THE GOLF BALL DEBATE • COLLEGE GOLF STANDINGS • WINTER TRAVEL
NOV/DEC 2019
HORSESHOE BAY RESORT: BIGGER & BETTER
JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME THE FIRST TEE TO PEBBLE BEACH
HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS
ULTIMATE GOLFER’S WISHLIST
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CALIFORNIA GOLF + TRAVEL MAGAZINE
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CONTENTS
50
8
NOV/DEC 2019
10
Publisher’s Note Winner’s of the Herbert Warren Book Award
12
California Golf Scene News and Notes From Around the State
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Men’s College Golf Preview Are California Teams in Line for a Down Year?
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Women’s College Golf Preview Stanford Leads the Nation
18
Chris Thomas A Quality Man with a Purpose in Life
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Growing the Junior Game How the SCPGA’s Anthony Leone is Making a Difference
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Why Rolling the Ball Back is a Bad Idea The Debate On Limiting Golf Ball Distance
24
Talking Tech Q&A With Mobile App Developer Eddy Lui
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Horseshoe Bay Resort A $90 Million Renovation Has Made This Resort Bigger and Better
34
The Journey of A Lifetime From The First Tee to Pebble Beach
38
Stay & Play Soboba Springs Offers Affordable Golf & Premium Conditions
40
Holiday Gift Guide Ultimate Golfer’s Wishlist
44
Building Mobility and Power A Dynamic Warm Up That Can Get You Ready to Play
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Wine With Your Steak Q&A With GM of One of the Best Local Hangouts in CDM Getaways Winter At We-Ko-Pa
40 NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2019 VOLUME 23, ISSUE 6 THE GOLF BALL DEBATE • COLLEGE GOLF STANDINGS • WINTER TRAVEL
NOV/DEC 2019
HORSESHOE BAY RESORT: BIGGER & BETTER
JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME THE FIRST TEE TO PEBBLE BEACH
HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS
ULTIMATE GOLFER’S WISHLIST
On the cover: The Waterfalls on the 14th Hole at Slick Rock Photo Credit: Horseshoe Bay Resort
Visit us online at calgolfnews.com and be sure to LIKE us at facebook.com/calgolfnews. California Golf + Travel
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
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THE HERBERT WARREN WIND BOOK AWARD
eed some holiday gift ideas for the favorite golfers in your life? Then why not turn to the Herbert Warren Wind Book award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to golf literature. Named in honor of the great American golf writer, it encourages outstanding research and writing about golf and seeks to broaden public interest in the game. Established in 1987, the award is the top literary prize awarded by the USGA. Some recent recipients of the award include: Kevin Robbins, Harvey Penick: The Life and Wisdom of the Man Who Wrote the Book on Golf, which tells the story of the late golf coach and instructor who, in 1992, with Bud Shrake, penned the classic Little Red Book: Lessons and Teachings From a Lifetime, considered by many to be the quintessential golf advice and instruction book. Kevin Cook, Tommy’s Honor. The son of a weaver and a maid, Tom Morris went from apprentice golf-ball maker to the Grand Old Man of St. Andrews, the home of golf. Along the way, he won the Open Championship four times and fathered a son, known as Young Tom, who broke all his father’s records yet died in his twenties at the height of his fame and only a few months after his wife died
in childbirth. Beyond telling a tragic story of supreme athletic accomplishment and premature death, Cook shows how golf, though quickly claimed by the aristocracy, had its roots in the working classes. James Finegan, Where Golf Is Great. Every golfer who’s worth his favorite
putter knows where golf is great: Scotland, birthplace of the game and still its most important shrine, from the splendor of St. Andrews to the regal resort at Gleneagles; and Ireland, where the links like Ballybunion and Royal County Down are of unsurpassed beauty and challenge. Whether golfers actually make the pilgrimage or arm-chair it, Where Golf Is Great is the most entertaining, informative, and exhaustive book on these epic destinations. Written by
the bard of Scottish and Irish golf, it combines the most authoritative information with beautiful prose and stunning photographs — “an unsurpassed celebration of the places where golf is, indeed, great.” John Strege, When War Played Through: Golf During the Great Depression. World War II transformed the American home front, and golf was no exception. The world-famous Masters course at Augusta National became a farm to ease food shortages. Ben Hogan and Sam Snead were drafted, and Bobby Jones enlisted. Rubber rationing forced pros and amateurs alike to play with well-worn golf balls— and created a black market for new ones. The 1942 U.S. Open was canceled, replaced by the Hale American Open — whose winner, Ben Hogan, was awarded $1,000 in war bonds — while golfers across the country raised millions of dollars for the war effort. Other recipients include James Dodson’s Ben Hogan: An American Life; Mark Frost’s The Greatest Game Ever Played; Stephen Lowe’s Sir Walter and Mr. Jones; David Owen’s The Making of the Masters; and Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s Golf’s Magnificent Challenge. Enjoy your walk, Eric Woods
CALIFORNIA GOLF + TRAVEL PUBLISHER Eric Woods EDITOR Mark Spinn ART DIRECTOR Long Tran ASSOCIATE EDITORS Mike Stubbs, Suzy Evans, Ed Travis SENIOR WRITERS Randy Youngman, Jim Dover, Tom LaMarre CONTRIBUTORS Ian Leggatt, Ed Vyeda, Leonard Finkel, Tom Stankowski, Ken Lane PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Weinstein, Tom Neas, Mark Susson, Channing Benjamin TRAVEL EDITOR Larry Feldman EQUIPMENT EDITOR Scott Kramer, Ed Travis WINE + GOLF John Finney, Matt Palaferri CONTRIBUTING INSTRUCTORS Eric Lohman, Kris Moe, Perry Parker, Ted Norby, Scott Heyn, John Ortega, John Burckle Accounting Jep Pickett
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California Golf + Travel is published by Golf Lab Media LLC 1224 Village Way, Ste. D, Santa Ana CA 92705 Phone: (714) 542-4653 website: www.CalGolfNews.com California Golf + Travel is published bimonthly and distributed to California golf courses, country clubs, practice facilities, golf retailers, hotels, and resorts Entire contents of this publication is copyrighted Golf Lab Media LLC 2015, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner in whole or in part without the written permission from the publisher. For subscriptions, go to calgolfnews.com and sign up online or send your name, address, phone number, and $20 to Golf Lab Media at the Above address. For advertising opportunities and editorial information: Please call (714) 542-4653 or email to info@calgolfnews.com
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California Golf + Travel
SEPT/OCT 2019
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IN THE NEWS
NEWS AND NOTES FROM AROUND THE GOLF SCENE IN CALIFORNIA By RANDY YOUNGMAN
82: Tiger Woods’ three-shot victory in the ZOZO Championship in late October, during the first official PGA Tour event held in Japan, was the 82nd of his record-breaking 23-year career as a professional. It tied the Orange County native with Sam Snead on the all-time list for most PGA Tour wins. It was Tiger’s third win in 14 starts since ending a five-year drought by winning the 2018 Tour Championship, followed by his win in the 2019 Masters. 22.8: Tiger’s career winning percentage on the PGA Tour (82 wins in 359 starts), another all-time record. Second on the list is Ben Hogan at 21.3 percent (64 wins in 300 starts). Snead is fourth at 14.0 percent (82 wins in 585 starts). 43: Age when Tiger won his 82nd Tour event. Snead was 52 when he won his 82nd. 6: Tiger’s world ranking after winning in Japan. 1,199: Tiger’s world ranking in late 2017, in the midst of his 1,876-day winless drought.
683: Number of weeks Tiger was ranked No. 1 in his career, including 281 in a row – both records. 9: Number of weeks in Tiger’s layoff before returning in Japan, after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery in August. Also the number of surgeries during his career: 4 on his back, 5 on his left knee. 25: Number of career victories by Tiger in the 25 PGA Tour events he has led by three strokes or more going into the final round, including Zozo Championship. Batting a thousand. 402: Number of players ahead of Tiger on the all-time PGA Tour wins list after he won his first title, the 1996 Las Vegas Invitational. 29: Number of players ahead of him when after he won his 20th title, the 2000 U.S. Open. 6: Number of players ahead of him after his 50th title, the 2006 Buick Open. 0: Number of players ahead of him after his 82nd title.
TOPGOLF COMING TO SOCAL? s a Topgolf franchise coming to Southern California for the first time? After several years of discussions revolving around the possibility of a Topgolf franchise moving into the Lakes at El Segundo, a 9-hole municipal course owned by the City of El Segundo, another hurdle was cleared in late October to move the project one step closer to reality. The El Segundo City Council voted, 4-1, on first reading to approve a deal to turn over the 26 ½-acre course to Topgolf, a Dallasbased golf entertainment company, and local developer CenterCal Properties. In exchange, the city would receive $1.3 in annual lease payments and a guarantee of roughly $3 mil-
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Tiger Woods
Under terms of the tentative agreement, Topgolf would sublease the property from CenterCal Properties, the primary lease holder, and Topgolf would turn the driving range into a high-tech venue with a sports-bar atmosphere featuring an electronic scoreboard and electronic targets on the course. The driving range would be expanded to a threestory, climate-controlled structure with 100-plus hitting bays, where patrons could order food and alcohol. Topgolf operates more than 60 such franchises, including the flagship location in Las Vegas. The only California location is in Roseville – in the Sacramento metropolitan area – with another franchise planned for San Jose. A second reading of ordinances related to the deal will go before El Segundo City Council in November. A referendum petition filed by a group of El Segundo residents opposed to the project is another possible legal impediment that could delay the project further. PHOTO COURTESY OF TOPGOLF
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TIGER, BY THE NUMBERS:
lion in golf course upgrades, including a new clubhouse and the addition of lights for night golf. The city also would receive at least $200,000 a year in beverage-sales revenues and 1,000 hours of law-enforcement coverage before eventually splitting security costs with developers, according to an Oct. 27 story in The Daily Breeze in Torrance.
California Golf + Travel
The Orange County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously in October to approve an agreement with Santa Ana-based Tait Development, LLC to build a public golf course and other amenities on undeveloped land that was once part of the former Coyote Canyon Landfill in Newport Coast. The site of the proposed development is 375 acres of land off Newport Coast Drive just west of the 73 Toll Road and would include a golf course, driving range and practice facilities, a boutique hotel and spa, an upscale restaurant and outdoor beer garden, as well as public walking trails. Part of the agreement calls for keeping about 123 acres of the coastal sage scrub as a natural habitat. According to the Orange County Register, the county owns the landfill site and is “granting the company, run by former Anaheim mayor Tom Tait, a 75-year lease” to design, build and operate the property “in exchange for the promise of $52 million in revenue” over the term of the lease. The Board of Supervisors authorized Tait’s company to conduct due diligence on the site and examine environmental constraints. According to the Los Angeles Times, “Tait has up to nine
years to complete feasibility studies and land-use entitlements. The company estimated it will spend $38 million on planning, design and construction.” If the course becomes a reality, it would be the first new course in Orange County since Arroyo Trabuco opened in 2004.
PGA CHAMPIONSHIP COMES TO NORCAL A year after the U.S. Open was played at Pebble Beach, another major championship will be contested in Northern California: the 102nd PGA Championship at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco, from May 14-17 in 2020. It will be the fifth PGA Championship hosted in the state of California, joining Hillcrest Country Club in Los Angeles (1929), Pebble PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SCGA
PHOTO GETTY IMAGE
NEW GOLF COURSE IN NEWPORT?
Beach Golf Links (1977) and Riviera Country Club in L.A. (1983 and 1995). It will also be the first major to be held at a TPC property and the second PGA Championship conducted at a municipal golf facility. (The first was the 1974 PGA at Tanglewood Golf Club in Clemmons, N.C.) Other big events played at Harding Park in the past included the 2005 WGC-American
“QUOTE OF THE MONTH”
From a smiling Tiger Woods, captain of the U.S. Presidents Cup team, when asked if his play in winning the ZOZO Championship had made a good impression for his chance of a captain’s pick: “I think the player definitely got the captain’s attention.” Tiger’s U.S. team will take on Ernie Els’ International team when the biennial Presidents Cup matches are contested Dec. 12-15 at Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Australia.
SEGAL, HALE WIN SCGA FOUR-BALL
Corby Segal (right) wins consecutive SCGA Four-Ball title along with teammate Tim Hogarth.
Express Championship, where Tiger Woods defeated John Daly on the second hole of a playoff, and the 2009 Presidents Cup, where Tiger made the clinching putt in a 19 ½-14 ½ U.S. romp over the International team. Harding Park will also host the Presidents Cup in 2025. To buy tickets for the 2020 PGA, go to attend.thepga.com/tickets.
It took three playoff holes, but Corby Segal and Stephen Hale teamed up to win the 2019 SCGA Four-Ball Championship on Oct. 28-29 at Friendly Hills Country Club in Whittier. Hale, a Cal Berkeley alumnus from Bakersfield, helped Segal defend his 2018 title in the event by rolling in a 7-foot birdie on the uphill, 191-yard second hole to end the playoff against Eric Lindquist of Toluca Lake and Satchell Herrmann of Los Angeles. Both teams had finished the 36-hole competition with 9-under-par totals to top the
52-team field, then matched pars on the first two extra holes. Segal, a Cal State Northridge alumnus from Santa Clarita, had won the event last year with longtime playing partner Tim Hogarth. A former PGA Tour Latinoamerica Tour player in 2014-15, Hale more than held his own in the better-ball format before coming through with the clinching shots. “The grinding out there (in the playoff) was magnificent,” said Segal, a longtime PGA Tour caddie who has had a decorated SCGA amateur career, including the 2016 SCGA Mid-Amateur title. “This is our competitive golf, and it makes it fun to grind for a little bit and get in there.” “It was fun; I’m glad we did it,” Hale said.
California Golf + Travel
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MEN’S COLLEGE GOLF PREVIEW
CALIFORNIA TEAMS IN LINE FOR A DOWN YEAR? By TOM LAMARRE
S
Sahith Theegala 14
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Eddie Lai
PHOTO: JEFF GOLDEN
tanford captured the NCAA Men’s National Championship for the ninth time in May, but a quick look at the Golfweek/Sagarin Rankings seems to indicate that this might be something of a down season for college golf in California. Seventh-ranked Pepperdine is the only school from the Golden State in the top 20, while No. 3 Eddy Lai of UCLA is the lone golfer ranked in the Top 10 of the individual rankings near the end of the Fall Season. Sahith Theegala, a Pepperdine senior from Chino Hills who is ranked 17th, claimed his third college title and the Waves took home the team championship for the second straight year in the Alister MacKenzie Invitational with six players finishing in the top 20. “We are obviously happy for Sahith getting the individual win,” Coach Michael Beard said. “He did it in style with a birdie at the last hole. It was an awesome team win. It was great to have everyone contribute, and having our highest finisher tie for 20th shows our depth.” Pepperdine finished the Fall by taking second behind 10th-ranked Duke in the Golf Club of Georgia Collegiate Invitational as No. 18 William Mouw tied for 11th, while Theegala, No. 85 Joe Highsmith, a freshman, and senior Joshua McCarthy all tied for 19th.
PHOTO COURTESY UCLA ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
WITH ONLY ONE TEAM IN THE TOP 20, PACIFIC COAST SQUADS WILL NEED TO WORK FOR NATIONAL RECOGNITION
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Lai, a UCLA junior from San Jose, claimed his first college victory in the Golf Club of Georgia Collegiate Invitational, and then helped the 25th-ranked Bruins finish third in the Cypress Point Classic by winning his singles match in a 4&2 victory over Stanford. No. 92 Bryan Wiyang Teoh is the only other Bruin ranked in the top 100. No. 28 Stanford and Coach Conrad Ray lost stalwarts Justin Suh, Isaiah Salinda and Brandon Wu from their NCAA Championship team, but the rebuilding Cardinal recorded two top-10 finishes during the Fall. Ray will rely on No. 32 David Snyder, No. 63 Ethan Ng and No. 95 Nate Menon. Among the best of the rest teams and players are 33rd ranked San Diego State and No. 45 Puwit Anupansuebsai, 34th ranked California and No. 96 Finigan Tilly, 40th ranked USC and No. 50 Lin Yuxin, and 47th ranked Long Beach State and No. 67 Hunter Epson. San Francisco is ranked 55th and has No. 31 Matthew Anderson, 65th ranked St. Mary’s has No. 44 Ethan Farnam, and 74th ranked Santa Clara’s top gun is No. 86 Matthew McCarthy. Other California teams in the top 100 are No. 69 San Jose State and No. 85 UC Davis.
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WOMEN’S COLLEGE GOLF
STANFORD LEADS THE NATION Top-ranked Cardinal lead a contingent of strong California teams By TOM LAMARRE
T
op-ranked Stanford is loaded from top-to-bottom, with three of the top four players in the nation according to the latest Golfweek/Sagarin Rankings, and its entire starting five is inside the top 50. Senior Andrea Lee, who in her first event of the Fall Season set a Cardinal record by claiming her ninth career victory in the Molly Intercollegiate in Portland, Oregon, is No. 1 in the rankings, followed by freshman Angelina Ye at No. 2, senior Albane Valenzuela at No. 4, junior Mika Liu at No. 37 and sophomore Aline Krauter at No. 48. And the Cardinal figure to be even better moving forward because Lee
Andrea Lee
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Stanford’s Womens Team and Valenzuela were off playing in Stage II of LPGA Tour Qualifying when Stanford finished second, as Ye claimed her first college title in the Stanford Intercollegiate Hosted by Condoleeza Rice. Ye finished second behind Lee while playing her first college event, the Molly Intercollegiate. “We always talk about the importance of senior leadership and we knew that was going to be a big factor,” said Stanford Coach Anne Walker, who led the Cardinal to its first NCAA title in 2015. “To watch Angelina and Aline (T-5) be this comfortable, I think Mika deserves a shoutout, too, for her 16thplace finish. To watch those three do that – I just believe in the youth of this team. I think it’s great. “Andrea and Albane … will come back and make us more complete in the spring.” Stanford can expect a challenge from third-ranked USC, which has junior Jennifer Chang at No. 3 in the rankings, senior Allisen Corpuz at No. 13, sophomore Malia Nam at No. 29, junior Alyaa Abdulghany at No. 32, senior Aiko Leong at No. 56 and junior Amelia Garvey at No. 100. Coach Justin Silverstein’s Trojans
California Golf + Travel
Jennifer Chang finished second in the Windy City Intercollegiate, in which Chang and Corpuz tied for third, and USC also tied for third in the Stanford Intercollegiate, with Corpuz finishing fourth. Beyond Stanford and USC, teams and players to watch include 24thranked UCLA and No. 28 Emma Spitz, 46th-ranked Pepperdine and No. 47 Momika Kobori, 47th-ranked San Diego State and No. 38 Sara Kjeuker, 49th-ranked San Jose State and No. 14 Natasha Andrea Oon, and 64th-ranked Sacramento State and Nishitha Madan. Other California teams in the top 100 of the rankings include No. 68 UC Davis, No. 75 San Francisco, No. 76 California and No. 85 Fresno State.
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SEPT/OCT 2019
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IN REMEMBERANCE
CHRIS THOMAS’ CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE GAME LIVE ON
A
s part of the PGA of America, we deal with many aspects of the business and profession of golf at any one moment. The journey takes us far and wide, meeting and interacting with many along the way, each with their personality and responsibilities. There are those who are special, making a difference in the lives of many through a handshake, open and honest conversation, and friendship. Chris Thomas was one of those special individuals. A native of Fullerton, California, Chris served in the Marketing and Tournament Divisions of the Southern California PGA and in 2004 became the Executive Director of the Northern California PGA Section. The nature of the business is quite dynamic, handling a myriad of issues relative to business administration, education, tournaments and personal engagements of fellow professionals and industry leaders. All of this on a daily basis. Chris possessed the drive and knowledge to effect positive change in all of these areas, serving also as a Director and ultimately President of the California Alliance for Golf, as well as a member of PGA of America National Committees. The professional accomplishment he was most proud of was becoming a PGA Member, the first to do so while serving as a Section Executive Director. Chris thought through the issues and spoke with his heart and his passion, responding after others had spoken, expressing their thoughts and opinions. What is the decision in the best interest of the individual and the Association? That was the key criteria. As expressed by fellow Executive Directors: Tom Addis, PGA, Southern California Section: “Chris was certainly a leader among all of us, as an Executive Director, as a PGA Member and as a family person. He led the way with his interest, his caring of others, his friendship, his sense of humor and his drive for the PGA Member, his Section and Selena and the girls.” Wes Wailehua, Aloha PGA Section: “Chris never got to retire peacefully but he did live one of the fullest lives ever lived. As a public figure in the golf industry he really made his career behind the scenes creating opportunities at the grass roots level and preserving the legacy of the game at the highest level. His spirit of Aloha will live on in many of the programs he has touched,” The loss of Chris in October of 2017 was felt throughout the PGA of America and the industry. That smile, that handshake, that friendship will always endure. It was an honor to serve with him and our relationship will always be cherished. Len Dumas, PGA CCM Executive Director/COO Northern California PGA Section
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JUNIOR GOLF
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
SCPGA’S ANTHONY LEONE USES TGA PREMIER GOLF’S CORE TENETS TO GROW GOLF IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
O
ne of the most dynamic and impactful forces driving golf participation among kids (ages 5 to 12) nationwide is TGA Premier Golf (www.playtga.com). Founded by Los Angeles entrepreneur Joshua Jacobs in 2003, TGA is on pace to enroll its 1 millionth student (across its golf, tennis and team sports platforms) by 2020. TGA is powered by an innovative franchise model and PhD-designed curriculum that combines fun-based sports development with academics in sessions held in school gyms, fields and even cafeterias. TGA now has chapters in 77 markets across the country, with 14 of those operating in California. One of Jacobs’ most successful hires and most-accomplished junior golf leaders is current Southern California PGA Section Director of Player Development and Golf in Schools, Anthony Leone, a California native who comes from what
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he describes as “a long lineage of educators.” Leone didn’t discover golf until he was 20 but, as an avid skateboarder, he immediately gravitated to the sport’s premium on self-reliance and facing challenges head-on. “In both golf and skateboarding, it’s up to you how good you want to get, how much self-control you have and how you deal with adversity,” Leone says. “Golf has the added dimension of rules, etiquette and codes of behavior that promote values and integrity.” By the mid-2000s, Leone was an assistant professional at Pacific Palms Resort (in the L.A. suburb of City of Industry) and began to notice an amusing but persistent issue. “Almost every late evening, a group of kids would sneak on to the course to play. Sometimes we’d kick them off and sometimes we’d let them play but, over time, it became clear that Pacific Palms needed a junior program,” Leone recalls.
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So, at Pacific Palms, Leone got his first taste of working with juniors and seeing the impact the sport can have on the development on kids. In 2005, he began teaching classes for TGA Premier Golf at Pasadena-area school campuses. “The genius of the TGA model struck me immediately. By bringing the programs directly into the schools, TGA eliminates a huge barrier to entry. There’s no commute,” Leone says. “Then, with the curriculum tying in academics, like STEAM education, and practical life skills along with the golf instruction, I knew they had cracked the code to getting buy-in from both schools and parents.” Before long, Leone was TGA’s Los Angeles Chapter Director and then set his sights on owning and running two TGA Premier Golf franchises of his own in Orange County. For eight years, he developed relationships with schools and districts all over Orange County
and strengthened ties with his fellow PGA pros whom he would eventually send young customers and golf campers to as they progressed in TGA and looked for bigger challenges. “Anthony has always demonstrated an exceptional knack for owning the details of his business and an ability to manage multiple events and variables at the same time. His passion for doing whatever it takes to grow the sport has always been tremendous,” Jacobs says. In time, the Southern California PGA purchased neighboring TGA golf franchises in Orange County and their staffers came to know Leone more closely and appreciate his commitment to developing young players. In the eyes of the Section’s executive director Tom Addis, it was soon time to bring Leone’s talents in-house. Leone agreed to sell his franchises to the Southern California PGA and accepted a role as Player Development and Golf in Schools Director. Leone brings TGA’s core tenets and full station-to-station curriculum to the Section’s Golf in Schools initiative which annually reaches 1,200 students across 50 schools (usually 28 to 32
ANTHONY LEONE
schools have programs running at any given time, Leone says). He says the programs are dependent on the quality and commitment of its coaches. “The coaches are the gatekeepers, really. They create the opportunity and environment for kids to find their love of golf. So much of a kid’s future in golf depends on that coach,” Leone says. Jacobs has structured TGA to feed various Player Pathways once kids are ready to take their games to the course. That fits both the vision of the SCPGA
and area golf courses that benefit from new clientele. “Being a PGA Section and tied into TGA’s network, we definitely have pathways for kids to advance to more advanced or competitive programs. PGA Junior League and Drive, Chip & Putt and lessons with local PGA pros are the perfect way for kids to take their development to the next level in a way that’s fun, promotes camaraderie and builds a kid’s confidence,” Leone says. Seeing the kids take that next step is one of Leone’s favorite parts of his job. “I’ll see kids who were practically preschoolers when we started working with them and, now, they’re competing in Drive, Chip & Putt. To think I’ve had a tiny part in their development is amazing,” he says. Sometimes TGA alumni take their journeys full circle. “One young man who has gone through every phase of TGA classes from the time he was in second grade. He’s now a good competitive golfer and he wants to be a coach for us. He wants to pass on what he’s received from the game,” Leone says. “This model really is powerful.” Visit www.PlayTGA.com to learn more about the TGA Premier Golf chapter near you.
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INDUSTRY FEATURE
WHY ROLLING BACK THE BALL IS NOT THE ANSWER
By ED TRAVIS e need to understand one thing about all the noise over the ball going too far. It’s an opinion backed by some points that don’t hold up to scrutiny. Those wanting to restrict golf ball performance include some influential people such as USGA CEO Mike Davis plus golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and, oh yes, a guy named Tiger Woods. Waving the banner for shorter drives, Davis has said before his time in office is completed his goal is to roll back the ball. The problem is long drives are fun. Fun to watch and even more fun to hit. Why when golf is struggling to gain players would we want to throw another negative in the equation? Doesn’t make sense. Go to any PGA Tour event and listen to the “oohs” and “ahhs” when DJ unleashes one of his bombs.
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Forcing a retreat in performance to the days of rubber bands and balata kills the wow-factor – and that’s senseless. One argument is that longer distance means more land is needed. That more water and fertilizer are required to tend it, and that, ultimately, it’s making the “great old courses” obsolete. However, that is debatable. Briefly, the land use issue for new layouts is because architects are trying to build “championship courses” usually to satisfy the owner – not because it makes a bit of difference to the average weekend warrior nor because the PGA Tour is going to hold an event. The “great old course” argument ignores a simple fact that many are not big enough to hold a big event. Most simply, they don’t have room for a 50-man practice tee, parking for thousands of cars nor for the most profitable revenue stream, corporate hospitality.
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Today’s solid core-urethane cover ball simply goes higher and carries farther with the same amount of clubhead speed. But longer, lighter graphite shafts mean drivers may be swung faster and clubheads with trampoline-effect faces are multi-material marvels. Add to this the increased athleticism of the best golfers, which allows them to swing much harder and faster. One of Tiger Woods’ often overlooked contributions to the modern game is his daily regimen of building strength and increasing body speed. Others, to remain competitive, are doing the same. Carrying this exposé even further is the almost astonishing progress of course superintendents with computerized water management and the development of modern grasses requiring much lower amounts of chemicals – particularly on PGA Tour tracks
The 8.2% increase in driving distance is mirrored by a 9.0% decrease in driving accuracy and herein lies the answer to those proposing we take ball technology back to the 1990s. Make the courses more difficult not longer. Don’t take the skill and thrill of booming tee shots from those who can do it. The guys who hit the ball the farthest will still be the longest with a shorter ball. Average golfers will suffer. Put a premium on accuracy for long hitters whether it is narrower fairways, longer rough or encroaching bunkers and let ‘em swing away. Sounds too easy doesn’t it? But as far as average golfers are concerned take what by any description is a modest par 4, say 350 yards. With today’s equipment and a 200-yard drive, the second shot is perhaps a 5- or 6-iron. If the ball if fixed at 10% less that same second shot now becomes a 3-hybrid or even a fairway wood. Doesn’t make sense especially considering all the spouting being done about “growing the game” by everyone
from the USGA to industry “experts.” Should the ball be rolled back, the next really bad thing that could happen is two sets of equipment rules: One for professionals and one of the rest of us. That has lawsuit written all over it since Acushnet, makers of the Pro V1, will never stand for losing the product validation from use on the professional tours. In case you think I’ve got it wrong the USGA and R&A say they “are finalizing the Distance Insights Project Report, which has been informed by data from across the game. Reinforcing our commitment to ensure that the report is the most comprehensive review of distance to date, we are taking more time to complete our due diligence. As a result, we will release the final report by February 4, 2020.” Stay tuned. However, since the USGA’s Davis has already publicly committed to turning back the technology clock what do you think are the chances this Report will conclude ball distance is the villain?
PGA TOUR YEAR
DRIVING DISTANCE YARDS
SCORING AVERAGE
DRIVING ACCURACY
GREENS IN REGULATION
OVERALL PUTTING AVERAGE
1999 LEADER TOUR AVERAGE LOWEST/HIGHEST
305.6 271.6 252.5
68.432 71.460 74.180
81.44% 69.02% 55.45%
73.57% 64.30% 56.82%
1.469 1.585 1.716
2009 LEADER TOUR AVERAGE LOWEST/HIGHEST
312.0 287.9 259.0
68.052 71.039 73.114
74.09% 62.91% 48.02%
70.89% 64.70% 52.35%
1.368 1.547 1.683
2019 LEADER TOUR AVERAGE LOWEST/HIGHEST
317.9 293.9 271.3
69.057 71.212 73.569
75.72% 62.33% 48.47%
73.06% 66.03% 60.08%
1.514 1.631 1.861
PGA Tour statistics show though players have gained distance the greens in regulation percentage and scoring are little improved. What has suffered is the ability to hit fairways and this provides the answer to those saying the ball should be rolled back.
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ALL DATA COURTESY OF PGA TOUR
K
where fairways are dryer and firmer so tee shots roll much farther. Bryson DeChambeau, the Tour’s resident mad scientist, often uses a Stimpmeter to measure fairway speed for his calculations citing the fact fairways on the PGA Tour do add to distance. Average golfers have been all but ignored by proponents of a distance rollback forgetting no one has ever quit golf because they hit the ball too far. Average players are actually shorter in 2018 than in 2015 according to data collected by Arccos, the real-time swing app. In 2018 the average drive was 217.1 yards down from 220.6 in 2015. No wonder regular players aren’t considered part of the roll-back-the-ball argument. Putting a nail in the coffin of “roll back the ball” is data from the PGA Tour showing average driving distance in the past 20 years is up about 12 yards and scoring average is virtually identical. Greens in regulation and putting average are not too much different but look at driving accuracy.
INDUSTRY PROFILE
Q&A WITH 18BIRDIES CEO EDDY LUI T
By TONY STARKS
he 18Birdies mobile app is packed with ways for golfers to connect with the game they love, including social feeds, instructional content, stat tracking, golfer matching, tee time booking and much more. This year, the company took it one step further and began focusing on ways to help make golf a more positive experience for players at every level. We sat down with the company’s CEO to learn more. California Golf +Travel: Tell us a little about 18Birdies in general. How many users do you have and what is the app all about? Eddy Lui: We’re approaching 1.7 million users across the entire 18Birdies platform, and we started almost five years ago. From a product and engagement perspective, we’re at a bit of an inflection point. Through trial and error, as well as gathered feedback from all of our users, we’ve built an oncourse experience that’s very intuitive. If you just want to use the common features like GPS, shot tracking, tee times, social feeds and logging scores, the app is very simple and easy to use. As long as someone has some golf experience and is comfortable using a mobile device, it’s a piece of cake. This year, we introduced the “Solid Shot” function, which is part of our evolving platform and really focuses in on helping golfers have a better, more nuanced experience with the game. CG+T: Tell us more! What is Solid Shot and how did it begin: Lui: To go to a level deeper, the question is how do we deliver a game that can be experienced differently and still allow golfers to track their progress? That’s a big part of what we think about with our platform and the technologies we’re building. We want to make golf better for the people who are playing it and want to get better, and for new golfers that come into the game.
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That leads us to the next question: How do we make golf more appealing? I don’t think the answer is that complicated. You have to make it more fun for people. That’s especially true in this modern lifestyle where people have so many choices and golf’s competing for entertainment time. Here’s my belief on that as of right now: Golf is not an overly positive experience.
18Birdies CEO Eddy Lui Let me clarify that, golf inherently is an amazing thing. You’re outdoors in a beautiful setting, you’re likely with friends spending quality time and playing a game that’s an incredible craft in itself. All of that is amazing, and I love the game for those reasons. But there’s a perception of golf that makes it hard before anyone ever steps on the course. Even when I meet people who I know play golf, and I ask them if they’re a golfer they won’t tell me “yes” or “no.” Their general answer is “I’m not that good.” All of that is because we’ve been preconditioned to believe that a successful golf experience is closely related to the scorecard. So that becomes the singular measurement of your golf
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experience. The problem with that is, unless you’re a really dedicated golfer, that’s the wrong focus. The majority of golfers don’t have the time to practice and study the game in such a way that it makes sense for them to judge their experience on the scorecard. So I think we have to come up with a new way of gauging the golfer experience, one that fits the majority of the golfing population. One that focuses on capturing the positive moments. CG+T: And that’s your reason for developing “Solid Shot” we presume? Lui: With 18Birides, we do the traditional things very well, but yes, that’s what sets us apart. We put a lot of effort into offering golfers the freedom to define their success. We try to capture the positive moments. So with “Solid Shot,” it allows the user with a simple tap to record each time they hit a shot that they actually enjoyed and thought “I hit that really well.” So now you can focus on: “How many good shots did I hit today?” It diverts the golfer’s attention to the things that are more important than score, and that’s they’re personal golf experience. CG+T: What have you noticed with golfers who’re using “Solid Shot?” Lui: Fundamentally, giving people a different focus makes it much easier to enjoy the game. It creates a different mindset. When you focus on the good shots, over time you’re going to hit more and more of them. Then the score will come naturally versus chasing a number. Defining a good shot can be very subjective. This method allows the golfer to define success however they like. Does that mean clean contact, getting the ball airborne or just a shot that got you excited? This gives golfers the liberty to create their own golfing experience and still quantify it. This method can make for a more positive interaction between the game and the people who play it.
RES PECT T HE FANS RES PECT T HE PL AY ERS RES PECT T HE GAME
THE PEOPLE’S OPEN
85 YEARS JAN. 27 – FEB. 2 | 2020 TPC SCOTTSDALE
WMPHOENIXOPEN.COM
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GOLF & TRAVEL
HORSESHOE BAY RESORT:
TEXAS GOLF JUST GOT EVEN BIGGER & BETTER THE CENTRAL TEXAS RESORT GETTING RAVE REVIEWS AFTER $90 MILLION RENOVATION PROJECT 26
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By RANDY YOUNGMAN Senior writer, California Golf & Travel
A
ccording to the unofficial state motto, “Everything is bigger in Texas.” And, some believe, everything is better, too. That’s not necessarily true, of course, but exaggeration and embellishment also are bigger in “The Great State of Texas.” Texas covers an area of 262,000 square miles and is the biggest of the 48 contiguous U.S. states — only Alaska is larger geographically — and literally is getting bigger every day. It was the fastest growing state numerically from 2017 to 2018 and features
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several of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S. A lot of things are big in Texas, including Billy Bob’s in Fort Worth, the self-proclaimed “World’s Largest Honky-Tonk,” a 127,000-squarefoot bar with enough room for 6,000 patrons to guzzle beer and two-step on a given night. Texas is also home to “America’s Team,” the Dallas Cowboys, who play in the largest domed stadium in North America. Most of the nation’s biggest high school football stadiums also are in Texas. So are countless mouthwatering barbecue restaurants, some large enough to seat hundreds and some renowned for three-hour lines.
The scenic par-5 12th hole at Slick Rock bordering a water hazard with several gushing fountains. Horseshoe Bay Resort is a AAA-Four Diamond resort, located on scenic Lake LBJ about 45 miles west of Austin, that features four critically acclaimed golf courses and just completed a threeyear, $90 million renovation and construction project. The investment by ownership covered refurbishing of the guest rooms and common areas, renovation of the golf courses and facilities, as well as new dining experiences. In the past three years, all three of the Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed resort courses – Slick Rock (established in 1972), Ram Rock (1981) and Apple Rock (1985) – were upgraded in an expansive $7.5 million restoration project, with Apple Rock becoming the last to reopen in July. In October, as if on cue, Horseshoe Bay Resort was named to GOLF Magazine’s first-ever ranking of the “Top 100 Resorts in North America.” A panel of industry experts, travel writers and readers rated resorts on golf experience, accommodations, service, food and ambience. Horseshoe Bay Resort was selected in the “Family” category and received high marks as a “Buddies” destination. “We’re thrilled to be chosen for this honor by GOLF Magazine,” said Bryan Woodward, Horseshoe Bay Resort’s Managing Director. “We’ve made great investments in upgrading the resort
The Whitewater Putting Course is an 18-hole, real-grass layout that is fun for the whole family.
Perhaps the popularity of the brisket and ribs being slow-cooked on monstrous open-pit barbecues in central Texas is a contributing factor, because the Austin metropolitan area has been the fastest-growing area in the U.S. for eight consecutive years among those with at least 1 million residents, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates released in April. All of which is why it should be anything but a surprise that resort golf in the Austin area is bigger and better, too. Case in point: Horseshoe Bay Resort, a 7,000-acre property in Texas Hill Country, which is one of the largest golf resorts in the country and the only waterfront golf resort in Texas.
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GOLF & TRAVEL
The signature, par-3, island-green fourth hole at Ram Rock is equally stunning and intimidating. and the quality and variety of the golf experience. Gaining this recognition solidifies Horseshoe Bay Resort as a premier national destination for buddies’ trips, families, corporate groups and couples.” Earlier this year, Horseshoe Bay Resort also was selected as one of the “Best Golf Resorts in the Southwest” in Golf Digest’s 2019 Editors’ Choice Awards. And for the third consecutive year – and counting – it was honored as one of the “Top Resorts in Texas and the Southwest” in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. A recent four-day visit to Horseshoe Bay Resort confirmed what the accolades are all about. I got to play all three of the recently renovated resort courses, as well as the membersonly Summit Rock – a Jack Nicklaus Signature course that opened in 2012 – and left town after a media tour wanting to a play all four of them again. That is the true measuring stick of a great golf resort, in addition to plenty of holes that you remember vividly and want to play over and over again. OK, a few birdies and a near double-eagle (on Ram Rock No. 7) enhanced the enjoyability quotient for me, too. Like the universally acclaimed Bandon Dunes in Oregon, Horseshoe Bay Resort can stand on its own as a destination for golf buddies, which
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means you can book unlimited golf packages to satisfy any “golfaholics” who embrace variety and never want to stop after 18 holes. (Guilty, as charged; I played Apple Rock and Ram Rock in the same day.) But Horseshoe Bay Resort also has a lot of amenities that Bandon Dunes doesn’t offer, which can be important if you’re thinking about bringing your wife (or significant other) and your family. Horseshoe Bay Resort scores very high on the family scale, as GOLF Magazine noted. If your family members don’t play golf, they can still join you on the Whitewater Putting Course, an 18-hole, day-night Bermuda-grass course with bunkers and waterfalls along the way. It’s routed around the Whitewater 360 Sports Club, a sports bar with 16 flatscreen HD TVs, where our media group watched the Washington Nationals eliminate the Dodgers en route to the World Series title last month while devouring incomparable Texas barbecue, pulled-pork sliders, house-crafted pizzas and salted parmesan pretzel bites. (Hungry yet?) There are several other appealing dining options at Horseshoe Bay Resort, including Lantana, the Waterfront Bar & Grill and the Yacht Club, the resort’s flagship fine-dining restaurant.
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It’s Texas, so naturally the Yacht Club offers a 22-ounce “Cowboy Ribeye.” But it’s not the most popular item on the menu. Have you ever heard of chicken-fried lobster? Seriously. I was skeptical, too, until we were told that the past several chefs were ordered to keep it on their menus. And now I know why. It was the best food I consumed this year. Lightly battered, a la traditional Texas chicken-fried steak, it’s juicy and tender, with a white country gravy dipping sauce to go along with the obligatory drawn butter. (I’m starting to salivate again just typing these words.) Don’t knock it or mock it until you’ve tried it. Like the multiple dining options, the resort offers housing options besides the newly renovated 249-room hotel tower, now managed by Crescent Hotels & Resorts. There also are a total of 100 one-, two- and three-bedroom villas; one-, two- and three-bedroom condos with lakefront views; and private homes with as many as four and five bedrooms, some of which allow pets. Lake LBJ, which actually is one of the seven Highland Lakes formed by the damming of the Colorado River, is an amenity in itself. The resort concierge will help set up boating, kayaking and fishing tours on it. There’s also a marina where you can rent jet skis,
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GOLF & TRAVEL
The waterfalls on the 14th hole at Slick Rock make it one of the most-photographed holes in Texas. Waverunners and Cobalt boats to enjoy time on the water in between rounds. Water activities are especially popular during the hot summer months in Texas. Horseshoe Bay Resort also offers daily wine tours for guests to take advantage of the more than 30 wineries in Texas Hill Country that are within a short drive. Group tours by coach and private tours can be booked through the resort. And the ultimate Horseshoe Bay Resort amenity that Bandon Dunes patrons would love to have is the
Horseshoe Bay Resort and Jet Center, featuring one of the largest private airstrips in the state of Texas – naturally – as well as a terminal and luxury passenger lounge. Even better, Dornier airplanes are always at the ready for guests to book directly through the resort for easy arrival and departure. It’s a perfect option for golf groups. “We’re thrilled for our members and guests, and for our ownership who had the vision to make Horseshoe Bay Resort one of the most unforgettable golf destinations in the country,”
THE FOUR COURSES OF HORSESHOE
T
he award-winning Horseshoe Bay Resort in central Texas features a plethora of amenities, but it is the golf courses that ultimately make it a vacation destination worthy of its ever-growing list of distinctions. You must be a resort guest or a duespaying member to play at the three Robert Trent Jones Sr. courses—Slick Rock, Ram Rock and Apple Rock, all three of which have been renovated over the past three years. 30
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Summit Rock, the private Jack Nicklaus Signature course, is not open to resort guests but can be added to membership packages for an additional fee. Here’s a detailed look at each course. SLICK ROCK: The first course developed at Horseshoe Bay (1972), Slick Rock was renovated in 2016, featuring the installation of 007 Bentgrass greens and new green collars, the reshaping of bunkers and an upgrade in the irrigation system. According to the course
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Woodward said. “To be on the ‘fun’ side of this $90-million resort renovation means that we’re ready for the world to see what a uniquely rewarding and complete experience can be found here. Everything golf travelers are looking for is presented here in an inimitable tropically inspired Texas Hill Country setting. There’s really nothing like it in the country.” Does Horseshoe Bay Resort have it all? Take a trip with your buddies or your family and decide for yourself. As they say in the Great State of Texas, if it’s true, it ain’t braggin’.
yardage book, “It set the standard for the future of golf in the Texas Hill Country and played an important role in reviving the Texas State Open in the 1970s.” Though water comes into play on 12 holes, it is considered the most forgiving of the resort courses and most playable for high handicappers. The signature hole is the 361-yard, par-4 14th, nicknamed the “Million Dollar Hole” because it features a 35-yard, rock-walled waterfall that makes it one of most photographed holes in Texas. PGA Tour pros such as Jason Kokrak, Wes Short. Jr., J.J. Henry and 2003 PGA Championship winner Shaun Micheel have competed in silly-season “Shootouts” at the course. continued on page 32
Friendly Hills Country Club’s 18-hole championship golf course features outstanding practice facilities, newly renovated bunkers and a Grand Terrace for an enhanced dining and event experience. FHCC maintains a robust social calendar highlighting annual wine tastings, specialty holiday events, twilight golf, and their famous 4th of July celebration. Joining this Club means access to premiere ďŹ ne dining, and prestigious sports facilities like golf, swim, and tennis. For more information, please call (562) 698-0331 or visit www.friendlyhillscc.com
Congratulations to Corby Segal and Stephen Hale for winning the 2019 SCGA Four-Ball Championship at Friendly Hills Country Club 8500 S. Villaverde Drive, Whittier, CA 90605 | (562) 698-0331 | www.friendlyhillscc.com
GOLF & TRAVEL
Ram Rock, the most challenging of the three Robert Trent Jones Sr. courses at Horseshoe Bay Resort, recently underwent renovation that will make it more playable for all skill levels.
continued from page 30 RAM ROCK: Established in 1981, Ram Rock has always been the most challenging of the three resort courses and has hosted the Texas State Open in addition to several USGA qualifying events and other high-profile tournaments. Golfweek ranked it among the “Top 15 Courses in the State.” Water comes into play on 10 holes, including the signature 191-yard, par-3 4th which features an island green. The course was renovated to improve playability and reopened in May 2018 after the enlarging, recontouring and re-grassing of the greens; the reshaping or elimination of some bunkers; and installation of an 18-hole concrete golf path. With a number of water-filled “moats” and rocky ravines to traverse, it still forces highly skilled players to plot their way around the course. Patrick Reed, the 2018 Masters champion, hit the ceremonial drive to highlight the course re-opening celebration. APPLE ROCK: After its debut in 1985, Apple Rock was named the “Best New Resort 32
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Course in America” by Golf Digest, and it unquestionably showcases some of the most scenic and breathtaking holes in Texas. Robert Trent Jones Sr. took advantage of the highest land elevations at Horseshoe Bay to design the jaw-dropping 7th and 10th holes. The 567-yard 10th is a dramatic downhill par-5, where the elevated tee box captures stunning views of the Hill Country and Lake LBJ, and you have to hit over the lake on the signature 179-yard, par-3 12th. If the nines were flopped, 10-11-12 would be the most-talked-about opening stretch in Texas. Apple Rock was the last of three resort courses to reopen, in late July, after bunkers were reshaped, tee boxes were leveled, the irrigation system was improved and stone retaining walls bordering water hazards were constructed to enhance aesthetics. “The feedback has been very positive,” said Ken Gorzycki, Horseshoe Bay’s Director of Agronomy. “We did the renovation one course at a time, and now we’re excited to
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have heat-tolerant 007 Bentgrass on all four courses.” SUMMIT ROCK: This ultra-exclusive private course designed by Nicklaus was named the “Best New Golf Course in the United States” by Golf Digest as soon as it opened in 2012, and in 2017 it was ranked No. 3 in Texas by Golfweek. It’s also entrenched on Golfweek’s list of “Top 100 Resort Courses in America.” Summit Rock is known for its scenic views and dramatic elevation changes, with 30-mile views of the Texas Hill Country on several holes. Nicklaus was so proud of the design that he said every hole is a “signature” hole. Hyperbole, yes, but it’s hard to argue with that assessment after playing it. Fun fact: During the course’s grand opening, Nicklaus, then 72, played holes 10 through 13 in birdie-birdie-par-birdie! If Summit Rock were located in Orange County, it would command initiation fees of at least $200,000. For more information on stay-and-play packages at Horseshoe Bay Resort, go to hsbresort.com/golf/golf-packages.
NEW!
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PGA TOUR
PHOTO: MICHAEL WEINSTEIN
THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME
Skylar and Shani at the 2019 Poppy Hills Pure Insurance Championship.
FROM THE FIRST TEE TO PEBBLE BEACH
S
By TONY L. STARKS kylar Graham and Shani Waite first met in kindergarten 10 years ago. The girls became fast friends, and it was the beginning of a magical journey fueled by the game of golf. That year, Skylar’s mother, Demetress, approached Soroya Waite with a flyer from The First Tee of LA and suggested that they sign up their daughters for the introductory youth golf program. Waite was hesitant. Neither she or her husband played golf, and it wasn’t her first choice of summer activities. But when she attended that first camp, and saw all the youth and coaches, who looked like her daughter, she was sold. “Looking back, we really used golf as play dates. We would get them to the golf course by promising that we’d go get pizza or frozen yogurt after
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we were done,” says Demetress. “Little did we know that it was truly the start of something special for them both.” Skylar and Shani would grow through the program together, passing the different levels of playing ability and mastering The First Tee’s Nine Core Values: • • • • •
HONESTY INTEGRITY SPORTSMANSHIP RESPECT CONFIDENCE
• RESPONSIBILITY • PERSEVERANCE • COURTESY JUDGEMENT
As they grew, so did their golf games. Skylar would work with LPGA Teaching Professional Jennifer Birmingham to continue improving, while Shani teamed with longtime First Tee of LA coach Aubrey Shaw.
PHOTO: MICHAEL WEINSTEIN
Skylar Graham Now a senior at the prestigious HarvardWestlake prep school in LA, Skylar is the captain of the girls’ golf team, an honor-roll student and carries a 6.4 handicap. Shani is a senior at Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach, where she too captains her golf team. It’s a prestigious position that was once held by Andrea Lee, the Stanford standout and No. 1 ranked women’s college player who led Mira Costa to a state title in 2015. Shani plays to scratch, has competed in numerous national events such as the Jr. PGA Championship, is an honor-roll student and is an active community contributor. While the two have not attended the same school since fifth grade, the game of golf kept them close. They’d compete in the same SCPGA Junior Tour or city amateur events on occasion. But this year, they shared their largest stage yet. The 2019 Pure Insurance Championship hosted at Pebble Beach brought together 78 First Tee participants from across the country to compete on one of golf’s most iconic stages.
Of the participants, 41 percent of the field were girls and 50 percent were minority. Shani and Skylar were part of a much smaller contingent that checked both boxes. As the only two players from The First Tee of LA, they carried the banner with pride and displayed playing ability, maturity and confidence well beyond their 16 years. Coming out of the event, here’s how they both summarized their connection to The First Tee: “Having been with The First Tee of 10 years, I’ve learned the importance of surrounding yourself with a community of people and having a team. The First Tee has not only supported me in my endeavors as a golfer, but also in school. All of the coaches and mentors that have been with me since the beginning, are still with me now. It’s been like a family. Whatever I do in life, I know that they’re still going to be there to support and encourage me in any path I choose. I can give them a call, and they’ll be there.” – Skylar Graham
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PHOTO: MICHAEL WEINSTEIN
PGA TOUR
Shani Waite
“I’ve been with (The First Tee) since I was 6-years-old. It’s really molded my life. Now that I’m older, I look at the world as an opportunity and think about how to make it mine. Having younger kids look up to me now is really inspiring, I can share with them the experiences of my life and help mentor them in achieving their goals. In the future I hope to become a psychologist, and hopefully become a pro. I’ve worked really hard at it, and I think that dream is possible.” – Shani Waite Getting into the event is highly competitive. There are playing ability requirements, academic requirements and community service criteria. Both girls resoundingly check all three boxes. “As we were applying, we didn’t really talk much about it because we didn’t want one girl to get selected and not the other,” says Soroya. “But it was such a special moment when we saw
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that they were both selected. They shared a lifechanging golf experience that they will never forget.” It’s the type of journey that few could imagine. From kindergarten friends signing up for a junior camp, to playing a nationally televised tournament at a venue that’s home to some of golf’s greatest memories. “It’s truly heartwarming to think about both Shani and Skylar playing in the Pure Insurance together,” says Demetress. “But it’s really a testament to all the hard work they’ve put in, on and off the golf course. More than great players, they’re both great young women and I’m excited to see what they do in life.” Both girls have their choice of where to attend college. And if you talk to either, they’ll tell you that golf is just the vehicle to an education. Whatever’s next, it’s certain that their friendship made in golf will keep them connected.
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COURSE REVIEW
AFFORDABLE GOLF,
PREMIUM CONDITIONS
The renovated Soboba Springs Golf Course is one of the best values in Southern California
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ucked away in the picturesque foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains, professional and amateur golfer’s alike will find an exciting golfing experience at the new Soboba Springs Golf Course in San Jacinto. As a unique feature on the grounds of Soboba Casino Resort, Soboba Springs Golf Course – which opened in 1966 – is known as Southern California’s premier public golf facility. With rates under $100, it’s also one of the region’s best values.
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Featuring redesigned holes from No. 13 through No. 16, the beautiful course combines a mixture of stunning landscapes and challenging competition. This includes a signature island green on the new par-4, 425-yard 13th hole, which creates a spectacular oasislike setting with running streams and waterfalls. The brand-new No. 15 hole measures a staggering 641 yards from the Tournament Tees, as the course plays to a par of 70. These holes were redesigned by renowned golf course architect Cary
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Bickler, who did the original redesign of Soboba Springs Golf Course in 2006 and has completed more than 100 golf course projects during his career. “The completion of every project feels rewarding, but this project was especially rewarding and exciting for me,” Bickler said. “The original golf course architect (Desmond Muirhead), had been a mentor of mine and I appreciate the value of his work. I understand what his intention was as he routed and designed this course.
“The new holes I designed fit seamlessly with the existing portion of the course. They mirror many of the elements that were preserved, and at the same time, they bring the overall golf course experience to an incomparable level.” The Soboba Springs Management team consists of Head Golf Professional Frank Luchowski, Assistant Golf Professional Bill Alter, and Superintendent Alvaro Fitzsimmons. Fitzsimmons has been the driving force behind the construction of the new holes. “The vision for this was talked about between the three of us,” Luchowski said. “We came up with this alternate golf course with help from Mr. Bickler. “ … The new course configuration will give all golfers the opportunity to
make more pars, birdies and eagles, along with a chance to make a few holes-in-one. It will be a fun and enjoyable golf course for all skill levels.” The recently-renovated golf course offers virtually perfect playing conditions seven days a week in sunny Southern California, and the spectacular 7,100-yard layout will challenge golfers of all abilities. Water comes into play on 11 of the 18 holes and if that’s not enough, 78 bunkers filled with Augusta White sand are sure to capture an errant shot or two. The parkland style course offers breathtaking views of the San Jacinto Mountain Range and meanders through a forest of Cottonwood and Palm trees. You can stay and play on the golf course and in the casino, because Soboba Springs Casino Resort offers 200 eloquently appointed rooms and suites, many of them with picturesque
views of the golf course and the San Jacinto Mountains. Soboba Casino Resort offers a first-class casino, a hotel and dining options. From the expansive property with six floors and luxury amenities, Soboba Casino Resort is not only the place for visitors to the area, but it appeals to the locals. With more than 2,000 slots and numerous table games, Soboba Casino Resort has more than 1200 Jackpot Winners each month. After a busy day exploring the San Jacinto mountains or the beautiful area around the casino, you can relax in the Cabaret Lounge with live music from local bands or try out your own musical ability on karaoke night. Sample delicious entrees at Fairway Cove or unwind with a drink special. Just one of the options for dining at Soboba Casino Resort. Plus experience fine dining at Canyons, which provides dinner on weekdays and Saturday along with an exquisite Sunday brunch.
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EQUIPMENT
GIFTS FOR GOLFERS BY ED TRAVIS Each holiday season California Golf + Travel offers readers some suggestions about a few of the golf related gifts we like and, in fact, hope to find in our stocking on the big morning. Frankly you might consider this “aid to the gifting challenged” as our wish list tips for our own families. Have fun, and we’ll let you in on something that’s not really much of a secret. Golfers are happy with most any remembrance of how special you think they are.
Cobra KING Forged TEC irons Available in both variable and ONE Length this players category iron has a hollow foam-filled construction to maximize distance and playability while the forged face wraps around the leading edge and with a larger sweet spot. Forged TEC irons have tungsten inside near the toe that helps give a high launch plus weight distribution is enhanced with a tungsten toe screw. (4-AW $1,099/steel shafts or $1,199/graphite).
PUMA Ignite NXT Golf Shoes The Ignite NXT laces connect to the midsole, surrounding the foot in comfort giving 360-degree support for “The Ultimate Ground Feel.” Puma’s Ignite Foam in the midsole means stable cushioning so the shoes fit from the first wearing. To ensure the best traction when swinging or walking the sole has more than 100 hexagon lugs while the mesh top is non-stretch and waterproof. Available in four color combinations priced at $120 each. 40
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Swing Align Give the gift of lower scores with the Swing Align training aid. It encourages a more “connected” swing from set-up through a more powerful move on the downswing. Like all the best teaching aids Swing Align is simple in conception, easy to use for players of every skill level and it builds muscle memory. Visit swingtrainer.com for their seasonal offers and instructional tips. Retail is $119.95.
PUMA Jackpot Pants The Jackpot 5 Pocket Pant is made with tech fabrics that wick moisture for dry comfort and there’s a new, lighter mesh stretch waistband with silicone gripper tape to keep shirts tucked in. Available in sizes 28-40 and variable inseam, and with a choice of nine colors it will be hard to pick just one and there are Jackpot Golf Shorts, as well. Pants are $85 per pair and shorts $70.
OluKai Nohea Moku OluKai’s Nohea Moku is the perfect slip-on and go shoe. Built for everyday wear with comfort in mind they feature OluKai’s signature Drop-In Heel so you can go from car to course without any hassle or having to worry about an extra pair of shoes. Nohea Moku soles have wet grip rubber and are non-marking, so these Hawaiian modern classics double as a great boat shoe. Uppers are a breathable quick drying mesh. They’re priced at $95.
Cobra T-Rail Irons T-RAIL (Transitional Rail), Cobra’s first all-hollow ironhybrid combo set, has a lower and deeper CG gravity compared to normal cavity-back irons. Easy to hit and get the ball airborne, they are made just for higher handicap players, ladies, seniors or juniors. There’s a Baffler Rail sole, high-strength forged face and a thin pocket from heel to toe that aids impact on off-center hits. A T-Rail 7-piece set is $899 with graphite shafts.
Linksoul Sunday Soft Carry Bag Double strap, lightweight. What more could you ask in a carry bag? Even at 2.4 lbs, the Sunday Soft Bag does it all and there are plenty of pockets including a side pocket that unzips completely for embroidering. Durable handle grip on both ends for lifting and the strap system works equally well as single or dual, and both are super comfy. Priced at $180, the Soft Bag is perfect for a quick nine after work.
Tour Edge HL4 Iron-Wood Forgiveness and ease of use in a revolutionary iron set design are the key features of Tour Edge Golf’s HL4 Iron-Wood, named the Best Value Utility Iron in MyGolfSpy’s 2019 Most Wanted. Hollow body with ultra-thin variable thickness face are matched with progressive sole widths and offset for a seamless transition between lofts. An individual HL4 Iron-Wood goes for $89.99 while a 7-piece set sells for $599.99.
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EQUIPMENT
PUMA Soundchucks This mini Bluetooth speaker weighs just 5.3 ounces and clips to bag or belt so you can have tunes from your smartphone on the course. The Soundchuck is weather resistant, and with more than six hours of battery life it recharges via a mini USB cable. The sound is unbelievable from such a small unit. And the exterior is silicone so it will withstand moderate bumps. Three color choices red, black or orange are each priced at $79.99.
SkyCaddie SX400 The latest in SkyGolf’s rangefinder line is the SkyCaddie SX400. The 4” display touch screen is daylight visible and of course there is auto course recognition, hole advancement and zoom. The Dynamic HoleVue re-orients hole based on viewing angle and the IntelliGreen feature shows the entire hole. Retail price is $299.95 includes 1-year Double Eagle Worldwide Membership. $30 in subsequent years.
Kalea The Kalea brand from TaylorMade Golf is the third generation of their lady’s model and comes as an 11-piece set from driver through putter and cart bag. To aid distance and accuracy, the set is of ultra-lightweight construction with a design to making it easier to create the proper trajectory. The shafts are soft L-flex Kalea ULTRALITE Graphite and grips are the Lamkin Sonar Lite, plus a Lamkin Deep Etched Putter grip. They’re priced at $1,299.
Soft Feel Brite from Srixon Srixon has a new two-piece construction ball in the distance ball category called the Soft Feel Brite. As the name suggests it is of similar construction to the present Soft Feel model but with the option of Brite Orange, Brite Red or Brite Green. Made specifically for golfers who want max tee ball yards it offers feel and control distance off the tee with the feel and control of a thin ionomer cover. Retails for $19.99 per dozen.
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Cleveland Launcher HB Turbo Driver The turbocharged cup face has a new variable face design for higher rebound over a larger impact area for increased ball speeds and more distance. The HiBore Crown lowers the CG to optimize launch conditions and repositioned grams saved in hosel and crown mass for significant increases to MOI, delivering more forgiveness. Launcher HB Turbo Driver is $349.99 with either standard or draw models.
Callaway Super Hybrid Players wanting their hybrids to look like mini-fairway woods will like Callaway Golf’s new Super Hybrid. Designed for distance, it has a titanium body and face with a carbon fiber crown just like the best-selling Epic line of drivers. There are internal Jailbreak rods to improve energy transfer to the face and dual tungsten weights. Choose from 17°, 20° or 23° loft and the hosel is adjustable -1° to +2° and a draw bias setting. It retails for $319.99.
Honma XP-1 Driver The new XP-1 Driver has a double sole slot and a pear-shaped head with a ribbed carbon fiber crown. The design increases flex across the entire face for more yards off the tee. This is a true game-improvement driver with draw-bias weighting and a nifty non-rotating design for loft, lie and face angle adjustments. The stock men’s shaft is the 45 ¼” Vizard 43g or 63g or stock ladies’ shaft is the 43 ¾” Vizard 39g or 43g. It retails for $599.99.
Royale Driver Majesty Golf’s Royale Driver is made with the very best of their lightweight technologies. The clubhead has a special Spiderweb face and a rigid but lightweight honeycomb design that promotes higher ball speed across the face. The ultra-lightweight shaft has two layers of carbon wrapped around the bias area to minimize the torsion and slightly lengthen it for more distance without sacrificing control. It retails for $999.99.
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INSTRUCTION
A DYNAMIC WARM UP THAT WILL TRAIN MOBILITY AND POWER By KIRAN KANWAR Ph.D
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olfers of every age and skill level are becoming more aware of fitness all the time, especially given the example set by Tour professionals. Even for the many weekend warriors who do not care to exercise, a quick on-the-range warm up before a practice session or a round of golf can help prevent injury and improve performance. Research shows that a dynamic warm up has greater benefits than a static stretch (a stretch-and-hold action). Ken Mengel, a golf-specific physical therapist and cofounder of Fore Fitness Golf Performance, says it is critical to wake up the brain-muscle connections (neuromuscular system) and to promote mobility and control through a maximal range of motion, while also preparing the body and mind for optimal performance. The following are six exercises that he recommends for just that purpose (more on the Fore Fitness Golf Performance YouTube channel and website). The total time should be no more than 10-15 minutes.
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STANDING CAT-COW STRETCH (for spinal mobility) Stand upright with the arms crossed over the chest. Tuck in the “tail� and round the low, then mid and upper back into a C-shape like an angry cat. Then press the tail out and extend (straighten) the mid and upper back, lifting the head, chest and arms upwards (elbows point towards the sky), while inhaling slowly and deeply. Keep the legs and hips stable. That is one rep. Do 10 reps, then repeat, for a total of 2 sets.
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SIDE-LUNGE-THORACIC ROTATION Stand in a very wide stance with the arms out in front of you. Lunge sideways, bending your left knee, going as low as you can. Then rotate both arms (parallel) towards your left and finally, continue to rotate your left arm until it is behind your back. The return left arm to parallel with right, and then both arms to the front of the body, while getting weight back to the center. Switch to opposite side. That is one rep. Complete 10 x 2.
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3
STEP-BACK LUNGE SHOULDER-TRUNK ROTATION (drives ground reaction control) Stand upright, with your feet slightly apart, arms stretched out in front of you. Lunge backwards (taking as big a step back as possible) with the left leg and let the left knee drop close to the ground. Then raise the right arm up to point to the sky and continue its movement by rotating the body to the right until the right arm has rotated by 180° compared to the left, which remains straight out in front. Pause then return to the starting position and switch sides. That is one rep. Complete 10 x 2.
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STANDING REVERSE HAMSTRING STRETCH (for hip mobility) Start upright with your feet shoulder width apart and arms out in front. Get into a deep squat position by pushing your butt out behind you – as if trying to sit in a chair – and push your weight towards the heels. Bring the arms towards the body until the palms touch one another and the elbows rest on the insides of the knees. Use the elbows to push the knees apart and hold for 3-5 seconds. From there, place the hands on the floor, and raise the butt by straightening the knees until the arms and body form a reverse-U shape. Hold for 3-5 seconds. Then drop the butt down into the squat position by bending at the knees, bring the hands to palms touching, and the elbows resting on the inside of the knees, then slowly stand up. That is one rep. 10 x 2.
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INSTRUCTION
5
Mini Band Side-Step Outs (drives the hips and core) This exercise requires a medium-intensity resistance band. Place the band around the ankles and start in an upright posture with the feet parallel, soft knees, upper arms by your sides and forearms out in front of you. Step sideways to your left by 6 inches. Return the foot to starting position, then step to your right. Do not let the body sway side to side. That is one rep. 10 x 2.
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RDL Scapular Fly (for balance) Stand upright with both arms out in front of you, and both hands forming fists with the thumbs on top. Raise your left leg till your knee is waist high. Then kick the left leg out behind you while bending your upper body forwards, until the left leg and upper body are as close to being horizontal as possible. By this stage the arms would be perpendicular to the body and pointing to the floor. Now stretch the arms out to your sides, thumbs pointing forwards, and pinch your shoulder blades towards one another. The arms should form a “T’ with the body. Pause, then slowly lower the arms, and then return to the high-knee, upright body position. Repeat with the same leg 10 times then switch sides. Do two such sets. Together, the above six exercises will move every joint and activate every key golf-swing muscle. You are ready for optimal performance. You can even do these exercises on a near-daily basis as a home program. Kiran Kanwar Ph.D (Kinesiology) LPGA Master Professional 30 years golf teaching background www.mgs.golf
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Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club is an incredible 240-acre golf club that is ready for you to experience. Enjoy lunch or cocktails at O’Neill’s Bar & Grill. Schedule your special event in our beautiful Trabuco Ballroom that overlooks the 18th hole.
CHRIS MILLER
26772 Avery Parkway Mission Viejo, CA 92692 | 949.305.5100 | www.arroyotrabuco.com
EXPERIENCE WORLD CLASS GOLF
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CONVENIENTLY LOCATED OFF I-10 IN PALM DESERT
75-200 CLASSIC CLUB BLVD., PALM DESERT, CA 92211
760.601.3600
www.classicclubgolf.com/book_tt
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WINE, FOOD & GOLF
A CHAT WITH DAVID GUERRERO GENERAL MANAGER, THE BUNGALOW, CORONA DEL MAR By Matt Palaferri he Bungalow, Corona Del Mar, has been a favorite hangout for locals for years. With one of the biggest martini’s in town, prime cuts of beef and a great wine list, it’s sure to make everyone in your party happy. I’ve been a patron for years and love bringing the family in for an outstanding happy hour. I recently sat down with General Manager David Guerrero to talk golf, wine and food. Matt: “I’ve enjoyed the Bungalow (not to be confused with Huntington Beach Bungalow) for many evenings and lunches…and happy pours. What do you think brings people coming back over and over?” David: “I think we are different than a lot of local restaurants. We aren’t a chain. We are family owned and the servers interact with our customers without a script which I think gives a more personal feel; and I’ll put our steaks up against anyone.” Matt: “I know you play a lot of golf. How often do you play and what’s your beverage of choice while playing? David: “I play about once a week, at one of my favorite local courses, Oak Creek in Irvine. And Grey Goose and soda is my go-to.” Matt: “What are some wines you know will move without too much effort if you put on your list? I’m not saying these would be your favorite wines for you to enjoy personally, but maybe a mixture of both.” David: “Probably some bigger names that still hold clout and have balance. Jordan and Chalk Hill chard. Mount Veeder and
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Silver Oak cab and I love Krug champagne. I recently visited the Willamette Valley for the first time and think Argyle is making some fantastic sparkling. I also enjoy a good Sancerre like Pascal Jolivet. Harlan is a wine that I’ve never tried that I’m looking forward to having hopefully in the near future.” Matt: “You have the Newport Beach Country Club up the street, any famous golfers come in to the Bungalow the week of the Hoag Classic?” (formally the Toshiba Classic) David: A few do that week yes. Fred Couples was in not too long ago, he’s probably the most famous golfer that’s been in. By the way, what are we drinking?” Matt: “A pinot noir from Westwood Estate. I think some pretty darn good juice. Great pinot’s and they make another wine called Legend that we will crack next time we have a steak. I just have one more question. Does it bother you that I play golf only once a month and you still have never beat me on the course?” David: “Yes it does. Very much so!” Next time you are in the Newport Beach/ Corona Del Mar area, drop in and visit the Bungalow. You won’t be disappointed. And if you see some dashingly handsome guy in the corner of the bar say, “Hey Matt,” I just may buy you a glass of wine. Or it could be just some other dashingly handsome guy that’s like me, but different. Until next time, drink what you love and love what you drink!
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EXPIRES DECEMBER 31, 2019
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GETAWAYS
F
WINTER AT WE-KO-PA
or golfers and anyone else looking for the perfect winter getaway, We-Ko-Pa Resort and Conference Center www.wekoparesortandconferencecenter.com in McDowell, Arizona, near Scottsdale, has everything you need. We-Ko-Pa’s Advance Booking Rate is the best deal in the Valley of the Sun, where the weather is ideal this time of year. The resort is perfect for a buddies trip, a bachelor party, or any other type of get-together, and golfers can take advantage of We-Ko-Pa’s 90-day booking window on either of its awardwinning golf courses – the Cholla and Saguaro. When Scottsdale’s population doubles during the winter months, prices also increase, but if you book early at We-Ko-Pa using the advance rate, you can knock 10% off high-season prices. Both the Cholla and Saguaro have earned top-10 accolades from LINKS, Golfweek and a number of other golf publications, and We-Ko-Pa’s advance rate is the best value in the Phoenix metro area. The Cholla Course, designed by Scott Miller and opened in 2001, when it was selected by Sports Illustrated as one of the “10 best new public courses in the world.” It plays to 7,225 yards from the back tees and a par of 72, winding through
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shady arroyos and over desert ridges amid some of the most picturesque terrain in the Sonoran Desert. The Saguaro, opened in 2006 and designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, measures 6,966 yards from the tips and plays to a par of 71. It combines distinctive desert-golf traits with timeless traditions of course design. This layout is built for walking, with greens situated nearby the next tee. It follows the natural movement of the land and offers ample driving corridors. Saguaro has held Golfweek’s No. 1 spot on their “Best Courses You Can Play” list 11 of the last 12 years and is
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ranked 44th on their 2019 “Top Resort Golf Courses” list. If booking three months in advance gives you weather anxiety, know that the Phoenix area receives less rain than almost anywhere in the United States. You can safely bet that you will be playing in warm, sunny weather, so there is no need for a raincheck You can be the hero of your group and get the best rate possible. And when the time comes to settle up, you can remind the naysayer in your foursome that you booked your round at We-Ko-Pa using the advance booking window – and that the first round is on him.
www.GolfLabAcademy.com
Designed by Teaching and Touring Professionals to make learning easier and more fun ERIC WOODS – Founder 2-Time Canadian Tour Order of Merit Champion South American Tour Order of Merit Champion Canadian Tour Low Stroke Average International Tour member: Asian, Australian, Canadian, South American, South African JOHN BURCKLE – Director of Instruction 25 years teaching experience 80 Professional Wins 6x Golden State Tour Order of Merit Champion Asian Tour member DAN KUPFER – Instructor/Club Fitter 20-years teaching experience Roger Dunn Master Club Fitter Multiple Professional Wins
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COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE | BEVERLY HILLS SOUTH OFFICE | 166 N. CANON DRIVE | BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90210 The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service,and it may include approximations. Although theinformation is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates, notemployees.
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