Official PGA TOUR Essential Guide to Golf: December 2022 - May 2023

WELCOME

Welcome to this issue of the PGA TOUR Essential Guide to Golf

Having crowned our 16th FedExCup champion in 2021-22, this edition showcases and brings to life the success of the PGA TOUR’s top stars including FedExCup champion Rory McIlroy and PGA TOUR Player of the Year Scottie Scheffler. It also chronicles the uprise of young stars including 2022 PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year, Cameron Young. The Essential Guide then takes a look ahead, updating you on the exciting new developments on the PGA TOUR from our tournaments to our players. If you are a fan of the PGA TOUR, I know you’ll enjoy every page. Thank you for your support of the PGA TOUR.

With best wishes, Jay Monahan PGA TOUR Commissioner

THREE TIMES A WINNER!

Rory McIlroy’s TOUR Championship victory at East Lake Golf Club in August 2022 won him the FedExCup for a record third time. Here’s a look back at those three remarkable occasions.

Celebrating his onestroke victory with a fist pump on the 18th green.

PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan presents Rory McIlroy with the FedExCup.

 Rory McIlroy celebrates with the FedExCup after winning the TOUR Championship.

In 2019, the FedExCup is engraved with Rory McIlroy’s name for a second time.

Acknowledging the fans on the 18th green following the TOUR Championship.

A second victory, as McIlroy proudly holds aloft the FedExCup.

The hard work pays off for Rory McIlroy, here with the FedExCup and trophy in 2016.

2019 2016

Celebrarting a first FedExCup win with his caddie J.P. Fitzgerald, after holing a birdie putt to defeat Ryan Moore on the fourth playoff hole.

Sensing a win, McIlroy drives on the 16th hole during the final round of the TOUR Championship.

PGA TOUR Season

The PGA TOUR goes from strength to strength as it continues to deliver an exciting line-up of enhancements

COVER STORY: FedExCup Champion by DAVE SHEDLOSKI

Rory McIlroy’s extraordinary TOUR Championship victory spirited him to become the man of the moment

Reaping the Rewards by STAN AWTREY

The PGA TOUR Champions’ season-long battle for the 2022 Charles Schwab Cup concluded in style with sizzling drama

COVER STORY

For a record third time, Rory McIlroy wins the 2022 FedExCup.

On the Tee, guest comment by TOM YANTZ The Game that Honors Individuality—golfers have their own styles, their own strengths, their own ways

Finau’s Fortunes by CAMERON MORFIT Tony Finau opened the floodgates in 2022 with back-to-back wins

Rookie of the Year, 2022 Cameron Young’s best shots of the 2021-22 season earned him the Arnold Palmer Award

All to Play For by KEVIN PRISE

Intense player competition to gain a PGA TOUR card marks the Korn Ferry Tour with drama and many vibrant performances

Defining Moments for JERRY KELLY, TONY FINAU, RORY MCILROY, TOM KIM, STEVEN ALKER Magical, career-altering triumphs shine a light on a crosssection of 2022-23 grand performances 75 All Paths Lead to the PGA TOUR by LAURY LIVSEY The TOUR’s International Tours are vital stepping-stones for those players on their way to the top

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PGA TOUR Player of the Year

A warm endorsement of Scottie Scheffler’s success and popularity, as TOUR players themselves cast their votes

A Lifetime Achievement – Billy Andrade by HELEN ROSS

Character, sportsmanship, and a dedication to charitable giving are key qualities that define Billy Andrade, the worthy recipient of the Payne Stewart Award, 2022

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TGL – Game On! by MICHAEL LORÉ

2024 sees the rollout of a new technology-infused golf league created by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in partnership with the PGA TOUR

91 A Culture of Success by SEAN MARTIN

Turning pro is a tough call but the many challenges are relished by the talent graduating from PGA TOUR University 96 Tiger’s Guiding Light by JIM MCCABE

Tiger Woods turned mentor when 30 boys and 30 girls were chosen to take part in the inaugural TGR JR Invitational presented by TaylorMade 100 Great Golf Adventures

Planning a new golf adventure or returning to a favorite destination, the choices this spring and summer have never looked more attractive 124 The Presidents Cup by RON GREEN JR

The huge fan attendance, the excitement and moments of high drama, continue to elevate this sparkling event 130

On The Record by JUSTIN RAY

A top-10 of the PGA TOUR on-course numbers that shaped a memorable 2022 134 In the Zone Products • Services • Announcements

Tony Finau found form once again in 2022-23, securing two more PGA TOUR victories.

2022-23 FEDEXCUP SEASON

THE PGA TOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO GOL F, PART 1 COVERS THE FIRST HALF OF THE SEASON.

140 A Glittering New Season Lies Ahead by DAVID BARRETT

There will be heightened excitement at many PGA TOUR events in the coming months, with the world’s top players vying for mega prize increases

141 Fortinet Championship

Silverado Resort and Spa (North Course), Napa, Calif. September 11 - 17 142 Sanderson Farms Championship

Country Club of Jackson, Jackson, Miss. September 29 - October 2

Shriners Children’s Open

TPC Summerlin Las Vegas, Nev. October 6 - 9

ZOZO Championship

Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club, Chiba Prefecture, Japan October 13 - 16 145 The CJ Cup in South Carolina

Congaree Golf Club, Ridgeland, S.C. October 14 - 17 146

Butterfield Bermuda Championship

Port Royal Golf Course, Southampton, Bermuda October 27 - 30 147

World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba

El Cameleón Golf Club at the Mayakoba Resort, Playa del Carmen, Mexico November 3 - 6

Billy Andrade has been honored as the 2022 recipient of the Payne Stewart Award.

CHOOSE BETTER. PLAY BETTER.

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5 EXERCISES FOR THE PERFECT GOLF WARM-UP

By Dr. Andrew Creighton

A good warm-up prepares the body to withstand the demands of a sport. The focus should be on joint mobilization and muscle activation. Golfers most commonly experience low back pain and injuries in the elbow and wrist. Include the following five areas in your warmup to decrease pain and increase power.

1. Core and gluteal strengthening

Recommended exercises:

■ McGill Big 3: (curl-up, side-plank and “bird-dog”) These exercises work on core stability while sparing the spine excessive load. Do the circuit 3 times with 10 reps of each exercise per circuit.

■ Basic squat: Push out your hands or hold a golf club across your shoulder blades and connect a belt above knees. Try to “bend” the golf club to activate the latissimus muscles and push against the belt to activate glutes. Hinge from the hips. Spread the floor with your feet and push out with your knees. Spend 6 seconds going down and 2 seconds going up. Stop lowering when the lower spine begins to flex. Complete three rounds with 10 repetitions per round.

2.

Hip and ankle mobility

Recommended exercises:

■ Place a golf club across your shoulders and plant your feet as if you were going to squat. Rotate your hips to each side. Slightly roll onto the inside and outside of the feet as you twist. Do 3 rounds with 10 repetitions each way.

■ Repeat the first exercise, but this time lift one leg so that just the big toe is touching the ground. Do 3 rounds with 10 repetitions each way.

3. Upper back mobility

Recommended exercises:

■ Clasp your hands behind your head and raise your elbows to activate the upper back. You can also stand to the side of the golf cart and lean into the cart. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds, repeating 5 to 10 times.

■ Hinge slightly at the hips like you are about to take a swing. Clasp your hands behind your head and bring your elbows together, then spread them apart. Do 3 rounds with 10 repetitions each round.

4.

Elbow and wrist mobility

Recommended exercise:

■ Roll the wrist up, down and side-to-side. After one round, add resistance by holding a golf club. Do 3 rounds per hand and 10 repetitions (one repetition includes all four directions).

5.

Coordinated full-body movement

Recommended exercise:

■ Brace your core and push your hands into your hips, extending the hips back. Lift one leg off the ground behind you. Slowly rotate the leg internally and externally. Do 3 rounds with 10 repetitions (internal and external rotation) each round. Repeat on the other leg. If you can’t balance with the leg in the air, touch the reaching leg to the ground.

Andrew Creighton, M.D., a physiatrist at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), specializes in acute and chronic musculoskeletal, sports and spine conditions. A former collegiate golfer and current competitive amateur golfer, Dr. Creighton’s research interests focus on the complex biomechanics of the golf swing.

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Cadence Bank Houston Open

Memorial Park Golf Course, Houston, Texas

November 11 - 14

The RSM Classic

Sea Island Resort, St. Simons Island, Ga.

November 16 - 19

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Sentry Tournament of Champions

The Plantation Course at Kapalua, Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii

January 5 - 8

Sony Open in Hawaii

Waialae Country Club, Honolulu, Hawaii

January 12 - 15

152

The American Express

PGA West (Stadium Course, Nicklaus Tournament Course) and La Quinta Country Club, La Quinta, Calif.

January 19 - 22

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Farmers Insurance Open

Torrey Pines Golf Course, La Jolla, Calif.

January 25 - 28

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Pebble Beach Golf Links (host course), Spyglass Hill Golf Course, Monterey Peninsula Country Club, Pebble Beach, Calif.

February 2 - 5

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WM Phoenix Open

TPC Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Ariz.

February 9 - 12

The Genesis Invitational

The Riviera Country Club, Pacific Palisades, Calif.

February 16 - 19

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The Honda Classic

PGA National Resort & Spa (Champion), Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

February 23 - 26

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Winning the Mexico Open at Vidanta gave Jon Rahm a seventh career victory.

167 Valspar Championship

Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course), Palm Harbor, Fla. March 16 - 19

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WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play

Austin Country Club, Austin, Texas March 22 - 26

Corales Puntcana Championship

Puntacana Resort & Club Corales Golf Course, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic March 23 - 26

171

Valero Texas Open

TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course), San Antonio, Texas March 30 - April 2

174 Masters Tournament

Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Ga. April 6 - 9

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RBC Heritage

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164

Arnold

Palmer Invitational Presented by Mastercard

Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando, Fla.

March 2 - 5

Puerto Rico Open

Grand Reserve Country Club, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

March 2 - 5

THE PLAYERS Championship

THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, Ponte

Vedra Beach, Fla.

March 9 - 12

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Harbour Town Golf Links, Hilton Head Island, S.C. April 13 - 16

Zurich Classic of New Orleans

TPC Louisiana, New Orleans, La. April 20 - 23

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Mexico Open at Vidanta

Vidanta Vallarta, Vallarta, Mexico April 27 - 30

Wells Fargo Championship

Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, N.C. May 4 - 7

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Tournament Editor

Editorial

Emmanuel Berhanu

Design

Friyan Mehta

Production Director

Joanna Harrington

Production

Delicia Tasinda

Ray Walsh

Office Coordinator

Tabita Minculet

The Official PGA TOUR Essential Guide

2022-23, Part 1, is published by BH Sports under license from PGA TOUR, Inc. Tel: (312) 572 7728

Email: tourgolf@bhsports.net

© BH Sports, 2023. All rights reserved.

All material in the Official PGA TOUR Essential Guide 2022-23, Part 1 is wholly copyrighted, and reproduction, without the written permission of the Publisher, is strictly forbidden.

The information in this publication is carefully researched and produced in good faith, however, neither the Publisher nor the Editors can accept responsibility for any errors.

Printed in the USA

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AT&T Byron Nelson

TPC Craig Ranch, McKinney, Texas May 11 - 14

PGA Championship

Oak Hill Country Club (East), Rochester, N.Y. May 18 - 21

Charles Schwab Challenge

Colonial Country Club, Fort Worth, Texas May 25 - 28

2023 PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS

THE PGA TOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO GOLF, PART 1 COVERS THE FIRST HALF OF THE SEASON.

186

Introduction by DAVID BARRETT

Additional events and increased prize money add sparkle to the PGA TOUR Champions’ new season

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Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Haulalai

Hualalai Golf Course, Ka’upulehu-Kona, Hawaii

January 19 - 21

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Trophy Hassan II

Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, Rabat, Morocco February 9 - 11

Chubb Classic

Tiburon Golf Club (Black Course), Naples, Fla.

February 17 - 19

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Cologuard Classic

Omni National Tucson Resort, Tucson, Ariz. March 3 - 5

Bernard Langer opened with a 64, going on to win the 2022 Chubb Classic.

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Collecting a fourth Champions major, Steve Stricker won the 2022 Regions Tradition.

Hoag Classic

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Newport Beach Country Club, Newport Beach, Calif. March 17 - 19

189 The Galleri Classic

Mission Hills Country Club, Rancho Mirage, Calif. March 24 - 26

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Invited Celebrity Classic

Las Colinas Country Club, Irving, Texas April 21 - 23

Insperity Invitational

The Woodlands Country Club, The Woodlands, Texas April 28 - 30

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Mitsubishi Electric Classic

TPC Sugarloaf, Duluth, Ga.

May 5 - 7

192 Regions Tradition

Greystone Golf & Country Club (Founder Course), Birmingham, Ala. May 11 - 14

192

KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship

PGA Frisco (Fields Ranch East), Frisco, Texas May 25 - 28

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The Last Word by STAN AWTREY

Recently honored with the Payne Stewart Award, Billy Andrade may just have had a little help from his friend

Publisher & CEO

Kevin J. Harrington Managing Editor

Charles Ford

David Barrett

COVER: RORY MCILROY

FedExCup Champion, 2022

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Championship Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead), Palm Harbor, Fla.

The PGATOUREssentialGuidetoGolf, part 1, covers the first half of the season

THE NEW PGA TOUR SEASON

The PGA TOUR goes from strength to strength as it continues to deliver an exciting line-up of enhancements

The robust slate of events for the 2022-23 season, with elevated purses and commitments from top players, is the result of an ongoing process of collaboration between the TOUR and its top players. “Our top players are firmly behind the TOUR,” Commissioner Monahan said at the TOUR Championship, where Rory McIlroy won his third FedExCup title. “Helping us deliver an unmatched product to our fans, who will be all but guaranteed to see the best players competing against each other in 20 events or more throughout the season. This is an extraordinary and unprecedented commitment, a testament to who these guys are and what they believe in.”

Bringing the top players in the game together more often is a huge win for both fans and partners.

NEWS AND DEVELOPMENTS

The new 2022-23 FedExCup Season schedule presents 47 tournaments, featuring 44 Regular Season events and three FedExCup Playoffs events, culminating with the crowning of the 2023 FedExCup champion at the TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, August 21-27.

As announced in June 2022, qualification criteria for the FedExCup Playoffs have been revised starting in 2023, with just 70 players earning a start in the first Playoffs event, the FedEx

St. Jude Championship, followed by 50 players advancing to the BMW Championship, with the TOUR Championship field remaining at 30 players.

The season’s schedule includes record prize money and eight invitationals spread throughout, with players competing for elevated purses ranging from $15 to $25 million. The bonus pools totaling $145 million include $75 million for the FedExCup, $20 million for the Comcast Business TOUR TOP 10 and $50 million for the Player Impact Program.

“We’ve heard from our fans, and the overwhelming sentiment was that they wanted more consequences for both the FedExCup Regular Season and the Playoffs, and to further strengthen events that traditionally feature top players competing head-tohead,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan. “We feel strongly we’ve accomplished all of these objectives and more, creating a cadence of compelling drama for every tournament throughout the season. Each week has its own identity and purpose, and we’re set up for an exciting 2022-23 campaign as we transition into a calendar season in 2024 that will include a number of new and innovative competitive aspects in the fall.”

The 70 players who qualify for the first Playoff event will be fully exempt for the following season as the TOUR transitions to a calendar-year season beginning in 2024 with the core portion

of the FedExCup contested from January to August. Following the core FedExCup season, official PGA TOUR events will be conducted in the fall, where all players with status for the 202223 FedExCup Season will be eligible to compete. Those outside of the top 70 will compete for FedExCup points in a compelling, consequential final stretch to secure status for 2024. Following the fall events, the TOUR will introduce a series of international events that include the top 50 players from the final FedExCup Points list, the top performers in the fall and additional eligibility as part of a limited-field, no-cut format.

THE 2022-23 PGA TOUR SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

The 17th edition of the FedExCup Playoffs features three events, all carried by network partner CBS in 2023.

X FedEx St. Jude Championship (August 7-13) at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, with a 70-player field.

X BMW Championship (August 14-20) at Olympia Fields Country Club in Olympia Fields, Illinois, with a 50-player field. The FedEx St. Jude Championship and the BMW Championship feature significant increases in prize money, from $15 million to $20 million.

X Supported by Proud Partners Accenture, Coca-Cola and Southern Company, the TOUR Championship (August 21-27) at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta will feature the top 30 players in the FedExCup standings.

X With only 70 players earning a spot in the first FedExCup Playoffs event, the Wyndham Championship (July 31-August 6) will take on an even more significant role in determining who qualifies for the Playoffs. The Wyndham Championship will also be the final event in the Comcast Business TOUR TOP 10, where the top-10 performers earn bonus money for performance in the Regular Season. In addition to the two Playoffs events, six invitationals will see significant increases in purse sizes in 2023:

X Kicking off the 2023 portion of the season, the Sentry Tournament of Champions (January 2-8) will have a purse of $15 million, up from $8.2 million in 2022.

X Three player-hosted invitationals, The Genesis Invitational (February 13-19) hosted by Tiger Woods, the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard (February 27-March 5) and the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday (May 29June 4) hosted by Jack Nicklaus will see purses increase from $12 million to $20 million.

X Also with purses elevated to $20 million, and guaranteed appearances by the TOUR’s top players in 2023, are the WM Phoenix Open, RBC Heritage, Wells Fargo Championship and Travelers Championship.

X With support from Proud Partners Grant Thornton, Morgan Stanley and Optum, the TOUR’s flagship event, THE PLAYERS Championship (March 6-12), includes a PGA TOUR-record purse of $25 million, up from $20 million in 2022.

X The World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play (March 20-26) will once again feature 64 of the world’s top players competing for $20 million up from $12 million.

X After a successful debut as a co-sanctioned event, the Genesis Scottish Open (July 10-16) will be featured on both the PGA

TOUR and the DP World Tour schedule ahead of The Open Championship (July 17-23) at Royal Liverpool. Additionally, the PGA TOUR’s Barbasol Championship (July 10-16) and Barracuda Championship (July 17-23) will offer access to DP World Tour members for the second straight year.

X After the Sentry Tournament of Champions (January 2-8) and the Sony Open in Hawaii (January 9-15)—celebrating its 25th year with Sony as title sponsor—launch the 2023 calendar year, the TOUR heads to California for The American Express (January 16-22) with its pro-am format in La Quinta.

X With a crowded weekend sports calendar, the Farmers Insurance Open (January 23-29) in San Diego will feature a Saturday finish (January 28) for the second consecutive year.

X The TOUR then heads up the coast to the Monterey Peninsula for the celebrity-laden AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (January 30-February 5) followed by the WM Phoenix Open (February 6-12) at TPC Scottsdale. The WM Phoenix Open will be played the same week as the NFL’s Super Bowl, which will also be contested in the Phoenix area.

X The Florida Swing includes five events, with four events in Florida and the Puerto Rico Open (February 27- March 5) which is played alongside the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard. The Honda Classic (February 20-26), THE PLAYERS Championship (March 6-12) and the Valspar Championship (March 13-19) round off the Florida events.

X Now in its second season as an official event on the PGA TOUR schedule, the Mexico Open at Vidanta (April 24-30) is preceded by the two-player team format of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans (April 17-23) and followed by the Wells Fargo Championship (May 1-7), which returns to North Carolina and Quail Hollow Club.

X There are five official FedExCup events in Texas throughout the 2022-23 PGA TOUR Season: the Cadence Bank Houston Open (November 7-13), played for the third consecutive year at Memorial Park Golf Course; the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play (March 20-26) in Austin played concurrently with the Corales Puntacana Championship in the Dominican Republic; the Valero Texas Open (March 27-April 2) in San Antonio prior to the Masters Tournament; and the AT&T Byron Nelson (May 8-14) and the Charles Schwab Challenge (May 22-28) to bookend the PGA Championship (May 15-21), which will be played at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York, one of two events held in the northeast alongside the Travelers Championship (June 19-25) in Cromwell, Connecticut.

X RBC serves as title sponsor for two events, the RBC Heritage (April 10-16), held the week after the Masters Tournament, and the RBC Canadian Open (June 5-11), to be played for the first time at Oakdale Golf & Country Club in Toronto, the week prior to the U.S. Open (June 12-18) in Los Angeles.

X Notable date changes include the Rocket Mortgage Classic (June 26-July 2) which moves from late July to late June, and the 3M Open (July 24-30) which will slide one week later in the calendar as the penultimate event in the FedExCup Regular Season. The TOUR’s long-running Midwest event, the John Deere Classic (July 3-9), will once again precede the Genesis Scottish Open (July 10-16).

FEDEXCUP CHAMPION, 2022

With Scottie Scheffler’s FedExCup impressive points lead looking unassailable, it was Rory McIlroy’s extraordinary TOUR Championship victory that spirited McIlroy to become the man of the moment

By Dave Shedloski

When Rory McIlroy rallied to a remarkable—and, oh yes, rewarding— victory in the TOUR Championship and captured a record third FedExCup title, many golf observers believed that the achievement possessed the unmistakable signs of karma. Not an unreasonable premise. But karma is a bit like destiny. It is not an accident nor incidental.

SHEER BRILLIANCE

McIlroy exerted copious amounts of energy in 2022 as the most passionate and vocal defender of golf’s history and traditions, but he still had enough left to maintain the quality of his game and his confidence to submit what must be one of the most satisfying wins of his career.

After beginning the week in seventh place in the staggered-start format and quickly falling 10 strokes behind by stumbling out of the gate, the four-time major champion somehow clawed his way into contention and then sprinted past Scottie Scheffler, the tournament’s top seed, with a brilliant burst of scoring that provided an appropriate crescendo to the wraparound season.

A final-round 4-under-par 66 at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta got the job done in posting the largest final-round rally in tournament history. But his rally really started on the third hole of the opening round, after the native of Northern Ireland suffered a triple bogey on the first hole and then bogeyed the second.

DIGGING DEEP

He didn’t capitulate. He didn’t panic. He just dug deep. And he won.

` Rory McIlroy made history by becoming the first three-time winner of the FedExCup by overturning a six-shot deficit at the TOUR Championship. On his route to victory, McIlroy achieved 10 top-10 finishes.

“Yeah, incredible day, incredible week. Four over through two holes, 10 shots out of the lead, at that point to claw my way back and end up winning the tournament, incredible,” McIlroy said after his third PGA TOUR title of the season and 22nd of his career, moving him into 28th on the all-time victory list. “Just really proud of my resilience and how I sort of handled that start and just sort of stuck my head down and kept going all week and took advantage of the opportunity that I was given.”

With a 17-under 263 raw score, best in the 29-man field, McIlroy finished at 21 under par, one stroke ahead of Scheffler and Sungjae Im. At age 33, McIlroy won the TOUR Championship for a third time, tying Tiger Woods, and he broke a tie with Woods for most FedExCup titles. The victory was worth $18 million but undoubtedly signified a more satisfying achievement considering the yearlong leadership role he assumed among his peers, not only as one of TOUR’s top players but also as a member of the policy board.

CHALLENGING TIMES

“It’s been a tumultuous time for the world of men’s professional golf in particular,” McIlroy acknowledged. “I’ve been in the thick of things. I guess every chance I get, I’m trying to defend what I feel is the best place to play elite professional golf in the world. It’s in some ways fitting that I was able to get this done to sort of round off a year that has been very, very challenging and different.”

Despite the challenges, McIlroy led the PGA TOUR with an adjusted scoring average of 68.67—becoming only the third player to

“It’s in some ways fitting that I was able to get this done to sort of round off a year that has been very, very challenging and different.”

— Rory McIlroy

average better than 68.7 after Woods and Vijay Singh. Woods did it eight times, by the way. He shot 67 or better in 21 of his 60 rounds. In just 16 starts, McIlroy finished among the top 25 on 13 occasions and 10 times was in the top-10, including in all four major championships.

He began the TOUR Championship in seventh place and at minus-4, six shots behind the leader, Scheffler, who with four wins, including the Masters, held the FedExCup lead for much of the regular season and retained it through the first two playoff events. Starting at minus-10, Scheffler was granted a two-stroke lead over Patrick Cantlay, seeking to become the first man to win the FedExCup in back-toback seasons.

HATS OFF TO SCHEFFLER

Scheffler held the lead for 70 holes. It appeared he all but sealed his fifth win of the year and the FedExCup on Sunday morning when he completed a weather-delayed third round with birdies on four of his final six holes. At 21 under, Scheffler began the final round with a six-stroke lead that might have been even greater had McIlroy not birdied his only two holes to complete a third-round 63.

Things got interesting when the Texan bogeyed three of his first six holes to provide an opening. McIlroy, meanwhile, erased an early bogey with four birdies to go out in 32 and what ensued was an $11.5 million nailbiting exercise, the difference between first and second in the bonus pool.

McIlroy bogeyed the 14th hole from the middle of the fairway to fall out of a tie for the lead, but he rebounded at the next, a 221-yard par-3, by holing a 30-footer for birdie. He then nosed ahead on 16 when he saved par from seven feet (he made over 130 feet of putts in the final round) while Scheffler was making bogey from a greenside bunker. It was his fourth bogey of the round, and it proved the difference as he closed with a 73.

“I just didn’t get off to a good start early, but after that I grinded as hard as I could,” said Scheffler, who weeks later was voted the Jack Nicklaus Award as PGA TOUR Player of the Year (see pp.79-80). “I wanted to win the seasonlong title. I’ve had a really great year, and I wanted to finish it off with a win here, and, unfortunately, I wasn’t able to do that.”

If the taut competition between two of the game’s best wasn’t inspiration enough, the heartwarming scene in the immediate aftermath added another memorable

Rory McIlroy’s TOUR Championship victory was his 22nd TOUR title, with wins also coming in THE CJ CUP in South Carolina and the RBC Canadian Open.

layer. Scheffler’s parents, Scott and Diane, congratulated McIlroy as he left the 18th green. Rory said to them, “I’m sorry. He deserves it. He’s had an unbelievable year.” Scott Scheffler replied: “So did you. Good playing.”

NOTABLE PERFORMANCES

There were other notable performances at the TOUR Championship. Im, who tied for second with Scheffler thanks to a closing 66, recorded the best finish ever by a player from Asia, surpassing K.J. Choi, who finished fifth in 2007. Xander Schauffele who posted a finalround 69 to finish fourth, extended to 25 his remarkable streak of consecutive rounds of par or better at East Lake. Schauffele has finished in the top-10 in all six of his appearances, but

a The then World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler (left) receives a consoling hand from current World No. 1 Rory McIlroy following a dramatic final-round battle.

Justin Thomas, the 2017 FedExCup winner, was right behind at T5, marking his seventh straight top-10, the longest active streak.

But Rory McIlroy, who won for the 12th time after trailing through 54 holes and for a TOUR-best sixth time in the Playoffs, was the man of the match, the man of the moment, the player who spent a large chunk of his year extolling the virtues of the PGA TOUR before finishing as its biggest winner. Incredible. Karmic, too.

“I said it at the prize ceremony: this is the best place in the world to play golf,” McIlroy said. “It’s the most competitive. It’s got the best players. It’s got the deepest fields. I don’t know why you’d want to play anywhere else.”

For over 30 years, Castle Connolly has been the leading provider of Top Doctors and represents the top 7% of all U.S. practicing physicians. Congratulations to our 2023 Top Doctors!

TO VIEW THE FULL LIST OF 2023 CASTLE CONNOLLY TOP DOCTORS, scan this code or visit www.CastleConnolly.com

Satjit Bhusri MD, FACC

CARDIOVASCULAR

DISEASE

Upper East Side Cardiology & Vein Institute 45 East End Avenue New York, NY 10028 bhusriheart.com 212.752.3464

Sanjay Khurana, MD

ORTHOPAEDIC

SPINE SURGERY

Commons Clinic 13160 Mindanao Way, Suite 300 Marina del Rey, CA 90292 www.khuranaspine.com 424.208.2708

Jason L. Cormier, MD

NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

Acadiana Neurosurgery 118 Rue Fontaine Lafayette, LA 70508 www.acadiananeurosurgery.com 337.534.8680

Andrew Scott Greenberg, MD

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Orthopaedic Associates of Manhasset 600 Northern Blvd, Suite 300 Great Neck, NY 11021 www.oamli.com 516.627.8717

Jessica P. Aidlen, MD

ORTHOPAEDIC

SURGERY

Newton Wellesley Spine Center 159 Wells Avenue Newton, MA 02459 www.draidlenspinesurgery.com 617.831.7082

Robert M. Titelman, MD

SHOULDER AND ELBOW SURGERY

Resurgens Orthopaedics

5671 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Suite 900 Atlanta, GA 30342 www.resurgens.com 404.847.9999

Ohio State is home to the most Top Doctors in central Ohio

At The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and The James, we believe all of our physicians are top doctors. They’re teaching the next generation of doctors and leading the way in medical research. Their compassion as health care providers ensures that our community receives the highest-quality care.

We’re proud that more than 275 of Ohio State’s physicians were honored by their peers as America’s 2022 Top Doctors by Castle Connolly, making the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center home to the most Top Doctors in central Ohio.

wexnermedical.osu.edu

Mount Sinai Department of Orthopedic Surgery

Orthopedics at The Mount Sinai Hospital | 212.241.8892

The Spine Hospital at Mount Sinai | 212.241.8947

The Orthopedic Center at Mount Sinai West | 877.636.7846

Orthopedics at Mount Sinai Union Square | 212.844.6400

For more info visit Mountsinai.org/Orthopedics

Carle Illinois College of Medicine at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The world’s first engineering-based college of medicine. Educating physician innovators who are uniquely prepared to revolutionize the practice of medicine through exceptional clinical skills and scalable ground-breaking solutions to complex health problems. Come build the future of medicine with us and learn more at: medicine.illinois.edu

Robert J. Ziets, MD

Edward Adler, MD

Evan L. Flatow, MD David A. Forsh, MD

Donald Kastenbaum, MD Jaehon M. Kim, MD Kasey Komperda, MD

Aruna Seneviratne, MD Sheena Ranade, MD Benjamin Rosenstadt, MD

Shawn G. Anthony, MD

Michael J. Bronson, MD

Leesa M. Galatz, MD

Melissa D. Leber, MD

Eugene M. Bulkin, MD

James N. Gladstone, MD Ilya Iofin, MD

Alexander J. Lee, MD

Wesley H. Bronson, MD

Paul J. Cagle, MD

Baron S. Lonner, MD

Darwin Chen, MD

Andrew Hecht, MD

Michael R. Hausman, MD

Samuel Cho, MD

Calin S. Moucha, MD

Alexis C. Colvin, MD

Bradford O. Parsons, MD David Perna, MD

Steven J. Arsht, MD

Joseph A. Bax, DO

REAPING THE REWARDS

The PGA TOUR Champions’ season-long battle for the 2022 Charles Schwab Cup concluded in style with sizzling drama

By Stan Awtrey

With a show of determination, Steven Alker hung on to his points lead to win the Charles Schwab Cup, despite a relentless chase by Padraig Harrington.

Steven Alker and Padraig Harrington gave golf a reason to smile in 2022. In an oft-contemptuous season, the Rocky-like success of Alker and the return of Harrington, one of the game’s true nice guys, brought great joy to the PGA TOUR Champions season—along with a dramatic conclusion.

Alker, the journeyman professional from New Zealand, had enjoyed marginal success on the PGA TOUR of Australasia and the Korn Ferry Tour. But the lack of notoriety didn’t prevent him from having a breakthrough rookie season. Alker won five times during the 2022 PGA TOUR Champions season—including the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship—and won the season-long Charles Schwab Cup. He is no longer an invisible man.

“It’s been an amazing journey and just to be here and have this opportunity has been amazing,” Alker said.

Alker’s unexpected rise is reminiscent of that of Allen Doyle, who was a lifelong amateur until he was 46. Doyle joined the PGA TOUR Champions when he turned 50 and went on to win 11 times, including four majors. He won the Charles Schwab Cup in 2001.

a Tense moments, but despite Padraig Harrington’s victory at the Charles Schwab Cup Championship (above) it wasn’t enough to topple Steven Alker from the top of the Charles Schwab Cup rankings.

It’s never easy for rookies with little status to make their mark on the PGA TOUR Champions and Alker was no exception. But once he got his foot in the door, there was no stopping him. Alker broke through after Monday qualifying for the Boeing Classic, where he finished seventh. That set him on a path of 9 top-10 finishes in the final 10 events of the season which made him fully exempt for 2022. How he capitalized on his opportunity exceeded his own expectations.

“I just wanted to give myself as many chances as I could to win golf tournaments,” Alker said. “Win a major, which I did, that was really cool. The Schwab Cup started being one of my goals during the year and it worked out.”

HARRINGTON MAGNANIMOUS

Harrington embraced the PGA TOUR Champions in the spring, as soon he was finished with his duties as European Ryder Cup captain. He won three times, finished second four times and placed third on three occasions. One of his victories was in the season-ending Charles Schwab Cup Championship, but it wasn’t quite enough to catch Alker.

“He’s a truly deserved winner this year,” Harrington said. “It’s not he’s just some flashin-the-pan at the end of the year. He had a lead and several of us were catching him all year. It’s very impressive that he not just held on, but he’s won it in style.”

LANGER “LOVE OF THE GAME”

The ageless Bernhard Langer added two more trophies to his case. He won the Chubb Classic in February and the TimberTech Championship in November—by six shots. That left him one win shy of Hale Irwin’s 45 career wins on the PGA TOUR Champions, a record once considered out of reach. He finished sixth on the Schwab Cup points list.

“It’s fun to be in a position to catch Hale,” Langer said. “It’s not to be easy, but 10 years ago I didn’t think it was easy and five years ago I didn’t think it was easy.”

Langer, now 65, said he never grows weary of trying to prove himself.

“It’s the love of the game and competing at the highest level with the best players my age,” he said. “I never dreamt of still playing golf at age 65 and living in America and playing the PGA TOUR and now the PGA TOUR Champions. That was not even on my radar screen.”

Jerry Kelly said, “Bernhard is always going to be there. He’s battled some injuries the last couple years and he still won the Charles Schwab Cup last year [2021]. It’s beyond words for me. It’s that consistency. My bad weeks were not very good. His bad weeks were the tail-end of a top-10.”

KELLY “HAVE FUN WITH LIFE”

Kelly, the affable Wisconsin native, also enjoyed a fine season and finished third in the Schwab Cup points race. Kelly had 12 top-10s and three wins and celebrated in August when wife Carol received positive scans from her kidney cancer surgery.

“It all started with Carol’s sixth-month scans and everything being really cool for her and that gave us such a positive outlook,” Kelly said. “We said let’s just have fun with life and go on, because we’re going to have a lot more of it now.”

STRICKER’S 4 WINS

Steve Stricker finished fourth in the Schwab Cup points race even though he was limited to 12 events because of pericarditis, an inflammation of the outer lining of the heart. After returning from the health scare, Stricker

b Steven Alker (right) is congratulated by Padraig Harrington (left) on winning the season-long points competition for the Charles Schwab Cup.

was able to rejoin the PGA TOUR Champions in the spring, win four times and finish second in a pair of majors.

JIMÉNEZ “EVERYTHING GOOD”

And proving that it still counts to be cool, Miguel Ángel Jiménez added three wins to his resume in 2022 and moved into a tie for 17th on the career list with 13 wins. He celebrated his most recent win at the Boeing Classic just like he always does.

“Good cigar, of course,” he said. “Good wine, good cigar—everything good, you know. The life is too short to have bad things.”

Another reason to smile. 

THE BEST OF US

BUILDING A CHAMPION’S LEGACY

BERNHARD LANGER

US LBM is home to some of the most historic and successful brands in building materials distribution and we’re thrilled that another icon has found a home with US. A champion both on and off the course, Bernhard shares our passion for excellence and building communities, and US LBM is proud to support him as he continues building a legacy as one of golf’s all-time greats.

A Lifestyle of Wellness

Gyms are the New Must Have Spaces for Home

As we venture back into health clubs and boutique studios following the pandemic, many have continued to supplement or fully commit to exercise at home. The fast-rising demand for a wellness-based lifestyle often includes a near daily commitment to fitness. As such, convenience is a major factor in driving the explosion of home gym integrations.

Mobile workout apps and virtual training subscriptions are plentiful, but many of our new clients are less than prepared as to where, and what to workout with at home. At FitnessDesignGroup, home gym design engagements are nearly as prevalent as commercial facility projects today. Families are increasingly taking a holistic approach towards creating permanent wellness space within the home.

These next generation smart home gym’s are designed to facilitate Hiit Training, Pilates, Boxing, and everywhere in between. Youth friendly exercise modalities such as sports specific training and functional fitness now top the list of features deemed to be must haves.

Many projects initiate as a transformation of basements, extra bedrooms, lofts, and bonus rooms into energizing workout havens. For clients building new homes, it’s now increasingly rare that a generous gym space is not planned for.

A well-designed gym will serve as an extension of the home itself, not a departure or sacrifice in comfort. As an example, garage gyms often meet with limited success when car fumes remain present. Dedicated spaces to move that include natural light, entertainment integration, and functional floor coverings are a few of the fundamental keys to success. Most importantly, and before any fitness equipment should be selected, understanding the in-use space requirement for workouts are critical.

Next, planning for appropriate electrical, equipment, accessory, and digital exercise guidance begin to round out a high functioning and engaging space to motivate and engage in daily exercise.

Additionally, consider outdoor areas that may also serve as an extension of space and change of scenery. Specialized fitness equipment coatings and weather-friendly accessories can play an important role in the ability to extend the variety of your workouts, without the inconvenience of leaving home.

About The Author

Bryan Green is the Founder of FitnessDesignGroup, a Los Angeles based firm that has designed gyms for companies including Apple, Nike, and Google alongside professional sports teams, leading hotels, and universities. For support related to home or commercial gym projects across the United States: fitnessdesigngroup.com/home-gym/

ON THE TEE

Enthusiastic fans are key to every successful PGA TOUR event. Players up their game to the fans’ roars of encouragement, while ticket sales ensure generous charitable giving

By Tom Yantz

There were no fans at the Travelers Championship in 2020, and the daily crowd was limited to about 10,000 the following year. Such scant numbers were unprecedented at one of the PGA TOUR’s better-attended tournaments. But then, the COVD-19 pandemic was sadly unprecedented in its impact on all of us.

The cheers from Travelers Championship fans, crowded in the natural amphitheater around the 18th green and spilling over to the adjoining hillsides, were vibrant again in June 2022. Now the volume didn’t reach the level of 2017 when Jordan Spieth said the “ground was shaking” after his playoff-winning bunker blast. Still, there were spirited applause and, no doubt, a few quivers in the Cromwell, Conn. countryside, when champion Xander Schauffele sank his birdie putt.

So, this is a salute to those upstanding fans who returned to TPC River Highlands and the vast majority of the other TOUR tournament venues that opened at full capacity for the 2021-22 season—the most since ‘18-19.

Here’s my basic fans’ lineup:

X Admirers: Encourage their players, known only by first name or nickname, everywhere.

X Campers: Find a spot, but don’t move and lose your place— unless it’s for food, drink or a restroom break.

X Chasers: Stay with the leaders but be quick to track a new front runner.

X Dawn breakers: Arrive on dewy turf that glistens in the first light of sunrise.

X High risers: Dine well and enjoy vistas from corporate boxes.

Upping the tempo as fans cheer and wave on the 18th green at the Travelers Championship.



Troublemakers: Hurl derogatory remarks at players, along with debris, such as beer cans, on the course —just two of their unwanted behaviors.

Note: Don’t belong to this class.

* * * * *

Though some fans with lingering COVID-19 concerns remained home last season, many returned after some tournaments had been cancelled and others had restricted crowd limits in 2020 and ’21.

Jubilant cheers for a pivotal final-round shot in that time often were memories. But last season when a vast majority of tournaments opened to full capacity after effective measures to deal with the pandemic had been implemented, memories transformed to realities. Matt Fitzpatrick’s fairway-bunker, 9-iron on the 72nd hole was one such stellar strike for his U.S. Open championship. Fans erupted in praise at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts.

Players welcomed and were energized by such enthusiasm across the TOUR schedule. After winning the RBC Canadian Open, Rory McIlroy told reporters: “I mean the fans here have just been absolutely unbelievable, boisterous, loud, but respectful.”

The fans were as appreciative in the return of the tournament, which had been postponed by COVID-19 the previous two years.

To be so close—say, within two club lengths—from witnessing any player’s shot is a treasured inclusion for TOUR fans. That’s because other professional sports’ spectators during competition can’t be on an NFL field, Premier League pitch, Major League Baseball diamond or an NBA court.

But to be on the same course as a TOUR player?

TOUR fans can. * * * * *

Tournaments’ charitable giving, which is aided by fans’ buying tickets and concessions, was a notable benefit from last season. For example, the Waste Management Phoenix Open, regarded as the TOUR’s highest-attended tournament (estimated over 500,000 for the week), gave $10.5 million to Arizona charities. This followed $3.85 million in ‘21. Tournaments under the TOUR umbrella have totaled more than $3.37 billion in donations to date. In 2019—one year before the pandemic significantly struck the TOUR—$204 million was donated. The numbers were $160 million in ‘20 and $173 million in ‘21. Based on this trend, the ‘22 total is expected to be more. The number will be announced early in ‘23.

* * * * *

“The fans mean everything,” Travelers Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Andy Bessette said. “. . . They are so smart, understand and are so committed to the community and charity.”

So, from this corner of the course here’s a tip of my cap to those admirers, campers, chasers, dawn breakers and high risers. 

• Tom Yantz worked 42 years for the Hartford Courant and covered the PGA TOUR’s tournaments in Cromwell, Conn. from 1984-2017.

Fans flock to PGA TOUR tournaments once again, with players welcoming their enthusiasm.

A big moment for a young supporter as Scottie Scheffler hands him signed golf ball.

FINAU’S FORTUNES

Tony Finau opened the floodgates in 2022 with back-to-back wins, ending his era of close calls

By Cameron Morfit

Eight runner-up finishes, three in playoffs, over five-plus years and 142 tournaments. Not long ago, golf Twitter was obsessed with the Tony Finau win drought, but he won THE NORTHERN TRUST in 2021 to end the drought, and under a year later let it rain with victories in back-to-back weeks in July, following up in November with his fifth PGA TOUR title by winning the Cadence Bank Houston Open.

FRESH START

Finau erased a five-stroke deficit in 11 holes to capture the 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities, then pulled away on the back nine for his second victory in as many weeks at the Rocket Mortgage Classic at Detroit Golf Club. His 26-under total set a new tournament record as he became one of nine players to win multiple titles in 2022.

He was also the first since Brendon Todd in 2019 to win in consecutive weeks in the regular season.

“I’m very optimistic,” Finau said, openly addressing his tough losses. “I’ve always been that way. I’ve always had hope and faith that things will turn out if I just keep working hard and putting myself there.”

a Tony Finau’s victory at the 2021 NORTHERN TRUST was his first since the Puerto Rico Open in the spring of 2016.

_ Tony Finau’s winning streak took hold with backto-back wins: a 3M Open victory followed by his emphatic Rocket Mortgage Classic triumph (left).

THE RIGHT STUFF

If success is getting knocked down seven times and getting up eight, Finau is Exhibit A for golf. His most agonizing loss may have been the 2020 WM Phoenix Open, where he ran out of birdies and was caught and overtaken by Webb Simpson, who won in a playoff. Finau’s eldest son, Jraice, was in tears, but Tony, the 2016 Puerto Rico Open champion, reasoned that if he kept putting himself in pressure situations, kept learning more about his tendencies, he would eventually figure it out and find the right formula.

He did so in 2022, doubling his win total, collecting a quick 1,000 FedExCup points, and all but making the U.S. Presidents Cup Team on points, checking a box on his preseason todo list.

“I’m proud of the way that I fought through adversity through my career,” Finau said, “and now I’m a back-to-back champion. … They say a winner is just a loser that just kept on trying, and that’s me to a T. How many times do I lose? But one thing I won’t do is give up and I’m only here as a winner because I chose not to give up and just keep going.”

TENSE MOMENTS

Scottie Scheffler had the best season with four wins, including the Masters and WGCDell Technologies Match Play, in six starts in the spring. Xander Schauffele won in back-toback starts in June, Sam Burns collected three trophies, and Max Homa had his best year ever. Finau, however, was the Best of the Midwest.

There were tense moments, but he didn’t panic when his ball hit a grandstand and nearly ricocheted into the water on the 17th hole at the 3M. He saved par. When his tee shot did find the water at the par-5 18th hole, he took a bogey for a final-round 67 and the win.

At the Rocket Mortgage, Finau pulled his tee shot at the par-3 ninth and hit his pitch shot 11 feet past the hole. If he made bogey, Taylor Pendrith would be one back. Patrick Cantlay, who had turned in 31, would be two back. But Finau charged his putt, and the ball lipped in. Seizing the momentum, he shot a back-nine 33 to pull away.

All told, Finau hit 46 of 56 fairways and 66 of 72 greens in regulation. He was No. 1 in Strokes Gained: Tee to Green and scrambling (six for six) and ranked 15th in Strokes Gained: Putting (+4.478). Finau, who won for the first time in six

a Tony Finau with his family after winning the 3M Open. Finau went on to a victory at the Rocket Mortgage Classic the following week.

attempts holding at least a share of the 54-hole lead, was in a class by himself.

“Some of those putts haven’t gone my way in the past, I feel like, where they’re lipping out instead of lipping in,” he said.

His caddie, Mark Urbanek, added “Sometimes those par putts feel bigger even than the birdies, especially on a course like this, where you feel like you’re losing more than one shot with a bogey. That was a nasty lie over there on nine; that was a good up and down.”

The 3M marked the first time Finau’s entire family had seen him win. For the Rocket Mortgage, only his wife, Alayna, was in attendance, having flown from their home in Utah late Saturday.

“I’m not surprised to see this,” she said. “He’s worked so hard. But it does feel cool.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

Tony Finau, who turned 33 in September, has 10 top-10 finishes in the majors since 2015, but he points out he’s not the same player he was even a few years ago. He’s better. A victory in a major or at THE PLAYERS Championship, to say nothing of winning the entire FedExCup, would be very cool indeed.

“I chose not to give up and just keep going.”

— Tony Finau

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR, 2022

Cameron Young was named the 2022 PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year as voted by the TOUR’s membership for the 2021-22 season. Young, who made his Presidents Cup debut for the victorious U.S. Team in September, earned five runner-up finishes and ended his rookie season No. 19 in the FedExCup standings.

POPULAR VOTE

The 25-year-old native of Scarborough, New York, and a 2021 Korn Ferry Tour graduate, was honored with the Arnold Palmer Award for winning Rookie of the Year. He was selected over Tom Kim and Sahith Theegala, receiving 94 percent of the membership vote.

“Congratulations to Cameron Young on being voted PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year by his peers,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan. “Cameron’s career has seen a remarkable rise over the last several years, and he quickly became a favorite among fans last season with the style in which he attacks the golf course. And of course, given Cameron’s Wake Forest ties, receiving the Arnold Palmer Award as PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year will certainly hold a special significance for him.”

A RECORD SEASON

Young’s runner-up finishes on the season came at the Sanderson Farms Championship, The Genesis Invitational, Wells Fargo Championship, The Open Championship and Rocket Mortgage Classic. With five second-place results, Young tied the most by any player in a single season over the last 40 years, with Vijay Singh in 2003 the last to accomplish the feat. Young also recorded a pair of T3s at the RBC Heritage and PGA Championship, falling one stroke out of a playoff in each. The nine players that finished ahead of Young in his seven top-three results are all currently ranked in the top 25 of the Official World Golf Ranking.

With $6,520,598 in Official Money in 202122, Young earned the most money in a single season by a rookie in PGA TOUR history, a record previously held by seven-time PGA TOUR winner and current World No. 6, Xander Schauffele ($4,312,674 in 2016-17).

At No. 17 in the Official World Golf Ranking as of September 15, Young entered the 2022-23 PGA

TOUR season as the highest-ranked player without a victory in his PGA TOUR career. But there’s sure to be much to come, especially if we take, for example, Scottie Scheffler who was in that position at the start of last season and went on to win four times, including the Masters Tournament, and moved to World No. 1 on March 27, holding the top spot through the end of the season. • PGA TOUR members who played at least 15 official FedExCup events during the 2021-22 season were eligible to vote.

Cameron Young’s best shots of the 2021-22 season earned him the Arnold Palmer Award

a PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year Cameron Young with the Arnold Palmer Award which was presented by PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan prior to THE CJ CUP in South Carolina.

BE BULLISH ON THE FUTURE, WITH AN ADVISOR

Market volatility calls for professional financial guidance

a compatible financial advisor

By Michael LoRé

The current investment environment is full of unknowns and uncertainty due to the convergence of inflation, Covid-19 pandemic aftershocks and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Stocks and bonds are facing the worst year on record through the first nine months of the year. The first half of 2022 saw the worst market conditions in the last 70 years when combining the equity and fixed income markets. Due to these current circumstances,

it’s more important now than ever to ensure financial security both in the short term and long term.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Since 1929, the chance of a stock investment losing value on a single day stands at 46%. But over 10 years, the probability drops to 6%.1 Despite the current volatility and uncertainty, remaining diversified, balanced and on guard is important for short-term and

long-term financial stability and success. Reset periods like this also produce some of the greatest investment opportunities.

“Today, investors are most concerned about having a solid financial plan in place that allows them to pursue their goals regardless of the market volatility,” says Steve Alch, Southeast Division Executive, Merrill Wealth Management. “Markets move up and down in the short term, working to stay on track to help achieve your goals regardless of daily market movements can help clients feel more confident in their investment strategy.”

It’s never been more important to work with

management division is a new digital platform that connects people seeking financial advice with an advisor who best fits their specific needs. This more holistic and personalized approach is designed to democratize access to advice, while demystifying the process through a digital experience.

DELIVERING SOLUTIONS

Advisors help clients look beyond present daily market fluctuations and interest rate hikes to not only focus on securing their long-term financial stability, but also to take advantage of larger opportunities that could likely be underway. Worrisome headlines are kept in perspective as advisors review asset allocations and plans to ensure that their clients are on track for success and stability.

“The big difference between now and years past is the availability of real-time

on a stock are long over. You have that information at your fingertips. Now, you call your advisor for advice on everything else—your retirement planning, college savings, alternative investments, and provide access to mortgages, boat loans and more.

“That is why it is important to work with a firm that can deliver solutions and advice on a wide range of topics.”

MATCHING YOUR NEEDS

According to new Merrill research, half of people without an advisor are taking the search for an advisor more seriously. One-third of affluent Americans are not working with an advisor today due to a litany of issues including not knowing how to find the right advisor, feeling intimidated to reach out to an advisor in the first place, or the inability to find an advisor who understands their unique needs.

While recommendations from family and friends will continue to be an important way people are introduced to a financial advisor, most people without an advisor (62%) would be the first in their family to have such a relationship, including 76% of affluent Black/African Americans and 73% of affluent Hispanics, according to Merrill research.2 “Referrals are always great, but there are other ways to find an advisor,” Alch says. “Our recently launched Merrill Advisor Match platform allows you to answer a few, simple questions about your current situation and preferences, and once completed, it will direct you to a local advisor3 with corresponding interests and expertise.

Visit ML.com/AdvisorMatch to connect with an advisor.

1 S&P 500; Bloomberg; BofA Global Research. Data as of March 31, 2022. Data reflects probability of negative equity returns going back to 1929 based on S&P 500 performance.

2 Concentrix (an independent market research company conducted a panel-sample online survey on behalf of Bank of America/Merrill from July 22 – August 4, 2022. The survey consisted of 1,095 affluent respondents throughout the U.S. Respondents in the study were aged 18 to 99, with investable assets of $250,000 and above. The margin of error is +/- 2.96%, reported at a 95% confidence level.

3 Choice of advisor does not guarantee future success. Investing involves risk. There is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Asset allocation, rebalancing and diversification do not guarantee against risk in broadly declining markets.

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products offered through MLPF&S: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed

“We met on the first green.” How’d you

A relationship with the right advisor can make all the difference, especially in uncertain times. Now, you can find the one who’s right for you anytime, anywhere. Our new Merrill Advisor Match tool allows you to choose an advisor based on your personal preferences, priorities and financial goals. It’s a digital tool so impressive, you can’t help but find your match.

Investing involves risk including possible loss of principal.

Choice of advisor does not guarantee future success.

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation. Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value

© 2022 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP5206038 | AD-10-22-0414 | 11/2022

ALL TO PLAY FOR

Intense player competition to gain a PGA TOUR card marks the Korn Ferry Tour with drama and many vibrant performances

By Kevin Prise

Justin Suh grew up idolizing his sister Hannah. She traveled to play competitive golf events from a young age; his first golf goal was to do the same. His first lessons were secondhand, as Hannah would relay key points from her instruction. Each day at the course had stakes, ranging from push-ups to spare change.

GETTING STARTED

Competitive fire is in Suh’s DNA. So even after he clinched his first PGA TOUR card via the 2022 Korn Ferry Tour Regular Season Points List, he was just getting started. The California

a Justin Suh ended the season by closing with a 4-under 68 for a two-shot victory in the Korn Ferry Tour Championship.

native won the season-ending Korn Ferry Tour Championship presented by United Leasing & Finance to win the season-long standings and thereby clinch fully exempt status for the 202223 PGA TOUR, as well as spots in THE PLAYERS Championship and U.S. Open.

Suh’s banner Korn Ferry Tour season included 16 top-25 finishes in 24 starts, with eight top-15s in his final 10 starts. Rather than cruise to the finish line, he accelerated, displaying the form of a sparkling college career at the University of Southern California, where he spent time as the world’s topranked amateur.

STANDOUT PLAYER

At Suh’s first professional event, the 2019 Travelers Championship, he fielded questions at a pre-tournament press conference alongside fellow college standouts Viktor Hovland, Collin Morikawa and Matthew Wolff. Each earned a PGA TOUR card within three months. Suh missed at First Stage of Q-School that fall and spent time on PGA TOUR Latinoamérica and the Monday qualifying circuit before earning Korn Ferry Tour status via Q-School in 2021.

Suh embraced his own path, and he proved on the 2022 Korn Ferry Tour that he’s primed to compete at the game’s highest level.

“Justin is one of the happiest people that I’ve met in my entire life,” said Suh’s longtime friend, Joseph Bramlett, who regained his TOUR card via the 2022 Korn Ferry Tour Finals. Bramlett is nine years Suh’s elder; the two met at San Jose (Calif.) CC when Bramlett was a collegiate player at Stanford and Suh was in middle school. Suh considers Bramlett a “big brother.”

“I haven’t once seen him feel sorry for himself,” Bramlett said. “I haven’t once seen him dejected. The kid just shows up every day with a great attitude, and it’s impressive.”

OVERCOMING ADVERSITY

The Suh-Bramlett contrast illustrates the Korn Ferry Tour’s inherent beauty, a mix of rising stars and wily veterans vying for spots at the game’s highest level. Suh is set for his first season on TOUR; Bramlett returns to the TOUR for a fifth campaign, in a career defined by overcoming adversity, as he was sidelined due to a severe back injury for the better part of five years. He visited with an estimated 15 spine surgeons but opted against surgery to preserve his chances of returning to the highest level. He lost his TOUR card this past summer but regained it with top25s in all three Finals events.

A FIRST TOUR CARD

The 2022 Korn Ferry Tour marked the final season under the structure set in 2013, with 25 PGA TOUR cards awarded via the Regular Season and 25 cards earned via the threeevent Finals. Effective in 2023, the Korn Ferry Tour will award 30 TOUR cards via the seasonlong points race, in addition to 10 cards from the DP World Tour and five cards (and ties) through Q-School. The four-event Finals series will be included in the season-long points race, concluding in October at the Korn Ferry Tour Championship.

a Joseph Bramlett suffered back injuries for the best part of five years. He opted not to have surgery in order to sustain the best chance of returning to the highest level of the game.

The Finals 25 era concluded in style, with Air Force Captain Kyle Westmoreland narrowly securing the No. 25 spot on the Finals Points List by a razor-thin margin, as Joey Garber made four consecutive closing birdies to finish in a five-way T12. If Garber had recorded a three-way T12 or better, he would have bumped Westmoreland for the final spot.

“I think I lost five years of my life,” said Westmoreland, 31, in the greenside ceremony after clinching his first TOUR card. “I think I lost my hair. It’s the craziest situation you can imagine.”

INTERNATIONAL FLAIR

The 2022-23 TOUR rookie class displays an international flair including China’s Carl Yuan, Argentina’s Augusto Núñez, Sweden’s Vincent Norrman and Australia’s Harrison Endycott. Redemption tales include Las Vegas native Taylor Montgomery, who finished No. 26 on each of the Regular Season and Finals standings in 2020-21, narrowly missing out on his first TOUR card not once but twice. Ben Griffin stepped away from the game to pursue a career as a mortgage loan officer before rediscovering his competitive drive, successfully navigating Q-School and proceeding to earn his first TOUR card.

INCREASING DRAMA

Next season, the inherent drama will only grow. Twin brothers Pierceson and Parker Coody, who

a Kyle Westmoreland earned his PGA TOUR card by the narrowest of margins, finishing No. 25 on the Korn Ferry Tour Finals.

teamed on the Texas Longhorns’ 2022 NCAA Championship-winning squad, both hold 2023 Korn Ferry Tour membership. Pierceson won this summer’s Live and Work in Maine Open by five strokes after finishing atop the PGA TOUR University Velocity Global Ranking; Parker finished top-15 on PGA TOUR University, won on PGA TOUR Canada and advanced through Second Stage of Q-School.

Former Oregon standout Norman Xiong won the Wichita Open Benefitting KU Wichita Pediatrics as a Monday qualifier and holds full status into 2023. Precocious 20-year-old Akshay Bhatia, a former No. 1 junior, won The Bahamas Great Exuma Classic at Sandals Emerald Bay and looks to build on that success. Who will earn a TOUR card in 2023? The possibilities are endless. That’s the beauty of it! 

Meet Kai

When 7-year-old Kai Salinas dribbles a soccer ball, you hardly notice the way his right leg moves just a little differently than the left.

The St. Augustine, Florida, boy was diagnosed at 3 months old with cerebral palsy (CP), likely the result of a stroke while he was still in the womb.

Like many children with CP, Kai also experienced spasticity in his right leg, with constant muscle tightness leading to restricted movement and discomfort. Though Kai could walk, he would frequently trip or stumble. When physical and occupational therapies, medication and injections in his calf and arm muscles were no longer effective, Kai was deemed a candidate for a surgery called selective dorsal rhizotomy.

During the procedure at Wolfson Children’s Hospital of Jacksonville, University of Florida (UF) College of Medicine — Jacksonville pediatric neurosurgeon Nathan Ranalli, MD, made an incision in Kai’s back to selectively snip around half of the nerves connected to the spastic muscle group. This released the muscle tightness in Kai’s leg to allow more freedom of movement and less pain.

Wolfson Children’s Hospital Jacksonville, Florida

The results were almost immediate. Now, Kai is back to running around his backyard and practicing his soccer skills.

Life-changing surgery gives this remarkable 7-year-old a shot to score on the soccer field.

Kids like Kai

deserve the latest innovative treatments, delivered by a team of compassionate caregivers. The Cerebral Palsy and Spasticity Center at the Wolfson Children’s Stys Neuroscience Institute brings together a multidisciplinary team of pediatric experts, including physiatrists (physical rehabilitation physician specialists), neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and occupational therapists.

Together, they provide the highest level of coordinated care for children and support for the whole family. Wolfson Children’s evaluates and treats infants, children and adults with spasticity, posture and motor skill impairment due to cerebral palsy, and other neurological conditions thanks to our collaborations with the UF College of Medicine — Jacksonville, and Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville. Learn more by visiting wolfsonchildrens.com/neuro or calling 904.633.0780

Kai was up and moving shortly after surgery.

Physicians providing care at Wolfson Children’s Hospital are not employees nor agents of the hospital. Pediatric neurosurgeons are employed by the UF College of Medicine — Jacksonville.

As a not-for-profit children’s hospital, we accept all children, regardless of their ability to pay for care. With help from financial support, Wolfson Children’s provides world-class care for children with the latest technologies and treatment. To help, visit HopeStartsHere.com.

Cerebral Palsy and Spasticity Expertise

A diagnosis of cerebral palsy and spasticity can be daunting for the whole family. Wolfson Children’s offers parents peace of mind by providing an array of treatments to help manage your child’s condition as he or she grows. Our treatment options include:

Infusion pump implants

Leading-edge surgery

Rehabilitation

Oral medication

Botox injections

Electrical stimulation

Constraint therapy

Bracing and casting

EXCEPTIONAL TALENT, EXTRAORDINARY MOMENTS

There were so many great moments for TOUR players and fans in the 2022 season—moments that brought roars and applause from the fans and jubilant fist pumps from the players—that making a choice of just six career highlights was no easy task. What follows are six of those defining moments, although a great many other such moments are equally memorable

ONCE WAS NOT ENOUGH FOR MATT FITZPATRICK

U.S. OPEN, June 16-19, 2022

Matt Fitzpatrick of England is a champion again at The Country Club, this time with the grandest of trophies: The U.S. Open champion in 2022.

In a three-way battle at Brookline that came down to the wire, Fitzpatrick seized control with a great break and an even better shot on the 15th hole for a two-shot swing. He was even more clutch from a fairway bunker on the 18th that set up par for a 2-under 68.

Victory was not secure until Will Zalatoris, who showed amazing fight-back from every mistake, dropped to his knees when his 15-foot birdie putt on the 18th just slid by the left side of the cup. Zalatoris was a runner-up in the second straight major.

Masters champion Scottie Scheffler never recovered from backto-back bogeys to start the back nine. He had a 25-foot birdie chance on the 18th that just missed and left him one behind.

Fitzpatrick is the second man to win a U.S. Amateur and U.S. Open on the same course, joining Jack Nicklaus who turned the trick at Pebble Beach. Juli Inkster won the U.S. Women’s Amateur and U.S. Women’s Open at Prairie Dunes.

Along with the $3.15 million in prize money, Fitzpatrick had the gold Jack Nicklaus medal draped around his neck. At that point he moved to No. 10 in the FedExCup standings.

Fitzpatrick, who briefly played at Northwestern before turning pro, won for the eighth time worldwide, and this was his first on the PGA TOUR.

Fitzpatrick said he won the Member-Member at The Bear’s Club in Florida (founded in 1999 by Jack and Barbara Nicklaus) at the start of the year, on the course Nicklaus built.

“He gave me a bit of abuse at the start of the year. He said, ‘Finally. Congratulations for winning in the States,’” Fitzpatrick recalled, with a laugh.

And then, slightly lifting the trophy, Fitzpatrick sent a fun message to Nicklaus: “Jack, I won a second time.”

On the very same course, Matt Fitzpatrick replicated the heroics he showed in the 2013 U.S. Amateur, by winning at the U.S. Open and breaking into the world’s top 10 for the first time.

A SECOND MAJOR WIN FOR JERRY KELLY

“The first major is awesome, but the second one, even more validation,” said Kelly following his win, “I’m really excited to go back to Sawgrass next March. That was a big piece of the desire in winning this tournament. That’s one of those great things that we have with our majors that we can get to go play at the high point of golf. I’m really excited about that.”

Jerry Kelly won the Bridgestone SENIOR PLAYERS Championship for the second time in three years, breaking away on the Sunday with two late birdies to beat defending champion Steve Stricker by two strokes. Kelly closed with a 2-under 68, taking the outright lead with a 15-foot birdie putt from the fringe on the par-5 16th and running in a 10-footer on the par-4 17th. He finished at 11-under 269 on Firestone’s South Course. Looking on as 55-year-old Kelly won was wife, Carol, who had undergone major surgery the year before.

“I mean, just the fact that she’s here this week,” Kelly said. “It may not be our normal restaurant-laden place or the hotel that is our favorite on tour, but the golf course is that special and she’s like, ‘You know what, I want to be there for you, I love that golf course, it’s really cool just to be out there.’”

Kelly also won at Firestone in August 2020 and finished second in 2021. The Madison, Wisconsin, player has 11 PGA TOUR Champions victories to date, also winning the Principal Charity Classic (June) in Iowa, and the Shaw Charity Classic (August), after winning three times on the PGA TOUR.

“He made the putts when he had to, coming down, and vice versa, I didn’t,” Stricker said, referring to Kelly’s Bridgestone win, “That’s the difference. He played great and he made the putts when he had to.”

Bridgestone SENIOR PLAYERS Championship, July 7 – 10, 2022

A 10th PGA TOUR Champions triumph meant so much to Jerry Kelly, especially with his wife, Carol, present despite her recent battles with cancer.

A DETERMINED TONY FINAU ROARS BACK

If you know that Tony Finau had 142 starts without a win until his 2021 victory at THE NORTHERN TRUST, then you’ll know this guy can dig deep. And would you be surprised also to know that Finau lists Samoan fire-knife dancing as one of his talents?

Indeed, 2022-23 proved to be the comeback season for Tony Finau. It was more than a defining moment, more like a series of such moments, culminating with a fifth TOUR win in November 2022 at the Cadence Bank Houston Open.

It was with his THE NORTHERN TRUST trophy breaking the draught, that Finau followed up with a 3M Open victory in July 2022 and then went on to run away with a back-to-back win at the Rocket Mortgage Classic the following week at Detroit Golf Club—becoming the first PGA TOUR player in three years to win consecutive regular-season events.

At the Rocket Mortgage Classic, Finau closed with a 5-under 67 for a five-shot victory and a tournament-record 26-under 262 total. Taylor Pendrith (72), Patrick Cantlay (66) and rookie of the year front-runner Cameron Young (68) tied for second.

Finau and Pendrith had started Sunday tied but their potential duel in Detroit was not to be.

Pendrith had his first lackluster round of the tournament after he shared the first-round lead with Finau, led him by one shot after the second and matched his 21-under total through three rounds.

Pendrith, the 31-year-old PGA TOUR rookie from Canada, hit an errant tee shot on the second hole to the right in the rough behind tree branches and later pulled a 9-foot putt to lose the lead for good.

Finau pulled away with an 11-foot birdie putt at No. 4 and a tapin for birdie at No. 7.

He made a 21-foot putt for birdie at No. 10 for his third birdie. After his first bogey in the tournament at No. 11, Finau made a 31-foot putt with a break from right to left at No. 12 and Pendrith missed an 11-foot putt on the same hole to fall four shots back.

Cantlay surged within three shots of the lead with a 5-foot eagle putt at the par-5 14th. On the same hole, Finau made his fifth birdie of the final round to lead by four shots.

Finau’s success has been earned through determination and perseverance. Since turning pro right out of high school, he has always believed in his ability to maximize his abilities. His peers admire him for it. It’s clear as to why.

Rocket Mortgage Classic, July 28 – 31, 2022

A moment to savor, as Tony Finau waves to the fans from the 18th green after winning the Rocket Mortgage Classic, his second TOUR victory in two weeks.

RORY MCILROY’S THIRD FEDEXCUP

TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP, August 25-28, 2022

Looking back to June 2022 and the FedExCup standings, Scottie Scheffler’s enormous lead of 1,041 points looked unassailable. It was easily the largest lead by any player under the current format. Heading into the TOUR Championship two months later, there was speculation that Scheffler would capture the trophy and pocket the $18 million FedExCup prize. Who could have forecast such a different outcome and such a nail-biting finish?

It was the FedExCup champion of 2016 and 2019, Rory McIlroy, who rallied from six shots behind then world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler to win the TOUR Championship and capture the FedExCup for the third time along with the $18 million prize. McIlroy closed with a 4-under 66 to overtake fourtime winner that season, Scottie Scheffler, who made only one birdie in a 73.

McIlroy referred to the final round as a “spectacle,” and not just because of the proMcIlroy crowd that chanted his name along the closing holes.

As McIlroy said later, we were seeing “two of the best players in the world going head-to-head on the best tour.”

The final round was a nail-biter to the very end, a stunning afternoon at East Lake that turned on two shots.

McIlroy holed a 31-foot birdie putt on the par-3 15th hole to tie for the lead. After he flew the 16th green by some 20 yards, his pitch was running fast and headed off the front of the green when it hit the pin and settled 7 feet away.

Meanwhile Scheffler blasted out of a bunker to just inside 10 feet and missed. His bogey and McIlroy’s par put Scheffler behind for the first time all week. Scheffler badly misread a 10-foot birdie chance on the 17th to tie, sending the TOUR Championship to the final hole with $18 million on the line.

Scheffler’s 4-iron on the par-5 18th sailed short and right and into a bunker, and he blasted out over the green. McIlroy went left against the grandstand, took relief and got onto the green for an easy par.

“I believe in the game of golf,” said McIlroy at the trophy presentation, “I believe in this tour. I believe in the players on this tour. It’s the greatest place in the world to play golf, bar none, and I’ve played all over.”

Rory McIlroy became the first player in TOUR history to lift the FedExCup three times following his triumph at the TOUR Championship.

SCAN. SHOP. GOLF.

Tom Kim’s success at the Shriners Children’s Open meant he became the second youngest two-time PGA TOUR winner since Ralph Guldahl in 1932.

EXTRA SPECIAL MOMENTS FOR TOM KIM

SHRINERS CHILDREN’S OPEN, October

6-9, 2022

By adding Shriners Children’s Open to his Wyndham Championship victory in August, Joohyung “Tom” Kim, 20, became the first player since Tiger Woods to win twice before turning 21. He won the Shriners without making a single bogey, the first stroke-play TOUR winner to be bogey-free since J.T. Poston at the 2019 Wyndham Championship.

“It’s really amazing,” Kim said after his victory, “A few months ago, I didn’t have any status in the U.S., and now being a two-time winner on TOUR, having that place with Tiger, it’s an unbelievable feeling for me. It’s an honor for me, and it’s definitely a dream come true.

“I’ve worked really hard, and my team has worked really hard to get to this point, and I’m just really grateful and I’m fortunate to have an opportunity like this. I’m having fun playing on the PGA TOUR. It’s awesome … I’m a 5-year-old at Disneyland for sure.”

Joining Kim to celebrate his victory on the 72nd hole were fellow Koreans Sungjae Im, K.H. Lee and S.H. Kim. One

because they’ve formed a brotherhood on the TOUR, but two because the trio believe they are witnessing the fledgling moments of something extra special—the rise of Korea’s men’s golf.

After winning the Wyndham Championship, he made his debut in the Presidents Cup by going 2-3-0 for the International Team and delivering one of the biggest moments with a 10-foot birdie putt in Fourballs in a 1-up win over Cantlay and Xander Schauffele. Kim had burst onto the 2022 Presidents Cup scene with huge putts, fist pumps, and emotional moments—all of which helped to energize the International team.

So, 2022 has been quite a year for Kim, who honed his golf in Australia and the Philippines before turning pro. He started last year by winning the Singapore International and finishing runner-up in the Singapore Open on the Asian Tour.

Kim has risen to No. 15 in the world and becomes the highest-ranked Asian player, moving ahead of Hideki Matsuyama of Japan.

THE POWER OF PERSEVERANCE

CHARLES SCHWAB CUP, 2022

A third-place finish is hardly a defining moment for any PGA TOUR Champions player. But that’s just what it was for Steven Alker at the Phoenix Country Club on November 13. All season Alker had a grip on the Charles Schwab Cup points lead, but with the intense competition culminating in the end-of-season event, the Charles Schwab Cup Championship.

Despite Padraig Harrington’s emphatic tournament victory, the day was all about Harrington pushing Alker, and Alker vying to hold on to his Schwab Cup points lead—and finally succeeding to become Charles Schwab Cup Champion.

“Playing with Padraig today, it was kind of diffi cult because do I chase him? Do I protect?” Alker said. “I just tried to play my game as good as I could, but he played amazing and I’m just glad to be Champion.”

The only player to come between Harrington and Alker was Alex Cejka, whose 65 on Sunday pushed him into second at 20 under and Alker into third place.

In a tribute to Alker, Harrington said later: “It’s not like he’s

just come like a flash in the pan at the end of the year and won a couple of events and all of a sudden won the Schwab Cup. The pressure’s been on him right from the start of the year all the way through. He had a lead and several of us were catching him all year. It’s very impressive that he’s not just held on, but he’s won in style.”

Among his peers, New Zealander Alker is widely recognized as a relentless grinder. Following no wins on the regular PGA TOUR where he played for just three seasons, Alker opened a new chapter on the PGA TOUR Champions by winning the TimberTech Championship in the 2020-21 season, followed by four victories in the 2022 season. Alker captured his third PGA TOUR Champions victory, his second in three starts, at the 2022 Insperity Invitational and moved into the No. 1 spot in the Charles Schwab Cup rankings for the first time in his Champions Tour career.

During that career, Steven Alker has clawed his way through, as he puts it, “a lot of hard yards,” adding, “It’s been an amazing journey.” 

The moment of truth as Steven Alker clinches the Charles Schwab Cup (the season-long points competition), following the concluding event, the Charles Schwab Cup Championship in Phoenix, Arizona.

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ALL PATHS LEAD TO THE PGA TOUR

The TOUR’s international tours have never been more important as stepping-stones for those players on their way to the top

By Laury Livsey

It was a veritable who’s who of PGA TOUR Latinoamérica and PGA TOUR Canada alums who won Korn Ferry Tour tournaments in 2022, with a few PGA TOUR alumni wins sprinkled in (we’re looking at you, Tony Finau).

With PGA TOUR Latinoamérica’s 2022-23 season already underway, its wrap-around schedule getting an early start, in December 2022, players are hoping to become the next Brandon Matthews, Harrison Endycott, Tyson Alexander, Will Gordon or Robby Shelton—all former International Tour players and Korn Ferry Tour winners in 2022. They’re all, incidentally, now PGA TOUR members playing alongside Finau. Even Carl Yuan and Marty Dou, proud alums of PGA TOUR Series-China, which eventually shut down due to the global pandemic, walked away a season ago with big trophies and PGA TOUR membership.

Yes, players are recognizing the PGA TOUR’s pathway tours are providing, well, a path to the PGA TOUR, and they’re using the Tours and what they offer to their full advantage.

In 2023, PGA TOUR Canada returns for a second consecutive season, its eighth overall, after the global pandemic prevented it from playing in 2020 and 2021. Meanwhile, PGA TOUR Latinoamérica moves into its second decade of professional excellence in Latin America.

PGA TOUR CANADA

In 2019, in London, Ontario, Patrick Fishburn won the seasonending tournament, and PGA TOUR Canada crowned Paul Barjon as its Player of the Year as the season’s best performer. It then sent Barjon and four others to the Korn Ferry Tour. The future looked bright. Fast forward 30 months and there was a bit of trepidation. How would the 2022 PGA TOUR Canada season transpire after not contesting an event for 990 days, especially as the Tour moved from tracking players by money earned to a points-based system, with the Fortinet Cup the ultimate prize.

Any anxiety Tour executives may have felt quickly disappeared as Scott Stevens put on a show at the Royal Beach Victoria Open, winning his first Tour title and bringing back PGA TOUR Canada after that two-season hiatus.

Stevens was one of nine winners in 2022 in 11 tournaments on the 12-tournament schedule—a deluge of rain washed out Saskatchewan’s Elk Ridge Open—with Canada’s Wil Bateman the only player to make the cut in every tournament. He punctuated his season with a win at the final event of the year, the Fortinet Cup Championship, that earned him the tournament trophy, the Fortinet Cup and Player of the Year honors that went with it.

“Our first Fortinet Cup season was an unqualified success, and

Scott Stevens won his first Tour title at the Royal Beach Victoria Open, PGA TOUR Canada.

the players really gravitated toward earning points knowing that the Fortinet Cup was such a significant prize,” said Scott Pritchard, PGA TOUR Canada Executive Director.

PGA TOUR Canada’s eighth season will commence in June, but with a twist. The schedule will purposely start a week later than normal to accommodate those competing at the NCAA Championship the week before. In 2022, several players missed the Royal Beach Victoria Open because they were still competing for their colleges. Not so in 2023, and that’s a key point as PGA TOUR University will once again send recent college players to PGA TOUR Canada as they begin their professional careers.

A year ago, PGA TOUR University alums—college amateurs who accrued enough points to earn PGA TOUR Canada membership— immediately made an impact. Noah Goodwin (SMU) joined Bateman as a two-time winner, while Parker Coody (Texas) tied a PGA TOUR scoring record when he finished at 27-under, winning the CentrePort Canada Rail Park Manitoba Open. The anticipation is PGA TOUR University players, returning players and others, including those from international locales, will again take full advantage of PGA TOUR Canada as the path they take to get to their ultimate destination, the PGA TOUR. One of those tournaments, returning for a second season, will be the CentrePort Canada Rail Park Manitoba Open, the 2022 PGA TOUR Canada Tournament of the Year. As is always the case, the Tour will move back and forth throughout the country, along with another visit to the U.S., after the successful CRMC Championship presented by Gertens in Brainerd, Minnesota. The Tour will announce its 2023 schedule of tournaments in early 2023.

PGA TOUR LATINOAMÉRICA

No player had more significance in the growth of golf in Latin America than Argentina’s De Vicenzo. De Vicenzo, one of golf’s greatest winners—with 229 career worldwide titles—was a 1989 World Golf Hall of Fame inductee. Although the Buenos Aires native died in 2017, at age 94, in commemoration of what would be his 100th birthday in April 2023, PGA TOUR Latinoamérica has added the Roberto De Vicenzo Memorial 100 Years to its official schedule. The tournament, set for March 23-26, will be at Ranelagh Golf Club, the course where De Vicenzo learned the game and where he remained a member until his death.

The Roberto De Vicenzo Memorial 100 Years is one of 11 official tournaments as PGA TOUR Latinoamérica plays its 11th season, and players seek to win the Totalplay Cup, earn Korn Ferry Tour membership and eventually make their way to the PGA TOUR.

In an unlikely career, a poor kid from Buenos Aires gravitated to golf and did just that, winning five PGA TOUR tournaments— including the 1967 Open Championship—and in the process putting golf on the front pages of every newspaper in Latin America

“Roberto was and remains a huge inspiration to everybody involved in the development and growth of the game of golf across Latin America,” said Todd Rhinehart, PGA TOUR Latinoamérica Executive Director. “Celebrating a tournament to honor his legacy on the year of his 100th birthday was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up. It’s going to be truly a special week this coming March.”

Tournament organizer German Galli echoed Rhinehart’s

Mitchell Meissner’s season was notable for his consistency, posting nine top-10s in his 12 starts.

comments, knowing what De Vicenzo means to golf not only in his native Argentina but in all of Latin America.

“Roberto’s 100th birthday can’t be overlooked. His life and legacy have to be celebrated with a grand event, and this tournament, featuring the PGA TOUR Latinoamérica’s up-andcoming stars who are hoping to follow in Roberto’s footsteps, will do just that. It’s going to be a unique event,” said Galli.

Prior to the Roberto De Vicenzo Memorial 100 Years, PGA TOUR Latinoamérica began its season before the calendar turned, at the 116th playing of the Visa Argentine Open presented by Macro, a tournament De Vicenzo won a record nine times between 1944 and 1974. Argentina will host three additional tournaments, while the Tour will also travel to Chile, Ecuador, Brazil and Peru, also visiting Colombia and Mexico twice for two tournaments each. The Tour’s season concludes at a to-be-determined course in Mexico for the PGA TOUR Latinoamérica Championship, where Mitchell Meissner locked up the Totalplay Cup last year.

Meissner accomplished something no other player in nine previous seasons had accomplished: he gained the Tour’s Player of the Year honors without the benefit of winning a tournament. Yet Meissner, a rookie on the 2023 Korn Ferry Tour, was incredibly consistent, posting nine top-10s in his 12 starts—five of them topfives, including a pair of runner-up showings. 

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• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if FASENRA passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you use FASENRA.

• are taking prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements.

Do not stop taking your other asthma medicines unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider. Tell your healthcare provider if your asthma does not get better or if it gets worse after you start treatment with FASENRA.

The most common side effects of FASENRA include: headache and sore throat. These are not all the possible side effects of FASENRA.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Brief Summary of full Prescribing Information on following page.

FASENRA is a registered trademark of the AstraZeneca group of companies. ©2022 AstraZeneca. All rights reserved. US-68517 10/22

Read this brief summary carefully before using FASENRA for the first time and each time you use a new dose. There may be new information. This summary does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.

What is FASENRA?

FASENRA is a prescription medicine used with other asthma medicines for the maintenance treatment of asthma in people 12 years and older whose asthma is not controlled with their current asthma medicines. When added to other medicines for asthma, FASENRA helps prevent severe asthma attacks (exacerbations) and may improve your breathing. Medicines such as FASENRA reduce blood eosinophils. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that may contribute to your asthma.

• FASENRA is not used to treat other problems caused by eosinophils. • FASENRA is not used to treat sudden breathing problems. Tell your healthcare provider if your asthma does not get better or if it gets worse after you start treatment with FASENRA.

It is not known if FASENRA is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age.

Do not use FASENRA if you are allergic to benralizumab or any of the ingredients in FASENRA.

Before using FASENRA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• are taking oral or inhaled corticosteroid medicines. Do not stop taking your corticosteroid medicines unless instructed by your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine to come back

• have a parasitic (helminth) infection

• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if FASENRA will harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant during your treatment with FASENRA.

° There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to FASENRA during pregnancy. Healthcare providers can enroll patients or encourage patients to enroll themselves by calling 1-877-311-8972 or visiting www.mothertobaby.org/fasenra.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if FASENRA passes into your breast milk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will use FASENRA and breastfeed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you use FASENRA.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Do not stop taking your other asthma medicines unless your healthcare provider tells you to.

How will I use FASENRA?

• FASENRA is injected under your skin (subcutaneously) one time every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses, and then every 8 weeks.

• FASENRA comes in a single dose prefilled syringe and in a single dose autoinjector.

• A healthcare provider will inject FASENRA using the single-dose prefilled syringe.

• If your healthcare provider decides that you or a caregiver can give the injection of FASENRA, you or your caregiver should receive training on the right way to prepare and give the injection using the FASENRA PEN. Do not try to inject FASENRA until you have been shown the right way by your healthcare provider. See the detailed “Instructions for Use” that comes with FASENRA PEN for information on how to prepare and inject FASENRA.

• If you miss a dose of FASENRA, call your healthcare provider.

What are the possible side effects of FASENRA?

FASENRA may cause serious side effects, including:

• allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions, including anaphylaxis. Serious allergic reactions can happen after you get your FASENRA injection. Allergic reactions can sometimes happen hours or days after you get your injection. Tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction:

° swelling of your face, mouth and tongue

° breathing problems

° fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure)

° rash

° hives

The most common side effects of FASENRA include headache and sore throat. These are not all the possible side effects of FASENRA. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store FASENRA?

• Store FASENRA in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).

• FASENRA may be stored at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for up to 14 days.

• Once removed from the refrigerator and brought to room temperature FASENRA must be used within 14 days or thrown away.

• Store FASENRA in the original carton until you are ready to use it to protect it from light.

• Do not freeze FASENRA. Do not use FASENRA that has been frozen.

• Do not expose FASENRA to heat.

• Do not use FASENRA past the expiration date.

• Keep FASENRA and all medicines out of the reach of children.

What are the ingredients in FASENRA?

Active ingredient: benralizumab

Inactive ingredients: L-histidine, L-histidine hydrochloride monohydrate, polysorbate 20,  ,  -trehalose dihydrate, and Water for Injection

The information provided here is not comprehensive. Ask your healthcare provider for additional information about FASENRA. You can also contact the company that makes FASENRA (toll-free) at 1-800-236-9933 or at www.fasenra.com.

FASENRA and FASENRA Pen are registered trademarks of the AstraZeneca group of companies.

© 2021 AstraZeneca LP. All rights reserved. Manufactured for: AstraZeneca LP, Wilmington, DE 19850

8/21 US-55818

PGA TOUR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

A warm endorsement of Scottie Scheffler’s success and popularity, as TOUR players themselves cast their votes

Scottie Scheffler, seen here at the Masters, was formidable throughout the season, with four victories, including his first major championship title.

It was Scottie Scheffler, 26, who was the Player of the Year on the Korn Ferry Tour in 2019 and who also won the Arnold Palmer Award as PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year in 2020. By being named PGA TOUR Player of the Year in 2022, Scheffler became the first player to win all three awards, doing so in the span of four seasons. (The awards, established in 1990, are decided by peer-player votes.)

SCHEFFLER’S REMARKABLE SEASON

“On behalf of the PGA TOUR, congratulations to Scottie on his remarkable season and his unprecedented achievements,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan. “Undoubtably, one of the highest compliments a player can receive is the endorsement from his peers, and the fact that Scottie’s season was both dominant and consistent spoke volumes to the membership. And as gratifying as it has been to see his development on the course over the last several years, we are equally thankful that Scottie has embraced the role as an ambassador of the PGA TOUR and the game of golf. With young stars like Scottie leading the way, the PGA TOUR is in great hands for many years to come.”

SETTING RECORDS

“Scheffler’s four victories came at the WM Phoenix Open, Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard, World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play and the Masters. He collected all four in the span of six starts, becoming the first player to win four times in a six-start stretch since Jason Day during the 2014-15 season. Only Tiger Woods (eight times) had previously won four times, including a major and a WGC, in the same season. Scheffler totaled 11 top-10 finishes in 25 starts on the season, including runner-up finishes at the Cadence Bank Houston Open, Charles Schwab Challenge, the U.S. Open and the TOUR Championship.

Scheffler held the lead in the FedExCup standings for 24 weeks, including the final 23 weeks of the FedExCup Regular Season, and went on to finish in a tie for second at the TOUR Championship, receiving $5.75 million in FedExCup Bonus Money.

With $14,046,910 in Official Money, Scheffler earned the most in a single season in PGA TOUR history, a record previously held by fellow former Texas Longhorn Jordan Spieth ($12,030,465 in 2014-15). In addition to his $5.75 million bonus for finishing No. 2 in the

a Scottie Scheffler triumphs at the World Golf ChampionshipsDell Technologies Match Play, giving him his third victory in six starts.

FedExCup standings, Scheffler received $4 million via the Comcast Business TOUR TOP 10 for finishing the Regular Season as the FedExCup leader and $1 million for winning the season-long Aon Risk Reward Challenge. Between Official Money and bonus programs, Scheffler earned a total of $24,796,910 this season.

A WORLD NO. 1 PLAYER

Scheffler moved to World No. 1 for the first time in his career following his third victory (March 27), becoming the 25th player in the OWGR era to reach the No. 1 position (est. 1986), and won in his first start as World No. 1 (Masters). He maintained his position as World No. 1 through the end of the season and held the top spot for 25 consecutive weeks.

• PGA TOUR members who played at least 15 official FedExCup events during the 2021-22 season were eligible to vote.

FOCUSED, CONFIDENT, COMMITTED.

Veritex Bank congratulates our golf ambassador Scottie Scheffler on winning the 2022 Masters Tournament and being ranked #1 in the world. We’re inspired by Scottie’s values, and, like Scottie, we are committed to the values rooted in the game of golf – truth, integrity, and transparency. Our passion is to build relationships and support our clients with world-renowned service.

Member FDIC

A LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Character, sportsmanship, and a dedication to charitable giving are key qualities that define Billy Andrade, the worthy recipient of the Payne Stewart Award, 2022

By Helen Ross

In his rookie year, 1988, Billy Andrade received an invitation to the Arnold Palmer Invitational at the Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando.

THE PAYNE STEWART AWARD

Since inception in 2000, the Award is given by the PGA TOUR and is presented by Southern Company. The Award, given annually in the week of the TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club, is in honor of World Golf Hall of Famer Payne Stewart. The Award is given to a player whose “values align with the character, charity and sportsmanship that Stewart showed.”

No matter where he rehearsed it, Billy Andrade couldn’t make it through the speech without crying. In his car. In bed. Even in the shower. And the tears never came at the same spot in the 20-minute speech, either.

The day he was to receive the Payne Stewart Award, Andrade did more two run-throughs as well as a final dress rehearsal in his royal blue suit. Yep, you guessed it. He kept getting choked up.

“They were making fun of me that I was going to break Steve Stricker’s record because he started crying 23 seconds into his speech,’’ Andrade said. “My kids felt that I had no chance.

“But somehow—I don’t know if it was Arnold (Palmer) or Payne looking down on me—I got through it.”

CAREER HIGHLIGHT

The four-time PGA TOUR champion calls the Payne Stewart Award the “highlight of my golfing career.” The honor has been given annually since 2000 to a player who exemplifies the character, sportsmanship and charitable giving of Payne Stewart, the three-time major champion who died in a plane accident while traveling to the 1999 TOUR Championship.

Andrade and his long-time friend, Brad Faxon, who won the Payne Stewart Award in 2005, have partnered to raise more than $30 million for charities in their native New England thanks to initiatives like the CVS Health Charity Classic. He also supports the East Lake Foundation in his adopted hometown of Atlanta through a tournament that he hosts with Stewart Cink, another Payne Stewart Award winner.

“Winning a tournament is one thing,” Andrade said. “But winning this is a different level. … It’s something that I’ll never, ever forget.”

Andrade was getting ready to play in the pro-am at the SAS Championship last fall when he took time for this Q&A with the PGA TOUR Essential Guide to Golf.

Q: You met Payne Stewart several times as an amateur. How did your relationship develop?

ANDRADE: 1988 was my rookie year, and I hired all the best caddies—so Fluff (Cowan) caddied for me some, Gypsy (Grillo) caddied for me some. [Stewart’s caddie] Mike Hicks didn’t caddie for me, but he was part of that group. So I got to be friendly with Mike, and Payne was rolling at that time. He was really coming into his own in the late ‘80s. And like every sports team, you get on the rookies even though we’re not a sports team. He got on me pretty good, and he was relentless. But he was that way. He was a ball buster. He was high energy. And I look at it now, that if you’re busting somebody’s chops, it’s because you love him deep down. And if you don’t really care for somebody then you’re not going to even go down that road. But when you’re giving each other crap, it’s a love of the person, I think. It just got ridiculous as much as he was on me.

Q: Was there any one thing he’d needle you about?

ANDRADE: At Colonial, I started the year off in ‘89 and I wasn’t playing very good. I was like a 100th on the money list and he was No. 1. He’d just won a tournament, and I was looking at the money list in the locker room and I felt somebody behind me. There he is, hey rook, where are you? Where are you in the list? Oh, at 100?

Come on man. You’ve got to be up here. Look at me. Look at me. He was competitive in the fitness van because I was always working out and he was working out. He’d get me there. He was just that way with me and it didn’t stop for like three years. Finally in 1990, my game was improving. I played with him at the Buick Open and he shot 64, I think, and I shot 65. It was one of those days where you fed off each other. And that was kind of it, where Hicksie said to Payne: Enough’s enough; this kid’s good.

Then we became friends and he’d see me and say, how’re you playing? How’re you swinging at it? And then we were at the Memorial, and I saw him on a Friday night at a restaurant, and he walked by and said how you playing? I said, I made the cut. I’m a couple under. How about you? He said, I missed the cut. And as he walked away, he said, man, I wish I had your tempo. And he was shaking his head. I was like, Payne Stewart just said to me that he likes my tempo! So, when you get an accolade, it’s like a great player saying, man, you’re a really good putter and then you think, well, maybe, yeah, I am a good putter. And then you kind of roll with it and you start playing better. It was a defining moment in our friendship and a defining moment in my career to get that compliment from him. And my career took off after that. I played well at Westchester. Played well at The International and all of a sudden, I win soon after that too. So that had something to do with it.

Q: Arnold Palmer was another important role model for you. ANDRADE: Well, Arnold was Wake Forest. I was the next guy up the next Arnold Palmer scholarship holder, coming into Wake, this Rhode Island kid. And he was coming in for the Vantage Championship at Tanglewood. And it so happened that Wake Forest just built the new Arnold Palmer and Brian Piccolo dormitories at Wake. So, he was coming in to check on his new dorm and say hi to the golf team. … It was my freshman year. And I remember like it was yesterday, he said, golf can open up so many doors. This door you can go through, you can be a club pro. Go through this door, you can be a PGA TOUR player and go through this door and be a titan in business and use golf to open up doors for you there. That’s what’s so great about the game of golf. Arnold Palmer gave a great motivational speech and it really resonated with me. And I’m so lucky to have had an unbelievable relationship with him.

That day he gave me a handshake and he had like catcher’s mitt for hands. And then he gave me a big hug and he said, go get ‘em. So, we win a national championship in my senior year. I get on the PGA TOUR, but I don’t have any status as far as getting an invitational. And I immediately get an invite in my rookie year to the Arnold Palmer Bay Hill Invitational. And then at the end of my career, for years I would get to Bay Hill early so we could go out and play nine holes. We did that for years. Early in the week, like Monday afternoon or Tuesday afternoon, I’d walk up into his office, and he’d already have his shoes on. You ready? Let’s go. He couldn’t wait. Then he came to Rhode Island. He played in our CVS (Charity Classic) with me. He was my partner. He came three times. So, our relationship was just very, very special along with everybody else. He was that kind of guy. He just made you feel comfortable. He made you feel special. He made everybody feel that way. So, he was a big influence for sure on my career.

ANDRADE: When you’re a rookie on the TOUR, you’re just trying to survive. You’re not really thinking about, okay, opening the door and using golf on the charitable side. But [Commissioner Deane] Beman made a conscious effort in the late 1980s into the early ‘90s about charity. We’re having these tournaments because we’re raising money for charity in the local places and stuff. So, I played some outings and some charitable golf events when I was a rookie. And I saw people making impacts where they were from like Peter [Jacobsen] in Portland. So, I saw that. And then Brad and I did a couple outings for Meeting Street School in Rhode Island where my brother attended when he was a kid. And we raised just a little money there.

In 1989, Willie Wood’s wife passes away of cancer and my wife, along with the TOUR Wives (Association), had a charitable outing at the Western Open in 1990. And the money raised went to scholarships for both his little infant boys. … Can you imagine being a TOUR player out here and your wife dies and you’re 27 trying to make it? So that really was the turning point for me where, you know what, golf can get people together. You meet all these people in these pro-ams. You meet titans of the business world, and you play some golf and at the end of the day, you can raise hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars for folks that are less fortunate or folks that need it.

And that’s where it all began. My brother was an influence. My family. I grew up in a great household. My mom and dad were awesome. I just felt like: if you have the time and you want to do it, you should do it. And Brad Faxon felt the same way as I did. And we hooked up together up in Rhode Island and then we had a celebrity event and then we hooked up with CVS and had a big pro event. Then in my adopted hometown in Atlanta, I felt I needed to do something there, but I knew I couldn’t carry it on my own. So, with the East Lake Foundation, Tom Cousins and Ann, and getting Stewart Cink to help me with that because we’re both members of East Lake Golf Club, we started the East Lake Invitational. We’ve been doing that for 12 years. So, the combination of all that—it’s just a love of the game and the love of charity and the love of helping people that’s been my drive. I’ve loved doing it and I’m not doing it to be recognized. I’m doing it because it’s in my blood and it’s the right thing to do.

Q: In all the charities you’ve helped is there any one particular person that really touched you?

ANDRADE: Well, up in Rhode Island, we have Camp Hope. It’s for kids who have cancer, and in the summer, they go to URI near the university, where they have summer camp. And one of the little girls from the camp came and spoke at our Andrade-Faxon. And there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. She just loved the experience and the whole thing. And then she passed away about three years later. That girl was … she was something. It’s so sad.

Q: You’re in your ninth season on PGA TOUR Champions now. When you were a student at Wake Forest in the 1980s did you ever think you would be still playing golf at 58?

ANDRADE: My goal when I was at Wake was to get on that wall behind Coach (Jesse) Haddock’s desk and be one of the boys and be a PGA TOUR player. And that was it. Just get on the TOUR and let’s see how great this ride can last. I didn’t think at all that 35 years later that I’d still be playing professional golf. … I’ve been very fortunate in my career that I haven’t had any major injuries. No surgeries. I’ve been blessed with flexibility, which helps. But no, I never thought about, hey, I’m going to do this for 10 years and do something else. I love the game. I love the competition. I love everything about it. I love the preparation. I love putting in the work. I love it all. And that’s the reason why I’m still doing it. It’s for the love of it. It’s part of who I am.

Q: What would you do if you didn’t have golf in your life?

ANDRADE: Drive my wife crazy. Drive my dog crazy. I’m looking forward to maybe doing some traveling. My wife wants to travel without clubs. 

Q: When did you become focused on charitable work?

“Arnold Palmer gave a great motivational speech and it really resonated with me.”

— Billy Andrade

CHOC TAW, MS

PearlRiverResor t .com

TGL - GAME ON!

a

By Michael LoRé

2024 sees the rollout of

new technology-infused golf league created by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in partnership with the PGA TOUR

As Bob Dylan famously sang, “The times they are a-changin’,” and the golf industry is no exception.

Thanks to the increased infusion of technology including ShotLink, Toptracer and AR/VR, the industry, and specifically the PGA TOUR, has its sights set on the future, while continuing to honor the game’s storied past.

PRIMETIME ENTERTAINMENT

That sentiment is shared by two of golf’s alltime greats—Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, who, along with former Golf Channel president Mike McCarley, created TMRW Sports and recently announced their first venture: TGL.

NEW AUDIENCE ATTRACTION

“It’s a great opportunity for PGA TOUR players to show a different side of themselves primetime on Monday night,” McIlroy said. “I think it’s great for brand exposure to try to engage a different audience. We’ve all heard about the fact of how old the golf audience is trying to get younger eyeballs on to it.

… It’s just another prong to what the PGA TOUR are trying to do to push the TOUR forward, and there was so much excitement in the room with that as well.”

HOW IT WORKS

With Woods and McIlroy already committed, TGL will feature six teams of three PGA TOUR players competing across 15 regular season matches followed by the semi-finals and finals. Each week two teams compete against each other, so each team plays the other five teams once per season.

The matches will take place in a techinfused venue, while providing a first-of-itskind experience for golf enabled by a data-rich, virtual course on a “not quite” IMAX-size screen complemented with a short-game complex.

Fans in-person or watching at home can follow every shot live across 18 holes during the two-hour primetime televised match.

ENGAGE WITH THE ACTION

“For the fans, think sitting courtside at an NBA game,” Mike McCarley said. “It’s that type of environment—music, player introductions. You’re right on top of the action as a fan. You see everything play out in front of you.”

While many details of TGL are still to be announced including full rosters, broadcaster partner and purse, the participating players

a A rendering of the new tech-infused TGL venue.

_ CEO of TMRW Sports, Mike McCarley (left) and Rory McIlroy detail the brand-new concept at a press conference prior to the TOUR Championship.

boast a combined 104 PGA TOUR victories, 19 major wins and 789 weeks atop the Official World Golf Ranking. TGL will partly be owned by its players, who get equity in the league.

WATCH THIS SPACE

“As a big sports fan myself, I’m excited about blending golf with technology and team elements common in other sports,” said Tiger Woods. “We all know what it’s like to be in a football stadium or a basketball arena where you can watch every play, every minute of action unfold right in front of you. It’s something that inherently isn’t possible in traditional golf — and an aspect of TGL that will set it apart and appeal to a new generation of fans.”

News and rollout updates can be followed on https://tglgolf.com 

The Wolfson Children’s Stys Neuroscience Institute in Jacksonville, Florida, offers patients and families a disease-specific, patient-centered approach from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation.

Caring for children ages newborn to 18, the Wolfson Children’s Stys Neuroscience Institute brings together experts in a wide range of fields to diagnose and treat complex neurological conditions, including: • Brachial plexus injuries • Muscular dystrophy • Brain & spine tumors • Sleep disorders • Cerebral palsy & spasticity • Epilepsy & seizures • Craniosynostosis & craniofacial disorders • Stroke & blood vessel conditions • Spinal muscular atrophy • Traumatic brain injuries

Along with pediatric healthcare collaborators, Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville, and the University of Florida College of Medicine – Jacksonville, the Stys Neuroscience Institute at Wolfson Children’s Hospital is leading the way in innovative technology and breakthrough medicine.

To schedule an appointment for a child with any condition affecting the brain, spine or nervous system, call:

Neurology: 904.697.3600

Neurosurgery: 904.633.0780

wolfsonchildrens.com/neuro

When your child has a neurological condition, every little thing matters.

First in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, Ludvig Aberg is one of the game’s most promising prospects.

A CULTURE OF SUCCESS

Turning pro is a tough call but the many challenges are relished by the talent graduating from PGA TOUR University

By Sean Martin

Less than two years after graduating its first class, PGA TOUR University presented by Velocity Global has already had a dramatic impact on the game.

Four players from PGA TOUR U’s inaugural class—Davis Thompson, Kevin Yu, Trevor Werbylo and Austin Eckroat—can already call themselves PGA TOUR members after completing their college careers in June 2021. And this year’s class looks like it will quickly add to the count of PGA TOUR U alums on golf’s highest level.

UPWARD TREND

Pierceson Coody, No. 1 in 2022’s PGA TOUR U class, quickly won on the Korn Ferry Tour and Chris Gotterup finished T4 in this year’s John Deere Classic. Also trending upward, Pierceson’s twin brother, Parker, and Noah Goodwin each won on PGA TOUR Canada just weeks after completing their college careers.

Even with all this early success, the third class of PGA TOUR U could be an unprecedented one in this nascent program. As the college golf

a In the PGA TOUR University’s Class of 2023, Adrien Dumont De Chassart has climbed into the top 5.

season enters its halfway point, this promises to be the most international group of PGA TOUR University graduates.

INTERNATIONAL PLAYERS

The Class of 2023 is led by Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg (Texas Tech), while Belgium’s Adrien Dumont De Chassart (Illinois) and Brazil’s Fred Biondi (Florida) are also currently in the top five. They’ll begin their careers with Korn Ferry Tour status if they can remain in the top five at the end of the collegiate season. Denmark’s Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen (Oklahoma State) and Argentina’s Mateo Fernandez de Oliveira (Arkansas) also currently reside in the top 15 of the PGA TOUR U Velocity Global Ranking and are in line to earn status on one of the PGA TOUR’s international tours.

“It’s a fantastic program,” Aberg said of PGA TOUR U. “It gives you an incentive to stay in school for four years. It’s a great gateway to turning professional, because turning professional is tough. You have time to get acclimated to being a pro. To have something

from your amateur career to build on as you start your pro career, it’s incredible. I’m very fortunate to have this program as a gateway to turning pro.”

SWEDEN

Ludvig Aberg is one of the game’s most promising prospects. He is first in the World Amateur Golf Ranking and is also the winner of the 2022 Ben Hogan Award as the top player in collegiate and amateur golf. His resume includes victories at the prestigious Jones Cup Invitational—an event that often portends pro success—in 2021 and is the reigning Big 12 Conference champion.

Past champions of the Jones Cup include PGA TOUR winners Justin Thomas, Kyle Stanley, Luke List, Corey Conners and D.J. Trahan, as well as several other TOUR players and Korn Ferry Tour winners.

Aberg’s success has earned him starts in a handful of PGA TOUR events, including last year’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship, where he was in the top 10 at the halfway point.

He is thriving after a later start in competitive golf than most of his peers. Football was his first love. He was limited to playing golf in the summer because of Sweden’s snowy winters, but he decided as a teenager to devote himself to golf and began playing in tournaments when he was 14 years old.

His quick success caught the eye of Texas Tech head coach Greg Sands. Several Swedes had already had success in Lubbock, including brothers Nils and Oscar Floren, who were both first-team All-Americans for the Red Raiders. Sands thought Aberg could be the latest success.

“We identified early on that he has a gift of staying in the moment,” Sands said. “He’s always calm and patient. There’s a lot of competitiveness inside him, but his demeanor is always composed. There’s never doubt within. He’s got the physical tools that checks all the boxes, but mentally is where he’s separated himself from the competition.”

BELGIUM

Dumont de Chassart also followed his countrymen to campus, following in the footsteps of Belgians Thomas Pieters and Thomas Detry who both starred at Illinois before successful pro careers. Pieters won the 2012 NCAA individual championship before becoming a Ryder Cup participant and top-50 player in the

a Fred Biondi, seen here in action at the 2022 U.S. Open, has a chance to become the best player in Brazil’s history.

world, while Detry is now a PGA TOUR member. Pieters and Detry both represented Belgium in last year’s Olympic Games.

BRAZIL

Fred Biondi has been as high as No. 20 in WAGR, which is the best rank in WAGR by any player from Brazil. Biondi has a chance to become the best player in his country’s history. Only a handful of Brazilians have ever held a PGA TOUR card, but Biondi is one of the top players in the collegiate game and was a firstteam All-American last season.

PGA TOUR U is proving to be a pipeline for the best amateurs in the world. 

TIGER’S GUIDING LIGHT

The game’s outstanding talent, Tiger Woods, turned mentor when 30 boys and 30 girls were chosen to take part in the inaugural TGR JR Invitational presented by TaylorMade

By Jim McCabe

When the assessments are made about the 2022 golf season and there is mention of Tiger Woods’ return to action one needs to embrace a bigger picture.

Should the view be of those uncharacteristic recent appearances in the Masters (47th), PGA Championship (withdrew after three rounds), and Open Championship (missed cut)? If so, you’d be doing yourself a disservice.

That’s because a special group of 60 youngsters from a pool of thousands in midOctober saw Tiger Woods’ 2022 season in a pulsating light, in awe with him not so much as a competitor but as a mentor.

a Young players and their parents watch as Tiger Woods demonstrates with some brilliance.

ACCEPTING CHANGE

Yes, he accepts that transition, recognizing at age 46 that his dominating majestic talents are less likely to be experienced again. He moves forward with head held high.

“I’m not one who gets very teary-eyed very often about anything,” he said at this summer’s Open Championship. “Life moves on. And I think that’s what people understand.”

And what Woods clearly understands is his new place in golf—as an iconic figure who can lead and inspire another generation and offer them ways to help themselves become better people.

Should you surmise that Woods is as proud of the TGR Foundation as he is his 15 major championships, you’d understand why he spent several days at three iconic brands—TGR, TaylorMade, and Pebble Beach Golf Links— intersected out on the Monterey Peninsula.

JUNIORS’ OPPORTUNITIES

It was the TGR JR Invitational and from about 600 junior golfers who submitted applications, including videos and written essays, that 30 boys and 30 girls were chosen to take part.

What they got was Tiger Woods’ undivided attention; a chance to watch arguably the game’s greatest player flash some short-game brilliance around The Hay, a 761-yard, nine-hole par-3 course that he redesigned right next to Pebble Beach Golf Links; and a competitive arena that started with 27 holes at The Hay and moved to The Links at Spanish Bay for 18 holes.

HELPING YOUTH

Marvel at any number of talents that Woods brought to the PGA TOUR stage, but there still is something incomparable about his consistency. In 13 of his first 18 years as a professional, Woods won at least three times and he had at least one win in each of his first 14 seasons.

Then transfer that respect to what he has done as a mentor and as someone who puts his name on a foundation that has this as its mission statement “To empower students to pursue their passions through education.”

Consistent with that, this TGR JR Invitational is about providing participants with the experience of a lifetime and Woods has fully invested in making it “competitive, yet fun and purpose-driven.”

Motivating words from Woods were a highlight to a Q&A session at the invitational dinner. For several days, the “Dig in the dirt” sign at The Hay reminded youngsters that they can find success at golf by working and practicing.

SIX YOUNG CHAMPIONS

When the competitive stage had been cleared there were six champions from the match play finals at Spanish Bay:

Maleah Clark by 5 and 4 over Suri Lau in the girls’ 10-12; Lily Morua by 2 and 1 over Lexi Lowe in the girls’ 13-15; and Nicole Iniakov by 1 up over Cristen Faith Legaspi in the girls’ 16-18.

Vince Arciaga by 3 and 2 over Kaeden Schabel in the boys’ 10-12; William Keszler by 2 and 1 over Cullen Pritchard in the boys’ 13-15; and Dylan Brack by 3 and 2 over Toatele Ofahengaue in the boys’ 16-18.

b Youngsters at the inaugural TGR JR Invitational were inspired by Tiger Wood’s mentoring skills.

TIGER’S LEGACY

Anytime Woods is at Pebble Beach, the vibes can be felt. Well before any of these competitors at the TGR JR Invitational were born, the intersection of these two icons created history. In February of 2000, Woods erased a massive deficit over the final seven holes to score an improbable win in the AT&T Pebble Beach ProAm, a victory that arguably went a long way toward cementing his legacy.

Then, four months later he played nearflawlessly to record a 15-stroke win in the U.S. Open.

CRUCIAL SHORT COURSE

So in love with Pebble is Woods that in 2019 he offered his services to re-design The Hay. His pitch was simple: He learned to play on a short course and considers them crucial to the growth of golf.

“He saw the potential in that property,” said John Sawin, vice-president and Director of Golf for the Pebble Beach Company. The finished product is a thing of beauty and adds yet even more polish to America’s most revered resort.

THE VISION DELIVERED

As for the TGR JR Invitational, Woods saw the potential in that, too, and it played out as beautifully as he envisioned. 

YOUR GAME YOUR STYLE YOUR WATCH

The TAG Heuer Connected Watch

Calibre E4 - Golf Edition features a striking look equally at home on the golf course and in everyday life. Since 2015, TAG Heuer has established itself as the unrivalled world leader in luxury smartwatches. TAG Heuer’s Connected Golf Edition first launched in 2018 and has been a standout success for the luxury watch maker, building on TAG Heuer’s long-standing heritage in the sporting world. TAG Heuer has become the undisputed leader in the golf luxury smartwatch sector and is beloved by the golf community.

The TAG Heuer Connected Watch Calibre E4 - Golf Edition also offers a redesigned interface to make it easier to control the watch’s golf functions, including highresolution 2D maps showing hazards and distances on more than 40,000 golf courses around the world. It allows wearers to improve their game, no matter what level of player they are.

Professional golfer and TAG Heuer ambassador Tommy Fleetwood will wear the new watch, which also offers exclusive golf-themed watch faces only available on the TAG Heuer Connected

Watch Calibre E4 - Golf Edition. The new TAG Heuer Connected Watch Calibre E4 - Golf Edition has a redesigned buckle with a built-in magnetic ball marker. Ball markers are a must-have for putting, so having one incorporated into the watch buckle means one less thing for golfers to carry.

The marker is designed to slide from the wrist easily and is emblazoned with a distinctive TAG Heuer logo in bright, contrasting colours to improve visibility. The logo stands out physically from the buckle to improve grip. The marker can be

popped out simply in one movement and reattached with similar ease. There is also a spare ball marker provided in the case.

The new watch automatically detects swings to allow users to track their performance in the app without having to activate the function by hand. The watch automatically detects when the wearer performs a swing on the tee area, using the Connected Watch’s accelerometer and gyroscope, and begins tracking the shot. It concludes when the watch identifies the swing to hit a second stroke. It means golfers don’t have to remember to track their drive, ensuring that the data is captured automatically. For the time being this function is limited to tracking the first shot on each hole.

The automatic shot tracking also enhances existing features of the watch,

such as the Driving Range feature, by providing the app with more data (as it’s activated automatically). The Driving Range feature offers a ‘heat map’ for every hole, which shows where shots landed on previous rounds. Over time, this allows golfers an overview of the strategies which work for them, helping them to pick the perfect club and the perfect route to each hole.

The watch interface has been redesigned to enhance the watch’s unique 2D maps, allowing golfers to track hazards and distances on 40,000 golf courses around the world. There is now more screen area available to view a 2D overhead map of the course, and more information is displayed on screen at once, with distances, club information, scores, and hole numbers displayed clearly on screen as users play.

The 45mm model has a sporting design and a powerful ceramic bezel which gives it the feel of a traditional high-end timepiece, highlighted with the iconic green of the Golf Edition. The iconic 18 holes bezel provides an immediate scorecard during a round with color coded segments showing on each hole if you are above, on or below par. The watch’s pushers have a mechanical feel, highlighting TAG Heuer’s 160 years of heritage in making high-end mechanical watches - and the watch slopes inwards, so it feels lighter on the wrist than previous generations of the Connected Golf Edition.

GREAT GOLF ADVENTURES

Planning a new golf adventure or returning to a favorite destination, the choices this spring and summer have never looked more attractive

2023.

For most of us, what makes a great golf adventure and a memorable vacation, is the challenge of a seductive golf course in a stunning setting. Along with a resort offering additional recreational facilities, there must also be spectacular scenery, and of course some fine dining opportunities. Most of all, we want a golf experience that more than matches our expectations. This may seem a tall order but, since the pandemic hiatus, many resorts and public courses have upped their attractions, with makeovers to facilities and course improvements, as well as new courses opening. Let’s take a look at what’s on offer, along with some PGA TOUR tournaments that will add a great experience to our summer golf vacations.

TEXASHome on the range

Opening this spring are two new PGA Frisco championship courses located in Frisco, Texas, with the backing of several partners including Omni PGA Frisco Resort. The two worldclass championship golf courses, Fields Ranch East (18 Holes, 5,012 - 7,863 yards, par 72) and Fields Ranch West (18 Holes, 4,166 - 7,319 yards, par 72) are scheduled to open in March this year. They will be a big attraction to golf vacationers seeking a new experience on pristine, untrodden greens.

Designed by acclaimed golf course architects Gil Hanse and Beau Welling respectively, the two flagship 18-hole courses offer strategic challenges to players of all levels.

It was in 2018 that the PGA of America announced its HQ move from Florida to Frisco, Texas, where, today, after much behind-thescenes negotiating, PGA of America is based. Fields Ranch will host more than 23 tournaments within the first 10 years of opening, including the PGA Championship in 2027, which will be the first men’s major championship in Texas in over 50 years.

The Omni Frisco Resort is set for a rush of enthusiastic golf fans, always curious and excited to experience new world-class golf courses and the resort’s many attractive facilities, with countless resort activities to be enjoyed by guests, including golf, wellness amenities and dining experiences—the latter with no fewer than thirteen culinary venues.

At this brand-new venue there’s a two-acre putting course and a par-3, 10-hole short course. Both golfers and non-golfers will enjoy the extensive range of enjoyment opportunities at the PGA District that has a variety of signature dining and retail concepts, virtual game experiences and programmed entertainment. The resort features 500 guest rooms and suites, 10 four-bedroom ranch houses, four pools, including a rooftop infinity pool, a salon and spa, as well as indoor and outdoor meetings and events space.

• Latest booking information to be announced when the official opening date (March) draws closer.

The par-5 18th green at Fields Ranch East, opening in March

MISSOURIMemories are made of this

The par-3 19th at Payne’s Valley has a narrow island green framed by a large limestone outcrop and waterfalls.

Ozark Mountains Big Cedar Lodge Resort, presented to us as “America’s Premier Wilderness Resort,” assures a warm welcome to all those seeking a memorable golf vacation. This luxury resort is placed within the magnificently rugged landscape of the Missouri’s Ozark Mountains, so if you long for the great outdoors, this is for you (complete with inviting accommodations, impressive restaurants, and four golf courses, along with some attractive package deals).

Big Cedar Lodge is being pitched as “America’s Next Great Golf Destination,” giving golf vacationers some awesome choices, with courses designed by many of the top names in golf: Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Gary Player, Tom Fazio, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.

In addition to the well-known Top of the Rock Golf Course, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, another big attraction must be the Tiger Woods-designed Payne’s Valley Course—the first U.S. public golf course designed by Woods. TGR Design by Tiger Woods, says, “The design of Payne’s Valley creates a championship-caliber, familyfriendly golf experience that allows individuals of all skill levels to come together to enjoy the game and the beautiful natural setting.” The course has an attractive and inviting layout that includes challenging and pristine water features, large fairways and greens, and the famously spectacular 19th hole.

Big Cedar Golf offers multiple practice facilities with access for golfers included in their greens fees. If guests wish to use the range without playing a round of golf, Buffalo Ridge offers daily access to the practice facilities for $40 per player. Below is a list of each practice amenity located at the different courses.

 Payne’s Valley - Driving Range (Ozarks National), Short Game Area (Ozarks National), Putting Green.

 Ozarks National - Driving Range, Short Game Area, Putting Green.

 Buffalo Ridge - Driving Range, Short Game Area, Putting Green.



Top of the Rock - Putting Green. Guests playing Top of the Rock can use the Buffalo Ridge Driving Range if they wish to warm up before their round. Please note, Buffalo Ridge is 16 minutes away from Top of the Rock by car.



Mountain Top - Driving Range (Ozarks National), Short Game Area (Ozarks National), Putting Green.

With golf as the big attraction of the Big Cedar Lodge Resort, there are plenty of activities here if you want to mix it up with golf. There’s fishing for bass on Table Rock Lake’s 43,000 acres of clear water, or trout fishing at nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, boating from Long Creek Marina. At the shooting academy there’s clay shooting, with shotgun and ammo provided. Or simply chill out and enjoy spa treatments or the 10,000 acres of nature park.

Ranked one of the “Best Par 3 Courses” in the world by GOLF Magazine: Top of the Rock at Big Cedar Lodge golfbigcedar.com

GulfShores.com/Golf OrangeBeach.com 877-852-3618

...like teeing up on a quiet morning at a luscious green course and feeling the cool coastal breeze as you line up your shot. Putt, drive, swing, and dine all year long at one of the 15 beautiful golf courses in and around Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Comfortable weather means golfers can enjoy year-round play on any of the 15 courses found in and around the area. Beautifully manicured courses and sunny, blue skies provide the ideal backdrop for a round or two.

You’ll soon discover that our courses are as magnificent as our 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches. Many were designed by some of the greatest names in golf, including Jerry Pate and Arnold Palmer, and several are ranked top in the state.

Wrap up a fabulous day of golf at one of the dozens of extraordinary restaurants in the area for your 19th hole and enjoy delicious coastal cuisine and signature cocktails.

Whether you’re looking for a golf-centered vacation or want to hit a few balls while traveling, Alabama’s beaches are the ultimate destination for you. Discover fun on and off the course in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and start planning your next golf getaway.

Find your vacation inspiration and start planning your getaway to Alabama’s beaches by ordering our 2023 Vacation Guide. This 88-page magazine provides everything you need to know about vacationing in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach from what to see, do and eat to where to stay.

Visit GulfShores.com or call 877-341-2400 to order your copy today.

Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend have a peaceful, serene environment, typical of the Baldwin County Alabama landscape.

ALABAMAExperience ʻpure Palmer golf’

The coastal towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach continue to gain popularity with golfers, with the area enticing us with an attractive climate and no less than 171 holes of golf, all within a 15-mile radius. The lodging options are attractive too with many including beachfront condos and houses, on-site golf condos, as well as traditional hotels.

Just north of the white beaches of Gulf Shores is the 36-hole Arnold Palmer signature golf course at Craft Farms Golf Resort, which has shaped the area’s golf landscape.

The first Arnold Palmer design in the area, Cotton Creek, has a unique setting, featuring gently rolling fairways and large undulating greens, playing over 7,000 yards. The more recent of the two Palmer designs in Gulf Shores is Cypress Bend at Craft Farms. The layout features sprawling bunkers, classic greens and year-round perfect golfing conditions. The resort wants to let us know that here you’ll find “Pure Palmer Golf,” and indeed 18-hole Cotton Creek golf course and 18-hole Cypress Bend golf course are considered the best public courses in the South.

Here there are fun challenges for golfers at every skill level, with the backdrop providing the peaceful environment of the natural Baldwin County Alabama landscape, with massive live oaks dripping

with Spanish moss, pine forests, numerous lakes and creeks that are the habitat for the native wildlife. These courses have a distinctively coastal feel, with dwarf Bermuda grasses and numerous lakes that meander throughout the property. The style of play is both friendly and relaxed. To play Craft Farms, you can book online.

Directly along the coast is Kiva Dunes, a world-class resort located on the Fort Morgan peninsula of Gulf Shores. The resort has one of Alabama’s most acclaimed public courses, with vacation rentals ranging from beach homes to condos overlooking the 18th green. Each accommodation gives access to the resort’s four pools, two restaurants, and over 3,000 feet of private beachfront.

The course layout was created by Jim Edgemon, the property’s developer, together with long-time friend and former U.S. Open Champion, Jerry Pate. Between them Pate and Edgemon developed a links-style course that today is ranked the number one public golf course in Alabama.

A three-hour drive north to Birmingham enables you to enjoy The Regions Tradition (TOUR Champions schedule, May 11-14) which, as usual, will be played at Greystone Golf & Country. It’s always a popular event, headlined by top TOUR Champions senior players in action, along with an entertaining line-up of celebrities.

The Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort Championship Golf Course is located among tall pine trees beneath the Sierra Blanca Peak.

NEW MEXICOFlutter, just for fun

In recent years we’ve seen—and perhaps participated in—the growing enthusiasm for golf sports betting. And the PGA TOUR also recognizes the benefits of responsible sports betting for golf fans.

If you enjoy a flutter along with your passion for golf, then heading for New Mexico for a golf vacation will offer you a great range of golf casinos, many of which come highly recommended by media reviewers.

High in the New Mexico popularity rating is Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort, situated in spectacular Sierra Blanca Peak region. The resort is located on the Mescalero Apache reservation in Mescalero, recognized as the sacred land of the Apache tribe. The resort offers a very wide range of vacation activities. Here you can enjoy zip-line rides, boating, biking and horseback riding—and of course all the

fun of the casino, as well as the challenges of the golf experience.

The resort’s championship golf course (6,834 yards, par 72) was designed by Ted Robinson. Opened in 1975, it features an island fairway as well as fast-breaking greens that are not only beautiful to see, but they’re also quite challenging to play.

And the casino? Well, what’s in the bag is the full, fun range of games you would expect in any high-class casino. It all happens in the 45,000-square-foot casino where there’s a great range of slots, along with all the favorite table games, including poker, blackjack, craps and roulette.

The hotel has a variety of accommodations from Presidential, Royal and DeLuxe suites to Superior and Standard rooms. There are often promotions and deals available, so it’s well worth checking out what’s available well in advance of your vacation dates.

THE MOUNTAINS

The exhilaration of watching a drive soar onto the fairway. The smell of freshly cut grass. The putt that sinks perfectly to earn the coveted eagle. These are just a few of the reasons that explain why travelers choose to plan golf getaways. It’s all for the love of the game: for its technical nature, its social opportunities, and its propensity for being played in the most picturesque settings.

Enter the Championship Golf Course at Inn of the Mountain Gods. Situated high in the Sacramento Mountains just outside of Ruidoso, New Mexico is the Ted Robinson-designed course known for its spectacular scenery and fast-breaking greens. With age-old pines, vibrant greens and towering Sierra Blanca peak with big sky views, the Championship Golf Course encapsulates all of the natural scenery New Mexico has to offer.

Set on tree-lined fairways, the 7,206-yard course is surrounded not only by forest and high desert terrain, but also by the resort’s spring-fed lake, Lake Mescalero, demanding skill and accuracy from golfers aiming to stay in regulation.

Making the most of the mesmerizing scenery, Robinson struck a brilliant balance between challenge and fun. The 18-hole Championship Course is known for creative and challenging sand and water hazards such as the No. 10 island fairway. The course features meticulously manicured bluegrass fairways and bentgrass greens, making it ideal for competitive play. And, nestled in the canyons of the surrounding Sierra Blanca, the course sits at an incredible 7,000 feet, helping balls fly nearly 10 percent farther than at lower elevations.

A par-72, a course rating of 72.1 and a slope rating of 132 on bluegrass, the course is complex yet fair, making it perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Since its opening in 2007, Golfweek has consistently named the course among the 50 “Best Casino Courses” in the United States, among other accolades including “Best Courses You Can Play” in New Mexico.

As a part of Southern New Mexico’s only AAA Four Diamond rated resort and casino, thriving traditions, lush wilderness,

ARE CALLING

DISCOVER THE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE AT INN OF THE MOUNTAIN GODS

indulgent luxury and endless recreation come standard at Inn of the Mountain Gods.

Guests can forge new memories horseback riding, hiking, paddle boating, kayaking, fishing, big game hunting, or soaring over Lake Mescalero on a zip line at 50+ mph, year-round. The tribal-inspired architecture, which compliments striking views of the surrounding range, is a testament to the reverence the Mescalero Apache tribe has for their rich culture and Mother Earth’s abundance.

Ski Apache offers more excitement just a short drive away, where adventure enthusiasts can check off bucket lists by mountain biking or riding the Apache Wind Rider ZipTour.

The property also boasts award-winning dining options for the entire family. Broken Arrow Tap House invites guests to sidle up to the bar and sample from 70 beers on tap. Hungry for something new? Stop by The Market at the Mountain, an all-new food court featuring a great selection of fast-casual options such as

Wahlburgers, Samurai Sam’s Teriyaki Grill, Sbarro, Warshield Tacos and more. Or indulge in the gourmet offerings at Wendell’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant.

Bring the whole family out to play at Topgolf Swing Suite. This state-of-the-art social experience is fun for both golfers and non-golfers alike and features a variety of multi-sport games.

Guests can enjoy their evenings in style, whether that’s trying a hand at a blackjack table, exploring some of the biggest headliners and up-and-comers in music and comedy, or grabbing a nightcap in the lounge. Once it’s all said and done, guests can retreat to a luxuriously appointed guest room or suite, where spectacular views come standard with a good night’s rest.

For more information or to book a tee time, call (575) 464-7942 or visit InnoftheMountainGods.com.

Tom Lehman, 2011 winner of the Champions Tour

MEXICOEast-coast spectacular

Where in Latin-America would you find the first PGA TOUR Golf Course? If you said Mayakoba, you’re correct. This is El Camaleón Golf Course on the Riviera Maya oceanfront. The 18-hole PGA TOUR course has spectacular views from every vantage point that include tropical jungle, dense mangroves, and limestone canals.

This is the home of the World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba. And the TOUR pros who play here each year just love it! In the final week of November 2022, the player who loved it most was Russell Henley, winning the championship with a four-shot victory and thus breaking his five winless years.

Playing where the TOUR players play is a huge draw for fans when choosing a golf vacation. For that reason, there’s no doubt that El Camaleón Golf Course makes a popular choice.

For your golf vacation accommodations there’s the 5-star luxury hotel, Banyan Tree Mayakoba, located within a private community, Playa del Carmen.

Guests can enjoy the hotel not only for the attractions of the closely linked El Camaleón Golf Course, but also for the beauty of the uniquely local ecosystem where mangroves and other tropical plants flourish, and where white sandy beaches meet the Caribbean Sea.

It all makes for an inviting combination when you add in the Banyan Tree villas, where there’s a private pool for relaxation, and privacy, together with attentive service and exclusive amenities that have earned Banyan Tree a Five Diamond AAA status, as well as Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards: “Best of the Best.”

The staff of the Banyan Tree Mayakoba will give advice how best to experience the Riviera Maya’s history, with its many unique attractions and sites of cultural significance.

Popular guest activities include swimming in the region’s many cenotes as well as exploring the historic Mayan ruins to gain a firsthand insight into ancient Mayan civilization.

The resort at the Sand Beach Club pool.

El Camaleón Golf Course, showing the diverse ecosystems including the tropical Mayan jungle and the Mexican-Caribbean coastline.

Distinctive hazards on the course include the cavernous cenotes.

MEXICO

West-coast Pacifi c Ocean sunsets

Departing Mexico’s Caribbean coast (mentioned above) and moving across to Mexico’s western seaboard and the Pacific Ocean, it’s at the Paradise Village Beach Resort Nuevo Vallarta that golf vacationers will find a dazzling array of on-site recreational sports in addition to golf. It’s this wide range of exciting activities and outstanding recreational fun that makes Paradise Village a top choice for many.

Close by, and with a shuttle service, is the associated golf course, El Tigre Golf Course (7,239 yards, par 72), designed by von Hagge, Smelek & Baril, a design group that has created over 250 courses worldwide. This course has a reputation of being one of the most challenging 18-hole courses in Mexico. There are twelve holes featuring water and five “Beach” bunkers, regarded by our hosts as “fearsome.” It’s also good to be told that the pristine course is also irrigated by reclaimed water.

If you’re taking a well-earned break to play golf at Paradise Village, then you’ll also be able to enjoy the additional facilities:  Clubhouse – said to be one of the best designed golf clubhouses in Mexico, this 45,000-square-foot facility has a spectacular entrance.



Driving Range – the 300-plus yard driving range features tees on both ends, target greens on both side of the range and a short

game practice area.

 Putting Range – located adjacent to the Clubhouse with a variety of fun and challenging putting holes.

 Golf & Apparel Shop – all the apparel and equipment you could wish for.

 Hacienda del Paraiso Spa – a spa with jacuzzi and steam facilities that will be very welcome after a challenging game of golf.



Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar – a relaxing ambiance with a spectacular view of the 18th hole. Choose international cuisine out on the spacious terrace or indoors in the cool of the airconditioned restaurant.

The climate in the Nuevo Vallarta area is mild-tropical yearround, with average daily temperatures of 80° but with cooler evening temperatures in winter months.

The resort and golf course is currently offering a tempting “Unlimited Golf Getaway” stay-and-play package. The deal is for a minimum 5-night stay and includes unlimited rounds of golf, along with several other attractive benefits.

It is Paradise Village’s El Tigre Golf Course that has more recently raised standards still higher with its new upscale golf facilities and exclusive country club, making Nuevo Vallarta a regional top choice for west coast golf vacations.

El Tigre Golf Course, Paradise Village.

On Mexico’s Pacific coast, the coastline provides many beautiful beaches and bays. The largest of these bays is Bahia de Banderas (Bay of Flags). This is the beautiful location of El Tigre in Paradise Village.

Paradise Village Resort Nuevo Vallarta is set on a beachfront at the end of a private peninsula. This is a well appointed, all suite resort set in gardens on the Nuevo Vallarta channel just minutes from El Tigre Golf Club.

Casual studios with balconies and kitchenettes come with free wifi and flat screen smart televisions. Suites add full kitchens and separate living rooms. Most units provide ocean view and room service is available 24/7.

There are numerous restaurants located across the property, ranging from casual beach to fine dining venues. Snack bars and two lagoon style swimming pools with waterfalls, caves and slides. Other amenities include a fullservice spa,tennis, beach activities and a playground.

In order to establish El Tigre Golf Club, the challenge was given the team of designers, von Hagge, Smelek and Baril, was to “create the most exciting championship golf course in Mexico”. What resulted is a 7,239 yard masterpiece with recently renovated bunkers featuring exquisite bright white sand.

Many vacationers have rated the clubhouse as one of the most beautiful and best designed in Mexico. Facilities include and expansive practice area featuring hitting areas on both ends, multiple target greens along with short game practice areas including bunker, chipping and massive putting green. New Titleist rental clubs are available for rent and onsite PGA of America instructors are available to help get your game on track before or after your round.

Many Golf Getaway Packages are available which include:  All-Inclusive accommodations.

 Rounds of golf including practice balls, bottled water with golf cart included.

 Complimentary shuttle service to and from the Paradise Village hotel available every 30 minutes.

ISLANDS “Where corals lie” PUERTO RICO Island of enchantment

If ever you needed a reason for taking a vacation in Puerto Rico, here it is—coming up on the PGA TOUR calendar is the Puerto Rico Open at the Grand Reserve Golf Club, Rio Grande (March 2-5).

The island is especially popular in the winter months due to the tropical climate, making the high season in Puerto Rico December through May. Here you can watch and play where the pros compete. The Puerto Rico Open is a uniquely exciting event with plenty of local color, so it would be well worth tying in the tournament with your golf vacation visit.

Grand Reserve Golf Club at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve has two courses, the Championship and the International, both designed by Tom Kite. The Championship Course has several magnificent oceanfront holes, with its 7,506 yards weaving through palm trees, lush mangroves and waterways—all with the remarkable backdrop of the beautiful El Yunque rainforest.

It was at the Puerto Rico Open in 2022 that Ryan Brehm won his first PGA TOUR title. And, as a point of interest, Chelsey, his wife, served as caddie for the week, making Brehm the first player to win on TOUR with wife as caddie since Patrick Reed at the 2013 Wyndham Championship (Justine, his wife, was caddie).

Planning your visit, you have a choice of 579 spacious suites with

a balcony or terrace overlooking the resort’s gardens and pools, while oceanfront rooms give you full views of the ocean.

On the northeast coast, short distance from Coco Beach is the Bahía Beach Resort & Golf Club, home of the 5-star St. Regis Bahía Beach Resort. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and has the distinction of being a Certificated Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. The course was designed around a network of interconnected lakes of which RTJ has taken full advantage. Fifteen of the 18 holes border water features, as the course takes a circuitous route around the lakes before emerging onto the Atlantic coast for two of the final three holes.

The Bahía Beach course was designed with vacation golfers in mind, therefore ensuring you’re provided with a fun and challenging experience. Proclaimed as one of the best and most beautiful courses in the Caribbean, the claim is endorsed by the many pro players and fans who visit each year.

The area is packed with points of local and historic interest, with Old San Juan being the home of the San Juan National Historic Site, where some buildings date from the 16th century, including the San Felipe del Morro and San Cristóbal fortresses. Old San Juan is the cultural hub of Puerto Rico and is arguably the most culturally rich destination in the Caribbean.

HAWAIIParadise of the Pacific

As TOUR fans know very well, the early stages of the 2023 season present us with a great reason to visit Hawaii where the PGA TOUR Champions Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai, takes place in January, being part of the early portion of the new TOUR season. In 2022 on the Jack Nicklaus designed Hualalai Golf Course (Ka’upulehu-Kona, Hawaii), it was Miguel Ángel Jiménez who shot a 31 on the back nine to capture his third title on the course, leading him to comment: “It’s nice to be here, winning again in Hualalai. The golf course, I like it very much.”

This annual event at Hualalai packs a roster full of fan favorites— winners from past seasons, winners of majors since 2012 and additional professionals with five or more career victories, including one major. You can stop for the day or enjoy the full, three-day

event to watch the pros play this show-stopping course. The 2023 tournament will be from Thursday, January 19 through Saturday, January 21. The course will be closed to non-tournament play from Saturday, January 14 – Sunday, January 22.

If you can take a month out in January (a nice idea), early in the month (January 4-8) you could also enjoy the spectacle of the Sentry Tournament of Champions, celebrating its 25th year on Maui when the event returns to Kapalua for the first TOUR event of the year. Played on The Plantation Course at Kapalua, at 7,596 yards (par 73), this is one of the longest courses on the PGA TOUR. Designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, this is a course on a grand scale in keeping with its location on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains, with ocean views from most holes.

Jack Nicklaus designed the Hualalai Golf Course, which has the longest continuous stretch of oceanfront golf in Hawaii.

Luxury tour operator Ker & Downey helps you discover the world the way you always imagined. We create customized trips designed with experiential moments in mind. Tracking wildlife with the Maasai in Kenya, dining inside a dormant volcano in Iceland, or luxuriating next to the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean — whatever that moment is for you, you’ll know it when you experience it. And it comes standard on every Ker & Downey journey. Contact us today to make your travel dreams come true.

Sayari Camp, Tanzania

Sanctuary Swala, Tanzania

The course has been played by many of golf’s greatest, so if The Plantation Course is on your bucket list, there are Kapalua Golf Special Packages available to mere mortals. And Hawaii Golf Packages are also available through Troon Golf Vacations.

The linked hotels and resorts are as luxurious as you could wish for. If, for example, you had opted for Troon’s “Best of Maui Golf Package,” you would be enjoying 4 nights’ accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua and 3 rounds of golf at the newly refined Kapalua Resort Plantation Course, Kapalua Resort Bay Course, and King Kamehameha Golf Club.

A luxurious vacation retreat on the Big Island (as the island of Hawaii is nicknamed) is the Four Seasons Hualalai, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean and Hawaii’s dramatic volcanic landscapes. And from this luxury hotel you can also enjoy, close by, the tournament mentioned above, Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai, and you can play the course, one of the Golden Bear’s greatest.

Four Seasons gives you a choice of four outstanding properties in this island chain: Hualalai, Maui at Wailea, Lanai, Oahu at Ko Olina. And a great golf course is never far away, with most of them designed by top golf course architects, including Jack Nicklaus (as previously mentioned), Robert Trent Jones II and Ted Robinson.

A golf vacation here would be a lifetime experience for many of us but don’t be put off by the perceived hassle of fixing it all— there are highly experienced operators, such as Ker & Downey, who will make it easy by planning it all for you. Ker & Downey are also experts at customized journeys which means they can mix and match your golf vacation to fit just what you’ve been dreaming about. And if you’re open to suggestions and would like to know the which countries to visit at different times of the year, Ker & Downey can advise you the best times and places to visit month-bymonth throughout the year.

The 17th is the Plantation Course signature hole, winding amongst black lava rocks and large bunkers.

The 14th green, Hualalai Golf Course.

BERMUDAPearl of the Atlantic

The beautiful north-Atlantic island of Bermuda is a convenient short hop (flights operating daily) from our east coast mainland—the island is also a favorite port of call for cruise liners sailing out of New York and Miami, and this mode of arrival is especially memorable.

So why not just take that cruise to Bermuda or that hop across by plane, if you’re looking for a great golf vacation on this pearl of an island?

For a relatively small island, Bermuda has a remarkable number of golf courses. There were eight courses last time we counted, with island authorities and entrepreneurs investing heavily in the developments and renovations in the last thirty years or so.

But it’s the Butterfi eld Bermuda Championship that annually attracts an increasing number of fans since the inaugural event in 2019. In 2022 it was Ireland’s Seamus Power who won the championship. This October-slated tournament takes place on a glorious but challenging Port Royal Golf Course, Southampton.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1970, Port Royal features ocean views from nearly every hole. The course underwent an extensive 2009 renovation spearheaded by original design team member Roger Rulewich. Yardage: 6,828; par 71.

The 16th is one of the most visually spectacular holes in golf and is also extremely challenging. The 235-yard par 3 plays over an ocean inlet to a long but narrow green perched high above the water on a peninsula, with the ocean to the left.

Can you play the Butterfi eld Bermuda Championship course? Yes, you can! The Port Royal Golf Course is a public course owned by the Bermuda government and it’s open to all every day of the week (tournaments excepted) from 7am to 6pm.

If you’re thinking of taking a cruise liner that calls in at Bermuda, Port Royal Golf Course has a special $150 rate that includes all you need to play golf, including golf cart, rental clubs, shoes and practice balls.

For a longer stay, there are many 4- and 5-star rated accommodations within a short distance of Port Royal. The Fairmont, Southampton, is a regular favorite for many golf fans who return to the island year after year. Anticipate unsurpassed luxury and you won’t be disappointed—sumptuous guest rooms and suites, with private balconies showcasing sweeping ocean views.

The Fairmont beach resort comprises some 100 acres (with complimentary trolley shuttle service) and offers ten dining destinations, private beach club, a full-service spa and an 18-hole, par 3 golf club. This club is the Turtle Hill Golf Club featuring 18 challenging par 3 holes, most with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. ■

The 235-yard 16th hole at Port Royal Golf Course.

In Bermuda, you’re never far from the fairway.

With oceanfront fairways and seven courses on our 21 square-mile island, here in Bermuda you’re never more than a chip shot away from an epic tee time. You may come for the world-class fast greens and stay for the year-round warm sun, but it’s Bermuda’s friendly faces, natural wonders and unmatched adventure that will make your trip unforgettable.

Plan your escape.

THE PRESIDENTS CUP

Despite the predicted United States Team defeat of the International Team, the huge fan attendance, the excitement and moments of high drama, continue to elevate this sparkling event

By Ron Green Jr.

The Presidents Cup matches are about more than what happens in one week every two years.

The specifics matter in the moment—the United States defeated the International team 17½-12½ at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte to claim the 2022 victory—but the immediate details blend into a larger picture of what the Presidents Cup has become.

What happened at Quail Hollow over a sunsplashed September week was transformative,

a Former Presidents George W. Bush (left) and Bill Clinton embraced the action at the Presidents Cup.

elevating the event to new heights even as the United States side continued its domination, winning for the 12th time in 14 events (the teams tied in 2003).

From both a competitive and commercial standpoint, the Presidents Cup sparkled, building on the event’s still-young legacy, creating at least one new star in South Korea’s Joohyung ‘Tom’ Kim—whose vibrant personality pulsed like dance music through the International team—while the U.S. team further

polished the impression this may be the golden age of American team golf.

FAN SELLOUT

As for interest, Charlotte, N.C., and Quail Hollow Club reset the possibilities for the Presidents Cup.

With a 40,000-spectator daily sellout and a buildout that was more than 25 percent bigger than anything the PGA TOUR has put together previously, the Presidents Cup made a leap forward with the belief it will carry over to the 2024 edition at Royal Montreal Golf Club.

COMPELLING BATTLE

At its core, though, the Presidents Cup is about the golf itself and what had the look of a stressfree blowout by the Americans instead turned into a compelling battle that wasn’t decided until late Sunday afternoon when Xander Schauffele secured the winning putt.

“I’ve been a part of, unfortunately, a lot of losing teams, and it’s great to be around a group of 20 guys like this, and we just had a goal to win and defend the Cup. Obviously, here in Charlotte, it was the biggest one ever,” U.S. captain Davis Love III said.

“So there was a lot of different reasons to have pressure. But being the big, big, big favorite carries a little bit of weight. I’m glad they ignored it and just played great. They’re unbelievably prepared and unbelievably confident.”

And committed to the Presidents Cup.

AIR OF UNCERTAINTY

“It’s just such an honor and just a cool experience and big deal to be here, and it’s a big enough deal in itself,” Justin Thomas said.

Set against the backdrop of professional golf’s fractured world and its particular impact on captain Trevor Immelman’s International team, what some feared would be an emotionally flat, one-sided exhibition may have provided a crucial turning point as the International team works to change the narrative in an event it won just once—in 1998.

Down 8-2 after the first two days of the competition, the International team outscored the U.S. over the final two days, bringing an air of uncertainty to the outcome, at least for a little while.

SATURDAY’S SCREAMER

While Friday’s matches include the appearance of former presidents George W. Bush and Bill

b Joohyung ‘Tom’ Kim was a standout in the International team, exhibiting his energetic quality and character throughout the tournament.

Team captains Davis Love III (left) and Trevor Immelman shake hands following a closer than anticipated contest.

Clinton, it was what happened on Saturday afternoon that changed the course of this Presidents Cup. After scratching out a split of the morning foursomes matches, the International team took three of four four-ball matches led by Kim’s extraordinary presence.

Desperately needing a victory over Patrick Cantlay and Schauffele, Kim and Si Woo Kim watched his partner scald a 240-yard 2-iron approach shot into the 18th green, leaving him a 10-foot birdie putt in the event’s biggest moment.

When Kim holed the putt, he erupted in an unbridled celebration and was engulfed by his teammates who had found their moment, their inspiration and, perhaps, one of the keys to their future success.

“Tom Kim, this young kid has burst onto the scene in the last six months, and he’s been such a tremendous gift to our sport,” Immelman said.

“He has an ability to be a global superstar, this kid.”

When Kim was introduced to the 2,500 fans surrounding the first tee on Sunday for his singles match, he waved on the noise, letting it wash over him like he had been doing it for years, not days.

POWERFUL PRESSURE

It wasn’t enough, however, as the Americans eventually wore down the International side. With Jordan Spieth posting a 5-0 record, Max Homa going 4-0 and Justin Thomas going 4-1, the American depth was too much for the Internationals to overcome.

a The U.S. team claimed their ninth consecutive Presidents Cup victory since 2005, despite a spirited showing from the International team.

“I think that the biggest challenge for us this week was staying within ourselves and not letting the outside noise get to us. We saw notes of that that Captain Love put up all over the place, that we were supposed to win and we’re favorites and all that,” Spieth said.

“(We) didn’t focus on any of the outside noise for the entire tournament.”

The next Presidents Cup takes place at the Royal Montreal Golf Club, September 24-29, 2024.

For the International team, the result remains the same. Adam Scott played in his 10th Presidents Cup and he has never been on the winning team, once managing a tie in the 2003 matches in South Africa.

While the outcome didn’t change, Scott felt the future change. “It still hurts not to win,” Scott said, adding:

“Once some of these players who sit here for the first time or the second time start playing a few more [Presidents Cups]—and with teams that bond over the years —then I think we’re not going to leave here disappointed. A Cup is coming our way soon.”



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ON THE RECORD

A top-10 of the PGA TOUR on-course numbers that shaped a memorable 2022

By Justin Ray

_ Scottie Scheffler’s victory at the World Golf ChampionshipsDell Technologies Match Play was his third win of the 2021-22 season.

b Matt Fitzpatrick became only the third English player to win a major this century.

1.

For the first time since the inception of the Masters in 1934, all four majors were won by players younger than 30.

The value in the No. 1 statistic of the year is just how unthinkable it is that we have never seen it before. For the first time in the four-major era of men’s golf, all four winners in a calendar year were 29 or younger. Fifteen times in the modern era, three majors had been won by players in their 20s—but never all four. It also makes it six different major winners in a row—all under the age of 30—the first time the men’s game has experienced that since the inaugural Masters Tournament.

a leaderboard climb that featured a front-nine 27 on Sunday. Three weeks later at the TOUR Championship, Rory McIlroy, who was already ceding six “Starting Strokes” to Scottie Scheffler, opened his tournament with triple bogey and still won.

3.Scottie Scheffler went from winless on the PGA TOUR to No. 1 in the world in 42 days.

2.

For 40 years, nobody had opened a tournament with triple bogey or worse and won on the PGA TOUR. Then it happened twice in the same month.

The PGA TOUR has been keeping hole-by-hole data for the last 40 seasons. From 1983 through July 2022, in more than 1,700 official stroke-play events contested, there was not a single instance of a player starting a tournament with triple bogey or worse and going on to win. Then, in August, it happened twice!

At the Wyndham Championship, Tom Kim began his week with quadruple bogey. Incredibly, he went on to win by five shots after

The spring of 2022 undoubtedly belonged to Scottie Scheffler, whose lightning ascent to the peak of the game rivaled any great run by a single player in recent years. In the hours before the Super Bowl began, Scheffler was arguably the best player in the world without a PGA TOUR win to his credit. 42 days after winning the WM Phoenix Open, he was No. 1 on the Official World Golf Ranking. It was by far the shortest amount of time between a first PGA TOUR or DP World Tour victory and reaching the top spot—the previous mark was held by Tiger Woods in 1997, at 252 days.

Fewest Days Between 1st PGA or DPWT Win and No. 1 in World Year Player Number of Days 2022 Scottie Scheffler 42 1997 Tiger Woods 252 1999 David Duval 532 2015 Jordan Spieth 763

Scheffler was the first player to make his debut as the OWGR No. 1 at Augusta since Ian Woosnam in 1991. Just like Woosnam, Scheffler went on to win.

4.Matt Fitzpatrick joined Jack Nicklaus as the only men to win the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Open at the same course.

Nine years after becoming the first Englishman to win the U.S. Amateur since 1911, Matt Fitzpatrick returned to The Country Club, site of that victory, and assembled a final-round ball striking show for the ages. Fitzpatrick hit 17 greens in regulation on his way to winning the U.S. Open—one of just three players in the last 30 years to hit 17 or more greens in the final round of a major championship victory.

Fitzpatrick is one of just two players in history to win the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Open at the same venue. Jack Nicklaus also accomplished the feat, doing so at Pebble Beach.

5.Justin Thomas staged the largest finalround comeback to win a major since 1999.

Trailing Mito Pereira by seven shots entering the final round of the PGA Championship, Justin Thomas needed something incredible on Sunday at Southern Hills if he were to pick up his second major title. Thomas got it—gaining nearly 3.5 strokes tee-to-green on the back nine—and his final-round 67 forced a playoff he would win over Will Zalatoris.

The seven-shot final-round comeback tied the third largest by a men’s major champion in the modern era. It was the largest to win a major since Paul Lawrie at the 1999 Open—who was 10 back of Jean van de Velde.

7.Will Zalatoris had six top-eight finishes in his first nine career majors—something no player had done since 1957.

In recent years, no player has knocked on the door in major championships without barging into the winner’s circle quite as often as Will Zalatoris. Since the beginning of 2021, Zalatoris has averaged 2.51 Strokes Gained: Total per round in the majors, the best of any player in that span. At this year’s U.S. Open at Brookline, Zalatoris finished tied for second, already his third career runner-up finish in a major.

6.

Tom Kim became the youngest player to win twice on the PGA TOUR in 90 years. When Tom Kim won the Wyndham Championship in August, he became the youngest winner from outside the United States to win on TOUR since Harry Cooper in 1923. When he won the Shriners Children’s Open two months later, he became the youngest multiple TOUR winner since three-time major champ Ralph Guldahl 90 years ago. Kim was the first since Tiger Woods to reach two wins before age 21—beating Tiger to the punch by about six months.

That might not even be the most impressive aspect of his win in Vegas, though. Kim didn’t make a single bogey, becoming just the second player since 1974 to win an individual PGA TOUR event without dropping a shot.

It was also his sixth top-eight finish in just his ninth career major championship start. The American, now 26, was the first player to have six top-eight finishes in his first nine majors since Antonio Cerda of Argentina in 1957.

_ Joohyung “Tom” Kim cemented his rising star status following his triumph at the Wyndham Championship.

a Cameron Young secured the Arnold Palmer Award ahead of Joohyung “Tom” Kim and Sahith Theegala.

`

9.

Sebastián Muñoz became the first player in TOUR history with two rounds of 60 or lower in the same season.

On a TOUR with such rich history, it’s difficult to etch your name into the record books. It’s exceedingly rare to do something no player has ever done. When Sebastián Muñoz finished an opening-round 60 at the AT&T Byron Nelson, he became the only player in TOUR history to record multiple rounds of 60 or lower in the same season.

How rare is it to go that low? Only seven players in TOUR history have recorded multiple rounds of 60 or lower in their careers. Some of the greatest champions in TOUR history have never carded 60 or lower in an official event—among them Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods. Muñoz capped off his historic season with his first Presidents Cup appearance at Quail Hollow.

Russell Henley put the disappointment of the Sony Open behind him by winning the World Wide Technology Championship in November.

8.

Cameron Young had seven top-three finishes in the 2021-22 season, but no wins—a first on the PGA TOUR since 1993. Cameron Young seemingly did everything in his rookie PGA TOUR season except get into the winner’s circle. His consistently great performance netted him $6.5 million in official earnings, the most all-time by a player in his rookie season, and the most by any player in a season without a win. Buoyed by a powerful driver (No. 2 on TOUR in Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee), Young finished the season sixth in birdie rate and in the top-20 in both Strokes Gained: Total and scoring average. In 2022, Young became the first player to have a season with seven top-three finishes and zero victories since Hall of Famer Payne Stewart in 1993.

10.

Russell Henley posted the lowest 72-hole total in PGA TOUR history by a player to not win.

For most of the 2022 Sony Open in Hawaii, it looked like Russell Henley was going to pick up his second Waialae win, site of his maiden title nine years prior. His opening 36-hole total of 125 (62-63) gave him a three-stroke lead entering the weekend. That advantage was two strokes with one round to play after Hideki Matsuyama’s Saturday 63.

Henley shot 65 in the final round, but he was defeated by Matsuyama in a playoff. In the history of the PGA TOUR, there have been 23 instances of a player recording a 72-hole score of 258 or lower. Henley—who finished regulation with 257—is the only one of those players not to win. 

IN the ZONE

IMPROVE PERFORMANCE, SPEED, RECOVERY

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• Accelerate the body’s recovery process

• Increase energy and stamina

• Promote injury prevention and rehabilitation

Since being discovered by NASA in the 70s, over 3,500 scientific studies have been published by the National Institute of Health (NIH) showing its healing potential in a number of different use-cases. Red light therapy is a natural and noninvasive way to stimulate cellular rejuvenation.

Whether you are a serious athlete with a hectic travel and training schedule, or a life-long player who suffers from dayto-day wear and tear, Prism Light Pad allows you to recover and rejuvenate in the comfort of your own home and on the go. For more information on the benefits of red light therapy, visit www.prismlightpod.com

A sponsored roundup of what’s new in the world of golf, from technology and innovation, to golf equipment and new products

BREAKING NEW GROUND

Powering the world of golf with next-level innovation

Konica Minolta is a longtime supporter of various golf and golfrelated charitable organizations. The company is the “Official Office Systems of the PGA TOUR®” and, partnered with CBS Sports, brings the popular Konica Minolta bizhub® SwingVision Camera to select PGA TOUR broadcasts.

The official marketing relationship with the PGA TOUR expanded in September 2015, when Konica Minolta launched a SwingVision Video Channel on PGATOUR.com. The company also invested in a co-branded social media campaign, #TOURFix, which enabled golf fans to send in videos of their swing to @PGATOUR via Twitter.

Konica Minolta’s golf ventures also supports a range of initiatives, including Friends of Golf; Presenting Sponsor

of the Hoag Classic (a PGA TOUR Champions event in Newport Beach, Calif.); 2022 Title Sponsor of the Blue Angels Foundation’s Konica Minolta Golf and Tennis Classic; and 2023 Title Sponsor of the National Kidney Foundation’s Konica Minolta Golf Classic (a multi-tournament amateur golf event raising $3.5 million annually to benefit the National Kidney Foundation).

In 2022, Konica Minolta served as a Co-Presenter and official partner of the inaugural LPGA Pelican Women’s Championship now held in Florida each year. The company added the title of Presenting Partner of the Women’s Leadership Summit beginning in 2021.

Find out more at www.countonkonicaminolta.com

Is This the Most Intelligent Caddy Ever?

Play golf like never before with the revolutionary new MGI Navigator Ai remote control electric golf caddy. With brand new technology and a strikingly modern design, the new Navigator Ai is designed with an integrated GPS system built into a super responsive high resolution 4” full-color all-weather touchscreen display. Golfers with access to more than 40,000 pre-loaded virtual courses worldwide know the distance and play better. The caddy is designed with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities and the GPS system delivers fast, accurate distances to all parts of the course including the front, center and back of greens and hazards. As you walk the course, the GPS-mapped virtual course automatically advances to the next hole.

The Navigator Ai breaks all the boundaries and outclasses any competitor. With never seen before tech in a personal caddy, MGI will deliver geo-protect technology combined with Follow Me mode. The Ai will automatically stop if it drives close to a GPS-identified mapped hazard, such as bunkers or water hazards. MGI’s Patented Gyroscope Straight Tracker Technology keeps you on track across any terrain. Plus, with automatic hole advancement, the only thing you need to focus on is your next shot.

The Navigator Ai’s all-new remote will soon feature Follow Me mode, which allows the electric caddy to trail closely behind the remote-control holder. Walk the course with ease as your caddy returns to you from any distance away. Experience true freedom out on the course and let the Ai play your way whether it’s manually, remotely or in Follow Me mode. The new MGI Navigator Ai gives you a golfing experience that goes beyond imagination.

Visit www.mgigolf.com for 2023 release dates.

Numbers Matter — In Your Golf Game and Beyond

Each time you go out on the course, you aim to enhance your golf game and improve your score. Medical science is similar to golf—it’s constantly evolving to improve the outcome. Scientists have discovered that a high number of blood cells called eosinophils (e-o-SIN-o-phils) can be a common cause of severe asthma.

For people with asthma, this can get in the way of their golf game. Seth Dickman, 41, of Freemont, OH, went from completing triathlons to not being able to carry his golf clubs due to his asthma.

“Before my asthma was under control, I probably still played golf 4 times a month, but I had to use a cart. There was no way I could walk. I played from the cart and when I couldn’t use a cart, I just didn’t play.”

If you’re skipping activities, using your rescue medication more than 2 times per week, or take oral steroids to control your asthma, you should talk to your doctor—eosinophils may be causing your asthma to be uncontrolled.

Everyone has eosinophils, but for some people with asthma, too many can cause inflammation and lead to asthma symptoms. This type of asthma is called eosinophilic asthma (e-asthma). Approximately 4 out of 5 adults with severe asthma may have e-asthma*, but the good news is that there are specific treatments for e-asthma.

A simple blood test can help determine if eosinophils are playing a role in your asthma. You or your doctor may already have this information—ask your doctor about your eosinophil number.

Golf can be challenging…so can asthma. After Seth’s doctor prescribed a targeted treatment, he is able to breathe better so he can get back to the things he loves—like going for another birdie.

For more information, visit www.easthma.com

*A registry study considered patients likely to have e-asthma based on several factors including blood eosinophil levels.

©2022 AstraZeneca. All rights reserved. US-63923 4/22

TRAINING ON AND OFF THE COURSE

NOBULL is proud to be the Official Training Apparel and Footwear of the PGA TOUR. In partnership with the world’s leading golf organization, NOBULL is bringing training to life through the sport of golf and celebrating how training can lead to success on the course.

As a NOBULL athlete, Scott Stallings lives up to his reputation known as “Fittest Man on the PGA TOUR.” The three-time PGA TOUR winner is looking forward to another successful season, and attributes his strong performance on the course to his training.

Scott’s training style is not that of a typical golfer, and that works to his advantage. With a sport as unpredictable as golf, Scott’s preparation off the course means everything for his performance on the course. While golf shoes, a polo, and a hat are staples on the course, Scott’s time in the gym is accompanied by his favorite training gear from NOBULL.

www.nobullproject.com/pgatour

WARM UP & RECOVER with Relax Sauna®

Looking for new and improved ways to avoid injury and improve performance on the golf course?

Relax Sauna provides a unique portable far infrared light technology that can be used—even fully dressed—as a therapy device to warm up your muscles, tissues, ligaments, and tendons both before and after a round of golf. You simply sit down for a 5- to 10-minute session.

Far infrared saunas are considered extremely effective compared to traditional saunas, at a much lower temperature, for improving circulation and relaxation of the muscles.

Just one Relax Sauna therapy session quickly helps to reduce both pain and inflammation throughout the whole body, as well as improve your flexibility, speed, and performance in a safe, fast, and effective way.

Today, golfers can quickly increase oxygen-rich blood flow to their muscles, improve range of motion, lower stress, and improve cognitive function all within a 5- to 10-minute session.

All Relax portable saunas and therapy lamps use a patented far infrared light emitting technology. These lightweight, compact portable therapy products can be used at home, the office, gym, training center, hotel, or even in an RV.

For more information about Relax Saunas and their technology, visit: relaxsaunas.com/essential-golf.

A GLITTERING NEW SEASON LIES AHEAD

There will be heightened excitement at many PGA TOUR events in the coming months, with the world’s top players vying for mega prize increases

The PGA TOUR’s 47-event schedule for 2022-23 is highlighted by designated events offering purses of $15 to $25 million with guaranteed participation by the game’s top players. The designated events include the invitationals hosted by Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods and honoring Arnold Palmer, THE PLAYERS Championship, the World Golf Championships-Dell Technologies Match Play, the Sentry Tournament of Champions and the three FedExCup Playoffs events. Those will be joined by four tournaments that have been designated for the 2023 season.

The schedule kicked off with nine events in the fall. Included was a venue change for the CJ CUP, which became the CJ CUP in South Carolina as it was played at Congaree Golf Club. One other fall change was Cadence Bank as the new title sponsor for the Houston Open.

The 2023 portion of the schedule commences with the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii, with a purse that has been raised to $15 million. The order of tournaments remains the same on the West Coast swing, with the Farmers Insurance Open finishing on Saturday for the second

consecutive year. The WM Phoenix Open is one of the four events chosen for enhanced status for 2023 with a $20 million purse. That will be followed up with another $20 million event, The Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles, hosted by Tiger Woods.

The four-event Florida swing includes the $20 million Arnold Palmer Invitational and THE PLAYERS Championship, where the players will vie for a PGA TOUR-record $25 million purse. The Florida events are followed by the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play in Texas for $20 million and two weeks later the Masters Tournament in Georgia.

Two more designated events with $20 million purses in 2023 are the RBC Heritage in South Carolina the week after the Masters and the Wells Fargo Championship in North Carolina the first week of May.

Later in May is the second major championship of the first part of the PGA TOUR season, the PGA Championship, which this year will be played at historic Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York.

— David Barrett, Tournament Editor

Fortinet Championship

Location & Course Information

SILVERADO

RESORT AND SPA (NORTH COURSE), NAPA, CALIFORNIA

The North Course at Silverado was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 1967 and was extensively redesigned by World Golf Hall of Famer Johnny Miller, who won twice on the course, in 2010.

Yardage: 7,123; par 72

Notable Course Features

The finishing stretch at Silverado North features good birdie opportunities. The 16th and 18th are par 5s that, while not pushovers at 571 and 575 yards, offer long and sometimes medium hitters the chance to get home in two. The 17th is a short par 4 of 375 yards, offering a wedge approach.

2022 Champion

Max Homa, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $8 million

Winner’s Share: $1,440,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Net proceeds support Bay Area and Napa Valley nonprofit organizations that share the Fortinet vision of building an inclusive and diverse workplace that will close the cybersecurity skills gap. Proceeds benefit organizations in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM); diversity and inclusion; reskilling programs, as well as local Napa-area nonprofits, including the Cameron Champ Foundation.

Media Coverage

GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@FortinetChamp

@fortinetchampionship

@FortinetChampionship

HOW MAX HOMA WON

Max Homa chipped in for a birdie on the 72nd hole and emerged as the winner by one stroke when moments later Danny Willett three-putted from three feet, seven inches. Homa, who was in first or second place after each round, birdied Nos. 9, 10 and 11 in the final round to get to 15-under and tie for the lead. Willett went ahead with a birdie on 14 before the stunning late reversal.

2022

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 Max Homa, the winner in 2021 and 2022, joined Brendan Steele (2016-17) as the only players to win in consecutive years. They are also the only multiple winners of the event.

 Homa’s one-stroke victory continued a pattern of close finishes in the tournament. In its 16 years, the margin of victory has never been more than two strokes, with five playoffs and seven one-stroke wins.

 Homa had only four bogeys all week, none in an opening 65.

 Homa led the fi eld in Strokes Gained: Tee-toGreen at 2.451 per round.

 Taylor Montgomery finished third with a final-round 64, the best finish of the 27 rookies competing in the opening event of the 2022-23 season.

Max Homa retained the Fortinet Championship and earned a fifth career win after Danny Willett lost his one-shot lead on the final hole, threeputting a five-foot putt.

“That was crazy. I still don’t really know what happened.” – Max Homa

Location & Course Information

COUNTRY CLUB OF JACKSON, JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI

Founded in 1913, the Country Club of Jackson is a private club with 27 holes originally designed by Dick Wilson in 1962. John Fought redesigned 18 holes in 2008. The Dogwood and Azalea nines are combined for the tournament.

Yardage: 7,461; par 72

Notable Course Features

The signature hole is the 479-yard 16th (the second toughest on the course in 2022). Swampland protects the entire left side, also crossing the fairway about 80 yards short of the largest green on the course. A long approach must avoid swamp on the left and a large bunker on the right.

2022 Champion Mackenzie Hughes, Canada

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $7.9 million

Winner’s Share: $1,422,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The primary beneficiary is Friends of Children’s Hospital, the state’s only hospital dedicated solely to the care and treatment of sick and medically fragile children. Through 2021, Century Club Charities raised more than $20 million for Mississippi charities.

Media Coverage

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Sanderson Farms Championship

HOW MACKENZIE HUGHES WON

2022

Mackenzie Hughes saved par on the 18th hole to end regulation, saved par again there on the first playoff hole, and birdied it on the second extra hole to beat Sepp Straka. Hughes took a share of the lead with a second-round 63 and entered the final round one stroke back before a closing 69.

 Hughes ranked first in Scrambling, saving par 22 of the 24 times he missed the green in regulation (91.67 percent).

 Hughes ranked 57th in Strokes Gained: Offthe-Tee (-.141 per round), but sixth in Strokes Gained: Approach the Green (1.325 per round).

Mackenzie Hughes was the second Canadian to win this Championship since it moved to the Country Club of Jackson in 2014 (Nick Taylor/2014).  Hughes was the third international winner of the event in four years, joining Sebastian Muñoz (2019) and Sergio García (2020).  Hughes’ second-round 63 matched the low round by a winner since the move to Country Club of Jackson (Cody Gribble/2016, Sebastian Muñoz/2019).  Sepp Straka missed the cut the first four times he competed, before finishing second in 2022.

Mackenzie Hughes of Canada made birdie on his third time playing the 18th hole on Sunday, giving him a playoff victory over Sepp Straka.

Shriners Children’s Open

Location & Course Information

TPC SUMMERLIN, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

Noted course architect Bobby Weed designed TPC Summerlin in 1991, with player consultant Fuzzy Zoeller. The strategic layout was carved from a swath of rugged desert terrain, meandering through arroyos and canyons. Yardage: 7,255; par 71

Notable Course Features

The four-hole closing stretch features classic risk-reward challenges, starting with the drivable par-4 15th. The par-5 16th is reachable in two, guarded in front by a pond. The last two holes don’t offer as many birdie opportunities, with water in play on the par-3 17th and par-4 18th.

2022 Champion Tom Kim, S. Korea

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $8 million Winner’s Share: $1,440,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The tournament supports Shriners Children’s Hospital, a unique pediatric healthcare system that has improved the lives of more than 1.4 million children since its founding in 1922. Hospitals and clinics are located in 22 different areas across North America, serving children who need specialized medical care. Many of these children attend the tournament, with some having the opportunity to meet the golfers.

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HOW TOM KIM WON

Tom Kim was tied with Patrick Cantlay through 54 holes, they stayed within two strokes of each other for most of the final round and were tied heading to the 72nd hole. When Cantlay hit his drive into a native area and ended up with a triple bogey, 20-year-old Kim was able to claim the title with a par on the final hole for a 66.

 Kim went all week without making a bogey, posting 24 birdies and the rest pars.

 Kim ranked third in Strokes Gained: Putting (1.513 per round) and fifth in Strokes Gained: Approach the Green (1.464 per round).

2022

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

Tom Kim was the second consecutive South Korean to win the Shriners Children’s Open, following Sungjae Im.

 Kim’s 72-hole total of 270 matched the tournament record shared with Ryan Moore (2012), Webb Simpson (2013) and Im (2021).



At 20 years, 3 months, 18 days, Kim became the youngest winner of the event, ahead of Tiger Woods in 1997 (20 years, 9 months, 6 days).



Patrick Cantlay posted his third runner-up finish in the event (also 2018, 19), he also has a victory (2017) and a T8 (2020) in five starts.

Tom Kim hit a final round 5-under 66 and claimed a three-shot victory to gain a second win in four starts on the PGA TOUR.

“I stayed really patient. I played my game plan, and I just got really lucky on the final hole.” – Tom Kim

Location & Course Information

ACCORDIA GOLF NARASHINO COUNTRY CLUB, CHIBA PREFECTURE, JAPAN

Opened in 1965, Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club is a 36-hole facility. The ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP is played on an 18-hole composite course. Yardage: 7,041; par 70

Notable Course Features

Like most courses in Japan, Accordia Golf Narashino has two greens on each hole, generally played in different seasons of the year. In 2022, the two greens at the fifth hole were used on different days of the tournament. The length of the hole was about the same either way (officially 205 yards to the left green and 202 to the right), but the greens are shaped and guarded differently, presenting different types of tee shots.

2022 Champion Keegan Bradley, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 78 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $11 million

Winner’s Share: $1,980,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Proceeds from the ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP are donated to Chiba Prefecture, First Tee of Japan and the Japan High School and Junior High School Golf Association.

Media Coverage

Golf Channel

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@zozochamp

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ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP

HOW KEEGAN BRADLEY WON

Keegan Bradley birdied the 17th hole and won a tight final-round battle with Rickie Fowler and Andrew Putnam. After bogeys on 14 and 16, Bradley came to No. 17 tied with Putnam and one ahead of Fowler. The birdie from 20 feet gave Bradley a two-stroke edge on both, as Putnam bogeyed, enabling Bradley to withstand birdies from his two rivals on the finishing hole and score his first win in four years.

 Bradley birdied the last four holes of the first round to shoot a 4-under 66.

 Bradley ranked T3 in Greens in Regulation, hitting 56 of 72 greens.

2022

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

Tiger Woods’ 261 in the first year of the event in 2019 stands as the 72-hole record. The winning score the other three years was 265, including at Sherwood Country Club in California where the event was played in 2020.  Andrew Putnam’s 62 in the second round was the low 18-hole score in three years at Accordia Golf Narashino. Keegan Bradley, the 2022 winner, was one of two players who shot 63 in 2019, along with Rory McIlroy. 

Keita Nakajima and Ryo Hisatsune were the top Japanese finishers at T12. Hideki Matsuyama won the event in 2021.

Keegan Bradley ended a four-year winless drought after he pulled away from Rickie Fowler to win his fifth career title.

“I was thinking about it the whole day today, just remembering Tiger.”

Keegan Bradley, who played 36 holes with Tiger Woods when Woods won the ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP in 2019

THE CJ CUP in South Carolina

Location & Course Information

CONGAREE GOLF CLUB, RIDGELAND, SOUTH CAROLINA

Opened in 2017 and designed by Tom Fazio, Congaree is already rated among the top 100 courses in the U.S. Located inland, 40 miles north of Hilton Head Island, the course was created on sandy soil and cut from a forest of live oaks dotted with marshes and water hazards.

Yardage: 7,655; par 71

Notable Course Features

The course has variety, with shorter holes mixed in among longer ones. The third and 15th are par 4s of 350 and 360 yards with sandy waste areas in play. Expanses of sand also feature prominently on the long par-4 eighth, listed at 540 yards, followed by the 510-yard par-4 ninth. The 18th is a 445-yard par-5 dogleg right with a threefingered bunker guarding the right and front-right of the green.

2022 Champion Rory McIlroy, N. Ireland

Quick Facts

Field: 78 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $10.5 million

Winner’s Share: $1,890,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

THE CJ CUP in South Carolina supports the “Bridge Kids” program, which provides opportunities and help for the growth of young Korean golfers, playing a bridging role in developing Korea’s men’s golf to world-class level. The tournament also benefits other charities.

Media Coverage

Golf Channel

Social Media @thecjcup @thecjcup

HOW RORY MCILROY WON

Rory McIlroy birdied the 14th, 15th and 16th holes in the final round to move into a threestroke lead, a cushion that enabled him to win with bogeys on the last two holes as he shot a closing 67. McIlroy led by one stroke through 54 holes and was tied at various points on Sunday by Kurt Kitayama, who ultimately finished second, one stroke behind.

 McIlroy made two eagles in the third round, helping him to play the 12 par 5s in 12-under for the week.

2022

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

For the third consecutive year, the tournament was played in the U.S. instead of South Korea due to complications involving COVID-19. In 2020 and 2021, it was played in Las Vegas.

 Rory McIlroy became the second player to win multiple times in the event, which started in 2017. McIlroy won for a second straight year; Justin Thomas took the title in 2017 and 2019.

 McIlroy joined Tiger Woods (2008 Farmers Insurance Open) as the only reigning FedExCup champion to win his season debut.

 McIlroy led the field in Strokes Gained: Off-theTee at 1.493 per round.

 K.H. Lee finished third in his effort to become the first Korean to win the event.

Rory McIlroy regained his status as Official Golf World Ranking No.1 following his successful defense of THE CJ CUP in South Carolina.

Butterfield Bermuda Championship

Location & Course Information

PORT ROYAL GOLF COURSE, SOUTHAMPTON, BERMUDA

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1970, Port Royal features ocean views from nearly every hole. The course underwent extensive renovation in 2009 spearheaded by original design team member Roger Rulewich. Yardage: 6,828; par 71

Notable Course Features

The 16th is one of the most visually spectacular holes in golf, and it’s also extremely challenging. The 235-yard par 3 plays over an ocean inlet to a long but narrow green perched high above the water on a peninsula, with the ocean to the left. It has ranked as the first or second toughest hole in each year of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship.

2022 Champion Seamus Power, Ireland

Quick Facts

Field: 132 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $6.5 million

Winner’s Share: $1,170,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The Butterfield Bermuda Championship Birdies For Charity program is a matching fund program that benefits charities on the island of Bermuda. Organizations receive every penny they raise, plus up to a 10 percent match on every donation.

Media Coverage

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“This

HOW SEAMUS POWER WON

2022

Seamus Power shot a final-round 70 in windy conditions and benefited from Ben Griffin’s struggles to come away with the victory. The two were tied for the lead through 54 holes and Griffin went ahead by two when he played the first 11 holes in 5-under. But Griffin made four straight bogeys and a double bogey on Nos. 12-16 and had a 39 on the back while Power had a 37.

 Power ranked first in the fi eld with 28 birdies, making seven or eight in each of the first three rounds.

 Power was T5 in Putts Per Round (26.75).

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

Seamus Power, the 2022 winner, is one of four players to make the cut in all four editions of the Championship. The others are Denny McCarthy, Brian Gay and Russell Knox.

 Power became the first player to birdie the signature par-3 16th hole three times in the tournament, doing so in the first three rounds.

 Power was the first 54-hole leader/co-leader to win in the four years of the tournament.

 Kevin Yu made three eagles in the opening round on the way to a 64 and an eventual T3 finish.

Seamus Power, the 2022 champion, is one of four players to make the cut in all four editions of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship.

course was always going to be a tale of two sides. I knew it was going to be hard coming in, and it was. I’m delighted to get it done.” – Seamus Power

Championship at Mayakoba

Location & Course Information

EL CAMELEÓN GOLF CLUB AT THE MAYAKOBA RESORT, PLAYA DEL CARMEN, MEXICO

El Cameleón is notable for the way it traverses three landscapes: mangrove jungles, limestone canals and an oceanfront stretch. The course has hosted the event since its 2007 inception. Yardage: 7,034; par 71

Notable Course Features

El Cameleón has an element that won’t be found elsewhere, a cenote, a naturally formed pit with limestone walls. It is utilized as a bunker with an imposing limestone face on the seventh hole, located in the center of the fairway at a spot where a long drive could reach on the 571-yard par 5.

2022 Champion Russell Henley, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 132 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $8.2 million

Winner’s Share: $1,476,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The tournament donates significant funds and raises awareness for charities. These include Amigos de Sian Ka’an and the Aitana Foundation. It has donated more than $2.9 million to philanthropic causes since 2007, positively affecting the communities of Playa del Carmen and Cancun.

Media Coverage

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HOW RUSSELL HENLEY WON

Russell Henley’s six-stroke lead through 54 holes was reduced to three after a bogey on the fifth hole of the final round, but he reeled off birdies on the next three holes and led by at least four the rest of the day. Henley opened with a pair of 63s to lead by three and doubled the advantage with a 65 on Saturday. A closing 70 earned him a four-stroke victory with a 23-under 261 total.

 Henley made only two bogeys all week, both in the final round.

 Henley led the field in Driving Accuracy, hitting 44 of 56 fairways.

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 Russell Henley set the tournament record for 36 holes at 126 and for 54 holes at 191. His 261 total for 72 holes tied with the record of Viktor Hovland (2021).

 Henley recorded three of the seven 36-hole totals of 126 or better on the PGA TOUR in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons.

 Scottie Scheffler shot a 62 in the final round on Sunday to finish T3, giving him six rounds of 62 or better since he joined the PGA TOUR in the 2018-19 season, the most of anyone in that span.

“To come down 18 with a four-shot lead was really cool.”

– Russell Henley

Russell Henley dominated the field to take home his fourth PGA TOUR title, his first since 2017.

Location & Course Information

MEMORIAL PARK GOLF COURSE, HOUSTON, TEXAS

John Bredemus redesigned an original nine-hole course into 18 holes in 1936. In preparation for the return of the Houston Open to the municipal facility in 2020 (it hosted in 1947 and from 1951 to 1963), Tom Doak did a complete redesign in 2019.

Yardage: 7,412; par 70

Notable Course Features

The 16th hole is a 576-yard par 5 with a pond all the way down the right side leading to a green surrounded on three sides by water. The risk/reward hole yielded the second-most birdies on the course in 2022 (130), but also the second-most double bogeys or worse (14).

2022 Champion Tony Finau, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 132 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $8.4 million

Winner’s Share: $1,512,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The tournament is primarily underwritten by the Astros Golf Foundation, with The First Tee, Chevron and the City of Houston benefiting from programs that help Houston’s youth reach their full potential. Other nonprofits benefit from the Birdies for Charity program.

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Cadence Bank Houston Open

HOW TONY FINAU WON

Tony Finau took a four-stroke lead with a 62 in the second round and stayed ahead by four with a 68 in tougher conditions on Saturday. He shot a 4-under 31 on the front nine Sunday to go ahead by eight, so three bogeys on the back nine weren’t costly as he won by four.

2022

X Finau shot 30 on the front nine in both the first round (his second nine) and second round.

X Finau ranked first in hitting fairways (39 of 52), first in greens in regulation (56 of 72) and second in Strokes Gained: Putting (1.983 per round).

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X Tony Finau set a tournament record for 36 holes (127) and 72 holes (264), and tied the mark for 54 holes (195, also done by Curtis Strange in 1980).

X Finau’s 62 in the second round matched the best-ever round in the tournament, previously accomplished by Ron Streck (1981), Fred Funk (1992) and Scottie Scheffler (2021).

X Finau was the sixth player to hold or share the lead after each round of the Houston Open, which started in 1946, but only Stuart Appleby (2006) led outright all the way.

Tony Finau with his wife Alayna and son Jraice at the Cadence Bank Houston Open, where Finau won his fifth PGA TOUR title.

“I’ve never been in that position before, where I was that far in front.”

– Tony Finau

Location & Course Information

SEA ISLAND RESORT, ST. SIMONS ISLAND, GEORGIA

Sea Island’s Seaside Course has nine holes designed by Harry Colt and Charles Alison in 1929 and nine by Joe Lee in 1973, with a Tom Fazio redesign in 1999. The Plantation Course, renovated by Davis Love III and his brother Mark in 2019, cohosts the first two rounds. Yardage: Seaside, 7,005; par 70; Plantation, 7,060; par 72

Notable Course Features

Natural features such as marshes and sandy waste areas figure prominently in the Seaside layout. Both come into play on the par-4 13th, which bends between a marsh on the left and a sandy area along with conventional bunkers on the right, with a stunning backdrop behind the green.

2022 Champion Adam Svensson, Canada

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $8.1 million

Winner’s Share: $1,458,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Through the Birdies Fore Love program, The RSM Classic commits to raising funds for charities that align with the missions of the RSM Foundation and the Davis Love Foundation. Additionally, the Friends of Davis Love Foundation raises money for area charities via a raffle.

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The RSM Classic

HOW ADAM SVENSSON WON

Adam Svensson birdied the 16th and 17th holes to cap a final-round 64 and lift himself to a two-stroke victory. The 28-year-old Canadian was T108 after an opening 73 on the Plantation Course before blitzing the Seaside Course with 64-62-64 in the last three rounds.

2022

 Svensson ranked fifth in Driving Accuracy Percentage (82.14) and T4 in Greens in Regulation Percentage (84.72). In the three ShotLink-measured rounds at the Seaside Course, he was first in Strokes Gained: Putting (3.053 per round).

 Svensson had a 6-under 29 on the front nine on the way to a 62 in the third round.

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 Adam Svensson’s 190 total (64-62-64) for Rounds 2-4 was a tournament record for consecutive rounds, surpassing Patrick Rodgers’ 193 (70-61-62) in 2018 Rounds 2-4.

 In the 13 years of the event, Svensson became the eighth player to make it his first PGA TOUR victory.

 Svensson’s 73 was the highest first-round score by a winner of the event.

 Svensson was the second Canadian to win The RSM Classic, joining Mackenzie Hughes (2016).

 Seamus Power finished T5, making him the only player with three top-fives in the fall portion of the 2022-23 schedule.

“To win on the PGA TOUR means everything to me.”

– Adam Svensson

Canadian Adam Svensson enjoyed his first PGA TOUR victory with a scorching 64-62-64 in the last three rounds at Sea Island’s Seaside Course.

Sentry Tournament of Champions

Location & Course Information

THE PLANTATION COURSE AT KAPALUA KAPALUA, MAUI, HAWAII

Opened in 1991, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw carved the Plantation Course into the hills of the West Maui Mountains on a former pineapple plantation. The course was refined and revitalized in an extensive 2019 enhancement.

Yardage: 7,596; par 73

Notable Course Features

The last two holes at the Plantation Course are long on yardage, but both play downhill. While the 550-yard, par-4 17th is annually one of the toughest holes on the course, the 677-yard 18th plays so downhill that most of the field can reach or get close to the par-5 green in two.

2022 Champion Cameron Smith, Australia

Quick Facts

Field: About 34 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $15 million Winner’s Share: $2,700,000

FedExCup Points: 550 to the winner

Charity Benefit

In 2022, the tournament raised $642,490 for charity. The beneficiaries were Boy Scouts of America, Friends of the Children’s Justice Center, Hale Makua Health Services, J. Walter Cameron Center, Ka Lima O Maui, Lahainaluna High School Foundation and Lahaina Junior Golf.

Media Coverage

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HOW CAMERON SMITH WON

2022

In a shootout down the stretch, Cameron Smith matched Jon Rahm’s birdies on Nos. 13, 14, 15 and 18 to score a one-stroke victory. The two started the round tied for the lead, Smith gaining a two-stroke edge with a front-nine 4-under 32. Rahm birdied the 11th but could never catch Smith, who closed with an 8-under 65.

 Smith ranked first in Strokes Gained: Off-theTee (1.005 per round) and was also first in Strokes Gained: Putting (1.616).

 Smith was 21-under on the back nine, with streaks of at least four birdies/eagles in a row in three of the four rounds.

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

Cameron Smith set a PGA TOUR record for the most strokes under par in a 72-hole event at 34-under. Jon Rahm (-33) and Matt Jones (-32) also were ahead of the old record of 31-under by Ernie Els at the 2003 Sentry Tournament of Champions.

 Jones tied the Sentry Tournament of Champions 18-hole record with a 12-under 61 in the final round.  The victory by Australia’s Smith snapped a string of 11 straight American winners at the event (2011-21). Before that, there had been nine straight international winners (2002-10).

Sony Open in Hawaii

Location & Course Information

WAI’ALAE COUNTRY CLUB, HONOLULU, HAWAII

Seth Raynor designed Wai’alae Country Club in 1927, creating a strategically challenging course featuring several dogleg holes. Changes through the years have been made by Robert Trent Jones, Desmond Muirhead, Rick Smith, and most recently Tom Doak on the layout that offers many views of the Pacific Ocean.

Yardage: 7,044; par 70

Notable Course Features

The par-70 layout features only two par 5s, but they conclude each nine and usually are reachable in two with prevailing winds. The par-3 17th is considered the signature hole, which measures 194 yards and runs along the ocean.

2022 Champion Hideki Matsuyama, Japan

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $7.9 million

Winner’s Share: $1,422,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The Sony Open in Hawaii is the principal fundraising event for Friends of Hawaii Charities.

Through a partnership with the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, Inc., and with the support of title sponsor Sony Corporation Group, the Friends have generated nearly $22 million since 1999, benefiting more than 350 Hawaii charities.

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HOW HIDEKI MATSUYAMA WON

Hideki Matsuyama eagled the first playoff hole thanks to a 3-wood second shot to two feet on the 18th hole at Wai’alae Country Club to defeat Russell Henley. Matsuyama trailed by five with nine holes remaining before a 31 on the back nine with a birdie on 18 that gave him his second consecutive 63 and a playoff berth.

 Matsuyama played the eight par-5s in 7-under in regulation play and added an eagle in the playoff.

 Matsuyama ranked first in Strokes Gained: Putting with 1.816 per round, missing only one putt inside seven feet and making 13 of longer than 10 feet.



Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama earned his eighth career PGA TOUR victory, tying him with South Korea’s K.J. Choi for most victories by a player from Asia.

 Matsuyama was the first to win a playoff with an eagle since J.J. Henry at the 2015 Barracuda Championship.

 Matsuyama was the ninth consecutive Sony Open in Hawaii winner who competed in the Sentry Tournament of Champions the week before.



Runner-up Russell Henley has five rounds of 63 or better at Wai’alae in his career. He had three rounds of 63 when he won the event in 2013 and opened 62-63 in 2022.

Matsuyama came back from five strokes behind the lead to defeat Russell Henley and secure his eighth career PGA TOUR victory.

Location & Course Information

PGA WEST (PETE DYE STADIUM COURSE, NICKLAUS TOURNAMENT COURSE) AND LA QUINTA COUNTRY CLUB, LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA

The Pete Dye Stadium Course at PGA WEST hosts the final round, while three courses are used for the first three rounds. The Stadium Course opened in 1986, a challenging layout with plenty of bunkers and water.

Yardage: Stadium, 7,147; Nicklaus Tournament, 7,181; La Quinta, 7,060; all par 72

Notable Course Features

The par 3s are especially demanding at the Pete Dye Stadium Course, with three of them ranking among the five toughest holes in 2022. The 223yard sixth, with water front and right, was the second toughest hole (behind the par-4 10th). The 195-yard 13th, with water left and front, ranked fourth. The islandgreen, 165-yard 17th was the fifthmost difficult and produced the most double bogeys or worse (19).

2022 Champion Hudson Swafford, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $8 million Winner’s Share: $1,440,000 FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

All proceeds generated from The American Express are donated to Coachella Valley non-profits seeking funding for projects that will benefit the underserved population in the local community.

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@TheAmericanExpress

The American Express

Shooting a 64 to finish 23-under and beating off strong competition from Tom Hoge, Hudson Swafford clinched the title for the second time in five years.

HOW HUDSON SWAFFORD WON

2022

Hudson Swafford broke a tie for the lead with an eagle on the par-5 16th, where he hit a 7-iron second shot to eight feet. He began the final round three strokes out of the lead, but made a big move with six birdies in eight holes starting at No. 5.

 Swafford had a 31 on the back nine despite bogeys on Nos. 13 and 15. He had five birdies and an eagle on the nine, with a lone par on 18.

 Swafford had five birdies in a back-nine 31 in the second round at the Nicklaus Tournament Course.

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

Hudson Swafford became the ninth player to win The American Express more than once. Arnold Palmer won the event five times (1960, 62, 68, 71, 73) and seven other players have won it twice: Billy Casper, John Cook, Bill Haas, John Mahaffey, Phil Mickelson, Johnny Miller, and Corey Pavin.

 The victory was the third in Swafford’s career, two of them coming in The American Express (2017, 22).

 Si Woo Kim finished T11 in the defense of his title. The American Express hasn’t had a player win in consecutive years since Johnny Miller (1975-76).

Location & Course Information

TORREY PINES GOLF COURSE, SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

The North and South Courses opened in 1957, designed by William F. Bell. The South Course was redesigned by Rees Jones. The North Course underwent a complete renovation by Tom Weiskopf in 2016.

Yardage: South, 7,765; North, 7,258; both par 72

Notable Course Features

Measuring 570 yards, the 18th hole on the South Course is reachable in two shots, but the second shot must be well struck or it could find the small pond that fronts the green. Even laying up can be dangerous, with approach shots at risk of spinning off the green and into the water.

2022 Champion Luke List, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $8.7 million Winner’s Share: $1,566,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit Champions For Youth is the core charitable program of the Century Club of San Diego, the nonprofit that operates the tournament, benefiting selected charities. The tournament also supports organizations that use golf to benefit the community and enhance diversity within the game, and the military through the Armed Services YMCA.

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Farmers Insurance Open

HOW LUKE LIST WON

2022

Luke List came from five strokes behind with a final-round 66 and birdied the first extra hole to defeat Will Zalatoris in a playoff. List shot a 32 on the front nine to enter the fray, then birdied the 72nd hole and waited two hours before Zalatoris, who closed with a 71, missed an eight-foot birdie putt to end regulation in a tie.

 List had four straight birdies on the front nine in both the first and fourth rounds.

 List ranked fourth in Strokes Gained: Approach the Green (1.816 per round) and eighth in Strokes Gained: Putting (1.244).

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 Through 54 holes, none of the 18 players ahead of winner Luke List shot in the 60s in the final round, while List shot a 66 to secure victory.

 Three players missed the playoff by one stroke and five more finished two strokes back for a total of 10 players within two shots at the top of the leaderboard.

 List shot a 66 in the final round in both 2021 and 2022. The only other player to shoot multiple final rounds of 66 or better in the event since 1999 is Tiger Woods (three).

Ending his winless drought on his 207th PGA TOUR start in dramatic style, Luke List overhauled Will Zalatoris with a birdie on the first playoff hole.

Location & Course Information

PEBBLE BEACH GOLF LINKS (HOST COURSE), SPYGLASS HILL GOLF COURSE, MONTEREY PENINSULA COUNTRY CLUB (SHORES COURSE), PEBBLE BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Prominent amateur golfers Jack Neville and Douglas Grant designed Pebble Beach Golf Links, which opened in 1919. Changes through the years have included Jack Nicklaus creating a new fifth hole in 1998. Yardage: Pebble Beach GL, 6,972; par 72; Spyglass Hill GC, 7,041; par 72; Monterey Peninsula CC (Shores), 6,957; par 71

Notable Course Features

Pebble Beach Golf Links is famous for its holes that run along the Pacific Ocean coast. While the par-5 18th is one of the most recognizable holes in the world, Nos. 8-10, all par 4s, compose the most difficult stretch.

2022 Champion Tom Hoge, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $9 million

Winner’s Share: $1,620,000 FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Monterey Peninsula Foundation is the nonprofit organization that stages the tournament along with the PURE Insurance Championship on PGA TOUR Champions. In 2022, the foundation reached a fundraising milestone, surpassing $200 million in charitable contributions.

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AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

HOW TOM HOGE WON

Tom Hoge birdied the 16th with an approach to within a foot and the 17th with a 22-foot putt to claim his first PGA TOUR victory at age 32. He began the round in a three-way tie for first but fell back with an even-par front nine on a day when seven players had at least a share of the lead at some point.

2022

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 Hoge had a first-round 63 at Pebble Beach, with six straight birdies on Nos. 3-8 in a round that began on the back nine.

 Hoge ranked second in Putting Average with 1.607 putts per green in regulation.



Tom Hoge became the fourth player since 2000 to make the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am his first career victory, joining Matt Gogel (2002), Arron Oberholser (2006) and D.A. Points (2011).  Hoge entered the final round T2 at the 2021 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am before finishing 12th.  Hoge’s first-round 63 was one higher than the tournament record for low start by a winner, Phil Mickelson with a 62 in 2005. 

Jordan Spieth, the 2017 champion, finished second, giving him six top-10s and nine top-25s in 10 starts in the event.

Location & Course Information

TPC SCOTTSDALE, SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA

The Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale was designed by Jay Morrish and 16-time PGA TOUR winner Tom Weiskopf specifically to serve as the stage for the tournament. It opened in 1986 and Weiskopf oversaw a renovation in 2014.

Yardage: 7,261; par 71

Notable Course Features

The short par-3 16th, just 163 yards, has become the most renowned hole at the event. It is the first hole in tournament golf surrounded by grandstands and skyboxes, with roughly 16,000 fans filling the stadium setting and creating a unique atmosphere.

2022 Champion Scottie Scheffler, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 132 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $20 million

Winner’s Share: $3,600,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The WM Phoenix Open and the tournament host, Thunderbirds, raise money for Arizona charities, supporting organizations that assist children and families, help people in need and improve the quality of life in the Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Over the years, the event has raised more than $160 million for Arizona charities.

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WM Phoenix Open

Sinking a 26-foot birdie putt, Scottie Scheffler overcame Patrick Cantlay in a tense playoff to claim his maiden PGA TOUR victory (the first of his four wins in 2022).

HOW SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER WON

2022

Scottie Scheffler holed a 25-foot birdie putt on the third extra hole to beat Patrick Cantlay in a playoff. After a third-round 62 pulled him within two strokes, Scheffler made four bogeys and four birdies over the first 12 holes of the final round before playing the last six holes in 4-under.

 Scheffler had 17 birdies in the last 36 holes, nine in a 62 on Saturday and eight in a 67 on Sunday.

 Scheffler made six putts of longer than 20 feet in regulation, as he ranked second in Strokes Gained, finally making a 25-foot birdie putt that had just enough momentum to tumble in.

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

Scottie Scheffler’s victory was his first in 71 career PGA TOUR starts. He went on to add victories in three of his next five starts, including the Masters.

 Scheffler tied the back-nine scoring record at TPC Scottsdale with a 29 during his third-round 62.

 Xander Schauffele was T3 in 2022 after T2 in 2021 and has finished no worse than T17 in five Phoenix starts.



Sam Ryder and Carlos Ortiz aced the par-3 16th hole on Saturday and Sunday, respectively, marking the first time the tournament had multiple holes-in-one in the same week since 1997 (Tiger Woods, Steve Stricker).

“I kept telling myself there would be some bumps in the road, and I definitely gave myself a few of those, but I hung in there tough and had a nice finish to the round.”

– Scottie Scheffler

Location & Course Information

THE RIVIERA COUNTRY CLUB, PACIFIC PALISADES, CALIFORNIA

George C. Thomas designed The Riviera Country Club, acclaimed as one of the best courses in the U.S. when it opened in 1927. Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore did a renovation in 1992, and since 2002 Tom Fazio has supervised some changes, including lengthening.

Yardage: 7,322; par 71

Notable Course Features

The 315-yard 10th is one of the most intriguing holes on the PGA TOUR, often set up as a drivable par 4. The green is small and set at an angle, so it’s tough to hit. Shots from around the green are challenging, making the decision to go for it a difficult one.

2022 Champion Joaquin Niemann, Chile

Quick Facts

Field: 120 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $20 million

Winner’s Share: $3,600,000

FedExCup Points: 550 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The tournament benefits Tiger Woods’ TGR Foundation and its mission to help students pursue their passions through education. Since 2016, the foundation has expanded the Earl Woods Scholar Program, welcoming students from under-resourced schools in Los Angeles each year. TGR Foundation also expanded its programs through the Los Angeles community to serve middle and high school students.

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The Genesis Invitational

Joaquin Niemann won his second PGA TOUR title to become the first wire-towire winner of The Genesis Invitational in 53 years.

“Winning a PGA TOUR event, getting a trophy, having Tiger there, all the history behind it, there’s nothing that can compete with this.” – Joaquin Niemann

HOW JOAQUIN NIEMANN WON

Joaquin Niemann opened with rounds of 63-63 and led all the way, though there were some tight moments in the final round before the Chilean claimed his second PGA TOUR victory. Niemann led by two strokes through 36 holes and three through 54. Cameron Young cut the margin to one through seven holes of the final round before a two-stroke swing in Niemann’s favor on No. 8. Niemann then chipped in for an eagle on the 11th to go ahead by fi ve. It wasn’t done yet, as two Niemann bogeys and a Young birdie cut the margin to two with three to play. Young bogeyed 16 so a birdie on 17 only brought him within two—and tied for second with latecharging Collin Morikawa—as Niemann parred the last two holes to clinch the victory.

 Niemann had eagles in each of the last three rounds, No. 1 on Friday, No. 10 on Saturday and No. 11 on Sunday.

 Niemann had a 31, a 30 and a 32 on the par-35 front nine in the first three rounds (his second nine in the first round).

 Niemann had a total of 7.41 strokes gained on approach shots in the first two rounds and ranked first for the week with a total of 7.09.

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 Joaquin Niemann was the fourth wire-towire winner (no ties) in the history of the event that dates to 1926, and the first since Charlie Sifford in 1969. In 2021, Sam Burns led through each of the first three rounds but finished third.

 Niemann’s 63 tied the record for low first round at The Genesis Invitational, his 126 set the 36-hole record, and his 194 set the 54hole record. His 265 total for 72 holes was



one higher than the tournament record of 264 by Lanny Wadkins in 1985, the longeststanding 72-hole record on the PGA TOUR.

At 23 years, 3 months, 13 days, Niemann was the second-youngest winner of the event (Harry Cooper, aged 21 in 1926).



Max Homa has three consecutive top-10s in the event (T5/2020, win/2021, T10/2022) and Viktor Hovland two consecutive topfives (T5/2021, T4/2022).

Tiger Woods hosts the prestigious Genesis Invitational which will be held in Los Angeles February 16-19, 2023.

Five-time PGA TOUR winner, Collin Morikawa, finished two shots behind Niemann.

Location & Course Information

PGA NATIONAL RESORT (THE CHAMPION), PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLORIDA

Originally designed by George and Tom Fazio in 1981, The Champion course at PGA National was redesigned by Jack Nicklaus in 1990 and again in 2014. With water in play on 16 holes and strategic bunkering, it is one of the sternest tests on the PGA TOUR. Yardage: 7,125; par 70

Notable Course Features

The Champion course is known for a three-hole stretch nicknamed “The Bear Trap,” prominently featuring approaches over water. Water guards three sides of the green at the 179-yard 15th and again at the 175-yard 17th. On the 434-yard 16th, water runs the entire length of the hole on the right and must be carried with the second shot.

2022 Champion Sepp Straka, Austria

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $8.4 million

Winner’s Share: $1,512,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The Honda Classic donated a record $6.45 million to more than 100 South Florida philanthropic organizations in 2022, including $2 million to the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation.

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The Honda Classic

A dramatic rain-soaked final day saw Sepp Straka come from a five-shot deficit in the final round to defeat Shane Lowry and become the first Austrian to win

HOW SEPP STRAKA WON

2022

Sepp Straka birdied Nos. 14, 16 and 18 for a final-round 66 and a one-stroke victory over Shane Lowry, who managed only a par on 18 in a driving rainstorm to shoot a 67. Daniel Berger entered the final round with a five-stroke lead, but his 74 opened the door that Austria native Straka walked through for his first PGA TOUR win.

 Straka ranked first in Driving Accuracy (83.93 percent of fairways) and T1 in Greens in Regulation (76.39 percent).

 Straka ranked fourth in Strokes Gained: Putting at 1.504 per round and made three putts longer than 25 feet.

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 Winner Sepp Straka trailed by five strokes entering the final round, the largest comeback since The Honda Classic moved to PGA National in 2007. The all-time tournament record is seven strokes by Padraig Harrington in 2005.

 28-year-old Straka became the first player from Austria to win on the PGA TOUR. He moved with his family to Georgia at age 14 and went to the University of Georgia. He became the 14th Georgia Bulldog to win on TOUR.



Daniel Berger’s five-stroke lead through 54 holes tied the tournament record of Steve Pate (1991) and Rory Sabbatini (2011).

a PGA TOUR title.

“It’s still surreal. I’m sure it will sink in before long, but yeah, it’s just crazy.”

– Sepp Straka

Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard

Location & Course Information

ARNOLD PALMER’S BAY HILL CLUB & LODGE, ORLANDO, FLORIDA

Originally designed by Dick Wilson and Joe Lee in 1961, Bay Hill was substantially redesigned by Arnold Palmer over the years to modernize the challenge for today’s top players.

Yardage: 7,466; par 72

Notable Course Features

The closing hole at Bay Hill has been known for producing dramatic moments. The 458yard par 4 requires a second shot to a narrow kidney-shaped green that wraps around a lake. While a difficult hole, it has seen such heroics as Robert Gamez holing out for an eagle to win in 1990 and Tiger Woods three times making a birdie to win by one stroke.

2022 Champion Scottie Scheffler, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 120 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $20 million Winner’s Share: $3.6 million

FedExCup Points: 550 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation is the host organization of the tournament. The foundation supports the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, also providing financial support to various institutions and organizations.

Media Coverage

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Only one month after his success at the WM Phoenix Open, Scottie Scheffler followed up with his second victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

couple under, and it turns

Scottie Scheffler

“Went into the day thinking I need to shoot maybe a

out even was good enough.” –

HOW SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER WON

Scottie Scheffler made some tough pars down the stretch to shoot an even-par 72 on a day of high scoring at Bay Hill, winning by one stroke over Tyrrell Hatton, Billy Horschel and Viktor Hovland. Scheffler made a 20-foot putt for a par on 15 after driving behind a tree and punching out. He had to lay up with his third shot on the par-5 16th but wedged to six feet and saved par and then lagged long putts close to the hole for pars on 17 and 18. Hovland, playing with Scheffler, missed an 18foot birdie putt on 18 to finish with a 74, and then Horschel, the last man with a chance, parred 18 for a 75. Hatton finished earlier with a 69, but it ended up being one stroke too many. Scheffler entered the final round trailing by two and was 1-over on the front nine, but he had a birdie on 12 and eight pars on the back nine while the other contenders were all falling victim to bogeys or double bogeys.

 Scheffler eagled the par-5 16th hole in both the second and third rounds.

 Scheffler ranked first in Strokes Gained: Approach the Green with 2.017 per round.

 Scheffler tied for first in Par-5 Scoring Average at 4.31.

 Scheffler’s 68 in the third round matched the best score of the day.

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 Scottie Scheffler’s 283 matched the second highest winning total in the history of the event, behind Tyrrell Hatton at 284 (in 2020) and tied with Mike Nicolette at 283 (1983).

 The final-round scoring average of the field has been over 75 in each of the last two years—75.486 in 2021 and 75.481 in 2022.

 There were more scores in the 80s in the final round (five) than under-par rounds (four).

 Scheffler’s victory was his second in three starts, a streak which he would extend to four wins in six starts.

 Rory McIlroy’s streak of five straight top-10s at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, including a 2018 victory, was snapped when a finalround 76 left him T13.

 Tyrrell Hatton has three top-five finishes in six starts in the event (T4/2017, win/2020), T2/2022).

Scottie Scheffler (right) congratulated by one of his nearest competitors, Viktor Hovland, on the 18th green.

Puerto Rico Open

Location & Course Information

GRAND RESERVE GOLF CLUB, RIO GRANDE, PUERTO RICO

Grand Reserve Golf Club at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve has two courses, the Championship and the International, both designed by Tom Kite. The Championship Course winds through holes lined by palm trees, lush mangroves and waterways. The course also features several oceanfront holes.

Yardage: 7,506; par 72

Notable Course Features

The 12th, 13th and 14th holes form a key stretch of formidable par 4s, annually ranking among the toughest on the course.

The 465-yard 12th has the most scenic setting, with the green featuring an ocean backdrop. The 459-yard 14th plays into the prevailing wind and is usually the toughest.

2022 Champion Ryan Brehm, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 120 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $3.8 million

Winner’s Share: $684,000

FedExCup Points: 300 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Since it began in 2008, the Puerto Rico Open has donated more than $2.5 million to nonprofit organizations in Puerto Rico. The tournament gives to organizations that offer services to children and promote health and social welfare on the island.

Media Coverage

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HOW RYAN BREHM WON

2022

Playing on a one-start Minor Medical Extension and needing a win or solo second to retain his playing status, Ryan Brehm pulled away in the final round to a six-stroke victory. The 35-year-old led by three strokes through 54 holes, played the first 11 holes of the final round in 5-under and parred in the rest of the way to cruise to his first PGA TOUR win.

 Brehm made only one bogey all week, that coming in the third round.

 Brehm ranked second in Driving Distance at 308.1 yards and T3 in Putts Per Round (26.75).

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

Ryan Brehm’s six-stroke victory margin was a record for the Puerto Rico Open, which started in 2008.

 Brehm joined Viktor Hovland (2020) as the only players to convert a 54-hole lead to victory in the event since 2014.

 Brehm’s previous best PGA TOUR finish was T11 at the 2021 Puerto Rico Open.

 Brehm’s caddie for the week was his wife, Chelsey.



Chris Gotterup finished T7, the first amateur to post a top-10 on the PGA TOUR since Sam Burns at the 2017 Barbasol Championship.

Ryan Brehm shot a 5-under 67 to finish at 20-under 268, to retain his PGA TOUR status and win his first TOUR title.

“Our goal coming into this week was just to improve every day, every shot, every round, every hole.” – Ryan Brehm

THE PLAYERS Championship

Location & Course Information

THE PLAYERS STADIUM COURSE AT TPC SAWGRASS, PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLORIDA

Opened in 1980, THE PLAYERS Stadium Course was designed by Pete Dye with input from his wife, Alice, and former PGA TOUR Commissioner Deane Beman. The course has been renovated over the years, most recently in 2016.

Yardage: 7,256; par 72

Notable Course Features

The closing three-hole stretch provides one of the most dramatic stages in tournament golf. The 523-yard 16th offers an eagle opportunity but has danger lurking in water to the right of the green. The island green 137-yard 17th is a wedge or 9-iron shot with even more danger. The 462-yard 18th, which bends around water to the left, was the toughest hole on the course in 2022.

2022 Champion Cameron Smith, Australia

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $25 million

Winner’s Share: $4,500,000

FedExCup Points: 600 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Over the past 40+ years, THE PLAYERS has generated support for more than 300 nonprofit organizations in the local five-county area. Priority consideration is given to nonprofit organizations committed to serving and promoting youth services, education, character development, health, wellness and sports and military support.

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Cameron Smith posted a 6-under 66 to finish one shot ahead of Anirban Lahiri at TPC Sawgrass.

“I felt really comfortable on the range with my irons, and I knew if I could somehow get it in the fairway, I felt it was mine to win from the start.” – Cameron Smith

HOW CAMERON SMITH WON

Cameron Smith made 10 birdies in the final round and survived four bogeys to win by one stroke with a 66. Smith, who started the final round two back, birdied the first four holes and added another on No. 6. He proceeded to bogey the next three holes, but quickly rebounded with four straight birdies starting at the 10th. The wild ride continued with one-putt pars on 14 and 15 and a par 5 on the 16th with a long third shot to the green after a drive into the trees and a punch-out. He birdied the 17th from four feet to go ahead by three, but it became two when Anirban Lahiri birdied 17 behind him. Smith was in trouble on 18 when he drove to the right and his punch shot recovery went in the water. He saved bogey thanks to a pitch to three feet and took the trophy when Lahiri parred the final hole.

 Smith ranked last in Driving Accuracy among the 70 players who made the cut, hitting 24 of 56 fairways, and 68th in Strokes Gained: Offthe-Tee (-1.293 per round).

 Smith ranked first in Strokes Gained: Putting (2.880 per round) and first in Putts Per Round (25.5). In the final round, he made a 39-foot putt on the first hole and seven putts of between eight and 14 feet.

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 Cameron Smith became the fifth Australian to win THE PLAYERS, joining Steve Elkington (1991, 1997), Greg Norman (1994), Adam Scott (2004) and Jason Day (2016).

 Smith and Patton Kizzire both made 10 birdies in the final round, tying the tournament record for most birdies in a round (Justin Thomas/2015, Colt Knost/2016).

 Smith’s four pars in the final round ties the fewest for a winner in the last 30 years (Corey Conners/2019 Valero Texas Open).

 Smith became the third winner of THE PLAYERS in the ShotLink era (2003-present) to lead the field in Strokes Gained: Putting, joining Tim Clark (2010) and Webb Simpson (2018).

 Dustin Johnson shot a 63 in the final round to match the tournament 18-hole record now shared by nine players (also Fred Couples/1992, Greg Norman/1994, Roberto Castro/2013, Martin Kaymer/2014, Jason Day/2016, Colt Knost/2016, Webb Simpson/2018, Brooks Koepka/2018).

Location & Course Information

INNISBROOK RESORT (COPPERHEAD COURSE), PALM HARBOR, FLORIDA

Designed by Larry Packard in 1982, the Copperhead Course features undulating terrain that is unusual for a Florida course and complements a challenging layout. The course underwent a restoration in 2015.

Yardage: 7,340; par 71

Notable Course Features

Holes 16, 17 and 18 are known as the “Snake Pit.” The toughest of the three, and the second most difficult hole on the course in 2022, is the 16th, a 475-yard par 4 that features water on the right side.

2022 Champion

Sam Burns, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $8.1 million Winner’s Share: $1,458,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Copperhead Charities, the nonprofit organizing group of the Valspar Championship, has generated more than $49 million since 1977, including $1.7 million in 2022. The tournament raises substantial sums through its Birdies for Tampa Bay Charities program and other targeted donations to groups such as Tampa General Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, The First Tee, the Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation and others.

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Valspar Championship

Sam Burns earned back-toback victories at the Valspar Championship after he closed with a 2-under 69 which included an impressive 32-foot birdie putt.

point.”

HOW SAM BURNS WON

– Sam Burns

2022

Sam Burns holed a 32-foot putt on the second playoff hole to win the Valspar Championship for the second straight year. Burns trailed by three entering the final round, but he caught up early when 54-hole leader Davis Riley triple bogeyed No. 5. Burns had three birdies in the round and made a critical nine-foot putt for a bogey on the 17th, preserving a spot in the playoff with Riley.

 Burns was 56th in Strokes Gained-off-theTee (-.262 per round) but third in Strokes

Gained: Approach the Green (1.746).

 Burns had the fewest putts per greens hit in regulation (1.58).

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 Sam Burns became the second player to win the Valspar Championship in consecutive years, joining Paul Casey (2018-19). Those two join K.J. Choi and Retief Goosen as the only twotime champions.

 Burns ran his streak of rounds in the 60s at the event to eight, tying the record of Webb Simpson (2011-12).



Davis Riley was runner-up in his attempt to become the first player to win in his debut appearance since Gary Woodland (2011).



Matthew NeSmith set the tournament scoring record for 36 holes (128) and tied it for 18 holes (61/R2) before finishing T3.

“I guess it’s got to be my favorite course at this

Fitzpatrick

World Golf ChampionshipsDell Technologies Match Play

Location & Course Information

AUSTIN COUNTRY CLUB, AUSTIN, TEXAS

The current course at Austin Country Club was built on new property in 1984 and designed by Pete Dye. As configured for the tournament, a stretch of holes on the back nine is in the “lowlands” close to Lake Austin, while the rest of the course sits on higher ground.

Yardage: 7,108; par 71

Notable Course Features

The signature hole is the par-5 12th, which plays downhill to a green that sits hard by Lake Austin. It’s reachable in two shots, but the green is double-tiered and water on the left awaits an errant shot, making it an excellent risk/ reward hole for match play.

2022 Champion Scottie Scheffler, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 64 players

Format: 18-hole match play, with four-player pool play preceding single-elimination match play

Purse: $20 million

Winner’s Share: $3,600,000

FedExCup Points: 550 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The tournament has generated more than $5 million for Austinbased charitable organizations since moving to Austin in 2016. The primary benefiting charities are The First Tee of Greater Austin and Dell Children’s Hospital.

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“The rankings never crossed my mind. It was always just about being out here and competing.” – Scottie Scheffler

Scottie Scheffler cemented his status at this point as World No. 1, following his 4&3 final victory over Kevin Kisner at the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play.

HOW SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER WON

Scottie Scheffler made the championship match for the second straight year, and this time claimed the title with a 4-and-3 victory over 2019 champion Kevin Kisner. Scheffler, who in 2021 lost to Billy Horschel in the final, took over the No. 1 spot in the Official World Ranking with his third victory in five starts (and would add the Masters title in his next start). After the players halved the first hole with birdies, Scheffler went 3-up with a par on the second hole and birdies on the fourth and sixth. Still 3-up through 11, a key moment came on the par-5 12th hole where Scheffler chunked a pitch shot into a bunker but holed out from there for a birdie to halve the hole. Kisner bogeyed the 14th to make it a 4-up advantage, and Scheffler closed out the match on the next hole. In the morning semi-finals, Scheffler defeated 2017 champion Dustin Johnson, 2 and 1. Scheffler withstood a rally from Johnson, who won four straight holes to cut a 5-up margin to 1-up before Scheffler won the 16th with a birdie.

 In the round of 16, Scheffler avenged his loss in the previous year’s final by taking a 1-up victory over Horschel.

 In pool play, Scheffler defeated Ian Poulter, lost to Tommy Fleetwood and defeated Matt Fitzpatrick. He then beat Fitzpatrick on the sixth hole of a playoff after both finished with 2-1-0 records.

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 Scottie Scheffl er joined Kevin Kisner as the only players to win the event in the following year after finishing runner-up. Kisner was runner-up in 2018 and won in 2019.

 Scheffl er was the sixth player to reach the championship match in consecutive years, joining Tiger Woods (2003, 04), Geoff Ogilvy (2006, 07), Paul Casey (2009, 10), Hunter Mahan (2012, 13) and Kisner (2018, 19).

 Scheffl er was the youngest winner in the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play history (25 years, 9 months, 6 days); previously it was

Rory McIlroy in 2015 (25 years, 11 months, 29 days).

 Runner-up Kisner reached the championship match for the third time in four years. The only other player to do so was Ogilvy (won in 2006, 09, runner-up in 2007).

 Scheffl er was the third consecutive winner of the event to emerge from group play in a playoff. He defeated Matt Fitzpatrick in a meeting of players who would go on to win majors in 2022—Scheffl er at the Masters and Fitzpatrick at the U.S. Open.

Scottie Scheffler defeated Kevin Kisner (left), Seamus Power and Dustin Johnson on his way to a third triumph of the year.

Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship

Location & Course Information

PUNTACANA

RESORT & CLUB

CORALES GOLF COURSE, PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The Tom Fazio-designed Corales Golf Course opened in 2010 with six holes playing along the cliffs, bays and coves of the Caribbean Sea and inland holes dotted with lakes and coralina quarries. Yardage: 7,670; par 72

Notable Course Features

The last three holes play toward or along the Bay of Corales and are called the Devil’s Elbow. The 214-yard par-3 17th skirts the coast with a narrow green guarded by bunkers on both sides. The 501-yard par-4 18th wraps around the water, enticing players to bite off as much of a carry as they dare on the tee shot.

2022 Champion Chad Ramey, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 132 players Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $3.8 million

Winner’s Share: $684,000

FedExCup Points: 300 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Proceeds benefit the Grupo Puntacana Foundation, formed to create opportunities that improve the well-being of the inhabitants of the Punta Cana region with social programs; proceeds also benefit the development of innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

Media Coverage

Golf Channel

Social Media

@CoralesChamp

@coraleschampionship

@CoralesChampionship

HOW CHAD RAMEY WON

Chad Ramey birdied four straight holes starting at the 13th for his first PGA TOUR victory. The 29-year-old rookie trailed Ben Martin by two strokes entering the final round, by three through 11 holes, by two again when Martin bogeyed the 12th, and won by one with a 67 as Martin matched only one of Ramey’s four birdies down the stretch. Martin tied for second with Alex Smalley, who shot a closing 65.

 Ramey didn’t have a three-putt all week and ranked T3 in Putts Per Round at 26.25.

 Ramey ranked T1 in Par 5 Scoring Average with 4.25.

2022

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

In four of its five years as a PGA TOUR event, the winning score at the Corales Puntacana Championship has been either 18-under (Brice Garnett/2018, Graeme McDowell/2019, Hudson Swafford/2020) or 17-under (Chad Ramey/2022). The only exception was Joel Dahmen at 12-under in 2021.

 Ramey was the third player to make the event his first PGA TOUR victory, joining Garnett and Dahmen.



Ben Martin led after each of the first three rounds but came up short in his bid to join Garnett as a wire-to-wire winner of the event.

In his 16th start, Chad Ramey cruised to his first PGA TOUR title at Corales Puntacana, blowing away the rest of the competition on Sunday with six birdies in his final 15 holes.

“I was rolling the putter good all day. I didn’t change a thing, they just started going in.”

Chad Ramey

Location & Course Information

Valero Texas Open

J.J. Spaun ensured his place in the Masters after he closed out a victory at the Valero Texas Open, with a final-round 69.

TPC

SAN ANTONIO (OAKS COURSE), SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

Oaks Course, one of two courses at TPC San Antonio, was designed by Greg Norman, assisted by Sergio García, and opened in 2010. The course balances narrower, tree-lined fairways with wide fairways offering multiple routes to the green.

Yardage: 7,438; par 72

Notable Course Features

The 591-yard, par-5 18th provides a demanding finish even while affording a birdie opportunity. It is reachable in two for long hitters, but others have to lay up short of a creek that bisects the fairway in front of the green. Imprecision on either of the first two shots can leave a player fighting for a par.

2022 Champion

J.J. Spaun, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $8.9 million

Winner’s Share: $1,602,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The Valero Texas Open has generated $209 million in charitable giving over the years, including a record $22 million in 2022. In addition to tournament proceeds, funds are raised by the Valero Benefit for Children and the Champions fore Charity program.

Media Coverage

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@valerotxopen

@valerotxopen

@valerotxopen

HOW J.J. SPAUN WON

After being part of a four-way tie for the 54hole lead, J.J. Spaun made a double bogey on the first hole of the final round but recovered to post his first PGA TOUR victory. Spaun made five birdies, all in a nine-hole span starting at the sixth hole, and no more blemishes in shooting a 69 to win by two as none of the other 54-hole leaders shot a subpar round.

2022

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X J.J. Spaun became the first player since Tiger Woods at the 2008 U.S. Open to double bogey the first hole of the final round and go on to win.

X Spaun’s victory earned him a spot in the Masters the following week.

X Spaun had 23 birdies and an eagle during the week to lead the field in subpar holes.

X Spaun made 15 of 16 putts in the five-to-tenfoot range.

X Spaun was the sixth player to win his first PGA TOUR title at the Valero Texas Open since it moved to TPC San Antonio in 2010, joining Brendan Steele/2011, Steven Bowditch/2014, Kevin Chappell/2017, Andrew Landry/2018 and Corey Conners/2019.

“Honestly, it didn’t bother me as much as you would think. If anything, it kind of calmed me down.” – J.J. Spaun on opening the final round with a double bogey

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Masters Tournament

Location & Course Information

AUGUSTA

NATIONAL GOLF CLUB, AUGUSTA, GEORGIA

Designed by Alister MacKenzie and Bobby Jones on the site of a former tree nursery, Augusta National opened in 1932. The course features elevation changes, large undulating greens and relatively few but strategically placed bunkers.

The layout has undergone changes throughout its history to continue to provide a strong test for Masters competitors.

Yardage: 7,510; par 72

Notable Course Features

The stretch of holes from 11 to 13, known as Amen Corner, has provided great drama over the years. The 520-yard 11th (15 yards were added with a new tee in 2022), with a green guarded by water on the left, is one of the toughest holes on the course. The 155-yard 12th is one of the world’s most famous par 3s with its shallow, diagonal green guarded by Rae’s Creek. The 510-yard 13th is a dogleg left that provides birdie and eagle opportunities.

2022 Champion Scott Scheffler, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: Approx. 90 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $15 million (2022)

Winner’s Share: $2,700,000 (2022)

FedExCup Points: 600 to the winner

Media Coverage

CBS, ESPN

Social Media

@TheMasters

@themasters

@TheMasters

Despite a late surge from Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler held on to secure his first career major and wear the iconic Green Jacket.

“I just stayed patient and trusted myself. I had a lot of nice up-and-downs, too.” – Scottie Scheffler

HOW SCOTTIE SCHEFFLER WON

Scottie Scheffler rocketed to a five-stroke lead thanks to a second-round 67 and held on for his first major title. The 25-year-old Texan led by three strokes going into the final round and found himself ahead by only one when Cameron Smith birdied the first two holes. Scheffler opened it back up to three by pitching in for a birdie from 29 yards on the third hole while Smith was making a bogey. The margin was still three going to No. 12, where Smith hit his tee shot into the creek and triple bogeyed to drop out of it. Rory McIlroy charged from 10 strokes behind with a 64, but with Scheffler playing a solid final round, McIlroy couldn’t get close. Thanks to birdies on 14 and 15, Scheffler led by five going to the 18th where a meaningless four-putt double bogey left him with a 71 and a three-stroke win over McIlroy.  Scheffler ranked in the top three in scoring average on par 3s (T1/2.88), par 4s (T3/4.0) and par 5s (T2/4.5).

 Scheffler played the last 12 holes of the second round in 6-under, with birdies on Nos. 7, 8, 12, 13, 15 and 16.

 Scheffler ranked second in Scrambling, saving par on 69.57 percent of the holes where he missed the green in regulation.



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 Winner Scottie Scheffler was the only player to shoot four under-par rounds.

 Scheffler’s five-stroke lead through 36 holes tied the tournament record, joining Herman Keiser (1946), Jack Nicklaus (1975), Raymond Floyd (1976) and Jordan Spieth (2015). All won the tournament.

 The victory was Scheffler’s fourth in his last six PGA TOUR starts. The last player to win four times in six starts was Jason Day in 2015.

 Scheffler was the sixth player to win in his first start after taking over as No. 1 in the World Ranking, and the second to do so at the Masters (Ian Woosnam, 1991).

 Rory McIlroy’s 64 on Sunday tied the record for the low final round at the Masters. It was the eighth instance, and first since Jordan Spieth in 2018.

 Tiger Woods made the cut in his 22nd consecutive Masters start. The record of 23 is shared by Gary Player and Fred Couples.

Scheffler was T5 in Greens in Regulation (68.06 percent) and fifth in Putts Per Round (27.5).

The 16th, known as “Redbud,” is considered one of the pivotal holes at the Masters, always drawing a large crowd of spectators.

RBC Heritage

Location & Course Information

HARBOUR

TOWN GOLF LINKS, HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA

Harbour Town was an early masterpiece in the career of renowned architect Pete Dye, with help from consultant Jack Nicklaus in Dye’s first design project. It opened in 1969 in time for the first RBC Heritage. The course is known for its small, undulating greens and tree-lined fairways, placing a premium on accuracy. Yardage: 7,191; par 71

Notable Course Features

All four par 3s at Harbour Town feature water, which is especially in play on the 200yard fourth, front and left, and the 192-yard 14th, front and right. No. 14 was the toughest hole on the course in 2022 and No. 4 the third toughest, accounting for 34 and 22 double bogeys or worse, respectively.

2022 Champion Jordan Spieth, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 132 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $20 million

Winner’s Share: $3,600,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Since it was founded in 1987 the Heritage Classic Foundation has distributed more than $49.1 million to people in need. Registered charities fall into the categories of children, college scholarships, health and welfare, arts and culture, environment, and education.

Media Coverage

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@RBC_Heritage

@rbcheritage

@RBCHeritage

HOW JORDAN SPIETH WON

Jordan Spieth made two eagles on the first five holes of the final round and shot a final-round 66, finishing an hour before the last group. On a bunched leaderboard, ultimately only Patrick Cantlay matched Spieth’s 271 total, with seven players finishing one stroke behind. Spieth won the playoff with an up-and-down par from a bunker while Cantlay bogeyed from a buried lie.

2022

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 Winner Jordan Spieth began the final round T9, three strokes off the lead. Eight of the last 10 RBC Heritage winners have come from at least two strokes behind after 54 holes.

 Spieth became the 16th player (19th instance) to make two eagles in the final round and go on to win on the PGA TOUR since 1983.

 Spieth missed an 18-inch putt on the 18th in the third round and won despite ranking 60th in Strokes Gained: Putting (-.636 per round).

 Spieth ranked first in Strokes Gained: Tee-toGreen (3.335 per round).

 Patrick Cantlay has finished second or third in three of his five RBC Heritage appearances (T3/2017, T3/2019, P2/2022).

 Harold Varner III finished T2 in 2021 and T3 in 2022, accounting for two of his top-three finishes on the PGA TOUR.

Jordan Spieth came from three strokes behind to defeat Patrick Cantlay in a dramatic playoff, winning his 13th PGA TOUR title.

“I needed to birdie the 18th, then I needed some help, got some help, dodged a lot of bullets.” – Jordan Spieth

Location & Course Information

TPC LOUISIANA, NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

Pete Dye designed TPC Louisiana with assistance from player consultants Steve Elkington and New Orleans native Kelly Gibson. The course, which opened in 2004, stretches along the Mississippi River delta, incorporating stands of cypress and oak trees.

Yardage: 7,425; par 72

Notable Course Features

The signature hole is the 18th, a risk-oriented par 5. It is reachable in two shots, but water all the way down the right side adds an element of danger and 12 strategically placed bunkers come into play on the tee shot, lay-up area and approach.

2022 Champion

Xander Schauffele/Patrick Cantlay, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 80 two-player teams

Format: Four-Ball (first and third round); Foursomes (second and fourth round)

Purse: $8.6 million

Winner’s Share: $1,242,700 for each player on the winning team FedExCup Points: 400 each

Charity Benefit

The Fore! Kids Foundation, founded in 1958, has raised more than $40 million with golf events including the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. Proceeds from the tournament are distributed to more than 100 charitable organizations and schools.

Media Coverage

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@Zurich_Classic

@zurich_classic

@ZurichClassic

Zurich Classic of New Orleans

HOW XANDER SCHAUFFELE AND PATRICK CANTLAY WON

Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay led all the way after a 59 in the best-ball format of the first round. They opened a five-stroke lead through 54 holes with a best-ball 60 in the third round and held on to win by two with an alternate-shot 72 on Sunday. Sam Burns and Billy Horschel cut the lead to one early on the back nine, but Schauffele-Cantlay birdied 11 and Burns-Horschel slowed in the stretch.

2022

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

Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay were the first wire-to-wire winners of the event since it went to a team format in 2017.

 Schauffele and Cantlay set the tournament record for a best-ball round with a 59 in the first round and scoring records for 54 holes (187) and 72 holes (259).

 Schauffele and Cantlay had a 29 on the front nine on Thursday and a 28 on the back nine on Friday in the two best-ball rounds.

 Schauffele and Cantlay teamed for the second time in this event after finishing T11 in 2021. They have also formed a successful partnership in Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup matches.



Sam Burns and Billy Horschel finished T2 after a T4 showing in 2021.

Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay held off Sam Burns and Billy Horschel to secure a record-breaking triumph at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

“We always enjoy being with each other [Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele], both on and off the golf course, and we both played exceptional this week and had a great time doing it.” – Patrick Cantlay

Location & Course Information

VIDANTA VALLARTA, VALLARTA, MEXICO

The Greg Norman Signature Course at Vidanta Vallarta opened in 2016. Paspalum grass covers the entire layout, which winds along the Ameca River and provides views of the Sierra Madre mountains from almost every hole.

Yardage: 7,456; par 71

Notable Course Features

The course has large landing areas, but sandy waste areas and numerous water hazards await to catch shots that stray too far. The water also adds a strategic element to many holes, as do the bunkers that dot the course.

2022 Champion Jon Rahm, Spain

Quick Facts

Field: 144 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $7.7 million

Winner’s Share: $1,386,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Grupo Salinas, the tournament host, supports First Tee Mexico, a nonprofit organization for children and youth development, whose mission is to positively change stories of children in Mexico, providing educational programs that build character, promote values and healthy options through golf. First Tee Mexico was founded in 2017 and has expanded to nine chapters.

Media Coverage

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@MexicoOpenGolf

@mexicoopen

@MexicoOpenGolf

Mexico Open at Vidanta

Finishing one stroke clear of Brandon Wu, Tony Finau and Kurt Kitayama, Jon Rahm earned his first victory since the 2021 U.S. Open.

HOW JON RAHM WON

2022

Jon Rahm shared the lead after the first round and was ahead by two strokes after 36 and 54 holes, but was pressured on Sunday. Rahm broke a four-way tie with a birdie on the 14th hole and parred in from there, including a recovery from a bad drive on the 18th to finish with a 69. Tony Finau and Brandon Wu closed with 63s and Kurt Kitayama a 68 to finish one back.

X Rahm ranked second in Strokes Gained: Offthe-Tee (1.393 per round) and first in Driving Distance (340.5 yards).

X Rahm played the par 5s in 12-under to rank T2 in Par 5 Scoring.

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X Jon Rahm’s win ran his continued streak of consecutive seasons with a victory to six (all seven of his PGA TOUR wins in that span).

X The 63s by Tony Finau and Brandon Wu in the final round, which netted them a share of second place alongside Kurt Kitayama, were the best scores of the week.

X Stephan Jaeger made back-to-back eagles (Nos. 6 and 7) during a third-round 64 on the way to a T15 finish.

X The Mexico Open has been played since 1944, but 2022 was the first time it was a PGA TOUR-sanctioned event.

“It was a pretty stressful weekend all the way to the end.”

– Jon Rahm

Location & Course Information

QUAIL HOLLOW CLUB, CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

George Cobb was the original designer of Quail Hollow Club, laying out the course in 1961 on a former dairy farm. Arnold Palmer modified selected holes in 1986. Tom Fazio made some changes around 2003 and again in preparation for the 2017 PGA Championship.

Yardage: 7,521; par 71

Notable Course Features

The finishing stretch of holes, known as the “Green Mile,” generally rank among the hardest on the course. The 506-yard, par4 16th has a green guarded by water on the left, while the green on the 190-yard, par-3 17th is guarded by water on three sides. The 494-yard 18th, which has a creek all the way up the left side, was the toughest hole in the last Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow (2021).

2022 Champion

Max Homa, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $9.3 million

Winner’s Share: $1,674,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

Champions For Education, the tournament’s charitable arm, has donated more than $26 million to local and regional charity organizations.

Media Coverage

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@WellsFargoGolf

@wellsfargogolf

@WellsFargoChampionship

Wells Fargo Championship

HOW MAX HOMA WON

Max Homa prevailed in a duel with Keegan Bradley to win his second Wells Fargo title. Playing together in the final twosome, there were five holes with a two-stroke swing (three in Homa’s favor) and only five holes where they shot the same score. Homa shot a 68 to come from two behind, while Bradley had a 72 with a bogey on 18 dropping him into a tie for second.

 Homa ranked fourth in Strokes Gained: Putting (1.899 per round) and missed only four putts inside 10 feet.

 Homa ranked third in Stroked Gained: Off-theTee (1.463 per round).

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 Max Homa’s two victories in the Wells Fargo Championship have come at different courses—usual site Quail Hollow in 2019 and TPC Avenel in 2022.

 Homa became the second multiple winner of the event. Rory McIlroy has won it three times (2010, 15, 21).

 McIlroy finished fifth in 2022, his ninth top-10 finish in 11 starts in the event.

 Homa’s 8-under 272 total on the par-70 TPC Avenel course matched the highest in relation to par in the Wells Fargo Championship (Derek Ernst, 8-under 280 in 2013).

Max Homa closed with a 2-under 68 to collect his second Wells Fargo Championship victory and fourth PGA TOUR title.

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AT&T Byron Nelson Championship

Location & Course Information

TPC CRAIG RANCH, MCKINNEY, TEXAS

TPC Craig Ranch opened in 2004, designed by Tom Weiskopf with player consultant D.A. Weibring. The course was the site of two Korn Ferry Tour Championships before it began hosting the AT&T Byron Nelson in 2021.

Yardage: 7,468; par 72

Notable Course Features

The 18th hole is a reachable par 5 of 552 yards but, with nine bunkers in the landing zone, the tee shot must be accurate to give a chance to get to the green in two. A creek crosses the fairway about 15 yards short of the green, which is guarded by three bunkers.

2022 Champion K.H. Lee, S. Korea

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $9.5 million

Winner’s Share: $1,710,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The Salesmanship Club of Dallas, the host organization of the AT&T Byron Nelson, donates funds raised by the tournament to Momentous Institute and its education and mental health programs designed to build and repair children’s social and emotional health.

Media Coverage

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@attbyronnelson

@attbyronnelson

@attbyronnelson

HOW K.H. LEE WON

2022

South Korea’s K.H. Lee repeated as AT&T Byron Nelson champion, shooting a 63 in the final round to come from four behind. After five birdies in a front-nine 31, Lee added an eagle on the 11th hole to take the lead. Birdies on Nos. 13 and 18 and a key 12-foot par putt on 17 gave him a onestroke victory over Dallas native Jordan Spieth.

 Lee was 16-under on the 16 par 5s during the week, with 12 birdies, two eagles and two pars.

 Lee ranked fourth in Scrambling, saving par on 15 of the 17 greens he missed.

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

K.H. Lee joined Sam Snead (1957-58), Jack Nicklaus (1970-71) and Tom Watson (1978-80) as the only players to successfully defend the AT&T Byron Nelson title.

 Lee’s 26-under par total for 72 holes was a tournament record relative to par and his 262 was one higher than the record of 261.

 Sebastián Muñoz shot a 60 in the first round on Thursday to equal the tournament 18-hole record in company with Sam Snead (1957), Arron Oberholser (2006) and Keegan Bradley (2013).

K.H. Lee shot a career best 9-under 63 to fend off local favorite Jordan Spieth and retain Lee’s title at AT&T Byron Nelson.

“It still feels like dreaming, but last year and this year make good memories.” – K.H. Lee

Location & Course Information

OAK HILL COUNTRY CLUB (EAST), ROCHESTER, NEW YORK

Oak Hill’s East Course was designed by Donald Ross, opening in 1925. Through the years, it was modified by Robert Trent Jones and George and Tom Fazio. In 2019, a restoration by Andrew Green brought back original Ross characteristics. The course has hosted three PGA Championships and three U.S. Opens.

Yardage: 7,394; par 70

Notable Course Features

Two new holes, the par-3 fifth and par-4 sixth, were built in the 2019 restoration in the style of holes on the Ross original that had been eliminated. Also, a pond installed on the par-3 15th in the 1970s was removed. On other holes, the original dimensions of Ross greens were restored, bunkers renovated and trees removed.

2022 Champion Justin Thomas, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 156 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play Purse: $15 million (2022)

Winner’s Share: $2,700,000 (2022)

FedExCup Points: 600 to the winner

Charity Benefit

PGA REACH is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America. Its mission is to positively impact the lives of youths, military and diverse populations by enabling access to PGA Professionals, PGA Sections and the game of golf, via several flagship programs.

Media Coverage

CBS, ESPN

Social Media

@PGAChampionship

@pgachampionship

@pgachampionship

PGA Championship

“I was asked earlier in the week about what lead is safe, and I said no lead.”

– Justin Thomas

Justin Thomas staged a remarkable comeback to secure his second PGA Championship title in six years.

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 Justin Thomas, who also won the PGA Championship in 2017, became the 22nd player to win the event multiple times.

 Thomas’ seven-stroke comeback in the final round tied with the championship record of John Mahaffey, who did it in 1978.

 This marked the first time in eight major championships contested at Southern Hills that the 36- and 54-hole leader/co-leader failed to win.

 Thomas was the seventh consecutive American winner of the PGA Championship.

 Thomas ran his streak of consecutive years with at least one victory on the PGA TOUR to seven.

 Will Zalatoris (T2), who lost to Justin Thomas in a playoff, posted his fifth top-10 finish in his last fi ve major starts. It would be at the U.S. Open that Zalatoris would go on to make it six.

HOW JUSTIN THOMAS WON

Justin Thomas rallied from seven strokes back through 54 holes with a final-round 67 and claimed his second PGA Championship in a playoff with Will Zalatoris. Thomas was still seven strokes behind after an even-par 35 on the front nine. He birdied the 11th with a 65foot putt from the fringe, the 12th from 18 feet, and the 17th with an up-and-down from a greenside bunker. Meanwhile, he was aided by the struggles of others at Southern Hills, especially Mito Pereira, who led by three through 54 holes. Pereira managed to hold at least a share of the lead all the way to the 72nd hole. Ahead by one at that point, Pereira drove into a creek and made a double bogey on 18 to finish with a 75 and send Thomas and Zalatoris (71) into a threehole playoff with 5-under 275 totals. Thomas won the playoff thanks to a two-putt birdie from 35 feet after a 3-wood tee shot to the 301-yard 17th.



Thomas shot 67 in Rounds 1, 2 and 4, with the final round matching the day’s best score.

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Thomas ranked T1 in Par 4 Scoring at 3.90.

 Thomas was 5-for-5 in sand saves in the final round, four for pars and one for a birdie.



Thomas ranked second in Greens in Regulation Percentage and second in Strokes Gained: Putting.

Justin Thomas celebrates victory with caddie Jim “Bones” Mackay.

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Location & Course Information

COLONIAL COUNTRY CLUB, FORT WORTH, TEXAS

Perry Maxwell and John Bredemus designed the Colonial Country Club course in 1936. Built on the bank of the Trinity River, it hosted the U.S. Open five years later and an annual PGA TOUR event since 1946.

Yardage: 7,209; par 70

Notable Course Features

Holes 3-5 at Colonial form the club’s “Horrible Horseshoe.” The third hole is a 483-yard par-4 followed by the two toughest holes on the course in 2022. The 247-yard, par-3 fourth, which plays to an elevated green, was second toughest. The most difficult hole was the 481-yard, par-4 fifth, which runs between trees and a ditch on the left and the Trinity River on the right.

2022 Champion Sam Burns, U.S.

Quick Facts

Field: 120 players

Format: 72 holes stroke play

Purse: $8.7 million

Winner’s Share: $1,566,000

FedExCup Points: 500 to the winner

Charity Benefit

The Charles Schwab Challenge partners with charitable organizations in the DallasFort Worth area through the Birdies for Charity program. The tournament also partners with Folds of Honor, First Tee Fort Worth and the Charles Schwab Challenge Military Home Donation.

Media Coverage

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Social Media

@CSChallengeFW

@charles_schwab_challenge

@CharlesSchwabChallenge

Charles Schwab Challenge

By sinking a stunning 38-foot putt for his third victory of the season, Sam Burns triumphed in a playoff against good friend Scottie Scheffler.

Burns

HOW SAM BURNS WON

2022

Sam Burns shot a final-round 65 to come from seven strokes behind and won on the first hole of a playoff with Scottie Scheffler by holing a 38-foot putt from just off the green. Burns had a two-hour wait after finishing at 9-under. At one point, there was a five-way tie for the lead at 10-under but all went backward on a windy day.

 Burns shot a 30 on the front nine of the final round with six birdies and one bogey.

 Burns had a total of 5.03 Strokes Gained: Putting during the week, with 4.11 in the final round.

CHECK THIS OUT

 Sam Burns tied Nick Price (1994) for the largest final-round comeback by a winner in tournament history at seven strokes.

 The winning total of 9-under 271 was the highest since Adam Scott’s 271 in 2014. Burns attended the tournament as a spectator in 2011 at age 14 to watch Shreveport’s David Toms win.



Dallas resident Scottie Scheffler, who had recently risen to No. 1 in the world, shared the lead through 18 and 36 holes and led by himself through 54 holes before losing in a playoff.

“Coming into today I fi gured—with how tough it was going to be playing—that if I went out and posted a really good number, who knows what can happen.” – Sam

JANUARY

19-21, 2023

Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai

PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS, 2023

Additional events and increased prize money add sparkle to the PGA TOUR Champions’ new season

The PGA TOUR Champions season for 2023 features 28 tournaments and concludes with the Charles Schwab Cup Championship in Phoenix, Arizona. The schedule features one new tournament, the Galleri Classic in Rancho Mirage, California, and the return of the Trophy Hassan II in Morocco. Players will compete for more than $66 million in total prize money, the highest figure in PGA TOUR Champions’ 43-year history.

The season tees off with the Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai in Hawaii. Next comes the Trophy Hassan II in February, marking a return to Morocco after the event wasn’t played in 2021 and 2022.

The TOUR comes back stateside for the Chubb Classic in Naples, Florida, and the Cologuard Classic in Tucson, Arizona. March concludes with two events in California, the Hoag Classic in Newport Beach and the new Galleri Classic at Mission Hills Country Club. The tournament—a partnership between PGA TOUR Champions and GRAIL, LLC—marks the first time PGA TOUR Champions has hosted an event in the Coachella Valley since 1993.

In April, there are two events in Texas. First is the Invited Celebrity Classic, which matches PGA TOUR Champions players with celebrity golfers, as well as 10 amateur players who earn a spot. Next is the Insperity Invitational outside of Houston.

The first portion of the schedule culminates in May with the first two of the season’s five major championships. The Regions Tradition as usual will be played at Greystone Golf & Country Club in Birmingham, Alabama. The new PGA Frisco facility in Frisco, Texas, and its Fields Ranch East course will host the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship.

— David Barrett, Tournament Editor

Location

HUALALAI GOLF COURSE KA’UPULEHU-KONA, HAWAII

Yardage 7,107; par 72

Tournament Record 191, Loren Roberts (2006)

Tournament 18-hole Record 61, Loren Roberts (2006)

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information pgatour.com/champions/ tournaments/mitsubishi-electricchampionship-at-hualalai.html

Course Insight

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Hualalai lies upon dramatic natural topography and winds through lava outcrops to provide a unique test even for the best players. “The inspiration came from the lava…to use those natural ups and downs, always keeping in mind that the ocean is the greatest influence here,” Nicklaus said. The course begins in a lush kipuka (oasis) and then flows down to a dramatic finish near the ocean, with the par-3 17th set on the seaside, making it the most scenic hole.

HOW MIGUEL ÁNGEL JIMÉNEZ WON

Miguel Ángel Jiménez shot a 31 on the back nine for a final-round 66 and captured his third title at Hualalai by beating Steven Alker in a playoff. “It’s a nice way to start a season,” said the Spaniard. “It’s nice to be here, winning again in Hualalai. The golf course, I like it very much.” Alker followed the same formula with a 31 on the back nine to shoot 66. Both birdied 18 in regulation for 17-under 199 totals. Both parred 18 on the first hole of a playoff, and Jiménez won with a par on the second extra hole. Jiménez and Alker passed 54-hole co-leaders Vijay Singh and Stephen Ames, who finished one shot back after 68s and Ernie Els, who shot a 70. Jiménez, who shot 67-66 in the first two rounds, matched Bernhard Langer as a three-time winner of the event.

CHARITY BENEFIT

Since the inception of the Mitsubishi Electric Championship in 1997, more than $1 million has been donated to various island charities, including the Rotary Club of Kona, Daniel R. Sayre Foundation and Big Island Junior Golf programs.

Trophy Hassan II

Chubb Classic

HOW BRETT QUIGLEY WON

Location

ROYAL GOLF DAR ES SALAM, RABAT, MOROCCO

Yardage

Maximum 7,633; par 73

Tournament Record 201, Brett Quigley, 2020

Tournament 18-hole Record 63, Stephen Ames, 2020

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information www.hassan2golftrophy.com

Course Insight

The Red Course at Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, acclaimed as one of the finest courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, opened in 1972 at the behest of Morocco’s King Hassan II. The layout was carved out of a cork forest not far from the center of Rabat, featuring Jones’ signature bunkering and a scenic par-3 ninth hole playing over a large lake to a peninsula green. The course was renovated by James Duncan in 2016-17, with corridors widened by tree removal and greens enlarged to Jones’ original specifications. Royal Dar Es Salam has previously hosted an event on the European Tour.

The event was not played in 2021 or 2022. In 2020, Brett Quigley, who never won in 408 PGA TOUR starts, claimed a victory in his second start on PGA TOUR Champions. “It’s been so long since I won a tournament,’ said Quigley, whose last of two wins on the Korn Ferry Tour came in 2001.

“Just incredible. It’s weird, I had peace all week. I was pretty comfortable.” Quigley had a final-round 66 to catch Stephen Ames and win by one stroke at Samanah Golf Club in the first year of the event. Quigley, whose uncle Dana was an 11-time winner on PGA TOUR Champions, played a stretch of six holes on the front nine in five-under, boosted by an eagle. He birdied the 11th to go 6-under on the day and held on with a couple of par saves down the stretch, including a six-foot putt on the 18th to clinch the title. Ames opened with a 63 and led by three through 36 holes with a 69 in the second round before closing with a 70.

CHARITY BENEFIT

Proceeds from the tournament will support the First Tee of Morocco, established in 2019.

Location

TIBURON GOLF CLUB (BLACK COURSE), NAPLES, FLORIDA

Yardage 6,909; par 72

Tournament Record 196, Bernhard Langer (2011), Kenny Perry (2012), Scott Parel (2020)

Tournament 18-hole Record 61, Tommy Armour III (2010)

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information chubbclassic.com

Course Insight

Tiburon Golf Club, founded in 1998, has two courses designed by Greg Norman. The Black Course, which has hosted the Chubb Classic since 2021, opened in 2001. It has a distinctive look and fits into its natural surroundings with fairways lined by pine straw and crushed coquina waste areas instead of traditional rough. The course also hosts the CME Group Tour Championship on the LPGA Tour and the golf course is home of the PGA TOUR’s QBE Shootout.

HOW BERNHARD LANGER WON

Bernhard Langer shot his age with a 64 in the first round and went on to score a wireto-wire victory. “It’s just fun shooting your age. It’s special because it’s not easy to do,” said Langer, who at 64 years, 5 months, 23 days broke his own record as the oldest winner on PGA TOUR Champions. It was his 43rd career Champions victory and his fourth at the Chubb Classic, where he also won in 2011, 2013 and 2016. Langer birdied six of his last eight holes in the first round for a 30 on the back nine. He maintained a two-stroke lead with a 68 in the second round. He stayed on top for the entire final round, briefl y sharing the lead early on the front nine, as he had six birdies and two bogeys for a 68 and a three-stroke victory over Tim Petrovic. It was the 16th consecutive year with a victory for Langer.

CHARITY BENEFIT

The official host charity of the Chubb Classic is The First Tee of Naples/Collier. The tournament also supports many other charities in Southwest Florida.

presented by

Cologuard Classic

Hoag Classic

HOW MIGUEL ÁNGEL JIMÉNEZ WON

Location

OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL RESORT, TUCSON, ARIZONA

Yardage 7,123; par 72

Tournament Record 198, Miguel Ángel Jiménez (2022)

Tournament 18-hole Record 63, Jim Carter (2016), Steve Stricker (2017), Rocco Mediate (2022)

Media Coverage

Golf Channel

More Information www.cologuardclassic.com

Course Insight

The Catalina Course at Omni National Tucson Resort, designed by Robert von Hagge and Bruce Devlin, hosted more than 30 events on the PGA TOUR before it welcomed PGA TOUR Champions starting in 2015. Opened in 1963, the Catalina Course is a parklandstyle design featuring eight lakes and 80 bunkers. The course is known for its very difficult 18th hole. Water guards both sides of the landing area, and the approach is uphill to an undulating green.

Miguel Ángel Jiménez made his second hole-in-one of the tournament on the 14th hole of the final round to take a five-stroke lead on his way to a four-stroke victory over Bernhard Langer and Woody Austin. Jiménez also had an ace on the seventh hole in the first round.

“I have 13 aces in tournaments already, but first time I have two in the same tournament,” said the Spaniard after winning his second Cologuard Classic. “You never think about it. You want to hit a good shot and hit it as close as possible.” Jiménez shared the lead after an opening 66 and led by two after a second-round 67. He started birdie-eagle in the final round on the way to a 32 on the front nine before clinching it with his ace and a closing 65.

CHARITY BENEFIT

The Cologuard Classic aligns with National Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March, furthering colon cancer awareness. Tucson Conquistadores host the tournament and donate net proceeds to youth athletic programs in southern Arizona.

Location

NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB, NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Yardage 6,612; par 71

Tournament Record 193, Duffy Waldorf (2015)

Tournament 18-hole Record 60, Tom Purtzer (2004), Nick Price (2011), Duffy Waldorf (2015)

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information www.hoagclassic.com

Course Insight

Located along the Pacific Coast Highway in scenic Newport Beach, and offering views of the Pacific Ocean and Newport Bay, Newport Beach Country Club was designed by renowned architect William Bell in 1952. A strategic layout, the course underwent enhancements by Harry Rainville in 1973. Ted Robinson further refined it with changes to selected tees and bunkers in 1985 and 1998-2000. The course is known for its narrow Kikuyu fairways lined by mature pines and small greens with deceptive breaks. Water on several holes adds to the challenge.

HOW RETIEF GOOSEN WON

Retief Goosen holed out from a greenside bunker for an eagle on the first hole, then birdied Nos. 2 and 3 to spark a finalround 63 and a four-stroke victory. “When you get off to a start like that, you know today’s your day,” said the two-time U.S. Open champion after his second PGA TOUR Champions victory. “But anybody can come alive and go low, and I just kept grinding away.” In the second round, Goosen birdied the first four holes, so he played the first four holes a total of 8-under in the last two rounds. On Sunday, he birdied the sixth hole and had a 5-under 30 on the front nine, then had four birdies and one bogey on the back nine as he held the field at bay. Goosen’s 15-under 198 total was four ahead of runner-up K.J. Choi.

CHARITY BENEFIT

Tournament proceeds benefit institutes of the Hoag Hospital Foundation, including the Haig Cancer Foundation, the Sue & Bill Gross Women’s Pavilion, Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart and Vascular Institute and Mary & Dick Allen Diabetes Center. Other local charities are also beneficiaries.

The Galleri Classic

Invited Celebrity Classic

NEW EVENT

Location

MISSION HILLS COUNTRY CLUB, RANCHO MIRAGE, CALIFORNIA

Yardage

Maximum 7,250; par 72

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information thegallericlassic.com

Course Insight

Mission Hills has three courses, including the Dinah Shore Tournament Course that will host the event. The course was designed by Desmond Muirhead and opened in 1971. It hosted the first Dinah Shore LPGA event in 1972, the tournament evolving into an LPGA major and remaining at the site through 2022 until moving to Texas in 2023. The layout is a well-manicured green oasis in the desert, featuring tree-lined holes, strategic bunkering and mountain backdrops. The 18th hole is a par 5 that can play up to 646 yards with an island green guarded by “Poppie’s Pond.”

CHARITY BENEFIT

The Galleri Classic will benefit cancer-related causes.

PGA TOUR Champions returns to California’s Coachella Valley for the first time since 1993 with The Galleri Classic. A partnership between PGA TOUR Champions and GRAIL, LLC, the tournament is named after GRAIL’s multicancer early detection test.

The event will feature 78 PGA TOUR Champions professionals, including World Golf Hall of Fame members. “We are thrilled to partner with GRAIL to bring PGA TOUR Champions back to such a storied community at the Mission Hills Country Club,” said PGA TOUR Champions President Miller Brady. “World Golf Hall of Fame members and legends of the game will enjoy a tremendous week of competition here, while providing the passionate, local golf fans with a unique, incredible experience, and we look forward to making a positive impact in the community for years to come.”

Bob Ragusa, Chief Executive Officer at GRAIL, added, “GRAIL and PGA TOUR Champions have a shared commitment to positively impact the lives of the people and the communities that we touch. We are excited to join forces.”

Location

LAS COLINAS COUNTRY CLUB, IRVING, TEXAS

Yardage 6,703; par 71

Tournament Record 202, Scott Parel, Steven Alker, Gene Sauers (2022)

Tournament 18-hole Record 63, Gene Sauers (2022)

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information invitedcelebrityclassic.com

Course Insight

Las Colinas Country Club was designed by Joe Finger and opened in 1963. The course has been enhanced by a 2019 renovation by Jim Lipe that included new grasses, additional fairway bunkers, several new and repositioned teeing areas and several reshaped and recontoured greens. The par-71 course has five par-3s and four par-5s, including the risk/reward 18th hole.

HOW SCOTT PAREL WON

(then known as ClubCorp Classic)

Scott Parel two-putted for a birdie on the par-5 18th hole to reach a playoff, and then scored his fourth PGA TOUR Champions victory with a par on the same hole when the other two participants both found the water going for the green on their second shots and bogeyed. Gene Sauers shot a 63 with birdies on the last two regulation holes before his playoff trouble, while 36-hole leader Steven Alker had a 68 to fall into the tie. Parel shot a 65, overcoming a double bogey on the 12th hole thanks to a 32 on the front nine and birdies on Nos. 13, 14 and 18. Former pro tennis player Mardy Fish won the celebrity division over Tony Romo in a playoff with a birdie when Romo hit his second shot into the water.

CHARITY BENEFIT

The Invited Celebrity Classic benefits Momentous Institute, which is dedicated to building and repairing children’s social and emotional health. The tournament also highlights the Invited Gateway Program with First Tee.

Insperity Invitational

Mitsubishi Electric Classic

HOW STEVEN ALKER WON

Location

THE WOODLANDS COUNTRY CLUB, THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS

Yardage 7,002; par 72

Tournament Record 191, Bernhard Langer (2007)

Tournament 18-hole Record 62, Bernhard Langer (2007)

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information www.insperityinvitational.com

Course Insight

Robert von Hagge and Bruce Devlin designed The Woodlands Country Club Tournament Course. The two men are responsible for the design or redesign of more than 250 courses in the U.S. and 16 other countries, but this was a “home course” for von Hagge, who lived in The Woodlands. Created in 1978, the course features ponds, lakes and trees. It has hosted tournaments on all the major tours, including the Houston Open on the PGA TOUR and the LPGA’s Samsung World Championship.

Steven Alker returned from a two-hour rain delay to play a six-hole stretch on the back nine in 6-under and pull away to claim his second title in a three-tournament span. The New Zealander entered the final round in a tie for the lead with Steve Stricker and Brandt Jobe, leading by one before making birdies on 11, 12 and 13, an eagle on 15 and a birdie on 16. It was the second consecutive day he played that same six-hole stretch in 6-under and shot a 31 on the back nine. He shot a 65 on Saturday and a 66 on Sunday for a four-stroke victory over Stricker and Jobe. “It’s been a fun ride,” said PGA TOUR Champions rookie Alker. “I’m just happy to be out here. Everything is a lot of fun.” Alker shared the lead after each of the first two rounds, including an opening 67. His back-nine burst in the second round included birdies on 11, 12 and 16, eagles on 13 and 15 and a bogey on 14.

CHARITY BENEFIT

Proceeds from the Insperity Invitational benefit several local Houston charities.

Location

TPC SUGARLOAF, DULUTH, GEORGIA

Yardage 7,179; par 72

Tournament Record 201, Stephen Ames (2017)

Tournament 18-hole Record 64, Olin Browne, Bernhard Langer (2015), Woody Austin (2016), Kenny Perry (2017), Scott Parel (2018), Padraig Harrington, Doug Barron, Darren Clarke (2022)

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information www.mitsubishelectricclassic.com

Course Insight

Opening in 1997, TPC Sugarloaf hosted a PGA TOUR event each year through 2008 and PGA TOUR Champions events since 2013. The course was designed by Greg Norman, who guided the layout through stands of trees and used streams, lakes, large bunkers and the natural terrain to create a challenging test. The design was planned to fit harmoniously with its surroundings on the site of the former Rollins Farm.

HOW STEVE FLESCH WON

Steve Flesch came from four strokes behind in the final round to capture his second PGA TOUR Champions title, both wins coming in this event. The 54-year-old triumphed four years after his first victory thanks to a 7-under 65 on Sunday. Flesch made five straight birdies starting at the second hole, stumbled briefly with bogeys on Nos. 8 and 9, then birdied the 14th, 15th and 17th to surge ahead in a tight battle, winning by one stroke over David Toms, Fred Couples and Padraig Harrington. “I just hung in there because I did everything I could to try and make it as hard as possible the first two days,” said Flesch, who opened with 67-73 before changing his set of irons for the final round. Toms led through 36 holes but managed only a 70 on Sunday and missed a 12-foot birdie putt on the 18th. Harrington and Couples made up ground with a 64 and 65, respectively, in the final round.

CHARITY BENEFIT

Beneficiaries are Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett. Metro Atlanta organizations also fundraise via Birdies for Charity.

Regions Tradition

Location

GREYSTONE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB (FOUNDERS COURSE), BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

Yardage 7,249; par 72

Tournament Record 265, Doug Tewell (2001)

Tournament 18-hole Record 62, Doug Tewell (2001), Tom Watson (2003), Brad Bryant (2009)

Media Coverage Golf Channel

More Information www.regionstradition.com

Course Insight

The Founders Course at Greystone Golf & Country Club was designed by Bob Cupp and two-time major champion Hubert Green, opening in 1991. The course hosted the Bruno’s Memorial Classic on PGA TOUR Champions from 1992 to 2005. It has been the site of the Regions Tradition since 2016 after undergoing some changes—nine greens were either rebuilt or modified, and three new tees and several new bunkers were added.

HOW STEVE STRICKER WON

Playing in only his third event since missing six months due to illness, Steve Stricker led all the way with rounds of 6568-66-68 to win by six strokes over Padraig Harrington with a 21-under total. “From where I was last November and even a couple of months ago—to come full-circle here, it means a lot,” said the 55-year-old after winning his fourth senior major. Stricker has finished first or second in the event four straight times, also winning in 2019 and finishing second in 2018 and 2021, the latter in a playoff (the tournament was not held in 2020). Stricker led by two strokes after each of the first two rounds and three strokes through 54 holes. He didn’t provide any openings for wouldbe challengers on Sunday, playing a bogey-free final round. Leading by four on the 17th hole, he holed out from a bunker for a birdie to clinch it and added another birdie on 18.

CHARITY BENEFIT

Children’s of Alabama, the only medical center in the state dedicated to the care and treatment of children, is the tournament’s main beneficiary.

KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship

HOW STEVEN ALKER WON

Location

PGA FRISCO (FIELDS RANCH EAST), FRISCO, TEXAS Yardage 7,177; par 72

Tournament Record 265, Rocco Mediate (2016)

Tournament 18-hole Record 62, Kenny Perry (2012), Rocco Mediate (2016)

Media Coverage

Golf Channel

More Information srpgachampionship.com

Course

Insight

Fields Ranch East is one of two courses at the new PGA headquarters complex in Frisco, Texas, and is part of the Omni PGA Frisco Resort. The courses, just opened (2023), are open to the public. The East Course features rolling topography, the meandering Panther Creek, smallish greens and rough-hewn bunkers in a classically inspired design by Gil Hanse. The course will host the PGA Championship in 2027 and 2034 and the KPMG Women’s PGA in 2025 and 2031.

Steven Alker shot a final-round 63 to come from four strokes behind and claim his first senior major title as his outstanding senior rookie season continued. “It’s been a great ride out here and I’m enjoying myself,” said the New Zealander who won for the fourth time as a senior after no wins on the regular PGA TOUR where he played for just three seasons. Alker birdied four straight holes starting at No. 8 to tie Stephen Ames and Bernhard Langer early on the back nine. Langer made three bogeys down the stretch and Ames one, while Alker birdied 15 and 16 to pull away and win by three over Ames with a 16-under 268 total at The Golf Club at Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Alker had a share of the first-round lead with a 64 before shooting 72-69 in the middle rounds.

CHARITY BENEFIT

PGA REACH is the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. Its mission is to positively impact the lives of youths, military and diverse populations by enabling access to PGA Professionals, PGA Sections and the game of golf.

A HELPING HAND

Recently honored with the Payne Stewart Award, Billy Andrade may just have had a little help from his friend

By Stan Awtrey

Billy Andrade won the 2022 Payne Stewart Award. And I helped. Sort of.

In the fall of 2000, I received an invitation to play golf with Andrade at an Atlanta-area club. It was our first meeting, but it was obvious why people were taken by him. He was conversational, engaging and fun to have as a playing partner.

He told some great Arnold Palmer stories—Billy went to Wake Forest on an Arnold Palmer Scholarship—and we talked about longtime Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Furman Bisher, who took a liking to Billy and became an Andrade advocate until the day Bisher died.

Billy made me feel comfortable. Hey, it’s intimidating to play with a PGA TOUR professional. He didn’t make fun of my wanky swing or a bad putting stroke. We talked about kids and family; his wife Jody was in theological school at that time and today she’s a pastor at a church in suburban Duluth. It was a wonderful afternoon and I drove away feeling that I’d made a new friend.

Later that week as I was loading the clubs in the trunk of the car for another round, I noticed something foreign in my bag. There was a pitching wedge in there that didn’t belong to me. There was a piece of lead tape on the back and that’s way too sophisticated and high-tech for my game.

I called my cart mate from the previous day, but it wasn’t his club. I called the other guy in our group, but it wasn’t his club either.

Somehow during the round, Billy Andrade had stuck his pitching wedge in my golf bag.

After trying to sell it on eBay—just kidding—I called Billy and gave him the news. His wedge was in my bag and, other than being exposed to inferior equipment, it was fine. We made arrangements for its safe return.

Within two days the club was delivered to Billy’s home and back in his capable hands.

A week later, he won in Las Vegas. And the win came at a time when Andrade really needed a win. He was in danger of losing his card to the point that he’d already mailed his check for Q-School. No doubt that wedge was instrumental in the win. So if Billy’s wedge had still been in my bag, someone else might have won that golf tournament

That turned out to be Billy’s last of four victories on the PGA TOUR. He’s since gone on to win three times on the PGA TOUR Champions. But his impact on the game goes farther than just wins. Billy is one of the game’s great humanitarians. He and

Brad Faxon began a charity tournament to serve those in the New England area. He and Stewart Cink came together to raise money for the East Lake Foundation.

In September 2022 Andrade was notified of his selection as the Payne Stewart Award recipient.

No one has ever deserved it more.

And I’m just happy to have a had a little part in it.

Because if I hadn’t found that wedge and Billy hadn’t won … Well, you get it.

That’s my story and I’m sticking with it. 

Billy Andrade with a precious putter.