2011 FALL EDITION

(YEAR 2 NO. 05 – FALL EDITION SEPTEMBER –NOVEMBER 2011

05

Morgan Pressel 14

A Local Champion with a Big Heart

THE

First Tee 08

OF MIAMI

Orlando 10

Golf Vacation

Images courtesy

KEITH ALLISON

REVIEW

22

Taylormade R11 driver

4

CONTENT

Staff INDEX Editorial 04 First Tee of Miami 08 Orlando Golf Vacation 10 Club Fitting 12 Morgan Pressel Foundation 14 Nike VR Pro Combo Irons 18 Ping Tour Wedges 20 Taylormade R11 22

Fernando Solorzano

Manuel Contreras

Michael Berenger

Adrian Peralta

VPGA

Editor in Chief

PGA MBA

Art Director

Publisher

MIAMI BEACH

Assistant Editor

BRICKELL

POMPANO BEACH

Strong sales & marketing

KENDALL

Design consulting

Former Professional

background in the

A Former PGA Tour

and Brand Strategy

Golfer with over 30+

fast moving consumer

Player with extensive

specializing as Project

years of South Florida

product industry, his

background In the

Manager in a wide

Golf knowledge.

career span more than

golf industry. Michael

variety of print and

Fernando has locally

14 years experience

has worked for the

media sources with 17

organized over

in various fortune 500

top 5 golf companies

years of experience.

100+golf tournaments.

companies, Including

including Taylormade,

Co-founder and partner

Puma, Reckitt Benckiser

Callaway, Odyssey

of Innovart, LLC.

and Colgate Palmolive.

znd now Fila Golf.

The Umbra Putter 24 J.Lindeberg 26 Purchasing a home 28 Lizarran Restaurant 30 Events 32

Staff Advisers

Peter Brandon Contributing Writer - Wine Connoisseur

Connie Solorzano Marketing Director

Umberto Bernardini, VPGA Golf Tour Director

Ryan Heiman Contributing Writer - Independent Golf Reviews

Luis Luaces Associate Director

Mark McBride, PGA Contributing Writer – Golf Mechanics

Stacy Solomon Contributing Writer -Golf 4 beginners

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6

EDITORIAL

05

Fernando Solorzano CHAIRMAN PUBLISHER

E

N E W L O O K S G R E AT C O N T E N T Our newly redesigned design seeks to catch

putting up “for sale” signs or seeking new

the attention of a broader band of players.

financing to stave off foreclosure. A handful

We have gone from golf purists to a more

of South Florida golf courses have previous-

diverse base adding expert reviews and

ly been targeted for foreclosure or bankrupt-

articles from great friends and experts in

cy or have exchanged hands due to financial

the industry. Yet, we will always be open for

stress, including Bonaventure Country Club,

suggestions. We want to be your reliable

Colony West, Woodlands Country Club and

source for golf information in South Florida.

Heron Bay Golf in Broward County. Doral Golf Resort & Spa in Miami and Boca Del Mar

Local Golf Economy

Country Club, the Grand Lacuna golf course, the Ocean Breeze Golf & Country Club and

One does not need to be a financial guru

the Emerald Dunes Golf Course in the Palm

to realize that a lethal dose of a stagnant

Beaches. Others less fortunate like Oak

economy and a growing unemployment rate

Woods, Rain Tree, California Club, Turnberry

(10.4% as of June 2011 according to Google

in North Miami, Westview Country Club in

Public Data Explorer) has taken a direct toll

Opa Locka and Calusa Golf Club in Kendall

to golf course financials in South Florida.

have either closed or turned into residential

After all, our beloved sport is pure leisure

developments for good.

and if one needs to cut back on monthly @soflagolf

spending less rounds of golf will be first on

Still, there are plenty of opportunities and

our significant other’s list.

bargains out there that tempt us to come out to play our sport. We face difficult times

SouthFloridaGolf

The struggling economy has buried many

ahead and we have to be smart about how

For More information:

golf courses in a financial sand trap, forcing

we spend our money. With our newest

www.sfgmagazine.com

owners to offer deep discounts to keep play-

edition our staff invites you to support our

ers and recruit new members. Others are

sport! Play Golf!

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8

LOCAL

First Tee HISTORY OF THE

OF MIAMI

By FERNANDO SOLORZANO

Research has shown the primary reason more children, and especially economically disadvantaged children, do not play golf is because of the lack of places that welcome them. In 1997, the World Golf Foundation created The First Tee as a way to bring golf to young people that otherwise would not be exposed to the game and its positive values.

The First Tee, whose mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf, is supported by golf’s major organizations • Ladies Professional Golf Association • Masters Tournament • PGA of America • PGA TOUR • United States Golf Association In addition, former President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair. He succeeds his father, former President George H. W. Bush, who served as The First Tee’s honorary chair since the organization’s inception in 1997 and shifted to an honorary chair emeritus role.

Along with establishing an initial goal of providing golf learning facilities that enable young people from every walk of life to partake in the game, The First Tee realized that there existed a larger opportunity to teach life skills.

Sports have been a traditional vehicle for teaching life lessons. The First Tee Life Skills Experience was formulated with the help of academic, sport psychology, youth development and golf experts to proactively teach these lessons for life as part of the basic instruction program.

The First Tee is unique in that these life skills are intentional delivered.

A participant cannot opt out of the life skills instruction because these lessons are seamlessly integrated into the golf activities.

The First Tee of Miami

It its quite difficult to speak about The First Tee of Miami – Dade County without having to mention Charlie DeLucca Sr. Charlie’s charisma and passion for youth players landed him the nickname ”the Godfather of South Florida golf”, DeLucca spent a few minutes of his busy daily life speaking to us about the future of the game.

SFG > Charlie, when did your involvement with the youth in MiamiDade County and the First Tee started?

DeLucca > Back in 1963 I was the Golf Professional at “Miami Lakes” (Shula’s Golf Club). I knew there were a lot of children in the area and in

9

most places they were not allowed to be anywhere near a golf course.

So with the help of a handful of people including the Graham Family, Andy Cappeletti and Ralph LaPonzina (father of Johnny LaPonzina) we started a youth program and our first summer we had about 140 children. We had people bringing their kids to our Junior Program from Palm Beach all the way to the keys. It was a great partnership with the golf course and also with the developers of Miami Lakes. They were building homes and it was a way for families with children to move out west.

SFG > Were you successful with the program?

DeLucca > The second year we were with the program I took 9 -10 kids to the Peewee Nationals and all finished, and when I mean finished we had a handful of players in the top 10 places. After that we started the

Dade County Amateur Championship in partnership with the City of Miami and that is how we started the Dade Amateur Golf Association.

In 1981, the Dade Amateur Golf Association (DAGA) began a yearround program of weekly tournaments for Junior Golfers to be played on a variety of the better Dade County golf courses. At the time this was considered one of the most ambitious Junior Golf programs to be undertaken in the entire United States Charlie still relishes the arrival of 640+ juniors from around the world as they come every year and storms the grounds of the Doral Golf Resort & Spa to start of the Doral Publix Junior Championship. Twentyseven years ago, DeLucca began the event as a warm-up to the Junior Orange Bowl International Golf Championship. Today, it ranks among the most popular junior events in the world.

10

COURSES

Orlando GOLF VACATION

There is so much to do in Orlando. Many people travel to Orlando for Disney, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Universal Studios, and all the other tourist attractions. It has great weather, tons of lodging and is easy to get to. Along with all of those reasons to visit Orlando, FL, you might want to consider it as a great golf destination. There are many excellent courses in the area. I haven’t played them all, but these are some of the best. If you are going to make Orlando a mostly golf vacation, then contact the various courses to see about their Stay/Play packages, some are very reasonable and offer great options.

By RYAN HEIMAN

Orange County National best overall layout Orlando has many different options when it comes to golf. Many are connected to a resort, or community. But OCN is a little different; it is all about the golf, and not so much about the lodging or other amenities. It is a pure golf facility, and it is the best that Orlando offers. While there are a few modest lodging options on site, the courses themselves are free of housing, condos or any buildings to speak of. Combine the rustic setting with outstanding holes, and you get the best overall golf layout in Orlando. There are 36 holes of championship golf, (The Panther and the Crooked Cat), a 360-degree range, a teaching center, and a giant clubhouse all set away from the hustle, bustle and commercialization of Orlando. The Panther is the harder of the two and a little more open, but the Crooked Cat has more elevation change and tends to have a few more trees too.

For more information: www.ocngolf.com

ChampionsGate The best conditions in town When picking a place to play there are a variety of factors, the price, the location, the other amenities and the overall rating. One thing that can make or break any course is the conditions. My experience at ChampionsGate was enhanced by the immaculate conditions.

I played seven rounds while I was in Orlando and the two rounds at ChampionsGate were played on the finest conditioned courses.

ChampionsGate is another giant complex in Orlando with hotels, condos and houses. The one aspect of this resort that was nice is the

place in Orlando for a family vacation. Here

are all a strong test of your skills. There are a

fact that with all the lodging and amenities, the

are the reasons why. The location is excellent

few tame holes, but some are very tough, like

courses themselves still felt natural. The holes

for all the other attractions, namely Disney.

the closing holes of the North and South. You

didn’t feel woven through the housing. A few

The Resort is a Holiday Inn Resort meaning

can expect pristine conditions and memorable

holes of the International course are close to

you know what you are going to get in terms

rounds at Grand Cypress.

and play near the hotel, but still it didn’t feel

of lodging, good quality with a reasonable

so claustrophobic like many resort courses.

For more information: www.grandcypress.com

price.

While this is the more popular course, I enjoy

pool complex, multiple lodging types,

the great variety of the National course too.

and plenty of space for biking and

Along with this courses, there is a great range

walking. For every golfer in the family

and putting green, also the Leadbetter School

there are a great variety of options.

is on site to improve your skills. Overall Greg Norman designed 36 great holes of golf and

The resort itself has a huge

There is a par 3 course (Crane’s Bend), a lighted par 3 course (Legends Walk),

the staff keeps them great.

a “resort” course (The Reserve) and a

For more information:

championship course (The Legend).

http://championsgategolf.com/

Also if you need to tune up your swing or want to get better, the McCord Golf Academy is on site too. Golfers of every age and ability can enjoy the resort, and the non-golfers will find more than enough to keep them busy on this vacation in Orlando.

Resort information: http://orangelake.com/home.html

Bay Hill

Grand Cypress

Play where the pros play Every year Arnold Palmer hosts a tournament

The Best Variety of Golf in Orlando They

at his course. The Bay Hill we have all seen

have hotels, villas and condos which all

many times on TV. It is in the heart of Orlando,

offer excellent stay and play packages. The

and it a large complex with hotels, condos and

gated entrance really gives a sense of a high-

spa. It has everything you need to see right on

end exclusive experience and you won’t be

the grounds. You can relax and golf. Everyone

disappointed. There are 45 excellent holes of

likes to play where the pros play, just to see

Orange Lake

golf on this complex. They are all solid layouts

how we stack up.

by Jack Nicklaus. It a must play in Orlando and

nearly as good as they are, but it is still fun. It

The best family golf resort in Orlando

the pristine conditions will bring you back to

is also fun to play on a course with such high

If you take a vacation to Orlando, FL, you might

play it again.

The New Course is so unique.

standards of maintenance too. While this is

as well plan on bringing the family along; the

It is an homage to the Old Course. While it is

one of the higher priced rounds in Orlando,

wife, kids, and maybe some extended family

not a replica, it is fun links style golf course.

how many rounds do you get to play where

might want to come along. Therefore it is going

It is interesting because of so many double

the pros play?

to be important to find a place for everyone. I

greens. The other 27 holes, North, South and

For more information:

think that Orange Lake Golf Resort is the best

East are more traditional Florida golf, but they

http://www.bayhill.com/Home-1.html

The Grand Cypress complex is huge.

Unfortunately we’re not

12

LOCAL

THE IMPORTANCE OF

Club fitting

By FERNANDO SOLORZANO

Largely ignored and often overlooked by most golfers is the need to be equipped with the right set of clubs and fitted to the right length and specs. Yes, buying golf clubs is just like buying a pair of shoes or purchasing a new suit, not every set of clubs is tailored to your game and most important once you have the right clubs do they fit?

It is just incredible that in this day and age of technology we see thousands of players as they visit a retail store, perhaps inspired by a television ad or a friend’s suggestion and plop down $300 to $1,200 for a set of irons without even testing them.

Advances in technology have narrow the price gap and today it has become affordable to obtain an unbiased opinion from a qualified club fitting professional as to what really should be the right club for you and have it fit to the right specs.

Our staff visited Palm Beach Gardens to speak with Brian Thomsen, Club-Fitting Services Manager at PGA National Resort and Spa. Brian comes to PGA National after spending a year on TOUR fitting the best players in the world on the PGA, LPGA, and

Champions TOUR and nine years as a club fitting technician at Doral Resort and Spa and The Bear’s Club in Jupiter, FL. SFG > Brian, would you agree with the myth that if a set of clubs is good enough for a tour player is good enough for me?

Brian > No, and there are many reasons for my answer. A tour player with all the talent can just about play with any clubs and they get paid top money to do this. The average amateur needs specific clubs depending upon other factors such a swing speed, handicap index, frequency of play, etc.

SFG > How will you go about determining the right club for a player?

Brian > I start by telling the players to bring their current clubs to our shop. I measure the length, lie and flexibility of irons and woods on a frequency cycle machine to determine if they can still use their own equipment or if any changes are needed to make their current equipment to fully work. Depending on the individual I may recommend to change to a different golf shaft on a driver or if needed I could recommend another driver based on my findings

SFG > I just purchased a $400 driver, does it means that the manufacturer sold me the wrong club?

Brian > Golf clubs are made under certain manufacturer standards and more often these standards fail to meet a specific player’s needs.

It will be nearly impossible for a manufacturer to custom make clubs for players.

Even the most rudimentarily trained sales clerk at a sporting-goods store will direct golfers to models with generally appropriate characteristics, such as stiffer shafts for fast swingers and whippier shafts for slower swingers.

All you have to do is ask…They will also nudge higher handicap players toward irons with bigger, more forgiving club heads and drivers that get the ball airborne easily. In more advanced sessions, the fitter will watch customers hit balls, either indoors in a hitting bay or outdoors at a range, and custom order clubs with just the right length, grip size, shaft flexibility and lie angle.

In fact, most experts will agree that “Any fitting is better than no fitting” Bill Baldwin Store owner Planet Golf in South Miami told us last week.

Titleist, Taylormade, Ping, Callaway and most club makers provide a fitting cart, with sample heads and shafts, to teaching pros that sell its clubs and train them in how the system works.

“Club fitting is more important than anything else because with the wrong fit you will not able to use the equipment properly”.

We had one of our staff members adjusted his old clubs and the changes were noticed especially in his wedges. First, the lofts and lies of the current wedges were off, possibly from getting banged around over the two years he had played them.

Second, the technician recommended taking the seldom-used four iron out of his bag and replace it with a third sand wedge, to give more scoring accuracy from inside 120 yards. The driver head was fine but the shaft was too stiff for his ball flight and swing speed. A new shaft was recommended and installed, after the changes our employee spent $300 (compared to $ 1,200 + by purchasing a new set) and the gains will last for years.

We offer these details not because they are relevant to anyone else’s particular fitting needs, but to illustrate the types of issues a good fitting can address. One of the main benefits of club fitting is peace of mind. A player will go out there and worry about the swing, about the lie, wind and climatic conditions but for sure he will not longer have to worry about whether or not he/ she is playing with the right equipment

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OUR COVER

“The more difficulties one has to encounter, within and without, the more significant and the higher in inspiration his life will be�

Horace Bushnell

Morgan was born in Tampa, Florida. She grew up playing golf (starting when she was 8 years old) here in South Florida at St. Andrews Country Club in Boca Raton Florida where she currently lives. Inside the ropes she has great achievements including 2 wins in the LPGA Tour (2008 Kapalua Classic and 2007 Kraft Nabisco Championship) and becoming a two-time member of

F

O

U

N

D

the U.S. Solheim Cup Team. In May 2010, Morgan also won the Japan LPGA Salonpas Cup. But for hundreds of women in South Florida her philanthropic achievements are far more crucial, the ever fight between life and death. In 2003, when she was only 15 years old, Morgan lost her mother to breast cancer. Kathyrn Krickstein Pressel was only 43. Morgan moved with her grandparents and quickly developed a deeper awareness of breast health. Just a few years ago she set up a foundation in memory of her late mother.

The Morgan Pressel Foundation primarily raises money through a golf tournament, the Morgan and Friends Fight Cancer Golf Tournament. In four years, they have now raised over $1.75 million. Last year they were able to purchase a MammoVan to treat patients on the go. The Kathryn Krickstein

By FERNANDO SOLORZANO

Pro Images courtesy Keith Allison

A

A CHAMPION WITH A BIG HEART Pressel MammoVan has provided more than 1100 mammograms throughout Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade County, serving women who may not otherwise schedule their annual mammogram due to the constraints of work, childcare issues or transportation.

The MammoVan is equipped with an onboard GE mammography unit that brings state-of-the-art, 100% digital technology directly to the patient. In addition to providing screenings at area businesses and organizations, the MammoVan has been utilized as a marketing billboard at the Komen Race for the Cure and American Cancer Society Making Strides for Breast Cancer Walks, Town Center at Boca Raton and Saks Fifth Avenue during their breast cancer awareness efforts, Think Pink Rocks at Mizner Park and the Levis Jewish Community Center’s Celebration of Women Tea. Morgan Pressel is an LPGA star with a passion for raising funds

T

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N

and awareness for Breast Cancer. She is a model citizen and thru her achievements off the court she is able to impact her community, our South Florida Community!

If you are interested in making a donation, please send it to: Morgan Pressel Foundation P.O. Box 480157 Delray Beach, FL 33448

16

EQUIPMENT

Tiger Woods

By STACY SOLOMON

DEBUTS PROTOTYPE SHOE ON COMEBACK Tiger Woods has been working with one

can happen when your feet are too static.”

of the Directors within NIKE’s Innovation

said Hatfield.

Kitchen, Tobie Hatfield, and NIKE Golf on a FREE-inspired prototype shoe that Tiger will

“I love the feel of NIKE FREE for training, so

wear during this week’s WGC-Bridgestone

I asked Tobie if it was possible to bring that

Invitational.

technology to the golf course. It’s exciting to see a conversation like that come to life

Originally developed in 2004 by a group led

and I look forward to wearing them this

by Hatfield, NIKE FREE is a ‘natural motion’

week,” added Tiger.

technology that is designed to mimic and conform to the natural motion of the foot,

The majority of the upper consists of a

coupled with the protection and traction of

polyurethane coated stretch fabric, also seen

a lightweight performance shoe.

within the construction of NIKE Basketball’s Hyperfuse 2011. Part of the heel is created this

from recycled NIKE Air Max units melted

prototype model allow greater movement

into thread and then woven together to

for the front of the foot, increasing stability

create a strong, breathable textile material.

with mobility. “This will help give Tiger

The FREE-inspired outsole is directly taken

greater stability as he addresses the ball.

from NIKE Sportswear’s Special Field Boot

The

FREE-inspired

elements

in

designed for first-responders.

Is designed to mimic and conform to the natural motion of the foot

This model also has a half heel counter in both shoes to give more stability on the lateral side, particularly in follow through.

The shoe also incorporates NIKE Flywire

The freedom of movement that natural

(first introduced in Beijing in 2008) attached

motion technology delivers will also allow

to each lace loop, which when pulled tight

more power to be released through the

envelope the foot for maximum comfort

swing rather than through the body – which

and stability.

This fall on

18

EQUIPMENT

NikeVR R E F R E S H I N G A N O L D FAVO R I T E

PRO COMBO IRONS

By RYAN HEIMAN

The first real set of golf clubs I bought for

Pro Combos with the new VR Pro Blades is

myself was the original Nike Pro Combo

a nice feature (while maybe not necessary,

Irons. I played them for 3 seasons. I loved

still nice). The head shapes were modified

their feel and performance, especially in

slightly too, offering a player’s look with

When it comes to playability, these rank right near the top of my list.

the 5-PW.

I was

modest forgiveness.

never a huge fan of their looks and

I couldn’t wait for my first round of golf

couldn’t hit the

in with these.

3 or 4 iron. Fast

because I was also playing a new driver,

forward another

which initially was a little wild off the tee.

4 years and the many sets I have played

So finding my way all around the course,

since, yet there is still a place in my heart

the irons came to my rescue numerous

for those old’ Pro Combos. I did regrettable

times. I was able to hit the long irons into

sell them a few years back, so when Nike

the greens and found it easy to escape the

introduced the VR Pro Combo Irons

They were put to the test

rough with long and short irons.

for 2011, I was excited; I couldn’t wait to put those

When it comes to playability, these rank

back into my bag again.

right near the top of my list.

For the

majority of the last season I played blades.

As I unpacked the box

At the end of the season I had some cavity

and put them in my bag

backs in my bag.

just waiting for the time

mixing and matching those two sets to

I could get them on the

make a combo set; now I don’t have too.

course,

some

The VR Pro Combos are really right up the

I

noticed

changes/upgrades

I was contemplating

from

good recreational golfer’s alley. (For that

the original Pro Combos.

matter a number of Nike pros are playing

The new look is refreshing.

and winning with them too.)

The simple rivetless backs done in chrome look so

Working through all the irons in the set is

much better.

The overall

rather seamless and just what I need for my

progression from blade to

game. I struggle with the 3 and 4 irons.

cavity back to pocket cavity

They are not my favorite clubs in the bag.

appears much more fluid.

While they still aren’t, I did hit the 4 iron

I also like the fact that

very well. The pocket cavity offers just the

you could if desired get

right amount of forgiveness. As much as I

the 3-7 irons in the same

tried to hit the 3 iron, it will probably still

shaped blades too.

The

get replaced with a hybrid. But of all the 3

mix and match of the VR

irons I have hit, this was the closest yet to

making the cut. It was easy to elevate and

as straight shooters. It is one of the most

the rebirth of the Pro Combos was a great

felt good; it just can’t beat out my hybrid.

versatile shafts on the market.

The Nike

move for my bag. I can see why a number

grips were a version of tour velvets that felt

of Nike professionals have these in their

The 5-7 irons are a split cavity, which I found

nice and offered great grip even with some

bags on tour. Nike refreshed one of my old

to be just the right balance of forgiving

sweaty palms.

favorites with the VR Pro Combo Irons.

yet slightly workable. I had the ability to hit the ball straight most of the time, with

The feel on these is just as good as any

the ability to control shots just enough, so

other forging out there if not better. They

nothing wild, but just a subtle cut or draw.

are buttery soft at impact. I was happy with the durability. They didn’t get dinged up or

The 8-PW are blades and are as pure as it

gouged by banging around on the plane or

gets.

in the cart. Even the sand didn’t seem to

They are similar to the other Nike

Blades I have played, but just a little different shape to the muscle.

scuff them up or do damage to the finish.

It is a little taller

than previous versions. This too seems to

I got seven rounds in with

work in my favor for controlling trajectory.

these

The lower irons are typically easier to hit

some great scores.

because of the added loft and these were

found many greens in

not difficult to play by any means. Their

regulation and found

pure feel at impact and awesome results

t h a t

were just how I like it.

My set was built with DG S300s the stock shaft, which played as expected. They can be

shot

makers

shafts as wells

Quick Hits +Awesome Looks +Great Playability +So Soft -Susceptible to chatter

irons

and

I

shot I

For More information:

www.nikegolf.com

20

EQUIPMENT

Ping

WHEN RUST IS GOOD

Tour-S Wedges

By RYAN HEIMAN

On almost anything metal, rust is considered evil, except when it comes to wedges. Ping introduced their new Tour-S series with an oil-can finish they call Rustique.

These wedges will rust up a little in the wear area. The rust color is very similar to the original finish that will wear from use.

was also pleased with how they dug just a little but no huge divots.

flop. The leading edge was sharp enough to cut through the rough to extricate a ball, but didn’t dig too much on tight lies.

The new Tour-s Wedge have a new tuning port in the cavity which is very similar to the S56 irons. This tuning port Ping uses to create a cast club with excellent feel

The new Tour-s Wedge have a new tuning port in the cavity which is very similar to the S56 irons.

This tuning port Ping uses to create a cast club with excellent feel. They also redistribute the weight to the perimeter for some forgiveness in a wedge. The design, feel and over all play made me forget that these have conforming grooves.

I ordered a 52* 56* and 60* with KBS shafts.

They all have similar grinds which are on the moderate side. I believe you can get more aggressive grind from the Ping WRX department. They all have a great shape, and aggressive, yet conforming grooves. I

The 52* gap wedge served me well. I was able to use it most on full shots, but from time to time to keep trajectory down on chips. While the grind isn’t overly aggressive, I still found it to be fairly versatile. I found this to be my 110 club every time I needed it.

The 56* is primarily my sand wedge. This club too didn’t have any fancy grind, but it just worked. It was able to escape the sand easily and typically with good spin. I had many sand saves with this wedge. I did use it too from the fairway at 100 yards. I had very good trajectory and distance control with this wedge.

The 60* does everything else. I use it on full shots at 90 yards and everything inside of that. I was really happy with this wedge even though the grind was similar to the other 2 wedges. I could still open it up and hit the

I was really impressed with the amount of spin that all three wedges offered. I have sets of both non-conforming and conforming grooves.

While there is some difference I didn’t notice it much with these.

They are sharp and spin the ball nicely. While I didn’t have many spin back, I wasn’t dealing with much roll out either. I just always felt in control of the spin.

Rust is a good thing on these Ping Tour-S wedges. They look great, offer a non-glare finish and spin the ball very nicely. For cast wedges they even felt pretty good.

For more information: www.ping.com

Quick Hits +Cast yet good feel +Great spin for CC grooves +Versatile wedge +Oil Can/Rustique Finish -Minimal grind

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*Offer valid May 20 - Sept. 30, 2011. Price is per person per night based on double occupancy.

2 night minimum stay. A $30 cart fee per person applies for the first round each day. A surcharge applies to play The Champion. Tax and resort fees not included. Restrictions apply. See website for details.

ON

S HIP E X PE

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EQUIPMENT

22

THIS DRIVER WOULD BE GOOD IN ANY COLOR

TaylorMade

By RYAN HEIMAN

The hit of the 2011 season has been the white driver.

Taylormade first introduced us to

the “Ghost” concept last year with the Corza Ghost putter.

Since then they have painted

just anything and everything white that they can. While white paint isn’t going to change the performance of a club, it will certainly get people’s attention. White paint isn’t going to keep this club in the bags of golfers, but its outstanding performance will. In all honestly they could have painted this driver any color and it still would be a great driver. The white paint is interesting. You’re immediately drawn to it. You also initially notice it on the backswing out of your peripheral vision. It takes a couple of swings to get used to that, but once you do, it won’t bother you at all. I know there was an ad by a competitor against the white head showing it with a shadow; but the sun has to be just right to make this happen, and even when it does, that little shadow isn’t going to bother anyone.

Besides the white paint, the R11 has a combination of FCT, MWT and ASP what Taylormade calls 3D tuning.

These three

adjustable parts of this driver allow any golfer to get the exact setting they desire. There is the possibility of so many different combinations, it can be dizzying. The 3D tuning really doesn’t take that long to set up. First remember that the ASP has no impact on performance, just appearance at address if you are resting the club on the ground. It does make it look closed,

neutral or open if the club is resting on the

the “made for” Blur. It was rolling out quite nice,

ground, once you lift it, it has no real use. FCT

even for the early spring. It was fairly straight,

is easy to adjust it the lie angle and loft angles.

but from time to time because of the length

It has 8 settings. I found the standard neutral

of the shaft at 45.75 and whip of this shaft, I

works best for me. The 3rd setting that took

would lose one right or left. Even though the

the most tweaking to get it where I wanted it

shaft got a little wild with my swing at times, the

was the MWT. While the R11 doesn’t come with

face was very forgiving. I noticed I hit the ball all over the face early in the season, but didn’t

“The R11 has a combination of FCT, MWT and ASP what Taylormade calls 3D tuning”.

lose significant distance or lose them way right

a weight kit, I had one from my old R5 TP. I

have ever hit. Straight and long. It is hard to

have a whole bunch of different weights, I think

believe that a shaft that only comes in one flex

I tried almost every combo I could think of until

and works for everyone can be that good, but

I settled on a lighter than expected combo of

it was. I hit more fairways over 5 rounds than

6gr heel 1gr toe. This is 4 grams lighter than

I ever have before.

stock, but really seemed to do the trick for me.

it seemed like the Blur was longer by a couple

It comes stocked with a 10gr heel and 1gr toe.

yards, but because I hit more fairways and got

But also swingweights at D5 so this brought it

more roll, my average length went up.

down to D3

Sure not everyone is going to buy into the

I was surprised to see the loft at 9 instead of 9.5

white driver and some don’t want that kind of

degrees loft, but I think that is because of the

flashiness, but the truth is this driver is good.

hosel adjustment (FCT). This new loft allows

With the right shaft, it might be the best. I think

for greater adjustment and maintains a gap

I found my 2011 driver; Taylormade R11 9* loft,

between the 9* and 10.5* Previous 9.5 and 10.5

N (FCT), 6gr H 1gr T (MWT) Neutral (ASP) with

lofts had some overlap. No one is going to miss

the Nunchuck shaft.

or left. The sound and accessories are pretty stock Taylormade.

The good metallic sound

at impact can be changed with the weights.

Tinnier with less weight and more muted with heavier weights. The Tour Velvet grip and long sock headcover make for a nice combo.

The real winner for me is also the fact that R9/R11 tips are available to purchase from Golfsmith and other club making stores.

(Thank you Taylormade) This allowed me to try a whole bunch of other shafts I have. This is when I found the real winner. The R11 9* with the Nunchuck shaft. This combo is the best I

When it came to distance,

you rocking this driver at the course. You will most likely have to field some questions about it

For more information:

too. But if your results are like mine, you will be

http://www.taylormadegolf.com/products/

more than happy to share them. On the course

drivers/r11-driver

I was really impressed with this driver right off the shelf. I’ve heard of many golfers getting their best numbers with the “made for” Blur

-White doesn’t

compared to the TP version. (also saving

appeal to all

quite as tight feeling as the real deal

Quick Hits

Blur available in the TP version. There

+3D Tuning

you go the TP route

are many other TP shaft options too,

+White

or extra shafts

them $100). It had a good feel, just not

most for just a $100 upgrade. I had long, lowish spin, mid high drives with

-Can get expensive if

+Availability of FCT tips +Low-Spin, Forgiving face

•Affordable entry fees •Single and Two Day Events •Pro Only Events •Senior (50+) only events •Amateurs welcome events •Amateur Division (up to 3.9 hcp) Manny mc@soflatour.com (786)239-8572 Fernando fs@soflatour.com (954)940-8293

•Premium Golf Courses •Instant professional payouts •Gift certificates for amateurs •Top 33% payout to the field •Statistical scoring service •Miami Dade and Broward Courses

www.soflatour.com

24

EQUIPMENT THE NEWEST WEAPON IN MY BAG

THE UMBRA PUTTER BY

Axis 1 Golf

By FERNANDO SOLORZANO

As an innovative golfer for the past 30 years, always tweaking and

your grip just a bit and you will immediately feel the balance.

trying something new, especially on the putting surface where I am

We interviewed Industrial Engineer and Designer Luis Pedraza during

at my weakest point, I thought I tried it all. From my old Wilson Staff

his summer visit at Edwin Watts store in Fort Lauderdale where he

blade, Bobby Grace, The Plop, Ping Anser, Odyssey 2-ball, 3-ball,

showed us his balance test. Pedraza’s lengthy resume includes over

Sabertooth, White Hot and Ice and 4 different Scotty’s, I have tried

25 US patents, has excelled in developing products with complex

everything or used every putter imaginable, but when I laid eyes on

ergonomic requirements and he is particularly proud of his design

the Axis1 Umbra, the first thing to come to mind was, wow!!

of the Spaceball, a 3-Dimensional computer mouse which was used to control the Mars Rover Expedition at NASA. Pedraza set up to

The Axis1 Umbra and its predecessor the

putt using a regular putter, lifted it slightly off the ground and put a

Eagle share one thing in common, is all about

finger behind the shaft just above the head — and the head flopped

balance. By putting the heel weight into an

open and flipped completely around. He then did the same test with

area that’s ahead of the putter face, the center

his Axis1 and the putter head didn’t move.

of gravity moved to the sweet spot in the club, which also happens

SF > Luis, what is the major difference between your product and

to align with the shaft. Placing the putter at address and relaxing

all the rest

By putting the heel weight into an area that’s ahead of the putter face, the center of gravity moved to the sweet spot in the club, which also happens to align with the shaft

Luis > When you hold any of those putters at address position and

was shared by all 4 players in our foursome. All of us were amazed

you relax your grip you will always notice one thing, the putter face

at the stability and consistency of our putts; all of us improved in

opens up. It’s a natural tendency due to the way traditional putters

different degrees our putting averages, in my experience, it takes

have been built. Axis 1 putters have a patented counter to heel

me a good month before I adjust to a new putter. Needless to say

counter weight to balance the club. You can hold the club with 2

after shaving 5 putts from my usual 28-31putts per round average,

fingers and the club will be aligned and balanced throughout the

the Umbra stays in my bag.

entire swing motion. We are the only company to put the sweet spot right on the center of the club and aligned with the shaft

Once you see pass the club’s odd-looking head shaped like a capital J, you will notice straighter putts and a key ingredient to great

Its unique shape virtually eliminates the usual twisting and torque

putting, consistency. The Umbra putter is USGA approved and the

made during the stroke. Most putters, by nature, want to open up

science behind it is as solid as a great putting day on my very first

(turn to the right) during a player’s stroke. The Axis1 doesn’t. Our

try. This putter receives my 100% approval.

outdoor test conducted at the undulating greens of Jacaranda East confirmed us that the physics behind it really worked. The putter

www.axis1golf.com

26

FA S H I O N

By FERNANDO SOLORZANO

J. Lindeberg has become the label of choice for the new golfing generation. Through the use of brighter fabrics, better fitting constructions and designs that bring traditional golf wear into the present, J. Lindeberg has become the hottest name in golf apparel J.Lindeberg continues to lead the way in golf fashion. Summer-Fall 2011 sees the introduction of a new range of golfing accessories, golf bags and a dedicated outerwear section. Green is infused throughout the collection this season along with the traditional shades J.Lindeberg is renowned for.

J.Lindeberg is an international lifestyle brand that bridges fashion and sport through modern

design. Founder Johan Lindeberg envisioned to modernize golf wear and over the past few years has almost single-handedly changed the way professional golfers dress. J Lindeberg golf clothing successfully combines fashion and sportswear and were pioneers of the use of Hi performance Hi density non-coated water proof breathable fabrics called H2Off and made by Japanese giant Toray who is the largest fiber and textile manufacturer in Asia.

J. Lindeberg has become the label of choice for the new golfing generation. Through the use of brighter fabrics, better fitting constructions and designs that bring traditional golf wear into the present, J. Lindeberg has become the hottest name in golf apparel.

J. Lindeberg golf clothing and accessories can be found at most local pro shops and the J. Lindeberg store at the Aventura Mall.

Entry Fee Individual Foursome

$250.00 $1000.00

Additional Dinner Guest

$50.00

Includes: 18 Championship Holes w/Cart, Lunch, Dinner, Prizes and Gift Package

Sponsorship Packages Title Sponsor

$15,000 16 golf spots at event 8 VIP tickets to the WCG/Cadillac Championship at Doral Logo placement on gift items and program Exclusive signage at event Evening program and sponsor board recognition

Platinum Tee Sponsor $5,000

8 golf spots at event 4 VIP tickets to the WCG/Cadillac Championship at Doral Full 6’ banner at event Custom tee signage (preferred placement) Evening program and sponsor board recognition

Gold Tee Sponsor

$ 2000 4 golf spots at event Full 6’ banner at event Custom tee signage (preferred placement) Evening program and sponsor board recognition

Charity Golf Classic presented by

Monday, October 24, 2011 Noon Shotgun

Silver Tee Sponsor

$1000 2 golf spots at event Custom tee signage Evening program and sponsor board recognition

Custom Tee Signage

$250

Schedule of Events 11:00 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

Noon 5:00 p.m.

Registration Lunch Golf / Shotgun Start Dinner Awards Presentation Comments from Honored Guests Giant Raffle

Weston Hills Country Club 2600 Country Club Way Weston, Florida 33332

The First Tee Founding Partners

For more infomation visit www.thefirsteebroward.org or contact:

Jack Barrett Director of Development

954-651-6720

jbarrett@thefirstteebroward.org

28

LOCAL

Purchasing a

HOME

near a GOLF COURSE

As most people know we are currently in a buyer’s market and now more than ever the chance of purchasing your dream home near a golf course is closer than what you may think. Purchasing a home near a golf course is a solid investment as the great views and its location will help maintain the value of your property. My recommendation is to follow these easy steps in order to maximize your investment.

•

Invest in a house that shows the

•

is generally calculated by area and

house. When you are looking for

square feet. The added price comes

property near a golf course you

with the views of the golf course and

already know that the yard surround-

this is the perfect moment to seek

ing the house is the main role in the

the expertise of an experienced Real

purchase. You will find some styles

Estate agent who can help you dur-

of houses that are so dependent on

ing the negotiation process with the

others to search the house big as

current owner.

stage County club expects and demands a certain level of cleanliness,

•

and its spectacular properties.

•

Remember the price of the property

incredible scenery surrounding the

When you are in the market for a property near a golf course, club or country, then you should start

Homes located near a golf course as

your search with the bar set much

homes located near water (ocean,

higher than with standard housing.

lake, river, etc) are generally seen as

Purchase price may be higher but

the ultimate luxury real estate mar-

your return of investment and added

ket, buyers are much more willing

value may be stronger as the years

to pay a higher price for this type of

pass.

investment. The key is to be patience and to wait until you find the right home to suit your needs.

•

Location, Location. Location…the most important words in Real Estate

By TANNY RODRIGUEZ

BIENES RAICES MIAMI Bio: Tanny Rodriguez, PA Over 20 years experience in the local Real Estate market specialized in the areas of Doral, Brickell, Biscayne, Miami, Coral Gables and Weston

Those in the market for a home near a country club and are willing to pay more for your home, what choice do they have really? What many people do is make sure that they have spent the right amount of money on your investment.

If you are looking to invest in property near a golf course then you need to find a home that has an outdoor patio and backyard that is in

perfect condition. The backyard is especially important, as is usually the area that faces the golf course and therefore must be in perfect condition.

Following these easy steps and with the right Real Estate agent to guide you, the home of your dreams may be just around the corner.

Bienes Raices Miami Miami Doral

Brickell Biscayne Brickell

Biscayne

Biscayne Compre su propiedad hoy! Doral, Brickell, Aventura, Biscayne, Miami, Sunny Isles.

Telefono de Venezuela: 0261-335-4804 Pin # 25EB463D Comprar o vender es una decision muy importante !

Ponga sus necesidades en nuestras manos!

Tanny Rodriguez Realtor Associate

(305)970-1833 tannyr@tannyrealtor.com

10783 NW 41st St Unit 1 Doral, FL 33178

www.tannyrodriguez.com

Jesus Duran Broker Associate

(305) 632-9857 jesusduran@bellsouth.net

30

REVIEW

Lizarran R E S TA U R A N T

By FERNANDO SOLORZANO

Who doesn’t enjoy eating and drinking good food in a fun and relaxed atmosphere where one feels free to sing and dance and make new friends? That is Lizarran Spanish Tapas.

A restaurant in the heart of Coral Gables that brings together the best of the Spanish gastronomy with all the passion of the Spanish culture.

In 1988, at just 24 years of age, Mateo Ferrero, a young entrepreneur from the region of León, Spain opened a tavern now known as Lizarran in Sitges, near Barcelona. There, he recreated the atmosphere of tapeo (a savory meal made up of many hors d’oeuvres-style dishes) and txikiteo – a tradition

This spacious restaurant receives floods of light during the day and glows under candlelight in the evening. Glossy dark floors bring a shine to the Spanish art that decors the place

combining food,

tapas, just served on top of bread with a

wine and song –

toothpick and are usually for one person. They

which

so

also offer a executive lunch especial, which

enjoyed. That is

he

included 3 pinchos for around $10 dollars.

how pintxos (a

Enticing dinner options are the gambas al ajillo

style

tapeo

served with tender shrimps and hot olive oil-

popular in the

and-garlic dressing and the tiny meatballs in

north) first got to

a creamy saffron sauce with fluffy paella rice.

of

Catalonia, Spain, bringing along with them the

Lizarran has an extensive catering menu

tradition of eating with friends while standing

whether you’re planning a birthday party,

around a tavern chatting with friends and

wedding reception, corporate event or large

strangers alike

family party that can be tailored to your needs

This spacious restaurant receives floods of light

including the to die for Paella and Sangria. If

during the day and glows under candlelight in

you are feeling for a great Spanish dish and

the evening. Glossy dark floors bring a shine

even better atmosphere Lizarran Spanish

to the Spanish art that decors the place. The

Tapas is a must! We highly recommend it

sangria is fruit-heavy and refreshing and compliments the boquerones, aceitunas

Lizarran is conveniently located at 65 Alhambra

con anchoas and calamares a la

Plz, Coral Gables 33134 between Douglas Rd

andaluza (our favorite dish)

and Galiano St

They have a large selection of cold and hot pinchos as they’re called. Pinchos are like

www.lizarran-ca.com

EVENTS

F RIEND S O F

St. Jude Miami Golf Tournament The Second Annual Friends of St. Jude Golf tournament took place on March 18, 2011, at the Biltmore Hotel. This event brought together young professionals, athletes and prominent members of the South Florida community in support St. Jude in its mission to find cures for children with cancer.

GUS MACHADO C L A S S I C

In 1998 Gus Machado founded the Gus Machado Classic Charity Golf Tournament benefiting the American Cancer Society. With every year that passes, this tournament is more and more successful . Since 2008 the tournament is held at the exclusive Indian creek Country Club , at Indian creek island, Miami Beach , and has become one of the signature events in the greater Miami area. To date the Gus Machado Classic Charity Golf Tournament has raised over half a million dollars.

EVENTS

34

ZO’s Summer Groove GOLF CLASSIC

Zo’s Summer Groove Golf Classic debuted it’s new location at Fairmont Turnberry Isle. On Friday morning July 22nd, Alonzo Mourning kicked off the weekend with Zo’s Summer Groove Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Golf Classic presented by Hublot at Fairmont Turnberry Isle in Aventura, Florida. The event was hosted by Zo and his celebrity guests like Bill Russell, Jason Taylor, Roland Martin, Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra and USA Network original series BURN NOTICE actor Jeffrey Donovan.