Golf Central Magazine - Vol 21 Issue 4 by Golf Central Magazine

THE YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB The most welcoming waterfront golf and country club on the Treasure Coast

W W W . G O L F C E N T R A L M A G . C O M

This View Is Waiting For You

Didn’t get a chance to visit in 2020? No worries. We’ll see you in 2021. Tackle Indiana’s top-rated public course at The Pete Dye Course, experience more than a century’s worth of history at the classic Donald Ross Course, and work in an extra nine at Valley Links. Play a little more at French Lick Casino, with live-dealer table games, sportsbook and slots. Plan a road trip for spring 2021 and give yourself something to look forward to. frenchlick.com/golf • (888) 936-9360

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header from the publisher

Volume 21, Issue 4 Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, Photojournalists: Greg and Beverly Wise Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. International Correspondent: Dove Jones Inflluencer/Ambassador: Chad Smith 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, Linda Williams-Sieg Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

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

Golf– A Bipartisan Tradition Sixteen of the last 19

Presidents, starting with William Howard Taft back in 1909, played golf. Whether Democrat or Republican golf allows them to be removed from the stress and intensity of their office. It is the common ground that allows them to be human beings. President Eisenhower played 800 rounds of golf while Woodrow Wilson, played 6 days a week year-round. President Trump, who owns and operates 17 golf courses worldwide, has played close to 300 rounds during his four years in office That said, the Presidency is an overwhelmingly difficult job, and the office-holder is certainly entitled to a handful of hours every week to take a load off. Industry leaders know what it takes to both operate a course AND make members and guests happy. It’s not that far removed from being the President, actually. The economic impact golf has on the world is significant especially during this pandemic. The equipment, sod, salaries, fertilizer and much more provide the tools to keep courses up to par. Golf course owners know what it takes to provide a top-notch course and the business smarts it takes to keep it both running and showing a profit. I’m in business- the golf business- and it makes me hard pressed to debate the President’s enterprise versus his etiquette. Nothing is as important to me as the economy and how it impacts our future. To that end, I have always followed my heart, often learning things the hard way. The bottom line is if the economy is good then I’m good. And that’s the way it is.

©2020 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.

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Legendary Lifestyle

There’s a reason Gary Player chose Boca Grove to be his first American home and it’s not just because he made history here.

Legends don’t make tee times and neither will you Located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida | Limited Number of Non-Resident Memberships Available Contact Jennifer M. Jolly at (561) 717-6733 | jjolly@bocagrove.org | www.bocagrove.org

Volume 21, Issue 4 60 Cart Girl 38 Morgan Elmore Cuisine on the Green 50 St. Andrews Country Club Boca Raton FEATURE 10 The Yacht & Country Club of Stuart Golf Bachelor 22 Jimmy Bell Golf Bachelorette 20 Meghan Hughes Golf Travel 34 Los Cabos

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Departments 14 26 30 32 40 42 44 46 48

Special Events 18 ALD Championship

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W W W . G O L F C E N T R A L M A G . C O M

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Product Showcaseâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Breast Cancer Awareness Month Grip It & Sip It PGA Tour Georgia Golf Trail Freddy's Fairway Thoughts Golf History Playing from the Tips South Florida PGA Freddy's Fairway Thoughts

Growing the Game 24 The First Tee Leader on the Links 28 Kimberly Spacek 29 Chad Smith

THE YA

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Stay & Play 16 Northeast Florida Turf Life 54 Sunniland Superspotlight: Bo Estey 56 GSGA Foundation Scholars 58 Cateechee Golf Club 60 Ponte Vedra Inn & Club What's New 52 SQUAIRZ Golf Shoe

golfcentralmag.com

feature

The Yacht & Country Club Turns 50 With A Glorious Makeover

by Holly Geoghegan

uilt in 1969 on a swath of scrubland near the Manatee Pocket, and less than a mile from the main Intracoastal Waterway channel, The Yacht & Country Club was the first 18-hole golf course community built in Stuart, Florida. In the ‘70s, The Yacht & Country Club attracted an upper echelon of buyers—Air Force generals, Navy admirals, titans of corporate industry and retirees from colder climates—who came to live in a little-known piece of paradise. Established on the principles of family, friendship and fun, as well as luxury and quality, the Yacht & Country Club put the sleepy little town of Stuart on the map. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

While the original Yacht Club marina no longer exists as part of this private gated country club community, boating and golf remain the true passions and foundation of the club. Members enjoy a variety of activities on land and sea including men’s and women’s golf groups, scrambles and pick-up games, monthly socials, “boat-a-cades” to nearby restaurants, overnight cruises and an annual fishing tournament and Commodores Ball. Last year, in honor of its 50th anniversary, the Yacht & Country Club completed an extensive multimillion-dollar renovation to the original clubhouse along with a complete redesign of its 18-hole golf course. A grand reopening celebration is scheduled to take place next month along with a series of marketing initiatives to promote the club and welcome in new members. The renovation of the golf course was led by local and respected golf course architect Tom Pearson, President of Tom Pearson Design. With a background in land planning and landscape design, Pearson spent 25 years working alongside Jack Nicklaus at Nicklaus Design, rising from a draftsman to senior design associate before venturing off to form his own firm. (www.tompearsondesign.com). “My main objective with the Yacht

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

& Country Club was to modernize this 50-year old Treasure Coast gem,” said Pearson. “The result is a brandnew golf course for the members to enjoy including new and relocated tees, reshaped and re-grassed greens, irrigation and drainage improvements, the addition of several water features and bunkers along with some new native areas and improved parkland space.” The original routing of the golf course was maintained per the request of the members. This provided some challenges logistically for Pearson and his team, however,

he managed to lengthen the layout where possible to appeal to younger, more competitive players. Two out of the four par fives at the Yacht & Country Club, now measure more than 600 yards. Holes 15 and 16 provide double trouble - two consecutive par fives – keeping most serious golfers on their toes heading down the stretch whether they’re playing a casual Saturday match or for the Club Championship. To ensure maximum playability of the course, Pearson applied special attention to maintaining proper percentages for driving distances

of both low and high handicappers. This allows players of all abilities to hit from the same landing areas and take advantage of the best scoring opportunities. For instance, on the par four eighteenth, Pearson relocated the tees and added two strategic bunkers in the fairway. Carrying the first bunker provides golfers the best angle to the green. Pearson moved the forward tee up 15 yards to allow higher handicappers the same risk/reward challenge as lower handicappers and to experience that feeling of “going for it” on the closing hole.

Other unique features are the individual tee markers which are not named or colored and are numbered 1-5. A progressive idea encouraging 12

players to choose the tees and yardages that best suit their game. Signature hole? You’ll be hard pressed to decide which is your favorite at the Yacht & Country Club. “The biggest compliment you can give me as an architect is to have a group of golfers discussing your golf course and they can’t agree on which is the best hole,” said Pearson. Undertaking and managing a project of this magnitude requires strong leadership, vision and executive hospitality experience, all exemplified by the the Yacht & Country Club’s General Manager, Ron Chesler. With a 32-year resort and club management resume, Chesler spent 25 years of his hospitality career in Pennsylvania. He moved up the ranks in various positions from Director of Golf to General Manager in several high-profile resorts and clubs that included five-star Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Farmington, PA., Eagle Rock Resort in the Poconos and Bellewood Country Club outside Philadelphia.

With his children grown and graduated from college, Chesler and his wife started looking to move south. He quickly found his sweet spot when he landed the position as General Manager of the Yacht & Country Club in 2014. According to Chesler when he arrived, “the clubhouse looked tired, and the facilities needed work.” His first priority was to encourage the members to renovate the clubhouse, which took two years to get approved and another year to complete. With the help and guidance of club members Tom and Anne Sheridan, owners of Sheridan Interiors in Wilton, CT, the design duo donated their time, expertise and purchasing power to transform the clubhouse into a chic coastal modern décor. Next, the club set its sights on redesigning the golf course. “That project was a little tougher to sell as the price tag was considerably higher,” said Chesler. “In Florida, you have to upgrade your golf course about every 15-20 years. We put together a talented team of members and, with the full membership’s approval, passed a $3 million budget. With the renovation completed and our grand re-opening celebration next month, we now have a beautiful new private club to offer golfers in the Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Stuart area that’s playable, affordable, fun and in pristine condition.” The Yacht & Country Club offers a fun, relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere of social events and camaraderie. Parties, social activities, holiday celebrations and special events featuring music and dancing fill the calendar yearly calendar. From themed dinners (Blues, Brews and BBQs), monthly wine tastings, sporting event viewing parties, game nights and more, this is NOT your Daddy’s oldschool, stodgy private club. Renowned for its authentic international cuisines and menu offerings that change weekly, YCC’s executive Chef Nick Williams has delighted members for more than a dozen years with his imagination, creativity and quality that he prepares with his farm-to-table dishes and uniquely themed presentations and events. On one occasion, YCC member Barbara Gill recalls organizing a “Ladies Lunching Gathering” event. Having recently returned from a twoweek sailing vacation through the islands of Croatia, she brainstormed

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

with Chef Nick (who is also a sailor and fond of Croatia) about the idea of staging a Croatian themed luncheon. “Nick put together a meal that was so incredible and different from anything we had ever done,” said Gill. “It included grilled octopus, fresh vegetables, all the right serving pieces and Croatian specialties. He is so creative and flexible. I don’t think grilled octopus is something you’ll find at most country clubs for a group luncheon.” Membership at the Yacht & Country Club provides many additional amenities, benefits and associations including court sports (tennis and pickle ball), bocce and croquet, and a resort-style swimming pool. A state of the art, stand-alone fitness center is fully equipped with three workout areas including a wide variety of functional training equipment, spinning cycles, free weights, kettle bells and more. Upon taking a complete tour of the YCC property, one experiences a warm and welcoming atmosphere. And the club’s proximity to the ocean

provides the ultimate tipping point for prospective members. As the closest private club to Hutchinson Island, YCC is also unique because it is not a “bundled” gated community like many in South Florida and is open to members outside the community. With a variety of memberships and affordable price structures, the Yacht & Country Club is truly a progressive private club that has something to appeal to and fit every member’s daily schedule, budget and active lifestyle. “Today’s private club member wants to relax, wear shorts and feel comfortable whether they’re in their flip-flops or golf shoes,” said Chesler. “The Yacht & Country Club is a friendly, laid-back, casual club. People make long-term relationships here. Our members love music, love to dance, love good food and love to have a good time.” The Yacht & Country Club is open to new members. For more information, contact: Valerie Smyth, Membership Director, 772-403-8922, vsmyth@ yccstuart.com.

product showcase

breast cancer AWA R E N E S S M O N T H

Rising Tides Coffee B R E A S T Price: $19.85

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual campaign that takes place each October in an effort to bring awareness to the disease. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in 2020, an estimated 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. alone. We’ve included some brands below who are doing their part to help eradicate the disease through efforts in October, and throughout the year.

CANCER

OCT BER

Rising Tides Coffee Co is bringing joy to your mug each morning with their fair trade organic, small batch, artisan roasted, craft coffee! Not only is it their mission to ethically source the world’s finest beans, they also take great joy in giving back to the community locally, and globally. Rising Tides Coffee Co offers three unique each bag donates A flavors W A R EAND NES S M ON T H to a unique charity based on how it was created. Rising Tide’s Pink Label is their woman producer series harvested within the buffer zone of El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve. Every purchase supports National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. and in the month of October, Rising Tides is doubling their contribution!

cancer and heart disease and the only CBD Water that blends premium botanicals with 5 mg of pure, bioavailable CBD. The 8.5 ph alkaline water metabolizes nutrients more effectively while hydrating better. Relax, while THC free, and keep your body properly nourished. Giftgowns

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PureWine

Fortress Water was founded by James Williams and Chad Burrell after loved ones of theirs were diagnosed with breast cancer. Fortress Water is linked and donates profits to My Style Matters Non-Profit 501c3 that provides holistic support to Cancer patients and survivors. Fortress water is a hemp alkaline water which supports in preventing diseases, such as

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Moonglow Jewelry Price: $38+

Moonglow Jewelry

Give her the pink moon this October for BCA! Moonglow Jewelry makes it possible with custom designs featuring a lunar masterpiece that reflects your memories and milestones. Pick the date of your choice and discover how the moon looked during your special moments and milestones. Each image is an original design by a Canadian artist and carefully set in a unique piece. Moonglow Jewelry hand finishes every purchase with genuine gemstones, Swarovski crystals, and semi-precious metals.

Silken Pure

PureWine Price: $9.99+ Who isn’t dreaming of that end of day glass of wine? Imagine no more headaches or other side effects that come after enjoying that beloved glass. Thanks to PureWine, you no longer have to suffer as it offers two unique filtration systems that eliminate the histamines and sulfites that cause wine allergies without altering the flavor of your delicious reds and whites. We’ll cheers to that!

Downunder There Price: $49.99 Women supporting women! Finally a solution for your pelvic floor that works and adds a pep to your step: the doctor-recommended Original Downunder Trainer. If you have a hoo-ha and want less leakage and more “O’s” then the Downunder Trainer is your new best friend. Train on the couch, at the office, running errands, or cheering on the soccer team. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month Downunder There is donating a percentage of proceeds to the Susan G. Komen foundation.

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Downunder There

Silken Pure is a line of robes, sleep masks, pillowcases and scrunchies which are made from 100% pure mulberry silk. The silk is full of protein-rich fibers that contain 18 different amino acids that your skin naturally absorbs and retains, which means when using their sleep masks and pillowcase, your skin is hydrating while you sleep. They also protect your skin from bacteria and allergens like dust mites that cause irritation and breakouts. For October, Pure Silk is introducing a limited edition pink leopard print and is giving 10% back of every pink leopard print item, as well as every pink item (except robes), back to Breast Cancer Research.

stay & play

Northeast Florida Road Trip

Amelia River

Ponte Vedra Beaches, Clay County, and Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches. Dine on fresh-caught local seafood, walk the pristine beaches and unwind ocean front at Amelia Hotel at the Beach, Seaside Amelia Inn, One Ocean Resort and Spa, Courtyard Marriott Oceanfront or Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa. Before hitting the beach, choose your tee time at a variety of courses nearby such as Fernandina Beach Golf Club or Amelia River Golf Club. Or on-site at resorts such as Omni Amelia Island Resort’s Oak Marsh and the Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa’s Ocean Course. Florida’s First Coast is home to THE PLAYERS Championship, The World Golf Hall of Fame, Amelia Island’s And Clay

Where else can you

combine worldclass play, history and natural beauty all while maintaining a safe social distance? Pack up your clubs, hop in the car and bring your thirst for adventure because we’ve curated the perfect getaway from bunkers to the beaches. Few destinations compare when it comes to golf getaways. Situated along 75 miles of the state’s Northeast Atlantic Coast, Florida’s First Coast of Golf has 39 coastal holes and 53 unique golf courses just a short drive away. In addition to world-class play, find year around sunshine, seafood, shopping and a number of oceanfront options from Amelia Island, Jacksonville and the Beaches, St. Augustine and the

County’s natural charm, Historic St. Augustine, Topgolf and the PGA TOUR Superstore, plus Anheuser Busch and over 15 artisan-owned breweries and distilleries. Whether your dream vacation includes sinking a hole-in-one on a challenging green or simply relaxing on our Northeast Florida beaches, Florida›s First Coast of Golf Is ready when you are. Here, an unforgettable getaway is just par for the course. Visit www. florida-golf.org for more information. 16

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

By Greg and Beverly Wise

special events

This Grid is Y-o-o-o-u-u-u-r-r-r-r-s! Imagine stepping on to the tee, with 3 other competitors, looking out at the grid and hearing the instructions. You have 2-minutes to hit 6 balls. I’ll give you a one-minute warning, 30-second, 20-second and a count down from 10-seconds. At this time hitters… This Grid is Y-o-o-o-u-u-u-r-r-r-r-s! Now this isn’t your normal golf game. There is load music playing in the background. You’ve got players making high stress screams of power with their swings… and you’ve got the gallery yelling and cheering for their favorites. Your objective is to stay focused. Get your tee in the synthetic turf… focus on that next swing and launch your ball are far as you can, in to the 60-yard-wide grid. If it drifts left or right, you’re out-of-bounds. Get over it and grab another ball and get it teed up and ready to smash. What is this adventure? Amateur Long Drive World Championship in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The 3rd Annual Amateur Long Drive World Championship was the concept for Amateur Golfers by Jeff Gilder. A true gentleman of golf with the foresight to create this long drive event for the Amateurs. The year truly ended with these World Championships in mid-August. Each season begins at local qualifying events around the country, close to you. Also available for your help with training and competition are local Long Drive Leagues that give you the opportunity to qualify through your local league as well. Champions were crowned in 14 individual categories this year… from young juniors, adaptive divisions, military, all the way to the men’s and women’s open division, and over 70+ category, affectionally called the Fossil Division. Talk about having fun with a golf club in your hand! They are on a mission to “Drive” the passion of hitting hard… with a tag line #AreYouLongEnough.

Tucker Teague

2020 Champions Listing Keep in mind… Final winning drives were directly in to a 15 MPH headwind (or what golfers call a 2 club wind) on the Barefoot Resort and Golf Practice facility. Open Men’s Division - Scottie Pearman - 343 yards Open Women’s Division - Kylee Dubroski - 246 yards Senior Men - Brandon Deveraux - 243 yards

Kylee Dubroski Junior Girls

Senior Women - Sandy Mills - 224 yards Super Senior Men - David Pat Johnson – 245 yards

Henry O'Grady Open Adaptive

70+ Men - David Hallenback – 228 yards Open Military - Ethan Cline – 282 yards Junior Girls - Kylee Dubroski – 250 yards Junior Boys - Joshua Fair – 301 yards Junior Adaptive - Noah Fair – 218 yards Open Adaptive - Henry O’Grady – 160 yards Youth Boys 6 & Up - Jake Porter – 79 yards Youth Boys 10 & Up - Tucker Teague – 298 yards Youth Boys 13 & Up - Kauner Kay – 287 yards

Kauner Kay 14 & Up Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Tucker Teague Youth Boys 10 & Up

David Deveraux Senior Men

Kylee Dubroski & Scottie Pearman

Joshua Fair Junior Boys

Sandy Mills Senior Women

Noah Fair Junior Adaptive Ethan Cline Open Military

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 21, Issue 4

David Pat Johnson Super Senior Men

Jake Potter 6 & Up David Hallenback 70+ Men

golf bachelorette

Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

Tell us about your first kiss?

What do you do for a living?

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island?

I was born in Daytona Beach Florida and grew up in a small beach town of New Smyrna Beach.   I own my own videography company, called Meghaphone Marketing, inspired by my name Meghan, hence the unique spelling. I make videos ranging from social media all the way up to television commercials for my clients.

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

When I was 16, I met a boy on a Disney cruise ship and we kissed on the last day - hehe.

My dog, wine, and family.

Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why?

Golf, relaxing?! LOL. I enjoy grabbing dinner with my entrepreneur girlfriends, as well as going to the beach and spending time with my baby (dog) ‘Bogey’.

My family, as they are the most special group of people I’ve ever known, and I’m proud to be a family member!

What golf apparel do you like to wear?

My dog, my business, and my family

Nancy Lopez!

Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty?

I admire my Grandmother most, she’s 94 years old and is the most passionate, sweetest, and hardest working woman I have ever met.

Meghan Hughes

Name the three most important things to you in this world. Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Success & Money

What do you fear the most? Losing my teeth   What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Tiger, Phil, Adam Scott

What are some of your great accomplishments?

I was named the 2018 Woman in Business Entrepreneur of the Year…I also was the 2018 Young Professional of the Year, as well as the 2020 40 Under 40 Small Business of the Year winner. I got a full ride golf scholarship and am debtfree because of the game!

Favorite comedian? Kevin Hart

Kids?

My 4 year old French Bulldog Bogey

Last book you read?

Where the Crawdads Sing

Favorite magazine? This one!

Favorite charity to support?

I can’t pick just one, as I support multiple charities that give back in our community by filming their stories.

What else would you like for us to know about you?

I have had 4 hole-in-ones, and two on the same hole within three days of one another. I birdied it on the day in-between. I was named Most Likely to Succeed in 8th grade, having no clue I would own my own business in the far future!

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

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

◆

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

golf bachelor

Name the three most important things to you in this world. Family, Happiness, & Money

Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Success

Jimmy Bell

What do you fear the most? Failure What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Arnold Palmer, Payne Stewart, My

Father

Favorite comedian? Robert Schimmel and Brian Regan Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? Comedy Favorite television channel? ESPN and Food Network What else would you like for us to know about you? Grunge Rock music is mostly in my iTunes.

Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was born in Buffalo, New York…But I grew up in Orlando, Florida What do you do for a living? I work for the PGA Tour Superstore in Orlando, Florida

What would you like to do for a living? Anything in the Golf

Industry

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Sports, the Outdoors, and Travelling

What golf apparel do you like to wear? Adidas Tell us about your first kiss? Her Dad just shook his head Steak, chicken, or seafood? Yes, I’ll take them all! Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I have had Cancer What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Throwing a temper tantrum 22

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

OFFERING OVER 3,000 ACRES OF SPACIOUS EXPLORATION

Spectacular Fall Colors await at this 36-Hole Golf Destination. RUMBLING BALD ON LAKE LURE, NORTH CAROLINA Stunning views and captivating color. Our location among the Blue Ridge Mountains and adjacency to the north shore of Lake Lure creates the perfect combination for experiencing fall beauty. Color begins to pop up late September but showcases itself in October and November. Both courses, Apple Valley and Bald Mountain have been given a Golf Digest four-star rating, and are specifically manicured for world-class play. Golfers of all ages and abilities are provided year-round opportunities to hone their skills on these stunning courses with their breathtaking mountain and lake views.

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Discover more at RumblingBald.com Additional packages available, call 828.694.3072 to book now. *Per person. Exclusions and fees may apply. May not be combined with other offers, discounts or previously book reservations. Valid through 10/31/2020.

growing the game

PGA TOUR Superstore and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Invest $9.5 Million in Next Generation Through First Tee First Tee, a youth development organi-

teenage years, where in the U.S. one in five public school children drop out

zation that helps kids and teens build

before they finish high school.

their strength of character through golf,

Beginning in 2021, more than 1,300

is expanding its relationship with PGA

First Tee teenagers will have the oppor-

TOUR Superstore, thanks to a $9.5 mil-

tunity to participate in an annual five-

lion grant from PGA TOUR Superstore

week leadership development program

and The Arthur M. Blank Family Founda-

at PGA TOUR Superstores. Additionally,

tion. The new grant will help First Tee

40 teens from across First Tee will be

reach more children across the U.S. and

selected annually for a week-long sum-

strengthen First Teeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s curriculum for

mit at West Creek Ranch in Montana,

teenage participants. PGA TOUR Superstore and The Arthur

260,000 kids in PGA TOUR Superstore

M. Blank Family Foundation have sup-

markets in 2011 to more than 1.5 million

ported First Tee for more than a decade,

young people in 2019. This new grant

helping First Tee grow from reaching

will help First Tee focus on the critical

an inspiring retreat space owned by PGA TOUR Superstore owner, Arthur M. Blank and with an intended purpose of growth, education and coming together

Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 21, Issue 4

to make a difference. “We are committed to being a positive

the door to more kids and teens across

Blank and his store executives for invest-

its network, especially inviting those who

ing in our future.” “The new leadership program and

influence in our communities and truly

are in underserved communities, to have

believe in the purposeful impact sports

access to programs and new opportuni-

summit will provide game-changing op-

can have in developing and supporting

ties. By leveraging the relationship with

portunities for the young people involved,

youth,” said Arthur M. Blank, Chairman,

PGA TOUR Superstore, the investment will

and we are grateful for the support of

PGA TOUR Superstore and The Arthur M.

also allow First Tee to provide continued

our chapters in PGA TOUR Superstore

Blank Family Foundation. “This is the em-

support to chapters located in PGA TOUR

markets,” said Greg McLaughlin, Chief

bodiment of the First Tee’s mission and

Superstore markets nationwide.

Executive Officer, First Tee.

we are proud to support them. For more

“We are grateful for leaders like Arthur

Mr. Blank, Chairman and owner of the

than a decade, we have built a strong

Blank and his family of businesses who

PGA TOUR Superstore, has donated more

partnership with the First Tee and will

understand the power of investing in

than $3.6 million to First Tee since 2011.

continue to work together to empower

young people and their communities

He is also owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Fal-

young people with core values such

through First Tee,” said Jay Monahan,

cons, MLS’ Atlanta United, Mercedes-Benz

honesty, integrity and sportsmanship that

Commissioner, PGA TOUR and Chairman,

Stadium, and three ranches in Montana,

will help them succeed throughout the

Board of Governors, First Tee. “First Tee’s

and co-founder of The Home Depot.

course of their life.”

ability to connect with and empower

In 2019, the PGA TOUR assumed

the next generation in intentional and

responsibility of the First Tee and re-

grams at 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and

innovative ways is realized through part-

organized it as a nonprofit subsidiary PGA

1,600 youth centers, First Tee is opening

nerships like this one. Thank you to Mr.

TOUR First Tee Foundation (First Tee).

Currently reaching kids through pro-

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

By Bob Bolton

grip it & sip it

Toasting a LPGA Legend

Jan Stephenson put the LPGA on the map in women’s competitive sports. Her physical beauty was matched by her skills and competitive nature on the golf course. You don’t win 8 world-wide major championships, 41 worldwide victories and get inducted in to the World Golf Hall of Fame (2019) without a passionate desire to compete and win. Jan is still passionate and competitive, just try to win a $5 Nassau bet from her and you will know what I mean. I’ve been fortunate to be a friend 26

of Jan’s for more years than either of us will divulge and feel blessed to be able to watch her develop her very successful wine and spirits business. Jan and I recently had a great conversation on our way to a wine/food pairing party at Heathrow Country Club in Orlando. She was the guest of honor at the event, I was the dutiful emcee. Here’s a brief recap of our conversation….

Question - Jan give us an idea as to how this came about…

Answer - It started with the wine, out of California. Paso Robles is a really Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

fun, hip area, definitely not the Napa and Sonoma feel. My winemaker, Cameron, had won winemaker of the year 4 out of 5 years, and we went to his winery, and I started making my wine with him. He told me you can’t just be the “name” on the bottle, you have to learn the business, immersing yourself in the industry. I went to Sommelier School in Australia, got my certificate and came back…making sure I was there in May for pruning, and then again for harvest. I started blending my own wines, with Cameron’s guidance, and we started winning awards, and now I “pair” my love for the game and the people associated with the game - with the enjoyable events we hold at country clubs all over the United States. Since I live in Florida, I’ve been really focusing on developing our business here.

Question - What are the different varietals that you produce?

Answer - My two favorite wines are the blends. It allows me to be creative. My new red blend is really good. We call it “3 Majors”, in recognition of the 3 U.S. Majors I won while on the Tour. My winemaker has made some suggestions that really induced a unique and very palatable taste. I’m really glad he did, we just won a Gold Medal.

Question - What are the different types of liquor you represent now?

Answer - The story is quite unique. I received a phone call from a beautiful distillery, under construction, in Utah, that was on part of the Brigham Young estate. They were looking for a celebrity to represent their line. They kept pursuing me, asking me to come out and visit, and that’s where I made my mistake. I went out and absolutely fell in love with the place. I asked them if we could put real fruit in the liquor, and we did. Pineapple in the rum, and won double gold. So now, I’m in the liquor business.

Question - If you could go back and Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

envision your life, back to when you first

wine and liquor, I would have bet you

started playing golf, could you have ever

would’ve never happened, because until

envisioned how your life has played out

I retired, I never drank. So to become a

over the past 40 years?

sommelier and own a liquor business, is

Answer - No, not really. My goal of being in the Hall of Fame was finally realized.

something I would’ve never imagined. If your country club is interested in

When I was convinced by the Commis-

hosting a Jan Stephenson Wine/Food

sioner to be the “sex appeal” of the LPGA,

pairing, please call (727) 849-8844. If you

it negatively impacted my ability to “just”

would like to find the closest retailer to

play golf, but I have to tell you, it was re-

purchase Jan’s wine or liquor, visit

ally fun to be a Superstar in the 80’s. The

www.jswinespirts.com. 27

leader on the links

Kimberly Spacek– founder of United States of Camo

avid golfer, Kim had a desire to provide stylish golf wear options for the modern golfer. With a nod to the tradi-

Coming from a military family, Kim is passionate about supporting individuals who selflessly fight for their country. Her father was an Air Force Colonel who was enlisted for over 30 years and served in the Vietnam War. Her uncle was a Tuskegee Airman who was the pilot that shot down the last manned German aircraft in WW2. With a nod to her passion for golf, she has launched her new company United States of Camo with a trucker hat that features the silhouette of golf tees on it. Future plans include additional golf centric sportswear items as the company grows. The focus on golf stems from it being one of the most popular sports on military bases. There are over 200 golf courses in use across the country. An 28

tional military camo, she developed her unique camo print that features all 50 states in a wide variety of colors. Kim says, “The retail industry is a great platform for presenting a new product that reflects my creativity and sense of purpose. It’s one of the few industries where a designer like me can develop a unique concept that blends my love of golf and my intention to support Veteran’s mental health causes.” The mission at United States of Camo is to bring awareness to the mental health issues that plague our country’s Veterans and to raise money to help them get the support they deserve. Everyone that wears the brand is proud to support the cause and help veterans get the help they deserve. Hats are $40 with 10% of sales going to charity. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

By Chaselyn Smith

leader on the links

Meet Chad Smith Golf and Chad Smith Golf Adventures Chad smith grew up in

Stanton Texas. He has been involved with many sports and has had many wins under his title. He first started shooting trap and skeet at the age of 9. During this point in time he won four straight state championships. Chad also played football and basketball during high school. Chad was a first team all-state football player and basketball player. His football team won state in 1997 with an undefeated season going 16-0. He then received a football scholarship at Northern State. While playing as a true freshman he injured his knee for the third time and had to quit football. After this injury he rehabbed on his own and decided to join the army and served until 2007. He left the Army after a fractured hip and bad infection that almost cost him his left leg. He then went through a period of being lost and depressed until he found the game of Golf. Golf gave him the peace and purpose he had been searching for. Since rediscovering his love for the sport of golf he has become a brand ambassador for Ben Hogan Golf, Quantix Golf, Cativa CBD, Yolked, Greens Plus, Haloheadband, Quantum Force Golf, Falko Golf Gloves, GROOVEITBRUSH, Turf Life, and Sunfish Golf. He is also an influencer and brand ambassador for golf, health, and fitness. He is a scratch golfer and, not only enjoys playing the game of golf, but he loves to promote and help grow the game. He works with children locally, teaching them the game, and sharing his love for golf. He enjoys to travel, and is always up for a new adventure. He loves having the opportunity to meet others that love the game of golf just as much as he does. He considers his family a huge part of his success and enjoys getting to watch his kids love for golf as well. You can always find him engaging on social media. instagram : @chadsmithgolf Facebook : Chad Smith Golf Twitter : @chadsmithgolf YouTube : Chad Smith Golf Adventures Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

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

New Tournament Name: PNC Championship IMG, NBC Sports and

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., announced that the newly re-named PNC Championship, previously known as the PNC Father/ Son Challenge, will take place at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Orlando, Grande Lakes from Dec. 18-20. In addition, PNC announced its multi-year title sponsorship renewal. News of the tournament’s new name was first shared this morning on The Golf Channel by Rob Reilly, CFO of PNC Bank and reigning Champion, Bernhard Langer. The renaming of the tournament as the PNC Championship is intended to reflect the composition of the field and the ever-growing stature of the event, held under the auspices of the PGA Tour. “We are delighted to be revealing both our long-term commitment to this highly competitive event as well as our new, more inclusive tournament title,” Reilly said. “Sponsoring this great Championship is the perfect opportunity to showcase the special family bond that sharing a love of golf creates as well as being a wonderful way for us to celebrate and enjoy so many golfing legends.” A winner of 116 titles worldwide, Langer has played in every tournament since 2002, and has partnered with both his two sons and two daughters over the years, winning twice with Stefan and twice with Jason. He commented: “I was thrilled to share the news of PNC’s continued commitment to this great event along with the name change this morning on The Golf Channel. It’s actually been a very inclusive family event for a long time now, as both of my daughters have enjoyed playing in it. It only makes sense for the name to better reflect this. This tournament is one of my favorite stops of the year, as it is with so many of my fellow pros, and we all really appreciate PNC’s long-term commitment to this very exceptional family event.” Since the inaugural tournament in 1995, when ten major winners gathered with their sons, the Championship has continued to evolve and develop. It now features 20 major champions and their relatives competing for the total purse of $1,085,000 in a two-day 36-hole scramble for the Willie Park Trophy. The 2019 edition was won by two-time 30

The 2019 edition was won by two-time major champion Bernhard Langer and his son, Jason.

major champion Bernhard Langer and his son, Jason. For over 20 years, the tournament has featured a multitude of family combinations including Father/Son, Father/ Daughter, Father/Grandson, Son/Father and more recently, Daughter/Father when Annika Sorenstam paired with her father Tom Sorenstam last year. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. has been the title sponsor of the tournament since 2012. Alastair Johnston, vice chairman of golf, IMG, added: “We started the PNC Father/Son Challenge to showcase the family bond that golf cultivates and to give the icons of our game an opportunity to share their success with the ones they love. More than two decades later, the tournament has created so many wonderful memories and we are incredibly grateful for PNC’s long-term support of this unique event. As the PNC Championship, we feel the name reflects the field composition and the event’s stature as we look forward to welcoming familiar faces, new talent

and different family partnerships to this unique event, while also celebrating the tournament’s history.” Jon Miller, president of programming, NBC Sports Group, said: “The PNC Championship is one of golf’s most celebrated events in that it closes out the calendar year with a focus on family,” said Jon Miller, NBC Sports President of Programming. “NBC Sports is proud of our heritage as a co-founder of this great championship, and we look forward to our continued relationship with PNC in elevating this event for years to come.” To qualify for the PNC Championship, players must have won a major championship or The Players Championship. Their partner must not hold a PGA TOUR card. For more information please visit pncchampionship.com Follow us: Twitter: @PNCChampionship Instagram: @PNCChampionship Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ pncchampionship Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

www.nonablue.com

By Mike May

georgia golf trail

Your Masters Week Alternative – Georgia's State Parks The Georgia Golf Trail Presented by

As the calendar gets closer

to midNovember, golfers will focus their attention on Georgia, specifically on the Masters (November 12-15) at the Augusta National Golf Club. While this year’s Masters will be held for the first time in the fall and for the first (and, hopefully, last) time without badgecarrying patrons, that doesn’t mean you have to cancel your trip to Georgia if you had plans to attend back in April. Instead, amend your Masters-themed travel plans and go visit Georgia’s state parks, many of which are part of the Georgia Golf Trail. These state parks have modern affordable housing options, diverse outdoor recreation opportunities, on-site restaurants, and, most importantly, well-designed golf courses, many of which are bordered by those famous loblolly pine trees which inhabit Augusta National. Again, of the 20+ golf courses that are part of the Georgia Golf Trail, many of them can be found within Georgia’s state parks. While some state parks may be off the beaten path, so to speak, they are worth making the effort to visit in order to play golf. “The golf courses within Georgia’s state parks are a perfect place to visit and play, especially during any Masters tournament week,” said Doug Hollandsworth, Founder, Georgia Golf Trail.

Unicoi Lodge Let’s begin the journey.

HIGHLAND WALK GC Rural Gem. There are many uphill and downhill tee shots at the Highland Walk Golf Course (706-245-6770) at Victoria Bryant State Park in Royston. The easiest downhill tee shot is at the par-four 1st hole, but the most memorable tee shot is at the 7th where a well-struck tee ball will soar forever in the Georgia sky. The number-one photo opportunity is the 17th. Here, your tee shot, struck from a raised tee box, will travel over a ravine to a narrow fairway. From there, go pin seeking to a flag perched on a raised green.

ARROWHEAD POINTE GC Brilliant Layout. In Elberton, there’s the

Arrowhead Pointe Golf Club 32

Richard B. Russell State Park -- home of the Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course (706-283-6000). At this golf course, considered the ‘Crown Jewel’ of the Georgia Golf Trail, the water views are simply stunning -- with 10 of the 18 holes skirting Lake Richard B. Russell. Arrowhead Pointe GC is consistent with the state park golf course theme of “no crowds, no houses, no noise.”

THE CREEK GC Scenic & Serene. In Social Circle, Georgia, the Creek Golf Course (706557-3006) at Hard Labor Creek State Park awaits your arrival. This course provides great value, as Golf Digest Frugal Golfer has listed The Creek as the “4th sweetest deal in the USA.” One of the Creek’s memorable holes is its

Highland Walk Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Georgia, enjoy the Unicoi State Park & Lodge (Lodge: 1-800-573-9659/Park: 706-878-2201). At Unicoi, located on the outskirts of Helen, you’ll rediscover your sense of adventure. The resort features archery, zip lining, fly fishing, tennis, hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and a 53-acre lake which is ideal for swimming, pedal boating, fishing, canoeing, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

AMICALOLA FALLS STATE PARK & LODGE Mother Nature’s Masterpiece. Another great North Georgia destination, where you can spend the night and enjoy

Brazells Creek

Creek at Hard Labor signature hole – the 5th. Here, a water wheel and bridge are located behind the green, creating a peaceful and picturesque backdrop.

BRAZELL’S CREEK GC Country Cool. The Brazell’s Creek Golf Course (912-577-7745) at Gordonia-Alatamaha State Park in Reidsville is a welldesigned par-71 layout. Georgia’s own Denis Griffiths designed this golf course. At Brazell’s Creek, a 1,500-foot wooden bridge winds its way through a canopy of trees, connecting the front nine with the back nine. The back nine was built on a windswept open landscape which has a links-style look to it. The front nine is tree-lined and the greens have creative contours.

The Lakes Golf Course

BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT Mountain Mama. Nestled among the North Georgia Mountains, Brasstown Valley Resort (706-379-4613) is the quintessential mountain golf getaway. The golf course was built in a valley like setting, which justifies its moniker – Brasstown Valley. The golf course is well maintained, cleverly designed, and entertaining to play. At all times, you have spectacular views of the surrounding mountainous terrain.

UNICOI STATE PARK & LODGE The Great Outdoors. While in North

Mother Nature’s amenities during the day, is Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge (800-573-9656). Located in Dawsonville, the name Amicalola is derived from the Cherokee language meaning “tumbling waters.” This park is the home of 729foot Amicalola Falls waterfall, the highest in Georgia. Amicalola Falls is also the home of Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. For more information about Georgia state park golf courses along Georgia Golf Trail, access www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com.

THE LAKES GC Southern Sensation. The Lakes Golf Course (912-285-6154) at Laura S. Walker Park in Waycross is the southern-most golf course on the Georgia Golf Trail. The fairways and landing areas are defined with gentle, links-style mounds that accent the course’s three large lakes while the greens are large and undulating. Loblolly pines line the fairways at The Lakes. Brasstown Valley Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

golfheader travel

Love Los Cabos

By Greg & Beverly Wise

And back down the mountain we come on number 16.

Whether adventuring to Cabo San Lucas

Sunrise in Los Cabos 34

for your first visit, or maybe making your 20th visit to the area, a trip to Los Cabos is a vacation you will never forget. Pristine blue waters of the Sea of Cortez create the perfect backdrop for any kind of getaway. We found that Los Cabos holds the key to every door in your imagination. Our plans to Cabo wrapped around playing quality golf and adventure seeking. Los Cabos will welcome you whether by air, land or sea for a relaxing and enjoyable stay in paradise. More than 500 weekly flights from 40 destinations, connecting different places in the United States, Canada, and Latin America. Situated where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortes at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos boasts a mountain-desert-ocean environment nowhere else in the western hemisphere. If you have ever imagined a golf haven with such diversity including 18 golf courses woven into dazzling seaside and desert landscape, Los Cabos is the destination for you. Only in Los Cabos do the emerald green fairways seem to slide down from

cactus-studded foothills to meet the sea. Only in Los Cabos can golfers tee it up on world-class layouts built by such design legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Greg Norman, Davis Love III, and Robert Trent Jones, Jr within just a few minute drive. Our choice for this trip was Quivira Golf Club, the sixth Jack Nicklaus Signature Design golf course in Los Cabos. In a breathtaking setting at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Quivira is a true triumph of engineering and visualization. Marked by magnificent granite cliffs, huge windswept dunes and rolling desert foothills, this tremendous layout plays through numerous arroyos, acres of cactus, and lots of rock. A total sampling of everything Cabo has to offer. And, yes… I found most of them. Playing the first hole is an incredible feeling as you are hearing the waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing directly behind you. You’ll play the first 4 holes in the low lands of the resort. Get used to the environment and flat lies… because that is about to change. Then after scaling the face of a mountain in route to the fifth tee, players encounter the first of four complimentary comfort stations serving some Mexican specialties and refreshments. Enjoy the view…and take a deep Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

The Camel adventure was incredibly scenic Tremendous dishes at the Peninsula at Pacifica

Number 5 at par-4 – hit to the ribbon of fairway straight ahead in the middle of the picture… or go at the green hanging out from the cliff on the left side of the picture.

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Resort Hotel breathe, as you finish the ascent to the 5th tee. This is an unforgettable test from any set of tees that you are playing. Play safe and just over the edge and play the second shot with a severe drop to the green… or take your chances to go for the green and play the slope of the hill. Be careful of this choice. There wasn’t even a chance to catch your breath as you are on to the 6th hole. A par-3, not very long… but your eyes will convince you to play right. Playing

over the ravine… while you know missing it left… your ball will find its way to the splashing surf below the granite cliffs consuming your golf ball. Stay focused! With views of the Pacific Ocean from all 18 holes, Quivira offers more oceanfront exposure than any other course in Los Cabos. I’m convinced that this 2-hole stretch of the 5th and 6th at Quivira can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Congratulations to Director of Golf,

Even the “drop area” on number 5 isn’t a really a give-me. A little long… and you’re gone! Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Antonio Reynante. He has a tremendous staff of experts that make your experience on this course a true dream. They are schooled in Customer Service and if you have a need… they have an answer and take responsibility for its completion.

It’s all in the numbers Black Tees 7,085 Gold Tees 6,609 Blue Tees 6,153 White Tees 5,553 White Tees - Women Red Tees 4,766 Red Tees - Women

74.1/142 72.0/137 69.4/131 67.0/120 71.1/122 63.7/107 66.5/113

Quivira is accessible to guests of Pueblo Bonito Golf & Spa Resorts. We booked our stay at the brand new Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Resort Hotel. What a beautiful location. Opening the curtains to our room at this special world class resort… was walk out access to the many pools that were spotted through the courtyard area. A V-shaped building… every room had a beautiful view of the Pacific and walks on the soft sand beaches were incredible. Having our own Cabana was a very special treat to enjoy the private beach. Dinner the final evening was at the Peninsula on the South side of the resort. Tremendous service was just an added 35

Ready for the camel adventure benefit to the outstanding dishes that we selected to experience in this Resort Casual dining.

What about adventures around Los Cabos… We choose an ATV ride on the sand beaches of the Pacific Ocean. Ask yourself this… where else are you going to do this? Running a 4-wheeler or a side-byside Razor up and down the sand dunes and experiencing the natural beauty of this sea side adventure? We looked at a number of vendors that offered this type of an adventure and we decided to contact Cactus Tours (http://www.cactusatvtours.com). Looking at the reviews, most all mentioned cleanliness and quality customer experience. “Look this is an off-road experience… you are going to get dirty!” They also provided a van service from your hotel, resort or would pick you up at the marina if you were coming in on a cruise ship. Okay… not up for an ATV adventure ride through the dunes? How about a Camel ride where the safety equipment had you looking like you were in for a long term adventure. The southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula, in just over 25 years, has steadily increased its roster of superlative facilities, resorts and adventures. Our next visit to Los Cabos will be in January to see the whales and other sea life that migrate to this region for the warmer waters during the winter months.

Beverly and I along with Phyllis and John Maloney on the shore of the Pacific

Only to find more rocks in the middle of the fairway Quivira Club House, Steakhouse and 19th Hole Bar… set along the shore of the Pacific Ocean

What a view of the additional beachside construction from the first Comfort Station

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

cart girl

n a g or re M l mo E

Where did you grow up?

Born and raised Florida girl. I’m from the small town of Chiefland.

Which group of people did you associate most with in high school?

I never really stuck with just one “group” of people. I am a social butterfly, so I talked and got along with just about everyone.

How long have you been working at your course?

I started at JF in July of 2019 so a little over a year.

What is your favorite sport to play?

Is being clumsy a sport? LOL I did actually just start working on my golf game.

Favorite sport to watch?

I guess I would say Football, its more about the tailgate for me though.

Do you enjoy playing golf?

Well I’m just starting to learn the game so “enjoy” might be a little farfetched, but I am making progress.

Are there any golfers in your family?

My mom played all throughout high school and still goes out every now and then.

What do you feel makes your course special?

My co-workers all the way! We have a great group here that makes it fun for the golfers AND the workers. It never feels like a day at work here.

What is your favorite part of being a cart girl?

Getting to be outside on the course (heart eyes) and getting to just have fun with the golfers while they’re out there playing. I like to help make it not so serious and more fun.

What is your least favorite part?

Besides being a cart girl, what would your ideal job be?

I would love to be a flight attendant. Basically a cart girl but in the air. But really, I think it would be awesome to get to travel all around to different places, meet tons of new people and see all there is too see.

What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course?

We had a golfer doing “the silly salmon challenge” and jump into one of the ponds. (if you’re not familiar with it YouTube it)

What type of music do you prefer?

I’ve got a wide variety of music that I listen to; it really depends on my mood. While on the cart I keep the speakers playing some country though.

What is your idea of “the perfect date”?

I would have to say April 25th, because it’s not too hot and it’s not too cold and all you need is a light jacket…..(if you don’t know the movie….stop right now and watch)

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?

I’m going to relax and drink my cocktails at home, I’m my favorite bartender and don’t have to pay extra for a heavy hand.

Favorite comedian?

Well this would have to be comedian(s) and I’m going to say my girls here at the falls. If you’ve been around when we are all together you know. Toot toot!

Favorite type of movie?

Comedy or Scary. It’s got to be either laughing until I cry of scared to walk around the corner.

What else would you like for us to know about you?

Well if I tell you everything now, what are we going to talk about when you come out to Juliette Falls to see me??? ;)

When the weather just doesn’t cooperate with you. 38

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

adies orth florida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGA north Ladiesflorida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGAheader north Ladi

By Beverly Wise Photos by Greg Wise

Wire-to-Wire Win at Mission Inn Championship

Can you imagine stepping on to the first tee in the Mission Inn Championship, presented by IOA Insurance… a Symetra Tour event in mid-October, with the feeling that this was your week? Mission Inn Golf Resort and Club truly fit her game. Matilda Castren from Helsinki, Finland’s wire-to-wire victory was a very impressive way to get your first win on the Symetra Tour in just your second year on the tour. After firing a 5-under par 68 in the opening round on the El Campeon course at Mission Inn Resort, Matilda held the lead over night by one stroke over Gemma Drysburgh from Aberdeen, Scotland. Firing a second 5-under par 68 in the second round allowed Matilda to distance herself by 3-strokes over second place finisher, Maddie Szeryk from London, Ontario entering the final round on Saturday. The final round was just as solid as the first two rounds. Although the wind was a factor on Saturday, Matilda held her game together to finish with a 2-under par 71 on the par-73 course for a total 207 for the tournament. Final round statistics showed Matilda had hit 11 of 14 fairway… with driving distance of 266.00 yards. She only used 30 putts in the final round and had hit 14 of 18 greens in regulation, showing the winds that picked up in the afternoon were having an effect on everyone’s game. The Beucher Family at Mission Inn Resort and Club did a miraculous job preparing this golf course when the opportunity arose to host this Symetra Tour event. Bud Beucher mentioned in the closing comments that their entire team came together to make this happen for the ladies and had tremendous 40

2020 Champion - Matilda Castren admiration for Heath Ritenour of IOA Insurance, for stepping in to the title sponsor role for the event. Mr. Beucher specifically commended Daniel Parks, Golf Course Superintendent at Mission Inn Resort for the tremendous condition that he and his staff had accomplished in bringing this course to these excellent playing conditions for the ladies… saying that he had heard nothing by praise for the conditions by the players. If you ever the opportunity to play Mission Inn Resort and Club and specifically the El Campeon, 18-hole track,

it was built in 1917, designed by George O’Neil of Chicago. This golf course is so unique for Florida and Mr. O’Neil created the routing for the course to take advantage of every element that you can imagine. Congratulation to Matilda Castren of Helsinki, Finland on winning the Mission Inn Resort Championship in such an impressive manner. Her best finish prior to this week’s win was a T29 at the Four Winds Invitational this year. This win at the Mission Inn Championship vaulter her up to 15 place on the official money list Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

in the “Volvik - Race for Card.” Roughly $26,000 behind front runner Fatima Fernandez Cano. The Symetra Tour awards LPGA Tour memberships to the top ten players in the Vovlik – Race to the Card from the official money list each year. Good Luck ladies… finish strong. Matilda Castren – Helsinki, Finland 68-68-71 208 -12 Linnea Johansson – Bastad, Sweden 70-71-71 212 - 7 Anna Redding – Concord, NC 73-71-70 214 - 5 Dewi Weber – Groningen, Netherlands 71-71-73 215 - 4 Pannarat Thanapolboonyaras - Sand Shot on 16

Elin Arvidsson

Linnea Johansson - Bastad, Sweden

Vicky Hurst - Melbourne FL

Anna Redding - Concord North Carolina

Matilda First Win Mission Inn

Maddie McCrary - Wylie TX Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Putting Solid - Matilda Castren 41

golf history

By Mike May

Lake Worth Beach Club seafood dishes are popular

If you are looking for a memorable din-

west Florida for a round of golf at the

ing experience to complement a memo-

Fort Myers Country Club, stop for a

rable round of golf at one of the 53 golf

bite to eat at The Edison Restaurant &

courses along the Florida Historic Golf

Bar (239-936-9348) where three of the

Trail, try one of the many grills and

favorite menu items are the Southern

restaurants which are located on the

Smothered Chicken, The Bright Idea

premises of many of those golf courses.

Burger, and the Hole 19: B.L.T. There

They are as good, if not better, than

are weekday daily specials such as

advertised.

Mystery Monday, Taco Tuesday, All You

When you visit the Riviera Country Club (386-677-2464) in Ormond Beach, it’s a one-stop golf and dining experi-

Worm Burner Italian Sandwich

ence. Arrive early for breakfast and order the Hole-In-One. After warming up on the driving range and playing 18 holes, stay for lunch. The Riviera Club sandwich and the sirloin cheeseburger with a bowl of Italian beef and rice soup are popular choices. After playing the South Course at the Daytona Beach Golf Course, cap off your experience by sampling the fare at the Worm Burners Bar & Grill (386-8724713), which is located on the premises of the club. Breakfast is served as early as 7:30 am and the grill closes for the day at 3:00 pm. The Worm Burner’s Bar & Grill is a fitting way to begin or conclude a day of golf at this Donald Ross design. If your travels bring you to south42

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Can Eat Fish Fry on Wednesday, 1/2 Price Cheese Pizza on Thursday, and Prime Rib! Friday. The Edison affiliation is a reference to the late, great Thomas Edison who was a member of the club back in the 1920s. Edison played a role in hiring Donald Ross to design this golf course. When you walk off the 18th green at the Lake Worth Beach Golf Club in Palm Beach County, visit The Beach Club On the Waterfront (561-585-8976), which overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. In addition to enjoying the

Fort Myers Country Club Southern Smothered Chicken

spectacular views, sample what’s on the menu, especially the Nachos Beach Club and the Beach Club Catch. If you want to watch a game on television, there are 15 HD televisions inside to suit your viewing pleasure. Other popular items are the signature grilled avocado, chicken wings, club sandwiches, cobb salads, fish tacos, and, of course, its colossal cheeseburgers, which many guests say that is the best burger they have ever eaten. Here, breakfast, lunch and dinner are served seven days a week. Two other extraordinary dining outlets along the Florida Historic Golf Trail include the Hole 19 Scratch Kitchen & Bar at the Miami Springs Golf & Country Club (305-893-8000) and the Temple Terrace Grille at the Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club (813-988-1791). For more information about all aspects of the Florida Historic Golf Trail, especially its many delicious and delectable dining destinations, check out its website:

Riviera Sirloin Burger

www.floridahistoricgolftrail.com. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

By Allan Duncan

playing from the tips

How Permanent Life Insurance Can Help Pay For College Like the golfer who adds a 60-degree wedge to their bag to help them get closer to the hole, permanent life insurance can be a great tool to help you reach your college funding goals. How Permanent Life Insurance Can Help Pay For College Whether or not students begin the upcoming fall semester of college in live classes or online is still up in the air, but one aspect hasn’t changed much. That is the tuition you will be paying. As the cost of higher education continues to rise it’s important to understand the different strategies you have to pay those college bills.

Life insurance Most people understand that life insurance protects your family in the event of your death. A few might know that it can be a tool to accumulate cash value that can provide tax-efficient income in retirement. Even fewer may

be aware that it can also help pay for college. It’s important to understand that benefits from permanent cash-value life insurance, like whole life and indexed universal life, are generally taxfree. This allows you to take tax-free policy loans—provided there is enough cash value—to supplement your college funding plan. (If you are using this strategy it’s important to know that your death benefit may be reduced if you don’t pay back the loan. Also, loans cannot exceed the total cash value of the account. If this happens your coverage could lapse unless you add more money to the policy.) Unlike a 529 plan, the cash value of your life insurance policy doesn’t affect financial aid calculations in the initial

FAFSA (free application for federal student aid). Just like you want your golf score to be as low as possible, you want to lower your family’s EFC (expected family contribution) number calculated in the FAFSA as much as possible, and a cash value life policy may help. It’s a good idea to talk to your financial professional to find out if a permanent life policy might help you pay for college. That’s where we come in. For more information about how to tee up a plan to fund your life’s passions, hobbies and long-term dreams, contact Allan Duncan, Independent Wealth Advisor at 800-871-1219 EXT 7 or email Allan@scarletoakfs.com. Advisory services offered through Capital Asset Advisory Services, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

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Vic Tortorici Selected for South Florida PGA Hall of Fame AND Named PGA Golf Professional of the Year

Sailfish Point Director of Golf

Vic Tortorici has been selected for induction into the South Florida PGA (SFPGA) Hall of Fame and also named PGA Golf Professional of the Year by the second largest section in the U.S. Tortorici, along with Vineyards Country Club Director of Golf Tom Metzger, are the Hall of Fame’s 44th and 45th inductees. Both are recognized for extraordinary leadership and commit-

ment to the game of golf and service to the SFPGA and SFPGA Foundation. Tortorici is the first section member to be bestowed both honors in the same year. “Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is an unbelievable and humbling honor,” Tortorici told the SFPGA. “to be included among the golf professionals who make up the South Florida PGA Hall of Fame is the absolute highlight of my career.” Professionally, Tortorici enjoyed stints on the Asian, European and Korn Ferry Tours and held the lead in the 1983 U.S. Open after nine holes. He began his tenure at Sailfish Point in 1988 and has six team members who’ve worked with him for 20 years. Highly regarded for his retail expertise, Tortorici was named SFPGA Merchandiser of the Year in 1997 and was a finalist for the national award in 1998. Tortorici’s impact on the game can be felt through his community service and deep involvement in growing the game. He started the Martin County High School Invitational Golf Tournament, assists the Sailfish Point Foun-

dation in awarding seniors at Martin County high schools with college scholarships, and has helped build an SFPGA-sponsored home for Habitat for Humanity. “Changing people’s lives through the game of golf has been one of the most rewarding parts of my profession and I hope future generations will continue to cherish that aspect of the game,” Tortorici adds. “I will always be indebted to my family, my staff, and the members of Sailfish Point for the last 32 years, all of whom have shown me unwavering support and helped make this dream a reality.” Approaching 2021, Tortorici is leading the most comprehensive golf course renovation in Sailfish Point’s storied 40-year history. The complete “reimagination,” lead by Nicklaus Design, will yield an eminently playable layout, one that sets up perfectly for players of varying ages, abilities and ambitions. The proposed project schedule entails an April start, re-grassing in August and reopening over Thanksgiving.

Sailfish Point - Hole #18 46

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

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Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 21, Issue 4

freddy's fairway thoughts header

By Fred Seely

One of golf's great visionaries is Jimmy Stockton (second from right) who founded Sawgrass Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach in 1972. He was honored last month by the club with a plaque and a dinner, and among those attending were (from left) club president John Brantley, Membership chair Steve Frankiewicz and club memberJim Hoener. The presentation was made at the “Ed Seay Rock,” which honored the golf course architect who designed the course, and whose design impressed Arnold Palmer enough to bring him in as a partner in his golf course design business. Mr. 62 The Jacksonville Area Golf Association Senior usually produces predictable scores...until this year. Contractor Mike Vallencourt lagged behind after the first round and stunned everyone with a closing 62. No pitch and putt, either – it was the Clyde Johnstondesigned St. Johns G&CC in St. Augustine which played to about 6,100 yards. Vallencourt had a back-nine 29.

Trump's Tip A friend used to work in New York City and played at Winged Foot with Donald Trump, who back then was just another wannabe rich guy. He asked Trump why he was such a good putter. He got this answer: “When I get ready to hit the putt, I tell myself 'Hands to the hole'.” Our prez, it seems, didn't decelerate in golf any more than he does as prez.

Pronunciation The ABC announcers in the U.S. Men's Amateur telecast kept pronouncing winner Tyler Strafaci's last name as Stray-FACH-ee, sort of like the name of that government doctor who keeps changing his mind on what to do about the virus. I've known several generations of Strafacis and I've always heard it pronounced as Stru-FASS-ee. No matter. Good work by a good kid from a good family.

Pandering Golf is maybe the whitest of the white sports and was ignored by Black Lives Matter and other pressure groups, but that didn't stop golf associations from making sure everyone knew what side they were on. Pander No. 1: The PGA of America Zoom-like ad which somehow was suppose to convince us that a group of black PGA pros were victims of the system, thus they didn't get big jobs. Like 48

being on the PGA board, maybe? Pander No. 2: The PGA Tour's clumsy video set to rap music and featuring, of course, the world's most famous Asian-African American. It was supposed to prove how much the Tour likes black folks, we assume, though they don't mention how many black folks are in their high echelons. Pander No. 3: The First Tee ads featuring the kids of colors learning the game. If that is so successful, how come the predominately black high schools in my town don't have golf teams? And how come black golfer Harold Varner, when asked why there were hardly any blacks on Tour, answered that they didn't have the opportunity that white kids did? Pander No. 4: It's great that the USGA has brought back its magazine, but can they convince anyone that a cover story on the greatness of the world's most famous Asian-African American was always planned for that month?

Grow the game Our game has had zero growth in recent years so maybe something good has come out of COVID-19. Lots of people have nothing to do so they're playing golf. Our club's Member-Member, usually a nice event that fills at the last minute, had over 40 teams on the waiting list.

Familiar name Minitour fans will remember Andrew Giuliani, who was tossed off the Duke golf team and tried to make it in golf about 15 years ago by playing various local events around Florida. He's now an intern in the White House and is running to be mayor of New York City, just like his father Rudy was.

Opinions • Yes, yes, yes...Bandon Dunes is a hot spot for a golf trip. Before spending bookoo dollars to get there, I need to be convinced that it's a lot better than what I see on TV. • If Winged Foot were not near New York City, would it be regarded as being better that one of the better courses in your town? With, of course, maybe the best clubhouse? • Bryson DeChambeau doesn't fit any mold we know on the golf course. But, if we were in school with him, wouldn't he be the guy who raises his hand first all the time? • Every sport needs a villain and we have one of the best in Patrick Reed. • I'm not sure that the USGA excels at anything except promoting itself. • if you look closely at the new PGA Tour almost-year-round schedule, don't you notice that almost a quarter of the tournaments are between the Tour Championship and the Sentry Tournament of Champions? So shouldn't the big boys started thinking about playing some of what used to be throwaway tournaments? • Shameless sexist comment: aren't the LPGA players better looking than they were a few years ago? • The PGA Tour wants to emphasize FedEx points but we want our rankings to be in something we understand: dollars. Please tell the TV announcers that it's okay to mention both. • Is there really a course named Mickelson National?

Comments? Compliments? Threats? fs4569@comcast.net.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

product showcase

CLEVELAND GOLF Cleveland Golf, an industry leader in wedge design and innovation, introduces two new finishes for the RTX ZipCore: Black Satin and Tour Rack. Raw, customized, and marked with a “T,” RTX ZipCore Tour Rack wedges are identical to those used on tour by the best in the world. With this latest release, Cleveland is delivering the same stock of tour wedges to the masses. “It’s got great lines and that classic look you’d expect from Cleveland,” said Graeme McDowell. “I love the way it feels. I love the way the ball comes off the face, and it’s exciting that you will be able to play the same wedges that we play on tour.” Another new option with this release is Cleveland’s Custom Sole Grind option. Start with any one of the RTX ZipCore soles and one of our master craftsmen will grind each wedge by hand to create that dream sole, just like we do for the best players in the world. The result: a unique wedge grind that is fully customizable to everyone’s short game. Cleveland’s RTX ZipCore Black Satin wedges are priced at $149.99 MAP, while the RTX ZipCore Tour Rack wedges are priced at $169.99. Both finishes come standard with True Temper’s new Dynamic Gold Spinner Tour Issue shaft and Golf Pride’s Tour Velvet 360 grip.

Maui Jim Corporate Gifts Don’t choose just any gift for your next golf outing. Offer your participants “The World’s Most Memorable Gift Experience” with a Maui Jim digital or onsite gifting experience. Why Maui Jim sunglasses? We’re the #1 premium polarized brand in the industry and the pioneers of the onsite experiential gifting concept. We can be there onsite with your group for that instant gratification gift or if you’ve gone virtual, you can give your participants the choice of any pair of sunglasses available at mauijim.com. We’ll provide you with gift cards or e-cards that cover 100% of the costs of sunglasses and shipping—making online shopping a breeze for your recipients, and for you! For more information you can call 800.614.6790 or email us corporategifts@mauijim.com

SMPLSTC’s CBD Feeling aches and pains while playing on the green? Get natural relief with SMPLSTC’s CBD topical treatments designed to alleviate golfer’s elbow, as well as knee, and back pain to help you play your best game. CBD topicals are the perfect remedy for sore muscles, cramps, chronic pain, and other bodily ailments that plague the best of us. A particularly effective alternative to traditional painkillers, NSAIDS, and other medications, SMPLSTC’s anti-inflammatory CBD roll-on topical creams could be your perfect solution. Simply apply the Roll-On or Salve directly to the area that needs relief and their blend of pure, full-spectrum CBD and essential oils will do the rest. The brand’s 500mg Roll-On features a naturally healing blend of joint relieving ingredients such as full-spectrum CBD Oil, cooling Menthol, and antiinflammatory Eucalyptus Essential Oil. Each roll on features an anti-inflammatory blend that is sustainably sourced, carefully extracted, and independently lab tested for purity. The brand’s hemp is grown naturally, without pesticides or harmful chemicals, once cultivated, they undergo a CO2 extraction process to preserve the most beneficial phytochemicals from the hemp plants. Customers can use the lab-tested Roll-Ons which are absorbed directly through your skin to your body, not through your bloodstream. This creates the signature therapeutic effect that is localized directly into the desired area. Just apply as needed, without needing to worry about the proper dosage. Link to purchase: https://smplstcbd.com/ Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

cuisine on the green

Chef Steve’s Mouth-Watering Eggplant Parmigiana St. Andrews Executive Chef Steve Viggiano continues to offer his five-star cooking skills regardless of the current situation or whether he’s able to open all dining venues at the Club. While take out options are still available, as well as the Drive Thru Pop-Up Specials, Chef Steve is also offering some at-home cooking classes for members. This recipe is a classic treat and an easy dish for you to prepare at home to enjoy with your loved ones. It’s also a very convenient meal, as you can make it ahead of time and heat it up when you’re ready to dine. Try it out and let us know what you think! Buon appetito!

EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA 2 Eggplants, peeled and sliced to ¼ inch slices 1 Cup Flour 6 Eggs ¼ – ½ Cup Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, depending on your taste Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Salt & Pepper ¼ Cup of Rough Chopped Parsley Canola Oil Fresh Basil Leaves, roughly chopped or ripped Pomodoro Sauce _______________________________________________________________________ Preheat oven to 400 degrees so it stays nice and hot. Dust eggplant slices with salt and pepper and set aside. Crack eggs into mixing bowl and season with salt and pepper. Add parsley and whisk. Add grated cheese and whisk again. Transfer egg mixture to a long, wide dish if you’ve cut the eggplant long so it’s easier to coat them. Warm sauté pan over medium heat. Coat bottom of pan with canola oil. Lightly flour one slice of eggplant on both sides and then dredge in egg mixture. Place in heated oil and cook on each side until golden brown. Once golden, move the slices to a wire rack over another pan to drain and drip dry. You’ll likely have to do this process in phases depending on how many eggplant slices fit in your pan. Spread a layer of Pomodoro sauce on the bottom of a glass oven-safe pan. And begin to layer the ingredients: 1. Add layer of eggplant. 2. Spoon a layer of sauce over the eggplant. 3. Sprinkle layer of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated cheese. 4. Begin another layer of eggplant and repeat steps 1-3 until you’re done with eggplant. Instead of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, you can add sliced whole milk mozzarella cheese for the thicker top layer of cheese. Bring oven temperature down to 325 degrees before putting the pan in the oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Serve with your favorite bread, pasta or a light salad. 50

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 21, Issue 4

By Greg Wise

what's new

Testing the new SQAIRZ Golf Shoes “These are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever owned!” Don’t you just hate it when companies put this type of testimonials on their website and who is this Sir Nick Faldo, anyway? Do some marketing departments sit around thinking about ways to say it differently and then put a new name on each one? Well… there is a difference. “These are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn.” Out of the box and 18-holes, and I was ready for more cause my feet were fine. That just doesn’t happen… At least to me. From the start of this adventure there was a different. Lacing the shoes

up for the very first time, you experience the new Sta-Put lacing system. These laces have a silicone square about every inch of the lace. When you snug up your shoes for play, they will stay at the tension that you play… all day. No slipping, No re-tying. When you first slip your feet in to the SQAIRZ shoes… you’ll be feeling something totally different. I would describe it as if you were climbing into a Lamborghini for you first time. Once you are in, you feel like this shoe has wrapped itself around your foot. There is a wide open feel to the toe box in these shoes… roomy yet

very secure, that’s hard to explain… but it does, almost like playing golf barefoot. Rock back and forth… You FEEL the stability in this shoe. Try to twist your feet on the Turf grass… they won’t shift like other typical golf shoes… allowing you to connect to the ground in a way that creates additional torque from your swing adding to additional swing speed and distance. AND WE ALL WANT THAT! SQAIRZ’s had independent tests done vs other leading shoes with +2 to and 18 handicap players and shared those results that increase the swing average of 2.2 mph and driving distance increased an average of 8.8 yards. When you have put on and laced up your SQAIRZ for the first time… you stand up and look down. There is no toe. It seems odd the first time… but take a simple practice swing and finish properly and see what that golf shoe does for you. RIGHT! It goes to where it is supposed to be pointed to the ground and that SQAIRZ toe is helping stabilize the finish as well. For me… my golf shoes have to look good when I look down at them at address to align my shot. There are so many shoes on the market that I just look at and they don’t look right. From the very first glance at these shoes… I knew they would work for me. Check out all of the data on their website – SQAIRZ.com. These golf shoes have a 2-year Waterproof guarantee. That is unheard of. The Gusseted tongue prevents water, sand, or other debris from 52

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

entering the interior of the shoe So, here is my takeaway from this. If you are looking for a little extra yardage off the tee… why buy to latest greatest driver? Why not invest in a “Ground Up Restoration” to your game with new shoes that can provide that extra distance, help your entire game and swing get better… and make your feet happy at the same time. “SQAIRZ for Life” for me. When you look at the website… unfortunately it is Men’s Styles only right now, but ladies’ shoes are coming early in 2021. My wife has already been looking and selecting the colors she wants.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

SunnilandSUPERSpotlight: Bo Estey I was very fortunate to grow up around a golf course community (Palm Beach National) in Lake Worth. My parents lived along the first fairway there for over 40 years. I began working on the golf course at the tender age of 15 working summers and part-time through high school. I became assistant superintendent at the age of 21 under the direction and mentoring of Mark Jarrell. Mark taught me the serious side of the business and shared words of advice and encouragement that I still practice to this day. Mark also supported participation in the local chapter of the FGCSA, letting me tag along to the monthly superintendent meetings where I met many prominent people in the turf industry. We also participated in numerous course reconstruction projects at PBN working with the famed architect, Joe Lee. This experience served as a gateway to a future of golf course construction and turf management. course on a 400-acre orange grove. Over

were planted with Champion Bermuda

Gator Trace Golf Club in Ft. Pierce. It

3 million yards of dirt was moved to

upon my arrival in the summer of

was a small operation, yet good experi-

create one of the most undulating golf

2019. The west course greens are cur-

ence. I eventually became certified

courses in Florida. Our 17-year tenure

rently Tif-Eagle with plans to convert to

through the GCSAA in 1995 with high

at Quail Valley was filled with rewards

Champion during the summer of 2021.

expectations ahead. I landed in Jensen

and challenges alike.

My first superintendent job was at

Beach at Eagle Marsh in 1997 partici-

I have now come full circle back to

Sunniland products have always been a dependable staple in my fertility

pating in the construction and grow in

Palm Beach County currently serving as

programs. Superintendents have so

with developer Steve Mulvey and archi-

Director of Agronomy at Indian Spring

many choices with a slew of challenges

tect Tommy Fazio. Steve later moved on

Country Club in Boynton Beach. Man-

on the golf course every day. It is nice

to be the sole founder of Quail Valley

aging a private, 36-hole facility has cre-

to deal with a company like Sunniland

in Vero Beach in 2001. We relocated to

ated fresh new challenges with diverse

that is reliable while providing positive

Vero Beach to build an amazing golf

grass varieties. Our east course greens

results.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Sunn 28-0-0

Minors Blend

Sunn 6-0-0 Blend

Total Nitrogen ..........................28% 20.2% .......... Slow release Nitrogen 7.8% ......................... Urea Nitrogen

Total Magnesium (Mg) ..........0.50% Soluble Magnesium (Mg) ....0.050% Soluble Iron (Fe) ...................3.40% Chelated Iron (Fe) .................1.60% Total Manganese (Mn) ..........0.25% Soluble Manganese (Mn) ......0.25% Soluble Zinc (Zn) ..................0.10% Sulfur (S) combined ..............3.50%

Total Magnesium (Mg) ..........0.50% Soluble Magnesium (Mg) ......0.50% Soluble Iron (Fe) ...................3.40% Chelated Iron (Fe) .................1.60% Total Manganese (Mn) ..........0.25% Soluble Manganese (Mn) ......0.25% Soluble Zinc (Zn) ..................0.10% Sulfur (S) combined ..............3.50%

Derived from: Manganese Sulphate, Zinc Sulphate, Iron Glucoheptonate, Iron Sulphate, Magnesium Sulphate.

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Total Nitrogen ..........................12% 12% Urea Nitrogen Chlorine not more than ..............2%

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A conversation with two current GSGA Foundation Yates Scholars on virtual learning and their unique college experience

Manuela Longmene, Evans, Ga. Yates Scholar at Kennesaw State University, Kinesiology major, Boone Aiken Knox Endowed Scholar, Augusta National Golf Club Q: What changes have been implemented to try and provide a safe learning environment at your school? And how have you adapted those changes? Longmene: “Some changes that Kennesaw State University has implemented to provide us a safe learning environment, is allowing our professors to choose whether they would like their students to have online or inperson classes. They have also required face coverings while on campus and in buildings, as well as having staff members sanitize and clean work areas. Kennesaw has also provided all students with facemasks and new outdoor spaces for students to study, lounge and socialize. Having to adapt to online school has been quite the journey and difficult, however, I am slowly starting to adjust with improving my organization and study 56

skills.” Q: How challenging has it been this year so far with the changes? Longmene: “I would be lying if I said doing school in a pandemic is easy, and it has been challenging to stay motivated. But when I think about my future and all my goals in life, it does encourage me to keep going. As a visual and aural learner, taking classes through a computer screen is not ideal. Also, being an Exercise Science major and taking classes such as Anatomy & Physiology, it is difficult not having inperson lectures. With that being said, I still am very grateful and fortunate to be healthy and well to be attending college and receiving a higher education.” Q: To you, what does it mean to be a Yates Scholar and receive the financial aid to help ease the cost of college? Longmene: “To be a Yates Scholar means the absolute world to me. To be seen as commendable enough to receive a scholarship from this great program makes me extremely thankful. Receiving financial aid not only helps me tremendously with the cost of college, but it gives me a boost to strive as hard as I can to reach my educational goals. It keeps me motivated to work hard in school during this pandemic. When I think about all the people who have contributed to my college success such as the GSGA Foundation, it is a true eye-opener to remember that I can do this, and I will reach all my aspirations.” Q: How did you hear about the GSGA Foundation and the opportunities to be a scholar? And what does the program mean to you? Longmene: “I heard about the GSGA Foundation through my father’s employment at the Augusta National Golf Club. When I heard about the program, I was very excited to apply and be a part of it. The GSGA Foundation to me is one of the greatest opportunities given to me to help me excel in college with the financial support behind me to do so. I am so grateful to be chosen as a Yates Scholar and will use it to my fullest.” “To be a Yates Scholar means the absolute world to me.” ~ Longmene

Jennifer Quezada, Duluth, Ga. Yates Scholar at the University of Georgia, Public Health major, Wilson P. Franklin Endowed Scholar, Atlanta Athletic Club Q: What changes have been implemented to try and provide a safe learning environment at your school? And how have you adapted those changes? Quezada: “My school has gone almost entirely virtual to protect student and faculty health. I say ‘almost completely’ because there are still some classes happening in person. There’s also this hybrid system where students in each class are divided into groups with the groups alternating which days they attend lectures in-person versus virtually. Furthermore, my school suspended large gatherings, meaning that club meetings, career fairs and informational sessions that would typically take place in Tate are now happening via Zoom. The majority of my classes are entirely online with only one of them implementing the hybrid system. I took online courses over the summer, so I’ve grown accustomed to virtual learning and time management. I miss seeing the people in my clubs, and it feels strange to me walking through Tate and not seeing large crowds.” Q: How challenging has it been this year so far with the changes? Quezada: “All of the changes that this year has brought have been somewhat Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

challenging, but nothing unbearable. I get accustomed to change quickly, so I learned to adapt early on. Also, as somebody studying Public Health, I understand that all safety measures are for the greater good. In general, I’d say having patience and understanding is what has gotten me through the majority of this year. On the other hand, I acknowledge that I’m one of the lucky students who doesn’t struggle with learning disabilities and has a happy home life. I feel for my peers who are not in the same situation as me. I can only imagine that the pandemic changes have been more difficult for them.” Q: To you, what does it mean to be a Yates Scholar and receive the financial aid to help ease the cost of college? Quezada: “To me, being a Yates Scholar and receiving the financial aid to help ease the cost of college is a huge blessing. As a first-generation college student, I had many questions about navigating college, and I had nobody to turn to for answers. Receiving the scholarship through GSGA has been amazing because it gives me a little less to worry about. Additionally, being a Yates Scholar means that I can postpone student debt until I get to graduate school — something that I am excited to attend but not excited about the related expenses.”

Q: How did you hear about the GSGA Foundation and the opportunities to be a scholar? And what does the program mean to you? Quezada: “I heard about the GSGA Foundation and the opportunities to be a scholar through my manager, Jan Howell. When I first started at the Atlanta Athletic Club, I was in high school, still working on completing my college applications. During that time, I had confessed to Jan that I was worried about having crippling student loan debt. I didn’t know much about scholarships except for Georgia’s Zell Miller Scholarship, which I knew I would receive, but it wouldn’t be enough to cover my entire cost of attendance. That was when Jan told me about the GSGA Foundation and their scholarship – her daughter Genna had also been a scholar when she was in college. “The program means a lot to me. I think it’s great that there are people who are kind and willing enough to donate money so that students like me can afford to seek higher education. I remember when I was an incoming college freshman, the adults in my life would say ‘apply for scholarships,’ but they wouldn’t point me in the direction of any that I was eligible to receive. The pool for some scholarships can be huge. It gets to the point where you feel your applica-

tion will get lost in a sea of applicants and never be acknowledged. Ultimately, I’m grateful for the GSGA Foundation. I hope that one day, once I’m established and well off in my career, I can come back and make a donation to the Foundation to help other students like me get college degrees.” “To me, being an Endowed Scholar and receiving the financial aid to help ease the cost of college is a huge blessing.” ~ Quezada

GSGA Foundation

The Yates Scholarship Program provides educational opportunities for employees and their dependents at GSGA Member Clubs. Named for Charles, Dan and Danny Yates of Atlanta, all of whom have contributed greatly to the game of golf. The program is in its 33rd year and has supported hundreds of scholars. Online applications for the 2021-22 school year for both the Yates Scholarship Program and the Moncrief Scholarship Program for turfgrass majors will be accepted from January 1, 2021 through 3:00 p.m. on March 1, 2021. The GSGA Foundation is the charitable affiliate of the Georgia State Golf Association. For more information, please contact Kim Crisp, senior director, at kcrisp@gsga.org or clink on the link https://www.gsga.org/support/ scholarships/about-the-gsga-foundation/.

Not So Superintendent with Will Dennis and James Cornell Not So Superintendent

is a podcast by two Assistant Superintendents. We talk about the funny parts of the golf industry and things we deal with at work every day. Everything from rude members, desperate salesmen, pushy head pro’s, cranky equipment technicians etc. The assistant superintendent has to deal with all of this with little recognition. We wanted to shine a light on this profession, while trying to make people laugh because laughter is so important in this stressful but rewarding job. Find the podcast on Apple and Spotify: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5 CmcrbLhLQCM88gq2Y1ach?si=fcwhcpoz TmuTAYis3r4I5A Apple:https://podcasts.apple.com/ us/podcast/not-so-superintendent/ id1524670764 https://notsosuperintendent.company. site/ Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Less is More in Times of Social Distancing – Audubon International Signature Sanctuary certification helps Cateechee Golf Club during pandemic

Education Signage on course at Cateechee Golf Club

Coronavirus sparked a minimalist movement across the globe. We see people vacationing locally vs. traveling to distant places, we see people making more home cooked meals, and lastly, we see a minimal approach to golf course maintenance to abide by social distancing requirements. Is the minimalist approach more sustainable? Audubon International believes so, and our numerous certified golf courses implement this approach daily. An example is certified Signature Sanctuary, Cateechee Golf Club – the first of its kind in Georgia. Cateechee enrolled in the Signature Sanctuary program in 1996, before development of the golf course had even begun! And, the golf club continues to maintain its bronze certification status today. In fact, Cateechee celebrated 20 58

years of certification just last year! Nestled in the quaint town of Hartwell, Georgia, Cateechee Golf Club is part of a 420-acre property originally designated to be the town’s wastewater treatment disposal site, but thanks to their Signature Sanctuary certification, this property continues to evolve to serve many purposes in addition to waste water disposal, including an 18 hole semi-private golf club and outdoor learning space for local youth. Amongst Cateechee’s numerous environmental efforts, creating and maintaining wildlife habitat is a focus, as described below by Savannah Schell, Wildlife and Fisheries Biologist at Cateechee: “At Cateechee, we’re home to a native population of Northern bobwhite quail; a species whose populaGolf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

tion numbers crashed in our region in

2019 Signature Sanctuary Recertification Site Visit, from left to right: Kat Findlay (Director of Signature and Classic Sanctuary Programs, Audubon International), Buck Workman (Golf Course Superintendent, Cateechee), and Savannah Schell (Fisheries & Wildlife Biologist, Cateechee)

the mid-20th century due to extensive loss of early-successional habitat and have struggled ever since. Cateechee’s native areas border the field of play and are managed with the “less is more” approach. These extensive areas offer a safe space for nesting, growing, and adult Northern bobwhites.” Cateechee positively impacts lives on and off the course by hosting local Hartwell School District students for First Green; an initiative to use golf courses as outdoor classrooms to provide schools with unique field trips, where lessons are focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). First Green curriculum is offered through the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), and beyond the STEM lessons, demonstrates potential careers paths students can pursue in the industry. In November 2019, Ca-

Overlooking Certified Audubon International Signature Sanctuary Cateechee Golf Club

teechee welcomed their first

Course Superintendent, Cateechee Golf Club Signature Sanctuary Certification is

class of fourth graders to the course where they learned

customized to the property and provides

about ecology, water qual-

guidance throughout construction and

ity, and numerous potential

long-term management. A less is more

career paths for their future

approach benefits a property’s sustain-

consideration. In addition to

ability and has set certified Signature Sanctuary courses up for success

First Green, Cateechee also offers a Junior Naturalist program; designed for 7-17 year-olds to learn about local ecosystems and their impact on nature. Audubon International certified properties include outreach and education as part of their certification. The most elite, and customizable certification track Audubon International offers, the Signature Sanctuary Program guides properties, both golf focused and not, in

navigating the challenge of sustainable

throughout times of social distancing

design and its long-term management

and minimized maintenance.

by educating staff and public alike. “Initiating Audubon International’s

Audubon International, an environmentally focused non-profit organization

Signature Sanctuary Program during

offers members numerous certifications

the construction of Cateechee greatly

to protect the areas where we live, work,

enhanced my environmental awareness.

and play. Their programs are designed

The written plan helped me focus on

to increase environmental awareness,

what is important and how to ensure

encourage sustainable environmental

sustainability in those areas. It taught

efforts, and educate both their members

me how to monitor results in a factual

and their communities.

method.” – Buck Workman, Certified Golf Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

Famed Ocean Course Opens After Year-Long Renovation Project Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Ocean Course, one of Florida’s oldest and most iconic golf courses, has reopened after being closed for renovations over the past year. The project, which was the third major renovation to the Ocean Course in its history, since 1928, was overseen by celebrated golf course architect Bobby Weed and included significant enhancements to the golf course and the practice facilities. “It is wonderful to be able to celebrate the reopening of the Ocean Course,” said Michael Gordon, Vice President and General Manager of Ponte Vedra Inn & Club. “Today marks a culmination of hard work and tireless efforts to provide our members and resort guests the finest of golf experiences. The Ocean Course has long been a jewel of golf in the area and these enhancements will ensure that

this continues for years to come.” The upgrades included the expansion of the practice area into a full-service facility to hone all aspects of a player’s game, and the updating and modernization of golf course infrastructure. Notable is the addition of an exciting new hole on the back nine, the par-3, 13th. Improvements to the practice areas include the teeing ground on the existing south tee being tripled in size and the addition of a teeing ground on the north end for PGA professional

lessons with access to double-sided target greens and short-game precision greens. Just off the new 10th tee is a state-of-the-art short-game practice facility. The updates to the practice facilities allowed for changes to the routing of and realignment of the golf holes on the golf course’s back 9. Along with the other changes, the former par-4, 10th hole was eliminated allowing for the construction of the new par-3, 13th hole on the north end of the property. With this change, the Ocean Course will now play to a challenging par of 71. Other design changes to the golf course include lower green complexes and additional screening areas. The green at the 2nd hole was moved closer to the surrounding lagoon. The 9th hole, with its historic Island Green, has been visually enhanced to provide a better view of the put-

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

ting surface, while the 14th hole offers players a completely new look from the tees making this hole a longer and more challenging par-5. The 17th hole now features an enlarged lagoon bordering the right side of the hole. Enhancements to the infrastructure of the golf course included having all 18 greens rebuilt to meet current USGA standards and grassed with TifEagle Ultradwarf bermudagrass. The project saw all tee boxes rebuilt and grassed with TifGrand bermuda grass and all in-play areas were re-grassed with Celebration bermudagrass. Additionally, golf course bunkers were rebuilt and reconfigured with an emphasis on strategy, overall aesthetics, and maintainability. Expansive swaths of non-turf screening areas were introduced, reducing irrigated and maintained rough grasses while adding a striking visual contrast and strategic value to the design of the Ocean Course. The renovation also included the rebuilding and refurbishment of bridges and bulkheads and a complete overhaul of the irrigation system. The Ocean Course, which was designed by British golf course architect Herbert Strong, opened in 1931 and had subsequent major renovations in 1947 by Robert Trent Jones and in 1998 by Weed. The course was selected as host of the 1939 Ryder Cup Matches, but the

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

competition was cancelled due to the start of World War II. The Ocean Course has also served as the site of the U.S. Open qualifying five times and has been the host of the Gate Invitational since 1985. In addition to debuting the renovations at the Ocean Course, the resort also unveiled two new beachfront buildings as part of its repertoire of 262 rooms. Modern beachside luxury is now the ultimate lure for guests at the Ocean House and Peyton House.

Steps away from the Ocean Course and The Racquet Club, the new 41 guest rooms and suites provide guests the luxury indulgence of an ocean-front boutique destination. These well-appointed accommodations, some featuring room connectors, are designed in a chic, southern coastal fashion that honors the spirit and heritage of this memorable resort. Each room and suite seamlessly extends to generous private terraces or patios that lead directly to our world-renowned beach.

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Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4