Golf Central Magazine - Vol 21 Issue 5 by Golf Central Magazine

Volume 21, Issue 5

Ray Allen Michael PeĂąa

ns and re io p m cha ies a LPGA lass celebrit ble c ta world- an unforget or back f golf. of week

Celebrities Scheduled to Appear

om c . A G dLP n o m Dia

January 21-24, 2021

Tranquilo Golf Course at Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando

Michelle Wie

h c t Ca Action the

Ben Higgins

Lexi Thompson

Tune in

FULL LENGTH INDIVIDUAL DIVIDERS

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

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Great golf is only the beginning.

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

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

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header from the publisher

The Presence of the Tribe When people talk about tribes it is often in the context of Native American Indians. Deep among the pines, mountains, swamps and dark waters, and vast desert plains of the Volume 21, Issue 5

west, the Indians resided, placing

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

a high value on education, family, spirituality and the land. The golf tribe has the same values; promoting the

farmers, lawyers, teachers and

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

preachers, builders, foodies, and those

Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by:

who make the weapons of the game.

Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708

love of the game to others, respecting the turf, and giving through charities. Tribal people are dynamic people with a strong history and a promising future. Our tribe is made up of grass

Golf is the only sport to grow during

NEW PHONE: 321.765.7550 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com

the pandemic with record sales of all things golf-related. We have brought new people into the tribe and had many people who left, feel the pull to come back. While our focus is golf-centric, we also have to respect, protect and bring awareness to all games played on turf. This quote by Danielle Doby, is an inspiring gift to remind yourself, of “your” vibe.

Will Dennis and James Cornell Not So Superintendent podcast

©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.

Becky and Clifton Galloway

“Be around the light bringers, the magic makers, the world shifters and the game shakers. They challenge you, break you open, uplift and expand you. They don’t let you play small with your life. These heartbeats are your people. These people are your tribe.” I am forever thankful for the gift of having all the wonderful givers at

Chad Smith

GCM…Its like a Christmas Miracle everyday!

Have A Groovy Holiday! .

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Volume 21, Issue 5 18

Cart Girl 34 Angie Martin Carolinas Golf Central 44 Rumbling Bald FEATURE 10 Vortex Weather Insurance Golf Bachelor 28 Andrew Painter Golf Bachelorette 14 Melinda DAwson

Feature A

rticle Pg

Golf Fore Charity 16 Golf Marathon 26 Invisible Shield

Growing The Game 24 GSGA Foundation Living on the Links 40 The Meadows Country Club Stay & Play 18 Barnsley Resort Turf Life 50 Love on the Links 52 Not So Superintendent 54 Sunniland Super Spotlight: 20 Brian Woods 30 56 Monarchs in the Rough 32 58 Sentosa Golf Club 36 60 Mystical Golf 42

Departments

What's New 12 Orca Golf Bags

46 48

Holiday Gift Guide Competitive Spirits Grip It & Sip It Golf History South Florida PGA Freddy's Fairway Thoughts Playing From The Tips

golfcentralmag.com

header faeture

Don’t Let Rain Slice Into Your Event’s Revenue Vortex Weather Insurance partners with Florida PGA Sections

ince 2008, Vortex Weather Insurance a weather risk insurance agency, has offered a variety of weather insurance products for outdoor events such as fairs, festivals and concerts – and now there are product offerings specifically for golf events. With the recent release of RainIQ™ (Rain Instant Quote), an online pricing portal, Vortex Weather Insurance is able to provide the golf industry with instant and affordable hourly rain insurance quotes for Tour events, Pro-Ams, amateur tournaments, charity fund raisers, corporate outings and more. Bad weather is bad business for golf. To that end, Vortex Weather is pleased to announce its new partnership agreement for 2021 with the North Florida PGA Section and the renewal of its current partnership with the South Florida PGA Section. Vortex Insurance representatives will have the opportunity to present 10

by Holly Geoghegan several educational webinars to each section to discuss the benefits of insuring golf events and the new, innovative and user-friendly RainIQ portal. Representatives will be attending various section events, speaking to groups at different meeting sites and playing at section outings. In addition, Vortex has agreed to be a supporting partner of the 2021 Pro-Assistant, May 26-27, at Naples National and TPC Treviso Bay. “Vortex Weather Insurance is excited and proud to partner again with the South Florida PGA Section, while adding a new partner in 2021, the North Florida PGA Section,” said Eric Anderson, Vortex Weather Insurance Producer. “These Sections will help us expand our reach to help club professionals protect their event revenue from the rain.” By taking advantage of recent advancements made by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin-

istration (NOAA), Vortex Weather Insurance products, offered via RainIQ, utilize localized-gridded weather data. Rainfall is calculated within a 2.5 mile-square box that includes the actual insured location. This innovation by Vortex allows for higher precision and accuracy – as compared to using an existing weather station as a measurement point that may be ten or even twenty miles away. RainIQ makes understanding weather insurance and its benefits simple and easy. The portal can customize a club professional’s tourGolf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

nament needs providing free, nament needs providing free, flexible and local information flexible and local information and policy costs. and policy costs. Some of the benefits ofof Some of the benefits RainIQ include: RainIQ include:

Chance of of .25.25 inches of of rain falling onon any single day June - August. Chance inches rain falling any single day June - August.

• Affordable quotes available in in • Affordable quotes available minutes minutes • No application necessary to to • No application necessary getget a quote a quote • Requires minimal data input • Requires minimal data input • Customizes a policy based onon • Customizes a policy based your budget your budget • Coverage forfor pre-defined • Coverage pre-defined hourly periods using targeted hourly periods using targeted local data local data • Free and easy to to use • Free and easy use “We were very fortunate “We were very fortunate toto recently work with Vortex recently work with Vortex forfor one of our major events,” one of our major events,” commented Geoff Lofstead, Executive commented Geoff Lofstead, Executive Director, South Florida PGA. “The serDirector, South Florida PGA. “The service was easy to use and set up and vice was easy to use and set up and provided usus with the needed peace ofof provided with the needed peace mind in case the event was impacted mind in case the event was impacted

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

due toto rain.” due rain.” Golf is anan unpredictable sport, Golf is unpredictable sport, and so is the weather. Vortex offers and so is the weather. Vortex offers insurance products nationwide and insurance products nationwide and can help protect your golf event from can help protect your golf event from weather risk and lost revenue any day weather risk and lost revenue any day

oror any time. any time. For more information oror toto obtain For more information obtain a quote, contact Eric Anderson, a quote, contact Eric Anderson, 203-550-6150, eanderson@guaran203-550-6150, eanderson@guaranteedweather.com. teedweather.com.

what's new

Orca Golf Bags Shines at The Masters Custom Golf Bag for Former Masters Champion Gains Clear Golf High Visibility

get there.’ There are a lot of ways to be involved in the golf theater, and this is my path.” Women-owned by Erica and Deborah Bennett, ORCA Golf Bags is one of the few US golf bag companies focusing solely on making golf bags, allowing for craftsmanship and attention to detail that help it stand out from the herd of mass-produced bags on the market today. ORCA also makes beautiful

Every new company in the golf industry hopes for the players at the highest levels to take notice – and maybe even uses – its product in competition. For ORCA Golf Bags, this dream came true on the biggest of stage. When former Masters Champion Charl Schwartzel put his new Clear Golf bag into play last week at The Masters, ORCA co-owner and lead designer, Erica Bennett, saw the bag during the television coverage, it was a that dream come true. ORCA was commissioned by Clear Golf to create the Masters-themed bag. Schwartzel

“When I saw the Clear Golf bag we designed on television, I became quite emotional. It took me back to the little girl growing up in Jamaica with a dream to be successful in the sports world. I didn’t have a lot of opportunities,” said Bennett, an accomplished athlete and author who fell in love with golf later in life and launched Orca Golf Bags just four years ago. She added, “When I saw the bag it thought, ‘if another little girl with the audacity to dream saw this story and thought, I can do this, it would be worth the uphill battle to

and functional tote bags, athletic bags, and shoe bags and recently launched its newest game-changing product, the Pod. The Pod is the ideal case to safely hold a cell phone and sunglasses, providing an accessible “home” for golf gloves, scorecards and other necessities while the golf bag is stowed away or not in use. ORCA Golf Bags are available online and soon to be in green grass locations. Custom bags for events, corporate outings, clubs and individual personalization can be crafted by visiting www.orca-golf.com.

plays Clear Golf’s Tour Green golf ball. ORCA Golf Bags is owned and operated by Erica and Deborah Bennett of Fort Lauderdale. Their story is not unique among the ranks of golf industry upstarts: two smart, successful business people with a passion for the game find their calling within the industry and set out to change at least one corner of the golf world. Like most, they personally identified within a niche, in this case the golf bag, and set out to create the proverbial “better mousetrap.” Four years ago they set out on their journey as the only women-owned golf bag design/build company in the United State, and now they are about to have their work carried across the Augusta National landscape. 12

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

golf bachelorette

Melinda Dawson Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

Born and raised in FL…proud to be able to say I’m a native!

Is “acting your age” overrated?

Absolutely. Being good at adulting is one thing but being young at heart is everything.

What do you do for a living?

Senior finance executive for a private-equity backed healthcare IT company, and small-business owner of a gourmet food store called Oil & Vinegar.

What would you like to do for a living? Volunteer.

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

Traveling, reading, and spending time with friends…though that may entail playing golf!

What golf apparel do you like to wear? Nancy Lopez all the way!

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

Taking it too seriously. A day on the golf course and all that…

Favorite Golf Ball:

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

Tell us about your first kiss?

What do you fear the most?

Saintnine Golf Balls UPRO Pink

Oh boy…hope mom and dad don’t see this…I was 13 and it was at what is now Daytona Stadium during halftime of a football game. His name was Bruce and it was very sweet.

Would I be the bachelorette if the answer wasn’t love?

Disappointing someone.

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? Both! Who needs sleep?

Steak, chicken, or seafood? Moo!

Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I am a closet introvert.

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

Pool day with friends. We gamified everything. There may have been some injuries…but a lot of laughing, too.

Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? RomCom

Alcohol, Oil & Vinegar, and a boat!

Favorite television channel?

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

Last book you read?

A bartender, a chef and a captain 

Last time you spewed something through your nose from laughing so hard?

Fox News or anything showing sports

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Alexis Sieg

LPGA Professional recommending the top golf products in the industry!

alexisgolf.com

Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 21, Issue 5

Article & photos by Greg Wise

Playing for a Cause! Golf Central Magazine staff recently attended and supported the “Golf Marathon for Ovarian Cancer Research” played each year at Redtail Golf Club in Sorrento, Floirda. The day of golf was actually split into 2 groups. Marathoners that were playing as many holes as they could, based on donations for amount of holes plays, pars and birdies. Even special donations for a Hole-in-one. And a second group of players played Heads-Up Team Golf in a 4-person Scramble format. Proceeds from the “Playing for a Cause” Golf Marathon & Events help fund potentially life-saving research for women battling gynecologic cancer at AdventHealth. Dr. Robert Holloway, Med-

ical Director of the Gynecology Oncology Program at AdventHealth Cancer Institute, is participating in a clinical trial to help determine how immunotherapy can be used to treat women with ovarian cancer. Studies like this are critical in finding life-saving treatment options for gynecologic cancers. Your support helps bring this cutting-edge therapies to patients right here in Central Florida. The Presenting Sponsor VITUS Healthcare. VITAS hospice office serves as a “home base” care teams, which includes physicians, nurses, home health aides, chaplains and social workers. VITAS, provides hospice care wherever their patients call home and on an inpatient basis as needed. Most Holes Played Award: Alec Chandlee from the Foley Performance Golf Academy in Orlando.

Most Money Raised Award - Karen Ingalls, Ovarian Cancer Survivor Gage Hodges - Director of Golf for Redtail and his entire staff did a great job with course set-up and tournament services. We are looking for additional marathon locations in the Central Florida area. Donations can still be made until November 30th. Please see playingforacause.org and select Give Now! Due to Covid we were not able to do our normal Party for a Purpose! But we were able to award prizes via a nice Virtual Party for a Purpose. The host for the Virtual Party for a Purpose was Beth & Blaise Rosario’s home in Longwood. For more information on how to get involved please call Dave Walker at 321-277-9094 or auctionsbydesign02@gmail.com.

Scramble Division: Winners:(l to r) Steve McMillan, Lisa Bowen – Event Host, Bill “Golffather” Ceubas, Beverly Wise, Greg Wise, and David Walker – Event Director 16

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Sly Terry, Vonda Britt & Beth Rosario

This year was highlighted by an 11 year ovarian cancer survivor that matched funds raised on all donations. Golf Marathoner Carol Tucker (left) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Cancer Survivor and one of this year's marathoners. Pictured with Bonnie Donihi and Kathy Feldman. Carol explains her round in the golf marathon to Bonnie and Kathy, also cancer survivors. As always many of the ovarian cancer support groups are involved with this event.

Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 21, Issue 5

stay & play

Heartfelt Holidays and Premium Play at Barnsley Resort Where festive decor, award-winning golf and Southern hospitality combine for the ultimate retreat Located halfway between Atlanta

ics and classes are also available. While the resort is home to a

and Chattanooga and set against the

stunning golf course, there’s more to

foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains

explore beyond the greens, includ-

lies Barnsley Resort, a 3,000-acre

ing hiking trails, canoeing, catch-

getaway where nature, history and

and-release fishing, biking, sporting

hospitality come together as one.

clays or wing shooting at the Be-

While this North Georgia resort offers

retta Shooting Grounds, archery and

authentic, memorable experiences

guided horseback rides, as well as

year-round, a trip here for the holi-

the historic Manor House Ruins and

days is unmatched in every way.

gardens. The resort offers elevated

For many, the 18-hole Jim Fazio golf

Southern cuisine at multiple on-site

course is the premiere prize of the

resort. Often described as a ‘beautiful

best collections of par-three’s any-

challenge,’ the course spans 378 acres

where. The Golf Performance Center

and blends into the natural surround-

includes a 750 sq. ft. enclosed studio

ings of North Georgia, winding around

where students can tee-off from bays

the resort’s lake, forests, and gardens.

onto the driving range, as well as

The course boasts some of the fast-

two TrackMan radar systems. Private

est greens in the Southeast, elevation

golf instruction for all levels – from

changes off the tee and one of the

novice to professional - PGA clin-

restaurants, as well as 150 guest rooms spread out between the 55-room Inn and 39 individual cottages, which range from one to seven bedrooms. “Barnsley Resort’s golf course has been a fan favorite among locals and travelers for years. Our golf professionals are incredibly knowledgeable and

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

provide unparalleled guidance to help

Barnsley Resort Cottages - Arbor

players perfect their game. In addition to golf there are dozens of activities to enjoy, and the best way to cap off any day is by toasting s’mores at the outdoor firepits. The holidays are also a magical time, and while things may look a bit different this year, that doesn’t mean guests can’t enjoy the opportunity to get away together in a safe and memorable resort environment.” -David Friederich, President, Barnsley Resort Throughout December, the Manor House Ruins, gardens and village green will illuminate the night with more than one million twinkling holiday lights, complemented by multiple wellappointed Christmas trees. To further get into the holiday spirit, guests can partake in an array of holiday workshops, such as gingerbread house making, ornament decorating, wreath making, and more. The resort’s online Calendar of Events lists all upcoming events, including details on specially prepared Christmas dining experiences. Be sure to take advantage of the Warm & Cozy winter package, which includes a signature Barnsley Resort logo blanket and $100 activity credit. For more information or to book, visit www.barnsleyresort.com or call 877-773-2447. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Barnsley Resort Hole #2 19

Holiday Gift Guide ❄ Holiday Gift Guide RZN GOLF “A WINNING BRAND” IS BACK! From 2011 to 2016, golf balls with RZN Technology helped elite golfers claim more than 50 wins on professional golf tours around the world (PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, PGA European Tour, Ladies European Tour), including 4 majors. That same Resin Core Technology is now back and available in the U.S. The RZN Distance is a 3-piece golf ball with a resin core and high resilient ionomer cover manufactured with state-of-the-art technology. It’s designed to maximize distance with an effortless swing while maintaining a soft feel off the tee and around the greens. What to Expect: • Explosive Distance on ALL long shots due to our powerful Resin Core formulation • Reduced Air Drag due to Micro Dimple Surface • Piercing flight for better control in windy conditions • Bigger Alignment for easier aiming while putting Purchase online at www.rzngolf.com - $19.95 per dozen

Man Crates Man Crates is the ultimate online gifting destination for every man in your life, providing unique, high quality, and useful gifts that come with an equally as fun opening experience. With The Man Crates Personalized Golf Ball Mini Crate, choose up to three uniquely personalized designs for a total of 24 golf balls beautified with our state-of-the-art UV printer and guaranteed to last at least as long as it takes him to lose them in a pond. Price: $79.99

IMPACT PRESS, The Innovative Training Iron Designed to Help Golfers Achieve a Tour Caliber Impact Position

The crate comes with: • 24 Monogrammed Callaway Golf Balls (Up to 3 designs) • 1 Personalized Ball-Marking Divot Fixer • 1 Golf Towel www.mancrates.com

The new IMPACT PRESS Training Iron offers a revolutionary design that will help golfers improve their impact position and contact resulting in better ball control. Proper use and training with the Impact Press club helps golfers improve their impact position by improving the pitch of the shaft in the downswing and pushing the hands forward at impact. This provides a golfer with an improved low point of the swing, improved dynamic loft at impact, improved contact and, most importantly, better ball control Launched at the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show, Impact Press was designed and created by Bill Schmedes III, one of the top golf coaches in the U.S. Bill has been voted by Golf Digest as one of the Best Young Teachers in America (2016-2019) and he is also recognized as one of the Best Teachers in New Jersey. Bill is a full time instructor at both Forsgate Country Club, Monroe Township, N.J., and Shackamaxon Country Club, Scotch Plains, N.J. Impact press is now available at PGA TOUR Superstores, Rock Bottom Golf, In the Hole Golf and Golftrainingaids.com. The product sells for $99.99. For more information, please visit www.impactpressgolf.com. 20

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Holiday Gift Guide ❄ Holiday Gift Guide Scotland, Home of Golf New Book Exquisitely Showcases Fourteen Top Links Courses Scotland, Home of Golf has been published as a stirring visual collection of 14 “must play” seaside links courses on every visitor’s wish list. The authors’ stated intent of the book is “to rekindle happy memories of previous trips or inspire the desire to visit Scotland.” The 14 featured courses that span some 600 years of history are exquisitely showcased from the air and the ground in captivating photos that illumine the singular topography and inspired architecture of the links form of golf. Meticulously hand-drawn pencil illustrations, coupled with accompanying informative text, celebrate and chronicle the game’s greatest influencers and champions who have graced the ancient fairways of the book’s selected iconic courses. Four modern designs, constructed since 2000, also are included as the most sought after new links golf experiences. The highlighted courses are: Carnoustie, Kingsbarns, The Old Course, Dumbarnie, Muirfield, North Berwick, Turnberry, Prestwick, Royal Troon, Castle Stuart, Royal Dornoch, Cruden Bay, Trump International and Royal Aberdeen. Scotland, Home of Golf is the collaboration of the accomplished St. Andrews based father and son photography team of Iain and Christopher Lowe, with expert text and wonderful illustrations by Scottish golf historian, author, artist and fourth generation St. Andrean David Joy. Scotland, Home of Golf is a love letter to the world’s golfers whose presence is currently missed on these great links courses. Scotland, Home of Golf is available for purchase at $45.00 through either Amazon or www.scottishgolflibrary.com.

HOLIDAY RIBBON BELTS from NEXBELT Celebrate the holidays and show off your sense of style with one of these Limited Edition Ratchet-Style Ribbon Belts from Nexbelt, “The Belt With No Holes.” The Ol’ Saint Nick, Christmas Lights, and Snowfall Blue “holiday themed” ribbon belts are now available for the holidays! You’ll love wearing one of these belts as they are sure to be noticed and appreciated wherever you go! Best of all, the cut-to-fit strap fits up to 50" waists, so you don’t need to worry about ordering the belt in a particular waist size if it is a gift. Nexbelt is known for its innovative technology and providing maximum comfort with its unique cut-to-fit rachet style belts. The ratcheting system called PreciseFit allows the wearer to adjust the belt in ¼ inch increments, providing the best fit, feel and fashion available. Available at select Nexbelt retailers nationwide and online at www.Nexbelt.com. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Holiday Gift Guide ❄ Holiday Gift Guide Sun Mountain Trapper Jacket Sun Mountain introduces the Trapper Jacket which combines features of several of the company’s most popular styles. The lightweight shell offers 4-way stretch and is water-resistant and windproof. The insulation is the patented 37.5 technology. Together, these features make Trapper the ideal outerwear for golf on cool, blustery days. Trapper is available now with a retail price of $179.99. For the retailer nearest you, visit www.sunmountain.com or call 800-227-9224.

Walker Trolleys

Pinehurst Resort Donald Ross Package The holiday season is an underrated time to visit the North Carolina Sandhills and Pinehurst Resort. The USGA’s new future second home is the setting of its famed No. 2 Course, recently minted as a U.S. Open “Anchor Site” starting with the 2024 edition. From a golf consumer standpoint, November through February presents an extended, value-laden period (potential frost delays notwithstanding). Rates on golf packages like the everpopular Donald Ross drop more than 50% through the winter. You can book a two-night stay in The Carolina, three rounds of golf on any of the resort’s nine golf courses and enjoy Pinehurst’s famous Southern breakfast and a three-course dinner each night starting at $713 in as of Nov. 29. There’s a surcharge for playing No. 2, but if you’re on a budget and want to stick to the package as is, you can still enjoy premium tracks like No. 4, No. 8 and No. 9. As for what to pack, December and January highs are usually in the 50s and February is back into the 60s. There can be big swings in highs and lows, so be sure to check the weather before packing. www.pinehurst.com 22

In baseball parlance, Walker Trolleys – a walking golf lifestyle brand and maker of premium push carts – has hit a walkoff homerun. The Austin, Tex.-based company exponentially exceeded its 2020 sales projections for its Cape model amid strong demand for walking-engineered golf gear. From its inception, the Cape was crafted to be distinctly different than other push carts, drawing inspiration from the roadsters and ultra-cool bicycles from the 20s and 30s. Its anodized aluminum frame, waxed canvas storage and handcrafted leather handle combine to create a clean, classic design. The Cape is easily collapsible and fits in the trunk or cargo area of almost any vehicle. The Cape’s upper and lower storage areas allow golfers to conveniently store water bottles, outerwear, extra towels and other supplies. And the company just rolled out its customizable soft good accessories, starting with the “Dead Great” edition, featuring a Grateful Dead tie-dye pattern and lettering. Next out of the gate is “The Southerner,” with a southern-fried pattern featuring Bourbon, football, Waffle House, golf dogs and the obligatory “y’all.” Custom soft good storage units are priced at $125 and can be added to the Cape at checkout. The Cape retails for $399 and is available to order at Walker Trolleys’ online store and will generally ship in 1-2 days. For more information on Walker Trolleys, or to join the walking golf movement, visit walkertrolleys.com.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Holiday Gift Guide ❄ Holiday Gift Guide ZENGOLF – Zen of Slow Cooking® Enjoy your time on the course and have dinner ready when you get home. Zen of Slow Cooking® produces a line of premium, non-GMO spice blends for slow cookers, pressure cookers (e.g., Instant Pot®) and one pot cooking. Our Multi-Cooker Spice Blends provide the foundation for globally inspired recipes from classic American dishes to Indian, Italian, French and Mexican cuisines. Our innovative Sichuan Whole Spice Infusion was honored by the Specialty Food Association with its Sofi Best New Seasoning/Spice Award (2017). Zen of Slow Cooking Multi-Cooker Spice Blends are the meal-prep solution that helps create home cooked meals described by food critic and James Beard Award winner Kevin Pang as “restaurantquality”. These gluten-free, low/no-salt spice blends are created from premium, non-irradiated spices and work well with Keto, Whole 30, Paleo and plant-based diets. As a Certified B Corporation and Certified Women Owned Business, ZOSC is committed to creating an inclusive economy by partnering with a social enterprise to provide employment for adults with developmental disabilities. Gift yourself some Zen or spread it by giving our spices to your favorite neighbor, teacher, or stocking stuffer for the new cook in your home! Use promo code ZENGOLF for 15% off your total purchase at www.zenofslowcooking.com (offer valid until 12/31/2020) Also available on Amazon or check our store locator for a retailer near you!

SIK GOLF - PRO MODEL PUTTER Bryson DeChambeau has captured all eight of his professional victories, including the 2020 U.S. Open, using a SIK Putter. He learned about SIK’s Descending Loft Technology shortly after turning pro and has earned over $21 Million Dollars since he put one into play. The reason PGA Tour Players have and continue to migrate to SIK putters is because of its patented Descending Loft Face Technology™ also known as (DLT). There are four planar surfaces that are precision milled on the face of the putter. Each plane descends in loft (4°, 3°, 2°, 1°) from the top of the face to the bottom. This creates a more consistent launch angle regardless of whether you add loft or deloft the putter at impact which leads to better distance control and less side spin. Custom putters from SIK Golf not only ensure individualization, they also truly “Change the Way You Roll”. It is a literal game-changer for players and duffers alike. Custom putter fitting available at 10 locations in Florida and Club Champion locations nationwide. For more information visit www.sikgolf.com

THE MONSTER MAT® Proudly Made in the U.S.A. The #1 range mat used by driving ranges and practice facilities across the nation is now available for home use. The revolutionary Monster Mat® features a low slide resistance Z-Pro fiber turf and a patented double backing system for durability. It’s more affordable and lasts longer than any other mat on the market. The Premier Shock System virtually eliminates hand and elbow shock. Monster Mat is the finest, most realistic hitting surface you can use when practicing your golf game. Available in two sizes: 3 ft. x 5 ft. and 5 ft. x 5 ft. To order call (888) 661-8873 or visit www.MonsterMat.golf Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

growing the game

Impacting Lives Through Giving This time last year,

the Georgia State Golf Association Foundation (GSGA Foundation) unveiled some changes to its Annual Fund by incorporating a couple of new named giving levels while also expanding the programs the GSGA Foundation supports to include more of the GSGA’s efforts to grow the game. As 2020 draws to a close, we would like to update everyone on the activities of the GSGA Foundation, and the programs it supports, over the last 12 months. The information provides further details on the incredible impact we are making across Georgia.

SCHOLARSHIPS The Yates Scholarship Program provides educational scholarship opportunities for employees, or dependents of employees at GSGA Member Clubs. The Moncrief Scholarship Program awards students of turfgrass management or agronomy at the University of Georgia, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and students who work and live in Georgia but attend an accredited school outside of the state. YATES AND MONCRIEF SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMS • For more than 40 years the GSGA Foundation has supported the golf industry in Georgia by providing educational opportunities through two scholarship programs – the Yates and Moncrief Scholarship Programs. • The Foundation has surpassed $4,000,000 in cumulative financial assistance for scholarships • The Foundation awarded more than $300,000 to 66 students this school year - 22 new scholarships and 44 renewed scholarships. • More than $13,000 in scholarship increases were awarded to renewing scholars in 2020. These increases were based on outstanding academic performance. • Two scholars, Ryan Owens and Rin Richardson, received the Dick Franklin Performance Awards and each was given an additional $3,000 for the 202024

21 school year. • There are hundreds of alumni in both scholarship programs. • The Foundation hosts an annual Scholars Luncheon to celebrate its scholars and their accomplishments. ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM • The Foundation continues to grow through endowments and now has 41 endowed scholarships for Yates and Moncrief Scholars. • The three most recent endowments are named for William D. Ploeger, Ralph A. Stokes and Bill Jones III. • A unique characteristic of the Endowed Scholarship Program is that it permanently links the honoree with golf, youth and education. • To endow a scholarship, an individual or a group must pledge a minimum of $50,000 and fulfill the pledge in at least five years. • The permanently endowed scholarship provides the earnings for the award to be made annually, resulting in the continuous recognition of the honoree.

ADAPTIVE GOLF The GSGA’s Adaptive Golf Program is a complimentary all-inclusive community golf program used to help

individuals with mobility and cognitive challenges find the best techniques and resources to play and enjoy golf. The program is open to all ages and provides specialized equipment that assists with playing the game. The mission of the program is to empower individuals with physical, cognitive or sensory impairments to enhance one’s life through the game of golf. ADAPTIVE GOLF PROGRAMMING

• Conducted programming at over 40 sites throughout the state of Georgia offering complimentary instruction and use of specialized equipment for program participants. • Clinics occur weekly throughout the state with trained PGA/LPGA Professionals and GSGA Volunteers instructing participants with specialized instruction. • Over 1,500 unique participants have participated in GSGA Adaptive Golf programming in the five years of the program’s operation in Georgia. • The second GSGA Adaptive Golf Championship was scheduled for October 15-17 at Bobby Jones Golf Course in Atlanta, but due to Hurricane Delta the event was postponed to October 29-31. Unfortunately, due to Hurricane Zeta the rescheduled event had to be canGolf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

celled so no event was held in 2020. • At the time of cancellation, the GSGA had 42 participants from 20 different states registered (limited number of players was necessitated by COVID-19 policies and procedures) including nine of the top-10 ranked United States players in the World U

MILITARY AND VETERANS

• Received grant from Veterans Affairs to conduct clinics specifically for military personnel and veterans overcoming any injury or disability due to combat. • Clinics were offered in Columbus and Savannah areas at no cost to participants. • Clinics provided instruction and equipment to a total of 106 military and veterans.

JUNIOR GOLF Through our affiliation with Youth on Course (YOC), the GSGA partners with golf facilities across the state to provide juniors with affordable access to the game. YOC members can play golf for only $5 per round at ver 40 participating GSGA member clubs, while the GSGA subsidizes the remaining portion of the juniors’ greens fee to the facility. The GSGA Junior Tour is a statewide program providing young golfers with an opportunity to participate in competitive junior golf. The program offers economi-

Tim Lillis Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Griffin Pizzano and Parents cal opportunities throughout the state for players of all skill levels. JUNIOR TOUR • GSGA Junior Tour membership reached 957 participants despite losing all Spring Season events due to COVID-19 • Hosted 74 events and championships throughout the 2020 season • Provided complimentary access to the John A. White hosted-tournament to First Tee of Metro Atlanta participants • Provided eight members with financial assistance through the GSGA Junior Tour Financial Assistance Program • Over 400 junior golfers attended a GSGA Junior Tour Rules Seminar • Provided a College Day Seminar to educate prospective college golfers YOUTH ON COURSE • Over 3,200 junior golfers have access to the Youth on Course program through Youth on Course, GSGA Junior Tour, and First Tee membership • Over 40 GSGA Member Clubs participate offering members affordable access to walk 9 or 18 holes of golf for $5 or less • For 2020, YOC participating facilities in Georgia have submitted over 5,700 rounds played by juniors through October 31. We project almost 6,300 total rounds will be posted by end of year. • For 2020, GSGA has provided over $50,000 in subsidies back to its participating member clubs. We project $58,000 in total subsidies to be paid out in 2020. We greatly appreciate the continued support of our generous donors who enable us to positively impact the lives of so many. Gifts of any amount can be made to the GSGA Foundation Annual

Fund and can be restricted to a specific program (Scholarships, Adaptive Golf or Junior Golf) or split equally amongst more than one program. The Annual Fund also includes the Society of 1916 and President’s Club giving levels which are outlined below.

SOCIETY OF 1916 Named for the year that Bobby Jones won the inaugural Georgia Amateur Championship, and the Georgia State Golf Association was founded, this $1,000 annual giving level includes logo merchandise and the opportunity to play in one of our donor play days.

PRESIDENT’S CLUB Named in honor of the fourteen men and women who have helped lead the GSGA Foundation over the last three decades. This $2,500 annual giving level includes additional favors to show your support of the GSGA Foundation as well as an exclusive donor play day at one of Georgia’s top golf courses. We are very proud of the work the GSGA and GSGA Foundation continue to deliver and we hope you will join us in supporting our 2021 Annual Fund so we can make an even greater impact in the coming year. Donations are tax-deductible and can be mailed to: GSGA Foundation, 2205 Northside Drive NW, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30305. It is even easier to donate securely online at https:// www.gsga.org/support/. Please note your area(s) of support or your donation will go to the area of greatest need. Thank you in advance for your support of the GSGA Foundation! 25

The Game of Golf Fuels the Invisible Shield

When four notable nonprofits form a strategic alliance to provide valuable support to causes that match with their missions -- it is noteworthy. Under the banner, Invisible Shield, the Patriot Golf Foundation, John Daly – Major Ed “Heart of a Lion Foundation”, Uncommon Grit Foundation, and TIU4ALL have banded together using the game of golf to raise awareness and donations. Tournaments, golf schools and clinics to support the Invisible Shield and their foundations will be hosted around the country beginning in 2021. “Invisible Shield is based on the definition of invisible as ‘someone or something that cannot be seen’, and shield as ‘one that protects or defends’”, states Chick Linski, President of the John Daly – Major Ed Foundation and one of the drivers behind this collaborative effort. “The term ‘Invisible Shield’ was coined during a conversation with Darren McBurnett, US Navy SEAL (Ret), leader of the Uncommon Grit Foundation. We feel that we are providing the recipients of our missions with a sense of protection from their personal challenges by providing valuable resources, support, and opportunities. Each of the foundations 26

involved want our benefactors to be the focal point of our efforts, not the organizations per se.” Patriot Golf Foundation provides both resources and access to the game to military veterans through its Patriot Golf Schools. According to Ted Simons, Executive Director, “The game of golf has proven to be therapeutic for vet-

erans suffering from PTSD, physical, mental, and emotional challenges as the result of their service. Each Patriot Golf School includes veterans at no cost so they can learn, play, and socialize with the sponsors for the day. We have a national staff of highly regarded instructors that bring a wealth of experience to each of our events. The camaraderie that the veterans experience during the schools is one of the important benefits they leave with.” Proceeds from the golf schools are shared with qualified foundations that support military veterans and their families. www.patriotgolffoundation. com Heart of a Lion is a new foundation formed by 2-time Major Winner John Daly and Major Ed Pulido, U.S. Army (Ret.). “Freedom is not free. Honoring the sacrifices and empowering our Veterans is a big reason I joined with John on this special mission to make sure that we leave no active service member, veteran and their family behind on the field of battle. Together we will make a difference in the lives of not only our veterans and first responders but also those children that are living with physical and medical stressors of everyday life,” states Major Ed. Both Daly and Major Ed have a long history Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

of giving back to others less fortunate and Heart of a Lion Foundation will support the Boys & Girls Club, St Jude’s Children’s Hospital and notable foundations and charities supporting our wounded veterans, first responders and their families. www. jdme.org Uncommon Grit Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness and increase community support for military, first responders, and their families. “One of the greatest privileges I have had in my life is to be able to represent my country in the greatest fighting force working alongside the finest, bravest men and women our country produced,” stated Darren. “One of the core traits of being a Navy SEAL is to take care of those who are taking care of you on and off the battlefield. It is our job to continue to provide for those who do not come home and ensure who they have left behind can continue forward. It is these traits of Honor, Commitment, Pride, Courage,

that push us to be better Americans and lead by example.” Uncommon Grit as an extension of The Bone Frog Open; a golf, entertainment, and social event that honors fallen U.S. Navy SEALs. The Bone Frog Open is about awareness, remembrance, patriotism, camara-

derie, and fun and a way to thank our military and first responder men and women for being the ones that run toward danger, not away from it. www. uncommongritfoundation.org TIU4ALL provides resources, access, support, and equipment for adaptive golfers in the U.S. As with all the members of Invisible Shield, TIU4ALL brings ‘the healing power of golf’ to disabled military veterans, first responders, and the general population that will benefit from participating in golf. Access to adaptive equipment, instruction, and tournaments are key elements which benefit from TIU4ALL. In addition, Jon Moore, Director of TIU4ALL, directs the adaptive golf program at the University of Arizona, the first adaptive golf program in collegiate sports. www.tiu4all.org For additional information on how you can support the members of the Invisible Shield as they dedicate their efforts to give back to our American Heroes, their families, and others in need, please visit their websites.

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

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

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

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

P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

transitions.com

golf bachelor

w e r And ainter P

Where were you born? Did you grow up there? Winter Park, FL. I grew up there until I was 12 then moved to Winter Springs, FL

What do you do for a living? I have a car detailing business and blog

What would you like to do for a living? Own a detailing shop and run a detailing blog

What do you prefer for fun and relaxation?

Who would you like to have with you on that same deserted island; and why? My brother, someone that I am familiar with and love and has the most survival training

Name the three most important things to you in this world? My brother, parents and my health

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

Volunteering, go to car shows, go out with friends and crossfit

What golf apparel do you like to wear?

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? Relaxed evening at home

Golf shorts and shirts

Steak, Chicken or Seafood?

Movies;â&#x20AC;Ścomedy, drama, actions, romance? All movies

Seafood

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? Cell phone, workout weights, and one other person

Last book you read? Nothing to Lose, Everything to Gain

Favorite Charity? Playing For A Cause

Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 21, Issue 5

competitive spirits 30

CANTEEN produces a line-up of refreshing, flavor-

More about CANTEEN:

forward and ready-to-drink Vodka Soda beverages. Crafted with real vodka, CANTEEN is sugar, carb and sodium free, certified gluten free with 5% ALC/VOL and 99 calories per portable, BPA-free 12 fl oz can. Currently available in five American flavors; Watermelon, Black Cherry, Lime, Grapefruit and Cucumber Mint. Headquartered in Austin, TX and founded by industry veterans Brandon Cason (Deep Eddy Vodka/Waterloo Sparkling Water) and Daniel Barnes (Treaty Oak Distilling/Waterloo Gin), CANTEEN is available in all 50 States. To learn more about CANTEEN, explore nutrition information & source a local retailer, please visit www.drinkcanteen.com

• Available in five flavors: Watermelon, Black Cherry, Lime, Grapefruit and Cucumber Mint. More launching this fall! • Served in a standard, portable 12 fl oz can • 5% ABC • Made with real vodka and all-natural ingredients • 99 Calories • 0 carbs, sugar or sodium • $9.99 MSRP for single-flavor 6 packs. Variety packs also launching soon!

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

NORTH CAROLINA’S ULTIMATE 36-HOLE GOLF DESTINATION

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA’S BEST-KEPT SECRET. RUMBLING BALD ON LAKE LURE

Located on the north end of stunning Lake Lure, Rumbling Bald is one of Western North Carolina’s only multi-course golf resorts. An hour’s drive from Asheville and less than two hours from Charlotte, it features two contrasting 18-hole layouts: W.B. Lewis-designed Bald Mountain and Dan Maples-designed Apple Valley. 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/specials-packages 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 12/15/2020.

grip it & sip it

Meiomi Wines and Josh Duhamel At-Home Tournament Viewing Tips: • These days, the only thing that helps

ease the pain of not being able to attend golf tournaments in person is doubling down on my at-home tournament-watching. I always make sure I’ve got a glass of Meiomi Wines poured and some snacks on hand to get me through the weekend. As the Official Wine of the PGA TOUR, Meiomi’s new Cabernet Sauvignon really feels like I’m bringing a little taste of life on the course and tournaments right into my own living room.

• I get a little restless during commer-

cial breaks (who doesn’t?) so my goto for passing the time is practicing my putting. I like to put a competitive spin on it – attempting one-handed putts (with wine in the other hand, of course), farthest putt, and more. I’ve also been getting creative with my putting greens lately by using household items to create obstacle courses – pretty much anything qualifies as a green these days.

• I’ve started creating new rituals while

watching tournaments. One new tradition is serving a dish or food item that ties back to tournament cities and special items you can usually get at the courses – like chips and guac for anything Coastal California or pimento cheese for this weekend in Georgia. Every time a player gets a birdie, take a bite + sip (as if there’s a need to be prompted.

Grip it and Sip it. 32

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

2 0 2 0 T R AV E L E R ’ S C H O I C E , A D E C A D E O F E X C E L L E N C E ! Tripadvisor

SC E N IC BE AU T Y

at every turn

S TAY AT T H E OC E A N F RON T K I NG A N D PR I NC E R E SORT O N S T. S I M O N S I S L A N D , G E O R G I A , A N D P L A Y O N E O F T H E “ T O P 5 0 G O L F C O U R S E S I N T H E U . S .” (GOL F A DV ISOR )

king and prince golf course 800.342.0212 kingandprince.com #kingandprincegolf

cart header girll

golfers ALL of the time that Royal St. Cloud is the best in Central Florida! Our management is always looking to make innovative changes to keep the course challenging. We also have the unique setup of having three nine-hole options, so we can comfortably host a tournament and still have a full field of regular golfers. I also can’t talk about this course without mentioning my regulars...they

Where did you grow up? I was born in Illinois but moved to Florida when I was 4. I was raised in Ft. Myers and lived there until going away to college at FSU. I’ve lived in St. Cloud for about 15 years now.

What is your favorite sport to play and watch? I played softball growing up and in high school. Today I enjoy watching baseball, golf, and almost anything sports but my favorite is college football. Go Noles!

definitely are a huge part of our course character and are the best reason to come to work every weekend!

What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? What is your least favorite part? I love the interaction with the golfers, especially my regulars. I’ve gotten to know them well over the past 6 years and have become true friends with many of them. I

e i g n n i t r A a M

Do you enjoy playing golf? Are there any golfers in your family? Yes, I love it! I took lessons from Doug (our Club Pro) a few years ago, and that helped to fix my swing. My side of the family has played throughout their life, but my husband has the golf background. His grandfather was a PGA pro down in Ft. Myers, and his uncle and aunt are both scratch golfers. Me working at RSCGL is one of the best perks for my husband, as he gets to golf with me as often as we want!

What do you feel makes this club special? I believe our club is unique in that we really put a lot of effort into the player experience. Our staff is constantly working to keep the course in the best shape in our area, and I hear comments from 34

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

also love the fact that I meet people from all over the world in a beautiful setting! The worst part of my job may be something I’m going to get flack about, but I HATE frogs! Having to get started before the sun comes up means I see my share of frogs on my cart first thing in the morning. I actually carry a home-made frog sword and often have the cart boys or my early regulars help me get rid of any unwanted visitors.

If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing? I am a former elementary school teacher...I taught for 8 years and have a Master’s degree in Educational Technology, but I retired from teaching to be a stayat-home mom. At that time, I started working at the golf course a couple of days a week to get some adult interaction, and 6 years later I’m still here! If I stopped working here today it would be to be a full-time Mommy!

What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl? I have a lot of great days here. Recently I was able to meet Henrik Stenson, as his son was playing a junior event at our course. There are tons of celebratory events that I get to indirectly see, and our local tournaments are always a blast.

What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course? I’ve seen several awesome pranks (the rubber snake always gets them!) and heard countless jokes and quirky pickup lines. It is always entertaining and each day brings something new.

What type of music do you prefer? I’m a boy-band girl at heart so my Spotify is full of 90s and 2000s tracks. My husband listens to a lot of electronic music and my kids are into pop so I get a wide variety. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Favorite charity to support? I support The Pink Ribbon Symposium and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. We have several cancer survivors in our family, so these hit close to home. My mom is a breast cancer survivor and is on the board for the Pink Ribbon Symposium that takes place each October. We also locally support the Osceola Center for Aging.

What else should we know about you? I’m a laid-back Mom who loves what I do and truly enjoys my job. I love a great joke, and the interaction with my customers is what makes this job awesome! I work with some pretty amazing people who have become true friends! I’m also a die-hard Florida State fan in a land of Gator lovers...Go Noles!! 35

By Mike May

golf history

Florida Historic Golf Trail’s Memorable Par 3s

As we notice every year, a big key to the success of any championship performance at the Masters golf tournament is how the winner fares on his four times playing the par-three 12th hole at the Augusta National Golf Club. Named Golden Bell, the 12th is the shortest hole at Augusta National -- a mere 155 yards from tee to green, give or take a few yards from day to day. During any given round at the Masters, every players’ 18-hole score can be negatively or positively impacted by their ability to hit their tee shot over Rae’s Creek and have it come to rest on

Azalea Course at the Cleveland Heights Golf Club 9th Hole

Miami Shores Country Club 2nd Hole 36

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

New Smyrna Beach Golf Club 15th Hole the 12th green. In honor of the many trials, tribulations, and triumphs that many golfers have experienced while playing Augusta National’s Golden Bell, this story is focusing on five of the most memorable par three holes at five golf courses along the Florida Historic Golf Trail.

Waterside Wonder. The most memorable tee shot at the Lake Worth Beach Municipal Golf Club is the par-three 17th. As you stand on the tee, an unblocked view of the Intracoastal Waterway is at your back. It’s a priceless perspective. As you look at the 17th green, the steeple of a nearby church in downtown Lake Worth Beach grabs your attention, especially late in the day with the sun setting in the west. With your tee shot on this hole, aim to the right or left of the steeple, depending on the location of the pin.

Precious Par. At the New Smyrna Beach Golf Club, head pro Gary Wintz’s favorite hole is the 15th hole, a long par three. “From the back tees, it’s more than 230 yards to the pin,” says Wintz. “The green

Lake Worth Beach Municipal Golf Club is the par-three 17th is protected by bunkers short right and short left. Par is a great score. Not many people birdie the 15th.” Clearly, at the 15th hole at the New Smyrna Beach GC, birdies are few and far between, pars are celebrated, and bogeys are the norm.

Classic Closer. When you play the 188-yard, par-three 9th hole on the Azalea Course at the Cleveland Heights Golf Club in Lakeland, proper club selection will be the key to your success at this hole. This par three features an uphill tee shot to a raised

green with the clubhouse looming in the background. The view of this hole from the tee is an attention-getter. Closing with a par at the 9th on the Azalea Course is impressive, powerful, and pleasing.

Memory Maker. ‘Fun’ and ‘beautiful’ are two words used to describe the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. One of the ‘fun’ and ‘beautiful’ holes at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is its signature hole -- the par-three 16th hole. The 16th green is a peninsula with water in front, on the right, and behind the green. It’s not a long hole, but it requires an accurate tee shot. A well-struck tee shot is a joy to watch on this hole.

Helluva Hole.

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

The most talked-about and mostphotographed hole at the Miami Shores Country Club is the par-three 2nd hole, which used to be the 11th hole. While standing on the tee, the 2nd green actually angles from right to left. Your tee shot must clear the Biscayne Canal in order to reach the putting surface, but if your tee shot drifts too far left, it will probably end up in the canal, whereas tee shots that veer too far right may well finish in the bunker complex to the right of the green. Willie MacFarlane, the winner of the 1925 U.S. Open, referred to this short par three as “the hole.” For complete details on the 53 courses along the Florida Historic Golf Trail, check out www.FloridaHistoricGolfTrail.com. 37

By Mike May

georgia golf central

A Hot Spot During The Holidays The Georgia Golf Trail

Stone Mountain Christmas

Presented by

The Georgia Golf Trail (GGT)

is open for golf 12 months a year. But, there’s more to the Georgia Golf Trail experience than the pursuit of Old Man Par, especially during the days and weeks leading up to Christmas. “In the month of December, the spirit of the Christmas is ever-present in many locales along the Georgia Golf Trail,” said Doug Hollandsworth, Founder, Georgia Golf Trail. One such Georgia Golf Trail city that truly comes alive and showcases the spirit of Christmas each year is Savannah, especially after sundown. While Savannah attracts a great deal of attention during its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration each March, the spirit of the holidays is just as strong, if not stronger, in the weeks leading up to Christmas as is the desire to find a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow on St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah. One of Savannah’s showcase events during the holidays is the annual Boat Parade of Lights, which is nothing short of spectacular. This annual aquatic attraction is a spectacle unto itself 38

Brasstown Valley

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

which attracts more than 40 boats and it culminates in an extensive fireworks display at the end. This boat parade can be enjoyed while seated or standing alongside the river or you can purchase a ticket to be a part of the parade as a passenger on the Georgia Queen Riverboat which leads the boat parade. To say that Savannah’s Boat Parade of Lights is a sight-to-see is a major understatement. Clearly, an ideal day for a golfer visiting Savannah during the holidays would be to play golf at The Club at Savannah Harbor, enjoy a meal at a restaurant along River Street, watch the Boat Parade of Lights that evening, and then spend the night at the Westin in Savannah which overlooks the Savannah River, which bisects the city. While it’s always fun to visit Savannah at any time of the year, a trip to this coastal port during the holidays will create an indelible memory worth repeating every holiday season. Another holiday delight worth exploring in Savannah is its Gingerbread Trail. If you like the aroma of gingerbread, you’ll want to spend some of your time in Savannah ‘hiking’ along this unique trail. It’s worth accessing savannahgingerbread.com for complete details. Another holiday hot-spot along the Georgia Golf Trail that will provide you with a stunningly special holiday sensation is the Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. Based in the mountains of North Georgia near Young Harris, the image of the interior décor of this resort, as soon as you walk through the front door, will send an overwhelmingly powerful visual

Gingerbread Trail Stone Mountain becomes as appealing stimulus that will amaze any visitor and to holiday makers during the holidays put a smile on your face. It’s an image that will stay with you with well after as it does to golfers. If you didn’t know your departure and will return each any better, you would think that Santa time you remember visiting this rural and his elves are based at Stone Mounrustic retreat. Just sitting in the lodge tain and not at the North Pole. During at the Brasstown Valley Resort, while the holidays, Stone Mountain is a treat sipping hot chocolate during the holifor people of all ages who truly enjoy days, will create a powerful and positive a Christmas-time escape with family memory. and friends. Each year, the Christmas A third and final holiday ‘hot-spot’ celebration at Stone Mountain starts in along the Georgia Golf Trail is the Stone mid-November and continues until just Mountain State Park, located east of after the New Year. Atlanta. While Stone Mountain is For more information about Savannah Harbor Boat Parade home to a pair of Georgia Golf Trail golf the Georgia Golf Trail, access courses -- Stonemont and Lakemont – www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com.

Savannah Harbor Boat Parade

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

living on the links

The Renaissance of The Meadows Country Club,

one of the best full-service private clubs in the Sarasota area for more than 40 years, has launched a major revitalization campaign. This picture-book property nestled in the heart of Sarasota with three distinctive golf courses, 17-HarTru tennis courts, a junior Olympic pool and custom fitness programs, was purchased by the Meadows Community Association (MCA) several years ago. The MCA then leased the property back to The Meadows Country Club. This unique partnership between the Club and the Community guarantees the community maintains control of its green space and affords community members access to select Club facilities. The Club and MCA management worked together to create an exciting vision for the private club that offers members first-rate golf, tennis, fitness and dining facilities in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The Meadows Golf Course, a private championship course designed in 2004 by renowned golf architect Ron Garl, was completely renovated this

summer and will be ready for play in January 2021. The million-and-a-halfdollar restoration project, led by David Johnson of JGCC Golf features all new greens, bunkers, fairways and tees and promises players of all skill levels a challenging and rewarding experience. Our two semi-private courses, The Highlands and The Groves have also seen great improvements, including a

completely new second hole green for The Highlands course and new greens for The Groves course. Often called the most beautiful complex in Southwest Florida, the tennis facility is also being enhanced. The deck area is being expanded to offer more outdoor dining and socializing options and we are revitalizing the landscaping surrounding the tennis courts. Plans are on the drawing board for a new community lifestyle and wellness facility, and our dining areas are also slated for updating in the near future. Our banquet area, The Regency Room, was also renovated and is ready to host member and outside events. All Club members are invited to take advantage of the amenities, activities and facilities of the Meadows community, including the 14-miles of biking and walking paths, fitness trail, pickleball courts and the more than 70 activities and events for all ages. The Meadows Country Club has it all. Great location minutes from downtown and UTC Mall, incredible natural beauty, top-notch facilities and events and activities for everyone, bringing true meaning to their tagline: “Join for the lifestyle. Stay for the friendships.” Call Glenda Bachner at 941-371-6000 ext. Ext. 245 for more information. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 4

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First Tee of Miami Wins PGA Jr. League Section Championship Recently, 78 juniors competed in the PGA Jr. League Section Championship at Margate Executive Golf Course. The first round included an aggregate score competition. Each of the 10 teams were broken up into two-person scrambles where the goal was to shoot the lowest score possible with the top two teams advancing to the championship round.

To score the event, the lowest three scores were taken from each team. At the completion of the first round it was The First Tee of Miami and Tiburon Golf Club atop the leaderboard. They

teams were all square and it all came down to the last group on hole number 9. First Tee of Miami won 7.5 flags and Tiburon won 4.5. The SFPGA would like to thank Jack

then went head-to-head in the final

Shoenfelt, PGA and his team at Margate

round. The championship round was a

Executive Golf Course for hosting the

traditional PGA Jr. League style match

championship event and supporting

play. After the first three matches, the

junior golf. Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 21, Issue 5

Championship Tour

The SFPGA Junior Tour membership encompasses Links, Prep, Challenge and Championship Tours. Members pay a $55 fee and receive access to tournaments and a new member kit. Register today!

Challenge Tour

T Prep Tour

sfpgajuniorgolf.com | 561-729-0544

Links Tour

@SFPGA_JrTour

Start Your Journey With Us!

@sfpga_jrgolf

To donate to the SFPGA Foundation, visit: https://www.sfpgagolf.com /get-involved/

Golf Central â&#x20AC;¢ Volume 21, Issue 5

carolina golf central

Apple Valley Golf Course at Rumbling Bald Reopens with New Champion Bermuda Greens Rumbling Bald General Manager Jeff

prime in the early 2000s. Golfers played 10 million rounds in July, a 20 percent

Geisler can only shake his head when

increase year-over-year. And the Nation-

asked about the reopening of the re-

al Golf reports that August is tracking at

sort’s Apple Valley Golf Course just three

the same pace.

months after it closed for the installa-

“Thousands of courses throughout

tion of new greens.

the U.S. were closed in March and April

“There was a time just six months ago when we considered shuttering this project until next year, but our board 44 and golf team held fast to our commitment of improving the golf product here every year,” Geisler said. “As it turns out,

but as an industry we could still end the timing was perfect.” Perfect, in that golf has undergone a

up ahead in rounds played by the end of the year, it’s just amazing,” added

resurgence amid the Covid-19 pandemic

Geisler. “Golf is outside, it’s easy to

to rival the salad days of Tiger Woods’

socially distance, and keeping flagsticks

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

in the cups and removing rakes from

as play was shifted to Bald Mountain.

with USB ports, complimentary coolers

bunkers minimizes touch points.”

Ample rain and sunshine throughout the

and bottled water.

An informal poll of golfers making

summer, coupled with the agronomic ex-

For Southeastern region golfers in

their way around Apple Valley and roll-

pertise of Director of Golf Course Main-

search of a fall getaway, the resort offers

ing putts on its new Champion Bermuda

tenance Matt Lovell, allowed the popular

golf packages combining rounds at both

greens elicited glowing accolades. They

Southern turfgrass to flourish out of the

courses with 150 sparkling clean vaca-

particularly enjoyed the look (a deep

gates and quickly take root.

tion rental homes, condos and studios.

green hue), feel (like new carpet) and

“Champion Bermuda is naturally heat

Ideal for social distancing, they feature

consistency (putts stay on line and

tolerant, easier to maintain in this cli-

speeds are similar on all 18 greens).

mate than bentgrass and has speeds up

Golfers can grab to-go meals from

to two feet faster than other ultradwarf

Legends on the Lake, the resort’s casual

year, we feel incredibly fortunate that

turf cultivars as measured by a stimp-

dining restaurant on Lake Lure. At Apple

Apple Valley reopened ahead of sched-

meter,” said Lovell. “Golfers love putting

Valley, Pinnacle Southern Kitchen serves

ule,” Jeff Geisler said. “We now have the

on it and will appreciate the speed and

hotdogs, wraps, snacks and has a full bar.

entire fall golf season ahead of us with

consistency it provides.”

“With everything that’s happened this

36 holes available, and we look forward

Rumbling Bald has completed several

golf course and mountain views.

To learn more about Rumbling Bald’s golf courses and packages, visit www.

to safely welcoming golfers from around

golf-focused enhancements across both

rumblingbald.com, or email jdoran@

the region.”

courses over the past two years, includ-

rumblingbald.com. To book packages

ing tree removal and replanting, upgrad-

directly, or to speak with a golf vacation

ed landscape, and new E-Z-GO golf carts

planner, call (828) 694.3072.

The course’s transition from bentgrass to Champion Bermuda began in June,

freddy's fairway thoughts

By Fred Seely

already counting a win on the hole, until I picked up his ball, threw it out of bounds, and told him to go back to the tee and hit his third.”

Tim Rosaforte

• St. Johns County in Northeast Florida is growing so fast that they can't keep up with school space and a new high school is going up at the World Golf Village. Now, remember that St. Johns County is home to the Village and its World Golf Hall of Fame, and also to the PGA Tour. Those are the county's two most important businesses, way above the tourist trap industry in St. Augustine (Fountain of Youth, anyone?) So, what are they going to name the new school? You say: World Golf Village High, of course. And the nickname? You say: the Village has two courses, the Slammer and Squire, and the King & Bear. So the nickname should be the “Slammers,” or the “Squires” or the “Kings.” (“Bears” already is taken by a nearby school.) The announcement will come this month and the finalists are … none of the above. They have a list that includes Ancient City High, Nine Mile High, River Valley High and the like. The nicknames are the usual suspects: Bulls, Moccasins, Hornets and the like. With School Boards like the one at St. Johns, no wonder kids can't read. • Can't imagine anyone out there who didn't like the late Sean Connery and golfers should have a special place in their hearts for the greatest James Bond. The golf course betting scene with Goldfinger will be part of the classics of our sport. Personal note: I played in the member-guest at Seminole and heard a distinctive voice behind me on the range. I turned and...YES!'... it was Sean Connery. He said hello, walked the 15 feet between us and introduced himself. • Veteran Jacksonville pro Nick Clark swears this isn't an old joke, but we never heard it so we'll cautiously trust him. He said he played on his offdays with a member, and gave the guy a stroke a hole. Nick kept winning so the guy demanded two a hole. “I could beat him easily at one stroke but not two. I needed the money so I offered this: 'I'll give you two a hole if you give me one throw a hole.' The guy thought it over and realized I couldn't throw a ball very far, so he agreed. We teed off and he hit one right down the middle. I could see him 46

• Jack Nicklaus is an easy to admire guy. Well, maybe oldtimers still grouse about him taking over from Arnold Palmer, and maybe middletimers think he was too cocky. But the newbies of the world? Nary a discouraging word about him. No matter what they thought, he's a person whose persona is way high on any list: good man, good family, good kids, community minded … all the things you want in life, plus a lot of money (which you also want.) Sadly, the recent election stirred the anti-Trump national media so much that several prominent members took it out on the Golden Bear because he had the effrontery (in their minds) to say he would vote for Donald Trump and, even more scandalous, to say why. The leader of the pack was one Christine Brennan, a one-sided columnist for USA Today, and her column portrayed Nicklaus as a step above cretin status. She probably sits home at night, looking at her dwindling paycheck, and wondering why no one trusts newspapers these days. Sad. • It wasn't much of a secret but the golf media isn't one to go into stories about personal things. It was other sources that brought out the sad fact that Tim Rosaforte's disappearance from the Golf Channel was due to the onset of Alzheimer's. It's a gut check for those of us who think that awful condition only affects old folks. Tim is a former college linebacker and still looks like it, and in recent years he was as sharp as the writing he did in Florida newspapers. But, at 62, he's way into the back nine. Damn. • The only spectators at the PGA Tour Champions event at Phoenix were club members and sponsors, but predictably there was one drunk who kept yelling. I recall a country club consultant telling us, “If you have the courage, throw out one member a year. That keeps the rest in line.” We didn't have the courage but we hope that the PGA Tour does. Short stuff... • Will the Masters continue their new tradition next year by honoring the first Asian to play in their tournament? • We've seen the Byron DeChambeau movie before. It starred John Daly. • Did you know (or care) that Holly Sonders' real name was Holly Niederkohl? And do you wonder (and maybe care) if Holly Niederkohl would recognize Holly Sonders?

Comments? I'm at fs4569@comcast.net. Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

By Fay Sykes

playing from the tips

How to Hit a Long Drive in Estate Planning In golf, you need patience and concentration to hit a ball 300 yards or more straight down the fairway. Similarly, when it comes to estate planning, you must look straight out into the future and utilize specific strategies in order to provide as much tax-advantaged wealth as possible for successive generations. Good communication and timing are crucial in creating an optimal estate plan. Be sure to extend invitations for family meetings during non-hectic times to reduce any potential stress that can arise during conversations about money and inheritance, topics that have come to the forefront during the pandemic. The hard-but-necessary conversations you need to have with your parents and children about finances, final wishes and wealth transfer can make all the

difference to a successful outcome with no surprises to pile on top of your family during a time of grief. When it comes to your parents, be specific about your questions and concerns. For instance, you will want to know what their plans are for where their money and assets will go, what their desires are for burial, cremation and/or final services, and where all their important paperwork and files are located. Remind them that estate planning just means being prepared, and that getting things organized means you can “set it and forget it” as things return to normal in the world. You need to have similar conversations with your children, letting them know what your final wishes are, but also asking for their input. Too often siblings harbor hard feelings about “who gets what” after a parent passes

away, so ask them their desires before you finalize your will. Often one child has their heart set on your fishing gear while another has always wanted those paintings of your grandmother. Sentimental items can rankle children the most, and if everyone knows who gets what and it’s all spelled out while you are still around, you may retain the closeness of your family as one of your greatest legacies. It’s all about progress not perfection—like your golf game. For more information about how to tee up a plan to fund your life’s passions, hobbies and long-term dreams, contact Faye Sykes, CEO and Independent Wealth Advisor at 800-871-1219 or email fsykes@scarletoakfs.com. Advisory services offered through Capital Asset Advisory Services, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Shayla Strickland

If it were not for golf, my dad would have never met my mom and our family would have never been started. Now we live where it began. It’s me, my mom, my dad, my younger brother named Colby, our two dogs named Birdie and Tippy and our cat named OJ. I am going to ask my parents a few questions to see how it all got started. Question: Dad, how did you get into golf? Answer: When I was 11 years old my friend and I joined a summer program at Roger’s Park Golf Course in Tampa, Florida. I immediately fell in love with the game of golf. There was a field near my house where I cut a green and a tee with my dad’s lawn mower. I hit balls there all the time. As I got better and a little older, my mom would drop me off at Baba Zaharias Golf Course. I would practice there and play on the weekends and during the summer. 50

Love on the Links Question: Dad, how did you end up working at Miami Shores Country Club? Answer: After high school I worked at Temple Terrace Golf Course, working for Doug Hughes. This is where my love for golf course maintenance began. After a couple of years at Temple, I took a break from golf and studied to become an electrician. I worked for IBEW for a few months, but never loved it like I love golf. I quit working as an electrician and got a job at U.S.F. Golf Course where I worked for Jim Torba. After a few years at U.S.F. I went to work for Chip Lewision at Plant City Golf Course. While I was working in Plant City, I stayed in touch with Torba. In 2001, Torba was working for Miami Shores Country Club. One day I

called Torba out of the blue, during the conversation he mentioned he was going to Miami Beach Golf Course to do a grow-in and asked if I would be interested in coming to Miami Shores. I think he was shocked when I said “I was interested.” After a visit to Miami Shores Country Club and an interview with Alberto Pozzi (General Manager of Miami Shores Country Club) in May of 2002, I started working at Miami Shores Country Club. Question: Dad, Tell me about your GCSAA National Championships. Answer: I have played in the championship almost every year in my 18 year career at MSCC. I have won three times (2005, 2008, and 2009) and I have had 4 second place finishes. I have been honored to meet Jack Nicklaus, Paul Azinger and Greg Norman, who presented me with the trophies at the National Conference. Other than my Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

family and Miami Shores Country Club there are not many other things more important to me than the GCSAA Championship. Question: Dad, Tell me what it has been like raising a family, while working at MSCC? Answer: Our family is incredibly blessed to have lived on property over the years. Being able to put in the hours as a superintendent and spend time with my family has been made much easier because of our situation. I get to pop into the clubhouse to see my wife or stop by the house to see my kids. I get to pick up my kids from school, walk my daughter to gymnastics, drop my son off at golf, take my family on rides on the course, and the list goes on and on. I have to say Resa has been an amazing wife and mother. She stuck by my side through some tough times and put up with my golf over the years. She is the hardest working woman I have ever met and I couldn’t imagine life without her. Question: Mom, What led you to work at MSCC? Answer: I was working at Michael ann Russell J.C.C for 10 years, running

the afterschool program and decided to leave so I could put my degree in hospitality to use. I always wanted to become a party planner and found out there was a job available at Miami Shores Country Club, but as an office assistant. When I interviewed with Alberto Pozzi, I asked him that if the Director of catering position ever became available I would be interested in that position. So I began working at MSCC in October of 2002. In 2004, the Director of Catering left MSCC and I officially moved into that position as the Director of Catering. Question: Mom, how did you meet dad? Answer: I was working upstairs in the front office and dad would have to come upstairs to drop off paperwork and he started coming up more frequently. In July of 2004, we started to date and in May of 2006, we got married and the rest is history. Question: Mom, What does MSCC mean to you? Answer: MSCC means a lot to me because I met my husband and we had two beautiful children. Being able to learn about my family history is important because now I know how special golf is.

THE PREMIER GOLF MARKETING AGENCY

Trusted• Respected• Connected• How can we help?

321-303-9684 www.golfmarketinginc.com Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Will Dennis and James Cornell are the hosts of a turf podcast called Not So Superintendent. Will and James met in 2019 at an Assistant Superintendent conference on Long Island and hit it off. Will graduated from NC State in 2016 with an Associates Degree in Turfgrass Management. Will went into the program with the assumption he would end up going into landscaping. He never considered doing golf courses. When he went to State, everyone told him that the golf course industry is “the way to go.” He gave into the peer pressure and got a job at the golf course on campus. He instantly fell in love. “There’s something about getting to the golf course while it’s still dark. You have to race against the clock to make it the most pristine condition you can before that first golfer catches you.” James Cornell, the co-host of the podcast, got into the business differently. James began golfing at a young age. His family and he were members at a country club in his hometown. He went to Campbell University and got his Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Golf Management. He worked at Pro shops in North Carolina, Oregon and Arizona! He was tired of being the stereotypical “sweater folder” and teaching the game. James began working on the maintenance crew and fell in love with this profession. He went to Rutgers and received his Turf Certificate. His first 52

job was as a second assistant superintendent at a golf course on Long Island. Now he is a first assistant at a different course on Long Island.

Will Dennis’ comments on what drove him to create Not So Superintendent: "One of the reasons Curb Your Enthusiasm is such a funny show is because they point out the things that you would never say out loud but, everyone is thinking in their head. This show, along with others, made me start looking at the little things that happen throughout the day and think, “Why can’t I just say what is on my mind, everyone is thinking it.” This podcast is an open form where James and I can say all of those things every Turf worker is thinking."

Robby Berger, the host of The Brilliantly Dumb Show, appears in an interview on episode 13 which aired on October 21st. The Brilliantly dumb show is a podcast where Robby Berger, a social media mogul, talks about the most ridiculous things that happen in your everyday life. His podcast is hilarious. He gave brutally open answers to questions about becoming a member of a country club and dating a golf girl saying, “God forbid they beat cha, you’ll never hear the end of it.”

We enjoy doing this podcast very much and ask for your support. Please check us out on Apple or Spotify. Check out our merchandise and follow us on instagram and Twitter. Shoot us a DM and let us know topics you’d like to hear or a story you’d like to tell on the show!

CONTEST!! Turf Life and Not So Superintendent are teaming up for a TikTok dance competition! Do a TikTok dance on turf (golf course, lawn, field, etc.) use #turflife and tag us @notsuperspod. You can post this on whatever social media you have as long as you use the hashtag and tag us. On December 15th we will choose a winner and you will win a big box of awesome merch from Turflife and Not So Superintendent. Instagram, Twitter and TikTok: @notsuperspod Apple:https://podcasts.apple.com/ us/podcast/not-so-superintendent/ id1524670764 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/ 5CmcrbLhLQCM88gq2Y1ach?si=fcwhcp ozTmuTAYis3r4I5A Merchandise: https://notsosuperintendent.company.site/

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

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SunnilandSUPERSpotlight: Brian Woods

Cider Ridge Golf Club in Oxford, Ala. recently welcomed Brian Woods as the club’s new Golf Course Superintendent. Woods will oversee agronomy operations and a staff of 12 for the 18hole daily-fee facility.

Woods is a graduate of

experience, attention to detail and

the highly-regarded Penn

incredible work ethic are invaluable as

State University Turfgrass

we continue to deliver pristine course

Management Program.

conditions for guests of Cider Ridge and

He has built his pedigree

the City of Oxford.”

at many fine properties

including Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York and Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, Calif. Woods most recently served as the Gold Course Superintendent at Tiburón Golf Club, a 36-hole, Troon-managed facility in Naples, Fla. He has been a part of many

An avid outdoorsman, Woods enjoys

playing golf, fishing and hiking in his PGA TOUR, LPGA Tour and USGA golf

spare time. Brian and his wife, Katya,

tournaments and strives to consistently

recently relocated to the Oxford area.

provide championship level course

conditions.

by Honours Golf, a Troon company. For

more information on Cider Ridge, call

“We welcome Brian to the team at

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Cider Ridge,” said Lee Shurden, Direc-

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tor of Golf and Club Manager. “Brian’s

ridgegolf.com

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Sunn 28-0-0

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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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www.sunnilandcorp.com • 800-432-1130 Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Audubon International needs Monitors!

Adult Monarch Butterfly

Have you noticed butterflies around your local golf course? Since they’re so sensitive to change, plentiful numbers of butterflies indicate a healthy environment. While there are best practices for promoting the conditions butterflies need on your course, information is lacking on their response to these management actions. That’s why we need your help!

Monarchs in the Rough Through Audubon International’s Monarchs In The Rough (MITR) conservation initiative, we’re working to establish and promote plantings needed by monarchs and other butterflies. Hundreds of golf courses across North 56

America have already committed over

adequate food for caterpillars and adult

1,000 acres to these plantings since

butterflies is present in the plots, count

2017.

how many butterflies are present, and

Now that we’re three years into the

identify whether any adjustments are

initiative, the time has come to monitor

needed in the seed mixes or manage-

and evaluate the program - which is

ment practices.

where you come in!

The need for monitoring Audubon International invites you

Monitoring golf course pollinator plots is a great way to have a hand in butterfly conservation, even if you’re

to get involved with this monitoring

not affiliated with a golf course. You’ll

opportunity, even if your home course

learn about golf courses in your com-

is not a MITR member! The data you

munity or, if you live or work on a

collect will demonstrate two things; the

course, monitoring will help you con-

impact Monarchs In The Rough is hav-

nect with your neighbors about your

ing on the ground for butterflies, and

ongoing efforts to save butterflies.

will assess wildflower growth and use by monarchs. Through this, we’ll be able to tell if

How you can help!

We’re looking for volunteer citizen scientists to assist in monitoring MITR Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

golf course butterfly habitat plots, will you help us? The undertaking is the latest collaboration between Audubon International and the Monarch Joint Venture. Please visit the Integrated Monarch Monitoring Protocol webpage (https://monarchjointventure.org/mjvprograms/science/immp) to sign up. While there, you’ll find an overview handout, video tutorial, and a list of golf course contacts. The list highlights the more mature (earlier) plots to see which courses may be found in your area. If there isn’t an MITR plot near you, it’s possible to submit data from other courses as well. Our goal is to have at least 40 new golf properties supplying data to this continent-wide monitoring program this year. With your help, we can make it happen! Click here for more information and

Volunteers monitoring plantings (photo credit: Monarch Joint Venture)

Monarch butterfly caterpillar rigor to our understanding of how things

resources on how

look out on the landscape by joining

to monitor https://

in large-scale population and habitat

monarchjointven-

tracking. If you have questions, contact

ture.org/mjvpro-

Marcus Gray, Audubon International’s

grams/science/

Director of Conservation Initiatives at

immp, presented

marcus@auduboninternational.org or

by Monarch Joint

visit https://monarchsintherough.org.

Venture.

Audubon International, an environ-

Want to know more?

mentally focused non-profit organization offers members numerous certifications

In 2019, a participant survey was sent to a sample of MITR courses involved. From those results, we learned about successes and challenges related to installing native plants and the reports were overwhelmingly positive. Visit https://monarchsinGolf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

and conservation initiatives to protect therough.org/monarchs-in-the-rough-

the areas where we live, work, and play.

webinar/ to watch a webinar presented

Their programs are designed to increase

by the Monarch Joint Venture and the

environmental awareness, encourage

National Conservation Training Center

sustainable environmental efforts, and

where those findings are summarized.

educate both their members and their

Now, it’s time to add more scientific

communities. 57

header

World’s Best Eco-Friendly Golf Facility Sentosa Golf Club has marked its most recent award of ‘World’s Best EcoFriendly Golf Facility’ by premiering a new environmental documentary film to raise awareness of the importance of climate change in golf. The documentary forms part of the club’s GAME ON campaign, which has received backing from The R&A following its launch at the SMBC Singapore Open earlier this year. Coinciding after it was named ‘World’s Best Eco-Friendly Golf Facility’ at the 2020 World Golf Awards this week, the film shows viewers some of the key measures already implemented at the club, such as the creation of bee colonies, the installation of reservoir-lakes and the banning of single-use plastics. The club, which became the first golf club in the world to sign the UN’s 58

Sports for Climate Action Agreement

sumer, who will be better prepared

back in July, hopes the film will serve

to introduce new modern practices

as inspiration to golf’s response to

for the betterment of the environ-

climate change, as well as help clubs

ment, as well as improving the quality

around the world to understand the

of facilities on offer throughout the

importance of reducing their carbon

world. It is closely aligned with The

footprint by implementing initiatives

R&A’s 2030 Golf Course Initiative.

for the betterment of the environment. Sentosa is also planning a

Speaking about the unveiling of the documentary, Andrew John-

free environmental toolkit to fur-

ston, General Manager and Director

ther help golf clubs deal with the

of Agronomy at Sentosa Golf Club,

real threat of climate change.

said: “Today is a very special day.

With over 61 million golfers and

The unveiling of the GAME ON docu-

39,000 golf courses worldwide, the

mentary marks the day golf’s major

club firmly believes golf has the ability

stakeholders and global community

to become one of the leading indus-

unite to fight climate change. Sen-

tries to help reverse climate change

tosa Golf Club are proud to be at the

and make a considerable impact.

forefront of this campaign and hope

The wider GAME ON campaign

to create a legacy with golf’s leading

aims to educate and inspire the global

organisations and community that will

golfing community to create a more

have a huge bearing on our future.”

socially conscious industry and con-

On being awarded ‘World’s Best

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Eco-Friendly Golf Facility’, Johnston

golf environment, as well as playing an

receive two awards at this year’s World

added: “It is a tremendous achievement

inspirational role in expanding environ-

Golf Awards. We are extremely proud of

for Sentosa to be recognised by golf’s

mental activity throughout the region.

the work our team has put in throughout

leading professionals as the ‘World’s Best

The club also took home the title

the year, not only expanding its envi-

Eco-Friendly Facility’ and once again as

of ‘Singapore’s Best Golf Course’ for

ronmental credentials, but also continu-

‘Singapore’s Best Golf Course’ for the

The Serapong course for the second

ously maintaining the top-quality condi-

third year running. Being awarded these

year in a row. The course plays host

tions of its two championship courses.

accolades is down to the hard work that

to the SMBC Singapore Open ev-

By doing so, the club has attracted some

is put in by all our staff and members

ery year, welcoming the world’s best

of Asia’s most prestigious events and

to maintain the high standards that are

players from all around the world.

helped showcase Sentosa as one of the

set by the club 365 days of the year. “Since 2018, we have worked hard

Chris Gray, Head of Sustainability and Agronomy – Asia-Pacific at The R&A,

world’s top global tourist destinations.” The newly crowned ‘World’s Best

to create a sustainable environment

added: “The R&A is delighted to be part

Eco-Friendly Facility’ also boosted its

on-site at the club and are grateful for

of Sentosa Golf Club’s unveiling of their

approach to environmental sustain-

all the support we have received from

GAME ON documentary. It is great to be

ability by forming a partnership with

our partners and stakeholders in our

part of something so important and be

international sustainable golf non-

journey so far. Even with this recogni-

able to work together on a global scale

profit, GEO Foundation. The collabora-

tion, the club will continue to improve

to fight the issues that really matter to

tion will see the integration of GEO’s

and look to pioneer new sustainable

golf and the world. GAME ON, which is

industry-leading OnCourse® program

initiatives as we look to lead the in-

closely aligned with our own Golf Course

and GEO Certified label with Sentosa’s

dustry in tackling this critical issue.”

2030 initiative, is not only a vital cam-

‘green-culture’ to pioneer new innova-

paign in helping to reverse the impact of

tive practices, as well as gather, verify,

other leaders in the environmental

Sentosa fought off competition from

climate change, but it is also crucial to

and report credible results to share

space to collect their latest eco ac-

the overall survival of golf, a game that is

with other clubs around the world.

colade at the 7th annual World Golf

so widely loved throughout the world.”

A recent Golf Sustainability Fund

Commenting on the latest award for

Grant by The R&A made Sentosa the

Awards, recognised for the leadership and responsibility it has shown in

the club, Sentosa Development Corpora-

first club in Asia able to grind down

planning, constructing and managing a

tion CEO, Thien Kwee Eng, said: “It is a

food and horticultural waste to reuse

resource efficient and ecologically rich

great honour for Sentosa Golf Club to

as fertiliser on its golf courses.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

Man-O-War

Mystical Golf Showcases Stunning ‘Completely Green’ Courses for Winter Vacations Mystical Golf – showcasing “Myrtle Beach’s finest 54 holes of golf” on its acclaimed Witch, Man-O-War and Wizard courses – offering “Myrtle Beach’s finest 54 holes of golf” on its acclaimed Witch, Man-O-War and Wizard courses – announces its three exceptional layouts are “completely green” for its guests seeking golf vacations with superior course maintenance and playing conditions. The lush settings are the result of Mystical Golf’s substantial annual investment in overseeding with Ryegrass emulating the agronomic practices of top echelon courses like Augusta National. Similarly, Mystical Golf showcases “wall to wall” emerald green fairways, rough and putting

Wizard surfaces rather than dormant brown conditions found on most courses during colder months. Mystical Golf visitors will also

Witch 60

enjoy the stunning results of its recent comprehensive $750,000 renovation. Most notably, the 142 bunkers on all three layouts have been completely rebuilt and now showcase vibrant, eye-catching white sand creating an incredible contrast with the brilliant green fairways and greens. Mystical Golf also enhanced and modernized the irrigation systems on The Witch and Man-O-War layouts for first-class course maintenance throughout the entire golfing year. The extensive network of cart paths and bridges on the distinct properties were also upgraded. Playing through the incredible beauty of the Waccamaw Swamp, The Witch alone features over one mile of bridges. For Mystical Golf information: www.mysticalgolf.com, 843.282.2977 Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 5

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Golf Central Magazine - Vol 21 Issue 5

Articles inside

Sentosa Golf Club

Monarchs in the Rough

Not So Superintendent

Love on the Links

Freddy's Fairway Thoughts

Playing From The Tips

Rumbling Bald

The Meadows Country Club

Angie Martin

GSGA Foundation

Invisible Shield

Competitive Spirits

Barnsley Resort

Holiday Gift Guide

Orca Golf Bags

Vortex Weather Insurance

Golf Marathon