TURF, TRAV:EL, PHILANTHROPY, LIFESTYLE
MICHIGAN'S MAGNIFICENT
Discover the Ultimate in Luxury and Exclusivity at
Where the good life comes to play.
Welcome to Plantation Bay, the premier private golf course community in Ormond Beach, Florida, where luxury, sophistication, and active living blend seamlessly. Our recent rebranding and the introduction of our new 40,500-squarefoot golf and lifestyle center, The Founders Club, have elevated the community to new heights, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an unmatched lifestyle. Here, every day is an opportunity to indulge in the finest amenities, enjoy exceptional activities, and become part of an exclusive community where family values and premier membership take center stage.
A New Era of Excellence
Our new ambiance marks the dawn of a new era in which we’ve meticulously crafted a community that caters to the discerning tastes of our members. The Founders Club stands as a testament to this commitment, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a myriad of luxurious amenities that promise to elevate your lifestyle. Plantation Bay is designed to provide an unparalleled experience for every member.
The Ultimate Family Experience
We understand the importance of family. Our community is built on the principles of inclusivity, activity, and togetherness. Whether you’re a family with young children or a retiree, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Imagine a place where your children and grandchildren can explore, play, and grow in a safe and nurturing environment while you relax and unwind in our world-class spa and fitness center. With a plethora of family-friendly activities, sports memberships, and events, Plantation Bay is the perfect place to create lasting memories.
Championship Golf Courses
Golf enthusiasts will revel in the 45 distinct holes set among Florida’s natural beauty. Our courses offer a unique and challenging experience for players of all skill levels. The meticulously maintained fairways and greens, combined withbreathtaking scenery, make Plantation Bay a golfer’s paradise. Whether you’re perfecting your swing or enjoying a leisurely round with friends, our courses provide an unforgettable golfing experience.
Unmatched Amenities & Activities
Life here is an endless adventure filled with op-
portunities for pampering, staying in shape, and playing. Our 7,000-sq. ft. Spa and Fitness Center is the epitome of relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a wide range of services to help you look and feel your best. But the amenities don’t stop there. Plantation Bay boasts a variety of activities and clubs designed to engage and entertain every member. From tennis and pickleball to swimming and fishing, our community offers a wide range of activities. Enjoy culinary classes, social events, and more. Our vibrant events calendar caters to diverse interests, ensuring there’s always something exciting for everyone.
The Perfect Membership
Being a member of Plantation Bay means more than just access to exceptional amenities; it means becoming part of a close-knit, sophisticated community where every detail is designed with you in mind. Our membership options are tailored to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families, offering a range of benefits that enhance your lifestyle. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to all our facilities, including our dining establishments, and invitations to special events that bring our community together.
Discover Plantation Bay Today
Plantation Bay is more than just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle that you’ll fall in love with. The moment you enter the gates, you’ll understand why our members never want to leave. From the lush landscapes and meticulously maintained grounds to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, our community is the epitome of luxury living. We invite you to visit us and experience the lifestyle for yourself. Take a tour of our stunning community, explore our new club, and see why so many have chosen to call Plantation Bay home.
For more information about membership and to schedule your visit, please contact us at 844-325-1658 or visit our website at PlantationBayGolf.com
Fox HollowGolfClub
Rolling fairways andfive sets of teesoffer new challengesevery time you drive the ball.
Lexington Oaks GolfClub
Withamultitude of lakes and wetlands addingchallenge and character to thecourse, it's hardtoforgetaroundhere.
Plantation PalmsGolfClub
Challenginggreens, rolling terrain andtight landings make this coursea true golfer's dream play.
lake JovitaGolf &CountryClub
The picturesquerollinghills and elevationchangeson Lake Jovita's twocourseswill test yourskills.
BeaconWoodsGolfClub
Eachholeisdesignedtobringout thebestin bothnoviceand pro golfers, with sportingfairways and well-guardedgreens.
TheGrovesGolf&CountryClub
Designed with nature's best interestsinmind, The Groves isknown asThe Longest Short Coursein Florida.
Saddlebrook Resort&GolfClub
Boasting two picturesque ArnoldPalmer-designed courses, it.'sno surprise Saddlebrook isa well-known destinationfor world-classgolf.
Seven SpringsGolf & Country Club
Withone course perfect for beginners andanotherthat will challenge thepros, the whole family willhavea great time playinghere.
Golf Does a Planet Good
As our world turns, we open our pages to new, exciting, chapters in the golf industry. In times of uncertainty, it’s crucial to remember that we are all part of a greater story – one where every swing, every cut, and every decision we make contributes to the beautiful tapestry of our lives. I find myself reflecting on profound wisdom as I turned another year older.
BTW, Thank You All for the flowers, champagne, wine, cakes, cards, and heartfelt messages. I’m mighty grateful! I recently read the following: “Rivers do not drink their own water, trees do not eat their own fruits, sun does not shine on itself and flowers do not spread their fragrance for themselves. Living for others is a rule of nature. We are all born to help each other.”
After witnessing the recent events on the 18th green of the Travelers Championship, I feel compelled to address the protest that disrupted the final moments of what was otherwise an exhilarating tournament. The actions taken on the 18th green raised important questions about the intersection of golf and environmental concerns that take me back to the original drawing board for Turf Life. The shirts worn by protesters said this, “No Golf on a Dead Planet”. Immediately, I went to my desk for a sleeve of Turf Life golf balls with the printed message “Golf Does a Planet Good”…our original campaign for building awareness.
From the beginning, Turf Life’s mission is to highlight the oftenunsung heroes of our sport: the agronomists and groundskeepers who work tirelessly to maintain our courses while prioritizing environmental stewardship. These dedicated professionals are constantly innovating ways to reduce water usage, minimize chemical inputs, and promote biodiversity on our courses.
The protesters at the Travelers expressed concerns about the future of our planet. While their methods were disruptive, their message underscores the importance of the work being done by environmentally conscious agronomists across the country who go above and beyond to integrate courses into their local ecosystems. They recognize that a well-managed golf course actually serves as a sanctuary for wildlife and a model of sustainable land use. These professionals are proving daily that golf can be part of the solution, not the problem. And That’s a Fact Jack!!
Moving forward, let’s continue to support and highlight the positive environmental practices in our sport. As seen monthly in the Turf Life section in GCM dedicated to this respect and awareness for these industry Pros. Golf leads by example, showing how recreation and conservation can go hand in hand. Through the dedicated work of Golf Course Superintendents everywhere, we can ensure that golf remains a sport we can enjoy on a healthy, thriving planet for generations to come.
Protect Your Turf!!!
Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum (terrie@golfcentralmag.com)
Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates (shannon@golfcentralmag.com)
Graphic Design: Melahn Cable
Social Media Manager: Nafanua Marlowe
Turf Pirate: Anthony Williams
Social Media Consultant & Editorial Contributor: Kennedy Lee
Editorial Marketing Writer & Multimedia Content Creator: Joseph Harmon
Photojournalist: Greg Corbo
Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson, Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan, Becky Galloway, Madison Coates, Mac Carraway
Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr.
International Correspondent: Dave Finn
Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Bob Bolton, Greg Corbo, Elisa Gaudet, Holly Geoghegan, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Anthony Williams, Tres Fenton, Ronald Malone
Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired
Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail
Video Visionary: Amy Fox
Business Advisor: Jim Para
Oversight Officer/Uber Driver: Rocky Miller
Media Partners: DSP Media; John Gerber, JP Peterson, Nick Geddes, Holly Geoghegan, Golf Insiders, GMS; Tony Leodora, Traveling Golfer
Golf The Wise Way: Greg and Beverly Wise, Photojournalists
Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by:
Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations
4313 Berwick Dr, Lake Wales, FL 33859
NEW PHONE: 863.875.6863
E-mail: info@golfcentralmag.com
©2024 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 self-addressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.
2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the
MICHIGAN’S BOYNE GOLF CONTINUES TO SURPRISE AND DELIGHT
by Neal Kotlarek
In 1963, President John F. Kennedy
reminded us that the world does not stand still. “Change is the law of life,” he declared. “And those who only look to the past or the present are certain to miss the future.”
Knowingly or not, the visionaries behind BOYNE Golf in Northern Michigan have fully embraced Kennedy’s words. At a time when so many golf properties across the country have settled in to enjoy the fruits of America’s post-pandemic embrace of the game, the myriad of golf courses, hotels, and amenities that make up the Boyne properties have been continuously expanded, upgraded, and a few even created from scratch.
As background, BOYNE Golf encompasses three resorts across a relatively short expanse of Michigan that includes Boyne Falls, Harbor Springs, and Bay Harbor. Stationed at or around the hotels are 10 delightful, challenging and amazingly diverse golf courses, including two Boyne Mountain courses, Crooked Tree Golf Club, The Highlands courses(4), and
Bay Harbor(3). Ask someone who has played any or all of them and they will tell you that all 10 are picture-postcard-perfect in beauty and conditioning. That said, each course has either recently received marked improvements or is slated for such in the coming months and years.
How do you improve perfection? Bernie Friedrich, currently the director of golf course renovation and development (and 2023 PGA National Golf Course Executive of the Year) laughed at the question when interviewed in early May. “Like everything else in life, golf courses change as they mature. Maybe the bunkers have filled in. Maybe the greens have gotten smaller than the architect originally intended. Maybe a course’s drainage system needs to be improved. With 10 courses to manage, we try to stay on top of how we can provide the optimal golf experience for our guests and members. So that involves critical assessments of each aspect of the courses— from the
design to the maintenance to the playability to the tree coverage.” Friedrich cited the famed Donald Ross Memorial Course at the Highlands at Harbor Springs as a prime example of this process. “Technology has really helped us understand the subtleties involved in the architecture of Donald Ross,” Friedrich said. When that course was built, famous Ross holes from around the world were emulated to provide players with the look and feel of a Ross design. “But all these decades later,” Friedrich continued, “we were provided access to the original drawings of these famous holes and even received satellite imagery of what those holes look like at their origin courses.”
BOYNE Golf engaged prominent Michigan architect Raymond Hearn Golf Course Design to review each course in the portfolio and provide input on improving the player’s experience. “Regarding the Donald Ross Memorial Course,” Hearn said in a May interview, “we talked about providing guests with a true ‘Donald Ross Experience’
that hopefully provides insights on how Ross challenged players, particularly on approach shots.”
Given access to original sketches, maps, and photos of some of the greatest Ross courses, the architect was able to convey the intricacies of Ross designs.
“The fact is,” Hearn said, “most of us will never have the chance to experience some of the great Ross works at those great private clubs like Aronimink, Seminole, and Inverness. The single goal of the renovation project was to provide players with the next best option.”
Fans of great golf architecture are treated to the works of many of the world’s premier designers on any extended trip to BOYNE Golf. The Monument Course at Boyne Mountain incorporates holes inspired by the greatest holes of Dr. Alister Mackenzie, George Fazio, Robert Trent Jones Sr., and Pete Dye. And speaking of Jones Sr., his 1966 masterpiece The Heather course is located at The Highlands and remains one of Michigan’s premier layouts. Along with The Heather and the Donald Ross Memorial courses, the Highlands also features the Arthur Hills course. Any golf trip should necessarily include this tract on the itinerary as the par-5 No. 13 begins from a tee built on top of the world and descends across and over a valley before climbing up and then down a knoll toward a massive green.
“The golf industry has experienced amazing growth following the pandemic years,” said Ken Griffin, director of sales and
marketing for BOYNE Golf in an interview. “We’ve seen new interest in golf by couples, women, juniors, and groups. Golf has always been a social game of inclusiveness. We have responded to these new channels with an entire reimaging of our properties, including expanded spa services, new luxury accommodations at The Highlands and Boyne Mountain, and food
offerings that span all preferences from grab-and-go to fine dining.” Along with amenities that include swimming pools, an 88,000 square foot indoor waterpark, ziplining, and horseback riding. And the resorts continue to expand with a 1,200-feet-long pedestrian SkyBridge at Boyne Mountain to provide exhilarating views and light displays of that vast property.
“We pride ourselves on creating unique ways to enhance the Boyne experience,” “We want to provide ‘wow experiences’ to both new guests and return guests.”
—Ken Griffin, director of sales and marketing for BOYNE Golf
“We pride ourselves on creating unique ways to enhance the Boyne experience,” Griffin said. “We want to provide ‘wow experiences’ to both new guests and return guests.”
In total, the three Boyne properties offer hundreds of accommodation options, from the elegant cottages and suites at the Inn at Bay Harbor to family villas at Boyne Mountain, townhomes at The Highlands, and charming, affordable hotel rooms at each resort.
Golf, of course, remains a point of emphasis at all three Boyne Resorts. Located in Boyne Falls, Boyne Mountain is renowned
The Alpine Course Hole #12
Bay Harbor Quarry #5 Fairway
across all of Michigan for its popular ski hills. Parts of those hills serve double-duty during spring, summer, and fall in the designs of both The Alpine and Monument courses. Players get to understand the size and scale of both courses right out of the gate as the ride between the clubhouse
surface which hovers above the lake. You will need an additional few minutes following the hole to take photos of your foursome standing behind this green seemingly on the edge of the world.
The Quarry nine is a reminder of that property’s humble roots as grounds of a cement factory that
“The fact is, most of us will never have the chance to experience some of the great Ross works at those great private clubs like Aronimink, Seminole, and Inverness. The single goal of the renovation project was to provide players with the next best option.”
— prominent Michigan architect Raymond Hearn
and the first tee takes you up the mountain for a magnificent view and tees up towering drives toward fairways below. The Monument Course incorporates the tribute holes, while The Alpine Course— which annually hosts the Michigan PGA’s Tournament of Champions, offers breathtaking views on holes lined with soaring trees.
Designed by Art Hills, the 27 holes at Bay Harbor are three unique 9-hole courses, each with different landscapes. The Links takes players alongside cliffs hugging Lake Michigan. The Scottish linksinspired course is highlighted by the stunning par-5 No. 7 that serves up a huge tee shot landing area in between mounds and thick rough. Following a well-placed second shot, which avoids the perilous right side of the fairway, the approach must keep to the right side of the putting
was decommissioned in the 1980s. One hole calls for a tee shot over a 40-foot gorge while others weave around the quarry and around natural ponds and wetlands.
The par-3 No. 8 features Lake Michigan as both a backdrop and a hazard behind the green. No. 9 is a memorable finishing hole lined by the lake on the left and drops down to a huge green protected on the right side by a massive bunker.
The Preserve is nestled in a hardwood forest and abounds with wildflowers, native wetlands, and an abundance of wildlife.
Following eight holes through the woods, the course ends on a 186-yard par 3 featuring a sloping green postured above the crystal blue waters of Lake Michigan.
Just across the highway from Bay Harbor, Crooked Tree Golf Club provides 18 perfectly manicured
championship holes perched high on bluffs overlooking Little Traverse Bay. No trip to Bay Harbor is complete without drinks and dinner at the opulent Inn at Bay Harbor, a Marriott Collection Hotel. A gourmet dinner on the veranda overlooking the lake will make for the most memorable meal of your year.
In the coming months, two new golf experiences will become available at The Highlands. Assuming good growing conditions, seeding will be completed in late spring on the highly anticipated Doon Brae Short Course. Designed by Hearn, the par-3 course is built along the base of the property’s sprawling ski hill. When finished, it will feature a collection of nine holes featuring greens inspired by some of the legendary putting surface designs on British Isles courses. Next to the first tee of Doon Brae will rest a massive Himalayas-style putting green.
“This is a really interesting and exciting project,” said Hearn. “Since Boyne has a diverse clientele which includes avid groups of golfers along with couples and families, the goal was to make a course that would be fun for every level of player. The course is laid out on the side of an impressive ski hill, so the goal was to have the majority of holes downhill and sidehills to reduce the number of uphill climbs required to navigate the nine holes. The emphasis will be on fun! ”
The target opening of Doon Brae is this fall. And by then, don’t be surprised if still more plans are unveiled for even more amenities at the three resorts. In coming years, plans to add a music venue, an outdoor sports complex, a new beach house, and perhaps even a new Pete Dye-designed golf course that was planned for the property years ago.
“Our vision of Boyne Resorts goes well beyond 2030,” said Friedrich. “If you like what we have offered golfers, families, and couples up until now, stay tuned for even greater and better experiences in the coming days, months, and years.”
The Monument Course Hole #18
THE GOLF, EPIC. THE TRIP, EASY.
Booking now through 2025.
Getting to BOYNE Golf has never been easier... Whether flying into nearby Traverse City (TVC) from 20 U.S. airports or our newly renovated private 5200’ airport at Boyne Mountain, our 10 magnificent courses are closer than you think. Call 855.427.6316 to book now through 2025!
� In Memoriam � Shane Sharp
When he entered the room, it was all smiles. He listened intently, added smart points and showed a quick wit with impeccable timing, delivery and catalyzing laugh. Immediately likeable and respected, he was your friend from the get-go and vice versa. Feeling at ease in his presence was a given.
Shane Sharp passed away on June 9 at only 51 years old. He bravely battled a brain tumor with the class exemplified during healthier times.
A dear friend to many and a force in the golf PR and media world, Shane started his career as an outstanding writer, then outstanding editor for travelgolf. com. From there, he was heavily recruited by Buffalo Communications (now Buffalo Groupe), the golf marketing firm that catapulted to prominence with his mighty contributions. An ensuing five-year stint running his own golf content firm, Southbound4, further brought out Shane’s thoughtfulness
and congeniality that defines our sport and business.
While Shane loved the golf industry – and the golf industry loved him back – and the tight relationships cultivated in the process, business was secondary. He was a family man like no other. Shane adored wife Jennifer and pride-and-joy kids Rian and Ben, singing their praises every step of the way.
Golf misses Shane and, from his family at Golf Central Magazine, may his memory be a blessing.
WHERE GREENS STRETCH AS WIDE AS THE SKY
BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER! SPREAD OUT AND PLAY ON@SPECTACULAR COURSES.
THE ULTIMATE RESORT-LEVEL GOLF EXPERIENCE
Level up your game at Aileron Golf Club, the newly imagined championship golf club exclusive to guests of Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor.
Aileron Golf Club & Sunseeker Resort
Designed by renowned golf course architect and former collegiate golfer Kipp Schulties, Aileron Golf Club offers Sunseeker Resort guests and resort members the ultimate championship-level golf experience. The private course exclusive to hotel patrons and resort members, features five different teeing selections on every hole, providing golfers with options of play from 5,000 yards to over 7,000 yards. Golfers will marvel at the over 664 yard par 5, one of the longest par 5s in the state. French for “little wing,” Aileron takes its name from the trailing edges of an aircraft wing, which help stabilize
and steer during flight — and just as ailerons guide a plane, this world-class course will guide your golf game to new limits with the ultimate resort-level golf experience.
Aileron Course Features
The championship-level course winds through Florida’s native landscape and water features, mimicking the ailerons of an aircraft. Aileron’s golf course features memorable holes like the “Tailspin” trio on the back nine and conditions comparable to any private club experience. Aileron has five tee sets for different skill levels. The 7,200-yard Empennage tees will host future Tour events and challenge the best players. Course Rating – 74.1 Slope Rating – 134
Exclusive Clubhouse
Experience golf as it was meant to be played all year long with exclusive access to the fully reimagined course and brand new 10,800 sq. ft. clubhouse. Aileron’s clubhouse is a luxurious extension of Sunseeker Resort, featuring the fully-stocked Apparel & Pro Shop, comfortable locker rooms, and friendly stay. Before or after your round, unwind at Aileron Aviator’s Club, a full-service restaurant and bar, and enjoy a meal, drinks, or cocktails as you take in stunning views of the course from this relaxed, contemporary atmosphere.
Aileron Golf Academy
For those looking to improve their golf game or just refresh on some skills, Aileron Golf Club is home to Aileron Golf Academy which offers everything from private lessons and golf schools to golf fitness and club fitting lead by experienced Academy Instructors. Perfect for beginners or seasoned golfers, Aileron Golf Academy’s Golf School features 1-, 2-, and 3-day schools with instruction from PGA Professionals. Students are also able to gain access to state-of-theart golf technology including the
Swing Launch Monitor and Awesome Golf Games by Rapsodo. At the Callaway Golf Club Fitting, golfers will be able to utilize the club-fitting system to take accurate measurements using the Full Swing radar technology and various test clubs to evaluate 11 separate components to establish club needs.
Become a Sunseeker Resort Member
Sunseeker Resort offers four membership levels — Resorter, Insider, Explorer, and Traveler — Each membership experience provides exclusive access to world-class amenities such as a stunning ground level resort style pool, rooftop adults-only pool and lounge, an 18-hole championshiplevel golf course and practice facilities, 20 unique food and beverage concepts, a luxurious spa and salon, a state-of-the-art fitness center with training classes, special perks and so much more.
Full
The Importance of our Youth
Our youth are our future . Who will be playing golf in 25 years? The kids of today! Who will be working and maintaining our golf courses in 25 years? The kids of today! For the golf industry to continue to thrive into the future, we need to be involved within our local communities and get our kids involved and exposed to the game of golf. Golf Courses should be reaching out to local youth programs, schools, scouts,
4H, FFA, and providing junior golf programs. This may sound like a lot, but today’s youth will hopefully turn into our customers or employees in the future!
There is a father-son duo in Westminster, Maryland that has reached over 17,000 young golfers already! Between pioneering a junior golf program to hosting First Green STEAM learning programs, these two passionate professionals are ensuring that golf continues for generations to come. Paul Kraushofer has played golf for over 60 years and has been a level III certified USGTF Teaching Professional since 2001. Paul had a vision to start a junior golf program back in 1994. So he approached the owners of his local public golf course, Oakmont Green Golf Club (Hampstead, MD), to get one started and 30 years later it is still running strong. Every Monday night during summer break his program averages 50-60 kids, between 5-12 years old. The juniors participate in drills, practices, learning new skills, and honing old ones. We figure Paul has introduced golf to over 16,000 kids since the
Junior Program’s inception.
His son, Ryan Kraushofer, a GCSAA Certified Golf Course Superintendent and a PastPresident of the Mid-Atlantic GCSAA chapter, has an impressive resume as well. Ryan began attending his dad’s junior golf programs around age 10 and started working on the golf course at age 12. Ryan is just as passionate about building the future of the golf industry as his father. Having a dual role as Superintendent and General Manager at Westminster National Golf Course (Westminster, MD), Ryan has seen the challenges when it comes to hiring and retaining employees over the years and felt like something needed to be done. In 2016, Ryan, along with his peers from the Mid-Atlantic GCSAA, hosted their inaugural GCSAA First Green field trip at Westminster National Golf Course. To date, Ryan has now hosted approximately 18 fields trips and roughly 1,700 students. The First Green program typically involves 5th graders from local elementary schools and introduces them to
Mark Jones, GCS at Winter's Run
all aspects of being a golf course superintendent. The students rotate through six different stations: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math, and the game of golf. Hosting First Green field trips only takes a few hours out of his day but makes memories that will last a lifetime for the students attending. Ryan believes that First Green has proven to be an invaluable tool for superintendents and that every golf course should start offering some sort of educational field trip to their local school districts. His hope is that by exposing the students in his community to golf and golf course management at an early age, their interest is piqued, and they may start a career in the golf industry like he did.
This father-son team has shown so much passion for junior golf that their programs keep growing and getting better each year. Both Paul’s junior golf program and Ryan’s First Green field trips have been covered by local and national news stations, newspapers, and industry magazines. This continued exposure ensures that the golf industry stays relevant in their communities. Maybe one of the juniors will become a golf course superintendent or decide to be a USGTF teaching professional. Whatever profession the junior golfer or field trip attendee chooses, lets hope that golf will still be part of their life due to the passionate work of Paul and Ryan Kraushofer exposing youth to this industry.
Paul K, USGTF Helping with First Green
Paul and Ryan Kraushofer
Ryan Kraushofer , Fox News interview
Ryan with Hunter Pates, EPA
Where did you grow up?
Orlando, FLA
Which group of people did you associate most with in high school? I was friends with everyone!
What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch?
To play: Golf!
To watch: Football – GO BUCS!
What do you feel makes this club special?
Our expert staff and the sweet little town of Howey-in-the-Hills.
What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? What is your least favorite part?
Being outside, getting to enjoy nature and soak in the Florida sun, meeting new people!
If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing?
I would be in real estate or have my own pet sitting business.
What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl? Getting to meet Tiger Woods at our resort on Hole #9!?
What hobbies do you enjoy? Golf, Tennis, Pickleball
What is your idea of “the perfect date”? A trip to Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales OR Putt Putt.
Favorite comedian? Ali Wong
Favorite type of movie? Horror
Favorite charity to support? ASPCA
What else would you like for us to know about you?
I have three cats, just like Taylor Swift, named Simba, Blue and Smoky.
Friends Become Partners
Justin CARLTON, a long time ‘A’ shaper in the industry, partnered up with Lee MARSHALL, who spent his entire career designing golf courses partnered to create a unique golf design company known as CARLTON MARSHALL GOLF DESIGN. Justin and Lee met for the first time in the early 2000’s working on a project for Greg Norman Golf Course Design. Justin was the shaper and Lee was the design associate. After completing that project, they became acquaintances. Time went by until they met again in 2016…. Justin was the lead shaper and Lee was the lead design associate working on a project for Kipp Schulties Design, and then reloaded in 2016 on a different project but same positions. After completing those projects, they were friends. Their friendship was natural since both Justin and Lee had the same vision, opinions, and passion for the golf design and construction industry. After a few years went by both Justin and Lee decided it was time to put their experience to work…. for themselves. Their first collaboration as Carlton Marshall Golf Design was a challenging renovation in Orlando Florida called Ventura Country Club. This 4.5-milliondollar renovation included a new irrigation system, new redesigned USGA specified
greens, new redesigned bunkers, new redesigned tee locations, and drainage. A few major hole adjustments were also necessary including lake fills for extended green placements, tree removals for added site lines, and containment with strategic earth placement. The design criteria were to take a shorter course and extend the distances where possible, add strategic interest, and elevate the playing surfaces. Almost doubling in size, greens were enlarged to an average of 6,000 square feet which offset the added distance but allowed for contours and strategy to be introduced for multiple pin locations. Bunkers were designed to promote an ‘old school’ feel for the course. This included removing all bunker ‘noses’ throughout
the course in lieu of an irregular edging and allowing the faces to naturally grow. The philosophy was to let the top bunker edges remain ‘shaggy’ for a bolder look and less grooming. We were able to reduce the total bunker area for the course below 30,000 square feet by carefully shaping each one to an appropriate scale with maximum visibility and strategically placing them in locations for golfers who like to challenge the course. Once the plan was in place and accepted by the membership…. Covid and Inflation hit. As the golf industry boomed during that time…. projects also found themselves lacking supplies to finish, price increases unpredictable, and labor scarce. A golf club such as Ventura Country Club did not have the luxury of finishing the project
Lee (left) and Justin (Right)
Ventura Country Club
late or exceeding budget, which would have jeopardized their future. During the most difficult time Justin and Lee experienced in the golf industry, they can proudly say the project was executed on time and on budget. They were always confident in their design ability…. but the latter was a true success.
Following the completion of Ventura Country Club, CMGD was hired at Rio Pinar Golf Club. The course renovation completed in the summer of 2023 and included a unique feature…. a green shaped like the state of Florida. The ‘Florida’ green is over 14,000 square feet and can turn into an 18-hole putting course. CMGD also redesigned the driving range which includes synthetic targets and covered hitting bays using Trackman technology.
CMGD’s experience with high end synthetic turf projects awarded them a multi-projectbased contract with a golf entertainment group known as Chasing Aces. Currently, CMGD is under construction on a 25 million, 27-acre development known as Chasing Aces Golf Entertainment in Bossier, Louisiana. Situated next to the river front Margaritaville Resort Casino, the design includes a new 9-hole par three course using synthetic turf for the greens, tees, and approaches. The course will include a ‘progressive jackpot’ hole in one with feature with instant replay monitors. Other amenities for the facility include an 18-hole pro-putting course and driving range concept, both designed using synthetic turf and equipped with a new technology package not yet released to the public.
A few synthetic projects recently completed include Suncoast Golf Center and Academy, a 9-hole par 3 course (Sarasota, FL), short game
area for Old Palm Golf Club (Palm Beach Gardens, FL), private target green for professional golfer and design consultant Daniel Berger (Jupiter, FL), driving range at Long Boat Key Golf Club (Sarasota, FL) and Bay Beach Golf Course (Fort Meyers, FL). Other golf design projects under contract include the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes (Orlando, FL), Hawks Run Golf Course (Venice, FL), University Park Golf Club (Sarasota, FL) and St. Helens Golf Club (Warren, Oregon).
Sketch
Long Boat Key driving range
Suncoast synthetic green
Rio Pinar, FL Green
Bay Beach synthetic short game area
Proof of the Pudding, a leader in food service management and catering for prestige sporting events, entertainment arenas and college stadiums, announced it will serve as the exclusive hospitality services provider for the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, returning to PGA National Resort’s Champion Course, February 2025.
“We’re thrilled to partner with the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches to create amazing new hospitality offerings with fresh food concepts and updated
Named Official Catering and Concessions Partner for the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches
styles of service,” said Nick Klug, senior vice president of culinary at Proof of the Pudding. “We’ll craft a definitive experience with chef-prepared worldclass cuisine that showcases local flavors and presentation evocative of fine dining.”
Proof of the Pudding will manage food and beverage services for all premium hospitality and concession locations at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, the only PGA TOUR event in South Florida.
“Proof of the Pudding’s exceptional performance for over 40 years and their commitment to inspired food and beverage experiences, whether serving 2 guests or 100,000, make them an ideal partner as we evolve and
Gourmet Snacks
Nick Klug senior vice president of culinary Proof of the Pudding
transform the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches,” said executive director Todd Fleming. “We’re excited to leverage their creativity to reimagine and elevate the culinary experience for our guests.”
Proof of the Pudding has served top-notch cuisine, service and design for more than 45 years. The Company’s list of partnerships includes PGA Tour, Michelin Raceway & Tower, Duke University, Mississippi State University, Wake Forest University and Emory Sports Medicine Complex. Proof’s services include food service and venue management and large-scale corporate and social events. In 2023, Proof of the Pudding received investment from Bruin Capital, a global sports and entertainment investment company.
The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, formerly The Honda Classic, has been a mainstay on the PGA TOUR for more than four
decades. The tournament has a starstudded list of former champions and has made a massive impact on South Florida children’s charities with $6.5 million distribution to more than 50 philanthropic organizations in 2024 and $75.4 million over the past 42 years, including more than $59.5 million in the 17 years since the tournament
moved to PGA National Resort. The money impacts the lives of more than 100,000 children annually.
Premier Resort
Discover an endlessly entertaining, totally relaxing waterfront destination where life is so simple - and simply amazing. Stay and play here. Eat and drink here. Meet and greet here. Whether you’re staying for a few days or an entire season, our championship level golf club and the gulf coast’s finest amenities are the perfect accompaniments to creating the ultimate golf getaway.
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Beers, Brats and Bogies in Bavaria
by Dave Finn
Bavarians pride themselves on their beer, sausages and golf. Wanting to experience all three, I arrived in late September when Oktoberfest was in full swing, and my timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
Golf has been a part of Germany’s history since 1895, but Oktoberfest predates that milestone, by several decades so my first stop was Munich’s Theresienwiese. Surrounded by women wearing elegant dirndls and men sporting lederhosen, I’m swept up in tradition. The midway is buzzing and there is every kind of food truck imaginable featuring wursts, pretzels, crepes and more. I was tempted to sample all their wares, but the real draw was securing a spot in one of the main breweries Old Wiesn tents to listen to live music, dance and
enjoy being with people who were swept up with the celebration.
In between drinking and partying I managed to golf at three local golf courses. In honour of the festive cheer “Oans, zwoa, drei, g’suffa!” that translates as “one, two, three, drink!”, here are my three picks.
“Oans” Golfpark München Aschheim is only a 20-minute drive east of Munich. It is the closest championship golf course to the city and is easily accessible by public transit. The conditioning was superb and the rough around the trees were well groomed for ease and speed of play.
I quickly realize that there are
few elevations changes in this part of Germany, so parkland designs are the most prevalent –and this one is a beauty.
There are twelve holes where water can come into play, so my suggestion is to move forward one set of tee blocks to truly enjoy your experience.
“Zwoa” Golfclub München Eichenried had high expectations since it has hosted the BMW International Championship since 1989.
The greens were in great shape, with most having two levels to contend with. The bunker sand was soft, and consistent but the rest of
Octoberfest Celebrations
Golfclub München Eichenried
the conditioning was not up to par.
The relatively flat and narrow fairways were sparse and inconsistent. The heavy rough was incredibly thick, making it difficult to find your ball. The three nine-hole loops have tree-lined fairways surrounded by countryside as long as you don’t allow the electric power lines and towers to distract you. Still, on my next visit, I would take another swing at this championship venue.
“Drei” Golfclub Olching was established in the early ‘80s but 12 years ago this mature parkland layout was completely renovated. The eight ponds were enlarged, and all the bunkers and tee blocks replaced, turning the relatively flat topography into a visually appealing championship facility.
The clubhouse is more traditional Bavarian style with dark stained wood paneling and offers an expansive outdoor patio with great views of the finishing holes.
Course management is essential here since there are 14 holes where water is evident as well as over forty strategically placed bunkers to contend with.
This was the most difficult we played yet still fun if you swallow your pride and play from a comfortable distance.
“Prost” Cheers.
Golfpark München Aschheim
Gothic Architecture in Munich
Golfclub Olching
Jonathan (Patrick) Godley
AKA: Godley, JO-Nathan, Papa Jon, Big Swole, JP, Mr. Fairways, etc.
Where were you born? Did you grow up there?
I was born in the coastal Southeast area of the United States called Jekyll Island, Georgia. Our county is Glynn County, which includes St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Brunswick, Georgia. I have lived and grown up with all 3 of them, being that they’re all very close in proximity. Each has a short causeway over the ocean water and marshes for you to drive over to get to each one.
Is “acting your age” overrated?
It’s all situational. Laughter, positivity, and smiling are all some of the greatest parts of life we get to enjoy. It’s also important to be authentic, serious when needed, and empathetic to the situation at hand. It’s a balance, but it can be very key to all outcomes.
What do you do for a living?
I wish I was able to say Professional Golfer, but considering how hard the game of golf is, I knew I wouldn’t be going too far in that. I happily work in Sales
for a great company called The Hajoca Corporation. We are the largest private wholesaler for industrial and residential plumbing here in the US. I sell anything from little tiny pieces that control the water/plumbing in your house, to really big things as far as water heaters or massive industrial piping.
What would you like to do for a living?
Traveling interests me very much, so getting paid to explore new places around the world would be ideal, including all kinds of golf courses. I have played poker for years with tournaments and cash games so it would be really fulfilling if I was able to do that professionally. Lastly, somehow someway if I could get paid to sit on the beach in Hawaii every day, you’d see these toes in the sand!
What golf apparel do you like to wear?
Fabletics, Peter Millar, G/Fore, FootJoy, Titleist, TaylorMade, or anything that helps me look like a better golfer!
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty?
Honestly, probably the most meaningful one to me would be my late Grandma (Gramma to us). We have all boys in my family, no sisters, so it really has a lot of weight to me all the life lessons she instilled dealing with faith with our Lord, how to treat others, how to treat women, and simply always being a kind human to others just to name a few.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course?
People that get super aggressively angry. To the point where they’re throwing tantrums, breaking clubs, being a negative Nancy, ruining the cart vibes, and just being completely extra. It is very frustrating at times, but you have to be out there to enjoy it. You’re outside, you’re probably with some family or friends, you probably are enjoying a beer/cocktail, and at the end of the day, it’s a GAME! Have to find the happiness!
What do you fear the most?
Kidney Stones (just knocked on wood so I don’t jinx myself), frogs, living somewhere where it’s cold all the time.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome?
Number 1, my late Father, Steve Godley. He passed too soon in 2019. Would trade the world to get to tee it up with him again!
2.Johnny Paulk, a late, great PGA Legend from Jekyll Island where I live. He means a lot to the game of golf here locally, for the PGA, and every year at the Masters in Augusta.
3.This one was tough, but lastly, I would choose the world renowned actor, Will Smith. My Dad was able to
play some rounds of golf with him and Matt Damon when they were filming, “The Legend of Bagger Vance”. He loved Will Smith, and one of his most prized possessions was his picture of them two together at the course!
Favorite charity to support?
Any that are dealing with animals like the Humane Society for example. Mainly dogs, but I love cats and all the others out there too so I want them all to have a happy home and happy life! Any that are driven to veterans, wounded warriors, or anybody that has served for us to live in this great country. A lot of respect for them so I take pride in showing them love.
What else would you like for us to know about you?
In the words of the great Joe Dirt, “Life’s a garden, DIG IT!!”
Just transparently and honestly, I just try to be the best person I can be. I really enjoy being authentic, genuine, happy, loving, positive influence to others and their lives, making people smile, and just really focusing on enjoying this great world God created for us. I’d eventually like to find someone out there, but if you always try to go after people because you’re longing for someone in your life, then you could possibly overlook someone right in front of you or new to your life. Just be yourself, and it’ll all work out in the end!
Dynamic Breakfast Destinations along the Georgia Golf Trail
By Mike May
There’s an old saying that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. There’s more truth than fiction to that comment, especially if you’re planning to play golf on any given day.
On your next trip to Georgia to play golf along the Georgia Golf Trail -- which features more than 20 golf courses from The Lakes Golf Course at the Laura
S.Walker State Park in Waycross (in the south) to the Sky Valley Country Club in Sky Valley (in the north) – there are some brilliant breakfast destinations where the items on the menu can best be described as diverse, delicious, delightful, delectable, and tantalizing for the taste buds.
When you play golf at the Sky Valley CC, you will be playing on Georgia’s highest altitude golf
course which is roughly 3,500 feet above sea level. Prior to golf, an ideal breakfast destination is The Dillard House (706-746-5348) in nearby Dillard. Here, a family style breakfast is served on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. At the Dillard House, the wait staff will keep bringing you more scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits, grits, sausage gravy, coffee, orange juice, hot tea, and their mouth-watering cinnamon rolls for as long as you remain hungry. P.S. The views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains from the dining room are brilliant. Before you play the two golf
The Dillard House Breakfast Menu
The Dillard House Cinnamon Rolls
The Dillard House
Callaway Resort Gardens Country Store and Country Kitchen
Callaway Resort Gardens Country Kitchen
courses – Lakemont and Stonemont –at the Stone Mountain Golf Club outside Atlanta, eat breakfast at the Old Hickory House in nearby Tucker. While the Old Hickory House (770-939-8621) is well known for its barbecue fare, its breakfast menu is also tasty and delicious. Here, there are 17 different types of breakfast biscuits, 14 breakfast platters, 13 sandwiches on toast, and nine different omelettes. The list of breakfast extras include cheese grits, bacon, sausage, tomatoes, melon, sliced bananas, sugar-cured ham, and Texas toast, among others. P.S. The Stonemont course is the only golf course in Georgia designed by the late, great hall-of-game golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr. When you visit the Callaway Resort and Gardens in Pine Mountain -- where there are two championship golf courses (Lake View and Mountain View) – you must break your morning fast by enjoying what’s served at The Country Kitchen (1-800-CALLAWAY). Here, you’ll find a wide variety of authentic Southern dishes which are served with a creative
edge. Everything on the menu is a great choice, especially the Callaway Gardens Speckled Heart Grits. Breakfast is served daily from 8:00 am – 11:00 am. Here, the views of the surrounding countryside from the dining room are pleasing to the eye. P.S. The Mountain View golf course hosted a PGA Tour event -- the Buick Challenge -- from 1991 to 2002. Before you strike your opening tee shot at the Jekyll Island Golf Club, enjoy breakfast on-site at Tribuzio’s Grille (912-319-2562). Here, your hunger pains will be satisfied by popular items such as the Chorizo Breakfast Burrito, TG’s Famous French Toast, a Belgian Waffle, the Jekyll Island Omelette, Crab Benedict, the T-Bird Chicken Sandwich, the Fisherman’s Breakfast, or the Cajun Crawfish Biscuits & Gravy. P.S. Jekyll Island is a 5,500-acre island, where only 35 percent of the island is developed since the entire island is owned and protected by the State of Georgia. When you play The Creek Golf Course at the Hard Labor State Park in Social Circle, enjoy your preround breakfast at The Caboose (706-557-9021) in nearby Rutledge, which is a six-minute drive from The Creek GC. This restaurant has character as it’s literally an old red, renovated train caboose. If you like fried eggs, bacon, sausage
gravy, biscuits, and grits piled high with cheese, go to The Caboose where the reviews are strong and positive. At The Caboose, you will find a friendly staff, great service, delicious food, and fair prices in a unique setting. At The Caboose, you can dine indoors or outdoors. P.S. After breakfast and golf at The Creek, other things to do at the Hard Labor State Park include bicycling, birding, fishing, geocaching, horseback riding, kayaking, and boating.
Old Hickory House Breakfast
TG's Famous French Toast from Tribuzio's Grille at the Jekyll Island Golf Club
The Caboose Rutledge, Georgia
Dedication to Sustainability
AW Chang Corporation announced it has joined the Green Sports Alliance (GSA), a convening organization of sports and entertainment industry members around meaningful change toward a more sustainable future.
AW Chang Corporation is the parent company of 5+ brands, including NHL fan gear brand, FE, and the golf apparel collection, CON.STRUCT Green. As a vertical company committed to minimizing its impact on the environment, these collections are created from performance recycled fabrics at its WRAPcertified solar-powered mill. The company is excited to join GSA to further expand its sustainability goals in sports fashion and fashion on a whole.
Bill Chang, CEO of AW Chang Corporation said, “We are thrilled to join this remarkable alliance of forward-thinking organizations within the sports industry. By joining forces with this alliance, we are not only committing to following best
practices but also leading by example in our dedication to sustainability. Together, we aim to set new standards for environmental responsibility, proving that sports fashion can be both stylish and sustainable.”
As a member of GSA, AW Chang Corporation intends to work with a collection of more than 230 organizations to affect change across environmental & social responsibility. “We are delighted to welcome AW Chang Corporation to the Green Sports Alliance. Their commitment to sustainability in the menswear industry aligns with our mission to drive meaningful environmental change through the influence of sports,” said Roger McClendon, Executive Director of GSA.
Ardea Country Club Offers Challenging, Entertaining Courses
A year after Invited’s $11 million investment into the Ardea Country Club, its 36 holes of golf are still attracting new members and guests to Oldsmar for one of the premier golfing destinations in the region.
Formerly known as East Lake Woodlands Country Club, the rebranded Ardea pays homage to the beautiful marshlands and wildlife that are a part of the club’s story, especially the iconic Blue Heron as “ardea” is Latin for “heron.”
The reimagining of Ardea also included a revitalized dining experience, a brand new kids club, enhanced racquet sports facility and, most notably, enhanced golf courses. No amenity was left untouched during the
extensive transformation.
“Throughout the process, we kept member experience at the forefront, working to create a unique and engaging community for them,” said Aaron Lucas, General Manager of Ardea Country Club. “It’s been thrilling to see how this reimagination of this property has enhanced the experiences for our members, while creating
new opportunities to engage with them in a meaningful way.”
A Fresh Take on the North Course
The tee boxes and greens of the North golf course were completely revamped, creating a world-class golf experience for members and guests alike. The greens now feature bestin-class Tif-Eagle Ultradwarf
Bermuda grass, considered the gold standard for turf at the finest clubs in the country, while the tees now feature laser-leveled turf.
The North Course is set in a stunning natural environment, with abundant wildlife, featuring more than 80 bunkers and ample water hazards, presenting a formidable test for players of all skill levels.
The course’s signature hole, a
par-5 No. 3, features water and bunkers guarding the green, while the par-4 No. 7 presents a testing tee shot for any golfer. The par-5 18th serves as the perfect finishing hole, featuring a tough dogleg right with a carry over water.
Exploring the South Course
Ardea’s South Course features wide fairways and more than
two acres of brand new Tifeagle greens, ensuring a formidable, but enjoyable experience on the links.
The dogleg left, par-5 first hole provides an early birdie opportunity for players of varying skill level, and No. 12 offers a straight away pin flanked by a plethora of bunkers.
The 14th hole is the shortest par-3 of the course, but its green complex makes it one of the toughest.
Both courses impart a picturesque landscape that seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of the area.
Tranquil lakes, lush vegetation, and breathtaking vistas create a serene ambiance that enhances your enjoyment of the game.
More to Offer
Ardea Country Club recently introduced a new Cross Bay Premier Membership, granting full family golf, swim, tennis, pickleball, fitness and social access at Ardea, Countryside, Hunter’s Green and Tampa Palms with 14day advance tee times. A number of events and programs provide the perfect opportunity to make connections or lifelong friendships.
From the links to the landscape, or fairways to food service, Ardea is supplying members and guests with an industry-leading experience.
SimplySereneandSensational
byMikeMay
There are many public-access golf courses in the U.S. that have creative names such as Osprey Point (Florida), Threetops at Treetops (Michigan), The Schoolmaster (Alabama), and Covered Bridge (Indiana), but one Georgia golf course is actually named after an amphibian. It’s called The Frog. Located in Villa Rica, Georgia, just off I-20, The Frog (www.golfthefrog.com; 2699 Georgian Parkway, Villa Rica, GA; 770-459-4400) is less than a 45-minute drive from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. This golf course is relatively
young as it opened in 1998. It was designed by acclaimed golf course architect Tom Fazio. While The Frog – a par-72 layout -- is a young course, it doesn’t have the look of a young golf course and it may well be one of Fazio’s most attractive creations. Frankly, brilliant is an accurate way to describe Fazio’s work at The Frog. Surrounded by thousands of mature, loblolly pine trees, this parkland-style golf course reminds visitors of what it must be like to visit another well-known Georgia golf course which is dominated by loblolly pines – Augusta National Golf Club. That’s a strong and
accurate comparison. The Frog is an 18-hole championship public-access golf course which deserves that ‘championship’ label as it has hosted many notable golf events such as the Georgia Open, CEO Jaguar Tour, and the John Smoltz Celebrity Players Tournament. At The Frog, walking is allowed and encouraged, as the distances from greens to tees are minimal. The Frog’s opening nine holes are played in the rolling hills. On the back nine, you transition to a nearby valley. In many respects, The Frog has the ‘hills-and-valley’ layout characteristics of two other
Sensational
terrific southeastern U.S. layouts -- the Maggie Valley Club & Resort in Maggie Valley, North Carolina and the Country Club of Salisbury in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Today, The Frog features bent grass greens, expansive bunkering, and a handful of strategically placed lakes, ponds, and creeks that add to the intrigue of playing The Frog. Of course, any course named The Frog must have some type of water hazards, right? The Frog is fun, fair, and, at times, stern, but not overtaxing.
At The Frog, there are five sets of tees – Green, White, Blue, Gold, and Black. The Green tees
are 5,336 yards and the Black tees measure 7,018 yards.
It’s also worth noting that The Frog has attained status as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. In fact, expect to see wild turkeys and deer grazing in the rough, especially late in the day. And, a few frogs in the water. It’s so peaceful and quiet at The Frog that you hear crickets chirping, squirrels scampering, and bugs buzzing. The sounds of rustling leaves are also everpresent, especially in the fall.
After visiting The Frog, it’s easy to see that the grounds crew is working diligently to keep this well-manicured course
–100 acres of grass -- in tip-top shape throughout the year.
At The Frog, you rarely see airplanes overhead and there are no roads in the area where you can hear passing cars. If this course was ever renamed, an appropriate title might be Serenity.
As for the origin of this course’s name, rumor has it that when the course owners first surveyed the property from the air, it looked like the shape of a frog. As you would expect, a metal frog statue appears near the first tee -- a great photo opportunity for all visiting golfers. Suffice it to say leaving The Frog will never be easy, but it will be a joy making a return trip. Ribbit!
Practicing golf on the wrong hitting surface
can be tough on your game and your body.
When you practice golf, do you ever think about the surface you’re hitting on? Fiberbuilt Golf, the leader in premium artificial turf golf mats and tee lines, notes that most golfers don’t, and it could not only be hurting their games, but also their bodies. They explain why every golfer should demand to practice on the best possible hitting surfaces, whether it’s at their club or range, or at home.
1.Performance – No matter where you practice, it should be as close to real course conditions as possible. That’s the only way to know your true club distances and properly plan your shots on the course to optimize scoring. So, if you’re practicing on artificial turf, you absolutely want it to accurately replicate the impact conditions of real grass. You should gravitate toward ranges or home mats with the highest quality hitting surfaces, designed to deliver realistic launch conditions and provide great feedback in feel and sound.
2.Injury Prevention –Commitment to your game means practice. And that means hitting a lot of balls. Unfortunately, this can also lead to injuries, especially when practicing on poor quality hitting surfaces. You know the ones… compacted mats that are like hitting on green concrete, which can brutalize your joints, especially elbows and wrists. To avoid this “turf shock”, you
should always look to practice or warm up on high quality tee lines and mats. The best ones have rubber bases to provide a level of cushioning, as well as premium turf that allows you to hit down and through without hurting your joints.
3.Durability – If you practice or play on a home simulator, you’re probably logging a lot of time on your mat. And you might have put in a lot of money for it too, so you want your investment to last. Unfortunately, many mats wear out quickly, which means more frequent replacements than preferred. Getting a high-quality, ultra-durable mat once, therefore, ends up being a better investment over the long term. And mats that use base systems where you can simply replace worn turf components over time further improve that investment.
So whether you’re at a range or practicing at home, demand the best hitting surfaces possible to get the most out of your practice and keep your body protected. Fiberbuilt has been manufacturing high-end mats and tee lines for over 25 years and uniquely offers three premium hitting surface options to deliver realistic impact conditions, the highest levels of injury prevention, and maximum durability.
For the full details on how Fiberbuilt Golf hitting mats provide the best practice environments, visit www.fiberbuiltgolf.com
DeChambeau Wins U.S. Open with JumboMax Tour Series, JMX JumboFlat 17 Grips
Bryson DeChambeau earned his second U.S. Open championship using JumboMax Grips on all 14 clubs. On his full swing clubs, DeChambeau uses Tour Series (XL)swing grips. His putter grip is the JMX JumboFlat 17, which he uses to maximize the stability of his ArmLock putting style.
DeChambeau finished at 6-under par on the grueling Pinehurst No. 2 layout, earning a one-shot victory thanks to what has been called the greatest bunker shot in U.S. Open history. From 55 yards, DeChambeau played an explosion shot with a 55-wedge to 3 feet 11 inches and made the putt to secure the win.
DeChambeau rated the shot, which will be replayed for decades, a “100 out of 100” in difficulty and called it “the shot of my life.”
“No one works harder than Bryson or plays more fearlessly,” said JumboMax President John Mazzanoble. “His victory brought me to tears, and I know I’m not alone. His courage, self-belief, and perseverance are things we’ve admired since we started working with him when he was a junior. We’re so happy that the golf world is getting to
know the Bryson we know.”
DeChambeau also won the 2020 U.S. Open at Winged Foot using JumboMax Grips on all 14 clubs, but he was using JumboMax’s JMX UltraLite (XL) swing grips at the time that are slightly lighter than standard golf grips despite their larger sizes.
His change to the Tour Series came prior to the 2023 LIV Golf Greenbrier event, where DeChambeau shot historic backto-back rounds of 61-58 in the final two rounds to win by six shots.
The switch from JumboMax’s JMX UltraLite swing grips to its counterbalanced Tour Series swing grips came after testing revealed the heavier weight of Tour Series grips helped him more easily create the draw shot shape he prefers.
“Tour Series grips are unique in that they weigh above twice as much as standard grips,”
Mazzanoble said. “For golfers that tend to start the ball too far right or don’t see their draws come back to the target line, the heavier weight of the grip usually helps. The heavier weight also helps with performance from the rough.”
Tour Series swing grips are available in eight different sizes, from standard all the way up to Bryson’s XL size, so every golfer can find the best size for their game. Golfers can find the best grip size for their game at https:// jumbomax.com/pages/grip-fitting.
JumboMax Grips are available from jumbomax.com as well as fine golf retailers across the world including PGA Tour SuperStore, Golf Galaxy, Dicks Sporting Goods, Golf Town, and Club Champion.
For more information on JumboMax, visit jumbomax.com
The Central Florida Golf Card Features Twelve Great Courses T
The 2024 Central Florida Golf Card provides an exciting collection of 12 golf courses for players of all abilities. And a chance explore the many Central Florida courses right out your back door!
Twelve courses for only $99
EAGLE DUNES G.C. - Eagle Dunes Golf Course has elevation changes and the truest putting surfaces in Central Florida! With gently rolling fairways, four sets of tees, and generous landing areas that both pros and joes enjoy playing. Designed by Mike Dasher, the 7024-yard, par 72 course with its significant elevations, generous fairways and well-maintained greens makes Eagle Dunes one of the area’s favorite and most reliable courses to play.Eagle Dunes has received great praise from many golfers since its opening in 2003. WWW.EAGLEDUNES.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. Hidden Lakes offers a fair and fun challenge to golfers of all skill levels. WWW.HIDDENLAKESGOLFCLUB.COM
KISSIMMEE BAY - 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 6,830yard, par 71 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
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. WWW.GOLFMAYFAIR.COM
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 championship 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. WWW.ORANGELAKEGOLF.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 carefully preserved wetlands to give you the taste of natural Florida. While this course is the shorter of the two championship courses, it offers a challenging layout for 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). WWW.ORANGELAKEGOLF.COM
REMINGTON G.C. - Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned veteran, Remington Golf Club has something to offer every golfer, 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 Digest as one of the Best New Courses in 1996 and continues to be a favorite of “locals.”WWW.GOLFREMINGTON.COM
STONEYBROOK
WEST - Stoneybrook West, is a beautiful blend the natural landscape of West Orange County to create one of the top public championship courses in the greater Orlando area. The dramatic rolling fairways, touched by water on fourteen holes, are encased by towering berms and profound bunkering. Stoneybrook West also offers a complete practice area with two practice greens. After completing your round, stop in at SB PRIME Bar and Grill for a drink or a meal and enjoy panoramic views of the course. STONEYBROOKWESTGOLFCLUB.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.Twin Rivers Golf Club has been recognized and awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Environmental Planning certificate by Audubon International. WWW.TWINRIVERSGOLF.COM
VICTORIA HILLS G.C. - Located in Deland, this Ron Garl-designed championship course has received 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 boxes 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. WWW.VICTORIAHILLSGOLF.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 Bermudagrass greens and straight-forward layout, Wekiva is an enjoyable experience for the recreational 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 undulating greens. WWW.WEKIVAGC.COM
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! WWW.ZELLWOODGOLF.COM
107th Amateur Champion, Jimmy Ellis
In a remarkable conclusion to a historic championship, Jimmy Ellis emerged as champion of the 107th Amateur. Ellis overcame a seven stroke deficit after firing an eightunder-par, 64 in the final round to raise a well-deserved trophy.
Quail Valley Golf Club hosted the championship and it provided a great test of golf for the talented field and everchanging leaderboard. The course is as beautiful as it is challenging and features 18-holes spread across 280-acres. Within that, lies 60-acres of waterways along with rolling hills and elevation changes. In addition, bunkers litter almost every hole providing not only beautiful views, but also challenges for all who tee it up.
Yet, it was the greens that each player consistently highlighted in interviews. In fact, the champion
stated after his final round, “The greens are just so perfect here. All you have to do is get it started on line, and the ball is going in.” He then continued, “It’s my first time at Quail Valley, and I was shocked when I drove in. This place is just perfect, and like I said, the greens have just been unbelievable all week.”
The championship saw a dynamic leaderboard across the four rounds. Clipper Salmon, a rising high school senior, finished the first round with the solo lead by two strokes over the field. However, Christian Figueredo and Jason Duff shared the lead after the second round each with a tournament total of nineunder-par. The third round also saw movement as Jason Duff extended his lead to four strokes
heading into championship Sunday, which proved to be nothing short of exciting.
Ellis describes how his final round started as he was seven shots off the lead, “It was pretty strange, really. First tee shot, I flared a driver 50 yards right into a bunker and made bogey. But then, the second hole, just kind of kick started everything. I hit an eight iron to about two feet and made it for birdie. Then, I birdied the next hole after that and was just off and running from there.”
Ellis certainly did take off in the final round as he carded nine birdies en route to a tournament total of 16-under par. He came tantalizingly close to breaking the lowest 72-hole record with his impressive total of 272. However, the record still remains with the
2023 champion, Marc Dull, who posted a remarkable total of 271.
Yet, perhaps it was the interesting pre-last round preparation that Ellis had that helped to make his final round and win so special. In fact, he said that he was convinced that he would not break 80 on Sunday after he made the drive three hours back to his home in Atlantic Beach to watch his four-year-old daughter perform in her first dance recital. He said, “I had to roll the windows down on I-95 to keep myself awake, but I made it back. I did not think I would play well today at all, but you know, it all ended up working out.”
It undoubtedly worked for Ellis as his drive back home seemed to only phase him on the first hole of the day where he made his only bogey. When asked if he ever had a turning point in the round he said, “I have been hitting it pretty good all week, but today the putts finally started dropping for me which was really nice.” He added in, “My game is typically just fairways and greens, and I tend to struggle the closer I get to the hole. But today I felt nice with the putter and this is just such a great golf course, the greens are perfect.”
With this win, Ellis also earns an
exemption into the U.S. Amateur Championship in August, in addition to earning a spot into the U.S. Mid-Amateur. This will not be Ellis’s first appearance at a USGA event. He has played in one U.S. Amateur and three U.S. MidAmateur’s. Ellis explains that he cannot wait to play at Hazeltine. “You know, the talent level of those guys at the U.S. Am is unreal. It will be a great experience.
That’s a wrap on the Amateur Championship until next year. Jimmy Ellis’ name will forever be etched in FSGA history among other names like Gary Koch, Jerry Pate, and Blayne Barber. Each tournament and champion brings its own unique story brandished to the great history of the event. Ellis will always remember that not only did he win his first state Amateur with the FSGA, but also that he did not miss out on one of his daughter’s first sporting events also. When asked about his daughter Ellis smiled, then laughed to himself and said, “It was her very first recital and she just turned four. I had to be there.”
June Foundation Spotlight:
Rob Torrington’s Dedication to the South Florida PGA Foundation and Community Impact Through Golf
“It’s a meaningful endeavor,”
said Rob Torrington as he reflected on his nearly 15-year relationship with the South Florida PGA Foundation.
For Torrington, the “why” behind his continued involvement with the SFPGA Foundation is simple: “Combining my passion for golf with people I love being around to achieve the noble and significant purpose of making a difference in people’s quality of life.”
Senior Vice PresidentInvestments for Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Torrington has proven to be an invaluable resource as the Section’s financial advisor, Foundation advocate, and, most importantly, friend.
The South Florida PGA Foundation is dedicated to serving the south Florida community and changing lives through the game of golf. Over the last ten years, the SFPGA Foundation has impacted more than 12,000 individuals, with a charitable focus on youth, military, and families.
“In 2011, as I co-chaired an annual golf event for Habitat for Humanity, I connected with Geoff Lofstead [SFPGA Executive Director] and Meredith Schuler [SFPGA Assistant Executive Director] as a potential resource to elevate our golf tournament and improve our results,” recalled Torrington.
The partnership rapidly progressed, and Torrington, in collaboration with the
South Florida PGA, effectively organized the Habitat for Humanity benefit tournament for four years. Beyond the fairways, the SFPGA Foundation was concurrently sponsoring the construction of a Habitat house each year, thereby deepening the impact of their collective efforts.
With 10 homes down and number 11 beginning this summer in the Florida Keys, the SFPGA Foundation aims to construct 14 homes: one in each county of the Section, including Puerto Rico. The Foundation contributes $50,000 and more than 250 hours of sweat equity from PGA of America Professionals to each project.
“After creating a golf tournament process and template that Habitat could execute themselves, I redirected my resources toward PGA HOPE,” Torrington recollected. “Geoff invited me and other members of our golf committee to continue our partnership running successful golf tournaments for the benefit of the PGA HOPE program.”
PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is a free program that allows Veterans and Active-Duty Military personnel to learn the game of golf. Golf
is proven to help Veterans assimilate back into their community and improve their overall well-being through the social interaction and camaraderie the game provides.
In collaboration with the PGA HOPE Classic golf committee, Torrington has helped to successfully administer eight PGA HOPE Classic events, raising over $500,000 and impacting more than 1,500 Veterans in the local community.
At the 2019 PGA HOPE Classic, Torrington organized the pushup challenge, completing 1,000 push-ups and raising $40,000 for Veterans and South Florida PGA HOPE programming.
“I love the Foundation,” said Torrington. “I love working and partnering with the team, people of character, integrity, faith, and genuine commitment to improving the lives of so many people in our community. People who encourage and lift others up.”
To learn more about the South Florida PGA Foundation: https://www.sfpgagolf.com/foundation
To make a donation, click: https://southfloridapgafoundationbloom.kindful.com
Drive, Chip & Putt Local Qualifiers Continue Strong Momentum; more North Florida PGA Members compete in majors!
The Drive, Chip & Putt season in the North Florida PGA is well underway! Drive, Chip & Putt gives boys and girls ages 7 – 15 a chance to compete in local, sub-regional, and regional qualifiers with the goal of getting to Augusta National for the National Finals! In the 2023 National Finals, we had Lily Wachter from Saint Augustine compete in the Girls 10-11 Division, Alyssa Sumulong from Orlando was in the Girls 12-13
Rogers Park Golf Course. The Section regularly gets over 100 juniors competing at a Local Qualifier! Two more Local Qualifiers are coming up on Monday, July 15 at Orange County National Golf Center & Lodge (Winter Garden, FL) and on Monday, July 22 at Sun N’ Lake Golf Club (Sebring, FL).
Division, and Jyden Sonnabend from Windermere was in the Boys 14 – 15 Division. Lily won the Girls 10-11 Division!
Thus far in 2024, Local Qualifiers have been held at Duran Golf Club, The Country Club of Winter Haven, Mission Inn Resort, Tampa Bay Downs Golf Practice Facility, Jacksonville Beach Golf Club, Seminole Legacy Golf Club, LPGA International, St. Johns Golf Club, Lakewood National Golf Club, and
The 2024 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship at Sahalee Country Club in Washington had strong representation from the North Florida PGA with Jennifer Borocz, PGA, Sandra Changkija, PGA, and Stephanie Connelly-Eiswerth, PGA competing as part of the Corebridge Financial Team! In addition to this major, Gary Koch, PGA Rod Perry, PGA and Gene Walter, PGA were a part of the field at the 2024 U.S. Senior Open at Newport Country Club in Newport, RI! Seeing our PGA Golf Professionals compete at the highest level in the game is something that continues to make the Section very proud.
To learn more about the North Florida PGA, visit nfpga.com
2024 KPMG Sandra Changkija
2024 KPMG Jennifer Borocz
2024 KPMG Stephanie Connelly-Eiswerth
Singh and Guest Top the Leaderboards at the 2024 Junior PGA Championships
by Madalyn Dudley
The Kentucky PGA Junior Tour headed to Richmond, KY, in May for both the 2024 Girls and Boys Junior PGA Championships. Competing at The University Club of Arlington, Athena Singh delivered a showstopping performance at the Girls Junior PGA, finishing the tournament at -5, a whopping nine strokes above second place.
Three other shining stars fought for a spot on the podium, going neck and neck for the entirety of the second round. Keira Yun, Isabella Christy, and Kylah Lunsford ended the day with a tie at +4, leading to a playoff to decide which player would qualify for the National PGA Junior Championship alongside Singh. The playoff declared Kylah
Lunsford the official second-place finisher, granting her a qualifying spot. Singh and Lunsford advance to the Congressional Club in Bethesda, Maryland, later this summer to compete at the National PGA Junior Championship.
The 2024 Kentucky Boys Junior PGA Championship concluded the next day on Thursday, May 20 at Gibson Bay Golf Course. Sam Guest walked away the champion after competing in a playoff against Brody Alexander. Both boys finished with a score of -1 after a rigorous two days of play, with Sam walking away victorious with a birdie on the first playoff hole.
Guest did not begin round two at the top of the leaderboard, but he never took his eyes off the prize. He came out swinging on Thursday, securing five birdies on day two after only bagging one the day before. Guest and Alexander also advance to the Congressional Club in Bethesda, Maryland later this summer to compete at the National PGA Junior Championship.
The Kentucky PGA Junior Tour extends its thanks to the staff of both host courses for two fantastic events!
Miller Defends, Yarbrough Wins in Playoff For Georgia PGA Junior Championship
What a wild finish to the Georgia PGA Junior Championship presented by Piedmont Bank at Doublegate Country Club on June 4-6! Mary Miller of Savannah, a Georgia Southern 2024 commit, cruised to a 9-shot victory as she carded 68-72-68 for an 8-under total for the three days to repeat as the Girls Overall Champion. Camryn Coffield, a rising HS Junior from Hamilton, was runner-up after starting the final round 2 shots back from Miller. Both will go on to represent the Georgia Section in the Junior PGA Championships on July 30-August 2 at Congressional Country Club in Maryland.
A playoff for the Boys Overall Champion was delayed due to a dangerous situation. After the clouds cleared, Mackinnley Yarbrough, a rising HS Sophomore from Temple, defeated 2025 Georgia Southern Commit, Trace Carter of Blackshear, by virtue of a birdie on hole 18. Yarbrough had the low round of the tournament during round one as he carded a 7-under, 65 and finished the tournament at 4-under. Carter saved his best round for his last one with a 4-under, 68 to get into the playoff. Both boys will represent the Georgia Section at Congressional in July. Defending Champion William
Long, a rising HS Sophomore of Alpharetta finished one shot back and will be 1st alternate for the National Championship. Thank you to Head PGA of
America Professional, TJ King, his entire staff and the membership at Doublegate Country Club for hosting this prestigious junior event! - Michael Rakowski!
Boys 11-13 Champion, Hudson Justus from Gainesville, GA
Overall Girls Champion, Mary Miller from Savannah, GA
Overall Boys Champion, Mackinnley Yarbrough from Temple, GA
Camryn Coffield hugging Mary Miller and on the right is Catherine Odom from Valdosta, GA
Ever Ezzell from Peachtree Corners, GA; Annie Veil from Duluth, GA; Scout Ezzell from Peachtree Corners, GA
Overall Girls Champion, Mary Miller from Savannah, GA
By Anthony L.
A Turf Pirate's Journal
$CMAA, Traveling, and Environomic Excellence $
Greetings Turf Pirates and welcome to the 2024 US turf tour! I have for over a year now embraced the life of a Turf Gypsy traveling as a Regional Director of Agronomy for Invited Clubs and teaching a variety of seminars for a variety of organizations. All of this has led me to reach Titanium elite status with Marriott Bonvoy which in Turf Pirate terms means I am on pace to be in hotels over 160 nights this year. I love this chapter in my life because I meet so many great people and see so many wonderful golf courses and after 38 years as a golf course superintendent, I wanted to take some time to give back to the industry that has given me so much.
My latest adventure was made possible by Jason Koenigsfeld, Ph.D., and the team at the Club Management Association of America (CMAA). Jason had secured my good friend Tim Hiers to deliver a seminar on environmental sustainability at the CMAA BMI event in Jupiter, Florida. Everyone in the industry knows Tim and how impressive he is, but he had an unexpected conflict in his schedule and reached out to me to see if I could step in for the event. What an honor, and more than a little pressure to do well for my friend’s recommendation and our shared reputation! I had an opening in my schedule so I spoke with Jason (he took a leap of faith that I could deliver the thunder and a power clap or two) and we made plans to speak at the event. Now the CMAA is famous for education and leadership, so you better be authentic if you stand front and center with this esteemed group. I was impressed with every aspect of the event. The best thing was the passion and interest this group had for environomic sustainability and the path that we take as stewards of the game of golf and the great green spaces that make the game possible.
Let’s dive a little deeper into the CMAA’s BMI Golf Management program. It was formed in 2007 by Joe Perdue, CCM, CHE, Chris Borders, CCM and Michael Leemhuis, CCM, CCE. It was revamped in 2013 and moved to its current home in Jupiter, Florida. CMAA uses some of the best clubs in Jupiter (Admiral’s Cove, Mirasol CC, and Loxahatchee Golf Club) to host the education during the week. CMAA is proud to partner with allied associations to teach the comprehensive curricula. These partners including faculty/team members or expert leaders from the United States Golf Association (USGA), The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), The Professional Golfers Association of America (PGA), the Ladies Professional Golfers of America (LPGA), Arcis Golf and
the National Golf Foundation (NGF). In addition, CMAAs BMI Golf Management program is sponsored by John Deere Golf and Club Car who also help deliver education during the intensive weeklong education program. Over 55 club management professionals attend this program twice a year. CMAA will continue to seek to develop relevant education collaborating with the best clubs in the world along with their teams to ensure our curriculum is timely, engaging, and practical. A huge thank you to the CMAA team for the historical update!
The crux of it is this, Turf Pirates, everyone at the CMAA BMI events grew in proportion to the efforts made. We need mentors and professional experiences to reach our full potential. It is required that we look at a 360-degree view of golf and club life to see how our network should expand and interact. When was the last time you supported another golf industry association beyond the GCSAA? Now I am not saying abandon the core of what we do as superintendents and Turf Pirates what I am saying is there are many voices that make up Golf’s choir and it is a joy to share our best practices with each other with a servant’s heart and an aspiration to make the industry better. Tim and I have decades of friendship and he trusted me to represent him at a high level, it was a wonderful experience. We will be doing more events in the future but somehow this one was special. To Jason and the CMAA we the Ancient and Honorable Tribe of Turf Pirates raise a glass in celebration of your commitment to excellence. Well done!
So, Turf Pirates as we set sail again on the vast green sea that is the sward (old English term for an expanse of turf) of hope. I pray we see each other soon, safe travels and may stable breezes bring you home safely wherever your ambition takes you.
Madison resident Steve Stricker a perfect choice for redesign of TPC Wisconsin, the new home for the American Family Insurance Championship
The 2025 American Family Insurance Championship will be held for the first time at the recently re-opened TPC Wisconsin and it is difficult to imagine anyone more invested in this venue than 12-time PGA TOUR winner Steve Stricker.
A long-time resident here in Madison, Stricker led the redesign of his neighborhood golf course along with Steve Wenzloff, Senior VP Design of the PGA TOUR.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to be involved in designing a world-class golf course, and to have this opportunity to redesign my home golf course and upgrade it to TPC standards is especially rewarding,” said Stricker. “I’m proud to partner with American Family Insurance and others to
collaborate on the success we’ve had and I’m confident the AmFam Championship at TPC Wisconsin will continue to be a fantastic community event that will raise money to support charitable organizations in our community.”
Stricker served as the American Family Insurance Championship’s tournament host in 2016 and then as a player-host of the PGA TOUR Champions event from 2017, when he turned 50. Last year, he won the tournament by five shots and on June 9th finished runner-up to Ernie Els after missing a 3-footer for par on the first playoff hole.
Since its inception, the American Family Insurance Championship had been held at University Ridge Golf Course in Madison but is moving to TPC Wisconsin next year - and beyond.
Founded in 1962 as Cherokee Country Club on 154 acres of pristine land abutting Madison’s sprawling 5,000-acre Cherokee Marsh, the property underwent a massive renovation in excess of $20 million before being rebranded as TPC Wisconsin in 2022.
The golf course re-opened on August 1 of last year as the 30th TPC Network Golf Club. TPC courses are preferred destinations for PGA TOUR events, including those on the flagship PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions, Korn Ferry Tour and PGA TOUR Americas.
The redesign plan received environmental approval from
The view from 16 l to r Steve Stricker and George McNeilly
the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and it included a significant upgrade to all the fairways, greens and overall turf conditions in order to meet TPC Network standards, along with the creation of natural areas for spectator viewing.
Stricker’s father-in-law, Wisconsin Golf Hall of Famer Dennis Tiziani is the club’s owner and president.
“The redesign of the course has gone exceptionally well; we’ve raised our fairways two feet to ensure drainage and playing surface perfection,” said Tiziani. “The work that has been put in on the property from 2021-2023 is an engineering marvel and an ecological miracle.
I played the course and Tiziani has every reason to be proud. Prior to teeing it up, I asked him which he would consider the signature hole, and he truthfully stated, “all of them”.
“I’ve been around the game of golf for a very long time, and I assure you that what we’ve created is
“I’ve been around the game of golf for a very long time, and I assure you that what we’ve created is not only going to be a challenging course, but a memorable one. Players will remember every hole - not just two or three ‘signature’ holes like on many courses. And, because golf instruction is my passion, TPC Wisconsin will be among the best places in the world to improve your game.”
— 12-time PGA TOUR winner Steve Stricker
not only going to be a challenging course, but a memorable one. Players will remember every hole -not just two or three ‘signature’ holes like on many courses. And, because golf instruction is my passion, TPC Wisconsin will be among the best places in the world to improve your game.”
Renovations were also made to the clubhouse and in the practice facility, and also in the development of the Steve & Nicki Stricker American Family Insurance Learning Center.
Stricker’s redesign plans incorporated re-grading the course to accent advancements to the game of golf by repositioning features, rebuilding all the infrastructure while implementing an all-new cart path system.
“I’ve lived on this course for many years – since it was Cherokee Country Club,” said Stricker.
“This is my home. I consider it a privilege to bring my PGA TOUR career experience to bear on its re-envisioning and I have totally enjoyed working on the project with Steve Wenzloff. TPC Wisconsin will play to exact PGA TOUR standards. It’ll be a fair test for players of all levels, and yes –it’s going to be exceptional.”
TPC Wisconsin now serves as Madison’s only private facility offering an 18-hole golf course, an all-season golf range, indoor and outdoor tennis, pickleball, an
athletic performance center and a 25-meter Olympic-size outdoor pool.
The restaurants and function space are smartly designed and stunning as well.
Enhancements now being made to the Steve & Nicki Stricker American Family Insurance Learning Center will result in a new indoor hitting structure that will include club and putter fitting rooms, an indoor putting green, Trackman technology and a new outdoor short game practice area, according to TPC Wisconsin Executive Vice President Dave Olesczuk who took me on a guided tour after my round.
Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. and general Contractor National Construction were tasked with the clubhouse renovation, along with Silver Leaf Interiors, with the objective of modernizing amenities and enriching the member experience. Some of the furniture was actually created from some of the 650 trees that had to be removed for the course redesign according to Olesczuk.
The completed project includes interior and exterior design upgrades to all clubhouse rooms including the TPC Grand, Player dining and Center Court – adding new bar tops, windows, lighting, audio-visual systems - as well as the men’s and women’s locker rooms with new half lockers, while adding in more space and remodeled showers.
Hole 12
The 12-Time PGA TOUR winner's presence is felt even in the pro shop
Always a warm reception at TPC Wisconsin
Jacobsen® Fully Electrified Fleet to Prepare Le Golf National for International Games
Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company and the renowned manufacturer of Jacobsen® high-quality turf maintenance equipment, is proud to announce its support of Le Golf National in Paris, the flagship facility of the French Golf Federation, as they work together to prepare this summer’s world’s stage for the biggest names in golf. This will be the first all-electric fleet of mowers to maintain an entire course in the world.
Jacobsen equipment has more than 100 years of experience producing the highest quality cut for golf, sports turf, and commercial use. To drive a more sustainable future for turf management initiatives, Jacobsen offers the same precision cut with powerful, long lithium battery life using its ELiTE™ series of equipment, activated by
Samsung SDI technology. These fully electric units enable one to keep up with the needs of the course, and maintain a cleaner, fresher environment without hydraulics, to minimize the risk of spills or tailpipe emissions. This results in a quieter course for golfers, without the addition of harmful chemicals to the land, air and water surrounding them. «We could not be more excited to bring this groundbreaking technology to the world,” said Simon Rainger, Vice President, Turf for Textron Specialized Vehicles. «This relationship aligns perfectly with our mission to provide superintendents and golfers with exceptional experiences, and we look forward to showcasing our commitment to creating low maintenance and greener solutions for participants and fans on the world stage.”
Jacobsen, with the addition of
Pace Technology, is the answer that the world has been waiting for when it comes to golf course maintenance. The Pace Technology systems in place allow Le Golf National to know when, where and exactly what needs to be tended to on the courses at a given moment through a centralized process. Pace Technology can be accessed from any device and features real-time tracking and task management to maximize the effectiveness of your operation. Users can track and measure the power output per hole of the machines to maximize their performance and develop a bespoke picture of how they work on the course. While this is the first facility to go all electric, Ransomes Jacobsen is committed to fully electrifying golf and sports turf facilities across the globe in the years to come.
Follow along as we prepare for the summer games on Instagram, X and Facebook to stay up-to-date on the latest news, highlights and updates during the most anticipated sporting events of the year.
Jacobsen AR1 ELiTE Cutting Deck
Jacobsen - Le Golf National - AR1 ELiTE Cutting Deck
Sunn 28-0-0 N-SURE
ITEM #160031
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS
Total Nitrogen ..........................28%
20.2% ..........Slow release Nitrogen
7.8% .........................Urea Nitrogen
Sunn KTS
PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER
Item# 160041
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS
Soluble Potash (K2O) ..............25%
(S)
Minors Blend
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS
Total Magnesium (Mg) ..........0.50%
Soluble Magnesium (Mg) ....0.050%
Soluble Iron (Fe) ...................3.40% Chelated Iron (Fe) .................1.60%
Total Manganese (Mn) ..........0.25%
Soluble Manganese (Mn) ......0.25%
Soluble Zinc (Zn) ..................0.10%
Sulfur (S) combined ..............3.50%
Derived from: Manganese Sulphate, Zinc Sulphate, Iron Glucoheptonate, Iron Sulphate, Magnesium Sulphate.
Sunn 6-0-0 Blend
Sunn 12-0-0
Blend
PRO LIQUID FERTILIZER
ITEM# 160021
GCSAA Goes to the Top
Rhett Evans, the CEO of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America goes to work every day for the organizations’ more than 20,300 members.
He’s used to taking on various challenges, as the GCSAA CEO and as a hobby is an avid mountain climber. But he doesn’t just climb any mountain. He takes on the highest peaks in the world and recently embarked on a 45-day journey to take on his biggest challenge, climbing Mount Everest.
On Friday, after enduring several setbacks including an injury to his arm and an injury to his leg requiring a helicopter to airlift him for medical attention, he persevered and was able to reach the summit at the “top of the world”, the top of Mount Everest. Throughout the journey, he carried his organizations’ flag as well as GCSAA patches on his outerwear as a symbol of taking all of the organization’s 20,300 plus members on his climb to recognize the incredible journey superintendents take every
day in their Essential Role delivering a great day of golf for golfers around the world.
When he reached the 29,029 feet summit he unfolded the GCSAA flag he carried to celebrate the occasion with all members around the globe. An incredible journey and incredible story of perseverance, and camaraderie with his members and the entire golf industry who have been following him on social media and cheering him on.
We congratulate Evans on this achievement.
Enhancing Military Dog Training with Celebration® Bermudagrass at Joint Base Charleston
By Cecilia Johnson
At Joint Base Charleston, the
Military Working Dog Kennel isn’t just a training facility—it’s a crucial part of our national defense where K9 units, serving alongside their handlers, are prepared for duty. To ensure these four-legged heroes have optimal training conditions, the base chose Celebration® Bermudagrass for its robustness and adaptability. From the installation process to performance, this grass variety has not only enhanced this vital facility but also supported the rigorous training of dogs who serve our country.
Selection of Celebration Bermudagrass
K&K Industries was contracted
to manage the training facility upgrade and the use of Celebration Bermudagrass was specified in the project plan. This grass provides an ideal surface for K9 training, accommodating the obstacle course’s ramps, loops and other challenges. The aggressive growth of Celebration Bermudagrass ensures it can handle rigorous use while maintaining an attractive, functional landscape.
Installation
In December 2023, Sod Solutions Professionals sourced over an acre of Celebration Bermudagrass from Nimmer Turf Farm, Inc. for the dog training park on the naval base. K&K Industries, led by project manager Joel Pelletier, ensured the site was thoroughly prepared
before sod installation. They pre-installed irrigation systems and graded the land, allowing for quick unloading and seamless rolling out of the turfgrass by Sod Busters, a Charleston, SC-based landscaping business known for its efficiency and expertise in turfgrass installations.
“We had seamless communication with K&K Industries on the Joint Base Charleston project. Joel Pelletier and his team excel at government work, and working with them was a great experience. They met all project requirements efficiently,” said Debbie Thames, Customer Solutions Manager for Sod Solutions Professionals. “We were thrilled to contribute to such an important project, supporting the training of our military’s working dogs, who play such a critical role in our national security.”
Performance and Maintenance
Since installation, the Celebration has been growing well at the facility. K&K Industries will handle the first year of maintenance for the park, providing fertilization, irrigation and mowing services. More grass is set to be installed around the new kennel facility currently being built at the same site.
