Chicago District Golfer - Nov. 2010 by CDGA

WINTER TRAVEL Our list of five great destinations to consider when planning your next golf getaway

NOVEMBER 2010 | $2.95

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LIVING LEGEND Errie Ball, a noteworthy figure in Chicago golf, turns 100

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Chad Johansen has a creation aimed to help your putting

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GUEST ESSAY By Cindy Cooper

Staying active A recent change in the system allows a player to keep a handicap up to date on a year-round basis

he USGA Handicap System is constantly evolving to ensure that each golf club member has a Handicap Index that is accurate and up to date. One recent change to the 20082011 USGA Handicap System enables a golf association to provide a handicap revision during an inactive season. The revision of Nov. 15, 2010, will mark the first offseason revision by the Chicago District Golf Association, and is the precursor to the adoption of a National Revision Schedule, which becomes a mandatory part of the 2012-2015 USGA Handicap System. Effective Jan. 1, 2012, each Handicap Index for all golf clubs nationwide will be revised with an effective date of the first and 15th day of each month. This requirement will apply regardless of whether an authorized golf association observes an inactive season for score posting purposes. What does this mean? Perhaps you would be interested in the background and progression of the upcoming change. Prior to 2006, a Handicap Index would not change during the inactive season. In 2006 and 2007, a few golf associations tested a procedure for having revisions scheduled during the inactive season. The test program went very well and enabled the USGA to incorporate a new clause into the 2008-2011 USGA Handicap System. This allowed golf associations that observe an inactive season to set revision dates during that inactive season; the update noted that revisions cannot be more frequent than once every two weeks. For example, on an inactive season

that extends from Nov. 1 until April 1, the CDGA has set its revision schedule to include Nov. 15, Dec. 1 and Dec. 15 as revision dates for the remainder of 2010. This may not be a matter of concern if players hang up their clubs after Labor Day and don’t play again until Memorial Day. It also would not make a difference if one plays in the Chicago area on a frosty November day. Section 5-1f of the USGA Handicap System states such scores are not acceptable for posting when made in an area operating in an inactive season. However, this will be a major improvement for those who are able to play in an area operating in an active season during this time. According to Section 6-2 of the USGA Handicap System manual, “Scores made at a golf course in an area observing an active season must be posted for handicap purposes, even if the golf club from which the player receives a Handicap Index is observing an inactive season.” So while a Chicago-area golfer would not previously have posted scores from a December vacation in Florida, that now changes and those scores would be posted and the player’s Handicap Index updated. An extreme example might be someone who ventures to Arizona for the winter. They may post more than 20 scores during the winter, yet in the past their Handicap Index would still not change until April 1. This major change for the USGA Handicap System is a result of more and more players from northern states operating in an inactive season visiting states operating in an active season. Some of these players were playing a lot of golf, but had no desire to join a new club while in

Cindy Cooper

the southern states. Although they were using the Internet to turn in their scores, their Handicap Index was not current with the most recent scores posted. If these players were playing in a tournament, they would be playing with an inaccurate Handicap Index and may have had an unfair advantage. The addition of the offseason revision eliminates this concern and ensures the Handicap Index properly reflects the player’s potential based on the most recent 20 scores. There are many reasons for this change in the revision schedule. However, the primary objective is to create a standard schedule with revisions effective on the same dates every month for everyone everywhere. This will enable clubs and players, especially those who are members of more than one association, to know when there is a potential change in a Handicap Index to be used for a competition. Many golf associations, like the CDGA, have already embraced the new revision schedule prior to its introduction in 2012. A current listing of state-by-state revision schedules and inactive seasons can be viewed on the USGA website. Cindy Cooper is Assistant Manager, Handicapping and Club Licensing, for the United States Golf Association.

Comments are solely the opinion of the author and not necessarily those of the CDGA. Letters and opinions are welcome at info@cdga.org. 4 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

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The custom-fit knee that fits to a tee. Visionaire™ Custom Knee Replacement There is a new surgical procedure that drives past traditional knee replacement methods like a 320-yard tee shot. Customized Knee Replacement, now available at Ingalls Advanced Orthopedic Institute, takes advantage of high-level computer imaging and guidance technologies to provide incredibly precise knee joint alignment. You’ll spend less time in the hospital, have far less post-operative pain, a smaller scar and greatly reduced chances of infection. The fact is, you’ll be back with a driver in hand in about half the time of traditional methods.

Dr. Mark Nikkel was the ﬁrst specialist in the Southland area to perform this amazing procedure, and he’s done it more times than any surgeon in Illinois.

“The custom ﬁt allowed me to quickly return to my game with increased conﬁdence.” – Patient J.R., Tinley Park

Dr. Nikkel has monthly FREE seminars scheduled in convenient community locations. Call 800.221.2199 for the complete schedule.

Advanced Orthopedic Institute Move Again. Live Again. Visit www.Ingalls.org or call 800.221.2199

Features 16 A WORTHWHILE EXPERIENCE By Greg Stewart During the week of the BMW Championship, a small group of tour players took time out to make it a special day for a group of Sunshine Through Golf Foundation participants.

Departments GUEST ESSAY

Cindy Cooper, USGA Handicapping Dept. . . . . . . . 4

AROUND THE CDGA Fit for Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Club Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Aces in the Crowd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

28 MERIT BADGES DESTINATION

By Tim Cronin The races for Players of the Year were close except where Dave Ryan ran away with the senior honor.

The holiday season is just around the corner. Here are a few suggestions to add to your shopping list.

Five top choices for a golf getaway: Southern California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Austin, Texas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . South Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Orleans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

46 LIVING LEGEND

CLUB CHAMPIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

44 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

By Ed Sherman The writer recalls the life and times of Errie Ball, a longtime fixture as a head professional in the Chicago area who also played in the first Masters.

48 FIRST AID

18 20 22 24 26

By Jim Owczarski Having created what he believes is a valuable teaching aid, Chad Johansenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next goal is a widespread awareness of the device.

COVER: Pelican Hill (courtesy Pelican Hill) CONTENTS (clockwise, from top): Cleatskins golf shoe covers (courtesy Cleatskins Golf); a letter from Bob Jones (courtesy Errie Ball); Play With A Pro Day (Frank Polich/CDGA).

6 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

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VO L U M E 21, N U M B E R 6

CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLF ASSOCIATION FOR E VE RYONE WHO PL AYS T HE GA M E

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Matt Baylor DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS

Andrew Louthain MANAGER OF COMMUNICATIONS

Alli Ferguson EDITOR

Rich Skyzinski

OFFICERS PRESIDENT Matthew L. Pekarek, Village Links of Glen Ellyn

VICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE James B. Madison, M.D., Illini CC

TREASURER Michael J. Grandinetti, Calumet CC

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Keith Frankland, Village Greens of Woodridge

VICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE Christine L. Stevens, Cress Creek CC

GENERAL COUNSEL Sheldon Solow, Briarwood CC

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT David Haverick, Glen Flora CC

SECRETARY Alan J. Hunken, Bob O’Link GC

EX-OFFICIO Jerry Williams, Olympia Fields CC

GOVERNORS

To contact Chicago District Golfer 630-257-2005 • info@cdga.org PUBLISHING PARTNER

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Thomas Allison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beverly CC Steven S. Birky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Danville CC William R. Buecking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . At Large C. Daniel Cochran. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Biltmore CC Frank D’Ambra, Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Biltmore CC David A. Esler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Black Sheep GC Charles E. Hodgson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Arrowhead CC Gerald R. Hodgson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pekin CC Nick Mokelke. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cog Hill G & CC Mike Nass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cantigny Golf Dennis A. Reed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pekin CC

Thomas H. Roth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inverness GC Don Schwarz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prestwick CC Lawrence W. Schweik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bartlett Hills GC Lorraine Scodro. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Midlothian CC Philip Shannabarger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Den at Fox Creek Gerald Skoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cog Hill G & CC Rebecca A. Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chalet Hills GC A. Glenn Stith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Arrowhead GC Robert J. Stracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Northmoor CC Marianne Zito. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stonebridge CC

DIRECTORS Robert E. Allgyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shoreacres Richard Andre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ridge CC Thomas R. Artz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sportsman’s CC Guy Arvia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exmoor CC Randy Becker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Winnetka CC Daniel M. Blouin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Village Greens of Woodridge Andrew Boling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chicago GC Mary Burgland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Soangetaha CC Michael Camino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Conway Farms GC Gordon L. Campbell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Lake CC Frank Charhut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wilmette GC Steven L. Cherveny . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Foxford Hills GC John A. Childers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Elgin CC Michael J. Choate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . North Shore CC Michael E. Clark, D.P.M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CC of Decatur Edward Clissold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Westmoreland CC Henry Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aldeen GC David Crockett. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . At Large Guy Crucil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Medinah CC Robert J. Cunningham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Indian Hill Club Ronald Davidson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Makray Memorial GC Anthony DeMarco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Olympia Fields CC Michael J. Dickman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calumet CC Robert Dutton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Timber Creek CC Jeffrey D. Echt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lake Shore CC Richard Estlin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terrace Hill GC William Finn, M.D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Riverside GC Michael Forde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Butler National GC Larry Fulgenzi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Old Wayne GC Mary Garrison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Winnetka GC Thomas A. Gilley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Flossmoor CC Kevin Gratkowski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lost Dunes Roger D. Greer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Skokie CC Michael Griem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exmoor CC Howard Haberkorn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Boulder Ridge CC James J. Hager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lake Barrington Shores GC Thomas J. Haggerty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Butterfield CC J. Loren Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Blackstone GC Eugene N. Halladay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hinsdale GC John L. Hammond, II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Evanston GC John Henderson, M.D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CC of Peoria Robert Hinton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Panther Creek CC Edward J. Hockfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hillcrest CC John C. Hoelscher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WeaverRidge GC Betty Kaufmann. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Knollwood Club Peter Keffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aldeen GC Karl Keller, D.D.S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kankakee Elks GC

Jack Kieckhefer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mauh-Nah-Tee-See CC William Kingore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beverly CC Gary B. Koch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . At Large Bill Koeneman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . At Large Daniel R. Krpan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Boulder Ridge CC Laurence J. LaBoda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kemper Lakes CC Josh Lesnik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Glen Club Gregory Liebovich. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Big Foot CC R. Scott Malmgren. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glen Oak CC Christopher R. McClear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . At Large Richard McCombs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oak Park CC Elston Mitchell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pontiac Elks CC David Mortell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Balmoral Woods CC Thomas E. Mott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rockford CC Edward Mulcahy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Midlothian CC Rudolph E. Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Schaumburg GC H. Steven Nichols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Champaign CC Clay Nicolsen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mistwood GC Lawrence Oakford. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Woodstock CC James J. O’Hagan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Park Ridge CC John Ozag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rolling Green CC John Paladino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Forest Hills CC Arthur W. Peters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Lake CC Roger L. Peterson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lincolnshire Fields CC Ronald Potter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .White Eagle GC D. William Robertson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PrairieView GC John Rolfe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Northmoor CC Michael Rooney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Butler National GC James F. Rudwall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ivanhoe Club Samuel M.Sallerson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bryn Mawr CC Michael J. Scheer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LaGrange CC Richard J. Skrodzki . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LaGrange CC Laura Spring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St. Charles CC Darryl Stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Red Tail Run GC C. Nelson Strom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stonewall Orchard GC Mike Sullivan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bloomington CC Nancy L. Sullivan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Westmoreland CC James Troy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crystal Tree G & CC Kenneth Urbaszewski. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deerfield GC David A. Usiak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Crestwicke CC Anthony M. Viola. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Park Ridge CC Timothy Vola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harborside International Ben Waldie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St. Charles CC David A. Walters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crystal Lake CC Joe Williamson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Briar Ridge CC James E. Winslow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inverness GC J.C. Wise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Plum Tree National GC

The listing of the CDGA professional staff is available at www.cdga.org.

NOVEMBER 2010

CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 7

Aroundthe F IT FOR G OL F

CDGA CDGA UPDAT E

N EWS AND N O T ES

CL UB COR N E R

TOUR N E Y TICK E R

F OUN D ATION F OCUS

ASK T H E D O C S

» FIT FOR GOLF Off-season training is crucial to improve in 2011 IT’S HOT. IT’S COLD. IT’S HOT. IT’S COLD.

Whether this is a familiar description of your driver the last few golf seasons or simply an accurate report of the weather this winter, one thing is for certain: Having an indoor facility to work on your swing can pay huge dividends when the 2011 season arrives. No matter what the weather outside may be, the grass is always green and the flagsticks are always in at the AthletiCo Golf Performance Center in Oak Brook. The state-of-theart golf fitness facility features five hitting bays, chipping and putting greens, a private lesson area and all the latest technology to help analyze each aspect of your game. In addition, the experienced, professional staff is able to help golfers of all ages and ability levels get prepared for the 2011 golf season. According to Golf Fitness Magazine, the offseason is the perfect time to work on strengthening and improving flexibility as they relate to the golf swing. Proper flexibility and adequate strength are two essential components of an effective golf swing. Furthermore, they directly affect the

» TOURNEY TICKER

distance and accuracy of your shot. Flexibility and strength are important for several reasons. In addition to facilitating an effective golf swing that helps to produce long and accurate drives, these two elements of a good golf swing also help to prevent many common golf injuries that result from overuse. These essential fitness components enable the golfer to maintain proper posture throughout each swing during the entire round. Ultimately, proper flexibility and adequate functional strength will improve the overall health and wellbeing of the avid golfer. The technicians at AthletiCo can help devise a fitness program to help get players through winter. And when the weather improves in the spring, you’ll be one step ahead of the game. For information on AthletiCo’s Golf Performance Center, visit athleticogolfcenter.com or call 630-572-9700. Remember to consult your physician before starting an exercise program. —Tom Asuma

» CLUB CORNER

U.S. Amateur to OFCC Work your wedges OLYMPIA FIELDS Country Club plans to celebrate its centennial in grand fashion, as the USGA announced the club as the site of the 115th U.S. Amateur Championship. The event will be conducted on both the North and South Courses Aug. 24-30, 2015. “I feel strongly about the challenges these two courses represent for the nation’s best amateurs,” Tom O’Toole, USGA Championship Chair said. This will be the USGA’s fifth visit to the south side club, following the 2003 U.S. Open Championship and next year’s U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship. The club also was host to five Western Opens and a pair of PGA Championships. “Everyone at Olympia Fields is thrilled by the club’s selection as the host site of the 2015 U.S. Amateur,” club president Jeff Goldman said. “It is a true honor to welcome the country’s oldest and most prestigious amateur championship.” The U.S. Amateur will visit the Midwest once prior to 2015, with the 2011 event conducted at Erin Hills in Erin, Wis.

8 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

is not for the faint of heart, but for those who desire perfection, it’s mandatory. It takes a unique individual to watch a shower of sparks fly from his coveted wedges. However, for those willing to take part in perhaps the most mysterious ritual of golf’s inner world, the experience and the resulting improvement in performance is beyond compare. Few amateurs understand they can have the sole of their wedges contoured and shaped to their liking, which can have a substantial impact on their wedge game performance. If a 56-degree sand wedge has 14 degrees of bounce but still digs into the ground, have the leading edge ground away or blunted. If that same sand wedge hits the ball thin when laid open, have the heel ground away until the leading edge sits low. Or a player may decide to grind the 56-degree wedge to perform like a 60-degree. The process is simple. However, it requires the proper grinding equipment, a willing and trusting customer and the

HAVING WEDGES GROUND

steady hand of a certified club builder. Every player is either a digger or a sweeper or somewhere in between as it relates to the angle of attack. Someone who plays in the hard-pan of the desert certainly will require a different setup than someone who plays in soft and soggy conditions. Each player requires sole and leading edge configurations specific to them and the conditions under which they regularly play. Many seasoned golfers have multiple wedges individually and end up with wedges that work poorly together. Others have the bounces staggered correctly, but the sole shape is not conducive to the conditions in which they regularly play. The question then becomes, why should you live with the manufacturers’ standard models instead of molding them to fit your swing and course conditions? For more information, call Club Champion at 630-654-8887 or visit online at clubchampiongolf.com.

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COLLEGE WRAP-UP

NAMES IN THE NEWS

TOURNAMENT UPDATE

PEOPLE AND PLACES

MADE IN CHICAGO

ACES IN THE CROWD

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Small makes it eight in a row at Illinois PGA

Chris Frame

Championship has been played for 88 years, and it’s been won by such historic notables as Jock Hutchison, Al and Abe Espinosa, Harry Cooper, Johnny Revolta, Jack Grout, Errie Ball and Bill Ogden. The records from their wins are sketchy, but the IPGA was still comfortable in declaring Mike Small’s win on the South Course at Olympia Fields Country Club one for the record books. In capturing the tournament for the eighth straight time and ninth time in 10 years, the head coach of the University of Illinois men’s golf team had an 11-stroke victory margin, thanks to a score of 13-under-par 200 for 54 holes. Those were both declared to be tournament records and Small’s secondTHE ILLINOIS PGA

DOMINANT IN ILLINOIS

Here’s a rundown of Mike Small’s victories in the Illinois PGA and Illinois Open:

round 63 was a best-ever on Olympia’s recently renovated South layout. It also matched the 63 Small posted in his IPGA win at Stonewall Orchard in 2007. “My play in the Tour events (this summer) was frustrating,” said Small, “but I decompressed for a couple of weeks at home and on Sunday (before the IPGA Championship) I figured something out (with my swing). I’d won this tournament a few times in a row, and I didn’t want it to end here. That wouldn’t have been very good.”

Woodstock Frame, a senior at Rutgers University, set a course record of 64 at the Rutgers University Golf Course in Piscataway, N.J. The record occurred during a team Chris Frame qualifying round on the par 71, 6,337-yard course. Frame is the only senior on the roster and is the team captain. He also is a two-time member of the Big East Conference All-Academic Team. Tanya Olson

Naperville Olson qualified for match play at the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur at Wichita (Kan.) Country Club in September. After shooting 8178—159 to tie for 46th in the stroke Tanya Olson play portion of the championship, she defeated Leigh Klasse of St. Anthony, Minn., at the 20th hole in the first round of match play. Olson was eliminated in the second round, falling to Kerry Postillion, an Illinois native who now lives in Scottsdale, Ariz., 6 and 5. Brian Atkinson

Chicago

Reid Hanley, 1945-2010

Todd Mitchell

passionate, loyal and devoted chronicler of the game. His colleagues and friends lost a terrific playing partner when Reid Hanley died on Oct. 14 after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 64. For more than 30 years, Hanley wrote about golf for the Chicago Tribune. He also was a contributor to Chicago District Golfer since 2001. Hanley covered everything from high school tournaments to countless Masters and U.S. Opens. What made him unique is that he tackled each golf assignment with the same zeal. It didn’t matter if he was covering a local club pro tournament or the final round at Augusta National. He wasn’t going to shortchange anyone. He knew winning that local tournament meant the Reid Hanley world to that club pro. Illinois PGA Executive Director Mike Miller said: “Reid was a tremendous journalist and true gentlemen who loved the game of golf. He would cover the local golf scene, including many of our Section events, with the same passion and dedication he would give to national golf coverage.” Hanley was passionate about golf in Chicago. He felt a great sense of pride when a local player made it big. He also took it personally if somebody knocked anything related to Chicago-area golf. Even as he lay critically ill, when he could hardly talk with a breathing mask over his mouth, he ripped the players who criticized Cog Hill during the recent BMW Championship. “A bunch of idiots,” he said. It was heartening to see he was feisty until the end. Hanley was a superb player himself, carrying a low single-digit handicap. He was a big guy with some of the softest hands you’ve ever seen. While Hanley was a fierce competitor, he would beat you with kindness. Said Tim Cronin of the Daily Southtown: “He’d beat you like a piñata on the course or on a story, and it was impossible to get mad at him.” Hanley just loved being out on the course with his friends. It didn’t matter to him if your handicap was 1 or 30. If you had a good time playing golf, that was good enough for him. Hanley was a true friend to golf in the Chicago area. —Ed Sherman

CHICAGO GOLF LOST A

COURTESY CHICAGO TRIBUNE

NOVEMBER 2010

Bloomington Atkinson and Mitchell had similar results at the U.S. MidAmateur Championship in Bridgehampton, N.Y., in late Brian Atkinson September. In the stroke play portion of the event to determine the 64-player match play field, both tied for 11th place after shooting 4-over-par 148; Atkinson went 77-71 and Mitchell 71-77. In the opening round of match play at Atlantic Golf Club, Mitchell beat Richie Taylor of Snellville, Ga., 5 and 4, pulling away from a 2-up lead at the turn by taking three of the first four holes on the incoming nine; Atkinson never trailed in his 1-up victory over Brian Harris of Kokomo, Ind. Both Illinois players then were eliminated in the second round. Mitchell, a Todd Mitchell two-time winner of the Illinois State Amateur Championship who also was the runner-up at the 2008 U.S. Mid-Amateur, made a bogey 6 at the first extra hole against Kevin Pomarleau of East Wenatchee, Wash. Atkinson fell to Rick Cloninger of Fort Mill, S.C., 1 down. Atkinson took a 1-up lead on four different occasions, but Cloninger squared the match at the very next hole three times, then went ahead for good with a birdie at the par-4 14th. Aces In The Crowd recognizes noteworthy accomplishments by people in the CDGA coverage area. Prospective candidates for Aces In The Crowd may be submitted via e-mail to info@cdga.org or aparker@golfweek.com.

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WWGA award to Whitworth

Johnsen honored by PGA of America ONE NORTHERN ILLINOIS golf professional was among the PGA of America’s list of 2010 national award recipients. Dennis Johnsen, the club manager at Pine Meadow Golf Club in Mundelein, was named PGA merchandiser of the year in the public facilities category. Johnsen, 57, who has been at Pine Meadow since 2004, and the other recipients will be presented with their awards in January at the 58th PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. Johnsen attended Illinois State University and graduated in 1974. He began his career at Pottawatomie Golf Course one year later as head professional. In 1980, Johnsen was named head professional at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, where he stayed 25 years, until he joined Pine Meadow.

During that period, Johnsen was a four-time recipient of the Illinois PGA merchandiser of the year award in the resort category. Also, he served from 2003-04 as Section president; was Section PGA golf professional of the year in 1999 and 2001; was the 2007 and 2009 recipient of the President’s Plaque and earned the Section 2008 PGA merchandiser of the year award for public facilities. Johnsen becomes the sixth Illinois PGA member to be named a national PGA merchandiser of the year; the most recent was Brian Morrison of Olympia Field Country Club, honored in 2009. The PGA of America annually presents merchandiser of the year awards in three categories: private, public and resort facilities. The awards have been given since 1978.

THREE DAYS after turning 71, World Golf Hall of Famer Kathy Whitworth was honored by the Women’s Western Golf Association as its 2010 Woman of Kathy Whitworth Distinction at Lake Shore Country Club in Glencoe. “I was tickled they had me come in and be a part of this,” Whitworth said. “It’s hard to put one (honor) above the other, and a lot of times it depends on the time of your life. I’ve been on the receiving end of some very nice recognitions and they’re all wonderful in their own way.” Whitworth won the Women’s Western Open in 1967, then considered an LPGA major. It was one of six majors she captured during a career in which she won 88 times. —Jim Owczarski

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Vol. 7, No. 2, November 2010

A Prince Among Pros By Jim Owczarski Prince Winbush keeps his eyes moving and head on a swivel, and just as he was about to count to three and have the golfers at the last Sunshine Through Golf Foundation camp tee off in unison on Sept. 16 at the Village Greens of Woodridge, he saw camper Greg Wilson trying to hurriedly put his ball on the tee. “Hold on!” Winbush yelled.

Winbush, the club’s assistant professional, scooted down the range and quickly bent down to tee the ball up. As he did, Wilson leaned over and gave Winbush’s cleanly shaved head a shine with his hand. Wilson laughed and Winbush chuckled through a 1-2-3 count as the eight Sunshine athletes teed off with their drivers.

Watching from the back of the range was Carl Hopphan, Foundation Prince Winbush assists Greg Wilson with a chipping exercise. operations advisor and Illinois PGA Hall of Famer.

Contents A Prince Among Pros . . . . . . P. 11 Tending the Flagstick . . . . . . P. 11 Friends of The Foundation . . P. 12 Sunshine Club . . . . . . . . . . . . P. 12 News & Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . P. 13 A Great Big Thank You . . . . . P. 14

Continued on page 13

TENDING THE FLAGSTICK appreciate their cooperation and support in making it a seamless process.” Hopphan agrees, noting the program has the backing of everyone at Village Greens.

Legendary Generosity Every Tuesday, April through September, the senior men in the Legends League meet at Village Greens of Woodridge. Popular in the Chicago area for its commitment to mixing golfers of all abilities and promoting the social aspect of the game, the league has an average of 120 players each season. League members pay a fee to fund the league’s prize purse and weekly earnings are deposited into the winners’ pro shop accounts. At the end of each season, remaining prize money is dispersed in the form of a Village Greens gift card. League treasurer, Neil O’Sullivan, suggested donating members’ residual funds to the Foundation after watching the course’s golf professionals working with the South East Association for Special Parks and Recreation (SEASPAR) athletes at the club’s Sunshine Through Golf Foundation camp. In cooperation with Carl Hopphan, Foundation operations advisor, O’Sullivan

Members of the Legends League at Village Greens of Woodridge have donated prize money to the Foundation.

presented the idea at the league’s annual banquet, where members signed a letter of intent to release their funds. Now, over sixty percent of the league donates left over prize money to the Foundation or makes a personal contribution at the end of the season. An integral part of the league’s ability to give is their relationship with Village Greens and the Woodridge Park District. O’Sullivan says it is the Park District that enables the league to donate, “They write the check at the end of the season. We

O’Sullivan is thrilled with the league’s generous giving, as the group’s contributions total more than $4,000, and the number of individuals donating their prize money grows each year. The league’s many veterans are especially grateful of the opportunity to provide fellow vets with a chance to learn the game. “People come up to me and say, ‘Let’s do this every year!’ They are proud and happy to donate,” says O’Sullivan. The program at Village Greens is a testament to the league’s generosity and ability to come together to support the less fortunate. Hopphan says, “This program doesn’t have to stop here. Other leagues can look to the Legends and follow their example.” To find out how your league can get involved with the Foundation, contact Carl Hopphan at 630-685-2301 or chopphan@cdga.org.

Sunshine Through Golf Foundation – 11855 Archer Ave. Lemont, IL 60439 – 630-257-2005 – www.sunshinethroughgolf.org

F R I E N D S O F T H E F O U N D AT I O N Inspirational Ground Midwest Golf House visitors are finding words of inspiration and support under their feet as part of the Foundation’s Commemorative Brick Program. Small 4x8 bricks, as well as larger 8x8 pavers have been put into the walkway in front of the facility in support of the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation.

Bricks and pavers share words of inspiration for Sunshine Through Golf athletes and the game of golf.

Space is limited, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to show your support for the less fortunate. Pavers carry up to six lines of 13 character text (a space is considered a character), while the smaller bricks hold three lines of text.

For more information on getting involved, including brick pricing, contact Alex Nolly at 630-685-2351 or anolly@cdga.org.

A Fortunate Partner The Sunshine Through Golf Foundation was fortunate to once again partner with Deerfield-based Fortune Brands in 2010. Fortune Brands, whose product lines include Titleist and FootJoy golf brands, provided golf balls for all Sunshine Through Golf athletes, as well as equipment for use on the Three-Hole Sunshine Course at Midwest Golf House. In addition to the equipment donations, Fortune Brands generously made a monetary contribution to the Foundation, which assisted in funding Veterans’ Golf Day and other events on the Sunshine Course. Without the continued support of partners like Fortune Brands and donors throughout the Chicago District, the Foundation would not be able to continue to provide the programs it does to more than 1,200 participants each season. For more information on Fortune Brands, please visit www.fortunebrands.com.

Helping Heroes Forty-four veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces visited the Three-Hole Sunshine Course at Midwest Golf House in September for Veterans’ Golf Day. The program—in its second year—had seven golf professionals working with the veterans to provide assistance. “This year we were able to do more with the support of Fortune Brands and the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation,” said RevelationGolf Executive Director Donna Strum. RevelationGolf, which conducts the veterans’ golf program in conjunction with local VA hospitals and the Illinois veterans’ homes, was able to accommodate nearly double the number of participants from the inaugural Veterans’ Golf Day and also hosted eight active duty military personnel. “We even had one gentleman who just returned from Iraq one week ago,” Strum added.

SUNSHINE CLUB Special recognition to the following clubs for their support of the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation. These member clubs are creating opportunities to bring joy to people with special needs through golf. Aurora Country Club Beverly Country Club Bryn Mawr Country Club Butler National Golf Club Butterfield Country Club Calumet Country Club Conway Farms Cress Creek Country Club Crystal Lake Country Club Crystal Tree Golf & Country Club Evanston Golf Club Forest Hills Country Club Geneva Golf Club Glen Flora Country Club Glen Oak Country Club Glen View Club Hillcrest Country Club Hinsdale Golf Club Inverness Golf Club Kankakee Country Club Knollwood Club LaGrange Country Club Lake Shore Country Club Medinah Country Club Midlothian Country Club Naperville Country Club North Shore Country Club Old Elm Club Olympia Fields Country Club Ouilmette Golf Club Park Ridge Country Club Ridge Country Club Ridgemoor Country Club Rockford Country Club Rolling Green Country Club Ruth Lake Country Club Skokie Country Club St. Charles Country Club Stonebridge Country Club White Eagle Golf Club Woodstock Country Club

This years’ program included a rules and etiquette seminar; a chip, pitch and putt skills challenge; as well as course-time for those with the ability to play. For more information on RevelationGolf and their veterans program, visit www.revelationgolf.org or call Donna Strum at 630-253-7703.

For more information about becoming a Sunshine Club, contact Brittany Ottolini at 630-685-2313 or bottolini@cdga.org.

News & Notes

“A Prince Among Pros” continued from page 11 “They’re the whole backbone,” he said of the many golf courses and professionals that assist the Foundation. “We can create the program. We can get the special recreation groups together. We can arrange the events. But somebody’s got to run them.” And there aren’t many that offer an experience like Winbush and Village Greens. Despite a chilled wind and an overcast sky, the campers from South East Association for Special Parks and Recreation (SEASPAR) spent nearly an hour with Winbush working on wedges, 5-irons, driving and putting before finishing the day with cake and a gift of a water bottle, tees and a sleeve of balls from the Foundation. But it wasn’t the golf that made the day special. As Winbush stood on the putting green and laughed and joked with the campers, Hopphan pointed to him and said, “Just a perfect example of what we need to make our program successful. He’s so nice to them. It’s the personality, the atmosphere that he creates.” Village Greens general manager and head PGA professional Brandon Evans agreed. Even though he has participated in Sunshine Through Golf Foundation camps since the Foundation’s inception – and has been working with golfers of differing abilities for about 13 years – Evans preferred to heap praise elsewhere when it comes to the current camps. “Prince and the rest of the staff deserve most of the credit,” Evans said. “It’s one hour of the week where we look forward to getting out there and spending time with absolutely terrific people. And they give us a fresh perspective and a boost more than we’re providing them a service sometimes. Prince is the guy out there doing the bulk of the teaching and deserves most of the credit.” When asked about what it is like learning the game with Winbush, camper and recent Special Olympics state medalist JoAnn Adamski’s eyes lit up. “Oh! Tons of fun!” she said with a smile. And the best part about Winbush? “Just him being himself and his great personality,” she said. Winbush has been working with the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation since joining Evans seven years ago at Village Greens.

2011 CDGA MEMBER DAYS In 2010, more than 550 members played in one of 10 Member Days at public and private CDGA courses. The successful program, open exclusively to CDGA members and their guests, will continue in 2011.

Winbush answers the questions of campers during a SEASPAR camp at Village Greens of Woodridge.

While the two professionals, along with the Woodridge Park District which operates the course, support the Foundation and its athletes like many of the other 81 camp locations across the state, a special bond has developed between Village Greens, Winbush and the Foundation. “They give me great ideas – how to hit the ball, how to hold the club and everything,” Adamski added. “I love it. It’s a very great place to golf.” And now, no one involved can foresee continuing on in the game without the other. “I really couldn’t,” Winbush said. “Any way that you can grow the game and help people to have fun–that’s what it’s all about. I enjoy it. They always want to try new things and it’s exciting to see them do well.” Added Evans: “Wherever I go, whatever I do, if the facility I’m at offers me the opportunity to take something like this and grow and develop a program like this camp with the assistance of people like the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation, absolutely we would continue on with the ambition we’ve had here with the Woodridge Park District.” Hopphan said the way Winbush, Evans and other professionals like them interact with and teach the campers is one to be emulated by those interested in doing the same. “They think it’s much more technical (than it is),” Hopphan said. “You see what Prince is doing. That’s got nothing to do with training or schooling. You don’t learn that out of a book. That comes from the heart because he loves to do that. And he’s successful because these people feel it.”

Each Member Day consists of a round of golf, cart, tee prize and lunch, but remains stress-free with no formal tournament aspect. With no-pressure to compete and a low price, a Member Day becomes the perfect outing for all. The 2011 schedule will be released in April. For more information on Member Days contact John Petrarca at 630-685-2306 or jpetrarca@cdga.org.

SUNSHINE THROUGH GOLF FOUNDATION OUTING Play with a foursome or meet other golfers dedicated to supporting the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation at the 11th annual Foundation outing on Monday, June 13 at Beverly Country Club in Chicago. For more information, contact Brittany Ottolini at 630-685-2313 or bottolini@cdga.org.

GOLF MARATHON Pledge to play for the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation in the 3rd annual 100 Hole Golf Marathon. Details for the 2011 event will be available before the golf season begins; contact Denny Davenport in the interim at 630-685-2353 or ddavenport@cdga.org with questions.

Cleaning out your garage this winter? Donate your used clubs to the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation’s program participants. To schedule a drop off, contact Alex Nolly at 630-685-2351 or anolly@cdga.org.

News & Notes 2010 SPECIAL OLYMPICS STATE QUALIFIERS

Congratulations to the Sunshine Through Golf athletes who qualified for the 2010 Special Olympics of Illinois State Games Golf Competitions at Hickory Point Golf Course in Decatur, Ill. JoAnn Admaski

Kyle Krizizke

Chad Applen

Cavan LaRue

David Baker

Kenny Lindsey

Ben Brizzolara

Carol Ann Lynch

Riecee Brock

Aaron Marks

Leslie Bubek

Jack Meyers

Sarah Carlson

John Meyers

Donald Christenson

Kevin Mikan

Kayla Craig

Randy Naberhaus

Troy DeBoer

Lisa Nowack

David DeGuilio

Danny Orlando

Edgar Duran

Eric Pieper

Michael Fioravanti

Kelly Pwers

Michael Forzley

Karen Quandt

Sheri Fritsche

Christopher Renaldi

Sam Fritz

Edith Reynolds

Max Geilim

Jessica Rosenbohm

Danny Gillespie

John Seele

Jimmy Gottlick

Michael Senesac

Barb Gregomik

Christopher Smolik

Nathaniel Gunnels

Colin Staffeldt

Laurie Heinz

Jimmy Stelmach

James Hill

Sean Thompson

Tom Hollman

Jim York

Chris Jansen

Zach Zwirowski

Ryan Kite

A GREAT BIG THANK YOU Thank you to the 2010 Sunshine Through Golf camp hosts. The following organizations, golf clubs and golf professionals administered camps for Sunshine Through Golf athletes. Over 1,200 participants benefitted from the 82 camps conducted by the Sunshine Through Golf Foundation.

2010 SUNSHINE THROUGH GOLF CAMPS Aspire Oak Brook Golf Club Trey Van Dyke

Northern Illinois SRA Randall Oaks Golf Club Steve Gillie & Staff

Champaign-Urbana SRA Stone Creek Golf Club Mickey Finn

Northern Illinois SRA Makray Memorial Golf Club Don Habjan & Staff

Chicago Special Olympics Marquette Park Golf Course Juan Espejo

Oak Lawn SRA Stony Creek Golf Course Carol Rhoades & George Benak

Chicago Special Olympics Diversey Driving Range The First Tee of Chicago Staff Chicago Special Olympics Robert A. Black Golf Course The First Tee of Chicago Staff Chicago Special Olympics South Shore Golf Course The First Tee of Chicago Staff Clearbrook Mt. Prospect Golf Club Jeff Langguth & Staff Dolton New Hope Center Lincoln Oaks Golf Course Lindsey Haines & Staff Fon du Lac Special Recreation Program Oak Meadows Golf Club Glenn Mason Fox Valley SRA Phillips Park Golf Course Jeff Schmidt & Staff Fox Valley SRA St. Charles Country Club Jim Sutherland & Staff Fox Valley SRA Fox Bend Golf Course Kyle Rich & Staff Fox Valley SRA Eagle Brook Country Club Eric Pratali & Staff Gateway SRA Flagg Creek Golf Course Flagg Creek Staff Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association Foss Park Golf Course Patrick Byrne Heart of Illinois SRA Kellogg Golf Course Kellogg Golf Course Staff Hope D. Wall School TFT of Aurora-Phillips Park Golf Course Dan Abella & Staff Illinois Valley Industries Nettle Creek Country Club Kurt Nolan & Staff

Indiana Special OlympicsValparaiso Park District Creekside Golf & Training Center Nancy Bender Joliet-Bolingbrook SRA Mistwood Golf Club Visanu Tongwarin & Staff Kishwaukee SRA Buena Vista Golf Course Tom Zeeh Lincoln-Way SRA Sanctuary Golf Course Bob Schulz & Staff Lincoln-Way SRA Prestwick Country Club Brandon Adair & Staff Little City Foundation Inverness Golf Club Scottie Nield & Staff Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation Golf Center of Des Plaines (GolfTec) Justin Bentley & Staff Misericordia Bryn Mawr Country Club Terry Russell & Staff Misericordia North Shore Country Club Tim O’Neal & Staff North East DuPage SRA Medinah Country Club Mike Scully & Staff North Suburban SRA Winnetka Golf Club Cortney Miller & Staff North Suburban SRA Lake Shore Country Club Bob Koschmann & Staff North Suburban SRA Wilmette Golf Club Dennis Callaghan & Staff North West Suburban SRA Twin Lakes Golf Course Travis Johns & Eric Pick North West Suburban SRA Palatine Hills Golf Course Dan Hotchkin Northern Illinois SRA Bowes Creek Country Club Mike Lehman & Staff

River Valley SRA Alpine Hills Golf Club Dieter Jaehn, Jr. Rockford Park District Ingersoll Golf Club Lloyd McWilliams School District 54-Special Olympics Fox Run Golf Links John O’Brien Special Opportunities Available in Recreation The Links at Ireland Grove Jeff Hunt & Staff South East Association for Special Parks & Recreation Village Greens of Woodridge Brandon Evans & Prince Winbush South Suburban SRA Coyote Run Golf Course Brian Smith and Staff South West SRA Midlothian Country Club Michael Knights & Staff SRA of Central Lake County Libertyville Golf Complex Jeff Mory, Conway Farms Tri-County SRA Cog Hill Golf & Country Club Jeff Rimsnider Warren SRA Libertyville Golf Complex Ron Klein West Suburban SRA White Pines Golf Club Chuck Lynch & Staff West Suburban SRA Oak Park Country Club Frank Bruno & Staff Western DuPage SRA White Eagle Golf Club Brian Soczka & Staff Western DuPage SRA Glen Oak Country Club Danny Mulhearn & Staff Western DuPage SRA Cantigny Golf Emily Barkoozis

A worthwhile

EXPERIENCE During the week of the BMW Championship, a small group of tour players took time out to make it a special day for a group of Sunshine Through Golf Foundation participants ship made the trek across the street. Tim Clark, Luke Donald, Adam Scott, Kevin Streelman, Jason Dufner and Brendon de Jonge each played the three-hole course with one or two special-needs golfers. It was hard to tell to whom the

“This is a blast,” said Streelman, who was making his first visit to the event. s the world’s top play“They (the Foundation) do such a nice ers assembled at Cog job with this.” Hill Golf and Country A Winfield native who was essentially Club prior to the playing a home game at Cog Hill, start of the BMW Streelman said he had many Championship, another group of requests for his time during the special athletes gathered nearby for BMW Championship week. Some a big event of their own. of those requests, he said, had to be On a picture-perfect day for turned down. golf, 10 Chicago-area athletes with “But not this one,” said special needs assembled Sept. 8 at Streelman, who was accompanied the Midwest Golf House in Lemont by his parents and his caddie for for the seventh annual Play With A the three-hole round. “I’ve had to Pro Day. The event was coordinated say ‘no’ to some other things this by the Sunshine Through Golf week because you get pulled in so Foundation, recognized by the many directions. USGA as the largest grassroots golf “This is a half-hour when you take program in the country for players more out of it than you give. It’s with special needs. spectacular. You see the excitement Affected by a wide range of physiof them making a putt versus the cal and cognitive disabilities–Gerry frustration of missing and it shows Meyer, Michelle Thompson, Dan you what’s really important in life.” James, Paul Bures, Gary Anderson, Donald, a Northwestern UniversiKelly Fitzgerald, Kenneth Lindty product who still lives in Chicago, sey, Paul Kozora, JoAnn Adamski said the day helped him relieve the PGA Tour players Kevin Streelman (above) and Luke and Randy Naderhaus–represented Donald (opposite page) were both inspired by playing pressure of playing in the FedEx seven different special recreation in the event. Cup Playoffs. At least in terms of associations from the Chicagoland managing his expectations. area. experience meant more. “When they tell me this is their They came to play the Three-Hole Sun“Most of these people either live with favorite game, it’s very heartwarming,” Caption shine Course at Midwest Golf House and their parents or in a group home,” said Donald said. “Because the game is very for a chance to meet the PGA Tour pro- Meyer, a 49-year-old with more indepen- frustrating. It gives me some perspective fessionals who took time out of their pre- dence than his peers. “Participating in to see these people with difficulties in tournament preparation to cross Archer things like this gives them motivation, their lives, but they still come out here to Avenue and play a round with them. lifts them up some.” enjoy playing the game.” Six of the 70 players competing in the The visit appeared to lift the spirits of The event also allowed a glimpse into PGA Tour Playoffs’ BMW Champion- the professionals as well. the mentality of a Tour player outside

By Greg Stewart

PHOTOS BY FRANK POLICH/CDGA

16 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

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the ropes, where they can enjoy themselves on the golf olf course, away from the spotlight. Like when Adam am Scott picked up playing partner Fitzgerald’s bag and shouldered it around ound the Sunshine Course. rse. Or Streelman’s reaction on when Lindsey drained d a long par putt ass pure as any Tour pro would make, then celebrated on the green with a funky strut to the hole and high-fives for everyone. “They’re having a ball and it’s nice they can do that through golf,” Scottt said. But the day’s most ost poignant moments came ame from two golfers, who ho in their own way, havee both overcome long odds to play the game in a fulfillingg manner. Clark, a diminutivee South African who got his first PGA Tour win in May at The Players rs Championship, d appearance at the was making his third y. He considers it a Play With A Pro Day. come an ambassaprivilege and has become dor of sorts, exposingg other professionals to the program. “I’ve done this quite a few years now

“When they tell me this is their favorite game, it’s very heartwarming,” Donald said. “Because the game is very frustrating. It gives me some perspective to see these people with difficulties in their lives, but they still come out here to enjoy playing the game.” NOVEMBER 2010

and it’s really a great experience playing with these guys,” Clark said. “I did it the first year and saw the amount of joy it brings to these guys. That’s really the whole reason to come back. “That’s the whole reason I do this. I’ve talked a few of the other guys into coming over today.” Perhaps nobody looked forward to Clark’s appearance more than Bures. A 27-year-old from LaGrange Park, Paul has cerebral palsy. He is confined to a wheelchair, has very limited use of his upper body and is mostly non-verbal. Still, with the help of his parents, Bures plays golf and likes to visit with Tour pros. He first met Clark three years ago when paired with him at this

event. He was partnered with Clark last year and made a request to play with him again. “Paul really likes to be involved in activities and this is another way for him,” said Liz Bures, Paul’s mother. “But it’s something all three of us can enjoy together. As a family. “Not only does he benefit, but just as important are the people that see us out here. It opens their eyes to what’s possible. There are a lot of people who don’t believe he can be a golfer, but he is. “It’s nice to see their perceptions change.” Greg Stewart is a sports writer for the Peoria Journal Star. CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 17

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Golf Getaways | Southern California

AT THE

From the golf courses that dot the itinerary, a trip along the coast of Southern TOP TRAVEL TIP California presents The San Diego Zoo long has been one highlight recognized as one of the best in the after another world. But this is more than simply

By Tod Leonard

hen the first golf course at Pelican Hill opened in 1991, architect Tom Fazio stood looking at his latest creation, with the sun setting on the water just beyond the fairways, and exuded an enormous sense of pride. “When you have something as dramatic as the Pacific Ocean for your backdrop,” Fazio said, “you have to take advantage of it.” A decade later, Rees Jones would utter a similar sentiment as he put the finishing touches on a redesign of the South Course at Torrey Pines in suburban San Diego that sparked a successful bid to attract the 2008 U.S. Open. “I won’t get another opportunity like this in my career,” Jones said. Fazio and Jones are two of the most renowned course designers in America, and both knew how rare the chance is to sculpt a layout on the coastal property of Southern California. Here, the sunsets on the water are worth their

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looking at the animals; the list of

beauty in gold. There are 80 miles of coastline between Newport Beach in southern Orange County and downtown San Diego, and because land on the ocean’s edge is so precious and expensive, only a handful of developers have found it feasible to use that space for golf courses. Torrey Pines, for instance, was constructed in 1957 by the city on the site of a former Army camp before the city of La Jolla became one of the wealthiest ZIP codes in America. When Pelican Hill opened, housewives in Orange County were still moms doing carpools, not reality television stars. The coastal courses are spectacular in their own way, of course, so for those planning a visit to Southern California who never want to stray far from sandy beaches and salty air, there is no problem creating an itinerary for some luxurious golf experiences, along with one

specialized tours, educational programs and interactive experiences has something for everyone.

tantalizing bargain. Clubs required; red convertible and surfboard are optional. PELICAN HILL

It can be said that Fazio got double the slices from a sweet and juicy orange. He designed grasses, more bunkers, a new irrigation system, driving range and a new clubhouse. The renovation was orchestrated to go hand in hand with the construction and 2008 opening of the Mediterranean-inspired Resort at Pelican Hill. The resulting work makes Pelican Hill (pelicanhill.com) likely the plushest public golf experience in all of Southern California, with green fees in line with that. While both courses have stunning views of the blue Pacific, it is the

WWW.CDGA.ORG

South Course that delivers the most jaw-dropping experience on holes 11 through 13. The par-4 11th points straight to the ocean, and the land for another par-3 was so enticing at the 13th that Fazio produced two separate greens (one that plays about 125 yards and the other about 105) that are virtual islands amid enormous dunes. The North is slightly longer (6,553 from the blues), but the South (6,323) is considered tougher because it is tighter, with more trees on its inland holes. AVIARA GOLF CLUB

Less than an hour’s drive south of Newport is Carlsbad’s Aviara Golf Club, which is part of the Park Hyatt Resort (parkhyattaviara.com). As the seagull flies, it is a couple of miles from the beach and sits alongside Batiquitos Lagoon, which teems with birds and wildlife. The only Arnold Palmer design in San Diego, Aviara is most often lauded for its incredible array of flowers on nearly every hole, wonderful and natural use of water features, and impeccable maintenance. No two holes at Aviara look remotely similar, with some fairways carved through groves of eucalyptus trees and others open and inviting, rolling up and down with big elevation changes. The experience can be anything a golfer

wants it to be: fun from 6,054-yard white tees to extremely demanding from the 6,591-yard blues.

The North Course should strongly be considered on any trip to Torrey (sandiego.gov/golf/torreypines). The North also hosts PGA Tour rounds, and its vistas of the ocean below and frequent hang gliders above are every bit as spectacular. Shorter and with less penal bunkering, it’s also more playable for the double-digit handicapper. CORONADO

The perfect ending to a SoCal trip can be had in Coronado, the peninsula attached to downtown San Diego by bridge. The Coronado Golf Course (golfcoronado.com) Water views are plentiful at Pelican Hill; above: the experience is a step back in time, 13th hole at Ocean South. in both ambiance and price TORREY PINES The flat and friendly layout, Torrey Pines, on the cliffs in La peppered with palm and pine trees, is Jolla, is synonymous with San Diego one of the best bargains in America if golf for good reason. It has been you walk the course. It is surrounded exposed to PGA Tour fans since 1968, by water on three sides and at various and its stature was immeasurably turns there are views of the San Diego raised when the South Course was skyline, San Diego Bay, the majestic the scene of a dramatic playoff win spires of the Hotel del Coronado, and by Tiger Woods at the 2008 U.S. the bobbing boats at the Coronado Yacht Club. Open. Naturally, the South is more highly The weather approaches perfection on prized by out-of-towners, and though many days, and don’t let the price fool it doesn’t have a warning sign about you. The conditions are nearly perfect all its difficulty like Bethpage Black, it year around. should. At 7,000 yards from the blues, it is a brute, to be survived more than Tod Leonard covers golf for the San Diego conquered. Union-Tribune.

PHOTOS COURTESY PELICAN HILL

NOVEMBER 2010

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DESTINATION

Golf Getaways | Austin

AWESOME

Austin

The Texas state capital has stepped to the forefront as the focal point of the state’s first golf trail By Art Stricklin

he Texas state capital of Austin is often referred to as the Heart of Texas. It mainly refers to its geographic location, near the center of the Lone Star State. But a closer inspection by traveling golfers reveals that Austin’s heart is full in many other ways: full of great publicaccess golf, great Southwestern cuisine and a lively, acclaimed nightlife scene.

In fact, throw in some warm wintertime weather and the state’s first fully functioning golf trail and Austin more than holds its own as a top-flight destination. The home of golf legends Ben Crenshaw, Tom Kite and Harvey Penick, of “Little Red Book” fame, never had it so good or inviting. “People always knew Austin was a fun place and we are definitely piggybacking off of Austin’s vibe as a place for good times, but what people didn’t realize is our potential as a golf destination,” said longtime local golf professional Chip Gist, who first came up with the idea of the Austin golf trail almost five years ago. Gist and the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau partnered earlier this year to produce a true one-stop shop via a website and toll-free number for Austin-area golf vacations. So far, 12 premium Austin-area golf

PHOTOS COURTESY BARTON CREEK RESORT

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WWW.CDGA.ORG

Opposite page: No. 16 on the Fazio Foothills course at Barton Creek; Above: Barton Creek Resort is listed as one of Golfweek’s Best Resort Courses.

courses have signed on as part of the package, four from the highly rated Barton Creek Resort and Spa—the Tom Fazio-designed Canyons and Foothills courses; Cliffside, designed by Crenshaw; and Lakeside, created by Arnold Palmer—along with three from Horseshoe Bay—Ram Rock, Apple Rock and Slick Rock. There also are Star Ranch and Grey Rock in Austin, Round Rock’s Teravista, Avery Ranch in Hutto and Wolfdancer, outside of Bastrop, at the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort. All are open to the public and can be booked individually or through a central website, which is austingolftrail.com. Those courses are partnered with a variety of local accommodations and price points including the Barton Creek, Horseshoe Bay and Lost Pines resorts, along with two in-town Embassy Suites, an Austin Intercontinental, Wyndham, DoubleTree and Hampton Inn.

TOP TRAVEL TIP Austin’s Au ust stin in’ss nnat natural atur ural al bbea beauty eaut uty is on display at The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, an endless panorama of colorful landscaping, and the 10.1-mile Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail.

NOVEMBER 2010

While it’s impossible to play them all in one stay, the first-time Austin visitor will certainly want to visit the twin Austin golfing landmarks, the Barton Creek foursome of top-rated courses and the historic Horseshoe Bay threesome. The two Fazio courses at Barton Creek are annually ranked as the Nos. 1 and 2 in the state for public resort courses. Any golfer looking over the Fazio landscape of dramatic elevation changes, canyons, large drops from tee boxes and natural waterfalls, will soon forget the faded Texas stereotype of dry, dusty, tumbleweed-covered flatness. A very playable course by local golf hero Crenshaw completes the on-site threesome, and the Lakeside Course is just 15 miles to the west. Another unique feature at Barton Creek is the state’s first Callaway Golf fitting center, where players can go through a 60- to 90-minute, high-tech fitting session with the same technology (if not the same results) used at the Callaway headquarters in California for its group of tour players. “This is really an exciting opportunity for golfers,” said Barton Creek director of golf Michael Rushing. “This will tell you everything about your swing and ball flight and be able to get you the

latest and best golf gear.” Horseshoe Bay, 45 minutes west of Barton Creek, was the first golf resort to mine this fertile area in the mid-1970s and now has three courses, all created by legendary golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and a fourth that is underway by Jack Nicklaus. Slick Rock, with a million-dollar waterfall at the 14th hole, was the first course opened, but Ram Rock became the most famous or infamous. Legend has it that when Slick opened, visitors were impressed by the beauty but considered it a bit of a pushover. Jones vowed to fix that with Ram and it long has been considered the toughest in Texas and one of his most punishing creations. Apple Rock is set on the highest piece of land in the area and is the most scenic of the three. The Austin Golf Trail has been open less than a year and Gist said it’s fast approaching its opening-year target of 10,000 golfers, but there is still plenty of golf trail learning to do. “The number one question we get from visitors is, ‘Where do the locals eat?’ There are a lot of things to do here, but they don’t want any chain restaurants.” For the record, Matt’s El Rancho, where legendary University of Texas coach Darrell Royal used to hold court, and Guero’s, where former President Bill Clinton once sampled the shrimp fajitas, rule the Tex-Mex scene. Saltlick, which doesn’t take credit cards or reservations, and the cozy Stubbs, a central-city hangout, are the top barbecue destinations. For post-golf nightlife, Austin is loaded with possibilities. Famed Sixth Street in downtown rightly proclaims itself as the live music capital of Texas. The longrunning “Austin City Limits” TV show has showcased the local talents of Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, along with hundreds of other stars. Plus, the generally mild winters in Austin will rarely be bad enough to keep players off the course. Austin merits its place as a Lone Star of Texas golf. Art Stricklin is a freelance writer based in the Dallas suburb of Plano, Texas. CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 21

DESTINATION

PHOTO COURTESY VISTA VALLARTA GOLF CLUB

Golf Getaways | Mexico

OPPORTUNITY Mexico offers great golf options showcasing some of the top resorts in the world

By Bill Huffman

hen the leaves start to fall and daylight savings time has set in, consider planning a golf getaway to Mexico and leave the winter coats behind. If warm weather and ocean views don’t lure visitors past the border, the great golf will. With designs by architects such as Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf and Robert von Hagge, Mexico offers top-notch courses with dramatic views. An endless array of options are available, especially when one considers

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golfing ports of call such as Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta. Acapulco was the forerunner to “Jet Set” golf in the 1950s and ’60s, while Puerto Vallarta’s vast array of links popped up in the ’70s and ’80s, shortly after the Oscar-winning flick, “Night of the Iguana,” starring Richard Burton, was filmed there. ACAPULCO

One option is Acapulco, a classy city of 250,000 located high on the cliffs above a big bay of the same name. This is where Burton and Liz Taylor

once hung out and the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, Elvis and The Beatles followed. Even today Acapulco offers trendy attractions like Alebrije (the largest night club in Latin America) and Baby’O, a world famous disco. Acapulco’s course of choice is von Hagge’s Tres Vidas, where the par-3 12th hole plays directly toward the ocean. Five holes are actually on the water in what von Hagge refers to as his “Mexican string of pearls,” which comes with a reasonable green fee. Even though Tres Vidas is somewhat off the WWW.CDGA.ORG

Left: Vista Vallarta was home to the 2002 World Golf Championship.

beaten path, about 20 miles south of the city, this unique “almost island-like” layout is well worth the drive. Otherwise there’s no need for a rental car as the rest of Acapulco’s fab four of courses—the Acapulco Princess, Mayan Palace and Pierre Marques— all are near enough the Fairmont Princess Hotel to jump in a cab. Of the three, the Princess layout is visually alluring. All are a great value. Another five-star resort that’s a little out of the way but deserves consideration is Las Brisas-Acapulco, where the pale pink-colored bungalows are stacked like a pyramid on the cliffs overlooking Acapulco Bay. Legendary Las Brisas remains one of the most romantic retreats in the world, as every room comes with a picture-window view of the nearby Pacific.

TOP TRAVEL TIP There are multiple viewing locations at La Quebrada, home to the daredevil cliff divers made famous through Elvis Presley’s “Fun In Acapulco” and ABC’s

PHOTO COURTESY PUNTA MITA GC

“Wide World of Sports.”

PUERTO VALLARTA

Most Americans had never heard of Puerto Vallarta until Burton starred in “Night of the Iguana,” which was filmed just south of the city in the mid1960s. Iguanas actually are the least of your worries, considering there’s a downtown course called The Marina that is loaded with alligators, as well as a von Hagge-designed championship course called El Tigre that also packs some teeth. The course on everyone’s mustplay list is Nicklaus’s Punta MitaFour Seasons, where one hole, 3b, features one of the world’s true island greens. Hole 3b, which the Bear dubbed “Tale of the Whale” because it actually looks like a whale’s tale from the tee, is accessed by an amphibious golf cart. When the tide is high or choppy, however, land-locked 3a comes into play. Two other superb offerings in the Puerta Vallarta area include Nicklaus’s Vista Vallarta, the site of the 2002 World Cup, and Weiskopf’s sister course on the same property. Of these two jungle-like experiences, stick with Jack’s version, as his course is higher in elevation and boasts views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and surrounding water. There are two distinct options when it comes to where to stay in Puerto Vallarta. The Four Seasons Punta Mita is more than likely out of reach for most visitors, while the Marriott is in the heart of the city, near the marina, and about one-third the price. Nightlife has a feel of yesteryear along a strip of old restaurants and shops that front the city’s flat-asa-pancake beach. It’s why the Four Seasons remains popular despite its jawdropping price. Bill Huffman covered golf for The Arizona Republic and East Valley Tribune for 20 years.

Punta Mita Golf Club in Puerto Vallarta features numerous holes along the ocean and Banderas Bay. NOVEMBER 2010

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DESTINATION

Golf Getaways | South Florida

There are plenty of places to play in South Florida, but two spots also offer golfers the chance for expert instruction PGA Championships between 1964 and 2000, and currently it is home to the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic. There are no fewer than five courses to choose from, including The Champion. This Jack Nicklaus design is the jewel of the group and it is no place for the faint of heart. Water comes into play on seven of the first nine holes; three of the four par 3s are over water and a lake comes into play on every shot between tee and green at the par-5 18th.

By Mike Dudurich

he problem with most golf trips is that, when they’re over, the players aren’t much better than they were when they left. One popular winter destination with great opportunities to play and work on your game is southeast Florida, where the PGA of America, the national association of club and teaching professionals, offers two top-shelf facilities about 45 miles apart, one near its headquarters in Palm Beach Gardens and a secondary facility in Port St. Lucie.

While none of the other four courses is as challenging as The Champion, each offers its own unique setting: a touch of Scottish links at The Palmer, a pleasant mix of hazard-framed fairways and open meadows at The Estates, and a very challenging 6,475 yards from the tips at The Squire. For players who also want to work on their game, there are few places anywhere in the country with a program as comprehensive as PGA National. Two of the game’s most well-known instructors are located here with the David Leadbetter Golf Academy and the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School. In addition, the Titleist Performance Institute will examine a player’s swing in great detail and design a workout program tailored specifically around an individual’s needs and physical abilities. But that’s not all. The resort boasts a nationally acclaimed, 40,000-squarefoot European spa that offers more than 100 different treatments. If it seems as though PGA National hasn’t overlooked anything, others concur. Among those including honors

PGA NATIONAL RESORT & SPA

A mecca for players and fans alike since 1981, PGA National has a distinguished history of tournament play. It was the site of the 1983 Ryder Cup, which makes it one of just four U.S. venues, along with Pinehurst (N.C.) Resort, The Greenbriar in West Virginia and Kiawah Island in South Carolina, that is open for play by the general public. In addition, PGA National has been the venue for the PGA Championship (1987) and 27 Senior

TOP TRAVEL TIP Check out the live music at B.B. King’s, Beach’s new, vibrant City Center. Then make the 10-minute walk to Rocco’s Tacos, where the menu is highlighted by guacamole created tableside, and margaritas made with any of 230 tequilas kept in stock.

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PHOTOS BY THE PGA OF AMERICA

located in the heart of West Palm

WWW.CDGA.ORG

While the Wanamaker Course is set against a backdrop of native Florida wetlands, palm trees and palmettos, the Ryder Course has more of a Carolina feel. The Dye Course is completely different, featuring wide expanses of pine-straw roughs and coquina waste bunkers. PGA Golf Club, owned and operated by the PGA of America, has been included on the list of the best 75 golf resorts PGA Golf Club features a top-notch learning facility. in North America by Golf Digest. One of the cornerfor PGA National are Golfweek, Golf and stones of the facility is the PGA Center Links magazines as well the respected for Golf Learning and Performance, a 35-acre golf instruction, practice, techAAA, Mobil and Zagat ratings. nology and fitness facility that is home to the PGA of America golf schools. PGA GOLF CLUB Designed by acclaimed golf course architects Tom Fazio and Pete Dye, WEST PALM BEACH there are three 18-hole courses at PGA Located nine miles north of West Village with each of them having earned Palm Beach, North Palm Beach Audubon International Signature Country Club is owned and operated by status for their effots in environmental the Village of North Palm Beach. The 18preservation. hole, Nicklaus-designed golf course is

the second municipal course designed by Nicklaus and also is the only yearround municipal “Signature” course in the United States. Renovations were completed in 2006 and improvements included a new irrigation system, new greens construction and improved fairway surface draining. Players won’t have more fun on a golf course than they will at Palm Beach Par 3, set on a windswept strip of land with the Intercoastal Waterway on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. Golf Digest has called this the best par 3 course in the country, a lofty reputation that most likely is deserved considering its heritage of having been created by the famed golf course architect tandem of Dick Wilson and Joe Lee. THE FLORIDA CLUB

The public-access facility, located just west of Stuart, is set in “old” Florida with long, wide fairways surrounded by stately ancient oaks, pines and palmettos. “The philosophy here is that you can come here to play golf, be treated by a friendly, helpful staff and play a golf course with a lot of character,” said Tom Welz, the club’s general manager. Welz has been operating the course since a new owner bought The Florida Club late in 2009, and since then, conditions have been upgraded. The course is reminiscent of Old Florida, with abundant wildlife and wetlands and a picturesque, tranquil layout not typically associated with real estate golf course developments in Florida. “There is a lot of nature out here, but it’s not a golf course where there is no room left to hit a golf ball,” Welz said. “It’s challenging, but not unfair to the average golfer.” Now a freelance writer, Mike Dudurich was a longtime golf writer for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Perhaps it only seems water hazards are everywhere at The Champion at PGA National.

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DESTINATION

Golf Getaways | New Orleans

OPEN

New Orleans has overcome the aftermath of Katrina and wants the rest of the world to know that it’s back in business By Dave Lagarde

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to firemen everywhere. It is open to the public and is a must-play for golfers in the Big Easy. The club was saved from bankruptcy by the New Orleans Firefighters Pension Fund in 2003, which began a $9 million renovation in July 2005, just about a month before the hurricane struck, causing the levee breaches. The golf course reopened in 2009 with several new holes and some spitting images of the old ones. The 18th hole is particularly unique. Architect Ron Garl designed flameshaped bunkers that make for a dramatic mid-iron approach shot into the green. There also is an image of a New Orleans fireman carved out of one of the many cypress trees that once lined the fairways but were lost in the storm. English Turn, designed by Jack Nicklaus, opened in 1988. The Golden Bear added gallery berms and spectator

mounds all along the course. Although designed specifically for the PGA Tour’s USF&G Classic, the par-72 course is 7,078 yards long, but has four sets of tees for players of all ability levels. Nicklaus did not employ the architectural cookie cutter here. Each hole challenges the player with its own personality. The greens are notoriously undulating and challenging, yet fair for the club member and pros alike. The famed 18th was consistently rated one of the most difficult on the PGA Tour. TPC Louisiana followed the PGA Tour progression when the Pete Dye design opened in 2005. Working in conjunction with PGA Tour players Steve Elkington and New Orleans native Kelly Gibson, Dye created a monster of a 7,600-yard, par-72 layout that sits on low property and utilizes natural vegetation, including towering cypress trees.

COURTESY LAKEWOOD G.C.

itch Landrieu, the mayor of New Orleans, had a message to deliver to the world as the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and the subsequent levee failures that flooded 80 percent of the Crescent City for almost a month in September 2005 drew near. “We’re here. We’re unbowed. We’re unbroken,’’ Landrieu said with the force of a Category 5 storm. Is the work finished? Hardly. Does the city still have its share of flood-related problems and lingering effects of the massive Gulf of Mexico oil spill that came as a result of the deadly explosion on the Deepwater Horizon rig in May? Absolutely. But make no mistake. Despite the damage from oil and water, New Orleans, like its freshly minted mayor, is showing its tireless spirit and displaying its uncommon resiliency while singing its resurrection song. It remains one of the world’s favorite destinations, what with its sumptuous food, amazingly diverse music, Old World architecture and abundant hunting and fishing nearby. While that alluring foursome always is in play for visitors, let’s not forget golf deserves its place in the tourism equation. The Crescent City has the distinction of featuring three courses—Lakewood Golf Club, English Turn Golf and Country Club and the TPC of Louisiana—that have played host to the PGA Tour, plus several others— Oak Harbor Golf Club, Audubon Golf Club and the new kid on the golf block, LaTour Golf Club—that provide intense challenges despite the too-near-sealevel landscape. Lakewood Golf Club, the original home of the New Orleans Open, has been reborn as a lasting tribute to the city’s determination after Katrina and

Lakewood Golf Club was formerly the site of the area’s PGA Tour event. WWW.CDGA.ORG

COURTESY LATOUR GC

LaTour is one of the newest courses in the New Orleans area.

TOP TRAVEL TIP The Acme Oyster House is located in the heart of the famed French Quarter. It’s a legendary establishment that celebrated its 100th anniversary this year, and the awards it has secured from food and travel writers are far too numerous to list.

Players will find the track perfectly conditioned and should choose their set of tees (there are four) with caution as the sheer length can be overwhelming. That said, there is a collection of short but challenging par-4 holes that complement the mammoth ones. Oak Harbor Golf Club is located in Slidell, a 30-minute jaunt from downtown. The course is rated 4.5 stars by Golf Digest. Its main features are the punishing water hazards that come into play on 14 holes, making accuracy off the tee vital. The course becomes a real bear when the winds kick up off nearby Lake Pontchartrain. Aubudon is an executive course that NOVEMBER 2010

provides a lovely change of pace. But don’t be fooled by its par (62) or its length (4,220 yards) from the tips. It isn’t your grandfather’s idea of a pitch and putt. Located just minutes from downtown, the Denis Griffiths design combines more than 100 years of history with the latest in golf course architecture as it meanders among four lagoons, exquisite landscaping and magnificent oak trees that are more than 100 years old. And it is more than up to any challenge as four of the course’s 12 par 3s check in right at 200 yards. The course, redesigned in 2001 and reopened in October 2002, is built on the site of the 1884 World’s Fair. It continues to draw high praise from writers and course raters alike as Golf Digest assigned it 4.5 stars while calling it “the most scenic and interesting spot’’ to play golf in New Orleans. LaTour, co-designed by Louisiana native David Toms, the 2001 PGA Championship winner, and Ken Morgan of Morgan Golf Design, opened late in 2009 in Mathews, approximately

35 miles from downtown New Orleans. Again, the ride is worth it. The golf course, precisely carved out of sugarcane fields, boasts a 7,232-yard, par-72 layout that features expertly conditioned “Mini-Verde” ultra-dwarf greens with abundant water, pure white sand bunkers and 75 acres of native grass areas. It provides enough of a stern test to challenge the old-standbys for a place among Louisiana’s best courses. Again, selecting the proper tees among LaTour’s four sets allows the player to match the course to his or her skill level. As most are aware, New Orleans’ action doesn’t stop once the last putt is holed. The city features approximately 900 restaurants that serve up some of the world’s best food, clubs that provide intriguing music and watering holes that can quench any thirst. Among the most famous avenues in the world, Bourbon Street is a must for every visitor. Dave Lagarde is a freelance journalist who was a longtime golf writer for The Times-Picayune in New Orleans. CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 27

PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

Merit BADGES There were close races for the CDGA players of the year, but Dave Ryan ensured that wasn’t the case in the senior ranks

Bennett Blakeman

By Tim Cronin

here are certain traits common to all champions. Talent is one; desire is another. Those two, combined with the ability to focus in stressful moments, are foremost in the attributes of the Chicago District Golf Association’s three players of the year for 2010, as earned through the CDGA’s point system. Bennett Blakeman captured the CDGA Player of the Year title. Todd Mitchell, Mr. Reliable from Bloomington, earned Central Illinois honors for the sixth time. And Dave Ryan took the senior player title for the second year running.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Bennett BLAKEMAN

PHOTO COURTESY ILLINOIS WESLEYAN

As magic carpet rides go, the one taken by Bennett Blakeman in 2010 wasn’t bad. The 23-year-old played in the U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur, having his brother Brenten, a fine player himself, on his bag at the Open. He made it to the semifinals of the CDGA Amateur. He tied for second at the Illinois State Amateur. Blakeman managed all that while interning and working toward his MBA at Loyola University. “Experience-wise, I could not have asked for anything more,” Blakeman said. “Qualifying for the Open opened a lot of doors. I would have liked to CDGA PLAYER OF THE YEAR

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Bennett Blakeman (Burr Ridge) Todd Mitchell (Bloomington) Vince India (Deerfield) Tim Sheppard (East Peoria) Dave Ryan (Taylorville)

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750 635 625 500 385

WWW.CDGA.ORG

Todd Mitchell

CDGA

have played better in the Open and the Amateur, but between school and work, golf was left to weekends or evening practice. It was hard to stay super sharp. “When I get it going, I can throw darts at the greens with the best of ’em. I think the only thing that held me back this year was my touch around the greens.” Blakeman is being tough on himself. The final 200 points of the 750 he earned came through his finish at the State Amateur. That gave him the cushion he needed to hold off Todd Mitchell of Bloomington after Mitchell’s U.S. MidAmateur run. So what will the recent graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University do for an encore? “I’m going to take a run at professional golf,” Blakeman said. “I’ve sent my money in to play the Gateway Tour in Arizona, and at the end of next year, I’d like to try Q-School. With the economy the way it is, jobs aren’t easy to come by. For golf, it’s pretty much now or never. I would hate to look back someday and say I didn’t give it a shot.” NOVEMBER 2010

CENTRAL ILLINOIS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Todd MITCHELL CENTRAL ILLINOIS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

1. 2. 3. 4. 4.

Todd Mitchell (Bloomington) Tim Sheppard (East Peoria) Dave Ryan (Taylorville) John Ehrgott (Peoria) Tommy Bliefnick (Decatur)

635 500 385 300 300

Three in a row, five of the last six and six of the last eight. That’s Todd Mitchell’s Central Illinois Player of the Year run. That makes him the Yankees of mid-state golf—fitting for the former shortstop on Illinois State’s baseball team, who also played in the Yankee farm system. While Mitchell, who came back to golf after college because, he said, “I wanted to be competitive in something,” has found that little carries over from the diamond to the first tee, he feels one thing does. “Golf is such a mental grind,” Mitchell said. “In baseball, there’s a lot of standing around. In golf, you have to be very patient. But while in baseball,

you’re reacting to what others do, in golf, the ball’s just sitting there. There’s no one else to blame.” Mitchell, a 31-year-old businessman, started his year by winning the Illinois State Mid-Amateur for the second time in the last three years, and in dramatic fashion. Forced into a three-hole playoff with Tim Sheppard, Mitchell birdied the first hole at White Eagle and eagled the second before settling for par on the third. “That’s a pretty good three-hole stretch,” Mitchell said. It kickstarted a season that included a tie for fourth in the State Am. He capped his season by advancing to the second round of the U.S. Mid-Amateur, but stopping that early was not on his agenda. “It kind of left a sour taste in my mouth,” Mitchell said. “But, you try to learn from your mistakes.” Consider that result pinned to Mitchell’s mental bulletin board for the winter, and expect that next year, when he sets his goals for the year, they will be high. CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 29

PLAYERS OF THE YEAR CDGA SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Dave RYAN CDGA SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

1. 2. 3. 4.

PHOTO BY USGA/STEVEN GIBBONS

Dave Ryan

Dave Ryan (Taylorville) Tom Miler (Kewanee) Greg Wohlford (Bloomington) Rick TenBroeck (Evergreen Park) Tommy Robinson (Riverwoods)

710 290 250 245 235

Dave Ryan was having a very good year. He’d already placed second in the Illinois State Public Links, was a semifinalist in the CDGA Senior Amateur and was the low qualifier in the CDGA Amateur. Then the year got better. He tied for third in both the Illinois State Senior Amateur and Illinois Senior Open. Then the year got better still. He qualified for and made it to the Sweet 16 round of the U.S. Senior Amateur. “Any time you qualify for a USGA event, that tops off your year,” said Ryan, a 56-year-old retired businessman. “And to make it to the Sweet 16, that was a neat experience.” Ryan’s big year earned him Senior Player of the Year honors for the second straight year in as many times as he’s been eligible. It also included tying for 10th at the State Mid-Am, which contributed points toward the whopping total of 710 he accumulated to beat runner-up Tom Miler by 420. “I just played consistently all year long,” Ryan said. Next year could be better still. “Since I made match play in the U.S. Senior Amateur, I’m exempt for the British Senior Amateur,” Ryan said. “It’s at Royal Portrush next year. After I was knocked out of the Sweet 16, Joel Hirsch called me and gave me a pep talk, and strongly suggested that I play there. I think I will.” Tim Cronin covers golf for the Southtown Star.

30 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

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Desert Mountain

When the weather outside is frightful and the oppressive grip of winter becomes too much to bear, golfers give gr Jack Frost the cold shoulder by indulging in the country’s hottest winter golf getaways! Those formerly doomed to the bleak, golﬂess days of winter are now ditching their parkas in favor of putters and enjoying the sweet escape of warmer climes. From Southern hospitality to amazing desert localities, golf’s greatest warm-weather destinations are guaranteed to turn every player’s winter drear into sunny golf cheer.

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Cochise course at Desert Mountain

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ince its celebrated opening in 1987, no other club has come to deﬁne upscale desert living and superior championship golf more than Desert Mountain. Widely acknowledged as one of the ﬁnest private residential golf communities in the world, this master-planned development has taken full advantage of its idyllic location and extraordinary weather, creating an exceptional enclave where residents can enjoy incredible golf even as the cold grip of winter sets in across the rest of the country.

set within a collection of secluded villages. Rich in high Sonoran splendor and style, the community also features six award-winning clubhouses, a ﬁrst-class spa, ﬁtness and tennis facilities, two swimming pools, nine miles of hiking trails and endless recreational options, activities and events – thus making Desert Mountain the perfect haven for the private member purist. For more information about Desert Mountain’s four-season community, call 800.255.5519 or visit www.DesertMountain.com.

Brilliantly painted across the Northern Arizona desertscape, Desert Mountain rests within one of the planet’s most awe-inspiring settings and is the only completely exclusive luxury residential community with six internationally renowned Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses – the most in any one location on Earth. Whether it’s Renegade, Cochise, Geronimo, Apache, Chiricahua or Outlaw, each spectacular course boasts its own unique personality, character, features and feel. From dramatic elevation changes and fascinating strategic challenges to rolling fairways and a more traditional style of play, each course is decidedly different from the next; however, one aspect remains constant: pervasive scenic beauty. With their breathtaking desert views and sweeping mountain vistas, these courses are considered by many to be the designer’s most picturesque creations. Desert Mountain also lays claim to one of the most extensive golf practice facilities in Arizona, complete with multiple pitching, chipping, putting and bunker areas, as well as four separate practice ranges with target greens. More than just unparalleled golf, Desert Mountain’s unsurpassed lifestyle experience affords the ultimate in private club living. The outstanding 8,000-acre community offers a stunning array of custom homesites, elegant estates and tasteful courtyard homes, all

Outlaw Clubhouse at Desert Mountain

Chiricahua Clubhouse, one of six award-winning clubhouses at Desert Mountain.

Since itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inception in 1986, The Desert Mountain Club, renowned for its collection of six championship Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses, recreational amenities and architecturally acclaimed homes, has attracted an incredibly diverse membership from around the globe. Desert Mountain has remained committed to providing the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest private club experience. With unparalleled service in a casual Southwestern setting, our members, their friends and family enjoy a lifestyle that is truly without equal.

37700 N. Desert Mountain Pkwy.

A Deferred Equity Golf Membership gives full access to all Desert Mountain amenities.

DesertMountain.com

Scottsdale, Arizona 85262

800.941.3874

To learn more about membership opportunities at Desert Mountain please call 800.941.3874 or www.DesertMountain.com

Obtain the Property Report or its equivalent required by Federal and State law and read it before signing anything. No Federal or State agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. The Desert Mountain Club is a private facility. All golf courses and amenities, other than community trails, are part of The Desert Mountain Club. See governing documents of the Club for terms, conditions and costs. Prices are subject to change without notice. Properties were available at time of publication. ÂŠ 2010 Desert Mountain Associates, Inc.

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The Gallery

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et in the foothills of the Tortolita Mountains, The Gallery at Dove Mountain inspires a true sense of belonging by offering all the hallmarks of upscale desert living surrounded by the striking beauty of Southern Arizona. Among The Gallery’s most appealing qualities are its low population density, variety of lifestyle opportunities and nearperfect weather year round. So when the snow starts to fall across the country, residents of this exceptional community can enjoy their own winter golf getaway in The Gallery’s natural high Sonoran Desert setting.

enhanced by the 12,000-square-foot Gallery Sports Club that boasts a full-service ﬁtness and training facility, complete with a lap pool, recreational pool and lighted tennis, basketball and volleyball courts. For more information about The Gallery’s exclusive golf lifestyle, call 520.744.4700 or visit www.GalleryGolf.com.

In addition to the temperate climate, The Gallery also presents members with the ﬁnest in desert golf. Stretching over 7,410 picturesque yards of lush greenery, the par-72 Gallery North Course features sweeping high Sonoran views in every direction. Golf course architect John Fought and British Open Champion Tom Lehman have created a course reminiscent of more traditional designs, resulting in 18 irresistible holes that are enjoyable for golfers of all levels. Embracing the natural beauty of the land by incorporating countless native trees into its design, the 7,468-yard, par-72 Gallery South Course – host of the 2007 and 2008 World Golf ChampionshipsAccenture Match Play Championship – features subtle elevation changes, 360-degree views from every hole and thousands of giant Saguaros that rise majestically above the natural desert vegetation and wash areas. The South’s construction and design pay homage to the great Donald Ross’ Pinehurst No. 2, offering golfers a truly spectacular glimpse of golf heaven. Adding to the overall experience, the 30,000-square-foot Gallery Clubhouse features award-winning cuisine, attentive service and more than 100 gallery-quality works of art. The Gallery is further

Gallery South Course at The Gallery

Lifef

Life Is What You Make Of It.

Everything you need to make the most of yours is at The Gallery. Immaculate playing surfaces over 36 holes of acclaimed high desert golf. A Sports Club that fulﬁ lls your every ﬁtness and recreational interest. A memorablee dining experience awaits you; pairing warm friendly service with exceptional menu nu selections in our award-winning restaurant. A limited number of Introductory ctory Memberships with full privileges are available. The Overlook is The Gallery’ss newest residential offering with 14 custom homes accessed by private gate overlooking The Gallery North course.

Start living your dream.

gallerygolf.com

For Introductory Membership and golf information, contact Jennifer Price at (520) 744-4700.

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Wildﬁre Golf Club at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

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he radiant bronze sands of the Sonoran Desert and the majestic McDowell Mountains create a perfect backdrop for the ultimate Southwestern escape at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa. Featuring unrivaled golf, unsurpassed amenities and an extraordinary yearround climate, this newly refurbished resort paradise has truly solidiﬁed its place as one of the premier destinations for winter golf getaways in the Grand Canyon State and beyond. The resort’s Wildﬁre Golf Club is a desert gem with two worldclass, 18-hole golf courses that embody the true spirit of Arizona. Crafted by master golf course architect Arnold Palmer, the 7,145-yard Palmer Signature Course incorporates elements of traditional desert courses by allowing its fairways to fade into the rugged terrain. The Faldo Championship Course, named for its legendary architect, sits on 174 spectacular acres of Arizona scenery lined with Saguaro cacti and desert fauna. Reminiscent of the Australian sandbelt courses, the 6,846-yard track features generous fairways, MiniVerde Bermuda greens and 106 sand bunkers.

For more information on enjoying an exclusive winter getaway at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, call 480.293.5000 or visit www.JWDesertRidgeResort.com.

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

After a round on either of these award-winning courses, guests can take a dip in one of the resort’s ﬁve sparkling pools or ﬂoat down the famous Lazy River. When it’s time to dine, guests can experience tantalizing cuisine in the exceptional Meritage Steakhouse adjacent to the golf club or at numerous casual dining options at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa – including Blue Sage, Just a Splash and Spa Bistro – along with other gourmet restaurants like Ristorante Tuscany and Roy’s. With its unique architectural design and distinctive surroundings that encourage life balance and afford the freedom to unwind and explore, the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is a welcome retreat in the Arizona landscape.

Spa treatment at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa

Unlimited golf. Unlimited luxury. At JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa, golf and luxury have no limits. Start the day with unlimited golf on the Palmer Signature Course or Faldo Championship Course, then unwind in sparkling pools and waterways, enjoy mouth-watering cuisine and relax with libationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s under the desert sky.

Unlimited Golf Experience For Two

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Ryder Course at PGA Golf Club

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egendary for its heritage, spectacular setting and truly immaculate amenities, PGA Village is presently the only public-access resort in the world owned and operated by The PGA of America. Providing the perfect winter golf escape as the temperatures begin to drop, PGA Village – which offers a unique private deposit membership program – is also one of Florida’s ﬁnest gems and continuously ranks among the country’s best golf destinations. Featuring 54 holes of championship golf crafted by famed architects Tom Fazio and Pete Dye, PGA Golf Club presents a trio of golf treasures whose environmental protection and conservation efforts have earned Audubon International Signature status and recognition as a pilot member of the Audubon Lifestyles Sustainable Golf Facility Program for green energy practices.

bunkers that simulate play worldwide, short-game areas, practice greens and the renowned PGA of America Golf Schools. Home to golf’s four major championship trophies, PGA Village’s complimentary PGA Historical Center completes the unrivaled experience by showcasing such rare golf artifacts as Donald Ross’ workbench and the oldest known written mention of golf. The museum often highlights special exhibits, such as tributes to the PGA Championship and Ryder Cup. For more information on enjoying an unforgettable winter golf getaway to PGA Village, please call 800.800.GOLF or visit www.PGAVillage.com.

Set against a backdrop of marshlands, palm trees and palmettos, the Fazio-designed Wanamaker Course – named in honor of Rodman Wanamaker, the department store magnate who inspired the birth of The PGA – boasts a classic Florida layout that is among the state’s most picturesque. Meanwhile, the rolling hills, majestic pine trees and challenging water hazards of Fazio’s Ryder Course offer a distinct Carolina feel. And, blending its awe-inspiring surroundings with design elements from traditional British Isles courses, the celebrated Dye Course highlights both its native environment and its designer’s penchant for innovative and creative course architecture. The PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance is a mustvisit instruction and practice haven that enables golfers to focus on each aspect of their game via expert PGA Professional instruction, cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art golf ﬁtness programs. The 35-acre golf park features 100 hitting stations, numerous

Wanamaker Course at PGA Golf Club

GREAT GOLF. GREAT RESORT.

STAY AND PLAY PACKAGES FROM $219 PGA OF AMERICA GOLF SCHOOLS FROM $475 PGAVillage.com/Chicago | (800) 558-0358 | Port St. Lucie, Florida Open To The Public đ Memberships Available “75 Best Golf Resorts” – Golf Digest

PGA GOLF CLUB PGA HISTORICAL CENTER PGA CENTER FOR GOLF LEARNING & PERFORMANCE

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Golf Club of Estrella

75221 *2/)

oaring red mesas, a near-perfect climate and unbelievable golf epitomize life in the Southwest, and there is no better way to enjoy the hallmarks of this region than with Troon Golf. A leader in golf course management, Troon Golf grants players access to the best of Arizona’s premier golf destinations year round, allowing them to let the worries of the world slip away as they tee it up alongside blazing bronze canyons and perfectly poised cacti.

members the opportunity to reach elite status levels and earn complimentary rounds of golf, discounts on golf merchandise, special offers and invitations to exclusive golf events. Enjoy unsurpassed guest service with excellent amenities, exquisite dining and sensational courses. Experience the luxury of Troon Golf at Arizona’s best golf properties. For reservations or information, call 888.TROON.US or visit www.TroonGolf.com.

Founded in 1990, Troon Golf creates unforgettable experiences at the world’s greatest private, daily-fee and resort golf properties by providing superior service, outstanding amenities and unparalleled playing opportunities. For more than two decades, millions of golfers have chosen Troon Golf-managed courses to enjoy the ﬁnest in agronomic conditioning and top-quality golf. As a result, Troon Golf has become recognized as the ﬁrst luxury brand in the golf industry and the world’s leading developer and manager of high-end golf.

As an added beneﬁt, cardholders are automatically registered for Troon Rewards, golf’s premier loyalty program, granting

The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa

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Further enhancing the exceptional services offered by Troon is the Troon Golf Card, which allows each cardholder and a guest to receive up to 50 percent off green fees at Troon Golf’s incredible family of Arizona facilities – an astounding collection of golf that includes such prestigious courses as Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club, Copper Canyon Golf Club, Golf Club of Estrella, Moon Valley Country Club, Sanctuary Golf Course, StoneRidge Golf Course, SunRidge Canyon Golf Club, Ocotillo Golf Resort, The Phoenician, Poston Butte Golf Club, Talking Stick Golf Club, Troon North Golf Club, The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa and Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass.

1.888.TROON U.S. | WWW.TROONGOLF.COM

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elcome to Arizona – a place so captivating, you may never want to leave. Soaring Saguaros, fiery red rock formations and dramatic golden canyons characterize the beauty of the Grand Canyon State, and for golfers looking to escape winter’s icy chill, OB Sports Golf Management presents golfers with an extraordinary array of courses that offer the perfect way to experience the area’s splendor.

Taking full advantage of the untouched desert landscape, Eagle Mountain Golf Club snakes its way through shaded box canyons and majestic mountain peaks to deliver an exhilarating round of Southwestern golf.

The highly acclaimed We-Ko-Pa Golf Club boasts its own pair of celebrated courses nestled in the Valley of the Sun, including Saguaro, a walkable masterpiece that ranks No. 1 in Arizona on Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play list, and Cholla, which presents golfers with raw natural beauty and unprecedented serenity. For more information on any of these exceptional courses, call 480.816.1234 (Eagle Mountain), 480.807.5400 (Longbow), 623.935.2500 (Palm Valley), 480.836.9000 (We-Ko-Pa) or visit www.OBSports.com/Arizona.

Boasting striking diversity, Palm Valley Golf Club features two fun-ﬁlled layouts located just minutes from West Valley’s popular sporting facilities. The Palms Course serves up a creative blend of resort and desert-style golf, while the mid-length Lakes Course provides incredible value as well as the perfect spot for a quick round.

Eagle Mountain Golf Club

Spectacular eaglemtn.com 480.816.1234

palmvalleygolf.com 623.935.2500

longbowgolf.com 480.807.5400

wekopa.com 480.836.9000

ARIZONA

Golf

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Meanwhile, Longbow Golf Club – which ranks among the top 20 layouts in Arizona on Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play list – follows a strategic routing that remains free of both homes and roads to create an invigorating round that speaks to the essence of Arizona golf.

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*2/) /$6 9(*$6

o place does thrilling, one-of-a-kind golf better than Las Vegas – The City of Entertainment. Where action and excitement are inescapable, this electrifying town in the heart of the Nevada desert is known as one of the game’s most extraordinary destinations. And with so many incredible options, golfers look to OB Sports Golf Management to ﬁnd the area’s best courses for the perfect winter golf escape.

classic Scottish ambiance with natural desert terrain for a memorable layout from start to ﬁnish. For more information on the Vegas winter golf getaway of a lifetime, call 888.851.4114 or visit www.OBSports.com/Vegas. P

Gleaming against the stunning desert background, OB Sports’ Angel Park Golf Club and The Legacy Golf Club outshine even the brightest of lights on the Vegas Strip. In a city of extravagance, this duo boasts courses that are so good, they’re practically sinful.

Every bit the premier Vegas course, The Legacy Golf Club – home to the notorious “Devil’s Triangle” and “The Suits” (featuring tee boxes carved into the shape of playing card suits) – combines

Angel Park Golf Club

Las Vegas

STAY & PLAY room, rental car and golf starting at

132

Call 888-851-4114 or visit www.angelpark.com/chicago

angelpark.com/chicago 702-254-4653

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Overlooking Red Rock Canyon and the Las Vegas Valley, Angel Park Golf Club features four unique courses atop an elevation of nearly 3,000 feet. Creative design elements and intriguing hazards test both skill and strategy on the Palm and Mountain Courses, while the lighted Cloud Nine Short Course and the nine-hole, natural grass World’s Original Putting Course offer fun and enjoyment for all.

JACKSON MARKING

T H E L AT E S T G E A R F O R T H E G A M E

With the bustling holiday shopping period just a few weeks away, it’s that time of year to stock up for the next golf season. If there’s a golfer on your holiday shopping list, there are countless products to choose from. At the most recent PGA Merchandise Show, where golf manufacturers unveil the latest lines, products and models, these items were among those that caught the attention of Chicago District Golfer.

Looking for a unique, personalized gift? Jackson Marking has introduced a golf ball stamp that allows players to customize their golf balls. The stamp is small enough to keep in a golf bag and the permanent ink dries within seconds. The golf ball stamp can be customized with initials, a name, logo or message that will fit within 14 letters. Ink choices are black, blue or red. MSRP: $28 rubber-stamp.com

CLEATSKINS GOLF Cleatskins Golf is a new footwear accessory for players who are often on the go. It’s a rubber shell that fits over golf shoes so a golfer can enter the clubhouse, head home or on to your next activity without having to change out of your golf shoes. Cleatskins also keeps grass, dirt and mud from leaving a trail and protects rubber cleats from wearing out too quickly. Easy to clean, Cleatskins can be hosed off or thrown in the washing machine and are available in several different colors. MSRP: $25 cleatskinsgolf.com

UNDER ARMOUR It’s a must to stay warm on the course when the weather turns cold, but often a jacket will limit mobility. With Under Armour’s Women’s Prime 1/4 Zip Fleece, you can stay warm and still play your best without being weighed down. The wind-resistant materials block out the wind without restricting mobility with a fabric that won’t get in the way of a swing. The sleeve construction allows for a full range of motion. It is water-resistant and the style features a thermal microfleece inner layer that keeps a player warm, dry and comfortable. (Not available online; can be purchased only at on-course golf shops.) MSRP: $70

44 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

WWW.CDGA.ORG

JAN CRAIG For the traditional player, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nothing more classic than a hand-knit, wool headcover. Jan Craig headcovers are 100 percent wool and offered in a variety of color, size and style options to suit any player. There are more than 25 colors to choose from and yarn samples are available in the colors of your choice. The headcovers are knitted upon order and are custom made, which makes a great gift for the college golfer who wants to show school spirit with team colors. MSRP: $27- $42 jancraigheadcovers.com

HJ GLOVE When the weather gets chilly, HJ Glove has an answer for how to keep your hands warm when playing a round in the cold. The Winter Performance gloves still provide a good grip, but also incorporate thermal fleece to keep the chill at bay. The glove comes in black for men, and black, mocha, red, orange, and gray for women. MSRP: $19 buyhjglove.com

CMC GOLF No matter where your allegiances lie, CMC Golf (partnered with McArthur Golf) brings team spirit to a new level out on the course. The line includes all sorts of golf items such as removable ball markers, balls, divot tools and more, all with your choice of sports logo. Choose from NCAA, MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL teams. MSRP: $13 (Cool Tool pictured) mcarthurgolfline.com

NOVEMBER 2010

CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 45

By Ed Sherman

Ed Sherman recalls the life and times of Errie Ball, a longtime fixture as a head professional in the Chicago area who also played in the first Masters

46 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

By Ed Sherman

olf will celebrate a special birthday this month. Errie Ball turns 100 on Nov. 14. A party is on tap at Willoughby Golf Club in Stuart, Fla., where Ball lives, plays and teaches the game. He also will field greetings from

PHOTOS BY TRACY WILCOX

Ed Sherman recalls the life and times of Errie Ball, a longtime fixture as a head professional in the Chicago area who also played in the first Masters

all over the golf world. He will receive a salute from Augusta (Ga.) National Golf Club, where Ball is the last surviving player from the first Masters in 1934. They will drink a toast to him in his native Wales in honor of the player who competed in the 1926 British Open at the age of 15. The connection runs deep in Chicago as well. He was an accomplished teaching professional for 30 years at Oak Park Country Club before moving on to a 27-year stint at Butler National Golf Club, serving as the host of several Western Opens at the club. Anyone who sits around the grill room at Butler and mentions Ball’s name is likely to be there for a while because it seems as though every member has a favorite story about Ball. “He’s really one of a kind,” said Butler head professional Bruce Patterson, who was hired by Ball. “I remember once he had an interview when he was 85. A reporter asked, ‘Can you still shoot your age?’ Errie replied, ‘Only when I shoot really bad.’ ” For years, Patterson constantly told me, “You’ve got to go down to Willoughby to see Errie.” Finally I made the trip in March 2008. I remember walking into the pro shop and seeing a man with a full head of silver hair, sitting in the corner, watching TV. Initially, I didn’t think it was Ball since he looked much younger than the frail 97-year-old man I expected to meet. But sure enough, it was him. Ball greeted me with a firm hand shake. We chatted for a few minutes and then we were off to the range to watch Ball take a few swings. “This you have to see,” said Gerry Knebels, the head professional at Willoughby. Ball wrapped his hands around the driver with the same classic grip he had used for more than 90 years. His backswing was short and compact, definitely not as flowing as it would have been in his younger years. But when his club met the ball, the sound was unmistakable. There was the distinctive pop of center-cut contact. WWW.CDGA.ORG

BALL’S BEST FEW PLAYERS, IF ANY, saw more

Ball’s drive flew straight through the wind, landing nearly 200 yards out. Then the 97-year-old man did it again, and again and again. Admiring the robotic consistency of Ball’s shots, Knebels said, “That’s like breathing for you and me.” Indeed, Ball is living, breathing golf history. Soon we were off to lunch, and the stories began. He competed in nearly 50 majors. He played rounds with Bobby Jones, Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, you name it. It is the Masters that marks Ball’s most significant moment in the game. He was in the field for the first tournament at Augusta National in 1934. (It was then known as the Augusta National Invitation Tournament.) “Good Lord, I’ve outlived all of them,” Ball said. “Whew.” As a result, he is the only living witness who could recall what it was like to walk the fairways for that first gathering. Ball never gets tired of telling the story. The son of a golf professional, Ball says it was Jones who convinced him to come to the United States and work at East Lake Club in Atlanta. Ball’s uncle, Frank, was the head professional of the club (East Lake) that Jones called home. By the way, don’t refer to Jones as “Bobby” around Ball. “He never liked to be called ‘Bobby,’” Ball said. “He got that from the Scots. He always wanted to be called Bob.” Ball spoke with utmost reverence about Jones, and with good reason. Jones changed his life. “He was smart, brilliant,” Ball said. “He got his law degree in nothing flat. To me, he was one of the nicest people I ever met. He said, ‘Errie, I think you can do well over here.’ He was right.” Early on, Ball established his golf credentials with Jones by winning a local event. Jones even asked Ball to play some exhibition matches with him. Nelson used to call the 5-foot-6-inch Ball, “The little man with the big stick.” “Sam Snead and Gary Player said Errie had the best swing they ever NOVEMBER 2010

saw,” said Patterson. “He copied Bobby Jones’. Errie just had trouble with the putter.” Ball eventually left Atlanta to go to Mobile, but in 1934, he received a letter from Jones, inviting him to play in a new tournament at a new course called Augusta National. Ball didn’t think much of the event until he got the invitation. “I was thrilled to death,” Ball said. “We all were. We knew if Bob put his name on it, it would be top notch.” Ball, then 23, recalled thinking the course was beautiful. The atmosphere also was festive with on-course kegs and corn whiskey. Ball had a great time until the final round. He putted a ball off the green on what now is the 12th hole and wound up with an 86 to finish in a tie for 38th. “I couldn’t get out of there fast enough,” Ball said. Ball would return, earning a spot in the 1957 Masters. The 23 years between appearances still is a tournament record. “You could see how the tournament had grown,” Ball said. “The galleries were large, almost like it is today. You could see then and there it had become one of the majors.” The years have passed, but golf and Maxie, his wife of 75 years, still are at the center of his life. Patterson says of Ball, “Nobody has hit more balls or shot his age more in the history of golf than Errie.” As he approached 100, Ball had been a regular at the range, hitting balls and even giving an occasional lesson. However, he had a fall during the summer, which put him on the sidelines for a while. Ball, though, remained as upbeat as ever. Soon he was back at the club and looking forward to his big birthday. However, there’s a big downside from a golf perspective to turning 100. Now he’s really not pleased if he shoots his age.

golf history than Errie Ball. He played in the 1926 British Open at the age of 15. More than 80 years later, he still was active, hitting balls and giving lessons. Here is Ball’s breakdown of the best he’s seen in golf. Best driver: Sam Snead. “Long and straight. He had one of the best swings.” Best iron player: Tommy Armour. “Solid. He just hit everything so pure. He could put the ball wherever he wanted.” Best putter: Bobby Locke. “He could putt the eyes out. . . . Once he took a long time over a short putt. When he walked off the green (after making the putt), a man said to him, ‘Mr. Locke, you took a long time over that putt.’ Locke said, ‘Yeah, you know, I missed one once.’ ” Best showman: Walter Hagen. “I played behind him once at Pinehurst. On one hole, he missed a green to the right. He had some trees blocking him. He starts walking around forever, studying the shot. Meanwhile, I’m standing in the middle of the fairway. I thought he’d never get through. Finally, he hits his shot, and gets up and down for 4. Damned if I didn’t put my shot in the same spot. But when I walked up, I saw the opening was as big as a house. He was just showing off for the crowd . . . but I didn’t get my par.” Best competitor: Ben Hogan. “Nobody knew more about the game. He had it down to a science. When he went out on the golf course, he was determined to win. He wasn’t going to lose.” Best player: Tiger Woods. “He is the best I’ve ever seen. He has everything. If Bob Jones had the same equipment, I don’t know who would win. They would have a real go at it.”

Ed Sherman is a retired golf writer for the Chicago Tribune. CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 47

CDGA

FIRST AID Having created what he believes is a valuable teaching aid, Chad Johansen’s next goal is a widespread awareness of the device By Jim Owczarski

alking around the practice greens at Blackberry Oaks Golf Course in Bristol, Ill., Chad Johansen noticed something that disturbed him. Superintendent Steve Holich had them running as smoothly as the greens on the club’s 18 holes, but that wasn’t Johansen’s issue. What Johansen noticed was that they were too green. Johansen, the club’s head professional, had been prescribing his students a putting drill that included the use of a chalk line, yet he never saw the white powder on his practice greens. Not once. Outside of his lessons, it appeared as though none of his players were doing the drills, especially with a chalk line. He wondered why. Then a light bulb went on. He went to work, designing a putting aid that made the chalk line unnecessary,

48 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

yet would let golfers practice putting in the best way possible. The result was The Perfect Putting Aid, a portable device that has already made its way to players on the PGA, Champions and Futures tours and has been used by some of the country’s top amateurs. “I definitely like the concept behind it,” said Rockford’s Brad Benjamin, who won the 2009 U.S. Public Links and played in the 2010 Masters and U.S. Amateur. “I haven’t used it enough to have a drastic, or even important, opinion about it, but it’s just nice that someone would take into consideration something like that Caption and put the time and effort into it.” The aid, which sells for $170, features a white putting line (similar to the chalk line), a mirror to check head and shoulder position, three different distances to practice from and holes of two different widths to roll the ball through.

The tower helps to groove a putting stroke, providing a visual aid to check if a player’s stroke is on line. “It’s a really good training aid to help you work on the fundamentals of putting,” said John Wright. “I work with it a minimum of three times a week, sometimes four. I’ve noticed a definite improvement. I feel like from 13 (feet) out it’s kind of a crapshoot because there are so many different variables, like ball marks, but I like to think inside 12 feet, I’m an extremely good putter and inside 5 feet I don’t miss too often.” From idea to creation, the process included four revisions of the original prototype and took about seven months to get a finished product. But Johansen believes in the creation, which was completed in April, and his infectious personality and teaching style secured the endorsement of V1 Pro software company in late August. It’s an important connection for Johansen, as V1 is one of the most widely used video analysis companies for PGA teaching professionals. Of course, Johansen would like to see it as a regularly used practice tool by tour players. Until then, he’s working on the grassroots level with his golf academy at Blackberry Oaks. Club owner Gary Blocker has allowed WWW.CDGA.ORG

Johansen to market himself and his academy, as well as build a state-ofthe-art putting studio in the club’s pro shop. “He’s on the cutting edge with this stuff,” Blocker said. “As you know, the golf business right now is kind of in a strain because of the economy, so Chad is just looking for any way he can to get us more business out there and he’s come up with a lot of things. “We’re very happy, we’re very fortunate, to have him.” Johansen says he’s just as fortunate to have Blocker, who has let him run his academies, create The Perfect Putting Aid and experiment with new teaching methods, such as text-messaged and e-mailed video lessons. That freedom has also allowed him to speak to fellow Illinois PGA professionals about The Perfect Putting Aid. “If you want to grow your lesson book, you’ve got to lower people’s scores,” Johansen said. “How do you lower people’s scores? You have to get

Theoretically, by practicing with a much smaller target (above, left), the player will feel more comfortable when faced with a customary hole width (above, right).

them putting better; you putt on every hole.” Johansen is slowly getting the aid to his fellow pros, as well as high school and college coaches. There has been a soft launch of a website (theperfectputtingaid.com), but Johansen and some of the aid’s early users surmise there are bigger things on

the horizon. “He’s got to get it out to the masses,” Wright said. “He’s got a really good thing. It’s a good training aid that moves around easily. I look forward to watching it take off because he’s got a good thing.” Jim Owczarski is a sports writer for the Beacon News in Aurora.

NIQUE.

NOVEMBER 2010

CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 49

2010 CLUB CHAMPIONS Aldeen Golf Club

Broken Arrow Golf Club

Cress Creek Country Club

Fox Bend Golf Course

Chris Beto (Men’s)

Ryan Michals (Men’s) Kelly Sterling (Women’s)

Paul Krentz (Men’s) Kathy Stoterau (Women’s) Dave Mead (Men’s Senior)

Sumeet Arora (Men’s) Nancy Hatten (Women’s) Ernie Ellis (Men’s Senior) Nick Pavlik (Boys’ Junior) Courtney Williams (Girls’ Junior)

Arrowhead Country Club Troy Hoefflin (Men’s) Gina Riley (Women’s)

Brookhill Golf Course

Arrowhead Golf Club

Bryn Mawr Country Club

Dan Dempsey (Men’s) Steve Brown (Men’s Senior)

Scott Kaplan (Men’s) Angela Berman (Women’s) Robert Glick (Men’s Senior)

Barrington Hills Country Club

Josh Borchardt (Men’s)

Sally Douglas (Women’s)

Bull Valley Golf Club

Bartlett Hills Golf Club

Patrick Becker (Men’s) Janyce Dorr (Women’s)

Rick Dern (Men’s) Kathy Braun (Women’s) Rein Rager (Men’s Senior)

Beverly Country Club Craig McDonnell (Men’s) Erin Kielty (Women’s)

Big Foot Country Club Richard Pfeil (Men’s) Patti Petersen (Women’s) Richard Pfeil (Men’s Senior) Kevin Ryan (Boys’ Junior) Maggie Jacobson (Girls’ Junior)

Biltmore Country Club Rick Herdrich (Men’s) Katie Lopez (Women’s) Skip Tonigan (Men’s Senior) Sue Swail (Women’s Senior) Mike Stathakis (Boys’ Junior)

Black Sheep Golf Club Brian Baker (Men’s)

Blackberry Oaks Golf Course John Wright (Men’s)

Blackstone Golf Club Steven Cunningham (Men’s)

Bolingbrook Golf Club John Walsh (Men’s) Kathy Kazmar (Women’s)

Bonnie Brook Golf Course Billy White (Men’s) Laura Miller (Women’s)

Boulder Ridge Country Club Mike Dryden (Men’s) Pat McGough (Women’s) Mike Dryden (Men’s Senior) Alex Arakawa (Boys’ Junior) Kaelee Martin (Girls’ Junior)

Butler National Golf Club David Lind (Men’s) Michael Sullivan (Men’s Senior)

Butterfield Country Club Paul Moreschi (Men’s) Nancy Sullivan (Women’s) Chas Bellock (Men’s Senior)

Calumet Country Club Ken Larney (Men’s)

Cantigny Golf Glenn Przybylski (Men’s) Carol Cook (Women’s) Don Hall (Men’s Senior)

Cardinal Golf Club David Griffin (Men’s)

Charleston Country Club Jerry Myerscough (Men’s) Deb Landsaw (Women’s)

Chicago Highlands Jason Havens (Men’s) Danielle McDonald (Women’s)

Clinton Country Club Jeff Wisher (Men’s) Vickie Harbach (Women’s)

Cog Hill Golf & Country Club Christopher Beyer (Men’s) Gayle Green (Women’s) Steve Cass (Men’s Senior)

Conway Farms Golf Club

Crystal Tree Golf and Country Club

Coyote Creek Golf Club

Terry Werner (Men’s) Corinne Beavers (Women’s) Jim Kasprzyk (Men’s Senior)

Mel Emberton (Men’s)

Brian Frank (Men’s) Nancy Laser (Women’s)

Foxford Hills Golf Club

Crystal Woods Golf Club

Matthew Horwitch (Men’s) Nancy Ross (Women’s)

Richard Bender (Men’s) Therese Youel (Women’s)

Deerpath Golf Course Allen Davidson (Men’s) Ann Lerner (Women’s) Luke Massar (Boys’ Junior)

Dunes Club

Bob Kerbyson (Men’s)

The Glen Club

Glen View Club Jason Baine (Men’s) Bridget Schroeder (Women’s) Ben Perks (Men’s Senior)

Glencoe Golf Club

Larry Kolinski (Men’s) Jane Thompson (Women’s)

Arnold Levy (Men’s) Sandra Honaker (Women’s) Vince Militante (Men’s Senior)

Eagle Brook Country Club

Glenview Park Golf Club

Doug McCoy (Men’s) Sue Erwin (Women’s) John Carroll (Men’s Senior) Janet Kolbe (Women’s Senior)

Michael Sabo (Men’s) Mary Kay Prchal (Women’s) David Lee (Men’s Senior) David Atas (Boys’ Junior) Arina Kim (Girls’ Junior)

Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa Brian Botterweck (Men’s) Stephanie Easterling (Women’s)

Golf Club Of Illinois

East Bank Club

Green Acres Country Club

Ben Neeley (Men’s) Mary Prescott (Women’s)

Michael Slaven (Men’s) Celeste Center (Women’s) Keith Morton (Men’s Senior) Ben Udell (Boys’ Junior)

Edgewood Valley Country Club Jim Lynch (Men’s) Val Metcalf (Women’s)

Effingham Country Club Scott Kabbes (Men’s) Emily Calhoon (Women’s) Robert Nelson (Men’s Senior) Brandon Glotfelty (Boys’ Junior) Miranda Rolhfing (Girls’ Junior)

Country Club Of Peoria

Briar Ridge Country Club

Fox Run Golf Links

Steve Thompson (Men’s) Terri Kies (Women’s) Bob Wolski (Men’s Senior)

El Paso Golf Club

Greg Malak (Men’s)

50 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

Margaret Newsom (Women’s) Terrie Doherty (Women’s Senior) Luke Waggoner (Boys’ Junior)

Scott Rowe (Men’s) Reggie Timson (Women’s) Ron Porte (Men’s Senior) Matt Garrity (Boys’ Junior) Scot Frankenreider (Men’s) Lou Tenarvitz (Women’s) Dave Krick (Men’s Senior)

Bowes Creek Country Club

Crystal Lake Country Club

Gary Hanson (Men’s)

Harrison Park Golf Course Gary Hansgen (Men’s) Marsha Gritton (Women’s)

Hawthorn Woods Country Club Kevin Rafferty (Men’s) Sharon Trevino (Women’s) Dan Jones (Men’s Senior) Max Kozak (Boys’ Junior)

Andy Mickelson (Men’s) Roxane Schulkins (Women’s)

Hickory Point Golf Course

Elgin Country Club

The Highlands of Elgin Golf Club

Scott Mattas (Men’s) Kate Johnson (Women’s)

Scott Cahill (Men’s) Jeff Lange (Men’s Senior)

Forest Hills Country Club

Hillcrest Country Club

Jeff Holmgaard (Men’s) Marissa Milos (Women’s) Doug Smith (Men’s Senior)

Jason Price (Men’s) Lori Israel (Women’s) Les Block (Men’s Senior)

Kraig Rogers (Men’s)

Crane Creek Golf Course

Hinsdale Golf Club

Lynn McKibben (Men’s) Paul Dorethy (Men’s Senior)

Steve Swanson (Men’s) Linda Moran (Women’s) Jack Cooper (Men’s Senior) Curtiss House (Boys’ Junior) WWW.CDGA.ORG

Hubbard Trail Country Club

Lake Shore Country Club

Medinah Country Club

Pekin Country Club

Michael Davan (Men’s) Denise Bray (Women’s)

Steve Putzel (Men’s) Terri D’Ancona (Women’s)

Hughes Creek Golf Club

Lakeview Country Club

Scott Boan (Men’s)

Doug McCoy (Men’s) Jeanna Short (Women’s)

Douglas Auw (Men’s) Keiko Kushida (Women’s) Robert Fates (Men’s Senior) Ricky Gattone (Boys’ Junior) Dana Gattone (Girls’ Junior)

Ed Ghelardini (Men’s) Kelly Aussieker (Women’s) Ron Juricic (Men’s Senior) Connor Cordts (Boys’ Junior) Brittney Hill (Girls’ Junior)

Merit Club

Pheasant Valley Men’s Club

April Freiburger (Women’s)

Pete Weiand (Men’s) Bill Weiand (Men’s Senior)

Idlewild Country Club Joseph Wolski (Men’s) Lynn Gaby (Women’s)

Illini Country Club

Lansing Country Club Chuck Starcevich III (Men’s) Melissa Kerr (Women’s)

Nichole Inkel-Pongracz (Women’s)

Lick Creek Golf Course

Indian Hill Club

Ed Whitaker (Men’s) Terry Schoedel (Men’s Senior)

Alex Moore (Men’s) Jan Douaire (Women’s) Lloyd Ferguson (Men’s Senior) Anne Murphy (Women’s Senior) Jack Lindblad (Boys’ Junior) Rebecca Lindblad (Girls’ Junior)

Indian Oaks Country Club Kyle Davis (Men’s) Kristen Richardson (Women’s)

Inverness Golf Club William Fitton (Men’s) Liz Rodney (Women’s)

Jacksonville Country Club Jim Costello (Men’s) Karen Benton (Women’s)

Kankakee Elks Country Club Damon Jensen (Men’s) Liz Gore (Women’s)

Kemper Lakes Golf Club Scott Rech (Men’s) Diane Ferron (Women’s) Hudson Luthringshausen (Boys’ Junior)

Kishwaukee Country Club Nick Schiavi (Men’s) Deb Norman (Women’s) Lou Cesarek (Men’s Senior) Jimmy Russell (Boys’ Junior) Maggie Russell (Girls’ Junior)

Knollwood Club Alisun Blanda (Women’s) Peter Marshall (Boys’ Junior)

LaGrange Country Club Robert Powers (Men’s) Jill Christiansen (Women’s) Michael Harms (Men’s Senior) Peter Swanson (Boys’ Junior)

Lake Barrington Shores GC Ron Spears (Men’s) Dolores Rood (Women’s) Howard Knickels (Men’s Senior)

Lake Geneva Country Club Dick Pfeil (Men’s) Linda Ellis (Women’s) Bart Love (Men’s Senior)

Lake of the Woods Golf Course Kyle Hoch (Men’s) Kathryn Spitz (Women’s) Roger Odle (Men’s Senior) NOVEMBER 2010

Lincoln Oaks Golf Course Mark Haines (Men’s) Lindsey Haines (Women’s)

Lincolnshire Fields Country Club Tom Sternburg (Men’s) Barbara Harrington (Women’s) Dave Keeling (Men’s Senior)

Lockport Golf and Recreation Club Drew Anderson (Men’s) Libby Hollatz (Women’s)

Lost Dunes Kevin Gratkowski (Men’s) Debbie Rugg (Women’s)

Makray Memorial Golf Club Larry Brady (Men’s) Colleen McArthur (Women’s)

Minne Monesse Golf Course Bobby Shane (Men’s) John Brindley (Men’s Senior)

Mission Hills Country Club Tony Broomhead (Men’s) Mary Pendergast (Women’s)

Morris Country Club Grant Whybark (Men’s) Cheri Russell (Women’s)

Mt. Hawley Country Club Brooks Biggs (Men’s) Jeanne Parkhurst (Women’s)

North Shore Country Club Phil Kenny (Men’s) Julie McCarron (Women’s) Bob Lorenz (Men’s Senior) Matt Murphy (Boys’ Junior) Caroline Newell (Girls’ Junior)

Northmoor Country Club

Frank Marassa (Men’s) Sharon Dionne (Women’s)

Noah Kraff (Men’s) Susie Greenberg (Women’s) Vic Proeh (Men’s Senior) Chase Nathan (Boys’ Junior) Liza Kraff (Girls’ Junior)

Marengo Ridge Golf and CC

Old Wayne Golf Club

Manteno GC and Learning Center

Terry McKenna Sr. (Men’s) Clara Hellmann (Women’s) Lenny Haines (Men’s Senior)

John Kumor (Men’s)

Olympia Fields Country Club

Pine Meadow Golf Club Steven Jacobs (Men’s) Jane Nam (Women’s) Kerry Dean (Men’s Senior) Doug Ghim (Boys’ Junior) Rachel Lawless (Girls’ Junior)

Plum Tree National Golf Club Brent Filetti (Men’s) Ruthie Coffey (Women’s) Dave Harris (Men’s Senior)

Pontiac Elks Country Club Mike Cushing (Men’s) Nicki Rosenbaum (Women’s)

Pottawatomie Golf Club Gary Knight (Men’s) Kathy Braun (Women’s) Ken Harris (Men’s Senior) Taylor Kanute (Boys’ Junior) Ariana Furrie (Girls’ Junior)

Prairie Landing Golf Club Curt Frank (Men’s)

PrairieView Golf Club Brian Silvers (Men’s) Carla Leddy (Women’s) Bill Stevenson (Men’s Senior) Brady Szuminski (Boys’ Junior) Elizabeth Curtiss (Girls’ Junior)

Derek Meinhart (Men’s) Barbara Haberer (Women’s)

Michael Haberkorn (Men’s) Kathy Mehl (Women’s) Robert Topel (Men’s Senior) Mickey Brick (Boys’ Junior)

The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club

Onwentsia Club

Johnny Canova (Men’s) Cindy Jacobson (Women’s) Al Bjork (Men’s Senior) Pat Rosonke (Women’s Senior)

James Altounian II (Men’s) Linda Steers (Women’s) Sam Lytle (Boys’ Junior)

Redtail Golf Club

Palatine Hills Golf Course

Renwood Golf Course

Jared Steger (Men’s) Kim Dickerson (Women’s) Gibsyn Martin (Boys’ Junior) Alexis Bauer (Girls’ Junior)

Andrew Wilson (Men’s) Betty Spanley (Women’s)

Mattoon Golf & Country Club

McHenry Country Club Jim Kinney (Men’s) Char McLear (Women’s) Paul Wray (Men’s Senior) Alek Byers (Boys’ Junior)

Meadows Golf Club of Blue Island Tim Granville (Men’s) Corey Bailey (Women’s) Tony Grucel (Men’s Senior) Lauren Catinella (Women’s Senior) Luke Vidovic (Boys’ Junior) Maggie Casey (Girls’ Junior)

Panther Creek Country Club Dale Blankenship (Men’s) Amy Erickson (Women’s) Dale Blankenship (Men’s Senior) Pam Sherry (Women’s Senior) Jake Marriott (Boys’ Junior) Maggie Ambrose (Girls’ Junior)

Park Ridge Country Club Craig Petersen (Men’s) Lisa Simpson (Women’s) Luke Wlodarski (Boys’ Junior) Katie Krall (Girls’ Junior)

Ravinia Green Country Club Richard Fahn (Men’s) Karan Schneider (Women’s)

Red Tail Run GC Dave White (Men’s) Neal Golyshko (Men’s)

Ridge Country Club Marty Hynes (Men’s) Belinda Lusk (Women’s)

Ridgemoor Country Club Kevin Luttrell (Men’s) Dawn Puch (Women’s) Jack Burns (Boys’ Junior)

River Forest Country Club Bill Haggerty (Men’s) Karen Cushing (Women’s) Ho Yeal Yu (Men’s Senior)

CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER | 51

Riverside Golf Club

Sanctuary Golf Course

Sportsmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Country Club

White Eagle Golf Club

John Maentanis (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Geri McLauchlan (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) David Alderman (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Dan Hubert (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Glenn Przybylski (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Kathy Kazmar (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Herbert Charles Dollarhide (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Marcia Englert (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Will Knights (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Janet Robinson (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Bret Carroll (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Amy Binstein (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) John Brandell (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Brian Ohr (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Ron Potter (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Marilyn Pauls (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Ron Potter (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Steven Powers (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Mallika Bhandari (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Rochelle Country Club

Spring Creek Golf Course Nicholas Potthoff (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Kathy Potthoff (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Philip Nanni (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Bekki Prokup (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

White Hawk Country Club

Todd Linna (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

St. Andrews Golf and Country Club

Rockford Country Club

Shoreacres

Ted Zurkowski (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Bob Balnis (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior)

Dana Kiley (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Pam Keeling (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Christopher Burke (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Weezie Kramer (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Christopher Burke (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Fitz Bowen (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Mark Prysmiki (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Merritt Cook (Senior Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Josh Johnson (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Phyllis Roe (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Rock River Golf and Pool Preston Boyd (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Deena Thatcher (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Royal Fox Country Club Eric Heil (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Pat Laverty (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Royal Melbourne Steve Feldman (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Mary McCarthy (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Steve Feldman (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Mary McCarthy (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Ian Kelsey (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Nicole Crosby (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Ruffled Feathers Golf Club Jim Keefe (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Janet Klas (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Scovill Golf Club John Cremer (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crook Golf Course

Soangetaha Country Club Coby Thompson (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Mary Robson (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Joe Deets (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Joey Juergens (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Katarina Mangieri (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

South Side Country Club Arthur Binder (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Jody Bickes (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Jack Rebert (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Shane Hawkins (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

St. Charles Country Club Randy Spring (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Christine Kluck (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Matthew Vale (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Stonebridge Country Club Bob Carlson (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Emily Miller (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Curt Stoelting (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Joyce Duncan (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Brian Salerno (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Kelly Anderson (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Stonewall Orchard Golf Club Scott Dessing (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Sunset Ridge Country Club Phil Callahan (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Dianne Weller (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Craig Clough (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Brendan Gallagher (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Sycamore Hills Golf Club Chad Gann (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Tamarack Golf Club Matt Ingemi (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Bernadette Sims (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Carl Keller (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior)

At Cantigny Golf Academy, Our Season is just getting started. :LQWHU LV FRPLQJ EXW WKDWÂˇV QR UHDVRQ WR VWRS LPSURYLQJ \RXU JDPH 7KH &DQWLJQ\ *ROI $FDGHP\ FDQ KHOS :H RIIHU FOLPDWH FRQWUROOHG KLWWLQJ ED\V DQG PXFK PRUHÂł IURP SURIHVVLRQDO LQVWUXFWLRQ DQG YLGHR FRDFKLQJ VWXGLRV WR JROI VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;F SK\VLFDO WUDLQLQJ DQG FXVWRP FOXEĂ&#x20AC;WWLQJ $OO RI WKH HVVHQWLDO FRPSRQHQWV RI JROI SHUIRUPDQFH DUH LQ RQH SODFH &RPH VHH IRU \RXUVHOI HYHQ ZKHQ WKH VQRZ Ă LHV

Timber Creek Golf Club Matt Hageman (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Mimi Boysen (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Steve Kwasigroch (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Jennifer Vinovich (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

White Pines Golf Club

Whitetail Ridge Golf Club Sumeet Arora (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Nancey Porro (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Greg Haldeman (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior)

Winnetka Golf Club Brent Brouse (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Jeanne Scherer (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Patrick Dowdle (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Marie Yellen (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Michael Phillips (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Dana Gullen (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Wolf Creek Golf Club Norm Burton (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Joan Varner (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Joe Elliott (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior)

Woodbine Golf Course Matt Moss (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

Woodstock Country Club Patrick Kulisek (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Ellen Hamilton (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Walter Leucht (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior) Michael Hartlieb (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior) Lok-Yan Fick (Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Youche Country Club George Kostoff (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Nancy Forsythe (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Bryan Boettger (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior)

Urbana Country Club Tom Brown (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Laura Schmitt (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) C. G. Facer (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Village Links Of Glen Ellyn Steve Kois (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Alison Bassetto (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Danny Schlesser (Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Junior)

Westmoreland Country Club Tom Wiscomb (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) Holly Mayfield (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

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Scott Wessel (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) R.G. Francis (Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senior)

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52 | CHICAGO DISTRICT GOLFER

WWW.CDGA.ORG

A SP ECIAL I NVI TAT ION P l a y t h e t w o m o s t s t o r i e d g o l f c o u r s e s o n t h e We s t C o a s t

hether you are anticipating playing the most exciting closing hole in golf or simply relishing walking in the footsteps of golf’s greatest names, we invite you to become part of the legend on the courses of Pebble Beach Resorts. This winter, you have the unique opportunity to play Pebble Beach Golf Links and Del Monte Golf Course — the Champions Tour courses of the First Tee Open at Pebble Beach. YOUR STAY & PLAY PACKAGE INCLUDES: • • • •

Two Nights at The Lodge at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay One Round of golf on Pebble Beach Golf Links One Round of golf on Del Monte Golf Course $100 Gift Card for 2010 U.S. Open commemorative merchandise

Package price starts at $1,495. Offer valid November 21, 2010 through March 31, 2011.*

(Please inquire about playing our other courses including Spyglass Hill Golf Course and The Links at Spanish Bay.)

Teei ng up at P ebbl e B ea ch p la ces y o u a mo ng th e legend s o f go lf.

CALL RESORT RESERVATIONS TODAY AT (866) 993-6949 FOR PACKAGE DETAILS Please mention promo code CDGA2

www.PebbleBeach.com *Offer is valid November 21, 2010 through March 31, 2011. Subject to availability. Some restrictions and blackout dates may apply. Offer may not be used in conjunction with any other packages or promotions. $100 gift card is valid for 2010 U.S. Open merchandise at The Shops of Pebble Beach Resorts only and must be redeemed during your package stay. Valid for new bookings only and parties of 8 or fewer rooms. Pebble Beach Company reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time. © 2010 Pebble Beach Company. All Rights Reserved. Photos by © Joann Dost.

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