Golf Central Magazine Volume 19 Issue 9 by Golf Central Magazine

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Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, The Queen Bee and Sir Tweets-A-Lot

Knights in Shining Armor King Arthur has nothing on the Knights of Golf (KOG). While they emphasize having fun with the sport the KOGS are also on a crusade with us here at Turf Life to help bring awareness to the environment and the conditions we enjoy in our sports. As they go into battle, their cry «Respect the turf!» is heralded and rightfully so. This makes them an attractive marketing partner! Florida ranks #1 in the Nation for turf grass- related economic activity with total revenues estimated at $7.82-billion. That combined with a total employment of more than 173,000 jobs makes turf a very powerful industry and Turf Life a very powerful brand. Turf Life, Knights of Golf, the Florida Turf Grass Association (FTGA) and others take turf and turf sports very seriously. We are advocates for all things turf-related educating those both in and outside the industry about turf. Since Turf Life was established five (5) years ago we have not only been strong supporters of golf, which is the primary sports market we work with in conjunction with Golf Central Magazine, but all turf sports. These also includes soccer, baseball, football, polo, horse racing- basically anywhere a sport is played where there is something green Guy from Fox and Hound British Pub, Terrie, and Ian from Knights of Golf underneath the players. We are there and we are involved. Those in the industry who make playing on green grass possible also play an invaluable role in the turf industry. These include lawn maintenance services, fertilizer and pest management companies, irrigation suppliers, sod producers and others. So, each time you hear the word “turf”, know it’s much more than just green grass. It’s also about the money the industry generates making those who don’t live the Turf Life green with envy. Hope you all enjoyed the Florida Swing! 2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Volume 19, Issue 9

Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Chief Fertilizer Spreader: Eric Rasberry Golf Gym: Ken Pierce Ambassador of Buzz: Jennifer Jolly Associate Editor/Photographer: Greg Corbo Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr.

Junior Correspondent: Bella Dovhey International Correspondent: Dove Jones Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Greg Wise, Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Ron Heller, Rich Styles, Fred Seely, Deb Shuck, JL Quebbeman, Mitch Sadowsky, Linda Williams-Sieg

Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, melahn@mac.com Website Design/Network Support: ryjo.com Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708

NEW PHONE: 321.765.7550 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2018 Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Editorial contributions are welcome, but Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

2017 Want to participate in a fun, global species-counting competition?

Ask the staff at your local golf course if they are participating in BioBlitz 2017! 518-767-9051 www.auduboninternational.org

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

R A I SI NG

TH E

PAR

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Volume 19, Issue 9 Cart Girl 18 Anne-Marie Someau Cuisine on the Green 34 bibigo FEATURE 36 Rumbling Bald Resort Florida Golf Central 24 Citrus Golf Trail Georgia Golf Central 22 Troon Golf Golf Bachelor 16 Matt Clark

Golf History 30 HEAL Golf Travel 44 Machrihanish Dunes 46 Argentario Golf Resort & Spa LPGA 48 SKYiGolf Championship PGA Tour 38 Arnold Palmer Invitational 40 The Honda Classic Special Events 10 Beau Rivage Golf & Resort What's New 20 Sun Mountain Young Guns 12 Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship 14 Major Champions Invitational

golfcentralmag.com

Departments 26 Golf History 40 South Florida PGA 52 Freddy's Fairway Thoughts 54 Golf Fitness 56 Fore Your Health 58 Product Showcase 62 Turf Life 64 Turf Life 66 Turf Life

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Feature Artic

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stay & play

Surviving Florence and So Much More

Despite everything you’ve heard about the Wilmington area and the devastating effects Hurricane Florence had on the area in September 2018, Beau Rivage Golf & Resort continues to thrive in the South Wilmington area. Sure Florence had a huge impact on much of the area, but South Wilmington continues to grow at a rapid pace. The community of Beau Rivage and the surrounding area looks nothing like it did two years ago; homes and condominiums now grace the entire street leading up to the Beau Rivage Clubhouse, with lots of new construction going on as well. Beau Rivage has not only grown out, it has grown up as well! The motto of the golf course at Beau Rivage Golf & Resort is “Never Cart Path Only,” and the course has never closed due to precipitation(drainage). Post hurricane activity was no exception; with all of the havoc wreaked upon the area, the damage to the golf course was minimal. According to General Manager Jake Walker, the course lost around 100 trees as a result of Hurricane Florence. Even without these trees the course

remains as enjoyable and memorable as ever. There was minimal damage to the clubhouse and only a few of the 32 guest rooms were damaged. Beau Rivage Golf & Resort has been around for a while, in fact they just celebrated their 30th anniversary in 2018. From the back (Blue) tees, the golf course plays 6,527 yards, with a course rating of 72.9 and a slope of 138. Move up to the White Tees and the yardage drops considerably to 6,064 yards (70.5/135). From here, the holes are manageable and still allow you to leave with a little bit of dignity still intact. Over the years, Beau Rivage Golf & Resort has received its share of accolades including Best Golf Course

in Wilmington by StarNews Best of the Shore Picks for Southeastern North Carolina. (2016, 2017, 2018) and by Encore Magazine (2018). Golf Digest has awarded them 4 stars as a “Best Places to Play,” and when the course opened in 1988, the magazine awarded them their “Best New Honors” award. With all of the changes recently, there’s no reason this steady stream of awards won’t continue. The course sits amid gently rolling hills and plays through willowy pine forests and around – and over – beautiful lakes, with elevation changes in the neighborhood of 75 feet. Narrow tree-lined fairways, tight doglegs and strategically placed bunkers

demand accuracy off the tee, while well undulated, quick paced greens will test your putting prowess. Speaking of the driving range and practice area, Beau Rivage’s facilities are second to none. Recently, the hitting area was laser leveled to provide golfers with a little more consistency to their practice session. Many locals come to Beau Rivage just to practice, hitting bucket after bucket of golf balls, working on their chipping and bunker play and get10

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

ting a feel for their putting stroke on the massive practice green. Not being ready to play shouldn’t be an excuse as you make your way to the first tee! The golf course at Beau Rivage is one of my favorites; it’s playable and challenging at the same time. Knowing where to hit your tee shot is essential on a few holes as you can’t see the green from the tee, but for the most part the course is pretty straight forward. Don’t get me wrong, it is by no means a pushover. It’s a good mixture of brains VS brawn; on some holes – especially a couple of the par 5s – length is important if you want to give yourself any chance of getting on in two. On other holes, you need to think your way through the hole and maybe leave driver in the bag, all the while thinking about a manageable distance for your approach shot. Number 8 remains the layout’s toughest hole and not only because of the length. From the White Tees, the hole plays 421 yards, meaning no matter how good you hit your drive, you’re still going to have along shot into the green. What makes this hole so tough is the slope and undulation in the green. Holding the green from a long way out can be difficult and up and down from in close can be just as daunting a task. No matter how you make it, par is considered an achievement on this hole. In addition to knocking down the trees, Florence did escalate a couple of needed changes including a new bridge across the water on Number 4 as well as changes to the ladies’ island tee box on the hole as well. Other improvements at Beau Rivage include a new fleet of Club Car Tempo golf carts. These carts are comfortable and equipped with just about every option available. Beau Rivage has a thriving dining room

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

and the menu is outstanding – many locals plan a few meals each week around Mrs. Walker’s weekly specials of Meatball Sandwiches and Tacos. According to Jake Walker, plans are in place to knock down a couple of walls and expand the restaurant. Beau Rivage has partnered with a local catering company and offer a lively social calendar with many themed events such as murder mystery dinner theater. When it comes to accommodations, the rooms at Beau Rivage leave little to be desired. All rooms have recently been newly furnished and re-carpeted. Each guest room is a suite and has over 700 square feet of space regardless of whether you choose a double/double or king bed. A separate bedroom allows for a sound sleep and peaceful night’s sleep, however if you have problems dozing off, the digital and high-speed Wi-Fi connection will let you catch up on some work or stream your favorite shows. The sofa in the separate living room opens up into a bed, meaning you can get two couples – or six guys depending upon how friendly you are – in one room. The living room area features a wet bar and mini-fridge for your snacks and libations. Best of all, each suite features

a private patio or balcony (depending on the floor level) with picturesque views of the course and grounds. Pull your cart up to the back door and you are literally seconds away from the driving range and the first tee. Beau Rivage is well respected within the community as the premier golf venue. They have a thriving Men’s Golf League on Tuesday Night and participation is incredible. This past spring they had over 30 teams, with about 20 following through and playing in the fall. Anyone can join and you’ll find golfers of all skills and abilities. Perhaps the greatest thing about Beau Rivage is the way it’s run. The resort is family owned and those that work there that aren’t family are treated as if they are. Everyone seems to have a say in what’s going on and General Manager Jake Walker is certainly the “face of the franchise.” If you’ve got any questions or suggestions, just as Jake. He’s easy to get to and easy to talk to once you do. Odds are that if you offer up a valuable suggestion, you may just see it come to fruition. For more information on the resort or to book your next stay, visit the Beau Rivage Golf & Resort website at www.beaurivagegolf.com.

By Chris King photos by Greg Wise

young guns

Record-Setting Performances at

Akshay Bhatia, the No. 1 junior boy in the world, and Alexa Pano, America’s third-ranked junior girl, cruised to record-setting victories at the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship March 1-3, 2019 on the very tough TPC Myrtle Beach golf course. Bhatia (Wake Forest, N.C.), who entered the final round with a two-stroke advantage, shot 33 on the front nine, staking the 17-year-old North Carolinian to a commanding lead. He fired a 3-under par 69 on the day and finished the tournament at 10-under par, 206, six shots clear of second place Luke Clanton (Miami Lakes, Fla.). Bhatia shattered the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship scoring record of 5-under par, 211, previously held by Trent Phillips in 2017. This was Bhatia’s fourth appearance at the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship, and his performance has mirrored his meteoric rise in the game. He finished 10th in his first two

appearances and second in 2018. Pano’s victory makes her the first player – boy or girl – to win the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship twice, and she coasted to victory. Just 14 years old, Pano (Lake Worth, Fla.) entered the final round with an eightshot lead. She played the opening nine in even par, never giving the field a glimmer of hope. Pano shot a final round 71 and finished at 7-under par 209, easily besting her own tournament record of 218. Pano has played in the Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship twice and been the leader at the end of all six rounds she has played. Latanna Stone (Riverview, Fla.), a signee at LSU, finished the event at 5-over par, good for a second-place finish. Jensen Castle (West Columbia, S.C.), who will be playing for the University of Kentucky in the fall, was a stroke behind Stone in third. TPC Myrtle Beach played 6,997 yards from the tips for the boys and 6,055

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

yards for the girls. The Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship is a 54-hole college style event that has quickly grown into one of the top junior events in America. With Johnson’s support, the tournament provides players a PGA Tour-like experience, and the opportunity to test themselves against a premier field. A significant part of the event’s appeal is TPC Myrtle Beach, one of the Grand Strand’s most decorated layouts. TPC Myrtle Beach has hosted the Senior PGA Tour Championship and been ranked among “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest, making it an ideal venue to test golf’s rising young stars. The Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship is being sponsored by Founders Group International, the Dustin Johnson Golf School, and Golf Tourism Solutions. Johnson’s involvement with the tournament reflects his longtime commitment to junior golf, particularly in South

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Carolina, where he grew into one of the world’s best players. Through the Dustin Johnson Foundation, which is headquartered in Myrtle Beach, Johnson has do-

nated more than $500,000 to junior golf, sponsoring numerous events throughout the state and helping cover entry costs for kids who need financial assistance.

Story and Photos by Greg Wise

youngheader guns

Elite Juniors from Around the Globe Take Home Titles at Second Major Champions Invitational

Conor Gough (16)

and Annabell Fuller (16) both representing England, took home the titles of male and female champions at the second Major Champions Invitational. The elite junior event, hosted by six-time major champion Sir Nick Faldo, was played March 6-8, 2019 at Bella Collina in Montverde, Florida. Gough shot a final round of 4-underpar 68 to end the three-day event at 15-under, passing round two leader Andrew Goodman (United States) by three shots. Fuller, started the day leading the female division, shot 4-under-par 68 to complete the event at 11-under par. Jung-Min Hong (South Korea) finished one shot behind at 10-under. In the Team Event - members representing ten-time major champion Annika Sorenstam jumped to the top

of the scoreboard at the end of the final round, shooting 29-under-par. Team Annika comprised of: Ela Anacona (18) Argentina, Jenson Castle (18) United States, Darae Chung (14) New Zealand, and Cory Lopez (17) Mexico. The Major Champions Invitational tournament was created by World Golf Hall of Fame member and six-time major champion Sir Nick Faldo. An extension of the Faldo Series, the event provides major golf champions an opportunity to mentor and inspire the next generation of players while giving back to the game. This week, Sir Nick Faldo also announced a new partnership for the

Major Champions Invitational with the Saudi Golf Federation. As the presenting sponsor, the Saudi Golf Federation will build on the momentum of this event and offer a platform for global expansion and an enhanced worldwide competitor experience. The Saudi Golf Federation is the governing body for golf in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, responsible for handicapping, development of golf as a sport and for delivering national tournaments. Based in Riyadh, the Federation is a full member of the Council of National Golf Unions and is committed to fully developing the game for all its citizens and residents.

The top three finishers (and ties) in the male and female divisions are listed below. NAME TEAM R1 R2 R3 Male Conor Gough Hall 68 65 68 Andrew Goodman Spieth 67 65 72 Tom McKibbin Faldo 67 71 67

SCORE 201 (-15) 204 (-12) 205 (-11)

Female Annabell Fuller Hall 68 69 68 205 (-11) Jung-Min Hong Pak 74 66 66 206 (-10) Cory Lopez Annika 72 70 65 207 (-9)

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 19, Issue 9

golf bachelor header

Matt Clark

Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

I was born and raised in Saranac Lake, NY in the middle of the Adirondack Mountains.

Tim Kramer. Senior Director Tournament Business Affairs for the Symetra Tour, Matt Clark, Jeff Babineau,Chief Communications Officer for SkyiGolf, Rich Smith, CEO & Founder of SkyiGolf

Is “acting your age” overrated? Very overrated

What do you do for a living?

I work for the LPGA. I am on the Tournament Business Affairs team for the Symetra Tour. I manage about a third of the tournaments on the Tour’s schedule. I work a lot with Sponsors, Volunteers, Golf Course staff, etc. to ensure smooth operation of each tournament. Tournament’s I help manage include SKYiGOLF Championship, Murphy USA El Dorado Shootout, Symetra Classic, Forsyth Classic, Danielle Downey Credit Union Classic, Janesville Golf Classic, and Symetra Tour Championship among others. I am brand new to this role, but was previously on the Symetra Tour operations team traveling to every tournament for the past three years.

What would you like to do for a living?

No clue what I want to do for a living, really enjoying working in the golf business. I love to travel and explore different places.

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation?

Basically any and all sports but mostly I like to play basketball and poker with friends, and attending any and all sporting events. A few of the best sporting events I’ve been to include the Super Bowl, NHL All Star Game, and the Daytona 500.

Steak, chicken, or seafood?

Donald Trump, Tiger Woods, Kobe Bryant

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?

I could go either way. Been more relaxed evenings at home as of late.

Favorite comedian?

I’m a huge fan of the show Seinfeld so I’d have to say Jerry Seinfeld.

Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance?

Definitely prefer comedies if I’m going to watch a movie. Haven’t had much of a chance to see too many movies in the last few years though with all the traveling.

I like them all. Depends what part of the country I happen to be traveling too. Along the coast, Seafood all day. Midwest nothing beats a good Steak

Favorite television channel?

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course?

Last book you read?

SLOW PLAY

What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome?

TruTV. Impractical Jokers is about the only TV show I make time for to watch Good to Great by Jim Collins. But that was a while ago. Not much of a book guy, more of a Wikipedia guy.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

S a d d le br ook R e s o r t • p referred go lfers p ac kag e

“We are proud of the work done on the golf courses, greens, and new Golf Training Center and Range ... come play and enjoy your stay!”

Experience

Renewed Golf Courses

Receiving Rave Reviews!

Great golf is only the beginning.

Preferred Golfers Package Includes: ◆

Accommodations in a Deluxe Guest Room, 1 or 2 Bedroom Suite

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Full Breakfast Buffet

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18-Holes of Golf (cart & greens fees), including arrival and departure days

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Welcome Gift

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Unlimited Use of the Practice Facility

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Nightly Club Cleaning and Storage... and More!

For Seasonal Package Pricing and Reservations Call 813-907-4401 Groups of 12 or More Call 813-907-4726

5700 Saddlebrook Way ◆ Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 Ph: 813.973.1111 ◆ Fax: 813.973.1312 ◆ saddlebrook.com

cart girl Where did you grow up?

I am a Florida girl at heart. I grew up in St. Pete and have been living in Citrus County for 20 years and love it.

What is your favorite sport? Favorite to watch?

e i r a M e u n a n e A Som

Soccer has always been a favorite sport to me growing up but lately I like to ride my bike to keep me active. I like to watch the Olympics and the World Cup. It is exciting to see great athletes from all over the world competing.

Do you enjoy playing golf?

I have not played golf but since working at the course it has peaked my interest. I have been told by numerous golfers that it is a challenging sport and I always like a challenge, so golf may be in my future.

What do you feel makes this club special?

The beauty and wildlife that you see on the course, there are over 50 types of birds and if you are lucky you can even see a manatee in one of our creeks.

What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? I love being outside with nature, enjoying the sunshine. Also getting to know the members and meeting golfers from all over visiting here. My least is rainy days but thank goodness this is the sunshine state and we don’t have too many of them.

If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing?

I love dealing with people, so I am also a bartender at the Tiki Bar which is a fun atmosphere.

What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl?

I stopped to serve a gentleman a beer and no more than 2 seconds after I got out of the cart a golf ball landed in my seat. I am just thankful I did not get hit.

What is your favorite charity?

I like to keep it local so the Boys and Girls Club and YMCA. They both focus on youths in Citrus county. 18

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 19, Issue 9

what's new

able, portable power pack capable of recharging a mobile phone three times. This power pack has two USB ports, one standard and one rapid-charging, allowing recharging of multiple devices at the same time. 4.5 LS Supercharged

Top Selling Carry Bag Collection Expanded For 2019, Sun Mountain’s top-selling 4.5 LS carry bag collection includes the 4.5 LS with a four-way divided top, 4.5 LS 14-way with an individual club divided top, 4.5 LS Supercharged with a built-in battery pack for recharging on the go and Women’s 4.5 LS. For the retailer nearest you, visit www. sunmountain.com or call 800-227-9224.

4.5 LS is a lightweight, mid-sized

golf stand bag. For 2019, the 4.5 LS

offered by individual club dividers, typically only offered on cart bags, but prefer to walk the course and carry their own clubs. 4.5 LS 14-way offers nine pockets, the E-Z Fit Dual Strap System, cart-friendly features and is offered in eight different colors with a retail price of $229.99.

4.5 LS Supercharged comes

equipped with a 7800 mAh recharge-

as the 4.5 LS and is available in four colors with a retail price of $249.99.

Women’s 4.5 LS offers a four-way

divided top, six pockets and is one inch shorter than the men’s bag to better accommodate women’s clubs. Women’s 4.5 LS is available in four colors with a retail price of $219.99.

For 30 years Sun Mountain has been

a pioneer in the golf industry, revolutionizing golf bags, golf outerwear and golf carts. Sun Mountain’s many innovations, including the first lightweight golf bag and modern stand bag, have

features a redesigned 10”, four-way

made it the top golf bag company in

top with larger areas for woods and

North America. Within golf outerwear,

short irons and a comfort grip handle

Sun Mountain redefined golf-specific

for picking up and setting down the

performance first with the windshirt ,

bag. 4.5 LS offers ample storage space

then fleece, and again with its four-way

across nine pockets and the E-Z Fit

stretch, waterproof, and breathable

Dual Strap System for hassle-free

rainwear. The Sun Mountain Speed

carrying. 4.5 LS also offers numerous

Cart® golf push cart transformed

cart-friendly features including a cart-

walking carts and created an entirely

strap pass-through allowing the bag to

new category of golf products.

be secured to a cart without hindering

Sun Mountain›s «Ahead of Time

pocket access, a leg lock system, and

Design» motto drives the company

cart-friendly bottom. 4.5 LS is offered

to continually design and refine golf

in eight different colors and a left-

equipment. For the Sun Mountain

handed model. Retail price is $219.99.

retailer nearest you call 800-227-9224

4.5 LS 14-way is the ideal golf bag

4.5 Supercharged Navy, White, Red 20

for those who prefer the organization

has the same four-way top and features

4.5 LS in Iron Black,Red

Womans 4.5 LS

or visit www.sunmountain.com.

4.5 LS 14-way in Desert Camo, Sand Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

header georgia golf central

By Mike May

The Frog at The Georgian

Georgia’s Terrific Troon Trio City, Classy, and Country Cool.

That’s one way to summarize the appeal of the three Georgia golf destinations that are owned by Troon Golf and are part of The Georgia Golf Trail. Those three golf properties are the Club at Savannah Harbor/Westin in Savannah; Chateau Elan in Braselton; and The Frog in Villa Rica. “The Club at Savannah Harbor/ Westin, Chateau Elan and The Frog are three first-class golfing opportunities in Georgia,” said Doug Hollandsworth, founder, The Georgia Golf Trail. “In fact, they are three of the finest golf destinations in the Southeast. We’re lucky to have them all located in Georgia.”

City.

Located in the Savannah River District, among the beautiful marshlands of the Georgia Lowcountry, the Club at Savannah Harbor/Westin (www. theclubatsavannahharbor.com; 912201-2000) is an 18-hole championship golf course that was designed by the legendary golf course architect Robert Cupp and Golf Hall of Famer Sam Snead. The course was built on the

banks of the Savannah and Back Rivers in the picturesque Lowcountry. The course is such a first-class destination that it has hosted the PGA Champions Tour Liberty Mutual Insurance Legends of Golf Tournament. This golf course is open to resort guests and visitors. If it’s good enough for the Champions Tour, then it’s good enough for you and your golf buddies. As for the Westin hotel connected with the golf course, it’s a riverside oasis that is best described as luxurious. This 403-room hotel has been completely renovated. Other improvements include the lavish Heavenly Spa by Westin™, Har-Tru tennis courts, and a 600-foot deep marina. This resort’s dining options are on par with what you will find in downtown Savannah -- a waterfront grill, a stylish southern restaurant, and a sleek lounge. Savannah’s shopping, nightlife, and restaurants on world-renowned River Street are moments away via the free water ferry which departs regularly from the Westin.

Classy.

The Westin Savannah Harbor 22

If you want to play golf in the land of chateaus and castles, you don’t have to visit Europe. Instead, fly to Atlanta and head north on I-85, where you’ll find the Chateau Elan Winery & Resort in Braselton (www.chateauelan. com; 678-425-9115). It’s a four-diamond AAA-rated resort. With its powerful and eye-catching 16th Century French-style architecture, Chateau Elan is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway with your golf buddies or your significant other. On the premises of the resort are two memory making golf opportunities -- the par-71 Chateau course (opened in 1989) and the par-72 Woodlands course (opened in 1996). Since its opening, Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

the Chateau course has been ranked as one of the best courses in Georgia. The Chateau course has 87 bunkers, water on 10 holes, three lakes, and two meandering streams. According to Golf Digest, the Woodlands course is “truly outstanding,” while the Zagat Survey reports that the Woodlands is a “must play.” At Chateau Elan, it’s absolutely essential that visiting golfers feel welcome from the moment they arrive until they head home. “Our goal is to ensure golfers are treated better here than at their own private clubs,” said Elizabeth Clarkson, head golf professional at Chateau Elan.

The fun, social options at Chateau Elan are equally appealing. Whether that special person in your life likes golf or not, Chateau Elan is an ideal destination for some of life’s simple and elegant pleasures – tennis at the Stan Smith Tennis Center, world-class cuisine at one of seven dining options, a cooking school, and the European Spa Mansion. Drinking wine at Chateau Elan is a world-class experience as the on-site winery has received more than 230 wine awards, making it the most award-winning winery on the East coast. At Chateau Elan, you will spend the night at either the Chateau Elan Inn or the Villas of Chateau Elan.

Country Cool.

Designed by legendary golf course architect Tom Fazio, the parkland-style, 18-hole championship public golf course -- The Frog Golf Club in Villa Rica -- opened in 1998 to high acclaim. The Frog is recognized among the top golf courses in Georgia and is easily accessible from the Georgia capital -- just 40 miles west from downtown Atlanta off I-20. The golf course – featuring bent grass greens and expansive bunkering -has also attained status as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.

The Frog (www.golfthefrog.com; 770459-4400) has hosted many notable golf events such as the Georgia Open, CEO Jaguar Tour, The Five Star Celebrity Classic, and the John Smoltz Celebrity Players Tournament. After visiting The Frog, it’s easy to see that the course management team works diligently to keep this well-manicured course in tip-top shape throughout the year. If you ask why this course is called The Frog, there are two answers. Firstly, an aerial perspective of the course looks like a frog. Secondly, the bunker that sits between the 14th and 15th fairways is shaped like a frog. Suffice it to say, it won’t be easy leaving any of those three Troon properties, but it’ll be easy making a return trip to City, Classy, and Country Cool.

Chateau Elan Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

florida golf central

Inside a room at Inn on the Lakes

Sebring’s Citrus Golf Trail Offers “No Foolin’ Golf Package” With $1 Rate for Second Person in April April may be just around the corner, but this is no April Fool’s Day joke. For the month of April, Inn on the Lakes is offering Stay & Play Citrus Golf Trailrates of $229 for the first person and only $1 for the second person at the boutique hotel. The No Foolin’ Golf Package includes hotel accommodations in an upgraded guest room, one round of golf for two people (includes cart & green fees), hot breakfast for two at Chicanes Restaurant (located on-site) and $1 draft beers during your entire stay. To reserve your No Foolin’ Golf Package, please contact Phil Hatfield at guestservices@innonthelakes.net or (800) 881-1523. Make sure to mention “April Fools” when booking. Room Inn on the Lakes

pricing is based availability, double occupancy and does not include tax. Offer is valid for stays in April 2019 and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Sebring’s Citrus Golf Trail, located just 60 miles south of Disney World, has been dubbed by many as the Value Golf Capital of America. The area features a collection of quality, affordable golf courses that offer history, value, fantastic golf, and the friendliest service anywhere. With courses that build on the natural beauty of South Central Florida (picture moss-covered oaks and preserves that provide a picturesque backdrop), golfers may find it difficult to keep their eyes on the ball. Wet and dry, sandy and woody conditions combine to create challenging and fun courses for any skill level on Sebring’s fairways. In Sebring, you’ll find the internationally-acclaimed Sebring International Raceway, nearly 100 crystal clear lakes for fishing and boating, more than a dozen of Florida's most affordable golf courses, one of Florida’s oldest state

parks, and a reminder of why everyone loves authentic Florida. Our gently rolling hills, orange groves and charming small towns make this a relaxing country getaway with a central location. For more information, www.VisitSebring. comor call (800) 545-6021.

Participating Citrus Golf Trail courses include: • Country Club of Sebring • Pinecrest Golf Club • Placid Lakes Country Club • River Greens Golf Course • Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club Deer Run • Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club Turtle Run

Sun N Lake Golf Club

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Back 9 Holes Now Under Construction 18-Holes Playable - July 2019

Membership Includes Fly Fishing & Other Non-Golf Activities & Programs

Home & Cottages from High $300's Home Sites from $80,000

golf history

By Mike May

It Has Star Appeal For children around the world who are fans of Mickey Mouse, Dumbo, and Goofy, Disney World in central Florida is the place where they always dream about visiting. For golfers from around the world who are seeking that same

Pinecrest – Col. Royal P Davidson - APHS c1926

‘Disney like’ feeling, they actually need

The design and construction of this

to travel an hour south of Disney World

golf course started back in the mid

to Avon Park, where they will find the

1920s. The website for the Pinecrest

Pinecrest Golf Club. Just like Disney

Golf Club indicates the course was

World, the Pinecrest Golf Club – lo-

cated just off State Road 27 -- is rather

architect Donald Ross and records

easy to find, but it’s difficult to leave.

from the Donald Ross Society confirm

One of the interesting stories

it. With access to earth-moving equip-

about this golf course, originally

ment, which was powered by horses,

named the Pinecrest Lakes Golf

Ross efficiently used what he found

Course, is the issue of what role was

on this piece of property – wooded

played by Donald Ross and Bertie

areas, rolling topography, and Lake

Way, two of the more well-known

Lotela -- to build this golf course.

golf course architects at the time.

While it is agreed that Ross designed the course, there are newspaper articles from the Tampa Tribune and the Tampa Times in early August 1925 that reported that Bertie Way, the nationally known and respected golf course architect from Cleveland, Ohio, was hired to design this course. Other historical resources indicate that Way did not design Pinecrest. Instead, it is widely believed that Ross designed the course and that Way oversaw the construction of the course – based on guidance and advice from Ross. With the ‘mystery’ shrouding the role that Way served under Ross, it’s not surprising that Pinecrest is one of the 54 golf courses on the Florida Historic Golf Trail. Pinecrest Lake Club Hotel Avon Park c1940s

Today, this course is known as the Pinecrest Golf Club (2250 South Little Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Pinecrest Lake Bonnet Road, Avon Park, Florida).

Pinecrest Golf Club. “New ownership

Gardner Dickinson, and Don January.

It’s an 18-hole, par-72 layout, which

has taken the lead (in July 2018) and it

From 1959-1963, Pinecrest and

features five sets of tees that play from

is committed to continuing the im-

another nearby course (Harder Hall)

4,900 to 6,700 yards. Unlike many Flor-

provement process, beginning with

hosted the Haig & Haig Mixed Scotch

ida golf courses, Pinecrest doesn’t wind

a total clubhouse renovation, which

Tournament. This event attracted great

its way through neighborhoods, condo-

is ready to be enjoyed. Many excit-

names from both the PGA and LPGA

miniums, residential areas, and resort

ing projects are a part of the long-

Tour. Some of the more well- known

hotels. Instead, Pinecrest is surrounded

term planning here at Pinecrest.”

players included Arnold Palmer, Tommy

by Mother Nature – pastoral countryside, beautiful orange groves, natural wooded areas, and the lovely Lake Lotela.

It might be fair to say that Pinecrest’s best days are in its future. One of the most newsworthy and

Bolt, Julius Boros, Kathy Whitworth, Mickey Wright, and Joanne Carner. In the early years, Pinecrest attract-

historical events to take place at the

ed other public figures in American

pinecrest.com) features relatively open

Pinecrest Golf Club took place in 1959,

society such as former U.S. Presidents

fairways, but the approach shots to the

according to Staffieri. That year, the

Grover Cleveland and Franklin Delano

greens – all with false fronts, a Ross

club hosted the first-ever televised

Roosevelt, as well as Baseball Hall of

trademark -- require tactical think-

match-play elimination golf tourna-

Famers Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig.

ing since the putting surfaces are filled

ment. The event featured eight golfers

Hollywood celebrities George Burns

with creative contours and undula-

who had played for the U.S. Ryder Cup

and Gracie Allen also played golf at

tions. Navigating your way around

team. The eight pros played for one of

Pinecrest. Without a doubt, Pinecrest,

this golf course without making a

the biggest purses in golf at the time

back in the day, was the place to be

three-putt is a worthy achievement.

-- $171,000. The tournament was part

and be seen. The course remains as

“Pinecrest has continued to make

of “World Championship Golf,” which

appealing today as it was back then,

upgrades to the golf course with

was later broadcast a few months

as Pinecrest’s star appeal contin-

bunker renovations and new Tif Eagle

later on NBC. Dr. Cary Middlecoff won

ues to shine, every day of the year.

greens, which were installed in 2016,”

the event. Three other well-known

said Joseph Staffieri, club manager,

names in that field were Sam Snead,

Today, Pinecrest GC (www.golf-

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

To reserve your tee time in the spotlight, call the pro shop at 863-453-7555. 27

What is Sunniland? Sunniland

Professional Grade Fertilizers and Weed & Feeds Specially formulated for Southern Growers, Sunniland Corporation, Inc. offers a full line of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and many other products that enhance plant production.

#1 Choice for Turf Management Turf management professionals are constantly battling weeds, insects, weather and more. With unfettered access to Sunniland experienced representatives and a full range of quality turf and ornamental products, turf grass managers have a powerful ally to ensure that their turf looks and performs its best! Slow-Release and Extended Feeding Sunniland offers several different turf grass weed & feed fertilizers, guaranteed to make turf beautiful, lush and green. Many of these in-stock turf grass fertilizers are available in slow-release version for extended feeding. Each of these fertilizers are excellent to apply on all warm-season grasses including Centipede, St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia.

Custom Blended Fertilizers Take control with Sunniland’s uni-

form granular custom blended fertilizer. These blends use premium nitrogen and micro-nutrients to out-perform the competition. Pesticides are disbursed evenly as each granule of fertilizer is coated with the best type of pesticide for the job.

Clean and Free of Impurities Sunniland‘s water soluble fertilizers are manufactured on a dedicated line and are the industry standard blends pros have used for years on lawns, sports turf and golf courses including: • 33-0-17 • 0-0-62 • 46-0-0 • 23-0-31 These are the blends are clean and

free of impurities and are most efficient for delivering the nutrients needed for growing quality turf. Plus, Sunniland’s 23-0-31 blend has a stabilized nitrogen source for the highest efficient delivery of Nitrogen.

Better for the Environment and You A pioneer in fertilizer technology, Sunniland Corporation manufactures and distributes its Professional line of advanced slow-release fertilizers, which are better for the environment and better for you. Helping professional turf grass managers chart and maintain an effective, cost-efficient and environmentally sustainable turf program is job one. Sunniland offers extensive blending options on all of their professional use products. The company builds unique formulation programs to satisfy each customer’s specific need to better meet their requirements.

Who Uses Sunniland Pro? Sunniland Professional products are used every day by: • Athletic Field Groundskeepers – including the Florida Gators • Golf Course Superintendents • Ground Maintenance Supervisors • Landscape Contractors • Nursery’s – including Lukas Nursery • Turf Grass Management Professionals With the Sunniland Family of products, you can’t go wrong!

www.sunnilandcorp.com

header

By Sally Sportsman Photos Courtesy of HEAL (Helping Enrich Autistic Lives)

Bobby Weed Scores a Hole-In-One at His Annual HEAL Golf Gig for Autism

Leslie and Bobby Weed, co-founders of HEAL

Bobby Weed, CEO of Bobby Weed Golf Design (bobbyweed.com) and founder of the HEAL Foundation – Helping Enrich Autistic Lives – reports that the 2019 HEAL Gala and Bobby Weed’s Golf Gig were a great success. “Both the gala and the golf tournament were sold out,” Weed said. “The staff at TPC Sawgrass were a class act hosting our tournament, resulting in a very high-caliber event.” The 124 players included golfindustry representatives, corporate sponsors and local supporters. Weed

their families living in Northeast Florida,” Weed said. “We are most grateful for the heartfelt, generous support of this event.” “The real winners are those affected by autism and their families,” added Leslie Weed. Monies raised will fund a multitude of autism programs. Since its inception, HEAL has granted over $2 million locally, assisting thousands of children, teens and adults through specialized programs, summer camps, educational enhancements, the arts, service dogs and the gifting of 400 iPads to school classrooms, so those who cannot speak may utilize this technology to communicate.

scored a hole-in-one on #11 (his 5th) at his tournament on Dye’s Valley, the golf course he co-designed with Pete Dye. This year’s HEAL Gala raised $350,000 for autism. HEAL’s next initiative is a $1.5 million project to build five ALL-ABILITIES parks across Northeast Florida. These specialized parks will give those with all abilities the opportunity to convene, play, learn, socialize, and have fun together. Weed and his wife, Bobby Weed and family Leslie, who founded the HEAL Foundation in 2004, have a daughter, Lanier (age 20), who is profoundly affected by autism and is non-verbal. “Leslie and I appreciate the strong and growing support and donations to assist individuals and

Leslie, Lanier and Bobby Weed

About the HEAL Foundation Established in 2004 by Leslie and Bobby Weed, the HEAL Foundation is a grassroots non-profit organization based in Northeast Florida. HEAL supports organizations, camps, and schools serving those with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Northeast Florida. MISSION: Inspiring, educating, and funding services for those affected by autism in our community. VISION: Make our community the best place to live for those affected by autism. HealAutismNow.org 30

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Kenny Perry and Trevor Immelman have made Transitions® lenses part of their game.

www.TurfLife.club Come see us at the PGA Show booth #3516

On the PGA TOUR®, vision is a golfer’s most important equipment. Transitions lenses adapt to changing light to help golfers see more comfortably in all light conditions and help protect eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Visit your local Vision Source doctor, Dr. James Podschun, located at 2828 Casa Aloma Way, Suite 400 in Winter Park, FL 32792, to ask which Transitions lenses are right for you. 407-671-0960

P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R

transitions.com

THE PREMIER GOLF MARKETING AGENCY

Trusted• Respected• Connected• How can we help?

321-303-9684 www.golfmarketinginc.com Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

CHANGING LIVES THROUGH THE GAME OF GOLF

Patriot Golf Day® has become the largest grass-roots golf fundraiser in America – a joint initiative of The PGA of America and the USGA, Patriot Golf Day enlists the support of public and private golf facilities across the country. Funds support Folds of Honor, providing educational scholarships to the children and spouses of service members killed or disabled while serving in America’s Armed Forces.

GET INVOLVED Although the national promotion of Patriot Golf Day is over Labor Day weekend, you can play golf any time of the year to support the families of our fallen and disabled service members. Here are a few ways to get involved.

HOST AN

EVENT CONDUCT A GOLF

MARATHON PARTICIPATE IN THE

DONATION BOX CAMPAIGN

LEARN MORE AT PATRIOTGOLFDAY.ORG

cuisine on theheader green

CJ ‘bibigo’ Sponsors Players Championship with Flavors of Korean Cuisine ‘bibigo,’ a global brand created by CJ CheilJedang, Korea’s #1 food company, is set to become the go-to for Korean food in the US as their innovative dishes and delicious combinations have made it an immersive dining experience. Following their Genesis Open success, bibigo will be offering their finger-food specialties at this year’s Players Championship, March 12 – 17, with a special media tasting event on March 12 at 2:30 pm. The Players Championship affords bibigo the opportunity to continue to grow into a global brand representing CJ. As the only Korean concession sponsor of the PGA, their mission is to lead Korean food globalization by using ‘bibigo’ to tout the excellence and legitimacy of Korean food in the US and around the world. Located in Palm Valley Village, bibigo’s Players Championship concession will feature traditional grab-and-go style food items with a modern twist. Attendees will be able to taste bibigo’s exclusive menu showcasing snacks that are inspired by Korean flavors – offering

a Korean spin on American favorites, including the world-famous Bibi-Cone,

Korean Fried Chicken Bites, Korean Galbi Tacos, Crispy Mandu, Yuzu Mint Punch and Cheese Wonton Fries. Bibigo has also organized fan-signing events. The first will take place at the concession booth on March 13 at 2:30 pm with affiliated golfers Si-Woo Kim and Ben An. In addition, a snack sampling + autograph session with a cap giveaway with golfers Sung Jae Im and Sung Kang will take place on March 14 at 3:00 pm at the Volunteer Village. CJ ‘s official sponsorship of the Players Championship provided an opportunity to promote ‘bibigo’ around the world. Additional PGA tour sponsorships this year include the US Open in June and the 3M Open in July.

About CJ Group: CheilJedang (CJ) was founded in Korea in 1953 specializing in food products. Since then, the company has grown into a global lifestyle brand with an innovative business portfolio built around four core sectors: Food & Food Service, Biotechnology, Retail & Logistics, and Entertainment & Media. CJ strives to inspire a new life of health, happiness, and convenience through its diverse array of products and services. From introducing convenient ways to enjoy new and exciting flavors to creating on-trend products and unique 'shoppertainment' (shopping + entertainment) experiences, CJ is at the forefront of innovating lifestyles worldwide. For more information, please visit www.cjamerica.com. About bibigo: Founded in 2010, “bibigo” is a global brand created by CJ, Korea’s #1 food company. With over sixty years of experience, CJ has proudly been delivering flavor to dinner tables since 1953. “bibigo” takes 5000 years of delicious cuisine and updates it for today’s modern, non-stop lifestyles. That’s why the name combines the Korean word “bibim,” from a long cultural tradition of “mixed” flavors, with the English word “go.” Inspired by authentic recipes, “bibigo” makes the exciting tastes of Korean cuisine easily accessible with offerings in both grocery stores and restaurants in South Korea, America, and around the world. “bibigo” brand represents global K-Style Food and CJ’s new lifestyle. For more information, please visit www.bibigousa.com. 34

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

NONA BLUE MODERN TAVERN 9685 Lake Nona Village Pl Orlando 407.313.0027

325 Front Street Ponte Vedra Beach 904.834.7549

. l u o s n taver heart. foodie EVERY CRAVING SATISFIED.

feature header

The Ultimate

Photos by

Lake Destination Lure

Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 19, Issue 9

W E S T E R N N O RT H C A R O L I N A’ S B E S T K E P T S E C R E T

Disccer Rumbling Bald Resort

Gather Here

Nestled on the north shore of beautiful Lake Lure in the foothills of western North Carolina sits an escape, Rumbling Bald Resort. Surrounded by the towering cliffs of Rumbling Bald Mountain, our 3,000+ acre property is home to a private white sand beach, children’s water park, distinct dining experiences and numerous hiking and biking trails, all tailored for relaxation in our authentic mountain getaway.

Family. Friends. Coworkers. Teammates. Whatever your group, whether vacation or working retreat, our dedication to personalized service and warm hospitality makes Rumbling Bald Resort the destination you have been looking for.

S tay Here

As an owner, Rumbling Bald Resort becomes more than an occasional getaway or vacation…it becomes home. As a significant benefit to your long-term investment you will belong to a community with access to one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. As if that’s not enough, here are a few more attractive benefits:

Experiencing time at Rumbling Bald Resort is the perfect way to unwind, make family memories or just pamper yourself. A relaxing getaway to Rumbling Bald Resort is unlike any other, and offers the greatest variety of vacation rentals in Lake Lure. Our options range from attractive private homes, spacious condominiums or comfortable studios. Each of our properties come with its own unique qualities, whether a stunning mountain vi view or just a few steps to the golf course location.

Golf Here

Tee up on two world-class courses with incredible scenery and championship design. Beginner or tournament winner, you’ll fall in love with the game at Bald Mountain and Apple Valley golf courses. We also cater to larger golf groups whether it be a charity event, corporate team-building event, or just fun with the gang, your tournament is our goal. Best of all, at Rumbling Bald Resort, you just tell us what you need, and we take care of ev everything for you. All you will have to worry about is your game.

Live Here

• Wellness Center with luxury spa services, fitness center, and a multi-purpose room • Resort recreation facilities including lighted racquet courts and multi-purpose game courts • Beach and lakefront activities • Trout Stream outdoor pool complex • Bald Mountain Lake private fishing and non-motorized boat slips • 125 Slip private gated member marina • Kayak, canoe, SUPBoard, and pontoon boat rentals • Conference and meeting spaces • 18-Hole miniature golf course • Fitness, hiking, and biking trails • And so much more...

Learn more at

RBRLife.com

“Like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/RBR.Golf

EXCLUSIVE OFFER!

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WHEN YOU STAY 3 OR MORE NIGHTS. CODE GOL10. *Exclusions and fees may apply. May not be combined with other offers, discounts or previously book reservations. Valid through 5/20/19.

For more information, please call 828.694.3016

Stay here, Play here, Live here!

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orth GA Tour florida PGAPGA Tournorth PGAflorida Tour PGA PGATour northPGA florida TourPGA PGAnorth Tour florida PGA Tour PGAPGA northTo

By Jeff Shain photos by Greg Corbo

Arnie is Still Winning! It was a Sunday charge befitting the man whose spirit still hovers over Bay Hill. Setting out 100 minutes ahead of the leaders, Francesco Molinari torched the vexing layout with an 8-under-par 64 – punctuating his day with a curling 45-foot birdie strike from across the 18th green. Once five shots back, the Italian then settled in to wait for anyone to catch him. “Not a very nice feeling,” he quipped. Some two hours later, they’d all fallen by the wayside and Molinari finally could stick an arm into the Arnold Palmer Invitational’s symbolic red cardigan. “I think it’s the best putting round ever in my career,” he said. “And it’s nice to do it in these circumstances at Arnie’s Place.” It was Molinari’s fourth title worldwide in the past 10 months, including a similarly stellar performance when he won the Open Championship at Carnoustie. The Italian also made history at the Ryder Cup in France when he became the first European to post a 5-0 record. A Claret Jug and a red cardigan. Not a bad combination. “It’s just really hard for me to picture myself where I am at the moment,” said Molinari, who finished at 12-under-par 276 and rose to No.7 in the world rankings. Molinari even managed to outdo one of Tiger Woods’ more iconic moments, that 2008 hat slam when he curled home a 25-foot birdie at No.18 to win. Molinari’s putt was on a similar line, but nearly twice as far. 38

Don’t forget, too, that McIlroy capped his winning round last year with a birdie on nearly the same line. “There must be something going on with that line,” Molinari quipped. Molinari’s 64 matched the secondlowest final round by a Bay Hill winner, joining Rory McIlroy’s fantastic finish last year. Only Gary Koch went lower, firing a 63 to win the 1984 edition. Molinari also fell one stroke shy of matching Koch and Tom Kite (1982) for Bay Hill’s biggest final-round comeback. He went the final 28 holes without a bogey, going back to the eighth hole of Saturday’s round. How good was Sunday’s performance? Consider that his 64 was two shots better than anyone else – Keith Mitchell’s 66. Adam Long (67) was the only other man to stay within four shots. Sunday’s field average was 71.9 as weekend breezes turned Bay Hill fast and fiery.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

“He’s just great tee to green, and he’s now started putting really well,” said England’s Matthew Fitzpatrick (71), who finished two shots back in second. “It’s obviously all coming together for him.” Sunday turned out to be another missed opportunity for McIlroy, whose closing 72 dropped him from one shot off Fitzpatrick’s 54-hole pace into a tie for sixth. Not only did his title defense fall short, it marked the ninth time in the past 15 months that McIlroy played in

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

the final Sunday pairing and moved backwards. On six of those occasions, he did not break par. “He’s starting to stack up a bunch of missed opportunities,” NBC analyst Paul Azinger observed. “It’s great play, but I think Rory exemplifies just how difficult it is to win on tour.” For his part, McIlroy left Bay Hill with the same mindset as he came in – trying to focus on the positive. “Yeah, my Sundays haven’t been what I would have liked,” McIlroy said. “But I’m putting myself in that position. Good golf is good golf. I keep saying that.” Just off the course, the new Arnold Palmer Experience near the 10th fairway offered fans a chance to learn more about Palmer’s legacy – champion golfer,

family man, pitchman, aviator, friend of presidents, philanthropist. The exhibit opened with a 360-degree theater showing a six-minute retrospective of Palmer’s life. The theater exited into a small hall that displayed his trophies and other mementos – including letters from presidents Dwight Eisenhower and Bill Clinton, baby shoes and his golf bag from age 12 – along with swing bays that gave fans a crack at imitating three of Palmer’s most iconic shots. “To find a purposeful use for the memorabilia was really what we were charged with doing,” said daughter Amy Saunders. “There were so many things that did tell a story of my mom and dad and what was important to them.”

orth GA Tour florida PGAPGA Tournorth PGAflorida Tour PGA PGATour northPGA florida TourPGA PGAnorth Tour florida PGA Tour PGAPGA northTo

2019 Honda Classic Draws Second-Highest Crowds in Tournament History

The Honda Classic achieved the second-highest attendance mark in tournament history in 2019. The PGA TOUR event attracted 204,487 confirmed spectators over

again. It was just another great week.”

seven days of perfect weather and great

The Honda Classic is universally

competition spanning from the Monday

considered the “Most Fan Friendly”

Pro-Am to Sunday’s final round, about

event on the PGA TOUR and last year the

9 percent less than the record 224,642

TOUR also named The Honda Classic the

who attended the tournament in 2018.

event with the “Best On-Site Staging.”

The Honda Classic also exceeded

The modern-day attendance

the 200,000 mark for the fourth

dwarfs the number of fans (83,500)

consecutive year since bad weather

who attended The Honda Classic in

plagued the event in 2015 (165,200).

2007 when it moved to PGA National

“The energy-level on the course

Resort & Spa. The tournament

was really high all week right down

broke the 100,000 barrier in 2010

to the thrilling finish that we had

and the 200,000 barrier in 2016.

on Sunday with Keith Mitchell overtaking Rickie Fowler and Brooks

The 2020 Honda Classic will be played February 24-March 1, 2020.

Koepka on the final hole to win his first PGA tournament title,” Honda Classic Executive Director Kenneth R. Kennerly said. “We were thrilled to see everyone having a fantastic time and supporting our great event. The enormous crowds are a testament to the tremendous community support we have received year to year. “It is a continued validation of what we set out to establish when we moved to PGA National Resort & Spa in 2007 and re-imagined The Honda Classic. It’s about the experience that people have when they attend. We have worked hard to attract a diverse spectator base and were thrilled to see this strategy pay off in the way the community supported the tournament 40

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 8

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 19, Issue 9

special events header

Inaugural Battle at the Beach Presented by Short Par 4 Deemed a Success Short Par 4,

the #1 “Hand Curated Box” for golfers everywhere, was the presenting sponsor for the inaugural Battle at the Beach. The 24 two-man teams battled it out along the Atlantic Ocean at Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, FL. The teams competed in a 54-hole stroke play format. The top five teams competed in a sudden death shoot out on the 18th hole of the Ocean Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus. The twoday battle was ultimately won by Jacob Sanborn and Corey Carrick (Coobs). A clutch par save during a sudden death shootout thwarted runners-up Trey Sanders and Damon Noisette’s efforts. “The Battle at the Beach was a competitive golf tournament but filled

with fun. Players from across North America came together to compete and enjoy an unforgettable weekend. We are fortunate to have been the presenting sponsor. This grass roots exposure is ideal for the brand,” said Bobby

DiMeo CEO & Founder of Short Par 4. The Battle at the Beach was founded by Melissa and Bryan LaRoche of BryanGolf, LLC. This is the company’s second golf tournament that they have launched and organized. They have

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

two more golf tournaments slated for later this year in Florida. Their goal is to create four to five events a year that are affordable and gather people from all over the world. Follow BryanGolf, LLC golf tournaments on their social channels. Short Par 4 was the presenting sponsor for the Battle at the Beach but there were other sponsors who were involved such as; Cobra Puma Golf, Watson Golf, Birdicorn, Body Armor, the Jones Sports Company, Coobs Golf, Wedge Wizard, Pinned Golf, Stix Lifestyles, Stogies and Bogeys. Short Par 4 is a personal stylist for the golf inspired life that delivers brand name golf apparel, accessories and gear directly to its member’s doorstep – each for up to 60% off retail prices. The vision of the company is to provide golf enthusiasts with the highest quality products at member’s only pricing delivered directly to their doorsteps – keeping their style tight and allowing them to spend more time on the course, not in their closet. As the premier styling service for the golf community, Short Par 4 boasts one of the fastest growing memberships of any subscription box on the web. Every month, Short Par 4 delivers exclusive brand name golf apparel and products that promise to make their

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

member’s look handsome both on and off the course. Whether on a date, on the tee box or at the office, Short Par 4’s Style Caddies have their members covered! With a membership for all budget sizes, every box includes top rated and premium golf brands like Under Armour, Nike, Puma and Callaway and burgeoning brands like Travis Mathew, Linksoul, Greyson and more. Each delivery is hand curated according to season and the golfer’s unique style profile that they fill out on the website. Short Par 4 is represented on all the major golf tours. The company has compiled a global brand ambassador team that includes some of golf’s most iconic players.

PGA TOUR: Rickie Fowler, Wesley Bryan, John Chin and Tyler Duncan LPGA TOUR: Lexi Thompson Web.com TOUR: Kevin Doughtery and Kevin Lucas PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS: Tom Pernice

By Dove Jones

golf travel

Machrihanish Dunes & Neighbors At the end of Paul McCartney’s famed “Long and Winding Road” on Scotland’s Kintyre Peninsula is one of the bestkept secrets in British Isles destination golf – Machrihanish Dunes (18 holes) and its neighboring courses – Machrihanish Golf Club (27 holes), Dunaverty (18 holes) and Carradale (9 holes). All together seventy-two of the most challenging and picturesque golf holes to be found anywhere avid golfers tee it up. Best of all they are not only completely unspoiled but uncrowded and delightfully affordable, allowing you and your partners to play as much golf as you desire – be it 18 or 54 holes a day. Hard to believe that Machrihanish Dunes is already 10 years old this year and a full slate of activities and special

offers is planned to celebrate the occasion (machrihanishdunes.com). The David McLay Kidd-designed course is really a collaborative effort with Mother Nature as less than 10 acres of land was altered (greens and tee complexes) in the process of creating this linksland classic. Looking out over the mature dunes that Kidd actually grew up on as a child, the outlines of holes revealed themselves to Kidd and provided a natural canvas to develop. Truly deserving of its tagline “Golf the Way it Began.” The now iconic black sheep logo derived from the fact that as the course was built in an extremely environmentally sensitive area; originally the only maintenance of the fairways was

Every hole on Machrihanish Dunes offers stunning views

actually by a herd of black sheep. The course management proved so successful with positive environmental impact that they are now allowed more modern methods of course maintenance and renovation. This has helped to enhance not only the environs but also the enjoyment of golfers and has resulted in the layout climbing the course ratings. The course isn’t the only highly rated aspect of the area. Southworth Development’s involvement in restoring two historic hotels – The Ugadale at Machrihanish and The Royal in Campeltown has garnered over 40 awards since reopening to their former glory including The Ugadale Hotel winning the prestigious 2018 Resort Hotel of the Year by The Scottish Hospitality Awards. There are also a number of luxurious two-bedroom self-catering cottages on property, perfect for foursomes or family visits. The restaurants in the Hotels and the resort’s cozy pub feature the freshest of local ingredients from seafood to Angus Beef and they even know how to cook a perfect rare Americanstyle steak. Be sure and wash it down with the local family-owned Springbank of Campeltown whisky. Directly across the narrow street The luxurious Royal Hotel on Campeltown Harbor

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

from the Ugadale is the Machrihanish Golf Club (www.machgolf.com), known for having the best opening salvo in golf. You are invited on your first tee shot to take on as much of the curving bay as your nerves and skill allow. You’ll miss the gentle flat fairway of the opening hole as you cross into a maze of mature dunes that have been challenging golfers since 1876. Sadly, Machrihanish Golf Club’s historic clubhouse was completely destroyed earlier this year by a devastating fire, but not before many of the valuable artifacts were rescued. Thankfully, neither the course nor the pro shop were damaged in the blaze and the Ugadale Hotel and neighboring Pub have stepped up to offer hospitality to members and visitors. Often overlooked is the short but mighty Dunaverty Golf Club at the very tip of the Kintyre Peninsula. Not even 6,000 yards from the tips it is one not to be missed and don’t be misled by its seemingly easy yardage. The wind howls, the views over to Ireland are utterly distracting, there are blind shots, you will use every club in your bag and come away with a refreshed attitude on why you love the game. The club and course are not wealthy and do not maintain a website but it is easy to find and be prepared to pay the modest green fee in cash as often there is an unmanned “honor box.” Dunaverty is perhaps best known as the home course of Belle Robertson, Scotland’s best loved ama-

teur woman golfer. Even more overlooked than Dunaverty is Carradale Golf Club (www. carradalegolf.com) a short half hour drive to the other side of the peninsula. Again, too often American visiting golfers see nine holes and dismiss it but shouldn’t. The course’s hilly terrain gives spectacular vistas to Arran and the mainland over its quirky layout and you won’t find a more friendly members welcome. As a sticky toffee pudding connoisseur be sure and stop in to the neighboring AshBank Hotel (www.Ashbankhotel.com) for a post round treat. Hands down the best I’ve ever tasted. While a bit off the beaten path of the more well known links, the area can easily be reached by one of my favourite if a tad long (3 hours from Glasgow) scenic drives anywhere in the world; by ferry from Ballycastle, Northern Ireland (www.kintyreexpress.com) or Ardrossan, Scotland (www.calmac. co.uk); or by plane (www.loganair.co.uk) from Glasgow airport to Campeltown, and is definitely worth the journey. See you on the links!!!

“The Greatest Opening Shot in Golf”– The First at Machrihanish Golf Club Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

The restored Ugadale Hotel & Cottages “The 2018 Scotland Resort Hotel of the Year”

Lovely Scottish themed decor in every cozy well-appointed Ugadale Hotel room

Carradale Golf Club offers 9 holes of spectacular vistas 45

golfheader travel

Argentario Golf Resort & Spa

Opens Stylish New Clubhouse in Time for 2019 Golf Season

The new Club House at Argentario

The Argentario Golf Resort & Spa (www.argentarioresort.com), one of the most highly-regarded golf destinations in Tuscany, Italy, has opened a stylish new clubhouse in time for the 2019 golf season. The new structure is home to the Pro Shop, Golf Secretary’s office and the Club House Restaurant & Bar, which boasts an extensive wooden terrace offering stunning views over the golf course and surrounding hills, the Orbetello Lagoon, often awash with flamingos, and the Gulf of Talamone in the distance. The cutting-edge design of the Club House reflects the dramatic architec-

The stylish, yet comfortable interior of the Argentario Club House ture of the nearby resort hotel that is characterized by its magnificent, light-filled atrium reception, its sleek, modern communal spaces and the super-chic furnishings in its rooms, suites and apartments. The impressive entrance to the Club House, for example, has been created by the installation of a striking decked walkway and gazebo created using natural materials. Inside the Club House furnishings chosen by Milan-based interior designer, Andrea Fogli, have produced a stylish, yet cosy interior. The traditional decor of historic Anglo-Saxon golf clubs – such as the soft leather chairs and deer antler candelabra – combine with modern, contemporary features that make for a comfortable and practical environment in which to relax. The addition of the Club House will enhance the overall experience of playing the par 71, 6,218 metre course that meanders its way through the Tuscan terrain, cork-oak woods and ancient olive groves. For after a round of golf, restorative drinks and healthy Argentario Golf Course dishes that are sim-

ple, yet creative, will now be served in the Restaurant which is overseen by Emiliano Lombardelli, who was born in the Monte Argentario area. Emiliano demonstrated his passion for cooking at an early age and after attending hotel school, he began working in the world of fine dining in 1988 gaining invaluable experience alongside chef and gastronomist, Alvaro Claudi, on the island of Elba and then alongside the chef, Giuseppe Sestito, at the Mirabelle Restaurant in nearby Rome. In 2008 Emiliano returned to Monte Argentario as Executive Chef in the Dama Dama Restaurant when the Resort was first opened. In 2016 he began a period of consultancy, devoting himself to other projects and activities such as the publication of two books entitled ‘Con Gusto’ and ‘Cibo’. From Spring 2019, he returns back ‘home’ as Executive Chef at the Dama Dama and Buvette Restaurants at Argentario. The kitchen at the Club House Restaurant operates lunch from 12:30 to 15:00 and dinner from 19:30 to 22:00, while the bar offers sandwiches, salads and desserts all day, from 8:00 to 20:00. For more information on the Argentario Resort: Tel: +39 0564 810292 Email: booking@argentarioresort.it For families or small groups, Locker Cottage is an independent hideaway sleeping six that is located on the hillside 200m from the main building, with guests benefitting from the use of all the facilities at the resort. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

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Uriell Captures Win in Professional Debut

On the 73rd hole of the inaugural SKYiGOLF Championship, Alana Uriell (Carlsbad, California) hit her second shot from the fairway to 10 feet and proceeded to bury the eagle putt to win a sudden-death playoff against Lauren Coughlin (Charlottesville, Virginia) and Julieta Granada (Asuncion, Paraguay). Trailing by one shot entering

Alana Uriell

the final round of her professional debut, Uriell fired a 5-under par 67 this afternoon to get to 12-under overall. The rest is history. “I’m going to remember making that eagle putt for a long time,” said Uriell. “I was definitely nervous, but really the best part was that I embraced the nerves, visualized the shot and it turned out really good. If you told me this before the week started, I wouldn’t believe you. It feels really good and it was such an honor to play in this tournament.” The win means a lot more to Uriell than receiving a trophy in her first start as a pro. When she was 14 years old, the University of Arkansas alumna lost her mom, Barbara, to breast cancer. This victory was for the woman who raised her and there’s no doubt an angel was on Uriell’s side today. “She was really the person that encouraged me to play golf and inspired me,” Uriell said. “Standing here today, it’s safe to say that I made her proud and that makes me really happy.”

Alexa Pano signs autograph

SKYiGOLF (SKYiGOLF.com) is dedicated to making golf more fun, offering $10,000 for holes-in-one on designated holes at SKYiGOLF facilities and operating a SKYiGOLF Global Golf Scramble, while at the same time helping PGA Professionals and course operators to increase their efficiency and revenues. For more information, contact Chief Communications Officer Jeff Babineau at jeff.babineau@skyigolf.com, or Chief Championships Officer Ben Herring at ben.herring@SKYiGOLF.com. 48

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

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78 Players Competed in the 2nd Prep Tour Event of 2019 at Weston Hills Country Club March 10, 2019 - Today, the South Florida PGA Junior Prep Tour presented by The Honda Classic held the second Prep Tour Event of the 2019 season at Weston Hills Country Club. This event featured a full field of 78 players aging from 9-18 years old. The morning started off cloudy, but the sky opened up and revealed perfect playing conditions for the day. Sohan Patel of Weston captured the boys 9-10 age division with a 7-over par 79. Fort Myers native Jackson Mills took home the runner-up spot in the boys 9-10 age division with a 9-over par 81. Cameron Baez of Palmetto Bay captured the boys 11-12 age division with a 4-over par 76. Miami native Hugo Stenstrom took home the runnerup spot in the boys 11-12 age division with a 5-over par 77. Jaden Russell of Miami captured the boys 13-18 age division with an even-par 72. Jupiter native Bennett Sullivan took home the runner-up spot in the boys 13-18 age division with a 2-over par 74. Marley Pedrique of Palm Beach Gardens captured the girls 9-10 age division with a 14-over par 86. Lighthouse Point native Ashley Balcom took home the runner-up spot in the girls 9-10 age division with an 87. Kierra Williams of Davie captured the girls 11-12 age division with a 10-over par 82. Key Biscayne native Victoria Suarez took home runner-up spot in the girls 11-12 age division with a 18-over par 90. Jayda Dookie of Greenacres captured the girls 13-18 age division in a scorecard playoff with an 18-over par 90. Plantation native Isabel Van den Berg took home the runner-up spot in the girls 13-18 age division in a scorecard playoff with a 90.

Jade Scott and Stephen Scott Capture Challenge Tour Event #2 MARCH 17, 2019, ATLANTIS, Fla. – This weekend, the South Florida PGA Junior Challenge Tour presented by The Honda 50

Classic held Challenge Tour Event #2 at Sandridge Golf Club in Vero Beach, FL. Each competitor battled through a full day of rain on Saturday and some warm windy temperatures on Sunday. Native to Vero Beach, FL, Stephen Scott opened with an impressive 2 over par (74) on Saturday to take the lead by one. With a tight leader board and two more competitors within two strokes of Scott, he new he had a lot of work ahead of him. Scott finalized his victory with a second round of 81 for his first win on the Challenge Tour. For the 13-15 division, Mathew Marceline took home 1st place after a 3-way scorecard playoff at 157 (77-80). In the boys 16-18 division, Chase Cohen of Palm Beach Gardens, FL captured the victory with a two day total of 159 (79-80). Native to Lauderhill, FL, Jade Scott opened with a 79 to take the lead by one stroke. Just behind was Taylor Oberparleiter (80) and Sabrina Kim (81) for the final pairing. All girls had to battle the strong winds on Sunday, but Scott was able to secure the victory with a second round score of 81 (160). For the girls 13-15 division, Talia Rodino, of Fort Myers, FL took home 1st place after shooting 83-79. For the girls 16-18 division, Oberparleiter of Jupiter, FL finished up with an 84 and a two day total of 164. In the Boys 11-12 division, we had a very close match up and tight leader board all weekend long. Jessy Huebner, of Port St. Lucie, FL captured the victory with two outstanding days of 75-72. Just behind Huebner, was Pavel Tsar (76-72) and Eric Nguyen (73-75). In the Girls 11-12 division, Morgan Pichler, of Hobe Sound, FL and Polina Anisimov, of Port St. Lucie, FL were a close match up and tied for the lead after round 1 with an 86 posted. On Sunday, both girls played outstanding golf, but Anisimov was able to come out one stroke ahead posting an impressive 78.

Filbert Among the TOUR Players in Honda Classic February 25, 2019 - Clinching the 2018 Omega Player of the Year Points race, Andrew Filbert, PGA Assistant Professional at Royal Poinciana Golf Club in Naples earned himself a spot into The PGA Tour Honda Classic for the second consecutive year. Filbert had a great year earning

858.50 points which was highlighted with his victory at the 2018 Fort Lauderdale Open. Thursday, February 28th he teed off in his second Honda Classic with hopes of making the cut. Filbert was paired with Carlos Ortiz and Roberto Diaz of Mexico off of the 10th tee for his first round with a final +7 round. The following day, his morning tee time with the same pair off the first tee, resulted in a final 36hole score of 157, missing the cut. We were honored to have one of our Section’s best players representing the 1,800 PGA Professionals that make up the South Florida PGA. We are looking forward to our 2019 season beginning again in May. To see our complete tournament schedule please go to sfpgagolf.com/section/_2/.

Justin Bertsch, PGA Qualifies for Corales Punta Cana Resort & Club Championship March 11, 2019 - New this year, the Section hosted a qualifier for Class A members with the medalist receiving a spot into the PGA Tour Corales Puntacana Resort and Club Championship. The event was contested Tuesday, March 5th at The Preserve at Ironhorse and featured thirtyeight local professionals. After a fourhole playoff Justin Bertsch, PGA Head Golf Professional at Hideout Golf Club became this year’s qualifier and will now compete in the 2019 Corales Puntcana Resort and Club Championship March 28th – 31st. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 8

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By Fred Seely

freddy's fairway thoughts

The PLAYERS has a good promotion to take advantage of its charity dollars as well as brighten up its Media Day. Fifteen charities are chosen for a shootout on the famed 17th hole with each charity designating a player. That person gets two shots, and the tournament’s defending champion — Webb Simpson, in this case — gets one with the closest to the pin getting $10,000 for their charity. This year’s check went to the Jacksonville Area Golf Association’s scholarship fund when Simpson had the closest shot of all when it was JAGA’s turn. Posing with the check were (from left) past JAGA president Fred Seely of Timuquana, city champion Davis Roche, who represented JAGA; Simpson, current President Randy Nader of Sawgrass and past president Bob Streightiff of Queen’s Harbour.

Some things that the Northeast Florida golf community does that your community should be doing: • We have an annual Celebration of Golf banquet and each local association has the chance to get a few minutes to present its leadership and winners. This was the seventh year and 258 turned out at a local country club in February. It’s not a fundraiser: the cost is maintained at $65 with a cash bar. The banquet has a speaker: this year’s was PGA Champions Tour player Len Mattiace. A major award: it’s the Deane Beman Award, named for the former commissioner who moved the PGA Tour headquarters and the PLAYERS tournament to Northeast Florida. This year the Beman Award went to Anne Nimnicht, the only person to have chaired a tournament on the PGA Tour’s three major competitions. • The Ryder Cup format isn’t just for Tour players. We have a two-day match between the 12 best local pros and 12 best amateurs with better ball and alternate shot matches on Day One and singles on the second day. Eight players from each team are chosen on a season-long points list; the captains have four choices. It’s financed by a Contestant-Am on the day before the matches, plus sponsorship from the area’s high-end Underwood Jewelers. • Our local golf association gives out scholarships a one is reserved for PGA apprentices who are going into the third and final stage before they get their Class A membership. Reason why it’s so late in their education: so many drop out in the first two stages. Northeast Florida has another United States GA champion as 2018 Mid-Amateur winner Kevin O’Connell has moved here to work with his swing coach, Todd Anderson, at the TPC Sawgrass instruction center. O’Connell will play in next month’s Masters and then turn pro. Here are the other USGA champs living in the area:

Other stuff: • The Florida State GA is having a series of rules seminars and ask each participant to introduce themselves and give their place of birth. At one in Jacksonville, there were 42 participants and only three gave a Florida birthplace. Normal, said the instructor. • Economy indicator: A member-guest at a North Florida club charges $1,100 for its member-guest and accepts entries starting at 7 a.m. on a weekday morning. There were 100 places and No. 100 joined the line at 5 a..m. One person arrived the evening before and slept in his car. • The new rules change the term “casual water” to “temporary water.” Huh? Turns out that the word “casual” doesn’t translate well into other languages. • You always see the term “best-kept secret” in ads. Shouldn’t that tell you that they don’t know how to promote their product? • The commentary to date on rules changes has centered on the big events but there’s one change that will affect the average guy. You know that caddies can’t stand behind you while you’re making a shot. That also applies to playing partners, such as in a scramble. No more watching the putting line. It’s Rule 10.2b(4.) • At a local golf association meeting last month, the discussion turned to the number of local golf clubs and how many have closed in Northeast Florida in the recent past. Don’t know about your community but ours has seen a lot of attrition and these names are long gone: Baymeadows, Blue Cypress, Dunes, Fort George, Macclenny, Panther Creek, Pine Lakes, Ponce de Leon, Ravines, Selva Marina, Westland, West Meadows and Willow Lakes, plus three at nearby Palm Coast. One more: Orange Park Country Club closed last month, perhaps for good.

U.S. Amateur: Billy Maxwell, 1951; Deane Beman, 1960 and 1963; Bob Dickson, 1967; Steve Melnyk, 1969; and Bubba Dickerson, 2001.

• Former TPC Sawgrass general manager Bill Hughes is moving to Colorado where he will become GM and chief operating officer of the Country Club of the Rockies in the Vail resort area about 100 miles from Denver.

U.S. Senior Amateur: Greg Reynolds, 2002.

Comments? I’m at fs4569@comcast.net.

U.S. Open: Jim Furyk, 2003

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 8

By Shawn Staerker

golf fitness

Get Low To Shoot Low It is no secret

that having strong glute muscles can mean more powerful swings and thus longer drives. I’m also not breaking news when I say that including squats among your exercise routine is a great way to develop the aforementioned backside. However, for some, squats are an exercise that often just leaves the fronts of the legs tired, or in the case of barbell squats (a-la-Rory McIlroy), can cause back pain to flare up, with no trace of stronger glutes in sight. Often, what we see in folks who have been “left behind” by squats and find little to no benefit in them, except a sore lower back, is an inability to really perform the exercise in a correct fashion, due to one issue or another. In order for squats to be most effective, the torso should be upright, which allows your hips to pass below the knees and closer to the ground. This moves the primary responsibility for lifting your body up from the muscles in the front of your legs (the quadriceps) to the muscles in the back of your legs--specifically the gluteus maximus. Where people run into trouble is when muscles around the hip, ankle, and/or knee joints become tightened. Stiffness in these muscle groups means that to complete the task of squatting down, the torso will pitch forward at the hips, shorting us of the necessary range of motion to complete a squat to complete depth. Positions like sitting all day at our 54

desk, or in a car/airline seat during long periods of travel can lead to tightening of muscles such as the hamstrings, hip flexors, upper abs, and chest, which can all contribute to this inability to squat correctly. However, with a few targeted warmups and modifications, even the tightest athlete can reap the glute-building benefits of squats. Take for example these simple-toperform suggestions, designed to target the glutes by keeping your torso as upright as possible during the exercise: 1). Hip/Ankle mobility drills: Targeted warm-ups like hip flexor stretches and ankle circles are great ways to gain a little more range of motion in muscle groups that can otherwise keep you from a deep squat. 2.) Get a lift: By raising the heels, we can shorten tightened hamstrings, which allows for a little more depth to the squat. 3.) Shift the load to the front: While traditional rear-loaded barbell squats absolutely can’t be beaten when performed correctly, if you’re having trouble with leaning forward during the movement, try switching the weight in

front of your body, with exercises like “goblet squats,” “front barbell squats,” or “landmine squats.” 4.) Get on the ball: In all but the most extreme cases of knee or back injury, placing an exercise ball between the wall and a person’s low back will allow for the range of motion necessary to squat down to an angle where the glutes are almost guaranteed to activate. If you have tried to “round out” your physique using squats and found them ineffective or, even worse, hurtful, then I’d highly encourage you to revisit your leg routine, and include a few of these modifications to the traditional “king of glute” exercises.

Shawn Staerker is a Corrective Exercise Specialist and certified Personal Trainer who coaches a wide variety of specialized athletes at his studio in Central Florida, as well as worldwide via his Sit2Fit™ brand of online programs and videos. You can find out more about unlocking glute strength through range of motion (and many other topics) at his website, www.sit2fit.net Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

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fore your health

By Dr Rich Golf®

driving me crazy.” Tour around a golf course and you will see people posturing to snap their clubs, clenching in exasperation after a missed shot, muttering or swearing under their breath (or out loud). Others are steaming because of slow play in front of them or rushing through their round to get somewhere else. It’s a wonder that so many people keep coming back to this game. What’s

Improving Your Mental Health in Golf

really unfortunate is that so many golf-

The World Health Organization says,

most golfers are not taking advantage

game. But accessing the mental health

of the potential of golf to improve their

benefits of golf does require some prac-

mental health. In fact, too many of the

tice. That should be no surprise. Most

golfers seem to complain “this game is

golfers realize that they have to put in

“there is no health without mental health.” And, it may surprise you, but

ers are missing out on opportunities to improve their mental health, and their

photo by Greg Corbo

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

some work to get better. Many of us are willing to put in hours on the range but won’t spend any time on the self-examination needed to change our mental responses or open ourselves to more of the beauty we walk through. Think for a moment about something we’ve all experienced - that incredible, beautiful shot – an effortless swing sending a ball soaring through the air with an other-worldly beauty – the white ball, for a moment, framed in the intensely blue sky. We’ve all had a taste of beauty on the golf course - we just want more of it. That beauty is health promoting, but it’s not easy to re-produce. So, where do you start to improve your mental health in golf? I would say there are a few things everyone can do, but every pathway does require some commitment to increasing self-awareness – all you have to do is be willing to look at yourself. Real players know that when the best golfers miss a shot the first thing they do is look at themselves. Most golfers I see, instead, conjure up a pocket full of excuses (I was not ready, a shadow was in the way, someone was talking, my caddy gave me the wrong club, etc.). A willingness to look at yourself is the start. In addition, and this is something you can begin right now, make a commitment to slow down and enjoy the beauty that is around you. If you have not learned the basics of mindful breathing, that’s a good start. Years from now, let alone a few days from now, no one is going to remember whether you had a 4, 5, 6 or 7 on a hole. But what you will remember are things like the beauty of friendship you share with some good friends, or the peace you felt inside from the greenness of nature around you. There is no golf geography which does not invite the player to enter its beauty, if you listen. Take some moments during every round to identify something beautiful- it may be some humble flower, an egret wading nobly in a pond, or even the sound of a flag flapping musically on a windy day. So, begin there, pausing to be present in your surroundings instead of living inside your head and you will have made a good start. It may seem like a bold statement, but I predict that the more you appreciate the beauty on the course, not only will your mental health improve, but you will play better golf.

Dr Rich Golf® is a Professor of Psychiatry at Brown University who provides coaching to golfers at all levels, as well as speaking and writing about how golf can make you a better person, which can make you a better golfer. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

By Tony Leodora

product showcase

High Heat 257+ It began three years ago with a new driver and technology, both named the “best” of any new club. The multiple media reviews and rave customer reviews soon followed. In subsequent years fairway woods and hybrids were added to the line. High Heat then was named -- by major media, PGA, and LPGA teaching pros -- as the leading brand in properly addressing the hitting needs of the amateur golfer. All of those exciting introductions have been followed by the new award-winning High Heat 257+ clubs and its revolutionary Three-Trampoline Face Technology. This technology takes advantage of a new USGA Rule change that permits a hotter face outside the sweet spot to provide the same distance on off-center hits as center hits, so the entire face is a “sweet spot.” High Heat 257+ is the only brand that takes advantage of that new USGA Rule and is considered as having the most revolutionary technology for amateurs since introduction of titanium faces almost 30 years ago. Major media, PGA and LPGA teaching pros rave about how golfers are getting the same distance on hits across the face … and customers rave about their lower scores. High Heat 257+ is available across the entire line of High Heat clubs – drivers, 3, 5 and 7 woods and 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 hybrids. High Heat clubs reached the pinnacle at this year’s PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. At the Industry Honors award program, put on by the International Network of Golf, High Heat’s 257+ line of clubs won the top award for Product Ingenuity in the Emerging Companies category. Don’t be surprised in a few years if the High Heat 257+ has moved from the “Emerging Brand” category to the “Leading Brand” category. One additional bonus: all High Heat clubs come with a 30-day full-refund guarantee. www.highheatgolf.com

Precision Pro NX9-HD Rangefinder

Precision Pro rangefinders have been a sensational story in the golf industry ever since the company was founded by Clay Hood and Jonah Mytro. They asked the simple question, “Why can’t anyone seem to make a quality rangefinder at a reasonable price?” They answered their own question by producing the V400 model – the first sub-$200 rangefinder. It worked well. Was durable and performed all of the basic functions. Fast-forward five years and they have expanded their line to include the new Precision Pro NX9-HD. It has all the bells and whistles … yet still beats the price of the competition by more than $100. “The NX9-HD is our most advanced rangefinder,” explains company co-founder Mytro. “It comes with high-definition optics, some of the highest optics in the industry, and seven-times magnification. There is a wider viewfinder, so it is easier to see your target. It has an internal locking magnet, so it is easy to click it on to any cart. And it has a two-year replacement warranty – the best warranty in the industry.” With all of those added features, the price on a rangefinder like this should be well over $400. Most of the ones produced by competing companies are. But the Precision Pro NX9-HD rangefinder carries a suggested retail price of $329. However, there is a catch. You will have to way until May 1 for the newest Precision Pro rangefinder to hit the market. Then you will see why it has gained a reputation for being every bit as good … or better … than the high-priced brands. www.precisionprogolf.com 58

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Nexbelt Braided Belt

When a company successfully combines style and practicality, there can be no doubt about the acceptance across a wide range of consumers. That is the story of Nexbelt – the belt with no holes. And it is a short story. Nexbelt exploded on the golf market just a few years ago – attracting a lot of attention at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. The small booth was packed with curious visitors all week, necessitating larger booths in subsequent years. The unique ratchet system, plus the stylish combination of buckles and belts, made it the most popular belt in golf. Technological improvements were introduced to make it the only buckle with stainless steel screws replacing pins for a reliable, stronger, secure hold. The styles have increased – from the original golf belts that included a ball marker in the buckle … to the most stylish dress belts … and, now, to a new line of ultra-casual belts. Barrett Martens, global sales manager for Nexbelt, unfurled the details on the newest style: “We’ve got a new braided style for 2019. It comes in three new colors – navy, black and grey. This is the first-ever ratchet braided belt on the market.” The braided belt is especially popular to wear with jeans, as well as ultra-comfortable on the golf course. In addition, a new buckle style has been introduced and can be used with many different styles and colors of belts. “We’ve taken our ever-popular Go-In Color series and added a new beveled buckle that is very stylish,” concluded Martens. www.nexbelt.com

New Srixon Z-Star Golf Balls

Srixon golf balls – especially the top-of-the-line Z-Star and Z-Star XV golf balls – have been used successfully by the best professionals and top amateur players from around the world. So why does the company keep tweaking the formula? Easy. The quest for perfection is never-ending. “We recently introduced a new Z-Star and Z-Star XV, our tour platform product, the same exact golf ball that has been winning tournaments around the world for the last few months,” said Jeff Brunski, vice president of research and development for Srixon. “We introduced some new technology. There is a new coating on the golf ball for more spin and a new fast-layer core for more distance. That means lots of exciting stuff, and lots of performance built into those golf balls for the better players.” This marks the sixth generation of Srixon’s premium golf ball line. While many characteristics of previous generations remain, the main new talking point is a SeRM macromolecule material used in the golf ball for the first time. The material is blended into the surface of the ball to optimize damage resistance, impact resistance and vibration absorption. Both the new Z-Star and Z-Star XV balls are available in white and optic yellow. Srixon has been a leader in the movement toward wider use of the optic yellow ball. And the best news is that Srixon is following an industry-wide trend toward more economic pricing. The premium balls are priced below the suggested retail price of the leading brand. Suggested retail on both the Z-Star and the Z-Star XV is $39.99 a dozen. www.srixon.com

4 Yards More – Players Pack When is having a great product not enough? When it becomes necessary to find a more convenient way to get the product to the public. Greenkeepers, the Philadelphia-based company that specializes in manufacturing a wide variety of golf accessories, hit a home run a few years ago with its 4 Yards More performance golf tee. From the original model, the company advanced to taller tees, tees for fairway woods and tees for hybrids. Now they have found a way to bring the entire line to the public. It’s called the Players Pack and it features four different varieties of performance tees in one package. “What we tried to do with the Players Pack, and it’s been widely accepted, is give golfers the opportunity to buy a variety of our 4 Yards More tees in one larger package,” explained Frank Carroll, president of Greenkeepers. “Many of the golf retail stores carry so many different packages of our tees. Now, you can get everything in one package. It helps the golfer and it helps the retailer.” The world of golf technology has come a long way from the days of picking up whatever golf tee was in the bowl on the golf shop counter. Now, most of the best players insist on a performance golf tee. For those who want to try the entire line of 4 Yards More tees, the new Players Pack is the answer. It has a retail price of $23.95 and can be found in golf stores everywhere. www.gkspikes.com really expensive technology,” Glod added.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

product showcase

Tour Edge EXS Driver

For the past 33 years, Tour Edge golf has slowly built quite a successful business, from its headquarters in Batavia, Illinois. Founder Dave Glod has assembled a team of equipment industry professionals dedicated to two different missions: 1) producing a quality line of extremely affordable golf clubs for the everyday golfer and, 2) achieving the highest, cutting-edge technology in its line of Exotics golf clubs. By all reviews in the industry … and testimonials from tour professionals … mission accomplished. So, what’s next? Apparently Tour Edge is trying the impossible – creating the highest quality driver at about half the price of other top-end drivers. “The EXS Driver is just filled with technology, from top to bottom,” explained Dave Glod, president and CEO of Tour Edge. “We start with a carbon crown, which we haven’t done in a while, and a carbon sole in the toe area. What we’re doing is taking weight out of the crown area and the sole area in the toe, and moving a lot more weight to the heel. We have a 9-gram weight in the heel area that really helps the draw enhancement.” High tech design … aided by high tech materials. “Beyond that we have a VFT Beta Titanium face, which is really expensive technology,” Glod added. But the eye-catching component of this new EXS driver – that matches any other driver on the market pound-for-pound in the technology fight – is the price. “The crazy thing is that we have all of this technology, matching or surpassing just about everyone else in the market, but we put a retail price of $299 on this driver,” said Glod, in his closing argument. www.touredgegolf.com

Putting Arc T4 with Alignment Mat

The Putting Arc has been around for a long time. Co-founders Dave Hamilton and Top 100 teaching pro VJ Trolio brought the first wooden model of the Putting Arc to the market in 2002. Since that time it has gone through a number of alterations … and a number of technologically different offspring. Each innovation nudged the Putting Arc closer to its distinction as the No. 1 Training Aid in golf. The original model was followed by the small, portable T3, the popular mid-size MSII and then with the Deluxe H/D, which has heel/toe capability. The MS-3D followed as a replacement to both the MSII and the Deluxe H/D. It is lighter, more durable and it has the extra advantage of a mirror. Now Putting Arc has introduced the ultra-portable T4 and the new T4 with Alignment Mat. “This new product is good for the serious golfer who wants to work on his game on the course, at home or in the hotel room,” says Hamilton, an engineer who teamed his talents with the expertise of a Top 100 teaching pro. “Working with the T4 for just five to 10 minutes every day can drastically improve anyone’s putting. It gives perfect alignment and a perfect path to the hole. “It basically lets you practice perfectly whenever you use it,” concludes Hamilton. Proof of the company’s claims can be seen when new World Golf Hall of Fame inductee Jan Stephenson gives one of her many putting clinics. A professional without any endorsement tie to the company, she brings out her Putting Arc first and explains that she never begins any putting session without first working with the Putting Arc. www. theputtingarc.com

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

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The U. S. Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association Foundation (Florida Chapter) invites The U. S. Marine Corps Combat you to play in and/or be a sponsor or Correspondents Association patron in the 2019 15th Annual Benefit Foundation (Florida Chapter) invites Golf Tournament at the Sherman Hills you to play in and/or be a sponsor or Golf Club. This event is a primary patron in the 2019 15th Annual Benefit The U.Golf S. Marine CorpsatCombat fundraiser that supports theSherman “CC’s” Hills Tournament the patriotic, charitable and educational Correspondents Association Golf Club. This event is a primary programs for both dutythe and Foundation (Florida Chapter) invites fundraiser thatactive supports “CC’s” retired Marines and their families. you topatriotic, play in and/or be aand sponsor or charitable educational Benefit patronprograms in the 2019 for 15th both Annual active duty and The Tournament USMC Hills retiredCombat Marines andSherman their families. Golf at Correspondents the Association formed The Golf Club. This eventinis1945. a primary USMCCCA membership includes The USMC Combat Correspondents fundraiser that supports the “CC’s” Marines from every conflict sinceThe World Association formed in 1945. patriotic, charitable and educational War II to the present war in Afghanistan USMCCCA membership includes programs for both active duty and Marines from World and Iraq. Membership isconflict open tosince those retired Marines andevery their families. Warwho II totell the the present warCorps in Afghanistan Marines Marine story and Iraq. Membership is open to those via the printed word, photography, The USMC Combat Correspondents who art tell the Marine Corps story radio,Marines film, video, and reproduction. Association in 1945. The via the formed printed word, photography, USMCCCA membership radio, film, video, artincludes and The CCs provide tangible and reproduction. intangible Marines from every conflict since World support for our wounded Marines, their War II The to and the present war in Afghanistan CCs provide tangible and intangible widows their children. This proud support for our wounded Marines, and Iraq. Membership is open to thosetheir organization also provides scholarships widows and their children. proud Marines who tell the Marine Corps story to Marines and their dependents,This and organization also provides scholarships via the printed word, photography, supports annual professional development to Marines and and radio, film, video, arttheir anddependents, reproduction. and awards of excellence for active duty supports annual professional development Marines in the public affairs, photography, and awards of excellence for active duty The provide tangible and intangible andCCs art occupational fields. Marines in the public affairs, photography, support for our wounded Marines, their and art occupational fields. widows and their children. This proud The USMCCCA organization also provides scholarships Foundation is a The USMCCCA to Marines and their dependents, and 501(c) 3 tax-exempt Foundation is a development supports annual professional organization as 501(c) 3 tax-exempt and awards of excellence for active duty defined by the IRS. as photography, Marines in the public affairs,organization defined by the IRS. and art occupational fields.

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Ducks Unlimited Announces New CEO Ducks Unlimited (DU) announced today the hiring of Adam H. Putnam as their new CEO effective April 1. “I joined Ducks Unlimited when I was 16 and have a lifelong appreciation of the conservation work the organization accomplishes,” Putnam said. “It’s humbling to be chosen as DU’s CEO, and as a lifelong hunter, angler and conservationist, I look forward to building on our record of success.” DU’s current CEO, Dale Hall, will remain in place to help with the transition until his retirement on June 30. Putnam was most recently the Commissioner of Agriculture for the state of Florida where he served in one of four statewide elected positions within the government. He led the nation’s largest state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and was responsible for the management of 1.3 million acres of state forests, running the state Energy Office and directing the state’s school nutrition programs. “From the outset, the CEO search committee here at Ducks Unlimited wanted to find a unique balance of conservation, policy and agriculture background in the new CEO candidate,” said DU President Rogers Hoyt. “In Adam, we feel we have hit on all three. Not to mention he’s an approachable, passionate and visionary person, so Adam was the perfect fit.” As Commissioner of Agriculture, Putnam was a strong advocate for Florida’s water resources. During his tenure he expanded Florida’s best management water practices program, through which farmers voluntarily adopt measures to reduce their water use and minimize the use of nutrients that, in high volumes, can negatively impact the environment. More than 7 million acres of agricultural lands in Florida are now enrolled in the program. That

Adam Putman equates to 53 percent of all agricultural lands in the state, saving, on average, 19 million gallons of water daily. As a result of his leadership in water policies, in 2017 Putnam was the first elected official awarded the U.S. Water Prize from the U.S. Water Alliance. The award celebrates innovative and sustainable approaches to water issues and highlights individuals tackling our nation’s greatest water problems. In addition to the best management water practices program, Putnam also created more than 40 conservation easements through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. These easements preserved more than 50,000 acres in Florida, land that is critical to wildlife habitat and water quality. “As the outgoing CEO, it’s definitely a bittersweet day,” Hall said. “But I am going to retire from my position at DU knowing the organization is in very capable hands thanks to the hard work and diligence of our volunteer search committee. They’ve truly picked a winner in Adam and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for both Adam and Ducks Unlimited.” While Putnam is a strong advocate for the environment, he is also a staunch supporter of veterans and the sacrifices they’ve made for our country. In 2011, he created Operation Outdoor Freedom to honor the selfless sacrifice of our nation’s disabled veterans. New

state forests dedicated to veterans were opened, and the team built special accommodations at these facilities to meet their needs. More than 4,000 veterans have joined Operation Outdoor Freedom events since its inception. “My vision for DU is to bring together conservation-minded folks from all walks of life, whether they’re farmers, city-dwellers, veterans, biologists, hunters…anyone who has a connection to landscapes, which is everyone,” Putnam said. “If we are going to fill the skies with waterfowl, we must build a coalition of people who believe waterfowl-filled skies matter. We need to work together to reach a common goal of healthy wetlands and abundant water for wildlife, people and their communities across North America.” Prior to serving as Commissioner, Putnam served five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Elected in 2000, Putnam was the youngest member of Congress at the time and the youngest ever from Florida. While in Washington, D.C., he distinguished himself as the leading voice for specialty crop agriculture in the nation’s Farm Bill, international trade and food safety. Putnam served as co-chairman of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus; as a member on the Agriculture, Financial Services and Rules Committees; and as chairman of the Subcommittee of the Government Reform and Oversight. After just two terms, he was elected by his peers to be Republican Policy Chairman, and as the Republican Conference Chairman in 2006. Putnam is a fifth-generation Floridian and a graduate of the University of Florida where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Food and Resource Economics. He has also been awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree and served as a Rodel Fellow at the Aspen Institute. In 2010, he was the E.T. York Distinguished Lecturer at the University of Florida. Putnam and his wife of 20 years, Melissa, are raising their four children in Bartow with plans to move to Memphis in the coming months. For more information, visit www.ducks.org.

Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 14 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. For more information on our work, visit www.ducks.org. 62

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 8

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Audubon International and Ewing Irrigation present inaugural Water & Sustainability Innovation Award to Corica Park and Greenway Golf

Warren Gorowitz, Ewing Vice President of Sustainability, Marc Logan, Chief Agronomist and Principal at Greenway Golf and Christine Kane, CEO of Audubon International at the Water & Sustainability Innovation Award presentation in Phoenix, Arizona on February 18, 2019. Photo Credit: Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply

How does a golf course slash its water bill by nearly $1 million per year and still provide playable greens and a sustainable habitat for wildlife? The answer can be found at Corica Park’s new South Course in Alameda, California, the first project to receive Ewing Irrigation and Audubon International’s Water & Sustainability Innovation Award. The Water & Sustainability Innovation Award is a new opportunity created by Ewing and Audubon International to recognize landscape companies, organizations and municipalities for sustainable, water efficient projects. “We developed the Water & Sustainability Innovation Award to bring focus to the increasingly prevalent water challenges we are facing. We know that many companies and organizations are already serving as leaders in sustainable practices throughout the 64

country and we now have an award to honor the example and work they are doing,” said Warren Gorowitz, Ewing Vice President of Sustainability. This new award recognizes a project that addresses sustainability and water efficiency challenges, as well as contributes to a healthy environment, equity (quality of life) and a vital economy. The Corica Park South Course project did all of this and more. The reconstruction of the South course—led by architect Rees Jones and associate Steve Weisser, in close collaboration with golf management firm Greenway Golf—took California’s drought and water issues head on by saving water with innovative and sustainable practices. Greenway Golf’s team used creative, multi-faceted, cost-effective approaches to take a municipally owned golf course to the forefront of sustainable property management. As a result, the

property has significantly reduced its water use, improved stormwater management and reduced both its energy use and carbon emissions. Additionally, the team introduced native plants and landscaping features to improve the habitat for many species of wildlife. “I was excited to see the thorough and thoughtful approach to this renovation at Corica Park. Greenway Golf’s work is a terrific example of designing sustainability into a project from beginning to end,” says Christine Kane, CEO at Audubon International. “A golf course is very much like an iceberg. Two-thirds of its mass is below the surface,” said Greenway Golf’s chief agronomist, Marc Logan. Part of what’s below the surface at the South Course now includes locally sourced soil from other Bay-area construction sites that was used to raise and reshape the course elevation, adding dimension and more exciting play. Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

The South Course reopened in June 2018 and has already seen some of their sustainability efforts pay off. Water in California, like many parts of the country, has become a valuable commodity and reducing water use was a critical part of their long-term success and financial and environmental sustainability, said Logan. In fact, thanks to its state of art stormwater management and irrigation systems, the course’s annual water bill has already been reduced from $1 million annually to just $20,000. By giving the South Course project the award, Ewing and Audubon International hope to show how the green industry is rising to meet the challenges they face around water and other environmental issues. It also shows that a holistic approach to sustainability is possible —one that contributes to the environment, equity and the economy, said Christine Kane, CEO at Audubon International. Corica Park’s South Course can be the sustainable model for golf moving forward.

Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

Corica Park – Hole 15 Photo Credit: Corica Park

SUPERSpotlight: Laurie Frutchey History–

I grew up in Pennsylvania and attended Florida State University where I majored in biology/earth science to become a science teacher. During that time, I started working at Killearn Inn and Country club in the morning mowing greens before class. In the summer I went full time at Golden Eagle during the grow-in phase under Terry Buchen. One summer was all it took and I fell in love with the outside working environment of the golf course. From there I moved on to Black Diamond Ranch in Central Florida starting as irrigation technician during the grow-in phase under Jim Larner. When the Ranch course started, I worked under Karl Jacob as the head assistant. After that I grew-in the back nine of the Ranch course and the Highlands course as the head superintendent where I remained for the next nine years. Seventeen years ago, moving farther south, I started at Lexington Country club.

Lexington Life–

Since starting here at Lexington May of 2002 I have had the pleasure of working under one COO/GM, Mr. Al Kinkle, the entire time. I was really lucky in my career to have had such an amazing group of mentors along the way. Lexington is a private bundled community here in Fort Myers. The original course was completed in 1995 and we just finished a complete renovation that opened in November of last year. Doing a renovation during an 18” tropical storm event followed a week later by a major hurricane presented a lot of added challenges. Having done a few construction projects in the past did help with the added weather-related issues and we were able to open after a few weeks delay. The management and crew here are mostly long-term employees some have been here since the start and the majority have been her 15 plus years. This was the perfect fit for me to continue my career.

LaurieFrutchey

Professional–

• GCSAA class A member 28 years • served on the board for the Seven Rivers Chapter • served on the board of the Calusa chapter and as president for a year • ISA certified Arborist

General–

• Love running and riding bike • ran the New York City Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and Miami Marathon • completed my first (and yes only) full Ironman Triathlon 66

Al Kinkle GM & COO and Laurie running the Miami marathon together Golf Central • Volume 19, Issue 9

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