player Former TaylorMade executive leads Honma into U.S. market

Experience a Masterpiece The Quarry is the standard in desert golf

Find the Right Golf Ball For You Choosing from new 2019 offerings

If the Shoe Fits… The proper golf shoe can improve your performance

Back to the Drawing Board Turn your slice into a draw

Target Golf Focus on the target to prevent your slice

Practice Like to You Play The golf course can be the best training aid

Lounging Around The Landmark Lounge in Old Town La Quinta is worth the trip

A Sonoma Gem Cline Family Vineyards delivers bang for your buck

What do Tiger and Machiavelli Have in Common? How a 16th century strategist can unlock the code to Tiger winning a major

36 MARCH-APRIL 2019 VOLUME 23, ISSUE 2 2019 EQUIPMENT SALES • PHENOM TURNS PRO • WHAT’S NEW IN GOLF BALLS

MAR/APR 2019

UTAH’S RED LEDGES EXPERIENCE YEAR-ROUND WORLD CLASS ACTIVITIES CURE YOUR SLICE!

TIPS FOR FINDING MORE FAIRWAYS

THE QUARRY AT LA QUINTA

COACHELLA VALLEY’S ONLY TOP 100 GOLF COURSE

On the cover: Utah’s Red Ledges Photo: Courtesy Red Ledges

Visit us online at calgolfnews.com and be sure to LIKE us at facebook.com/calgolfnews.

IMPROVE YOUR DRIVE QUALITY.

The Ultimate Driving Machine®

If you’re looking to turbocharge your adrenaline, the BMW Performance Driving School is loaded with action, excitement and fun. Come play on our course and get behind the wheel to experience the power, handling and capabilities of multiple Ultimate Driving Machines.® Whether you’re a SoCal resident or just in the area for a short time, our variety of Car Control Clinics, M Schools, M Track and Performance Drives ensure there’s a driving program tailored just for you. Close out your experience riding on a mind-blowing Hot Lap with one of our certified instructors and you’ll be checking your calendar for the next chance to return to the BMW Performance Driving School.

THERMAL, CA | GREER, SC

888-345-4BMW bmwperformancecenter.com

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

A BRIEF HISTORY OF

B U I L T FOR

DISTANCE

343

obby Jones and Clifford Roberts were trying to provide a service to golf when they decided to hold an annual tournament beginning in 1934, accord-ing to masters.com. Roberts suggested that the event be called The Masters Tournament, but Jones objected, thinking it too presumptuous. The name Augusta National Invitation Tournament was adopted and used until 1939, when Jones relented and the name was officially changed. Many decisions made in the early years of the event remain today, including the four-day stroke playing of 18 holes each day instead of the then-customary 36 holes on the third day, eliminating qualifying rounds, and denying per-mission for anyone except players and caddies to be in the playing area. Beginning in 1940, The Masters was scheduled during the first full week in April. That first tournament was won by Horton Smith, and, in 1935, Gene Sarazen hit “the shot heard ‘round the world” scoring a double eagle on the par-5 15th hole, tying Craig Wood and forcing a playoff. Sarazen won the 36-hole playoff the following day by five strokes. In 1942, Byron Nelson defeated Ben Hogan 69-70 in an 18-hole playoff, and the 1950s included two victories by Hogan, and the first of four for Arnold Palmer. Palmer’s win in 1958 began the tradition of “Amen Corner,” so named by the great golf writer Herbert Warren Wind in an article in Sports Illustrated. In 1960, the Par 3 Contest began, and, in 1965-1966, Jack Nicklaus became the first Masters champion to successfully defend his title. In the 1980s, Seve Ballesteros won twice, Tom Watson clinched his second title, and, in 1986 at age 46, Nicklaus donned his sixth Green Jacket. In 1997, Tiger Woods famously broke the four-day scoring record that stood for 32 years; in 2010, Phil Mickelson finished at 16-under 272, cap-turing his third title; and, in 2015, Jordan Spieth tied the score set by Tiger Woods in 1997 at 18-under 270 with a Masters Tournament victory for the ages. For more information see masters.com. Enjoy your walk,

Eric Woods Y D S

AVG D R I V I N G D I S T A N C E CAMERON CHAMP

THE MASTERS

California Golf + Travel Publisher Eric Woods Editor Mark Spinn Art Director Long Tran Associate Editors Mike Stubbs, Suzy Evans, Ed Travis Senior Writers Jim Dover, Tom LaMarre, Feisal Patel Contributors Ian Leggatt, Ed Vyeda, Leonard Finkel, Tom Stankowski, Ken Lane, Chris Lynch, Ryan Noll Photographers Michael Weinstein, Tom Neas, Mark Susson Travel Editor Larry Feldman Equipment Editor Scott Kramer, Ed Travis Wine + Golf John Finney, Dan Weldy

NEW Z-STAR SERIES ®

Contributing Instructors Eric Lohman, Kris Moe, Perry Parker, Ted Norby, Scott Heyn, John Ortega, John Burckle Accounting Jep Pickett

MAR/APR 2019

California Golf + Travel is published by Golf Lab Media LLC 1224 Village Way, Ste. D, Santa Ana CA 92705 Phone: (714) 542-4653 website: www.CalGolfNews.com California Golf + Travel is published bimonthly and distributed to California golf courses, country clubs, practice facilities, golf retailers, hotels, and resorts Entire contents of this publication is copyrighted Golf Lab Media LLC 2015, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner in whole or in part without the written permission from the publisher. For subscriptions, go to calgolfnews.com and sign up online or send your name, address, phone number, and $20 to Golf Lab Media at the Above address. For advertising opportunities and editorial information: Please call (714) 542-4653 or email to info@calgolfnews.com

JAN/FEB 2019

IN THE NEWS

LOCAL PHENOM TURNS PRO, COMPETES ON SYMETRA TOUR Y

ealimi Noh, the 17-year-old Concord, California native, is set to make her Symetra Tour debut March 29-31 at the IOA Insurance Service Championship at Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon. The tournament is contested on the 6,527-yard, par-72 Champion Course, a Lee Schmidt-Brian Curley design which opened in 2000, and the event is presented by Morongo Casino Resort and Spa. Always a consistent player on the junior circuit, Noh burst onto the national scene last year when she claimed victories at the Junior PGA Championship, U.S. Girls’ Junior at Poppy Hills and the Candian Women’s Amatuer in a three-week span. Although it was already known, in February she officially announced that she was rescinding her commitment to UCLA and turning pro. Since then she has already competed in an event on the Korean LPGA Tour. “She’s ready,” her coach Erik Stone told the San Francisco Chronicle. “She’s on her way. It was the right decision for her.” It certainly seems to be the right decision as she again finds herself competing against the pros, this time on the Symetra Tour – a gateway to the LPGA Tour. Noh is hopeful that she’ll receive further sponsors exemptions like the one she’s received for the IOA Insurance Service Championship, but also intends to enter Monday qualifying events. “Who knows if I win one (in 2019) after Monday qualifying? Brooke Henderson did that. It’s possible. I’m just excited to see what comes next,” Noh told The Chronicle. Make your way to the IOA Insurance Service Championship to check out exactly what’s next for Noh as she competes alongside some of the most talented up-and-comers in the women’s game.

MAR/APR 2019

DISCOVER THE

FUN SIDE O F GOLF AT LA COSTA.

Home to 37 PGA Tour events, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa offers two championship courses with smooth greens and friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere. Try something new and upgrade your experience with Golfboards or Phat Scooters for a faster pace of play and maximum enjoyment. Elevate your golf game at the Golf Performance Institute Southern California’s most comprehensive game improvement center. Inquire about our membership opportunities and experience all that

OmniLaCosta.com

The Club at La Costa has to offer.

ROB OGOLFP RO • T RUE SP EC C US TO M C LU B F I T T I N G • DAV E P E L Z S CO RI N G GA ME S C H O O L • G O L F BOA R D • PH AT S CO OTE R

/ MEN’S COLLEGE GOLF /

Update: Suh continues to roll,

Bisharat claims first individual win

ustin Suh of USC sank a 12-foot birdie putt on the final hole to give the fifth-ranked Trojans a onestroke victory over No. 9 Cal to start their Spring season in the Southwestern Invitational at North Ranch Country Club in Westlake Village. USC claimed its third victory of the season and seventh top-10 finish in as many events, while the fourthranked Suh collected the eighth victory of his career with the Trojans and the second this season. “Justin Suh had another amazing week,” USC Coach Chris Zambri said. “It’s crazy, the difference one guy can make. He is so special. We’ve all been lucky to be a part of this.” Said Suh: “Today was one of those picture-perfect endings. Coach Z told me on the 17 tee that we were one back. During the walk after I hit my drive on 18, I smirked because I knew this was one of those team moments I was itching for. “For my teammate Kaito (Onishi) to make a birdie on 18 before me, it was such a great feeling grabbing the win with that last putt. I’m so happy to see the work we’ve put in pay off.” The Trojans lost a seven-stroke lead at the start of the day, but rallied after Cal went ahead on the back nine. Third-ranked Collin Morikawa of Cal finished third and followed with a tie for fourth as the Golden Bears finished in a tie for fourth in the Southern Highlands Collegiate at Southern Highlands Golf Club in Las Vegas, where No. 15 Brandon Wu led 33rd-ranked Stanford to third place by finishing third in the individual standings. Wu also finished second as Stanford tied for sixth in The Prestige at PGA West in La Quinta and moved up to No. 15 in the rankings. Earlier, Morikawa claimed his second title of the season and fourth of his career by leading Cal to their second straight victory by 36 strokes over Loyola Marymount in the Farms Invitational at the Farms Golf Club in Rancho Santa Fe. No. 31-ranked Sebastian Crampton finished in a tie for third with his teammate K.K. Limbhasut for

MAR/APR 2019

USC’s Justin Suh has led his team to three victories in the spring 2019 season.

the Golden Bears, who also won the Ka’anapali Classic Collegiate Invitational in November. Elsewhere, Jack Dyer of Cal State Fullerton captured the individual title and led the Titans to a seven-stroke victory over Long Beach State in the Sacramento State Invitational at Valley Hi Country Club in Elk Grove. Dyer, a junior who led Southend High School for Boys in Essex, England, to the English national championship in 2012, claimed his first college victory and Derek Castillo tied for sixth as the Titans claimed their second victory of the season after winning the UCI Anteater Invitational a month earlier. In addition, Ryan Bisharat of Cal State San Marcos claimed the first victory of his college career, winning the Coyote Classic by two strokes over Preston Smith of team champion Colorado School of Mines at Oak Valley Golf Club in Beaumont. Bisharat, a junior from San Diego, rolled in a tournament-best 16 birdies. “Ryan played great this week, and it was really nice to see him break through,” Coach Greg Hutton of Cal State San Marcos said of Bisharat, who captured the 2013 and 2015 San Diego City Conference Match Play Championship and the 2014 San Diego City Conference Stroke Play Championship while playing at Cathedral Catholic High.

JAN/FEB 2019

/ WOMEN’S COLLEGE GOLF /

Update: Stanford rises to No. 4, USC holds solid at No. 2

Jennifer Chang, USC

By Tom LaMarre

tanford rose to No. 4 in the Golfweek / Sagarin Women’s College Golf Rankings by winning the Northrop Grumman Regional Challenge and the Bruin Wave Ivitational to start the spring, giving the Cardinal three victories this season. Top-ranked Andrea Lee, a Stanford junior from nearby Hermosa Beach, claimed the individual title at the Regional Challenge. She won three times as a freshman and three times as a sophomore, and her seven victories are one shy of the Stanford record of eight set by Mhairi McKay in 1994-97. “It feels incredible to get the team and individual win,” Lee said. “I’m so proud of all of us for grinding out there and staying patient. I really had to hang in there today and I’m glad I was able to pull it off.” Fourth-ranked Albane Valenzuela, tied for eighth for the Cardinal, while Ziyi Wang tied for 16th and Mika Liu tied for 23rd. Stanford rallied in the final round to beat Oregon by three strokes in the Bruin Wave Invitational at San Luis Obispo Country Club. Liu led Stanford in a tie for third, Wang tied for eighth, Lee tied for 12th and Aline Krauter tied for 39th. “We couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the spring,” Stanford Coach Anne Walker said of the Cardinal’s two victories.

MAR/APR 2019

Second-ranked USC, which won the Windy City College Collegiate, the Stanford Intercollegiate and the East Lake Cup in the fall, opened the spring by finishing third in the Regional Challenge and taking another third in the All-State Sugar Bowl. No. 23-ranked Jennifer Chang led the Trojans with a tie for fourth in the Regional Challenge, while ninth-ranked Gabriela Ruffels wound up in a tie for 14th that included teammate Allisen Corpuz, and Amelia Garvey tied for 16th. Garvey tied for 15th in the All-State Sugar Bowl, ninth-ranked Malia Nam tied for 17th, and Corpuz tied for 22nd and Ruffels tied for 27th. Alyaa Abdulghany, competing as an individual for the Trojans shared the individual title in the Battle at the Rock at Oak Quarry Golf Club in Riverside. Seventh-ranked UCLA, which captured the Golfweek Conference Challenge, finished second in the Regional Challenge and wound up fourth in the Bruin Wave Invitational. Third-ranked Patty Tavatanakit and Clare Legaspi led the Bruins in a tie for fourth in the Regional Challenge, while fourth-ranked Mariel Galdiano tied for eighth and Bethany Wu tied for 16th. In the Bruin Wave Invitational, Galdiano and Phoebe Yue led UCLA in a tie for fourth, while Legaspi and Wu tied for 18th. San Jose State teammates Abegail Arevalo and Natasha Andrea Oon shared the individual title and led the No. 35 Spartans to a three-stroke victory over Georgia in the Gold Rush at Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach. “We had a successful trip to Long Beach full of adversity, grit building, and victories!” Coach Dana Doorman wrote in a post on Facebook after the Spartans won for the second time this season. Hira Naveed of No. 34 Pepperdine, ranked 17th, and tied for 29th in the Bruin Wave Invitational as the co-host Waves finished ninth.

HAOTONG LI

MATT KUCHAR

EDDIE PEPPERELL

ALL-NEW 2019

STUDIO STOCK SERIES tour proven | 303 stainless steel | 100% milled in u.s.a.

80 WORLDWIDE TOUR WINS AND COUNTING... discover more at bettinardi.com Cali-Golf-March-April.indd 1

MAR/APR 2019

3/18/19 8:07 AM

/ THE GOLF BUSINESS /

CLUB COMPANIES ON A ROLL

By Ed Travis he past year was a good one for golf equipment companies and the charge was lead by the two largest in Acushnet Holdings Corp. (NYSE: GOLF) and Callaway Golf (NYSE: ELY). Acushnet owns the largest selling brand of golf balls, Titleist, plus FootJoy (shoes/clothing), Scotty Cameron (putters), Vokey Design (wedges) and Links & Kings (accessories). Callaway sells both clubs and balls and owns TravisMathew (clothing), Jack Wolfskin (outerwear), OGIO (bags) and Odyssey (putters).

2018 HIGHLIGHTS FOR CALLAWAY: • • • • • • • • •

Sales $1.243 billion up 19% worldwide and 25% in U.S. Operating income up 62% U.S. hard goods share 24% but down 1.1% from 2017 In U.S. number one in clubs Number two in U.S. golf balls with 16.4% market share Business grew faster than market Continue to look for complimentary acquisitions In 2019 expect mid-single digit equipment sales growth 2019 sales forecast to be between $1.67 and $1.7 billion

ACUSHNET 2018 HIGHLIGHTS WORTH NOTING: • Sales $1.633 billion up 4.7% worldwide and up 4.6% in U.S. • Operating income up 1.4% • U.S. sales 826.1 million up 4.6% • Ball sales $524 million up 2.3% • Club sales up 11.9% at $445.3 million • 2019 Sales forecast to be between $1.655 and $1.685 billion

MAR/APR 2019

According to Callaway spending in the U.S. on golf hard goods was up 4.7% in 2018 with both clubs and balls leading the increase. For this year their opinion is the overall market will be at about the same dollar volume or perhaps up slightly. The meaning of all this is of course open to conjecture but in addition to the two largest club companies there are others doing very well. These companies being

privately-held do not divulge financial results but they all have the reputation of making world class products in one or more targeted segments. The list includes TaylorMade Golf, Bridgestone Golf, PING, Cobra Golf and Tour Edge Golf. For this year and knowing club and ball sales nominally mirror the U.S. economy if healthy growth continues equipment sales should increase also. Using driver sales as an indicator we can make some generalizations. Callaway is touting the early success of the Epic Flash line and Acushnet has introduced new versions of the bestselling Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x, plus had good acceptance of the TS line of metalwoods. We are also seeing a broadening of the separation in price levels. Flagship drivers for Callaway and TaylorMade were increased in price $30 and $50 respectively over 2018 models while Titleist kept their pricing of the new TS drivers the same. PING easily set the record for year-to-year price increases with the 2019 G410 driver selling for $500, or $100 higher than the comparable 2018 model. There are similar “adjustments” to the prices of irons and top end putters, which have continued to approach the cost of drivers for several years. At least two club makers are attacking the problem of gaining market share with a different strategy than simply

competing at the upper end of the price spectrum. Tour Edge Golf has marketed clubs that are less costly and currently is having success with the HL3 line whose driver sells for $190. True, it can’t boast all the hi-tech materials, technology, movable weights and adjustments, but there is a definable segment of golfers that don’t think they want or need to spend twice the HL3 price just to hit a ball off a tee. The Batavia, Illinois company however does have a premium model in the Exotics EXS which sells for $300. The company says average recreational golfers are really taking notice. With a similar approach Wilson Staff has both the feature-laden Cortex driver for $500 and the less glamorous with fewer bells and whistles D7 model for $300. It’s safe to say the golf equipment market is definitely expanding in the U.S. and most probably worldwide as well and if the prognosticators are correct all of the competing companies will benefit. We can expect Acushnet and Callaway to continue their dominant positions in balls and clubs but greater than average growth by Cobra, PING, TaylorMade and Tour Edge due to both performance and price. A final note, if Acushnet and Callaway have made reasonably accurate sales predictions for 2019, Callaway could pass Acushnet as the largest golf equipment company.

MAR/APR 2019

/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

LIVING YOUR BEST

WHY IT’S BETTER TO LIVE NEAR – NOT IN – A

ki Park City? Love it. Play golf on Hilton Head? Great. Walk the quaint alleyways of Carmel? Couldn’t be better. Buying a second home in any of those places? Maybe not the best idea. But what might make more sense is to live nearby instead – giving you all the advantages of one of the country’s most in-demand resort areas while potentially saving you money and avoiding the headache of high seasons. Living on the mainland across from

MAR/APR 2019

Hilton Head still offers access to many top golf courses, but without the traffic hassles of getting on and off the island. California’s Monterey Peninsula has numerous small towns that might not be as hip and trendy as Carmel, but also aren’t as busy, as expensive or overrun with tourists. Or take Park City, the ski mecca and Salt Lake Olympic venue. Beautiful area, terrific slopes, and a hopping après-ski scene. But it’s not necessary to live right in town to enjoy all those

attributes. Red Ledges is a luxury fourseason community that is close enough to Park City to enjoy all it has to offer but far enough away (20-25 minutes) to promise escape from the hustle-bustle. It provides a small-town atmosphere, easier living and more bang for the real-estate buck. Furthermore, Red Ledges boasts a full menu of its own year-round amenities, including a members-only relationship with two private, ski in/ski out clubs at the Deer Valley Ski Resort.

LIFE

RESORT TOWN And when the snow is gone, residents and members enjoy a Jack Nicklausdesigned golf course named “Best New Private Course in America” by Golf Magazine when it debuted a decade ago. “We’re a short, pretty drive from Park City, which gives you the freedom to do your own thing,” explains Bill Houghton, Red Ledges’ VP of Sales and Marketing. “It’s a twist on the old real estate adage ‘location, location, location.’ In this case, not being in what

MAR/APR 2019

/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

might be considered the prime location actually is the advantage. “For example, we’re not as built up as Park City, so we have more natural scenery right outside your door. Everything isn’t already established, so you can find your own way, choose your own amusements and have more flexibility. And the value proposition is different because you’re not paying prime prices just to say you’re ‘in’ Park City.” So, if you’re thinking of buying “in” a resort town, consider these 10 great reasons for living “nearby” instead. 1. Crowds. A community has neighbors; resorts have visitors, a never-ending parade of newcomers trying to get to the same activities, restaurants and amenities as you. 2. Access. Getting to Park City isn’t hard but getting around can make you crazy (those throngs of tourists don’t help). Getting out of town can be a production, too. 3. Parking. You have to have a car, which means you have to put it somewhere. Resort towns are notorious for their lack of convenient places to keep your car. 4. Scenery. Mountains or motels? Slopes or shopping centers? Golf courses or grocery stores? Which do you want to see outside your windows? 5. Small town vs. resort town. Resort towns are driven by the businesses that exist off visitors, not residents. Small

MAR/APR 2019

towns put residents’ needs first – so every day basics like banks, doctor’s offices and reasonable (not overpriced touristy) shopping are convenient. 6. Variety. If you live in Park City, you’re going to want to ski in Park City, which is fine – but there are ski areas like Sundance nearby that are easier to get to if you don’t have to get

out of town first. Same with other golf resort areas, too. Living in town limits your choices. 7. Cost. Not only will you pay a premium for living in a resort area, many other prices – food, entertainment, services, etc. – are set for tourists who don’t mind paying more when they’re on vacation.

JAN/FEB 2019

/ GOLF & TRAVEL /

8. Getting away from it all. Resort towns are where people go for excitement – which is nice to have nearby if you want it. However, it’s also nice to escape the hustle and bustle whenever you’d like. 9. Family-friendly. Communities like Red Ledges cater to many generations, from grandparents to kids. There are four-season activities that suit them all including a 12-hole, play-it-yourown way Golf Park and stables, as well as pools, snowshoeing and more. The feeling of family even extends to the staff. Red Ledges has a Director of Fun, whose sole concern is offering lots of different activities to keep residents happy. 10. Community. As in a “sense of.” That’s what small towns and membership properties are all about, shared experiences that bring people together. Red Ledges is about to open its new “Village Center,” which will feature a pool with a waterslide and new outdoor dining. It will serve as the local hub, where friends and neighbors meet and bond. Red Ledges’ Houghton sums up the difference simply. “Nothing against the resort areas, they’re great for what they are. But living even a few miles away can give you something real: A real town, a real community and real enjoyment.”

MAR/APR 2019

Red Ledges: By the Numbers

Red Ledges – the premier Rocky Mountain private golf and outdoor lifestyle community located less than an hour from Salt Lake City and minutes from Park City – finished 2018 having shattered numerous sales records. Tallying up the closings of homes, homesites, club cabins, cottages and villas across the 2,000-acre community, 134 properties with a total value of over $85 million were sold in 2018 – both smashing previous record levels in Red Ledges’ 11-year history. The sales dollar total represents a 30 percent increase over 2017 – which was the previous record year. Cottages, cabins and villas saw the largest increase in sales, shooting up 39 percent over the previous year. One cottage received special recognition in 2018 as the publishers of ideal-LIVING, a national lifestyle magazine and relocation resource, chose Red Ledges as the destination community for their 2018 “Ideal Home.” That 3,269-square-foot cottage was designed and built by Red Ledges’ own homebuilding team. Red Ledges Homebuilding is crafting similar cottages nearby, as well as a number of homes on the ridges overlooking the valley and mountain range. Red Ledges Homebuilding is leading the construction boom in the community – 2018 saw the 200th completed home in Red Ledges, and there are another 100 under construction or in the design and approval stages. “With all of the tremendous outdoor pursuits in and around Red Ledges, people moving here are looking to get out and have as much fun as soon as possible,” states Red Ledges’ Bill Houghton. “Our vacation-oriented cottages have made that simple – one reason why the initial focus of Red Ledges Homebuilding has been new cabins and cottages, like the Ideal Cottage. The coordination between Red Ledges Realty and Red Ledges Homebuilding makes that building process easy and efficient – and makes it even easier to enjoy Red Ledges.” Red Ledges was developed by Tony Burns and Nolan Archibald, both long-time Fortune 500 CEOs with deep roots in the region. The vision and dedication of their families (as chronicled in celebration of the community’s 10th anniversary) can be viewed at www. RedLedges.com/about-red-ledges/. For information about living at Red Ledges, visit the community’s website at www. RedLedges.com. To see the latest and most accurate listings of available homes and properties, updated in real time, visit www.RedLedges.com/real-estate.

ACCELERATE YOUR GAME WITH

A revolutionary advancement in both aerodynamics and CG. SPEEDBACK™ Technology creates the most Aerofficient™ clubhead lowering the back weighting, resulting in more speed and distance. Combine that with our CNC Precision milled face and we’ve found the ultimate formula for speed.

COBRAGOLF.COM/KINGF9

NOV/DEC 2018

/ Q&A /

MAJOR PLAYER Former TaylorMade executive Mark King looks to lead Honma Golf’s growth in North America

fter a nearly 30-year career at TaylorMade Golf, including serving as the president and CEO during a time when the company experienced tremendous growth in sales, profits and the number of PGA Tour players using its products, Mark King left the golf industry. But in late 2018, Honma Golf brought him back. Now serving as a strategic consultant to Honma’s Chairman Liu Jianguo, King’s job is to help bring Honma into the mainstream in the North American market. Here are some of his thoughts on the company and his new role: What drew you back into the golf business? King: I honestly never thought I’d return to golf but when I went to Asia and saw Sakata (Japan), met Chairman Liu and felt his passion, I became very interested. For you, what sets Honma apart as an equipment maker? King: Honma is really interesting because it has this unique appeal to all golfers. We have the incredible Beres line with the ornate artistry that people gladly pay quite a bit for, but then we also have the Tour World line for golfers more interested in the performance side

MAR/APR 2019

/ Q&A /

of the game. When you’re able to appeal to both super premium and premium performance, I think you put yourself in a unique position relative to the other brands in golf. What are some of the new Honma products you’re most excited about? King: This year’s TW747 driver line is magnificent. Justin Rose switched to it and immediately picked up 4 miles per hour of ball speed over his previous gamer. The performance he has seen from that product has really surprised him. Aside from that, Honma has been a legendary iron maker since its inception 60 years ago. This year’s irons are no different – and you just feel it from the first shot. You really do. What is something you would like golfers to know about Honma that they otherwise wouldn’t be aware of? King: I think a lot of golfers think Honma isn’t for them because they don’t really know we make performance products. A lot of people think we’re the company that makes that really expensive, gold stuff – and we are, but it doesn’t stop there. We have an entire additional line called Tour World that is priced competitively with the high-performance products from other brands, and the performance of that line is as good or better than anything out there today. What are some of your top priorities at Honma in the coming months? King: I think the biggest priority is just to make sure golfers in North America know we’re here. We’re not interested in a specific percentage of market share and we’re not going to get caught up in the technology arms race. I think enough companies are in that race, making the same type of noise and it’s just emphatically not what Honma is about. We make beautiful golf clubs that perform very, very well. We want people to know that. How is Honma planning to grow the brand in North America?

MAR/APR 2019

King: We’re going to position the brand in a really unique way. We sell equipment for $20,000 to $50,000 but we also sell products for $250 to $600. We’ll do more business in the United States as we build out relationships with some of the big retailers and develop unique shops within shops in as many places to distribute our products. We want to present our product in the marketplace differently. We’re trying to establish elevated brand experiences with a really upscale feel. Look, golf clubs aren’t cheap and if you’re in the market for a new set, the red carpet should be rolled out. We want to really take care of our customer and provide them with an outstanding front-toback buying experience that makes the consumer know, not feel, that Honma really cares about them. What was it like for you seeing Justin Rose win at the Farmers Insurance Open after signing with Honma? King: It was just cool. I was really happy for Justin, obviously, but beyond

that I was really happy for Chairman Liu and the team at our factory in Sakata, Japan. They’ve made incredible products for a really long time and Justin brought that into the forefront almost immediately. Justin deserves everything he gets. He works so hard and is so dedicated to his craft. We’re happy we could help in a small way. What does it mean to have the No. 1 player in the world representing your brand? King: There just couldn’t be anyone better to represent us. If you think about it, Honma has really two brands – Beres and Tour World. The Beres is the super-premium, high-end, luxury stuff and Tour World is premium performance. Justin Rose is the perfect intersection of those two things. He enjoys the finer things in life, but aside from that, he’s the best player in the world. And look, Justin does his homework. You don’t get to where he is in his field without some serious dedication. If he didn’t think our product could help him improve, he would not have switched. And when the best player in the world thinks your stuff can make him better, it sort of confirms your stuff is pretty good. Are there plans to bring any other Tour pros on staff in the near future? King: We’ve identified some guys that we think can really help us. Justin will always be the focal point, but we’ll certainly look at building out a team around him. Honma clubs are known for being higher priced, but what do you think justifies the cost? King: It’s important to differentiate here, because yes we do sell some higher-priced equipment in our Beres line, but our Tour World line is priced very competitively. But getting to your question, is spending $200,000 dollars on a Lamborghini justifiable? Probably not, but Lamborghinis are still pretty cool! The fact remains, you will always be able to buy a functional product at a lower price point. Honma clubs appeal to your emotion.

// O P E R AT I O N : N E W Z E A L A N D [ OUT NOW ]

SEE THE FILM & THE NEW IPHONE OFFERING OVER AT: @ U R BA N A R M O R G E A R + U R BA N A R M O R G E A R .CO M

/ INSIDE THE GATES /

EXPERIENCE A M

THE QUARRY

AT LA QUINTA By Ed Travis he old saying goes, “golf is the game of a lifetime,” so it makes sense to play where that experience can be the highlight of a lifetime. For private clubs in the Coachella Valley look no further than The Quarry at La Quinta. This masterpiece of desert golf was created by world famous architect Tom Fazio whose course designs perennially dominate the Golf Digest Top 100 Courses with 13 “Fazios” on the most recent list. Opening in 1994, The Quarry is routed through an old sand and gravel pit giving the opportunity for Fazio to build holes both around the rim and on the pit’s floor. The layout has landed a spot in the Top 100 for twenty years and is not only the Coachella Valley’s lone Top 100 course, but also one of just three in Southern California. In a wide-ranging conversation with Mark Scheibach, The Quarry at La Quinta’s General Manager, we talked about the many benefits of membership and his first words were, “It’s all about the golf.”

An absolute desert masterpiece, #77 on Golf Digests Top 100, created by worldrenowned golf architect Tom Fazio. 30

MAR/APR 2019

PHOTO: COURTESY JOE NEWMAN

A MASTERPIECE

MAR/APR 2019

/ INSIDE THE GATES /

The Fazio-designed Short Course features 10 spectacular holes that match the conditions and beauty of the main the course.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an easy thing to say but to put it into everyday practice takes a clear idea of what the members want and then executing consistently. Everyone who plays The Quarry raves about the conditioning, the result of the constant attention from the staff plus simple things such as all the carts having divot buckets. After a divot is taken, the area can be filled with a scoop of sand and seed mixture, and then collected to keep them off the fairway. Attention to these small details says volumes of how the membership feels about their club and the diligence of the staff making the golf experience second to none. Citing what perhaps is an apocryphal anecdote Scheibach tells how the original developer used to joke with prospects that if they could find a weed anywhere in the turf areas, they would get a free membership.

MAR/APR 2019

LOCK IN AND

G E N E R A T I O N

INNOVATION FROM THE GROUND UP

JAN/FEB 2019

/ INSIDE THE GATES /

After celebrating its 25th anniversary, The Quarry at La Quinta is still the only course in the Coachella Valley rated in Golf Digest’s Top 100 and sets the standard in desert golf. Scheibach admits he still does, and to date no one has claimed a membership. He went on to describe the club’s amenities but was quick to point out a uniqueness that goes beyond the course or clubhouse. “What makes The Quarry so special, other than the incredible golf facilities and experience, is the members. They are passionate about golf and enjoy the camaraderie associated with it in a casual setting. They really take pride in the club and that shows when new members join. They immediately feel that sense of ‘family’ that is so unique and so very special at The Quarry.” This “culture” or attitude of engaging fellow players was reflected with Scheibach telling me, “You don’t have to bring your own game. We have a Ball Toss or Individual Quota game

MAR/APR 2019

scheduled six days a week to cater to our gentlemen and ladies.” Many first-time visitors also comment on another Fazio gem, The Short Course. As Scheibach pointed out it is something that distinguishes The Quarry from every other golf facility. “The Short Course is a set of 10 holes – all par-3s – that can also be played from one tee area to another green complex as a par-4. Fazio did an incredible job with the piece of land and there are probably four or five holes on our Short Course that would be considered signature holes on any other course in the country.” The Titleist Pro V1-stocked practice facility compliments the on-course golf with a double ended range and an imaginatively laid out 18-hole practice putting course. The tone in the 21,000 square foot clubhouse is casual with emphasis on first class service. Though The Quarry is “all about golf,” there are social activities from strenuous hikes and the TechnoGym-equipped workout facil-

ity, to the more sedate, such as book discussion, bridge and canasta groups, and swimming pool with spa. Holding true to the western theme and named after Frederic Remington, whose replica sculptures are rooted into the ambience, Remington’s Bar and Grill is a natural gathering place for members and extends a range of dining experiences. In addition, members and their guests can enjoy the cottages; a convenient and picturesque place to stay. The Quarry cottages are available for daily or weekly bookings. A description of The Quarry at La Quinta would be incomplete without mentioning its location tucked in the foothills of the Santa Rosa and Coral Mountains, which offer spectacular views of the nearby peaks and surrounding desert landscape. There is no question members of The Quarry at La Quinta have cherished memories of playing this Fazio masterpiece and the warm friendships built over the years. One apt phrase might be “Exceeding every expectation.”

Stay & Play World-class golf meets world-class desert resort. Located walking distance from our resort and spa, the Indian Wells Golf Resort is the premier golf destination in the greater Palm Springs area for amateurs to pros and Presidents alike. Never has there been so much, so close. Book your Stay and Play package today at Miramonteresort.com and click on Golf.

45000 INDIAN WELLS LANE • INDIAN WELLS 760.341.2200 • MIRAMONTERESORT.COM

JAN/FEB 2019

EQUIPMENT

THE GOLF BALL FOR YOUR GAME I

BY ED TRAVIS f you pick a ball solely on price, the chance of playing the one that helps your scoring is pretty slim. The same is true of making a judgement based simply on which ball goes the farthest off the tee. Sorting out manufacturers’ claims can be difficult if for no other reason than it’s tough to be sure what they all mean and particularly how they may apply to your game. To put all that into perspective you need to know golf balls can be divided into two broad categories. The first is the so-called “distance” ball, which tends to spin less making it good for tee shots but harder to control on scoring shots. They usually have a Surlyn or ionomer cover and cost less than those in the “tour category,” which have either a cast or thermoplastic

urethane cover and much higher spin on short shots for better greenside control. It’s no secret, but certainly not known by most golfers, that manufacturers have found how to make all golf balls go about the same distance with the driver whether it’s a distance ball or tour ball. Therefore, once the comfort range for price has been decided, the task becomes finding the right ball to help with scoring and make the game more fun. The biggest mistake one can make is only looking at distance from the tee. In reality looking at driver distance first is exactly backwards. The proper way is to get a sleeve of two or three different models and head to a green. Hit putts of different lengths then move out for chips and pitches and then gradually move back to 125 to 150 yards.

Sounds like a lot of work but chances are by the time you finish one ball will stand out because of the way it felt or how it seemed to always stop closer to the hole, or it checked well or rolled out more, etc. The one that fits your particular way of making contact is the best for you, and it will not always be the most expensive. One final caveat, major manufacturers spend lots of money ensuring consistency from ball to ball and this is a real asset not to be overlooked. Just ask anyone who has purchased an off-brand ball and seen the first one fly high and straight and the next drop out of the air like a stone. Here are the new model golf balls for the 2019 season we like the best and you should consider.

Srixon Z-Star/Z-Star XV Each of these tour-category balls (Z-Star 3-piece and XV 4-piece) have a graduated core that’s softer in the center and high-friction spin-generating urethane covers. They are available in white or yellow. $40 per dozen

Callaway ERC Soft This ball features a multi-material cover 3-piece construction with graphene-infused dual core. It’s in the distance category and has a larger inner core for lower driver spin and high launch. It has the unique Triple Track alignment lines. $40 per dozen

MAR/APR 2019

Bridgestone e12 SPEED/e12 SOFT A distance-category 3-piece ball with a Surlyn cover, soft core and firmer mantle layer. SPEED for swing speeds over 105 mph and SOFT under 105 mph. $30 per dozen

Srixon Soft Feel It features a gradient core with a 338-dimple ionomer cover. It’s a 2-piece construction distancecategory ball with a very low compression rating of 60. It’s available in white or yellow. $20 per dozen

B U I L T FOR

DISTANCE

TaylorMade TP5/TP5x TP5 and TP5x are the only 5-layer ball in the tour category – both with urethane covers. TP5 offers softer feel, lower compression and lower launch with more wedge spin. TP5x feels firmer with higher compression and launch. $45 per dozen

Titleist Pro V1/Pro V1x All others compare to this premium tourcategory urethane cover ball. The 3-piece Pro V1 provides lower spin off long clubs, a more penetrating flight and softer feel than the 4-piece Pro V1x – which has higher trajectory. Both are available in white or yellow. $48 per dozen

Volvik Tour S3/S4 The S3 is a 3-piece urethane cover golf ball for 95-110 mph swing speeds. It offers low driver spin and high wedge spin. S4 is 4-piece urethane ball for swing speeds 105+ mph – it is high launch and high wedge spin. The S3 is available in white or orange, while the S4 is offered in white or green. $49.99 per dozen

Max Distance with FastLayer Core. Ultimate stopping power with SeRM Urethane. It’s a totally new, totally different Z-STAR Series.

Wilson DUO Professional This 3-piece tour-category ball is the softest urethane cover ball on the market with a compression rate of 55. The thin cover is cast urethane, and it has a firm inner mantle for distance. It’s available in white or yellow. $35 per dozen

# B U I LT F O R D I S TA N C E

MAR/APR 2019

EQUIPMENT

THE RIGHT SHOE MAKES A DIFFERENCE T

BY ED TRAVIS he golf swing requires an athletic move and the equipment we use can mean a huge difference in performance and results. Usually any “gear” discussion centers on playing the right golf ball or finding the right clubs to match your swing and almost never on the golf shoes. Overlooking our footwear may leave a difficult gap to bridge in the search for a better score. Some golfers are happy choosing their shoes solely on price, and that’s OK. However, if someone is looking to improve and prepared to pay $500 for a new driver,

$1,200 for a set of irons or $300 for a putter, perhaps a reassessment of the footwear budget is only logical. Modern golf shoe manufacturers emphasize performance, and the choices offered have never been greater. So, if you are looking to help your game jump to the next level keep in mind the big four factors in selecting the right golf shoes: 1. Comfort and fit – These are not givens. You can ask anyone who has ever walked the four plus miles for a golf round in a pair of shoes that were uncomfortable, too short, too long or not wide enough…you get the idea. 2. Support in the arch and along the sides – Again, the golf swing is an athletic move. Just as you wouldn’t play basketball in flip-flops,

adidas Tour360 XT ($200) & Tour360 XT-SL ($170) They combine a leather upper with Boost midsole. A seamsealed Climaproof 8-cleat TPU Puremortion outsole with X-Traction Secondary lugs provides stability. The XT-SL spikeless is also available with BOA.

TRUE Linkswear X Linksoul Knit ($148) A collaboration between TRUE Linkswear and Linksoul, this breathable knit upper shoe is water and oil repellant. The sock-fit forms to the foot for a comfortable wear while Cross-Life tread grips the links. It weighs only 9.5 oz.

MAR/APR 2019

you can’t expect to make the best swing you’re capable of with shoes that don’t fit your specific needs. 3. Sole, either spiked or spikeless - Modern plastic spikes or cleats are wonders of design and can really enhance performance, but spikeless models should be considered. There’s an element of personal preference but don’t overlook the need to grip the turf during the entire swing. 4. Style – Finally, don’t forget any new pair of shoes must be the right color, style and price to fit your eye and wallet. Having said all that here are 2019 shoe models that caught our attention at the PGA Merchandise Show.

FootJoy Fury ($170) This leather shoe is engineered with a mesh upper and water proof treatment. It features the TruFit system and a dual density TPU outsole with 9 fast-twist cleats.

G/FORE Saddle Gallivanter ($225) Highlights include an ultra lightweight sole and triple density footbed. It’s waterproof with a full grain leather upper and a washable anti-microbial foam cushion sock liner.

New Balance NB Tour ($180) Features a waterproof microfiber leather upper with REVlite midsole for comfort and performance in any weather, as well as a welded formfitted tongue.

B U I L T FOR

Nike Air Max 1G ($120) The remake of a classic is spikeless with raised nodes for added grip. A synthetic leather water resistant upper and full length Phylon midsole along with no-sew synthetic overlays add to weatherproofing.

DISTANCE

Sketchers GO GOLF Max ($90) Features include an ultra-lightweight midsole cushioning as well as a synthetic and mesh fabric upper. The TPU outsole with GOGA Max insole offers high-rebound cushioning. It’s water-resistant.

Puma IGNITE PROADAPT API ($200) There are low profile cleats in the PROADAPT outsole. IGNITE foam provides stable cushioning and comfort. Watch for a special Arnold Palmer version with the umbrella logo and pink sock liner.

Under Armour Spieth 3 ($200) It has a breathable and waterproof fabric and leather upper. The sole has 7 regular cleats and 2 asymmetrical. With a carbon fiber midsole insert, it’s lighter than previous models.

Max Distance with FastLayer Core. Ultimate stopping power with SeRM Urethane. It’s a totally new, totally different Z-STAR Series.

# B U I LT F O R D I S TA N C E

MAR/APR 2019

INSTRUCTION

BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD By John Burckle aving trouble hitting a draw? Fighting that awful slice? Try this tip the next time you’re on the practice range. Keep your back to the target as you start your downswing. This will help the shaft shallow or lay down allowing you to hit inside the ball. Notice in Picture No. 1 you can see my chest and how my shaft is parallel to my right forearm and running through my bicep. Most slicers start their downswing with the right shoulder moving towards the ball, forcing the arms and club to follow producing a steep shaft plane that in most cases causes a left to right ball flight. Notice in Picture No. 2 how my shaft is above my right shoulder and you can no longer see my chest. So the next time you’re on the range, work on keeping your right shoulder from moving out towards the ball as you start your downswing. This keeps your back to the target and allows your arms and club to drop down on an inside path just like all great ball strikers do. Practice this move and in time you’ll develop the ability to hit a beautiful draw.

JOHN BURCKLE has 27 years of professional playing experience, including the PGA Tour, Nationwide Tour, Asian Tour and local mini tour events. He has 20 years of teaching experience with students ranging from PGA Tour players to beginners. He is currently director of Instruction at Golf Lab Academy in Santa Ana. Contact John at jburckle@cox.net.

40 MAR/APR 2019

INSTRUCTION

TARGET GOLF Focus and commit to your target…It can help improve your slice

By Sean Lanyi

o you catch yourself dreaming of never slicing another tee shot… Let’s help you understand a few concepts so you can hit it straighter and farther than ever before. Watching PGA Tour Players might be difficult to relate to due to their swing speed that you may not be familiar with. These unique athletes have remarkable talent levels and work diligently to play at a worldclass level on the PGA Tour. It all begins with their reactionary

performance state as they focus on their target, then crawl their eyes back to the ball and immediately begin their swing. This approach will free you up to make a tension-free golf swing that will produce more speed with much less effort. Those of you that are not playing on the PGA Tour will find that your tendency is to stand and stare at the ball with very little awareness of a target. This creates tension and a multitude of swing flaws. Anytime you slice the

SEAN LANYI is a PGA Teaching Professional, Golf Channel Academy Lead Coach and ranked among the Golf Digest Best Young Teachers in the USA. He can be reached at (702) 327-0608 or by email sean@seanlanyigolf.com. Visit www.seanlanyigolf.com for more information.

42 JAN/FEB 2018

golf ball, there are a number of things that could go wrong as the club head is striking on a descending blow into the golf ball, the club head path is swiping across the golf ball and/or the club face is open. These points I just made are the aftermath and the influencing factors that cause the golf ball to slice. Let’s take the PGA Tour player route so you can play your best golf! Ready, set, let’s go. Setup to a golf shot and shift your eyes down the fairway. Engage your focus on your target immediately. Smell the roses by taking a slow breathe in and eventually crawling your eyes slowly back towards the golf ball. Slowly release that breathe by blowing out the candle and immediately begin your swing. By reacting and staying in motion you are allowing your athleticism to take over, which will eliminate variables and make the golf swing much more repeatable. Train your game today and trust it tomorrow.

“

We’ve been asked how the OBAN Steel CT Iron Series compares to other shafts… Our answer is, it really doesn’t.

ObanShafts.com NOV/DEC 2018

INSTRUCTION

INTUITIVE LEARNING CAN HELP YOU LOWER SCORES FASTER By Bob Madsen ne question I’ve gotten many times from my students and fellow teachers: “What’s your favorite training aid?” The more I thought about it, the more it became apparent. The best training aid is the golf course itself. On the course you’re forced to deal with the circumstances in front of you. Whether that’s an uneven stance, a bad lie, a tree branch affecting the length of your swing, or an obstacle that requires you to adjust the flight and shape of the shot. While experience is the best teacher, there are drills you can do to replicate these experiences and bring the golf course onto the lesson tee. I like to refer to this as “intuitive learning.” You’re creating conditions that require you to instinctively produce a golf swing to achieve the desired results. Once you’re comfortable doing this, you’ll be more equipped to play the game of golf – not the game of golf swing – and shoot lower scores. OBSTACLES I help golfers prepare for the many adverse situations they’ll face on the course with a drill called “Obstacles.” You’ll need a partner for this one. I hold a wooden pole at shoulder level about a foot in front them while they’re at address. Holding a golf club will also do the trick. I then require them to make a swing that gets the ball to a specific target (pictured). It’s like missing a fairway and having a tree branch in front of you obstructing your swing, a scenario that every golfer is familiar with. You can also hold the pole/club behind your partner to restrict their back swing. Another example of this drill is placing objects around the your feet to affect your stance or how you can impact the ball. Just like being on the course, you have to improvise to get the job done. When

MAR/APR 2018

golfers face similar scenarios while playing, oftentimes your nerves take over and prevent you from hitting a solid shot. This type of situational work with or without an instructor prepares you for tough circumstances, so you’re able to hit quality shots and save valuable strokes. BOB MADSEN is the 2017 Southern California PGA Section Teacher of the Year and the PGA Director of Instruction at Singing Hills Golf Resort at Sycuan in San Diego.

Come find out why The Wick is an OC Favorite!

The rain has the course green and in great shape! Wide Open Fairways – Plush Greens! 3017 W 5th St, Santa Ana, CA 92703 • 714-554-0672 • www.willowickgolf.com

MAR/APR 2019

COCKTAILS

LOUNGING IN LA QUINTA DISCOVER THE NEW

he plush and casually elegant Landmark Lounge at Old Town La Quinta is the perfect place for great drinks, food, music and dancing. Sofa groupings add comfort and an intimate ambience. Sit at high-tops to enjoy food, drinks and people watching or go al fresco on the patio and take in views of the sunset, surrounding mountains and Old Town’s charming Main Street. The Bar: Stocked with with top-shelf liquors such as Bulleit Bourbon, Bulleit 95 Rye, Bombay Sapphire Hendrich’s Gin, Ketel One Vodka, Tito’s glutenfree Handmade Vodka, Fortaleza Reposado, George Clooney’s tequila, Casamigos, and, of course, great wines and beers! You may also enjoy a liquid dessert – Grand Marnier, Bailey’s or Kahlua. Craft Cocktail Specialties: Created by Liquid Chef Brandon Infusino: Inspired by desert lifestyle and surroundings, Landmark’s Craft Cocktails include The Citrus, The Palms, The Hideaway, The Tradition, The Madison Club, The Plantation, and, of course, The Quarry. The Quarry is made with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Aperol, Montenegro Amaro, lemon juice & singed orange. The Menu: Designed for eating early or late, all menu selections are served from 4 p.m. until closing! Favorites include flatbreads, cheese and charcuterie plates, salads, wraps, shareables and indulgent desserts. Happy Hour: From 4 to 6 p.m. daily, happy hour deals offer 20 percent off their full food and drink menus. Have a craft cocktail, wine or beer after golf and perhaps an early dinner too. Music & Dancing: Live music and dancing on Thursday through Sunday evenings draw a lot of regulars.

MAR/APR 2019

THE TRADITION 2 oz of Bulleit Bourbon 1 oz Lemon Juice ¾ oz Simple Syrup

1 Egg White 2 Dashes of Bitters

Contemporary, R&B, guitar and top 40 music includes such artists as Lisa LaFaro-Weselis Band with Jos, Morgan Ashley, Eevaan Tre and Scott Carter. Open from 4 to 10:30 p.m. and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Landmark Lounge 78100 Main Street, La Quinta, CA 92253 www.oldtownlaquinta.com

CLUBSFOREYOUTH® BY THE NUMBERS With the help of our donors we have been afforded the opportunity to make a grand impression on today’s youth. While we’ve accomplished a great deal in a year and a half, we look forward to continuing our mission to provide sustainable resources to those in need.

YOUTH IMPACTED

476

We are able to provide 476 junior athletes with brand new sets of Wilson Staff golf clubs all over Southern California

SCHOOLS IMPACTED

Our Foundation has made a positive impact on 70 girls and boys golf teams by donating new sets

MILES DRIVEN Samuel F.B. Morse High School - Chula Vista, CA

ClubsForeYouth®

4,954 presented by

When we allow our youth to believe in themselves by providing tools and support, then success will take care of itself. ClubsForeYouth® empowers student athletes on and off the course in order to reach their true potential. Questions?

Contact Foundation Director Matt Gilson at (951)845-4653 or mgilson@pgahq.com

Our Foundation staff pack every new set and deliver each to the hands of their new owners

2019 GOALS

250

It’s our goal to provide 250 more juniors with brand new sets of clubs so we can positively leave a mark on the future of golf

#TheFutureStartsWithYOUth Find out how you can become part of the success for the future of golf at

clubsforeyouth.com

Patients claim LESS PAIN, BETTER BALANCE WALKING, and INCREASED MOBILITY with Los Angeles’ only COMBINED Sanexas Electric Cell Signaling/High Powered Laser Healing System! IF YOU SUFFER FROM ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS: Low Back Pain • Neck Pain • Numbness or Tingling • Buttocks or Leg Pain • Burning Feet Muscle Cramps • Balance problems • Arm/Leg Weakness • Heavy Legs • Sleepless Nights

“THIS MAY BE THE MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION YOU WILL EVER READ!” A break-through program is now being offered, ONLY IN OUR OFFICE that has already changed the lives of many local patients. There is no use of any dangerous drugs or any painful invasive procedures. The secret to this success is a 25 Watt Class IV High Powered Deep Tissue Thermal Laser combined with a patented machine called Sanexas High Frequency Electric Cell Signaling, a specialized form of electro-medicine that is specifically designed to treat nerve damage. When these 2 treatments are combined a very powerful healing effect takes place on the nerves. This system is so powerful many patients claim they are able to walk and stand with more confidence in a matter of weeks. This newfound confidence allows patients to have less pain and enjoy their life MORE.

“When I came in I was in such severe pain. I’d tried everything. Believe me, whoever is in pain do not hesitate. Come to this gentleman here. He is excellent because I am so happy now that my pain in my legs and back has gone from 10/10 to hardly there. I’m walking much better. I have less needle pain. I‘m really satisﬁed. It’s not a question of money; it’s a question of getting better. I’m 95 years young and I believe in this therapy.” – Albert Timins (Results are not guaranteed and may vary)

Get a Consultation with the Doctor for only $99 The first 10 callers can receive Diagnostic Exam, 2 Treatments, and Book The Laser’s Edge AT NO CHARGE. (Medicare rules apply. New patients only)

Make an appointment at 818-824-8244 or visit www.LAPainLaserCenter.com 14622 Ventura Blvd. Ste. 205 • Sherman Oaks, CA

LOS ANGELES PAIN LASER CENTER MAR/APR 2019

WINE LIST

CLINE FAMILY VINEYARDS, A SONOMA GEM By Matt Palaferri line Family Vineyards has been a little gem since 1982. The Clines (yes, it’s still family owned and operated) are one of the pioneers in Sonoma when it comes to sustainable farming. As one of the original Rhône Rangers, Fred Cline began planting Syrah, Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne, adding additional varietals such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Merlot. When I was on the restaurant side of the business, I always had a couple Cline wines on the menu. They are some of the most delicious and most affordable wines on the market that way over-deliver compared to the price point. I first met Fred Cline years ago, and just by talking to him, you can sense his passion for making wine and farming the correct way while having a great time doing it. The property is so fun to walk around from the crazy fish you can feed (when you feed them, you will see what I mean) to the display of all of the California Missions in a separate building. I’m trying to talk some parents at my kids’ school into bringing the kids up for, you know, an educational trip. It’s just a bonus it happens to be at a winery! A little Pinot and history about California Missions totally seems like a win-win. They make so many good wines, but I’ll just pick a few that I know won’t disappoint. Ask for them at your local watering hole or at your favorite market. If they don’t have them, they can get them! VIOGNIER For folks that don’t want a Chardonnay or Grigio, try this wine. It’s floral, tropical and has enough acidity to go with many dishes. The grape is thick skinned so it can take the heat of the day, which helps it to ripen. If you want to try something different that perhaps you don’t know too much about, give this wine a shot. I mean, who doesn’t like a floral, tropical wine that you can sit on the patio with and have a few? (Glasses people, not bottles, what do you think I’m trying to promote here!)

MAR/APR 2019

CASHMERE RED BLEND There are so many fabulous things going on with this wine I don’t know where to begin. Mourvèdre, Syrah and Grenache make up this silky blend, with a ton of spice and roasted plum on the finish. If you like blends, and great ones at that, grab a bottle and throw some flank steak on the grill and enjoy. ZINFANDEL I can’t write about Cline without mentioning their ancient vine and award winning Zin. Yes, it’s red and yes, it’s fantastic. The highest rated Zin in the top 100, this wine packs a punch. The ancient, dry farmed vineyards yield little grapes, which

makes the clusters so concentrated and delicious that you will be asking the server for another bottle. It pairs well with any grilled meats, even a cheese plate after dinner. It’s age worthy but who has time for that! Buy it and drink it; or put it on your shelf and stare at it, it’s totally your call. (Eyes rolled here.) Cline is all about community, the people in it and the land that surrounds it. Give them a go at your next gathering. Until next time…Cheers.

YES, THE NUMBER OF DISTILLATIONS MATTER We distill our vodkas 17, 34 or 51 times. That’s a lot o work, right? While other vodkas distill their spirit a few times, we take it further. That’s what being the best vodka in the world demands.

PURITYVODKA.COM

VODKA PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2017 by The International Wine & Spirits Competition. Purity® Vodka 40% Alc by Vol. Distilled from Grain. Imported by Purity Vodka, Manhasset, NY. Product of Sweden. © 2018 Purity Vodka, Inc.

NOV/DEC 2018

OPINION

HOW MACHIAVELLI CAN HELP TIGER WIN THE MASTERS By Suzy Evans, J.D., Ph.D.

MAR/APR 2019

PHOTO: RASHEDA ISAAC PHOTOGRAPHY

ith The Masters set to take place April 11-14, many people are asking, “Will Tiger Woods win another major again?” For that to happen, he might be well advised to take advice from the great 16th century political strategist, Niccolò Machiavelli. Sounds strange, right? But some of the same strategies of warfare and statecraft that Machiavelli prescribes in The Prince can be successfully applied on the course. Consider the following tips: 1. Divide and Conquer In The Prince and his other political works, Machiavelli offers concrete advice on how to wage a successful war. In particular, he advises “a captain ought…to endeavor with every art to divide the forces of the enemy, either by making him suspicious of his men…or by giving him cause… to separate his forces and, because of this, become weaker.” Machiavelli’s talking about political and military enemies here, but, in Tiger’s case, he’s been his own worst enemy in recent years, and, to reclaim his former greatness as a player, he should focus not on mechanics or fundamentals, but on conquering his inner weaknesses and demons as both a person and a player. But how, exactly, can this be achieved? Machiavelli would advise him to “separate and divide” any lingering feelings of regret or shame that he might have about his past moral failings as a man from his tremendous mental and physical strengths as a player. By “dividing” his inner weaknesses from his mental and physical strengths, Tiger might, as Machiavelli would advise, increase

his chances of “conquering” those inner forces that continue to be his most powerful and formidable opponents. 2. Channel Machiavellian Virtú Unlike the modern term virtue that connotes moral goodness, virtú, for Machiavelli, is the essential quality, the touchstone, of political and military success. In particular, the concept entails the idea of a tremendous inner fortitude to overcome even the most recalcitrant opponents and embraces such traits as boldness, bravery, foresight, flexibility, ingenuity, action and decisiveness — and these very same traits, as Machiavelli would advise, are also critical for success on the course. Here again, Tiger’s greatest opponent has been himself, and to reclaim his former greatness as a player, he should focus on cultivating those behaviors and traits that he might have lacked in the past to achieve the kind of Machiavellian virtú that is critical for success, whether you’re a 16th century Florentine prince or a 21st century professional golfer. 3. Study the Actions of Illustrious Men In The Prince, Machiavelli admonishes that “to succeed on the battlefield men ought to study…the actions

of illustrious men to see how they have borne themselves in war, to examine the causes of their victories and defeat, so as to avoid the latter and imitate the former.” This might be so obvious that you might dismiss it. But, for Machiavelli, it was enormously important and he believed that those leaders who failed to do so were doomed. Similarly, in war as it is on the course, Tiger should study the actions of past and present champions to see how they conducted themselves and to examine the causes of their victories and defeats, so as to avoid the latter and imitate the former. Bottom line: if Tiger can “divide and conquer” his inner weaknesses and demons; cultivate Machiavellian virtú and study the actions of past and present champions, he will increase his chances of reclaiming his former greatness as a player and maybe even win The Masters — at least that’s what Machiavelli would say!

Suzy Evans is a lawyer, historian and literary agent who holds a Ph.D. in history from UC Berkeley. She’s also the author of Machiavelli for Moms (Simon & Schuster) and can be found on Instagram @suzyevans.jd.phd and at suzy@dijkstraagency.com.

McFadden Exit From 55 Village Way

McFadden Ave.

GOLF LAB

Ro ge rD un n

Wilshire

MAR/APR 2019

vesselbags.com

MAR/APR 2019