Golf Central Magazine-Vol 22 Issue 1

Comfortable, Convenient & · Customizable New Golf Accessory

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Quite a few in fact. You see, our Fairfield Glade Resort offers 90 dramatic and challenging holes of Championship Golf. And our Stonehenge course was named among the top public courses in Tennessee by Golf Digest, GolfWeek and Golf Magazine. But your vacation doesn’t have to be all about golf. There’s also 11 pristine, cold water lakes for boating and fishing, miles of nature trails, a state-of-the-art Racquet Center and some remarkable restaurants. This year, plan to spend your vacation at Fairfield Glade Resort. Come see why we’re called the state’s holey land for golfers.

For information or reservations, call 931-707-2052 • www.fairfieldglade.cc Located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322)

Now the fun begins.

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THE ULTIMATE 36-HOLE GOLF DESTINATION• LAKE LURE, NC

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We offer over 120vacation rental options that are ideal for golf groups of various sizes and feature golf course and mountain views. When you stay with Rumbling Bald you i also have access to all of our amenities and activities, includ ng scenic Lake Lure boat tours, a wellness center and spa, uniques dining options, outdoor adventures, and more.

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header from the publisher

Volume 22, Issue 1 Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, Photojournalists: Greg and Beverly Wise Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. International Correspondent: Dove Jones Inflluencer/Ambassador: Chad Smith Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Greg Wise, Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Ron Heller, Rich Styles, Fred Seely, Deb Shuck, JL Quebbeman, Linda Williams-Sieg Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708

My beautiful family! My son Preston, daughter Tonyia, and my grandchildren Sydney and Tyler.

Don’t Stop Believin’ Just a small-town girl….living in a lonely world….

Young adults are often pushed or persuaded into their life’s mission or careers. Many golfers are groomed at a young age. I’ve seen it all these years. Sometimes it’s really effective and has a positive impact - witness Tiger Woods – and sometimes it borders on abuse. Some will win, some will lose, some were born to sing the blues…We all want our children to succeed and have lives with purpose and meaning.

Loving parents just want their kids to be happy and to feel loved. They want them to make a statement and leave their mark on the world. We all have expectations and desires, and levels of success in achieving both. We all have different “shite” to deal with and our own meaning of challenges and what a problem really is.

Intense focus on success can create high levels of anxiety and have reverse effects, turning “Today’s Yout” off rather than motivating them to succeed. When they say “it takes a village” it is true. Unless you are a know-it-all you welcome the input and opinions of others.

I KNOW that I don’t know everything especially when it comes to golf and publishing or how to pick the right lover. I’ve always been willing to listen to the many wonderful people who have come into my life.

This 22nd anniversary edition honors the many who influenced those of us connected to GCM. Even though they are not here their wisdom, influence, opinions, faith, dedication, and love stay with me forever.

Hold on to that feelin’…..it goes on and on and on and on…..

NEW PHONE: 321.765.7550 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2020 Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher.

Editorial contributions are welcome, but Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Volume 22, Issue 1 Celebrity Corner 16 Justin Watson Cuisine on the Green 18 Chef Rob Gioia FEATURE 10 Ball Pop Golf Bachelor 22 Rich Havyer

Departments 24 26 36 38 44 48 50

Georgia Golf Trail Golf History Young Guns Golf Business Living on the Links Freddy’s Fairway Thoughts Playing from the Tips

Golf Bachelorette 30 Kelsey Barlow Improving Performance 20 Precision Impact

Feature Art

Leader on the Links 28 The Women of Golf Show 46 Eric Anderson

icle Pg 10

16

Special Events 12 GCM 22nd Anniversary Party 32 Ocala Open Stay & Play 40 Rumbling Bald 42 International Golf Resort Turf Life 54 Sunniland Super Spotlight: Anthony Williams 56 Performance Nutrition Superstar: Jason Ellis 58 Audubon International 60 Envirotron Golf Classic 62 John Sanford Golf Design What's New 34 Zero Friction

golfcentralmag.com

30 32

• Colorful, convenient, functional accessory • Clips to your belt or waist • Durable, lightweight, comfortable to wear • Quick-release design for easy access • Custom logo available - makes a

great promotional item

feature

An Innovative Idea “Pops” onto the Golf Market A junior golfer’s dream comes true years later.

P

icture this…

An 11-year-old golfer from New Jersey walks from the cart barn to the driving range carrying her bag of clubs and her large bucket of range balls.

It’s awkward, it’s heavy, and this junior golfer is praying to make it to the range without dropping the majority of the balls and embar-

I’m Meaghan McLaughlin, and this is where my dream of inventing The Ball Pop begins.

Growing up at a country club is quite fun. But with fun comes responsibility, and as an aspiring junior golfer, it was important to know the rules and follow the rules when you went out to play.

I learned to play “regulation” golf which for me, meant having two

rassingly having them scatter all over the place.

It’s the mid-80’s and that 11-yearold, wearing a pink cotton polo shirt and pleated khaki golf shorts, is me.

golf balls on hand at all times and in all situations.

So I would squeeze those two balls into my pocket along with some tees and a ball marker hoping

10

for one thing… that my belt was going to be tight enough to hold my pants up during the round!

From those early days, I was determined to develop a golf ball holder that would eliminate carrying two balls in your pocket and would provide a sleek, cool, convenient and colorful, wearable accessory.

Fast forward to the year 2007. I am now working as a feature film Assistant Director and I begin to put money aside to develop the golf ball holder.

After mocking up a couple of sketches, I was able to employ an engineer in 2014 who created the prototype.

Next came filing a utility and design patent. This was the biggest challenge. We went through three rounds of patent examinations before finally being granted the Utility Patent in June 2020.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

As the country started abruptly shutting down due to COVID-19 last year, the film industry was one of the first to be immediately and severely impacted. My business partner, Katye Kalivoda and I, decided that despite the serious and unprecedented circumstances going on all around us, and our day jobs coming to a standstill, we remained committed to our golf venture and pushed forward.

The first step was to purchase a 3-D printer and we started producing prototypes. It took three hours per unit, but we perfected the design and knew we had something special.

To test the market, we launched our website (www.ballpop.com) and sold our 3-D Prototypes. The demand was quite high, and the feedback very positive. At the same time, we filed for a foreign patent and a trademark on what is now, The Ball Pop. To keep up with the demand, it was time to take “our baby” to the next level. In December 2020, we hired a manufacturer, started mass production and officially launched the Ball Pop on Amazon.

The Ball Pop comes in four colors:

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue1

Meaghan McLaughlin and Katye Kalivoda, Chief Imagination Officers and Owners of The Ball Pop.

red, white, blue and black, with more on the way. The Ball Pop can be printed on demand allowing tournaments and events to customize it as a promotional item or unique tee gift.

The Ball Pop eliminates the frustration of fumbling for a ball in your pocket. The durable, light-weight and flexible design makes it easy and comfortable to wear; while the quick-release ball socket is fast and convenient. The Ball Pop slips onto your belt or the waistline of your

pants, shorts or skirts keeping your pockets clean and golf ball easily accessible.

Ball Pop is a female owned and operated company based in Sarasota, FL. We believe the enthusiastic acceptance of the Ball Pop will soon make it an integral part of your golf game just like your glove or ball marker. For more information or to place an order, visit www.theballpop.com.

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special events

Celebrating 22 Years of Golf Central Magazine Another great time at Mercedes-Benz of North Orlando for the 22nd Anniversary and Masters Watch Party. Once again, this event capped a great day of fundraising for Ovarian Cancer Awareness and Research being done at AdventHealth Cancer Institute. The Bowen clan was represented by family from North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Leonard Lewis from Big L’s Smoken BBQ provided a delicious lunch for everyone along with his counterpart Chris Moffitt. A big thank you to all that made donations and purchased auction items. Please follow playingforacause.org for our up-coming events.

Angi Perretti, Erin Nichols, Lindsee Bowen, Beth Resario, Rich Havyer, Terrie, Dave Walker

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Terrie's stunning daughter, Tonyia and her man, Kyle.

Greg and Bev Wise

Alexis Sieg and Syndey Fulghum (Terrie's granddaughter) Bowen Clan – Lindsee Bowen, Lisa Bowen, Loren Bowen, Lori Bowen Doyle, Linda Bowen

Angi, Shannon, Rich

Walter Grundorf – GM at Mercedes-Benz of North Orlando and Dave Walker Jr. – Professional Golf Events

Chris Moffitt, Leonard Lewis

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

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in memory of

This 22nd Anniversary issue is dedicated to the ones we have lost on the way.

“Here’s to the ones that we got!

Cheers to the wish you were here, but you’re not!”

Charlie Mandel. “The key to publishing is to keep publishing!” He started Rankmark in 1998 and prior to that was the publisher of Madison Avenue and the associate publisher and natn’l advertising director of Nova.

Liza Mae Willey. Caring for my children and me forever.

Hardworking, educated, fearless, and the best concert going partner EVER! Always building Turf Life and Golf Central from Columbus to Florida. My BFF!

Preston Purdum. My Sonney Honey. He worked for Golf Central Magazine from 9 years old delivering magazines to all of the golf shops, working our parties and tournaments. It makes me so happy when his friends tell me he told them his mom owned a golf magazine and he was so proud of her.

Bob Reed. AKA Baby Lou. Roses are red, violets are blue, we miss you!!

He held numerous roles at the North Florida PGA. Volunteer at all PGA events. Past President of the NFPGA Central Florida Chapter.

Brendan Cunningham. He was an announcer on the tee box at PNC Father/Son Challenge and the CME Championship. He told me (with great delight) secret tales of the tour. He validated the launch of Turf Life when he told me to GO FOR IT! 14

Mike Gooding. Tall & deep. Deep voice, handsome. We were always on the topics of golf. Director of Instruction at National Golf Schools.

My favorite roommate. Tales from his travels when he came home. We had great conversation.

Ron Heller on the left and the infamous Brian Boeling, My Brother from another Mother.

Always on my side, forever a friend .

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Rick Harris. AKA Old Reliable. My father shared with all the Harris kids. On the road again. President Ventura Golf Group. UF Gator baseball. World Amateur Player for GCM for 10 years. Song parodies.

George Baker. One of the brightest lights of ING (International Network of Golf). I reflect on his good deeds, always smiling and positive.

Tammy Grace. My beloved sister, always supportive with her ideas, and on her good days she designed Turf Life accessories. She was creative and generous with her opinions.

Jack O’Leary. AKA Father O’Leary. Writer, storyteller, “Pour me another”. Truly my four-leaf clover; uncommon and lucky to find. The thought of him will forever make me laugh and keep a smile in my heart.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Lynn Pelham. “Cha-cha-cha” He never took a picture, he “made” them. I was truly lucky to have him come out of retirement from Time Magazine to help me get a real lesson on printing photos. His favorite saying was, “Keep the faith, baby!”

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celebrity header corner

NFL Golfers Making a Difference Leveraging the Intersection Between Business and Sports

Across all sports, many of the world’s most famous athletes have gone on to find a successful second career in business. Names like Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, George Foreman, and Alex Rodriguez are enterprises unto themselves, with business empires to back their owners’ entrepreneurial efforts.

The leap into business often happens in tandem with an athlete picking up a second sport. Obviously, athletes have natural abilities and a competitive nature, so it’s no surprise that they often excel at multiple sports. For many athletes, golf is the great turn-to for those who found fame previously in other sports. The list of professional athletes who are also proud golfers includes heavy-hitters such as Steph Curry, Bode Miller, Pete Sampras, Wayne Gretzky, Eli Manning, Tom Brady, and 16

Dan Marino.

Among those who have found success in both golf and business following their primary sports careers is retired NFL player and Super Bowl winner Justin Watson. Watson considers golf his “vacation from reality.” He notes that when he’s on a golf course, he

gets a sense of peace. Moreover, when he’s competing on the course, he feels as though all aspects of his being are satisfied.

Watson got his start in golf by participating in celebrity tournaments. The first one was Marshall Faulk’s Celebrity Classic. Watson loved it and was immediately hooked. He found that his naturally competitive spirit made him want to play—and win—against family, friends, and other teammates.

Unlike many other NFL players, Watson didn’t start playing football at an early age. As a first-generation American (the child of Jamaican immigrants), Watson’s Sundays were filled with work rather than football games. So it’s no surprise that he has turned to business to help fill his post-retirement time as well. Hard work has always been a cornerstone of his life.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Many would be surprised to learn that Watson played only one year of high school football before earning a scholarship to play at San Diego State University. Following college, he wasn’t drafted immediately either, but was able to sign with the San Diego Chargers as a free agent.

Like with his football career, Watson notes that his ability to succeed at golf comes down to hard work and persistence—and his capacity to keep moving forward even after he misses a shot.

“The most important thing,” Watson insists, “is to push it out of your mind, regain your focus, and try your best on

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

the next shot.”

And his efforts have paid off. Watson has had the pleasure of playing at some of the top golf courses in the country, including Augusta National, Cypress Point, and Pine Valley. He has also played in many of the tournaments in the Los Angeles region—and has won several, including four championships at both Lakeside and Annandale golf clubs.

Watson’s golf journey parallels his business journey (and his football career before that). He remains committed to his goals. He works hard and stays persistent. In addition, his business ventures highlight another principle that’s

especially important to him—social justice. Giving back to communities has always been central to Watson’s business model. His latest endeavor accomplishes this through coffee. His newest company, BLQK Coffee, donates a quarter of its profits to youth and education initiatives in the Black community.

Watson credits all of these factors— dedication, perseverance, competition, and a commitment to social justice—as defining ideals in his life and foundational to the success he’s achieved. And he credits golf as an opportunity to continue to uphold these principles, both on and off the course.

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cuisine on the green

Seared Atlantic Salmon Recipe

Rob Gioia, Director of Food & Beverage With more than two decades of culinary experience, Chef Rob Gioia brings dynamic vision to Reunion Resort & Golf Club. In his role, Gioia is charged overseeing all food and beverage operations at Reunion Resort’s six dining venues including 7593 Chophouse, Traditions, and The Clubhouse; creating new dining concepts and menus, as well as providing exemplary culinary leadership.

His experience in running multi-scale food and beverage operations has allowed him to focus on delivering masterful culinary experiences to resort guests and members. Prior to Reunion Resort & Golf Club, Gioia held the role of Executive Chef for Villas of Grand Cypress.

Gioia has also held leadership roles at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, and the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center, where he rose from executive sous chef to general manager for three onsite food & beverage outlets.

Chef Gioia’s expertise and culinary intellect is reflected in his early experience, rising from dishwasher to head cook by the age of 16, and then joining the culinary department of Walt Disney World in Orlando. He received his Associate in Culinary Arts degree from Schenectady Community College in Schenectady, New York. He then pursued advanced culinary education in Italy, and honing his skills within the Venice culinary scene.

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Salmon: 4 Atlantic Salmon filets (6-7 oz. each) 1/4 cup Olive Oil Salt and Pepper to taste Mushroom Risotto Sundried Tomato and Spinach Sauce Pea Shoots (to garnish)

1. Season salmon with salt and pepper 2. In a fry pan on medium to medium- high heat, add olive oil.

3. When oil smokes, add salmon (move oil away from your body when adding, if pan is not hot, fish may stick).

4. Sear salmon until golden brown (3-4 minutes), carefully flip with fish spatula.

5. Turn heat on stove down to medium-low, cook salmon through to prepared doneness (can place fish on baking sheet to finish in oven as well) 6. To plate dish, place mushroom risotto in the middle of the plate, top with sautéed fish, finish with pea shoots.

7. Serve immediately.

Sun dried tomato, spinach butter sauce: 1 1/2 cup white wine 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 small shallot, chopped .5 cup heavy cream .25 lb. (one stick) softened butter .25 cup sundried tomatoes (steeped in hot water, julienne) .25 cup baby spinach Salt and pepper to taste 1. In a 1-quart sauce pan, add wine, shallots and garlic 2. Bring to a boil, reduce liquid by half volume.

3. Add heavy cream, bring to a boil, reduce liquid by half volume.

4. Add tomatoes (strain water thoroughly) and spinach stir to incorporate.

5. Take pot off of stove, add butter a little at a time to finish the sauce.

6. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Yield: 1 cup or so of sauce

Mushroom Risotto: 2 cups Assorted Mushrooms (Cremini, Portobello, Oyster, cleaned, trimmed and cut into .5-inch pieces) .25 cup of chopped garlic 2 tablespoon parsley, thyme chopped .5 cup olive oil .5 cup small diced onion 1.75 cups Arborio rice .5 cup dry white wine 5-6 cups chicken stock (hot) 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese .25 cup sliced chives .2 tablespoon butter Salt and pepper to taste

1. In a saucepan on medium heat, add half of the olive oil.

2. When oil slightly smoking, add garlic, cook for 10 seconds or so while stirring.

3. Add mushrooms, cook with garlic for 5 minutes, add half of the thyme and parsley.

4. Season mushrooms to taste, set aside.

5. In a separate 2-quart sauce pan on medium heat, add remaining olive oil.

6. When it smokes slightly, add diced onion, sauté on medium heat until onions are clear.

7. Season to taste, add rice.

8. Cook rice with onions for about a minute, add wine stirring constantly.

9. When wine is absorbed into rice, add hot chicken stock ¾ of a cup at a time while stirring.

10. When rice has absorbed the stock, keep adding, ¾ a cup at a time until rice is al dente. Season to taste.

11. Add sautéed mushrooms, parmesan cheese and butter stirring to fold ingredients together.

12. Finish with remaining chopped herbs and chives, season to taste.

13. Hold until needed. It is recommended that you make as close to service time as needed. To serve, stir in a little hot chicken stock when needed.

Yield: 4-6 servings

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

improving performance

New Training Aid Promotes Perfect Impact Position

Endorsed by former CBS golf analyst and renown swing instructor Peter Kostis

M

ike Manley had a problem. A big problem.

Something many golfers struggle with which often leads to a level of frustration that slowly takes the fun out of the game. What was that problem? Inconsistent ball striking.

Manley, a former career auto engineer from the big “D” — Detroit, Michigan — enrolled a few friends with equally talented engineering 20

minds and together, they invented a training product called the Precision Impact.

Like the name suggests, the Precision Impact trainer literally forces your club head into the ideal position at impact. Precision Impact prevents the fatal flipping or scooping of the hands, which helps accelerate the learning process and muscle memory for the entire swing.

Whether you’re hitting driver,

irons, pitching or chipping, the club head has to lag behind the hands – creating crisp, flawless contact with the ball. Precision Impact provides audible feedback that indicates you’ve made the correct backswing rotation and achieved the proper wrist set at the top. From there an aggressive downward rotation can be made through impact, resulting in crisp, ball first contact, followed by a high balanced finish.

“I am living proof that if you work Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

with the Precision Impact and allow the feelings of your new golf swing to engrain into your muscle memory, you will experience the same staggering results that I did,” said Manley, President of Pure Swing Products. “I was amazed at how far and solidly I hit the ball. Every part of my game improved dramatically.

I became a ‘true’ and consistent ball striker and it felt great!”

You know you’ve got a winning product when it catches the attention of one of golf’s renown swing instructors and former CBS golf analyst, Peter Kostis. He bought the trainer to use with his students and touring pros and believed in it so much he became a brand ambassador for the company.

“From the first time I tested Precision Impact, I knew it was special,” said Kostis. “The hands are ‘the heartbeat of the golf swing’ and this trainer lets you feel and hear what it’s like to use your hands and wrists correctly. Learning to use your hands, arms and body properly will increase distance and consistency – the two things that golfers want most.”

Precision Impact teaches you how to properly strike the ball with a descending blow. The auditory feedback indicates when you are

hinging your hands properly in the backswing. The combination of visual, auditory and kinesthetic Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

feedback working together helps golfers improve their golf swing with results that last.

“Many golfers today are falling victim to the technology age of teaching and they’re skipping past the most important thing in the golf swing, and that’s the education of the hands,” explained Kostis.

“If you don’t have a proper grip, if you don’t know how to use your hands and wrists, whatever you do with your body or your arms will never make it to the club head because it has to go through the hands to get to the club head. That’s why Precision Impact is such an effective training device.”

Precision Impact is easily attached and worn on the trailing hand and forearm. There is a mechanism in the hand paddle that clicks and holds the wrists in the proper position creating the feeling and ability to aggressively rotate and trap the ball. Precision Impact teaches how to hinge the wrists properly in the backswing, how to retain the correct angle coming down, how to lean the shaft forward at impact and how to release the hands without flipping or scooping. These are the keys to getting more distance and experiencing consistent ball striking.

“Average golfers can’t spend as much time working on their games as the pros do,” said Kostis.

“When you hit 15 or 20 balls with the Precision Impact, you’re going to hit them all correctly — with the correct wrist hinge, retaining the angle in the downswing, learning to trap the ball — that’s like hitting 100 balls in a row without it. Precision Impact

maximizes the time you practice.”

Precision Impact is an efficient, total swing trainer that works with every club in your bag. It helps with multiple short game shots by training the hand action and shaft lean for trajectory and distance control. It helps eliminate fat and thin shots. It can dramatically improve putting, enabling golfers to pre-set their wrist angles eliminating excess hand action in the stroke. Precision Impact makes your practice time more effective – indoors or out.

“I’ve always been a strong multisport athlete, but I always struggled with golf and flipping my hands at impact. I couldn’t find a product to help me, so I invented one,” concluded Manley. “After learning how to properly compress the ball, I went from a golfer who hacked it around, and sometimes couldn’t even break 100, to a golfer that now shoots consistently in the low 80s and 70s. My distances were off the charts. My friends couldn’t believe it; now I was the guy everybody wanted on their team.”

If you want to “Be Like Mike” and learn more — or purchase Precision Impact — visit www.PrecisionImpactgolf.com.

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golf bachelor

Richard Justin Havyer What golf apparel do you like to wear? Pants and Shirts: Adidas.

Shoes: Nike. Hats: A-Head or Puma.

Belts: Vineyard Vines, Pebble Beach, or Adidas.

Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? The late Jim Valvano. “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up.” His 1993 ESPY speech accepting the Arthur Ashe Courage Award has had the greatest impact on my life in so many ways. If you watch the video of his speech on YouTube, you can clearly tell he needed help getting on and off stage. Cancer was ravaging his body, but he still found the courage and strength to crack jokes, and to spread love and cheer to the world on that stage.

Another one is the Stuart Scott. I grew up watching his commentary on ESPN. “Boo-yah!” was his catch phrase, and his passion for every sport and every athlete was unmatched. His ESPY speech accepting the Arthur Ashe Courage Award is also a must see.

Where were you born? Did you grow up there? Born and raised in Pottstown, PA. Is “acting your age” overrated?

Without a doubt! We should all be children at heart, because those years go by so quick. I remember when I was young wishing that I was older so I can drive, be an adult, be of drinking age, etc.

What do you do for a living? I’m an Assistant Golf Course Superintendent at Fiddlesticks Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida specifically on the Loch Ness Golf Course.

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What would you like to do for a living? I would like to become a Director of Agronomy at a high-end golf club, and then become a PGA Tour Agronomist.

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? I like going out to eat at nice restaurants (all you can eat sushi is the key to my heart), watching the sunset on the beach, going on trail walks, playing video games from time to time, and going to bars with good music and a dance floor.

Tell us about your first kiss? I was invited as an honoree on a band trip in the 8th grade with the high school band to Wildwood, NJ. We traveled in separate vans and I was in the van with two chaperones, a couple other band members, and a pretty and talented flute player who was a freshman at the time. Over the course of the drive, she broke up with her boyfriend. I felt genuinely bad for her that she was feeling heartbreak, so I went to her room to check up on her. I knocked, she answered, grabbed me by the shirt, pulled me in the room, and kissed me. We made out for an hour. We woke up early to see the sunrise the next day and made out there too.

Steak, chicken, or seafood? This is tough, because I am a sushi guy.

If you know how to cook a perfect Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

steak though, that is also a key to my heart.

brary in Chester, PA with the help of the Bernardine Center.

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? A flint stone and a knife, because I can’t do the rubbing the stick thing, but I can surely strike a flint with the knife to create a spark. The knife will come in handy for hunting and cutting.

Lastly, some type of bowl for water collection and cooking.

Everything else you think you would need; I can find or make.

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? As I am lying in bed relaxing on my Casper bed, I choose nightclub and cocktails, but I have work in the morning. Duty calls!

Favorite comedian? Hands down, Kevin Hart. Philly represent!

Last book you read? The last one I can remember is “Way of the Peaceful Warrior” by Dan Millman. I read the book before watching the movie, and I recommend you do the same.

“Where am I? I am here. What time is it? The time is now.”

Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? Paige Van Zant. She’s an MMA fighter, author and model. So, she could probably wrestle prey for food, help save us both, and write a book about it.

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Not fixing ball marks, hands down. It’s my job to grow grass and keep peak conditions for golf play, so divots and cart traffic don’t really bother me. But I haven’t wrapped my head around leaving a ball mark for the next group to stumble upon. It’s a courtesy for the collective golfer. Fix your ball mark, or find one, so that the next group finds that green in the same condition that you left it. There are exceptions, like senior golfers or golfers with disabilities, but if you are able to bend over, and willing to exert a force with a golf club onto a golf ball for 18 holes, you should have no problem fixing 1-2 ball marks per green.

Name the three most important things to you in this world. My parents, music, and my friends Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Right now, I would have to go with success. Money is the root of all evils, and I’ve been burnt by love recently. I would like to choose love over success one day, but it’s still too fresh in my mind.

What do you fear the most? I’m a pretty fearless guy. I’ve stared death in the face in the form of car accidents before, and I’ve done my fair share of grieving the loss of loved Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

ones. I’ve also had close calls out on the course, like being hit by a golf ball on the fly, and a rotten tree falling next to where I was sitting while waiting for play on a triplex mower.

So, to name a fear, I would say I fear letting the devil win. Good must prevail in order to become who I want to be one day.

News, current events; hardcopy or on-line? Online. It’s easier to cross reference, which I recommend to everyone. There is a lot of “fake news” out there believe it or not. If you rely on one media outlet to keep you up to date on current events, then you are probably doing it wrong. Also, social media does not count. I always say to my mom, “when in doubt, Google it out.”

What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Walter Hagen, Tiger Woods, Charley Hull.

Favorite magazine? Golf Central Magazine. Duh!

What are some of your great accomplishments? When I was in grade school starting in 3rd grade, I would do a clothing drive for the less fortunate in Chester, PA through the Bernardine Center. A nun who was the principal at my school was transferred, and I kept in contact with her. She told me the families needed clothes to keep warm during the winter and toys for the children, so I did a yearly collection of hats, gloves, scarves, socks, underwear, and small toys. I also collected over 200 pounds of books in 2004 for a Catholic school situated right on Grand Anse beach in Grenada. That was before Hurricane Ivan destroyed 90% of the island as a Category 5 storm. I shifted focus to hurricane relief and the money I collected for postage to send the books became a check for $1600 dollars to Father Charles to help rebuild the church and schools. The books went to a li-

Favorite charity to support? Any small charity that I can make a direct impact with and that has a real story involving real people that I am able to meet. The only big charity is the Jimmy V foundation for Cancer Research. Currently, I’m looking for the right charity to donate my hair to when the time comes to chop off my luscious crop of locks.

What else would you like for us to know about you? I am only returning to PA for the following reasons: Penn State Homecoming weekends, golf majors, and if the Flyers or Sixers win the Stanley Cup or NBA Finals, respectively. I was at the World Series parade in 2008, and at the Super Bowl parade in 2018. “World F$&@ ing Champions, and Hungry Dogs Run Faster”. I may consider another Phillies parade, but I don’t believe the Eagles will be back any time soon. Other than that, Florida is my new home and I am here for the long haul!

23

By Mike May

georgia golf trail

North Georgia

A Great Escape Along the Georgia Golf Trail golf experience. When you stand on the practice putting green and admire the beauty of the north Georgia terrain, you will get excited about the 18 holes that await you. The first hole features a tee shot from a raised tee to a fairway down below. And, it just gets better from there. The golf course winds its way through wildlife preserves, ponds, and streams. At all times, you have spectacular views of the surrounding mountainous terrain.

The Innsbruck Resort and Golf Club Brasstown Valley

As the calendar

inches its way toward summer, the mercury climbs up the thermometer, and the humidity gets more sticky, many golfers in the Southeast should consider migrating their way to the mountains of North Georgia for their ongoing quest to beat Old Man Par. Many golfers often assume that the best mountain golf in the U.S. is restricted to the higher elevations of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

But, that’s not the case. The often overlooked state for mountain golf is actually Georgia.

Many golfers would be pleasantly surprised to know that three of the finest locations for mountain golf in the U.S. are actually located in the Peach State – specifically, Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris; Innsbruck Golf Club in Helen; and the Sky Valley Country Club in Sky Valley. Those courses are well-crafted gems. Each course is fun to visit, fun to play, and worth returning for a repeat round or two or three. It’s no surprise that Brasstown Valley Resort, Innsbruck, and Sky Valley are members of the Georgia Golf Trail, which features 24 golf public-access golf courses in Georgia.

“Simply put, we have terrific mountain golf opportunities in Georgia,” said Doug Hollandsworth, Founder, Georgia Golf Trail. “If you come for a long weekend, you’ll want to stay for a month.”

Brasstown Valley (706-379-4613) 24

Sky Valley Country Club is the quintessential mountain golf getaway. Even though Brasstown Valley is located in the mountains, the golf course was built in a valley like setting, which justifies its moniker. Brasstown Valley is easily accessible for golfers from many population centers in the Southeast, as it’s a two-hour drive from both Atlanta and Chattanooga. At Brasstown Valley, there’s a certain clarity to the golf experience. The mountain air is clearer, cleaner, and crisper.

The atmosphere is refreshing, relaxing, and re-energizing. The Brasstown Valley golf course is well maintained, cleverly designed, and entertaining to play. It’s the real deal -- a fair and fun

(706-878-2100) is nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia, located on the outskirts of Helen.

Some golf pundits have referred to Innsbruck as “Alpine mountain golf at its finest...” and “…affordable golf in priceless surroundings.” Both statements are accurate. At Innsbruck, distances don’t mean as much simply because of the many uphill and downhill shots that you have from the tee boxes and from the fairways to the greens. The most memorable shot at Innsbruck is the downhill tee shot on the 15th hole. The descent from tee to green is significant – at Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Unicoi Lodge least 150 feet. You won’t need nearly as much club as you think.

The Sky Valley Country Club (706-7465302) is one of Georgia’s premier destinations for golf, specifically mountain golf.

Not only does the Sky Valley CC’s average elevation of 3,500 feet make it the highest elevation golf course in Georgia, but it’s also been named Georgia’s number one-rated public golf course. While the Sky Valley CC may be nestled in the northeast Georgia mountains, it’s worth the scenic journey to this destination which is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.

The greater Sky Valley area is truly as appealing for non-golfers as it is for golfers, especially if you like hiking, fishing, boating, camping, whitewater rafting, mountain climbing, bird watching, and zip lining. A winery and vineyards are also in this area. So, when you visit Sky Valley, come with an appetite and a taste for the finer things in life.

For those who want to experience more of what Mother Nature has to offer

Sky Valley Country Club Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

in North Georgia, considering staying at the Unicoi State Park & Lodge (706-8782201), located on the outskirts of Helen.

The list of activities at Unicoi is staggering -- archery, zip lining, fly fishing, tennis, mountain biking, hiking, and a 53-acre lake which is ideal for swimming, pedal boating, fishing, canoeing, paddle boarding and kayaking. During summer evenings, there are summer twilight hikes held at Unicoi.

It goes without saying that any trip to North Georgia for golf would be incomplete if it didn’t include an overnight visit or two to Helen (www.helenga.org).

This small, North Georgia community, which is the third-most visited city in Georgia, has a strong and distinctive Bavarian-style quality to its architecture and atmosphere. While walking along Main Street in Helen, the Bavarian feeling you get gives you a sense that an Octoberfest-like celebration will be taking place that day and night. And, in October, it does! Also, White County, where Helen is located, is known as Georgia’s Outdoor Adventure Destination.

I can guarantee you that it won’t be easy heading home after visiting and playing golf in North Georgia, but it will be easy coming back.

Innsbruck Club House

Innsbruck Golf Club 25

By Mike May

golf history

The Tampa Trio:

It's Where Sports Legends Live...And Play Golf!

Within the last year, the headlines in sports sections of newspapers (and websites) around the U.S. have focused on the successes of three professional sports teams from Tampa, Florida.

Last September, the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning won the Stanley Cup against the Dallas Stars. Last October, the Tampa Bay Rays won the American League pennant and then played in Major League Baseball’s World Series, where they lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers. And, back in early February of this year, the NFL held the Super Bowl at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, where the hometown Tampa Bay Buccaneers prevailed and were presented with the Lombardi Trophy as world champions of professional football. That has given the City of Tampa the right to call itself Titletown USA, at least for the time being.

So, in addition to being the home of championship-level teams in ice hockey, baseball, and football, Tampa is also home to three top-tier, championship-caliber public-access golf courses, which are part of the Florida Historic Golf Trail (FHGT). These golf courses further enhance Tampa’s newly acquired moniker: Titletown USA. The first of Tampa’s three FHGT golf courses is one of Florida’s oldest golf courses and is named after a former Tampa-area resident and one of the 20th Century’s greatest athletes (and golfers), Mildred Ella “Babe”

Tampa Auto & Golf Club - Rocky Point - 2nd hole - 1912 26

Willie Black and John Everhart at Rogers Park in 1952

Gebe Sarazen and Babe Zaharias exhibition 1930s

Didrickson Zaharias. It’s the Babe Zaharias Golf Course (11412 Forest Hills Drive, Tampa, Florida; 813-631-4374).

This golf course opened for play in the mid-1920s and was originally called the Forest Hills Golf and Country Club. But, in 1950, changes took place at Forest Hills. Firstly, Babe Zaharias became the club’s winter golf professional. And, in that same year, she and her husband, George Zaharias, bought the course and changed the name to the Tampa Golf and Country Club. While in charge, Babe’s hosted clinics, conducted exhibitions, and played with the members. Sadly, Babe, already an LPGA Hall of Fame inductee, died of cancer in 1956 at age 45. After Babe’s death, things changed at the club for the worse, for unknown reasons. The course was closed, the property became a haven for motorcyclists, and a hangout for teenagers. Fast forward to 1974. The City of Tampa bought and restored the course. Then, the course was re-named the Babe Zaharias Golf Course. The course has been restored to its original brilliance.

If Babe were alive today, she would be proud of what the course looks like in 2021.

Tampa’s second FHGT golf course is the Rogers Park Golf Course (7911 North Willie Black Drive, Tampa, Florida; 813-356-1670).

In 1952, a nine-hole course was opened for play. By 1961, the golf course was expanded to 18 holes.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Rogers Park Caddies What’s special about the Rogers Park Golf Course is its historical story.

The land where this golf course now sits was once the private property of African-American businessman/ philanthropist Garfield Devoe Rogers.

For years, the local African-American community used the land for picnics and general recreation activities. Rogers eventually donated the land to the City of Tampa for a park and a golf course. The land was officially named Rogers Park in 1951.

Later in 1951, Tampa Mayor Curtis Hixon agreed to allow a group of local African-American caddies to build a ninehole golf course at Rogers Park. The golf course construction was led by Willie Black of Albany, Georgia, who had experience building golf courses in Georgia. The crew worked on this project without access to modern machinery, so it was a labor-intensive effort and a true labor of love for golf. Black was named the course’s first head pro.

In 1963, the golf course was desegregated and its doors were open to everybody “interested in challenging Old Man Par.” “We have the finest race relations here of any municipal course in the United States,” stated Black, back in 1966.

Today, the 18-hole Rogers Park Golf Course, a par-71 layout, is surrounded on three sides by the Hillsborough River.

Water hazards are present on eight of the 18 holes. In addition to its driving range, the Rogers Park GC features a three-hole short-game practice area.

Over the years, the course has been Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

refurbished with public funds. Back in 1976, golf course designer Ron Garl oversaw a $400,000 renovation project. In 2000, the Tampa Sports Authority invested $4 million to upgrade the golf course.

If Black were alive today, he would be proud of what the course looks like in 2021.

Tampa’s third FHGT golf course is

Rocky Point – May 1921

the Rocky Point Golf Course (4151 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa, Florida; 813-6734316). This golf course was actually the pet project of the Tampa Automobile Club and was built on a piece of property known as Rocky Point. Atlantaarea golf guru F. G. Byrd was hired to design the 18-hole course. Byrd’s plans included surrounding the course with ditches in order to drain water. He also recommended planting a palmetto tree at each tee. Sadly, those palmetto trees are no longer in existence at each tee box, as they were removed during a course renovation in the 1990s.

The first nine holes were opened in 1912 and the 18-hole layout was completed in 1913. In 1917, the name of the course was changed from the Tampa Automobile and Golf Club to the Rocky Point Golf Club. Over time, the course went through a series of ownership changes. In 1978, the Tampa Sports Authority took control of the direction of the golf course. In addition to being a popular destination for local and visiting golfers, parts of the golf course have been reserved as a wildlife habitat and bird sanctuaries.

If Byrd were alive today, he would be proud of what the course looks like in 2021.

Today, it’s worth noting that Tampa’s trio of Florida Historic Golf Trail golf courses are now under the control of the Tampa Sports Authority, which also oversees operations of Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, the current home of the world champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Babe Zaharias Clubhouse - 1926

27

leader on the links

Helping to celebrate “Women’s History Month” Why do we celebrate Women’s History Month? Women’s History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the women who have made an impact on our history, culture, and society.

To recognize the efforts of those who challenged the status quo and did not back down. To reflect on the progress that has been made and be inspired to act for the future.

One of the areas making great strides has been in the golf industry.

With help from pioneers like Alice Bauer, Patty Berg, Bettye Danoff, Helen Detweiler, Marlene Bauer Hagge, Helen Hicks, Opal Hill, Betty Jameson, Sally Sessions, Marilynn Smith, Shirley Spork, Louise Suggs and Babe Zaharias, the 13 original founders of the LPGA. Each one has helped move the needle forward in competitive golf for women. Since those early days, the growth of women’s golf has taken off, helping to spark interest and encourage thousands of new female golfers take up the game each season.

Doing their part to help continue fostering growth in women’s golf, are hosts of the Women of Golf Show, Ted J. Odorico and Cindy Miller.

Here’s more about the show, and 28

Host Cindy Miller

Host Ted J. Odorico it’s hosts: The Women of Golf is one of the best golf shows in the industry,

bar none! Each week the show’s Executive Producer, Ted J. Odorico and LPGA Professional, Cindy Miller tackle many important issues facing women in the golf industry today.

They discuss everything from the latest equipment and training aids.

Plus, they speak to some of the top female teaching professionals and coaches in the business. Their highly popular segment the “No B.S. Zone” also highlights important issues like: Women’s health, golf fitness, the mental game and how to navigate successfully around the course.

Those are just some of the topics covered. They also speak with top female executives who recognize the value of using golf to help further their careers, and to elevate women’s golf. In addition, each season Ted and Cindy celebrate with many of the top female players fresh off their Symetra Tour win.

Join Ted & Cindy every Tuesday morning, from 9:00 - 10:00 AM Eastern on the “WOMEN OF GOLF SHOW”.

You can hear them LIVE at www. blogtalkradio.com/womenofgolf. Or listen on any of these social media platforms: iTunes, TuneIn, Castbox, Stitcher, TalkStreamLive and Spotify.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

NEW WEBSITE www. p i t chf i x. com

Visit our new website and discover our award winning collection of retail golf accessories, corporate golf gifts and green maintenance aids.

AQUABRUSH Our new Aquabrush combines a hardwearing club-brush, with an integrated water spray to help loosen heavy debris from the club face, all in a compact and stylish body, that can be attached to your bag with the branded cap and cord. The most exciting new golf retail accessory of 2021.

• Golf Tools • Course Tools • Corporate Golf Details of all our ranges and offers as well as demonstration videos too!

Clean Clubs, Better Shots

ADD TO YOUR RETAIL RANGE TODAY!

Get in touch with the team to find out how we can help boost your retail revenues this season! Visit www.pitchfix.com

Kelsey Barlow

golf bachelorette

Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know.

That I’m good listener and have a good sense of humor.

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

Divot repair tool, rum, and a tent.

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

Jimmy Buffett. Because he can serenade the night away, and we can have a cheese burger in paradise.

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? 5 people playing together, it holds up the pace of play.

Name the three most important things to you in this world.

Family, friends and faith What do you fear the most?

Sharks, but I do like a good scuba dive without them around.

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

Arnold Palmer, Adam Scott, and my Kentucky homeboy-Justin Thomas.

What are some of your great accomplishments?

Playing my violin at Carnegie Hall in NY and being nominated for the KY Derby Festival Princess program.

Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

I was born and raised in Louisville KY, and yes, I grew up there as well. I have lived in Orlando, FL for the last 6 years.

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?

A fun night out with the girls and cocktails.

What do you do for a living?

I’m an assistant pro at Falcon’s Fire Golf Club

Favorite comedian?

Jerry Seinfeld

What would you like to do for a living?

Marine Biologist

Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance?

Action I always like a good Marvel movie.

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Going to the beach and enjoying a fun Brunch with my girl friends

What golf apparel do you like to wear?

Nike

Last book you read?

A Passion for Golf Celebrity Musings About The Game by Ann Liguori. She signed it and made it personal to me.

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

Audrey Hepburn Steak, chicken, or seafood?

Steak, it’s always the number one choice 30

Favorite charity to support?

Girls Scouts of America What else would you like for us to know about you? I’m left-handed, I long for a relaxing day on the water, I never turn down a day to go to the Disney parks, and I never turn down a round of golf.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Not just another fish in the sea.

We design and build functional, one-of-a-kind golf bag models with only the highest quality craftsmanship and pinpoint attention to detail. We create golf bags designed around what real golfers told us they want in a bag. Similar to an Orca, our bags like us, are not just another fish in the sea. We operate with a purpose: to drive inclusiveness and empowerment. The Orca brand symbolizes for us a statement of uniqueness, individuality, and the respect for oneself and our “Pods”. The Orca is fearless and strong; they travel in pods, proving you can make all things happen when you work together.

http://www.orca-golf.com

02 |

By: Greg and Beverly Wise

special events

16th Annual Ocala Open – Presented by Florida Professional Golf Tour What has truly

become a tradition… the 2021 Ocala Open, played at Candler Hills Golf Club in mid-March turned into yet another exciting finish that we have all come to expect.

Rick Hendershot, President of the Florida Professional Golf Tour stated, “the Ocala Open is always the highlight tournament of the year for our group.”

Patrick Williams fired a 7-under par 64 in the final round to catch front runner Seth Fair who fired a final round 4-under par 67 to the share of the title.

“Sudden death play-off has become the norm at the Ocala Open,” Hendershot stated… reminiscing a few years back where the final 2 golfers played 6 extra holes to produce a winner.

This year’s Championship went 3-holes of extra play, before Patrick Williams lipped out a 6-footer, giving Seth Fair an opening to bang in the back of the cup a solid 3-foot birdie to seal the Championship and receive the check for $15,000.

131 players began play on Wednesday of the 3-day Ocala Open at Candler Hills with a final cut of the top 40 and ties to play for the title on Friday.

“The Ocala Open always begins with the traditional Tuesday Pro-Am with the players… which has produced a tremendous about of money of the 16-year existence of the tournament,” Hendershot stated. It is a great day for this area, when the true winners of the event are local charities. Both Hospice of Marion County as well as Interfaith Services each were presented with a check of $40,000 for this year’s event.

Seth Fair Champion

Seth Fair – Whitestown, IN

-17

66 – 63 – 67 196 Total $15,000

2

Patrick Williams – Estero, FL

-17

64 – 68 – 64 196 Total $ 8,000

3

Willie Mack III – Flint, MI

-15

64 – 67 – 67 198 Total $ 6,000

4

Trey Shirley – Bardstown, KY

-14

64 – 68 – 67 199 Total $ 4,000

Jones & Trace

Patrick Williams

32

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Michael Visacki

Kevin Hall

Willie Mac III

what's new

Zero Friction’s Xtreme Golf Glove Adds Extra Benefits To Already Successful Glove

Zero Friction golf gloves are known for their quality and their variety of colors. Now, with the launch of the Xtreme Golf Glove, Zero Friction has added even more color and quality.

“Our new Xtreme gloves feature color with an edge,” said Zero Friction Founder John Iacono. “These gloves are crafted with 100% authentic Cabretta leather and reinforced Lycra throughout the fingers, back of hand, and palm for maximum durability and breathability. The Xtreme series is an exciting new addition to our product portfolio with six dynamic color options available.”

Like the rest of the Zero Friction line, the Xtreme is a universal fit glove that molds to your hand for a guaranteed fit. The true advantage of the 34

Zero Friction glove line for retailers

year. Licensed gloves and Super-

is that the universal fit means shops

tubes featuring NFL, MLB, NHL and

do not have to carry a huge inven-

the top 20 collegiate teams will

tory of sizes. Instead, the shops can

also have a dedicated section.

offer a large selection of colors.

Zero Friction recently entered the

“The Extreme gloves also have a

golf laser rangefinder segment in a

tasteful blend of four colors in each

big way with its Zero Friction Laser

glove which make the gloves com-

Pro and Laser Pro SM products. And

pletely unique,” added Iacono.

like most Zero Friction products,

Zero Friction benefits golf shops with a creative selection of packaging, including the SuperTubes, which

this one has a unique element that separates it from the competitors.

Both Zero Friction Laser Pro mod-

received the ING Industry Honors

els come with a pistol shape rubber

Product Ingenuity award for its pack-

handle grip, making it very simple

aging of color-matched glove, Spec-

to get yardage for your next shot.

tra™ distance golf balls and tees.

Simply aim and click, and the exact

Zero Friction also has logo ca-

distance appears on an easy-to-

pabilities including logo golf balls,

read LCD display magnified X6.

gloves, and tees, which has experi-

For more information, visit www.zero-

enced significant growth this past

friction.com, or call 630-317-7700.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

2019 NATIONAL GOLF COURSE OF THE YEAR The Heather BEST GOLF RESORTS IN AMERICA BOYNE Golf — Forbes.com — 100 GREATEST PUBLIC COURSES The Heather #92, Links/Quarry #80 — Golf Digest — EDITOR’S CHOICE BEST GOLF RESORTS IN AMERICA Bay Harbor Golf Club & Inn at Bay Harbor — Golf Digest — TOP 100 RESORTS Buddies Trip BOYNE Golf Luxury Bay Harbor Golf Club & Inn at Bay Harbor — GOLF Magazine & GOLF.com —

AS PURE AS IT GETS The time to book Northern Michigan’s Best is NOW!

Visit BOYNEgolf.com or call 866.535.0790 for more details.

young guns

College Golf Experience Launches Ryan Donovan – San Diego St.

Newly-launched College Golf Experience(CGE) and the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA)have combined forces for a first of its kind endorsement, leading to junior golfers having unprecedented access to learning what collegiate golf is like directly from coaches and players.

Through this innovative partnership, coaches will showcase their programs via camps and unique events presented by CGE and participating college and university golf teams.

CGE was formed by golf industry leader Joshua Jacobs, founder and CEO of TGA Premier Golf, the top provider of after school introductory and camp-based junior golf programs. TGA is on pace to register its 1,000,000th junior golfer in 2022 and engages 50,000+ juniors per year through its golf programs.

“College Golf Experience is committed to building value for college coaches 36

Jim Anderson – University of Arizona

and creating unique and transformational opportunities for junior golfers at all stages of development with an emphasis on aspiring collegiate student athletes,” stated Jacobs. “CGE is a tremendous opportunity for young men

and women, regardless of their playing level, to learn, compete and showcase their talents while interacting with college coaches and players in an immersive, fun, and educational setting.

Having played college golf, I wish I’d had the chance to ask collegiate coaches and players about life as a college golfer, setting expectations and achieving my goals. Our participants will leave the CGE with a clearer vision of college golf and the road that leads there.”

CGE establishes opportunities to prepare young athletes for the future and allows coaches to connect with potential recruits. CGE represents a logical progression that advances the junior golf Player Pathway.

“The GCAA is excited about the additional opportunities for its member coaches that the College Golf Experience (CGE) is going to provide,” said GCAA CEO Gregg Grost. “The exposure that collegiate golf camps provide Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Jason D’Amore – LMU junior golfers is in many cases the first opportunity to meet a college coach, interact with college players and experience a college campus. The commitment that CGE has to assisting coaches with their camps and making sure that the instruction level, curriculum and information pertinent to college golf is first class is why this endorsement makes so much sense for the GCAA.” The partnership will provide flexibility for college coaches to participate in camps and other transformational experiences. All events cut directly to the core of detailing life as a college golfer, promote skill progression, and educate about the jump from junior to college golf. Participants receive professional skill-based instruction at top-tier golf facilities directed by collegiate coaches.

“I am excited for both coaches and juniors to work with College Golf Experience,” said GCAA President John Kennaday. “We are endorsing this service to aid coaches who otherwise may not be able work with a trusted partner for their camp. In turn, we are proud to say juniors will be given more opportunities to interact with actual college coaches and receive the most up to date information regarding recruitment to college golf.”

Campers engage in seminars related Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

to: formatting communications to college coaches, learning what it takes to play golf at the collegiate level, life of a collegiate golfer, and learning how to separate from other recruits; as well as skill contests, simulated practice round and tournament experiences,

Q&A discussions with their parents, and coach to junior player evaluations.

Additional information is available at www.collegegolfx.com. Locations and dates for CGE camps at college campuses nationwide and other unique experiences will be announced this spring.

Michael Beard – Pepperdine (#1 coach in country)

37

Jay Golden, PGA, and Bodo Sieber, CEO & Co-Founder, Tagmarshal

golf business header

Why Pace of Play is So Important to Golf Golf has seen

a resurgence as a result of the pandemic. Golf courses are crowded with new players joining golfers who have played the game for years. One thing they have in common -- avoiding a five hour plus round. Each wants to play at a comfortable pace, nor do they want to be admonished for causing slow play. Course operators, too, wish to provide golfers with a good experience and want to build loyalty and know they will return to the course time and again.

To this end, the USGA conducted some groundbreaking research to unpack what really matters to golfers and shapes how much they enjoy their round of golf. Results found that 82% of players believe “Course Conditioning is a crucial enjoyment factor” while 74% of golfers believe that “Pace/Flow/Time is a crucial enjoyment factor.”

It is obvious that if the course is well maintained and a pleasure to play, and you are able to play at a good pace without needing to stop and wait for slow groups ahead, you will have that good experience. The need to ensure optimal pace and field flow is amplified during this pandemic particularly when safe distances are to be maintained.

In order to achieve a proper pace and flow, forward thinking courses have

38

embraced optimization technology to assist them in effectively and efficiently manage on-course operations, including pace and field flow. Tagmarshal, the global leader in golf course intelligence software, uses a GPS based system to track and monitor movement on the course. It provides real-time data alerting the pro shop staff to where there are potential or existing bottlenecks.

Player assistants can then, in a nonthreatening and positive way, help the group to improve their pace of play.

PGA professionals and course operators are responsible for maximizing not only player satisfaction with how the facility treats them from the moment they enter the grounds, but also revenue growth for the course, pro shop and food and beverage operations. They now have key metrics to track progress, manage, optimize and report on performance with ease. The system allows them to measure time on a specific hole, fairway or green as well as wait times on the tee box.

Tagmarshal technology has collected over 1 billion data points from over 15 million rounds of golf. It has partnered with more than 300 private clubs, daily fee and resort facilities worldwide including 30 of the Top 100 US courses.

Many Florida facilities utilize Tagmarshal including Naples area courses such as Forest Glen CC, Calusa Pines GC, Naples Grande, as well as Banyan, Gulf Harbor and Sandridge, and Bradenton’s Legacy GC, and Serenoa GC in Sarasota.

As the pandemic recedes and normalcy returns, it is critical, and imperative, that golfers continue to enjoy their round as technology improves on-course pace of play and field flow conditions in a non-intrusive and efficient way. Technology has made an impact on golf and for the better. If your favorite course or club does not utilize such a system, you might suggest that they investigate the benefits.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

www.nonablue.com

stay & play

Rumbling Bald Announces Availability of Mountain Home and Fairway Villa Vacation Rentals Spacious, Fully-Appointed Lodging Ideal for Golf Groups of All Sizes Rumbling Bald, the 36-hole mountain golf retreat along the shores of scenic Lake Lure, announces the availability of spacious mountain home and Fairway Villa vacation rentals, ideal for golf groups of all sizes.

Mountain homes, just minutes from Apple Valley and Bald Mountain golf courses, range from three to six bedrooms with room for up to 12 guests.

They feature full kitchens with modern appliances, washer-dryer, private bed and bathrooms, outdoor living space and grills and high-speed wireless Internet. Several luxury units include additional amenities, such as jacuzzi

baths, fire pits, game rooms, projection TVs and more.

Located along Bald Mountain golf course, two-bedroom Fairway Villas accommodate between six and eight guests depending on the bed and sleeper sofa configuration. Villa units have full kitchens, stacked washer-dryer units, flat screen TVs and patios, many of which overlook both the golf course and Bald Mountain. Dining at Legends on the Lake, the Lake Lure recreation area and other amenities are a short walk away.

“Vacation rentals have emerged as the most popular form of lodging amid the ‘new normal’ and with more than 150 units, Rumbling Bald is wellpositioned for this long-term trend,” says General Manager Jeff Geisler. “The mountain homes and Fairway Villas are on-property lodging options that 40

offer the ultimate in convenience, amenities and relaxation off the golf course.”

Spring arrives early in this part of Western North Carolina and Rumbling Bald recently rolled out its golf packages for 2021. Starting at $345 per person, the “Hole-in-One” package features a two-night stay in a Fairway Villa or Apple Valley Studio, two rounds of golf on Apple Valley and Bald Mountain, breakfast both days and complimentary, unlimited range balls. Custom golf packages are available with mountain homes tailored to group size, course and tee time preferences.

Paying homage to the 2021 Ryder Cup at Destination Kohler’s famed Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, Rumbling Bald is offering a limited availability “Ryder Cup Package.” Expert golf vacation planners are available to design an exciting, Ryder Cup team formatted event for golf groups in search of an unforget-

table experience.

The Ryder Cup Package starts at $589 per person and includes: three nights lodging; three rounds of golf scored and handicapped; complimentary replays on either course; a team shirt and hat; private, one-hour opening reception with wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres and unlimited use of the practice facilities.

For groups of 12 or more, Rumbling Bald offers gratis golf for group leaders upon booking their first trip to the property. The “12+ Comp” is ideal for PGA Professional-member trips, tournaments, or large golf buddy trips.

To learn more about Rumbling Bald’s golf courses and packages, visit www. rumblingbald.com, or email jdoran@ rumblingbald.com. To book packages directly, or to speak with golf vacation planner, call (828) 694.3072.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

stay & play

By: Greg Wise Photos by Beverly Wise

A New Tradition begins for Sebring International Golf Resort For many of us in Florida hearing about the acquisition of a new ownership group of the Spring Lake Golf Resort in November 2019… and reminiscing about previous visits to the area… we could only hope that the quality would be brought back to life in this timeless resort just outside the historic city of

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Sebring, Florida.

After meeting with the new owners and visualizing their plans for the newly renamed “Sebring International Golf Resort,” we came away from this media event with a newfound feeling that this resort was on the way back.

If you remember Spring Lake Golf Resort had 2 - 18-hole tracks called the

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Cougar and the Panther. The Panther is in the process of being re-routed and renovated, in addition to being taken down to 9-holes. With the visionary aspects of the new owners, holes 16 though 18 of the Panther course has undergone a total transformation into a 12-hole short course… aptly named “The 12.”

“The 12” is a true showcase type of course. We joked a little bit about “The 12” being the go-to type course focusing on the speed of play had how people were beginning to see golf. Not so overwhelming distance and a comfortable feeling with the quality playing condition and the competitive edge of the short game.

If we are able to predict the future quality that will be built into the 3 distinct – 9-holes layouts of the Sebring International Golf Resort, realizing how

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

much quality and thought has been built into The 12… we are all in for a tremendous surprise when this resort is complete.

The resort will remain open during the renovation that is happening to the Grill, the Pub, the Clubhouse and the practice facility. Now is a great time for a visit to Sebring.

Sebring International Golf Resort has become a part of the Citrus Golf Trail, which has become over the years… known as the Value Golf Capital of America, Sebring’s collection of golf courses truly offer, value, history, outstanding service, and above all, an extraordinary experience. Now with Sebring International Golf Resort, even taking your experience to the next level.

Book your Stay n’ Play with Sebring International Golf Resort today.

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By: Jason Becker, PGA

living on the links

Golf Community Real Estate is in High Demand – enter a new breed of real estate agent Looking back just six months ago, the golf industry was beginning to make a significant pivot from famine to feast in terms of consumer demand for golf, golf real estate and outside activity.

I don’t know that anyone could have seen it coming, but we certainly embraced the surge of folks from around the country eyeing Florida as an escape. Many consumers said: Enough is enough.

I’m not going to wait any longer to invest into my future.

An influx of buyers arrived swiftly into the Sunshine State, with cash in hand anxious to buy golf memberships and golf homes. Buyer trend data at Golf Life Navigators shows 75% of the marketplace is now planning to combine the search of club and home. For most, it is a 50/50 split on which is more important – the club or the home. Add spousal difference of opinion to the equation, and you have a complex search in the hands of consumers looking to expedite their decision.

As we enter into a new chapter of buyer demand for golf and golf lifestyle, another opportunity is increasing for the real estate community - the demand for a “Golf Certified Real Estate Agent.”

Buyers who are embarking on this search are looking for guidance. Don Larson, a Chicago native, began his search for a club and home in Naples several years ago. The search involved finding his ideal golf experience and the perfect home and amenities for his family. When asked what gave him the most anxiety about the search, he said: Our biggest concern was finding a real estate agent who knew the golf clubs and the specific amenities of each. From 1500 miles away, I was a bit leery to begin calling brokerages hoping to connect with an agent who was trustworthy and truly knew what I was looking for.

Larson went on to say that he had to interview multiple agents as many did not possess the intel he needed to help filter the options. Fast forward to today, and you have thousands of buyers like the Larsons who are combining the 44

Real Estate Agent (and former PGA Professional). Having your Realtor be an integral part of the golf club selection process is something totally new and comforting for buyers.

Jason: Capital improvements at the clubs seem to be a common theme in 2021. Are buyers asking you about improvement plans at various clubs?

Do you believe the average agent would have a pulse of those dynamics to accurately provide feedback?

search and are looking for this unique breed of real estate agent.

Currently, one of the most soughtafter markets in Florida is the Venice region, just south of Sarasota. What’s not to love? Venice offers beautiful beaches, art, culture and plenty of great golf courses and communities. David Brown, a Golf Certified Real Estate Agent in the Venice region, has had a historically busy year and sees the demand growing from buyers who are seeking an agent with his skillset – someone who knows golf and real estate.

I asked David a few questions about the recent demand for golf homes. He was gracious enough to provide his insight and predictions for the Florida golf/real estate market.

Jason: Today, 58% of buyers would like to purchase a home in a golf community, a 9% increase since this time last year. Do you see that demand continuing with your buyers who are looking to purchase a golf home this summer and fall David: What I am hearing from buyers confirms that increase. COVID has accelerated many buyers’ timelines, and these younger buyers want more than to just join a golf club. They want to become part of a community.

Jason: We see buyer demand growing each day at GLN of folks wanting to connect with a “golf-centric” real estate agent. Are you hearing more questions about specific golf communities then in the past?

David: The golf buyers I work with appreciate the added benefits, knowledge and services that I provide as a Golf Certified

David: Capital improvements are generally paid for from reserves and/ or special assessments to the members.

Buyers purchasing a property in a club with an ongoing or future planned capital improvement need to know clearly what additional costs they will incur at closing, as well as, the long term annual fees and if those improvements merit that cost. I believe a Golf Certified Real Estate Agent is better versed than the average agent in knowing how those improvements will affect the overall value of the golf club and the resident members.

As we enter into the summer months, time will tell on the increasing demand for golf memberships and golf homes in Florida. Our intel at GLN tells us that buyers are aggressively traveling to Florida this summer with hopes of increased inventory levels of golf homes and decreased crowds. They are ready to buy, now!

For the golf and club industry, this is great news as we all continue to embrace buyer demand for the game and lifestyle. For the real estate community, this continuing influx of buyers should be a lucrative opportunity to grow business. However, be cognizant that buyers of golf and real estate in 2021 are interviewing agents in search of one that has a golf acumen. It doesn’t mean you have to play golf or be a member at a prestigious club but certainly need to understand the basic dynamics of private clubs and the general differences of the clubs in the market. My suggestion, become a Golf Certified Real Estate Agent like David Brown and position yourself as the agent for whom buyers are searching.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

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

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

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

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

P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R

Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Adaptive Lenses is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2012 Transitions Optical, Inc.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

transitions.com

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leader on the links

Meet Eric Anderson:

Golf’s “Weather” Man F

or more than a decade, Vortex Insurance, a weather-risk insurance agency, has been the leader in rain protection for outdoor events.

Second graph, “Bad weather can be risky business for golf courses and events. If you’re a club professional, general manager or tournament organizer, Vortex can protect your revenue and your reputation.

Eric Anderson, Weather Insurance Producer and Golf Industry Specialist, answers questions about weather insurance and it’s rapid growth and acceptance in the golf industry.

••••• Q. Eric, tell us a little bit about your background.

A. I played collegiate golf at Augusta University, graduated in 1993, then worked as an assistant professional at Augusta National Golf Club for three years. In 1998, I started brokering weather derivatives and joined Vortex Insurance in 2019.

Q. What is weather insurance?

A. Weather insurance is a risk management tool that helps to financially protect your outdoor event, tournament or business from adverse weather conditions.

Q. Is this a new type of insurance?

A. Weather insurance is called parametric insurance – meaning based on a predetermined index.

Over the past decade, as weather recording data has advanced, parametric insurance has become more widely available.

46

Q. How is parametric weather insurance different from other types of insurance?

A. Parametric insurance guarantees an agreed upon payout once the threshold is triggered as a qualifying event.

Q. How does a policy typically work?

A. Let’s take an hourly rain insurance example. You insure against one inch of rainfall during the hours of your event. If it rains at least that amount during the coverage period, you will be paid the full insurance limit you purchased typically in less than two-weeks.

Q. How is the insurance limit determined?

A. You decide the amount that the event will generate for a charity, or the costs associated with running that event or both. Since you’re not required to ‘insure to value,’ an insurance limit can be set to fit your budget.

Q. Does an event have to be canceled to file a claim?

A. No - the beauty of having parametric weather insurance is that if the threshold is met during the coverage period, regardless of event cancellation, you will receive full payment.

Q. Is the claim processing tedious and time consuming?

A. Just the opposite, which is another attractive aspect about parametric insurance. You have

faster, guaranteed payouts when the conditions are met which provides clarity for a seamless claim process different than traditional indemnity insurance.

Q. Is Vortex weather insurance affordable for smaller tournaments?

A. Yes, Vortex offers a variety of options that fits your specific event needs and budget for either full or partial coverage.

Q. Why should anyone responsible for running a tournament purchase Vortex weather insurance?

A. The thought of losing the money raised for your charity due to a rain event is unfortunate and uncomfortable. You can insure not only the event revenue and costs to run the event, but also the money raised at the dinner from the auction, or any other expected revenue as well. vortexinsurance.com Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

By Fred Seely

freddy's fairway thoughts

automatically into No. 2.

Richmond is still thinking about it.

Your club should be, too.

Tee times More about my club.

No secret that COVID has caused a massive increase in golf play. Perfect secenarios: no place to spend money, no place to go to work, wide open spaces with clean air.

Our club opened in 1923. It has never had tee times and the old boys will huff and say, “Never will.”

Never say never.

Saturday mornings turned into a two-hour wait.

Sundays were going in that direction.

Welcome to the tee time world.

Here and there

It’s not unusual to see PGA Tour players holding a trophy — happens each week, maybe more when there’s more than one tournament — so why is Jim Furyk standing next to a guy and both have trophies?

This might be a rare photo: Furyk won the gross division of his club’s member-guest. The other guy is his guest.

Have you ever see a photo of a PGA Tour pro at his club’s member-guest?

Member-guest sign-up

The member-guest is a staple at almost every golf club. Highlight of the year for yours, probably.

It is for mine.

And it’s gotten out of hand.

The issue is the sign-up. Clubs have been either too lazy or too dumb to do it differently than a first-come basis, which is okay when you aren’t going to fill up but which absolutely is awful when people know they’re going to get left out.

The demand now is more than ever, as it is for almost every golf club from tee times to tournaments. Business is great with not much else to do and Congress sending “stimulus” checks that nicely help pay for golf.

Too great, these days.

Before this year, our member-guest was first-come and that became a horror show. Sign-up opened at 7 a.m. and people were sleeping in their cars to make sure they had a good place in line.

That’s also how they do it at my son-in-law’s Richmond club. He got there at 4 a.m. and was 49th in line!

Someone here stood up against this insanity and, from now on, my club finally — finally — has gone to a lottery system. They’ve also added a second memberguest in the fall, with those not making No. 1 getting 48

• No one seems to care about golf in the Olympic games, starting with PGA Tour players. Isn’t it time to a) admit it was a bad idea and put it away again or b) do what the Olympics should do and make it for amateurs. (Side note: I asked a travel consultant what he didn’t like about his business. Answer: dealing with the Olympic and the World Cup. “Both totally corrupt.”)

• Now that we’ve all wished Tiger Woods well, can’t we ask what this guy still has a driver’s license? There have been at least three documented issues, and rumors of more hushed up, and it’s going to be hard for people to justify handwringing if there’s manslaughter charge down the road.

• TopGolf showed the industry how to promote and some clubs are tagging along. One in our area has put a pub on the driving range with a lot of clever targets, and is getting good business off evening play and even leagues. And remember when some industry big shots said that TopGolf would have the same impact as miniature golf?

• Harvey Penick probably will haunt me tonight, but didn’t Austin Country Club look like one of those resort city courses where they have to cram everything into a little space?

• The new PGA Tour headquarters is open and everyone seems happy. Including the nearby residents, who feared putting the employees in one place would produce traffic issues. No problem so far, but we’ll see when everyone is in the massive building.

• Way to go LPGA. $10,000 fine for slow play.

• You noted that the Canadian Open is moving to South Carolina because of the virus and that the state kicked in $6 million to get it. You probably can hear the howls about “taxpayer money” but they think they’ll make a nice profit because of the TV ad time they can sell. If South Carolina pulls this off, it might be a future business model.

• Comments? I’m at fs4569@comcast.net.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

By Faye Sykes

playing from the tips

Choosing Life Insurance Is Like Choosing the Right Club Selecting the right club for each shot is one of the most important decisions you make as a golfer, and you must consider the distance, wind and other hazards you face. Similarly, choosing the right type of insurance protection at each point in life can help protect your family’s finances and allow them to maintain their lifestyle should they unexpectedly lose you.

Life Insurance Policies Explained ∎ Term life insurance guarantees a certain death benefit payout during a specified period, such as 1, 2, 10, 15, or 30 years, and then ends. Some insurance companies have a conversion period where you can convert part or all of the insurance to permanent insurance. ∎ Whole life insurance is permanent insurance that has fixed premiums and a guaranteed cash value accumulation that you can borrow against. Some polices include living benefits or longterm care provisions. ∎ Universal life insurance is like whole

50

life, but gives you flexibility in the premium payments, death benefit amounts, and the savings or cash-value elements of your policy. ∎ Variable life insurance* is a type of permanent life insurance with cash value investment options that work like mutual funds which are called subaccounts, therefore there is the potential for loss or gains. There are no fixed premiums, but you need to pay enough to cover the insurance company costs and any losses due to market conditions. ∎ Simplified issue life insurance can be approved with only minimal health questions and is geared towards people who need to obtain life insurance right away, therefore it can cost more. ∎ Guaranteed issue life insurance is a type of whole life insurance policy that does not require any medical information; sometimes called “no questions life insurance.” It usually has a waiting period, usually two or three years, and if you die during that time your beneficiaries receive nothing.

∎ Final expense insurance is coverage for burial or cremation expenses and/or final medical bills. ∎ Group life insurance is a single policy issued to an organization covering its members or employees.

For more information about how to tee up the right life insurance 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. *Variable contracts are offered by prospectus only. Investors should consider the investment objective, risks, charges, and expenses carefully before investing.

The prospectus, which contains this and other important information, is available from your Financial Advisor and should be read carefully before investing.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

SunnilandSUPERSpotlight:

Anthony Williams, CGCS, CGM

A Turf Pirate‘s Journal — Introductions Are Necessary

The ancient and honorable Tribe

of Turf Pirates has unofficially existed since turf was first cultivated. Turf Pirates have earned a reputation for working hard, playing hard and demonstrating a mastery of multiple crafts. They are also elusive creatures demonstrated by their unofficial status and lack of a definitive start date. Successful turf pirates can often fly many flags and wear many hats such as agronomist, arborist, horticulturalist, electrician, plumber, evangelist and meteorologist to name a few. They are as a group diverse and complex full of adventure and protocol and protocol dictates that introductions are necessary and proper.

I am Anthony Williams and I am a Turf Pirate. I was likely born a Turf Pirate on our family farm in Indian Creek, Georgia growing coastal Bermuda grass 52

hay. I became aware I was a Turf Pirate in 1984 at the Palace Saloon (the oldest bar in Florida) with my mates from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (GEE HAW WHOA BACK) while sampling Pirates Punch as part of an ongoing research project. We were young black belts under Grand Master Young Seon Seo (Moo Duk Kwan/ Tae Kwon Do) and we were soon to graduate and seek our adventures in the golf industry. It is also important to note that my then girlfriend and now wife (Phyllis) of 36 years was there the day I became a Turf Pirate so she knew what she was getting into.

I have traveled the world chasing the legends of turf. I have walked turf plots with Dr. Glen Burton. I have shared a one hour cab ride with Dr. Frank Rossi.

I am a pupil of the grandest southern gentlemen of Turf Mr. Palmer Maples Jr. I have had the honor of working with my brother from another mother Mr. Bruce Williams. I began my journey in golf turf at the suggestion of Dr. Eddie Seagle and owe my college degree in large part to Dr. Rosemary Johnson. I have stayed my course through calm and stormy seas. I stayed 20 years at my first course (14 as Director of

Agronomy) then I was superintendent of three different clubs in six weeks before completing 30 years of service with Marriott Golf (I have been to Orlando a million times). Through car wrecks and karate championships I broke 24 bones and lost my gall bladder but found a new heart valve and through it all I have recruited more Turf Pirates, 33 at last count. If you thought you saw me around Florida I was for a time the Director of Sales and Marketing for Green Technologies working with Florida legend Dr. Amir Varshovi. I have won 39 green industry awards and published two books and written a plethora of articles thanks to my friends at TOCA. The last four years I followed my cowboy roots and have flown my flag in Texas at TPC Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Dallas at Las Colinas. I am currently President of the North Texas Golf Course Superintendents Association.

Are you a Turf Pirate? Turf Pirates are masters in the art of living. They make their way seeing no difference in their work, play, love or religion they simply pursue their vision of excellence with all things leaving it up to others to decide if they were working or playing, to them they are always doing both.

Turf Pirates raise your glass to those who grow the grass. BTW if you have never had shrimp and grits over the ocean you should question your life choices.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Sunn 28-0-0

Minors Blend

Sunn 6-0-0 Blend

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

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

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

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

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

N-SURE ITEM #160031 GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Sunn KTS

PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER Item# 160041 GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Soluble Potash (K2O) ..............25% Total Sulfur (S) .........................17% 17% combined sulfur 0% free sulfur Derived from: potassium thiosulfate

LIQUID FERTILIZER ITEM #160000 GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER Item# 160010 GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

Sunn 12-0-0 Blend PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER ITEM# 160021 GUARANTEED ANALYSIS

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

SECONDARY PLANT FOODS Iron as Fe ...................................6% Manganese as Mn .....................2% Derived from: Urea, Iron Glucoheptonate, Manganese Glucoheptonate

Manufactured by

SUNNILAND CORPORATION

PO Box 8001 Sanford, Florida 32773-8001

www.sunnilandcorp.com Share your photos & videos #sunnilandcorp Follow us @sunnilandcorp

www.sunnilandcorp.com • 800-432-1130

SUPERSTAR

Jason Ellis

Jason Ellis,

a native of northern Virginia, moved to Florida when he was 13 where he was introduced to the sport of golf. As a life-long sports enthusiast, baseball was his sport of choice. Golf was something he did with friends in high school at the local 9-hole facility after school or on weekends. Golf course maintenance wasn’t even on his radar, and in fact he had no idea what it was.

Ellis said the industry found him by fate when he was 20 and attending college to become an accountant. He realized after his first year, that major probably wasn’t for him. The idea of sitting in an office all day and looking at a computer had lost its allure. Ellis applied for a job at a local golf course, Cape Coral Yacht Club, as a cart attendant. After completing the application, Ellis found out all the positions had been filled. However, there was a need in the maintenance department at the course. The superintendent “Nick” offered Ellis the job. Since he needed to make some money, he agreed to accept the position despite not having an inkling about golf course maintenance. He stayed in that capacity for 18 months and fell in love with the profession.

Ellis enjoyed the comradery and diversity of the crew. He forged life-long friendships and learned how to operate all the maintenance equipment.

The following year, the Club brought in a new veteran superintendent, Gary Crowell. He had construction experience that the new owner was looking for to oversee the planned renovations Not long after Crowell was at the helm, he approached Elis and said “you’re a smart kid, ever consider doing this long-term?” Ellis began think-

ing about it but didn’t know what this career path would entail.

The next step was studying for a chemical applicator’s license. Over the next few months. Elis assumed more responsibilities and began working on chemical and fertility programs and applications. Cornwell served as a mentor and convinced Ellis to attend the local community college that had a budding turf program, led by Dr. Lee Berndt of Michigan State University.

Ellis attended classes in the evenings while working during the day.

The curriculum, students and faculty facilitated other golf-related connections that led to his next position with IGM as an irrigation tech in Lehigh Acres at Mirror Lakes. There Ellis learned the “ins-and-outs” of irrigation, another essential component of healthy turf. Change came calling again when another connection from school approached him about a second assistant position at Palmira Golf Club in Bonita Springs.

Ellis accepted the position with the Palmira’s superintendent Tom Caliguire and experienced what it takes to be a stellar superintendent. This

is where he was able to take part in the agronomic planning of the course and management of staff. Elils was promoted again within a year and was tasked to help plan and manage the addition of nine holes to the property. “I really enjoyed construction and grow-in, one of my favorite parts of the job and have been fortunate enough to do a couple more since then,” he said. Elis was promoted again and he served as Palmira’s superintendent for the next three years.

Ellis left Palmira and joined nearby Country Creek County Club in Estero where he has served as superintendent for the last 11 years. PERFORMANCE Nutrition products have been essential tools in Ellis’s turf management programs for over ten years. He credits Prudent 44®, Pennamin® High K, and KaPre ExAlt® as staples in his agronomic program. He manages push up greens very effectively with the assistance of these products. Recently, he added Kelpene® CaT to all his turf to deliver foliar calcium and improve its stress tolerance during lengthy periods of tough growing conditions.

PERFORMANCE Nutrition’s technical support team have played a key role in the Elis’s success at County Creek. He said, “ as well as the high caliber and quality of materials and ongoing R&D, the company provides products that give superintendent’s like me an edge.” The industry has been great to me, I’ve met a ton of great people and I’ve been able to travel the world “for work”. That’s why mentoring is so important to me, I hope to jump start a few careers and show off this amazing industry.” Ellis, his wife Anne and son Micah live in Estero, FL just a few miles from the golf course.

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Introducing

A Foliar Calcium for Turf University Tested and Verified

Kelpene® Ca-T uses plant-based biochemistry to efficiently deliver calcium and support calcium absorption in both foliar and soil applications. It is designed to correct calcium deficiency and improve growth where additional calcium may be needed.

EffectsEffects of Kelpene® Application on Foliar Uptake of Calcium ofCa-T Kelpene Ca-T Application Effects of Kelpene® Ca-TUptake Application of on Foliar Uptake of Calcium on Foliar Calcium

9,000 8,000

7,000 8,000

5,000 6,000

ppm

ppm

6,000 7,000

4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0

7,673

9,000

7,673

6,079 6,079

+26.2% +26.2%

5,907 5,907

6,410 6,410

+8.5%

+8.5%

5,000

• Corrects calcium deficiencies • Supports cell wall formation and root development • Utilizes calcium nitrate for a quickly available source of nitrogen • Satisfies turf’s need for calcium during critical stages of development, helping maintain turf quality and overall health

4,000 3,000 2,000

• Delivers plant-derived organic compounds that build more resilient turf that fights against all types of abiotic stress

1,000 0

• Improves calcium uptake through plant tissue for more efficient nutrient delivery

Week 1 1 Week Control Control

Week Week 22 Kelpene Ca-T Kelpene Ca-T

*Trial performed by Dr. Haibo Liu, Clemson University

Contact your Performance Nutrition representative for more information (732) 888-8000 | WWW.PNFERTILIZERS.COM Performance Nutrition and Kelpene are registered trademarks of LidoChem, Inc. ©2021 LidoChem, Inc.

R

Paul Grose Reflects On Almost 40 Years At King Ranch Grose grew up as a preacher’s kid.

He was born in New Hampshire but spent his early childhood traveling with his family in South East Asia as missionaries of the Methodist Church.

They went from Malaya (prior to being Malaysia) to Singapore and after four years ended up in Texas.

He graduated high school in Austin, Texas and went on to study Ranch Management at Texas A&M. Prior to going to college he spent some time working on his grandfather’s farm located near Claxton, Georgia. Grose shared that this formed his initial interest in agriculture that would carry forth for the rest of his life.

While at Texas A&M, Grose took a semester off and went to work on a ranch in Colombia that was owned by his uncle who lived in Florida.

“I went there for the experience, to learn the language and to work on a ranch,” he said.

56

He became fluent in Spanish and

possible.

gained hands-on work in South Ameri-

He remembers landing and driving

ca. After college, Grose went back to

for several hours in the pouring rain

work for his grandfather, who wasn’t

before arriving at a big ranch house

ready to retire although he was in his

where everyone was already asleep.

late 70s. While working again on the

Grose woke and had breakfast with

Georgia farm, he decided he would go

the president of the company and

back to graduate school for a master’s

some other employees, starting the

degree in Ranch Management.

first of many experiences working for

“I wanted to pursue a career internationally in ranch management, so I

King Ranch.

Grose became the manager of that

applied to work for King Ranch,” Grose

ranch, where he was for two and a

said. “It took me ten months to get an

half years. There were five King Ranch

interview.”

locations in Venezuela at the time, and

At first, King Ranch told him they

although he worked near the coast,

didn’t really have anything for him to

he would travel between the ranches.

do. Grose asked them if he were to go

After that, he was sent to work for a

to South America, what experience

King Ranch cattle and Quarter Horse

would make him a valuable employee

operation in Brazil.

for them in the future. So, hearing

After a few months into the new job,

that, they offered him a job and sent

Grose decided he should either forget

him to Venezuela in May of 1983. He

about his girlfriend back in Venezu-

even missed his master’s graduation

ela or marry her. So, he went back to

ceremony to get there as quickly as

Venezuela, asked Lenoska to marry Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

him over Christmas of 1985 and the two were happily married six weeks later on Valentine’s Day in 1986.

“It was a quick romance, we’d only met one another ten months prior to our wedding,” he said.

Together, they went to Brazil where Grose was the interim manager for a year.

“Some of my best memories are probably working as a cowboy in South America, being able to experience working in a different environment and culture. Many people have a romanticized view of life of a cowboy or cowgirl and I got to do that for four years,” he said.

After Brazil, Grose returned to the United States, straight to the King Ranch headquarters in Texas. The current King Ranch President and Chief Executive Officer, Robert J. Underbrink, called Grose during that time and asked if he would move from Texas to Florida to oversee their brand new turfgrass operations that needed help.

“I thought about it for a couple of days and took him up on his offer. In March 1987, we moved to Florida,” he said.

At that time, King Ranch had 1,900 acres of newly established turfgrass. Some of it had not even been harvested the first time. Grose hadn’t seen the organic

Lenoska and Paul Grose When they moved to Florida in 1987,

muck soils of South Florida before he

eventually asked to take on more re-

took this position.

sponsibility by becoming General Man-

Lenoska was pregnant with their first

ager for the King Ranch Florida Farm in

son, Andrew and then in 1989 they

the 1990s.

had their second son, Brian while

“Going from livestock production into turfgrass production was an interesting change but a lot of the same principles

He took on oversight of their turf-

living in Belle Glade. While the boys

apply, such as soil fertility and fertil-

grass, sugarcane, rice, sweet corn and

were young toddlers, King Ranch sent

ization, plant growth – these types of

a variety of crops. From there he was

Grose back to Brazil where they were

things were all a part of my training,”

asked to not only produce muck-grown

changing ranch management where

he said.

crops also manage crops on sand land

he’d worked before. The family was

where their citrus groves had gone out

only there for a few months before

of production due to disease.

returning to his role in Florida.

Grose became heavily involved in turfgrass trade associations and was Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

57

header

Prescribed Burns Restore Long Leaf Pine Savannah at The Preserve Golf Club

The Preserve Golf Club is a certified Audubon International Signature Sanctuary located just outside Ocean Springs, Mississippi which provides a unique golfing experience surrounded by 1,800 acres of nature. The Preserve sits amongst a Longleaf Pine Savan-

On course at The Preserve most elite certification track designed

Pine Savannahs thrive on.

for golf course development.

According to Alabama A & M and Au-

Stephen Miles, The Preserve’s Director

burn Universities Extensions, histori-

the United States (USDA and US Forest

of Golf Operations, has been manag-

cally “Long leaf pine was maintained

Service).

ing the course since they achieved

by periodic, low intensity fires. These

their Signature Sanctuary certification

fires started either by lightning strikes

location, the course developers began

in 2007. As part of their certification,

during the growing season or by Na-

their sustainability journey when

Stephen and his crew manage the

tive Americans ignition” prior to its

they enrolled in Signature Sanctuary

health of their native area ecosystems

suppression beginning in the 1900s.

Certification, Audubon International’s

in numerous ways - one of which is

nah, a habitat type whose original range has been reduced by 97% due to changed land use practices across

After recognizing the sensitive

providing fire, something that Longleaf

The Preserve Golf Club completes prescribed burns annually, rotating

View from the tee boxes on course at The Preserve 58

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

between natural areas. The burns are completed under the direction of their Golf Course Superintendent and Certified Prescribed Burn Manager, Jeremy Stevens who has been a part of The Preserve Golf Club team since 2005.

“Our environmental management strategy at The Preserve includes utilizing the most environmentally friendly management techniques. Prescribed burning has had a huge impact on the beauty of our facility. Most facilities are overgrown with brush and trees that is absolutely not natural. Our facility is the only course in the region that allows visitors to catch a glimpse of what the longleaf pine habitat should look like. Fire has been promoted not suppressed at The Preserve.” – Stephen Miles, Director of Golf Operations, The Preserve Golf Club

The course is nestled amongst a Longleaf Pine Savannah recertification site visit this year.

These regular prescribed burns remove invasive vegetation, restore native grasses and forbs, and provide the perfect setting for their longleaf pines lining many fairways on the course.

The Preserve Golf Club continues their certification efforts, and most recently underwent an Audubon International

Whether you’re a resident or just

tally focused non-profit organization offers members numerous certifications and con-

passing through Mississippi, Audubon

servation initiatives to protect the areas

International encourages you to book

where we live, work, and play. Their certifi-

a tee time at The Preserve Golf Club,

cations are designed to increase environ-

a certified Signature Sanctuary and ob-

mental awareness, encourage sustainable

serve their dedication to sustainability.

environmental efforts, and educate both

Audubon International, an environmen-

their members and their communities.

www.turflifegear.com

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

59

Story by: Greg Wise Photos by: Beverly Wise

The 27th Annual Jeff Hayden Memorial Envirotron Golf Classic was played at World Woods Golf Club April 19th. 300+ Golfers came together for the day on both of the World Woods course with roughly $40,000 being raised, adding to the over $1,300,000 raised since the events inception. The money raised each year is to “advance the turfgrass industry through turfgrass research, turfgrass development and industry advocacy,” stated Andy Jorgensen, Chairman of the fund-raising event. The majority of funds raised going towards projects at University of Florida. Seven Rivers Golf Course Superintendent Association puts on the event.

Golf Ventures has been the Champion sponsor for the past 17 years.

“We are very grateful to have Golf Ventures as our Champion Sponsor for this event. Without their support, and the support of so many others, the Jeff Hayden Memorial Envirotron Golf Classic would not be able to have such a large impact on the turfgrass industry in Florida,” Jorgensen stated.

Jeff Hayden was a longtime superintendent in the area that helped with the creation of the event and the University of Florida Envirotron Turfgrass Research Laboratory located on the campus in Gainesville. Jeff had worked in sales for Golf Ventures prior to his passing. The tournament was named after him soon thereafter. The facility in Gainesville was renamed the Jeff Hayden Envirotron Turfgrass Research Laboratory in 2005 to honor his legacy.

The Florida Golf Course Superintendent Association has eleven local chapters in the state, with Seven Rivers being one of them. Most of the local chapters have some sort of research fundraising mechanism. But, the Envirotron Golf Classic, sponsored by Golf Ventures is by far the largest fundraiser for turfgrass research in the state.

60

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

61

Brand new reversible nine-hole course features a technology-driven practice facility Sanford Golf Design has just completed its comprehensive redesign of the Red/White course at Martin County Golf Course, recently renamed Sailfish Sands Golf Course. Teaming up with contractor TDI Golf, Sanford Golf Design reduced the overall footprint of the former 18-hole course, originally built in the 1920s, into a reversible nine-hole course that can be played in two different directions, renamed the Sands 9 Black and Sands 9 Gold.

John Sanford, ASGCA, principal and lead golf course architect for Sanford Golf Design, said, “When Martin County decided to reduce the number of holes from 36 to 27, Kevin Abbate, Parks and Recreation Director, challenged the architects by having them consider unique design approaches like a reversible 9-hole course, double greens or a new modern approach to draw new players to the course. Other challenges were to design the course

62

to be family friendly, minimize water usage, and use the natural terrain and native landscape. We understood that we needed to create a new dynamic approach to this project and we believe we exceeded the project scope.”

The idea of a reversible 9-hole course stuck and was expanded to include a developmental layout that would be fun for everyone and walkerfriendly. The reversible nines are laid out on about 60 acres and can be played as 18 different holes. The Sands 9 Black course plays clockwise and the Sands 9 Gold course counterclockwise.

Both will be available for play every other week, enabling players to enjoy a different experience. They measure 3,368 (Black) and 2,868 (Gold) yards from the back tees, respectively. Each hole has five sets of tee boxes, providing an enjoyable experience for players at every level. “Both routings feature a nice variety of par 3s, 4s, and 5s with

multiple playing angles so that all players can enjoy the reversible experience,” said Sanford.

Sailfish Sands’ practice range has also been redesigned to double as a modern “golfertainment” venue.

The driving rage will be powered by Toptracer Range, with amenities like shot-tracking technology and distinct target greens set at varying distances.

Food and beverage services will also be dramatically improved as Sailfish Sands completes work on its brandnew clubhouse. The facility will be open at night, extending Sailfish Sands’ daily hours of operation.

“This is cutting-edge thinking on the part of the Martin County Parks Department, led by Kevin Abbate,” said Sanford. “I can see entire families coming out to enjoy the games available on the range alongside avid golfers using the facilities to hone their skills with swing analytics and statistics.”

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

Golfers will now have two brand new nine-hole options, in addition to the Sailfish 18 course, Sailfish Sands’ championship-rated course.

“Martin County residents expressed how important having a refreshed and affordable public golf course is for our community, and we listened. We made sure that the improvements made to the golf course would not only address sustainability from a maintenance standpoint, but also provide a great experience for players of all ages and skill levels.”

“The idea of a reversible course was perfect, as now our golfers will get two different experiences under the same footprint with additional putting greens to practice their game. We are very pleased with the design Mr. Sanford and his team proposed for the 9-hole course, transforming our vision into a reality.

They also did a fantastic job adapting the design of the driving range to accommodate the Toptracer Range Technology; everything we asked for, they delivered!” said Mr. Abbate.

Sailfish Sands is the municipal golf facility belonging to Martin County, Fla. For more information about this project, visit www.SailfishSands.com.

For more information about Sanford Golf Design, visit https://www.sanfordgolfdesign.com.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 1

John Sanford on site 63

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