The memories linger long after the last putt drops
Reward yourself with the lifestyle you deserve atPlantation Bay Golf and Country Club Priced from the $400s - $4 million. Call today to schedule a VIP appointment! (844) 325-1658 / ORMONDPlantationBayGolf.comBEACH,FLLocated in the charming seaside town of Ormond Beach, Plantation Bay Golf and Country Club boasts a twenty-year reputation for being among the best private golf course communities in Florida. An unhurried pace, year-round warm weather, and a lower cost of living offers superb value. Beyond championship golf, our residents can enjoy stunning amenities such as two resort-style pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa, tennis and pickleball courts. • 2 NEW NEIGHBORHOODS • 24 HOUR GUARD-GATED SECURITY • 45 HOLES OF CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF • 10 MINUTES TO THE BEACH • BRAND NEW CLUBHOUSE COMING SOON! • HOMES ARE AVAILABLE FOR EVERY LIFESTYLE, FROM LOW MAINTENANCE GOLF VILLAS TO LAVISH ESTATE HOMES.
LPGA Fairways For Miles
International
Plan your golf getaway at DaytonaBeach.Golf
World-Famous Beaches
Known for action-packed racing and wide-open beaches, Daytona Beach also offers savvy golfers challenging courses at exceptional value. Come and play where the pros play, at LPGA International and other top-rated courses. Savor local seafood along scenic waterways. Explore historical and cultural sites. And pair your golf outing with a range of coastal accommodations to create a perfect package.
Natural beauty, exceptional golf, and nine great courses from which to choose. Scan this code to plan your golf getaway today, or visit tnstateparks.com/golf Beautiful Incredibleparks.golf. Shown is the golf course at Montgomery Bell State Park.
PXG CLUBS ARE BACKED BY OUR NO-QUESTIONS-ASKED, 60-DAY 100% MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE. NOBODY MAKES GOLF CLUBS THE WAY WE DO. PERIOD.® PXG clubs are only sold direct by PXG. PXG.COM | 844.PLAY.PXG has arrived
Our all-new GEN5 Clubs are a master class in PXG style, performance, and forgiveness. With explosive distance, laser-like accuracy, and outstanding mishit performance, just one swing and you’ll agree—we killed it with these sticks. Step up to GEN5 and put Kaboom Baby! on your side today.
Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway, Madison Coates, Mac Carraway, Greg Corbo
©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.
Palmer provided the blueprint for many in our industry to follow –professionally, philanthropically, globally. He elevated the sport and truly grew the game globally.
Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail
Edi tor in Chief: Shannon Coates
Palmer was a “people person” whose good looks and modest back ground (his father was a greenskeeper before rising to be club profes sional at Latrobe Country Club) helped establish him as the first, most popular, and highly marketable athletes in professional sports. Along with the help of Arnie’s Army, he transcended the game.
This provided more opportunities and exposure for international pros such as South African golfer and nine-time major champion, Gary Player. Player traveled extensively competing abroad and, in the U.S., becoming known as one of “the Big Three” along with Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.
6 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. International Correspondent: Dove Jones
Influencer/Ambassador: Chad Smith
Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Holly Geoghegan, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Anthony Williams
Long live the King. Long live the Prince, Rory McIlroy.
E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com
Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 4313 Berwick Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33859
Arnold Palmer, rest that King’s soul, would have celebrated his 93rd birthday on September 10th. Winner of more than 62 PGA tour titles and seven majors including four green jackets, Palmer was one of the most charismatic players not only in golf, but in sport’s history.
Beyond his impressive golf achievements and list of awards, “Arnie” as he was affectionately called by his fans, was The King of connection and positivity with his signature thumbs up hand gesture and his affability.
As the season came to an end last month, McILory let his game do the talking. His miraculous rally from six shots back against World #1 Scottie Scheffler to win the Tour Championship at East Lake and claim his third FedEx Cup title (one more than Tiger), was one of those seemingly divine moments that happen in golf.
It was McIIrory who got to have his cake and eat it too.
Celebrate the Day
It was Palmer who traveled to Scotland to compete in the British Open for the first time in 1960. His appearance convinced many American pros that the tournament was worth the time and travel. It also raised the popularity of the sport among British and European fans, not just American fans.
Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum
NEW PHONE: 863.875.6863
Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, Golf The Wise Way: Greg and Beverly Wise, Photojournalists
Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Turf Tender: Rich Havyer
The game has continued to expand and grow across the globe. And carrying that mantle most recently has been Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy.Aftercarrying the PGA Tour on his back for these past six tumultu ous months in men’s professional golf, McIIroy has been the steady and authentic voice for the tour players versus LIV Golf.
I
publisherthefrom 2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year Volume 23, Issue 6
BoyneGolf.com Non-stop flights from 17 U.S. cities to TVC will make a great golf trip even greater. So why wait? Call 855.427.6316 to plan your 2023 trip today. 2023 IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. SO IS MICHIGAN’S MAGNIFICENT 10.
8 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 Cart Girl 24 Taylor Jones Golf Bachelor 14 John Gerber Golf Fore Charity 40 GolfForever Green Golf 16 Green Godess Golf Tournament Leader on the Links 26 Women's Golf Day Special Events 10 Myrtle Beach World Amateur Stay & Play 34 Sea Pines Tennessee Golf Central 18 Women's Open Championship Turf Life 48 ShoreSOX 50 Audubon International 52 Sunniland SuperSpotlight: John Pustai 54 Performance Nutrition 56 Turf Pirate's Journal 58 Florida BMP 60 Superior Turf Farms Departments 20 Grip It & Sip It 22 Product Showcase 28 Cuisine on the Green 30 Georiga Golf Trail 42 South Florida PGA 44 Georgia PGA 46 North Florida PGA golfcentralmag.com Volume 23, Issue 6 The memories lingerlong after the last putt drops
Enjoy championship golf in Virginia at The Omni Homestead Resort. Tee off on the Old Course, home of the nation’s oldest first tee in continuous use. Save more than 45% with the Stay and Play package which includes one round of golf on this legendary course.
OmniHotels.com/TheHomestead 800-838-1766 DISCOVERCHANGE YOU HOW A CHANGE IN SCENERY CAN
eventsspecial
Congratulations to Terry Ream, Reno, NV on the 39th Annual World Am Championship Goal was to reach the Top 10 in my Division... Next year we'll shoot for Top 5
10 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Imagine visiting again with players that you met last year… connecting throughout the year with friends that you made during this year’s event. And you get the questions “Are you coming back next year?”
Over 3,000 Golf “Fun”Atics arrive in Myrtle Beach for the 2022 World Amateur
“After the Round of the day” – “19th Hole,” where you party tell stories listen to some music partake in some adult beverages and eat the food of 15 different vendors scattered around the convention floor.
• This is the only tournament of its kind that allows you to compete within your handicap and age category allowing you to compete “heads up” with competitors of your same age and ability.
I would bet anyone (and there is some of that goes on as well��)… the “World Am” is one of the largest, most valuable, & most fun golf tournaments on the planet!The2022 event represented its 39th year.The “World Am” is the only event of its kind.
• 72 holes of competitive net, stroke play with over 3,000 golfers competing on more than 50 of Myrtle Beach’s best golf courses, in 62 different flights.
It isn’t all just about the golf though, the Myrtle Beach World Am provides players with the most unique and rewarding tournament golf experience around!Itisfirst about golf and the task at hand to crown the Annual “World Am” Champion on Friday from the 62 Flight Winners but it also about the
That’s what make this event different and should be included in your “Bucket List” places to play.
By Greg and Beverly Wise
TA
11Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
One of the Golf the Wise Way comics signed by Charlie Rymer – Host of the Charlie Rymer Golf Show in Myrtle Beach.
Lots of excitement for the putt that went in
Ready for the 8:30 Shotgun start! DA!... I am off the first tee!
Cleaning up and getting ready for the World Am in Myrtle Beach “You and the World”
12 Play it from where it rests… and watch for creepy crawly things A little bit of the Gallery – watching these crazy people play golf! A little bit of the Gallery – watching these crazy people play golf! 19th Hole venders talking golf! Plenty of Rain – here and there the first part of the week A resident with a great sense of humor. I’m coming back tomorrow!
Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? Bear Grils…..Because I know we would survive.
Relaxation? Lol….I enjoy sports….College Football.
14
Favorite magazine? Golf Central Magazine, of Course
What golf apparel do you like to wear? Nike
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? Water…..vodka…..college football!
Did you grow up there? Born in Columbus, Ohio and grew up there.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? I been very lucky to play with many celebrates and athletes, but it have to would be a collective group of friends.
Where were you born?
Last book you read? Talking to GOATS
News, current events; hardcopy or on-line? On Line
Steak, chicken, or seafood? All of the above
Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 bachelorgolf
What do you do for a living?
What do you fear the most? Not living up to my own expectations!
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Slow play
What would you like to do for a living? Doing it!
Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I am a very loyal person!
Favorite comedian? Dave Chapelle
Favorite charity to support? First Tee and Lil Warriors
Favorite television channel? FS1
What else would you like for us to know about you? I have been very lucky in life to have been raised by great parents who never deterred me and encouraged me to follow and work for the things I wanted.
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? People who always have a positive attitude.
Name the three most important things to you in this world. My parent, my health, and loyalty.
GerberJohn
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation?
I am an Entrepreneur …..Class A Golf Professional , CEO of DSP Media co-owner of The Golf Depot in Gahanna, Ohio.
One in 75 women will be diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer in her lifetime. Get involved with AdventHealth Cancer Institute in this unique event Event Proceeds P roceeds to Benefit:to Cancer Institute Institute We're fundraisingWe're to changeto that statistic.that statistic. Event Sponsors For more information Call Dave Walker, Jr. Professional Golf Eventsat 321-277-9094 Or email: auctionsbydesign02@gmail.com Host Golf Course Mission Inn Resort - El Campeon Course Monday, November 28, 2022November 28, 2022 12:00 Noon StartNoon St ar t We are proud to partner with BAGN for this event! p Each player receives a $50 voucher for the Golf Mobile Proshop www.bidpal.net/pfac For registration and donations
Napoli was a panelist on one of the seminars at the first-of-its-kind tournament, which was founded and organized by Caroline Pineau, owner of Stem, a cannabis retail store in Haverhill. The event featured a nine-hole golf tournament, panel discussions, lessons with a LPGA golf pro, unique cannabis educational offerings, wellness clinics, a painting workshop and other activities.
16 golfgreen
“The bar has not just been raised on cannabis industry events, it’s been obliterated by Ms. Caroline Pineau and the entire team at Stem Haverhill and everyone who came together to flawlessly execute the Green Goddess Invitational,” said Kim Napoli, counsel and director of diversity, equity and inclusion in the Boston office of Vicente Sederberg, a national cannabis firm. “Keep your eyes out for next year’s event. It is an absolute must-attend.”
All proceeds from the tournament benefited Power of Self-Education (POSE), a Haverhill-based nonprofit
The first annual Green Goddess Invitational, a femalecentered, cannabis-themed golf tournament—
First Annual Green Goddess Invitational brings together women cannabis entrepreneurs to focus on social justice and industry inclusion
Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
In remarks to participants at the tournament, Pineau said the event was meant to “spark joy,
Pineau, who conceived of the tournament late last year and spent hundreds of hours putting it together, said the event was the kickoff of a movement with the potential to reshape women’s status in the cannabis industry and the industry’s approach to social justice and inclusion issues.
that promotes racial and social justice through community engagement, youth engagement and cross-sector collaborations.
inspire activism, and create space for connection and self-care.”
The event attracted more than 250 people and more than 40 co-sponsors. In addition to bringing together female cannabis entrepreneurs from throughout Massachusetts, the event featured a strong civil rights component, with the nationally-known cannabis entrepreneur and social justice advocate Freeway Ricky Ross leading a discussion on restorative justice.
“You are all here today as trailblazers. You are defining our industry, and with that comes an incredible opportunity to do everything we possibly can to address social equity. We recognize this work can be draining at times, and emotional. We need a reminder to have grace with each other, and especially ourselves,” Pineau said.
heels was the defending champion, So phie Linder (Carthage). She celebrated her 18th birthday during round one and then in round two carded a 1-under-par 71 to jump eight spots on the leader board. Right by her side was Knoxville’s Alyssa Montgomery who had an identi cal 145 two-day total, securing her spot in Saturday’s final group alongside Linder and Wilcox.
18 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Among those nipping at Wilcox’s
The final round provided plenty of drama as the day unfolded, turning into a bit of a three-horse race down the stretch.After nine holes, Wilcox maintained her one-stroke lead as she, Welch and Linder each turned in front-nine 35s. But the par-5 hole 10 instantly shook up the leaderboard. Welch, playing in the second to last group, birdied the hole while Wilcox bogeyed and Linder made par. Welch took a one-shot lead because of it as Wilcox and Linder found them selves tied for second.
Welch maintained her lead until the next par 5 on hole 15. The 29-year-old made par while Wilcox and Linder each
Thanks to that steady play, Wilcox was never out of the hunt as Stone henge Golf Club challenged golfers. Only three under-par rounds were turned in on day one, with Thomasville, Georgia’s Jessica Welch holding a threestroke lead. Wilcox was four shots back after an even-par 72.
Wilcox Earns First Professional Win At Women’sTennesseeOpen
centralgolftenessee
Wilcox repeated that feat over the next 18 holes with another 72 and other golfers shifted their positions heading into the final round. Things weren’t going to be easy for Wilcox with three players within one shot of her lead.
“I don’t think I’ve let it quite sink in yet,” Wilcox said after the round. “I’m very happy. Ecstatic to get to call everyone who has been supporting me, watching scores online.”
Only one player managed to turn in a scorecard at even-par or better in all three rounds at the 23rd Golf Capital of Tennessee Women’s Open. Hailing from Mineral Wells, West Virginia, Adeena Wilcox did just that en route to her first win as a professional golfer.
While Welch and Linder headlined the effort to capture the title, a few more were in contention at various points throughout the day. One of the pros making a late push was Coulbia’s Riley Rennell. After a tough first round where
After play resumed, Welch and Linder did all they could to try and catch a ris ing Wilcox, but both ended their final three holes 2-over-par. As Wilcox made her way towards the 18th green, the re alization that she was about to earn her first professional win just a few months after turning pro started to sink in.
After making her par putt, the crowd erupted with applause and Wilcox embraced her brother who served as her caddy during her first-ever trip to Stone henge.“Obviously I love it here,” Wilcox said.
19Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Clarksville’s Catherine Caudill was also right there in contention on day three, entering the final round 2-overpar. For every bogey she carded, she
sunk their birdie putts on the tiered green. Wilcox put the pressure on with another birdie on 16 to move to 2-underpar for the day and the tournament.
“My putting definitely helped a lot today,” Wilcox said in reference to her back-to-back birdies on holes 15 and 16. “I would say it definitely was the key to myAssuccess.”thepressure built, so did storm clouds to the east. With the second to last group in 18 fairway and the final group putting on the 17th, the Tennes see Women’s Open entered a 45-minute weather delay.
she shot a 5-over-par 77, Rennell leap frogged her way up the leaderboard with an even-par second round. But the third and final round is where she turned on the afterburners. The 23-year-old firstyear pro fired a bogey-free, 3-under-par 69 to put herself in a tie for third.
managed a birdie not long after. Her even-par 72 earned her a share of the Low Amateur award with Sophie Linder.
Alyssa Montgomery finished a shot back from completing a three-way tie for Low Amateur. Her only real blemish on the final day happened on hole 14, a hole she had birdied the two previous days. The Virginia Tech product settled for a double bogey after putting her tee shot left of the tricky downhill green.
You’ll probably notice the familiar shark logo on the can. Arguably the most successful athlete turned businessman, Greg Norman is known as much for his entrepreneurial spirit in the boardroom as his dominance on the golf course. With CADDY Cocktails, he is taking on a role to help make the game more fun. The Southeast Director, Ty Callahan, says “To grow the game of golf, we need to compete with more distractions, busier lives, and lots of video meetings.” While it should be no more than 4 hours to play a round, the team at CADDY Cocktails is focused on the 3 ½ hours you aren’t even holding a club. Their day of golf includes pressing play on the music, making some bets, high fiving your par save from the bunker, and laughing at an errant shot. All while enjoying a few cocktails.
20 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 itsip&itgrip
CADDY Cocktails are your new drinks for the links. That’s right, this Caddy won’t whisper a different swing secret before every shot or tell you a yardage. From the back nine to your backyard, CADDY Cocktails are about enjoying your day.
CADDY Cocktails made of the most popular golf cocktail recipes, the Transfusion and Half & Half, are a delicious option whether you’re on the tee box or tailgating this football season. CADDY was recently awarded Double Gold at the New York International Spirits Competition; the Half & Half, made with vodka, iced tea and lemon was rated 96 points while the Transfusion, a vodka based, carbonated craft cocktail with natural grape, lime, and ginger flavors, came in at 95 points.
CADDY Cocktails are your new drinks for the links
store.turflife.club Become part of the Turflife Club! Grab a Decal from the Website
22 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 showcaseproduct
This limited-edition collaboration was launched across three days beginning on Tuesday, August 23rd at 10 a.m. CST, with additional launches on Wednesday, August 24th, and Thursday, August 25th, both at 10 a.m. CST. Each launch day will present new items available for purchase and all three launches will be available exclusively in the Hive at www.bettinardi.com. Early token-gated access will be available for Bee Keeper Society NFT holders.
ECCO® GOLF AMBASSADOR LYDIA KO HONORS HERITAGE WITH CUSTOM BIOM® G5 DESIGN
Reflecting both her personality and dual-nationality roots, Ko designed her ECCO BIOM® G5 with cherry blossoms styled on one side of the shoe and black ferns on the other, paying homage to her country of birth, South Korea, and the country in which she grew up, New Zealand, respectively.
ECCO – a golf footwear innovator – announces that ambassador Lydia Ko has combined her South Korean and Kiwi heritage with a custom version of the brand-new ECCO BIOM®G5 shoe as part of the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2022 collection.
“I’m extremely excited to join forces with ECCO GOLF to create my own unique take on the brand-new BIOM® G5 shoes,” Ko said. “ECCO GOLF is renowned for raising the bar for golf shoe design, and it’s fantastic that I have had the chance to stamp my personality on this new style.
“The features we have added to the BIOM® G5 are very close to my heart, and it’s going to be really cool walking the golf course week-in-week-out with the black ferns and cherry blossoms on my feet.
BETTINARDI GOLF AND HASBRO LAUNCH LIMITEDEDITION MONOPOLY GOLF CAPSULE COLLECTION
In addition, Ko’s signature is emblazoned on the inside of the shoe, along with her logo on the tongue, a fitting tribute to one of the biggest stars in the game who has nearly 30 tour victories and two major championships to her name.
In addition to Lydia Ko, ECCO GOLF shoes are worn in competition around the world by Henrik Stenson, Thomas Bjørn, Fred Couples, Erik van Rooyen, Doc Redman, Nanna Koerstz Madsen, Niklas Nørgaard Møller, and Caroline Masson, among others. For further information about ECCO GOLF, please visit golf.ecco.com.
The assortment will feature a wide range of products that will launch online over the course of three days and include putters, wedges, headcovers, metal accessories, bags, and apparel, as well as the firstever Monopoly board game machined entirely from one piece of metal.
In conjunction with Hasbro, Bettinardi Golf is collaborating with one of America’s most iconic board games, Monopoly, which will combine Bettinardi’s superior American craftsmanship in golf with the beloved Mr. Monopoly, along with the timeless icons from the game.
23Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
About Save The Girls
The purse allows users to have full function of their cell phones while safely stored inside Lange’s stylish invention. Players keep their cell phones off restroom floors, sinks, toilets, floors, golf carts, drink holders, the driving range and anywhere they visit while golfing.
VANGUARD Power Air was developed in Selkirk Labs, where passionate pickleball players have become part of a leading development team, offering valuable insight to the innovative brand’s R&D team as the Company continues to invest in the most advanced technology to design and launch new paddles.
Selkirk’s VANGUARD Power Air is the optimal performance paddle for power players who also seek to generate maximum spin for controlled, aggressive drives. Featuring a larger sweet spot than traditional power paddles, VANGUARD Power Air integrates a wealth of innovations led by Air Dynamic Open throat, a demonstrably different functional design element that delivers optimal air flow for faster swing speed and improved ball control, combined with ThroatFlex technology which extends dwell time on the paddle enhancing overall power and consistency. FlexFloam Perimeter technology, a specially formulated foam injected into the entire perimeter of the paddle which increases durability, adds weight, enlarges the sweet spot, and absorbs the vibrations from every hit, for a stable and more reliable feel.
Save the Girls Founder came from a Golfing Family. Her father owned a golf course and brother was on the Asian Golf Tour. These purses are certainly designed for women on the go! Her most recent ‘Swing Along Design’ was inspired by her time on the golf course. This phone pouch can be clipped to a golf bag, a belt loop, tote or backpack so you phone is handy wherever you are! After you unclip the bag, you can convert it to a cross body bag.
VANGUARD Power Air has an SRP of $250 and is available on Selkirk.com, PickleballCentral.com, and local sporting goods stores.
For more information on Selkirk Sport and the Company’s line-up of paddles, please visit www.selkirk.com. To follow the Company through social media, please visit Selkirk on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @SelkirkSport.
SAVE THE GIRLS TOUCHSCREEN PURSES HANDY ON THE GOLF COURSE
SELKIRK SPORT DEBUTS VANGUARD POWER A NEXT GENERATION PICKLEBALL PADDLE
information or to shop: www.savethegirls.com
Save the Girls is a female owned business that manufactures and sells uniquely designed touchscreen purses which allows owners to use their cell phones to text, answer calls and other smartphone functions while still in their purse. The Soft Solution Scarf and now the full-face protective mask and headwear are the newest offerings from Save The Girls that is perfect for any woman in the age of the Coronavirus/Covid-19 pandemic.Formore
Favorite type of movie? Horror
What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch? Gymnastic and Football.
Where did you grow up? I was born in Crystal River FL, I grew up in Parkersburg WV.
What do you feel makes this club special? The people and the environment everyone is so nice and welcoming.
Do you enjoy playing golf? Are there any golfers in your family? I am slowly getting into it, but my brother plays a little.
What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl? A big stick getting stuck under the cart and me falling backwards because I had to use my full body to get it unstuck.
Favorite comedian? Gabriel Iglesias.
Favorite charity to support? Salvation Army.
What else would you like for us to know about you? I’m friendly and kind, I enjoy my job and I have a great time serving regulars or anyone that comes into the course.
What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course? Birds fighting over food.
What is your idea of “the perfect date”? Going star gazing.
What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? What is your least favorite part? Being outside around the nature and the regulars, my least favorite is the bumps.
Do you think the cart girls should be able to dress differently? How you prefer dress if you were given a choice? I feel like we should look presentable and also comfortable at the same time.
Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? Relaxed evening at home.
Which group of people did you associate most with in high school? I had a small group of friends; I was more of a quiet person.
Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 girlcart
What type of music do you prefer? Country. What hobbies do you enjoy? Having family time.
24
TALAMORE 36 Holes by Arnold Palmer & Rees Jones Historic Village of Pinehurst Area of North Carolina (800) www.TalamoreGolfResort.com/GolfCentral552-6292 FREE $50 RESORTMentionCREDITCode:GOLFCENTRAL Where You’ll Always Get More... • Access to 30+ Area Golf Courses • Luxurious, On-Course Accommodations • Daily Breakfast Delivered to Your Door* • Carolina Pig Pickin’ with All the Fixin’s* • New! Toptracer Range & Putting Course
Women’s Golf Day founder
“I’m truly honored and humbled to receive this award from 100 Successful
Women’s Golf Day Supporters: Current partners and supporting organizations are: Callaway Golf, ClubCorp, FootJoy, GloveIt, Golf Town, Titleist, The R&A, and PGA TOUR Superstore. Women’s Golf Day is also proudly supported by: All Square, Annika Foundation, Asian Golf, The California Alliance for Golf, Chronogolf, ClubCorp, EGCOA, European Tour, European Tour Properties, The First Tee, Gallus Golf, The Golf Channel, GolfNow, International Golf Federation, Imperial Headwear, LET, LPGA Amateur, Modest Golf Management, NGCOA, NGCOA Canada, PGA of America, PGA TOUR, Players First, Prestige Flags, Sky Sports, TopGolf, TopTracer, TPC Properties, Troon Golf, Troon International, WE ARE GOLF, Women & Golf, Women’s Golf & Travel, The World Golf Foundation and more. Visit online www.womensgolfday.com.visit: To follow on social media: #WomensGolfDay@womensgolfday#WGDunites
Women In Business Network for what we have created with Women’s Golf Day,” said Elisa upon receiving her award. “To meet so many amazing women from across the globe and be able to tell them about events we have in their country really brought our achievements into focus. I am so very proud of the many locations, golf courses, WGD Ambassadors, Sponsors, Partners, WGD team and women who participate. We have created a global network and community that transcends golf.”
Women’s Golf Day Founder Named in 100 Successful Women Awards
Elisa Gaudet
Elisa Gaudet has been named one of the global 100 successful women in business this weekend at a prestigious awards ceremony in London.
26 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 linkstheonleader
event saw the famous red and white of WGD at venues ranging from 2023 Ryder Cup course Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Italy, to The Fajara Club, which became the first course in Gambia to join the WGD community. Across social media the hashtag #womensgolfday reached and incredible 79.1 million unique users, generating 94 million impressions, and overall, the event saw an impressive 501% increase in engagement across social channels. For 2023, WGD Palooza is scheduled for May 30, 2023 and Women’s Golf Day events will be taking place worldwide on June 6, 2023
The award follows the most successful Women’s Golf Day to date. The 2022 edition of the annual global
Women from around the globe gathered at the 100 Successful Women in Business Annual Global Convention to recognize successful women ranging from corporate elite to full-time entrepreneurs. The annual awards celebrate women from many sectors and countries who are making a positive impact in their communities and the world.
Bring all your favorite “bitches” together to enjoy popular Main Bitch menu highlights such as Queens ($13) with applewood smoked bacon, scrambled eggs, melted cheddar cheese; Juicy ($16) with grilled marinated flank steak, sunny side up egg, caramelized onions, roasted peppers, chimichurri aioli, Swiss cheese; and Boujee ($14) applewood smoked bacon, sunny side up egg, smashed avocado,
The new space is the fourth Florida location for the brand and represents the next step in a regional expansion that includes a planned fifth location in West Palm Beach opening in fall 2022. There currently are three other outposts - Miami, Miami Beach and St. Petersburg - which precede the latest loved-by-locals restaurant.
Must-try Naked Bitch selections include Chicken & Waffles ($22) served with sunny side up egg and applewood smoked bacon, Fit ($15), an egg white omelet stuffed with tomato, spinach, grilled pepper and onions, and Thick ($24) with applewood smoked bacon, smoked honey ham, andouille sausage, sunny side up eggs, and melted cheddar cheese stuffed hash browns.
sliced tomato, bitch sauce.
Launched in 2017, the Bacon Bitch dining experience is intended to dismiss the notion that breakfast has to be boring. The spot offers diners a crave-worthy, photo-ready menu that, despite the brand’s playful nature, shows a dedicatedseriousness to quality. A focus is placed on locally and responsibly sourced ingredients including the use of 100% gluten-free, MSG-free, nitrite-
Drink specials include signature drinks like the over-the-top Hangover Bitch ($30) made with vodka, Bloody Bitch mix, cheddar cheese-stuffed hash browns topped with a fried egg, slices of Niman Ranch bacon, olives, and a lemon slice, the Drunk Bitch ($30) appropriately described as “a little bit of everything, definitely order that uber,” and a selection of Mimosas ($14) - orange, cranberry and pineapple. Other beverage options range from Frozens, Margaritas and Mojitos to varying options of champagne bottle service (Dom Perignon and Moet & Chandon Brut).
Created to be a fun and memorable dining experience, the brand puts its best “Bacon Bitch” face forward from the moment guests are greeted upon entry. The menu is dedicated to “Hungry Bitch” offerings that begin with loaded flavorful sandwiches served on daily baked croissants (Main Bitch), breadless platters (Naked Bitch), accompaniments (Side Bitch) and a selection of coffee options (Café Bitch), as well as a comprehensive beverage program with Champagne, wine, beer, and cocktail choices to get the party started.
Bacon Bitch Orlando offers 170-indoor seats and 30-seats dedicated to al fresco dining. The restaurant will serve breakfast daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Miami’s favorite breakfast and brunch concept is now open in Orlando
28 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 greentheoncuisine
free bacon, made using old world charcuterie techniques by Niman Ranch’s independent family farmers, who raise livestock humanely and sustainably, and ethically produced, pasture-raised egg from Vital Farms.
Bacon Bitch, the innovative breakfast concept inspired by a love for bacon, has officially opened the doors to its highly anticipated Orlando outpost. The 200-seat restaurant is in prime real estate space at 12103 Collegiate Way, just steps from the University of Central Florida campus. As part of their opening celebration, Bacon Bitch will extend a 25% discount on all student checks during its first 30-days of business.*
29Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 www.nonablue.com
golf opportunities in Georgia.”
As the leaves on the trees in north Georgia lose their forest green hue, golfers in the South should set their sights on a trip to North Georgia for an autumn swing through four Georgia Golf Trail golf courses which are nestled in the northern extremes of the Peach State. Those four destinations are the Sky Valley Country Club in Sky Valley, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa in Young Harris, Innsbruck Golf Club in Helen, and the Currahee Club in Toccoa.
Next, head to the Innsbruck Golf Club in Helen (www.valhallaresorthotel. com) where you’ll find true mountain golf. Some golf pundits have referred to Innsbruck as “Alpine mountain golf at its finest.” At Innsbruck, the chance to play the downhill tee-shot
After playing at Sky Valley, head west toward Brasstown Valley (www. brasstownvalley.com) where the golf is refreshing, delightful, and scenic. The views of the surrounding mountains from the golf course are stunning. This golf course is in terrific shape. Afterwards, spend the night at the resort and eat at Brassie’s Grill. It’s a total escape!
In addition to North Georgia’s marvelous fall scenery, these golf courses represent a refreshing change of pace from the norm. The sightseeing opportunities, accommodation choices, and dining destinations in North Georgia will also add to the appeal of your upcoming trek, which is easily accessible for those living in Atlanta and the neighboring states of Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
By Mike May
North Georgia A Brilliant Fall Golf Destination
At Sky Valley skyvalleycountryclub.com),(www. the golf course sits in a valley which is totally surrounded by mountains. If you didn’t know otherwise, you might think you are in the Swiss Alps. The tee-to-green course conditions at Sky Valley are exemplary. Simply put, you will love playing golf at Sky Valley. And, when not playing golf, many Sky Valley residents also play on their own croquet court complex.
trailgolfgeorgia
“There isn’t a better place to play golf in the fall than in North Georgia,” said Doug Hollandsworth, Founder, Georgia Golf Trail. “We have terrific mountain
30 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Currahee Club - Hole #10
Brasstown Valley
Innsbruck Golf Club
on the par-three 15th hole is worth the price of admission. The Innsbruck golf experience is incomplete unless you stay at the adjacent Valhalla Hotel where you’ll be pampered and spoiled. While there, consider a trip into downtown Helen for German food. It’s tasty and delicious!
31Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Finally, travel to Toccoa where you’ll find the Currahee Club (www. curraheeclub.com), a Jim Faziodesigned par-72, 18-hole golf course which is worthy of its championship label. Here, you have first-class accommodation options, recreational opportunities, and amazing views of the countryside. Any visit to Currahee Club will be a special, memorable experience and worth repeating. And, if you like Sky Valley and the Currahee Club enough, there are real estate purchasing options with Drake Realty which can bring you back to those locales more often. They can be your ‘home away from home’ in North Georgia.
Sky Valley Country Club
Valhalla Hotel Pool
Currahee Club
Sky Valley Country Club
Brasstown Vlalley –11th green
Valhalla Hotel –– Helen, GA
For more information about North Georgia golf and other courses along the Georgia Golf Trail, www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com.access
bachelorettegolf
32 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Where were you born? Did you grow up there? I was born in New York City but grew up in Pennsylvania
Name the three most important things to you in this world. My stuffed rabbit I have had since birth, my mother’s wedding ring, and my health.
Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? Mystery
What else would you like for us to know about you? I am a pisces, I am going to be traveling to Europe Summer 2023, my high school superlative was “most likely to brighten your day”, I have two potbelly pigs.
Allyson Aris
What do you fear the most? My parents passing
Steak, chicken, or seafood? I love them all but if I had to pick one for the rest of my life, it would be steak
Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? My mom because we would
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Snoop Dog, Anne Hathaway, and Tom Hanks
What would you like to do for a living? Currently a nursing student at Galen College of Nursing and would like to pursue a career in aesthetic nursing.
never run out of things to talk about and I would always feel at home if she was there with me.
Favorite television channel? HLN
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? bug spray, sunscreen, and a hammock
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Hiking, hotworx (sauna workouts), spending time with family, watch my favorite childhood cartoons, listen to podcasts preferably murder mysteries.
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My best friend Destiny, she has a heart of gold.
Last book you read? Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover
What golf apparel do you like to wear? I usually wear a polo with a skirt and I wear mostly nike, puma, and adidas.
Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I broke my leg in the middle of a cross country race when I was in high school and ultimately had to stop running.
Favorite charity to support? FAM foundation
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Its cliché, but love.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Not fixing their divots!!
The “Getaway Package” can be booked by visiting www.seapines. com/vacation-rentals/specials/fallwinter-getaways or by calling (866) 561-8802 (promo code GETAWAY). The package is unavailable for holiday periods — Nov. 19-28, 2022, and Dec. 20-Jan. 3, 2023.
• Complimentary dinner entrees for two (one time only) at Fraser’s Tavern;
Imagine a fall or winter getaway where the seaside destination is world class with ideal weather, endless recreational opportunities, championship golf, all at attractive and affordable rates. That’s exactly what travelers will receive when they purchase the “Getaway Package” at The Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head Island.Available now through Feb. 24, 2023, reduced fall and winter rates on select villas and homes (minimum three-night stay) are available, and include an array of value-laden amenities:
• Complimentary lunch entrees for two (one time only) at Fraser’s Tavern or Harbour Town Bakery & Café;
• Unlimited use of the resort’s fitness center equipment;
• Preferred rates at the resort’s awardwinning golf courses, including Heron Point, Atlantic Dunes, and Harbour Town Golf Links — home to the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage tournament and No. 25 on Golf Digest’s ranking of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses”;
• Bicycles during entire stay for two adults to enjoy on the resort’s 15mile network of paths (also ideal for Inwalking).addition, the package provides for 10 percent discounts on all other dining at resort restaurants, including the sensational, new Quarterdeck, which offers 270-degree sunset views and a rooftop oyster bar. For ease of travel to Hilton Head
A Fall and Winter 'Getaway Package' That Checks all the Boxes
The Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head Island Gives Guests the Ultimate Travel Experience
• A portrait session on the beach;
• Two hours of complimentary tennis per day at the Sea Pines Racquet Club featuring 20 clay courts;
Island, there are direct-flight options on three airlines: American, Delta, and United. Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) serves Washington, D.C. (Dulles), Newark, Charlotte, and Atlanta, plus seasonal nonstop flights to and from Washington, D.C. (Reagan), Dallas, Philadelphia, and Boston.
34 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 play&stay
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
Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort, Gulf Shores
WWW.GOLFMAYFAIR.COM
36 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
WWW.HIDDENLAKESGOLFCLUB.COM
The Central Florida Golf Card Is Back!
T
KISSIMMEE BAY - Located only 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport and 25 min utes from downtown Orlando as well as all major tourist attractions in the area, Kissimmee Bay Country Club was designed by renowned local architect Lloyd Clifton and opened in 1990. Kissimme Bay was cut out of a dense majestic oak forest. The 6,830-yard, par 71 southern style championship layout provides a challenging test of golf and is a true delight to play. It is graced by the presence of century-old oaks, lofty cypress trees, a dozen challenging water hazards, and an ever-present gallery of friendly Sandhill Cranes. With one visit to Kissimmee Bay Country Club, you will understand why it was nominated one of America’s “Best New Courses” by Golf Digest.
WWW.GOLFKISSIMMEEBAY.COM
HIDDEN LAKES - This New Smyrna Beach golf course will surprise and delight you. The par 69 golf course has six par threes, nine par fours, and three par fives. Owned and operated by self-proclaimed, “genuine golf nuts,” Hidden Lakes strives for the best course conditions in the area. The course winds through large pines and stately oaks along the pristine Turnbull Bay estuary and around beautiful lakes and winding creeks. With a variety of long and short holes, Hidden Lakes offers a fair and fun challenge to golfers of all skill levels.
MAYFAIR CC - Opened in 1927, the 18-hole course at the Mayfair Country Club in Sanford, Florida features 6,400 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The medium-length layout has three sets of tee boxes, and the course rating is 68.7 with a 117 slope rating. The overhanging trees and bunkers challenge golfers on every hole. Located north of Orlando, the Mayfair Country Club features a driving range, practice range, snack bar, and banquet facility. With many upgrades in progress, Mayfair is becoming one of Orlando’s most popular, laid-back, and fun public courses for golfers to enjoy and hang out.
he 2022 Central Florida Golf Card provides an exciting col lection of 12 golf courses for players of all abilities. Whether you’re a Florida native or planning a fall golf getaway to the Sunshine State, this year’s card offers a diverse mix of award-winning historic and classic layouts, resort courses, and a few “off-the-radar” tracks that are well worth your time and your dime. All for just $99! And our brand new accompanying web app makes locating and contacting the courses a breeze!
Twelve courses for only $99. Card expires Dec. 31, 2022.
Get yours at www.cfgcard.com
Twin Rivers Golf Club has been recognized and awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Environmental Planning certificate by Audubon International.
WWW.MOUNTDORAGOLF.COM
THE RESERVE AT ORANGE LAKE - Located in the West Village of Orange Lake Resort, The Reserve consists of 18 holes and 6,505 yards of expansive greens that were specifically redesigned to be in harmony with our carefully preserved wetlands to give you the taste of natural Florida. While this course is the shorter of our two championship courses, it offers a challenging layout to test golfers of all skill levels. The driving range is available during the day and is also lighted for those who want to practice after dark. For extra fun, check out the Legends Walk located in the North Village, the only lighted par 3 walking golf course in Central Florida. (Not included with card).
REDTAIL G.C. - Certain to test even the most accomplished player’s shot-making ability, Red Tail offers a challenge at every turn. Having played host to various NCAA and charity tourna ments, RedTail Golf Club is well known as one of the finest natural golf settings Florida has to offer. The 7152-yard, Dave Harman design, is a par 72 links-style golf course. Industry profes sionals have called it everything from “breathtaking - literally” to “not for the meek of heart.” RedTail has a 10-acre practice facility along with two putting greens and a well-stocked pro shop. Enjoy indoor and outdoor dining at the famed Hawks restaurant where you will be treated like a true “champion” after your round.
THE LEGENDS AT ORANGE LAKE - Located in the East Village of Orange Lake Resort, The Legends is an 18-hole Arnold Palmer Signature Design. This challenging 7,072-yard champion ship course offers two distinct playing experiences from the front to back nine. Scottish-style golf using the natural terrain invites some creative shot-making on the front nine; while the towering pines, majestic oaks, winding fairways, and flowing water on the back nine are more reminiscent of the Carolinas. Get the most out of your day at our premier 54-hole golf facility.
WWW.REDTAILGC.COM
TWIN RIVERS G.C. - Nestled between the Big and Little Econ rivers, Twin Rivers Golf Club offers a scenic 18-hole par 72 championship golf course. Designed by Oviedo native Joe Lee, Twin Rivers Golf Club was Lee’s signature golf course for Central Florida and offers a unique challenge for players of all abilities. If you want a golf experience in a well-preserved natural environment, unimpeded by development then Twin Rivers Golf Club is just for you.
WWW.TWINRIVERSGOLF.COM
REMINGTON G.C. - Whether you’re brand new to the game, or a seasoned veteran, Reming ton Golf Club has something to offer every golfer and most importantly – a fantastic, fun golf experience. The contemporary design of this strikingly beautiful course, with its abundant water features, generous landing areas, and scenic landscaping, offers a fair but challenging golf experience. This graceful balance is a testament to the artistry of the course design team of the Clifton, Ezell & Clifton Golf Design Group. Remington Golf Club was recognized by Golf Di gest Magazine, as one of the Best New Courses in 1996 and continues to be a favorite of Central Florida “locals.”
WWW.GOLFREMINGTON.COM
MOUNT DORA GC - It’s billing as “the longest 5,700 yards in Florida,” is high praise for this par 70, 88-acre challenge with tight tree-lined fairways, postage-stamp greens, and rolling hills that provide a variety of sidehill, downhill, and uphill lies to keep the best golfers on their toes. “The Old Course” built in 1945, is a featured course in the Florida Historic Golf Trail. Enjoy this hidden gem and step back in time, where golfers can choose to walk or ride, enjoying the game in a truly peaceful and old school, charming and traditional golf setting.
WWW.ORANGELAKEGOLF.COM
WWW.ORANGELAKEGOLF.COM
WEKIVA G.C. - Crafted out of a wooded setting and opened in 1972, Wekiva Golf Club features many doglegs bordered by large stands of trees and no parallel fairways. With its Champion Ber mudagrass greens and straight-forward layout, Wekiva is an enjoyable experience for the recre ational golfer as well as a low-handicapper. A semi-private club that welcomes outside play, this 18 hole, 6,850-yard, par 72 features beautiful oaks, mature pines and palms, rolling fairways, over 80 strategically placed bunkers and gentle mounding that highlights both the fairways and undu lating greens.
WWW.WEKIVAGC.COM
• Individual
• Link
The Central Florida Golf Card web app is your source for all the info you need on each participating golf course. Contact your course to schedule your round, then click on that course’s map to get directions. No app store needed to get your FREE app (see below). You can even purchase your card directly from within the app.
WWW.VICTORIAHILLSGOLF.COM
• General
VICTORIA HILLS G.C. - Located in Deland, this Ron Garl-designed championship course has been honored with numerous accolades and awards since its opening in 2002, including being ranked 41 in the Top 50 Public Courses you can play by Golf World (2010). Five sets of tee box es create a challenging yet fair test no matter your handicap. The course plays 7,149 yards/142 slope from the tips with some formidable carries over waste areas, ravines, and water hazards. Greenside collection areas, swales and deep bunkers serve to protect the many large, sloping and raised putting surfaces. A good short game is key to scoring well here.
38
Central Florida Golf Card App Puts All The Information Right At Your Fingertips! • Info
•
• Download
WWW.ZELLWOODGOLF.COM on every golf course in the program. location map of all 12 courses. location map to each course. to each course website. Call the course directly from within the app. directly to your mobile device via the QR code to the right, then save to your homescreen.
ZELLWOOD STATION G.C. - Tucked away in the rolling hills just five miles Northwest of Apopka and 15 miles from downtown Orlando, Zellwood Station Country Club offers a special treat - hilly terrain, great greens, and very memorable golf holes. Zellwood Station has two distinctive par 4`s that are driveable (264 & 266 yards), offering great hopes for marking an eagle on your scorecard. The ninth, nicknamed “Train Wreck,” will definitely get your attention before making the turn. Holes 12 thru 16 dogleg around a cavernous dry lake dubbed “Crater Junction”- hit this hazard and it is all over! The stout par 3, 17th hole, measures 243 yards exceeding any on the PGA TOUR! Fun and wickedly challenging, once you’ve played Zellwood Station, you’ll want to return and conquer it all over again!
GOLFFOREVER, the industry-leading at-home golf fitness training system that helps golfers play without limits, is pleased to announce it has partnered with the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA), the national organization dedicated to enriching the lives of Veterans and their family
from all branches of the Armed Forces who play in its 950+ golf events on a local, regional and national level. Forty-nine states in the U.S. have a VGA Chapter which organizes VGA Tour events and communityandmanagingofand“GOLFFOREVERchampionships.isproudtosponsorsupportthevital,inspiringeffortstheVeteranGolfersAssociation,”saysdirectorJonLevy.“JoshPeytonhisteamhavebuiltanextraordinaryandnetworkofVeteran
40 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
GOLFFOREVER Partners with Veteran Golfers Association
members through the camaraderie and sportsmanship of golf. GOLFFOREVER will be a sponsor of VGA tournaments, including its annual VGA National 16,000Peyton,andChampionship.Foundedin2014ledbyCEOJoshuaVGAsupportsVeteranmembers
1 0 0 % o f a l l p r o c e e d s g o d i r e c t l y t o h i g h i m p a c t P a r k i n s o n ' s r e s e a r c h p r o g r a m s . Sunday, October 16, 2022 2 5 p . m . E D T | 1 4 p . m . C D T 1 1 2 p . m . M S T | 1 1 2 p . m . P D T 2ND 2ANNUAL ND ANNUAL TARGETING A TCURE ARGETING A CURE FOR FPARKINSON'S OR PARKINSON'S A c h a r i t y , b e s t b a l l s t y l e t o u r n a m e n t o c c u r r i n g s i m u l t a n e o u s l y a t m u l t i p l e T o p G o l f l o c a t i o n s w i t h a l i v e l e a d e r b o a r d . P h o e n i x , A Z E l S e g u n d o , C A T a m p a , F L A u g u s t a , G A A t l a n t a , G A G e r m a n t o w n , M D - C h a r l o t t e , N C O k l a h o m a C i t y , O K H o l t s v i l l e , N Y E d i s o n , N J A u s t i n , T X S a n J o s e , C A w w w . t o p g o l f . m i c h a e l j f o x . o r g
golfers who thrive thanks to these events and the connections made through this great organization. It’s important to note that while suicide rates among Veterans are staggering, VGA has not lost a single member to suicide since it was launched in 2014. We relish the opportunity to get to know these brave servicepeople better as we grow our partnership with the VGA.”
GOLFFOREVER is the first golf-specific home training program to embrace the approach of home exercise equipment paired with streaming instruction. GOLFFOREVER customizes each golfer’s exercise routines specifically for them, based on a proprietary strength and flexibility test. It is safe and highly effective for any golfer.
41Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
“GOLFFOREVER represents the very best in quality golf fitness training and we’re proud to share its merits and health benefits with our membership,” Peyton says. “Our members are serious about golf and improving their games, so I think GOLFFOREVER will soon become a staple in their lives in the very near future.”
Learn more at GolfForever.com.
The GOLFFOREVER Swing Trainer, the groundbreaking training system World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler uses to train for the PGA Tour, pairs the first-ever multi-use golf fitness and warmup tool with video-streaming routines for flexibility, speed, power and injury recovery in the GOLFFOREVER app. The at-home, cord-driven training device doubles as an optimized weighted warmup club with a D3 swing weight, making it the complete at-home golf training system and the only golfspecific exercise and warmup tool a golfer will ever need.
GOLFFOREVER will have a demonstration team present at upcoming VGA events, including its National Championship at Trump National Doral Miami Sept. 25 - 28, to share the benefits of the GOLFFOREVER Swing Trainer paired with the expert golf fitness videos on the groundbreaking GOLFFOREVER mobile app. Additionally, VGA members will receive discount pricing on GOLFFOREVER products and free lifetime access to the GOLFFOREVER online fitness training platform.
Previous VGA National Championships have been held at elite venues such as Pinehurst No. 2 at Pinehurst Resort, Olympic Club in San Francisco, Calif., The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia and Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, NJ.
“My thoughts are very simple: We are the leaders in the game of golf,” explained Waber. “Playing, teaching and promoting the game are the pillars we, the PGA, stand for.”
The South Florida PGA annually recognizes a PGA Professional for overall performance, level of service to the Association, leadership, image and ability to inspire fellow professionals and promote the game of golf.
Bill Strausbaugh
Jerry Impellittiere, PGA - Monarch Country Club (Palm City)
Assistant of the Year
PGA Professional Development
Merchandiser of the Year Public
In addition to his role at Broken Sound, Waber is an advocate for playing the game, keeping an active tournament schedule each year. Waber believes his members, clients and customers expect PGA Professionals to have the skillset and drive to play the game. The essentials of playing, teaching, and giving back to the PGA through service helps define Waber as the most well-rounded PGA Professional.
Tony Chateauvert, PGA - Palm Beach Par 3 (West Palm Beach)
Jeff Waber, PGA Director of Golf at Broken Sound –Old Course, has been awarded the 2022 South Florida PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award. As the highest honor a South Florida PGA Golf Professional can receive, Waber leads the 2022 SFPGA Awards class.
Salesperson of the Year
Mike Bove, PGA - Boca West Country Club (Boca Raton)
Deacon Palmer Award
Player Development
The Golf Professional of the Year Award is one of the South Florida PGA’s annual awards. Throughout the year, the South Florida PGA will honor the recipients at their individual facilities.
Teacher of the Year
“I am proud and humbled to be selected as the 2022 Golf Professional of the Year for our Section,” said Waber. “The 41 previous winners dating back to 1980 are some of the most highly respected people in the Country. I find myself awestruck by receiving this award and thankful to those who laid the path before me and invited me to join the ranks.”
Kenny Leech, PGA - The Don Law Golf Academy (Boca Raton)
42flnorthPGAfloridanorthPGAfloridanorthPGAfloridanorthPGAfloridanorth Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6southPGAfloridasouthPGAfloridasouthPGAfloridasouthPGAfloridasouth
“It is critical to play and help keep our PGA credibility high,” noted Waber. “I want to be remembered as a man, father, husband and brother who gave back to the game that gave me so much. I am lucky to do what I do everyday.”
In addition to this award, Waber was selected as the 2022 Southeast Chapter Golf Professional of the Year. Waber has also been involved in Section leadership, serving as the Section Tournament Chairperson and most recently, the President of the Southeast Chapter.
Recipients of the 2022 South Florida PGA Awards include the following:
Youth Player Development
Eric Shillinger, PGA - Delray Dunes Golf and Country Club (Delray Beach)
Patriot Award
Alejandro Fernandez, PGA - Crandon Golf Academy (Key Biscayne)
Joe Baker - Callaway
Merchandiser of the Year Private
Justin DeFont, PGA - Audubon Country Club (Naples)
Sean Olson, PGA - Turnberry Isles (Miami)
Jeff Waber of Broken Sound Old Course Headlines the South Florida PGA 2022 Award Recipients
A PGA member for 18 years, Waber has been at Broken Sound Golf Club’s Old Course since 2007, where he began as the Head Professional before becoming the Director of Golf in 2015. Having spent his whole career in south Florida, prior to Broken Sound, Waber was the head professional at Adios Golf Club and an assistant at Bear Lakes Country Club.
Jason Baile, PGA - Jupiter Hills Club (Jupiter)
In his years of service to the Association and his facilities, Waber has always made it his goal to be the ultimate team player. In keeping with his “walk-thewalk” mentality, Waber excels in every job he does; is never too big for a job and pushes his staff to do the same, constantly bettering those around him.
Merchandiser of the Year Resort
Steve McDonald, PGA - Life Member (Coral Springs)
Lynn Myers, PGA - Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club (Palm City)
Sunn 12-0-0 Blend PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER ITEM# GUARANTEED160021 ANALYSIS Total Nitrogen 12% 12% Urea Nitrogen Chlorine not more than 2% SECONDARY PLANT FOODS Iron as Fe ................................... 6% Manganese as Mn 2% Derived from: Urea, Iron Glucoheptonate, Manganese Glucoheptonate Minors Blend LIQUID FERTILIZER ITEM GUARANTEED#160000
ANALYSIS
Soluble Magnesium (Mg) 0.050%
Soluble Magnesium (Mg) 0.50%
Soluble Zinc (Zn) 0.10%
Chelated Iron (Fe) 1.60%
ANALYSIS
Sulfur (S) combined 3.50%
Total Manganese (Mn) .......... 0.25%
Total Manganese (Mn) .......... 0.25%
Total Magnesium (Mg) 0.50%
Chelated Iron (Fe) 1.60%
Soluble Iron (Fe) 3.40%
...................
Soluble Manganese (Mn) 0.25%
Soluble Zinc (Zn) 0.10%
Derived from: Manganese Sulphate, Zinc Sulphate, Iron Glucoheptonate, Iron Sulphate, Magnesium Sulphate.
Total Magnesium (Mg) 0.50%
Sunn 28-0-0 GUARANTEEDITEMN-SURE#160031 ANALYSIS Total Nitrogen 28% 20.2% Slow release Nitrogen 7.8% ......................... Urea Nitrogen Sunn KTS PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER Item# GUARANTEED160041 ANALYSIS Soluble Potash (K2O) .............. 25% Total Sulfur (S) ......................... 17% 17% combined sulfur 0% free sulfur Derived from: potassium thiosulfate Sunn 6-0-0 Blend PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER Item# GUARANTEED160010
Manufactured by SUNNILAND CORPORATION PO Box Sanford,8001Florida 32773-8001 www.sunnilandcorp.com Share your photos & videos #sunnilandcorp Follow us @sunnilandcorp www.sunnilandcorp.com • 800-432-1130
Sulfur (S) combined 3.50%
Derived from: Manganese Sulphate, Zinc Sulphate, Iron Glucoheptonate, Iron Sulphate, Magnesium Sulphate.
...................
Soluble Manganese (Mn) 0.25%
Soluble Iron (Fe) 3.40%
By Hailey Estes
Through PGA Jr. League, kids ages 17 and under learn and play golf on co-ed teams and receive expert coaching from PGA Professionals. Following recreational play in the spring and summer, hundreds of 13u and 17u All-Star teams are formed in each league to compete in the National Car Rental PGA Jr. League Championship Season.
Ashley Siller Tournament participants & sponsors
The Tournament and Auction raised over $92,000 for the Gene Siller Memorial Grant. For more information, contact Foundation Manager Hailey Estes at hestes@pgahq.com.
WHAT’S NEW IN THE GEORGIA SECTION
Six teams, consisting of a total of JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPSECTIONLEAGUE
Grant’s inception, over $20,000 has been awarded to Georgia-based junior golfers and programs. Ashley Siller, Gene’s
On August 15, 2022, the Georgia PGA Foundation hosted the First Annual Gene Siller Red Pants Memorial Golf Tournament & Auction at Pinetree Country Club in Kennesaw, GA.
Tim Weinhart, PGA Coach at Heritage Golf Links (Tucker, GA) took home the title at the 63rd L&J Golf Georgia PGA Championship at Sea Island. Weinhart becomes the 4th Georgia PGA Member to win at least four Georgia PGA Championships.
44 players and their families, traveled to compete in the Georgia PGA Junior League Section Championship at Reynolds Lake Oconee in Greensboro, GA. The All-Star Team of TPC Sugarloaf came out on top in the 13u division and the All-Star Team of North Atlanta took first place in the 17u division. TPC Sugarloaf and North Atlanta will advance to the Regional stage in Ringgold, GA at WindStone Golf Club on September 16-18. Ultimately, Regional champions will vie for the title at the National Car Rental PGA Jr. League Championship at Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, Oct. 6-9, which will be broadcast live on select ESPN networks.
The event is the flagship fundraising event of the Gene Siller Memorial Grant - a financial assistance grant for junior golfers looking to learn, play and compete in junior golf initiatives. The grant was established in 2021 in memory of the late Eugene “Gene” Karl Siller, Pinetree’s beloved Director of Golf who tragically lost his life on the tenth hole in July of 2021. The tournament is named for his signature red pants, which he wore at the time of his Sincepassing.the
FOURTH GEORGIA PGA CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE
WEINHART CAPTURES
Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
widow says this is only the beginning. Addressing a crowd of red pants-clad supporters, she said “When people hear Gene’s name, I don’t want his legacy to be defined by the senseless act of violence that took his life. I want people to think of Gene’s Grant and how it is improving the lives of kids.”
44sectiongeorgiaPGAsectiongeorgiaPGAsectiongeorgiaPGAsectiongeorgai
$92,000 RAISED FOR GENE SILLER MEMORIALREDGRANT PANTS & CHAMPSSECTION
Welcome
A seemingly weightless precision shoe equipped with an EVA upper that hugs your foot, yet remains flexible, giving you both reassurance and very little resistance in your swing.
ElevateWithYour Game
My favorite golf shoe hands down Johnny Damon BIIONFOOTWEAR.COM
promo
25% off
Add a shock absorbing, dual density mid-sole, and get into a game improved technically, and made more enjoyable. to Biion Golf. on a Biion for with code:
Try
GOLFCENTRAL
Most recently, Changkija was
It's been an impressive summer for Sandra Changkija!
2021 Section Champion, Greg Koch
victorious at the Stableford Championship at Orange County National. Sandra won with a total of 95 points after two rounds of play. She also won the 2022 LPGA Professionals National Championship after a 3-hole playoff! Changkija & Stephanie Connelly-Eiswerth earned exemptions into the 2023 KPMG PGA Women’s Championship after finishing within the top 8.
The Section Championship officially kicks off on Monday, September 12th. The event, which sold out in under an hour after registration opened, will feature NFPGA Members from across the Section as they battle it out for the title of Section Championship winner. All eyes will be on Greg Koch, reigning NFPGA Player of the Year and 2021 Section Championship winner, as well as David Hronek, Matt Borchert and Sandra Changkija, all of whom have had impressive showings throughout the tournament season, both in the Section and nationally.
46 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6flnorthPGAfloridanorthPGAfloridanorthPGAfloridanorthPGAfloridanorth
By Daniel Calderon
September is a big month for the North Florida PGA! Coming up is the NFPGA Section Championship at TPC Sawgrass! Kicking off the three-day long event is NFPGA Family Fun Night, sponsored by Glow Vibe Golf: The Ultimate Night Golfing Experience. The event will serve as the official kick-off to the Section Championship. Section Championship competitors received personal invitations to attend the event, as did the entire Section membership. The event takes place on Sunday, September 11th, and includes 18-hole glow-in-thedark miniature golf, as well as target challenges and a closest-to-the-pin competition. This fun event at TPC Sawgrass will prelude what is sure to be a memorable Championship!
After the Section Championship this month, Members will be able to celebrate a successful and competitive tournament season by participating in the Pro-Scratch. The event, which is always one of the most anticipated and enjoyable of the year, will take place on September 29th at Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club. Just like the Section Championship, the field filled up quite quickly!
The major advantages of the ShoreSOX and DredgeSOX™ systems include:
Don’t be surprised if water on your home course seems to be perilously closed to cart paths. And, it’s not your imagination that ponds seem just a bit larger than before.
SOX Erosion Solutions™ has come to the rescue of many courses in Florida to halt erosion and restore scenic, living shorelines. Trump International, WPB, The Seagate Golf & Country Club, and The Club at Boca Pointe are among the clubs that have turned to this innovative company
“This is a much more efficient solution than placing large boulders in the channels,” said Nate Watkin of SOX Erosion Solutions. “This strategy frequently makes the situation worse since narrowing the channels increases water velocity and can actually cause more erosion.”
1. Ability to address shoreline erosion along steep slopes ranging from four to 10 feet
48 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
2. The system can be installed along the original meandering contours of the original shorelines
The culprit is erosion caused by fluctuating water levels caused by heavy rains. This situation is inevitable, but thanks to a patented, environmentally safe product many golf courses are solving the problem.
5. These systems are environmentally safe and don’t harm wildlife
For more information, visit www.soxerosion.com.
ShoreSOX and DredgeSOX™ - the company’s signature products – have become the go-to solutions. It involves filling a large knitted mesh with organic sediment dredged from lake bottoms or locally sourced soils delivered to the job site. It is secured to the shoreline to re-create the original and now living shoreline. These systems can be installed in a matter of days and are significantly less expensive than the other alternatives. The SOX systems provide a long-lasting hedge against further erosion.
Once restored, the shorelines are now stable and the danger to golfers and maintenance staff has been eliminated.
4. It can be installed in a matter of days and doesn’t disrupt play
“Our clients are unanimous in their endorsement of our installations,” added Nate Watkin. “It is low impact and the restored shorelines maintain their integrity years after installation.”
3. Sod and landscaping can be planted and rooted through the ShoreSOX and DredgeSOX™ mesh
To learn more visit gcsaa.org/GC
Not enough moisture.
The growth of that.
The pH of this.
So say thanks to your golf course superintendent. Or make that, thanks a million.
Looking out for the environment. Looking out for the health of the course. And that’s just over coffee.
Too much moisture.
AND YOUR GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT IS THINKING ABOUT THEM ALL.
THERE ARE A MILLION THINGS THAT NEED TO HAPPEN FOR YOUR COURSE TO BE PLAYABLE.
Course is committed to enhancing and protecting the environment.”
Says Chris Snyder, Golf Course Superintendent, Stonebridge Golf Club.
50 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Prior to Stonebridge enrolling in Audubon International’s Cooperative Sanctuary Program, much of the
environment alike at golf clubs, resorts, communities, and businesses.
“As a whole I believe golf course superintendents do a great job as environmental stewards, yet we receive little recognition for our efforts. I felt that becoming and maintaining certification with Audubon International would help show that Stonebridge Golf
The process doesn’t cease once a club is certified; in fact, each certified property undergoes recertification every 3 years. Stonebridge Golf Club recently underwent an Audubon International recertification site visit where their efforts in protecting the local environment, conserving resources, and enhancing wildlife habitat on the course was demonstrated in the following ways.
While water has always been an invaluable resource, when coupled with climate change concerns, golf courses are under a magnifying lens. As good stewards of the environment, golf course superintendents pride themselves on being accountable and limiting their water usage.
Recognizing Sustainability at Stonebridge Golf Club
Water Conservation
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains is Stonebridge Golf Club, a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for Golf (ACSP). This semi-private golf club boasts an 18-hole golf course, practice facilities and clubhouse where you’ll find residents and visitors enjoying great golf and the natural beauty of Stonebridge’s environmentally sustainable course. Stonebridge Golf Club achieved certification as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for Golf after completing all six certification focus areas in 2009, including: Site Assessment & Environmental Planning, Wildlife Habitat Management, Water Conservation, Water Quality, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Outreach and Education. Through Audubon International’s certification tracks properties pursue 3rd party verification of their sustainability efforts while gaining access to unlimited technical assistance and education – the perfect win for members and the
Kenny Perry and Trevor Immelman have made Transitions® lenses part of their game.
property consisted of only maintained turf. Since undergoing the certification process acres of maintained turf have been transformed into naturalized areas made up of fescue, orchard grass and wildflower blends. These grasses not only contribute to the aesthetics and habitat of the property, but they also require less irrigation once established. In addition, pesticide inputs and mowing frequency have been reduced.
see
Examples of this include, snag trees providing food for woodpeckers, and brush piles providing habitat for small mammals, a food source of raptors.
the PGA
To further support wildlife species at Stonebridge Golf Club there are many habitat projects underway including:
• Creating brush piles for small mammals from pruning debris on course
P E R F O R MA N C E SU N W E A R 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 Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Adaptive Lenses is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2012 Transitions Optical, Inc. transitions.com
Conclusion
Wildlife Habitat Management
• Establishing nesting boxes for Blue Birds
Audubon International, an environmentally focused non-profit organization, offers members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we live, work, and play. Their certifications are designed to increase environmental awareness, encourage sustainable environmental efforts, and educate both their members and their communities.
51Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6 www.TurfLife.club
Come us at Show booth #3516
In a time where limiting your resource use is of utmost importance, learning how to expand on sustainable resource management is crucial. To learn more about how your local golf course, community or resort can gain recognition for your environmental efforts and learn how to expand your initiatives visit www.auduboninternational.org.
• Leaving snag trees for wildlife perching, nesting and feeding sites
The efforts above sustain a flourishing wildlife population by supporting numerous levels of the food chain.
What was your major in school? I majored in Turfgrass management at The Ohio State University/ Agricultural technical institute in Wooster Ohio.
here? Grooming this old course back to a playable and enjoyable golf course. When did you start working here? I was brought aboard in June of 2020, in the midst of the Covid pandemic.
What do you enjoy most about your job
Where were you born? I was born in Fort Walton Beach, Florida where my father was stationed during and after the Vietnam Conflict.
John Pustai – DTE Golf Facility Services – Highland Park Golf Course
SunnilandSUPERSpotlight:
been golfing since I was 5 when my Grandmother gave me my first set of Chi Chi Rodriguez model clubs to swing in the back yard. I happen to be working where I golfed my first real round of golf here at Highland Park. It will always be a part of my life!
What makes Highland Park
were here and it has been a joy to help them bear their teeth! Again, there’s a lot of my friends and colleagues that have played here growing up and its always great to hear that its back!
Who are your mentors and how do you consider them to be your
Do you play any sports? I try and stay as active as possible with children competing in various sports throughout the year, I still play somewhat competitive beer league hockey and of course golf whenever I can. Also, fishing is a passion and I get out and fish whenever I can corral my 2 boys to come with.
outstanding? Highland Park has a long and storied history here in Cleveland and it had fallen onto tough times with a lack of management; I took this job to bring it back into relevance in the public golf sector of this golf rich area. So far so good, the bones
How has the experience here helped to develop your career? I have always been a fixer of courses and this has been a gargantuan task amidst all the issues related to equipment, parts and course hardware supply chain issues. This has been a tough time, but I have found that it has strengthened my managerial skills immensely in regard to personnel and turfgrass management.
What got you interested in turf grass? I grew up on a golf course from the time my family moved back to Ohio. My grandfather and father had a piece of a public course here in northeast Ohio. After high school I was uncertain what it was I wanted to do but with a little push from the course owner where I was working, he encouraged me to enroll in turf school and pursue this as a career. Guess it’s kind of in my blood!
52 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
How did you get your first job on the golf course? My first real paying golf job happened by chance, I was hitting balls on the Range at the old Parkview golf course in Mayfield Village Ohio and the super drove by and simply asked if I wanted a job on his crew. I said yes and the rest is history.
How did golf come into play? I have
53Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
I will continue to answer the phone when colleagues call for advice, I am currently the President of the Northern Ohio Superintendents Association which is the oldest chapter in the country and the precursor of GCSAA. We are currently planning our 100th anniversary for 2023!
mentors? First and foremost, my greatest mentor was my Grandfather who at an early age taught me my work ethic and attention to detail, second would be Pat LaConte the owner of Parkview, without his tutelage and push I may not be in the industry 30 years later. If you were to give advice to someone starting in the field what would that advice be? I would have to say don’t stop learning, go to as many local and national GCSAA meetings and offerings as possible, also your local distributors offer educational seminars throughout the year. Also network as much as possible, we are all here to help one another! Get involved locally in your GCSAA chapter.
How do you plan to pay it forward with others that work in golf course maintenance?
• To respect, support and maximize the contribution of each component of the natural ecosystem;
LidoChem Inc.’s Performance Nutrition Division’s Mission is:
These patented products are used together in patented PERFORMANCE® Treatments, which address the critical parameters of healthy ecosystems. Performance Treatments are available for aerification, seeds, soil and foliar nutrition. Custom programs can also be developed to deliver season-long fertility and pest management and others.
54 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
PERFORMANCE NUTRITION® was established in 1999 to develop new eco-responsible products and programs for the agricultural and turf market. The Performance Nutrition product line of specialty performance products is tailored to meet the ever-increasing demand for new and safer plant disease control and nutritional products.
• To develop & market economical, effective and “greener” products & programs for crop, turf and ornamental fertility and disease control;
soluble amino acid products, Nutrol® Bio-Pesticides, tank buffer & watersoluble fertilizer, Prudent® patented phosphite fertilizers, Vibrant® premium foliar fertilizers, Krystal Klear® chelated micronutrient solutions, Kelpene® plant extracts, Korban® Humic acid solutions and more.
Our Mission
Today, Performance Nutrition product lines include NutriWise® Biofertilizers, KaPre® soil amendments and surfactants, Pennamin® water-
• To deliver value to our customers each time, every time.
Through the innovation of its staff of technical and product development professionals, the Performance Nutrition division has assembled an ever-expanding array of unique and powerful bio-pesticides, patented chelated micronutrient solutions, specialty fertilizers, soil inoculants, humic acids, plant extracts, soil amendments and fertilizer additives that are not only effective but environmentally and applicator friendly as well. Performance Nutrition agricultural fertility and specialty products are sold across the country by local dealers familiar with local growing practices and problems.
• To amend and correct “stressors” that inhibit plant performance and vitality;
DOWNLOAD THE NEW PERFORMANCE NUTRITION MOBILE APP Search through our complete list of Performance Nutrition products and programs tailored to meet your specific needs.
Who We Are
PERFORMANCE IS OUR FIRST NAME®
• To utilize the available natural resources to provide nutrition for plants and soil microbes;
THE WISE CHOICE WHEN FEEDING YOUR TURF NutriWise Carbon Based Bio-fertilizer with a microbial package Improves soil fertility Fixes nitrogen from the atmosphere Solubilizes phosphate and unlocks potassium from the soil Eliminates growth surges Supplies the ecosystem with beneficial microbes ü ü ü ü ü www.PNfertilizers.com 732-888-8000 | info@pnfertilizers.com
In some ways we as turf pirates coexist with the water gremlins after all they help keep us and our irrigation folks gainfully employed. We try to minimize their mischief and anticipate their shenanigans but they have a gift like I said for popping up when least expected and demanding your time and attention. Water gremlins will occasionally call a truce and spend their times exploring pipes and wet wells generally staying out of sight and thus out of mind and this usually sets up a geyser moment. You come in
and see an “old Faithful” sized geyser rising over the tree line making a small river but magically not triggering a low pressure shut down because water gremlins love to see water fly upwards and outwards it’s what they do, they make water and mud art for the simple act of well, it makes them happy. Turf Pirates understand and respect this water based symbiont. The battle rages for tight water systems verses displays of water mayhem but take heart turf pirates as there will come a time when you embrace all things as good and challenges as character building opportunities and that water gremlins help add spice and special memories to your career and of course to the culture that is the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates which brings us to this month’s question, do you believe in water gremlins?
Water gremlins do exist. They strike new irrigation systems and old. They strike pipes, wires, technology and valves equally. They generally strike at 2:00 am or Friday evenings at the end of the day. They know when you are not expecting them to strike and that’s their call to arms. They are sometimes called air hammers or soil shifts (for my friends in Dallas Fort Worth you are surely aware of the dreaded black gumbo soil shift every time it’s too hot/cold or too wet/dry).
Turf Pirate's Journal $ Water Gremlins $
56 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
Rated as the #1 water gremlin geyser ever photographed by A&HTTP. The leak covered the entire fairway tree line to tree line complete with ice on the edges. It was on the Stonemont course in Georgia on a 40+ year old mainline, it was a master work of water mayhem on a Sunday morning.
Greetings Turf Pirates and welcome to another thrilling edition of a Turf Pirates Journal. This month’s walk through the history of Turf Piracy delves into the supernatural, specifically the existence of water gremlins. There are those who doubt they exist and there are those who are completely sure they do not exist and then there are seasoned Turf Pirates who have deeply experienced the work of water gremlins and thus much like the wind, you cannot see them but you can feel their presence and certainly see where they have been. By now you either know what I am talking about or perhaps need a bit of yarn spinning to see the light so here goes and try to keep on open mind.
over older properties, it seems over time a population of water gremlins can grow to very large numbers. It has also been surmised that water gremlins have been aided and abetted by multiple crew members at various times and through various means. Now you are starting to see the truth.
Elite Turf Pirate irrigators can spot the work of a water gremlin from a nautical mile away and they truly embrace the battle to keep the water gremlins at bay or at least out of the pump house. Lord help you should a water gremlin get loose in your Variable Frequency Drive (VFD). Does anyone remember the Archimedes series of VFD’s? If you do then you certainly believe in water gremlins. Water gremlins have also been known to re-repair complex water piping using 15 couplings where 2 would have been normal. I have dug up many of these water gremlin archeological sites especially taking
By Anthony L. Williams, MG, CGCS, CGM
FOR ITANDGOLFALLISALLCANBEUSGA.ORG
In 2022, the University of Florida’s turfgrass science program marks 100 years of turfgrass research, teaching
Many Florida golf course superintendents have long followed the recommended best management practices (BMPs) from University of Florida turfgrass experts, but their certification process is now recognized in a new Florida law that took effect July 1.
“The golf industry conducts a water use survey every five years,” said Unruh, who is also the UF/IFAS Extension state turf specialist. “Since the first survey in 2005, water use on golf courses has been reduced by 29%. More importantly, when you look at water use per acre, golf courses are using water more efficiently. This is largely due to the adoption of BMPs.”
Unruh was part of a group that created the first Florida golf course BMPs, published in 2007. Regularly updated, the state’s guide is now easily accessible online via the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). It covers topics from design and construction to irrigation, fertilizer and pesticide practices, and even extends to pollinator protection and energy conservation.
and Extension work. The team includes scientists across multiple disciplines working together to identify the best turfgrass varieties and management practices for Florida golf courses, landscapes and beyond.
the golf course superintendents in our state have already taken on.”
58 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
“This statute broadens the voluntary certification program and affords BMPcertified golf course superintendents exemption from certain local training and ordinances relating to water and fertilizer use,” said J. Bryan Unruh, UF/IFAS West Florida Research and Education Center associate director and turfgrass scientist. “But for the most part, it’s just memorializing the environmental responsibility
All of these areas are covered in the UF certification program for golf course BMPs. Under the new
Florida statute codifies golf course management practices backed by UF/IFAS turfgrass science
For the past two decades, Unruh has guided the golf industry to adopt science-backed practices that are economically and environmentally friendly.
law, superintendents complete the certification program and renew every four years with continuing education training offered by UF/IFAS. “When COVID hit, it really forced us into offering the certification program online,” Unruh added. Now, the program is returning to some live trainings, as well, but the $80 online course will remain available. Unruh’s efforts grew beyond Florida, too, after GCSAA announced an initiative in 2017 to establish golf course BMPs in all 50 states. Unruh and his team used the Florida-developed guidelines as a starting point for content development through a web-based tool that allowed states to craft their BMP manuals. They met
“The passing of Bill 967 is a testament to the dedication superintendents and others in the turf industry have to maintaining golf courses through environmental best practices,” Evans said. “Florida was one of the earliest adopters of state golf course BMPs, so it is not surprising that industry leaders in the state were committed to seeing them recognized by law. We congratulate everyone in Florida for their hard work and success.”
59Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
ABOUT UF/IFAS
their goal in December 2020 with the 50th state’s guide finalized.
GCSAA chief executive officer Rhett Evans acknowledged Florida’s trailblazing history in golf course BMPs in a press release recognizing the passage of House Bill 967.
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and awardwinning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings sciencebased solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. ifas.ufl.edu | @UF_IFAS
By Cecilia Brown
Professional golfer Greg Norman and Drew Veazey of Superior Turf Farms
Veazey felt inclined to bring a better product to the market and started by growing Certified 419 Bermuda. He said this was around the same time that the golf industry started demanding Georgia Certified sod so that’s when they stepped into the business.
Superior Turf, Inc. in Tifton, Georgia has grown from 75 acres and 3 employees in 2002 to 25 employees and nearly 700 acres of production throughout South Georgia, making it one of the largest producers of turfgrass in the state. Owner Drew Veazey explains that the past 20 years of work have been busy.
60 Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
One of the first courses Veazey worked on was at Treyburn Country Club in Durham, NC while working for golf course architect Mike Riley from Atlanta. He also worked with Bill Bergin and Rees Jones and eventually held an internship under Randy Waldrum at the Golf Club of Georgia in Atlanta in 1994. Veazey shared that the coolest golf course he helped build during that time was the Auburn University Club in Alabama. That last course motivated Veazey to switch from golf construction to sod farming full-time.
“After that, I entered into the turf business a little bit and eventually went out on my own in 2002 when I started
Superior Turf, Inc. supplied a lot of Latitude 36® Bermudagrass to the Robert Trent Jones trails in Alabama. They also supplied a big job at the Grand Hotel in Mobile, Alabama last year. “We just got finished with the number one golf course voted by Golf Digest, the McLemore Club. We put Latitude 36 on that in North Georgia,” Veazey said.
Former Golf Course Builder Leads Sod Farm into 20th Year of Business
Drew Veazey at Superior Turf Farms
“I had built my contact list up of superintendents and architects and I’d had a couple of people ask me if I’d ever thought about getting into the turf business. The turf business was booming and doing pretty well. My family came from a background in farming and my brother was in the golf course construction business at the time.”
Superior has sent sod overseas to Egypt, Africa, the Bahamas and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. “We just completed a big project at a golf course in Santo Domingo with Latitude 36 this past year.”
Veazey started working in the turf business when he was just 15 years old. He worked for Ray Jensen with Tifton Turf in Georgia for a while before venturing into the golf industry. He traveled around and built about 10 golf courses throughout the Southeast including venues in Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, Pinehurst and Alabama. Veazey went to college at Lake City Community College in Florida, which is where many turf and golf professionals learned the business.
Major Projects
Superior Turf,” Veazey said. Though he’d been a farming kid since his parents grew cotton and peanuts in Georgia, he was the first family member to work in the turfgrass industry.
Veazey said there are a few notable changes in the sod industry over the past 20 years. “I think the demand for certified grass is a must and Georgia has a very good certification program. The golf industry has changed to so many different varieties now. It’s hard to keep up with the various changes from one year to the next.”
Superior has a store near Dawsonville, Georgia called Superior Turf Atlanta Outlet where they drop sod and sell to homeowners. They also sell several pallets at a time to landscapers from this
outlet. Veazey said like most sod farms in the area, they ship turfgrass into Atlanta every night. They have two employees at the outlet store, one is a sales guy and the other helps with deliveries. Industry Changes and New Varieties
Veazey is a proud father and sod farmer. He looks forward to continuing his farm operations into the 20th year of operations next year supplying landscape contractors, builders, golf courses, parks, schools, universities, municipalities and homeowners throughout the South Georgia area and beyond with premium quality turfgrass sod. Learn more about Superior Turf, Inc. www.superiorturffarms.com.
They also supply washed sprigs for turfgrass installations. Veazey has a top-quality sod washing mechanism set up at the farm so he can prepare and ship washed sprigs to customers.
between. He said he’ll probably only do one of them and pass on two others just depending on what they are.
Another way Veazey said he’s seen the
Abbey, is currently taking classes at Valdosta State University. Their oldest daughter, Jamie, just graduated with her Master’s Degree from Kennesaw State University and accepted an agricultural communication teaching position at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.
Veazey said that it’s been a remarkable experience growing Superior into the turfgrass business it is today. Currently, their farms stretch from Tifton down to Ashburn, Georgia. Veazey is married and his wife Wanda worked as a Pre-kindergarten Administrator in Tifton and just recently retired last year. Wanda and Drew have two daughters. Their youngest,
He said the universities develop so many new turfgrass varieties that it can be hard for sod farmers to keep up with sometimes. Veazey said each year he tries to explore the new varieties coming out. Currently, he has three on his desk that he’s deciding
He said they also look and see what the golf course industry and superintendents are saying since they’re in the field every day and see what their needs are. Veazey said they’re normally looking for a bermudagrass that can withstand high traffic or has good shade tolerance.
Superior Turf, Inc. has been open to trialing new turfgrass varieties in their early stages. Veazey said that the new turfgrass varieties are focused on water conservation aspects. “We have a chance to test them and see how drought tolerant they really are. I think we’ve saved water on the farm. These new varieties grow slower, so
industry change over time is through the enhancement of automated sod cutters. “We can cut different size pallets and different shapes of grass; from slabs and super slabs to mini rolls and big rolls. That’s definitely changed and we can get more out the door with less help than we used to.”
we can mow less, have fewer fertilizer requirements and water less.”
“We have to try new varieties or we can’t keep up with the changing aspects of staying up with the golf industry. Usually, these new varieties are good for about 10 years and then we move on to something else,” Veazey said. “We have to stay on the cutting edge of trying new stuff, that’s just a part of what we do in the industry.”
“We look at what the varieties are set up for. Are they set up as homeowner varieties or golf course varieties? We decide on whatever we feel like meets our demand. Are these good varieties to send overseas and do they have drought tolerance? That’s a big thing when we ship grass overseas since most of it is for resorts or places on the ocean where they have brackish water so those are the varieties that we look at,” he said.
Veazey said they cut anywhere between 10-17 loads of sod per day, Monday through Friday. Of their sales, he estimates 75% are for athletic fields and the landscape market and about 25% for golf courses.
Superior
Superior grows several turfgrass varieties, including CitraBlue® St. Augustine, EMPIRE® Zoysia, Innovation™ Zoysiagrass, Latitude 36® Bermudagrass and NorthBridge® Bermudagrass. EMPIRE was the first proprietary grass Veazey started growing about 8 years ago. Superior also grows Emerald Zoysia, Meyer Zoysia, Certified 419 Bermuda, common centipede, Santee® Centipede, fescue in the fall, Floratam St. Augustine and TifTuf® Bermuda.
61Golf Central • Volume 23, Issue 6
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.
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.
GET INVOLVED LEARN MORE PATRIOTGOLFDAY.ORGAT MARATHONEVENTDONATIONBOX HOST CONDUCTAN A GOLF PARTICIPATE IN THE CAMPAIGN
