SOUTHERN ARIZONA
Oct - Nov 2012 Vol 9, Issue 5
Tucson Conquistadores 50th Anniversary Special Edition
Also Inside:
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE
Rules & Instruction l Tournament News & Results l 19th Hole Golf Course Directory l Junior & Amateur Spotlights l Course Reviews Pro-File l PGA Championships l Tee to Green l Hole In One Inductees
Y our Multi-Media Resource
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CONTENTS Published by Media Solutions Group, Inc. PUBLISHER
JACQUELINE McABEE jm@GoGolfArizona.com
Assoc. PUBLISHER
JACK TALMAGE jack@GoGolfArizona.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
RICK PRICE, PGA rick@GoGolfArizona.com
ADVISORY BOARD LANCE ELDRIDGE ROBIN LANE J.C. McABEE RICK PRICE, PGA JACK TALMAGE MIKE HAYES, PGA ADAM LAZARUS JUDY MCDERMOTT JAY WARREN DAN WICKMAN, PGA
CONTRIBUTORS
COREY BAEHMAN, PGA MATTHEW BOEPPLE BILL CHRYSLER, PGA ANDREW CLARK BARNEY CONFREY RYAN ECKROAT, PGA LANCE ELDRIDGE AL FISCHER MICHAEL HAYWOOD, PGA RICK SAMPLE, PGA ROBIN LANE DON LAY ADAM LAZARUS JUDY McDERMOTT DENNIS PALMER, PGA JOE PINELLA BRANDON SMITH, PGA MARY ANN SOUTER JIM WELLS
on the cover
CHAPTER SPONSORS
GLENDA GROW GOLFHUB THE RITZ-CARLTON, DOVE MOUNTAIN SOL CASINOS THETEETIMESTORE.COM
41 Tucson Conquistadores - 50 Years In Review 7 9
GOLD SPONSORS
THE ANTIGUA GROUP ARIZONA WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION CANOA RANCH GOLF RESORT DESERT DIAMOND CASINO GOLF CARS OF ARIZONA HILTON EL CONQUISTADORE LODGE AT VENTANA CANYON ORO VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB POSTON BUTTE GOLF CLUB THE VIEWS GOLF COURSE TUCSON CITY GOLF TUCSON AND SCOTTSDALE GOLF VACATIONS TUCSON CONQUISTADORES WORLD GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPSACCENTURE MATCH PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP
24 AMATEUR AL: 2012 Pro Tour(s): A Retrospective 26 COURSE MAP & DIRECTORY DIRECTORY 28 My Course Is Closed . . . Now What?! 31 New Ticket Package Announced By World Golf
Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship
33 How The GHIN Conversion Affects The Golfer 34 60 Minute Golf! Got Your Attention, Didn’t We? 37 Birdies & Butterflies Celebrity-Am Golf Tournament & Gala 60 2012 USGA Champs Take Amateur Golf To The Next Level
19th hole
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37
66
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66 Michael Thompson Gives Back to the Youth of Tucson 68 JUNIOR SPOTLIGHT: Tyler Cooper & Adrianna Grijalva 69 What Are The Odds? 70 2012 Ricki Rarick Junior Golf Benefit Tournament
Phone: (520)290-1742 Fax (520)326-8772 email: southernchapterpga@yahoo.com www.southernchapterpga.com
The Southwest Section PGA is one of 41 Sections of the PGA of America, consisting of more than 1,500 members in the state of Arizona and Southern Nevada. The Southern Chapter PGA is the six southern counties of Arizona. The PGA of America is the world’s largest working sports organization, comprised of 28,000 men and women golf Professionals who are the recognized experts in growing, teaching and managing the game of golf. Since its founding in 1916, The PGA of America has enhanced its leadership position by growing the game of golf through its premier spectator events, world-class education and training programs, significant philanthropic outreach initiatives, and award-winning golf promotions. Your PGA Professionals are the “Experts in the Game and Business of Golf.”
34 DID YOU KNOW? Alternative Golf Edition! 72 TEE TO GREEN: Local News and Reports 75 HOLE IN ONE: Latest Inductees to the Program 87 NEW FEATURE! Food Fore Thought 70 When the Cats Win, You Win at Desert Diamond Casino 90 RESTAURANT REVIEW: Union Public House 92 Antigua Launches Accessories Line 93 Get Ready To Tee it Up at Casino Del Sol Resort! 94 FITNESS: Coordinating Movement 96 The $1 Million Hole In One Contest Is Back 97 FITNESS: The Mental Game 98 AMATEUR SPOTLIGHT: Sandy Jacobson & Jim Redmond
junior golf
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PLAY AWAY: Where To Escape and Feel Like You Belong
It’s Not Just A Suggestion
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STAFF REVIEW: The Sensory Experience of Stone Canyon
11 Hit the Range Like A Pro! 12 The Geometry of Ball Flight 15 The Big Muscle Swing 17 Could Your Grip Be Robbing You of Distance & Accuracy 19 Golf 2.0 - You and Your Game 21 Weighted Shots: How Much Do They Weigh? 22 RULES: Playing By The Rules - For The Dedicated Golfer
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78 SPECIAL SECTION: Southwest Section Championships 82 PRO FILE: Paul Nolen, PGA l
ABOUT SOUTHERN ARIZONA TEE TIMES
Southern Arizona Tee Times, official publication of the Southwest Section PGA Southern Chapter, is published bi-monthly by Media Solutions Group, Inc.. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the SWSSCPGA. Distributed throughout Southern Arizona with 20,000 bulk/on demand print circulation and 11,000 e-subscribers. Copyright © 2012. Printed on 20% recycled (10% post-consumer waste) paper. All inks contain a percentage of soy base. Our printer meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) Standards.
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THERE
iS SUCH A THING AS BEING
TOO CLOSE
This year, your house guests can feel right at home. Vacation Rentals. Fully Furnished. Turn-Key. Whether it’s friends or relatives coming for a visit, sometimes your home isn’t large enough to welcome all the people you love. Break the tradition of uncomfortable stays and stressful holidays -- consider the welcoming comfort of a vacation rental instead. Our vacation properties are available year round for special occasions, family reunions, holiday get togethers; and are perfect for any size golf group! This year, rest easy. Your house guests can feel right at home with all the convieniences they left behind; and maybe a little bit more.
Daily (3 night minimum), month to month, 6 months or year-round! FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE SERVICES ALSO AVAILABLE
Northwest Tucson - Oro Valley - Ventana Canyon - Dove Mountain - Foothills - Tucson National
Condos l Townhomes l Houses
Boulder Canyon
The Greens at Ventana Canyon
Situated at the edge of the Coronado National Forest and Catalina State Park, single-level condos slip into the scenery with understated rooflines that barely interrupt the horizon. Open floor plans, spacious bedrooms & closets, assigned carports, community pool, golf nearby.
Resort style condo community with Santa Catalina Mtn Views, three sparkling pools, spa, hiking, biking, upscale boutiques, fine dining and shopping only minutes away. Enjoy golf at the Ventana Canyon G.C. (Two 18 hole Tom Fazio designs, Canyon and Mountain)
The Condos at Vistoso
Perfect In Saddlebrooke
Overlooking the city lights of Tucson and adjacent to The Golf Club at Vistoso. Casitas are spacious and beautifully decorated. Pools, spas, fitness centers, BBQ grills, and breathtaking golf course and mountain views. Numerous outdoor activities.
Brand new vacation rental with great space in a wonderful community! Enjoy all of the amenities of Saddlebrooke when you rent this property like swimming, fitness, clubhouse access and more! This 2 bedroom, den and Guest Casita gives you room to spread out.
Beautiful Dove Mountain
Omni Tucson National
3BR/3.5 BA home located in the gated community of Solano high up in Dove Mountain, lined by the infamous Gallery North course. Perfect for outside and inside entertaining! The backyard is like a resort with Pool & Jacuzzi, built-in BBQ grill and gorgeous mountain views.
Charming 2BR/2BA townhouse with tile throughout except in the bedrooms. Well equipped kitchen and quaint/comfortable living room make this the perfect home away from home. 2 car garage, gated front entrance/back patio with breathtaking unobstructed mountain views.
Sun City Vistoso
Oro Valley Country Club
This 2BR/2BA great home in Sun City in Rancho Vistoso has recently been upgraded with a cozy western theme. The recent addition of all new furniture gives this home an updated look and feel. You will really enjoy staying here and walking out to the golf course!
Bienvenidos…Welcome! Please make this home your own. While this 2BR/2BA is close to all conveniences, you will find that it is truly a peaceful refuge. There are some wonderful aspects of this neighborhood that will make your time here especially unique and enjoyable.
Gated In Rancho Vistoso
3BR/2BA in private 27 home community is professionally decorated, has all new furniture, Jacuzzi and big screen TV. Located within the Rancho Vistoso community less than 2 minutes from The Golf Club at Vistoso, shopping and restaurants, it’s the perfect luxury rental.
Ventana Mountain Estates
Many more properties available. Please call for complete inventory and availability.
Uncomparable breathtaking views of Ventana Canyon G.C., mountains above & below and the city of Tucson from 3 patios & negative edge pool. 4BR/5BA is upgraded with designer furniture, artwork and all the added detail to provide a oneof-kind rental experience.
Kitchenware. Patio or Balcony. Expanded Cable. Local Phone. Wireless Internet.
Ask About Our Discount Golf Rates and Advance Tee Times! Accenture Match Play Packages now available for Feb 18-24, 2013 Reserve your tickets and accommodations now for best options!
520-877-7924
Toll-free 888- 465-3125
TucsonGolf.com/map/tucson/rental info@tucsongolf.com 12450 N. Rancho Vistoso #120, Oro Valley, Arizona 85755
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STONE CANYON
BY JACK TALMAGE
southern arizona tee times
COURSE REVIEW
the sensory stone experience of canyon
Associate Publisher
Golf courses can be described in many different ways and as a writer I always search for what generally describes the overall experience. Is the course forgiving, is it generous off the tee, does it require pinpoint accurate approach shots, are the bunkers deep and penalizing? What is the general condition of the golf course from a maintenance perspective? How is the service inside and out? Is the beer cold in the 19th hole? You get the picture…playing golf is all-inclusive and consists of many components. Every now and then everything comes together in a rare harmony and at The Stone Canyon Club in Oro Valley, the total experience is second to none. Designed by Jay Morrish, one of the premier course architects of our time, the course layout was given prime consideration over the real estate plotting. That is not always the case with contemporary golf community developments, at Stone Canyon the golf course had to come first! With an impressive list of top 100 courses in his portfolio, Morrish considers this one of his best designs. “It’s the most impressive desert site I’ve ever seen, none of the others are in the same league with Stone Canyon.”
And impressive it is….. from the moment you pass through the gated entrance to the final putt on #18 (or maybe it’s the tie breaking putt on the 19th because they have one extra hole, just in case there is a playoff needed in your match). Unlike a lot of desert courses, at Stone Canyon no two holes are alike. The layout snakes it’s way around and through massive boulder piles laying at the western base of the Tortolita Mountains. Some of the
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holes are straightforward off the tee with wide open landing areas, while others require a look at the yardage book just to see what’s ahead of you and around the corner or over the hill. The 15th hole, a par 5 of 632 yards from the tips doesn’t even give you a look at the green until your third shot and a couple of doglegs to get there. The hole makes you earn every yard but will reward you with a well executed strategy. Number 10 tee has a commanding view of all of Tucson from the rugged Catalina’s to the Tucson Mountains. A perfect drive may get you long enough to carry the lake for chance at eagle on the par 5 or take the risk/reward challenge and bite off as much as you can chew on a narrow layup zone between the lake and the desert. An interesting hole by any definition! The sensory experience of playing at Stone Canyon is particularly unique. There are aerobic climbs up rock precipices to some table top tee boxes with spectacular views and there is a feeling of solitude on each fairway, never seeing another hole until you get there. The desert quiet that surrounds you can be surreal at times and then all at once the noise can be deafening when you are putting next to the massive waterfall
adjacent to #6 green… an audible hazard as it were. You can feel the magic of the site the first time you see one of the many petroglyphs carved on some of the rock outcroppings that surround you. Someone a long time ago left some interesting artwork on a rock palate to enhance your golf game. The Stone Canyon Club is a private country club. Memberships are available and worth your effort to discuss a membership plan that may work for you. Take the time to explore the opportunity, you may just find that The Stone Canyon Club can enhance your enjoyment of the game and enrich your total golf experience.
THE STONE CANYON CLUB
14200 North Hohokam Village Place Oro Valley, AZ 85755
Mike Russell – PGA Professional Director of Club Operations Brent Newcomb – PGA Professional Head Golf Professional Phone: (520) 219-1500 l stonecanyon.com
Visiting Arizona? Just looking to Play A New Course? Get the scoop from our Course Review archives: www.gogolfarizona.com/course-reviews
Souther n Arizona’s
Past home of the LPGA tournament. Rolling fairways and dramatic elevation changes.
Original site of the PGA TOUR’s Tucson Open. Short, tight, challlenging par 70.
Think you’re good? Test your ability on a true desert golf course.
Former home of PGA TOUR and LPGA tournaments. Lush tree lined fairways.
Dramatic re-design in 2005 challenges all skill levels. Picturesque, spacious fairways.
CENTRAL
WEST
EAST
CENTRAL
NORTHWEST
Alvernon, North of 22nd
Speedway, West of I-10
Irvington, East of Kolb
Alvernon, North of 22nd
Silverbell, North of Grant
520.791.4161
Now Ope
n!
520.791.4229
520.791.2539
Stop In and See The New El Con Club and Grill at Randolph Golf Complex!
520.791.4161
ing Also Offerng We d d i ! Packages
Open sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week, the El Con Club and Grill offers great food and drink in a Country Club setting. Open daily for Breakfast and Lunch the El Con Grill also offers live music and appetizers, Tuesdays from 3:00-7:30. For a complete menu, catering and facility rental options, visit www.ElConClub.com
El Con Club and Grill @ Randolph/Dell Urich Offers Line Dance Lessons! Wednesday Line Dances 6:30-8:30pm with Art & Elaine Corral
Beginning Line Dance lessons are offered every week from 6:30-7:30 for $3.00 per person, with additional music until 8:30 so you can continue to practice! New dances taught every week with a review of dances from previous weeks. Join Art & Elaine Corral of the Saguaro Strutters Dance Team to learn the Electric Slide, Boot Scootin Boogie, Good Times, Cotton Eyed Joe, and more.
w w w. t u c s o n c i t y g o l f . c o m
Miss an Issue? Read the entire issue online: Browse our website, or read with ‘Flipper’ www.gogolfarizona.com
520.791.5235
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southern arizona tee times
COURSE REVIEW
PLAY AWAY
ARIZONA GOLF RESORT
WHERE TO ESCAPE AND FEEL LIKE YOU BELONG BY JACK TALMAGE Associate Publisher
If you are thinking about taking a golf getaway, there are some decisions you have to make; how far do you want to go, do you fly or drive, how much do you want to spend, what kind of golf course attracts you, what sort of accommodations will you require, and very importantly…what is the atmosphere you are looking for? Within the Phoenix Valley there are a lot of choices; there is no need to go someplace far away, just check in with enough time for a round of golf on arrival day. There are shiny steel and glass mega resorts to choose from, places where you feel somewhat overwhelmed and lost in the shuffle of whatever convention is checking in. There are casino resorts and the smoky
mass of confusion that they offer. Not for me….for many of us a golf vacation means quiet relaxation with a loved one, or your regular golfing group, in a place where we are made to feel like members of the club. In a place where we don’t get lost and can spend some quality time together. That place is The Arizona Golf Resort in Mesa. Located on Power Road, just north of Route 60, the resort is tucked inside a quiet neighborhood. I could tell from the moment we arrived that we had made the right decision. The lobby was as warm as the welcome from the front desk agent who checked us in and politely informed us that the pro-shop, dining room and the lounge were just around the corner. How convenient! Before heading to the room we stopped by to see the pro to confirm our tee time and found ourselves getting a
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putting lesson at the same time. Brad in the golf shop has developed a “broomstick” putter that he wanted us to demonstrate. This act alone told me I was really going to like the friendly attitude of the resort staff… not stuffy or pretentious at all! The room was located in a cluster of suites surrounding a private courtyard, each room has an outside entrance and a private patio. The accommodations are perfect for getting together with friends and entertaining. Spacious living areas are separate from the bedroom and fitted with full kitchenettes, a dining room table and plenty of comfortable seating. Had we not made plans to eat in the resort dining room that evening, we could have BBQ’d on the Weber grill just outside our room. My eye however was on the oversized Jacuzzi in the >>>
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CONTINUED ON PG 10
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CONTINUED FROM PG 9
courtyard. Nothing like a hot soak after a good day on the course. My companion opted to relax poolside with a good book while I went to play golf. As I do not like playing by myself, Brad hooked me up with the men’s club who were just about to tee it up. A threesome of some of the most fun golfers I have ever played with took me under their wing and promised to show me around. Thankfully, I did not get in on their game or I may have not had enough cash left for dinner afterwards.
THE ARIZONA GOLF RESORT
425 S Power Road
l
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.arizonagolfresort.com Toll-Free: 800.528.8282 Local: 480.832.3202
Jim Fossenkemper – PGA Professional Head golf Professional The golf course is a classic style and reminiscent of many mature urban layouts. Relatively flat fairways with big eucalyptus trees and tall palms guide you off the tee. While seemingly wide open for driving, placement is very important to avoid going through the doglegs or getting blocked by the trees guarding your approach shot. The well manicured greens were rolling fast and true and I quickly learned not to over read them…very subtle breaks. The shape of the greens and the bunker placement around them allowed for some very interesting pin placements, great test of your short game prowess. I for one always enjoy the creativity required after missing a green, seems like I have been getting a lot of practice at it lately and usually from the short and/or right side. Ummm, maybe I should see Brad for a lesson. After golf we stopped in at Anna’s Lounge for a cold beverage and for my new best friends to settle up their bets. Anna’s offers some casual dining with a great view of the 9th hole and live entertainment in the evenings. We had made plans however for something a little more formal and after a brief rest on the patio, while watching a few groups finish up on #18, we headed to Annabelle’s, the resorts fine dining room. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the room overlooks the golf course and is tastefully decorated, very tranquil. Annabelle’s offers a wide variety of appetizers, salads, soup and salad bar, and a fine selection of main entrées. The steak I had was cooked to perfection and as tender as any steak I have ever had. Golf is not all there is to do at the Arizona Golf Resort and we had more decisions to make. The next day offered a lot of choices of nearby activity; shopping, float trips, desert jeep tours, Arizona Museum of Natural History or the Mesa Fine Arts Center were both nearby, spring training baseball would have been our first choice except we were there wrong time of the year (note to self, return in the spring), and of course we could just lay by one of the two pools and do nothing at all, just enjoy the peace and magnificent surroundings. Decisions, decisions, decisions.
THE WELL MANICURED GREENS WERE ROLLING FAST AND TRUE AND I QUICKLY LEARNED NOT TO OVER READ THEM…
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southern arizona tee times
INSTRUCTION
Hitting off the back edge (L) vs. a different area of turf each time (R) results in these divots taken with the same ball count.
SO THE NEXT TIME YOU HEAD TO THE RANGE TO PRACTICE, OR WARM-UP BEFORE A ROUND, FOLLOW THIS SIMPLE TIP TO IMPROVE YOUR GAME AND YOUR COURSE AT THE SAME TIME!
Hit the Range like a Pro! BY RYAN ECKROAT, PGA
Have you ever noticed how the driving range tee at professional events looks so much better than that of your local course? Ever wonder why? Some might blame the course Superintendent. Others might think that it is because the pros are so good. In actuality, it has little to do with the Superintendent and all to do with the golfer, regardless of skill. The reason that the range tees at professional events look so clean is that pros hit shots off of the back edge of their previous divot. The ball is still sitting on enough grass for solid contact to be achieved, but instead of taking another divot, very little additional turf is taken up with each shot. There are two purposes for this, both of which are reasons why every golfer should do this. The first is that hitting off of the back edge of divots promotes making proper contact. To create proper contact with any ball that About The
AUTHOR
is not on a tee, the player must strike the ball with a descending angle of approach with the hands slightly ahead of the ball. Ball placement on divot when hitting off the back edge
This pinches the ball against the turf which sends the ball up the clubface. This allows the grooves on the clubface to impart backspin on the ball which in turn helps the ball rise up into the air, remain in the air for downrange flight, and land softly on the green. That’s how good players hit the ball and, regardless of skill level, following this simple method on the range will help you do the same. Hitting shots with the ball sitting atop the front edge of a divot promotes striking the ball with an ascending angle of approach. Because you
RYAN ECKROAT, PGA
never actually get a lie such as this on the golf course, practicing hitting the ball with an upward strike will lead to shots that are topped, thinned and drop-kicked. The second reason pros hit off the back edge of divots is that it uses less turf space. A proper strike with an iron or wedge will create a divot. The turf area that is taken should always be the area that is directly in front of where the golf ball was. So, if you hit off the back edge of your previous divot, you will use less turf area because you can’t take a divot that isn’t there! You don’t have to be a highly-skilled golfer to do this, you just have to be a considerate one. If you hit every ball from a completely different area, inches away from your previous divot, not only will it make the teeing area look all chopped up, it also wastes a tremendous amount of turf space. This leaves little to no useful space for the next person, and also creates unnecessary work for the Agronomy and Golf staff at your course. So the next time you head to the range to practice, or warm-up before a round, follow this simple tip to improve your game AND your course at the same time!
Poston Butte Golf Club - General Manager
520.723.1880
reckroat@troongolf.com www.PostonButte.com
Ryan is the General Manager at Poston Butte Golf Club at Anthem Merrill Ranch in Florence, Arizona. As a PGA Member and 9year veteran with Troon Golf, Ryan has managed multiple facilities in Arizona and Colorado. Ryan began his career with Troon Golf at Legend Trail Golf Club in Scottsdale, AZ. He then moved to Colorado to open Vista Ridge Golf Club, a master-planned community just north of Denver. Ryan returned to Scottsdale after being named the Head Golf Professional at The Westin Kierland Resort, Spa & Villas where he served for 3 and a half years before joining the Troon Golf team at Poston Butte Golf Club in 2008. Submit an Arizona Golf Course Hole In One: Free Personalized Bag Tag, Certificate and Club Fitting! www.gogolfarizona.com/submit-hio
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INSTRUCTION
the GEOMETRY of
BALL FLIGHT
BY BRANDON SMITH, PGA Each time I interview and work with a new student I ask them what their goals are. Invariably, each person will say that they want a consistent swing. Most often my response is that they already have a consistent swing; some are consistently better while others are consistently worse. What they are really pursuing is a predictable ball flight. No matter what shape or style your swing takes, the golf ball only goes where the club tells it to. Each ball flight is a predictable result of the combination of three factors: swing path, face angle, and angle of attack. One of the things that I try to get my students to understand is the effect on ball flight of each of these factors. The ability to recognize the cause and effect of each factor allows you to more quickly diagnose in-swing errors and apply the proper fix. The addition of the Flightscope Launch Monitor to my instruction has been a tremendous tool in bridging the gap between concept and application. So how do path, face angle and angle of attack affect ball flight? Path (the direction that the clubhead is moving through impact) dictates the spin of the ball. An out-to-in path creates slice spin and an in-to-out path creates hook spin. Face angle dictates the starting direction of the ball and can be measured in relationship to the path or the target. The angle of attack has a larger influence on the initial launch of the ball, but also plays a significant role in that it magnifies the effect of a closed or open face. Let’s take a look at a couple of Flightscope screenshots to see how these add up. In this first shot notice the slice pattern for this right handed player. The path is moving left, or out-to-in, giving us a negative path number (-8*). The face, however, is also closed or pointed left (-3.6*), which has caused the ball to start left of the target line. It is not an open face that caused the slice! The face was only slightly open to the path, but closed to the target line, thus causing it to pull.
THE ABILITY TO RECOGNIZE THE CAUSE AND EFFECT OF EACH FACTOR ALLOWS YOU TO MORE QUICKLY DIAGNOSE IN-SWING ERRORS AND APPLY THE PROPER FIX. About The
AUTHOR
BRANDON SMITH, PGA
This second shot is a draw pattern for a right handed player. Notice how the path has shifted to the right, or in-to-out, giving us a positive path number (2.2*). The face has also changed to a positive number (2.3*), indicating that it is open. Can you really hit a draw with an open face? Yes! The face is slightly closed to the path, but open to the target line, causing it to push to the right. If your ball flight is not behaving like you want it to, pay attention to the starting direction and how it curves. Apply these ball flight laws and make the necessary adjustments to your path, face angle, or both. Head Golf Professional - Lodge at Ventana Canyon
520.390.3464
bsmith@thelodgeatventanacanyon.com www.thelodgeatventanacanyon.com
Since joining the PGA, Brandon Smith has had great success both on and off the golf course. As a member of the University of Arizona’s golf team, Brandon was a PAC10 Academic All-American. His Playing success has continued in the Southwest Section PGA, winning numerous Section and Chapter events including the Southern Chapter Match Play Championship and the PGA Dell Urich Award for low stroke average. He has qualified to compete in the PGA Professional National Championship in 2010, the major championship for club professionals. Brandon coaches all aspects of the game simplifying the mechanics so that you can become a complete player on the golf course. All the Instruction You’ll ever need! Golf Instruction Archives www.gogolfarizona.com/golf-instruction
Ladies, take your game to the next level. Whether you’re new to the game, or ready to take the next step to better golf, the AWGA Ambassador Program is the fun, easy and affordable way to get your game ready.
Southern Arizona Fall Classes
Club Omni Tucson National Area Tucson Teaching Pro Danny Medina Start Date/Time Friday October 19 Level 1 @ 1:00 pm
Club Haven Golf Course Area Green Valley Teaching Pro Marvol Barnard Start Date/Time Friday, October 12
Level 1 @ 3:15 pm Level 2 @ 2:00 pm
This series of lessons includes 1 hour sessions for 6 weeks Cost is $195. To register, www.awga.org/classes&lessons.
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southern arizona tee times
the Big Muscle Swing BY COREY BAEHMAN, PGA
As we have all realized through our golfing careers there is no secret to the golf swing. We all understand that sound fundamentals and consistent practice are the keys to improvement. However, in my experience there is one thought that is a borderline secret to great ball striking. The concept is simple but not understood by most golfers. The “secret” is to understand what parts of our bodies we use to swing the golf club. Many players fall into the habit of swinging the club almost entirely with their arms. They don’t rotate their shoulders or hips and tend to finish their swings “flat-footed”. By turning the lead shoulder to a position even with the ball we can achieve a full weight transfer and establish the coil needed for maximum power. By unleashing the shoulders on the downswing, momentum will carry your weight to your front foot and your chest will be facing your target. Using the shoulders to swing the golf club will allow you to feel the club stay more in sync with your hands and the clubhead and give you maximum clubhead speed. Trying to coordinate all the little muscles in the hands and arms is near impossible. To feel this concept a great drill to do is the “body motion drill”. Simply rest the club up on your shoulders and assume a golf posture. Make some turns with your lead shoulder so your back faces the target. Repeat this drill 20-30 times every few days and you will start to feel what a “big muscle” swing should feel like. Try this “secret” next time you’re on the range, I bet you will pick up some distance and consistency. Corey Baehman is Head Golf Professional at La Paloma Country Club, 3660 E. Sunrise Drive in Tucson, AZ. in Tucson, Arizona. An active member of the Southern Chapter of the Southwest Section PGA, and a member of the SWSPGA Board of Directors, he began teaching golf instruction in 1997 and is an occasional contributor to Southern Arizona Tee Times Magazine. To contact Corey, call 520-299-1500 x7803, or the La Paloma Golf Shop 520-299-1500, or visit www.lapalomacc.com Share your Arizona golf news with SATT readers: www.gogolfarizona.com/submit-tee-to-green
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Could Your Grip Be Robbing You Of Distance And Accuracy?
On the 1st hole at the Views Golf Course in Oro Valley demonstrating a drill to check grip pressure and avoid reduced club head speed.
BY RICK SAMPLE, PGA
The Views, Asst. Golf Professional
Placement of your hands on the grip will not be the focus of this article. I would like to focus on a part of the grip that most players don’t really think about, but has a big impact on how consistently you strike your golf ball. Grip pressure. Correct and consistent grip pressure will help you produce more consistent golf shots. How does grip pressure affect your ability to hit shots that are longer and more accurate? Grip pressure that is too light can lead to a loose out of control golf club and possibly cause you to re-grip the club during the swing. This will lead to inconsistent strikes and ball flight. Grip pressure that is too tight will cause tension in the muscles and joints. This will About The
AUTHOR
lead to slower club head speed and inconsistency in squaring the club face at impact.
southern arizona tee times
INSTRUCTION
through your hands. This pressure is too light. Now slowly and I mean slowly lower the club head until the shaft of the club is horizontal to the ground. You will feel your grip pressure tighten up. This pressure is more than we want. Now raise the club head until the shaft is at a 45 degree angle. You will feel your grip pressure lighten up a bit. This is the correct pressure to keep the club under control but muscles and joints tension free. Another way to check your grip pressure is to shake hands with someone. You want to shake their hand so that you feel like you have a good hold on their hand and at the same time if they start moving their hand up and down your wrist freely reacts to their movement. How do I check to see if my grip pressure remains constant throughout the swing? Check your pressure at address and take note of it. Then check your pressure at the end of your follow through. Is it the same?
Correct and consistent grip pressure will keep the golf club under control while at the same time leaving the muscles and joints tension free. This will help you square the clubs face more consistently. Square, solid contact will yield the longest and most accurate golf shots. So what is the correct grip pressure? How do I accomplish it? Here is a drill you can do anywhere to help. You can use any club in your bag. Position your hands on the grip normally. Now hold the club vertically with the club head directly above your hands. Loosen your grip pressure until you feel as though the club is about to slide
If so great. If not then work on making the end swing pressure, feel the same as the pre-swing pressure. So take the tension out of your hands and you will hit more fairways and greens.
Rick Sample, PGA The Views G.C. - Asst Golf Professional
520.825.3711
www.theviewsgolfclub.com
Rick Sample joined the staff at the Views Golf Club in Oro Vally as Assistant Golf Pro in August 2010. A PGA professional, he attended New Mexico State and graduated from the professional golf management program. Rick has been working in Arizona for 15 years and can be contacted at The Views Golf Club Pro Shop at 520-825-3110.
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Golf 2.0 – You and Your Game like TeeTimesMagazines for news between each issue
southern arizona tee times
INSTRUCTION
BY MICHAEL HAYWOOD, PGA Founder, The Player’s Institute
The PGA of America has embarked on a renewed strategic mission to introduce, retain, and improve the experience of the game across the world of golf today. Through a vast amount of research and study we now have for the first time a roadmap for that mission, one that simply put involves you and your PGA Professional. PGA Professionals in the Southwest Section are some of the finest in the country. They consist of some of the games foremost instructors, coaches and game improvement experts in the game today. On any given week you can see these men and women working with every level of
THE SOUTHWEST SECTION PGA IS CURRENTLY WORKING ON WAYS THAT EVERY CONSUMER CAN ACCESS EACH OF THESE PROGRAMS ON-LINE player regardless of ability, improving the way they practice, the way they play, and the way they approach the game. The question is how are you taking advantage of this expertise? With so many instructional opportunities available in the game today the consumer has lots of choices, and finding the one that is right for you can be a challenge. You must first ask yourself what it is that you wish to accomplish, and how much time you are willing to put into improving your game. Are you someone who would enjoy a group instructional session? Or, are you more suited
About The
AUTHOR
to individualized instruction that emphasizes that extra personal attention? What part of the game is your favorite? What is your least favorite? What barriers are there for you or your family to playing the game and practicing more frequently? It’s important to ask yourself these questions because that is the conversation you will soon have with the PGA Professional you choose to take your game to the next level. He/she will develop a roadmap for your success, and begin your journey to improving your game and having more fun! Over the past 5 years I’ve seen a large increase in the number of programs available to the consumer from our PGA Professionals, everything from age, ability, junior, fitness and family related programs. Each of these programs is designed to There is no greater opportunity available in the game today than for juniors and the beginner player. Tucson Country Club Junior Hunter take your enjoyment of the Lowry works on the fundamentals of his driver takeaway. game to an even greater level. GET GOLF READY…the leading player development program in the industry The enjoyment of the game is in your hands, today emphasizes fun, excitement, a casual and the tools for improvement and the game atmosphere, and a quality group learning plan for success lie with your PGA experience. In fact most Get Golf Ready Professional. Take the time to watch for Programs have multiple levels of instruction promotional information, e-mails, that advance you from the driving range, publications, websites and other forms of chipping and putting greens right to the golf communication on local player development course. For the younger members of the programs. The Southwest Section PGA is family you can’t beat SNAG (Starting New at currently working on ways that every Golf), a wonderful junior and beginner consumer can access each of these programs development program. For those who want on-line through www.southwest.pga.com. The fitness as a part of their golf experience seek game of golf has never been more accessible, a TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) Certified fun, or affordable than today. Take advantage PGA Professional. The TPI Program is the of these opportunities and see one of the foremost fitness and nutrition program nearly 1,400 PGA Professionals of the available in the game today. These are just Southwest Section PGA to bring greater some of the many programs available to enjoyment of the game to you and your everyone regardless of your level of family. experience in the game.
MICHAEL HAYWOOD PGA
Founder, The Player’s Institute. - President, SWSPGA
www.michaelhaywoodpga.com
Michael Haywood, PGA is the Director of Golf at Tucson Country Club, President of the Southwest Section PGA, Member of the PGA of America’s National Board of Directors, National Advisory Staff, Taylor Made/adidas Golf & National Advisory Board, SNAG Golf and Founder of The Player’s Institute, a full service player development and coaching organization.
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southern arizona tee times
INSTRUCTION
Weighted Shots:
BY DON LAY
How much do they weigh?
As an avid golf fan I find myself addicted to watching PGA golf tournaments on television. During the course of a tournament, I often hear the commentators referring to “scoring shots” or “pivotal shots”, shots that were eminently crucial in a round or a match…putts or individual approach shots, bunker shots or chips that are central to the outcome of the tournament. There is, in fact, no single underlying shot that is any more important than any other shot in a round. They are all counted, “weighted” or not, as just one shot on the scorecard. The value of any particular shot in a tournament can only be determined after the round is over. One can only look backwards, into the past, to accurately assess any one shot’s particular value. If a golfer attaches importance to a shot while playing, he will inevitably find his mind and his attention traveling into the future and will thereby attach expectations to the outcome. Any expectations take us away from the present and away from the tranquil mindset that allows for a fluid golf swing.
WHEN IT IS YOUR TURN TO PLAY, TRY NOT TO GET TOO EMOTIONALLY ATTACHED TO A SINGLE SHOT OR A SINGLE OUTCOME. UofA alum, Jim Furyk won a career-best three tournaments on Tour in 2010: The Transitions Championship, the Verizon Heritage, and the season-ending Tour Championship. Furyk's victory in the Tour Championship also earned him the 2010 FedEx Cup after winning by one stroke.
Ironically, many of the shots that are considered “weighted” by the announcers are not the same shots that the players themselves become emotionally attached to. Players have individual strengths and weaknesses, and may become emotionally destabilized by missing a shot that to us, the viewing public, seems insignificant. It is not just a shot missed that can cause problems. A great shot made can lead to a state of excitement that keeps the player from maintaining an even keel. The prospect of hitting more shots like it draws the player into the future once again, and again expectations of outcome interrupt the fluid swing. When it is your turn to play, try not to get too emotionally attached to a single shot or a single outcome. Enjoy each swing as it unfolds, for each one is just a single shot on the card. Don Lay is the co-author of “The Now Golfer: The Psychology of Better Golf”, with renowned psychoanalyst Preston Waddington. Don is a former touring and teaching tennis professional. His students include the Kennedys, the Shrivers, Oleg Cassini, Peter Grace, Cliff Robertson, and Jimmy Buffett. Don’s career on the tennis court, along with his background in psychology, has made him a lifetime student of how athletes learn, and how best to communicate this process. Don can be reached by email at donlaynow@gmail.com or visit www.nowgolfer.com.
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21
22
phoenix valley tee times
RULES
PLAYING BY THE RULES -
For the dedicated golfer it’s not just a suggestion
Pat Trimbell with player making a drop
All games have rules and golf is no exception. From technical reasons to practical reasons, it seems most people agree that when everyone plays by the same Set of Rules, it makes the game a more enjoyable experience.
In tournament golf, playing by the Rules is mandatory. But is it as important when playing a friendly round? Some believe that taking a “mulligan” or a “gimme” or improving a difficult lie can be explained as friendly acts to keep beginners interested in the game or for groups when all are given the same advantage. However, these infractions are used sparingly and are not exercised in standard play. Knowledge and integrity concerning the Rules of Golf are a source of pride to the dedicated golfer. Calling yourself on a penalty – even if no one else saw you – is painful, but honesty is a core value of being a golfer. Almost every golfer has a story of having to penalize herself, and it is because of that true honesty on the course that golfers feel such a connection to the sport. How many other sports do you hear about the competitor calling a foul on herself? So if you still consider yourself a beginner or are an occasional golfer, go ahead and play golf your way. But know that there’s a whole other dimension to the game that you can’t know unless you learn and play by the Rules. The responses listed below represent many average women golfers who were randomly selected for the poll. It is clear that all view the Rules as a fundamental part of the game. So embrace the challenge, play fairly and honestly and be a worthy role model for junior players.
Sally Larson, a Board Member and Rules Chair of the Arizona Women’s Golf Association, said it is her job to ensure that Rules Officials are properly trained and are updated as the Rules are modified. According to Sally, the main reason golfers should play by the Rules is to maintain an accurate handicap. “That mulligan or playing desert rule is often the equivalent of ignoring a stroke and distance penalty,” she said. “From a Rules Official’s perspective, we make every effort to assist players in avoiding a penalty. If a referee approaches you on the course, she is there to help before you make another move." About The
AUTHOR
MARY ANN SOUTER
BY MARY ANN SOUTER
Mary Anne Lofquist said, “Why would you play a game and not follow the Rules! Whether you play with friends or in competition it is only fair that you all play by the same Rules. Golf is an honorable game and if you can’t be honorable, you shouldn’t be playing.” Cindy Morris (said she is definitely a proponent of playing by the Rules since they protect the integrity of the field. Cindy said emphatically, “If you’re not going to play by the Rules, then don’t call it golf!” Very few of us know all the rules, but most make a concerted effort to learn them. Carolyn Suttles said, “If you are going to attempt to play a game, any game, it is important to know the Rules. Otherwise you are just playing with no guidelines and, in essence, what game are you playing???” Barb Kahler said it’s important to play by the Rules so that everyone is playing the same game fairly. Golf is no different than any other game – if you want to play, you must play by the Rules! Pat Ciccone thinks it is important to play by the Rules (like them or not) to protect the integrity of the game. “One never receives a reward for being dishonest,” she said. Penny Rady enjoys playing with a person who is knowledgeable on
the Rules of Golf and treats it as a learning experience. “Learning the rules gives me confidence,” she said. She believes the key to learning the Rules is in the delivery. Keep it simple and make it a pleasant experience.
Betty Pasek said, “All sports have rules. The Rules of Golf are there not only to help you learn the game but to help you with the game. Where is there a game that gives you a free drop out of casual water? Not in baseball, football, tennis, soccer, etc.” Colleen Green said her first exposure to golf was acting as a caddy for her husband. “I watched the men as they played. Then I started playing and learned the Rules. It is a lot more fun when everyone plays by the Rules and has an equal chance to win.”
Visit the AWGA website at www.awga.org to find upcoming Rules seminars. And remember, the Rules can be your friend!
Writer - Arizona Women’s Golf Association
480.332.6335
www.awga.com
Mary Ann Souter is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in a variety of golf publications, including Phoenix valley and Southern Arizona Tee Times. She is co-author of Synergistic Golf-One Day at a Time. Contact her at (480) 332-6335 or maryann@synergisticgolf.com. Miss an Issue? Read the entire issue online: Browse our website, or read with ‘Flipper’ www.gogolfarizona.com
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southern arizona tee times
FEATURE
BY AL FISCHER, ‘Golf ANYman’
2012 Pro Tour(s):
A Retrospective
has just helped the game develop into that.” Webb Simpson, US Open winner said, “I think the Tiger effect of inspiring people to play at a younger age, and I think the access to golf has gotten so much bigger that the game is changing. I’m lucky because I feel like we’re playing at a time where golf is at its best.”
The Guys: I think this has been an amazing, entertaining and rewarding year for the guys. This year’s Masters was one of the best ever to watch. An article in USA Today not too long ago was talking about the last 15 majors having 15 different winners. Check out Ernie Els at the British Open. Guys 35 and over we’ve never heard of worked hard and finally win a tournament. Kids 15 and 17 are leading tournaments. A 17-year old high schooler was alone in front midway through the second round of the US Open at The Olympic Club. Rory McIlroy catching fire at Kiawah. What’s better or more entertaining than that? The depth and talent on the Pro Tour continues to amaze me. No name guys come along and shoot 61 or 62. Most tournament courses are really tough, but, for the most part pros today are so long and so good it doesn’t appear to have that much of an impact. I quote Bubba Watson; “There’s more and more talent out there. Every week, everybody in the field has a chance to win the golf tournament, no matter how old or young you are. So I think Tiger
On Tiger mania: Not taking anything away from the man’s past accomplishments, but I’m real tired of the media, both print and view, devoting so much ink and time to his every move. There are lots more exciting and interesting things to feature………..let’s move on. The old guys: I think this tour is better than ever. From one of my favorites, Freddie Couples great win at the Sr. Players, to Willie Wood’s win at age 50. I, for one, would really like to see a Sr. event here in Tucson. The gals: I’m puzzled. We have all these great, strong college programs and yet Asia dominates this tour. I’m aware that many of the better college programs recruit and attract foreign players, but what’s the matter with our gals? It’s getting a little difficult to read about or watch gals tournaments and I can’t pronounce (almost) anyone’s name.
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I found it interesting and satisfying that Augusta National very quietly admitted two gals. Good for them, finally. Lastly (as of this writing) I hope we all had a chance to settle down and watch a great Ryder Cup. Both teams have bushels of talent and Medinah 3 is some kind of golf course (been there, done that).
Al Fischer represents “Golf ANYMan”: golfers just like you who’s golf adventure has been a fascination and a frustration, a joy and despair. Al’s hope is to give you a thought, a chuckle, or snort as he looks at the game. He welcomes your comments at Al@GoGolfArizona.com
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3660 E. Sunrise Dr. Phone 520.299.1500 Par 72, Yardage 7088
33 l DELL URICH GC 27 l DORADO GC
5200 E. St. Andrews Dr. Phone 520.299.0464 Par 71, Yardage 6123
6601 E. Speedway Blvd. Phone 520.885.6751 Par 62, Yardage 3900
10 l EL CONQUISTADOR GOLF RESORT
10555 N. La Canada Dr. Phone 520.544.1800 Par 71, Yardage 6801 Conquistador Course Par 72, Yardage 6713 Canada Course
35 l EL RIO MUNICIPAL GC
1400 W. Speedway Blvd. Phone 520.791.4229 Par 70, Yardage 6418
25 l FORTY-NINER CC
12000 E. Tanque Verde Rd. Phone 520.749.4212 Par 72, Yardage 6630
30 l FRED ENKE GC 8251 E. Irvington Rd. Phone 520.791.2539 Par 72, Yardage 6567
05 p THE GALLERY GC
14000 N. Dove Mountain Blvd. Phone 520.744.2555 Par 72, Yardage 7435 North Course Par 72, Yardage 7315 South Course
11 l GOLF CLUB @ VISTOSO 955 W. Vistoso Highlands Dr. Phone: 520.797.9900 Par 72, Yardage 6932
15 l MOUNTAIN VIEW GC 38691 S. Mountain View Blvd. Phone 520.818.1100 Par 72, Yardage 6728
09 l OMNI TUCSON NATIONAL GR
2727 W. Club Dr. Phone 520.575.7540 Par 72, Yardage 7262 Catalina Course Par 70, Yardage 6418 Sonoran Course
14 l THE PRESERVE GC—SADDLEBROOKE
66567 Catalina Hills Dr. Phone 520.825.9022 Par 72, Yardage 6418
19 l PUSCH RIDGE AT
22 p SKYLINE CC
36 l STARR PASS GC
3645 W. Starr Pass Blvd. Phone 520.670.0400 Par 72, Yardage 7008
12 p THE STONE CANYON CLUB
14200 N. Hohokam Village Pl. Phone 520.219.1500 Par 72, Yardage 7307
60 l TUCSON ESTATES
EL CONQUISTADOR
20 l QUAIL CANYON GC
2950 N. Camino Principal Phone 520.298.6769 Par 72, Yardage 6954
5910 N. Oracle Rd. Phone 520.887.6161 Par 54, Yardage 2311
07 l QUARRY PINES
GOLF CLUB (Marana)
8480 N. Continental Links Dr. Phone 520.744.7443 Par 71, Yardage 6300
32 l RANDOLPH GC 600 S. Alvernon Way Phone 520.791.4161 Par 72/70 Yardage 6863
56 l RITZ-CARLTON GOLF CLUB DOVE MOUNTAIN
6501 Boulder Bridge Pass Phone 520.572.3500 Par 36 Yardage 3894 Saguaro Course Par 36 Yardage 3955 Tortolita Course Par 36 Yardage 3897 Wild Burro Course
6100 W. Merrill Ranch Pkw. Florence, AZ Phone 520.723.1880 Par 72, Yardage 7282
GREEN VALLEY
43 l CANOA HILLS GC
1401 W. Calle Urbano Phone 520.648.1880 Par 72, Yardage 6610
26 p TUCSON CC
18 p ORO VALLEY CC
300 W. Greenock Dr. Phone 520.297.1121 Par 72, Yardage 6964
23 p VENTANA CANYON
6200 N. Clubhouse Ln. Phone 520.577.4015 Par 72, Yardage 6907Mtn/6819-Cyn
13 p THE VIEWS GOLF CLUB OF ORO VALLEY
1555 E. Rancho Vistoso Blvd. Phone 520.825.3110 Par 72, Yardage 6715
AZ CITY / FLORENCE
57 l ARIZONA CITY G.C.
13939 S. Cleator Arizona City, AZ 85123 Phone 520.466.5327 Par: 72, Yardage: 6742
49 l KINO SPRINGS GC
187 Kino Springs Dr. Nogales, AZ Phone 520.287.8701 Par 71, Yardage 6500
CASA GRANDE/ELOY
01 l CASA GRANDE MUNICIPAL GC
2121 N. Thornton Rd. Casa Grande, AZ Phone 520.836.9216 Par 72, Yardage 6353
02 l FRANCISCO GRANDE
45 l CANOA RANCH GC
5800 S. Camino del Sol Phone 520.393.1966 Par 70, Yardage 6549
39 l HAVEN GC
110 N. Abrego Dr. Phone 520.625.4281 Par 72, Yardage 6905
GOLF COURSE
2500 S. Western Way Phone 520.883.5566 Par 58, Yardage 2766
10000 N. Oracle Rd. Phone 520.544.1770 Par 35, Yardage 2788
55 l POSTON BUTTE GC
34 l SILVERBELL GC
3600 N. Silverbell Rd. Phone 520.791.5235 Par 72, Yardage 6824
600 South Alvernon Way Phone 520.791.4161 Par 70, Yardage 6633
27
RESORT GC
26000 Gila Bend Highway Casa Grande, AZ Phone: 1.800.237.4238 Par 72, Yardage 7545
03 l MISSION ROYALE GC
11 Mission Royale Pkw. Casa Grande, AZ Phone 520.876.5335 Par 72, Yardage 6700
04 l SAN MIGUEL GC
1505 South Toltec Rd. Grande Valley, AZ Phone 520.466.7734 Par 72, Yardage 7183 CLOSED MAY - OCTOBER 2012
MAP INSETS
31 l del LAGO
40 l QUAIL CREEK CC
2010 N. Quail Crossing Blvd. Phone 520.393.5802 Par 72, Yardage 7005
44 l SAN IGNACIO GC
GOLF COURSE
14155 E. Via Rancho del Lago, Vail, AZ Phone 520.647.1100 Par 72, Yardage 7206
51 l TURQUOISE HILLS GOLF COURSE
4201 S. Camino Del Sol Phone 520.648.3468 Par 71, Yardage 6704
800 E. Country Club Dr. Benson, AZ Phone 520.586.2585 Par 58, Yardage 3004
3233 S. Abrego Dr. Phone 520.625.5200 Par 72, Yardage 6978
1794 W. Newell St. Naco, AZ Phone 520.432.3091 Par 72, Yardage 6778
77 E. Paseo de Golf Phone 520.625.8831 Par 72, Yardage 6281
926 N. Madison St. Benson, AZ Phone 520.586.7888 Par 72, Yardage 7313
41 l TORRES BLANCAS GOLF CLUB
38 p COUNTRY CLUB OF GREEN VALLEY 42 p DESERT HILLS GC
2500 S. Circulo de las Lomas Phone 520.625.5090 Par 72, Yardage 6464
TUBAC
46 l TUBAC GOLF RESORT
One Otero Rd. Phone 520.398.2211 Par 71, Yardage 6576
RIO RICO / NOGALES
47 l RIO RICO CC
1069 Camino Caralampi Rio Rico, AZ Phone 1.800.288.4746 Par 72, Yardage 7119
54 l TURQUOISE VALLEY 50 l SAN PEDRO GC 52 l SHADOW MTN.
1105 Irene St. Sunsites, AZ Phone 520.826.3412 Par 72, Yardage 6632
53 l SIERRA VISTA PUEBLO del SOL CC
2770 St. Andrews Dr. Sierra Vista, AZ Phone 520.378.6444 Par 72, Yardage 7074
58 l DOUGLAS MUNICIPAL G.C.
1372 E. Fairway Dr. Douglas, AZ Phone 520.417.7339 Par 71, Yardage 6653
59 l MT. GRAHAM GOLF COURSE
4000 Golf Course Rd. Safford, AZ Phone 520.348.3140 Par 72, Yardage 6573
28
southern arizona tee times
FEATURE
what?! like TeeTimesMagazines for news between each issue
My Course is Closed…
This time of year is peculiar for golf courses and players. Oftentimes golf courses are lush with grass due to the monsoon rainfall. Cooler temperatures have golfers eager to tee it up. But…this is also the time of year that courses have to prepare for even cooler temperatures by closing to transition to a winter grass. If you are a serious golfer, “NOW” is the time to get an edge on your competition and flight challengers while they are simply waiting. Club Champions and Flight Winners don’t wait; they look for every opportunity to make things happen and improve.
ew routine If you have ever studied an accomplished PGA Tour player’s daily routine, you’ll see it’s exactly that…a consistent routine conducive to success both on and off the course. 7am eat a healthy breakfast, 7:30am 30 minutes of cardio, etc.. You have a normal life and may not be able to dedicate such time to a serious regime, but nonetheless you can create a new routine. There are two routines that you can develop during this transition time that will make a difference when you are back on the tee. The first one is to eliminate that scenario when you show up to the first tee still tying your shoes before taking three practice swings prior to schimmy-ing a scooter three feet off the ground. Maybe that was just me. Game Day – Begin your planning process backwards. Let’s say your tee time is 10am. Before you get to the tee you need 10 minutes to mark your balls, get your tees, coins, etc. You need 15 minutes on the practice putting green, 15 minutes on the practice tee and maybe 10 minutes to grab an energy bar and water. Calculate the time to get your shoes on and check in, another 15 and add 10 minutes for that construction delay. You have determined that you need 75 minutes from arrival to tee to be ready. There is your formula, now all you have to do is calculate drive time and your mind and body is on pace, relaxed and ready.
BY LANCE ELDRIDGE
ptimize Your Equipment
The grip is the only thing that connects you to your club like your tires connecting your car to the road. Would you drive with less than acceptable tires? You should treat your grips the same way. Changing out your grips each season will ensure a solid connection to your club through all kinds of playing conditions. Another key component for you and your clubs being in the best condition for your game is loft and lie angle. After countless hits (we all hope for as few as possible of course), your clubs will lose their initial specs. A friend of mine loved his 9-iron from 100-120 yards. After a few years I noticed my 9-iron was going 25 yards farther than him although we were side-by-side off the tee. He got it measured and it turned out to have the loft a gap wedge leaving a huge discrepancy between shorter clubs. Although it was in my favor, his game suffered but it didn’t need to; a simple check-up will fix that.
ellness Last issue was our annual Fitness Edition issue, and it was loaded with pages of helpful information to improve overall fitness and well-being. We keep an archive of our articles online and encourage you to go back and re-read these for ideas to help you this next year. Find something that fits your fitness level and endurance and make it a part of your daily routine. If you start now, when your course re-opens, you will feel stronger, more fit and be past those initial days of being sore. If you were to implement “NOW”, well, now, think about where you will be when you are back on the first tee. You arrived on time, unhurried and ready to play physically and mentally. Your clubs are in harmony with your swing and you have developed more strength and endurance to take you farther and deeper than your competition.
Pre-Shot Routine – Professional players all have their own routine. This helps them rely on something they are familiar with to keep them in the zone, or free from distractions. Developing a routine can relax the mind so all you have to do is visualize and concentrate on your shot. Grab a club, tee and a ball and go in your backyard and really work at a consistent approach to every shot. Miss an Issue? Read the entire issue online: Browse our website, or read with ‘Flipper’ www.gogolfarizona.com
Play well. Have fun.
Save your long drives for the tee box and make your second car a golf cart!
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Want to sample our lifestyle? www.TheHighlandsAtDoveMountain.com
520.579.7000
VOTE.
Reader’s Choice
ARIZONA’S best
What qualifies a hole to be one of the best?
Is it the ease or the difficulty of playing it? Is it the pure length or the hazards that come into play? Does it offer you strategic shot making opportunity yet offer room to miss or does it require pinpoint accuracy and make you pay the price for an errant shot? Is it the natural beauty of the hole, maybe the view from the tee, or is it the roller coaster green that you still can’t figure out?
We want YOU to tell us which Par 3, 4 and 5 are the best holes in the state ... and why.
Voting includes Par 3, 4 & 5’s as well as other popular categories. Vote online only, Sept 1 - Dec 1, 2012. Results published in upcoming 2013 issues of Phoenix Valley Tee Times and Southern Arizona Tee Times Magazines!
SURVEY PARTICIPANTS CAN ALSO REGISTER TO WIN A DREAM GOLF VACATION FOR 2 !
It’s All About Local Golf. Be part of the story.
www.GoGolfArizona.com
Visit our home page and tell us your choices today!
Results of the Reader’s Choice poll to be published in 2013 issues of Phoenix Valley Tee Times and Southern Arizona Tee Times Magazines. Click on the Arizona’s Best link from our home page at www.GoGolfArizona.com to vote foryour favorites, and share comments about why your selections should represent the very best of Arizona. Participants can also register during the survey to win a dream golf vacation prize package, awarded to one entrant by random drawing, on January 10, 2013. Complete details available during survey..
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Photo by Stan Badz/PGA TOUR
FEATURE
World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship Marana, AZ 2012 - Round Five: (L-R) Hunter Mahan shakes hands with Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland after winning the championship match 2 and 1 on the 17th hole.
New Ticket Package Announced By World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship Includes Accenture Match Play, Waste Management Open and Charles Schwab Cup The World Golf ChampionshipsAccenture Match Play Championship is offering a limited-time ticket package featuring two tickets to the season’s first World Golf Championships event, as well as two tickets to the Waste Management Phoenix Open and the Champions Tour’s Charles Schwab Cup Championship. The package also includes two rounds of golf, with a forecaddie, at TPC Scottsdale, host venue for Waste Management Phoenix Open. The Accenture Match Play Championship, the first of four World Golf Championships events in 2013, returns to The Ritz-Carlton Club, Dove Mountain, February 18-24, 2013. American Hunter Mahan will defend his title as the field will again include the top 64 players in the Official World Golf Ranking.
In addition to two good-any-one-day tickets to the 2013 Accenture Match Play Championship, the Arizona Golf Package includes two good-any-one-day tickets to the 2012 Charles Schwab Cup Championship, the Champions Tour’s season-ending event to be played for the first time at the Cochise Course at Desert Mountain Club in Scottsdale October 31-November 4. The package also features two good-any-one-day tickets to the 2013 Waste Management Phoenix Open, January 38-February 3 at TPC Scottsdale. The two rounds of golf, with a forecaddie, also included in the Arizona Golf Pack must be redeemed between November 25 and December 30, 2012. The Arizona Golf Pack is available now through October 31, 2012, for just $399 and can be purchased online via www.worldgolfchampionships.com or www.schwabcup.com.
“The Accenture Match Play Championship is excited to partner with the Charles Schwab Cup Championship and Waste Management Phoenix Open to offer the Arizona Golf Pack and provide sports fans across Southern Arizona the opportunity to not only attend these three wonderful events, but also to test their game at one of the most exciting venues on the PGA TOUR at TPC Scottsdale,” said Accenture Match Play Championship Executive Director Gerald Goodman. “The 2013 Accenture Match Play Championship is just around the corner, and we look forward to again welcoming the world’s top players to The RitzCarlton Golf Club, Dove Mountain, in February.” “This is such a unique opportunity for Arizona golfers and golf fans to experience,” said Tiffany Nelson, senior director of business development, TPC Scottsdale. “To be able to see the PGA TOUR’s best golfers at two different events along with the Champions Tour’s elite, and then to be able to walk in their shoes with a round at TPC Scottsdale is a bucket-list item. Golf enthusiasts will be in heaven, and we are so excited to be a part of it.” Mahan defeated Rory McIlroy 2&1 in the Championship Match at the 2012 Accenture Match Play Championship to claim his first World Golf Championships title. In addition to his victory over McIlroy, Mahan posted victories over Zach Johnson (19 holes), Y.E. Yang (5&3), Steve Stricker (4&3), Matt Kuchar (6&5) and Mark Wilson (2&1) en route to claiming his fourth PGA TOUR victory.
Submit an Arizona Golf Course Hole In One: Free Personalized Bag Tag, Certificate and Club Fitting! www.gogolfarizona.com/submit-hio
31
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southern arizona tee times
FEATURE
How the GHIN Conversion Affects the Golfer
The AWGA Executive Committee is excited to announce that the AWGA is moving to GHIN in the fall. What does all of this mean for you? Better Technology • Upgraded software package which will enhance your tournament experiences whether at your club, through your district association or even with the AWGA. • Access to smart phone apps to look up courses, track statistics and post scores. • Club website tools which are designed to improve the overall club experience. Better Access • AWGA members will now be part of a network of over 2.5 million golfers. • Members will be able to post scores using the club computers within the jurisdiction of over 70 regional golf associations throughout the United States. No more saving scorecards until you get home.
FAQ’s When will the switch to the GHIN system take place? Members will receive their final handicap revision in the current system on October 1, 2012. Shortly thereafter all posting will be suspended for 7-10 days in order to make the
final transfer of scoring information to the GHIN database. After the conversion, your AWGA number and your GHIN number will be the same. During this period members will be informed of their new member numbers and other information regarding the transition process. The first revision using GHIN will take place on October 15. Will my AWGA number change? Many AWGA members will receive a new membership number. The AWGA will be working with GHIN to make the new number as similar as possible to your current AWGA number. What happens if I already have a GHIN number from another golf association? If you are currently a member of another golf association that uses GHIN as its handicap vendor that GHIN number will also become your AWGA number. Your score files will also be combined to keep the most up to date scoring information available. Will I still be able to post scores at the golf course? The AWGA expects that score posting at the golf facilities will be taken down for 7-14 days while the transition is completed. This will occur on Oct. 1st and service will be restored no later than Oct. 15th.
Will I still be able to post scores online? The AWGA website will be shut down for 1 to 2 days during the 2 week transition period. It will otherwise remain completely operational throughout the transition. If your club allows online score posting you will still have access to score posting via www.awga.org. How much will my AWGA membership cost next year? AWGA dues will remain $25 in 2013. Will the AWGA offer apps for my smartphone? Beginning October 15th, AWGA members who use the iPhone or an Android device will be able to download the GHIN score posting APP for no charge. Will my Handicap Index continue to be updated on the 1st and 15th of each month? Yes, all Associations utilizing the USGA Handicap System are on a standard revision schedule with handicap calculations being processed on the 1st and 15th of the month, thus you will not experience any change from what is currently in place.
Visiting Arizona? Just looking to Play A New Course? Get the scoop from our Course Review archives: www.gogolfarizona.com/course-reviews
33
60 Minute Golf!
34
southern arizona tee times
FEATURE
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BY JIM WELLS
Got your attention, didn’t we?
“WALKING IS THE BEST EXERCISE KNOWN TO MAN. GOLF COURSES ARE BEAUTIFUL PLACES TO WALK. WHY NOT PLAY GOLF, WALK, IMPROVE YOUR GAME, AND GET FIT--ALL IN AN HOUR?”
When golf started, it was quite simple. Grab some hickory clubs, a feathery ball, and join your mates on a roughly formed nature walk. Walk quickly, play quickly, make a putt, put your ball next to the hole on a mound of sand, swing away and be home for lunch. As the game progressed in the USA, golf exploded in the forties as returning service men moved to the suburbs and the golf course community was invented. This continued for decades as courses became bigger and more beautiful, stretching across the land from links-style coastal courses, to mountain, and desert courses. Soon, after a week of hard work, golfers were led to carts—saving them from tiresome walking. Then in the seventies, golf was known as beer, cigars, and golf carts, while the rest of society was reading books about running, diet, and visiting the newly invented gyms with Nautilus equipment. Golf drifted from mainstream and became the elite “country club” sport for the affluent. As golf adapted to more “man-in-the-street” and became open to all, it was simply more carts, more cigars, and a less healthy environment for everyone. Golf rounds stretched from four hours to five, and even longer. As the golf industry puzzles in amazement
as why people don’t want to spend 5 hours riding in a cart, playing a game that is difficult to learn, and then come home to take a nap -- one voice in the wilderness sees an opportunity to infuse walking and game enhancement into a brisk 9-hole walk promoting golf fitness. John Bell, a PGA member for 25 years, has developed 5 fitness regimens under his Swing Fit banner. The first in the progressive program is Sub60golf. This is a 9-hole, sub-60 minute, early a.m. or late p.m., quick and steady paced game that is time-conscious, instruction conscious, and minimally stroke-conscious. It is a way to be on the golf course, and enjoy healthy walking while experiencing a significant game enhancement opportunity, all in less than an hour.
By the way, what are participants saying? When one first hears about the 60 minute pace, it gets your attention. While you might smile and think "say it isn't so", you are pleasantly surprised that you become more efficient in your routine, from selecting the correct club to getting mentally ready before you hit your shot. At first, the swinging pace was uncomfortable for me. However, through this program, it is making me more confident in trusting my swing/club/finish.
John has rolled out the program at Randolph Municipal Golf and is currently teeing off every weekday morning at 6:30. Randolph has been anxious for the program to succeed as the course is a great walking venue and the professional staff there has long advocated taking advantage of the beautiful outdoors. Try walking-either at a quick pace or normal gait and watch your game improve.
As in the way football is being playing with the "no huddle" offense and seeing how teams can quickly make decisions and execute, I think the same "thought process" can evolve in golf. It certainly is exciting because I can see the results faster than ever before. ,
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your game our greens it’s time to reconnect
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It summons up feelings like contentment, relaxation, being with like-minded people and generally being at ease. It’s also a lot to do with tradition: it makes people feel comfortable.
All these are just part of what we pride ourselves on at Oro Valley Country Club. It’s where everybody knows your name, and people go out of their way to make you feel at home. It’s a tradition, and we plan to keep it that way. Then, add the very best of modern facilities to these traditional values, and you get a very special experience. It’s called ‘belonging’...somewhere unique and special. Now add one of Tucson’s finest, and best kept, private Golf Courses, and you have the perfect recipe for the finishing touches to your Arizona lifestyle. Great golf, a welcoming and friendly membership, a busy social calendar throughout the year, and much more, to give you the very best the private Country Club lifestyle has to offer. What’s more, if you take advantage of our current promotion, belonging has never been simpler, or more affordable. In fact, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.
$7500 Initiation Fee Waived for First 10 applicants That Mention This Ad! Find out more about this limited time, special offer. Call Jeff Kilmer at (520) 547-2148.
www.orovalleycountryclub.com
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PhOTOS: (L) Tommy Lasorda (R) Don Pooley
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FEATURE
Birdies & Butterflies Celebrity-AM Golf Tournament and Gala
Two Youth-focused Foundations Team Up for a Home Run on November 3 BY JUDY McDERMOTT
Like generations of other Tucson Conquistadores, Brandt Hazen, the group’s current president, combined his love of golf with his passion for supporting healthy futures for kids in Southern Arizona. Under his watch, the Conquistadores will celebrate their 50th anniversary in a manner consistent with the Conquistadores’ purpose: raise money for youth athletic programs. “The Tucson Conquistadores Foundation and Christina-Taylor Green Memorial Foundation share goals to improve the well-being of children and young adults,” said Hazen. “Birdies & Butterflies was created to commemorate the Tucson Conquistadores’ golden anniversary by doing what we do best: partner with our community to help kids.” Advocates of improving the health, wellness and fitness of Southern Arizona youth are invited to join professional and collegiate sports celebrities at this one-ofkind fund-raising event on November 3. Christina-Taylor Green’s father, John Green, a supervisor of amateur scouts for the Los Angeles Dodgers, teamed up with his father Dallas Green, a former pitcher, manager and executive in Major League
Baseball, to recruit some of baseball’s best for the event. Both Dallas and John Green will play in the Celebrity-Am. Legendary Los Angeles Dodger manager Tommy Lasorda and 2002 U.S. Senior Open Champion Don Pooley will
Just The Facts
What: Birdies & Butterflies
When: Saturday, November 3
Where: JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa, 3800 W. Starr Pass Blvd. Tucson; special lodging rate available.
Golf: 10 a.m. Shotgun Start, Modified Scramble.
Gala: 6 p.m., Dinner, Dancing, Silent & Live Auction (tickets also sold separately).
Tickets and Info: (520) 571-0400; bb@tucsonconquistadores.com Printable brochure: TucsonConquistadores.com; Christina-TaylorGreen.org.
headline the field at the Birdies & Butterflies Celebrity-Am. Other sports celebrities expected to play as of publication date: nine-time Gold Glove Award winner and former Chicago Cub, Ryne Sandberg; former Arizona State Sun Devil standout and current Dodger outfielder, Andre Ethier; Dodger second baseman Mark Ellis; former Boston Red Sox manager and ESPN analyst, Terry Francona; and former University of
Arizona Wildcat and Web.com professional golfer, Rich Barcelo. Golfers are scheduled to tee off at 10 a.m. Saturday, November 3 following a hosted breakfast. Community leaders, including former U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and retired astronaut Mark Kelly, are expected to attend the Gala dinner at 6 p.m. Saturday, November 3. Kelly is also playing in the Celebrity Am. Supporters not involved in the golf tournament can purchase tickets ($250) for the Gala dinner only. Sponsorship and Celebrity-AM golf packages begin at $1,000. Safeway (grocery stores) is a major sponsor of the event. Birdies & Butterflies will benefit a project both the Tucson Conquistadores and Christina-Taylor Green Memorial Foundations deem a key beneficiary, the Southern Arizona Indoor Sports Center. The future facility, to be built at La Cholla Blvd. and River Road, will feature nearly 40,000 square feet of versatile space, accommodating up to five indoor basketball courts or eight volleyball courts. The Sports Center is a project of Pima County in partnership with the nonprofit Southern Arizona Community Sports, Inc.
The Tucson Conquistadores Foundation is a self-perpetuating endowment created through the generosity of the Tucson Conquistadores and its community partners. The Foundation is dedicated to the funding and promotion of youth and special needs athletics in Southern Arizona.
The mission of the Christina-Taylor Green Memorial Foundation is to honor the life and memory of Christina-Taylor through charitable and educational projects that reflect and embody her interests, values and dreams. Submit an Arizona Golf Course Hole In One: Free Personalized Bag Tag, Certificate and Club Fitting! www.gogolfarizona.com/submit-hio
37
DON’T JUST WATCH. PLAY. DON’T JUST WATCH. PLAY. Our new golf and ticket package gives you two tickets and parking to the Our new golf and ticket package you two tickets androunds parkingoftogolf the 2013 WGC-Accenture Match Playgives Championship AND two 2013 Play Championship AND two rounds of golf at TheWGC-Accenture Ritz-Carlton GolfMatch Club, Dove Mountain. at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Dove Mountain.
$235 $235
Golf Dates July 2012 - Sept. 30, 2012 Golf 1, Dates (Valued at over $300) July 1, 2012 - Sept. 30, 2012 (Valued at over $300)
$289 $289
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Golf Dates Oct. 2012 - Dec. 31, 2012 Golf 1, Dates (Valued at over $400) Oct. 1, 2012 - Dec. 31, 2012 (Valued at over $400)
southern arizona tee times
ON THE COVER
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50 Years ago founder Roy P. Drachman created a vision for the Tucson Conquistadores as a working organization that gave back to the youth of the community, one that valued hard work along with selflessness and camaraderie. The Tucson Conquistadores’ quest to provide local youth with opportunities through athletics has kept the organization going strong. While assembling our 50-year retrospective for a pictorial book*, members from each decade shared how they met challenges and overcame obstacles in order to raise money for kids. The majority of their stories involved individuals rolling up their sleeves and getting the job done. Through golf and tennis tournaments, awards banquets and other opportunities, the Conquistadores created ways to raise money for those in need. There is a sense among the group that regardless of the challenge, the deeper you dig, the richer the rewards. Throughout the years, countless post holes were dug, and miles of fairways and greens were staked and roped. Seas of cars were parked, temporary roads, platforms and grandstands were built and dismantled. Every manner of sign was created and posted. A myriad of details were addressed for every event. And ever important were the event ticket sales. No stone was left unturned in the pursuit of selling tickets to raise funds for the kids. The Tucson Conquistadores represent a classic case of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. This is a group where egos, some of them mighty, are simply put into back pockets. Something truly exceptional happens when these individuals unite for a common purpose. The generous contribution of goods and services made by members is truly incredible. Our members talk of fair play in golf and in life. They express appreciation for those who were so generous, and appreciated the distinction between writing a check and giving one's time. Who won a tournament was never as important as doing a first-class job and having fun doing it. The Tucson Conquistadores have a rich and vibrant history. As memories fade and times change, new projects will form and that spirit of gratitude that inspires giving will undoubtedly continue. The Conquistador helmet, with its distinctive crest and sloping lines, is the proud symbol of our group's passion for achievement. Success for 50 years stems from the dedication, the professionalism and from a hard-driving sense of fun that the members bring to whatever cause inspires them, with the ultimate goal always about “the kids,� This year, we take a moment to celebrate the past and anticipate a brilliant future.
Barney Confrey, Board Member, Tucson Conquistadores
*Tucson Conquistadores, 50 Years will be published in December 2012. The following timeline was designed by Emily Rush of Madden Media for Tucson Conquistadores, 50 Years.
1960s: BEGINNINGS
1964
1962 On October 22, the yet-to-be-named civic group holds its first official meeting at the El Conquistador Hotel; Roy P. Drachman is elected president.
Joe Garagiola emcees the Sports Award Banquet for the first time.
1963
1965
The Tucson Conquistadores holds their first fundraiser, a Sports Award Banquet held at the Pioneer Hotel; the first “Closed” is held at the White Mountain Country Club in Pinetop.
The Tucson Golf Association turns over control of the Tucson Open to the Conquistadores in November; Fred Boice becomes the first tournament chairman.
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1966 Conquistadores host the Tucson Open, Tucson’s first sporting event to be broadcast live on national television.
1968 Lawrence Welk and Lee Trevino make their first appearances at the Tucson Open; the first Conquistador helmet trophy is presented to Tucson Open winner George Knudsen.
1967
1969
Arnold Palmer plays and wins in “Arnie’s Open,” taking home a giant piggy bank trophy and a check for $14,000.
Conquistador Al Kivel helps bring professional tennis to Tucson; Lee Trevino wins the Tucson Open.
1970s: THE CELEBRITY ERA
1970 Lee Trevino wins his second consecutive Tucson Open title.
1971 Conquistadores move into their first office, at 1225 N. 10th Ave., donating part of the space to the U.S. Gymnastics Federation and the Track and Field Federation.
1972
1973
Conquistadores sponsor the Grand Prix Tennis Tournament; Billy Jean King wins, becoming the first woman to don the Conquistador helmet.
Tucson Open becomes the Dean Martin Tucson Open and is televised by NBC.
45
1974 Johnny Miller makes PGA TOUR history by winning the first three golf events of the year: The Bing Crosby Pro-Am, Phoenix Open and Tucson Open.
1976
1978
Tucson Open becomes the NBC Tucson Open, with Joe
Former President Gerald Ford attends the Pro-Am as Joe Garagiola’s
Garagiola as celebrity host.
partner, helping to draw the largest crowd to date to Tucson National.
1975
1977
1979
The City of Tucson ends financial support for the
Conquistadores sponsor the L’Eggs tennis championship
Tucson Open; Chrysler chips in $25,000 to help support a $50,000 purse increase.
at the Tucson Racquet Club, with Chris Evert defeating Martina Navratilova.
Tournament is temporarily moved to Randolph North; the annual Sports Award Banquet becomes the official awards banquet of the PAC-10.
each office independently owned and operated
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Oro Valley
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Heritage Highlands
Located near the tee-boxes for 6th fairway with VIEWS of fairway, sunsets & mountains is this Medford model w/2bdrms + den and oversized garage. 2077 sf living space with an Extended covered patio and lots of upgrades! $329,000
Heritage Highlands
Aspen great room model located on 2nd fairway between tee boxes w/fantastic VIEWS of the fairway & Tortolita Mtns. 2 bdrms + 2 baths & a 2 car garage. Extended brick patio w/kiva fireplace compliment the back yard. $180,000 MLS#21125742
Canada Hills
Updated single story, 4 BR + 3 BA & a 3 car garage located on the 12th tee box/fairway of El Conquistador Golf Course. Loaded w/upgrades! 4th bedroom & 3rd bath are a great guest suite w/access to backyard. Great entertaining in this garden like backyard w/water feature and lots of covered patio $329,900 MLS#21214251
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Tortolita Foothills w/magnificent city, mtn & desert VIEWS in all directions! Horse friendly property w/miles of trails nearby! Beautifully designed TJ Bednar custom home w/2935 sf, 3 bdrms + 2 1/2 baths + den & 3 car garage on 4 acres with upgrades too numerous to list -- ask for detailed flyer. $550,000 MLS#21200386 Heritage Highlands
Spectacular highly customized home on 8th fairway of gated Heritage Highlands (50+). 2 bedrooms + den & 2 car + golf cart garage that is loaded w/upgrades. Furnishings can be included w/acceptable offer. $432,500 - MLS#2121243
1980s: WORKING OVERTIME
1980 Conquistadores sponsor their final tennis tournament at Randolph Tennis Center; Marty Riessen wins a second helmet trophy.
1983 Conquistadores assume sponsorship of the LPGA Open at Randolph North.
1981
1982
1984
Joe Garagiola Tucson Open moves
Computeroperated electronic
to Randolph North; Johnny Miller wins his fourth Tucson Open title.
scoreboards debut at the Tucson Open.
Corporate sponsorship begins with the Seiko Match Play Championship; Conquistadors pre-sell $1million in ticket packages.
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1986 Jim Thorpe wins a second consecutive Seiko Tucson Match Play Championship.
1988 Northern Telecom sponsors the tournament at TPC StarPass.
1985
1987
1989
Conquistadores sign Circle K as sponsor of the LPGA tournament.
Men’s tournament returns to stroke play and moves to the new TPC course at StarPass.
No golf tournament due to PGA TOUR
·
57 ·
schedule change.
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1990s: CHANGE OF COURSE
1992
1990 Former UA All-American Robert Gamez wins his first PGA TOUR event in Tucson; the tournament adopts a two-course format.
PGA TOUR introduces a computerized system into the pressroom; the first 19th-hole party held at Tucson National.
1991
1993
1994
First $1 million tournament purse; Phil Mickelson, a
Sponsor Northern Telecom donates a telephone system
junior at Arizona State University, wins his first of
to the Tucson Urban League; Conquistadores donate
three Tucson Opens.
$250,000 to the YMCA.
Pro-Am celebrity host John Denver raises $40,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tucson by giving a two-hour solo concert.
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1998
1995
Touchstone Energy signs on as sponsor of the 1999 tournament, saving the event from possible elimination.
Northern Telecom Open, the best-attended event in Tucson’s 50-year pro-golf history, is telecast to a worldwide audience on ESPN.
1996
1997
1999
Conquistadores announce Chrysler Corporation will
The tournament drops the two-course format, returning to Tucson National.
Tucson becomes an encumbered event, playing opposite the World
sponsor the Tucson Chrysler Classic in 1997 and 1998.
Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship.
2000s: BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
2005 2000
2002
2004
The First Tee of Tucson program begins; Arnold
Total fundraising reaches $10 million.
Conquistadores’ “founding father,” Roy Drachman,
Tucson Conquistadores Foundation is established.
Palmer is presented with a trophy helmet for his 1967 win.
dies at age 95.
2001
2003
2006
The Tucson Conquistadores
Chrysler resumes sponsorship of the golf tournament through 2006.
Final “Tucson Open” played at Omni Tucson National Golf Resort; Conquistadores are named tournament leadership team and sales arm for the World Golf ChampionshipsAccenture Match Play Championship.
Field of Dreams is completed for Challenger Little League.
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55
2007 Accenture Match Play Championship debuts at Dove Mountain in Marana; Tiger Woods draws huge galleries.
2008 Woods returns and wins the Accenture Match Play Championship.
2010 The First Tee of Tucson Clubhouse and Learning Center opens at El Rio; Tucson Conquistadores named Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Southern Arizona Chapter.
2009
2011
2012
Match Play moves to the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club at Dove Mountain.
Record $1.3 million raised for charities
Accenture Match Play renews its commitment through 2014; total giving exceeds $25 million.
from tournament proceeds.
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103 路
TheViews Golf Club at Oro Valley
THE ULTIMATE DESERT GOLF EXPERIENCE THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF CLUB, DOVE MOUNTAIN.
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, Dove Mountain was designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. Solid strategy, variety, fair shot values and distinctive bunkering all contribute to the desert charm of the three nine-hole layouts. Enjoyable for guests of all skill levels, this signature course is host to the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship.
For tee times, call 520-572-3500 and be sure to mention Southern Arizona Tee Times. To learn more about our Desert Southwest Golf Memberships, call 520-572-2700 or visit ritzcarlton.com/dovemountain
DID YOU KNOW?
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BY ADAM LAZARUS
southern arizona tee times
19th HOLE
ve ! i t a n r e t Al lf Edition Go
59
A collection of golf tales and tidbits, funny stories and factoids and some legends and lore about the fun side of the game – golf formats, other uses for courses, alternative golf events and making golf accessible to all! Putt-Putt Popularity Did you know that the earliest documented mention of a miniature golf course was in a 1912 edition of The Illustrated London News, which introduces a mini-golf course called Gofstacle? The first standardized mini-golf courses to enter commercial massproduction were the Thistle Dhu ("This'll Do") course 1916 in Pinehurst, North Carolina, and the 1927 Tom Thumb patent of Garnet Carter from Lookout Mountain, Tennessee. Thomas McCulloch Fairbairn, a golf fanatic, revolutionized the game in 1922 with his formulation of a suitable artificial green—a mixture of cottonseed hulls, sand, oil, and dye. With this discovery, miniature golf became accessible everywhere; by the late 1920s there were over 150 rooftop courses in New York City alone, and tens of thousands across the United States. There are several mini golf courses right here in Tucson that are perfect for families and players of all ages.
Format Fun. There are literally hundreds of fun formats golfers can play instead of traditional stroke play. Some formats have crazy names, others involve betting and most of these games can be played by golfers of any age and skill level. Some of the most popular are: best ball, scrambles, acey-ducey, stableford, bingo-bango-bongo, calcutta, nassau, cut throat, honors, skins, umbrella, perfecto and wolf. Look online for more ideas and try it your next round!
Disc and Dat. Otherwise known as “Frisbee Golf”, disc golf is played like traditional golf where the goal is to get to the “hole” in the fewest number of throws. There are over 3,000 established disc golf courses and the game is played is played in over 40 countries around the world by an estimated 60,000 players. While the game was likely invented in the 1900s, did you know that many consider the true pioneer of the sport to be Dr. Kevin Donnelly? In 1959, he began playing what he called “Street Frisbee Golf” then later began organizing disc golf tournaments at several city playgrounds he supervised.
Nighttime Is the Right Time.
Ante Up. You’ve probably heard of the World Series of Poker, but did you know that there is also an annual golf competition called the World Series of Golf? The competition differs from traditional golf tournaments in that the winner is decided not by the lowest strokeplay score or by winning a bracket-style elimination in match play, but by anteing up, raising the stakes and winning wagers bet on each hole in a manner similar to a hand of Texas Hold 'Em.
Let It Snow. One of the oldest alternative forms of golf is snow golf, a common ancestor in the Dutch game of "Kolf", played since the Middle Ages and can be seen in numerous 17th century paintings by renowned artists. Did you know that the first recognized player of modern snow golf was legendary author Rudyard Kipling? While writing “The Jungle Book” in Vermont, Kipling allegedly relaxed by playing snow golf during the winters of the early 1890s and was known to paint his golf balls red and place red cups in the snow as holes.
Playing golf at night sounds impossible, until the introduction of Glow Golf in the 1980s. Gaining popularity every year, the game makes use of the courses when they’re typically closed and are widely considered to be some of the most fun golf events around. Hundreds of courses nationwide have introduced this concept of with glow-in-the-dark golf balls, pins and flags and boundaries and greens lit up around their perimeters. Glow golfers play a modified version of the game, usually with a libation in hand, and are typically covered in glow necklaces and clothes making this version of night golf one of the most popular in the US. Check with your favorite local courses in Southern AZ to see when they’ll be featuring this fun version of the great game of golf.
Skills To Pay the Bills. Popularized by shows like “Big Break” and the “ADT Golf Skills Challenge”, one of the most fun and competitive ways to test your golf metal is to participate in a skills shootout.
Hurry Up and Hit. Speed golf is a version of the game where pace of play is as important as what you shoot and fitness meets fun every round. Players run between shots and generally carry less than six clubs and adding minutes plus strokes to calculate scores. Speed Golf started in California in 1979 by American runner Steve Scott and is now played in dozens of countries with major tournaments even broadcasted on major networks. Did you know that you can play a version of 9hole version of speed golf right here at Randolph Golf Complex most mornings? It’s called Golf Sub60 and makes exercise fun by finishing 9 holes in under an hour.
Share your Arizona golf news with SATT readers: www.gogolfarizona.com/submit-tee-to-green
Designed to test each of the golf disciplines such as putting, accuracy, driving, chipping and more, these events have been televised since 1992 but have been around for decades. Did you know that you can participate in one of these fun events right here in Tucson? Men, women and couples can test their golf skills, enjoy delicious Southwestern food and premier wines from Southern Arizona, win prizes, enjoy live music and more on October 12th, all for a great cause, at Randolph Golf Complex. Visit www.DanFelixFund.org for info.
local 520.792.6650 email: info@gogolfarizona.com
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southern arizona tee times
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FEATURE
2012 USGA Champs Take Amateur Golf To The ‘Next Level’
and next year, you can too!
Qualifiers Am: Jessica Vasilic, Jenny Hahn, Sara Schmelzel and Sadena Parks
BY ROBIN LANE Are you an amateur who just loves to compete? Do you ever wonder what more there is for you as an amateur? Well the USGA contests championships every year to challenge the best of the best. Taking your game to the highest level is what the USGA offers. The championships contested throughout the United States offer a chance for you to pit your best against the rest of the nation and see how good you really are. Each USGA Championship is a major production. There are conditions of competition for each event. While each event is “open”, you must qualify to attend. If you hold a valid USGA
handicap, you may apply and play in many of the qualifiers here in Arizona. There have been local qualifiers and local champions who advance. The
Lauren Archer Winning Playoff Putt
state and regional golf associations host the local events, set up the courses to exacting standards set by the USGA and assure that all players adhere to the USGA rules of golf. There are a few rules that you must
obey to enter. To compete in the Junior Amateur, you must be under 18 years of age. To compete in the Senior Amateur, you must be 50 tears of age. To compete in the Public Links event, you will need to be a player of a public golf course. The Mid Am requires that you be 25 years of age or older. There are minimum handicap requirements and they vary by competition. Each of the qualifying sites throughout the state will be set to closely mirror the actual site of the event. The par 4s and 5s will resemble the distances that you see at the next level. For the talented players who advance to each event, there is nothing quite like the “feel” of a USGA Champoinship!
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southern arizona tee times
For each championship, it looks just like TV. There are ropes around the tee areas. The course is in magnificent shape. The greens are smooth and quick. The competitors come from all over the United States and many
Robin Lane and Barb Byrnes at Hershey C.C.
countries for a chance at the title. The 132 players compete for two days in a 36 hole, stroke play qualifier. The top 64 players advance into match play. That is where the real fun begins. Match play is contested until a winner is crowned. There are two matches on two days so you have to be physically fit and mentally strong to get to the top of any USGA event. In most all of the competitions, the player must walk the course…just like the Pros. There is always drama in a match play event. For example; Hershey, Pa. – Anna Schultz, 57, of Rockwall, Texas,
2012 Medalists: Dana Finkelstein, Kyung Kim, Kristen Schelling and Stephanie Kim
made a hole-in-one to complete her second-round match against Corey Weworski, of Carlsbad, Calif., in dramatic fashion, winning, 3 and 1, Tuesday morning, September 11 at the 2012 USGA Senior Women’s Amateur Championship at the par74, 6,220-yard Hershey Country
Club. For additional information, lots of great personal stories and many more pictures, go to the USGA website; www.usga.org look under the tab… Championships. Congrats to all of our Arizona USGA Champs!!!
This year's tournment schedule took players to beautiful courses and exciting locations all over the world: Championship or Team Event Event Dates Curtis Cup Jun 8 - 10 U.S. Open Jun 14 - 17 U.S. Women's Am Pub Links Jun 18 - 23 U.S. Women's Open Jul 5 - 8 U.S. Amateur Public Lin Jul 9 - 14 U.S. Senior Open Jul 12 - 15 U.S. Junior Amateur Jul 16 - 21 U.S. Girls' Junior Jul 16 - 21 U.S. Women's Amateur Aug 6 - 12 U.S. Mid-Amateur Sep 8 - 13 USGA Sr. Women's Amateur Sep 8 - 13 USGA Men's State Team Sep 19 - 21 Women's World Am. Team Sep 27 - 30 USGA Senior Amateur Sep 29 - Oct 4 World Amateur Team Oct 4 - 7 U.S. Women's Mid-Amateur Oct 6 - 11 U.S. Amateur Aug 13 - 19
The Nairn Golf Club The Olympic Club Neshanic Valley Golf Course Blackwolf Run Soldier Hollow Golf Course Indianwood Golf & Country Club The Golf Club of New England Lake Merced Golf Club The Country Club (Ohio) Conway Farms Golf Club Hershey Country Club Galloway National Golf Club Gloria Golf Club Mountain Ridge Country Club Antalya Golf Club / Cornelia Golf Briggs Ranch Golf Club Cherry Hills Country Club
Location Nairn, Scotland San Francisco, Calif. Neshanic, N.J. Kohler, Wis. Midway, Utah Lake Orion, Mich. Stratham, N.H. Daly City, Calif. Cleveland, Ohio Lake Forest, Ill. Hershey, Pa. Galloway, N.J. Antalya, Turkey West Caldwell, N.J. Club Antalya, Turkey San Antonio, Texas Cherry Hills Village, Colo.
Visiting Arizona? Just looking to Play A New Course? Get the scoop from our Course Review archives: www.gogolfarizona.com/course-reviews
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Canyon Pass Custom @ Dove Mountain - $1,738,000
Sitting on 2 acres this exquisitely built custom home features extraordinary craftsmanship: Amish hickory & travertine floors, Pella windows w/builtin blinds, fine custom woodworking, electronic A/C cleaning system, whole house water filtration, hot water circulation plus more. 4144 main house + 988 bonus/hobby/guest quarters (pre-plumbed for bath and/or wet bar). Heated and cooled garage w/workshop area & sink. Electronic swimming pool cover. Gome boasts a fabulous gourmet kitchen with Gagganau double ovens w/warming drawer, Viking range, mega sized Viking frig and freezer, two dishwashers, two sinks and beautiful granite counters. Five relaxing fireplaces to choose from - this is an extraordinary home.
UNDER CONTRACT
Heritage Highlands @ Dove Mountain - $235,000
Fresh, bright, airy and open feel. Freshly painted interior. Large, open bar great for entertainment. Corner home faces natural desert & golf course to the north - much privacy. Extended flagstone porch/patio with views. Kitchen features include all appliances, dual sinks, cabinets w/knobs, cabinet rollout drawers, pantry, great window view kitchen nook plus wide, spacious entertaining bar that looks out over the family room. This is a bright and airy home - fresh and welcoming. Most furnishings available on separate bill of sale.
Heritage Highlands @ Dove Mountain - $283,500
Wonderful obscured corner view of golf course; abuts natural desert which provides much privacy. Spacious two bedroom, two full bath, two car garage. Open greatroom concept. Plantation shutters throughout home; numerous solar screens for energy efficiency. Second bedroom is a very large room set up with a full wall murphy bed system with full office area system. This is a very spacious, multi-use room. Large walled flagstone front courtyard with mature landscape. Extended rear flagstone patio with built-in BBQ and relaxing fireplace. Home is move-in ready and provides much privacy. Property would also make a great rental. Furnishings available on separate bill of sale.
Saddlebrooke - $345,800
Exquisite expanded Laredo model w/ abundant upgrades which include expanded rear patio-14x42-great outdoor living area,commercial Electrolux gas range/oven & venthood system, 4'' plantation shutters throughout,2 x 6 construction, 4 ft golf cart extended garage,ceiling fans in all rooms,extra cabinets in laundry room,tiled den,full house gutter system, professional California Closet System in master, built-in cabinets & work area in garage,professionally painted,pre-wired for surround sound in great room area & much more. Patio roof has already been insulated - making for easy partial or full enclosure of deep,large patio area w/numerous recessed lighting locations & exterior porch outlets.
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64
southern arizona tee times
JUNIOR GOLF
Susie & Dan Meyers, Michael Thompson, and his parents Mike & Beth Thompson
Michael Thompson Gives Back to the Youth of Tucson BY RICK PRICE, PGA
Michael Thompson, finishing up his second year on the PGA TOUR, has won well over two million dollars and collected a runner-up finish in this year’s U.S. Open. The PGA TOUR is fortunate to have such an individual as a member for many reasons. Michael, who grew up in Tucson and is a graduate of Rincon University High School
wanted to find a way to give back to the local junior golfers here in Tucson and the Phoenix area because of the impact that the junior programs had that he participated in his youth. With the help of his parents Mike and Beth Thompson, Susie Meyers and Dan Meyers and Oro Valley Country Club, it came to pass. The inaugural Thompson Invitational was created, and Oro Valley Country Club served as the host site for this
prestigious junior golf tournament, sponsored by PGA TOUR Player and Tucson-native Michael Thompson. The tournament was conducted by Junior Golf Association of Arizona and Ricki Rarick junior golf program; both are organizations that Michael participated in as a junior. The tournament field was limited to 60 juniors from the JGAA and Ricki Rarick junior golf program. This elite 36 hole stroke play Invitational
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Michael w/Chris Meyers, Tyler Katherineberg & Joey Martinez
Gavin Cohen, Michael Feagles, Trevor Werbylo and Michael
Michael T, Morgan Messick, Desiree Hong and J.C. Harvison
Andrew Gunn, Ruben Ruiz and Michael
provided a championship event and a banquet dinner after the opening round with Michael Thompson as the guest speaker. The intimate event led to a very casual conversation about the game and playing on the PGA TOUR where Michael spoke to the young golfers as though he was sitting right at their table. He was asked if he had actually received a card from the TOUR. He was more than willing to pull it out of his wallet and pass it around the room to show the juniors
proof that a kid from Tucson could make it to the PGA TOUR. There were many juniors in the room that have dreams of playing on the LPGA or PGA TOUR. Thompson said, “When I was your age, I told my friends that I was going to be on the PGA TOUR, and they would just laugh at me. However, I never let anybody tell me it wasn’t possible.” Michael Thompson was pretty much a self-
taught junior golfer with a public golf upbringing, who just flat out worked hard to achieve his goals as a young man. As an Eagle Scout earning 21 merit badges,he knew what setting and achieving goals was all about. His father Mike is in the plumbing supply business and his mother Beth, was an English teacher at Sabino High School. After creating a friendship with PGA teaching Professional Susie Meyers during his junior career, Thompson >>>
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66 Continued from pg 65
headed off to college to play on the golf team for Tulane University. However, Tulane had to eliminate its golf program after Hurricane Katrina destroyed the Gulf Coast. Thompson then transferred to the University of Alabama and became the 2008 SEC Player of the Year. Thompson soon married his wife Rachel, who is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, and an Emory University graduate.
Susie Meyers and Michael Thompson
Susie Meyers is a teaching instructor at Ventana Canyon and still teaches Thompson to this day. She said, "Michael is so positive; you knew he'd be successful at whatever he wanted to do." Thompson’s attitude is always one of the best during a tournament on and off the golf course, and he said, “That’s why I have my PGA TOUR card today.” Truly, the PGA TOUR is fortunate to have Michael Thompson be a member, but for those few days at Oro Valley Country Club, the juniors were the ones who really gained an edge on how positive thinking and hard work can make their dreams come true.
Michael with Beth and Mike Thompson
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Michael and High School Football Coach Red Morrow, PGA
JUNIOR SPOTLIGHT
Tyler Cooper
Adrianna Grijalva
Tyler Cooper, graduate from Rincon High School, is continuing his education and golf at Pima Community College on a golf scholarship. Cooper plans on going on to a University, and hopefully having a chance to play competitive golf.
Adrianna Grijalva is a senior at Ironwood Ridge High School competing on the girl’s golf team with plans of continuing her golf in college in hopes of receiving a golf scholarship.
He was introduced to the game of golf when he was 3 years old. His Dad use to take him to the driving range with cut down clubs. At the time, his brothers played as well, so it was very competitive for him from the beginning.
She started playing golf when she was about 4 years old. Her Dad introduced her to the game, and she credits him with teaching her everything that she knows, to this day, about the game of golf.
RINCON HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE
Cooper said, “I love a lot about golf. I would have to say the life lessons' golf gives each person throughout his or her life is what I like best about golf. It has taught me at a young age to be honest, play by the rules, kindness, and more importantly builds character that will follow you for a lifetime.” The most memorable moment or accomplishment to date, Cooper said, was last year winning the Invitational tournament at Dobson Ranch. “It had such an impact on me personally and my golf game. After shooting winning rounds of 34 (-3) in the first nine hole round and a 71 (-1) in the final round. I then knew I was on the right track to play college golf, and it is an accomplishment that I will always cherish.” I play golf for many reasons stated Cooper. “I feel as if I was born to play this game. I have been playing golf since I could walk, at this point in my life it just comes natural to me, and I love seeing how I progress as the time goes on. Hard work really does pay off!”
IRONWOOD RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
When asked what she likes most about golf, Grijalva replied, “I really like the atmosphere in golf tournaments the best. You meet new people who enjoy playing the sport as much as you.” Grijalva’s biggest accomplishment to date in golf occured just this past summer when she carded her lowest score, shooting a 77 during the Ricki Rarick Junior golf Tournament of Champions at the challenging Ritz Carlton, Dove Mountain Golf Course. When asked for the main reason why she plays golf, Adrianna passionately shares that she plays golf because she loves the sport. Adrianna also shares, “Golf makes me feel accomplished whenever I see myself improving and going somewhere with the sport.”
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southern arizona tee times
What Are The Odds?
Sean Crutcher with his father, Jim Crutcher
BY RICK PRICE, PGA
The 9th Annual “Swinging for Juniors” Pro-am fundraiser hosted by The Stone Canyon Club came to a dramatic finish with one lucky person being drawn to win the raffle grand prize of 52 rounds of golf for two players at many of the local golf courses.
Swinging for Juniors Winning Team: Don Littrell, Jonas Mentjox, Bert Jones, & Don Carlson
The Pro-am fundraiser culminates two events. During the summer, the junior golfers from the Ricki Rarick junior golf program sell raffle donation tickets to raise money for the program with the one junior that sells the most tickets earning a spot in the Pro-am at The Stone Canyon Club. At the conclusion of the Pro-am event the drawing is held for the raffle prize. As tradition for the past few years, the junior golfer who sells the most tickets draws the winning ticket. This year’s top seller was, Sean Crutcher a freshman at Ironwood High School. Sean’s parents came out to watch him play in the event and enjoyed watching him win a new driver and wedge. Then it came time for Sean to draw the winning ticket, and with over 500 tickets in the basket held high over his head amazingly; he picked his father’s ticket! It was hard to believe but true, with plenty of witnesses Sean was just as shocked as his father Jim
"INCLUSIVE, NOT EXCLUSIVE"
JUNIOR GOLF
Crutcher in winning the prize. On the tournament side of things, local PGA professional Don Littrell from Skyline Country Club brought some big hitters out and won the team event shooting an amazing 54! That’s 18-under par in a one better ball “gross” format with a select drive of the foursome. His partners of Jonas Mentjox, Bert Jones and Don Carlson, with the help of the pro's 7 birdies, posted two eagles, 14 birdies and only two pars to win by seven shots. The teams of PGA professional Brent Lingel and amateur partners Jeff Brown, Amber Coleman and RC Coleman shot 61 to tie for second along with professional Kiernan Mattson and his partners Dave Edwards, Bob Rollins and Mike Livermore. The overall low professional, shooting a 4-under 68, was Chris Dompier, the Head Professional at Skyline Country Club. There was a log jam for second place with Don Littrell, Carl Ward-Allen, Brent Lingel and Kiernan Mattson shooting even par 72. If there is one thing for sure in raffles and in golf, “If you don’t play you can’t win!” However, the big winner in this event was the support that the Ricki Rarick Junior Golf program received.
Play The Original Green Valley Golf Course
A traditional tree lined course offering some of the best conditions and value in Green Valley. Play the 18 hole championship course or practice your short game and get some exercise on the walking only Tortuga executive nine.
OverPar Grill open for breakfast and lunch.
For Tee Times Call 110 North Abrego Drive
(520) 625-4281
Green Valley, AZ
The Haven
Share your Arizona golf news with SATT readers: www.gogolfarizona.com/submit-tee-to-green
Instruction available from a top 100 instructor PGA and LPGA Marvol Barnard.
SINCE 1961
local 520.792.6650 email: info@gogolfarizona.com
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southern arizona tee times
2012 Ricki Rarick Junior Golf Benefit Tournament -- Dan BY DENNIS PALMER, PGA
On Saturday December 8th 2012 the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa will once again host the Ricki Rarick Junior Golf Benefit Tournament. I invite all of you who share my passion in supporting Junior Golf in Southern Arizona to join us for this great day of golf! Two years ago we were able to write a check for $10,000, which went a long way in supporting this great program. I hope with your participation, we can meet or exceed this sizable donation in 2012. This year’s event will begin with a clinic, (9:30) that will once again be hosted by my former teammate at the University of Arizona, Dan Pohl. For those of you who were here in 2010, this clinic was the highlight of the day, as the show that Dan put on was spectacular! As of press time, Don Pooley and Ronnie Black
! g i B n i W
Purchase a Sponsorship Package:
with ticket packs to give away to your clients for an opportunity to qualify to win $1,000,000 dollars and play in the Pro-am.
Pick Your Pack:
$10 for 10 balls / $25 for 30 balls $100 for 150 balls
Amateur golfers will attempt to qualify to win the Million Dollar Hole-in-One contest over 4 different qualifying dates!
During the Hole In One Contest consider joining us for the Feb 11th Pro-Am with an afternoon shotgun start and awards dinner. Complete Pro-Am details and registration available at www.TucsonHoleInOne.com PROCEEDS BENEFIT
HOSTED BY THE CITY OF TUCSON AT THE RANDOLPH GOLF COMPLEX
Mark Your Calendar!
February 14th - 17th, 2013 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Top qualifiers each day move on to the semi-final qualifying round at Randolph Golf Complex Dell Urich golf course on Feb 17.
DAILY PRIZES FOR THE QUALIFYING DAYS!
The Tucson Parks Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization whose mission is assist in improving the quality of life in Tucson through parks that all citizens can enjoy by supplementing the services and facilities provided by the Tucson Parks and Recreation Department. Please help us in our fundraising efforts to improve parks and recreation facilities in Tucson. Become a member and volunteer for the Hole in One contest and Pro am Golf tournament planning committee.
Sign up today at www.TucsonHoleInOne.com or call 520.777.9007 Save 10% with coupon code TEETIMES
Become a Course Review Volunteer! Choose ‘SignUp’ from our home page www.gogolfarizona.com
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Pohl, Don Pooley, Ronnie Black return ... December 8, 2012 have committed to play, with more players from the PGA, LPGA and Champions Tour sure to be here. Following the clinic, (11:00) lunch will be served in our Conference and Banquet Center, with the event scheduled to start at 12:30 (shotgun start). Each team of five players will include a Golf Professional, one Junior Golfer and three amateurs on all 27 holes Tubac has to offer. Once play has finished, dinner will be served, awards handed out and once again a sizable check given to support a wonderful organization. The cost for the amateurs is $150.00 per player, which does include lunch, dinner and tee prizes. For those who wish to make this a destination weekend we have special rates for all participants at our beautiful 98 room hotel. To reserve your spot in this year’s event feel free to contact me at 520 398-3526 or dpalmer@tubacgolfresort.com. I look forward to having you as our guest at Tubac and I thank you in advance for your help in my efforts to promote Junior Golf in Southern Arizona.
Tired of courses that seem to always play the same? Step out of the ‘norm’, and into a memorable and challenging experience that demands your concentration from the moment you step onto the green. Call 520.744.7443 to reserve your tee time, or visit PlayThePines.com to sign up for daily specials.
8480 North Continental Links Drive Tucson, AZ 85743
(520) 744-7443
Submit an Arizona Golf Course Hole In One: Free Personalized Bag Tag, Certificate and Club Fitting! www.gogolfarizona.com/submit-hio
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tee to green
Photo: Hole #6, Westin LaPaloma Hill Golf Course
Local News and Reports
Open to All Courses, Clubs & Players!
Submit events, tournament or community news, staff promotions and recognition, special accomplishments, or junior golf related announcements to: www.GoGolfArizona.com/TeeToGreen.html
This magnificent private course, one of Jack's original creations, is the perfect spot to energize all aspects of your game, and it's available exclusively to resort guests and La Paloma Country Club members. With stunning vistas and impressive fairways, you'll soon discover why it's won a litany of national awards.
Polivchak Comes Home Forty Niner Country Club is excited to announce the hiring of Casey Polivchak as the Director of Club Events and Sales. Casey, a Tucson native, brings passion, enthusiasm, and experience to an already stellar Team. Casey has been in the Golf Business for over 18 years with the last 8 being at Arizona National Golf Club where he was the General Manager for the last 5 1/2 years. Casey will be primarily in charge of Membership, Marketing, Promotions and Sales. In addition to those duties, he is excited to be a part of the re-building project at Forty Niner Country Club. He joined the staff on August 6th. Please contact Casey at caseyp@fortyninercc.com for any information needed about the club.
Stallion Mountain Golf Club Selected To Host AJGA Showmegolfers Junior Championship
The American Junior Golf Associationwill conduct a new event at Stallion Mountain Golf Club in December, targeted at providing 72 unsigned male seniors the opportunity to compete in front of college golf coaches.Stallion Mountain Golf Club in Las Vegas, Nevada
“This event embodies the AJGA Mission Statement and true purpose,” said Mark Oskarson, AJGA Chief Operations Officer. “A college golf scholarship is the dream for our juniors and any opportunity to provide them with more chances to make that dream come true is something we believe in.”
The ShowMeGolfers Junior Championship will be a 36-hole stroke play event held Dec. 7-9 at Stallion Mountain Golf Club in Las Vegas. The event will coincide with the timing of
the convention for the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) men’s coaches in Las Vegas to provide one last look at the seniors available for recruitment in the 2013 season. “Stallion Mountain Golf Club is pleased to be chosen as the host facility for the inaugural ShowMeGolfers Junior Championship,” said David Raper, General Manager of Stallion Mountain Golf Club. “We understand how important it is for these talented golfers to have the opportunity to showcase their golf skills while attempting to advance to the collegiate level. OB Sports has a long history of partnering with the AJGA for national golf events and we are excited to be associated with this new event.” For additional information, contact the AJGA at (770) 868-4200
Southern Arizona Quick Reference Overseeding Schedule
Arizona National Golf Club Arthur Pack Desert Golf Course Blanchard Golf Club Dell Urich Desert Hills Golf Club Dorado Golf Course El Rio Golf Course Fred Enke Golf Course Haven Golf Club Heritage Highlands Golf Club Hilton Tucson El Conquistador Canada Conquistador Pusch Ridge Kino Springs Country Club La Paloma Country Club Canyon Hill Ridge Mountain View Golf Course Mountain View @ Saddlebrook Mt. Graham Golf Course Omni Tucson National Golf Resort Sonoran Catalina Oro Valley Country Club Poston Butte Golf Club Pueblo Del Sol Country Club Quail Creek Country Club Randolph Golf Course Rio Rico Country Club Ritz Carlton Golf Club Dove Mountain Saguaro Nine Tortolita Nine Wild Burro Nine Saddlebrook Golf Club Saddlebrooke Nine Tucson Nine Catalina Nine Saddlebrooke Ranch Golf Club San Ignacio Golf Club San Pedro Golf Course Silverbell Golf Course Skyline Country Club Starr Pass Golf Club & Spa Coyote 9 Roadrunner Rattler The Gallery Golf Club South North The Golf Club @ Vistoso North South The Preserve @ Saddlebrook The Quarry Pines Golf Club The Stone Canyon Club The Views Golf Club Torres Blancas Golf Club Tubac Golf Resort Rancho, Otero & Anza Tucson Country Club Ventana Canyon Golf & Racquet Club Canyon Mountain
Oct 1st - Oct 15th Sept 24th - Oct 12th Sept 29th - Oct 12th Oct 15th - Oct 26th Sept 29th - Oct 16th Sept 22nd - Sept 29th Oct 8th - Oct 12th Oct 22nd - Nov 2nd Sept 11th - Sept 28th Sept 24th - Oct 14th Sept 17th - Sept 30th Oct 1st - Oct 20th Sept 24th - Oct 12th Sept 24th - Sept 30th
Oct 8th - Oct 29th Sept 10th - Sept 23rd Sept 24th - Oct 7th Not overseeding Sept 17th - Oct 8th Sept 11th - Sept 14th
Sept 24th - Oct 14th Oct 8th - Oct 28th Oct 1st - Oct 22rd Oct 1st - Oct 19th Will not be overseeding Sept 24th - Oct 15th Oct 15th - Oct 26th Oct 8 - Oct 21
9 holes at a time 3 weeks each
Aug 27th - Oct 28th Aug 27th - Oct 28th Aug 27th - Oct 28th
Sept 17th - Oct 8th Sept 25th - Oct 15th Closed-reopens Oct 29th Sept 17th - Oct 8th Closed till Sept Sept 24th - Oct 4th Oct 1st- Oct 12th
Overseeding but not closed
Sept 17th - Sept 30th Oct 15th - Nov. 2nd Oct 1st - Oct 14th Sept 17 - Oct 15 Oct 1 - Oct 29 Sept 24th - Oct 8th Oct 1st - Oct 28th Sept 18th - Oct 14th Sept 10th - Oct 1st Sept 19th - Oct 5th Oct 1st - Oct 31st Sept 22nd - Oct 12th Sept 4th - Sept 29th
Overseeding but not closed
Sept 1st - Oct 5th
Sept 17th - Oct 7th Oct 8th - Oct 26th
Unknown at press time, call the Pro Shop: Douglas Municipal, Forty-Niner CC, Quail Canyon, Rolling Hills, San Manuel, Turquoise Hills & Turquoise Valley
For a complete list of the entire state, including addresses and Pro Shop phone numbers, please visit www.GoGolfArizona.com and select Golf Course News.
southern arizona tee times
TEE TO GREEN
Southern Arizona Tee Times Magazine Says Goodbye to Founder, Tom Draper BY JACQUELINE McABEE
Publisher, Southern Arizona Tee Times
Many individuals throughout the Southern Arizona golf community may recall working with Tom Draper on various publishing projects over the years. Others may have only known Tom on the golf course, as a long-time member of Omni Tucson National and a seriously dedicated golfer that never missed an opportunity to play the game. Most individuals I’ve spoken with since Tom’s passing, simply recall him fondly as the somewhat determined founder of Southern Arizona Tee Times. Yes. Determined he was.
Tom’s goal of producing a locally based ‘coffee table’ golf magazine for Southern Arizona began in 2004 and ran full-steamahead until his need to retire in the winter of 2008. With a true passion for the game of golf and an enjoyment of the publishing arena, Tom was always on the lookout for ways to improve both the magazine, and (of course) his game. He always had a creative idea.
Having had the opportunity to work with Tom over the past 10 years, I know that he will be missed by many. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family . We hope to carry the torch well.
BY JACK RICKARD
Retired Editor, Southern Arizona Tee Times
If you’re fortunate, the right people enter your life at the right time.
That was certainly true of my relationship with the late Tom Draper. We had been casual acquaintances until he called me only days after I had retired after 31 years with the Tucson Citizen.
Draper suggested that the two of us should start a bi-monthly magazine. He would handle the business side, and I the editorial side. That’s how Southern Arizona Tee Times was born.
In the five years we worked together, Tom and I became close friends. I loved our planning meetings – a two-Scotch lunch. Sometimes we argued but we always ended up on good terms. Tom was a real professional and a delight to work with.
Draper also could play the game of golf. When he was younger he was a solid single-figure-handicap player. When we met, he was in his 70s but still was capable of shooting in the 70s on a good day. He was one of those players who never hit a good shot, but he was fun to play with. I remember getting his e-mail from the time he played the TPC at Sawgrasss course in Florida. On the famous 17th hole, the par-3 with the island green, Draper put his tee shot in the water. From the drop area he holed it out for a par. Tom had a great sense of humor. And, like me, he loved dogs. He was a class act and he will be sorely missed.
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tee to green Local News and Reports
La Paloma Country Club Completes Bunkers and Greens Renovations
The Westin La Paloma Country Club is happy to announce that it has just completed a $600,000 renovation of it's bunkers and greens. The 27 hole Jack Nicklaus Signature design course features typical Nicklaus bunkers, deep and large and often well below the level of the green. Every sand trap has been replaced with pure white regulation USGA sand imported from San Juan Capistrano, California. In the process of replacing the sand, each bunker was inspected and if necessary, repairs were made to improve drainage and rework the edges back to the original specifications of the Nicklaus design. We all know what our monsoons can do to a golf course, particularly the traps. The already well maintained greens have had a complete change of putting surface, going from a sensitive bent grass to a lush mini verde Bermudagrass, much more tolerant of our desert heat and dry conditions. "These course enhancements are intended to beautify the course and allow for consistency from bunker to bunker and green to green...and that makes for a much more enjoyable round of golf" says Corey Baehman, Head Golf Professional at the Westin La Paloma.
Antigua Enters Tennis Apparel Market
The Antigua Group, Inc., well known in the golf apparel, sports licensing and casual wear business for over 30 years, has announced its entrance into the tennis market with a line of men's and women's performance apparel. Designed with an emphasis on both contemporary styling and high-tech performance, the lines feature Antigua's Desert Dry™ and Desert Dry™ Xtra Lite (D2XL) technical fabrics to help players compete at their best under all conditions. The Fall line will be available prior to this year's U.S. Open. "Tennis has experienced a rebirth over the
past decade; it's one of the few sports that's seen its participation numbers increase, so we're happy to enter the market during this upward trend," said Ron McPherson, President and CEO of Antigua Group. "Our tennis apparel will appeal to all players, from the fashion conscious to weekend warriors looking for an edge. And, as we do in golf, our tennis line will have the added benefit of our custom embroidery skill set and in-stock inventory business model."
Known amongst golf retailers for its high quality custom embroidered apparel offered with small minimums and quick lead times, Antigua brings this unique expertise to tennis
apparel retailers and tennis tournaments across the country. Antigua's 'Shop.Antigua.com' website is up and running now for tennis fans to see and purchase some of its tennis apparel. Unlike what will be sold at retail, this apparel is solely branded with the Antigua logo. "We realize not all fans have a convenient tennis shop nearby, so we offer Antigua apparel via our website," said McPherson. "When the full line is available, we'll add some additional pieces to the website. Tennis fans can purchase our outerwear and accessories online as well."
Miss an Issue? Read the entire issue online: Browse our website, or read with ‘Flipper’ www.gogolfarizona.com
Photo: The Chapel at Tubac Golf Resort & Spa
For the bride who has always wanted a storybook wedding with all the ambiance and style of a Hollywood movie, the 18th century Mission Style wedding chapel at Tubac Golf Resort could not be more fitting. The chapel, which measures 3,000 square feet, can accommodate up to 225 guests, theater style, in beautifully hand carved chairs surrounded by exquisite historic décor.
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Tee Times Magazines and Hot Stix Golf Hole-In-One Program
Tee Times Magazines and Hot Stix Golf have partnered to recognize Hole In One’s acheived on Arizona Golf Courses. We provide each certified Hole-in-One with a personalized bag tag, certificate and free club fitting. Ask your Pro Shop for details or visit www.GoGolfArizona.com/submit-hio. (9/15/12 cutoff date)
Dale Clark Age: 76 Golf Course: Dell Urich 2012-09-06 - Club Used: 7 iron Hole No: 9, 155 yards, par 3
Mary Klein Golf Course: The Gallery Golf Club South Course 2012-09-01 - Club Used: 5 iron Hole No. 3: 132 yards, par 3
Bill Clyde Age: 62 Golf Course: Forty-Niner Country Club 2012-08-31 - Club Used: PW Hole No: 18, 146 yards, par 3
Brian Rinder Age: 38 Golf Course: Forty-Niner Country Club 2012-08-27 - Club Used: 7 Iron Hole No. 8: 150 yards, par 3
Ken Cookson Golf Course: SaddleBrooke Golf Club SaddleBrooke Course 2012-08-19 - Club used: 9 iron Hole No. 2 : 118 yards, par 3
Rudy Gutierrez Golf Course: Heritage Highlands 2012-08-11 - Club used: PW Hole No. 7 : 104 yards, par 3
Tubac Hosts Event Benefitting Folds of Honor
On September 8th, The Patriots Group of Southern Arizona held an event which was hosted by Tubac and raised $20,687.07 in funds that will go to the Folds of Honor Foundation, which was a 33% increase in the funds raised in 2011, no small feat in a tough economic environment! In 2011 the funds generated by the event at Tubac was ranked in the top 10% in the country. As of January 1st 2012 the Folds of Honor Foundation has awarded over $3.7 million and 2600 scholarships. In 2011 the Patriots Golf Group of Southern Arizona requested that all proceeds from there event go to a recipient in Arizona.
The Folds of Honor Foundation responded to this request by awarding scholarship assistance to Thyiena Mendez from Sierra Vista Arizona, who is currently a junior at the University of Arizona. Her father was killed in Iraq by an improvised explosive device in 1996. Both Thyiena and her sister Cheyenne were in attendance at this year’s event. Thyiena spoke to the golfers and organizers, expressing her thanks for the financial assistance and explained just how much it meant to her and her family.
Jeremy Bessent Golf Course: The Views Golf Club 2012-07-29 - Club used: 8 Iron Hole No. 17 : 133 yards, par 3
Rick Dow Age: 57 Golf Course: Randolph Golf Course 2012-07-29 - Club used: 6 iron Hole No. 8 : 173 yards, par 3
Pat Stark Age: 71 Golf Course: The Gallery Golf Club North Course 2012-07-27 - Club used: 7 iron Hole No. 3 : 151 yards, par 3
Gary Giovanelli Golf Course: CC of Green Valley 2012-07-20 - Club used: 7 iron Hole No. 17 : 159 yards yards, par 3
Charlie Choate Age: 72 Golf Course: Skyline C C 2012-07-12 - Club used: 9 iron Hole No. 13 : 145 yards, par 3
Mark Tiernan Golf Course: El Conquistador C.C. Conquistador Course 2012-07-11 - Club used: 5 wood Hole No. 7 : 143 yards, par 3 Walter Klein Golf Course: Skyline C C 2012-07-08 - Club used: Driver Hole No. 3 : 339 yards, par 4 Tommy French Age: 62 Golf Course: Randolph 2012-07-05 - Club used: PW Hole No. 6 : 134 yards, par 3
Diane Musick Golf Course: El Conquistador C.C. Conquistador Course 2012-07-03 - Club used: 3 Wood Hole No. 17 : 146 yards, par 3 Jack Lehmkuhl Golf Course: Heritage Highlands 2012-06-27 Hole No. 7 : 151 yards, par 3
Hugh Winebrenner Age: 74 Golf Course: The Gallery Golf Club South Course 2012-06-30 - Club used: Driver Hole No. 14 : 165 yards, par 3 Jeremy Terry Golf Course: The Views 2012-06-24 - Club used: 7 Iron Hole No. 7 : 162 yards, par 3 Roger Ames Age: 65 Golf Course: Dell Urich 2012-06-20 - Club used: 7 iron Hole No. 5 : 137 yards, par 3
Rick Williams Age: 64 Golf Course: Randolph GC 2012-06-13 - Club used: #5 Hybrid Hole No. 8 : 191 yards, par 3
Gregory Ives Age: 42 Golf Course: Dell Urich 2012-06-10 - Club used: Gap Wedge Hole No. 17 : 126 yards, par 3
it’s all in the Get green fees from $26-$65 at ASU Karsten Golf Course To learn more about all the benefits call or visit us on the web
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Get green fees from $25-$75 at Longbow Golf Club To learn more about all the benefits call or visit us on the web
480.807.5400
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Get preferred rates for yourself & up to 3 guests at McDowell Mountain To learn more about all the benefits call or visit us on the web
480.502.8200
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CARDS... Visit or call these courses to learn about special savings and benefits you can receive when you buy a frequent players card from any of these spectacular courses. Each course has a unique card member program that helps you save the most at your home course and much, much MORE!
Get preferred rates for yourself & up to 3 guests at Palm Valley Golf Club To learn more about all the benefits call or visit us on the web
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Get green fees from $30-$60 at Sedona Golf Resort To learn more about all the benefits call or visit us on the web
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Get green fees from $40-$75 at Raven Golf Club - Phoenix To learn more about all the benefits call or visit us on the web
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SPECIAL SECTION - SOUTHWEST SECTION PGA
Championship Coverage
“RECEIVING AN EXEMPTION INTO 2013 WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN HAS BEEN A LONGTIME DREAM OF MINE TO PLAY IN A PGA TOUR EVENT”
Southwest Section Southern Chapter
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southern arizona tee times
Griffith Wins Big in PGA Section Championship BY RICK PRICE, PGA Standing on the first tee of the final round of the 54 hole PING Southwest Section PGA Championship, Glen Griffith found himself five shots behind the defending Champion, Jon Stanley. “The first hole I skanked my drive out there but I wasn’t really nervous, I just miss hit it, after that I settled down and it was solid the rest of the round.” Solid it was, as the Director of Instruction for Tucson Golf Schools, Griffith went on to fire a 5-under par 67 that included five birdies and no bogeys. The Gallery Golf Club (North course) in Marana, AZ played host to this year’s PING Southwest Section PGA Championship. This championship par 72 layout in the Tortolita Mountains played over 7,100 yards for the Championship. At the turn during the final round Griffith was not even on the radar to win the championship. It appeared that it was going to be a battle between the last group of players consisting of local Head Professional Brandon Smith from Ventana Canyon, defending Champion Jon Stanley from Phoenix and Travis Long, Head Professional at Anthem Country Club in Las Vegas. However, Smith hooked his tee shot on the ninth tee into the desert taking an unplayable lie and scoring a double bogey to dash his hopes of winning. Then Long
proceeds to triple bogey the tenth hole that would appear to knock him out of contention. Stanley then birdies the 11th hole and now it’s up in the air as to who is going to take control of the lead. All along Griffith is playing a steady bogey free round finishing with birdies on the 16th and 17th hole to take the lead in the clubhouse at 9under par. Stanley and Long both birdie the par 3, 15th hole and that’s when it got crazy! Long proceeded to birdie the 16th, drove the par 4, 17th hole and sunk the eagle putt to tie Griffith in the clubhouse with one to go. Stanley hits it over the par 5, 16th hole in two, taking an unplayable lie and scoring a bogey 6. He then drove it 330 yards just to the right of the green on 17th hole and lost his ball, having to go back to the tee, he drove it on the green and sunk an 80 foot putt to save par. On the 18th green Stanley birdies to finish a shot back of Griffith, Long hit his approach shot to within seven feet of the hole needing to make the putt for the win, but leaves it short, forcing a play-off with Griffith. They head backed to the 18th tee to decide the winner. Griffith teed off first, driving it down the right center of the fairway in perfect shape as Long hit it through the fairway, into a deep fairway bunker with a difficult approach shot. As his play predicted throughout the day, Griffith responded with his approach shot landing 15 feet from the hole putting the pressure
on Long. As Long struck the ball clean out of the fairway bunker, it looked as if was going to be a great shot, but landed deep on the back side of the green releasing into the deep rough. Long’s inconstant day of one eagle, six birdies, two bogies, one double and one triple bogey raised its head again as he pitched the ball past the hole outside of Griffith. Long putted first, again coming up just short, giving Griffith a two putt opportunity to win the Championship and that’s exactly what he did. Griffith finished 9-under par posting rounds of 6872-67=207 making par on the first play-off hole to win the Championship. Travis Long shot rounds of 68-68-71=207 while defending Champion Jon Stanley finished third with rounds of 69-66-73=208 total. Finishing tied for 8th place was Brandon Smith 66-70-74=210 while Host Professional from The Gallery Golf Club Paul Nolen tied for 10th shooting 70-73-69=212. Local Professional from Skyline Country Club Chris Dompier posted a 212 total as well with 73-71-68. Griffith said, “This was huge for me to win our Section Championship and what goes with it. The biggest thing for me was coming from behind to catch the leaders and just having an opportunity to win in a play-off. However, receiving an exemption into 2013 Waste Management Phoenix Open has been a longtime dream of mine to play in a PGA TOUR event”.
Visiting Arizona? Just looking to Play A New Course? Get the scoop from our Course Review archives: www.gogolfarizona.com/course-reviews
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SOUTHERN CHAPTER PGA CHAMPIONSHIP COVERAGE CONTINUED
Price and Meyers Secure Senior & Women’s Championships
The Oro Valley Country Club hosted the Southern Chapter PGA Senior and Women’s Championships. It was contested over a 36-hole stroke play competition at this traditional tree lined, par-72 layout with magnificent bent-grass greens, nestled in at the base of Pusch Ridge of the Catalina Mountains. After an opening-round 2-under par 70, the Director of Operations of the Southern Chapter PGA, Rick Price, found himself on top of the leader-board in the Senior Division with a two-shot lead over Steve Hughes, former champion from 2008.
on the 9th hole to turn at 2-under par, taking the lead into the back nine. The Head Golf Professional at The Gallery Golf Club, Paul Nolen,who recently finished runner-up in the Arizona Open Senior Championship, shot an opening round of 73. Nolen was in pursuit on the back nine in the final round making birdies at the 11th and 15th holes before both Nolen and Price drove it through the fairway into the trees on the 18th hole, forcing them to both pitch out to the fairway and settle for bogey. Price carded a 34-37=71 in the final round for a two-day total of 3-under par 141 to win the Championship. Nolen posted rounds of 73-73=146 to finish second. Chip Garriss, Arizona’s Nike Sales Representative, fired a final round 71 with an opening round 79, for a 150 total to tie for third with Steve Hughes shooting 7278=150. Dave Simm, the Director of Instruction at Ventana Canyon, shot 78-
PGA Pros and Husband & Wife, Mike & Kim Griggs both competed
“I don’t play that often anymore because I usually run the tournaments. It was a little ironic that my wife Jenny was teasing me during the championship as my Mom used to when I was an amateur golfer by saying, “Don't come home unless you win.” Of course, kidding, I hope… that was certainly enough motivation to play well. It sure felt good to win again and especially our Senior Chapter PGA Championship,” said Price. With such a large lead after Meyers opening round of 74, she cruised to a final round 80
Scott Schultz, Head Pro (L) and Mark Oswald General Manager (R) at Oro Valley CC with Meyers
The women were led by defending Champion Susie Meyers, Teaching Professional from Ventana Canyon, with an opening round 74, taking a comfortable seven shot lead into the final round over the 2010 Champion Pam Drake. Kristie Fowler, Assistant Golf Professional at The Gallery Golf Club, and Susan Harnedy of The Stone Canyon Club, posted opening rounds of 84. In the final round, when Price made bogey on the par 5 second hole, Hughes birdied to draw even. Price proceeded to birdie the 4thand 7th, then sank a 40-foot birdie putt
73=151 finishing in fifth place.
posting a 154 total, good enough for an eight shot victory over the Head Golf Professional from Randolph Pam Drake, shooting 81-81=162. Kristie Fowler posted rounds of 84-80=164 finishing third as Susan Harnedy 84-84=168 finished fourth one shot ahead of Kim Griggs from the Views Golf Club.
Chip Garriss, Nike Sales Representative blasting his way to a final round
Meyers said, “It is so nice that we, as women professionals, have an opportunity to get together and compete at our local level. It’s a lot of fun, and I am honored to be able to compete and win our Chapter Championship.”
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southern arizona tee times
Kern runs away with Chapter Championship Southern Chapter PGA Championship Randolph Golf Course - Par 72 1
Benjiman Kern, Blanchard GC
-19
66
67
64
197
$2,500.00
2
Brandon Smith, Ventana Canyon
-10
70
67
69
206
$1,500.00
T3
Brent Newcomb, Stone Canyon Club
-6
71
69
70
210
$925.00
T3
Chris Dompier, Skyline CC
-6
69
69
72
210
$925.00
T5
Rich Elias, Canoa Ranch GC
-3
73
70
70
213
$650.00
T5
Mike Russell, Stone Canyon Club
-3
70
69
74
213
$650.00
7
Don Littrell, Skyline CC
-2
74
71
69
214
$500.00
T8
Derek Deminsky, Forty-Niner CC
E
74
72
70
216
$375.00
T8
Justin Bubser, Omni Tucson National
E
71
71
74
216
$375.00
10
Kevin Crawley, La Paloma CC
+1
74
70
73
217
$300.00
T11
Josh Brown, La Paloma CC
+3
73
76
70
219
$262.50
T11
Brad Volker, Heritage Highlands
+3
69
74
76
219
$262.50
T13
Scott Schultz, Oro Valley CC
+4
75
76
69
220
$141.67
T13
Steven Hughes, La Paloma CC
+4
74
74
72
220
$141.67
T13
Ryan Eckroat, Poston Butte GC
+4
71
71
78
220
$141.67
the history
1982 – Fred Marti
1997 – Dave Powell
1983 – Ed Francese
1998 – Paul Nolen
1984 – Homero Blancas
1999 – Mark Bakeman
1985 - Larry Webb
2000 – Jay Synkelma
1986 – Dave Powell
2001 – Jay Synkelma
1987 – Phil Ferranti
2002 – Jay Synkelma
1988 – Terry Wilks
2003 – Rich Elias
1989 – Sam Harvey
2004 – Wade Dunagan
1990 – Terry Wilks
2005 – Rich Elias
1991 – Tony Farmer
2006 – Rich Elias
1992 – Wade Dunagan
2007 – Wade Dunagan
1993 – Jon Jaress
2008 – Dean Vomacka
1994 – Dave Powell
2009 – Dean Vomacka
1995 – Wade Dunagan
2010 – Mike Russell
1996 – Dave Powell
2012 – Ben Kern
PhOTO: Dan Wickman, Southern Chapter PGA President with 2012 Champion Ben Kern.
If you would have asked Ben Kern how he felt about his game and what his chances were of winning the Southern Chapter Championship at Randolph Golf Course, you would have got a humble, positive response. However, even Ben was probably a little surprised winning the championship by an amazing 9 shots. Growing up and playing Randolph as a junior golfer certainly gave him a slight edge, but when you shoot rounds of 66-67-64=197 for a 19-under par total that’s flat-out golfing your ball. Kerns performance produced only two bogies over the 54 hole competition, including 31 pars and incredible 21 birdies with 9 of them in the final round. The par 72 Randolph Golf Course tips out at 6,862 yards, however it was not able to defend itself over Kerns 350 yard missile like drives that found the fairway more often than not and his putts finding the bottom of the hole as if it was a bucket. Kern is an Assistant Golf Professional at Blanchard Golf Course on Davis Monthan AFB. He became eligible with the PGA and Southern Chapter at the beginning of the year and has been a dominant force in Section and Chapter tournament events. He managed to win the 2012 Southern Chapter PGA Player of Year by amassing the most points over this year’s tournament events. Congratulations is not only in store for his golf game, as Kern just recently married Jessica Bell, and will be moving out of the country for the next few years.
Brandon Smith
Brent Newcomb
Chris Dompier
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Finishing with a strong 10-under par performance as runner-up, Head Golf Professional at Ventana Canyon Brandon Smith, shot rounds of 70-67-69=206. In a tie for third was Brent Newcomb, Head Golf Professional from The Stone Canyon Club, and Skyline Country Club’s Head Golf Professional, Chris Dompier, posting 6-under par totals of 210. The three time Champion Rich Elias and the 2010-2011 winner Mike Russell tied for fifth place at 3-under par 213. local 520.792.6650 email: info@gogolfarizona.com
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Pro File l
“WE HAVE BECOME SO CONSCIOUS OF PLAYING FASTER, THAT IT HAS TAKEN THE PLEASURE OUT OF REALIZING WHERE YOU ARE AND WHAT IS AROUND YOU.”
In 1998, Paul Nolen was hired as the Head Professional at The Gallery Golf Club and after 14 years is still teaching and operating the Golf Shop. One of the best things Nolen likes about his position as Head Golf Professional is that it allows him to be able to do many different things and to work in a wonderful setting. Nolen says, “I am lucky to be able to step outside my door anytime I want and there is a golf course right there! Too often we all tend to take things for granted!” He also enjoys the opportunity to be an influence on his Assistant Golf Professionals. It is always fun to watch the evolution of a young person as they go from being a newbie in the business to a “seasoned professional. It’s exciting to have an impact on how they turn out…almost like having a child," stated Nolen. You know you’re destined to have a great career in golf when your first victory as a junior golfer is winning a playoff in the Soda Pop Open! That’s exactly what Nolen, a Colorado native, did at the age of 10. He first started playing when he was 7 years old back in Glenwood Springs, CO., his dad and older brother were playing, and he decided to tag along with them one day. He grabbed a club out of his dad’s bag and started whacking a ball down the fairway, and it went pretty far for a 7-year-old. So, his dad had a few clubs cut down for him, and the rest is history. A true breakthrough in Nolen’s golf career came after winning the State High School Championship in 1978. It was a real eye-opener for him realizing that he could play at that level or higher. Nolen said, “That was huge moment for me at 16 years of age.” He turned professional right out of college in June of 1985. He played professional golf “mini tours” for about a year and a half and then got into the business side of the industry in 1987. After holding a few different Head Professional jobs his big break came when he was hired at The Gallery Golf Club. “I always wanted to be involved with a first class club where people look forward to playing your golf course. I’ve had the good fortune to be employed at some wonderful facilities in my career. Being involved in hosting the Tucson Open; Accenture
Nolen is quite an accomplished player as well. Tournament golf has always been the impetus as to why Nolen plays golf. He is very competitive and his first big win was the Colorado State High School Championship in 1978 shooting rounds of 69-70 and winning by 8 shots on a Pete Dye course in Colorado Springs. That certainly got everyone’s attention on the state level which was a key to getting the college scholarship at Arizona. During his sophomore year in college he had his initial win as a University of Arizona Wildcat in 1982 at Randolph North with all the top schools in the country playing in The Arizona Invitational. Then in 1984, his senior year, he won the individual PAC-10 Championship at Tucson Country Club shooting 69-69-68-70 and making birdie on the first play-off hole to win. Nolen said, “Making that 15-foot birdie putt in the playoff was the most exciting moment in my golf career.” Later that year he won the Arizona Open at Dobson Ranch in Mesa. He shot 65-66-67 as an Amateur, which meant he didn’t receive the six thousand dollar first place check. After turning professional his biggest win came in 1995 winning the Southwest Section PGA Championship. That enabled him to play in the 1996 Tucson and Phoenix Opens on the PGA TOUR. It was a dream come true for Nolen to play inside the ropes, even though he didn’t play that well, it was what he’d always dreamt of! As a PGA Professional, Nolen won the Teacher of the Year in the Southern Chapter PGA in 2000 and Merchandiser of the Year for the Private Sector for the Southwest Section PGA, also in 2000. However, Nolen credits Bette Ray his merchandiser at the time, for really doing all the work. Nolen makes note that one of the most important qualities of being a successful golf professional is the ability to carry on a conversation. “We deal with so many varied types of individual’s on a daily basis; we have to be able to communicate with each of them. This job is never boring…there is no such thing as nothing to do,” stated Nolen. A frustrating thing about the golf business for operators and golf professionals is that sometimes people forget that it is a business. Nolen said, “The perception is that all we do is play golf and teach. There are positions in the industry that strictly teach for a living, and I have done that at one point in my career. However, what we do as Head Professionals and/or department heads in our respective clubs is much more involved than what most would think. We wear many hats in this business and all of them proudly.”
Presented By
Continued on pg 85
Southern Chapter
For as long as he can remember, Paul Nolen wanted to be a professional athlete of some sort. Once high school was over, being 5’10” if he stretched, his days were limited on the basketball court. After being actively recruited to play Junior College baseball, his decision was made when he was offered a scholarship to play golf for the University of Arizona Wildcats. At that point, he knew he was either going to play golf professionally or get into the business side of the sport. Nolen said, “Working at a golf course is all I’ve ever done since I was 11 years old. Like Adam Scott says on the commercial about putting your soul into your game…my soul is firmly embedded in golf!”
Match Play and top PGA, AGA and National events are exciting…it’s been a pleasure being able to watch The Gallery Golf Club evolve from brand-new to what it is today,” stated Nolen.
Southwest Section
BY RICK PRICE, PGA
a e d a m t jus
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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATIONS OF THE
Southwest Section
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southern arizona tee times
Continued from pg 83
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“I think people in general have lost the ability to stop and smell the roses! Life these days is so hectic that we have forgotten how enjoyable it is to play a relaxing round of golf. I understand the pundits that say golf takes too long, but that is part of the beauty of the game as well. I am certainly not condoning five or more hour rounds of golf, but I don’t think we need to play 18 holes in three hours either. We have become so conscious of playing faster, that it has taken the pleasure out of realizing where you are and what is around you. Golf courses are beautiful places; it's a shame we don’t realize or appreciate what we have sometimes. So what if the grass is not perfect all the time…by the way… nowhere in the world is there a perfect golf course 12 months of the year… being more grateful for what we have is a challenge the golf industry faces today,” stated Nolen. In trying to improve or impact the golf experience, Nolen strives to communicate with people and teach them how to play golf at a level where they can have fun playing the game. Nolen said, “It can be a hard game, but it can be fun if you just get to a point that you can hit the ball in the general direction you are aiming on a fairly consistent basis. That’s part of the beauty of golf…you don’t have to be a tour pro to enjoy playing, and players of different abilities can enjoy playing with each other.” Nolen admits to having made his share of mistakes as a manager and leader. However, he thinks that all decisions are made for a reason and whether or not they turn out to be mistakes; you can learn something positive from them. Some of the best lessons are learning what not to do. Nolen said, “If I could do one thing differently in my daily routine it would be to spend less time in the office and more time out in the Golf Shop interacting with my staff, our members and guests. Being out with all the people is what keeps the job invigorating.” We all have pet peeves, big or small, in business or personally, and Nolen is no exception. If you ask his staff, they would ask ‘what isn’t a pet peeve of his’? “Basically, I want to have things happen daily without incident, especially when running events. There are always things that happen behind the scenes that can make us crazy, but as long as that is not seen by the members or our guests, it can be ok. Ideally, I like to strive to have everything run without a hitch at all…tough to do, but it’s nice to have goals!” The feeling he gets deep inside when he sees the look on the faces of people who have enjoyed being at the facility for the day, or to hear people walking away commenting that they can’t wait to come back, inspires Nolen to be the best professional he can be. Similarly, “the look on a student’s face when that “light bulb” goes off in their head during a lesson is very gratifying knowing that I’ve had a positive influence on someone’s day,” stated Nolen. Nolen says he is grateful for so many things in his life. “The people I have in my life; from my wife Becky, daughter Guerin, to all the friends I have had the pleasure of making over the years. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to make a living doing something that I love to do, in a profession that I feel is a part of my being.”
Visiting Arizona? Just looking to Play A New Course? Get the scoop from our Course Review archives: www.gogolfarizona.com/course-reviews
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Food Fore Thought like TeeTimesMagazines for news between each issue
BY BILL CHRYSLER, PGA
For most of us golf is more than just a game, it is a lifestyle. Some of us buy a house on a golf course and spend more time at our country club than at home. Some of us work out elaborate schedules to fit in 18 holes once or twice a week. I even know “golfers” who don’t even play golf but can recite every winner of the Tucson Open and can be found volunteering at every local event, from Ricki Rarrick to the Accenture Match Play. As members of this fraternal order of fellowship, one thing that we all seem to have in common is the “stuff” we like. I’ve observed that this “stuff” falls into 5 categories.
PGOLF EQUIPMENT
Do you know any serious golfer that doesn’t have a garage full of putters, wedges, drivers, shoes, balls, and every other knick knack associated with golf? I only know a couple and they live in apartments and don’t have a garage.
Is yours wine, scotch, beer, cigars, M&M’s, fancy cars, shopping, or something else? (gambling doesn’t count because it seems we almost all do that) For some reason as much as we love golf, it never seems to fulfill us.
About The
AUTHOR
19th HOLE
PCLOTHES
Golfer’s wardrobes are legendary on all different levels. From $200 pants to 50 cent hats, everyone has their own style but it is always unique.
PTRAVEL
How many golfers do you know who are “home bodies”? As I was writing this I was thinking about my circle of friends…They were all out of town!
PFOOD
The golf lifestyle seems forever tied to food. Whether it is lunch after a round or a BBQ at one of your regular foursome’s house, it seems that people who golf together eat together.
PVICES
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southern arizona tee times
I’ve asked for (and Tee Times has granted me) space each issue to write about some of this “stuff”. My vision is to offer a loose review of new and interesting things that I come across that we, as golfers, might like and why we have to have it. I have some initial ideas but if you have a favorite brand of socks, bottle of wine, golf destination, Haggis recipe or anything else to share with fellow golfers you can e-mail me at bill.chrysler@hilton.com. Obviously, everything can’t get good press but if it is interesting enough it just might.
Bill Chrysler, PGA
MY VISION IS TO OFFER A LOOSE REVIEW OF NEW AND INTERESTING THINGS THAT WE, AS GOLFERS, MIGHT LIKE AND WHY WE HAVE TO HAVE IT.
General Manager - Hilton El Conquistador Country Club 520-544-1800
bill.chrysler@hilton.com www.hiltonelconquistador.com
Bill Chrysler, PGA, is the General Manager of the Hilton El Conquistador Country Club in Oro Valley, Arizona. El Conquistador is the largest club of its kind in Southern Arizona featuring 45 holes of golf, 31 tennis courts, a state of the art work-out facility, two pools and the La Vista Restaurant and Garden Café. Bill was elected to PGA Membership in 1996. Before coming to Tucson Bill spent several years as a head golf professional in Bellingham Washington before transitioning into full facility management in 2001. Bill Joined the Hilton team in 2010.
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19th HOLE
When the Cats Win, You Win at Desert Diamond Casinos
A
s the summer heat fades and autumn sets in, football season takes center stage. In Southern Arizona, the University of Arizona Wildcat Football is the hottest game in town. With outstanding players, exciting half-time shows, and dedicated fans, it’s no surprise the Cats are Tucson’s favorite team. Wildcat fever is sweeping town as stores and restaurants across town line up behind the team offering various promotions. Shops all along University Boulevard are decked from top to bottom in UA red and blue. Leading the pack of Cats supporters is Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment, which has been a supporter for decades and has built a strong relationship in supporting UA programs. 2012 is no different as Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment has several fantastic promotions for Wildcat fans. “Cats Win, You Win 12 PAC” lets you celebrate every Wildcat Football game victory with a win of your own. So, when Tucson’s top team wins this season, head over to Desert Diamond Casinos for Southern Arizona’s newest opportunity for you to win! Here’s the breakdown: the day after every Wildcat Football game win this 2012 season, head to any Desert Diamond Casino and show your ticket stub at the Player’s Club kiosk to receive 12 Diamond Dollars! When the Cats win, you win!
But there’s even more opportunities for fans to win! During Wild Wednesdays, play with your Desert Diamond Club card in your machine and you could win 100 Diamond Dollars and a Wildcat tshirt! All other club members playing on the winning bank of machines will also walk away with a t-shirt and 20 Diamond Dollars. Wild Wednesdays run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and alternate between Desert Diamond Casinos’ Tucson and Sahuarita locations, so be sure to check the schedule. Not a member of the Desert Diamond Club? It’s quick and easy to join the club online at www.ddcaz.com. Get your club card today because you do not want to miss this offer. Desert Diamond Casinos are the only postgame hot spots where you can win every time the Wildcats do! For every regular season football game victory this 2012 Wildcat Football season, you can earn Cats Win, You Win 12 PAC rewards at Desert Diamond Casino-Hotel in Tucson or Desert Diamond Casino in Sahuarita. Desert Diamond Club members can show their ticket stubs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. the day after the game. For more information, check out www.ddcaz.com.
Upcoming 2012 Wildcat Football Season Games 10/06/2012 at Stanford 10/20/2012 vs. Washington 10/27/2012 vs. USC 11/03/2012 at UCLA 11/10/2012 vs. Colorado 11/17/2012 at Utah 11/23/2012 vs. Arizona State Wild Wednesdays Schedule 10/03/12 Tucson 10/10/12 Sahuarita 10/17/12 Tucson 10/24/12 Sahuarita 10/31/12 Tucson 11/07/12 Sahuarita 11/14/12 Tucson 11/21/12 Sahuarita 11/28/12 Tucson
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19th HOLE
Honest Food And Clever Libations Served In A Stylish Atmosphere! BY ADAM LAZARUS
Southern Arizona is known for some of the best golf courses in the country, but what locals know (and what visitors learn quickly) is that the Old Pueblo is also home to a very hip and exciting restaurant scene. One of the coolest and most creative of these restaurants also happens to be one of the best in town - Union Public House. Union offers made-from-scratch American comfort food and serves it up in a chic, colonial-American atmosphere that’s unlike anywhere else in town. The hardwood floors, gas lantern lighting and giant, tattered American flag add to the rustic, “patriotic” décor and every detail in the place exudes cool and comfort. The menu breathes new life into old classics and has something for every appetite and age group. From their baked-in-house pretzels, homemade pot pies and rich mac-ncheese dishes to creative artisan flatbreads, inventive sandwiches and the best fish-n-chips this side of the UK, Union’s food is fresh, simple and just plain good. Union uses only high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and it shows in the finished product. But at Union, this highquality doesn’t mean high prices. In fact, the prices are fair and the portions are ample. Union is all about getting creative with comfort food from their awesome apps like mason jars full of house brined pickles and veggies to amazing from-scratch desserts like the chocolate waffle sundae which is an ingenious twist on the popular breakfast dish. One of the best dishes on the menu is also one of the most original - the BB&B; a simple, yet scrumptious mixture of brussell sprouts, beets,
bacon and honey. It may sound wild, but it’s wonderful. Like their clever spin on comfort food, Union also puts its stylish stamp on adult beverages with one of the best bars in Tucson. With dozens of original, handcrafted cocktails like the Moscow Mule (ginger beer, vodka and a fresh squeezed lime served in a copper mug), 16 keg wines and a huge bottled wine selection, over 30 beers on tap and 75+ bottled selections to choose from, Union is the perfect place for a happy hour drink or late night libation. Union has become an “unofficial” pre and post U of A game hangout, and frankly, with 10 huge TVs and a perfectly designed roomy bar, Union Public House is a great place to watch the Wildcats or your favorite football team this fall. There’s a great energy at Union. It’s a hip place, but not highbrow. The food is clever without being corny. And the bar is fun and fresh without ever feeling “foo-foo”. Union is a stellar new addition to the locally owned restaurant gems we have in Tucson, but as cool as it is, it’s always “come as you are”. And like the delicious comfort food they create, everything about Union Public House is comfortable. Vintage Americana never tasted so good.
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SE Corner of River & Campbell in the St. Phillips Plaza 4340 N Campbell Ave Tucson, AZ 85718 520-990-3790
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19th HOLE
Antigua Launches Accessories Line of Hats and Executive Luggage for 2013 Antigua has expanded their golf performance line for 2013 to include a new collection of performance hats and a variety of executive quality and sport inspired luggage styles. Four new hat styles are being introduced this season, and each style is embellished with the Antigua branding. The 2013 hat collection offers a variety of styling details that compliment this season’s performance golf fashion collection featuring pop bright accents on performance fabrics designed for comfort and fit. All hats are also made available to customize with an embroidered logo of the resort, course or company desired. The Solar hat is a fitted performance four-way stretch woven fabric offered in a range of seven seasonal bright solid colors (such as Lapis, Apple, and Melon). Circuit hat comes in five solid colors with the bills underside featuring a contrasting multi-bright colored yarn dye stripe that is also featured as the hats piping detail. Each solid color offered features a different pop stripe accent combo complimenting both the hat and the performance fashion collection and is made with an adjustable fit closure. The Pulse hat is made of a soft yarn dye neutral tonal knit stripe which is derived directly from this seasons fashion golf collection. This contemporary styled hat features a bright contrast accent color subtly placed under the bill and mirrors the contrast cover-stitch accent color deliberately engineered on the seams. Pulse hat is coordinated to the performance golf fashion collection in four color combinations (White/Steel/Lapis, Smoke/Steel/Zest, Black/Steel/Melon, and Navy/Light Navy/Apple). The Sedona hat features a technical performance 4way stretch woven fabric that is utilized in the bottoms collection and features the yarn dye plaid and stripe patterns found on the short and pant styles;
Sedona Short, Santa Fe Short and Riviera Pant. Both the bottoms and the complimenting hats are all current updates to the Spring ’13 golf performance collection. Offered again for 2013 is Antigua’s Fitted hat, that can be a daily go-to accessory that looks great on any golfer. The Chino hat continues to be a wardrobe staple and is also offered as a visor in a wide range of colors. Both the Fitted hat and the Chino hat and visor are one size fits all. Antigua has also expanded their accessories line to include an Executive collection of luggage made of 100% nylon dobby, and offered in sleek black with grey contrast piping. The new Exec Rolling Duffle is perfect for the traveling golfer and is durable and water resistant. The new Exec Tablet Portfolio is a secure way to transport any tablet and is designed to be embellished with a company or course logo of choice. Also offered this season is a collection of Action sport inspired luggage, essential for the golfer’s everyday golfing and traveling needs. The Action Back Pack and the Action Duffel are quality bags that are great for any team to easily add a customized logo to. The Antigua 2013 accessories line parallels the quality, style, and value the company is known for in its apparel. Accessories can be purchased in some of the finest pro shops and golf retailers, exemplifying Antigua as one of the nation’s leading designers and marketers of genuine golf and sports apparel and accessories.
The Antigua 2013 accessories line parallels the quality, style, and value the company is known for in its apparel. Accessories can be purchased in some of the finest pro shops and golf retailers, exemplifying Antigua as one of the nation’s leading designers and marketers of genuine golf and sports apparel and accessories.
Antigua products can also be found online at shop.antigua.com Miss an Issue? Read the entire issue online: Browse our website, or read with ‘Flipper’ www.gogolfarizona.com
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southern arizona tee times
Get Ready to Tee it Up at Casino Del Sol Resort! With the opening of Arizona’s newest and most diverse and challenging course in years, Casino Del Sol Resort and golf course architect Notah Begay are preparing to welcome golfers from all over the country. But before they do, you can come visit this true “jewel of the desert” in all its glory right now. At Casino Del Sol Resort you will experience…the extraordinary. Casino Del Sol Resort welcomes you to a spectacular place to play and stay unlike any other in the desert southwest. Enjoy 215 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, including breathtaking views from the exclusive Sky Level, a new Conference Center including a ballroom for up to 2,000 guests, five great restaurants including fine dining at the new PY Steakhouse, premium cocktails in the Prema Lobby Lounge, and our unique Spa, Fitness Center and Pool. It’s all for you…every day is extraordinary at the new Casino Del Sol Resort.
Play the Games You Love
With over 1,300 slot machines and live Poker, Blackjack, Bingo and more, Casino Del Sol has the games you want to play. And the action goes on all night long. The beautiful casino floor welcomes you to a gracious and comfortable gaming environment, under a bright blue sky and a Mediterranean sun that never sets. Relax, order your favorite beverage and play, play, play…
(R-L) Golf Course Tee Off at Groundbreaking ceremonies on February 16, 2012. John Escalante, Pascua Yaqui Tribe Council Treasurer; Francisco Valencia, Pascua Yaqui Tribe Council Secretary; Notah Begay III, PGA Pro Golfer; David Ramirez, Pascua Yaqui Tribe Council Member; Mr. Molina, Pascua Yaqui Community Elder & Arcadio Gastelum, Pascua Yaqui Tribe Council Member
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Delicious Decisions Await at Casino Del Sol
When it comes to delicious decisions, we’re ready to make it hard for you to decide! From fine dining to Asian fusion…from south of the border to International creations, Casino Del Sol Resort will blow you away with a dazzling selection of culinary delights for every appetite. Enjoy fine steaks & seafood nightly at PY Steakhouse while Festa International Buffet brings the worlds best foods to you. An Del Sol presents unique sushi & hot dish creations from the Far East. Our 24-hour All-American diner, Moby’s welcomes you home to the foods you love, and Abuelita’s & The Tequila Factory turn up the heat for lunch and dinner
You Have To Start Meeting… Like This!
Reflecting the spirit and beauty of Arizona, which is known for terrific weather, brilliant skies, spectacular sunsets and cool desert evenings; Casino Del Sol Resort also hosts meetings as well as indoor and outdoor events with distinction and grace. The new Conference Center opens a myriad of possibilities for meeting planners, wedding parties, and groups of all sizes
Every Day Extraordinary
Casino Del Sol Resort was created with one thing in mind – providing guests with extraordinary service in a setting that is truly unique to the Southwest. Come see for yourself why every day (and night) is extraordinary at Casino Del Sol Resort.
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Coordinating Movement
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Performance Executive Fitness, Fitness Coach, Owner
BY ANDREW CLARK
Regardless of what you consider it - hobby, pastime, game, or frustration - golf is a sport. Sports are activities that require physical skills to compete against others. Whether you compete against others or not, you are competing against the course, and you are using a physical skill to do so; you are playing a sport. And that makes you an athlete. As an athlete, the best way to train is with athletic movements. Athletic movements require full body coordination, using every muscle from head to toe in a controlled, coordinated manner. That coordination is highly transferable, which means that developing it using exercises in the gym will ultimately translate to your golf swing – a head to toe, coordinated movement. Some basic movements that you can incorporate into your gym routine that will directly affect your athletic coordination, and your golf swing, are outlined below. Single Leg Deadlift: Stand with a dumbbell or kettlebell in one hand. Pull your shoulders and back into proper postural alignment. Keep the foot opposite of the hand holding the weight on the ground, and prepare to have the other leg swing backwards. Keep your knees soft, and push your
Regardless of what you consider it - hobby, pastime, game, or frustration - golf is a sport. Sports are activities that require physical skills to compete against others. hips backwards while maintaining proper posture and leaning forward. Keep your core tight, your shoulders square, and your arm relaxed. Lean over as far as you can maintain balance, trying to extend that range of motion with each rep. Return to upright position, reestablish balance with your up-foot, if necessary, and repeat 8-12 times per side for 2 to 4 sets. Overhead Hold Lunge Get Up: Start in a half kneeling position, one knee directly underneath your body, and the other raised so that the lower leg is perpendicular to the floor. Grab a kettlebell or dumbbell with the opposite hand of the leg that is up, and raise the weight to shoulder or overhead position. Ensure you have a tight core and upright posture, and use the front leg to drive your body upright until both legs are fully extended. Control your descent back to the ground, completely relaxing when fully balanced. Repeat 8-12 times per side for 2 to 4 sets. Andrew Clark is a Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCS) and Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), as well as the owner of Performance Executive Fitness (www.performancefitnesstucson.com). His work with golfers has eliminated not only strokes from the scorecard, but aches and pains that have prevented players from enjoying the game. For more information on Andrew’s training methods, or his Weekend Golf Workshops, please contact him at andrew@performancefitnesstucson.com or by phone at 520.325.5455.
Become a Course Review Volunteer! Choose ‘SignUp’ from our home page www.gogolfarizona.com
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The $1 Million Dollar
Hole In One
Contest Is Back BY MATTHEW BOEPPLE
The Tucson Parks Foundation is hard at work preparing for next year's $1 Million Dollar Hole in One Contest, and looking to make it better than ever. This means more chances to qualify and more prizes to be won. Taking place between February 14th-17th, 2013, this next year's contest has been condensed into three and a half days of qualifying and a half day of finals. In addition to the main event, the Tucson Parks Foundation plans on bringing back the $10k Putting Contest and ProAm tournament while looking forward to making the event one of the top amateur golf events in all of Southern Arizona, and raising
much needed money for our city parks. If your business would like to become a sponsor of this year's event please email contact@tucsonholeinone.com or leave a message at 520-777-9007. There are many opportunities available with perks for you and your business at each level. Details will be added the new and improved website (www.TucsonHoleInOne.com) as they become available. Tickets will be available for purchase in late October 2012. Sign-up for the Hole in One email list on the website for upto-date details and special offers.
All the Instruction Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ever need! Golf Instruction Archives www.gogolfarizona.com/golf-instruction
The Mental Game
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BY JOE PINELLA
There is a lot of buzz about the mental game of golf. It’s conventional wisdom that controlling the mental component of the game is the difference between being good and being great. There is a lot of talk about attitude, motivation, self-confidence, calming the mind etc. This is all well and good, but I think much of the emphasis on these inspirational concepts is missing the point. To make a profound and lasting change in any activity, including golf, you must
southern arizona tee times
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engage your mind and your body in a very specific way. To change a habit or improve an existing skill, you need to use your conscious mind to bring a bad habit into awareness, then while maintaining awarenesss, you practice the new skill until it becomes automatic. Movements must become instinctive, ruled by your unconscious mind. But to get there, you first have to bring the movement you want to learn into conscious awareness. Most lose the mental game by getting stuck in thinking. They know the right grip, the right stance, the right way to swing and the right way to putt. The mistake is trying to control them by thinking them with their conscious mind. You are trying to control the movement of your body from the wrong place. Your thinking mind, which readily absorbs technical instructions, does not control your intuitive body movement.
And if your body is unbalanced, or is compensating for old injuries, no amount of technical instruction can overcome your body’s innate protective wisdom. This is where fitness training using one of the Eastern movement arts, like QiGong or Tai Chi can help. These are mind-body arts. They engage the brain while balancing the body and helping to heal old injury patterns. One way QiGong helps the mental component of golf fitness training by moving in ultra slow motion. Moving very slowly forces us into conscious awareness of what we are doing. It is a fundamentally different way of learning a new movement skill. As you slowly practice a skill it can become a new habitsomething you don’t have to think about to put into play! QiGong Fitness for Golf is taught by Joe Pinella, a forty year QiGong practitioner, who used this art to overcome paralysis after a broken neck. It can work miracles for golfers too! To contact Joe call 520.343.3523 or visit www.http://qigonghealinginstitute.com
“This is the best book ever written on the subject.” - Chris Verna, CVT Pro Golf Trainer Tim Clark says, “The Now Golfer will help people reach their full potential on or off the golf course.” “This is a book for golfers...all golfers. Playing golf correctly means playing golf with a cohesive sense of self, which is elevating, enriching, and positive.” - Preston Waddington
“I have seen Preston Waddington work wonders with players in allowing them to play to their ability level.” - Martin Hall, Host of Golf Channel’s School of Golf and 2008 PGA Teacher of the Year
Available Online at Nowgolfer.com and Amazon.com Visiting Arizona? Just looking to Play A New Course? Get the scoop from our Course Review archives: www.gogolfarizona.com/course-reviews
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AMATEUR SPOTLIGHT
BY ROBIN LANE
Sandy Jacobson
Sandy Jacobson was born and raised in Magnolia, MN. Population, 185 souls! She admits to having played for 35 years although she played for ten years before she started counting. Her husband of 35 years, Jake says she never got the ball off the ground before that so it does not count! She took lessons from a professional and caught the golf bug in MN. She and Jake were members of Hazeltine National Golf Club for 25 years. Sandy worked for Northwest Airlines for most of her career as the Secretary in Flight Operations and Training. Jake was a pilot and training pilot. They spent many years going back and forth between homes in Tucson and Minneapolis. In 1997, Jake finally retired and Tucson became their full time home. They have been members at Starr Pass Golf Club since the doors opened in 1987. When first joining Starr Pass, there was no ladies league for Sandy, so she joined the Tucson City golf to play and make friends. She served as Tournament chair for that league for many years. She has also run tournaments and served on the board of Directors for the Southern District Golf Association and the Arizona Women’s Golf Association. Sandy is very well known anywhere a tournament is held! Sandy loves to play tournament golf. Match play format is her favorite. She once signed up to play in the MN State Amateur match play and she remembers that they announced her name on the first tee and she had rings of sweat to her waist. Well she got past the nerves and eventually won her flight! That is the highlight of her golf career. She still remembers turning to her
About The
AUTHOR
ROBIN LANE, AWGA
Jim Redmond James Redmond was born in Whitesburg, KY in 1924. That is where he met his sweetheart, MaryAnn in the 6th grade. Before golf, Jim served his country like so many young men of his time. He was drafted in 1942. Jim attended basic training and was shipped off to Europe. In his 3 years of service, he spent 138 days on the front lines after storming the beaches in the first waves of Normandy. He earned 5 battle stars fighting for our country including the Bronze Star! In addition to this country’s undying gratitude, Jim was able to get his education thanks to the GI Bill. His second love, golf was not discovered until he was 29 and a student at the University of Cincinnati. Jim believes that golf gave him a break from the stress of his studies while he was seeking his degree in Architecture. His degree was a six year course that included studies and hands-on training combined to give him work experience. Upon graduation, he and MaryAnn stayed in Cincinnati and joined Coldstream Country Club in Terrace Park. They made many good buddies through golf and stayed for 40 years. Work allowed him to travel to Arizona and he fell in love with Tucson. When he retired, he and his wife moved here and after a year, they decided to open a Bed and Breakfast since Jim loves to stay active. They also became members of Oro Valley Country Club and stayed there for 10 years. Jim served as the President of Oro Valley Board where they were very active. In 2001, he joined the Gallery Golf Club in Marana where he remains a member today. He lost his wife MaryAnn a few years back and he misses her every day. Jim is still a very active golfer at 88, playing 4 times a week. He believes that golf is one of the ways he remains active…and he is pretty darn good. Jim shoots his age about every other week. Jim claims at his age, golf gives him the structure to get out there and do something while associating with people. Jim is a beacon to us all that golf is an important element in a great life!
caddie in the final match and asking… ”Aren’t we done yet?” Sandy had closed out every match before the 15th hole, so closing out her opponent in the final match 8 & 7 was just another day for her. What a player.
Arizona Women’s Golf Assoc. - President
800.442.2942
Sandy knows that golf is a physical and a mental challenge. She advises new golfers to take lessons. She also tells new golfers that it is worth every challenge because golf is the sport of a lifetime. robinlane@comcast.net www.AWGA.org
Currently President, a member of the Executive Committee and for the AWGA, Robin was elected to the AWGA Board of Directors in 2008. Accountable for all forms of communication to 25,000+ members with a primary goal of community outreach, Robin is an avid golfer who continues to serve our golf community on a daily basis. Robin hails from Tennessee, relocated to Tucson with her husband Tommy in 2003, and resides at The Gallery. She is a member of the Southern Arizona Tee Times Advisory Board and the "voice" of AZ golf for Women on the AZgolf Radio, NBC1260am and 96.1FM and active in the Regional Affairs Committee of the USGA.
Amateur Spotlight is brought to you by the Arizona Women’s Golf Association (AWGA). The AWGA is dedicated to supporting amateur golf. If you are considering taking up the game of golf, the AWGA can be a strong resource for those who are looking to make a few connections to get them headed in the right direction. Miss an Issue? Read the entire issue online: Browse our website, or read with ‘Flipper’ www.gogolfarizona.com
R EGISTER N OW ! TOURNAMENT D EADLINE : W ED . D EC . 5 TH 2012 @ 5 PM
2012
Ricki Rarick Junior Golf Benefit Tournament
Ronnie Black
Dan Pohl
Schedule of Events
Don Pooley Tournament Activities
Day of Event: Dec 8, 2012
5 Player Scramble
8:30am : Registration 9:30am : Golf Clinic 11:00am : Bar-B-Q Lunch 12:30pm : Shotgun Tournament Start 5:00pm : Dinner in Geronimo Ballroom
Three Amateur Golfers One Junior Golfer One Professional Golfer Tournament Played Using all 27 Holes Team Prizes Awarded to Top Five Teams Closest to Pin on All Par 3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (men &women) Longest Drive on Each 9 Holes (men & women) Tee Prizes for All / Bar-B-Q Luncheon Buffet Dinner and No Host Bar
Awards Dinner Featuring Buffet Dinner & No Host Bar Awards Ceremony & Silent Auction Elbow Rubbing with PGA, LPGA and Champions Tour Professionals
Special Hotel Rates for Participants!
Amateur Entry: $150 per player. Guest for dinner $30. Player 1: ______________________________ Handicap Index ______ Phone: ____________ Email: ________________________________ Guest Dinner: Yes _____ No _____
Thank You In Advance On Behalf Of Ricki Rarick Junior Golf!
Player 1: ______________________________ Handicap Index ______ Phone: ____________ Email: ________________________________ Guest Dinner: Yes _____ No _____
Please make checks payable to: Tubac Golf Resort & Spa
Player 1: ______________________________ Handicap Index ______ Phone: ____________ Email: ________________________________ Guest Dinner: Yes _____ No _____
Mail Entries to : Dennis Palmer PO BOX 1297 Tubac, AZ 85646
The Ricki Rarick Junior Golf Program is a great introduction to competitive junior golf as well as an arena for more experienced players to compete. Through these events, kids will be able to further their knowledge of the game of golf and will learn respect, honesty, knowledge, character building, self discipline, sportsmanship and many other positive attributes. Our program is open to juniors of all skill levels, ages 6 through 17 and/or through the summer of their senior year of high school. The proceeds from this tournament will go a long way to help support all the junior golfers in the Ricki Rarick Junior Program. As Golf Professionals and players of the game, supporting junior golf is a great way to help these young people.
Come and Join our PGA, LPGA and Champions Tour Players in support of the Ricki Rarick Junior Golf Program.
For More Information, Sponsorship Opportunities or Registration call 520.398.2021