PHOENIX VALLEY
Jan-Feb 2012 Vol 1, Issue 1
THE THUNDERBIRDS
77 YEARS OF
MEMORIES THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE
Also Inside: EXPANDED COURSE REVIEW: Poston Butte, Florence AZ LOCKER ROOM l JUNIOR SPOTLIGHT l TEE TO GREEN: Local News SWSPGA NEWS l WASTE MANAGEMENT OPEN l ACCENTURE MATCH PLAY
Y our Multi-Media Resource
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Southwest Section Fo r everything local golf
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CONTENTS Published by Media Solutions Group, Inc. PUBLISHER
HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSOR
JACQUELINE McABEE
HOT STIX GOLF
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
GOLD SPONSORS
RICK PRICE, PGA
THE ANTIGUA GROUP THETEETIMESTORE.COM GOLF REALTY NETWORK POSTON BUTTE GOLF CLUB SOUTHWEST SECTION PGA THE PLAYER’S INSTITUTE
COURSE REVIEWS MIKE HELFRICH
ADVISORY BOARD AL ANDERSEN JANE ANDERSEN RYAN ECKROAT, PGA VITO BERLINGERI MIKE HELFRICH CURT HUDEK, PGA JACQUELINE McABEE RICK PRICE, PGA
ARTIST: B.P. BENGER Courtesy of The Thunderbirds
CONTRIBUTORS
2012 SWSPGA OFFICERS
BRYANT ANDRUS VITO BERLINGERI ADAM COPELAND, PGA RYAN ECKROAT, PGA STEVE GROSZ MICHAEL HAYWOOD, PGA MICHAEL HELFRICH SCOTT McNEVIN MARK OSWALD, PGA LYNN PITTENGER JOEL SCHAFER MARYANN SOUTER JACK TALMAGE SCOTT WATKINS, PGA The PGA TOUR
CIRCULATION
on the cover
SILVER SPONSORS AMATEUR ASSOCIATION OF ARIZONA GOLFERS (AAAG)
on the cover 22-26 The Thunderbirds:
special feature 33 AAAG Expands 2012 Events 34 AWGA Ambassador Program Registration 36 Exciting Changes for Attendees of Top 64 Tournament in Marana, AZ
on the course
FRONT COVER
PRESIDENT: Michael Haywood, PGA Tucson Country Club VICE-PRESIDENT: Don Rea, PGA Augusta Ranch SECRETARY: Greg Leicht, PGA Vistal Golf Club HONORARY PRES.: Mike Wright, PGA Vistal .Golf Course
J.C. McABEE
77 Years of Memories
14 COURSE REVIEW:
Savor the Culture and Revel In The Gary Panks Greens
16 EXPANDED REVIEW:
Poston Butte, Florence AZ
on your game 7 Side Hill Lies 8 Playing The High-Low Game 10 Demystifying The Club Fitting Experience 11 Game Improvement Techniques 13 Simple Fundamentals To Improve Green Side Bunker Play 32 The Art of Instruction
youthlinks 42
JUNIOR SPOTLIGHT: Jacquie Lamarr & Brett Wilson
swspga news 27 Christopher Cain Recognized as 2011 Golf Professional of The Year
TEE TIMES MAGAZINES PUBLISHING OFFICE PO BOX 115 l CORTARO, AZ 85653 Phone: (520)792-6650 Toll-Free (888)792-6650 email: info@GoGolfArizona.com www.GoGolfArizona.com
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SOUTHWEST SECTION PGA OFFICE 10685 North 69th Street l Scottsdale, AZ 85254 Phone: (480)443-2509 Fax (480)443-9006 email: mburhans@pgahq.com www.southwest.pga.com FOR ONLINE TEE TIMES OR TO VIEW ‘FLIPPER’ FOR SOUTHERN ARIZONA TEE TIMES or PHOENIX VALLEY TEE TIMES, VISIT: www.theteetimestore.com ABOUT THE PGA
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.”
28 2011 SWSPGA Award Winners 31 Goldwater Cup:
Club Professionals Winning Streak Continues
community 18 TEE TO GREEN:
Local News & Reports
SWSPGA Member Amy Bush, PGA Earns National Coaching Award Champions Tour Returns To Arizona Move On Up and Tee It Forward SWSPGA Match Play Held at a Rainy Ocotillo Award Winner Kristie Fowler Arizona Golf Hall of Fame Inductees Announced Don Yrene Joins Staff at Reid West Golf Academies Tee Times Magazines and Hot Stix Golf Team Up on Hole In One Program
19th hole 38 Playing Golf In Pain? How I addressed It 39 CANADIAN CORNER: Buying Property In The U.S.? 40 LOCKER ROOM: Antigua Creates USA Team Uniforms for the LPGA Solheim Cup Ping Brings New Skins Game Feature To iPING App
ABOUT PHOENIX VALLEY TEE TIMES
Phoenix Valley Tee Times, official publication of the Southwest Section PGA, 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 SWSPGA. Distributed throughout Phoenix Valley with 34,000 bulk/on demand print circulation, available through e-subscription and reproduced online in both flipbook and webpage (HTML) format at www.GoGolfArizona.com. Copyright © 2011-2012. 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.
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
3
FROM THE EDITOR
Phoenix Valley Tee Times – Produced Locally By People & Golfers You Already Know
W
e’re pleased to introduce you to the new Phoenix Valley Tee Times magazine (PVTT). This bi-monthly magazine is meant for golfers and nongolfers alike to enjoy more relevant local golf news and community activities in the Phoenix Valley.
appropriate considering all they have done for the golfing fans and local community organizations.
We think you deserve the very best the golfing community has to offer. For this reason, we pledge to you with your support and assistance, to provide you with the most relevant news and golf results within the valley. Our mission is all about promoting the game of golf, individuals and businesses within our local community.
While putting the finishing touches on this inaugural issue in Phoenix, and coming to the realization of how thrilling the release will be for the community, we also want you to know that we have been successful in Tucson for the past seven years with our other golf publication of the same format and concept - Southern Arizona Tee Times.
In addition, we take special pride in our editorial process. This is where you the reader and supporter come into the picture. While we cannot be everywhere to cover a story or results of a tournament event, we
The creation of both publications is unique in community involvement, and that we convene volunteer advisory boards for each regional publication that consist of representatives from within the golf industry
“
WE ENCOURAGE YOUR PARTICIPATION IN SUBMITTING SPECIAL ARTICLES OF INTEREST AND LOCAL TOURNAMENT RESULTS THAT WILL BENEFIT OUR READERS, BOTH IN PRINT AND ONLINE
encourage your participation in submitting special articles of interest and local tournament results that will benefit our readers, both in print and online. “This is just what our local golf community has needed,” stated Curt Hudek Executive Director of the Southwest Section PGA. “The PGA of America, the leader in the golf industry, is proud to brand our organization to this newsworthy publication promoting amateur and professional golf. This will be a great benefit to the game of golf from a truly local perspective reporting and representing our Phoenix Valley.” Now we're working harder than ever to deliver a product you will be proud to say you are a part of. Our inaugural cover story of The Thunderbirds could not be more
”
that help determine the direction of the magazine. We hope you're as excited as we are about our future. We continuely look at what we do well, and envision ways to do it better. So, please let us know what you think - contact me at rick@gogolfarizona.com and your message will go straight to my inbox! Mobile and e-reader platforms are the future, and that's where we're headed. With both regional publications reproduced online in web page format and ‘Flipper’ (our affectionately named flip magazine), you can sign up for e-mail delivery of either magazine or get delivery via RSS feed. Our site, www.GoGolfArizona.com is designed for both mobile and desktop viewing with ‘Flipper’ available for both iPhone and iPad. All of our products are designed with the reader in mind - we want it to be a premium
4 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
experience. Since we are a bi-monthly print magazine, it's a small delay between issues. We bridge the gap with updated current events and additional articles on the home page of our website, also available as an RSS feed. In each issue we commit to providing fresh and honest information from a variety of voices and perspectives. We aim to give you the opportunity to learn something new, feel moved by something special, and have some fun along the way. We know that the success of PVTT lies in its community of multifaceted people of different interest, intellect, and ideas. So in each issue we’ll be diligent to cover as many different stories, tournament events and community activities as we can. Thank you again for your support. To sign up for a free online subscription directly into your in-box, visit www.GoGolfArizona.com. To learn more about participating in our Advisory and Editorial Boards, editorial submissions and advertising/sponsorship opportunities, visit GoGolfArizona.com or call toll-free (888)792-6650.
Rick Price Rick Price PGA, Operations Coordinator Southern Chapter of the Southwest Section PGA Editor-In-Chief Phoenix Valley Tee TImes and Southern Arizona Tee Times
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
5
UP T TO O
CHALL C LENGE NGE
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6 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
ON YOUR GAME
“
WHEN YOU SWING WITH THIS SET UP YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN YOUR BALANCE THROUGH IMPACT
BY SCOTT WATKINS, PGA
”
Forward foot down the slope with more closed stance
Co-Director of Instruction, ASU Karsten Golf Course
One of the most difficult aspects of hitting a side hill lie is keeping your balance through impact. This is especially true when the hill you are dealing with is very severe. Most people start losing their balance prior to impact on these shots, thus causing a terrible mishit. The remedy for this is what I call "Forward Foot Down The Slope." The procedure you go through for this is to get your body and club aligned as if you are hitting a straight shot. Then you move your forward foot down the slope and move your back foot up the slope. This makes the stance closed for when the ball is below your feet and open for when the ball is above your feet. The more severe the slope the more closed or open the stance should be. Personally, I alter my knee flex to get my hips square to my original alignment. When you swing with this set up you should be able to maintain your balance through impact and hit the ball more solid and with more consistency. On side hill lies the ball tends to jump or curve off the line due to the angle that the club plays through the impact. If the ball is above your feet it plays too upright. The ball tends to pull and hook because your feet are too flat. If the ball is below your feet it tends to punch or slice.
Down foot the slope with more open stance
For the ball above your feet you can take more club and open the leading edge to get the face of the cub pointing where you are aiming. This should take the pull and hook tendencies away. You use more club because opening the leading edge adds loft, and the ball will go a shorter distance. The opposite procedure is done with the ball below your feet because it takes less club, and closes the leading edge, again getting the face to point towards the target. About The
AUTHOR
SCOTT WATKINS, PGA ASU Karsten G.C. - Co-Director of Instruction
602.330.4217
www.scottwatkinsgolf.com
Rated by Golf Digest as one of Arizona's Top Ranked Golf Instructors, Scott has been honored as SWSPGA Teacher of the year and Player of the year. As a former two time NCAA All American and former PGA Tour Member, he brings a different perspective on how to play the game. His simple, easy to understand, teaching style has been developed after years of tutelage from his father Arch and his good friend Mac O'Grady. Scott's teaching style reaches beginners, Juniors, high and low handicap golfers & playing professionals. Using state of the art video equipment, he offers programs ranging from individual private lessons, corporate outings, to junior & ladies clinics.
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
7
ON YOUR GAME
Playing the HighLow Game BY RYAN ECKROAT, PGA General Manager, Poston Bute G.C.
When playing a shot from around the green, you have pretty much two choices. You can either loft the ball up in the air and fly it most of the way to the target, or you can play a lower shot that doesn’t quite fly as far and rolls most of the way to the target. To hit the higher lofted shot, we need exactly that, loft. You can add loft in two ways: selecting a higher lofted club, or opening up the face of the club. Opening up the face of a wedge can add loft to a shot, but it can also send the ball off line. A right-handed player must adjust their aim to the left of their target proportionately to the amount the face has been opened. You’ll then be able to make your normal swing along your body line (not your target line) and hit a shot that flies higher and lands softly with little roll. When playing this shot, you should only take your grip AFTER you have opened up the face and adjusted your body line accordingly. Lastly, the ball position for these shots should be slightly forward in your stance. Stance width should be varied based on the length of the swing required. The longer the swing, the wider the stance should be, without exceeding hip-width. As mentioned above, the other way to add loft to a shot is to use a club that has more loft. This simpler method requires less practice to become proficient. As such, any time you feel that you need to add loft to a shot, I strongly encourage you to start by using a more lofted club. Use the
You can either loft the ball up in the air and fly it most of the way to the target, or you can play a lower shot that doesn’t quite fly as far and rolls most of the way to the target.
open-faced lob shots only when playing from greenside bunkers or other short-sided shots. The low running shots are easily produced by using less lofted clubs. I recommend practicing these shots with your wedges, all the way up to your 6-iron. Ball position should be in the middle of your stance or slightly behind. These shots will require much shorter swings therefore; your stance should be fairly narrow with your heels having no more than a fists-width of separation. Since the ball will be rolling along the ground more than with the higher lofted shots, you’ll want to treat them more like a putt and be mindful of the contours between you and your target. Because they are played more like a putt, it will be easier to control your distance and direction with the low running shot, versus the higher lofted shot. To help you decide which shot to play, keep this in mind: Your most consistent results will come from getting the ball on the ground as soon as you can. So pick the shot that requires the least amount of loft, and shortest swing.
About The
AUTHOR
RYAN ECKROAT, PGA
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.
8 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
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Hot Stix Golf - 15444 N. 76th Street - Suite 110 - Scottsdale, AZ 85260 www.hotstixgolf.com - 877-513-1333
ON YOUR GAME
Demystifying the Club Fitting Experience BY MICHAEL HELFRICH General Manager, Hot Stix Golf While many players are under the impression that club fitting is only for Tour pros, it’s actually just as suited, if not more so, to higher handicappers. Because regardless of whether someone’s playing for money or looking to break 100, the fitting experience determines the ideal selection of equipment for their unique “Swing DNA.” When visiting a certified club fitter, expect to answer a number of questions, such as: • What are the best and worst parts of your game? • Are you taking lessons? • What changes are you looking to make? • What is your most common “miss”? • What are your favorite / least favorite clubs? The next step will involve some measurements on your current clubs, including length, loft, lie, shaft frequency and swing weight. This is done so that when the fitting is complete you can compare what you have to what you need.
It also helps the fitter understand what you’ve been playing, and how that may affect your swing. A club fitter will use a launch monitor to analyze how the golf club is impacting ball flight. Specifically, they’ll interpret a slew of data points that include club head speed, ball speed, spin rates and angle of attack. Among the most important measurements is the golf ball’s angle of descent. It’s determined by measuring launch angle (angle of ascent of the golf ball immediately after impact) and spin rates (speed at which the ball spins, measured in revolutions per minute). The perfect combination of launch angle and spin will lead to an ideal angle of descent and greater total distance. In order to help visualize this, imagine you’re using a hose to shoot water as far as possible. Aim too high and you’ll lose distance because the water will fall steeply. Adjust too low and it will fall short because of a shallow arc. An optimum angle of descent for the driver will be in the neighborhood of 35-40 degrees for players with a driver swing speed between 85 and 110 mph. This
signifies that he or she is maximizing carry distance and roll potential. The optimum angle will be less for players with slower swing speeds and higher for those with greater speeds. Another important piece of swing data is smash factor or PTI (power transfer index), which is the ratio between ball speed and club head speed. With a driver, players are trying to reach a maximum smash factor of 1.5. Translated, this means that if a player’s swing speed is 100 mph, ball speed will be 150 mph. Golfers not approaching the 1.5 ratio aren’t making proper contact. The reason for this could be equipment related. Club fitters should have on hand a large selection of equipment from a range of manufacturers. Thus, when completing a fitting, players should expect to experiment with various club head, shaft and grip combinations until an ideal match is found. The data doesn’t lie, so this isn’t a guessing game. In the end, if you’re purchasing equipment, do yourself a favor and go through the club fitting process. It's fun, easy, will help you play better and, very likely, save you money in the long run.
About The
AUTHOR
MICHAEL HELFRICH
Hot Stix Golf - General Manager
480.513.1333
www.HotStixGolf.com
Mike Helfrich is the General Manager of Hot Stix Golf based in Scottsdale, AZ. With eight locations across the United States Hot Stix is widely excepted as the #1 Club Fitter in Golf. During Mike’s tenure at Hot Stix they have become the exclusive research partner for Golf Magazine and oversee the magazine’s annual “Club Test”. Mike’s career in the golf industry spans more than twenty years and started in his home state of Oregon, but having resided in Cave Creek for the last fifteen years now considers Arizona his home.
10 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
Game Improvement Techniques – Fitness & Nutrition Top the List
ON YOUR GAME
BY MICHAEL HAYWOOD, PGA
these can be critical to short and long term success.
Founder, The Player’s Institute
Today every player has the opportunity to take their game to a different level by understanding what elements of improvement are important. Far too many times I see players go from the locker room to the first tee without any real plan for success. However, this plan must begin before the player even heads to the golf course. The need for balance in every area of your game is vital and today it begins with fitness and nutrition. Programs like the Titleist Performance Institute Fitness Program and TRX Suspension Training Programs can make all the difference in a player’s performance. For my students, the development of a fitness program begins with a clear understanding of what they can and cannot do. It makes no sense to develop a program that relies on them executing their TO workout routine 5 PERFORM days a week if they have never done AT YOUR anything for more BEST than 3, so being realistic is critical. It is important to perform a physical assessment that gives me the necessary understanding of what the student’s physical limitations are, and how we can address them through a workout program. I’m a strong believer that in order to create excitement and commitment, you must have multiple programs in your arsenal, and a realistic time schedule to conduct a workout. It is why I always combine strength training with
Nutrition plays just as an important of a role as fitness in your game as in your life. While just as individualized as fitness, a nutritional game plan can pave the way toward overall game improvement. Unless I’m working with an elite player I know firsthand, just like fitness, we need to be realistic. So, it is important to know that for true improvement you must have some sacrifice, a balance, and a combination of foods that promote elite performance. For golfers the primary focus of this will be carbohydrates since they are the primary fuel for any level of player. Eating more frequent and smaller meals every couple of hours will For peak performance the combination of 20-30% of increase metabolism and daily calories from proteins, 20-25% of daily calories keep your energy levels from fats and 50-60% of daily calories from consistent. For peak carbohydrates is an excellent rule of thumb. performance the combination of 20-30% of daily calories flexibility training, and use tools that from proteins, 20-25% of daily calories from encourage the student to continue their fats and 50-60% of daily calories from workouts even while on the road traveling. carbohydrates is an excellent rule of thumb. But above all, regardless of the program designed for you, always set realistic goals for With the combination of a quality workout improvement, and chart your progress. See program, disciplined nutrition, and a what effect your program has on your consistent game plan for improvement each improvement, whether it is an increase in player can take the necessary steps toward distance, increase in flexibility, an performing at a high level on and off the improvement in endurance or just an overall golf course. healthier outlook on the golf course. Each of
About The
AUTHOR
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 and Founder of The Player’s Institute, a full service player development and coaching organization.
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
11
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Simple fundamentals
ON YOUR GAME
to improve your green side bunker play BY MARK OSWALD, PGA
General Manager, Oro Valley Country Club
Grip: Use your regular full swing grip. Light grip pressure, you will be using a lot of wrist break with this shot and too firm of a grip will inhibit your ability to break the wrist. Choke down on the club for better feel and distance control. Stance: Open your stance; for the right handed golfer this is done by aligning your feet left of the target line. Take a wide stance with your feet wider than your shoulders, this will help stabilize yourself during the swing. Work your feet into the sand, this will help you to prevent slipping on top of the sand during the swing. Do not touch the sand with your club, you are in a hazard and there is a two stroke penalty under rule 13.4 for touch the sand or testing the surface.
Longer bunker shot with ball closer to left heel.
Ball Position: The ball should be placed well forward in your stance. This is a mistake I see so many golfers Shorter bunker shot make. They place the ball too far with ball positioned in front of left heel. back in their stance and do not hit sand before contacting the ball. Your contact point with the sand will be up Club Selection: This shot should be off of your front heel thus the ball must be done with the Sand Wedge or Lob Wedge. placed forward of your heel. For a shorter The more loft you have on the club the shot, hit more sand before the ball by easier it will be to get the ball up into the air placing the ball more forward of your heel, and out of that bunker. I recommend about 2 – 3 inches. For a longer shot, play trying the lob wedge, the additional loft the ball closer to the heel which will result with make this shot much easier. in hitting less sand before the ball and the Open the club face up for more loft if ball traveling further from the impact. Use needed but remember to adjust your aim by the amount of sand taken before impact to opening your stance until the clubface is control distance, sand equals resistance. again pointing at your target. The more sand taken prior to impact the more resistance thus slowing the club head Stroke: Our first priority is to loft the ball speed and shortening distance.
into the air and out of the bunker. This requires a steep, wristy swing. You will break your wrists as you take the club back on the backswing. This will also allow you to pick the club up quicker and create a steeper backswing and downswing angle. This swing resembles more of a “V”, up and down quickly unlike the normal swing looks more like a circle. Hit behind the ball, forcing the sand and the ball up and out of the bunker. The more sand that you hit prior to contacting the ball, the shorter the ball will travel. Keep accelerating, follow through! This is where so many golfers fall short of getting out. Take a full swing, hit the sand and follow through to a full finish. Thin of this shot as a “sand explosion”. Practice Drill: Find a practice bunker and hit a lot of bunker shots. You can only learn how to hit this shot by using the correct fundamentals and putting in a lot of practice. Hit shots to a close pin and pin further away to work on how much sand to hit. Put a line extending out from your front heel and work on hitting the line. When you become consistent at hitting the line you will be able to control the distance of the shot by placing the ball more forward of this line for the close pin or placing the ball closer to the line for the further away pin. Summary: The bunker shot is a totally different shot that your normal full golfswing. It requires a different address and swing. Practice this shot using these simple keys and you will improve.
About The
AUTHOR
MARK OSWALD, PGA
Oro Valley Country Club - General Manager
520.297.7384
moswald@orovalleycountryclub.com www.OroValleyCountryClub.com
Mark Oswald has been a PGA Member for more than 24 years (since 1987) - He has worked with all levels of golfers, from first time beginners to touring professionals, over 25 years of offering Professional Golf Instruction. Mark has managed several clubs in Arizona including the Hilton El Conquistador, The Golf Club at Vistoso, Prescott Country Club and Great Eagle Golf Club and is currently the General Manager at Oro Valley Country Club.
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
13
Course Review
savor the culture
and revel in the Gary Panks greens
BY JACK TALMAGE Sometimes we just need to get away for a weekend and go play some golf. Fortunately Arizona abounds with all sorts of wonderful and unique resorts. So many choices that when my friend called and cried out “Road Trip”, I had to find someplace special that would satisfy all our demands. The resort needed to be close enough to drive there and still allow for an afternoon round, should offer a fine dining experience, perhaps a little nightlife, a spa for sore muscles, and as an added benefit have 36 holes for some variety. A quick look on-line for what might fit these requirements produced a short list that included The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa on the Gila River Indian Community, just south of Phoenix. After visiting the resorts well crafted web site, we were sold and made reservations for the following weekend. Following the short drive from Tucson, west on I-10 to exit 162 (Wild Horse Pass Blvd), the sense of arrival from that point told us this was going to be some place special. We drove the winding 2-mile drive through the desert, past the championship Whirlwind Golf Club, the Aji Spa, the casino, and along the
“The Devil’s Claw course features dramatic mounding and elevation changes, while the Cattail course offers deep canyons and lots of clear blue water”. replica of the mighty Gila River that was once the lifeblood of these lands. Entering the resorts lobby you start to get a sense of the culture that presides over the property. You immediately notice the large domed and artistic ceiling that is made up of ten panels that represent various facets of Tribal life along with the traditional artwork that seems to be everywhere. Important to note is that the area is home to both the Pima and Maricopa Tribes. Each Tribe celebrates its own heritage in their arts and crafts, with the Pima specializing in basket weaving while the Maricopa have honed their craftsmanship in pottery. The Whirlwind Golf Club at the resort is managed by Troon Golf, a recognized leader in operating golf courses around the globe. There are two masterpiece courses designed by Gary Panks that will impress and challenge all levels of golfers. The Devil’s Claw course features dramatic mounding and elevation changes, while the Cattail course offers deep canyons and lots of clear blue water. The same culture and sensitivity to the land that is visible at the hotel carries over to the golf experience as well. Each hole is named after a significant legend or landmark of the Pima or Maricopa Tribes. Only plants that are indigenous to the Gila River and the surrounding desert are used on both golf courses. Fairways are generally forgiving off the tee. Trouble starts with some of the carries over washes and well placed bunkering. The greens are truly a joy to putt, fast and smooth and the contours allow for some really interesting pin placements, tucked in-between greenside traps or sitting on top of small crests in the greens…don’t over read your putts.
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ON THE COURSE
Whirlwind Golf Club offers two masterpiece courses that will impress and challenge all levels of golfers.
Evening view from balcony highlights the natural desert surroundings of the property.
SHERATON WILD HORSE PASS RESORT & SPA 5594 West Wild Horse Pass Blvd. Chandler, AZ 85226 Phone: (602) 225.0100 Toll-Free: (800) 325.3535 www.wildhorsepassresort.com
The Aji Spa (meaning “sanctuary” in the Pima language) is the only authentic Native American spa in existence.
As with any destination resort, Wild Horse Pass offers several dining options, and they should all be experienced. The main dining room, Kai, which means “seed” in the Pima language, is truly a five star dining experience. Starting with the menu itself, each is adorned with a unique watercolor painting created by a local artist. What is offered inside the menu gets even better. The chef worked with many of the elders of the Tribe to talk about what they ate and how it was prepared, very authentic dishes with specialized and local ingredients. There is a lot to say about dinner and not enough room on this paper…I can only tell you, don’t miss the grilled tenderloin of Buffalo….and make sure you listen to their expert wine pairings. You can’t go wrong in the attention of the service staff at Kai. After dinner, there are several choices for entertainment. Those of us who like to gamble a little can visit the nearby casino (and you can even get there via river taxi, how cool is that). Or you may choose to stop on the way and wander the streets of the old western town of Rawhide, complete with shops, saloons, western characters reenacting gunfights, and a rodeo every night. What visit to a resort would be complete without spending some time at the Spa? Aji (meaning “sanctuary” in the Pima language) is the only authentic Native American spa in existence. The Pima and Maricopa cultures, like with the rest of the resort are reflected throughout the facility in the artwork, furnishings, and style. There are a wide variety of treatments available using indigenous materials and activities designed by the cultural caretakers of the Tribes. What a great place to relax and rejuvenate yourself, to prepare for yet another day at this marvelous resort.
Jack Talmage is the General Manager and Director of Golf at Rio Rico Country Club. He comes to the golf business from an extensive career in golf resort marketing and sales. His passion is sharing the enjoyment of Southern Arizona Golf and he can be reached at (520)281-8567.
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ExPANDED REVIEW
Three perspectives. One course.
Tees YELLOW BLACK WHITE RED GREEN
Par
Yards
72 72 72 72 72
7282 6820 6321 5803 5303
Rating
Slope
74.8 72.3 69.6 72.9 69.4
127 125 123 125 119
POSTON BUTTE - FLORENCE, AZ Fast and Challenging Greens, Excellent Service
. . . about the Course
“THE GREENS, RECENTLY RESURFACED WITH PREMIUM ULTRA-DWARF MINI VERDE GRASS, ROLL FAST AND TRUE WITH THE PERFECT COMPOSITION OF GUARDING BUNKERS AND RELIEF AREAS. ”
BY ADAM COPELAND, PGA Assistant Golf Professional Poston Butte Golf Club We’ve all seen our favorite golfers attempting to find the #17 island green during The Players Championship. Now you can experience that same feeling for yourself at the signature hole of Poston Butte Golf Club in Florence. An oasis in the Southeast Valley of Phoenix, this Gary Panks designed championship par72 course features wide, lush fairways surrounded by vibrantly contrasting landscaped desert. The greens, recently resurfaced with premium ultra-dwarf Mini Verde grass, roll fast and true with the perfect composition of guarding bunkers
and relief areas. Playing up to 7,282 yards with five different tees to choose from, the course challenges players of all levels. Poston Butte encompasses everything you expect from Troon Golf. A friendly staff, extraordinary playing surfaces, and an extensive retail shop highlighted with a wide selection of current fashions. Before your round you can experience the elaborate practice facility including dual full swing hitting areas, an intricate short game complex, and a 7,000 square foot putting green. If you’re looking for a memorable golfing experience at an unbeatable value, than Poston Butte Golf Club is the place.
16 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
POSTON BUTTE GOLF COURSE 6100 W. Merill Ranch Parkway Florence, Arizona 85232 Phone: (520) 723.1880 http://www.postonbuttegc.com
. . . representing the gals READER REVIEW: by Lynn Pittenger We arrived at Poston Butte Golf Club about 40 minutes before our tee time. We were promptly greeted by a friendly outside service attendant who informed us that there was going to be a frost delay (not a huge surprise as it was a very cold morning in Florence, AZ). We were checked in by a friendly staff and headed out to the range to get warmed up. The practice facility was large and very nice. All of the golf balls were in great condition and the practice tee had good quality grass to warm up on. I was pleasantly surprised to find the practice putting green was in equally great condition, and rolling quite fast. The chipping green was quite large with several target holes to choose from and it had a nice blend of short grass and longer fringe as well as a nice big bunker to practice from.
. . . representing the guys READER REVIEW: by Steve Grosz The first thing you need to know about Poston Butte Golf Club is the location— Florence, AZ. It is quite a trip to get there, but once there is definitely worth the time. We arrived for our 9:26 tee time on a cold morning. We were greeted quickly by a staff member at the Bag Drop. He handed us a tee sheet, and informed us immediately that there was a frost delay of
Before we went out onto the golf course I visited the bathrooms at the clubhouse. I was pleased but at this point not at all surprised to find them nice and very clean. The golf course was very green and in great shape. There are tees ranging from 5,297 from the front tees
“We saw the beverage cart at least three times during the four hours it took us to play and was well stocked with a variety of snacks and drinks.” (where I played from) to 7,282 yards all the way back. I typically hit the ball pretty straight off the tee and I found Poston Butte to be very generous, however it became much more challenging on the approach shots and around the green when I missed them. The greens on the course had a lot of slope but they rolled very true which overall made putting very fun. The service on the course was great as well. We saw the beverage cart at least three times during the four hours it took us to play and was well stocked with a variety of snacks and drinks. All-in-all I really enjoyed Poston Butte. The golf course was in great shape, the staff was friendly and helpful, and the pace of play was right on target. But if I had to narrow my day down to my two favorite things it would be 1) the beautiful island green par-3 17th hole. and 2) the fact that I birdied 17 and 18 to beat the guys!
approximately 45 minutes. Our bags were loaded on carts, and we were escorted to the practice facility. Almost immediately, the starter found us, and asked if we would want to move up if there was a chance to do so. The outside service staff was great and kept us very well informed about our tee time. The practice facility was excellent, with fresh range balls. The chipping green had space to hit a lot of different shots, and a very good practice bunker. The practice putting green is over 7,000 square feet, so we weren’t bumping into others while getting a feel for the greens. It is very nice that both the chipping and putting greens were the same consistency and speed as the greens on the golf course. The golf course is very fun to play, with tees ranging from 5,297 to 7,282 yards. On the whole, the golf course is player friendly, but challenging at the same time. The Gary Panks course design has wide fairways that don’t punish you off the tee, but in order to get to some of the hole locations you must get to the correct side of the fairway. The fairways are lined by landscaped desert, which allows you at least a shot back to the fairway. For the
ON THE COURSE “THERE ARE A GOOD VARIETY OF PAR 3’S, EACH REQUIRING A DIFFERENT CLUB AND STRATEGY. THEY RANGE IN DISTANCE FROM 166 TO 235 YARDS (FROM THE BACK TEES).” most part, houses don’t interfere with play. The green complexes are very challenging. Each green has multiple potential hole locations, and getting close to the hole is usually difficult if you are out of position in the fairway. The greens were in excellent condition, and very fast. There are a good variety of par 3’s, each requiring a different club and strategy. They range in distance from 166 to 235 yards (from the back tees). The signature hole is the par 3 17th, an island green that plays anywhere from 75 to 169 yards. Yardages are marked on the sprinkler heads to the center of the green (it would be nice to have distances to the front and back of the greens as well). There were a couple of holes that were a little difficult to understand from the tee, so I would recommend a course guide or yardage book to make things easier. The beverage cart was efficient and well stocked, we saw her three times during the round. After the round, we had lunch at the snack bar. It is not extravagant, but has a good selection of fast sandwiches and drinks. All of the seating is outdoors, and there was no heater, so cold days will be a bit chilly. The course is walkable, and the pace of play was good. We finished in just over 4 hours; probably due to the landscaped desert making it easy to find shots that didn’t find the fairway. All in all, we really enjoyed the great service and fun on a well conditioned golf course. It is a North Scottsdale quality golf experience for a lot less money.
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COMMUNITY
tee to green Local News and Reports
Waste Management Open Highlights for Tournament
Share Your Local Golf News Send Your ‘Tee to Green’ Information to: Rick Price, PGA - Operations Coordinator Southwest Section PGA, Southern Chapter Rick@GoGolfArizona.com (520) 290-1742
The 2012 Waste Management Phoenix Open, known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” will be held at the TPC Scottsdale from January 30th to February 5th, 2012. The Waste Management Phoenix Open is the best-attended golf tournament in the world and has gained legendary status for being the most unique stop on the PGA TOUR. Fan highlights in this year’s event include a new location for the popular Greenskeeper Tent. It is moving adjacent to the lake along the 18th fairway and 17th green, the Greenskeeper Tent will be the place to be and be seen. This exciting new and larger location is a great place to relax, discuss business or share a few laughs with clients, business associates and friends. For the first time in tournament history, cell phones and other PDA’s will be allowed into the tournament. There are, however, a few restrictions; devices must be set on silent mode at ALL times while on tournament grounds and devices may be used for calls only in designated areas, which will be marked by signage. Designated cell phone zones (Verizon Zones) on tournament grounds include some, but not all, concession stands as well as skyboxes and hospitality tents. Plus, devices cannot be used as a camera or video recorder once play begins on Thursday (2/2/2012). Devices must not be in sight near the rope-line in teeing areas, on the fairway or near the green. If Patrons are not near the rope-line and well away from competitors, texting and emailing is permitted. The Waste Management Phoenix Open has developed a FREE iPhone App. It may be downloaded for free at the iTunes online store. The App features tournament information, live scoring, tee times, news and the ability to send updates in the form of text messages. The 2012 tournament will mark the 77th playing of the event (one of the five oldest events on the PGA TOUR) and the third as the Waste Management Phoenix Open. For more information on the Thunderbirds or the 2012 Waste Management Phoenix Open, call the Thunderbirds office at (602) 870-0163 or visit www.wmphoenixopen.com. BACKGROUND: Waste Management Open, 2011
18 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
SWSPGA Member Amy Bush, PGA Earns National Coaching Award UNLV second-year head coach and Southwest Section PGA professional Amy Bush became just the ninth coach in Division I to earn the prestigious Founders Award, presented annually at the National Golf Coaches Association’s yearly convention. Candidates must be a head or assistant coach at the Division I, II or III level and current members of the NGCA. The award honors a coach who has
made key contributions to the NGCA, their respective conference, the NCAA, USGA, PGA, LPGA and other allied golf associations. Her involvement in the community on a personal and professional level has helped numerous organizations including Three Square, the Special Olympics and the Saving Strokes Clinic for the PGA. Bush also serves as a member of the faculty in UNLV’s highly recognized Professional Golf Management Program.
FOR THE FIRST TIME IN TOURNAMENT HISTORY, CELL PHONES AND OTHER PDA’S WILL BE ALLOWED INTO THE WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN
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COMMUNITY
Move on Up and TEE IT FORWARD!
Champions Tour Returns to Arizona The Charles Schwab Cup Championship will be held for the first time at The Desert Mountain Club in Scottsdale on October 29November 4, 2012.
hosting the 2012 championship at The Desert Mountain Club,” said Tom Clark, executive director of the Charles Schwab Cup Championship.
Featuring the top-30 money leaders of the season, the Charles Schwab Cup Championship is the culminating event in the Champions Tour’s “Road to the Charles Schwab Cup,” a year-long competition that awards points to top-10 finishers and ties in official money events. Both the winner of the tournament, as well as the year-long Charles Schwab Cup winner, were crowned at The Desert Mountain Club’s Jack Nicklaus-designed Cochise course on November 4, 2012.
Ticket Information Buy One Get One Available now through Jan. 15, this exclusive offer will allow fans the opportunity to purchase (2) week-long grounds tickets for just $50 (+tax and fees), a savings of 50% off the retail price. Tickets can be purchased and printed immediately by visiting schwabcup.com, making it a perfect last-minute gift for the sports enthusiasts on your list.
“We’re excited to bring Champions Tour golf back to Arizona and look forward to
Children 18 and under will receive free general admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult. To purchase tickets, please visit schwabcup.com or call 1888-401-8000.
If you want to have more fun on the golf course and maybe play a little faster, TEE IT FORWARD may be just the solution for you. TEE IT FORWARD can help you play from tees best suited to your game. This national initiative from The PGA of America and United States Golf Association is really simple: • Play forward tees. • Play faster. • Have more fun. TEE IT FORWARD is great for beginning and avid golfers alike. TEE IT FORWARD can give the avid golfer a Tour Experience, allowing them to hit the same club into greens as a PGA TOUR and LPGA Tour player. For more information, visit PlayGolfAmerica.com, or visit these participating facilities:
Eagles Nest at Pebble Creek Golf Course Estancia Golf Club Estrella Mountain Ranch Golf Club Grandview Golf Club Granite Falls Golf Club Hillcrest Golf Club Kierland Country Club Las Sendas Golf Course Pinnacle Peak Country Club Rancho Manana Golf Club Randy Duran Golf Rec Centers of Sun City, Inc Sun City Grand Community Association Sundance Golf Course SunRidge Canyon Golf Club Superstition Springs Golf Club Talking Stick Golf Club TPC of Scottsdale Golf Club Trilogy Golf Club @ Vistancia Tuscany Falls At Pebble Creek Union Hills Country Club
tee to green Submit local news to: Info@GoGolfArizona.com
SWSPGA Match Play Held at a Rainy Ocotillo
Dale Abraham uses discount instruction in “Holiday Toy Drive” at Desert Mountain
The weather was as rough as what the SS Minnow encountered on Gilligan's Island, but it didn't keep the SWSPGA Match Play and Senior Match play from being contested at Ocotillo Golf Club in December. Despite some rainy and chilly weather, Mike Hopper earned the SWSPGA Match Play title for the first time and Jon Stanley earned the Senior Match Play title for the second year in a row. Hopper dueled and barely got by Dave Engram (1 up) in his opening match and used some steady play in the afternoon rain to get by Chad Berdiner in the second round. This win earned a round three match with SWSPGA Section PNC Champion Craig Hocknull. Mike used some of his experience of playing in the tough weather conditions of Nebraska to get by Craig (who has just competed in the final stage of PGA Tour Q School) and earn a berth in the Championship against Jason Witczak. Jason had earned his way to this match with victories over Shane Dorn, Justin Surat and Bob McMahan. Hopper did more than hold his own against the long hitting Witczak and his steady play allowed him to earn the 2011 Match Play Title by a score of 3&2. On the senior side Jon Stanley proved to be too much for the field. Following an opening round bye, John got past Terry Evans 4 and 3 to meet Bob Jennings in the final. Bob also had an opening round bye and then edged Greg Ellis in round two. Bob played well in the final, but Jon Stanely still won comfortably by a 4&3 margin. BACKGROUND: Ocotillo Golf Club on a stunning Arizona day!
For the second year Dale Abraham, the teaching staff and the Head Professionals at Desert Mountain were providing half-priced lessons to all members that were willing to pay cash for their lessons. All monies raised were used to buy toys for less fortunate children in need of holiday cheer. Charities have included the Boy's and Girl's Clubs, Spark of Love, Toys for Tots and other local charities. Thanks to the entire group of instructors and members that supported this great cause.
Award Winner Kristie Fowler The Central Section LPGA Teaching & Club Professional (T&CP) Division announced Kristie Fowler Assistant Golf Professional at The Gallery Golf Club as Professional of the Year. The annual award is selected by the members of the T&CP. The Central Section consists of 12 states including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, North & South Dakota, Wyoming, Utah and Montana. The LPGA T&CP was founded in 1959 and is the largest membership of women golf professionals in the world. LPGA T&CP members are certified as golf instructors, coaches & business managers through a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the changing needs of the golfing public. Fowler became a class A member with the LPGA after completing the Teaching program in 1995. Over the past 6 months she has attended level II and III of the Managerial program. Once she completes the final testing this month she will not only be certified in the Managerial Leadership program, but will also obtain Master Professional status with the LPGA. She will be an elite group of less than 20 women to hold this prestigious title.
Arizona Golf Hall of Fame Inductees Announced The Arizona Golf Hall of Fame announces three new inductees into the 2011 Hall of Fame. Jim Frazier, a former leader of the Phoenix Thunderbirds, Barbara Burton for her devotion for more than 30 years of volunteer work to junior golf programs in Arizona, and Ron McPherson (PHOTO), the President and CEO of the Antigua Group Inc. Ron McPherson, a close friend and supporter of the Southwest Section PGA and junior golf. His company is involved in sponsoring practically every golf organization in the state. Antigua has sponsored the Antigua Junior Tour for over 20 years and recently sponsored the National High School Championships in Scottsdale. McPherson’s leadership role has taken this Arizona based company's humble beginnings from the 1970’s and has grown into one of the nation’s leading brands in golf lifestyle apparel and accessories. The company understands the importance of supporting the local community and has made it a goal to be a part of the community, especially in supporting junior golf. He has also been honored with the Ernie Sabayrac Award for lifetime contributions to golf by the PGA of America and the Spirit of Philanthropy Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Don Yrene joins staff at Reid West Golf Academies Don Yrene, PGA has recently joined the staff at the Reid West Golf Academies. The academy has been providing instruction in the Sun City West communities for last six years. Don is excited about this opportunity to provide golf instruction as well as working with the new Aim-Point putting system. Don stated that "While this system is not well know today, it will be a common practice among all golfers who wish to lower their scores.” Don has a deep resume in golf course operations, instruction and playing—including six Southwest Section PGA Player of the Year honors and has competed in 17 PGA/Nationwide Tour Events. Don has been very impressed with the level of instruction being provided at the academy and feels the quality of instruction “Is as good as anything you can find in the state”. For more information please visit the Reid West Golf Academies website at www.reidwestgolfacademies.com, or call 623.544.6022
Tee Times Magazines and Hot Stix Golf Team Up On Hole-In-One Program NOW A STATEWIDE PROGRAM Have you ever ‘Holed-Out’ and wished you had something more than a flimsy scorecard in which to remember that once-in-a-lifetime (or two) event? Well, now you can! Tee Times Magazines (Phoenix Valley and Southern Arizona) and Hot Stix Golf have made it easy to prove to all of your friends that you actually did get that rare Hole-In-One. Here’s how it works; Tee Times Magazines, courtesy of Hot Stix Golf will provide an individual who makes a Hole-in-One on any course in Arizona with a FREE customized bag tag and Hole In One certificate to commemorate the achievement. We will also recognize the player in the following issue of the regional magazine, and in our weekly posts to www.GoGolfArizona.com. To submit for the Hole-In-One Program, you must ask the golf shop or course professional to complete the Hole-In-One Submission Form. Individual recipients cannot submit their own Hole-In-One for recognition, so you must ask the pro shop to certify your Hole-InOne before you leave the course. If you are a course professional submitting for the first time, simply visit www.GoGolfArizona.com and select ‘Submit A Hole In One’ from the main menu. To qualify for the program the following is required for each Hole-In-One registration: 1.) Full name of player. 2.) Names of at least two witnesses 3.) Course, Hole, Yardage, Par and Club used.
What You Will Proudly Display Bag Tag: Customized on heavy gauge white plastic with glossy coating and includes strap. Customized with recipients name and Hole-in-One information it is approximately 3 in. wide by 5 in. tall. Certificate: hand signed by the Southwest Section PGA, Tee Times Magazines and certified by the golf professional that verified your submission. Certificate is delivered in full color 8.5 x 11 and can be trimmed to fit an 8 X 10 frame.
It’s just that easy. Hole It. Submit It. Show it Off.
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ON THE COVER
I DID EVERYTHING INCLUDING SENDING ROSES TO PALMERS WIFE, BUT HE COULDN’T MAKE A COMMITMENT
(L-R) Phil Mickelson; Honorary Thunderbird, Ben Hogan; Honorary Thunderbird, Arnold Palmer; Johnny Miller and The Father of the Phoenix Open, Bob Goldwater
Artist Rendering: Courtesy of the Thunderbirds, Artist B.P. Benger
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THE THUNDERBIRDS 77 YEARS OF MEMORIES
BY ROB MYERS
Has it really been this long? Something this good, this positive, this fresh can’t last this long can it? But the Phoenix Open has survived. No, the Phoenix Open has thrived here in the desert since 1932. In fact, throughout the last 60 years golf tournaments have come and gone on the PGA TOUR. One of the constants, however, has always been the Phoenix TOUR stop. There is a good reason for the tremendous success of the biggest golf tournament in the world. One group has consistently been able to deliver one big tournament, one big party after another.
I
t is the Thunderbirds who have perfected the art of making golf the 'can’t miss action' in the Valley of the Sun. They have a way of attracting a crowd. And the Thunderbirds have done it again, in this, their 77th year.
requested foursome included Del Webb, Bob Goldwater and Bob Hope. Now, getting Webb and Goldwater was no problem. Both were well-known local golfers and businessmen. Heck Goldwater started the Phoenix Open.
Having run this tournament for so long, there have been a lot of special moments, some of which few have ever known. Like the time Arnold Palmer wasn’t coming to play golf in Phoenix. Thunderbird Jerry Lewkowitz was tournament director in 1971 and was willing to do just about anything to get the most famous golfer in the world to play at Arizona Country Club. Lewkowitz had traveled to other stops on the West Coast; San Diego to Palm Springs, and to Pebble Beach trying to convince Palmer and others Phoenix needed them and they needed Phoenix.
But getting Hope to the desert wouldn’t be as easy. In his position as tournament director, Lewkowitz knew a lot of people. But not enough to track down Bob Hope, whose whereabouts at the time were unknown. “I tried to get a hold of him and track him down, but couldn’t,” Lewkowitz said. Not to worry. A call back to Palmer resulted in the “King” finding Hope and getting him to Phoenix. Just another day at the office for Lewkowitz in 1971. “My guess was that attendance increased by 25,000 fans,” Lewkowitz said. “People wanted to see Palmer. He made people conscientious of golf.”
“I did everything including sending roses to Palmer’s wife,” Lewkowitz said. “But he couldn’t make a commitment.” Apparently, Lewkowitz did enough because Palmer ended up committing the week before the tournament when Palmer decided he wanted to continue his outstanding play. But Palmer’s late commitment created another problem for Lewkowitz. Palmer wanted to play in the Wednesday Pro-Am and his
Kind of the way the Thunderbirds have made people stop and take a hard look at what golf has meant to the Valley of the Sun for the last 77 years. The Phoenix area wasn’t always a golf destination. Much of the credit for creating one of the most sought-after golfing Mecca’s goes to the Thunderbirds. To understand the Thunderbirds you must know where they came from. The group of 55 active www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
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ON THE COVER members was formed in 1937 by the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce as it tried to create more tourism in the area. In creating a name for this new group there was no formal ceremony or no secret initiation. The Chamber of Commerce official emblem was and still is a Thunderbird, and that too, became the name of the new committee. Of course one of those first members of the committee was Goldwater and it was his idea to form a professional golf tournament. It was an idea that was met with little Posting scores on the Press Room Scoreboard. enthusiasm and if not for Goldwater’s tireless effort, it might have been a one and done tournament. televised in 1973. The Thunderbirds Goldwater later became known as the ability to get the tournament on national “Father of the Phoenix Open.” The folks television resulted in immediate tourism in the Midwest, stuck in the middle of a results. cold and dreary winter, According to Lewkowitz, it is customary saw first-hand what for the newest active Thunderbirds to the desert looks manage the parking at like in the winter each year’s event. when the Phoenix In 1973, Open was first
a Thunderbird was manning the parking lot when a car pulled up and asked if this was the location of the golf tournament. He responded it is and then inquired where the carload of fans were coming from. The group had seen the tournament the day before on television from their home in Illinois and couldn’t resist the sunshine. They got in the car and drove straight through to Arizona. The Phoenix Chamber of Commerce idea was obviously working. Of course things started to change for the Thunderbirds in the 1980’s. The Phoenix Open was not only fully grown; it was now bulging at the seams at Phoenix Country Club. Parking and gallery size were a nightmare at the club in downtown Phoenix. After years of working with
THERE ARE LIFE BIRDS ALL OVER THE PLACE HELPING FOLKS. I THINK BEING A THUNDERBIRD INSTILLS A GREATER APPRECIATION FOR OUR GREAT COMMUNITY.
developers and the PGA TOUR, it was decided the tournament would move to a new facility, the TPC Scottsdale in 1987. Some of the Thunderbirds, including Lewkowitz, thought the move to the northern part of Scottsdale was a bad idea. It was thought to be the beginning of the end for the Phoenix Open. “Even some of my friends told me nobody was going to go way out there to watch golf,” said 1987 tournament chairman Pete Scardello. People realize now that the move was a good one with over 500,000 fans regularly gracing the TPC Scottsdale during tournament week. It is an event unlike any other in golf and maybe in all of sports. Yes, it is called the “Greatest show on grass”, but even some people who attend don’t see the advertised show. And that’s OK with the Thunderbirds. “Some people never see a golf shot,” Scardello said. “It appeals to all people.” As tournament director in 1987, Scardello had to organize what was essentially a new tournament and he admits it wasn’t easy. In fact, they had their fair share of anxious moments. In 1987, the carpet in the TPC Scottsdale’s clubhouse wasn’t completely installed until the Sunday prior to the tournament. And then there was the issue with the port-ojohns. It was the middle of tournament week and Scardello got a call on his walkie-talkie (remember there weren’t cell phones back then). It was his wife who was watching the pro-am out on the 15th hole. She informed her husband, the tournament director, that the lines forming at the port-o-john locations were getting out of control. “We just didn’t know where to place them and didn’t know exactly how many people were going to come,” Scardello said. “At the end of that first week we knew we had done the right thing. We just weren’t quite as prepared because of the size.” Under the Thunderbirds’ direction the tournament got so big so fast even the famed Birds Nest with its live entertainment and libations wasn’t immune. The second night it was open www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
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at the TPC Scottsdale the local fire marshall arrived and had to limit the number of people allowed in the big tent. When the PGA TOUR needs help with an event, they’ve contacted the Thunderbirds. When Tiger Woods was ready to host his own golf tournament who organized it at Grayhawk Golf Club? The Thunderbirds. When the PGA TOUR stop scheduled for Northern California had to be moved because the golf course wasn’t quite ready, the Thunderbirds were there again. For the first three of the Frys.com Open, the
Thunderbirds helped run the tournament at Grayhawk. The Thunderbirds’ efforts on the golf course have resulted in a list of champions that is a who’s who of professional golf. Off the course, where the least amount of noise occurs when the Thunderbirds are involved, is where the group makes more of a difference than most people could ever imagine. The list of charities the
Thunderbirds have helped over the last 77 years is considerably longer than the list of champions in the history of the tournament. “We’ve always given as much as we could,” Scardello said. “Some year’s we’ve been able to do more than others.” Well over 200 charities have benefitted from the Open which has given over $75 million to various charities. That’s one of the many reasons Lewkowitz keeps coming back to the tournament. It’s been a long time since he was an active Thunderbird. But he’s at the Open every year doing what he still can to make the tournament a success. “I wouldn’t miss it,” Lewkowitz said. “There are life birds all over the place helping folks. I think being a Thunderbird instills a greater appreciation for our great community.”
(L-R) Jack Nicklaus and Len Huck
(L-R) Ben Hogan and Bob Goldwater
Del Webb, Arnold Palmer, Bob Goldwater, Bob Hope in 1966
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www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
27
SWSPGA NEWS
CHRISTOPHER CAIN
RECOGNIZED AS 2011 GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR having a very in depth connection with the golf industry. Chris started his professional career as an Assistant Golf Professional for Pocono Farms Country Club in Pennsylvania, later joining the management team at the Tournament Players Club in Las Vegas. Cain relocated to Penn State as PGA Head Golf Professional from 1999-2002, transitioning to a PGA Teaching Professional while completing his Master's degree from 2002-2004. Cain's graduate work included working with the Penn State PGM Program and instructing for the Departments of Kinesiology, Turfgrass Management, and Exercise and Sports Science. Christopher Cain, a 12-year member of the PGA of America, has an undergraduate and Master’s degree from Penn State University and is currently nearing completion of his PhD at the University of Las Vegas Nevada. It sounds more like the career path of a professor than a golf professional, but Chris has been able to pursue these interests while
Cain relocated to Las Vegas in 2004 to accept the Directorship of the PGM Program at UNLV. While serving as Program Director, Cain began serving the PGA of America at the local, Section, and national levels. Cain's service started as a member of the Board of Directors for the
Southwest Section Southern Nevada Chapter in 2005, and has served as the Chapter's Secretary, Vice President, and President from 2006-2011. Cain served the Southwest Section as a member of the Board of Directors and Committee Chair of Membership Education from 20092011, and also served terms as an appointed member of the Board of Directors for the PGA's Allied Associations including The First Tee of Southern Nevada and the Southern Nevada Golf Association Cain is currently serving as Honorary President of the Southern Nevada Chapter PGA, the PGA of America's Adjunct Faculty, and recently accepted a four year appointment to the PGA of America University Golf Management Accreditation Team. Cain's ability to serve his professional association is made possible through the support of his wife Trisha, the UNLV administration, Hotel College faculty and staff, and the PGM Program staff and the PGM students he serves.
TEACHER OF THE YEAR: PAUL TRITTLER - GRAYHAWK LEARNING CENTER Paul Trittler and the staff at the Grayhawk Learning Center have earned the distinction of being Golf Digest’s #2 Golf School in the country! In his 15th year at Grayhawk and with 25 years of teaching experience Paul definitely has a lot to offer to all levels of players. Paul played on the Tour for a short period, but has definitely found a home in the world of golf instruction having appeared on “Golf Academy Live”, the cover of Golf Digest and in numerous golf articles and publications.
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PLAYER OF THE YEAR: MARTY JERTSON - PING Marty Jertson earned his first SWSPGA Player of the Year honor in 2011 and it looks like he will be a strong candidate for the foreseeable future. Marty won the SWSPGA Section PNC in 2010 and earned a spot in the PGA National PNC for 2011. In the national event, which had a field of 312 PGA players, Marty finished and impressive T5th and earned a spot in the 2011 PGA Championship. Marty also had an undefeated week at The PGA Cup in September and as he said “It has been an enjoyable year”.
28 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
2011 Award Winners
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SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR: MIKE MALASKA - MIKE MALASKA GOLF Mike used a strong performances in the Section (Tie 3rd) and National Professional National Championships (T73 in a field of 264) to earn the Senior Player of the Year honors for 2011. This is Mike’s first Senior Player of the Year honor since recently joining the over 50 set. This award is especially rewarding for Mike as he is also being recognized as the PGA of America’s Teacher of the Year for 2011.
BILL STRAUSBAUGH AWARD: DON REA - AUGUSTA RANCH GOLF CLUB The Bill Strausbaugh award is presented to a Section leader with a demonstration of record of service to the association. This years award winner is Don Rea, Jr of Augusta Ranch Golf Club. Don is currently the vice president of the SWSPGA and participates and volunteers in many of the SWSPGA activities. Don has been actively involved in Section activities for more than a decade.
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JUNIOR GOLF LEADER AWARD: JAY LARSCHEID - LONGBOW GOLF CLUB For the last 20 years Jay has worked at McCormick Ranch (10 years) and Longbow Golf Club (10 years). Although he has held the General Manager position for nearly 7 years, Jay continues to show a dedicated personal interest in the area of Junior Golf. Longbow hosts several significant junior golf events, provides junior golf camps and junior golf rates to the golf stars of the future. Jay currently co-chairs the Junior Golf Committee for the SWSPGA.
MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR (PRIVATE): MATT BAILEY - FOREST HIGHLANDS GOLF CLUB Matt first worked at Forest Highlands in 1989, although only for a year. From there Matt spent seven years at Troon Country Club and then ten years at Pinehurst Country Club in Denver, Colorado before returning to Forest Highlands in the spring of 2007. Mike and his staff enjoy the cooler climate of northern Arizona and are being recognized for their ability to successfully service the merchandise needs of their membership at this private facility.
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MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR (PUBLIC): TOM FISCHER - LAS VEGAS PAIUTE After more than 15 years working as a golf professional in Florida, Tom made a move to the Las Vegas desert where he has been working for the last eight years. In his first year at the Las Vegas Paiute property Tom has given the merchandising part of the operation and nice boost with some innovative ideas. These efforts have led to his recognition in this category for the current year.
MERCHANDISER OF THE YEAR (RESORT): BRIAN HAWTHORNE - WYNN GOLF CLUB Brian has been surrounded by some great merchandising talent in his career and is now putting it to good use at the Wynn Golf Club. Brian spent nearly seven years with the Tournament Players Club organization and an additional four years at Cascata before coming to the Wynn seven years ago. This unique golf course and environment have enabled Brian to put his talents to work and earn the award for 2011.
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CONTINUED
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PRESIDENTS PLAQUE: JOHN GUNBY -THE CLUB AT PRESCOTT LAKES Being an inspiration to fellow PGA Professionals in the area of player development is a critical measure in earning the Presidents Plaque. This year’s winner John (Gunner) Gunby truly exemplifies this requirement. A creator and promoter of the FUNdamental golf program, a long time member of the board of the Junior Golf Association of Arizona and lifetime supporter of junior golf John has helped countless individuals to play Safe, Fast and Courteous golf! John and his Golden Retriever Ingrid are appreciative of this award.
HORTON SMITH AWARD: MARK BLACK - ENCANTERRA COUNTRY CLUB The Horton Smith Award recognizes and individual that has fostered the educational pursuits of the PGA Professional. Mark Black was recognized for his efforts in working with the Professional Golf Management program at Arizona State University and his twelve year commitment to an adjunct faculty position with the PGA of America.
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ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR: SCOTT SHAPIN - TUCSON COUNTRY CLUB Scott graduated from the Professional Golf Management program at Penn State University and went to work at Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase, Maryland where he spent 41/2 years working in the private club environment. A move to a warmer climate brought him to Tucson Country Club where he has worked for the past two years. Scott handles a variety of duties at this esteemed and established facility in addition to work on his own game as well.
30 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
GOLDWATER CUP
CLUB PROFESSIONALS WINNING STREAK CONTINUES BY VITO BERLINGERI
The 51st Annual Goldwater Cup matches hosted by the Desert Forest Golf Club in Scottsdale, AZ had the Southwest Section of the PGA club professionals competing against the top-ranked amateurs from the Arizona Golf Association. The annual matches promote friendly competition and camaraderie between the two associations, but also a high level of competition between the club professionals and the amateur golfers. The history of the event is a two-day format with team competition the first day followed by individual matches the second day. After their most-recent victory, the club professionals now lead the series with 37 wins to the
Amateurs 14. The club professionals prevailed in the senior division as well, winning 16-14. The senior professionals
lead their series 25-10-3. Members of the winning club professional team in the Open division included; Greg Avant, Jeff Yurkiewicz, Blayne Hobbs, Marty Jertson, Don Littrel, Michael Hopper, Dennis Downs, Brandon Smith, Rich Elias, Joe Penaflor, Chris Dompier and Paul Nolen.
SWSPGA Senior Team
SWSPGA Open Team Members
Mike Malaska, 2011 National PGA teacher of the year, lead the senior division to victory. Malaksa’s teammates included; Jon Chaffee, Randy Wittig, Earl Svenningsen, Jon Stanley, Terry Carlson, Mike Franko, Dave Simm, Greg Ellis, Greg Harmon, Bob Pancratz and Will Frantz. This historic event is named after the late Bob Goldwater SR. a former state amateur champion and member of the Arizona golf hall of fame, who is known as the father of the Phoenix (Waste Management) Open.
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
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ON YOUR GAME
T
eaching the game of golf is an art in itself. There are many different theories, styles and techniques. However, communicating to the student is the most important aspect of all. What it boils down to is being able to connect with the student and identify the correct type of learning style that best relates to the student.
I would normally always suggest consulting your local PGA golf professional for a lesson, although there are many qualified teachers who are not PGA members. There are many qualifying credentials behind being a PGA professional in regard to teaching but that does not always necessarily mean that he or she can connect with the student.
There are three basic learning styles that are unique among each person. Golfers communicate these different styles to the instructor with simple phrases and comments made by the student. So, for example, learning more from a VISUAL sense they will make comments, like “I can see what you are talking about” or “I can’t picture what you’re saying.” The visual golfer would need to be shown what good balance looks like.
BY RICK PRICE, PGA Operations Coordinator, SWSPGA Southern Chapter
Rich Elias, PGA showing a balanced finish
The second learning style is KINESTHETIC. This style of learning would require more of a feel sensation. The instructor would be more helpful by physically assisting the golfer into a properly balanced position. This golfer will say things like “This club feels great” or “I couldn’t feel a thing.” The third sense is our AUDITORY system. The instructor will
The Art of Instruction
Another thing to remember is just because someone is a really good player does not mean they can teach, or just like the teacher in school that is so brilliant, but cannot communicate to the students. That is why teaching the game is truly an art if done properly. There are many different types of learning styles and to try to pigeon hole every golfer, young or old into one basic swing theory or concept, cannot work and does not work. The instructor has to work with each student individually with their strengths and weaknesses. I do believe every instructor would agree that a major swing key is “balance." It does not matter if you have a strong grip or weak grip, a wide stance or narrow stance, a short back swing or a long back swing. However, like all sports and life, you’ve got to have “balance” in your swing to have an opportunity to consistently make solid contact with the ball.
pick up on comments, like “I hear what you’re saying” or “I was off balance on that shot.” The auditory golfer does NOT respond well to mechanics but to a rhythm in the swing by counting or a beat to music. Being in rhythm and balance is the key.
Todd Huizinga, PGA showing balance at impact
These learning styles are just a part of the “Art of Instruction.” When the instructor determines your style, his or hers qualities of communicating will be the evidence of the results you get. So, remember the visual golfer should be shown. The Kinesthetic golfer should be allowed to feel, and for the best results relating to the auditory golfer, they need to hear or be told. My recommendation would be to find a professional golf instructor, preferably a PGA professional, that can communicate well to your learning style and have fun with you while improving your game.
About The
AUTHOR
RICK PRICE PGA
SWSPGA Southern Chapter - Operations Coordinator
520.290.1742
southernchapterpga@yahoo.com www.southernchapterpga.com
Rick Price, PGA is currently the Operations Coordinator for the Southern Chapter of the Southwest Section PGA and the Editor of Southern Arizona Tee Times Magazine. With an extensive career dedicated to our local golf industry, Rick has held positions in numerous golf facilities throughout the years, including El Conquistador, Rio Rico GC and Omni Tucson National.
32 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
FEATURE
AAAG Expands 2012 Events BY JOEL SCHAFER Executive Director, AAAG The Amateur Association of Arizona Golfers (AAAG) was developed in late 2010 to protect and grow the game of golf in Arizona. The AAAG services its members in the area of handicapping, playing opportunities and club development. The AAAG will continue to expand its services in many areas in the months and years to come. The AAAG offers handicap services at over 25 clubs in Arizona. Golfers enjoy the ability to post scores at participating clubs or online at www.azgolfnetwork.org. Golfers handicaps update on the 1st & 15th of each month and members are notified via email. The benefits of maintaining a handicap include being able to compete on any golf course from any set of tees on an equitable basis. A handicap is a great way to measure skill improvement and is most likely required to compete in
amateur events. If you love to play golf, I would really encourage amateur golfers to join a club and maintain a handicap. The AAAG also provides playing opportunities for golfers of all skill levels and at a variety of price points. During
Team Sundance with the Traveling Cup
this past summer, clubs were invited to participate in the AAAG Interclub Challenge. The Interclub Challenge allowed each member club to field a team of 12 players with the top 8 scores counting toward the team total using the Chicago
Quota Scoring System. Each club had an opportunity to host an event at their home course. After a summer full of events, Sundance Golf Club finished on top and was awarded the traveling cup which is now on display at the Sundance clubhouse. Of course, Team Sundance has all the bragging right until next summer. In 2012, the AAAG will deliver a full assortment of events including the Short Course Classic at Augusta Ranch Golf Club February 25th & 26th. The Short Course Classic will be a two day gross and net competition offering flights for men, women and juniors. Golfers of all skill levels are encouraged to participate in this event that is truly going to fantastic! For more information about the Amateur Association of Arizona Golfers, please feel free to contact us at 480-443-9009 or visit us online at www.azgolfnetwork.org.
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
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Ambassador Series Fall 2011
COMMUNITY
AWGA Ambassador
Program Registration
BEGINS FEBRUARY 2012 BY MARYANN SOUTER The AWGA Ambassador program is designed to introduce new women golfers to the game and keep them in the game. It establishes key relationships between the women who play regularly at a specific golf course and the LPGA or PGA Teaching Professional at that same course. Through this relationship, the teaching professional and the experienced women golfers (AWGA Ambassadors) work together to create an environment where women can learn everything from the basic Rules and etiquette of the game, to swing and playing basics, to establishing relationships with other women golfers that help them feel comfortable navigating the golf course on their own. We know from experience that the average new woman golfer is much more likely to develop a strong lasting interest in the game if she has a support network of other women with whom to learn, practice, and play. Since the fall of 2006, the AWGA Ambassador program has graduated over 1,000 new women golfers. Sessions are held twice a year at up to 15 locations around the valley and state. The program consists of 6 weekly group lessons, with an approximate 9 to 1 maximum student to professional ratio. The next series of lessons is scheduled to begin the first week in February, 2012. Registration is taken through the AWGA website at www.awga.org. The program is attractively priced at $195 for the six-week session, and will be followed by a fun, stress
free on-course play day with fellow Ambassador graduates, volunteers and other friendly AWGA members. Registration for this event is also through the AWGA website.
MEET A COUPLE OF OUR PROS
She’s from Wisconsin and loves her home and job in Arizona. Peggy says, “It is so rewarding getting someone involved in golf! I love to be able to make them feel comfortable with themselves and their golf game! Peggy Briggs, LPGA; Ambassador Program Instructor since 2006
Shawn Lasher, PGA; Ambassador Program Instructor since 2007
Dove Valley Ranch GC: Shawn Lasher, Class A PGA Professional: Shawn has been a teaching golf for the past 7 years and a member of the SWSPGA for more than 4 years. He grew up in Plymouth, Minnesota, went to Iowa State University and finally ended up in Arizona to pursue his career. Shawn has enjoyed being a part of the Ambassador program since 2007. He says, “I have had the opportunity to meet wonderful ladies who seem to really improve over the course of the classes.
AND A FEW OF OUR STUDENTS “The ladies at Oakwood CC in Sun Lakes have been awesome! They are friendly, knowledgeable, encouraging and genuinely want to make sure we get everything out of the class we can. I would recommend this program to any woman wanting to get started in golf. ~ Lynn McIntyre
“My daughter and I are taking lessons at Dobson Ranch. The instructors are great and the Ambassadors are wonderful. They really make a difference. What a great program! ~ Eileen Salmon
More importantly, they have fun doing it! I think the Ambassador program is a wonderful course for any age and ability. I’m looking forward to the next session this spring.”
“I'm taking the lessons at Dove Valley Ranch Golf Club. Shawn Lasher is such a great teacher and I'm enjoying the lessons so much. I am so glad that I saw the advertisement.
Arizona Golf Resort: Peggy Briggs, LPGA Teaching Professional: Peggy has been an LPGA teaching professional for 9 years and has been part of our Ambassador Program since its first session in November 2006.
Mary Ann Souter is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in a variety of golf publications. She is co-author of Synergistic Golf-One Day at a Time. Contact info: (480) 332-6335 or maryann@synergisticgolf.com.
34 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
~ Paulette Rushton
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
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FEATURE
Exciting Changes for Attendees of Top 64 Tournament in Marana, AZ.
World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship returns to the Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain on February 20-26, 2012. With tickets starting at just $25 and each of your kids 18 and under being admitted FREE of charge when accompanied by a paid ticketed adult, it’s more exciting than ever to attend this years tournament. Low ticket prices and a host of fanfriendly changes will make every golf enthusiast want to attend. Parking is better than ever! Public parking is now at the base of Dove Mountain Blvd. and Tangerine Rd on the NW corner. Park your vehicle, and in your excitement to see Rory, don’t forget your car keys! After parking, a quick hop onto the shuttle lets you enjoy the scenery to the top of the mountain to the main entrance gate. Voila, you have arrived and are ready to watch the best players in the world compete for the $8.5 million dollar purse while you experience the best in golf and networking around town. If you are a spectator with a disability, drive up the mountain to the T2 lot and take the shuttle ride to the front gate. Just make sure you don’t leave home without that handicapped license plate or hang tag. Bring your cell phone! We know it is hard to believe, but you can now bring your personal mobile device on the grounds of the tournament. Just don’t let caddie Stevie Williams catch you chatting. He might rip that baby out of your hand and throw it in the desert. Practice good golf etiquette and respect by keeping your phone on silent at all times and do not take a picture unless it is Monday or Tuesday of the practice round days.
ALL SUNDAY TICKET HOLDERS WILL BE INVITED TO “FOLLOW THE LEADERS” AT THE ACCENTURE MATCH PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP Phil Mickelson (L) talks with caddie Jim 'Bones' Mackay on the second hole during the first round of the Accenture Match Play Championship at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club on February 23, 2011 in Marana, Arizona. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Follow the Leaders! During the Championship Match on Sunday, tournament officials will allow fans an opportunity to fill in the fairway behind the two players who are going head-to-head to decide the Accenture Match Play Championship winner. Talk about exciting! For More Information! Visit www.gogolfarizona.com to read all about ‘Cell Phone 101’ and information on ‘Follow The Leaders’. You can also preview the course map and catch up on everything about the 2012 World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play Championship.
Rory McIlroy Rory McIlroy
Adam Scott Adam Scott
Luke Donald
Dustin Johnson
Luke Donald
Dustin Johnson
FOLLOW THE LEADERS. LITERALLY. FOLLOW THE LEADERS. LITERALLY. For the first time, fans can follow the leaders up For first time, fanscompete can follow leaders up the the fairways as they in the Sunday’s final the fairways as they in Sunday’s nal match. Any closer andcompete you’d be carrying theirfibags. match. Any closer and you’d be carrying their bags. TICKETS START AT $25 TICKETS START AT $25 WORLDGOLFCHAMPIONSHIPS.COM WORLDGOLFCHAMPIONSHIPS.COM FEBRUARY 20-26, 2012 | THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF CLUB, DOVE MOUNTAIN | MARANA, AZ FEBRUARY 20-26, 2012 | THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF CLUB, DOVE MOUNTAIN | MARANA, AZ
19th hole BY VITO BERLINGERI Marketing Director, SWSPGA
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HEALTH & HOME
Playing golf in pain? How I addressed it.
For several months, and possibly years, I have noticed that my body hurts when I play golf, cycle or just relax. After visiting a good friend of mine, Dr. Stephanie Gajus, Naturopathic Doctor, arranged for blood tests to see what was going on in my body. Sure enough she could see some indications that my blood was inflamed. Rather than put me on a drug that reduces inflammation, Dr. Gajus went the route of, what is causing this inflammation!
We determined that my diet was one of the contributing factors, and I thought I was eating well. I was ingesting too much Sugar, Wheat, Soy and Dairy! All of the things that I love to eat. It has been 3 weeks now since I changed my diet. I lost 10 pounds and I am pain free. The old saying of “You are what you eat” is so true. Below are some guidelines from Dr. Gajus that I followed. Please note that this not advice, just what I learned. Remember, before embarking on any changes in your health always seek the advice of a Medical Professional.
1. Loading up on junk foods, high-fat meats, sugar, and highly processed foods may increase the potential for inflammation in your body. Reduce your consumption of trans fats and saturated fats by cutting back on highly processed foods, red meats, and high-fat processed meats such as bacon and sausage. Cut back on refined white flours in bread and pasta (look for 100% whole-grains instead). Eliminate added sugars by decreasing your consumption of sugary sodas, pastries, candy, rich desserts, and pre-sweetened cereals. 2. Beverages. Your body needs water. Drink clean
sourced, sparkling or bottled water, herbal tea, low-sodium vegetable juice, unsweetened almond milk, and coconut milk. 3. When you are choosing antiinflammatory foods, choose fresh foods instead of heavily processed foods. Here are some suggestions:
● For breakfast, try gluten free oatmeal, waffles or pancakes served with fresh berries and walnuts. ● Snack on whole fruits, nuts, seeds, and fresh vegetables instead of cookies and candy. ● Eat more fish and less fatty red meat. ● Cook with olive oil, coconut oil, or organic butter. ● Try an egg white stir-fry or scramble with fresh vegetables. ● Have a salad with lots of fresh vegetables as your meal. Do not use store bought dressing, make your own it’s simple! ● Stay away from deep-fried foods; bake, broil, poach or stir-fry instead. ● Choose dark green or brightly colored vegetables as side dishes -they should fill half your dinner plate.
Gluten Free Ginger Soup
● Drink water, coconut or almond milk, 100% vegetable juices, herbal and green tea instead of sugary sodas, soft drinks and energy drinks.
Ingredients:
Enjoy!
• 2 tablespoons sweet cream butter
• • • • • • • •
Good Health
1 onion, chopped 1 T. curry powder 3 pounds carrots, chopped 4 c. chicken broth (or vegetable stock for vegetarians) 1/4 tsp. ground cayenne pepper 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 inches ginger root, finely minced Snipped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish.
Directions: 1. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until tender and translucent. 2. Stir in the curry powder, add the chopped carrots and minced ginger, and stir until the carrots are coated. 3. Pour in the vegetable broth, and simmer until the carrots are soft, about 20 minutes. 4. Transfer the carrots and broth to a blender, and puree until smooth. Pour back into the pot, and thin with water to your preferred consistency. I like mine thick. Ladle leftovers into freezer bags in single servings for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the month.
38 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
Dr. Stephanie Gajus can be contacted at: drgajus@gmail.com
After 30 years of Corporate Life with Bell Laboratories and AT&T, Vito entered the golf industry as Store Operations Manager with Hot Stix Golf and VP Of Sales for Profile Sports until joining the Southwest Section PGA as Director of Marketing in 2008.
Canadian Corner
Buying Property In The U.S.? BY BRYANT ANDRUS, CFP ®
and passing the property to your beneficiaries after you pass away.
Are my Canadian assets subject to US estate tax?
Knowledge is power. Knowing what questions to ask and to whom to ask these questions, is as important as knowing the answers yourself. The wrong advice can be costly in many different ways, especially when purchasing property in the US. As a Canadian, if you are considering purchasing a property in the US or if you already own property in the US, here are some questions that you should ask yourself.
Do I file a tax return in the US?
No, unless you are a US tax payer, e.g. US citizen, your assets that are not domiciled or located in the US are not subject to US estate tax. As a rule, non-residents of the US are allowed to exempt US$60,000 of their US assets from estate tax, US$120,000 for married couples. Under the US/Canada Tax Treaty, Canadians are allowed a pro-rata amount of the US resident exemption, which is currently US$5,000,000 (2011/2012).
KeatsConnelly
How do I take title? The choice between owning property in your personal name or through an entity, such as a Canadian corporation, can only be determined on a case by case situation. Your goals, the purpose of the property, taxes, and the maintenance costs of the structure are a few of the factors that will influence the advice. This choice will have an impact on taxation
If the property produces revenue, e.g. rental income, you will be required to file a non-resident tax return (1040NR) by June 30th the year following the income is produced. If however, you are using the property as a vacation home, then no tax return is due until after the home is sold.
Is there withholding tax when the property is sold? Depending on the price when the home is sold and the intention of the buyer, a 10% withholding tax on the gross proceeds may apply. If this withholding, called FIRPTA, does apply an election can be made to reduce the withholding tax from 10% of the gross sales price down to 10% of the “adjusted gain” on the property. These elections are required to be made before the property transfers ownership or before closing.
Am I subject to double tax between the US and Canada? Generally, you are not going to be subject to double tax because of the US/Canada Tax treaty. However, the tax treaty does not cover every scenario and there are structures that can cause a double tax. Corporations, in general, have a double tax.
KeatsConnelly is the largest and most experienced Canada-US cross border wealth management firm, serving exclusively Canadian and American citizens. With over 20 year of experience we are ready to help you answer all of your cross border tax and financial planning questions. For more information about our services please visit our website at www.keatsconnelly.com. If you would like a consultation with us, please contact Barbara Madden at info@keatsconnelly.com or 800-678-5007.
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
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19th hole
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LOCKER ROOM
Antigua Creates U.S.A. Team Uniforms for the LPGA Solheim Cup In Ireland Antigua was very proud to have been chosen to create the U.S.A. team uniforms for the 2011 LPGA Solheim Cup played at Killeen Castle, Ireland. Based on the continued strength and growth of Antigua women's fashion golf wear collections, they were quite comfortable, confident and extremely honored to take on the challenge. “Designing uniforms for multiple days and multiple rounds of competition with Ireland’s unique weather as an added variable has been a tremendous challenge”, said Danielle Dellios, Senior Designer at the Antigua Group. Antigua created a beautiful range of coordinates, distinctly separate for each round, including the early practice rounds. Each are reflective of the traditional palette of the U.S. in very tasteful golf fashion styling with contemporary accents and each piece has incorporated Antigua's trademark performance and functionality. The design & development credit goes to Antigua's senior designer Danielle Dellios, who in working closely with team captain Rosie Jones and assistant captains Sherri Steinhauser and Juli Inkster were able to develop a beautiful collection of performance pieces that proudly portray the tradition of the American color palette as well as being tastefully embellished with stars and stripes befitting design representing an American team. “Taking on the challenge of creating team uniforms for 12 of the top U.S. women golfers, along with their caddie's, additional Solheim staff, the captain and assistant captains was both an exhilarating and a humbling experience”, said Dellios. “ To have been in the presence of these wonderfully talented women and to have them express their positive feedback along with their genuine appreciation of our efforts was overwhelming. They were without exception the most gracious women to have gotten to work with which made the whole
experience even that much more worthwhile. And you have to keep in mind that most of our encounters with the then prospective team members were when they were able to take time out during practice rounds and tournament competition in which they were still trying to qualify for the Solheim team at events such as the Kia Classic in City of Industry, California and the Safeway Classic in North Plains, Oregon - but the perception was that they remained attentive and focused in spite of peripheral pressures which made our job that much easier.” “ It was a great experience”, Dellios added. As far as the styles themselves, the collection of uniform pieces were well thought out. With the collaboration of Rosie, her assistant captains and working alongside Antigua's design team, each day of play was addressed as you would your own wardrobe; paying attention to the details of coordinating tops to bottoms in both style detail, silhouette, and color selection, which even working with the obvious red, white and navy palette still offered it's challenges. Special emphasis was placed on keeping the pieces current; an axiom that follows with all of Antigua's product development. All pieces for both the practice rounds and the competition itself were custom created for the team uniforms. The tops are all made with Antigua's proprietary Desert Dry and Desert dry Xtra-Lite (D2XL) performance fabrics that are designed for performance enhancement in any climate. The bottoms are made in a light-weight poly/spandex stretch satin twill- designed for fluid movement, but in not trading function for style they were designed with a femininely flattering waist and hip, with tasteful pocket and trim details with a stylishly subtle leg flare. This same fabric is used in the design of the shorts and skorts for any of the team members willing to brave what could be less than favorable weather conditions.
Antigua also exclusively created outerwear pieces for the team. There are base layer options of both a crew or a mock neck line made in Desert Dry Xtra-Lite, and extra soft, micro-fleeced back jersey that you saw the team wearing based on personal preference and weather conditions. A classically traditional sweater vest was created as an additional layering option and is made of supple viscose/nylon. Pullovers were created with soft and lightweight micro-fleeced back technical poly midweight jersey and a team jacket made in a lightweight poly/spandex 4 way stretch woven offering comfort, as well as both wind and moisture protection. Equally important to the incorporation of the technical functionality of these performance garments is that they never lose sight of critical style elements while paying homage to America and the team representing it. www.antigua.com and shop.antigua.com
SHAFT ALIGNMENT: Most golfers probably don’t realize that every shaft regardless of quality has an ideal orientation for best performance. There are a variety of methods for identifying the “Spine” of a shaft, but regardless of the method used once it has been identified and installed properly you will feel and see more consistency from that club.
40 Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine l www.GoGolfArizona.com
PING Brings New ‘Skins Game’ Feature to iPING App for iPhone & iPod touch PING has announced a major update to its popular iPING™ App for iPhone and iPod touch that adds a gaming feature. The iPING App now includes the iPING Skins Game that allows users to test the consistency of their putting stroke against friends. iPING Skins Game utilizes Game Center’s turn-based technology and alerts users to their next turn via the new Notification Center in iOS 5. The update is available now for current users, and new users can download the iPING App from the App Store on iPhone or iPod touch. “With every feature we add, the iPING App becomes more valuable for the user,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman and CEO. “The new iPING Skins Game feature is exciting because it promotes friendly competition, which will grow and strengthen our global PING community. Of course, the real benefit of winning is that your putting stroke is consistent, which is the key to making more putts on the golf course.” The iPING Skins Game feature allows players to compete from anywhere in the world or side-by-side. To initiate a game, a player chooses a three-, six-, or nine-hole match and can invite up to three friends to join, or let the Auto-Match feature locate playing partners. The game format follows a traditional skins competition where holes have point values, which increase throughout the match, and ties on a hole carry over until someone wins a hole (and the skins) outright. The person with the most points at the end of the match wins. On each hole, a competitor rolls five 10-foot putts to establish his or her Consistency Score, reflected in a number similar to a golf handicap. The player with the best Consistency Score wins that hole and plays first on the next hole. iPING Skins Game also has a Party Mode for contestants in the same location. Party Mode uses AirPlay to show a live leader board on your HD television using your existing wireless network and an Apple TV. iPING Skins Game is a new feature of the iPING App, available for free from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/. Both the iPING App and iPING Skins Game work in conjunction with a PING Cradle, which holds the mobile device and clips onto the putter shaft just below the grip. Cradles are available at Apple Retail Stores in the United States, via the Apple Online Store, and from PING authorized golf shops. PING Cradles are available for the iPhone 4S, iPhone 4 and iPod touch (4th generation).
www.GoGolfArizona.com l Phoenix Valley Tee Times Magazine
41
JUNIOR SPOTLIGHT
BY SCOTT MCNEVIN Junior Golf Association of Arizona
Jacquie LeMarr Brett Wilson
Jacquie LeMarr, of Scottsdale, has been playing golf since the age
Brett Wilson, of Mesa, has been an active member of the Arizona junior golf scene for the last 10 years. Wilson, the
of 9. Although she played many sports growing up, including soccer and
2011 JGAA Sportsmanship Award Winner, recently signed a letter of intent to play golf for Colorado State University.
softball, she got hooked on the game participating in the junior golf program
Brett got started in golf at the early age of three, through his father, Jerry Wilson, who has been a PGA Professional since 1993 and has worked at several clubs including
at Paradise Valley Country Club while starting to play in JGAA tournaments. Now a 17year old senior at Chaparral High School, Jacquie will be heading west to attend school and play golf at UCLA.
Pinetop Lakes Country Club, Gold Canyon Resort and Camelot Golf Club. Jerry now serves as the Vice President of Public Operations for the Scottsdale Golf Group, overseeing the operations at Painted Mountain Golf Resort and several other facilities.
Jacquie has had her eyes on UCLA ever since she attended a UCLA Nike Junior golf camp, when she was only 10 years old. She had a great experience at the camp and was able to meet UCLA coach Carrie Forsyth. At that time, UCLA was coming off their 1st National Championship under Forsyth in 2003. Since then, UCLA has finished in the top 3 in the National Championship five times, including another team championship in 2011.
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LeMarr has been playing in JGAA and SWSPGA Junior golf events for several years now. Her first big victory came in 2006 when she qualified locally for the PGA Junior Championship. Then as a sophomore at Chaparral High School, she won the 5A-II individual and team championship. Through her many high finishes in JGAA events over the last 3 years, LeMarr has earned her way onto three consecutive Girls Junior America’s Cup teams, one of the highlights of her junior golf career. Off the golf course she stays very active as a JGAA Junior Board Member, while participating in the National Charity League while finding the time to study and become a District Scholar Athlete.
Painted Mountain Golf Resort was where Brett really started playing a lot of golf, being an active member of the junior golf program when he was only 6 years old. Brett honed his skills by playing in many JGAA and SWSPGA tournaments over the last 10 years, forging friends with junior golfers all over the valley. One of the highlights of Brett’s junior golf career was qualifying for the 2011 US Junior Championship, held at Gold Mountain Golf Club, in Bremerton, Washington. The US Junior Championship is one of best junior tournaments held every summer, featuring the top juniors from across the country. Although Wilson had several choices on where to play college golf, Colorado State University seemed like the best fit after making his official visit.
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KILLEEN CASTLE IRELAND 2011