Golf Central Mag- Vol 22 Issue 9 by Golf Central Magazine

Getaway with the Girls at a Gem of the Midwest

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

TEE OFF

AT RENTYL RESORTS Bear’s Den Resort Orlando Orlando, FL

Rentyl Resorts offers access to top-notch golf all around the globe. With course locations in Central Florida, Bermuda, South Florida, Montana, New York, and Portugal, our resorts offer the greatest of service and the best of experiences. With state-of-the-art golf options everywhere, you are sure to have an incredible vacation wherever you land.

The Sagamore Resort Bolton Landing, NY

RentylResorts.com | 321.888.3408 | info@RentlyResorts.com

GOLF RESORT LOCATIONS

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake | Whitefish, MT

The Sagamore Resort | Bolton Landing, NY

Eagle Trace Resort Orlando | Orlando, FL

Newstead Belmont Hills | Bermuda

The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Longboat Key, FL

NAU Salgado Dunas Suites | Algarve, Portugal

The Lodge is truly a special place; situated between Whitefish Lake and the 28-acre Viking Creek Wetland Preserve, with breathtaking scenery at every turn and no shortage of Montana adventures to experience.

Beyond the impressive golf course views, and access to three championship golf courses, Eagle Trace Resort Orlando features an extraordinary list of amenities surrounding the community of beautiful resort residences.

Discover the tranquility and rejuvenation you need among the white sand beaches, world-class amenities and luxurious accommodations that encompass The Resort at Longboat Key Club.

Secluded on a private 70-acre island just 60 miles north of Albany, The Sagamore has hosted families, celebrities and dignitaries alike with their signature hospitality for over a century.

As one of Bermuda’s premier luxury resorts, Newstead Belmont Hills offers top-notch amenities coupled with unique service that will make you want to come back year after year.

At Salgados Dunas Suites, you can find an extensive sandy stretch, warm and crystalline water and a natural paradise right alongside stunning seafront accommodations.

YOUR LOVE AFFAIR

WITH

GOLF DESERVES THE PERFECT SET TING With 10 magnificent courses why wait, Lock in your 2022 golf plans today.

Go to BoyneGolf.com or call 855-427-6316

from the publisher

Volume 22, Issue 9

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

Channeling the spirit at Bok Tower

Everyone leaves a legacy behind. Edward Bok left a legacy with Bok Tower Gardens, a natural place where you could commune with nature just as many do on the golf courses daily. His legacy also included winning a Pulitzer Prize and being publisher of Ladies Home Journal for 30 years. Bok’s grandmother said, “Make the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.” Bok Tower Gardens is a testimony that he did that. That is what golf course architects, groundskeepers, and others do every single day– make the world a bit more beautiful. To me, there is nothing more beautiful than a deep green fairway lined by trees, and baby-bottom smoothness of the green. With legacies it’s not if, but how you are remembered. As said in the Rascal Flats song: How They Remembered You. “Did you make ‘em laugh or make ‘em cry? Did you quit or did you try? Live your dreams or let ‘em die What did you choose?” “Did you stand or did you fall? Build a bridge or build a wall Hide your love or give it all”

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, Dennis Dumler, Margie Dumler, 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 Social Media Muse: Madison Forni Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail

Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 4313 Berwick Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33859 NEW PHONE: 863.875.6863 E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com ©2022 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.

Every time you bring someone to a course they haven’t been to you are enhancing your legacy by sharing your love of the game, the course, and nature with them. I love seeing the fathers and sons playing together in the PNC championship– John Daly and his son John Daly II winning it this year, Tiger Woods and his son Charlie coming in second and so many other pros out there with their kids. They too are imparting their legacy for the love of the game on their children. The next time you introduce someone to the game ask yourself, “What did YOU do?” Know you aren’t out there trying and hit a ball hundreds of yards into a 4.25” hole. Instead you are creating an excitement for the love of the game, for the love of nature, and love of all that has been created on this place we call home. It is your legacy, Remember: It ain’t if, it’s how they remember you in 2022! Rosie, we will remember your genuine kindness. 2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 6

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Award-winning dining, a booming craft beer scene, luxurious resorts, and exceptional year-round golf on courses along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail await you in Alabama. Plus, with Jerry Pate’s Kiva Dunes and Arnold Palmer’s Craft Farms in Gulf Shores, from the mountain lakes to the Gulf Coast, you can take it all in.

www.GolfAlabama.org

Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Birmingham

Volume 22, Issue 9 Cart Girl 28 Christy Walton FEATURE 32 French Lick Resort

Florida Golf Central 20 Paradise Coast Golf Bachelor 12 Neal Lerner Golf Fore Charity 26 Lake Ashton Pink Ribbon Golf Tournament Growing the Game 14 The Claret Jug Junior Tour 30 Annika at Topgolf

Feature

Improving Performance 24 Lean Lock 46 eduKaytion Special Events 18 East Coast Women’s Pro Golf Tour Stay & Play 16 Amelia Island Turf Life 14 Fallen Oak at Beau Rivage 52 Sunniland Super Spotlight: Brandon Richey 54 Performance Nutrition Superstar: Rich Kerr 56 Landscapes Unlimited 58 Turf Pirate’s Journal 60 Audubon International Women in Golf 24 Women on Fairways

Article P

g 30-31

Departments 10 Product Showcase 22 Competitive Spirits 36 What's New 38 PGA Tour 42 Golf History 36 Golf History 44 North Florida PGA 45 South Florida PGA 48 Georiga Golf Trail 50 Freddy's Fairway Thoughts

golfcentralmag.com

product showcase

Honma BERES Aizu and Black Honma Golf debutrs the BERES Aizu and Black collections, the latest in the coveted BERES line of visually stunning and expertly crafted game-enhancing golf equipment. Promoting straighter, longer ball flight and increased ball speed, BERES clubs continue the proud heritage of past luxurious Honma lines, with two bold twists on clubhead aesthetics. “This new line represents the latest breakthrough technology for golfers with moderate to modest swing speeds,” says Janeann Lanning, COO of Honma North America. “BERES Aizu and Black allow golfers to make pure, stable swings with enhanced speed and powerful ball flight.” BERES Aizu ushers in the next chapter in a storied history of the very finest holistic craftsmanship, designed in collaboration with Japanese Aizu artisans. The line’s incomparable beauty houses unmatched strength, innovation and performance. Dating back to 1590, Aizu paintings represent Honma’s Japanese heritage and tradition. With Aizu’s signature red and ornate gold accents, BERES Aizu encompasses Takumi expertise as well as the industry’s most technologically advanced construction in a golf club collection. BERES Black offers sleek elegance that stands out on the course, plus Honma’s timeless design. Its beautifully shaped drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons efficiently transfer energy and generate consistent ball flight. Each clubhead is coated with a jet-black PVD process for a striking finish. “Aizu appeals to players with an artistic flair and respect for Japanese craftsmanship,” says Honma’s Lanning, “while Black brings a modern, refined look for players who value performance and style without compromise – perhaps attracting younger golfers who might never have previously tried BERES.” More more information: www.honmagolf.com

Radmor Golf Radmor Golf founders Scott Morrison and Bob Conrad knew their sustainability mission would appeal to women golfers. But they needed to back it up with stylish, performance-based offerings that they’d feel comfortable rocking on and off the course. In 2021, Radmor debuted its first “Women’s Capsule” featuring polos, long sleeve jerseys, sweatshirts and shorts, all made from proprietary thirty-singles micro-pique knit created with a blend of Peruvian Pima Cotton and Elastane yarns. The tailored-fit “Michele” polo emerged as one of the most popular items in the capsule last fall, and Radmor’s 2022 spring and summer line includes five colors: cloudy blue, pale pink, blue graphite, white and mynx – as well as two new micro-striped versions. The extra-long staple cotton in the Michele (and other Radmor clothing) is the smoothest in the world. It’s also biodegradable and can even be recycled at either of Radmor’s Seattle area stores. Polyester, by comparison, can take hundreds of years to decompose and sheds plastic microfibers that make their way into the world’s water system. Morrison and Conrad, who met and played golf together at the University of Washington, will expand and enhance the Women’s Capsule this year including new colors and patterns for the Michele, the Olivia (tailored jerseys), and the Ella (performance shorts). The Michele retails for $98, and Radmor offers free shipping on orders over $135. For more information, visit www.radmorgolf.com. 10

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Youth Belts From Nexbelt “The Belt With No Holes” Kids often have to wear adultsized belts with adult size prices. Well, not anymore! Nexbelt, “The Belt With No Holes” has changed all that. The Vegan-Style straps of these Youth Belts are narrower and sized more proportionally for kids, and they’re priced for a growing body. Nexbelt is known for its innovative technology and providing golfers with the maximum comfort and minimal adjusting. Their unique ratcheting system called PreciseFit allows the wearer to adjust the belt in ¼ inch increments, providing the best fit, feel, and fashion available. The buckle flips down to reveal a hidden Emoji ball marker that kids will love. Choose two of four available Emoji markers with each belt you order. Belts are cut-to-fit and will accommodate up to a 35” waist. Available in Black, White or Grey. $33.99 Free Shipping Available at www.Nexbelt.com

Whiskers Whiskers has launched men’s and women’s premium golf-specific shoelaces in nearly 20 color pops and unique patterns, expanding beyond its immensely popular bespoke laces for sneakers, casual and dress shoes, and boots. The Made-in-the-USA golf laces coordinate in style and color with famous golf footwear and apparel brands as well as palettes of college and professional sports teams. Made of ultra-durable poly-nylon tech weave with high-grade aglets, they are available in classic and athletic profiles, flat and oval shapes, and 30- to 45-inch lengths. Best sellers include navy and light blue, orange and white, berry and black, green and blue, and purple and pink. A pair is $15 and a set of five is $60. The brand is uber-popular as evidenced by rave reviews from major fashion and lifestyle media, as well as customer testimonials. Widely recognized as a “here-tostay trend,” Whiskers laces are becoming collectors’ items and are available on scores of websites, select specialty shops and at www.whiskerslaces.com. Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

golf bachelor

Neal Lerner

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Where were you born? Did you grow up there? Born and raised in Rockville, MD Is “acting your age” overrated? I’m a Disney fan… “That’s the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up. Growing old is mandatory but growing up is optional.” What do you do for a living? Senior Operations and Production Manager for Kenny Flowers What would you like to do for a living? Besides more operations and production for Kenny Flowers? Focus on bringing happiness to those I come into contact with and keeping our oceans clean. Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Pretend I’m retired by relaxing on a beach, surfing, and spending time with my friends and family. What golf apparel do you like to wear? Kenny Flowers. Next question. Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My parents through and through. Steak, chicken, or seafood? Steak if I’m feeling fancy. Chicken wings for a good BBQ. Maryland crabs any damn day of the week! Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. Love Shack is my karaoke song

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? Question: is there fire wood on the island? Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? Dwight Schrute What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Rules sticklers… have some fun out there! We’re not pros and do not need to be hitting mud-balls Name the three most important things to you in this world. Family, humor, and happiness. The Office is next on the list What do you fear the most? In golf… Shanking my approach after a perfect drive, 3-putts, and cart path only days What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Tiger, Mr. Palmer, Obama What are some of your great accomplishments? Helping launch our Kenny Flowers Country Club line. Other than that, I have a lot of participation ribbons from childhood swim meets. Last book you read? See You In Orbit? Our Dream Of Spaceflight by Alan Ladwig. A must read if you ever want to be a tourist in space! Favorite charity to support? Surfrider Foundation 13

Story and Photos by Greg & Beverly Wise

growing the game

Junior Golf Tour Changes Name In a move toward the future, the Highlander Junior Golf Tour will be changing their identity for the 2022 Junior Golf Season. Following a successful two-year period and looking forward to another season of exceptional growth in junior golf and tournament play. Keith McColl, Co-Founder of the Highlander Junior Golf Tour said, “Following some internal changes to how we wish to operate in 2022 we are rebranding as “The Claret Jug Junior Tour. This fresh new branding now recognizes some of the things we have become known for. My wife Fiona and I have both come to the USA in 2018 from St Andrews, Scotland, the birthplace of our game and we are pleased to be recognizing this background and history of golf by including a tartan clad bagpiper AND the silhouette of The Claret Jug, The oldest trophy in golf.” The Claret Jug Championship: 3 age groups of junior players 12 and under, 13/15 and 16/18 who all qualified by being Annual Member players and all playing in 8 or more of our events throughout the calendar season 2021. Each age group lowest scorer after 36 holes of stroke play golf will receive a unique Claret Jug Trophy. In addition one overall lowest scorer would be named as The Champion Golfer of the Year 2021.

Winning players and scores: 16/18 – Elle Folland (The Villages) 77-76-153 13/15 – Bella Dovhey (Orlando) 65-68-133 12 and Under – Riley Sillaway (Longwood) 71-64-135

Highlander Junior Tour 2021 Season Highlights: Completed 40 tournament days of golf made up of 32 single day events and 4 two-day Major Events. Played at 17 great Florida Venues and welcomed over 1000 player entries in total. Presented 143 medals in total to 53 junior players aged from 8 to 18 who each enjoyed the success of being a lowest scoring player flight winner. Our novice golfer Wee Highlanders program hosted 10 events through the season for kids aged 5-8.

The Claret Jug Mission Statement: To provide the friendliest welcome and environment to ALL young golfers seeking regular opportunities to develop and compete, at family-affordable entry rates, and at great venues throughout Florida.

Events and venues coming up soon: The Monarch, Leesburg – Saturday January 29th 2022 Eagle Ridge GC, Summerfield – Saturday February 12th 2022 Dubsdread GC, Orlando – Saturday March 5th 2022 Eagle Ridge GC, Summerfield – Saturday March 12th 2022 **All of the above are open now for registration.

Sean Buchta – Bag Piper at the Championship event Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Bella Dovhey winner of the 13/15 age group and crowned “Champion Golfer of the Year”

Year end winner of the 12 & Under – Riley Sillaway

Ryker Huther was a strong competitor all year long on the junior tour.

Elle Folland winner of the 16/18 age group

Aiden Skrocki blasting out a green side bunker like a real master. Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

stay & play

Welcome to the First Coast Few destinations compare to Florida’s First Coast when it comes to golf getaways. Situated along 75 miles of the state’s Northeast Atlantic Coast, Florida’s First Coast of Golf has 53 publicly accessible courses in the region. First Coast is home to The PLAYERS Championship, The World Golf Hall of Fame, Topgolf, and the PGA TOUR Superstore, plus Anheuser Busch and over 15 artisan-owned breweries and

distilleries. In Amelia Island, Jacksonville and the Beaches, St. Augustine and the Ponte Vedra Beaches, Clay County, and Palm Coast and the Flagler Beaches you will experience tranquil beaches & year-round warm weather, fresh seafood, luxury shopping, and, of course, world-class play. The northernmost part of Northeast Florida is the secret island paradise of Amelia Island. Explore the island’s Oak Marsh Hole #9 and #18

enchanted rivers, marshes, and greenways, and embrace the wonders of nature. Experience true luxury at the Omni Amelia Island Resort with oceanfront guest rooms, dining options from casual poolside fare to all-day brunch and specialty seasonal Steak-Out dinners, tennis courts, and a full-service nature-inspired spa. Find an activity for every outdoor enthusiast with guided kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, Segway tours, fishing, mini-golf, and trails for biking and jogging. The resort course, Oak Marsh, is a classic Pete Dye design built-in 1972. Known for its tight fairways and small greens the course meanders along serpentine salt marsh creeks and winds through a hammock of signature mossdraped heritage oaks for which Amelia Island is famous. The 6,500-yard, par-72 course has 14 holes with water hazards and numerous bulk-headed greens. Additionally, explore Little Sandy, a new 10-hole short course on property opening in Spring 2022. On Florida’s First Coast, sinking a hole-in-one on challenging greens or sinking your toes in the sand after your round, Northeast Florida is your next unforgettable golf getaway. www.florida-golf.org Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Oak Marsh Hole #16

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

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

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

P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

transitions.com

special events

New Developmental Women’s Professional Golf Tour Creates Playing Opportunities for those with LPGA Aspirations It was with the simple mission of shining a light on women’s developmental golf and creating playing opportunities for those players that Mark Berman started the PXG Women’s Match Play Championship, an event that debuted last October at World Golf Village. He had no idea it would lead to buying an entire tour. Further inspired by the players and their stories at the PXGWMPC, Berman recently launched the Eastern Women’s Pro Golf Tour. There are currently only three developmental women’s tours in the United States and Berman purchased the Florida-based NWGA, a 16-year-old women’s tour, and quickly rebranded it the ECWPGT and is rebuilding it from the ground up. The EWPGT is designed to create a more economically viable pathway for women particularly in the Eastern third of the country where there currently exist no professional events at this level other than a handful of State Opens. The EWPGT kicks off with its Winter Series at the Black Bear Golf Course in Eustis on January 17, and will be played mostly in Central Florida. The

Official Money tour will begin in May and include stops in New England, the mid-Atlantic, the Carolinas, Atlanta and back to Northeast Florida. Said Berman, “We’re creating the events necessary in areas where the players are currently underserved, helping them to cut down on front end costs.” He added, “We are committed to running a tournament experience that demonstrates how valued and meaningful these players are as women and as athletes, while getting them ready for the next level.” Travel costs eat up the budgets for developmental players who also pay their own entry fees. Berman balks at calling them “mini-tours,” citing the only thing mini about them are the purses. Most professional players below the LPGA level are self-funded and do not have big sponsor contracts

like men at the same level receive. While men and women have the same expenses, there are dozens of tours for men to play and with significantly larger purses. Berman explains that men can function like national companies being on the road for 12-14 weeks at a time, while pro women golfers are more like a regional business. The ECWPGT creates a more regionalized approach that narrows the gap between the cost of playing and the earnings potential, a structure today which forces players to go on the road for weeks at a time with little chance of earning their money back. For example, Jessica Porvasnik, the 2021 money winner on Texas-based tour WAPT, earned $23,000 during its official money season and an additional $25,000 or so by winning the PXGWMPC, traveling to State Opens and playing on the NWGA, yet she made just over $50,000 to barely break even in what was a very successful year. Porvasnik was one of many players with whom Berman spoke before buying the NWGA to make sure he was correctly seeing the financial challenges of a women playing professional golf on the eastern third of the United States. Porvasnik is now

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

on the ECWPGT Advisory Board which Berman will use to help guide the tour. Jess McCallister, owner of golf industry marketing company, Digital Collective, joined the ECWPGT Advisory Board because she, too sees the challenges these women face and believes that the Tour’s vision can help shape that future. “This tour will draw a lot of players off the sidelines who are simply not playing and waiting for Q School, where they end up unprepared. There are so many good players who simply need the time and the opportunity to develop, and it’s important to expand that pathway.” “The industry spent a lot of energy 12 or so years ago to attract juniors to the game to build the business pipeline, and here they come” Berman muses. His daughter, Hannah, a high school graduate of 2016, played D1 college golf, played in the US Women’s Amateur and the British Amateur is one of those players. It was her desire to play professionally that led Berman to this point. “While planning her professional schedule we realized the closest events were 12 hours away. It didn’t happen overnight, but that frustration led us to buying this tour, not for her but because of her.” The ECWPGT also established the Access Golf Fund to help build tournament purses, and to provide micro-scholarships to assist players with entry fees and travel costs, the two biggest prohibitors to their success. The ECWPGT is open primarily to the developmental professional players those ranked below the Top 14 on the LPGA’s Symetra Tour. The tour will accept amateur players ages 16 and over on a waitlist basis as space permits. Registration for the Winter Series is currently open on the tour’s website www.ECWPGT.com and can be followed at @ecwpgt. Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

2022 Winter Series

January17-19 January 26-28 February 7-9 February 14-17 Feb 28-March 2 March 7-9 March 14-16 March 28-20

Black Bear Golf Club Rio Pinar Country Club Redtail Golf Club Eagle Dunes CC Lake Jovita CC Course TBD Course TBD Winter Series Finale, Mission Inn, Symetra Prep event

Official Tour Kick Off - April 25 Northeast Florida, plus events in New England, Mid-Atlantic, Coastal Carolinas, Atlanta and the PXG Women’s Match Play Championship at World Golf Village

A Visit to Paradise

florida golf central

Story and Photos by Greg & Beverly Wise

Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades, known as Florida’s Paradise Coast Tucked away in Southwest Florida, Florida’s Paradise Coast is where you find the sparkling clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico merging with the soft sugar-white sand. Add in… wild islands, artful treasure and culinary delights in a magical downtown, as well as countless adventures just waiting for you to discover, and you have found Paradise. Over 90 Golf Courses in the Greater Naples area One third of those golf courses are open to the public or guests at area resorts. Although the balance

of the golf courses are private clubs, some courses welcome non-members during the slower months of May through December, while the seasonal residents return home up north. We chose the Lely Resort for our weekend adventure. The Lely Resort Golf & Country Club has two popular public courses – the Mustang, a design that gives balanced playability with stunning natural beauty is a Lee Trevino designed golf course; and the Flamingo

Island course, considered one of the nation’s premier public courses. Flamingo Island is best known for Hole 5, a 200-yard par 3 that is surrounded by water. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, pack some extra golf balls to really take the challenge of this course. Loving the Merry Mex – Lee Trevino we chose to play the Mustang. Playing this course was a delight. You can certainly feel that Mr. Trevino’s flair and charm came to the limelight on this course. Mostly a flat coastal

Grand entrance to Lely Resort – Freedom of Horses – Sculpted by Veryl Goodnight-Brooks

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Chop’s City Grill – Downtown Naples

Sam Sneads Oak Bar and Grill

What an adventure in dining

Lunch at Sam Sneads

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

style course, Mustang has blind shots that you truly had to pay attention to. Understand… where you feel you want to hit the ball is not the optimal place to be. This course is 7,230 yards, and has 6 sets of tees to fit your game. It has a slope rating of 134 and it rated from the back tees at 75.1. So bring your “A Game” and ride this wild Mustang. After your round at Lely Resort, plan for lunch at the clubhouse at Sam Snead’s Oak Grill and Tavern. Besides all the memorabilia that your mind will be entrenched in… the food is fantastic. I asked the General Manager what was the best item on the menu… he gave a great response… there isn’t anything on this menu that I wouldn’t recommend… rubbing his belly as he answered. I got it. We were safe with anything we ordered. The next day was filled with a different type of adventure that we are very fond of. A visit to the Naples Botanical Garden in the morning, then on to the Marco Island Center for the Arts. We found that anything you have a passion for

was in this area, including exotic cars. That evening’s dinner came with high recommendations. Chop’s City Grill on Fifth Street South. Wow… what else can you say? The ambiance was incredible. Everything on the menu was fresh ”for that day.” The staff and services were impeccable… and the experience was right on par with “Paradise.” About Florida’s Paradise Coast If you are looking for a romantic escape, a buddies golf vacation or family getaway, Florida’s Paradise Coast - has an array of vacation options year-round. 30 miles of soft white sand beaches, a thriving arts and culture scene, distinctive dining, family attractions and the best of outdoor adventure, Florida’s Paradise Coast is the destination with it all. For more information about Florida’s Paradise Coast, call 800-688-3600 or visit www.ParadiseCoast.com.

competitive spirits Glen Moray is one of Scotland’s best loved single malt whiskies. It has been crafted since 1897 in the ancient town of Elgin, the capital of the Speyside whisky region, on what was once the Elgin West Brewery site on the banks of the River Lossie. Pure waters from the river, locally malted barley, distillation in traditional copper stills and maturation in American ex-bourbon casks combine to give the whisky its smooth, well-balanced, classic Speyside character.

Glen Moray has always been

a place where curiosity about flavor and cask maturation has been encouraged. Records dating back to the early days show new make spirit maturing in a wide variety of different casks – a highly unusual practice at this time. A passion for

GLEN MORAY ROB ROY 2oz Glen Moray 12 Year 1oz Sweet Vermouth 2 dash Aromatic Bitters

experimentation and a deep knowledge of wood have been passed down through generations of Glen Moray distillers. The result is today’s exceptional and extensive range of whiskies, offering a flavor and style to suit all tastes. Inclusive and inviting, Glen Moray is enjoyed on its own and in cocktails, by aficionados and

Combine all ingredients in a chilled mixing glass Add Ice and stir until well chilled Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with brandied cherries

whisky early adopters alike. 22

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

improving performance

Make More Putts With LEAN LOCK’s Groundbreaking New Design photo by Ginny Dixon

ike many golfers, former PGA Tour Pro and Top 30 money winner, Brian Tennyson, spent years frustrated with his inconsistent putting while trying every new putting method that came along. Exasperated and unable to find the solution he needed, he set out to learn why and immersed himself into the physics and mechanics of what the putter head must do during the stroke to make a putt roll true. That led him to invent a groundbreaking new putter and putting method. The patent pending LEAN LOCK putter combined with the LEAN LOCK putting method is uniquely designed to eliminate the problem of the wrists breaking down in the stroke. It effortlessly creates a straight path, reduces face rotation, and allows you to use the natural touch in your dominant hand to roll putts without fear. Tennyson knew from playing alongside some of the Tour’s best putters, like Jack Nicklaus, Ben

Crenshaw and Brad Faxon, they all had different methods but had one thing in common – their putter struck the ball in a way that got the ball rolling immediately, end-over-end, on the intended start line. Through research and experimentation, he came to a clear understanding: in order to strike a pure putt, at the moment of impact, the putter must be traveling at an ascending angle as close to straight along the intended start line as possible with a club face that is square to that line. Tennyson calls those three critical factors the “APA” which stands for: 1. The direction the club face is aimed at impact 2. The path of the club head as it approaches the ball 3. The attack angle at which the putter approaches and strikes the ball Green reading, aiming the putter face and judging the correct speed are important, but these have nothing to do with striking putts pure.

“There is a big difference between sinking putts and striking pure putts, said Tennyson, “If you don’t read the speed and the break correctly, you are unlikely to sink a putt even if your aim and stroke are perfect. I invented the LEAN LOCK method and putter to help people strike more pure putts.” Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

The LEAN LOCK putter and method has four distinct features: excessive forward shaft lean, the rotated position of the club grip on the shaft, the positioning of the shaft against the target side (outside) of your leading arm, and the placement of the hands and wrists on the grip in a way that effectively “locks” the wrists so that they cannot break down at impact. In his concise, and detailed book, LEAN LOCK: The Groundbreaking New Method for Making More Putts, Tennyson explains and demonstrates his method for making more putts. The book, included FREE with the purchase of every LEAN LOCK putter,

provides information that will help anyone putt better with any method as well as a step-by-step easy to follow tutorial on how to quickly learn the LEAN LOCK method and improve all aspects of your putting stroke “Putting is the part of the game requiring the least amount of physical strength, flexibility, or athleticism,” concluded Tennyson. “Any golfer, and I mean ANY golfer, has the physical

ability to be a good, if not an excellent putter.” LEAN LOCK putters are in stock and ready to ship. To learn more or to purchase a LEAN LOCK putter, or the LEAN LOCK book, visit www.leanlockputting.com or contact Brian Tennyson at btennyson762@ gmail.com, 812-459-1083.

Advantages of the LEAN LOCK method • Creates multiple “locks” so that the wrists can’t break down at impact • Locks the leading arm to the putter with minimal pressure and no tension in that leading side of the body • Patent-pending putter features minimize “operator” error • Encourages straight-back, straight-forward putting path • Controls clubface with no abrupt changes in loft or face angle at impact • Minimizes face rotation during the stroke • Focuses energy to be along the intended start line through the entire forward putting stroke photo by Ginny Dixon

• Engages your innate handeye coordination of the dominant hand.

by Lydia Fichtman

Photos by Greg (Jersey) Corbo

Lake Ashton Members Support Breast Cancer Research Recently, the Lake Ashton Golf Community held its annual Pink Ribbon Golf Tournament. The event raised $34,692.06 for the Watson Clinic Foundation with the funds earmarked for breast cancer research and education. The one-day tournament was a best ball “scramble” mixed with lots of laughter and fun activities followed by a luncheon. The astonishing number of hole sponsors and raffle donors came from around the entire state of Florida. Silent auction items such as prestigious golf courses, exquisite art work, autographed sports memorabilia,

tickets to various sports and activity venues and valuable weekend getaways dramatically helped to increase this year’s sizable donation to surpass last year’s donation by over $10,000. In the last several years, Lake Ashton has donated more than $90,000 to the Foundation. All Lake Ashton residents support many worthy charitable causes in addition to the Pink Ribbon Tournament. The community looks forward to another successful Pink Ribbon Tournament in 2022 with hopes of meeting or exceeding this year’s donation.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

cart girl

Where did you grow up? Weeki Wachee, FL Which group of people did you associate most with in high school? Most of my friends were girls on the sports teams I competed in.

Christy Walton

What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch? I love to play volleyball or do water sports! I’m not a fan of watching sports on tv I’d rather play them or watch in person. Do you enjoy playing golf? Are there any golfers in your family? I didn’t grow up golfing, but since I work at a golf course I’m trying to take advantage of the opportunity and learn. What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? What is your least favorite part? My favorite part about being a cart girl is getting to know everyone and seeing regulars! While my least favorite part is not being free during the holidays. If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing? I would probably be working as a medical assistant until I graduate with my degree at UCF. What type of music do you prefer? I listen to everything! I know everyone says that but my playlist ranges from beach boys, skillet, edc, country, & so much more. What hobbies do you enjoy? I love free diving & scuba diving! Anything outside or anything I can compete in. My whole world is my dog though I love to take him on adventures. Favorite comedian? Myself Favorite charity to support? Operation Christmas child

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

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By Dennis Dumler

growing the game

Annika Wows Young Girls at TopGolf

Very few things are as heartwarming as seeing a child’s eyes light up in wonder and amazement at a special gift! Such a gift was given to 30 Orlando, Florida young ladies in early December when they participated in a “Share my Passion” event at Topgolf Orlando featuring Hall of Fame Golfer Annika Sorenstam and presented by the Annika Foundation. Each of the young girls, aged 6-14, was chosen for this special day based upon a written essay detailing why they love golf and why others should play the game. “The reason for my involvement is based upon my own personal passion for the game that goes way back to my own childhood. I have the chance, through the foundation, to offer something special to young girls like these with close up interaction and instruction” Annika said. The 8-time LPGA Player of the Year was excited about the chance to talk with these young ladies in a great atmosphere such as TopGolf. “The foundation is devoted to making the game accessible and fun and we glad to be here close to our home base. I try to give instruction on the fundamentals of the game as well as talking about a healthy lifestyle and fitness.” The day started with a general clinic from Annika ranging from warmup routines, proper grip and alignment, as well as discussion on nutrition and fitness. Annika was aided in her personal instructions with coaches from the area. A memorable day concluded with lunch and a photo and autograph session with the winner of 30

10 LPGA Major Championships. Scott Spragg is the is the Executive Director of First Tee, Central Florida and his group brought in some young ladies from the Lake Mary, FL. Boys and Girls Club for the day. “These are young ladies who otherwise would never be exposed to the game, get to see and hear from one of the greatest golfers ever. First Tee Central Florida has been a partner with the Annika Foundation since it’s very beginning and this is yet

another exciting day.” Exciting to say the least! Annika was superb in her instruction and one on one conversation with the young ladies. She sees woman›s golf as «very strong right now and growing. The future is very bright!” As bright as the smiles in their eyes on this very special day! For more information go to: annikafoundation.org and firstteecfl.org. Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

feature

Get Away with the Girls at a Gem of the Midwest For a real-life account of why French Lick Resort was been named to Golf Digest’s “33 Best Destinations for Women’s Golf Trips,” just let blogger Laura Holmes tell you a little bit about it in her own words. “Reflecting on our fantastic trip, I struggled to find a single complaint …

perhaps four women sharing a bathroom? Not really, the room at West Baden was spacious, and the bathroom had two showers and a double sink! Camaraderie and laughs were also at historic levels. We got some relaxation on, got our golf on, got our heels on, and got our drink on, with bourbon cocktails under the striking atrium.”

Because guys shouldn’t be the only ones having the fun of a destination golf trip, French Lick Resort offers plenty to love for a girls-only getaway on the links. It starts, naturally, with 45 holes of golf at the resort’s Pete Dye, Donald Ross and Valley Links courses. The accommodations are also fit for a queen (or a big group of them) at the historic and elegant French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel, which have rich histories dating to the 1800s. In addition, the resort offers signature wine and culinary events on select weekends, plus resort amenities including fine dining, gaming at French Lick Casino, spa, horse stables, and historical tours. Not to mention a little retail therapy in the form of unique shops and boutiques in the hotels. There’s plenty to explore beyond the resort, too, including French Lick Winery nearby, plus eight other wineries within a 2-hour drive. Relaxation is the name of the game at this small-town getaway; the sort of place where life just seems to slow down. “Sticking to the Resort’s historic healing roots, we began our experience in the spa by melting into the strong hands of the massage therapists. We’d need to be nimble in preparation for chasGolf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

ing little white balls around the undulating fairways. Certainly, a short meditation or series of yoga breaths won’t hurt before you tee off on 500-yard par 5.” Not to worry, though: Having a selection of tees for women does make the championship Dye and Ross courses quite player-friendly. Even so, don’t lament a four-putt (it’s a regular occurrence here). Focus instead on a post-round cocktail or a meal at Hagen’s Club House Restaurant. Or, visit the resort’s signature restaurant like Laura and her crew did after their rounds were wrapped up. “We traded golf shoes for heels and took advantage of the resort culinary scene with a high-end meal at 1875: The Steakhouse. To begin the meal, we were treated to the signature tomato juice taster. We sipped this tradition and pored over the wine menu, selecting a bottle of Italian Brunello to go with our meaty delights. The aged beef was tender and tasty – we shared bites of ribeye,

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

filet, and some seared salmon with our roasted potato and Brussels sprout sides. In the evenings, the heels came off in favor of slip-ons for a stroll through the West Baden gardens followed by conversations on the porch, back in our favorite

rocking chairs. We rocked slowly and let the evenings fade. Water gurgled in the fountain, the manicured hedges surrounded us, and the blooming trees pushed the scent of spring through the night air. I could sense our story turning into a legend, a trip etched into memory and one we would not forget.” A ladies golf getaway at French Lick also means you can call on a valuable new resource at the resort. Lori Atsedes, a former LPGA professional who also starred on Golf Channel’s “The Big Break” series, is the newest head golf professional at The Donald Ross Course and can personally assist in bringing any vision of a ladies’ golf trip to life. Private individual lessons. A ladies clinic. A tournament or scramble. Whatever your group has in mind, Lori’s willing to assist, even if it’s just talking a little golf. Give her a call (855) 893-1607, ask for Lori at the Ross Course, and start planning that getaway you’ve had your heart set on. Golf, gaming, relaxation at every turn, and a touch of elegance to top it all off. When girls just wanna have fun on a golf excursion of their 33

women in golf

By John Glozek, Jr.

Designing Golf Trips for Women

Women on Fairways, LLC is a golf and lifestyle travel company catering to women golfers… and I’ll start by saying this — ladies if you have any upcoming travel plans or want to go on a ladies golf trip check out www.womenonfairways.com. Let’s meet the ladies behind Women on Fairways… Ashlee Ciora and Noreen Selberg have known each other since 2010. They worked together, entertained clients, and traveled the world for business promoting and marketing leisure travel to Greater Palm Springs, California. Over the years, they built 34

a strong friendship and as their careers moved into different executive roles, companies, and locations they always stayed in touch. Women on Fairways, LLC was born out of a year that faced many challenges as the world had to navigate a new reality in 2020. Their combined 60 years of working in the tourism and hospitality industry had changed overnight. Ashlee was living in Los Angeles and moved back to Minnesota to be with family, and Noreen stayed in La Quinta to spend time with her family. Thankfully, the golf gods reopened

the courses in Minnesota. Ashlee played a lot of golf and joined the LPGA Amateurs MN Metro Chapter. The two reconnected and joined forces as they realized there was a gap in the market for women-owned golf companies focusing on women’s golf travel. Their passion for travel and years of experience working in golf destinations started to develop an idea and the vision of Women on Fairways, LLC was introduced. Women on Fairways creates tailormade itineraries designed around the experiences not only on the course but off the course for girlfriend’s getaways, celebration trips, and mother/daughter, family, and couples golf trips. This past year has been an amazing year for golf, with millions of rounds, new players, and more women appreciating this newfound love for the game. In the United States alone, over 6 million females took to the golf courses in 2020, an increase of 450,000 junior girls and women playing golf, according to the National Golf Foundation. Women on Fairways is excited to be part of this trending growth to support women’s golf and be at the forefront of designing trips catering to women golfers. Their motto is simple…“you don’t have to be a bucket list or scratch golfer to book with us. We celebrate the days we play golf with our friends…and that’s a great day!” We asked Ashlee about the thought process of picking destinations with women in mind. “The destination is key in planning a women’s golf trip. The destination has to be easily accessible, safe, offer an array of hotel products from golf resorts to luxury hotels, and a variety of activities and things to do.” Women on Fairways select their destinations because they have experienced them first-hand. Ashlee and Noreen have lived, worked and played primarily on the west coast in Scottsdale, Greater Palm Springs, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Las Vegas, and other west coast cities. But they also have discovered hidden gems in the Midwest and Southern states offering some unique women’s golf packages. They love planning golf trips tied around activities that the group enjoys like wine tours, private culinary tours, art tours, a spa day, or any specific experiences the client has requested. Noreen and Ashlee Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

are wine lovers…especially California Chardonnay so the 19th hole is an important part of the itinerary. Golfing Magazine found out that their favorite is Rombauer Chardonnay. What sets them apart from other golf companies is their years of experience in destination marketing, golf, luxury hotel sales, event planning, and domestic and international travel. Noreen’s background in luxury hotel and golf resort sales and Ashlee’s career in destination and golf marketing makes for a talented duo that holds the designation as a top luxury travel company for experiential golf travel for women. They understand the importance of customer service, attention to detail, hotel product, and women amenities expected at a golf course. They have a long list of destinations, hotels and golf courses that provide their clients access to VIP services and additional amenities only bookable through Women on Fairways.

Ashlee and Noreen would love to connect with you! Follow “Women on Fairways” on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @womenonfairways or visit their website at www.womenonfairways.com. For specific requests or questions email: aciora@womenonfairways.com Ashlee Ciora

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Noreen Selberg

what's new

Phigolf’s small yet powerful mobile simulator costs a fraction of the cost of most home simulators without sacrificing the graphics, options, and the realistic experience.

By Holly Geoghegan

PHIGOLF – HOME GOLF SIMULATOR For many golfers, owning a home simulator is a dream item on their golf bucket list. With many costing in the $40,000 range, however, realizing that dream may seem a bit of a stretch. Until now. Thanks to the mobile simulator, Phigolf, even golfers on a budget can experience the fun and enjoyment of golf simulation and the convenience and flexibility of using the mobile device of their choice.

tion enabling the company to reach more than 15 million players across the globe. Through the integration of its three apps, the Phigolf swing stick and 9-Axis motion sensor allows golfers to play more than 80 of the world’s best golf courses along with a variety of fun mini games and tournaments.

Since 2008, PhiNetworks has been pioneering new consumer markets developing products that combine technological innovation with sports. Riding the momentum of early adopters and strong sales, PhiNetworks turned its focus towards the golf industry and the development of the most advanced golf simulation game to make practicing golf more fun. In 2013, the company launched Phigolf, with a unique swing analysis algorithm, and built an interactive and realistic golf game from the ground up.

For the avid golfer, Phigolf’s advanced platform also provides stroke analysis functions. Phigolf analyzes and provides a 3D view for all types of data required for swing coaching - clubhead speed, swing path, tempo, face angle, attack angle and estimated distance.

Phigolf teamed up with two industry leading partners, the World Golf Tour (WGT) and E6 Connect software, to offer the most advanced tech platform and photorealistic online golf simula-

The Phigolf swing stick allows you to recreate swinging, driving, chipping, and putting from different lies on the fairway, rough, bunkers and even the fringe. By using the unique putting

line feature, golfers can learn how to aim and align putts properly and develop more consistency. Phigolf’s small yet powerful mobile simulator costs a fraction of the cost of most home simulators without sacrificing the graphics, options, and the realistic experience. Golf Digest called Phigolf one of “the freshest and most intriguing new products” at the 2019 PGA Merchandise Show. Young Hun Kim, CEO of PhiNetworks, is excited to deliver the latest version of Phigolf’s groundbreaking technology for 2022. “We know golfers will love Phigolf and the experience of playing on the greatest courses on the planet,” said Kim. “For a simulator system, Phigolf is the most compact, portable, photo realistic and affordable product on the market. Simulation is an exciting interactive way to introduce new golfers and sports fans to the game.” Phigolf is in stock and ready to ship today for the retail price of $249.00. For more information or to purchase, visit phigolf.store. Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

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

Story and photos by Greg and Beverly Wise

The “Daly Double” Wins… The 2021 PNC Championship In striking fashion with a new record breaking score over the 36-Hole tournament, John Daly and his son John Daly, Jr. finished the 18th hole at the Ritz Carlton Golf Club with a solid birdie winning this great family event with a total 117 score, 27-under par (60-57). Celebrate Family was the message of the week and that message ran deep with ever shot for these families. It is such an emotional time for all that are playing with comments that they enjoy this tournament more than any other tournament on tour throughout the year, because the family is competing with the players, in a unique 36-hole scramble format. The message was clear to many people that this was going to be an extraordinary year with the announcement that Tiger Woods would be in the field with his son Charlie. Just a little over 10-months after his traumatic crash and leg injury,

John and John Jr with the PNC Championship “Willie Parks” presentation belts he was teeing it up with his son, even though he wasn’t sure he was ready. The Woods’ turned on the pressure on the final day making birdies on 11 of

Tiger watching over Charlie, hitting a 5 iron into the green

the final 12 holes on Sunday, finishing with a score of 57. “One goal we had this year, was keeping a clean score card… no bogey, only par or better and we accomplished that goal,” Tiger said, responding to the press after the event. There was an absolute genuine moment on practice green on Saturday, when Lee Trevino started giving Tiger Woods a chipping lesson. Or just listening to the stories being told by Gary Player about all the adventures from the 86 year old Icon about the game of golf was worth following this twosome. I think the message to everyone attending and watching these great players play this week... of “Celebrate Family” was well represented at the PNC Championship.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Nelly and her dad Petr Korda

Padraig Harrington and son Paddy

A big hug for the victory

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Stewart and Reagan Sink

Finding a stick to improvise… Brady Tomasi was practicing his swing form behind the spectators… waiting for Tiger Woods to come by on the 17th-hole. Talk about great form.

Roger Maltbie watching over the playing groups.

Starting them early to enjoy the event – Celebrate Family.

Jim and Tanner Furyk lining up a putt on the 9th hole.

Waiting for their eagle attempt on the 18th hole. 40

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

By Mike May

golf history

Donald Ross‘ Presence Along the Florida Historic Golf Trail for one-year ownership of the Harton

As we begin the new year, golf fans

Semple Trophy.

are now looking forward to this year’s

U.S. Open golf tournaments for both the men and women.

women. This will be the fourth time

For the men, defending champion

that the U.S. Open will be contested at

Jon Rahm of Spain and the worldwide field of competitors will travel to Brookline, Massachusetts to play their 72-hole event at The Country Club. They will be playing for the right to have their name engraved on the 18inch, 8.5-pound U.S. Open trophy. The event will be June 16-19.

For the women, defending champion

Yuka Saso of the Philippines and the global field of lady golfers will be based in Southern Pines, North Carolina. There, they will play their 72-hole tournament at the Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club. The tournament dates are June 2-5. The women will be playing

This will be the 122nd U.S. Open for

the men and the 77th U.S. Open for the

The Country Club, while Pine Needles Donald Ross

will be hosting the U.S. Women’s Open for the fourth time. What’s newsworthy and noteworthy is that both venues are Donald Ross course designs. The Country Club opened for play in 1921, while Pine Needles has been in existence since 1927.

Since 2022 can unofficially be

celebrated by the United States Golf Association (USGA) as the Year of Donald Ross, this is an appropriate time to recognize the many Donald Ross-designed golf courses in Florida which are part of the Florida Historic Golf Trail. In all, Ross designed 44

Daytona Beach Golf Course Old Clubhouse Putting Green 42

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

golf courses in Florida. Of those 44 golf courses, 10 of them are part of the Florida Historic Golf Trail: Biltmore Golf Course in Coral Gables, Bobby Jones Golf Club in Sarasota, Daytona Beach (South) Golf Club, Dunedin Golf Club, Delray Beach Golf Club, Fort Myers Country Club, Crane Creek Reserve Golf Course in Melbourne, Miami Shores Country Club,

Delray Beach GC Clubhouse

New Smyrna Beach Golf Course, and the Pinecrest Golf Course in Avon Park. It’s worth noting that Ross also designed the Palatka Golf Club, which is a former member of the Florida Historic Golf Trail.

It’s worth noting that while only one

U.S. Open Golf tournament has ever been held in Florida – the 1969 U.S. Women’s Open at the Scenic Hills Country Club in Pensacola won by Donna Caponi – the spirit and virtual presence of Donald Ross is always as strong along the Florida Historic Golf Trail as it will be this coming June at Pine Needles in North Carolina and The Country Club in Massachusetts.

Miami Shores Country Club Hole 2

New Smyrna Golf Club Hole 2 TODAY – from Gary Wintz at NSGC Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

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

Meet Steve McMillen

Executive Director/CEO of the North Florida PGA

Where were you born? In the great state of Kansas. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? I’m already living here — Florida! And I would love to retire in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. How many states have you lived in? Three — Florida, Kentucky and Kansas.

What are the three most important things to you in life? Family, faith and my career.

What do you love most about golf? The people and the beauty of the outdoors and the golf course.

What is your greatest fear in life? Three-putting!

What are your hopes for the Section in 2022 and onwards? I want the golf community to have a greater awareness of what PGA Professionals do. That’s the big picture — I want to enhance the image of our PGA Professionals in their communities.

Who is your career role model? Randy Syring, the Head Professional at Silena Country Club. He has given me the inspiration to be what I am today. And also my dad because he instilled within me work ethic and respect for people. What Section event tends to be your favorite every year? The Section Championship because it is the championship for our Members. For our Members, it’s equivalent to everyone else’s club championship.

Steve McMillen with Mike Tuohy of the NFPGA Southwest Chapter and Head Professional at Esplanade at Azario, Lakewood Ranch

What is something you think everyone should do in their lives at least once? Everybody has to try Kansas City barbeque at least once! And everybody should try golf, of course. What was your profession before you were the executive director of the North Florida PGA? I was the CEO of Golf House Kentucky. How long have you been the NFPGA Executive Director? A little over four years. What is your favorite thing about your job? The people. What has been one of your favorite experiences or moments over the past 4 years as Executive Director? Well there sure has been a lot of them. But being involved in THE PLAYERS Championship definitely sticks out. What is your greatest accomplishment, career and personal? Personally, it is raising good kids. I have some great kids. Professionally, being hand-picked by Tom Watson to run his legacy tournament — The Watson Challenege. 44

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Named ROLEX Women’s PGA Professional Player of the Year, Earns LPGA Tour Berth Taylor Collins, PGA will add two more accolades to cap one of the most historic seasons ever by a female PGA Professional: ROLEX Women’s PGA Professional Player of the Year and LPGA Tour tournament participant with a berth in the Gainbridge LPGA at Boca Rio. The Assistant PGA Professional at Coral Ridge Country Club in Fort Lauderdale has already claimed the South Florida PGA Women’s ROLEX Player of the year and has now secured the award at the national level. “The national Player of the Year award and the Section Championship win are the highlights of my career and they are goals I’ve set for down the road, so to have achieved them this year is wild,” said Collins. “I hope to keep the ball rolling into the upcoming years. It’s great to be surrounded by such great golfers.” The ROLEX Women’s PGA Professional Player of the Year was hon-

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

ored for the first time by the PGA of America following the 2019 season and is based on Player of the Year points a player accumulates in their respective section and national events. Collins will join Joanna Coe, PGA and Ashley Grier, PGA as the only two female professionals to receive this honor. Collins made history in September when she became the first female to win the South Florida PGA Professional Championship in the event’s 42-year history. The 32-yearold former Nova Southeastern University golfer went 68-68-72 (-8) at BallenIsles Country Club, beating the male-dominated field by four strokes. The unprecedented victory earned Collins a spot in the 2022 PGA Professional Championship, a place on the winning South Florida PGA Challenge Cup team and ultimately the South Florida PGA Women’s Player of the Year and the Women’s PGA Professional Player of the Year honors.

Through seven South Florida PGA Section events, Collins earned 522 national points to edge out Ashley Grier, PGA of the Philadelphia Section and Allie Knight, PGA of the Tennessee Section. Collins is a South Florida Junior Tour alum who also won the Division II Individual National title while competing at Nova Southeastern and spent time on the Symetra Tour. However, she has never played in an LPGA Tour event, until now. As a result of her outstanding play this season, the Gainbridge LPGA at Boca Rio has extended an invitation to Collins to tee it up with the best players in the world at Boca Rio Golf Club on January 27-30th. Collins will be honored by the PGA of America with her Player of the Year award during the 2022 PGA Professional Championship at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, Texas in April.

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

Taylor Collins, PGA

improving performance

By Beverly Wise Photos By Greg Wise

The Golf 8.5 PlayBook - Reference guide in everyday language to re-enforce my learning

A True eduKaytion for Your Golf Swing I recently booked a lesson with a LPGA Hall of Fame and PGA Member Kay McMahon at Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida. At first, her “Golf 8.5” approach, seemed like I had opened the door to an Arthur Murray Dance Studio… 1-23-4 – 1-2 and 3-4, but very quickly after experiencing what those simple steps represented, it felt very comfortable,

and we were set to continue. Kay explained her goals in helping me. 1. Make it simple. 2. De-clutter the “6-inch” attic between my ears. 3. Rethink the way golf is taught. 4. Teach me to how to self-correct instead of self-destruct. And 5. Finally to know where the “Zone” is and how to use it to my advantage, to have Fun. We went through a very comprehensive, yet simple book to

Let’s see what you’ve got… and how we are going to make adjustments that fit you 46

refer back to while I was practicing alone so that I could understand what I should be doing. After a quick video of my “before” swing that Kay had to work with, it was off to transform my swing for the future, with no complicated thoughts! Just 1-2-3-4 – 1-2 and 3-4 and watch the ball fly with a smile on my face. The first four steps are preparation or set-up for each shot… called G-CAP. Grip – Club head – Alignment – and Posture which happens automatically. Imagine that! The second four and 1/2 (or 4.5) steps are the swing itself. #1 - The takeaway or her new term - the “turn away” or often referred to as the 9 o’clock position of the backswing. #2 - To the top position in the swing. #2.5 “The Half” is like an elevator using gravity to get to #3 – over the happy face which is the target line… and then #4 is the finish or the double “L’s”. And there is no such thing as weight transfer… it’s don’t forget to check the run in your nylon. Okay… You’ll have to experience that one for yourself to understand, but it works! This was such a positive day for my golf game. My long time golfer husband… kept assuring me… this is a great way to learn and kept reinforcing everything Kay had said as he watched on in great amazement. Then Kay had to set Greg straight about giving any Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Understanding a square, open or closed club face that directly controls the direction

Don’t look back there… but what position would you be in to check for a run in your nylon? Yes… the perfect balanced finish position

“advice”. “There are only 3 things he can say to me – Beverly. ‘No…’ I’m not in the right position and to start again. ‘Yes…’ which means the right position and continue to the next position in making the swing. And… ‘Nice Shot Honey!” After a short pause… I heard him mumble, “Yes … I’ve got it! After watching my new swing to my old swing comparison video… Believe me… my game set-up and swing improved tremendously within the short time frame of this very first lesson. No more “Penguin” steps to my set-up or all that time standing over the ball with those thousand things roaming about in my head. Everything

is truly blending together and easier. I now understand the Golf 8.5 approach and recommend Kay to anyone that is just starting out – Male or Female – to get right with the game… or anyone that truly wants to advance their golf game to the next level. Kay is that good from the beginner to the experienced! Kay is always on the road, teaching this positive simple approach. She is also available for outings and corporate events. This is how we heard about Kay, and I just knew that there was something special about her and her approach. I really did receive an eduKaytion.com.

The point where you see the Smile on my face!

The point where you see the smile on my face!

It’s not about “light pressure”... It’s about proper finger position to control the club better Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

The teacher and the perfection 47

georgia golf trail

Honoring The Best In 2021,

the Georgia Golf & Travel Awards program was conducted throughout the U.S. and Canada. The goal of this annual program is to honor and recognize the ‘best of’ the Georgia Golf Trail. There were 14 categories: Favorite Golf Course, Best Par 3, Best Par 4, Best Par 5, Favorite Restaurant, Best Lodge/Inn/Cottage, Best State Park, Best Attraction in Georgia, Best Georgia Golf Trail Resort, Best Value for Golf Travel in Georgia, Favorite 19th Hole, Best Place To Hold a Meeting, Best Place To Live in a Golf Community, and Favorite City To Visit in Georgia. Five of the category

Jekyll Island Pine Lakes winners were repeat winners, one of which was Savannah which won as the Favorite City To Visit in Georgia for the fourth time in as many years.

Listed below is a brief description of three of the category winners: Favorite Golf Course: The Jekyll Island Golf Club has three 18-hole golf courses and a nine-hole layout. In all, that’s 63 holes of golf in one location. The three 18-hole courses are Indian Mound, Oleander, and Pine Lakes. The nine-hole layout is Great Dunes. On Jekyll Island, Hueys Crawfish Etoufee

Chateau Elan 48

golfers are truly spoiled for choice. Jekyll Island is also a great place to visit in order to relax while enjoying fresh seafood, long beach walks, poolside siestas, and time off the grid. Best Attraction in Georgia: The Fantasy in Lights Christmas display at the Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia is truly something to behold. You have to see it to believe it. The spirit of Christmas is alive and well at the Callaway Resort & Gardens. Favorite City To Visit: Savannah is classy, charming, historical, diverse, and a classic Southern destination. Dining in Savannah is an experience unto itself. It’s worth noting that one of the city’s finest restaurants is Huey’s, which won the Best Restaurant Award, as well. “We are very excited about the continued growth of our 4th Annual Travel Awards,” said Doug Hollandsworth, Founder, Georgia Golf Trail. “We are reaching thousands of people throughout the United States with our marketing and this year we had more than 15,000 people write in and vote for their favorite golf courses and places to visit along the Georgia Golf Trail. They voted on their favorite golf holes, best places to stay, where they like to eat and so much more.” Hollandsworth says the key to the success of the Georgia Golf & Travel Awards is having such a strong marketing partner. “We are very proud to be working Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

The winners of the 14 categories are listed below: Favorite Golf Course: Jekyll Island Golf Courses; Jekyll Island, Georgia – 2nd year in a row Best Par 3: #8 hole @ The Frog Golf Club; Villa Rica, Georgia with the State of Georgia to help promote all the things there are to do here in our great State,” added Hollandsworth. “Congratulations to all the winners. We appreciate all that you do for Georgia.” The 5th Annual Georgia Golf & Travel Awards will begin this June. Check out GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com for details. For complete details on travel packages to any destination on the Georgia Golf Trail, please call 1-833-877-6988 or go online to www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com.

Savannah Ghosts & Cravwstone Tours

Best Par 4: #18 hole @ Sky Valley Golf Club & Resort; Sky Valley, Georgia Best Par 5: #5 hole @ Sapelo Hammock Golf Club; Shellman Bluff, Georgia Favorite Restaurant: Huey’s Restaurant; Savannah, Georgia Best Lodge/Inn/Cottage: Lake Blackshear Resort; Cordele, Georgia Best State Park: Fort Yargo; Winder, Georgia Best Attraction in Georgia: Fantasy in Lights Christmas, Callaway Resort & Gardens; Pine Mountain, Georgia Best Georgia Golf Trail Resort: Stone Mountain Golf Club and the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott at Stone Mountain Park; Atlanta, Georgia Best Value for Golf Travel in Georgia: Georgia State Parks Annual Golf Pass Favorite 19th Hole: Brassies Grill, Brasstown Valley Resort; Young Harris, Georgia – 3rd year in a row Best Place to Hold a Meeting: Chateau Elan Winery and Resort; Braselton, Georga – 2nd year in a row Best Place To Live in Golf Community: Reynolds Lake Oconee; Greensboro, Georgia – 2nd year in a row Favorite City To Visit in Georgia: Savannah, Georgia - 4th year in a row

Jekyll Island Grand Dunes Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

freddy's fairway thoughts

By Fred Seely

The Jacksonville Area Golf Association elected its 2022 officers at its annual meeting at Deerwood. The new officers are (from left) Vincent Celestino, secretary, Marsh Creek Country Club; Billy Walker, treasurer, Cimarrone Golf Club; Jay Johnstone, Sawgrass Country Club, co-VP Tournaments; John Tancredi, Marsh Landing Country Club, VP Administration; and Jeff Adams, TPC Sawgrass, president. Not pictured is Gregg Deiboldt, Sawgrass, co-VP Tournaments.

Northeast Florida’s annual awards are presented by the Jacksonville Area GA and recognize those who have made a difference in our golf community. The 2020 award winners were announced last month and were (from left) Chester Stokes of Marsh Landing, Long-Time Service Award; Shannon Wheeler of Plantation Country Club, Superintendent of the Year; Richard Blackston and Dr. Justine Wheeler of the Moore-Myers Children’s Fund, Community Service Award; Billy Walker of Cimarrone Golf Club, JAGA Director of the Year; Melanie Bevill of Hyde Park Golf Club, Club Executive of the Year; and Mike Broderick of Deerwood Country Club, Professional of the Year.

Former PGA Tour executive Duke Butler III (right) and family ran the JAGA Family Championship at Jax Beach Golf Club last month with 172 players. He’s with John Monahan, father of PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, and Santa Claus. 50

The father-daughter pair of Scott and Kaitlyn Schroeder won the JAGA Family Championship for the second straight year. He’s the golf coach at the University of North Florida; she’s the Florida girls champ and the second-ranked player nationally in the class that will enter college in 2023. Oink! The feral pig problem isn’t limited to the well-publicized challenges in East Texas. While the porkers haven’t attacked Florida courses to a great extent, they’re here and they aren’t going away without a fight. Several courses in the Northeast part of the state report problems with the pigs tearing up the grass at night. If there’s a bright spot here, it’s that they don’t seem to care to root up greens. Getting rid of them is difficult. They’re big, they come out at night, and they’re fast. It’s also against the law to shoot them in most populated areas. Poison isn’t a solution, either, as that might affect other (and more friendly) animals. The Texas farmers have a weapon though it’s a lot of trouble and doesn’t get rid of a whole lot of the critters. It’s a circular fence that’s suspended on poles. The farmer puts corn in the middle, sets up a night score and waits until the herd find the corn. Then the circular fence is dropped remotely, trapping the pigs. It then becomes a shooting gallery. Can’t imagine a golf course doing this. But, who thought that pigs would be a problem? Arab vs. Arab The big publicity has been the PGA Tour vs. the Arabs, but be advised that it’s not the only competition coming from the Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Middle East. The “Arabs” are actually two entities and we tend to merge them into one. That’s a big mistake. Arab nations like to challenge the world but they also like to argue with each other. You know about the Emirates: that’s the Abu Dahbi/Dubai group that’s lured some PGA Tour big names with a big purse and big appearance payouts, and who own what once was the European Tour and now is the DP World Tour. (Note: “DP” stands for Dubai Ports.”) Also, there are the Saudis: that’s the Riyadh bunch that bought the Asian Tour with the goal of first beating the European Tour and then going after the PGA Tour. If the PGA Tour plays it smart (and the best bet is that they will), they’ll lay back and let the Arab nations go at it. A good prediction is that it will end up like most Arab vs. Arab conflicts: no one wins. Big success... It is difficult to get a new tournament going. Schedules are crowded, courses are hard to get and there’s no guarantee anyone will enter. Here’s one that made it. It’s called the First Coast Amateur and it’s played each January. The date is crucial: it’s the Martin Luther King weekend, when universities are on holiday and teams are looking for a place to go. It was started by the local golf association and a guy named Joel Lamp, who ran the sports office in Jacksonville’s City Hall. He was looking for a sports event that would bring people to the area and got $2,500 seed money. That was five years ago and a last-minute surge by Northern colleges got the entry up to 80 players.

Fast forward: last year was an easy sellout and this year’s is almost overwhelming. With a three weeks to go (this was written for the December 30 magazine deadline), there was a waiting list of over 100. ...and another Duke Butler’s tournament management career has been a success starting with turning around the Houston Open to handling the PGA Tour’s schedule to coming out of sort-of retirement to put on a off-season gem called the Frys.com Open. He’s now really retired but he can’t stay away from competition. He volunteered to resurrect the Jacksonville Family Championship and it has grown into the area’s biggest tournament. Last month, there were 172 players on a double shotgun. On a public course. Ross Society The Donald Ross Society has had its ups and downs through the years and it’s on an upswing now. President Brad Brecken of Chapel Hill, N.C., has his committees working and they plan a slew of trips for 2022, starting with a Florida swing in mid-January at Belleair CC near Clearwater and Sara Bay CC in Sarasota. These are big years for the society as many of the Rossdesigned clubs are having their 100th anniversary. Ross had a long career and his prime time was the years around 1920. That’s when most of his Florida work was done, for instance. The Society is open to anyone with an interest in preserving Ross’s legacy. Check out rossssociety.org. Comments? Try fs4569@comcast.net.

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

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Photos by Greg (Jersey) Corbo

SunnilandSUPERSpotlight: Brandon Richey being the exposure to the world and all its sin. Most folks in life now have some presence in the social media world. My presence started almost 9 years ago, in my previous position at Sea Island Golf Club in Saint Simons Island, Ga. I joined Twitter to be able to exchange ideas with and learn from my peer group. There was a huge Superintendent contingency within Twitter, and I was certainly able to pick up some tricks, and share a few in return. I would say through the years, one thing has proven itself consistently true, as superintendents, no matter what part of the world we are in, we all battle the same fights. Weather, labor challenges, resource shortages, increase

I have had the pleasure of being

rounds of play are all battles within our War. The commonality of these battles,

employed at one of the greatest clubs

proven through time, is the lost art of

in the Country, Lake Nona Golf and

course etiquette. Most of our fights are

Country Club, for more than 7 years. I

against uncontrollables. Etiquette is a

love it. It’s a phenomenal golf course

controllable. All superintendents believe

that practicing proper course etiquette

by an incredible Membership. I have

is an exercise of intent and time. Do

been blessed with the opportunity

you have the few extra seconds to help

to build one of the best Teams in the

out? From raking behind yourselves

business. From my administrative

when exiting bunkers, to properly

assistant, to my Equipment Manager,

filling your divots, to fixing your

to my course managers, each and every

ballmarks on the greens, to following

day we set out to produce the best golf

the cart rules for the day, these are

course we can for our Membership. As

all examples of course etiquette that

a Course Manager, I truly believe that

Superintendents are begging and

we can not achieve greatness alone. We

pleading to be upheld on their courses

need help to be successful. Same as in

throughout the country. And now, more

life, the happiest and healthiest have

than ever, we need Golfers the most.

an incredible support system around

With the extreme weather patterns,

them. So, for me, to have the best

lack of labor availability, and supply

conditioned and purest golf course, we

shortages, Golf Course Maintenance

need that incredible support system of

crews have the cards stacked against

our Membership to help us create and

them. The few extra seconds that you

maintain it. Enduring the consistent

can take to execute the proper care

pursuit of perfection, calls for the

of your course would mean the world

need of therapy. Some of the therapy

to the staff that tends to it. If you are

I seek, comes from my Peer group. In

unsure how you can help, ask. Seek the

this fast pace life, I know that I have

response that would help your property

a big gallery of peers on the Internet,

the most. The littlest things could be

specifically on social media. They

the difference maker in your Course

are always a few quick clicks away.

being another Bushwood Country

Social Media is both a gift and a

Club or becoming what your course’s

curse. The gift being the exposure to

Superintendent and their team strive

the world and all its joy. The curse

to create for you, each and every day. Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

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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%

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Rick Kerr Superintendent, Ocala Golf Club

SUPERSTAR Where are you from? I am from Miami Florida. Very lucky to have grown up around some of the best courses in the country. How did you get into the golf business? Getting into the golf business was a way to combine my love of the game and the need to be outdoors each day. What makes your course a “standout/outstanding”? Ocala Golf Club is a Municipal course ,designed by Ellsworth Giles in 1931 , which sees a tremendous number of rounds played per year. How has PN helped you be successful (favorite products, programs, technical assistance etc. )? PN products come with an extra:

Who is your mentor and why?

What advice would you give to

an exceptional amount of support

Brad Seiler, Golf Course

someone starting out in the field?

coupled with the products

Superintendent of Bay Oaks

Don’t take no for an answer

delivering results. For our course,

Country Club in Houston Texas,

when pursuing your goals.

with its high-volume play, it is

is a friend and mentor. His

Trust your instincts. Even some

important to get the results you

unyielding goal of making a golf

decisions that do not work out

expect each and every use. I use

course the best it can be and

are valuable learning tools.

Kapre Exalt, Prudent 40 plus ,

his love for the game of golf are

Nutrol , Krystal Klear and Vibrant

qualities that drew me to him

from Performance Nutrition.

wanting to know what he knew.

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

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

6,000 7,000

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

7,673

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6,079 6,079

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5,907 5,907

6,410 6,410

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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

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1,000 0

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

Week 1 1 Week Control Control

Week Week 22 Kelpene Ca-T Kelpene Ca-T

*Trial performed by Dr. Haibo Liu, Clemson University

Contact your Performance Nutrition representative for more information Central • Volume 22, Issue 9 | WWW.PNFERTILIZERS.COM (732)Golf 888-8000 Performance Nutrition and Kelpene are registered trademarks of LidoChem, Inc. ©2021 LidoChem, Inc.

55 R

Saddlebrook Course Hole #18

Dual, Trusted ‘Landscapes’ Companies Combine Legacy, Modernism

In golf as in business at large, a trusted reputation is everything, and synergistic sister companies, Landscapes Unlimited and Landscapes Golf Management, shine in this area. The folks here at Turf Life have seen them in action firsthand in the Sunshine State and elsewhere, and we’re impressed. Landscapes Unlimited is a 45-years young icon. It leverages expertise, culture, talent and modern-day advancements to develop, build and renovate many of the world’s best and locally revered golf courses, country clubs, resorts, communities and sports fields. Landscapes Golf Management is the go-to operator of golf courses and country clubs. It’s coveted for creativity and proven systems to attract and retain guests and members, and help owners achieve desired results. Take our word for it that 56

leadership and on-site staff exhibit an unequivocal TLC. When people treat others’ money like it’s their very own and don’t just go through the motions, you have a winner. Let’s get to the nitty gritty about these family owned and operated companies: • Landscapes Unlimited is driven by regional experts. They implement leading-edge best practices and technological efficiencies alongside trained expertise and a desire and eye toward utmost quality. Its building thousands of famous golf courses includes major tournament and PGA Tour event hosts and “neighborhood” properties of various shapes, sizes and budgets. Building sports fields for professional teams, colleges and municipalities is also in its wheelhouse. • Landscapes Golf Management’s

50-plus property portfolio in 20 states benefits from conveniently located regional offices. It’s driven by strong client relationships, well-trained and personable staff, meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of operation and proven back-office procedures. It covers business strategy and planning, property maintenance, clubhouse operations, marketing, IT, staffing and training, food and beverage, health and wellness, merchandising, golf instruction and financial management. What we like most is that these companies are well-oiled through foundational operating elements which permeate through the ranks. Its vision is strong: Lead and evolve golf and sport for current and future generations through influential thought leadership, technology innovation and an emphasis on culture and Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Palmer Course Hole #4 strong partnerships like no other. Its mission is motivational: Dynamically transform how golf properties and sports fields are planned, built and managed through contemporary best practices, fiscal discipline, and delivering best-inclass products, fun experiences and healthy business returns.

Its core values anchor a “culturefirst” mantra: Do what is right, take care of each other, find a way, lead and be the best. Pretty solid for the dynamic Landscapes duo that began in the back of a repurposed Keebler delivery truck with a pipe wrench and pipe cutter, performing small irrigation projects at local golf

courses in Nebraska. Better yet, the legacy is still in the making with blend of seasoned and rising stars powering the golf industry to a sustainable place. Check them out for yourself: www.landscapesunlimited.com, www.landscapesgolf.com.

Saddlebrook Course Hole #18 Aerial Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

By Anthony L. Williams, MG, CGCS, CGM

A Turf Pirate’s Journal

Heroes and Legends$ Palmer Maples,Jr The Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates is full of heroes and legends. One of the biggest perks about being a Turf Pirate is that there is always someone to look at and see traits and accomplishments for you to aspire towards. You see the way of the Turf Pirate is to leave things better than you find them and that we are all equally apprentices and masters. I am an apprentice to many who came before me yet I have mastered many things and to those who are following in my wake they are apprentices. We are all simultaneously both student and teacher. Sadly, not everyone strives for excellence and finds their true place in the way of things. Therefore, when we see someone rise above the level of mediocrity and excel we take note. Here are a few notes on a heroic and legendary Turf Pirate. Palmer Maples Jr. is my hero and a legend in the turf industry. He is a past president of GCSAA. He is a man of faith and a great teacher. He is the Maples behind the Maple’s Method for determining the square footage of greens. Anyone who has a method named after them is likely a legend but Palmer is a legend that other legends call a legend. His family trace their golf legacy back to Old Tom Morris. Dr. Glen Burton invited Palmer to be part of the first turf class at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC), he graduated in 1953 and later went on to graduate from the University of Georgia. He was the first golf course superintendent to win ABAC’s coveted J. Lamar Branch Award for Agricultural Leadership. He was so inspirational and encouraging to my career that I became the second golf course superintendent to win the award (years later). He is a USGA Green Section Award winner and has won multiple Distinguished Service Awards including the GCSAA DSA. He is a member of the Georgia GCSA Hall of Fame (Inaugural Class of 2011). His accomplishments are certainly part of his legend but his status as the first gentleman of southern golf turf is undisputed as he grew high quality turf grass and high quality people throughout his career. In 2012, seeing a need for turf students 58

Palmer Maples, Jr and Anthony Williams to attend regional and national shows he organized an effort that involved myself and the long-time ABAC professor DR. Eddie Seagle (another Legend) to create the Maples/Seagle/ Williams endowment for turf students funding attendance at regional and national turf shows. In 2019 at the Golf Industry Show in Orlando, Florida Palmer set another benchmark of excellence while attending the famous Prayer Breakfast on Thursday morning not far removed from open heart surgery Palmer sang an A Cappella version of How Great Thou Art that was stunning. I never worked directly for Palmer but he influenced every part of my career. When I was driving to Dallas to start my current job Palmer called me as I was literally heading west on I-20 and said, “I heard your moving to Dallas. You are going to do

great things, and as an ABAC alumni remember don’t embarrass us”. It was the perfect encouragement and an expectation of excellence but then again it’s what I have come to expect from Palmer. He makes a difference everywhere he goes and to everyone he meets. The list of people who see Palmer as a legend and are in his debt is long and I am but one of many. Who are your heroes and legends Turf Pirates? Did they impact you through character and deeds? Did they take the time to teach you skills and give you opportunity? Today we celebrate the Founding Fathers of Turf and the one’s that carry on the traditions that keep our industry green and growing. To Palmer Maple’s Jr. we raise a toast, “your roots run deep and your deeds are the stuff of legend, thank you Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Sherwood Forest Golf Club Achieves Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Certification Located at the entrance of the Pisgah National Forest, lies Brevard, North Carolina. While Brevard is famous for its waterfalls, hiking and other outdoor adventures, Sherwood Forest Golf Club should not be overlooked. Sherwood Forest Golf Club is one of Audubon International’s most recent ACSP Certified golf courses and it could very well be one of the most unique and inspiring courses in the ACSP program. While golf courses often receive backlash for having poor environmental footprints, Audubon International’s Cooperative Sanctuary Program is changing that stereotypical perception by verifying environmental management on golf courses in six focal areas: environmental planning, water conservation, water quality, wildlife and habitat management, chemical use and safety, and outreach and education. Sherwood Forest

achieved certification in all six areas of ACSP certification and passed their in-person site visit just last month.

Wildlife & Habitat Enhancement, Water Conservation Sherwood Forest is a public 18-hole executive course situated within500 acres of protected green space. As a result of the restrictive covenants and conservation easements in place, there can be no construction or development in a riparian area along the Little River – protecting water quality while making Sherwood Forest a desirable location for an abundance of wildlife. While the walks from tee to green may only be 150 yards you will be sure to come across many species of flora and fauna including black bears, river otters, the infamous white squirrel, and North America’s only species of giant salamander, the Hellbender. Sherwood Forest continues

Photo Credit: Cathy Nell to expand their species diversity by enlarging low maintenance areas, installing nesting boxes, planting pollinator habitat and completing ecological restoration projects on site. But their efforts don’t stop there… the course itself is extremely sustainable and is only utilizing 4 acres of irrigation. This is much less than the average 80 irrigated acres on a typical 18-hole golf course as reported by Gregory T.

Photo Credit: Cathy Nell

Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Photo Credit: Mark English Lyman, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (2012). To continue their water conservation efforts, Sherwood Forest focuses on irrigating only their greens and tees. “The Sherwood Forest Golf Course embodies our community’s commitment to enjoying and protecting the natural environment of this mountain ecosystem. We strive to live in harmony with our natural surroundings by maintaining a sustainable balance between nature and the human presence. Because the course is located at the headwaters of the Little River, protecting water quality is central to the way the course is managed. We irrigate with rainwater, use chemicals sparingly, and dispose of waste safely,” explains Carolyn Graham, Co-Chair Sherwood Forest Golf Committee.

Outreach & Education There is evidence everywhere that Sherwood Forest’s Outreach and Education initiatives are in a class of their own and it all begins at the club’s Robin Hood Center (RHC), which was designed and constructed to host seminars, events and meetings where community members and staff meet regularly to discuss goals, areas of concern and future sustainability projects. In addition to the RHC, Sherwood Forest’s Outreach and Education initiatives include participating in environmental stewardship programs, such as Audubon International’s Monarchs In The Rough and Green Area’s macro-invertebrate study, collaborating with a local Native Plants Committee, and monitoring the property’s nesting boxes. For several years now, the golf committee and community at Sherwood Forest have looked for ways to incentivize the next generation of golfers to become involved in the game and their environmental efforts. One initiative, led by club Superintendent Brian Lautenschlager, is offering free lessons and green fees Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 9

Photo Credit: Cathy Nell to youth under the age of seventeen. If that was not already enough incentive, Sherwood Forest also offers llama caddies. While llamas may not assist in reading putts or tallying your score, this creative option works particularly well carrying clubs, in lieu of using a golf cart. The more one explores the experiences at Sherwood Forest, the sooner you’ll soon realize how special this place truly is. Like the legendary Robin Hood, who robbed from the rich and gave to the poor, Sherwood Forest Golf Club is a perfect example of how golf courses can give back to nature and the community. “Golfers of all ages play here to enjoy the changing landscape in four seasons. Affiliation with Audubon International will help us showcase a golf course that not only offers an enjoyable experience for golfers, but also provides habitat for birds, butterflies and other wildlife,” commented Terril Nell, former Golf Committee Chair. 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

Photo Credit: Cathy Nell 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. 61

CHANGING LIVES THROUGH THE GAME OF GOLF

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

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

HOST AN

EVENT CONDUCT A GOLF

MARATHON PARTICIPATE IN THE

DONATION BOX CAMPAIGN

LEARN MORE AT PATRIOTGOLFDAY.ORG

Golf Central Mag- Vol 22 Issue 9

Articles inside

Audubon International

Landscapes Unlimited

Performance Nutrition Superstar: Rich Kerr

Sunniland Super Spotlight: Brandon Richey

Georiga Golf Trail

eduKaytion

Freddy's Fairway Thoughts

South Florida PGA

North Florida PGA

Golf History

Christy Walton

French Lick Resort

Lake Ashton Pink Ribbon Golf Tournament

PGA Tour

Product Showcase

East Coast Women’s Pro Golf Tour

Amelia Island

Annika at Topgolf