California Golf + Travel Spring 2024

KAUAI’S RISING STAR OCEAN COURSE AT HOKUALA

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SPRING INTO NEW GEAR

A BRIEF HISTORY OF FATHER’S DAY AND SOME FATHER’S DAY GOLF GIFT IDEAS

Some say that the origins of Father’s Day can be traced to a young woman by the name of Sonora Smart Dodd who came up with the idea while listening to a Mother’s Day service in Spokane, Washington in 1909. Raised by her widowed father, a Civil War veteran who lost his wife after the birth of their sixth child, Sonora thought that her father should be honored in the same way that mothers were on Mother’s Day.

Toward that end, a Father’s Day observance was held there on June 19, 1910. Although that celebration was a local affair, the idea of Father’s Day picked up steam when it was supported by President Coolidge in 1924, but it would be another thirty years before Father’s Day was recognized by a Joint Resolution of Congress.

In 1966, the first Presidential Proclamation honoring fathers was issued by President Johnson, who designated the third Sunday in June of each year as Father’s Day. So what does this have to do with golf? A LOT if we’re talking about Father’s Day golf gifts, from books, apparel and accessories to golf lessons and fine wine and spirits! Consider these gift ideas: Golfing with Dad: The Game’s Greatest Players Reflect on Their Fathers and the Game They Love—a heartwarming collection of some of the game’s greatest players favorite memories with their dads

and how they shaped them as people and players. Many top players have been deeply influenced by their dads and contributed to this special book, including Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson. A thoughtful gift, Golfing with Dad offers a rare, inside glimpse into the private family lives of some of the game’s greatest players.

Play It As It Lies: A Journey through Fatherhood and Golf — as a game so often shared between fathers and families, golf is a game that many of us can’t separate from memories of playing with our dads. Matthew Filner’s Play It As It Lies is a moving testament to why those memories are the greatest gifts golf can give us. Whether you’re a father,

daughter, son or grandfather, there is a story that reminds us that golfing with dad (and mom!) is as good as golf gets. Tom Coyne, author of A Course Called Scotland.

Golf Apparel—Stylish, comfortable, and versatile apparel including shirts, pants, shorts, hats, shoes, and custom novelty socks are great gifts for golfloving dads. Look for high quality materials and top cool brands that meet his fashion style, preferences, and taste. The possibilities are almost endless!

Golf Accessories—Looking for some quick, fun little gifts? How about a box of his favorite golf balls, sunglasses, glove, bag, custom tees, rangefinder, putting cups, caddie cooler, portable speaker, launch monitor, or cool club headcovers! These fun little gifts can help enhance his game and add convenience on the course.

Golf Lessons—How about a gift certificate for a golf lesson that can help improve his game and enjoy his performance on the course even more.

Fine Wine and Spirits: For added fun, relaxation and great times, how about a bottle of his favorite wine or tequila, vodka, whiskey or rum. Ahoy, Mateys! Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum! Just remind him to always drink responsibly both on and off the course!

Enjoy your walk and drink responsibly, Suzy Evans, J.D., Ph.D.

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PGA Professional Eric Lohman

We asked a few questions to Eric Lohman, the PGA General Manager and Director of Instruction at Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, CA and current 41st President of the Southern California PGA of America. With over three decades of experience in the golf industry, Eric has spearheaded initiatives across the game in golf course management, education, diversity and inclusion, and more.

You have contributed a significant amount of your time to the SCPGA in a leadership role over the years. Please share your key takeaways about your experience serving the Section.

Highlights are being active and engaged for over 20 years or so. I have been fortunate to participate on many committees and make a difference across numerous channels. Communication, Diversity and Inclusion, Special Events, Tournaments, Finance/Investment, Education, Engagement and Mentorship. It has been a wonderful experience, one I’ll cherish forever, and we are not quite done yet accomplishing what we set out to do. This year’s been a cool experience being an integral part of the Southern California PGA Section Centennial celebration. Tell us something about the Southern California PGA that you think everyone should know. We don’t get to play for millions of dollars, but we do get millions to play golf! We have an amazing junior golf program with around 5,000 annual

participants, we have an active foundation that supports those less fortunate, in need of assistance and active and retired military. We gift high schools who wish to have a golf program but can’t afford it with free clubs and golf balls, we do complimentary golf clinics in areas where golf is not as accessible. The Section runs all of the professional qualifiers for the PGA and Champion’s Tour in the market place and of course we host our own professional events such as the Southern California and California State Opens along with our SCPGA Section Championships.

What is the most impactful thing that has happened during your career in the golf industry?

I’ll name two big ones: Tiger Woods turning professional, and the Covid

Pandemic, both of which have made golf cooler, more inclusive, and grew interest immensely.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a PGA of America member?

Jump in with both feet, get through with your education and training quickly and know you will never play as much golf as you would want to!

What is your all-time favorite golf course you have played?

Augusta National duh!

Dream course you have yet to play?

Too many to name one, how about Ireland and Scotland (all of them!)

What would you choose if you had to play a whole round with one club?

6 iron, right in the middle. Lots of fun to play 9 holes that way. Great practice!

Favorite golf movie?

Caddyshack x 1,000%

Best golf tip you have ever received?

Get it to the hole if you want to make it. Harvey Penick.

Go-to snack on the course?

The small sausage burritos at Santa Ana CC.

Dream Foursome to play with?

Tiger, Cameron Smith and Jon Rahm (my dad and brother can caddie!)

Visit pga.org/membership to get started or email our career consultant, Ed Winiecki, PGA, CCM, at ewiniecki@pgahq.com for advice.

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TEE TIME BROKER$

Tee time brokering in the game’s public sector is widespread, but most of the focus on the problem has been on the City of Los Angeles’ municipal system. And that is why most know that the city quickly adopted two measures to begin mitigating the problem: 1) A $10 non-refundable cancellation fee, and 2) a detailed code of conduct replete with municipal fines and penalties for those who break the rules.

What few understand are the roots of the problem – a problem that like all difficult problems is in part a function of attributes of local municipal golf systems that most reading these words would consider virtues to be cherished and maintained, not jettisoned cavalierly.

So, in a nutshell here are the roots of the “problem” in Los Angeles and to only a slightly lesser degree in California’s other heavily urbanized

environments. The National Golf Foundation (NGF) identifies Los Angeles as the most golf starved golf market in the United States – the most golfers chasing the fewest golf holes, and by a very wide margin over the next worst supply to demand ratio in the nation. There are fewer public golf courses today than there were 50 years ago, when the population of the region was much smaller and the percentage of the population that played golf was a smaller percentage thereof. Once dotted with “daily fee” golf courses (privately owned but open for business to the public facilities), Los Angeles is now home only to very pricey private country clubs and municipal golf courses (publicly owned parkland facilities), with one exception – a golf course in the rural northeast corner of the city (Tujunga Wash) that sits literally in a riverbed (Angeles National GC).

Wilson Golf Course and club house

The City and County of Los Angeles as well as Long Beach and a few of the region’s smaller municipal systems (e.g., Pasadena, Burbank, and Downey) don’t set their public parkland golf course greens fees per a market mechanism that would literally turn these publicly owned parks into playgrounds for the privileged, but rather set fees that recover costs, create the capital reserve funds necessary to allow for infrastructure replacement through user fees as opposed to tax dollars and bonded indebtedness, and in the cases of the big three in Los Angeles County (LA City, LA County, Long Beach) and Pasadena, provide revenues over and above all that for use by park departments (LA City and County), general funds (Long Beach), and an old college football stadium (Pasadena –Rose Bowl).

Few would deny that Los Angeles and other municipal programs in the heart of Los Angeles County have been slow to address the problem. However, before suggesting indifference as the reason, it may make more sense to conclude that they just held on too long to a set of values about affordability, accessibility, special dispensations for youth and schools, and a vision of their publicly owned golf properties as public assets to be enjoyed in the same way as every one of their other park/recreation assets. Now, they’re bending the little bit necessary to maintain as much of that laudable package of values as possible.

CRAIG KESSLER l Director, Public Affairs Southern California Golf Association

The Ocean Course at Hōkūala’s 15th green is surrounded by Nawiliwili Bay, with Timbers Kauaʻi and the Hā‘upu Mountain Range providing a dramatic backdrop.

KAUAI’S RISING STAR: OCEAN COURSE AT HOKUALA

By PATE CLARSON PARADISE AWAITS

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean lies a tropical paradise more than worthy of a five-hour flight from California: Kauai. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and lush greenery, Hawaii’s northernmost island is warmly known as the “Garden Isle.”

Kauai offers a wealth of outdoor activities for adventure seekers, nature lovers and golfers. As the fourth-largest landmass in the Hawaiian Islands and covering 562 square miles, kama‘āina (locals), residents and visitors alike are treated

to pristine beaches, strikingly tall mountains, majestic waterfalls, deep jungles and verdant landscapes.

During your time on this beautiful slice of paradise, a day at the Ocean Course at Hokuala is a memorable “must-do.”

THERE’S OCEANFRONT GOLF… THEN THERE IS HOKUALA

Renowned for its spectacular natural beauty, Kauai is blessed with remarkable golf. Situated 73 miles northwest of Oahu, Kauai boasts some of the most charming and challenging courses in the world. The Ocean Course at Hokuala is atop our list.

Adjacent to the island’s main airport in Lihue (LIH), the former 27-hole layout was named Kauai Lagoons. In 1998, World Golf Hall of Fame member and golf course architect, Jack Nicklaus, was tasked with completely overhauling it. Subsequent renovations took place in 2011 and 2016. The result? A refreshingly unique, world-class 18-hole facility renamed the Ocean Course at Hokuala. A new driving range, short game facility and FootGolf course were also added.

“Kauai is a laid-back tropical paradise. The island is more quaint and less commercial than Oahu

and Maui. I put forth my best effort with Hokuala’s design,” reminisced Nicklaus. “It’s reassuring that Timbers Resorts made a commitment to ensure that the product I have produced is taken care of, enjoyed and thought well of for generations to come.”

Nicklaus’ routing blends strategic course management, exciting risk vs. reward opportunities and breathtaking scenery into one action-packed design.

FRONT NINE

Set within a lush jungle framed by area mountains, the front nine winds through fragrant mango and guava groves. Players can score early. Good shots are rewarded across short, medium and long-length holes. Tactically placed inland lagoons and bunkers await mishits.

BACK NINE

The back nine is home to the longest continuous stretch of oceanfront holes in all of Hawaii. As players stand on the tenth tee, they sense and feel a difference.

Every hole could make a case as the “signature hole.” The par-3 14th may take the cake. Sitting high atop seaside cliffs next to the Ninini Point Lighthouse, players experience 360-degree views of crystal clear Nawiliwili Bay, imposing Mt. Hā’upu

and luxurious Timbers Kauai in the distance. This spectacular setting forever remains in the minds of all who play it.

Hole 16 is one of the most photographed in the world. The potentially drivable par-4 features a blind tee shot to an increasingly narrow fairway. With crashing waves hugging the entire left side, the green juts hard left and downhill towards Kalapaki Bay and the iconic Kuki’i Point Lighthouse.

From mauna (mountain) to makai (ocean), every round at Hokuala is an adventure.

E ALA E: THE MAGIC OF SUNRISE

The late great New York Times best-selling author Eric Jerome Dickey remarked, “Every day, a million miracles begin at sunrise.” At Hokuala as rays of light peek over the Pacific Ocean horizon, painting the sky in a palette of vibrant hues, you feel a sense of wonder and awe.

Each Tuesday, the club hosts a guided interactive Sunrise Hui Aloha Tour. Led by Hokuala’s Native Hawaiian employees, the course’s lush green fairways and swaying palm trees above the sea offer an idyllic vantage point to watch the sky transform from darkness to light.

During your front-row seat to

PHOTO BY OCEAN COURSE AT HŌKŪALA

PHOTO BY OCEAN COURSE AT HŌKŪALA

The Ocean Course at Hōkūala’s 14th hole, a challenging and breathtaking 208-yard par 3, is framed by Nawiliwili Bay.

Mother Nature’s premier daily spectacle, guests collectively greet the sun by chanting, “E Ala E!” which translates to “Arise and Awaken The Light Within!” Hawaiians believe that wisdom is held within. It is innate; everyone should seek to awaken and arise with it.

After sunrise, the tour continues through The Farm at Hokuala to taste fresh fruit, see local wildlife, picturesque flora and fauna and other rare property attributes.

SUNSET HOLOHOLO SESSIONS

In the indigenous language of Hawaii (‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i), Hokuala translates to “rising star.” For those who value rich cultural immersions while watching the sun set and stars rise, Hokuala now offers Sunset Holoholo Sessions. Every Thursday and Friday, guided golf cart tours begin at approx. 3:30 p.m. and last two hours.

Guests enjoy a cultural exploration of the property. Highlights include the area mountains, surrounding jungle on holes five and six, The Farm at Hokuala and other attractions that enable guests to form a strong bond with the island’s local culture and ecosystem, such as watching whales breach in the winter months.

At Hokuala, guests don’t feel like guests. They are allowed and encouraged to immerse themselves in a living, breathing ecosystem. This special sense of community and camaraderie makes every activity feel like a shared adventure.

PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

More California residents visit The Aloha State than any other state. With multiple airlines offering daily non-stops to Lihue (LIH) from numerous west coast cities, Hawaii’s “Island of Discovery” is excited to welcome you – one swing, sunrise and sunset at a time.

To learn more about the Ocean Course at Hokuala, book tee times and register for club events and outings visit www.golfhokuala.com

Hole 4, a beautiful 506-yard dogleg left par 5, offers a good front-nine scoring opportunity.

Each Tuesday, Hualani Duncan leads a Hui Aloha Sunrise Tour, allowing guests to engage with Kaua‘i’s local culture and ecosystem.

PHOTO BY OCEAN COURSE AT HŌKŪALA

PHOTO BY OCEAN COURSE AT HŌKŪALA

STAR POWER IN SPAIN

NOT ONLY THE FOOD MERITS A MICHELIN STAR IN THE FOOTHILLS OF THE SPANISH PYRENEES

By JO MAES, EGTMA

Northern Spain and Girona is the land of Salvador Dali, the Spanish surrealist where nothing is what it seems. The region touches the French border and the Pyrenees separate the two countries. At certain times of the year, the snow capped mountains provide a glorious backdrop for two fantastic golf resorts. There is nothing surreal about the magnificent and five-star Peralada Golf & Spa Resort.

Four generations of the family Mateu have built something incredibly spectacular. Damian Mateu is the founder of one of the world’s most luxurious car brands and aeronautical company Hispano-Suiza, once rivals to Rolls Royce and Bentley, and the family has elevated Peralada to one of Spain’s most prestigious wineries.

This is an all encompassing resort, a five-star hotel with an extensive

wine themed spa, a Michelin Star restaurant, a casino all centered in and around a medieval castle and also some of the best golf facilities. The course architect Jordi Soler Peix has created a meandering layout of 6,600 yards. The first hole is not representative of the other holes as the course in general is tree lined, slightly undulating and well matured. Some of the holes have hints of Valderrama with the umbrella pines framing your shot. It’s a very playable golf course but requires the right shots and will challenge any player regardless of handicap. It presents you with different challenges and beautiful views over the surrounding landscape. The closing hole is a long Par 3 from a peninsula tee which is unusual.

The on site five-star boutique hotel is modern and with an earthy color scheme which has a calming influence. The rooms are big and

comfortable but what really stands out at Peralada is the quality of the food and, of course, the wines. There is a choice of restaurants, both in the hotel, the winery and with the Michelin Star Castello restaurant as the epitome of the culinary offering. Prepare yourself for 17 tastebud tantalizing courses prepared by young chef Javi Martinez showcasing local produce, from Fried egg airbag with cured Iberian bacon and shrimp over Creamy scallop cream, Pheasant and Foie Gras galantine and Sweet potato, mandarin orange and liquorice. Then there is the cheese board, hand picked by Toni Gerez, a selection I have never seen the likes of. It’s an experience not to be missed but if this is all too much, the quality of the food at the hand of head chef Paco Perez continues in the hotel from breakfast onwards and also in the Cellar 1923 at the winery itself.

The Peralada wine tradition dates back to the 14th century monastery on site and was revived in 1923. There are 5 vineyards across the North of Spain all producing different grape varieties. The new winery, a design marvel by Pritzker award-winning RCR Architects, has received the highest certification for sustainability in Europe. A tour of the winery is an experience not to

Peralada 5* Golf, Wine and Spa Resort

be missed as you get immersed in the different vineyards through light and sound which makes the tasting all the more real.

There are different wines for different budgets but we ended up tasting the 1923 Commemorative bottle which is priced at €250 and probably not your daily tipple. A mix of Syrah and Gamatxa Negra and aged 12 months in French Oak barrels, it is an elegant wine with great aging potential. Peralada also produces a lot of Cava sparkling wines which are made from the 3 typical and local grape varieties, Xarello, Macebeo and Parellada.

On the other side of Figueres, you can find the four-star Torremirona Hotel and Golf Resort. Not as fancy as Peralada

Private Library Family Mateu

Peralada Castle, Michelin Star Restaurant and Casino

Michelin Dining at Peralada

Peralada Winery

Tony Gerez’s Cheese Board

but nevertheless very much worth consideration depending on your budget. Peralada’s architect Jordi Soler also had a hand in the design of this course. Intersected by the main road, the front 9 is tight and tricky where the back 9 yields more scoring opportunities. The signature holes are no. 10, a Par 3 with not only water lurking but also overseen by golfers having a beer on the terrace. The 18th is a downhill Par 5 where only a very good drive will tempt you into going for the green in two.

The starting holes on both courses are very close to the hotels so you can walk straight from your room onto the first tee. This is a very cozy hotel for groups of golfers that want to play a comfortable round of golf, have some great food and spend some quality time at the bar. The rooms are large and well appointed, there is a private spa one needs to book in advance and it’s a 15 minute taxi drive from the center of Figueres where I can recommend visiting the Dali museum to get your senses challenged.

The region itself is spectacular with the backdrop of the Pyrenees, the mountain range between Spain and France. What the Spanish do ever so well is preserving their heri-

tage towns and the medieval fortified town of Besalu is no exception and only 15 minutes away.

Origins date back to the 10th century and what stands out here is the romanesque bridge with seven uneven arcs and two guard towers. The town also has one of Europe’s only surviving medieval Jewish purification baths. The pure beaches of the Mediterranean are only 20 min-

utes away so the region has plenty to do outside of golf, great food and excellent wines.

There are three airports, Girona is the regional airport (1 hour) but for US flights, the Barcelona El Prat airport is about 90 min away. There is a motorway all the way to Figueres and once you are onsite, let the tranquility of the experience embrace you.

Torremirona 4* Golf & Spa Resort

Hole 10, Par 3, Torremirona Golf

THE FUTURE OF GOLF IS HERE TO STAY

Feel the fairway beneath your spikes. Slow down your round just enough to give every satisfying shot the attention it deserves. Embrace the gratification of each step as you track down that smashed drive on foot — without being weighed down by your clunky bag.

With an MGI Electric Caddie, you gain an advantage that saves energy and drops strokes for even the most experienced players in the game. No push. No pull. No cart. No carry. Just a moment in time that takes you out of this world.

EXPERIENCE THE FUTURE OF GOLF AT NATIVE OAKS GOLF CLUB

Get ready to elevate your game at the Native Oaks Golf Club in Valley Center, California. We’re excited to introduce the groundbreaking Trackman Driving Range, a haven where technology meets tradition designed to revolutionize your golfing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or picking up a club for the first time, this stateof-the-art technology can help transform how you practice, play, and enjoy the game.

The Trackman Range at Native Oaks offers a comprehensive golfing experience that features advanced golf ball tracking technology, data-driven feedback, and an environment that turns practice into an exhilarating game. And if you want virtual golf, we’ve got that covered, too. Our expansive, well-maintained driving range features grass and mat tee lines, allowing you to help perfect your swing in a setting that best suits your needs. Native Oaks Golf Club is your escape from the everyday, where you can unwind and focus on the game.

Looking for a unique venue for your next corporate or group event? Or a relaxed spot to enjoy a cold beverage and delicious fare from the Shawii Kitchen after work? Look no further. Native Oaks offers an unparalleled golfing experience complemented by our stand-alone Trackman 4 technology.

Get the full range of club and ball data— more than 40 parameters—on every shot in your arsenal. Gain deeper insight into your strengths and how you can improve. Elevate your game in our private area with a manicured practice green and two greenside bunkers or by scheduling a session with PGA Professional John Gray. Leveraging over a decade of teaching experience and precise data from our Trackman technology, John is ready to help you refine your skills like never before.

For more information call us at (760) 7513007 or visit www.nativeoaksgolfclub.com. Check out our YouTube video at https://youtu.be/EFIhwV-m0ac

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DISCOVER TILDEN PARK GOLF COURSE

Nestled among the rolling hills above UC–Berkeley, Tilden Park Golf Course offers more than just a round of golf—it presents an experience. As you wind your way up the Berkeley Hills, the drive to the course gifts you with glimpses of the stunning Bay Area panorama below, hinting at the awe-inspiring journey awaiting you.

Spanning 6,294 yards of meticulously designed landscape, this championship course crafted by William Park Bell Jr. promises an adventure like no other. With its tree-lined fairways, contoured greens, and a backdrop of natural parkland, Tilden Park Golf Course transports you to a world seemingly miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

But it’s not just the scenery that sets Tilden Park Golf Course apart— it’s the experience. Awarded the Best

Golf Course for Oakland and the East Bay in 2010 by the SF Guardian’s Best of the Bay, this course prides itself on offering not just a round of golf, but an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re here to test your skills on our challenging layout or have lunch with friends, exceptional service is always at the forefront.

As a part of the East Bay Regional Park system, Tilden Park Golf Course is deeply committed to preserving the natural beauty that makes the Bay Area so unique. And the commitment to excellence doesn’t end there. Exciting developments are on the horizon, with the unveiling of our newly renovated and rebranded bar and grill, The Overlook. Featuring a terrace boasting breathtaking views and a revamped menu sure to tantalize taste buds, it’s set to become the go-to spot for golfers and socialites alike.

But that’s not all. Tilden Park Golf Course continues to enhance its offerings, with recent upgrades to our three-story driving range. Now resodded with lush grass, equipped with new range balls and mats, and featuring convenient credit card machines, perfecting your swing has never been easier. Plus, with lessons, leagues, and an array of course-hosted events, there’s something for every level of golfer.

So, whether you’re seeking a challenging round of golf, a picturesque venue for your next lunch with friends, or simply a place to unwind amidst nature’s splendor, Tilden Park Golf Course invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey—one that begins with us.

For more information visit www.tildenparkgc.com or call us at (510) 848-7373.

THE GOAT

GOAT

HILL PARK in Oceanside, California was established in 1952 and saved in 2014 from being paved over and lost forever.

It would have been a shame to lose such a special green space for the local community to enjoy — a magical spot that includes seventy five acres of undulating land adjacent to Interstate 5 and somewhat hidden from view between the off ramps of Oceanside Blvd and Mission Avenue. A humble clubhouse is perched up next to the driving range with a couple practice putting greens with a beautiful panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

A golf course inside a park. What makes “the Goat” so special? A lot of things, but mainly it’s the casual vibe and culture of everyone being welcome including dogs. There’s no dress code or stuck up rules here— just people respecting each other and living by the Golden Rule while enjoying an eclectic playlist of music around the clubhouse creating a warm and fuzzy mood.

The course is a creative collection of interesting holes that test good players shotmaking ability and is inviting to novices and beginners.

Eight par 3’s of varying lengths, nine shorter risk/reward par 4’s and one par 5 make up this sporty par 65 short course that feels unique every time you play.

Goat Hill Park is also the home of the North County Junior Golf Association and Summer Caddie Academy that offers a safe haven for local kids and an opportunity to learn the game of golf which is a top priority at the Goat. There’s a 3 hole kids’ course called “the Playground” that’s free and built for youngsters to have

a great time and feel comfortable around a golf course.

Goat Hill Park has become a hub of the Oceanside community—a place for people to unplug, get some fresh air, and hang out with friends and family. At the Goat, we believe the game of golf creates better human beings, which, in the long run, will make the world a better place.

Long live the Goat!

Fred Couples at the Goat chatting with local kids

LIVING THE DREAM… FINALLY JAKE KNAPP

By TOM JOHNSON

If your dream is to play professional golf, there are several ways you can succeed enough to earn a spot to play on the PGA Tour. The most common is to play well on the Korn Ferry, which offers an opportunity for direct status at the next level.

Which brings us to Jake Knapp, arguably the latest darling of the PGA Tour, following his win at the 2024 Mexico Open in Vidanta in February.

Knapp is a 29-year-old Californian, born and raised in Costa Mesa.

The Knapp family’s first recollections of Jake taking any interest in the game dates back to when he was three years old; he would enjoy swinging a plastic club at a plastic ball and then chase it around the family home.

By 6, Jake was playing regularly at a course next door to the neighborhood where the Knapps lived – Costa Mesa Country Club (CMCC), the local cityowned muni. His father, Bob, fondly remembers those early days. It was a usual Saturday or Sunday morning when Jake, and his older brother Ryan, would find their way into their parents’ bedroom at around 5:30 a.m. begging to go out and play golf.

Bob, of course, would happily oblige, climb out of bed, throw both kids’ bags over his shoulder and head over to walkon as the first group on the back nine. This became a regular occurrence.

It was always interesting, noted Bob. “Standing there on the tee, hearing some of the guys waiting in line complain about the ‘little kids’ playing in front of them who would no doubt slow them up. Then, the boys would each get up and stripe the ball down the middle of the fairway and the tee area would suddenly silence.”

Jake and Ryan both fell in love with the game. And the folks inside the pro shop and out around the range fell in love with them.

Now retired Costa Mesa Country Club head golf professional Brad Booth fondly remembers. “They were exceptional kids and you could tell that they were going places as golfers. I was always impressed with their demeanor; they were upbeat and always grateful,” said Booth, somewhat of a surrogate proud parent, and rightfully so.

Jake began those early days at CMCC working with Brad’s brother, Doug Booth, the lead instructor at the club, who grew a special fondness for the Knapp boys. He

always found a way to allot whatever time was necessary to get both kids on track.

Then, upon his departure to Northern California, Doug turned the reins of instruction for Jake over to PGA Professional John Ortega, who has been described by many as a “sort of golf savant.”

Ortega has worked with Jake on and off for some 20+ years, regularly instructing him on all aspects of his game and also with his mental approach. Jake readily admits that “Ortega became a best friend.”

As Jake grew into his teens, he judged his successes by qualifying for and playing in the annual Junior Worlds at Torrey Pines, the various AJGA invitationals and the Western Amateur.

When asked about his competition back then, Jake mentioned both Brian Campbell and Beau Hossler as two, who have since also made careers for themselves on the tour. “It wasn’t necessarily about winning back then,” said Jake. “When you played in Southern California and finished in the top 10 you felt good because the competition level and depth of the field was better than anywhere else in the country.”

Certainly one of Jake’s highlights came as a senior at Estancia High School. He entered the U.S. Open local qualifying at Newport Beach Country Club, and virtually lapped the field shooting a 10 under par 61 to win by six shots.

No doubt, people began taking note.

College opportunities followed, and Jake was recruited by both UCLA and Oregon, before choosing to stay in SoCal to enjoy the weather and become a Bruin.

He loved Westwood, particularly his teammates (Jonathan Garrick, Manav Shah, Lorens Chan, Matt Pinizzotto and Preston Valder, to name a few), most with whom he regularly still communicates with.

While at UCLA, Jake noted perhaps his biggest accomplishment was winning the Husky Invitational. It was the opening tournament of his junior season in Bremerton, Wash., at Gold Mountain Golf Club. He took down a very strong field that included many great teams and the likes of

JAKE KNAPP

PHOTO BY MICHAEL WEINSTEIN

Ryan and Jake at the 2015 Farmers Open at Torrey Pines

players such as Xander Schauffele to win the championship.

Less than a year later, Jake decided to leave UCLA and pursue his ultimate of making a run at the PGA Tour. However, he quickly found the road wasn’t necessarily going to be easy.

Jake played in mini tour events, before finding his way to Canada to join the Mackenzie Tour in 2016. Being honest, Jake admits it was a struggle. “I’d be lying to you if I said that losing hope never crossed my mind. But then I’d come home and play decent for a couple of rounds in local events that would get me back on track.”

In 2019, after three years out on the grind, Jake won twice – at the Canada Life Open and the Golf BC Championship a month later. He subsequently advanced to the Korn Ferry in 2020 knowing the PGA Tour was seemingly within reach.

However, after struggling for two seasons it was back to Canada for 2022. It was then that Jake felt a re-focus in his game and a new attitude. That would lead him to winning for a third time in Canada at the CRMC Championship over Wil Bateman in August 2022, and it was back to the Korn Ferry.

overnight, and I had been grinding for such a very long time.”

The difficulty in keeping a card is that a new player outside the top 50-60 is not eligible to play in the Tour’s Signature Events. So, Jake set his goal for the season on just “making enough money in the other starts to stay out here, with a hope of perhaps qualifying for the FedEx Playoffs at the end of the year.”

Sunday saw Jake grind out an even-par 70, calling upon a tremendous short game to lead him to a two-shot win over Finnish golfer Sami Välimäki. The win was worth nearly $1.5 million.

It did change his life. He’s now fully exempt for two years; he has exemptions that include all Signature Events, the Masters, the PGA, The Players and more.

In 2023, his consistent play allowed him to finish 13th on the Korn Ferry Tour points list (Top 30 earn their PGA Tour card), including 10 top 10s, while making 20 of 22 cuts. Finishing solo-fifth in the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Open and T10 at the season-ending Korn Ferry Tour Championship ultimately secured his opportunity to move to the main stage.

When he was presented his Tour Card at year’s end, Jake had one goal in mind, “To keep it!” He shared that getting it was “Pretty cool. It was surreal because it was something I’d worked my entire life for; it felt like a dream. It didn’t happen

The 2024 year started off in Hawaii, where Jake made a decent debut, just making the cut. But, it earned him a paycheck and he was off and running. Two weeks later at the Farmers Insurance Open in San Diego, Jake made his presence felt by finishing T3 at -11 and earning $477,000.

A few weeks later in Mexico he shot rounds of 67-64-63, to take a four-stroke lead into Sunday at the Mexico Open.

He had never slept on a four-shot lead, particularly one that could change his life. “I’d be lying if I said I slept well,” Jake admitted. “I wasn’t nervous or anxious, I just kept running the shots (for the next day) through my mind.”

His bank book has surpassed well over $2 million so far for 2024.

And he’s now enjoying elevated company. He’s been paired with the likes of Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas and Rickie Fowler in the weeks following the victory. He even flew the next morning following his win courtesy of Jack Nicklaus to play in Jack’s special two-day Pro-Am, coincidentally called “The Jake,” in memory of Jack and Barbara’s grandson, Jake Walter Nicklaus.

But the real question now is, can he have more success? “Bottomline: this is where the real work starts,” said Brad Booth with a chuckle. “But he’s willing to do it, so yes! This is what Jake loves.”

And, when you speak with Jake, he’s forever grateful to so many back in his hometown of Costa Mesa, including the guys in the shop at CMCC, obviously John Ortega, and Mesa Verde Country Club’s retired head professional Tom Sargent, along with so many others.

BTW, the proof is in the pudding that Jake is not forgetting the community from which he came. While playing in The Jake, one bystander repeatedly challenged him to successfully hit a shot here or there or to make a certain putt, promising a donation to his favorite charity.

Recently, a check for $11,500 arrived made out to Costa Mesa United, a non-profit youth organization Jake’s grandfather Gordon Bowley started some years back designed to benefit local youth sports.

JAKE KNAPP

Ryan, Bob, and Jake

Sahith Theegala. PGA TOUR Winner & Linksouldier.

IS IT REALLY YOUR WEDGES’ FAULT?

WEDGE DESIGNER TERRY KOEHLER BELIEVES HE’S CRACKED THE CODE AS TO WHY WEDGE PLAY IS SO CHALLENGING

Agolf writer once told Terry Koehler he was “the wedge contrarian”, that he took as a compliment. Ever since he received his first wedge patent for the “dual bounce sole” in the early 1990s, Koehler has been committed to engineering wedges very differently than major brands. Rather than focus on the exquisite skills of elite tour professionals, he is committed to helping everyday serious recreational golfers.

Koehler is known as “the Wedge Guy” from his weekly blog on GolfWRX.com, where he shares insights gained from a life in the game and more than four decades in the golf equipment industry. But it’s his “contrarian” approach to the design of wedges that sets him apart from industry legends like Bob Vokey and Roger Cleveland, along with the R&D departments of major brands.

Terry Koehler, Founder & Director of Innovation at Edison Golf

“Leaving raw power aside, everyday golfers differ most from the elite players in the skills they exhibit inside prime scoring range,” explains Koehler. “Any tour-level player can hit a 40-foot pitch shot into a two-foot circle a dozen different ways. Different trajectory, different spin . . . they can make the ball do exactly what they need it to do for that particular shot.”

“Those skills don’t come easily,” Koehler added. “Tour players spend a lifetime learning them, and that learning is cumulative, because the wedges they play today are almost identical to the ones they have played throughout their formative years. If you suddenly changed the way tour players’ wedges launched and felt, you would disrupt that entire learning curve. They cannot afford that to happen.”

To illustrate his point on the lack of innovation in wedges, Koehler references a photo of two that Ben Hogan personally delivered to Jack Fleck at the 1955 U.S. Open, which Fleck went on to win, denying Hogan yet another Open trophy. Seeing that picture, it’s hard to challenge Koehler’s assertion that wedges have been stuck in time for decades.

When asked how that affects everyday recreational players, Koehler gives a logical explanation: “Every tour-level player has learned to hit wedge shots low in the face of the club, wearing out a penny-sized area between the 2nd and 5th grooves, as that is where conventional tour design wedges have always optimized launch and spin.

“But my 30-plus years of studying everyday golfers’ wedges show a wear pattern closer to the size of a silver dollar centered several grooves higher on the face and slightly toward the toe. That’s because we don’t play the tight-cut fairways you see on tour, and we hit more shots from the rough. But mainly it’s because recreational golfers just do not have tour player precision in our ball-striking.”

Koehler pointed out that traditional tour design wedges lose 15% to 25% of their efficiency when impact is made above that 4th or 5th groove. This means distance is compromised, the ball flies higher with less spin and distance control is all over the place. What he has done with the very different-looking Edison wedges is to engineer

The patented Koehler Sole is the most versatile sole design in the wedge category.

Jack Fleck’s Ben Hogan wedges used to win the 1955 U.S. Open

them around that higher and larger impact pattern to prevent that kind of compromised performance.

Another area where Koehler’s approach to wedge design is in the sole. He was awarded his first wedge patent over 30 years ago, creating a sole design that has both a high and low bounce to expand the versatility over a wide range of turf conditions, lies and swing paths.

“I’ve always challenged this notion of fitting bounce,” alludes Koehler. “Everyday golfers face a wide variety of lies and turf conditions and don’t always take the same size divot. How can you fit something that is constantly changing?”

Koehler points out how elite tour professionals also have equipment vans available to them every week, and if conditions change, they simply can go into the van and get wedges with slightly different bounce angles or sole grinds. The rest of us invest in a set of wedges that must serve us for two to three years, regardless of what course conditions we encounter.

But Koehler is not guessing at his craft. He’s analyzed over 60,000 wedge fitting profiles over the three decades he’s been “the wedge guy” and he’s had countless conversations with recreational golfers of all skill levels. All that leads him to be constantly tinkering to figure out how to make wedges perform better for the everyday golfer.

The last area where Koehler shows his “contrarian” personality is in the importance of the shaft to good wedge play, and to Edison’s 100% custom-fit, custom-build business model. The Edison website offers their proprietary WedgeFit® Scoring Range Analysis, an indepth survey of your scoring game that allows Edison to recommend just the right lofts, shaft, grip and custom specs for length and lie for anyone.

There are no “stock” wedges to be found in the Edison facility, only rows of custom orders where the Edison staff is building each wedge exactly how that golfer wants it. It’s a total reversal of the industry norm of “stack ‘em deep.”

“Regardless of your skill and scores, you’ll take your game to the next level by improving your wedge game,” says Koehler. “Whether it’s winning on tour or breaking 80, 90 or 100 . . . it almost always comes down to how well you perform inside 100 yards or so. My life’s work has been to give golfers better tools to achieve that goal.”

“If that means being a ‘contrarian’, I’ll take that as the highest compliment”, Koehler said. “Isn’t that what you would call Karsten Solheim, Gary Adams, Ely Callaway and others who were not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and give us something that worked better but looked different?”

Edison 2.0 3-wedge set

BETTINARDI’S NEW IRONS

By ED TRAVIS

Bettinardi Golf has a great reputation for their premium milled putters and for 2024 they have announced the entry into the business of making irons with the introduction of two new models, the MB24 and CB24.

“Since I founded the company, the focus has been on crafting the finest equipment in the golf industry for professionals and amateurs alike, and our putters have embodied that belief for 25 years,” said Bob Bettinardi, founder and CEO of Bettinardi Golf. “I’ve always dreamed of expanding beyond the short game, and now that dream has become a reality. You can feel the decades of expertise and the years of research that went into each head, and we can’t wait to finally bring them to market.”

The two classic-looking models are distinctly different but share the company’s co-forging process of the heads and their unique Honeycomb milling to produce precise performance plus the control and forgiveness players want.

The sophisticated co-forging of the 1025 carbon steel one-piece heads includes an interior tungsten-ceramic matrix composite weight whose size and position are differ-

President of Bettinardi Golf Sam Bettinardi with CEO/Founder Bob Bettinardi

ent as the loft changes. This means the center of gravity in the long irons is lower and helps a higher ball launch plus the higher location in the short irons aids in producing more spin for more control.

The muscleback MB24s are designed with a thin topline and for each loft the muscleback configuration subtilty adjusts as the lofts change to give the most control of ball launch, trajectory, and spin. Bettinardi pointed out the CB24s use a classic cavity back construction to give playability from an iron with weight towards the perimeter for high MOI and forgiveness coupled with higher launch trajectory.

Stock shafts for both iron models include the KBS Tour and True Temper Dynamic Gold with seven others available as options. Also several different Golf Pride or Lamkin grips may be specified at the time of ordering.

Pricing for both models is the same at $1,600 for a set of seven clubs or $229 for individual irons. The CB24s are also sold in left hand. Stock shaft lengths and lofts are identical which give the additional option of specifying a mixed set such as CB24 long irons and MB24 short irons.

A Genuine Passion for the Game...

…AND CELEBRATING OUR HISTORY AS WE CONTINUE TO REVITALIZE ONE OF GOLF’S GREATEST COURSES. AT THE SATICOY CLUB, WE PREFER TO EXPERIENCE LIFE ON THE FAIRWAY, WHERE EVERY PART OF YOUR STORY IS SYMBOLIZED ON THE COURSE IN THE CONVERSATIONS YOU CONTINUE, THE IMPROVEMENTS YOU GAIN AND THE CONNECTIONS YOU STRENGTHEN.

THE SATICOY CLUB IS A PLACE FOR THOSE WHO SEEK TO FIND BALANCE IN THEIR TRANSITION FROM “LET’S GO!” TO FULLY LETTING GO. THE CLUB EMBODIES THE LITERAL TRANSLATION OF THE WORD “SATICOY” AND PROVIDES ITS MEMBERS A SHELTER FROM THE HECTIC EVERYDAY LIFE.

2024 IRONS TO HELP YOUR GAME

By ED TRAVIS

The days of clubmakers making just one or maybe two iron models are long gone. Virtually every manufacturer recognizes that players of different skill levels need irons to fit their needs of controlling distance, reducing side to side curvature, generation of the appropriate spin and yes for some, added yardage.

Most of us should be playing with game-improvement category clubs. Generally, they have lots of weight towards the perimeter of the head making them more “golfer friendly” plus being more forgiving when contact isn’t exactly in the center of the face. Soles tend to be wide to reduce amount of digging at impact and they usually have offset shafts to aid in keeping hands ahead of the ball.

To give you a frame of reference, average male golfers score in the upper-80s with a 14 handicap and roughly 70% have a 10 handicap and higher. Correspondingly women golfers average handicap is 28 and 80% are 20 and higher.

Game-improvement irons are targeted to the mid and upper range of handicaps which are the large majority of recreational golfers. Here is information about irons we like in this category and as always determination of your proper specifications by a professional fitter is not an added expense but insurance your new clubs will perform the way you expect.

Cleveland ZipCore XL Irons

The ZipCore XLs feature Cleveland’s Main Frame face with AI-designed milled cavities, grooves and channels for maximum rebound. Weighting is placed low in the cavity back head to provide forgiveness and high MOI. The ZipCore feature is in the scoring iron lofts of 8-iron through sand wedge and consists of replacing steel with a light dampening material which improves the center of gravity location in the head. 7-club set $1,000 graphite shafts, $900 steel shafts

Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Irons

The three new Paradym Ai Smoke models use an Ai Smart Face derived from extensive use of recreational player swing data in combination with artificial intelligence programming. In addition to the regular Ai Smoke model for those with mid to higher swing speeds wanting a hollow cavity back iron there are the Ai Smoke MAX HL high launch and the Ai Smoke MAX Fast built with lighter weight components. 7-club set $999.99 steel shafts, $1099.99 graphite shafts

Cobra Darkspeed

Cobra used AI software to design the Darkspeed’s thinner and larger L-shaped cup face resulting in improved ball speed from the variable thickness configuration. Cobra says up to 25% more face flection at impact means substantially better ball speeds and more distance. The hollow cavity back head is filled with foam microspheres and uses an internal PWR-BRIDGE weight. The ONE Length option is also available. 7-club set steel shafts $999, graphite shafts $1,099

TaylorMade Qi Irons

The Qi irons by TaylorMade are a hollow head design with stress on hitting the ball straighter by controlling the flex of the face at impact and doing away with the cut shot, a persistent problem for recreational players. The heads are built targeting forgiveness and distance with the proper launch and spin for that loft. The sister model Qi HL is for slower swing speeds and is lighter with stronger lofts. 7-club set graphite shafts $1100

added flex at impact. Optional Power Spec and Retro Spec lofts are available. $185 per club steel shafts or $200 per club graphite shafts

Tour Edge Golf Hot Launch C524 Irons

Tour Edge has updated their Hot Launch C and E (super game-improvement) irons, and we like the C524, a classic cavity back construction made of soft alloy stainless steel with a thermoplastic urethane filling the cavity back. The toe has extra weighting to give more stability on impact and to help ball speed when impact is off-center. Players will also like the C524s have slightly stronger lofts for more distance. $80 per club steel or graphite shafts

Looking GOOD on the COURSE

By ED TRAVIS

Spring is when we think about playing golf. The weather is better, our friends are calling, and courses are ready for us. It’s also the time to relook at our wardrobe to see if changes, not to say improvements are needed.

As we do every year the staff of California Golf + Travel investigates the latest fashion looks, styles, colors and fabrics and passes what we like on to our readers.

Melin Coronado Links Hydro Hat

The front says, “Back of the Cup,” a great idea to take to the course and besides being good looking this golf hat is practical too. Made from quality materials, it is lightweight and durable plus it is water resistant and should the need arise, it floats. Wearers will like the added sun protection of the solid rear panels, the gel dots under the visor to enhance grip and the hidden inside pocket. White/ green accents $69

Duca Del Cosma Belladonna Ladies Golf Shoe

Comfortable and fashion forward are good descriptions of this distinctive spikeless golf shoe for women. The upper is made from the best premium quality Italian Nappa leather and the lining is a soft microfiber material with a special last. The strap is rugged for all day wear and the Airplay 4 outsole has square 5mm nubs providing 400 traction points giving a sure grip on any terrain. Choice of white or navy $199.

Fore All Women’s Erin Dress

Fore All’s Erin Dress in their new Indigo FA print is all about easy-wearing and fashion whether at home, partying or playing a round of golf. The unique full-length zipper adjusts to the look wanted and the side pockets are handy for tees and things. The mini mock neck complements the pleated waist, and the poly/Lycra blend fabric is a four-way stretch with 50+ UV protection. Three additional colors. $129.99

Olukai Wai’alae Slip-On Golf Shoe

If you are thinking of palm trees, your favorite beach and golf the Wai’lae Slip-On is the perfect shoe solution. Water and stain resistant the responsive midsole is golf-specific and matched with the Drop-in Heel this all-day comfort shoe goes from home to the course to dinner. On the course you will appreciate the spikeless sole of Wet Grip rubber has cleats that grip walking and swinging. $120 per pair

G/Fore Waffle Stitch Merino Wool Hooded Sweater

Now days everyone is wearing hoodies, they look good and are practical in lots of different weather. G/Fore has crafted this one in from merino wool with 1% polyester using a waffle stitch offering features you need such as moisture wicking and odor inhibition. It is comfortable to wear and breathable for performance all the round. Three colors: Light Heather Grey, Twilight and Rhubarb. $295

Puma Leopard Pique Polo

Puma’s jazzy leopard print for this sleeveless polo is a sure eyecatcher, fun and colorful with white mini-collar and buttons. The fabric is 70% recycled material, a blend of 95% polyester and 5% Elastane, so it is comfortable to wear all day and the four-way stretch accommodates active swinging. Moisture wicking of course. Available in White Glow/ Vine, Active Red/Puma Black, Puma Black $65

TravisMathew Dune Grass Skort

Here’s a skort active ladies will love. Made from a combination of MoveKnit fabric and Tech Woven it is soft to the touch and even has an adjustable bungee drawcord waist band with a side panel toggle to change the skort to ideal length. The skirt is 15 inches, and the shortie has a 4-inch inseam featuring a slant pocket. Select from either a White Multi pattern or a Cornflower Blue Multi. $109.95

JAKE KNAPP BETTER POSTURE, BETTER GOLF

By JOHN BURCKLE

1.

To play better golf, there’s no better place to start than at set up. Alignment, ball position and posture! Good posture leads to so many good things in a swing and there’s no better example than Jake Knapp, who recently won on the PGA Tour in his rookie season. Jake has come a long way from playing at UCLA and on mini-tours to the Canadian Tour, Korn Ferry and now the PGA Tour. Let’s take a look at how Jake’s swing has evolved.

In our first caparison, you can see a completely different posture at address. Before, Jake was more upright in his set up with less flex in his knees and his arms and hands are closer to his body. Notice his spine and back is more rounded. We can see a big difference where Jake is now. His upper body is tilted more from the hips with his knees more flexed. Notice how much farther his hands are from his body. If you compare both photos, you can see how much improvement he’s made and how his body angles are so much more defined.

PHOTO BY GORDON SEAY

2.

As we look at the second photo comparison, we can see the difference his better posture has made in his backswing. He’s no longer so upright with his left arm. His shoulders are more level and he swings his arms more around his body. His knees are more flexed and athletic. Just getting into a better posture will help you turn better and get your club on a better swing path.

Finally: as we look back at the first comparison photos, we can see thedifference in Jake’s posture and how much better every aspect of it is. That’s the difference from a very good college player (before) to a PGA Tour winner (now). Remember: the golf swing starts with a proper set up so work on improving your posture and I’ll bet you’ll see better results! 3.

JOHN BURCKLE – Director of Instruction at GolfLabAcademy.com

• 25 Years Teaching Experience

• 80 Professional Wins

• 6X Golden State Tour Order of Merit Champion

In the last comparison at impact we see the biggest difference. Before, Jake was very straight legged and his back was rounded. Now, he’s maintained his knee flex and posture. You can see how his spine is much straighter without the roundness.

PHOTO BY GORDON SEAY

ERIC WOODS – Founder

• 2 Time Canadian Tour Leading Money Winner

• South American Tour Leading Money Winner

• 35 Years Teaching Experience

GOOGLE 5-STAR RATING



“It’s an amazing environment for parties and lessons. If you want to grow your game or your business, you need to check out the Golf Lab.” – Michael “Sensational facility with a great coaching team!”– Joseph

“It was a great experience. John is extremely knowledgeable, friendly and shows you how and what will fix your game.”

– Robert

• Professional Tour Member: Asia, Australia, Canadian, South America, South Africa

JOHN BURCKLE – Director of Instruction

• 80 Professional Wins

• 25 Years Teaching Experience

REDEMPTION

By MATT PALAFERRI

How many of you have been wine tasting somewhere in California? Probably many of you. I’m in the wine country at least four or five times a year trying new things, talking with winemakers and enjoying the properties, and learning the history of many wineries.

After a day of drinking…I mean, tasting, the one thing I really don’t crave is a glass of wine. Taste buds are shot and every sip of wine tastes like a charcuterie board. The one thing , well the two things, okay, actually three things I really want is a beer, Vodka Martini or an Old Fashioned.

Over the last few years, I have really enjoyed an Old Fashioned, with a big ice cube and relaxing with my wife and friends. It’s perfect for so many reasons. It’s great with food, by itself, at a cocktail party (you look so sophisticated having a brown spirit!) or just putting your feet up enjoying a game. I’ve tried many recently, and, for the value, quality and taste you can’t beat Redemption.

Prior to Prohibition, Rye Whiskey was by far the favorite of Americans. In 1773, the Sons of Liberty dumped a bunch of that British stuff into Boston Harbor and history was changed forever. Rye Whiskey was born in the colonies. Colonists boycotted all things British, including gin, rum, tea and ale. They needed something to call their own, and poof, Rye was being made in back rooms, warehouses and anywhere the Redcoats wouldn’t find it!

Whiskey is about as American as you get and this one, distilled by Master Distiller Alan Kennedy in Lawrenceburg, Indiana and bottled in Bardstown, Kentucky hits every mark. The first sip of Redemption Rye Whiskey is smooth, complex and classic with a rye content of 95 percent, well over the 51 percent required by the category. It’s big, spicy with a scent of toasted oak and hint of mint and maple.

If you’re looking for something to try, and it’s pretty easy to find as

most bars will have at least one of the SKUs on the back shelf, give it a go, you won’t be disappointed. Then, when you wake up to go wine tasting again, have a glass of bubbly, get the cobwebs out and enjoy Redemption at the end of your day again.