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The rebirth of an ICON.
Celebrating 60 years of legendary golf.
Iconic and storied landmark Omni La Costa Resort & Spa continued its multimillion-dollar transformation with the exciting debut of reimagined guestrooms, spa and golf facilities this spring. The resort 's latest enhancements – including a dramatic Gil Hanse course redesign and a Beau Welling Design practice facility – pave the way for the 2024-2026 NCAA Division I Championships. Welcome to a new era of golf.
ON THE STOICS AND RORY MCILROY’S PUTTS AT THE U.S. OPEN
EarlyGreek Stoics had an astonishingly wide range of philosophical ideas, but they’re most famous for their views on mental control. The idea is that we should only worry about things we can control. The goal: a calm, tranquil mind. We can’t control certain events, as the Stoics tell us, we can only control how we feel about them.
This idea is so simple you might dismiss it. But, for the Stoics, it was extremely important. What we feel about a situation is under our control. We don’t have to feel angry or disappointed when people hurt or betray us and we don’t have to feel disappointed when we miss an “easy” three-foot putt to maybe win the U.S. Open.
If you can achieve a calm, tranquil mind, you will exercise good judgment and increase your chances of consistently hitting solid shots. A calm, tranquil mind. That’s what we’re after!
But how, exactly, is this done? One way is to learn how to not worry about the end result of your swing. Consider Rory’s performance at the 2014 British Open. After clinching the title, he told reporters that he focused on two words—“process” and “spot.”
“With my long shots,” he said, “I just wanted to stick to my process and stick to making good decisions, making good swings. The process of making a good swing, if I had any sort of little swing thoughts, just keeping that so I wasn’t thinking about the end result.”
And the “spot” was all about putting. “I was just picking a spot on the green and trying to roll it over my spot. I wasn’t thinking about holing it. I wasn’t thinking about what it would mean or how many further clear it would get me. I just wanted to roll that ball over that spot. If that went in, great. If it didn’t, then I’d try it the next hole.”
Rory’s mental state that day represents Stoicism at its highest and
finest level of play. He didn’t worry about the end result of his putt or swing. In other words, he “learned not to care” and that’s the whole point of Stoicism, both on and off the course.
And here’s the kicker with the 2024 U.S. Open: Rory seemed to lack that calm tranquil mind on 16 and 18 that final day because “maybe” he cared too much about clinching that elusive next major title.
But here’s the thing: his putt on 18 wasn’t as easy as it seemed. Jon Rahm reportedly said an announcer severely underplayed the difficulty of that putt. “When [an announcer] said it’s a left-center putt, Rahm reportedly added, “if you hit that putt left-center and miss the hole, you’re off the green because of how much slope there is. You could see Rory aiming at least a cup left from three feet.” It was severely underplayed how difficult that putt was.
But, and to get back to the Stoics, maybe Rory would have sunk that putt if he was only thinking about “process” and “spot”—that calm, tranquil mindset that helped him win the 2014 British Open two strokes ahead of Rickie Fowler and Sergio García.
So how can this be applied to your game? Well, here’s a helpful tip from
the Stoics: the next time you feel nervous or frustrated about how you’re playing, turn those negative emotions into their opposites. Relax your muscles, feel happy and relaxed, and slow your rate of breathing. When you do this, your internal state will reflect your external state and your negative emotions will quickly dissipate. Then, when you have achieved a calm, tranquil mind, tee it high and let it fly—and sink those “easy” three foot putts!
Bottom line: by consistently practicing Stoic mental control, you will increase your chances of lowering your score and transforming how you perform on the course. Get it? Got it?
Good! And good luck!!
Enjoy your walk, Suzy Evans, J.D., Ph.D.
CALIFORNIA GOLF + TRAVEL
PUBLISHER Eric Woods
EDITOR Suzy Evans, J.D., Ph.D.
ASSISTANT EDITOR Laird Hayes
ART DIRECTOR Long Tran
ASSOCIATE EDITORS Mike Stubbs, Ed Travis
SENIOR WRITERS Randy Youngman, Tom LaMarre
CONTRIBUTORS Ian Leggatt, Ed Vyeda, Leonard Finkel, Tom Stankowski, Ken Lane
PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Weinstein, Tom Neas, Mark Susson, Channing Benjamin
TRAVEL EDITOR Suzy Evans, Daniel Woods
EQUIPMENT EDITOR Scott Kramer, Ed Travis
WINE + GOLF John Finney, Matt Palaferri
CONTRIBUTING INSTRUCTORS John Burckle, Eric Lohman, Kris Moe, Perry Parker, Scott Heyn, John Ortega
Accounting Jep Pickett
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Q&A with Todd Keefer, PGA
2023 SCPGA Golf Professional of the Year
We asked a few questions of Todd Keefer, the PGA Regional General Manager for Century Golf Partners and the recipient of the 2023 Golf Professional of the Year award from the Southern California PGA of America Section. Having served as a Past President of the SCPGA Section, Todd Keefer’s passion for golf and commitment to nurturing the next generation of Golf Professionals is evident in every aspect of his work. His leadership and dedication to the SCPGA showcase the profound impact one can have in the golf industry through service, mentorship, and a genuine love for the game.
Can you introduce yourself and your current role?
In my current role with Century Golf Partners, I support our General Managers (GMs) and Assistant General Managers (AGMs) at four of our courses: Los Posas Country Club, Wood Ranch Golf Club, Sunset Hills Country Club, and The Club at Prescott Lakes in Arizona. Additionally, I help oversee Learning and Development programs for our 60 courses nationwide, focusing on growing the next generation of leaders.
Pursue it if you truly enjoy helping others. The environment is competitive yet friendly. If you love learning, coaching, have a lot of energy, and enjoy having fun, this industry is for you. Approach each day with the intention to elevate those around you.
What is your all-time favorite golf course you have played?
That’s a tough one, but I’d say my most favorite golf experience and course is Prestwick in Scotland. The heritage, history, and special moments that have occurred there, starting with the Open Championship, are incredible. The people we were with, the caddies, the golf, the weather—all of it was special, primarily because of the people I shared it with.
What would you choose if you had to play an entire round with one club?
What does a typical day look like for you?
My day involves one-on-one meetings, golf course visits, and ensuring positive experiences for both guests and team members. This includes numerous conversations with staff, financial reviews, and compliance checks. The days are full but rewarding, seeing the impact we have on those we serve.
What are your key takeaways from your experience as a PGA member and serving the SCPGA?
Serving is both an honor and very humbling due to the immense talent, heritage, and history within our Section. It’s important to be a steward of the contributions of those before us while considering future possibilities and needs. Our Section leaders invest significant time and energy into elevating us as Golf Professionals. The relationships you build are lifelong, bonded by shared goals and experiences. Being mentored by Past Presidents and participating with Associates across the association has been an incredibly enriching experience. The pride in what our Golf Professionals do daily—showing up for their members and guests, mentoring others, and enhancing the game—is immeasurable.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a PGA of America member?
A six iron. It’s versatile enough to handle most situations on the course.
Best golf tip you have ever received?
Breathe. It’s simple but so important for maintaining focus and composure.
Dream Foursome to play with?
We’d be playing as a fivesome: my grandfather, my dad, my daughter Alex, and my son Jake. My grandfather used to tell the starter at his club that three generations of Keefers were going to the tee, and it would be the ultimate experience to have all four generations playing together.
Visit pga.org/membership to get started on the path to PGA Membership or email PGA of America career consultant, Ed Winiecki, PGA, CCM, at ewiniecki@pgahq.com for advice.
#1 Leather Headcover in Golf
9
OF THE BEST NINE HOLE GOLF COURSES IN CALIFORNIA
California has some of the best nine-hole golf courses in the world for players of all skills to enjoy. We can play a quick nine with our kids and spouse or maybe there isn’t time for 18 and we can just enjoy a good walk. Here’s a list of some of the best nine-hole courses in California, from The Links at Terranea and The Hay in Pebble Beach to Ben Brown’s Golf Course at The Ranch at Laguna Beach and the classic and historic Catalina Golf Course! Go play nine and enjoy the sunshine!
THE LINKS AT TERRANEA
Rancho Palos Verdes
The Links at Terranea is a natural and dramatic nine-hole, par-3 Southern California oceanfront golf course with stunning views of the
Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Masterfully routed and beautifully integrated with its natural surroundings, this collection of championship-caliber holes offers a unique environment for both group and individual play. Artful bunkering, unobstructed sight lines, and a wide range of classic strategic elements combine to deliver an unparalleled golf experience on the Los Angeles coast. Perhaps best of all, golfers at The Links walk and enjoy the magnificent coastal setting, just as the game was intended to be enjoyed.
CATALINA ISLAND GOLF COURSE
Avalon
Catalina Island Country Club and Golf Course is the oldest operating course west of the Mississippi and
former home of the Bobby Jones Invitational Tournament. Originally built in 1892 as a three-hole course, this scenic 2,100-yard course offers nine challenging holes, with two sets of tees for 18-hole play. The course was expanded to 9 holes in the early 1900s, and to an 18-hole tournamentlevel course in 1929. After World War I in 1945, it was brought back to its current 9-hole layout, featuring five Par 4s and four Par 3s. This long, narrow course meanders through a rustic canyon toward the ocean, offering stunning views of Avalon Bay and the iconic Catalina Island Casino. Since 1967, the Avalon Men’s Golf Club has sponsored the annual Catalina Island Junior Golf Tournament. Junior golfers who have played in the tournament include Craig Stadler, Corey Pavin, and Tiger Woods, who played there at age 4 and then again at age 14.
PETER HAY GOLF COURSE AT PEBBLE BEACH RESORT
Pebble Beach
The Hay has been a fixture at Pebble Beach since 1957, when famed Head Professional Peter Hay revolutionized the concept of a short course. Hay’s vision was to create a fun place where juniors, families, and friends, regardless of their ability, could gather around the game of golf. In 2021, Tiger Woods amplified Hay’s vision in a way few could have imagined with his brilliant redesign of the property. The result is a course overflowing with fun, including an exact replica of the famed No. 7 at Pebble Beach Golf Links, as well as holes designed to be played with any club in the bag, and an additional 20,000 square-foot putting course that sprawls 100 yards, yielding endless routings.
THE RANCH AT LAGUNA BEACH GOLF COURSE
Laguna Beach
Located at The Ranch at Laguna Beach, Ben Brown’s Golf Course offers one of the most peaceful and serene nine hole golf courses in Southern California. The course is carved into the naturally dramatic
The Links at Terranea
Catalina Island Golf Course
Peter Hay Golf Course
and lush walls of Aliso and Wood Canyons, creating a private playing experience with stunning views and elevation changes on every fairway. Speedy greens and a commitment to proper tee box and hole placement keep the game fast, fun, and inviting with a casual California vibe. An off-the-beaten-path location offers a quiet playing experience and rare chance to connect fully in nature. The Ranch also has a great restaurant and festive 19th hole outside deck and bar.
GOLDEN GATE PARK GOLF COURSE
San Francisco
Located on the western edge of Golden Gate Park, just off the Pacific Ocean in San Francisco, this historic course was constructed in 1951 to encourage golf enthusiasts in the community and help build the game. This nine-hole par 3 golf course guarantees an unforgettable experience for all. In 2023, Golden Gate Park Golf Course underwent an extensive renovation, including upgrades to the entire facility and course. With these enhancements, GGPGC is more environmentally sustainable and offers improved playability for golfers of all skill levels.
PENMAR GOLF COURSE
Venice
Just blocks from Venice Beach, this executive length course is the perfect track to hone your short game skills. With six par 4s and
three par 3s, the course will require golfers to concentrate on accurate approach shots and short game to score well. A great walking course to enjoy. Penmar was rated “Best Nine Hole Golf Course” by Los Angeles Magazine! Along with a fun golf course, The Penmar Venice restaurant has a great vibe, delicious food and hosts the Summer Sessions every Friday night with live local bands.
Monte Rio
Along the Russian River and in the heart of one of the world’s finest wine-producing regions lies the most unique golf course you will ever experience that combines the magic of the architecture of Dr. Alister MacKenzie (Augusta National, Pasatiempo, Cypress Point) set amidst towering Redwood trees. It’s like nothing you have played before,
NORTHWOOD GOLF CLUB
Golden Gate Park Golf Course
The Ranch at Laguna Beach Golf Course
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and prompted Travelin’ Joe Passov of Golf Magazine to place Northwood on his top-5 MacKenzie courses...in the world! Contoured fairways and undulating greens are its calling card as it runs adjacent to the Russian River. Built in 1928, this nine-hole
wonder predates Augusta National and was completed around the same time as Cypress Point.
OLD BROCKWAY GOLF COURSE
Kings Beach
Historic Old Brockway Golf Course, on the shores of beauti-
ful Lake Tahoe, is a family-owned and operated 9-hole golf course rated one of the best in America. Located on the corner of Highway 267 and North Lake Boulevard, Old Brockway plays to 3,400 yards of quality, serene golf with two par 5s, two par 3s and five par 4s–a total par of 36. A warm, friendly, welcoming staff, dedicated crew, and beautiful setting make Old Brockway a “Lake Tahoe Golfing Tradition” that you do not want to miss!
GLENEAGLES GOLF COURSE AT MCLAREN PARK
San Francisco
Designed by Jack Fleming, who was an early protege of Dr. Alister MacKenzie while he built Cypress Point Golf Club, this full length nine-holer has captured and broken the hearts of many a golfer for decades. Both high handicappers and scratch players alike come here to test themselves on the challenging contours that make us all equal and humbled. Established in 1962 to much pomp and circumstance, Gleneagles Colf Course continues the tradition with the renovation of all nine greens with bentgrass (2010), the same grass varietal used by The Olympic Club, TPC Harding Park and most private clubs.
Old Brockway Golf Course
Northwood Golf Club
GOLF ON THE EMERALD ISLE OF
By JO MAES, EGTMA
Ireland has more than 400 golf courses. Some of them get all the media attention and are bucket-list courses. But there are many other courses where the locals play and are becoming “must play” courses as the word gets out. I will take you on a little journey, and if you go to Ireland, make sure to play them.
We start on the most westerly point in Ireland, as far away as you can get from Dublin. This course is probably the first one you can set eyes on, weather
permitting, when heading across the Atlantic. Carne Golf Links is something special. Virtually carved out by hand from a local initiative to protect this rural community from slowly dying. It’s very remote, but it’s links golf on steroids, towering dunes, meandering fairways, carved out greens, bumps and hollows. It has it all. The fact it gets more and more recognition allows them to improve the quality of the course. If you are looking for a genuine Irish links golf experience, Carne is as good as it gets.
Along the west coast of Ireland, making our way North, we pass Enniscrone which was founded in 1918. A similar experience to Carne with the same links characteristics and surrounded by water, the course has been modified over the years by Donald Steel and is now a must play. Links golf tests you as it’s so difficult to judge distances with no real references. Ah, it’s up that bank and by the time you get where you think your ball landed, the landscape is completely different. There is an argument to get a local caddie. Consider staying at the Mount Falcon Estate with its stately manor house and great local cuisine.
Heading farther North, you’ll pass Donegal Golf Club or Murvagh as it’s known locally. Ireland’s longest links course at 7,400 yards originally designed by Eddie Hackett and surrounded by the Ocean and Donegal Bay, it has a mix of flat and undulating links holes. Paul McGinley is redesigning the course to bring it up to stand the test of modern times and it’s a tough one when the wind blows, which is most of the time.
(Left and Below) Carne Golf Links is carved out of the Atlantic Ocean’s Irish Coastal Dunes
We then head to the most Northerly golf course in Ireland at in the Ballyliffin Golf Club. At time of writing, it is hosting the R&A Amateur Championship and has already hosted an Irish Open. They are ambitious on the Inishowen Peninsula and who can blame them, next stop, the Open Championship. It was Nick Faldo himself who, in his quest to find or build the best links golf course on the planet, helicoptered into Ballyliffin and immediately offered to buy it off the members. “No can do,” they said and with currently 36 championship holes and another 9 hole Par 3 course, this is as fine a golf complex as one can find in Ireland. By the way, the first ever Dane, Jakob Scov Olesen recently won the R&A Amateur Championship on the Glashedy Links which is my personal favorite. It’s fabulous off the tee as regardless of how the wind blows, there is always a bunker waiting for you. It is an honest golf course but does test you with every shot. Every hole provides a different challenge and with superb greens, it’s always a joy to play. Don’t forget the Old and also, the Par 3 Pollan Links, take wedge and putter and make your way around the perfect little links par 3’s. You certainly deserve a pint of Guinness after that.
Once you land in Dublin and make your way west to take on the world renowned links courses, you might want a bit of a breather before the real golf work starts. Apart from the confidence wrecking links golf, Ireland offers plenty of lush green and equally as enjoyable to play, parkland courses. We all remember the 2006 Ryder Cup where Darren Clarke played a major part and that was played on the Arnold Palmer designed
North Course at the K Club. Under new management, all the facilities but, in particular, the course, has undergone some serious renovations to make it playable all year and as parkland courses go, the North Course is a magnificent one.
Continue farther west, the Farnham Estate near Cavan town offers the perfect halfway house. A Jeff Howes designed golf course laid out among the extensive grounds is a tale of two halves: the front nine explores undulating meadows and the back 9 takes you through dense woodland. The golf offering is complemented by an extensive hotel and spa built around an 18th century and historic manor house.
Ireland has a bit of everything and so many courses to choose from. Rugged links along the Wild Atlantic Way where only water separates you from the homeland and lush treelined parkland courses, many of which have superb hotel accommodations. No wonder book after book, magazine after magazine and TV show after TV show are dedicated to golf on the Emerald Isle. Make it your mission to play golf in Ireland, it will not disappoint.
High dunes frame each hole at Enniscrone Golf Club
Rory McIlroy approach on the Glashedy Course at Ballyliffin
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MONARCH BEACH GOLF LINKS
Nestled in the picturesque shadow of the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort, Monarch Beach Golf Links (MBGL) has been an iconic destination for golf enthusiasts since 1983. Renowned for its breathtaking ocean views and genuine coastal service, this Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed resort golf course continues to deliver a memorable golf experience on the Pacific Coast in Dana Point, CA. Monarch was Orange County’s first experiential daily fee golf club, and it continues to rank as one of California’s most popular and highest rated golf destinations.
Monarch Beach Golf Links stands out not only for its scenic beauty (some say you can see the ocean from all 18 holes), superb conditions, and nationally recognized service, but also for its unwavering commitment to the community. The club hosts numerous golf events throughout the year and its charitable efforts have helped raise millions for local Orange County charities. The club is especially altruistic
with its efforts to support, sponsor and host military charitable initiatives, such as the Southern California PGA of America’s PGA HOPE annual fundraiser as well as the Southern California Chapter of Folds of Honor.
PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the flagship military program of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans and Active-Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. Folds of Honor is a nonprofit organization that helps provide the families of fallen and disabled service members and first responders educational scholarships. These events are just a few of the highlights of Monarch’s dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in Southern California.
Monarch’s PGA trained and certified staff is led by Eric Lohman, PGA General Manager who just also happens to be the current President of the Southern California Section of the PGA of America. The club’s PGA
golf professionals help bring expertise, passion, and a welcoming spirit to every guest of the Golf Links.
One can join MBGL’s community through one of its various membership options, including the Links Card, WAMBR Resort Annual Membership, and the At Ease 9FORE9 Pass, each offering unique benefits tailored to different golfer’s needs.
For those looking to enhance their experience, the resort offers overnight golf packages that make for a very special visit to the FiveStar, AAA Five Diamond rated ocean view luxury hotel. Innovative offerings like GolfBoards, Waterman Forecaddies, and on course Golf Coaching add a modern twist to the traditional game, providing fun and unique ways to navigate the course. We encourage you to see how this beauty has aged after 40 years of excellence, where the view is just the beginning of Monarch Beach Golf Links unforgettable journey.
Visit monarchbeachgolf.com for more information.
GRIZZLY RANCH GOLF CLUB
GOLF DIGEST RECENTLY RANKED GRIZZLY RANCH IN THE TOP 100 COURSES IN THE US AND #9 IN CALIFORNIA
Setwithin a million acres of national and state forestland lies Grizzly Ranch, a community endowed with an expanse of natural beauty –glistening alpine lakes, wild rivers, wondrous valleys, wildlife, trails, and quaint towns. Grizzly Ranch is just one of the many marvels of the Lost Sierra, a region only an hour north of Lake Tahoe. Milder winters than most mountain towns and more pleasant summers than the central valley make Grizzly Ranch a place to enjoy year-round outdoor recreation. Located 4 miles from Portola, Calif., Grizzly Ranch is less than an hour
drive from Truckee and Reno and approximately a four hour and thirtyminute drive from the San Francisco Bay Area.
Golfers and vacationers who travel to Grizzly Ranch from Reno, Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area are greeted by mountain ranges, forests, meadows, pristine sky-lines, and the Sierra Valley, California’s largest alpine valley and headwaters of the Feather River. At Grizzly Ranch, renowned architect Bob Cupp was granted an architect’s dream, permission to route the course around more than a thousand acres. The result is a sprawling par72 layout that is immaculately conditioned, featuring five sets of tees situated on a low-density community. Generous fairways wind through a mountainous landscape that has elevation changes ranging from 4,800 to 5,400 feet.
Grizzly Ranch hosts over 175 groups annually. Our groups come from the US, especially to escape the
summer heat and humidity. We host numerous groups from Louisiana, Florida, and Texas. Group sizes of twelve or more can make tee times well in advance if you would like to plan an outing.
On-site amenities were planned and constructed with compassion for the natural landscape of the Lost Sierra while keeping the multi-generational family in mind.
Amenities include the Outpost, the community’s fitness and recreation center with a swimming pool, spa, exercise room, bocce and badminton courts and a green to just sit and relax; The Grizzly Ranch Golf Club, Golf Shop, and Lake House – a place to grab a lite bite to eat and beverages (full bar) at hole 18!
More than 5 miles of trails traverse the community for walking, running and hiking.
Additional amenities are being planned and evaluated.
Visit grizzlyranchliving.com for more information.
THE SATICOY CLUB
Many would say that The Saticoy Club is one of Southern California’s best kept golf secrets, except for the fact that its reputation is growing stronger by the season — especially since the LPGA held the Mediheal Championship there in 2022. Home to this year’s 125th Men’s and 10th Women’s SCGA Amateur Championships, and the AJGA Ping Invitational, Saticoy continues to prove that it’s not just a beautiful oasis for their members and guests, but a true testing ground for the games most elite players.
Driving by on the 101 from Los Angeles to Ventura, you’d be hard pressed to know that humble Somis, California is home to such a distinguished design. Perched above the surrounding strawberry and avocado farms is a beautiful and immaculately tended 18 holes, stretching to just under 7,100 yards from the back tees. With views of the Channel Islands in the distance and the beneficiary of a cooling Pacific breeze, the Saticoy Club well deserves its Golf Digest
#35 ranking among the state’s best courses, as well as recognition by Links Magazine as #10 in the same category.
While Saticoy is known for its meticulous conditions and challenging layout, the course lends itself to all levels of play as a true test of the game coupled with nature’s full bounty. With a playing experience that is second to none, The Saticoy Club’s goal of curating that same excellence throughout the facility reigns supreme. Unmatched service levels, world class dining with menus consisting of locally sourced ingredients, and offering amenities that welcome individuals, couples, and families
alike, are standard procedure for the Saticoy team. Their mission, however, is to exceed all expectations and provide a warm family-like environment among membership and staff.
The accolades, championships, and reputation have all been warranted, but it’s the relationships and atmosphere that mean the most to Saticoy’s team. Above all, The Saticoy Club’s relaxing, family-friendly, and accommodating vibe is what members and guests find so captivating. A membership here allows everyone an opportunity to transition from “let’s go!” to “letting go”.
Visit www.thesaticoyclub.com for more information.
Scoring Clubs for Summer Play
By ED TRAVIS
Wecan’t all putt like Scottie Scheffler nor have a wedge game like Jordan Spieth, but we can use putters and wedges suited to our skill level. Start with a visit to a PGA Professional or professional fitter to find just the proper model for your game taking into account loft (yes, there are different loft putters too), lie, weight, length and forgiveness.
Golf is a difficult game to play well and to improve scoring means using the correct equipment.
Here are several putters and wedges the California Golf staff like and should be part of your evaluation.
Bettinardi Golf BB1 Putter
The 2024 BB putter line shares many characteristics of those which preceded but with some redesigns to improve performance of the 303 stainless steel milled 352 gram heads with Perpetual Flymill face milling. The look is complimented with a Black Pearl PVD finish and the head weighting produces a one-half toe hang. $450
Ping Anser D Putter
This variation in design of the modern blade has a larger profile for those wanting a bigger head without going to a mallet but big enough to give added stability and better forgiveness. The face of the 17-4 stainless steel head has a shallow milled face for a firm feel and the surface has an antiglare blast finish. $230
TaylorMade Golf Spider Tour X Putter
Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy use the Spider Tour X which is available in several neck configurations. The wireframe chassis has thin walls which are under cut, and this moves weight from the center towards the edges plus the outer weights give very high MOI. The Tour X has a face insert of aluminum and Surlyn for better impact. $350
Titleist Scotty Cameron Phantom 5.5 Putter
Scotty Cameron division’s Phantom line includes the 5.5, a compact mallet with a solid dual-milled face in a one-piece 303 stainless steel body with an aluminum soleplate. The combination produces increased resistance to twisting for impact stability. The topline has three contrasting dots to insure proper alignment. $450
Callaway Golf Odyssey Ai-ONE Jailbird Cruiser Putter
The face of this striking looking mallet was designed using artificial intelligence. The contours of the aluminum backer to the White Hot urethane face help to produce the same ball speed no matter where on the face impact occurs. A 380 gram head and 38 inch length with 17 inch grip to be choked up makes for high stability. $350
Bettinardi HLX 5.0 Forged Wedge
Both the technology and look of this soft carbon steel wedge have been redesigned. The face milling produces controlled spin for most any greenside condition and the center of gravity is higher due to a new milling pattern on the back flange. Offered in two grinds from 48° to 60 ° loft. Chrome of graphite PVD finishes. $220
Edison 2.0 Wedges
Edison Golf designer Terry Koehler doesn’t believe in having a “stock” wedge in his inventory and custom builds each Edison wedge to the specs the purchaser wants. One of his secrets is the wedge sole and over 30 years ago he patented a high bounce leading edge with low bounce trailing edge for the versatility needed from any lie or turf condition. $200
Cleveland Golf CBX 4 ZipCore Wedge
The large cavity back of this wedge means lots of forgiveness and the ZipCore design of the hosel that replaces metal with a foam-filled hollow combine to make these wedges easy to hit without fat shots or chunks. Face grooves are tighter, sharper and deeper to mitigate moisture or grass between the face and the ball. $170
Titleist Vokey SM10 Wedge
The 10th version of Bob Vokey’s Spin Milled wedges are engineered to give a lower more aggressive ball flight with specially heat-treated grooves placed and cut to give the most spin. Six grinds with up to 14° bounce are stock and the SM10 offers three standard finishes with optional custom stamping available. $189
Summer is the Time for Outdoor Casual
By ED TRAVIS
On the course, on the beach or in the backyard casual dress is the name of the game. Colorful, stylish, functional and performance enhancing are features to look for and here are some suggestions for you.
Swing Control Black Floral Sleeveless Velocity Top
Original Penguin Novelty Games Print Polo
here’s a retro-look games print polo that will draw attention on or off the course and give a definite upgrade to anyone’s wardrobe. Made from 56% polyester, 30% recycled polyester and 14% Elastane. It is a lightweight single knit with a some stretch for comfortable wearing and for those really warm days it’s moisture wicking. Short sleeved with a polo collar, it is machine washable.
Duca Del Cosma Davanti-Light Blue
This comfortable top has an attractive slim shape and is made from fabric with all the features you want. Cap-style sleeves and V-neck collar with a curved hem enhance the look. The fabric is quick drying wash and wear, stain resistant, antistatic and moisture wicking plus it breathable and has a slight amount of stretch for easy wearing. UPF 50+ sun protection. Pair it with the matching skort. $85
Olukai Men’s Leeward Beach Sandal
This premium quality beach sandal feels like a sneaker but with the freedom of a sandal. It loves the water and dries quickly plus the sole provides traction in an unique ocean wave pattern and this sandal is lightweight for comfortable all-day wearing. The Leeward Beach Sandal comes in a choice of five colors: Red Lava, Solar Glow, Bamboo, Graphite and Navy. $100 pair
Here’s a great idea from Duca Del Cosma, lightweight men’s golf sneakers constructed with a waterproof sock. The outsoles are spikeless with three different types of nubs for control in even the wettest conditions. Quality made from the handcrafted blend of plain and tumbled Nappa leather with durable nylon. The insert sole is ARNEFLEX memory foam. Choose from three color combinations. $249
The unisex lightweight frame of flexible TR-90 material is a style you have to call timeless. The lenses are Kaenon’s high-impact resistant SR-91 and are polarized to reduce glare on the course, down the street or on the water. Wearers will appreciate features such as the recessed rubber nose pads and temple tips that are hypoallergenic plus for extra comfort hinges are spring loaded. $150
Kaenon Morro in Caramel Color with Green Lens
THE MODERN TAKE AWAY
By JOHN BURCKLE
Photos MICHAEL WEINSTEIN
Today’s PGA tour pros don’t take the club back like they used to. So many of the young tour stars start the backswing not allowing the toe of the club to rotate open as most of us were taught. The modern pro keeps the toe of the club facing the ball which to most of us would feel hooded or closed. The right arm doesn’t fold under but stays higher than the left. Notice in these pictures of today’s young stars how the club face is parallel to their spine angles on the take away. This is a modern day square position. Doing this keeps the club in front of us which is what we want. Most amateur golfers roll the toe open as the club goes back causing the club to get inside and unfortunately opening the club face which results in trying to close the club face on the down swing. If you can learn to take the club back like the modern tour pro of today your hands will feel much quieter in the swing allowing the club face to square up at impact far easier and improve your game.
BURCKLE Director of Instruction
Bryson DeChambeau
Rory McIlroy
Kevin Chappell
Francesco Molinari
•
• South American Tour Leading Money Winner
• 35 Years Teaching Experience
• Professional Tour Member: Asia, Australia, Canadian, South America, South Africa JOHN
UNDER THE RADAR — THE ONE VINTNER YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
S pecializing in single-vineyard wines sourced from the most iconic vineyard sites in Napa Valley, Boich Family Cellar’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that by combining first-growth caliber vineyards with expert winemaking, you can create truly remarkable wines. The wine portfolio focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon from four of the most proven vineyards in the valley including the prestigious Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, Vineyard Georges III, and the iconic Missouri Hopper Vineyard.
Winemaker Jeff Ames brings over 22 years of experience and a bevy of 100point perfect wines. Under his direction, Boich Family Cellar produces 2,000 cases of wine annually, 80% of which is allocated to Club Members, ensuring that their most dedicated followers have access to limited releases. While Boich wines are not widely distributed, they can be found in select high-end restaurants and golf clubs across the country.
The journey commenced with a vision to craft wines of such caliber that they would command respect on the global stage, a goal Boich has proudly achieved. Yet, their aspirations transcend the exquisite bottles they produce. In addition to sharing world class wines, Boich works diligently to bring members together to share experiences and create cherished memories.
Club member events include international travel, supercar driving experiences, and perhaps most relevant, golf experiences. As long-time vintner members at the esteemed Mayacama Golf Club in California, golf and wine have always coexisted. And through “The Club” at Boich we can curate events at some of the finest golf courses in America. If you are a wine lover, a golfer, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with both, join us. I personally look forward to greeting you and sharing the experiences that set Boich Family Cellar apart from all others.
John Boich, Founder
BOICH FAMILY CELLAR WINE HIGHLIGHT
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon | Jeb Dunnuck, 99
A big, ripe, opulent 2021, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard boasts a dense plum purple hue as well as a sensational nose of black raspberries, currants, flowery incense, sweet tobacco, and underbrush. This carries to a full-bodied, deep, incredibly layered Cabernet with velvety tannins, a great mid-palate, no hard edges, and a killer finish. Drink this singular beauty over the coming two decades.
