Texas Golf Insider: Central by Digital Publisher

TEXAS

Spring 2016

Golf Insider The Official Guide to Golff in Texas

Brackenridge Park - 100 years old

Inside: New Braunfels, Texas Home of Landa Park Golf Course and more!

Austin’s Academy of Golf Dynamics Best Golf Schools In America

Star Ranch Golf Club, Austin’s Original All Inclusive

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Contents Cover Story The Alamo City Golf Trail provides the best valued golf experience

in San Antonio. 6 WELCOME

How to contact us with Golf News and stories.

8 FE ATURE COVER STORY

Brackenridge Park turns 100 The Texas Open in 1926

T G I

The Golf Club at Star Ranch promises to provide an incredible golf experience for both the novice and scratch golfer.

18 NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS Founded in 1845. Old World Heritage & Small Town Texas charm.

32 THE ACADEMY OF GOLF DYNAMICS Top 25 schools in America.

42 TEXAS GOLF HALL OF FAME Texas Golf Greats Honored.

MAP & DIRECTORIES 54 GENERAL DIRECTORY 56 MAP 57 ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

The Golf Club at Star Ranch

REGIONS GREATER HOUSTON & TEXAS COAST 62 78 80 81

EAGLE POINTE GC & RECREATION COMPLEX GENERAL DIRECTORY MAPS ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

Golf Insider New Braunfels,Texas TheTexasGolfInsider.com

The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

FROM THE FROM THEPUBLISHER EDITOR

Welcome to The Texas Golf Insider Magazine Texas

GOLF INSIDER P.O. Box 310652 New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-964-2152 FAX 830-964-2153 thetexasgolfinsider.com Mike Ratchman Texas Publisher Office: 830-964-2152 mike@thetexasgolfinsider.com Editor: Ava Ratchman Contributing Writers: Art Stricklin, Steve Habel Contributing Photographers: Gary Perkins, Mark Lindsay, Carlton Wade, Larry Pearlstone, Steve Giles, The Texas Golf Hall of Fame, The Ghosts of Old Brack - Published Office Manager: Marcede Pullen CIRCULATION 300,000 per year reaching 700,000 readers. 3 ANNUAL EDITIONS DISTRIBUTION Throughout Central Texas, Dallas/Ft. Worth and Greater Houston at Golf Courses, Welcome Centers, Golf Shows, Golf Retail Stores and more.

Mike Ratchman Publisher Spring is in the air and it’s come early this year! With spring comes the beginning of a new golf season in Texas and the season is off to a great start this year with 80 degree temperatures already in January.That means most of you have already played more golf in the last several months than ever before. Now if you want to play more golf at better prices, I have a few places you might want to consider. Let’s begin with the Alamo City Golf Trail in San Antonio, home of the “Gimme Card”. The Alamo City Golf Trail offers several different levels of playing cards designed for golfers who play a lot, or play a little, at eight golf courses that are always in incredible condition year round. So if you are a local or a Texas Traveler and you’re looking for a variety of courses to play at great prices, the Alamo City Golf Trail is worth checking into. I don’t think you will be disappointed. The Golf Club at Star Ranch is the best value in the Austin area. It’s home of the All Inclusive! Dig this, weekdays before 1:00 pm you get 18 hole green fee, cart, unlimited range balls, complimentary breakfast and lunch and FREE replays all for just $50.Weekends are only $70.The course gets review after review on being the best value and best conditioned golf course in the Austin area. Take the drive and see for yourself. Locals in Houston are real familiar with Eagle Point Golf Club but if you are traveling to Houston and planning an event or just a round of golf, make the stop. Eagle Pointe’s newly renovated 8,000 sq.ft indoor pavilion is now available to host your special event, wedding, golf tournament dinner or banquet. If you haven’t been to Eagle Pointe or it’s been awhile, take a short drive to tour this beautiful venue that compliments their superb golf course. Here is what many are saying about Eagle Pointe… “It ranks up with the very best from the staff to the food”, “our clients are satisfied”, “it was a resounding success”, and Eagle Pointe is a “comfortable venue”. Page through the Golf Insider and pick a place to play and when you do, give us your feedback at Mike@thegolfinsider. com. We would like to hear from you. Enjoy the Spring,

Copyright ©2015 Texas Golf Insider. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Golf course rates are subject to change at any time. Texas Golf Insider and its affiliates are not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions or changes in rates or information. Scan to your smart phone

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Melanie Grafe

Regional Publisher for the Texas Golf Insider â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Houston, with over 15 years experience in marketing and advertising, and owner of e-Graphics Marketing and Advertising providing marketing and graphic design services.

Art Stricklin

One of the foremost experts on golf history and travel in Texas, Stricklin has written a total of seven books and has personally played at a majority of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 800 golf courses.

Steve Habel

A national correspondent for Cybergolf, managing editor for Texas CEO Magazine, contributing editor for Horns Illustrated Magazine, a publication focusing on University of Texas sports and staff writer for the San Antonio Spurs. TEXAS

Golf Insider The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

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COVER STORY

Golf Club Star Ranch just gets better and better

By Steve Habel/Senior Contributing Writer

The only thing that changes about the always top-shelf experience players receive at the Golf Club Star Ranch is growth of the area that surrounds the course, an aspect that was keyed by the success of Star Ranch’s initial development plan and the continued increase in the population of this highly desirable northeast suburb of Austin. Golf, played on a course where it can really be enjoyed, is a huge part of that plan. The sightlines, buildings and homes that surround the course are certainly a change from the open fields and sweeping prairieland prevalent when owner Tim Timmerman and golf course architect Roy Bechtol walked the former cattle ranch and staked out the routing for the track in 2000. Through the past 15 years, the Golf Club Star Ranch has proven to be one of the region’s most popular golf courses, thanks in a large part to Bechtol’s work that created a TheTexasGolfInsider.com

challenging, but infinitely friendly, track that can be played and enjoyed by all levels of golfers. “I’m so proud of the work we did at Star Ranch and happy that it’s been received so well and enjoyed by so many golfers,” the Austinbased Bechtol said. “People have always come to me and said how much they like playing the course.” Located on the west side of the Texas 130 toll road where Pflugerville becomes Hutto, a round at Golf Club Star Ranch has never been better. It’s the total experience from the initial ball struck at the expansive practice facility to the first tee shot to the final putt that separates the time spent here from the hours playing some of Star Ranch’s competitors. “Our goal is always to create a great round of golf for our players and to make sure they want to come and play here again,” said Rob Fulford, Star Ranch’s director of golf.

COVER STORY

“We haven’t made many tweaks to the course through the years because we just haven’t had to.We concentrate on the things that most people don’t see, like doing what we need to keep the turf healthy, the putting surfaces smooth and the aesthetics of the course in perfect condition. It’s been a very successful formula.” Designed by Bechtol with help from Carter Morrish and Randy Russell, Golf Club Star Ranch opened to rave reviews in 2001. The 18hole facility plays to a par of 71 and 7,017 yards from the back set of four available tees. Located on a scenic hilltop, the Golf Club at Star Ranch utilizes the land’s natural rolling contours and an inspired routing around a central lake to create an experience both formidable and fun. The course is rated at 73.5 and it has a slope of 130 from the tips.

“The course rewards great play and is not as punitive as some courses where you have no way to recover,” Bechtol said. “There are times when you think your shot may be out of play but you find it in the light rough. We want the player to enjoy the round, not to be beat up. Golf is hard enough without a course making it even harder and we made sure the golfer can have fun at Star Ranch.” Having a plan of action when you play Star Ranch is the way to get the most out of your round. My goal is to try to build some momentum at the start by attacking the dogleg at the 398-yard par-4 first hole and chasing a birdie. A good start allows the golfer to survive the course’s most difficult stretch, which begins with the 455yard par-4 second hole, includes the 451-yard third and ends with the

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COVER STORY

No. 1 handicap hole at Star Ranch, the 582-yard uphill par-5 fifth. Try to carry any momentum from the front-nine to the back, which can be a challenge because of the demands of the hole Nos. 10 and 11, two long par-4s. Hole Nos. 13 (a 532-yard par 5 easily reached in two shots) and 14 (which, at 376 yards, is a two shotter that can be attacked with a wedge on the approach) are places to make birdie. And there’s opportunity to continue that run on the 170-yard 15th, which, with its waterfall and fronting pond, is scenic but dangerous. One final chance to score is presented on the 507-yard par-5 18th hole, but the approach is uphill and the putting surface has a false front and is hidden from view when you’re in the fairway. Take enough club and attempt to fly the shot all the way to the flag.

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Thanks to Star Ranch’s “allinclusive” package, players get a round of golf with cart, unlimited range balls and breakfast and lunch for one low rate. Replays are included on a space available basis. Star Ranch also features a wonderful 55,000-square foot driving range and short-game area with multiple teeing areas, six target greens, three bunkers, two chipping greens and rolling terrain for every golf shot in the bag. The Golf Club at Star Ranch is a great place for tournaments, thanks to a stand-alone pavilion and available turnkey tournament sales packages with hole-in-one insurance, trophies, gifts, prizes, merchandise and much more. The property also plays host to weddings most weekends at its marvelous Events Center.

Green Fee, Cart, Range Balls and Complimentary Hot Breakfast & Lunch Buffets

For Reservations:

(512) 252-Golf (4653) Book Online at :

www.Starranchgolf.com Located just north of Austin off the 130 Toll Road. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2500 FM 685 Hutto, TX 78634 Now Booking 2016 Golf Outings Call 252-4653 ext. 2 for details.

Call About Our 2016 Group Specials

Vaaler Creek

Escape to the

For more information on Stay & Play Packages, Tournaments &Weddings call 830-833-0706 TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Golf Club Hill Country

228 Jeff Vaughn Blanco, TX 78606

830-833-0706 www.vaalercreekgolfclub.com RATES

Mon-Thur $55 Fri-Sun $65 *Twilight begins at 3:00 pm

TWILIGHT $45 $55

STATISTICS Par: 72 Gold Blue White Red

Yards 6864 6299 5692 4577

Rating 73.0 70.6 68.6 64.1

Slope 140 129 121 111

PERSONNEL Architect: Director of Golf: Superintendent:

Michael Lowry Adam Grosh, PGA Todd Leist

AMENITIES t Online Tee Times t Stay & Play Packages t Golf Instruction t Practice Facilities t Fully-Stocked Pro Shop t Golf Carts have GPS

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PLAY & STAY

IN HOBBS!

Spend the day at Rockwind Community Links and the night at Zia Park!

Call 1-888-ZIA-PARK or visit us at

ziaparkcasino.com to book your room today!

Easy to get to. Hard to leave! ziaparkcasino.com 3901 W. MILLEN DR. HOBBS, NM 88240 路 1-888-ZIA-PARK

Zia Park Casino, Hotel & Racetrack supports responsible gaming. Call the New Mexico Gambling Crisis Hotline at 1-800-572-1142. Must be 21 to enter the Casino and 18 to wager on horses.

COURSES

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

RE-OPENED AUGUST 28TH, 2015 Public Course

RATES

M-F $69 Weekends & $79 Holidays

MAP #29

Twilight $35 $35

(Twilight at 3 pm, 9 hole rates avail)

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Lee Trevino / Roy Bechtol (redesign) Dir. of Golf: Darrick Dixon Golf Pro: Clay Means Superintendent: John Barries

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Black: 7121 / 74.1 / 130 Gold: 6578 / 71.3 / 125 Blue: 6001 / 68.6 / 122 Silver: 5559 / 67.0 / 113 White: 4838 / 67.9 / 111

COURSE AMENITIES t 100% Zoysia Tees to Greens t Multiple Event Venues t Full Service Restaurant

San Antonio

Golf Club of Texas The Golf Club of Texas opened its doors in the summer of 2015 after a $6 million renovation. The course, while maintaining its original routing,has reopened under the direction and guidance of Course Architect Roy Bechtol. Additionally, The Golf Club of Texas provides premier playing surfaces using the best grasses available: LIF Zoysia Greens, Zeon Zoysia Tees, and Jamur Zoysia for the Fairways. These are the grasses the most exclusive golf courses in the world choose. Now you can play them too. In fact, this is the only golf course in the United States that is 100% Zoysia tee to green. Our practice facility has been expanded to include two putting greens in addition to our short game scoring practice area-all with real Zoysia grass. Our goal is to provide the best golf experience in San Antonio with the best course conditions available anywhere... and at an affordable price. No need for a massive initiation fee here. Consider hosting your tournament or wedding at The Golf Club of Texas - we have multiple venues and our banquet room is beautiful. We also look forward to seeing you in our restaurant - Texas food, wine and spirits are our specialty. 13600 Briggs Ranch, San Antonio, TX 78245 210-504-2550 www.golfclubtexas.com

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SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Public Course

RATES

MAP #29

Twilight

M-F $59 $35 $35 Weekends $69 Super Twilight (after 5pm) $20 (Twilight after 2 pm)

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Roy Brechtol Superintendent: Justin Epp

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: The Wall: 7333 / 75.97 / 138 Harpers: 7022 / ??? / ??? The Falls 6798 / 73.4 / 136 Whitewater: 6157 / 70.3 / 128

COURSE AMENITIES t Online Shop t Practise Facilities t Stay & Play Options t Beautiful Special Event Areas t Patio Grill - Full Service Bar

COURSES

Concan

The Club at Concan From the gorgeous backdrop of hills and valleys to the stunning rolling terrain, visitors love the picturesque scenery at the The Club at Concan. The Club at Concan, nestled in the Frio River Texas Hill Country region, is a par 72 championship course with 18 holes measuring 7,333 yards from the tips. Panoramic views of the Hill Country are found on every fairway and with premium Zoysia grass underfoot, this is a must-play course. Located just minutes from Garner State Park, the enchanting destination course is a convenient and scenic drive from San Antonio. The distinctive Brechtol-Russel designed championship course will astound you! Aside from our golf course, adjacent to the Club House are areas for ceremonies, parties and special occasions. Our Patio with a fire place can comfortably seat 100 guests. Additionally, guests can spill out into our manicured lawns accented with a trickling stream, rock bridge, gazebo and twinkle-lit shade trees expanding the seating capacity to 250. 520 Mountain Valley Concan, TX 78838

830-232-4471

www.clubatconcan.com

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FEATURE STORY

Princeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s City is the Crown Jewel of the Hill Country

By Jason Braun / Travel Writer

n 1845, Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, Germany, led a group of emigrants to settle in the fertile valley that is now the TheTexasGolfInsider.com

city of New Braunfels, Texas. What attracted the royal was the beautiful landscape, the abundance of resources, the sparkling Comal spring, and

FEATURE STORY

the convenient location astride important trade routes. Today, those same characteristics continue to draw visitors from across the globe. Nestled at the confluence of the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, this city of 66,000 is a mecca for fun seekers who come for the water recreation, live music, historical significance, and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three pristine golf courses. Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs, located less than a mile from the shops, restaurants, and sites of historic downtown New Braunfels, is open to the public seven days a week. This USGA-rated course offers games of nine or 18 holes over 122 acres of newly manicured and sculpted grounds in the scenic Comal River valley. Landa Park Golf Course offers a variety of challenges for players of

all skill levels, from novice to pro, and offers a complete series of golf lessons led by seasoned pros utilizing the latest in formassessment technology. There is also a full pro shop onsite. After the game, hungry golfers can relax and swap stories over drinks and dinner at Pavlockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fairway Grill. You can find out more on their website at www.landaparkgolfcourse.com. Located just a few miles to the southeast of the city, The Bandit Golf Club sprawls in close proximity to Lake McQueeney and the cool, serene waters of the TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

Guadalupe River. The expertly crafted grounds of this course offer stunning vistas from a variety of tees, the longest of which offer a Par 71 game over 6,928 yards. A fully appointed pro shop carries the latest in activewear and golfing

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tech, while PGA pros are on hand to offer instruction to aspiring Masters. All of this, in addition to effortless accessibility from San Antonio and Austin, has contributed to The Bandit Golf Club being rated as one of the top 10 public golf courses in Texas by Golfweek Magazine. More information about hours, fees, and amenities can be found at www. banditgolfclub.com. The third and most secluded New Braunfels area golf course, River Crossing Club, is a private venue that offers its members, and a limited number of visitors, a tranquil setting on very playable and well-maintained grounds. The

FEATURE STORY

club is located just 20 miles north of San Antonio, making it a quick jaunt for those seeking 18 holes of scenic fun

in a rustic setting. There is a fully stocked pro shop onsite, with PGA-rated pros waiting to assist golfers in upping TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

their game and lowering their score. River Crossing Club is always accepting applications for membership and offers fabulous access and social amenities to those who join. Several members own property adjacent to the grounds. For membership benefits, tee times, or other information, visit www.rivercrossingclub.com. Travel to New Braunfels couldn’t be easier. The city straddles the main Texas arteries of IH35 and IH-10, about 30 minutes north of San Antonio and only an hour from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Houston is less than three hours away – an easy jaunt on IH-10. Visitors to New Braunfels will find the TheTexasGolfInsider.com

city full of excellent bars, restaurants, lodging, and other recreation to round out the perfect golfing getaway. The temperate climes in the heart of south-central Texas mean that the area is open for recreation – golf or otherwise - year round, and fun seekers will find the locals friendly and accommodating. In this city of a prince, the visitor is treated like a king. The local New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce possesses an awardwinning interactive website which provides droves of information on shopping, dining, nightlife, outdoor recreation, relocation, and business opportunities. It can be accessed at www. innewbraunfels.com.

REVIEW

Revitalization of The Club at Rebecca Creek adds to Fun Factor By Steve Habel/Senior Editor Just about everything associated with the experience golfers will enjoy at the revitalized Club at Rebecca Creek here in this north San Antonio suburb is updated, even as the golf course itself retains the “fun” level it’s always provided. The Club at Rebecca Creek has carried many different monikers since it opened in 1993 (Rayner Ranch and The Hawk, to name a few). A new ownership group assumed operations at the facility in late 2013 and has worked tirelessly in the months since to put a fresh shine on the course and its amenities. The first order of business was to find the water needed to keep the golf course’s tees, fairways and greens in playable condition, a task that was accomplished with the drilling of two wells on the property and an updated irrigation system. Then there was a refreshening of the clubhouse and its pool area, all aspects that add to the appeal of a full-day of activities at The Club at Rebecca Creek. The course is considered “new golfer” friendly because its routing has no sand bunkers or water hazards. But that doesn’t mean that the par-72, George Hoffman-designed track is a pushover. At 6,863 yards from its back set of four tee boxes and its fairways lined by the ever-present oak trees, a round at The Club at Rebecca Creek can be as challenging as you want to make it.

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“People hear that we have no sand or water and think they can just run roughshod over our course and that’s not the case at all,” said Troy Shaver, the facility’s general manager and PGA head golf pro. “Playing from the back tees makes the course exponentially more difficult and it’s quite a challenge even from the second set.”

A huge part of the test at The Club at Rebecca Creek are its putting surfaces, all of which are medium to large in size and undulating, but not so much as to be overly punitive. “Our greens have always been the best part of the course here – they’ve been our calling card from day 1,” Shaver said. “We consider them on par with the best private courses in the area.” Once out of the valley, things get decidedly narrower and there are plenty of challenges. Golfers will need to hit it straight to avoid the trees and natural areas on the routing’s edges. A few blind shots are scattered in to up the ante as are doglegs in both directions. Now is the time to follow the huge golf ball perched at the intersection of Hwy. 281 and Rayner Ranch Road and head east to The Club at Rebecca Creek.

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

COURSES

Buy One Round of Golf Get One Free

Includes Cart

Not valid with other discounts coupon required, expires 6-30-2016 Public Course

RATES

MAP #29

Twilight

M-F $30 $22 Seniors, $25 $22 Military, Police,EMS & Fire $29 Weekends & $33 Holidays ( Twilight after 2 pm, 9 hole rates available. Rates include cart! )

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: George Hoffman Golf Pro: Troy Shaver, PGA Superintendent: Ward Kirk

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Black: 6863 / 73.7 / 127 Blue: 6486 / 71.9 / 123 White: 6064 / 69.1 / 118 Red: 5325 / 71.3 / 119

COURSE AMENITIES t Excited New Ownership t Water Issues Resolved t Perfect & Speedy Greens t Beautiful Tree Lined Fairways t Remodeled Clubhouse & Pool

Spring Branch

Texas Golf Insider

The Club at Rebecca Creek Enjoy Yourself To The Fullest At The Club Located along the rolling countryside of Spring Branch, The Club at Rebecca Creek awaits the avid golfer who seeks a peaceful, but challenging experience. The views of the Texas Hill Country leaves most players speechless. In 2013, new ownership made a commitment to the community, promising the best product possible. That commitment has been met, and continues to thrive each day. The Club at Rebecca Creek is now a “must play” destination, boasting a 2014 golf cart fleet, beautiful tree lined fairways, tour inspired greens, and the friendliest staff in Texas. Come out and enjoy a round to remember! In addition to our wonderful golf course, we are also excited about our remodeled clubhouse and swimming pool. After your round, take a dip in the pool, or grab a seat in the clubhouse, and watch the golf tournament, or any other sporting event on one of our (5) TVs. Both areas make for great parties or special events! The Club at Rebecca Creek offers a fantastic golf course, along with the after play extras. Come join us and experience a day to talk about! 10101 Rebecca Creek Rd. Spring Branch, TX 78070

830-885-7351

www.rebeccacreek.com

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GOLF RULES & TIPS

Sponsored by

2016 Rule Changes The USGA and R&A work together to create one set of rules, and believe it or not, they are trying to make them simpler and easier to understand. Every four years, they publish changes and amendments to the Rules of Golf. 2016 marks the latest revision. Below are the most significant changes:

Anchoring the Club This rule change, by far, received the most publicity over the last 3 years. Players are no longer allowed to hold the club or gripping hand in contact with any part of his body. Remember, this is not a ban on the long putter or belly putter, just the act of anchoring it to your body.The USGA’s website has some great material and illustrations on what is considered anchoring.

the player is only penalized if he in fact, caused his ball to move. Example: Prior to 2016, a player grounds his club behind his ball on the putting green, then decides to take another look at the putt from the opposite side of the hole. If the ball moved on his way back to his ball, he was penalized one stroke, and must replace his ball. Now, same scenario, the player would not be penalized, and the ball must be played from its new location. Win a Beer Scenario: So named that if you bring this up at the 19th hole, there is a good chance you could win a beer from your buddy. On a par 3, a player hits his ball to the middle of the green. After marking his ball, lifting, cleaning, and replacing it, a strong gust of wind blows his ball into the hole, what is his score for the hole? Answer: 1. Explanation: Wind is not an outside agency, so anytime wind moves your ball in play, you are required to play the ball from its new location. Since the ball is holed, it is considered holed with the last stroke taken – from the tee.

Artificial Devices / Unusual Equipment. If you watch much golf, you will recall an incident with Julie Inkster a few years ago in which she placed a weighted donut on her club shaft, and made a few practice swings. Back then it was an automatic DQ.The rule has now been changed: 1st offense: 2 stroke penalty, 2nd offense: DQ.The penalty would be similar for using an alignment rod, a bottle drink used as a level (I hope I didn’t give you any ideas), stretching devices, etc.

Ball at Rest Moved Prior to 2016, if a player grounded his club in front of or behind his ball, and the ball subsequently moved, the player was deemed to have caused his ball to move – no questions asked. Now,

Kevin Stokes has been a rules official since 2011 and is on the Texas Golf Association’s Rules Committee and the USGA Mid-Am Committee. Kevin also volunteers for the Southern Texas PGA.

Stokes Insurance offers a complete line of quality coverages for home, auto, business, and bonds. Our customer service is second to none. Contact Kevin at kevin@stokesins.com, or call 877-259-5533.

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SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Public Course

MAP #29

RATES Monday-Friday $32 Seniors and Military $26 Saturday, Sunday and $38 Holidays Twilight at noon everyday (Green Fee, Cart & Tax Included)

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Director of Golf: Dave Roberts Superintendent: James Fillpot

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6550 / 71.0 / 125 White: 6080 / 65.5 / 119 Gold: 5339 / 66.4 / 118 Red: 4815 / 64.0 / 113

DIRECTIONS From I-35 north, take Exit 178 and turn right onto Country Club Drive. The entrance to the course is on the right side of the street.

COURSES

Cibolo

Northcliffe Golf Club Home of the Noon Twilight Rate - Mon-Fri Just $24 Northcliffe Golf Club is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained golf courses in the San Antonio and New Braunfels area. The par 72 course is enjoyable for the average golfer, yet a challenge to the low-handicap players. Our rates are hands-down some of the most competitive around as we offer a great value to locals and visiting players alike. Northcliffe Golf Club is the home of “Twilight at Noon Seven Days A Week” Originally designed in 1979 by Joe Finger, the links-style design features generous fairways and leaves the golfer several options to play each hole. Northcliffe also has the unique design of 5 par-5’s and 5 par-3’s that wind through the course with no major elevation changes. Now open at Northcliffe Golf Club is the new “America’s first drift fry restaurant” Shifu’s 41 and a 1000 sq.ft. deck surrounding the pro shop. With a friendly informal atmosphere and customer service that is dedicated to making your golf experience exciting and enjoyable, Northcliffe is easily one of the “best kept secrets” around. We invite you to come relax, take it easy, and have a great round. 5301 Country Club Blvd. Cibolo, TX 77546

830-606-7351

www.northcliffegolfcourse.com

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INSTRUCTION

USING THE BELLY PUTTER AS A TRAINING AID

Adam Scott

In 2013, the USGA and the R&A announced that starting January 1, 2016, golfers wouldn’t be allowed to use a putter that is anchored to your body while you putt. This announcement struck fear in many golfers who have struggled with putting and found new life through either the belly putter or the long putter. To be clear, you will still be able to use the belly putter or long putter...you just can’t anchor it to your body while you putt. If the thought of switching back to a ‘short’ putter causes your blood pressure to rise, fear not. The belly putter can be a valuable training aid to help you make a more fundamentally sound stroke with a traditional length putter.

Belly putter as a training aid: Practicing with a belly putter helps with 4 very important fundamentals in your putting stroke: 1. Eliminates wrist action-Because the belly putter is anchored to your body, it is impossible to get ‘wristy’ with your stroke. As a rule of thumb, you should swing the shaft of the putter, not just the putter head (wrists). Eliminating wrist action improves performance in speed because the putter head and grip swing at the same rate. This TheTexasGolfInsider.com

also makes having an even tempo in your stroke easier to achieve. 2. Allows the path to swing at an arc and the putter head to open and close-The natural way for your putter head to work back and through in your stroke is on a slight arc and to open slightly on the backstroke and close slightly on the finish. This happens naturally if you let it so you never have to make an effort to do this. Because the belly putter is anchored, your path is forced to swing at a slight arc and the putter head will open and close naturally. Basically, you are training your muscles to do want you want. No thinking! 3. Forces you to swing your putter with your arms and shoulders-Because the putter is anchored, you are forced to make a stroke with your arms and shoulders. Think of the belly putter as the glue and your arms and shoulders are the pieces that work together because of the glue. The less moving parts you have, the less that can go wrong. 4. Encourages proper alignment-Because the belly putter is anchored, compensation in the stroke because of poor alignment is almost impossible. A person with poor alignment can compensate and adjust their stroke to get the ball back on line. Using a belly putter trains you to line up correctly since compensation in the stroke is impossible unless you move your body. You will tend to hit your putts where you’re aimed so as a result, you’re forced to line up correctly to hit your putt on line. If you’ve been putting with a belly putter or long putter because of past troubles with a shorter putter, practice with a belly putter. Because of the 4 examples listed above, your stroke with your new, shorter putter

INSTRUCTION

Keegan Bradley at the Honda Classic

will improve and your confidence will grow. Remember, be patient and give it time. Good fundamentals breed confidence and positive results.

What Tour Players Will Be Affected The Most By This Rule Change? In my opinion, some PGA Tour players will be affected by this rule change more than others. I believe the younger players who have putted with a belly putter for several years will actually make the smoothest transition to the shorter putter. Two players that come to mind are Keegan Bradley and Webb Simpson. Because they began putting with the belly putter at a younger age, solid fundamentals have become second nature. This aspect, along with the fact that they didn’t experience putting woes during their career so far on the PGA Tour will make their transition to the shorter putter more seamless. Players that may struggle this season are the players who putted with a shorter putter, struggled with their putting, and then switched to a belly or long putter. Players that fall into this category would be Adam Scott, Tim Clarke, Fred Couples, Ernie Els, Colin Montgomerie and Rocco Mediate. These are all players who at some point in their career struggled with their putting and switched to the belly or long putter. One player who has enjoyed a tremendous amount of success with the long putter in recent years

is Bernhard Langer. Out of all of the names I just mentioned, he is the most likely to ‘find a way’ to make the transition work. He has employed many different putting styles over his extremely successful career and will no doubt find a way to make it work. I hope I’m wrong and ALL of these great players make it work...time will tell. So remember, don’t throw that belly putter away. It can still help your putting but it will have to be on the putting green when you’re practicing from now on. Grooving good fundamentals comes through time spent practicing proper technique. In the words of the great Vince Lombardi, “Practice doesn’t make perfect...perfect practice makes perfect.” -Kyle Jerome

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REVIEW

Getting wild and woodsy outside the Loop Meadowbrook Farms Golf Club

Meadowbrook Farms and Augusta Pines are two of the best options for golf in Houston’s suburbs By Steve Habel/Senior Writer Greater Houston – the sixth-largest metropolitan area in the United States with a population of nearly six million people – seemingly has a great golf course in every one of its thousands of neighborhoods. Most are located outside Loop 610, the usually trafficchoked, six-lane highway that separates the city’s downtown from its outlying areas. Two of the area’s best daily-fee (or semiprivate, if you prefer) facilities are Meadowbrook Farms GC in Katy on Houston’s western boundary, and Augusta Pines GC in Spring, up north near The Woodlands. Both showcase the best aspects of golf in the Texas coastal plains and are routed through the communities of which they’re the centerpiece. Both courses cross mostly flat terrain as there is not much rise and fall in the prairie lands and wetlands around this huge city. Both also make the most of the features the architects were given. At Meadowbrook Farms, the designer was Greg Norman (who knows a thing or two about fashioning top courses), and at Augusta Pines, it was a team effort from the folks that also routed the much-debated Tour 18 in nearby Humble. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Meadowbrook Farms offers wild (flower) experience Norman’s course at Meadowbrook Farms is nestled about 35 minutes from Houston’s downtown among hardwood trees, creeks, lakes and wetlands.The layout is framed by native prairie grasses and wildflowers, all of which promote a heady shot strategy. Norman visited about 10 times during the construction process and was very hands-on. His design at Meadowbrook Farms retained the natural topography, with very little mounding or reshaping. Here, the player will find stacked-sod bunkers, subtle breaks in the greens and a few forced carries.The putting surfaces are kept hard and fast, and run-up shots are preferred, especially if the wind is aloft. “The beauty of this course is in the details,” Norman said. “Players will discover a challenging course built in harmony with the site’s trees, creeks, lakes and wetlands. Meadowbrook Farms ranks as one of my favorite courses anywhere.” While building the course the owners consulted with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin for ideas on how to conserve the native plants and grasses and maintain an authentic Texas Gulf Coast prairie environment. Built on property that once was a rice farm,

REVIEW

Norman’s routing runs through trees and a short chip positions you for an easy along a creek on several holes, then pops birdie. Disaster can strike, however, if the player back out onto open prairie. your drive finds any of the cavernous Some fairways are narrow and are flat to bunkers on this hole. gently rolling; each hole includes someKeep your gumption up for the thing that can cause a problem for the treacherous, 445-yard par-4 16th, inaccurate. which plays into the prevailing wind. Tall Meadowbrook Farms opened in Sepgrasses line both sides of the fairway, so tember 1999 as the cornerstone of an 800- precision is crucial off the tee - but so acre residential development.The course is length. Even the best drives leave a plays to a par of 72 and is carded at 7,100 mid- to long-iron shot into a large, but yards from its back set of four tees, where shallow, green that is difficult to hold. it carries a rating of 74.2 and a 137 Slope. The round at Meadowbrook Farms The three-hole stretch on six, seven ends at a gorgeous, 545-yard par-5. and eight is likely the best on the front The drive is struck out of a tree chute side, with two demanding par-3s wrapped to a landing area surrounded by native around a great par-5.The sixth involves 160 yards over a pond to a shallow green ringed by wildflowers, native grasses and oak trees.Where the second shot at the 560-yard, par-5 Meadowbrook Farms Clubhouse Interior seventh lands could be the prettiest spot on the course.You’re playing grasses. The second shot demands a above the hole as the fairway cuts back carry over a 30-foot-wide marsh that into the woods and back down to a slightly turns left and hugs the right edge of the sunken green.The hole makes you think fairway near the green. Short and right you’re playing golf somewhere in Georgia of the putting surface lurk some of the or the Carolinas rather than Houston. Shark’s sharpest teeth: two nasty, St. The 225-yard eighth is a fortress of a Andrews-like bunkers waiting to send hole, buffeted by winds and ending at a you home with a big number on the raised green surrounded by bumps, swales scorecard. and sand. Perched above the ninth and 18th The back side brings water back into greens, the facility’s clubhouse offers play, especially on the 555-yard, par-5 views of the course while featuring 12th, where you need a long and precise the ambiance of a Texas ranch. drive to avoid water right and a large Meadowbrook Farms also contains a bunker left.The second shot needs to favor player development center, a doublethe right side and in position to avoid trees ended driving range with practice areas that block the approach to a small and well- front and back, and pitching greens with protected green. greenside bunkers. If you’re feeling frisky, try to hit the Meadowbrook Farms has won a numgreen off the tee at the 325-yard, par-4 ber of accolades, with Golf Digest rank15th. Do so with prudence though as ing it among Texas’ best courses in 2001, the hole produces its share of doubleHouston’s best course by Houston Sports bogeys and higher. Long-hitters can get News in 2000, and Avid Golfer naming it it either on or close to the green, where one of the top courses in the “Space City.” TheTexasGolfInsider.com

REVIEW

A touch of the Peach State at and more scenic. On the way in you’ll Augusta Pines deal with well-placed fairway and greenside bunkers, several doglegs, risk-reward With a routing that winds through, around and beside mature pines, dogwoods opportunities and water on six of the nine and oaks, Augusta Pines gives golfers a little holes. No. 10 is a 399-yard par-4 with water piece of Georgia. Its holes are rumored to lining the right side from the tee box mirror some of those at Augusta National up to and around the front of the green. – remember, these Tour 18 folks have repThe 11th is a 408-yard dogleg-left with licating holes a lake on the down to a scistarboard side, ence. Augusta a big bunker Pines stretches at the elbow 7,041 yards through a of the fairway neighborhood and a green of impressive protected by homes just three bunkers. south of The The 365-yard, Woodlands. par-4 16th has a The setting small creek that is highlighted cuts in front by more and then goes than 30 acres Augusta Pines Golf Club is one of Houston’s best three-quarters of lakes and creeks, which come into play on 11 of 18 around the green. holes. Players try to compare what they The round is punctuated by the final just tackled with the holes they see every two holes, both of which are played April while watching The Masters. to island greens. First, be precise with Augusta Pines opened in 2000 and caryour iron at the 149-yard, par-3 17th, ries a course rating is 73.6 and a slope of where the surrounding water leaves no 125 from its back set of five tees. room for error or weak-heartedness. The front nine (highlighted by the 470The par-5 closer extends 522 yards, yard par-4 fourth, the 604-yard par-5 sixth and its fairway is narrowed by a lake and the 173-yard par-3 ninth) is pretty along the right and trees and a bunstraightforward and mostly “what you see ker in the primary landing area. The is what you get.”The 17 bunkers, only putting surface, which seems as if it’s three of which impinge fairways, and the floating in water, is further guarded on water on five holes are pretty easy to avoid. three sides by sand. The landing areas are broad and forgiving, Augusta Pines hosted the and the rough should prevent you from Administaff Small Business Classic landing under (now known as trees unless the Insperity you really Championship) spray the ball. on the Augusta Champions Pines’ inward Tour from half is a few 2004-07. shots tougher Augusta Pines Golf Club

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SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Public Course

RATES

MAP #41

Twilight

Weekday $39 $24 $29 Weekend $49 $29 $37

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Bunker Hill General Manager: Doug Fipps Superintendent: Jason Kelly Course Record: Kyle Jerome,62

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Black: 6891 / 72.0 / 127 Blue: 6329 / 70.3 / 121 White: 5829 / 68.2 / 110 Red: 4931 / 66.8 / 106

COURSE AMENITIES t t t t t

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COURSES

Burnet

Delaware Springs Golf Course One of Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play”

ated four out of five stars on Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play” list, Delaware Springs Golf Course is a Hill Country classic cradled by a variety of native trees and accented by charming scenery. The beautiful 6,891-yard par-72 track unfolds onto gently rolling hills and offers golfers scenic vistas at every turn, making it as picturesque as it is challenging. The aesthetic value is just one reason why Delaware Springs has become a Hill Country favorite. Visitors are often impressed by the attitude of the golf course staff, a friendly and courteous crew that makes strangers feel right at home. In addition to the 18-hole championship course, the facility features a well-stocked pro shop, driving range, putting green, snack bar and dining room overlooking the 18th green. To enjoy Hill Country golf at its finest, come visit Delaware Springs Golf Course, owned and operated by the city of Burnet. Course designers Dave Akland and Dan Procter named each hole after a local feature, such as “Mountain View” and “Roon the Bend” because of its sharp dogleg right. Few homes line the holes.

600 Delaware Springs Blvd. Burnet, TX 78611

512-756-8471

www.delawaresprings.com

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See Where Golf History Was Made Brackenridge Park turns 100 — 1916-2016

Brackenridge Park Golf Course is undeniably the jewel of the Alamo City Golf Trail. Laid out by renowned golf course designer, A.W. Tilinghast, it opened in 1916 as an 18-hole championship course - and soon became the birthplace of several major traditions in golf. The Texas Open. In the early 1920s, city leaders created the Texas Open, still the 3rd oldest Bob ‘Th golf championship - winnere Silver Scot’ M in the U.S. today. Open at of the inaugu cDonald r Old Bra ck in 19a2l Texas Brackenridge was 2 the original venue, and k ar enridge P tournament play continued here until 1959. at Brack n e p O s a 1926 Tex “Big Money” Golf. The prize raised by promoters for the first Texas Open was the largest purse ever offered for such an event. The subsequent publicity and competition transformed the game and led to the rise of big money golf. The PGA TOUR. It was an organization that Tommy Armour and other pros formed one rainy day at “Old Brack” in 1928 that would evolve into the PGA TOUR. Small wonder, then, that Brackenridge Park Golf Course was the first inductee into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame - and chosen as the host site for the museum, a formal Walk of Fame, and administrative offices. Tom Kit Bill Ellioe, Ben Crensha Far more amazing has the state tt were 16 whenw and been its resurgence as a Bracken junior champio they played ridge Pa nship at rk serious golf venue. After years of planning and restoration the course reopened in October 2008 to ecstatic acclaim by sports writers and golfers alike. So come. Play this historic course. Face the excitement of a layout that incorporates 15 of the original Tilinghast-designed holes - yet with thirty rack, bunkers added. Be a part of this new era of golf history. B ld O t an a g Ben Ho 0 3 9 ca 1

Photos courtesy of The Ghosts of Old Brack - Published and the Texas Golf Hall of Fame

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See Where Golf History Was Made Brackenridge Park turns 100 — 1916-2016

Photos courtesy of The Ghosts of Old Brack - Published and the Texas Golf Hall of Fame

Home of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame Borglum Studio & Event Pavilion Banquets, Weddings & Receptions Foot Golf Alamo City Golf Trail Tour Corporate Outings Charity Tournaments

Play History. Or Make History. 18 holes at a time.

Instructional Programs Club Fitting and Repair

For more information call 210-212-7572 or visit alamocitygolftrail.com to learn more.

Brackenridge Park Clubhouse

BRACKENRIDGE PARK

OLMOS BASIN

CEDAR CREEK

RIVERSIDE

MISSION DEL LAGO

SAN PEDRO RANGE & PAR 3

NORTHERN HILLS

WILLOW SPRINGS

Texas Golf Hall of Fame

Eight Courses that Provide the Best Golf Value in San Antonio 210-212-7572 alamocitygolftrail.com

See Where Golf History Was Made Brackenridge Park turns 100 — 1916-2016

Photos courtesy of The Ghosts of Old Brack - Published and the Texas Golf Hall of Fame

Home of the Texas Golf Hall of Fame Borglum Studio & Event Pavilion Banquets, Weddings & Receptions Foot Golf Alamo City Golf Trail Tour Corporate Outings Charity Tournaments

Play History. Or Make History. 18 holes at a time.

Instructional Programs Club Fitting and Repair

For more information call 210-212-7572 or visit alamocitygolftrail.com to learn more.

Brackenridge Park Clubhouse

BRACKENRIDGE PARK

OLMOS BASIN

CEDAR CREEK

RIVERSIDE

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Eight Courses that Provide the Best Golf Value in San Antonio 210-212-7572 alamocitygolftrail.com

42 Texas golf greats honored during lavish day of celebration at 2015 TGHOF Ceremony

By Art Stricklin

Photos: Gary Perkins

Left to right: Paul Marchand, David, son of Roland Harper, Jeff Maggert, Bob Elliott (Northwood Club), Hank Kuehne, Preston Moore

Some of Texas’ greatest born or bred amateur, professional and club pros were honored during a Texas-sized day of golf celebration at the 2015 Texas Golf Hall of Fame induction ceremony. “I’ve been playing golf since I was 10 years old and to know I can always come here and see my name on the Hall of Fame plaque is really special,” said an emotional Trip Kuehne, who was honored in the amateur category.

The Dallas native won the 2007 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship at Bandon Dunes Golf Links and also finished second in the 1993 U.S. Amateur to Tiger Woods, playing in both the 1994 and 2008 Masters. “The unveiling of the 2015 TGHOF inductee plaque took place at historic Brackenridge Park, the first public course in Texas, with the induction banquet at nearby San Antonio County Club. Longtime Texas resident Jeff Maggert was honored in the professional category, for his stellar PGA and Champions Tour career. “This is so special to me to be a part of this,” Maggert said. Continued on pg. 43

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“I’m living the dream, doing what I want to do and enjoying the Texas-sized journey along with way.” Maggert won the first World Golf Championship and $1 million purse

the club pro category along with the longtime Colonial Country Club pro Roland Harper, who passed away in 2001. “No one was more surprised or honored than me to get this phone call,” said Marchand, the Director of Golf and General Manager at Shadow Hawk Golf Club in Richmond. Houston amateur golf champion and innovator Preston Moore, who passed away a month after the ceremony, was honored for

TGHOF celebration at San Antonio Country Club

in capturing the WGC World Match Play title in 1999, and has since added a U.S. Senior Open title earlier last summer, along with many other professional golf victories. He is the three-time winner of the Texas State Preston Moore proudly stands by the inductee plaque at historic Brackenridge Park Open and an All American golfer while playing at Texas A&M. his longtime Longtime support of golf Houston in Texas and golf pro Paul the inspiration Marchand, who he served in served as the building the first golfing teacher motorized golf to Masters cart in Houston. champion and The fellow University prestigious of Houston Northwood Club teammate Fred in Dallas, the Couples, along site of the 1952 with President U.S. Open, was George H.W. added to the Bush, was Texas Registry of Attending, STPGA President Jeff Strong and wife Liz Historic Courses. honored in along with Texas Golf Insider Publisher, Mike Ratchman

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4954 Space Center Dr., San Antonio, TX 78218 210.804.0390 | www.shweiki.com

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SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

COURSES

Lago Vista G o l f

C o u r s e s

-BHP 7JTUB t Lago Vista Golf Course is a par 72 18-hole championship golf course that offers over 6500 yards of fun and challenging play. The course originally opened as a 9-hole facility in 1971 to help promote lot sales in the young, unincorporated neighborhoods that make up the city of Lago Vista today. Shortly thereafter, under the guidance of course designer Leon Howard, the course was renovated and expanded to 18 holes, and operated as a private country club until the mid 1990s. Today, all golfers are welcome to enjoy the undulating fairways, epic lake views, and abundant wildlife at Lago Vista Golf Course.

)JHIMBOE -BLFT t Highland Lakes Golf Course, designed by Leon and Charles Howard and built in 1978, has been newly acquired and improved by the City of Lago Vista. The multilevel, sloping tifdwarf greens provide a demanding, yet uniquely challenging golf experience. Originally known in the 1970s and 1980s as World of Resorts Country Club, Highland Lakes Golf Course is generally considered the more challenging of the two courses.

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Go get blown away by golf in SouthernmostTexas By Steve Habel/Senior Writer

There is a change in attitude as you go further south in latitude on your way toward the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Here, even as the region continues to grow in population and as a center for commerce and link to Mexico, time seems to pass a little slower. This is a place where life is good and the living is fun and more laidback. The Valley is a winter tourist destination for residents from the Midwest and Canada (called “Winter Texans” or “Snowbirds”), as well as Mexican nationals and thousands of college students who visit South Padre Island throughout March and April for Spring Break activities. It’s the only region in the United States where birders can observe certain varieties of tropical birds more typical of Mexico. It’s also along the path taken

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South Padre Island Golf Club

by the migratory Monarch butterfly as it transits to and from the Mexican state of Michoacan. The Valley is a popular waypoint for tourists seeking to visit Mexico. Popular destinations across the border include Matamoros, Nuevo Progreso, Río Bravo, and Reynosa, all located in the state of Tamaulipas. The Valley also attracts large numbers of wealthy tourists from the Mexican states of Nuevo Leon, Coahuila, Distrito Federal and Tamaulipas. A recent National Golf Foundation poll found that the Rio Grande Valley has more playable days of golf per year (less than 25 days lost) than anywhere in the United States, making it the place to point my truck when the weather turned frigid farther to the north. I teed it up at two facilities – South Padre Island Golf Club in Laguna Vista and the 36hole layout at Rancho Viejo Resort and Country Club in suburban Brownsville. These facilities would be worth the trip any day,

REVIEW

but even more so when the sun is warm and bright. Constant wind makes South Padre Island GC a test of patience and will Longtime PGA Tour professional Dave Stockton once said, “When the ducks are walking, you know it is too windy to be playing golf.” And while we never would walk off the golf course because of the wind, the South Texas coast is a place where folks don’t even bother to comment unless it tops the 40-mile per hour mark. At South Padre Island, the southernmost course in Texas, golf course designers Stephen Caplinger and Chris Cole considered the fact that there would normally be at least a 20-mph wind when they fashioned the track. Set across Laguna Madre - the area’s intercoastal waterway, from its island namesake, South Padre Island GC features a handful of holes on the water, all just a few short miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Don’t expect protection from the wind, so just deal with it and take advantage of the chances you will have to attack the course when the breeze is at your back. Opened in 1997 as the centerpiece of a gleaming residential community developed by Landmark Land - the folks behind

PGA West, Kiawah Island and Oak Tree, South Padre Island GC plays to a par of 72 and at 6,931 yards from the tips. It carries a rating of 73.8 and a slope of 129, but the track must be taken seriously, especially when its hardest holes the 415-yard par-4 eighth, the 409-yard par-4 11th and (perhaps surprisingly) the 133-yard par-3 12th - head into a stout wind. For most of the year, the shorter holes play into the wind (making them more of a challenge) and its longer offerings are aided by a breeze, which allows you to hit the ball farther but also affects ball spin on approaches. The design features wide fairways bordered by native yucca, mesquite and cactus, and shots that fail to find the fairway will bury in waste areas and deep rough. The challenges at South Padre Island GC are varied and deep. The holes go one direction, then turn for a while, then head off in another direction. Besides wind, you’ll also find water on

The pool at the Rancho Viejo Resort welcomes swimmers

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REVIEW

South Padre Island Golf Club

half the offerings and wetlands and highgrass areas to make things even more interesting. The clubhouse and private club includes a spacious restaurant and bar area and large pro shop. There are plenty of places to stay on or around South Padre Island GC, ranging from huge homes to garden villas to harbor-front condos, all well-furnished and seemingly new. You can rent them by the day, week or month. Rancho Viejo is like a dream. Opened for play in 1971, the 36-hole Rancho Viejo Resort and Country Club was the only real option for championship golf in this neck of the woods for four decades. Over the years, the courses at Rancho Viejo – called El Diablo and El Angel – have hosted the PGA Tour Qualifying School (Curtis Strange, Craig Stadler and Peter Jacobsen earned their cards here) as well as celebrities and golfers looking to escape winter’s chill. Designed by Dennis Arp, Rancho Viejo’s layouts have been updated several times through the years, including the installation of TifDwarf greens that are probably the best part of the experience. Each course plays to a par of 70 and you’ll also find plenty of water hazards – eight of them at El Diablo and a dozen on El Angel. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

The morning we played at Rancho Viejo, the fog was thick and conditions were wet, making El Diablo seem like it was suspended in a dream state of muted colors and sounds surrounded by faded ranch-style homes and ancient trees. Once the fog burned off for our afternoon round, the stark reality came to bear of a tough layout amid tight confines. El Diablo is more protected than many golf courses along the Texas coast, but the wind is still a constant consideration. Add water, fairways lined by homes, and out-of-bounds looming on every other corner, and you might be tempted to leave your driver in the bag here. The course is a good test of accuracy and putting prowess, and belongs on the short list of must-play courses in the Valley. And while El Diablo lives up to its moniker, the El Angel course is anything but angelic - there are a handful of holes on the 6,464 track that are just plain nasty. A resaca - actually an old irrigation canal that came off the Rio Grande and once used to water citrus fruit groves - runs through the course and property. There are still plenty of orange trees in front yards bordering El Angel, and the resaca’s chief function these days is as a target to avoid and a hazard for the golfers.

REVIEW

South Padre Island is a place sunsets You’ll see a variety of wildlife on the have to be seen rather than described. two Rancho Viejo courses, including plenty of exotic birds, which make their Located on the tropical tip of Texas, it home among the native palms and long- is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay, and its only link to needled Australian pines. the mainland is the Rancho Viejo 2-1/2-mile-long is a relaxed, golfQueen Isabella Meoriented community morial Bridge. and resort that is high The 34-mileon quality and low on long barrier reef is pretense. Ever-presRanchoViejo Golf Club about a half-mile ent is the influence at its widest point and has approxiof the Spanish and Mexican heritage. mately 5,000 inhabitants and about one You see it in the red tile roofs, fountains and tropical gardens that grace the million visitors annually. Streets are bustling with retail shops, resort hotels, public areas. The property features two condominium towers, restaurants and excellent dining facilities and a conferrecreational activities. ence center with plenty of meeting and During my visit, I enjoyed great party rooms, and its award-winning landscaped swimming pool with its very meals at the Sea Ranch (seafood, of course, most notably the red snapper large waterfall will remind some of the and sautéed shrimp) and Senor Donkey South Seas. (great open-faced cheese enchiladas) On-site accommodations are in twoand three-bedroom villas located along the and a few cold beers and a view of the El Diablo course or the Resaca del Rancho beach at the quaint Palms Café and Resort. Viejo. All villas are furnished in regional décor and handicrafts and have attractive views. Rancho Viejo is located just 30 minutes from the beaches of South Padre Island and 20 minutes from shopping in Mexico. Plenty of fun & frolic off the course The Valley encompasses several landmarks that attract tourists and is primarily known for South Padre Island. Other popular destinations include the Port Isabel Lighthouse, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge and Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park. The Laguna Madre is where you’ll find some of the best bay fishing in the world.

A special treat was the shrimp and beef fajitas onboard a sunset catamaran tour of the Laguna Madre provided by Sunset Wave. It’s the perfect way to end your day and start your evening. So go get blown away with the golf and fun in Southernmost Texas. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

GENERAL DIRECTORY

COURSE

TYPE

AUSTIN: Avery Ranch Semi-Private Falconhead Semi-Private Gray Rock Golf Club Semi-Private Hancock Park Golf Course Municipal Jimmy Clay/Roy Kizer Golf CourseMunicipal Lions Municipal Golf Course Municipal Morris Williams Golf Course Municipal Riverside Golf Club Public BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Golf Course Resort BASTROP: Colovista Golf Club Semi-Private Hyatt, Wolfdancer Resort Lost Pines Golf Course Public Pine Forest Golf Club Public BLANCO: Vaaler Creek Golf Club Semi-Private BOERNE: Tapatio Springs Resort BURNET: Delaware Springs Golf Course Municipal CANYON LAKE: Lakeside Golf Club Public CASTROVILLE: Alsatian Golf Course Public CIBOLO: Northcliffe Golf & Country Club Semi-Private COMFORT: Buckhorn Golf Course Public CONCAN: Club at ConCan Resort DEVINE: Devine Golf Course Public FLORESVILLE: River Bend Golf Club Public FREDERICKSBURG: Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course Municipal GEORGETOWN: Cowan Creek Golf Club Semi-Private Legacy Hill Golf Club Semi-Private White Wing Golf Club Semi-Private HORSESHOE BAY: Horseshoe Bay Resort Resort Apple Rock Resort Ram Rock Resort Slick Rock Resort HUTTO: Golf Club at Star Ranch Semi-Private KERRVILLE: Scott Schreiner Municipal GC Municipal KINGSLAND: Legends Golf Course Public Lighthouse Country Club Public KYLE: Plum Creek Golf Course Public LAGO VISTA: Lago Vista Semi-Private Highland Lakes Public

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PHONE COURSE (512) 248-2442 (512) 402-1558 (512) 288-4297 (512) 453-0276 (512) 444-0999 (512) 477-6963 (512) 974-8333 (512) 386-7077 (800) 646-5407 (512) 629-4585 (512) 308-9653 (512) 321-2327 (512) 321-1181 (830) 833-0706 (830) 537-4197 (512) 756-8471 (830) 899-3301 (830) 931-3100 (830) 606-7351 (830) 995-5351 (830) 232-4471 (830) 665-9943 (830) 216-2800 (830) 997-4010 (512) 864-1244 (512) 864-1222 (512) 864-1244 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (512) 252-4653 (830) 257-4982 (325) 388-8888 (325) 388-6660 (512) 262-5555 (512) 267-1170 (512) 267-1170

TYPE

LAMPASAS: Hancock Park Golf Course Public LEANDER: The Golf Club at Crystal Falls Municipal LLANO: Llano Golf Club Municipal MANOR: Shadow Glen Semi-Private MARBLE FALLS: Hidden Falls Golf Club Semi-Private NEW BRAUNFELS: The Bandit Golf Course Public Landa Park Golf Course Municipal PLEASANTON: Pleasanton Country Club Semi-Private PFLUGERVILLE: Blackhawk Golf Club Public ROUND ROCK: Forest Creek Golf Club Public The Golf Club of Star Ranch Semi-Private TeraVista Golf Club Semi-Private SALADO: Mill Creek Inn & Country Club Semi-Private SAN MARCOS: Quail Creek Country Club Semi-Private SAN SABA: San Saba River GC Municipal SEGUIN: Golf Club of Seguin Semi-Private Starcke Park Golf Course Municipal SPICEWOOD: Pedernales Golf Course Public SPRING BRANCH: River Crossing Club Private The Club at Rebecca Creek Semi-Private SAN ANTONIO: Alamo Golf Club Public Brackenridge Park Golf Course Municipal Canyon Springs Golf Course Public Cedar Creek Golf Course Municipal Gateway Hills Golf Course Military Golf Club of Texas Public Hyatt Hill Country Resort Resort La Cantera Golf Club Public La Loma Grande Public Mission Del Lago Golf Course Municipal Olmos Basin Golf Course Municipal Randolf Oaks Golf Course Military Riverside Golf Course Municipal Salado Del Rio Public Silverhorn Public The Palmer Course Public The Republic Golf Course Public TPC San Antonio Resort Windcrest Golf Course Semi-private Willow Springs Golf Course Municipal UNIVERSAL CITY: Olympia Hills Golf & Conference Center Public UTOPIA: Utopia Golf Course Public WIMBERLEY: Quicksand at Woodcreek Public

PHONE (512) 556-3202 (512) 259-5855 (325) 247-5100 (512) 278-1304 (830) 693-3300 (830) 609-4665 (830) 221-4340 (830) 281-3486 (512) 251-9000 (512) 388-2874 (512) 252-GOLF (512) 651-9850 (254) 947-5698 (512) 353-1665 (325) 372-3212 (830) 303-0669 (830) 401-2490 (512) 264-1489 (830) 904-4653 (830) 885-5168 (210) 696-4000 (210) 226-5612 (210) 497-1770 (210) 695-5050 (210) 671-3466 (210) 504-2550 (210) 647-1234 (210) 558-4653 (210) 222-9386 (210) 627-2522 (210) 826-4041 (210) 652-4570 (210) 533-8371 (210) 222-9386 (210) 545-5300 (210) 558-2365 (210) 359-0000 (210) 491-5800 (210) 655-1421 (210) 226-6721 (210) 945-4653 (830) 966-5577 (512) 847-9700

THE PERFECT DRIVE

THE COAST COURSE

TYPE

Alice Municipal Golf Course Brownsville Golf Center Buccaneer Bay Public GC Colony Creek Country Club Corpus Christi Country Club Cottonwood Creek Golf Course Edinburg Municipal Golf Course El Campo County Club Fort Brown Municipal Golf Course Ganado Golf and Country Club Goliad Country Recreation Assoc. Grande Caribbean at Dune Crest Harlingen Country Club L.E. Ramey Golf Course Lorenzo Golf Center Oso Beach Municipal GC Northshore Golf Course Padre Isles Country Club Palm View Golf Course Palmilla Beach Golf Club Rio Colorado Golf Course South Padre Island Golf Club The Victoria Country Club Tierra Del Sol Golf Club Tierra Santa Golf Club Treasure Hills Country Club Village Executive Golf Course Valley International Country Club

Public Public Public Semi-Private Private Public Public Private Public Public Public Public Private Public Public Public Public Private Public Semi-Private Public Public Semi-Private Public Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private

PHONE (361) 664-7033 (956) 541-2582 (361) 790-7513 (361) 576-0018 (361) 991-2811 (956) 428-7758 (956) 381-1244 (409) 543-6592 (956) 542-9861 (361) 771-2424 (361) 645-2144 (361) 749-1974 (956) 412-4110 (361) 592-1101 (361) 826-8017 (361) 826-8010 (361) 643-2798 (361) 949-8056 (956) 687-9591 (361) 749-4653 (979) 244-2955 (956) 943-5678 (361) 573-3712 (956) 702-2320 (956) 973-1811 (956) 365-3100 (956) 968-5331 (956) 546-5331

RIO GRANDE VALLEY COURSE Adobe Wells Country Club Alamo Country Club Brownsville Municipal GC Cimarron Cottonwood 21 Ebony Hills Golf Course Fair Winds G.C & Practice Range Fort Brown Memorial GC Harlingen Country Club Jim Paul Golf Course Llano Grande Golf Course Los Lagos Golf Club Martin Valley Ranches Golf Course McAllen Country Club Meadow Creek Golf Club Palacio Real Golf Course Palm View Golf Course Rancho Viejo Country Club Raymondville Municipal Course River Bend Resort Shary Municipal Golf Course South Padre Island Golf Club The MAX Golf Course Tony Butler Municiapal GC

TYPE Private Private Public Private Semi-Private Public Public Public Private Public Public Public Public Private Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private Public Public Public Public

PHONE (956) 686-8801 (956) 787-0910 (956) 541-2582 (956) 581-7408 (956) 428-0766 (956) 381-1244 (956) 423-2010 (956) 541-0394 (956) 412-4110 (956) 943-7520 (956) 565-3351 (956) 316-0444 (956) 585-6330 (956) 928-0440 (956) 581-6267 (956) 381-0964 (956) 687-9591 (956) 350-4000 (956) 689-9904 (956) 548-0191 (956) 580-8770 (956) 943-5678 (956) 726-2000 (956) 216-5970

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127

ConCan

15 15

Harper

Utopia

Castroville

27 1604

Comfort 46

1604

29 725

87 87 Spring Brand

3 12 9 10 6 13

473

1431

Kyle

620

Marble Falls 41 Leander

130 1825

Robstown

Refugio

Portland

83286 358

Corpus Christi

Sinton

To Ho us to n

2342

Kingsland

Port Aransas

ico ex

io on nt

A an

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Brackenridge Park Golf Course

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Par

Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Type Hole

Map Number

SAN ANTONIO |HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN COURSES

(210) 226-5612

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(210) 695-5050

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Delaware Springs Golf Course (512) 756-8471 41 41 600 Delaware Springs Blvd., Burnet, TX 78611

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2315 Avenue B, San Antonio, TX 78215 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

8250 Vista Colina, San Antonio, TX 78255 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

Cedar Creek Golf Course

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www.delawaresprings.com

Flying L Guest Ranch 49 566 Flying L Drive, Bandera, TX 78003

(800) 292-5134

t t t t t

(512) 382-6529

t t t t t

www.flyingl.com

Highland Lakes Golf Course

20 20552 Highland Lake Dr., Lago Vista, TX 78645 www.lagovistagc.com/highland-lakes.html

Jersey Meadow Golf Course 2 8502 Rio Grande, Jersey Village, TX 77040

(713) 896-0900

1 t t t t t

www.jerseymeadow.com

Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course (830) 997-4010 53 341 Golfers Loop, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

(512) 267-1170

(830) 221-4340

t t t t t

www.golffredericksburg.com

Lago Vista Golf Course

t t t t t

20 4616 Rimrock Dr., Lago Vista, TX 78645 www.lagovistagc.com

Landa Park Golf Course

t t t t t

73 180 Golf Course Rd., New Braunfels, TX 78130 www.landaparkgolfcourse.com

Mission Del Lago Golf Course

(210) 627-2522

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(830) 606-7351

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8 1250 Mission Grande, San Antonio, TX 78221 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

Northcliffe Golf Club

t t t t t

29 5301 Country Club Blvd., Cibolo, TX 77546 www.northcliffegolfcourse.com

Northern Hills Golf Course

(210) 655-4148 1

t t t t t *

9 13202 Scarsdale, San Antonio, TX 78217 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

Olmos Basin Golf Course

(210) 826-4041

t t

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10 7022 McCullough, San Antonio, TX 78216 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

Olympia Hills Golf and Conference Center (210) 945-4653 35 12900 Mount Olympus, Universal City, TX 78148

t t t t t

www.olympiahillsgolf.com

Riverside Golf Course 11 203 McDonald, San Antonio, TX 78210

(210) 533-8371 1

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www.alamocitygolftrail.com

San Pedro Range & Par 3

(210) 349-5113

t t t *

12 6102 San Pedro, San Antonio, TX 78216 www.alamocitygolftrail.com

* Insert TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

Par

Yardage /Rating /Slope

COURSES SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Type Hole

Map Number

(512) 252-4653

t t t t

(830) 232-4471

t t t t t

(830) 885-7351

(210) 504-2550

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27 13600 Briggs Ranch, San Antonio, TX 78245 The Max (956) 726-2000 99 27700 FM 1472, Laredo, TX 78045

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(830) 833-0706

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(210) 226-6721

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Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Star Ranch Golf Club 3

2500 FM 685, Hutto, TX 78634 www.starranchgolf.com

The Club at Concan 15 520 Mountain Valley, Concan, TX 78838

www.concangolf.com

The Club at Rebecca Creek

t t t t t

14 10101 Rebecca Creek Rd., Spring Branch, TX 78070 www.rebeccacreek.com

The Golf Club of Texas

www.themaxlaredo.com

Vaaler Creek Golf Club 87 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX 78606 www.vaalercreekgolfclub.com

Willow Springs Golf Club 13 202 AT&T Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78219 www.vaalercreekgolfclub.com

New Braunfels CVB | Map# 5 | Ad Page 18 www.innewbraunfels.com 800-572-2626

Stokes Insurance | Map | Ad Page 29 33014 Tamina Rd, Magnolia, TX 77354 | www.stokesins.com | (281) 259-5533

Rockwind Community Links | Ad Page 15 Hobbs, New Mexico rockwindgolfcourse | 575-397-9297

The Academy of Golf Dynamics | Map # 25 | Ad Pg 32 Club Estates Parkway, Austin, TX | www.golfdynamics.com | 800-879-2008

The Club at ConCan | Map# 15 | Ad Page 17 520 Mountain Valley, Concan, TX 78838 | www.concangolf.com | 830-232-4471

The Golf Ranch | Map #84 | Ad Page 7 Wolf Ranch Shopping Center, Georgetown, TX | www.golfranchshop.com | 512-863-4573

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TheTexasGolfInsider.com TTh heT eTeexxaassG Go oolf lfIn lf Inssiide derr..co com

Houston Area Golf Courses

Eagle Pointe Golf Club & Recreation Complex TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COVER STORY

Eagle Pointe’s New Compliments their

Conviction in your shots, course management and a heaping helping of determination are a required part of a player’s golf repertoire for success at Eagle Pointe Golf Club, the challenging public course set in the southeast suburbs of Houston. Owned and operated by the city of Mont Belvieu, Eagle Pointe GC stands apart from most public tracks with superb course TheTexasGolfInsider.com

conditioning and an attention to detail, both on and off the course. Eagle Pointe GC’s amenities have been enhanced to include the upgrade of its onsite pavilion, giving the club more than 8,000-square feet of climate-controlled space for virtually every kind of event, including corporate outings, before and after tournament gatherings and weddings and receptions.

COVER STORY

Grand Pavilion Superb Golf Course

Bayou City-based golf course architect Rick Forester was given a marshy, rolling tract of land about two miles north of Interstate 10 and some 35 minutes east of downtown Houston on which to build this course, which plays at a par of 71 and at 7,168 yards from its back set of four tee boxes. Golfers used to the flat courses that earmark most of the tracks in the Houston area will be wowed by Eagle Pointe GC’s

rolling terrain and interesting elevation changes. As players work their way through the course’s towering pine trees, they’ll find the ground will rise or fall as much as 40 feet. Add to that the seemingly constant presence of the Old River, which snakes through the property, and the well-positioned pond or creek that must be played over on many of the holes, and golfers have plenty of things to keep their attention. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COVER STORY

The course carries a rating of 73.2 and a slope of 128 from the tips, but actually plays much tougher because of the elevation changes throughout the round. The putting surfaces at Eagle Pointe roll fast and true, with plenty of tiered greens to make accuracy on the approach a premium consideration. The fact is that Eagle Pointe GC is a test of golf in every way – it’s tough in all the right places to push the best golfer, yet friendly enough to give even the beginner a chance to make a few birdies when it’s taken on from the proper teeing ground. “Our course has a little bit of everything and it can be as difficult as the player wants to make it,” said Jeff Strong, Eagle Pointe’s longtime general manager and PGA professional. “There are lots of trees but the fairways are wide enough to provide great target and sightlines for well-placed shots. Forester and his crew moved only 50,000 cubic yards of dirt, about 1/6th

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of what’s usually moved to construct an average golf course. He let the site’s natural terrain dictate his hole locations instead of manufacturing them. With creeks, gullies and ponds scattered across the property and 32 bunkers, the layout at Eagle Pointe requires more strategy than brute force. Forester’s designs are highlighted by plenty of doglegs and players will get their share of those features at Eagle Pointe. Most are manageable for the average hitter and a drive into the prescribed landing area will usually give the golfer a shot toward the green. “The low-handicap player needs to work his ball here to take advantage of the opportunities allowed by the routing’s doglegs,” Strong added. “On the other hand, playing conservatively and managing your golf game can produce low scores, as well.” Players get a dose of the tests to come on the very first hole, a 536-yard par-5 that plays downhill, then across Cherry Point

COVER STORY

Gully and uphill to one of the course’s smallest putting surfaces. There is the triple challenge of length, positioning and elevation change at the 450-yard par-4 sixth, ranked as the No. 1 handicap hole at Eagle Pointe GC. The hole turns hard right to left and then plays uphill to a perched green that’s one of the smallest and least receptive on the course. The hole has been softened in recent years but is still a test of guile and execution. “The difficulty on the sixth is that you have to position your drive,” Strong said. “You also cannot be too short or you’ll be cut off by the dogleg. But if your drive goes too far, you can end up in the rough.” No. 9, a 601-yard uphill par-5, and the 495-yard par-4 downhill 10th keep your attention around the turn. The former requires a blind drive to an elevated fairway and a pond on the right, and bunkers on the left that narrow the approach; the later plays longer than it’s carded but the putting surface is open at the front and will accept run-up. Much of the word of mouth about the course at Eagle Pointe GC is about its final three holes.The 469-yard par-4 16th, with its creek, a pond, a waterfall and a smallish green that is narrow and long, makes for the biggest test on the back nine. Then on the 540-yard dogleg-left No. 17, players must navigate a tree-lined par-5 with ponds on both sides of the generous landing area and an approach past heavy bunkering around the green.Twenty-four loblolly pines were recently planted on the left side of the fairway here to keep players from driving their tee ball over the dogleg. The finishing hole, like the 17th, is somewhat more level in terrain than the rest of the course. It’s a 429-yard par-4 with water on both sides of the fairway and

a huge bunker at the front of the green that forces an approach in the air. Billed as “pure golf experience,” Eagle Pointe Golf Club is a combination of equal parts peaceful, eye-catching, playable, and fun with excellent conditions and reasonable rates.The course is the host facility of the Texas Senior Open, which was resurrected at the club in 2014, so you know it’s a challenge, even for the best golfers.The STPGA Foundation Pro Am is scheduled for April 25 at Eagle Pointe. For more information to play or become a sponsor, call 281-385-6666. Membership at Eagle Pointe also offers one of the area’s best recreational facilities, featuring a 60,000-square foot state-of-theart complex with the most modern fitness equipment and a plethora of sports amenities that any active person would enjoy. There are two full basketball courts, a pair of racquetball courts, four outdoor lighted tennis courts, a heated indoor lap pool, child watch and outdoor play area and a half-mile nature and jogging trail.The facility also sports a real wave pool, indoor banquet and reception facilities,The Pointe Grill restaurant and a tanning salon. TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COURSES

Public Course

RATES

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

MAP # 5

Twilight

Mon-Thur $45 $32* Friday $47 $40 Weekend $60 $40 Holiday $60 $40 *Twilight begins at 2 pm - Mar13-Nov 6 All rates include cart fee Range balls included on weekends & holidays untill 10:59 am

STATISTICS Par: 71 Black Blue White Red

Yards Rating 7077 73.2 6502 70.9 5927 68.0 5213 67.4

Slope 128 121 116 113

PERSONNEL Architect ........................ Rick Forester General Manager ............. Jeff Strong Course Record ........Justin McKay, 62

AMENITIES

t Online Tee Times t Meeting/Banquet Rooms t New Enclosed Pavilion t Two Restaurants t Recreation Complex & Wave Pool t Fully Stocked Pro Shop t Memberships Available

Mont Belvieu, TX (281) 385-6666 www.EaglePointeOnline.com

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M ONT B ELVIEU

Eagle Pointe Golf Club & Recreation Complex

vid golfers in the Houston area yearning for a pure golf experience set apart from the city and brimming with secluded, natural surroundings can find that true, undisturbed feeling at Eagle Pointe Golf Club. The par-71 Rick Forester design located less than 35 minutes from downtown Houston off I-10 in Mont Belvieu, is equal parts peaceful, eye-catching and playable. The courseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinguishable characteristics are its rolling fairways, stunningly tall pines, dramatic elevation changes and an abundance of water.With no homes on 17 of the 18 holes, golf is what you get at Eagle Pointe. The trademark of Eagle Pointe is its steeply tilted, undulating greens that will challenge even the most expert players. Strategically speaking, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to place your approach shots below the hole at Eagle Pointe because of the quickness of the putting surfaces. The facility also offers a state-of-the art fitness center and a new 8,000-square-foot indoor pavilion that would be the perfect place for corporate outings, weddings or charity events. Plan your special event in the new climate controlled pavilion

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

Public Course

MAP #17

RATES Monday-Thursday Seniors (65+) M-Th Friday-Sunday and Holidays

$32 $27 $38

(Green Fee, Cart & Tax Included)

9-Hole Par 3 Course-Walking $10

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Joe Finger; Mike Nuzzo

COURSE AMENITIES t 4OBDL #BS t %SJWJOH 3BOHF t 'amily Pitch & Putt Course Now Open t /FX TR GU 1VUUJOH (SFFO

COURSES

Texas City

Bayou Golf Club A Little Piece of Heaven Near Houston Golfers can now experience the newly renovated Bayou Golf Course in Texas City, new 13,000 sq. foot putting green and just recently opened the new 9-Hole Par 3 Course for walking, a great way to spend quality time with friends and family. The golf course redesign architect, Mike Nuzzo, increased the average size per green to 5,000 sq. ft. In addition, rebuilt sand traps and added new tee complexes. The 200-acre site on the bank of Moses Bayou boasts a championship layout with elevated greens and tee boxes. Amidst the blue skies and palm trees with tropical-like climate, Bayou Golf Course offers golfers year round play. Only 15 miles from Galveston, the convenient location, and spacious clubhouse makes Bayou Golf Course an ideal choice to host your next golf tournament.

t 'VMMZ 4UPDLFE 1SP 4IPQ t 0OMJOF 4QFDJBMT

2800 Ted Dudley Drive Texas City, TX 77590

409-739-9622 bayougc.com

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How to Improve Your Golf Game Analyzing your shots, improve your Mental Golf Performance and Golf Fitness Every year around this same time, with my full swing shots, I will seek out we begin to get excited about golf seaa PGA Professional. I am a PGA Professon. Maybe it’s because football season sional but I can’t see myself swing and is over and thoughts of the Masters, the sometimes we need some different eyes Shell Houston Open, and so many other and some new ideas. tournaments coming up gets us fired up Sometimes we need some mental about playing and practicing our golf coaching. If you are serious about getgame. If I told you that this was the year ting better and this is an area you need I was going to play more, practice more, help, talk with your swing coach and ask and get better, wouldn’t that sound like for suggestions. There are sports psythe same thing you have told yourself chologists who can help. There are also every year. I know I’ve broken this books and online options for improving promise to myself too many times. your mental game. But this year is going to different. To The last area to think about is to be improve my golf game, I first need to more fit for golf. Golf requires flexstart analyzing my shots. So my plan is ibility, mobility, stability, and strength. to play nine holes at least five times in Find a trainer. The Titleist Performance the next two weeks. I’m going to track Institute trains and educates golf profesall of my shots to see how many fairways sionals, fitness trainers, and medical I hit, how many greens I hit, how many professionals to help golfers solve their penalty shots I had, how many bunkers physical limitations and help golfers I was in, and how many putts I had. I’m make their best swings. also going to keep track of how many This is a call for action. I would love shots I was totally comto hear about your plans to mitted to on each hole. play more and better golf. To hit good shots, you My email is dpilsner@ have to be committed. timbercreekgolfclub.com. At the end of those I am interested to know rounds, I will have a how you are doing in imgood idea of what I proving your golf game. will need to practice to improve my scores. Golf FUN-damentals I will work on some of Beginner/Novice Class this by myself. ChipAges: 5-12 ping, pitching, and March 2, 9, 23, 30, putting are areas that I April 6, 13 David Pilsner, PGA have had some lessons Director of Golf Instruction, and I think I can work Junior Advanced Class Timber Creek Golf Club on these areas by myself. March 22, 29, dpilsner@timbercreekgolf.com (281) 734-0177 If I am having problems April 5, 12, 19, 26 TheTexasGolfInsider.com

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

Public Course

Friendswood MAP #36

DIRECTIONS I-45 S., exit and turn right on FM 2351, turn right at 2nd light.

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 27 Architect: Jay Riviere

RATES Call the Pro Shop or visit our website for online specials

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4554 FM 2351 Friendswood, TX 77546

281-993-1140

COURSES

Timber Creek Golf Club A splendid layout 20 miles from downtown Houston Beneath the towering Oaks and sturdy Pines that permeate Timber Creek Golf Club, golfers are enjoying the game like never before. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People who play here frequently call this their club and have a sense of belonging,â&#x20AC;? general manager Mike Griswold said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pay dues to get that.â&#x20AC;? The courseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture is equaled if not surpassed by the design of Jay Riviere, who incorporated dense woodlands, winding creeks and rock outcroppings. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our course isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t target golf, but the fairways are really defined,â&#x20AC;? Griswold said. With its classic Clubhouse Pub atmosphere and an eclectic menu that appeals to virtually every taste, the Legends Grill at Timber Creek is the place to meet. The Golf Academy at Timber Creek can custom design a program for beginners, recreational players or highly skilled players who are in need of a tune-up. The Academy also offers Custom Club Fitting, the latest in high-end club-fitting technology. Bring your group to Timber Creek for an outing or a tournament that provides a country club experience at a public course price. From its outstanding course conditions to its food and beverage facilities, from its fully-stocked golf shop to its legendary service, Timber Creek Golf Club in Friendswood rivals any private club in Texas. Timber Creek Golf Clubâ&#x20AC;ŚWhere You Belong.

timbercreekgolfclub.com

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Readers’ Choice for Best Golf Courses in Fort Bend County!

THE GOLF COURSE Quail Valley Golf Course, in Missouri City, is your place for golf and events in southwest Houston. With 36 holes of championship golf, the La Quinta and El Dorado Courses will challenge the skills of all levels of golfers. Complimented by a practice facility complete with a practice range, a pitching area and two putting greens the facility also has a fully stocked golf shop to find what you need for your next round. All this combined with a 25,000 sq. ft. clubhouse makes Quail Valley a great place for your next golf outing or special event. THE CLUBHOUSE The clubhouse, called the Quail Valley City Centre, has three event spaces to host groups from 20 to 320 people. All of our event spaces have built in AV capabilities and each room has its own unique view of the golf courses and our back lawn. Our F&B staff has years of experience planning events and will surely take a lot of the stress out of your important day. DELICIOUS MENU The Bluebonnet Grille, open to the public seven days per week, has been serving up a traditional Grille menu since it opened in 2012. Offering delicious sandwiches, salads and delectable fried seafood, the Bluebonnet Grille has something for almost every taste. The signature item is the made to order, ½ lb. Certified Angus Beef burger. If you come hungry, you certainly won’t leave that way! With indoor and outdoor seating, including a covered patio, all guests get to enjoy the beautiful views of the award winning El Dorado TheTexasGolfInsider.com

and La Quinta Golf Courses. Diners also get tempted with trying the “Shot of the Day” daily special as well as the fresh soup of the day. On the weekends,The Bluebonnet Grille offers a wonderful breakfast menu served from 6:30 am to 11:00 am. For the golfer, a quick bacon, egg and cheese biscuit sandwich fits the bill, but for others who can stay and relax try

one of the fantastic chef inspired omelets or even create your own. For those with a sweet tooth, a stack of pancakes or a fresh Belgian waffle will get your day started. YOUR ENTERTAINMENT VENUE The Bluebonnet Grille at Quail Valley hosts numerous events throughout the month to keep you entertained. Live music by local musicians, karaoke and movies on the back lawn sponsored by Quail Valley Proud are all great events for the entire family. The Bluebonnet Grille is open daily for lunch and dinner beginning at 11:00 am. For more information call 281-403-5921 or visit the website at golfquailvalley.com. LET’S CONNECT

FEATURE STORY

Southern Texas PGA Junior Golf By Kelly Gilley, PGA If you hear the game of golf is not growing, south Texas begs to differ. Specifically, the Southern Texas PGA begs to differ. STPGA junior golf programs continue to see growth and increased demand for tournaments. At the time of this writing, STPGA has plans to add upward of 60 events in the summer of 2016 above and beyond the typical schedule of 400 summer events in south Texas. According to Executive Director Mike Ray, “We continue to hear from parents they want more events and they want them closer to home. So, our goal is to provide enough events that their junior golfer can play at least once a week in their community. We expect to have over 4,000 junior golf members in 2016, so we must continue to expand our schedule to provide ample playing opportunities for all. And of course, we realize the importance of presenting the PGA brand well no matter where we are hosting an event, so the experience the kids receive needs to be top notch.”

Southern Texas PGA will also be heavily involved in assisting Pros with forming leagues as part of PGA Junior League Golf in 2016. This national program featured over 27,000 participants in 2015 and continues to grow at a rapid rate across the country. The program is golf’s version of little league baseball. PGA Junior League Golf is a fun, social and inclusive opportunity for boys and girls, ages 13 and under, to learn and enjoy the game of golf from PGA and LPGA Professionals. Like many other recreational youth sports, participants wear numbered jerseys and play on teams with friends. The Southern Texas PGA Staff will assist Clubs and Pros with getting others in their geographic area to participate in leagues. Each league will consist of four to six teams. The time commitment required of PGA Junior League Golf varies facilityto-facility and team-to-team. In general, over the course of a regular season (April - July) one should expect to participate in five to six games at approximately 2.5 hours a piece. Additionally, a couple hours or more of instruction are typically included. Travel time is limited during the regular season as all teams in a local league are bound together geographically. At the high end of the spectrum, the more skilled or advanced STPGA juniors are also enjoying more playing options this year, with the 2015 Drive, Chip and Putt Championship Bridgestone Prestige Tour

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FEATURE STORY

Adding More Events in 2016 schedule growing from 17 events in 2015 to 21 events this year. The season kicked off on January 23-24 at Golf Christine Wang Club of a prestige tour player Houston. The strength of participating in the Bridgestone Prestige Tour lies in what is up for grabs at each event. All events are ranked by Golfweek Junior Golf Scoreboard and

provide Performance Based Entry stars to get into American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) events. Additionally, almost every event carries an exemption into a Legends Junior Tour event or prestigious state or national event. STPGA Junior Golf Manager Andrew Gridley relates, â&#x20AC;&#x153;for our top players who are looking at collegiate golf, the Bridgestone Prestige Tour is a fantastic option because of the increased exemptions and exposure our events are getting each season. We have also held Coaches Panels with several college golf coaches the last two seasons. So, educating our parents is also very important to us.â&#x20AC;? Whether your child is 6 or 18, Southern Texas PGA provides a phenomenal program to meet them at their level. For more information, visit stpgajuniorgolf.com or call (832) 442-2404.

Ron Herridge with his team

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What Wood do you Prefer? New Ball Mark Repair Tool is Manufactured in Texas Houston based, family owned and operated, Whale Tail Golf manufacturers unique ball mark repair tools and accessories. The ball mark repair tools are handcrafted from select woods originating from Texas to across the world. The wood is hand sanded and hand polished which shows off “its shine” to make beautiful products. Whale Tail Golf offers a variety of woods to create your unique tool. If you want a Texan wood like Texas Pecan, Curly Maple or Live Oak, or you want to venture out to the exotics like Zebra or Koa wood to a name a few, just let them know. The products are durable and exquisite, great for individual gifts and corporate events. They are reasonably priced that you can start your own collection. Whale Tail can also personalize your tool with a logo or name by laser etching for each customer for that personal touch. Check out all of the products at www.whaletailgolf.com and click TheTexasGolfInsider.com

“Pro Shop” for a complete list of woods and prices. If you have additional questions, contact Whale Tail at 281-488-6865. “Check out the many other uses of Whale Tail Golf ball mark repair tool” check out online www.whaletailgolf.com.

DRIVE, CHIP & PUTT CHAMPIONSHIP ANNOUNCES 2017 QUALIFYING SCHEDULE The United States Golf Association (USGA), Masters Tournament and the PGA of America officially launched the 2017 Drive, Chip and Putt Championship. The schedule includes dates and locations for participants to play in local qualifiers across the country with the opportunity to advance and earn an invitation to next year’s National Finals at Augusta National Golf Club. Online registration will be available at www. DriveChipandPutt.com, starting Tuesday, January 26, 2016. Now in its fourth year, the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship aims to help younger generations begin their lifelong connection with golf by providing a fun, interactive platform for participants of all skill levels. This

free youth golf development initiative welcomes boys and girls ages 7-15 to participate in separate divisions in four age categories. Local qualifying will take place throughout all 50 states during the months of May, June, July and August. Top performers at the local level will advance through sub regional and regional qualifiers in July/August and September, respectively.The top 80 performers – 40 boys and 40 girls – will earn an invitation to the National Finals at Augusta National on Sunday, April 2, the eve of the 2017 Masters. For a full list of qualifying venues at the local and sub-regional level, or for more information about the Drive, Chip and Putt Championship, including official rules, registration, and ticket information, visit www.DriveChipandPutt.com.

Drive, Chip and Putt Championships are enjoyed by future golf pros

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Schedule of Events

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