Vol 22 Issue 6

Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort, Birmingham

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

The Fabulous, Not Far Away Fairways Of Fairfield Glade Await You.

Our fairways are fabulous. Our greens are gorgeous.

Our tee boxes a real treat. And it’s all an easy drive from anywhere in the Southeast. Fairfield Glade is conveniently located between Knoxville and Nashville just a few miles off I-40. And when you get here, well…Now The Fun Begins.

• 5 Championship Golf Courses • Miles of Hiking Trails • 11 Lakes for Boating and Fishing • 2 Marinas; Rental Boats, Bait/Tackle • Tennis and Pickleball Courts • Stables for Horseback Riding • Stay & Play Packages Available

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from the publisher

Sweet Home Alabama

Volume 22, Issue 6 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 Turf Tender: Rich Havyer Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue Sweet home Alabama, Lord, I’m coming home to you Here I come, Alabama

Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by:

Although members of the Lynyrd Skynyrd were familiar with Alabama because, from 1970-’72, they recorded at the famous Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Sheffield… the actual song “Sweet Home Alabama” was recorded at Studio One in Doraville, Ga.

Let’s look at some Fun Facts about Alabama It is a Class-B felony in Alabama to Wrestle a Bear. It is illegal in Alabama to sell, purchase, possess, or train a bear for bear wrestling.

Bear wrestling matches used to be a pretty big deal in Alabama. Fair warning to Jack Nicklaus when playing in Alabama.

Alabama does not have an officially-recognized nickname. Alabama is known as the Yellowhammer state after the state bird, the Heart of Dixie, and the Cotton State, but it has not designated an official nickname.

To make up for that, here are the nicknames of Alabama’s four largest cities: Birmingham, The Magic City or The Steel City; Huntsville, The Rocket City; Mobile, The Azalea City or Home of Mardi Gras; Montgomery, The Cradle of the Confederacy.

Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 4313 Berwick Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33859

NEW PHONE: 863.875.6863 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2021 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.

Here’s something Golfers can really get in to!

Alabama is the only state in the U.S. to have an alcoholic beverage as its official drink. The Conecuh Ridge Whiskey (officially called “Clyde May’s Alabama Style Whiskey”) is a high-quality aged moonshine whiskey from Conecuh Ridge Distillery Inc. It was designated the official “State Spirit” of Alabama by legislative resolution in 2004.

Alabama golf by the numbers: Number of courses and U.S. rank: 238 (26)* Number of golfers per capita rank: 37* Average public-course greens fees: $ out of $$$* Average daily temp and rank: 62.8 (7) Annual precipitation and rank: 58.3 in. (4) *Source: National Golf Foundation Ain’t no Ham like a Birmingham

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

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PAUS

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With two courses, The Omni Homestead Resort makes it easy to get back out and play. Tee off on The Cascades ranked one of the top courses in the country or the Old Course, a Donald Ross design, home to the nation’s oldest first tee in continuous use. Explore more at OmniHotels.com/TheHomestead

FALL GOLF PACKAGE

ONE ROUND OF GOLF WITH CART ON THE CASCADES OR OLD COURSE, USE OF DRIVING RANGE, PARKING FOR ONE VEHICLE

Volume 22, Issue 6 Fashion Forward 12 golfmarie FEATURE 10 Alabama Golf Florida Golf Central 18 Trump National Doral Fore Your Health 20 Altwell Golf Bachelor 16 Gregory Batson

Renaissan

ce Ross Br

Golf Bachelorette 17 Summer Anderson Golf Travel 32 Mackinac Island, MI

16

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ham

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

Feature Art

icle Pg 10

Leader on the Links 38 Alexis Sieg Special Events 46 Glover Park Golf Turf Life 50 Superintendents During the Pandemic 52 Performance Nutrition 54 Turf Pirate's Journal 56 Aquarina Beach & Country Club What's New 44 Buddy Traveler

Departments 14 22 26 30 36 40 42 43 48

Georgia Golf Trail LPGA Living on the Links Golf History Competitive Spirits Product Showcase South Florida PGA North Florida PGA Freddy's Fairway Thoughts

golfcentralmag.com

38 26

feature

Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort, Gulf Shores

Sweet Home Alabama is more than just a song or a movie, although they both certainly evoke the spirit of the beautiful state. It’s also a mantra for the hard-working, friendly folks that travelers encounter along the way. From the bagboys and beverage cart girls on the world-class golf courses to the servers and chefs in the award-winning restaurants, visitors are made to feel right at home, ensuring that time spent in Alabama is as sweet as the tea.

Sweet Home Alabama is a golfing

Craft Farms Resort, Gulf Shores 10

destination unlike any other, as home to the original golf trail, modern and historic golf resorts, and over 32 miles of sugar-white beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. Both the incomparable Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and the Arnold Palmer-designed Craft Farms Resort in Gulf Shores put Alabama on the radar of traveling golf groups more than 27 years ago. The ensuing years have upgraded the state’s position on all types of vacation bucket lists by spawning award-winning hotels, spas, and luxurious resorts; exciting craft breweries with medal-

quality beers; world-renowned bass fishing events and red snapper rodeos; and a thriving culinary scene, ranging from fresh Gulf seafood and a unique BBQ Trail to James Beard-recognized chefs and restaurants.

Just a few of the golf resorts that make Alabama so special are Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa in Birmingham, boasting an RTJ Golf Trail golf course, luxurious spa and delectable dining; Pursell Farms just 45 minutes south of Birmingham, which is a unique golf resort with lodging options rang-

FarmLinks at Pursell Farms, Sylacauga Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

ing from a boutique inn, 4 bedroom golf cottages and an 8 bedroom lodge, along with the award-winning FarmLinks golf course; Marriott Grand National Resort & Spa in Auburn-Opelika is the closest resort to the Atlanta airport (just 90 miles) and has a fun, feature pool with patio bar and a three-story spa; The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa on Mobile Bay near Fairhope offering 36 holes of golf on the RTJ Golf Trail and all of the amenities of a world-class resort; and Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort in Gulf Shores, Alabama’s only gulf-front golf resort offering a Jerry Pate-designed course and clubhouse and fairway condominiums, as well as beach homes to rent.

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, with its eight hotels/resorts and 26 courses at 11 sites around the state, and Coastal Alabama Golf, the booking entity for nine premier golf courses and lodging options ranging from golf resorts and hotels to beachfront condos and homes in the Gulf Shores-Orange Beach area, are eager to put together customized golf packages for your foursome or group.

Check out GolfAlabama.org for more information on how you can make Sweet Home Alabama your next golf destination or visit RTJGolf.com and CoastalAlabamaGolf.com to book today.

Marriott Resort & Spa at Grand National, Auburn/Opelika

The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Point Clear/Fairhope Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

11

fashion forward

Awesome Eye-Catchers From An Exclusive German Golf Fashion Brand her brand was clear from the beginning: Exclusive golf fashion for women.

“Usually, golf fashion for ladies is either classy, girly or ladylike. Not what I was always searching for.

I wanted something with powerful bright colors and a WOW-design, that transports the athletic part and the fun factor of golf,“ says Birgit.

As a golfer Birgit knows the

Birgit Fuchs

Founder and designer of golfmarie®, Birgit Fuchs‘, childhood dream was to be a fashion designer. Her family has a 100-year history of dressmakers, so at the age of ten she decided to learn sewing from her godmother.

Since that moment, creating clothes and fashion was her passion.

Birgit studied graphic design and business mediation. For many years she was successful in these fields and as a musician on stage.

In 2019 after a long project in the UK she remembered her dream.

“The time is now to make a change.”

With the start of her own fashion brand Birgit Fuchs has merged all of her talents and experience. In January 2020 golfmarie® became a registered brand.

Birgit (49), her husband (54) and their son (27) play golf, their daughter (29) is a passionate rider. The niche for 12

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

needs of women out on the course; thus, she has created stunning and functional golf apparel.

“Our clothes are so comfortabel, you’ll think you are wearing nothing at all. You can fully concentrate on your game.“ golfmarie® is never seen before on and off the course, recognizable and ageless. Exclusive high fashion collar solutions are the USP. The high-end functional fabrics are from Italy and the US. All components come from local suppliers for a good CO2 footprint.

Birgit Fuchs and her small team produce each garment in her factory in Germany. Limited editions guarantee exclusiveness for golfmarie® fans.

Sustainability is a big part of golfmarie’s® philosophy. Mix and match of every piece, color match with coming collections, beneficial cuts and long-life materials. “Customers love our special look since our launch in August 2020 and highly appreciate our service to do amendments.” golfmarie is for golfers who love the luxury of exclusivity. “Of course, we have some pieces for gents.“ Ambassadors are welcome.

Online-Shop: www.golfmarie.com.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Birgit and her son, Mario

13

georgia golf trail

By Mike May

Georgia Golf‘s High-Altitude Escape

is part of the Georgia Golf Trail, which features 24 golf courses in Georgia.

“Sky Valley is like heaven on earth and we in Georgia are lucky to have such an outstanding destination for golfers in our state and for those visiting from the nearby surrounding states,” said Doug Hollandsworth, founder, Georgia Golf Trail.

At Sky Valley, the golf course sits in a valley which is totally surrounded by mountains. You can check out current conditions by accessing Sky Valley’s 24-hour webcam: https://www.resortcams.com/webcams/sky-valley-ga/.

The many tee shots struck from raised tees add an element of excitement, intrigue, and strategy to the Sky Valley golf experience.Sky Valley’s

Do you want to experience

a natural ‘high’ while also being ‘cool?’ Well, then grab your golf clubs, pack your bags and head for the Sky Valley Country Club in Sky Valley, Georgia.

Because of its mountainous terrain, Sky Valley is a community with the highest elevation in Georgia while also having the coolest temperatures in the state, which is refreshing in the summer.

The Sky Valley CC – www.skyvalleycountryclub.com or 706-746-5302 – is also one of Georgia’s premier destinations for golf, especially if you like mountain golf. Sky Valley CC’s average elevation of 3,500 feet makes it one of the highest elevation golf courses in Georgia. While the Sky Valley CC may be nestled in the mountains of North Georgia, it’s worth the scenic journey to this destination which is surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest.

Not surprisingly, the Sky Valley CC

8th Green Tee Shot

The Georgia Golf Trail Presented by

8th Green Approach 14

tee-to-green course conditions are exemplary. And, when not playing golf, many Sky Valley residents are also playing croquet, tennis and bocce ball. Many members of the Sky Valley CC refer to their time spent at the club as like being at summer camp!

Birdhouse along the fairway Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Outdoor Dining Opportunity Redesigned in 2007 by Bill Bergin, Sky Valley CC’s length from the back tees of this par-72 layout -- 6,900 yards from the tips – is tempered by the high elevation. Each hole has a total of five tee boxes. To give golfers a consistent turf experience, the course now features bent grass from tee to green.

And, Sky Valley CC’s practice facilities -- a driving range, target greens, putting and chipping greens -- are first-class.

“Sky Valley is a fantastic layout,” said Steve Heher, head golf professional, Sky Valley CC. “It’s a mountain golf course that winds its way through the valley. It features great views from the elevated tees at the 2nd, 8th, 12th, 15th, and 17th holes. Our signature hole is the par-3 15th, which has a 60-foot elevation drop from tee to green.”

The view of the 15th green from the tee is rather profound and worthy of being this course’s signature hole.

Heher says the superintendent’s leadership and vision are key ingredients to the Sky Valley golf experience.

“Our superintendent Steve Mason has been here since 2007,” added Heher. “He does a great job to keep this course in great shape throughout the year. He and his veteran crew know what they are doing.”

When you play Sky Valley, the superintendent’s firstclass work is on full display.

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.

Located in Rabun County, Sky Valley also has a strong reputation of producing locally grown food which Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Croquet Action is why this area is called the Farmto-Table Capital of Georgia. 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. You won’t be disappointed.

“We try to utilize local ingredients from vegetables, fruits and proteins,” said Elizabeth Truax, clubhouse manager, Sky Valley CC. “You can be assured that each dish prepared offers scrumptious cuisine.”

The clubhouse, which opened in 2013, is another big plus at the Sky Valley CC. This building features a natural stone floor-to-ceiling fireplace, glass window walls, exposed beams, and hardwood floors. The clubhouse has an outdoor terrace where guests enjoy the views while dining in a comfortable, casual setting.

It’s fair to say that however long you stay at Sky Valley, it’s never go-

ing to be long enough since there’s always something else to do.

For your accommodations and dining needs while at Sky Valley, stay and eat at the Dillard House (www.

DillardHouse.com) in nearby Dillard, Georgia. Here, the accommodations are first-class. And, the family-style dining style will satisfy all hunger pains. By the way, the homemade sausage served for breakfast and the fried chicken for lunch and dinner are outstanding! And, the sweet iced tea is delicious. The Dillard House has been operating for more than a century.

Once you and your family visit Sky Valley, this destination will soar to the top of your family’s annual must-visit list.

For more information about Sky Valley CC and other courses along the Georgia Golf Trail, access www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com.

15

golf bachelor

Gregory Matthew Batson Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

Quincy, Ma. No What do you do for a living? Yacht Captain What would you like to do for a living? Live life to the fullest!

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Speeding up play when it’s not needed.

Name the three most important things to you in this world. Faith, Family & Friends

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Fish and have fun with friends.

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

What golf apparel do you like to wear? Titleist/ Foot Joy

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

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

Tell us about your first kiss? Awesome Feeling!

What are some of your great accomplishments?

I am a hard worker and dedicated.

Steak, chicken, or seafood? All of the above!

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

Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I am a simple man.

Favorite comedian? Eddie Murphy

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? A beautiful woman, food, and water.

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

golf bachelorette

What golf apparel do you like to wear? I love to wear my JF top with a cute, comfy skort Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My mom, she is just as beautiful as she is kind.

Tell us about your first kiss? I had my first kiss when I was 15, it was at the end of the school day and it happened really fast. I usually lie about who it was with when people ask because it was embarrassing.

Steak, chicken, or seafood? Chicken… but fried Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I’m deathly afraid of spiders, but I love frogs, lizards, butterflies/ dragonflies.

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? A knife, a satellite phone, and a wind-up flashlight.

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? When I’m working beverage cart and stop to see if a group needs anything, and they clearly see me, but don’t tell me if they’re good or not and leave me waiting just to tell me they don’t need anything.

Name the three most important things to you in this world. My family, my pets, and my small group of friends.

Summer Anderson Where were you born? Statesboro, GA Did you grow up there? Yes, I lived there until I was 15 and moved here to Florida What do you do for a living? I work at Juliette Falls Golf Course as a server and beverage cart girl.

What would you like to do for a living? I’m going to school to be an ultrasound tech and I also do modeling, which I hope to sign to Wilhelmina or IMG one day.

Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? On my days off you can either find me at the beach getting my tan on with my mom or at the gym.

Golf Central • Volume 21, Issue 9

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

Honestly, 99% of my problems would be solved if I was a millionaire What do you fear the most? Losing the ones closest to me What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? My Juliette Falls girls, of course What are some of your great accomplishments? I graduated high school Summa Cum Laude with a 4.75 GPA and cheered varsity/competition all throughout middle and high school.

Favorite comedian? Adam Sandler, Jim Carrey, Seth Rogen Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? I’m a fan of all genres, but not too into sci-fi/fiction.

17

florida golf central

Style and Luxury Meet at Legendary South Florida Golf Resort Blue Monster Golf Course tions. Known as a bucket list golf destination, its 643 modern guest rooms and suites are spread across eight stunning villas, each named in honor of a golf legend. Guests can enjoy four championship golf courses, Har-Tru tennis courts, Trump Spa, a zero-entry pool with 18 private cabanas and a 125-foot slide, as well as premier dining experiences and onsite shops and boutiques.

Legendary golf Trump® National Doral Miami is a suburban oasis located in the heart of Doral, Florida, just minutes from South Florida’s acclaimed beaches and attrac-

Trump National Doral’s links are nothing less than spectacular. The property features 72 holes of championship golf spread across its four courses, including the Blue Monster The Trump Spa Premier Queen Suite

– one of the most challenging golf courses in existence and home to PGA tours for 55 consecutive years. The courses were meticulously redesigned into modern masterpieces by top golf architect Gil Hanse. Its swaying coconut palms, bold bunkering, and five acres of lakes create awe-inspiring vistas for a truly rewarding golf experience.

Guests can take advantage of firstclass amenities and services like the state-of-the-art LED practice facility; True Spec Golf, the #1 club fitter in North America; the Rick Smith Golf Performance Center, one of America’s top golf schools; and the latest apparel and gear inside the Golf Shop, the nation’s largest green grass shop.

Stay & Play What’s more, avid golfers can stay and play with the Championship Golf Package, which includes luxurious accommodations and numerous perks like daily breakfast; one round of golf per person, per night; complimentary greens fees for same-day replay golf round on the Red Tiger, Golden Palm or Silver Fox Course; opportunity to upgrade to the Blue Monster Course; 90-day advanced tee time reservation; discounts at the Golf Shop; complimentary use of the Practice Facility and unlimited range balls.

Those looking to escape to the iconic South Florida golf resort can call 800-71-DORAL (36725) or visit www.TrumpNationalDoral.com.

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Pool at Trump National Doral

The Blue Monster Hole #18 Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

19

fore your health

Relax with ALT WELL One of the most easily overlooked but

the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a cell-signaling system in our bodies that regulates inflammation and pain ¹. CBD also may help ease aches and pains like golfer’s elbow, knee stress, and back pain, which are all common for golfers.

The only thing more powerful than CBD for your recovery routine: the combination of CBD with protein!

That’s why ALTWELL CBD — a modern wellness brand that brings you high quality and effective CBD products — created their Plant Based Protein. In one serving, this protein powder delivers 20mg of broad spectrum CBD plus 20g of clean, plant based protein.

Protein is a powerhouse nutrient, especially for athletes. It has been shown to help repair muscles after a workout, help form new lean muscle 2 and boost energy levels. Together with CBD, it makes the dream team to support your

essential aspects of your athletic performance is prioritizing rest and recovery. Your recovery routine is where you refuel your muscles, soothe soreness, ease aches, sharpen your mind, and form new muscles to help you perfect your swing.

This is where CBD comes in! Many athletes including golfers have been turning to CBD to up their game. CBD, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in the hemp plant, is an effective and simple practice to incorporate into your daily wellness routine.

Many golfers experience soreness, which happens when muscle damage triggers inflammation in the body.

Studies have shown that CBD may help decrease inflammation by balancing

recovery and performance.

ALTWELL Plant Based Protein Powder is easy to incorporate into your everyday routine. Add a scoop of the delicious chocolate or vanilla flavors to your morning smoothie or simply shake it up with almond or oat milk.

You’ll love the amazing taste and how it makes you feel on your game — on or off the course!

Sources: 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2828614/ 2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852800/

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

“It ’s no secret I’ve always been prepared to out-train and out-condition my opponents on the football field, and it’s the same goal on the golf course. I come to the course t o w i n . T h o s e a c h e s a n d p a i n s c a n ’ t g e t i n m y w a y. I ’ v e t r i e d a l l s o r t s o f c r e a m s a n d rubs to ease my muscles and joints over t he years, and most didn’t make a dif ference.

Then, t he Pic kett ’s who have been my longtime friends and were t he original creators o f M u s c l e M i l k , i n t r o d u c e d m e t o t h e i r C B D b r a n d . N o w A LT W E L L S p o r t s B a l m i s m y go-to. I use it daily and it lets me focus on my game. It ’s become an impor tant par t of my recover y routine.”

JERRY RICE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAMER AND 3-TIME SUPER BOWL CHAMPION

GOLFCENTRAL 2 0 % O F F * YO U R F I R S T O R D E R at altwell.com

USE CODE FOR

@ A LT W E L LC B D

A LT W E L L . C O M

*Must be 21 or over. Some exclusions apply. Discount valid at altwell. com only. Not valid for resale, cash or cash equivalent.

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

Story and Photos by: Greg and Beverly Wise

Senior LPGA Champion Trish Johnson Victorious Again at French Lick Remembering the first time that Trish Johnson (London, England) played the Pete Dye course at French Lick Resort, she mentioned that “I shot an 82, but I loved this place.”

“It was really weird actually,” said Johnson. “My rookie appearance here on The Dye Course and I did everything like a rookie. I came in and I thought this is utterly ridiculous.

It’s like I’ve never ever played golf before and 82 was the result.”

What now seems so long ago as a rookie… Johnson captured her second Senior LPGA Championship on Sunday, shooting a final-round 69 to finish one-stroke ahead Becky Morgan (Monmouth, Wales).

“I was commentating last week so I didn’t exactly know how I’d play,” said Johnson. “But I’d practiced well the week before. I was trying to be a little less technical on this course, so it was actually good that I had a week off.”

The renewed mindset paid off as Johnson led through the first two rounds, but it wasn’t the easiest of roads to victory. A hot putter from Morgan had Johnson two down at the turn. With her nose to the grindstone, Johnson carded two birdies on 11 and 12 to get back into a tie for the lead.

A double from Morgan on the 16th spelled the end of her day and left Johnson needing just a par on the final hole for the title. Most of the time the walk up 18 is enjoyable, but with so much on the line, Johnson was feeling the magnitude of the moment.

“You know when you’re so des-

Riley Hospital receives donation.JPG 22

perate to win something and you haven’t done it for quite a long time, you don’t know how you’re going to feel and it’s horrible. I mean it really was horrible,” said the Johnson.

The smart play led to a five on

the final hole and earned Johnson the victory. Becky Morgan in second, Lisa DePaulo (Austin, Texas) and Barb Moxness (Edina, Minn.) settled in a tie for third at -4 overall.

“The Riley Kids,” The Big Winner for the Week – and the Riley Children’s Foundation The overall winner again this year was the Riley Children’s Foundation… receiving a check for a cool $200,000 in donations from the 2 “Sold-Out” Pro-Am events. The silent auction with hundreds of items with a highlight of a $10,000 bottle of Bourbon signed by Folds of Honor Veterans… as well as numerous golf vacations around the country.

French Lick pulled out all the stops for an event filled week with the Riley Kids. The reaction of the LPGA players on the first tee, when they were introduced by the Riley Kids. Emotions were on edge with some kids that made testimonials that connected their own personal success and recovery Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Michelle McGann - Addyson - Clarissa Childs - Luke - Jill McGill

BJ and Steve Ferguson

Dave Harner - Trich Johnson - Steve Ferguson Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

23

with a LPGA Professional that they had met and introduced 8 years ago.

A “Pizza Fun Night” where the kids were taken to the Horse Stable and Hayride and a special time to be with the trophy.

The Legends 2021 Inductee French Lick Resort at the West Baden Hotel has a special place for all golfers. The “Legends Tour Hall of Fame,” a special tribute to the history of golf at French Lick Resort and the Legends Tour. French Lick Resort has been inducting new members to the “Legends Hall of Fame” for several years… and 2021 would be no different. Congratulations to Christa Johnson of Tucson, Arizona entering the Hall of Fame.

At the second night Pro-Am pairing party, the event came down to a final presentation and Induction to the Legends.

Steve Rondinaro - Joe Z - Carista Johnson - Legends Inductee - Dave Harner Waiting for the volcano to erupt

Becky Morgan watching Lauria Davies

Moira Dunn-Bohls 24

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Legendary Lifestyle

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

Legends don’t make tee times and neither will you Located in the heart of Boca Raton, Florida | Limited Number of Non-Resident Memberships Available Contact Valerie at (561) 487-5300 ext 132 | vroca@bocagrove.org | www.bocagrove.org

living on the links

Destination: Naples, Florida Golf Capital of the World is a Hot Spot for Golf Trips, Retirement and Relocation Idyllic Naples, Florida has long been home to a collection of resort, daily fee and private courses designed by many of the game’s greatest golf course architects. With nearly 100 18-hole equivalent golf facilities, close to 1,400 total holes and over 300 days of sunshine a year, this coastal chic enclave on the state’s southwest coast has certainly earned its moniker, “The Golf Capital of the World.”

For have-clubs-will-travel golfers, timing is imperative when planning a Naples golf trip. Peak season winter rates at top courses can easily exceed $250, while the summer months bring deep discounts but also a significant golf course maintenance throughout the market. The early fall and late spring shoulder seasons are optimal times to plan a visit, with reasonable rates, fewer crowds and less thunder and lightning And for those who fall in love with

Lely Golf

the area (they number in the thousands, annually), retire or relocate to Southwest Florida, Collier County and southern Lee County are home to more golf communities, per capital, than any region of the country. “Old Naples” in the city’s center and to the south, as well as coastal stretches along the Gulf of Mexico are home to multi-milliondollar homes and condos. Outlying areas like North Naples, Golden Gate, Bonita Springs and Estero offer plenty of modern touches and more affordable price points.

Top Tier Old Corkscrew Golf Club is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in rapidly growing Estero in southern Lee County. The brawny, 7,393-yard layout sprawls over 275 acres of native, grasses, trees and wetlands marked by vast waste bunkers, pristine fairways and the Golden Bear’s signature green

complexes. Unique to the area, Old Corkscrew is a pure golf experience devoid of housing and other distractions.

All the better for focusing on the task at hand and managing the course’s eyepopping 151 slope rating from the tips.

A few miles to the south, golfers will appreciate the one-two punch of the Gold and Black courses at Tiburon Golf Club. Both tracks were designed

by Greg Norman and are home to PGA and LPGA Tour events: the QBE Shootout and CME Group Tour Championship, respectively. The combo sets up perfectly for the relatively long days of late summer and early that can still accommodate 36 holes.

The JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort anchors the Naples region’s southern end, and the Hammock Bay Golf and Country Club is the property’s marquee offering. Jim Hardy and former PGA / Champions Tour player turned commentator Peter Jacobsen designed

Olde Cypress

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Shadow Wood the course, which recently underwent a $4.8 million overhaul that entailed the installation of saltwater tolerant paspalum grass.

Double up with a round at sister course, The Rookery at Marco, a Joe Lee original that was touched up by Bob Cupp in 2002 and in 2014 by Hardy and Jacobsen. Both courses are private, but guests of the Marriott have access to select tee times. If the south side of Paradise coast is your target destination, this is the place to be.

Also Playing The Lely Resort Golf and Country Club is quintessential Naples golf, with two resort tracks and one private course: The Mustang and Flamingo Island are open to public play, designed by Lee Trevino

and Robert Trent Jones Sr., respectively.

Both are typically in good to great condition, and practice junkies will appreciate its two full-service practice facilities, including a 54,000-square-foot driving range with target greens.

TPC Treviso Bay was designed by the “mayor of Naples,” Arthur Hills, and former PGA Tour player Hal Sutton. Located across U.S. 41 from the Lely Resort Golf and Country Club, it makes for a convenient and compelling triumvirate with the Mustang and Flamingo courses.

The 64,000-square-foot clubhouse is a stunning homage to the halcyon days of golf’s big and bold phase.

Preferred Private The Club at Olde Cypress is owned by luxury home builder Stock Development

Old Corkscrew Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

and boasts one of only two P.B. Dye designed courses in the area. The club and surrounding community are centrally located just minutes from beaches, shopping in Old Naples and the Southwest Florida International Airport.

Like his famed father and mother, Alice, P.B. has always had a penchant for crafting courses that appeal to both men and women golfers. Olde Cypress is no exception as witnessed by the sheer number of ladies golf groups, tournaments and events. The club is the centerpiece of a highly sought-after, 450-acre gated enclave with resale homes ranging from $550,000 to over $1 million.

Olde Cypress is wrapping up a multimillion-dollar remastering of the golf course this fall. The expansive project entailed the resurfacing of all 18 greens, practice green and chipping area; enlarging, leveling and re-grassing tee boxes; installation of a new subsurface drainage system and new prescription turf on the driving range. Bunkers (there are over 90) are being touched up with new edging and sand.

Additionally, the pro shop was reimagined with interior design upgrades ranging from color pallets, woodwork and lighting to countertops, artwork and flooring. In short, Olde Cypress is perfectly positioned for upswell in golf participation and membership demand that’s forecast to continue into the foreseeable future.

For golfers who prefer a multi-course club setup, Shadow Wood Country Club in Bonita Springs features 54 holes of championship caliber golf. All three 27

Hammock Bay courses have been recently renovated by Rees Jones and provide spectacular playing conditions year-round. Shadow Wood is in the process of building a brand new 3,500-square-foot pro shop which will overlook the expansive practice facilities and feature unique retail opportunities for its members.

Game improvement gurus will love the practice facilities, which boast a double-sided range and numerous short game practice areas. The Shadow Wood Golf Academy is located at the back of the range and offers an indoor hitting bay, club fitting studio, and all the latest technological aids to help members improve their game. After a round of golf, members sip cocktails by the firepits on the club’s Sunset Terrace or dine at one of Shadow Wood’s many venues.

At the very high-end of the private community and club spectrum is Mediterra, situated on Naples’ northeast end just minutes from Bonita Springs and Vanderbilt Beach. Mediterra’s “see-it-tobelieve-it” 60,000-square-foot clubhouse is the epicenter of club life, boasting a new 1,850-square-foot outdoor covered bar and terrace with unobstructed views of the community’s two award-winning Tom Fazio-designed golf courses.

Just a smooth wedge away from Mediterra is Talis Park, site of the only Pete Dye / Greg Norman design collaboration outside of Medalist Golf Club across the state in Hobe Sound. Talis Park features a variety of residential options, includ28

ing single family, move-in ready homes, condos, coach homes and the stunning “Isola Bella,” an exclusive, 4.5-acre enclave of 17 waterfront estate homes by the Seagate Development Group.

Night Life Fifth Avenue is still the place to be when it comes to a night out on the town. Chic shops, decadent restaurants and vibrant bars and clubs line this famous street. Anything, and any cuisine, is possible, here with eateries ranging from traditional American to sushi and Italian. Further north in Bonita Springs, Coconut Point Shopping Center is stuffed with fast-service and sit-down restaurants, as well as the ever-popular Tommy

Bahama Restaurant. For a true taste of Naples tradition, pay a visit to The Bay House along the Cocohatchee River.

Getting There Collier and Lee Counties share the Southwest Florida International Airport, and the Naples Area benefits from this optimally-sized, easy-to-access transportation hub’s location in south Lee County just minutes from Estero, Bonita Springs, and Naples. For decades, Midwesterners made their way south on I-75 or U.S. 41 to their Southwestern Florida termini in sunny Naples. Making the trek to Naples has become “a thing” again, what with many folks not ready to return to air travel just yet.

Rookery Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

THE ULTIMATE 366HOLE GOLF DESTINATION

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"The golf experience at Rumbling Bald is beeer than ever with enhancements to both courses and praccce faciliies, new golf carts and a wide-variety of lodging oppons," Jeff Geisler, GM

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NEW WINTER “STAY & PLAY” golf packages from $283* Includes: two nights lodging, two rounds of golf, exclusive access to Rumbling Bald amenities, and complimentary use of the practice facilities.

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By Mike May

golf history

Enjoy Breakfast Along the Florida Historic Golf Trail

There’s an old saying

that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If that’s the case, then there’s no better place to break your morning fast by dining at one of many restaurants that appear along the Florida Historic Golf Trail, especially if you are planning to golf on any given day. In all, there are 53 golf courses that are members of the Florida Historic Golf Trail and many of them serve breakfast on a daily basis.

One of the more popular breakfast destinations along the Trail is the Lake Worth Beach Club (One 7th Avenue North, Lake Worth, FL). Breakfast is served seven days a week at The Lake

Riviera Country Club Hole in One Breakfast Sandwich Worth Beach Club which is part of the Lake Worth Beach Golf Course. On Sundays, a brunch is served from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. In addition to delicious food, the views of the adjacent Intra-

coastal Waterway (aka, the Lake Worth Lagoon) are eye-opening. The food is delicious. You can either dine inside or outside on the patio which overlooks the adjacent waterway. It is a wellknown fact that baseball legend Babe Ruth played golf at this golf course in the late 1920s, but there’s no confirmation that he enjoyed breakfast on site. The spirit of the Bambino at the Lake Worth Beach Golf Course is ever-

Worm Burners Bar & Grill Southwestern Omelette 30

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Lake Worth Golf Club Breakfast Wrap present.

At the Riviera Country Club in Ormond Beach (500 Calle Grande Street, Ormond Beach, Florida), breakfast is a popular pursuit for morning golfers.

The breakfast fare at Rivera, nicknamed the “Friendly Club,” includes traditional breakfast items such as eggs, ham, bacon, sausage, omelettes, toast, pancakes, oatmeal, sausage gravy, biscuits, breakfast potatoes, and corned beef hash. It’s worth noting that there is an element of European/continental dining at Riviera as French toast and English muffins are also served! But, since golf is played at Riviera, the most appropriate item to order is the Hole in One, which is an egg and cheese with either ham, bacon or sausage served on either toast, a grilled English muffin or a grilled buttermilk biscuit. It’s delectable! By the way, according to Riviera co-owner Charlotte Meyers, the coffee served at Riviera is “fresh, hot and tasty.” After breakfast, you get to play “The Riv,” which is the site of the longest running mini-tour event in the country, the Riviera Open, a 36-hole event held each December.

Not far from Riviera is the Daytona Beach Golf Club (600 Wilder Boulevard, Daytona Beach. Florida) where golfers

are encouraged to have breakfast at the Worm Burners Bar & Grill. If you like eggs, omelettes, French toast, bacon, sausage, hash browns, breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes or sausage & gravy, then you will enjoy eating breakfast at Worm Burners. One of the most popular items is the southwestern omelette which includes three eggs, cheese, onions, peppers, and salsa.

The breakfast menu has also been modified to include kids breakfast items such as pancakes, French toast sticks, and eggs served any way. Golfers who are members of the Daytona Dailies have

breakfast at Worm Burners on the three days each week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) when they gather to play golf. The Daytona Beach Golf Club has 36 holes – the North and South Course.

The South Course, a Donald Ross design, is celebrating its 100th year of existence this year.

Before teeing off at the Bartow Golf Course (190 South Idlewood Avenue South, Bartow, Florida), arrive early for breakfast at the aptly named Mulligan’s Restaurant and Sports Bar. Some of the more popular breakfast items include a breakfast wrap, a breakfast sandwich, French toast, and sausage gravy and biscuits. The most popular item on the menu is the Course Special which consists of two eggs served any style, hash browns, home fries, or grits plus toast, biscuit or an English muffin. Priced at $6.99, the Course Special is the best breakfast deal in Bartow. You can also ‘build your own’ omelettes at Mulligan’s.

After breakfast, you can play the Bartow Golf Course, nicknamed “The Tow,” which is a popular Donald Ross design.

For complete details on all 53 courses along the Florida Historic Golf Trail, check out www.FloridaHistoricGolfTrail.com.

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

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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 6

transitions.com

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golf travel

Story and Photos by: Greg and Beverly Wise

A Quick Trip to the WAWA For many golfers… this quick trip to the Wawa would be a stop at the local convenience store for some gas, adult beverages, a sandwich for the road… or just some snacks.

For those more adventurous golfers… Wawa is a true “Bucket List” golf course in upper Michigan on Mackinac Island. Especially if you are going to play with “Hickories.”

The key fob on the electric cart… (yes… electric cart) explained it best. This is “One of Michigan’s oldest and most historic golf clubs,

Wawashkamo was design by Alex Smith of Scotland. It remains unchanged, a one-of-a-kind links… offering a very special experience.”

BOY… they weren’t wrong.

When we arrived at Wawa and had parked and locked up our bikes.

Okay… there’s a part of this adventure that needs to be explained.

When we made the final arrangements for our visit, we had instructions. Take the 9:30 AM departure out of Mackinaw City on Shepler’s Ferry Service. When you arrive in Mackinac

Island, rent a bicycle and head to Wawa in the middle of the island, the directions are simple. Bicycle? Doing some quick researched revealed that are no cars on Mackinac Island. Bicycles or Horse and Carriage taxis is the only mode of transportation. The itinerary said that we would arrive by 11:00 am to meet with PGA Golf Professional, Chuck Olson. OKAY… back to the timeline… that is nearly an hour to make it to Wawa… on a bicycle?

When we arrived on the island and rented our bikes, they said… there is only one hill to climb. I am sure they are still laughing because there is only one hill… it basically went from the port to the golf course. Technically, I guess that is only one hill.

Arriving on time at Wawashkamo to meet with Mr. Olson… Chuck started in telling us of the history of Wawashkamo (or what the residents call Wawa). Built in 1898 by Alex Smith US Open Champion (1910) from Scotland.

When the Grand Hotel was built, many businesspeople from the Chicago area, came to the island and built magnificent homes along the South rim of the island, and would come to the island for months at a time. After several years, they decide to have the 9-hole golf course built. The golf course is built on the site of a British and American battle during the War of 1812.

The battle was fought on an old farm that existed on the island, so the land was cleared and very accessible. Alex Smith designed the 9-hole golf course with 2 sets of teeing ground, making for the challenge of 18-holes. He used the same cleared farmland, so all the

Wawashkamo Circus Ring number 3 green

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

pieces of the battleground are still very imaginable as you play the course.

Chuck explained, “when you arrive at the first tee, there is an old British canon, where the original front line of the British military was established.

“We don’t water the fairways here.

They are in their natural state… just the way they were in 1898. They are bumpy and you will see some very quirky bounces, Olson explained. “They didn’t have modern equipment in 1898, just horses and plows to make fairways and green complexes… and you know what?... that is what makes Wawa, what it is! We aren’t about to change that.”

After walking through the 123-year-old completely restored clubhouse adjacent to the final hole… as well as the original caddy shack… marveling at all the old relics and pieces of the past, we were off to the first tee for an adventure that we wouldn’t soon forget with our Hickory golf clubs. One more comment from Olson… “when you get to the 3rd green… you will see something that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the world.”

Standing on the first tee, you can’t help but wonder over to the British canon and taking aim on the same line since 1814, to the first green 517 yards away. Beside the canon was a bench for just relaxing as you find yourself gazing out over the wide-open links course and the forest that masks

Wawashkamo British Canon

Golf on the Wise Way

Wawashkamo Caddie Shack

Wawashkamo Clubhouse Pro Shop Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

the Northern shore of Lake Huron.

Remembering that Chuck said… “be careful of the woods on the right… and the heather is on the left… just don’t take the cart in there.” Don’t ya just love those self-talk reminders as you are about to play your first shot of the day.

This is such a perfect course for hickories. Flat and with the unwatered fairways… the ball was going to roll… so just get it in to play.

As we approached the 3rd green with our approach shots. We found the “Circus Ring!” Deep fescue grasses that surrounded the green. Mr. Smith built the green to promote a lofted shot to the green. In the past, there wasn’t an opening in the front of the green. Only recently was the chipn-run entry put in to this green.

We played through the “Chocolate Drops” on the side of the 8th fairway… and best of all… the “Cross Bunker” that ran across the entire fairway to penalize the bad shot, while allowing a good tee shot to have a perfect approach to the green.

More than anything else… we enjoyed the history of the game, and the history of the property with the signage funded by the Mackinac Island Community Foundation that located where you were and what may have happened at that point.

The one point of interest that stands out was that during the confrontation between the American trying to take over Fort Mackinac from the British, that Major Andrew Hunter Homes was at this point August 4, 1814, where a majestic red oak tree stood. A violent rainstorm took down the tree in 2012, but a tree 33

ring analysis indicated that the red oak was between 210-220 years old, making it a living witness to the events in 1814.

My thought was a portable xray of the tree to see if any lingering musket balls were still embedded in the oak continuing the legacy and the history story of Wawa.

As we completed our round at Wawashkamo… thanked Chuck Olson for his hospitality… our pledge was return and play in the National Hickory Stick Challenge Tournament in August 2022. So, pack those knickers and join us on our next quest for a Quick trip to the Wawa.

Considering we were at one of the highest points on the island. We looked at the map and decided to venture a little higher and visit Fort Holmes overlooking Ft. Mackinac. Aptly named for the Major that led the American’s quest to take over the island in 1814 and lost his life trying to flank the British.

Next stop… all downhill I might add, was a stop at Arch Rock and the vista that it produced with the lake as a backdrop with the natural formation.

Heading back down to the city… we passed beautiful houses built on the cliffs overlooking the city of Mackinac. At one point we found a sign that said “Steep Downhill… Please walk your bikes.” WHAT… well… this is one sign that I will pay attention to next time. Talk about an “E Ticket Ride.”

Arriving back in the city with its quaint architecture, narrow streets full of bicycles and horse drawn wagons and taxis… we were told that we were considered “Fudgies.” “You may not buy any trinkets or t-shirts before you leave the island… but everyone buys the “Home Made Fudge” to take home… hence the moniker “Fudgies” or tourist in layman’s terms. We found the “Oldest on the Island,” Murdick’s Fudge on Main Street, established in 1898. Oh My! – they were right… you can call us Fudgies!… but we are happy Fudgies.

They have perfected the term Home Made Fudge, Peanut Brittle and Salt Water Taffey. You watch it being made.

Fresh… from the table to… well… you get the drift. I can certainly hope that what we bought leaving Murdick’s makes it half was back to Florida to share. My only problem at this point is that you can order online and they will ship!

A boat ride back to Mackinaw City may have been the highlight of the day, topping off the sunset behind the Mackinaw Bridge.

Arch Rock

Murdicks Fudge Shop 34

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Fort Holmes

Wawashkamo Cross Bunker on #6

Wawashkamo 4th Tee Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

35

competitive spirits

Volcán de Mi Tierra: Sitting in the shadow of the historic Tequila Volcano in Jalisco, Mexico, Volcán was born from a strong entrepreneurial partnership that blended the Gallardo family’s passion for their homeland and deep roots in Mexico with Moet Hennessy’s commitment to craftsmanship and iconic luxury branding.

Volcán strives to set itself apart by blending the best quality agave from the characteristically distinct highland and lowland terroirs, and our resulting expressions are truly meant to be sipped and savored.

Volcan Blanco Tequila | $45.99 Tequila Blanco blends its herbal, citrus, and spice notes indicative of the lowlands with fruit notes of cherry, pear, and peach from the highlands.

Volcan Margarita Cocktail Kit | $118 This Volcan cocktail kit includes everything needed to expertly mix up a delicious batch of margaritas, whether you’re sitting poolside or tending their home bar. Volcán Cristalino’s robust notes of vanilla and spice add unexpected depth of flavor to this classic cocktail.

For those looking for further inspiration, try La Valoma, Volcan’s re-imagination of the classic Paloma cocktail.

36

LA VALOMA INGREDIENTS • 2 oz Volcan Blanco Tequila • ¾ oz Fresh Lime Juice • 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice • ¾ Oz Agave Syrup • A pinch of salt METHOD: Combine Volcan Blanco, fresh lime and grapefruit juice, salt and agave syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain over ice in a highball glass. Top with soda water and garnish with a grapefruit wedge.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

leader on the links

Photos by Michelle Goldys

Alexis Golf Shop Opens in Daytona Alexis Sieg is deeply passionate about promoting the game of golf. Since 1997, Alexis has held a “Class A” membership with the LPGA Professionals.

She earned her BS in Anthropology from Appalachian State University and a degree in merchandising from Jefferson State University. Her intention was to pursue her Master’s degree in Anthropology, but her love for golf won out and she began her golf career at the Robert Trent Jones trail in Birmingham, AL. In 1998, Alexis returned to her home state of Florida where she became the merchandise and retail manager at LPGA International Golf Club, home of the LPGA Tour in Daytona Beach.

She held that position for ten years overseeing the sales and operation of its sizeable 3,000 sq. foot pro shop.

38

In addition, she served as an assistant golf professional, golf academy instructor and Custom club fitter.

After a decade of service, Alexis got the itch to “jump over the desk” as she described it and became an independent sales rep for Nancy Lopez Golf.

Being a road warrior in golf was not an easy job especially for a woman, but Alexis’ combined her love for golf, travel and meeting people and quickly expanded her entrepreneurial skills and independent product line to include nine additional companies.

Alexis’ business savy and twenty years’ experience as a teaching professional and merchandiser has now brought her full circle with the opening of her own independent golf shop, Alexis Golf.

At a time when most “mom and Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

pop” retail stores have rapidly disappeared in the golf industry, Alexis saw a need and took the risk to go against the grain of the big box warehouse model like PGA Superstores.

“I saw a need for more personal attention in my area,” Alexis said. “It was a risk, but I’m seeing that people are supporting my shop because it’s a local business and they truly appreciate the hands-on customer service.”

Alexis Golf Shop opened on August 4th – in honor of her deceased Dad’s birthday. “My Dad taught me golf when I was six,” said Alexis. “He cut down a club and built a grip with electrical tape. There were so many courses around Ft. Lauderdale where I grew up. I was hooked.”

Her shop, located near LPGA International, specializes in club re-gripping, cleaning, fitting, and repair - “things you can’t buy on a website,” said Alexis.

“Golfers don’t realize when grips are going bad and how new grips can really

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

improve their game,” she continued.

“If you’re looking for some-

“Avid players should replace their grips

thing different and fresh, you’ll

once a year especially in Florida where

find it here,” concluded Alexis.

the heat really deteriorates them.”

Alexi Golf Shop carries trendy new

Alexis Golf Shop is located at 1571 N Nova Rd in Daytona Beach. Hours

apparel lines and everyday golf gear

Tues-Fri 10:00-6:00; Sat 10-4:00. For more

from gloves to balls to drink tum-

information visit www.alexisgolf.com

blers and assorted gift items.

or call 386-872-4023.

39

BIGGS Golf Talk product showcase

BIGGSGOLFTALK.COM Sniper Golf Balls The Sniper Brand is building a reputation of quality and innovationbehind all the products we offer.

Our Tour Series golf balls are designed to best maximize performance by allowing players to align their swing speeds with the correct compression to produce the best results. Our golf balls outperform top brands in testing and on course play and are taking the industry by storm.

We also have always been frustrated with traditional golf ball box and sleeve packaging, so we introduced our patent pending tube packaging to solve that problem! Our packaging saves valuable bag space, eliminates the disposing of empty ball sleeves, and more importantly gives our players some «swagger» on the course.

Real Men can Wear Pink SQAIRZ, the fastest growing golf shoe company, announced today their partnership with the American Cancer Society (ACS) to increase awareness about breast cancer and breast cancer month through the ‘Real Men Wear Pink’ campaign. SQAIRZ has launched two pink limited edition men’s and women’s golf shoes emblazoned with the breast cancer awareness ribbon and a portion of sales from these shoes will be donated directly to the ACS. SkyCaddie SX-550 5.5” LCD Color Touch Screen provides more viewing screen with a super responsive vivid display.

Lighter and slimmer body design than the SkyCaddie SX500 Powered by an ultra-fast multi-core processor for fast response Preloaded with over 35,000 of SkyGolf’s ground-verified, error-corrected maps for unmatched accuracy Full-color HD graphics provide multiple views and a stunning visual experience Cut the Cord! Wi-fi connectivity to streamline updates and course downloads on demand. No need to connect to a computer Powerful and highly water-resistant High-capacity rechargeable lithium-polymer battery provides up to 14 hours of continuous use 1-Year prepaid membership card with promotional packs Free concierge setup service with SX500 bundles 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee

Green Book Cover – by Golf Logic (Photo of the Leather Cover) Provide the tour experience and give a gift that last long after the event Now… Provides a perfect way to protect this valuable tool to your game Premium Genuine Leather Laser Logo Engraving Fits perfectly in your back pocket 4 ½” wide by 7 ¼” inches long 40

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

orth florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north

By Daniel Calderon

Fall into Golf — Enriching the Golf Experience with Upcoming Series Teaching & Coaching Series Event at Lakewood Ranch

September through the beginning of December. It is an incredible opportunity to continue to grow the game of golf, while also providing great play and competition, especially as tournament season winds down.

As imperative it is for our Members to continue to play and get out on the course, it is just as essential — if not even more so — to provide them with the tools needed to increase and expand their skill level as players, especially as many of them are leading the charge to grow the game at their respective facilities. The upcoming Teaching & Coaching Series does just that.

The series consists of intriguing seminars and features presenters who are providing expertise in their respective

The North Florida PGA Section is gearing up for a fall full of fun festivities to help broaden players’ knowledge of the game, as well as their skill set!

Following a series of high-profile Section events, such as the NFPGA Pro-Pro Championship at The Palencia Club and the NFPGA Section Championship at Streamsong Resort, the North Florida PGA proudly presents two great series for our Members to take part in and

Chapter. The teams are composed of

fields. The series, which is presented by

one Professional and one Influencer,

SuperSpeed Golf and Ikonik Golf, runs

which is a person affiliated with the

from September to October. Speakers

Professional’s facility and carries influ-

include Cheryl Anderson, Mike Bender,

ence on decision-making. Influenc-

Scott Shepard and Matt Wilkes. Topics

ers can vary from a board member,

vary from short-game and speed train-

superintendent, general manager,

ing to junior golf training techniques.

owner or committee member.

The series rolls out from the end of

It’s looking like a very eventful fall season at the North Florida PGA!

Teaching & Coaching Series Event, Steve McMillen and Speakers

holistically refine their golf persona.

The first series kicking off is the Pro-Official Series, in partnership with E-Z-GO. The series will consist of four events dispersed throughout the different Chapters, enabling Members to take part regardless of where they may reside.

“Our Members will have the ability to play at a site near them as opposed to having to travel to one designated event,” said Steve McMillen, Executive Director of the North Florida PGA. Professionals have the option to choose which site they prefer to play at, even if it is not in their specific 42

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

der with two birdies and an eagle.

“I stayed patient out there.”

Collins won the Division II national individual title when she played at Nova Southeastern in Davie. She also won Golf Channel’s Big Break Mexico in 2013 and played briefly on the LPGA Tour and Symetra Tour. But after she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, she shifted her career to teaching.

“I’ve been playing competitive golf my entire life,” Collins said. “It’s nice to have another level of competition.”

The top 12 players earned spots in next year’s PGA Professional Championship April 17-20 at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Aus-

Taylor Collins of Fort Lauderdale made history Thursday by becoming the first woman to win the South Florida PGA Professional Championship in the tournament’s 42-year history.

Collins, a PGA Assistant Professional at Coral Ridge Country Club in Fort Lauderdale, shot 72 on BallenIsles’ vaunted East Course to win by four shots at 8-under 208. She started the day with a two-shot lead and steadily pulled away.

“To be the first woman to win the South Florida PGA Section Championship is incredible,” Collins said. “I thought about it a little yesterday, but I had to stop thinking about it. If I think about it now, I might start crying.

It’s always great to beat the guys and show how the girls can play, as well.

This gives me new goals to set, and I’ll have this sitting there forever.”

The 32-year-old Collins earned $7,500 from a record $90,000 purse.

Under South Florida PGA rules, women play 81 percent of the men’s distance (6,997 yards).

Usually, the winner of the South Florida PGA Professional Championship earns a spot in the Puerto Rico Open.

But the South Florida PGA adheres to the PGA Tour rule that stipulate a Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

player who qualifies for a tour event must play from the back tees.

There was a playoff between secondplace finishers Alan Morin (70-212) of The Club at Ibis and Austin Davenport (74-212) of Dye Preserve for the Puerto Rico spot, which Morin won with a par on the first extra hole.

By finishing tied for second, the 52-year-old Morin also clinched his 11th Player of the Year Award in the South Florida PGA, which earns him a spot in next year’s Honda Classic. He closed with a 3-under 33 on the back nine.

“Winning Player of the Year was the farthest from my mind this year, but I started playing well so I kept trying,” Morin said. “These young guys are so good and they hit it much farther than I do. But I’m still able to hang with them. “The Puerto Rico thing was a bonus. I wasn’t even thinking about that.”

Andrew Filbert, a PGA Assistant Professional at West Bay, shot a 7-under 65 – the low round of the week – to improve from 36th place to a fourthplace tie with Troy Pare (69-213) of Grand Harbor Beach & Golf Club.

“I took care of the par-5s,” said Filbert, who played them in 4-un-

tin, TX. Patrick Rada and Tyler Collet are exempt because they qualified for this year’s PGA Championship.

Also earning spots to the national tournament were Justin McCarraher (71-286) of Fiddlesticks, Collet (71-214) of John’s Island Club, Steven Vecellio (71-214) Frenchman’s Reserve, Michael Valicenti (72-214) of Mayacoo Lakes, Jason Martin (76-214), Matt Cahill (70-216) of Seminole, Justin Ahasic (73-216) of Synergy Golf, Kenneth Leech (72-216) of Don Law Academy. Brett Melton (73-217) of Melton Golf Academy is first alternate.

BallenIsles’ East Course has been the scene of much history. Jack Nicklaus won the 1971 PGA there, as well as teaming with Lee Trevino to win the World Series of Golf. It also hosted the PGA Tour’s q-school in ‘71 that produced Hall of Famers Tom Watson and Lanny Wadkins, as well as John Mahaffey and Bruce Fleisher.

The South Florida PGA Senior Section Championship is presented by Club Car, Cadillac and Rolex. Supporting partners are Titleist/FootJoy, Nike, TaylorMade, Golf Channel, PGA Tour, Biolyte, DLL, Links and Leisure, Whistling Straits and Winner’s Award Group.

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south florida PGA north south florida florida PGA PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southfl north

First Female to Win South Florida PGA Professional Championship

what's new

Clean Up Your Game With The “Buddy” Golf Club Cleaner

by Holly Geoghegan

D

irty golf clubs make you play bogey golf. When there is a convenient, liquid-free alternative, there’s no reason to allow dirt and grime to ruin your game.

The Buddy Traveler golf club cleaner is portable and can be mounted to any golf car and most pushcarts. Its easy-on and easy-off design gives golfers the convenience of taking the “Traveler” anywhere you play golf.

The winning three-brush design in the Buddy Golf Club Cleaner creates a “can’t miss” cleaning system that leaves your club head free of debris and dirt before you return it to your bag, ready for the next shot.

TRAVELER BUDDY 44

In the cleaning chamber, there are two brushes that start the cleaning process. The “Entry Brush” cleans most of the surface debris off the club head as it enters the chamber.

The second soft “Rubber Brush” on the top massages off the remaining debris. The discarded dirt drops into the chamber and vibrates out as the golf car is driven.

The “Divot Brush” that’s attached outside and on the bottom of the unit removes any stubborn dirt or grim that gets stuck in your grooves.

The “Trifecta” cleaning system gives you a clean golf club for every shot!

The Buddy Golf Club Cleaner comes in a standard black unit as well as two new custom painted designs. The pink “Bosom Buddy”

BOSOM BUDDY

supports breast cancer awareness, and the red, white and blue “Patriotic Buddy” supports our troops. For more information or to purchase, go to www.thebuddygolfclubcleaner. com

PATRIOTIC BUDDY Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

special events

by Holly Geoghegan

Hammock Beach Resort to Host Glover Park Golf National Finals

G

lover Park Golf, a tournament organizer and event company since 2009, launched its innovative nationwide amateur tour and digital tournament app in September. Early adopters and participants are quickly becoming raving fans, calling GPG “the Peloton of Golf.”

The GPG app allows golfers to establish a handicap and compete against friends and fellow golfers across the nation on the golf course of their choice, anywhere in the country, on a specific day during designated GPG tournament weekends. GPG tournament “weekends” allow golfers the fun and flexibility to choose one out of three days to compete while seeing scores posted on the leaderboard in real time.

Players accumulate points and a GPG tour ranking based on how they finish during each GPG event. Prizes and trophies are awarded as well. “I love the sense of community of tons of like-minded golfers that love the game as much as I do,” said one GPG member. “It’s the Peloton of Golf. I have friends located all over and now 46

we can play and trash talk during the round from anywhere.”

The official GPG mobile app calculates a GPG Handicap for each player (80% of net score) so all skill levels can compete. In addition, the app calculates every golfer’s course handicap based on the USGA rating at their course. This levels the playing field creating a fun and friendly competition, regardless of your skill level, against players across the country.

This year’s GPG Nationals will be held at the award-winning, Jack Nicklaus-designed, Ocean Hammock Golf Club located at Hammock Beach Golf Resort and Spa in Palm Coast, Florida on Saturday, December 11, 2021. The Top 50 players in the GPG rankings at the end of the season will earn their place to compete in GPG Nationals. By virtue of qualifying, the Top 50 will play their final round at Ocean Hammock for free, creating an exciting 18-hole shoot-out for the national championship.

There is still time to join the tour and attempt to qualify for the Nation-

al Championship at Hammock Beach Resort. The next two GPG tournament weekends take place Friday-Sunday, Oct 22-24 and November 5-7. Par-

ticipants can choose to play and pay for one round at their favorite course during one of the three GPG tournament days in either or both of the two remaining events. The GPG mobile app does the rest!

For event details and membership information, visit www.gloverparkgolf.com or contact Jonathan Leon, 813-727-5481, support@gloverparkgolf.com Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

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freddy's fairway thoughts

By Fred Seely

Anyone want to buy a Hall of Fame?

One is available, though the word hasn't slipped out.

It's the World Golf Hall of Fame, a so-so idea to start with that has become a money pit for the PGA Tour and other golf associations. It never was a success but Shell gave a big check for the first 30 years and that covered up the problems.

Why has something as ballyhooed as the Hall of Fame not worked?

• Location, location, location.

It originally was planned to be on the southern edge of Jacksonville, just about where the big I-95/I-295 intersection is today. It was to have an adjacent campus of the local community college with a hospitality program, and a business park. Alas, the property owners wouldn't make a deal, so Mistake No. 1 came when they decided to go south to nowhere instead of north, east or west into Jacksonville. Mistake No. 2 came when they selected a site that had environmental issues, so Mistake No. 3 followed: a site on the interstate but out in the boondocks.

• Organization. Too many entities. A guy I know booked a golf convention and had to deal with four different groups: the golf course, the Hall of Fame, the hotel and the convention center. No one ever seemed to speak to anyone else.

• Being unrealistic. The golf 48

courses are okay, but they aren't $200 courses. The Hall of Fame is okay, but once is enough. The hotel is okay, but nothing special. The adjacent businesses? Only the Caddyshack restaurant would attract anyone. They want Pinehurst-like money for an okay product.

• It's a Hall of Fame. These things sound good but today's consumer is Disneyfied and wants pizzazz, and memorabilia doesn't cut it. Golf's Hall of Fame has great stuff, but it's just stuff.

If Cooperstown can't sell Babe Ruth's glove, why would Jack Nicklaus's glove be something to see?

What will happen?

It's hard to imagine a serious buyer for a huge building which, despite Northeast Florida's stunning growth, is still pretty much nowhere (the nearest Publix isn't near.) It's too close to the Orlando attractions to be a stopping point for tourists on I-95 South (i.e., Yankees) and it's too far from the populated areas (even St. Augustine is 30 minutes away, the beach at least 45) to be a real destination.

The PGA Tour, and its partners, wishes it somehow would just go away. Make an offer.

Tour thoughts

• It's honor to be named the PGA Tour's Player of the Year but the Cantlay vs. Rahm discussion is a fast-dying issue. If you care that much about Player of the

Year, you surely can name last year's winner. Can't you?

• There are concerns around PGA Tour insiders about the coverage of the commissioner's annual media sit-down at the Tour Championship. He had a number of first-line topics but the coverage centered around a minor inclusion: fan behavior (“Brooksie,” “Go In The Hole!”)

Worthwhile topic, for sure, but hardly high priority and the reporting made it seem as if he were blaming the fans.

• A fun media game is coming up with ideas to improve the Players tournament. One scribe attended the Junior Players and was impressed with the quality of play — it was spectacular — and suggests that the winner be invited to the Players, and paired with the defending champion and the Senior Players champion. Fun? Sure, but good play at a junior event doesn't carry over.

• Top players obviously are starting to realize that events in the the so-called “bridge” season — between the Tour Championship and the Sentry Tournament of Champions — counts just as much as the socalled “regular” season. Expect good fields most any week.

Quick lesson

How do you start a kid playing our game?

Jim Furyk knows someone who put his son at the most forward tee. When he could break 40, he moved back one teebox, and so on. “Seems pretty good to me,” said Furyk.

But, he was reminded, it works the other way, as he'll find as the years go on.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

By Bradley S. Klein

Baltusrol Lower Course Senior Assistant Superintendent Dan Spall aerates compacted areas in the right rough of No. 18 in early September. This year Baltusrol is celebrating 126 years of golf (1895) in Springfield NJ. Photo by Greg Corbo

A Golf Course Superintendent’s Job Is Never Easy — and Has Been Made Even More Difficult by the Pandemic This has been an especially hard year to be a course superintendent. Actually, they all are, given the expectations heaped upon greenkeepers by golfers, few of whom have the slightest idea what is actually involved in keeping golf course turfgrass in playable condition.

And it’s not just monthly fee-paying members who have unrealistic expectations. I can still remember as clear as day the time the town councilman (who was an occasional golfer) asked the greenkeeper of our new local municipal tract why he couldn’t make do with “the lawn mowers” already on hand from the Parks and Rec. Department.

Golfer demands aside, this year has been one from hell -- or at least from nearby. That’s because of the convergence of three distinct external factors that go far beyond the golf course and thus beyond the ability of any superintendent to control.

COVID-19 has been hell, and just when it looked like we were on our way to a modicum of normalcy the Delta variant reared its head and threw everything for a loop. The oddity, of course, is that the pandemic has been a (per50

verse) blessing for golf, and while no one would wish such a public health crisis on anyone it turns out that the golf industry has flourished. That’s because golf is the safest outdoor form of recreation you could indulge in and because private golf clubs have done a fabulous job of creating a safe environment for their clients and employees.

While gyms, public swimming pools, summer camps and restaurants were basically shut down last year, a well-managed club that looked after its staff and members through social distancing, regular testing and mask mandates was the safest place for the family to spend time playing. Small wonder that at every club I know of, public or private, play has been up; memberships are booming and the bottom line has been a net positive.

But at what cost to superintendents? They had to scramble to retain labor. In many cases, they strove to rehire them after initial cutbacks led to staff reductions and their (former) crew members left for other work or to rely upon the expanded unemployment benefits. The flow of the daily routine, once focused on getting the golf course ready, shifted entirely to the safety precautions needed to reduce the likelihood of virus Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

transmission in the maintenance area and between laborers and the golfers. That meant solo vehicle and equipment deployment, distancing of workers rather than close proximity in task sharing, and extensive time simply scrubbing down before and after.

It helped the pace of daily set up that the local- or state-mandated regionally conditions of course opening entailed touchless golf. That meant no bunker rakes, no water coolers, fixed pins and/or foam rubber collars in cups. Golfers generally accepted the slacker conditions since they were simply grateful to be doing something outdoors. It also meant solo rider carts, a development that eventually took its toll on fairway conditioning.

What’s under-appreciated about the role superintendents played last year is the physical and emotional toll it exacted. A job that normally entails few if any days off during peak season became a very long, exhausting grind. What we in the Northeast call our mid-season “100 days of hell” extended to about 150.

This year has been better, or at least less worse, as normal work conditions have more or less returned and the daily grind does not entail the meticulous sanitizing and social distancing of 2020. Shared cart riding is back as well. But the labor force has been turned upside down, and the shortage of qualified crew members at most courses that I visit has been the largest issue facing superintendents in 2021. Nobody has enough staff, nor the kind of quality staffing they really need.

Retention of labor at a golf course has always been an issue. It is perennially difficult to find folks who are willing and able to show up at 5:30 a.m. on weekends. Most crews are now on flexed schedules allowing alternate weekends or weekend days off, for example. But the telltale signs of inexperience are there. I recall, for example, one example of a superintendent who has to scout the greens each morning and TurfLife_Ad_HalfPg(12172019).pdf repair damaged cups from sloppy1cup12/17/2019 cutting.

3:23:46

Courses have all had to increase their wage rates to retain labor in the face of stringent challenges from ancillary job sectors like landscape, building construction and home repair.

And at the skilled level, the shortage is evident in the difficulty superintendents have had in recruiting qualified technicians and assistants. The ranks of the country’s university level golf agronomy programs are depleted. Golf is a great game but, increasingly, it is not being perceived as a great career.

All of this unfolds in a world that is seeing more environmental stress placed on golf courses. Climate change is real in terms of hotter working environments, more intense rain events interspersed with more severe drought, and a two-sided pinch that involves the need for more storm water management capacity and increased drainage needs while seeking out water efficiencies and alternative sources of irrigatable water.

That leaves superintendents in the middle, handling a lot.

Much of it comes from outside their formal training. Yet this is the fate they are handed and what they need to negotiate to be successful. It’s asking a lot. So far, the veterans and the well-trained folks coming up the pipeline have responded with professionalism and creativity. That’s what makes the job so interesting. Of course it would help if more golfers understood what goes into maintaining a golf course. Perhaps then they’d be less critical and more appreciative.

PM

This article originally appeared in The First Call, a newsletter dedicated to covering the golf industry. https://www.firstcallgolf.com/ Bradley S. Klein is a veteran golf journalist specializing in architecture and maintenance. A former PGA Tour caddie, Klein was architecture editor of Golfweek magazine for 28 years and the founding editor of Superintendent News before moving on to Golf Channel’s GolfAdvisor.com. Klein has published nine books on golf architecture and history, including “Discovering Donald Ross,” winner of the USGA 2001 International Book Award.

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Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

51

Performance Is Our First Name

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The Performance Nutrition product line of specialty performance products is tailored to meet the ever-increasing demand for new and safer plant disease control and nutritional products.

Through the innovation of its staff of technical and product development professionals, the Performance Nutrition division has assembled an ever-expanding array of unique and powerful bio-pesticides, patented chelated micronutrient solutions, specialty fertilizers, soil inoculants, humic acids, plant extracts, soil amendments and fertilizer additives that are not only effective but environmentally and applicator friendly as well. Performance Nutrition agricultural fertility and specialty products are sold across the

52

country by local dealers familiar with local growing practices and problems.

Today, Performance Nutrition product lines include KaPre® soil amendments and surfactants, Pennamin® water-soluble amino acid products, Nutrol® BioPesticides, tank buffer & water-soluble fertilizer, Prudent® patented phosphite fertilizers, Vibrant® premium foliar fertilizers, Krystal Klear® chelated micronutrient solutions, Kelpene® plant extracts, Korban® Humic acid solutions, Varnimo® microbial fungicide, nematicide and PGR and others.

These patented products are used together in patented PERFORMANCE® Treatments, which address the critical parameters of healthy ecosystems.

Performance Treatments are available for aerification, seeds, soil and foliar nutrition. Custom programs can also be developed to deliver season-long fertility and pest management and others.

Our Mission LidoChem Inc.’s Performance Nutrition Division’s Mission is: • To develop & market economical, effective and “greener” products & programs for crop, turf and ornamental fertility anddisease control; • To utilize the available natural resources to provide nutrition for plants and soil microbes; • To amend and correct “stressors” that inhibit plant performance and vitality; • To respect, support and maximize the contribution of each component of the natural ecosystem; • Enhances fertility and pesticide programs; • To deliver value to our customers each time, every time.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Introducing

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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

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By Anthony L. Williams, MG, CGCS, CGM

A Turf Pirate’s Journal

A Captain’s Tale

Charlie Scott and I pose for a seaside photo at Enniscrone Golf Course in Ireland, official turf pirates log date October 9th, 2010

Greetings Turf Pirates, as we sail on into the Fall golf season I find myself reflecting on some the captains of our industry. Stand out Turf Pirates all but some stand taller than others and some grow taller still as the years roll by. One such captain is Charlie Scott. You see the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates is ever aware that our industry has many links, levels and connections, some seen and some unseen but certainly they connect us all in the grandest of ways.

I met Charlie Scott at the GCSAA conference in 2006. Historians will note that a series of epic hurricanes pushed the event to my home state of Georgia relocating from Texas and Louisiana respectively. Charlie saw that I had won a national Environmental Leaders in Golf award (an epic tie with Troy Russell from Bandon Dunes) at my then home course, Renaissance PineIsle Resort.

Charlie waited until the awards presentations were over walked up to me and said, “Congratulations, I built your golf course”. We had the first of many conversations on the spot. You see Charlie, his Dad (Darl) and son (Jon) had built, owned and still operated five golf courses in Michigan, TRI (Turf Royalty Indeed). Charlie had also worked for Wadsworth Golf Construction for a time 54

Vintage medallions from an epic Turf Pirate Port-of-Call.

in the early 1970’s and he had indeed been construction superintendent on our beloved PineIsle. He was the first Captain and told a great tale of arriving to start construction to find that the state had not finished the bridge leading onto the island and all staff

and equipment was subsequently sent over by barge. The site was a series of Islands in the middle of a 38,000-acre manmade lake, Lake Sydney Lanier in Northeast Georgia. This is Turf Pirating at the highest level. The PineIsle project was designed by Ron Kirby and Gary Player and hosted five LPGA World Championships in her heyday (Germanic word for time of maximum prosperity and used in Turf Pirate lore as a way point). PineIsle would eventually fall to progress that was beyond her but from 1971 – 2005 she knew four stoic captains. Charlie Scott carved her out of the stone and clay, Allen Baston (Georgia GCSA President 1973 and 74) took over from Charlie by way of the Augusta National Golf Club, Allen passed the wheel to Bob Thompson who had been AGCS at the Atlanta Athletic Club for the famous 1976 US Open (Jerry Pate’s big win) and Bob handed her to me in 1993 where I learned the craft until 2005 when I was sent to the big rock at Stone Mountain Park but that is another story.

You see we are all connected in this long green line one to another striving for excellence and hoping for good weather. I last saw Charlie unexpectedly in 2010. I had won the coveted TurfNet Superintendent of the Year award and was in Dublin, Ireland for some fun, frolic and the Emerald Cup Matches with the other TurfNet Faithful when I heard a familiar voice, it was Charlie.

We had a great week and played lots of golf and told tales of turf and family and hopes and aspirations. Turf Pirates listen closely to tales from the maintenance barn for one day too soon you may also find more seasons have passed than you see on the horizon.

I am blessed that I have made my way in the world surfing on a blade of grass and I count it a privilege to have known many great captains so Turf Pirates in closing raise your glass to the captain or captains that set you on your current course and look carefully to those who follow in your wake.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Sunn 28-0-0

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

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

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

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

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Aquarina Beach and Country Club Tees Up for the Environment Aerial Image of Aquarina Beach and Country Club

which includes installing oyster mats on the dock pilings of Aquarina as a natural way to remove pollutants from the water.

This initiative was in conjunction with the Florida Institute of Technology, Brevard Zoo, local restaurants and Aquarina residents. Additionally, 75+ Aquarina residents/members joined in a beach clean-up project as part of their support for the Surfrider Foundation, an organization that works to protect and preserve the ocean and its beaches.

In the heart of surfer’s paradise,

you will also find a golfer’s paradise, on a barrier island sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. Aquarina Beach and Country Club is home to an 18-hole certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Golf Course. This semi-private course is open to the public and offers golfers a unique opportunity to play golf while embracing the sustainable management of the course and local conservation initiatives.

It’s important to note that just down the road from the golf course is the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s Barrier Island Education Center and the Aquarina community is near the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, which according to the Sea Turtle Conservancy, is the most utilized loggerhead turtle nesting beach in the Western Hemisphere and is also used for nesting

Sea turtle Nesting across the street from Aquarina Beach and Country Club

Oyster Mat Installation 56

by green and leatherback turtles.

Due to Aquarina Beach and Country Club’s sensitive location, the staff and volunteers pursued environmental certification through Audubon International to improve and implement efforts in environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, water conservation, chemical use reduction and safety, water quality management and outreach and education – all within the existing infrastructure of the golf course.

The Aquarina team continues to pursue numerous initiatives to improve their local environment, one of

Aquarina’s dedication to the environment doesn’t stop there, the course also hosts numerous golf tournaments to benefit local organizations. These organizations include the Surfrider Foundation, The Sea Turtle Conservancy and the Marine Resources Council. To learn more about how your local golf course can gain recognition for your environmental efforts and learn how to expand your initiatives through Audubon International’s numerous environmental certifications, visit www.auduboninternational.org.

Audubon International, an environmentally focused non-profit organization, offers members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we live, work, and play. Their certifications are designed to increase environmental awareness, encourage sustainable environmental efforts, and educate both their members and their communities.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 6

Event Proceeds to Benefit: Cancer Institute

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