Florida Golf Central V12 I1 by Golf Central Magazine

W W W . F L O R I D A G O L F C E N T R A L . C O M

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from the publisher header

Serendepitous My

newest crush…CBS Golf analyst and the real entertainment at Tavistock Cup this year is David Feherty. I fell years ago and now am reborn with passion for the candid, political, wit and patriotism of this incredible professional. I dream of playin’ a round and discussing the land of opportunity with him. I mean, come on, he’s sarcastic, Irish, flirty and fun—how can you not crush on him? Feherty has been the center of many controversial comments, but he speaks his mind, confidently. He’s a jester known for making wacky comments on serious issues—such as “If God wanted people to believe in him, why’d he invent logic”? He believes what he believes and knows what he knows while always trying to add a little life and laugh to it all. You know that question: ‘if you were to host a dinner party; who would you invite as your top three guests’? David Feherty would be one of my picks. Since we are hitting our 12 YEAR MARK this April, I thought it would only make sense to share my top 12 tips of the golf publication biz. 1. When you have trendy man or lady on the cover, don’t just spell their name wrong…change their first name completely. It gets a bigger response. Remember the ‘Dennis Leadbetter’ issue? 2. Don’t take this SHITE too seriously. Have fun. Be fun. Surround yourself with fun. 3. Try to limit the number of photos of yourself notably holding a glass of wine at award banquets, tournaments and pairing parties over the 12 year period. 4. When invited for a complimentary round—try this one: always leave a nice tip. My all time favorite: don’t fry bacon in the nude, it’s painful. 5. Publishing can be stressful and often requires a sleeping aid, never take a sleeping pill and laxative in the same night. 6. Make sure you have friends and associates attending memorial tournaments that will wrestle you to the ground and take a microphone away from you if you’ve had too much to drink and are asked to say a few words. (Lynn Pelham’s event 2003) 7. When given the opportunity to pose with notorious golfers, make sure you always have a mint on hand…for them!! 8. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh. 9. Always, Always, ALWAYS support the sponsors & advertisers—support those who support you. 10. Do anything to support the troops, past, present and future, wounded warriors (page 16), military families. I promise this will help you sleep at night, literally! 11. If someone invites you to do an article on their celebrity status, whether it is NFL, NBA, NHL, etc., check and make sure that they’re not being indicted for fraud and if they’re single bring an escort. 12. Use the media wisely to aid and foster publicity for all charities and take care of those that take care of the less fortunate. Appropriately, I’d like to end with this little note on why we all are still so attached to magazines despite the thriving digital media based electronics. Media continues to proliferate. Attention spans continue to shrink. And free content is available everywhere, from Internet to the insides of elevators. Why then are 93% of American adults still so attached to magazines? Why do so many people, young and old, spend so much time with the medium that’s paper and ink, a medium you actually have to pay for in order to read? In a word, engagement. Reading a magazine remains a uniquely intimate and immersive experience. Not only is magazine readership up, readers spend an average of 43 minutes per issue. Further, those 43 minutes of attention are typically undivided. Among all media—digital or analog—magazine readers are least likely to engage in another activity while reading. [Advertisers, take note.] Stickiness. Another demonstration of the power of magazines.

Volume 12, Issue 1 Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Managing Editor: Dave Daubert, USGA The Green One: Tonyia Fulghum Executive Editor: Joel Jackson–Director of Communications for the Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association

North Florida Regional Editor: Stephen Trendler West Coast Regional Editor: Chris Karamitsos Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Tres Fenton, Dennis T. James, Mike Coonan

Public Relations & Social Media Director: Caitlin McLarnon Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. Executive Correspondent: Dennis T. James Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Marc Ray, CMAA; Greg Wise; Ashley Prange Glenn Makin– Publisher of East Tennesee Golf  News

Media Muse: David E. Bailey Digital Media Manager: Jason Philo Digital Video Producer: James Lee Director of Sales and Marketing: Jason Keesling Business Manager: Debbi Westbrook, dwestbrook@cfl.rr.com Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, melahn@mac.com Website Design/Network Support: ryjo.com Magazine Printing: Sundance Graphics 9580 Delegates Drive, Orlando, Florida 32837 • 800.617.5532

Florida Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708 phone: 407.971.4336 • 407.971.4337 fax: 407.971.4306 • toll-free: 877.208.5972 E-mail: info@ floridagolfcentral.com One year (12 issues) subscription price is $42.99 ©2010 Florida Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Editorial contributions are welcome, but Florida Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Florida Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.

Shanks for the Memories, and all the laughs.

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 4

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Join us for a cup of coffee ... Is itatime to opinion. invest and second

with caution or seek out new opportunities?

During volatile and confusing markets, we understand that even the most patient investors may come to question the wisdom of the investment plan they’ve been following. We’d like to help – and we can start by offering a cup of coffee and a second opinion. By appointment, you’re welcome to come in and talk with us about your investment portfolio. If we think your investments continue to be wellsuited to your long-term goals — in spite of the current market turmoil — we’ll gladly tell you so, and send you on your way. If, on the other hand, we think some of your investments no longer fit with your goals, we’ll explain Read our free midyear report to find why, in plain English. And, if you like, we’ll recommend some alternatives. out more about our forecast for the Either way, the coffee is on us. For a free consultation, please contact us rest let of the year. if you prefer milk or cream. and us know

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header

Volume 12, Issue 1

Cart Girl 14 Brittny Silke

Celebrity Corner 30 Reid & Fiorentino

Cuisine on the Green 46 Sawgrass Country Club

Feature 38 Our Lucaya Beach & Golf Resort

Golf Bachelor 12 Matt Vahala

Golf Business 22 Hampton Golf

Improving Performance 20 Polara Golf Balls

Leader on the Links

Departments 4 8 10 34 40 42 44 50 52 54 56 60 62 64 68 70 72

Letter from the Publisher Golf Central Station Club Managers Association of America Thinking of Golf Live Golf Swing Thoughts Competitive Spirits Duffer Dan South Florida PGA North Florida PGA PGA of America Central Florida Platinum Coast Treasure Coast Suncoast Product Showcase Aces & Eagles

26 Rudy Martinez-Rodriguez 28 Doc Suttie

Special Events 16 Defending Freedom Warrior Weekend 18 Tavistock Cup

Stay & Play 36 Saddlebrook Golf Resort

floridagolfcentral.com

PGA Tour Star Rickie Fowler and Wingman Reggie Bush Energize Augusta,GA August, GA - Prior to his first official practice round at historic Augusta National, 2010 PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year Rickie Fowler and Super Bowl Champion Reggie Bush met up to drive a few balls and talk about the similarities of preparing for two of the world’s grandest events – The Masters and the Super Bowl. Bush also personally drove Fowler to his first practice round in an MXT vehicle and watched him take his first cuts at Augusta National. As part of the driving range fun on their first day together, Bush got his first-ever golf lesson - courtesy of Fowler. The NFL star is keeping all of his career opportunities open and is trying his hand at golf.

Wonderful® Pistachios Announces Title Sponsorship of AJGA BRASELTON, Ga. ,— Wonderful® Pistachios will extend the theme of its catchy “‘Get Crackin’” advertising campaign to the American Junior Golf Association’s Get Crackin’” Pace of Play program in 2011. The campaign launched Feb. 18-21 at events near Orlando (ANNIKA Invitational) and Houston (HP Boys Championship at Carlton Woods). As title sponsor of the program and the

2nd Swing Golf & The First Tee Partner to Create a Club Donation Program St. Augustine, Fla.– 2nd Swing Golf, a company specializing in buying, selling and trading equipment, has become a supplier of golf equipment

Tim Tebow Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – THE PLAYERS Foundation has joined forces with Tim Tebow to stage the first annual Tim Tebow Foundation Celebrity

LPGA Signs 3 Years Agreement With CME Group Daytona Beach, FL - The LPGA announced that CME Group, the world’s leading diverse derivati-

“Seeing Rickie swing a club is a beautiful sight,” said Reggie Bush. “I appreciate the time he spent with me as he prepares to play the most important tournament of his life.” “I’m glad Reggie has time to come out and see a bit of my world,” said Rickie Fowler. This is definitely a milestone week for me – playing the Masters for the first time and joining the Red Bull family.” Rickie Fowler joins a roster of Red Bull champions that includes World Series heroes Tim Lincecum and Jimmy Rollins, Super Bowl champion Reggie Bush and Olympic gold medalists Shaun White and Lindsey Vonn. For more information on Rickie Fowler, please connect with him at www.facebook.com/RickieFowlerGolf and www.twitter.com/RickieFowlerPGA.

Official Health Partner of the AJGA, Wonderful® Pistachios will be available to AJGA golfers at all tournament scoring tents. Additionally, two commercials from the Wonderful® Pistachio advertising campaign will air on the Big Ten Network during the Big Ten Match Play Championship, in addition to branded signage on-site at AJGA events. “Wonderful® Pistachios is proud to sponsor, and serve as the Official Health Partner of the AJGA,” said Dominic Engels, vice president, global marketing, Paramount Farms, producer of Won-

derful® Pistachios. “We believe in supporting young athletes who are passionate about their game. Golfers know the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle, and all-natural California pistachios – which offer a satisfying combination of protein, fiber and carbohydrates – are the perfect complement to any sports program.” For more information about Wonderful Pistachios or the Get Crackin’ campaign, visit www. wonderfulpistachios.com, www.getcrackin.com, www.facebook.com/wonderfulpistachios and www.twitter.com/getcrackin.

trade-in services to The First Tee, a youth development organization whose mission is to positively impact young people by providing character education programs through the game of golf. Through the agreement, customers can send pre-swung clubs to 2nd Swing Golf and choose to donate the trade-in value of the clubs to a de-

signated chapter of The First Tee or The First Tee home office. Chapters can also trade in donated equipment and receive a portion of the value to support their programs. For more information about 2nd Swing Golf, visit www.2ndswing.com. For more information about The First Tee, visit www.thefirsttee.org.

Golf Classic, tournament officials announced today. The two-day event will take place at TPC Sawgrass, May 6-7 to raise much-needed funds for at-risk children throughout the world. The partnership between THE PLAYERS Foundation and the Tim Tebow Foundation was a natural fit with both organizations sharing the goal of bringing a brighter day to children around the world. The net proceeds from The Tim Tebow Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic will directly benefit the Tim Tebow Foundation and The First Tee. The event will take place just days before the best professional golfers in the world return to the First Coast for the 2011 edition of THE PLAYERS,

May 9-15, at THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass. There are still many ways for individuals and companies to get involved in the tournament through event sponsorships, table sponsorships, foursomes and volunteer opportunities. For a complete list of the celebrities scheduled to participate or to learn more about how you can support the Tim Tebow Foundation, visit www. timtebowfoundation.org Tickets to the celebrity golf tournament are available to the public for $12.50 (for youth and adults) and can be purchased online at www. PGATOUR.com/theplayers.

ves marketplace and risk management company of futures and options, has signed a three-year agreement to be the title sponsor for the last tournament at the Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando.

The Inaugural CME Group Titleholders will serve as the Tour’s season finale and will be comprised of a field made up of three qualifiers from every official LPGA tournament in 2011.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

header cmaa

By Jennifer Jolly

Fitness Centers at Country Clubs Provide Significant Competitive Advantage

here golf continues to be king at most country clubs here in Florida, state of the art Fitness Centers are proving to make the difference when it comes to membership sales and retention. More and more clubhouse renovations are adding or expanding space for fitness centers and their related programs as health and wellness are amongst the top reasons new members are choosing one club over another with similar profiles. And this trend is expected to continue. According to the American Council on Exercise, consumers are ready to focus on improving their overall health. An increase is expected in personal training as well as value-added wellness services such as nutritional counseling by registered dieticians, youth-based fitness curriculums and a continued trend toward buddy or small group work outs such as boot camps, Zumba, TRX Suspension and interval training. This information is mirrored by the American College of Sports Medicine, also citing boot camp workouts, strength training and core exercises as top trends in 2011. Successful fitness programs at country clubs need to incorporate this programming for varying demographics, which can certainly be a challenge as it must fit the needs of all – seniors through youth – what seems to be 10

on the rise and bringing people back is the fun factor. There are two new fun fitness programs hitting centers nationwide, the first is Hula Hooping. Although it may look like it’s all fun and games, a new study has found that hula hooping can provide a serious workout. ACE reports that a 30-minute hooping session burns an average of 210 calories. The calorie expenditure is similar to that provided by boot campstyle workouts, step aerobics and cardio kickboxing. It further found that participants also achieved an average heart rate of 151 beats per minute—84 percent of the age-predicted heart rate

maximum. Although the hoops used in these classes resemble the brightly colored toys first launched by Wham-O in the late 1950s, today’s fitness hoops have a larger diameter and are weighted, which allows users to hoop longer and burn more calories. Curious about the second trend?? Pole Dancing!! It combines vertical gymnastics and dance offering a cardiovascular workout as well as immense toning and flexibility benefits. A novice will burn approximately 250 calories per hour, the same amount as walking a treadmill but a heck of a lot more fun while a more advanced session burns upwards of 420. In addition to the benefits of cardio, major upper body and core strength, are those of self-esteem, confidence and the social factor. Truly a complete health and wellness package combining camaraderie of women while getting a fantastic work out!! No wonder Sawgrass Country Club’s Fitness Director Tim Majure and Fitness Aquatics & Recreation Manager Chris Hill won the coveted “People’s Choice Award” at the 2011 Club Managers Association of America World Conference Idea Fair in Orlando with their “Ladies Night Out” fitness programming, highlighting Pole Dancing and its health and wellness benefits! Chris Hill and Tim Majure

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

golf bachelor header

Matt Vahala

Where were you born? Did you grow up there?

I was born in West Palm Beach Florida, but I was raised in Elkhart Indiana.

Is “acting your age” over rated?

I’d say that depends on your age

What do you do for a living?

I’m a Traveling Sales Rep for Ultimate Golf Seating

What would you like to do for a living?

I’d like to be a pro golfer or rock star. Maybe later I’d be president for a term or two.

What’s your take on “cuddling”?

Not the most exciting thing, but I suppose it has its place.

What’s the most effective way you’ve discovered to check out a hot woman without her, or anyone else noticing? Sunglasses are invaluable

Steak, chicken, or seafood?

I like it all, steak is my favorite.

What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course?

People not fixing their ball marks. It only takes a second, and it keeps the greens nicer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy?

I think love is the most important, but I also think it’s important to strive for all three.

Name three movie stars you would like to go on a date with (one at a time preferably). Alexis Dziena, Jenna Fischer, and Tina Fey, she cracks me up

Boxers or Briefs?

Boxer-briefs and I usually sleep in boxers.

Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?

I like both in a good balance to be honest. If I stay in too much I get bored, if I’m going out too much I’ll just want to stay in for the night?

Have you ever witnessed sex on the links?

“I saw 2 fat bikers having sex in the woods, how am I supposed to chip with that going on?”–Shooter McGavin

Favorite comedian?

Lately I’ve been watching a lot of the Ricky Gervais show, I like most comedy I see. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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cart header girl

Brittny Silke Where did you grow up? Scarborough, Maine What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch?

My favorite sport to play is lacrosse. I currently am playing for the University of Central Florida Knights. My favorite to watch would definitely be hockey. I love the constant action and aggressiveness of the players. My favorite team is the Boston Bruins! Go B’s!

Do you enjoy playing golf? Are they’re any golfers in your family? I do enjoy playing golf although I’m not very good at it. Nine out of ten times I miss the ball, haha. Everyone in my family plays golf, I usually tag along to drive the cart, clearly my specialty.

If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t a cart girl I would love to be hiking the Appalachian Trail. I’ve hiked a lot of the northern part but would love to finish all the way through Georgia.

What hobbies do you enjoy? I am an avid skier. I started when I was 3 years old and this is the first year that I haven’t been or seen snow!

What is your idea of “the perfect date”? For me, the

perfect date would be anything relaxing with just me and a guy, or any sporting event. I love sports so it’s something that we could enjoy together. I’m extremely independent so when I get taken care of it sweeps me off my feet. I guess you could say I’m a hopeless romantic. Oh, and chocolate and roses are good too.

Favorite type of movie? My favorite movie for sure is

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate factory, the original. I love the playfulness of it. A close second is the Pirates of the Caribbean series. Love Johnny Depp. Favorite type of movie I can’t really specify. I like anything that can hold my attention. As long as it’s not a half animation, half real film. Those drive me crazy.

Favorite charity to support? When I was a cheerleader in

high school we did a lot of volunteering and fundraising for the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital in Portland, Maine. The kids there are adorable! Everyone should help support them.

If you could travel anywhere where would it be and why? I would definitely travel to Australia. I’ve always wanted to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and see a lemon shark. I’ve also wanted to go to Dubai and ski indoors, then go ride a camel!

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

special events header Fresh out of cheerleading camp, the Quality Brands boys: Dave Evans, Wounded Warrior Zach Hudson, Mike Kunderman, Guy Rette, and Dan Smith

Defending Freedom Warrior Weekend Dr. John M. Hill MD and son John Jr. say enough’s enough, throw the clubs away, and move on to heavy artillery.

community supporters. Last year’s tournament was the largest yet with all proceeds going directly to programs helping our wounded soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan. WWP provides programs and services to severely injured service members during the time between active duty and transition to civilian life. This year the tournament will host 45 Wounded

he Defending Freedom Warrior

Warriors and pair each soldier with

Weekend will kick off its 5th an-

a foursome to introduce the injured

nual golf tournament to benefit the

men and women to golf as a reha-

Wounded Warrior Project (WWP)

bilitative lifestyle. It is not too late to

Saturday, April 16, 2011 at Pelican Bay

“It’s in the hole!” Wounded Warrior Jonathan Pruden making his putt.

join in the camaraderie, food, fun activities between holes, great prizes and

North Course in Daytona Beach. In previous years event sponsor Complete Parachute Solutions, led

Chairmen Bob Booth and Quin Booth joined by Don Booth, Wounded Warrior Andy Butterworth, and special soldier Eric Hopton

giveaways mixed in with the occasional golf shot that make this event one of a kind. www.cpswarriorweekend.org

by Chairmen Bob Booth and Quin Booth, has raised approximately $65,000 in direct monetary support for the WWP in addition to over $200,000 of donated services and goods from 16

To participate in or sponsor this event please email us at cpswarriorweekend@gmail.com or contact Quin Booth at 786-487-8114 and Bob Booth at 386-451-2972

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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special events header

Photos by Mike Coonan

Tavistock 2011.... Walk 18 In Their Golf Shoes

avistock 2011...The smile is back in golf. The annual Tavistock Golf Tournament is what professional golf and competitive sports should be all about. It was fun. It was exciting, intense, colorful and enjoyable for everyone. In the two-day competition held on March 14th and 15th at Isleworth in Orlando, Florida, four teams consisting of twenty-four of the world’s best golfers competed against each other for a purse of $2 million and bundles of money for charity. They displayed their skills to the delight of their invited family, friends and neighbors in a goodnatured, neighborhood grudge match that has become known as “The Event.” David Feherty from the Golf Channel set the tone as he announced the pairings on the first tee. He had the fans and the players roaring with his hilarious insights, off-color comments and politically incorrect observations of the players, while each golfer was preparing to tee off. On the second day, Feherty’s Irish stream of consciousness was teamed up with the dry humor of Gary McCord from the Golf Channel. They double-teamed the golfers to the delight of the fans and the players. No David Feherty

Joe Lewis, Principal Investor of the Tavistock Group and Gary McCord one and nothing was safe from their comments. Even Tiger Woods and Ernie Els could barely contain themselves while preparing to tee off. It was a rare moment in the highest level of competitive sports when two of the best players in the world could hardly compose themselves as they prepared to tee off against a backdrop of non-stop, good natured ribbing. Feherty and McCord set the tone. Tavistock set the stage. It was heartwarming to watch and be a part of this event. It was a rare treat to see the players relax and let their guards down while on the course. Tiger Woods could not contain his smile and laughter. It was good to see both because they have been so rare in the last year. Ernie Els’ grin was bigger than life. His kindness, grace and charm were never more evident as he prepared to tee off while trying to tune out the wisecracks. The “up-close and personal” nature of the Tavistock event set the tone for fans and players alike. While the atmosphere in the crowd and on the course was softly comfortable, Isleworth’s beautiful course was unforgiving and challenging. However, the players had as much fun as the fans. This is in stark contrast to the golfers’ experiences week in and week out, on tour. Golf is the only sport in which the player must excel in order to be paid. There are no real guarantees in golf. Professional golfers sink or swim, live

and in-color in our living rooms, four days a week as their every move is televised around the world. Professional golf was TV’s first reality show. Touring golfers are literally blanketed from sunrise to sunset by a host of media and countless cameras. The media analyze their swings, their clubs, their shoes, their fashion, their haircuts, their style or lack thereof, their personal lives, and their psyche. There is no subject about a professional golfer that is off limits, apparently. Think about it. Look at Tiger Woods. For the last year there was no other golfer or golf swing on earth that was inspected, dissected, bisected or otherwise critiqued by the best and the worst in golf sports media. The news stories about Tiger’s ACL reconstruction surgery on his left knee are reported in such fine detail that medical textbooks are being written based upon segments aired on the Golf Channel. (Just kidding!) We had better hope that Tiger does not develop any prostate problems, because some sports channels would need to get a “Mature Viewer” rating for airing these segments! Imagine if you are in contention on a late Sunday afternoon in a major PGA event. You are coming down 17th and 18th holes within a stroke of success or failure. The future of your family rests on your shoulders. You then have a mind altering experience. You are required to hear the broadcaster’s commentary about your game, your caddy Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

pundits would play 18 holes of golf. Their every step, every swing and every putt would be humorously and critically reviewed and analyzed in agonizingly slow motion with enhanced digital animation, especially when they are not able to find their ball. This event would be taped for TV. The tournament would be played to benefit Florida Golf Central’s charity, Left Behind in the USA. The proceeds would be used to help the 350,000 children and adults

Ernie Els and your personal life as you prepare for your next shot. Imagine reading or watching on TV a vivid description of your dismal future prospects because your shot got away and you came in second place. Too often the press can be unkind. Here is the lead about Tavistock from a Golfweek story by Brian Lavner: “On a sun-drenched afternoon behind the gates at Isleworth, 24 of the world’s best (golfers) played a meaningless, made-for-TV exhibition in front of a couple thousand residents, sponsors and invitees. For Tiger Woods, golf’s great curiosity, it was yet another round under the microscope.” Au contraire, Mr. Lavner. Tavistock has raised more than $6 million dollars for charity....hardly a meaningless sum. Hmmm. moving forward to November, at the end of a long touring season, the players deserve a break. We think it is only fair that professional golfers have a shot at the media who have made their lives so interesting over the previous 11 months. It is time to give the analysts, commentators, broadcasters, writers, swing doctors and the like a taste of their own medicine. We have an idea which could make the holidays much more special for professional golfers. This is how we would do it: Florida Golf Central Magazine proposes, “A Very Special Golf Tournament”. This would be held in mid- November 2011, on the Monday following the last PGA tournament which happens to be the Children’s Miracle Network Classic in Orlando. In this event, broadcasters, commentators, analysts, swing doctors, golf coaches, print media and other the Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Tiger Woods with a developmental disability lingering on waiting lists for support services all across the country. While the pundits play a round of golf they would be followed by cameras, touring pros, fans and family. This event would be a made-for-TV special, presented by the Golf Channel to be broadcast it in eight one-hour segments over the Christmas holidays. PGA players would be in the booth and on the course working as broadcasters, commentators swing doctors, analyst and pundits. To make the event more interesting each media foursome would also include a golf coach/ swing doctor, celebrity/politicians and an upcoming junior golfer. For example our ideal first foursome would be Johnny Miller (Mr. Understate-

ment), President Barack Obama, (The First Golfer) Hank Haney (The Project Coach) and up and coming 15 year old junior golfer, JJ Qualkenbush (Left Behind in the USA Junior Spokesman). The other parings might feature media personalities including: Nick Faldo, David Feherty, Jeff Rude, Jim Nance, Peter Kostis, Brandel Chamblee, Frank Nobilo, Kelly Tilghman, Mike Tirico, Jamie Diaz, Gary McCord, etc. Celebrities/politicians might include, Donald Trump, Rush Limbaugh, Michael Jordan and Lauren Roberts, etc. The junior golfers (boys and girls) will be the best young golfers under 16 years of age to round out the foursomes. It would be great theater. We envision a six hour, movable roast staring PGA players such as Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Paula Creamer, Arnold Palmer, Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, Natalie Gulbis, Fred Couples, Davis Love, Ian Poulter, Greg Norman to name a few. All we need is for the Golf Channel to buy into this concept, and the pros and personalities mentioned above to jump on board. When they do that the touring pros will have their shining moment and the people with autism, mental retardation/intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy who have been on waiting lists for years all over the country will also have a much more Merry Christmas. It is fitting that the A Very Special Golf Tournament will be played at Disney World...Where Dreams Can Come True. Riley Stevens is one of 370,000 on the waiting list with no hope for help in the foreseeable future

By David Daubert

improving performance header

The World’s First Self-Correcting Golf Ball We

participated in Golfweek’s Golfests the first three months of 2011. In January, at Champions Gate near Orlando, a company by the name of Polara Golf was selling these new golf balls that they claimed would correct hooks and slices up to 75%. This claim really intrigued me but I didn’t get a chance to hit any there, so when Golfest moved to Tampa Bay Downs in February, Jamie McWilliams (a 5 handicap) from Video Stream Productions and I made it a point to visit Polara Golf on the driving range and see for ourselves whether or not these golf balls really do what they claim. All the big golf club and golf ball manufacturers have advertised at some point that their drivers or balls will correct mis-hits, or help you hit the ball straighter, but I haven’t really seen much of a difference when I’ve tested these products in the past. In Tampa I met with Dave Felker, PhD, the Head of Technology for Polara Golf and former V.P. of Research and Development for the Callaway Golf Ball Co., who helped me understand the Self-Correcting Technology of the dimple pattern he developed and exactly how the Polara golf corrects hooks and slices up to 75%. The asymmetrical dimple pattern and the different size and depth of the dimples are the key to how the Polara golf ball self-corrects, while in flight, and maintains a straighter path. “It’s just simple physics,”

states Dr. Felker, who utilized the Wind Tunnel at Princeton University to test the Polara as well as other manufacturers’ golf balls. In independent robot testing performed by Golf Laboratories in San Diego, CA and supervised by Richard Levine, Professor of Math and Statistics at San Diego State University, the Polara golf ball went head to head against the #1 ball in golf and another well known high performance ball and the dispersion rate of the Polara ball was demonstrably less each and every time. Jamie and I hit some regular range balls first to get warmed up and see what our normal ball flight was that day. Then it was time to try the Polara Ultimate Straight golf ball. Since I am such a duffer, I watched as Jamie tried to draw and fade drives with the Polara ball, which is normally pretty easy for him to do. Amazingly, the Polara ball kept going straight. No matter how hard Jamie tried, he couldn’t draw or fade the Polara ball when the alignment arrow was on top and pointed towards his target. Jamie even said “this is a great ball for people who want to hit it straight.” Now, for the true test, it’s time to see if the Polara ball will correct MY slice. Aim left, and hope my slice brings it back to the fairway, is my usual swing thought. After a few shots that stayed left, because I was aimed that way, thinking I needed to compensate for

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Impressive views aren’t limited to our beach.

my normal slice, I decided to line up for a straight shot, and sure enough, the Polara golf ball corrected my slice, almost completely, and the ball flew relatively straight. I couldn’t believe it…it actually works! I finally found a product that actually does what the manufacturer claims it will do! After hitting a few more drives, with some of the different clubs they had on hand, I noticed that using a higher lofted driver gave me a better ball flight and the most distance. Dr. Felker explained that a higher loft driver works best with the Polara golf ball because of its low lift and reduced drag characteristics. You also want to make sure that you have the alignment arrow on the ball pointed towards the target. For me, with this new Polara ball, that will be the fairway! What does this mean to recreational golfers like me? Well, it means we can enjoy the game more, and it will speed up play because we won’t be searching for lost balls in the water or the woods or the next fairway over. I guess I can leave my ball retriever at home. We can finally learn to play golf from the short grass, because that’s where our drives will land from now on. What a concept- playing from the fairway - the correct fairway! I think the Polara Self-Correcting golf ball is going to change the game of golf for the recreational golfer…that’s how effective this technology is. There are two types of Polara self correcting balls available; the 2-piece Ultimate Straight and the 3-piece Ultimate Straight XS for extra spin available at www.polaragolf.com or call 866556-3100. The Polara golf balls are also now available at Steve’s World of Golf stores throughout Florida, in golf courses like Erroll Estates in Apokpa, Scotland Yards in Dade City, Buckhorn Springs in Valrico and the Steve’s store in Hudson. Save Your Game - Buy Polara. What can you lose— certainly not your balls.

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Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

21 NBH26472 FlGolfCentralad.indd 1

3/16/11 9:56 AM

golf buisiness header Hampton Golf manages nearly 20 18-hole championship golf courses throughout the Southeast, including Southern Hills Plantation.

Hampton Golf Doubles in Size, Experiences Tremendous Growth With Matchless Service Offerings

uring the past two years, golf management company Hampton Golf has experienced significant growth in both the number of courses it manages and the number of employees added to the company’s roster. Since 2008, Hampton Golf has doubled the number of golf courses it manages from nine to 18.

Holdings, LLC, has on-site team members at each facility it manages while tee time bookings, phone answering, data and credit collection, outreach programs and customer service are handled through one call center location in Jacksonville. Use of the customized center has resulted in significant cost savings and increased

The company has also increased its number of employees from 500 to more than 1,200, 40 of which are PGA professionals. Hampton Golf is now one of the top 20 management companies in the world. Executives with the company credit Hampton Golf’s inimitable service offerings, creativity and management style for its success. “The development of our unique centralized customer service center in Jacksonville has revolutionized the golfing industry and has greatly contributed to our ability to provide the best management services for our clients,” said M.G. Orender, president and CEO of Hampton Golf. “Our growth over the last several years has

membership for a number of Hampton Golf’s clients. Hampton Golf manages more than 15 lifestyle clubhouse facilities, spas and residential communities, along with nearly 20 18-hole championship golf courses throughout the Southeast, including Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. The company operates a Hampton Golf Academy at several client locations, which has a PGAcertified professional on staff and offer facilities for putting, chipping and driving, as well as practice bunkers. For more information about Hampton Golf and its golf course clubs, visit www.hamptongolfclubs.com, www.whyhamptongolf.com or call (904) 564-9129.

M. G. Orender is president and CEO of Hampton Golf, which has more than doubled operations and number of employees during the last two years.

been noteworthy, and we foresee it continuing as clients need assistance in generating non-traditional revenue, minimizing expenses, increasing play and ramping up membership.” Hampton Golf, which was cofounded in 1998 by Orender and Ed Burr, president of GreenPointe

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 12, Issue 1

cuisine on theheader green

Pliable Pinots Pack Powerful Punch

hen I was originally asked to

about his wines. I chose the whole

write a feature about a recent

package … Spanish and Californian,

event held at my club, I knew

anything to make my colleague stop

exactly what I was going to write about.

talking! What I didn’t expect was to

My team and I had just had the amaz-

become completely captivated with

ing opportunity and distinct pleasure

the story of the wines, in particular

to work beside former White House

the complexity of their Pinot Noirs.

Executive Chef Walter Scheib. The

Carlos introduced me to six different

culinary team was blessed with three

vineyards, all within the California

days of side by side menu design, meal

central coastline and each producing a

preparation and a host of “insider” sto-

distinctly unique profile.

ries about the “First Families” from 1994

Now, back to the bulls … the Miura

through 2005. The service team pulled

bull, hailing from Carlos’ home prov-

off a flawless synchronized service

ince of Seville, made their first fight-

performance for a seven course meal,

ing debut in Madrid in 1849 … enter

after months of early morning “dress

Miura’s Master Sommelier Emmanuel

rehearsals”, that if part of an Olym-

Kemiji, born in the United States but

pic competition would have certainly

raised in his mother’s native Madrid …

yielded all “10s”. The event was such a

coincidence?? Maybe but I think these

success with the membership that we

men were destined to develop this

sold out the venue … twice! We even

label together, but what do I know, I’m

made the local paper “A Taste of the

just the “Dining Gal” J Emmanuel is

White House on the First Coast”, yet

impressive in his own rite … being the

that event, although in my “Top 10” is

13th American to earn the Master Som-

not the one I would like to share with

melier designation and only the 7th to

you today.

pass on the first attempt certainly earns

Instead, we’re going to talk about a wine dinner. Not just any wine dinner

Grilled Octpus

him unquestionable credibility but it is his style and elegance that keeps you

mind you, this one features the beauti-

Miura Vineyards. What’s so special

engaged. He has a charming, unas-

fully diverse Pinot Noirs developed by

about these boutique vineyards over all

suming way about him that instantly

the others?? Well, let’s start with the

puts you at ease, allowing you to focus

name and the proprietors. The name

on the complex subject matter at hand

is derived from Don Eduardo Miura,

… and Pinot Noir is complex that’s for

the famous breeder of Spanish fight-

sure … possibly the most difficult vari-

ing bulls synonymous with nobility,

etal to produce wines from, which again

boldness and power. These very special

speaks to the incredible talent and skill

bulls hail from the province of Seville

behind Miura’s portfolio.

… enter Miura Marketing Guru Carlos

And now, the wines … in Emmanuel’s

Blythe.

own words, “Philosophically I choose

That’s really where this story begins

the vineyards that we work with from

anyway … at a wine show hosted by

my experience as a buyer for The Ritz-

Premier Beverage at the Hard Rock

Carlton. I decided to focus Miura Vine-

Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida

yards on Pinot Noir (my favorite variety

this past October. It was one of those

and probably that of 90% of all somme-

moments you always remember … my

liers!) and asked myself what were the

ear was being chewed off by an overly

best regions for Pinot Noir in California

chatty colleague and there, across a

and within each of those regions what

crowded room, was a tall, dark and

vineyard best exemplifies that region

handsome stranger poised and ready

qualitatively and stylistically.

to teach me whatever I wanted to know

The Williams Ranch, which belongs

Chef du Cuisine Micah Windham 24

By Jennifer Jolly, CMAA Food & Beverage Director Sawgrass Counntry Club

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

left to right Chef du Cuisine Micah Windham, Van Walker, Phillip Eckert, Executive Chef Perry Kenney to Burt Williams (ex-owner of Williams

diametrically opposed to the Williams

shows how high the quality of Pinots is

& Selyem- the first cult Pinot producer in

Ranch.

in this area and yet gives us a wine of

California) is from the Anderson Valley,

The Monterey County appellation Pinot

great value.”

the coolest growing region in California

which comes from the Mission Ranch,

The third charm of the Miura label is

that produces lighter, more aromatic,

Emmanuel’s college roommate, wine-

more elegant Pinots (i.e. more Burgundi-

maker Bryon Kosuge. Unfortunately I did

an-like) than any other region in Califor-

not have an opportunity to meet Bryon …

nia.

maybe in the fall when we host a second

Silacci, Garys’ and Pisoni all hail from

dinner, this time focusing on their Span-

the Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey

ish portfolio. Or perhaps I’ll just have to

County, and this tiny region (it is only

make a special trip out to visit my new

about 20 miles long and is probably

favorite winemaking team and their

no more than a mile wide) is the most

prized Pinots!

talked about area for Pinot in all of

When the evening was over, I was im-

California. Silacci is the northernmost vineyard on the highlands and the coolest spot, Pisoni the southernmost and the

Master Sommelier Emmanuel Kemiji with Marketing Guru Carlos Bylthe

mediately reminded of a very over used but appropriate quote by Vanity Fair’s Joel Fleischman with respect to Pinot Noir,

warmest (almost 10 degrees warmer

“the most romantic of wines, with

on an average day, while Garys’ lies

so voluptuous a perfume, so sweet

right in the middle of the two. All

an edge, and so powerful a punch

3 sites are planted with the Pisoni

that, like falling in love, they make

clone and Gary Pisoni is involved in

the blood run hot and the soul wax

the ownership and management of

embarrassingly poetic.”

all 3 vineyards so what you have here

is how much Pinot varies in style

ing an event with Miura Vine-

from place to place with many factors

yards and their wines, please

being the same. No other grape shows

contact Miura Vineyards directly

this variance to this extent and these

at miuravineyards@yahoo.com or

3 wines prove that.

call 707.566.7739. To order or try

The Talley Vineyard lies in the

their wines, please contact your

southern part of San Luis Obispo County in the Arroyo Grande Valley and provides us with a very fullbodied and intense style of Pinot, Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Master Sommelier Emmanuel Kemiji, Sawgrass Member Wendell and Food & Beverage Director Jennifer Jolly

If you are interested in host-

local Premier Beverage representative or Premier’s State of Florida Business Manager Scott Pyles at Scott_Pyles@Premier-Bev.com. 25

By Jay Golden, PGA

leader on theheader links

A True Hispanic Leader R

udy Martinez-Rodriguez comes from Hispanic golf royalty as he the nephew of World Golf Hall of Fame member, “Chi Chi” Rodriguez. Rudy is a “Leader On The Links” because he is followed by many golfers from the Hispanic community. Additionally, he looks forward to introducing the great game of golf to many more Hispanics. Among his credentials are: President and founder of the Puerto Rico Golf Federation President of the Puerto Rico Federation of Professional Golfers President and founder of the Puerto Rico Golf Teachers Federation President and founder of the Dominican Republic Golf Teachers Federation Master Teaching Golf Professional President of the Hispanic America Federation of Golf Creator of the Holistic Teaching Method for Better Golf There are many reasons why Rudy Martinez-Rodriguez is a leader. Among them are the core values that his program teaches to children. They are: 1] Courtesy 2] Honesty 3] Sportsmanship 4] Responsibility 5] Integrity 6] Respect 7] Judgment 8] Perseverance 9] Confidence Where does Rudy teach? “The Hispanic population has two outstanding facilities to play and to learn golf in Spanish or English. They are located at Remington and Kissimmee Bay,” says Rudy. Additionally, there are junior summer golf programs at these two golf courses. I would please like it known that the owners of these facilities, the Stine family, are my dear friends since 1981. The Stine family cares about the Hispanic community and has a profound interest in the future development of our children. There will be a bilingual adult and junior golf programs held at Remington Golf Course this summer.” Rudy also has a program for children at risk and children with a grade average of 2.00 or less. “We teach our students about the Declaration of Independence, The US Constitution and America’s Christian heritage. We teach why they should love the United States of America.” Here’s another interesting fact that should motivate Puerto Rican golfers. As

the art of teaching golf. I will be presenting certification courses to become a golf instructor to the Hispanic population. Perhaps you could help develop the next “Chi-Chi” Rodriguez or Angel Cabrera.”

Rudy explains, “I am proud to announce that as President and founder of the Puerto Rico Golf Federation, I will be responsible to name the Puerto Rican Team for the 2016 Olympic Games. My uncle, Chi-Chi Rodriguez, has been selected as the Captain. All Puerto Rican golfers living in the US are eligible to participate in the National Ranking System.” Are there any Hispanic teachers out there? Rudy explains, “I would like to mention that we are looking for teachers if you are of Hispanic origin and desire to dedicate part time – or full time - to

THE MARTINEZ RODRIGUEZ METHOD OF GOLF IS A WAY OF LIFE “For many years I played golf and enjoyed the game because it is so similar to the game of life. With its many obstacles, struggles, victories, conflicts, and blessings, if you are not modest about your abilities when you start playing the game, it won’t take long for you to assume a role of humility.” “What are some other comparisons between golf and life? In golf there is the issue of the proper stance. The stance dictates everything. In life, too, you and I will always assume some kind of stance. A stand for what we believe, for how we’ll live our life and for what kind of legacy we’ll want to leave behind. Do you have a ‘correct’ stance? “As a Master Teaching Golf Professional, I am aware of different kinds of grips. In life it is no different. We will all grip something and we will be gripped by something or someone. The question that I ask students is, “Do you have a correct grip on your life?” “One thing I stress is to keep your eye on the ball. That’s the cardinal rule in every sport. I know how important religion and family are to the Hispanic population and we must give it our undivided attention. It was through this belief that the Declaration of Independence was founded.” “Nothing matters in the game of golf and to the growing Central Florida Hispanic population, if we do not follow the rules. To become a true American citizen, one must learn about American history and to follow the rules of the American culture. As in the sport of golf, any violation of the rules brings a penalty. Through education we will learn the American way of life. “ “I am grateful for the courtesy Florida Golf Central Magazine has offered me to communicate to the Hispanic golfing community.” Email; golfpro@rudyholisticgolf.com Web-site www.rudyholisticgolf.com.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

leader on theheader limks

Doc Suttie celebrates a decade at TwinEagles

Doc Suttie: Dr. Jim Suttie and The Suttie Golf Academy are celebrating their 10th winter season at TwinEagles Club in Naples.

he Suttie Golf Academy is celebrating its 10th winter season at TwinEagles Club in Naples. World-renowned instructor Dr. Jim Suttie hosts the interactive, technologically advanced school, showing golfers how to shave strokes off their games. Suttie’s decades of motor-learning and biomechanical research – he holds a doctorate in biomechanics – helped him develop some of golf’s most revolutionary teaching methods and made him one of the most sought after teachers in America. His student roster includes PGA and Champions Tour stars Loren Roberts, Paul Azinger, Chip Beck, Mark Wilson and Derek Lamely.

Suttie training facility: Dr. Jim Suttie hosts his interactive, technologically advanced school at TwinEagles Club in Naples.

Amateur golfers and casual players ready to take their games to the next level benefit from the same personal instruction, high-tech equipment and teaching expertise. “Our goal is to help each golfer develop the best swing possible while having fun,” said Suttie. “Each gets the same advice and guidance we give the pros, without intimidation or embarrassment.” The academy is housed at the southern end of the practice facility at the TwinEagles Club to give Suttie’s

students privacy. Students can hit from time Illinois PGA Teacher of the Year inside the enclosed hitting bay, which and was the 2000 PGA of America’s has a retractable wall, onto the driving National Teacher of the Year. In 2009, range. Golf Magazine named Suttie one of “TwinEagles has been a great venue 16 Emeritus Members of the Top 100 for the academy,” said Suttie. “The club Teachers, making him a permanent is supportive, Naples appreciates great member of the prestigious list. golf, and we’ve built a strong network “We are so proud to have a teacher during our decade here.” of Doc’s caliber at TwinEagles,” said the Suttie’s state-of-the-art instructional community’s General Manager Dick building houses his signature Golf McPhail. “Southwest Floridians are Training Session technology that fortunate to have access to him. For a matches swing to body type to improve couple of hundred dollars, they can take the games of golfers at all levels. Each advantage of the experience and skills student’s swing is monitored on the of a teacher who improves the games TrackMan, the best launch monitor and of the pros they watch on weekend swing analysis software available. television.” “Our technology improves the golf Suttie’s TwinEagles academy is one swing and helps people quickly and of only two operated by the celebrated efficiently break their bad habits,” said teacher. The other is in his summer Suttie. Multiple cameras record various residence near Chicago. angles of a student’s swing, and floor The 11-acre TwinEagles practice mounted monitors with split-screen facility has a short-game complex technology allow Suttie to match Doc Suttie’s PGA students include Paul Azinger (left) and Chip Beck (center). the student’s body type and swing style to a professional’s, included in his library of 5,000 digital swings. The academy offers training sessions, private lessons and accelerated programs covering different aspects of the game, all with computer analysis, takeand a dual-ended driving range with home DVDs and one-on-one instruction seven target greens adjacent to the with Suttie. The Full Swing Training club’s first golf course, The Talon, coSession provides drills to accelerate designed by Jack and Jack Nicklaus II. improvement; the Short Game Training The club’s second course, the Aerie, is Session emphasizes scoring within 100 being redesigned by course architect yards and uses video comparisons with Steve Smyers and co-designer Patrick tour professionals; and the Science and Andrews, with a grand reopening Motion PuttLab employs sound waves to planned later this year. create a precise numerical snapshot of a TwinEagles is located on Immokalee student’s putt. Road in Naples, approximately three “The PuttLab is a very good tool miles east of Collier Boulevard (SR 951). for the average golfer,” said Suttie. The master-planned community has “Everybody’s interested in the swing, but roughly 1,115 acres, with homes and most strokes occur around the green. recreational amenities surrounded by Thirty minutes with the PuttLab can more than 300 acres of open green space. make a big difference in your game.” For more information, call 239-354-1700, Suttie has more than 30 years or visit www.twineagles.com. To learn teaching experience and is No.16 on more about the Suttie Golf Academy, call the Golf Digest “America’s 50 Greatest 239-354-1724 or 800-765-3838, or log onto Teachers” list for 2009-2010, is a threewww.JimSuttie.com.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

celebrity header corner

South Florida’s biggest names in sports

Mark Higgs (former Dolphin), Oronde Gadsden (former Dolphin), Eric Reid, Lorenzo Hampton (former Dolphin) , Tony Fiorentino Sun Sports HEAT TV broadcasters, Eric Reid and Tony Fiorentino joined more than 50 of today’s biggest names in sport for the annual Reid & Fiorentino Celebrity Golf Classic Presented by SHARP that took place at the prestigious Fairmont Turnberry Isle Resort & Club in Aventura, FL. With near perfect weather conditions throughout the day, the tournament kicked-off the two-day fund raising event - Reid & Fiorentino Call Of The Game Dinner & Celebrity Golf Classic -benefiting Lauren’s Kids Foundation and the Dade Schools

Ron and Lauren Book 30

Athletic Foundation, as a total of 56 foursomes took to the two exclusive championship courses for an enjoyable day of competitive golf and oncourse refreshments. As participants gathered at end of the day during the post-golf awards reception, Ron Book gave a touching speech, alongside Eric Reid and Tony Fiorentino, to commemorate the work of his daughter, Lauren Book, and Lauren’s Kids Foundation, before a series of sports merchandise and memorabilia prizes were handed-out during the post-tournament raffle. Competition winners were awarded custom-made Reid & Fiorentino cut-glass trophies, with first place going the team made up of Eddie Hill, Bryan Salter, Darrell Malone, Reggie Givens and “Dancing Joe” Parrinello. 2nd place was awarded to Mark Higgs, Blair Byrnes, Bobby Cahal, Aaron Knafo and Ki Jana Carter, with 3rd place presented to Bruce Keir, Doug Donn, Bob Ethridge, Mike Stiber, Jr. and Bob Brudzinski. The 4th place prize was awarded to Charlie DeLuca, Irv Goldstein, Jim Kiely, Mike Stern and Jeff Cross, with the “Most Honest” golfing prize going to the team of Joseph Quigly, Sal Emma, Kathy Korenbaum, Randall Hill and John Bock. Tony Fiorentino commented

on this year’s Golf Classic: “We couldn’t have asked for better weather during this year’s Celebrity Golf Classic. We had a great turn-out and the tournament included some of today’s greatest athletes that gave the day a nice competitive edge. The sports and South Florida community ultimately came together for a most enjoyable day of golf that will benefit our kids in the community and throughout the region.” “Our first event for this year’s

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Walter Briggs with Dean Baker fundraiser was a huge success,” said Eric Reid. “Seeing the room filled with all our friends and supporters over the years during the evening awards reception shows how committed the community is to helping our youth in South Florida. We thank everyone involved for making this year’s Golf Classic the best yet.” This year’s participating celebrity team captains included: Cornelius Bennet (Colts/Bills/Falcons), Woody Bennett

(former NFL/Dolphins), Benny Blades (former NFL/Dolphins), Craig Minervini (Detroit Lions/UM), Kim Bokamper (Florida Panthers), George Mira (former (former NFL/Dolphins), Walter Briggs NFL/UM), Nat Moore (Miami Dolphins), (New York Jets), Ki Jana Carter (Cincinnati Alonzo Mourning (former Miami HEAT), Bengals), John Congemi (ESPN College Jose Paneda (Miami HEAT), Tony Segreto, Football Analyst), Jeff Cross (former NFL/ Dwight Stephenson (Hall of Famer), Troy Dolphins), John Crotty (Miami HEAT), Stradford (former NFL/Dolphins), Steve Troy Drayton (former NFL/Dolphins), AJ Whitaker (New York Yankees/Giants), Duhe (former NFL/Dolphins), Mark Duper Gino Torretta (former NFL/WQAM), Footy (former NFL/Dolphins), Sean Clancy, Jeff (radio personality), Mr. Jai Alai, as well Faulkner, Darrell Fullington (Minnesota as Chad Henne among other Miami DolVikings/UM), Reggie Givens (former phins players. NFL/San Francisco 49ers), David Graf For further information, visit (Cleveland Browns), Nicole Hage (LPGA www.reidandfiorentinoevents.com player), Bobby Harden (Dolphins/ UM), John Harris (Seattle Seahawks), Tommy Hutton (Florida Marlins), Mike Inglis (Miami HEAT), Jason Jackson (Miami HEAT), Jim Leyritz (New York Yankees), Bill Lindsey (Florida Panthers), Larry Little (Hall of Famer), Darrell Malone Melvin Roane, Bill Diggs, Alonzo Mourning, (former NFL/DolVincent Dimmock and Rhahime Bell phins), OJ McDuffe

Doug Spencer 15th Annual Golf Challenge Friday, May 20, 2011 • Falcon’s Fire Golf Club • 12 noon Registration • 6 pm Dinner Ready to play this game like never before?

Take the Challenge! Help provide shelter, meals, job skills training, education, and children’s services to homeless individuals and families, giving them a hand-up to a better life.

See how many holes you can play in five hours! Golfers commit to raising a minimum of $1,500 through per-hole or flat pledges — all to benefit Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. Every golfer wins a prize! Brad Brewer

Golfers and Sponsors contact: 407.426.1265 or debbie.leon@cflhomeless.org

Honorary Chair, PGA & Top 100 Teacher Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

benefiting:

www.centralfloridahomeless.org 31

celebrity corner

They Call Him

Ron White’s 10 Tips for Enjoying Golf

Tater Salad

1. Never play completely sober… never. But you knew that. 2. Know where the drink cart girl is at all times. Better yet just ride with the drink cart girl. Tip big! 3. Use cigar as alignment aid whenever possible.

How often do you play golf? About 4 times a week. Both on tour, and when I am at home in Montecito, CA or Atlanta.

omedian Ron “Tater Salad” White is best known as the cigar smoking, scotch drinking funnyman from the “Blue Collar Comedy” phenomenon. But with two Grammy nominations, a Gold Record, three of the top rated one-hour TV specials in Comedy Central history, a book that appeared on the New York Times Best Seller List, and CD and DVD sales of over 10 Million units, Ron has established himself as a star in his own right. Over the past 5 years he has been one of the top 3 grossing comedians on tour in the United States.

What is your favorite charity to support? The Armed Forces Foundation www.armedforcesfoundation.org. I just did a benefit show for them, at the Grand Ole Opry. What clubs are in your golf bag? TaylorMade What is your handicap? 12 What is your favorite golf tournament to play in? Bob Hope Fantasy foursome? My dad, Arnold Palmer, Jack and Tiger Best round? 78

4. After peeing in the woods, always shake with glove hand. Better yet, have drink cart girl shake for you. Bonus tip: note which way wind is blowing your stream. 5. Never play alone; it leads to questions. 6. Play ready golf. You’re not Tiger Woods, this ain’t the Masters, and I got a drink cart girl to find. 7. Hit till you’re happy on the first, tenth and eighteenth tees. No questions asked. 8. As comfortable as it may look, the green is not a good place for a siesta. 9. Make caddy hold any illegal substance you would normally carry in your man-bag. 10. Only practice short game if out of weed or need to get away from Mrs.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 12, Issue 1

By Ed Gilbert, Head Thinker

thinking header of golf

Photos by

Killing Your Brand Y

ou have spent hundreds of mil-

away from your competition. Most will

tigious country clubs in all of Central

lions of dollars over an extended

cut marketing dollars to increase the

Florida, Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club

period of time building a brand.

bottom line. How is that working out for

& Lodge never wavered in its desire to

This brand means something when

you? Dumb.

protect the brand and image. No fire

the words flow from someone’s mouth.

Don’t prostitute your brand that

sale initiation fees in a down economy.

Mercedes Benz. Jaguar. Tiffany. Rolex.

you worked so hard to establish. Get

They protected the brand and the

Gucci. Callaway. TaylorMade. People

creative. Get professional help. One very

value to their existing and potential

automatically equate an image to those

established restaurant in Winter Park

member base. That is how it should be

commodities.

marketed a menu from 20+ years earlier

done. They know their market and they

You could even localize it. Your fa-

celebrating their anniversary. They also

stayed true to that market.

vorite restaurant. Your favorite country

offered their regular menu. Smart idea!

You could say that Bay Hill has an

club. Your favorite golf course. Marketing money is being spent every day to entice people to purchase something and over time, the market has built

Don’t prostitute your brand that you worked so hard to establish. Get creative. Get professional help.

an image of what those

advantage with Arnold Palmer’s name and that has some truth to it. But when you build a brand that stands for something to a particular market, you are far better off

goods and services offer.

Food was ample in portion and consis-

standing firm than one year you have

How long does it take to kill a brand?

tent with their quality and reputation.

changed your demographics and the

Not long. Would a prestigious country

They did not hurt their brand at all

next year you change them again. It

club whose initiation fee was $30,000

while maintaining their customer base.

could take decades to get back to the

at its peak have the same prestige at

Say you are an established 30 year

original market you so warmly coveted.

$3,000? Doubtful. Would a high end au-

old country club known as prestigious

Would you pay $75,000 for a Chevy

tomobile like Mercedes or Jaguar have

but when the economy falls, you drop

Malibu? Not unless you were on crack.

the same prestige if you could buy it

the initiation fee by 80%. I would fire

Would Jaguar offer an automobile at

under $20,000? Not hardly.

you. Better to find a way to increase the

$19,999 brand new? I don’t think so.

The mentality for many today is to

benefits to the existing and new mem-

Both have an audience they have

drop their pants and say: “how much

bers then to say to all those that paid at

established over time and they do a

money do you have? We can make a

a higher level, they have been devalued.

successful job marketing to their re-

deal.” It galls the crap out of me. When

Protect the brand at all costs.

spective established audiences. Don’t

times are tough, you should be spend-

One of the things I admire most

prostitute yourself or your brand. It’s

ing more money to take market share

about one of the oldest and most pres-

just not smart. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Dirt and Grime is a Crime

ountless dollars have been spent on research and technology to make the golfer’s game better; dollars spent by both engineers and players. Most of the emphasis has been on the club, but a fair amount of consideration has been given to balls, shoes and clothes. What about the factors you can’t control? Of course, there is always room for improvement on a swing or a putt but how much time should you spend worrying about dirt and grime? Sport engineers have specifically designed golf balls to counteract resistance during their rotations in mid-air. Golf is a game of precision and any type of buildup on the ball can disrupt the balance and drag the rotation off course. If you have played golf for any length of time, you know that the ball can sometimes seem to have a mind of its own. The longer you play with the same ball, the harder it is to maintain it on course. This is caused by the dirt, mud, and other unseen garbage that gets stuck on the ball. A dirty golf ball can affect many elements of the golf game like roll on a green, flight in the air and contact with the club. When in the air you will not be able to know for sure if the ball is going to go straight, left or right. If you are a scratch player, you might still be able

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

to get fairly good scores, but eventually the dirt and grime builds up on the ball and clogs the dimples. This increases the weight of the ball and destroys the balance. At this point, the ball will be almost impossible to play with and filthy to hold. Gone are the days where golf ball washers are conveniently placed on the course. Even after finding one, there is still the need for some form of towel or handkerchief to dry the ball, since a wet ball attracts dirt faster than a dry one and also affects the center of gravity. Enter BizMark and its unique motion and cleaning method. The BizMark golf ball cleaner replaces traditional cleaning methods and is quickly taking its place as one of the finest golf accessories in the marketplace. The compact, sleek, and functional BizMark

fits comfortably in your pocket and cleans a golf ball quicker and easier than conventional cleaners. Additionally, the BizMark is equipped with a magnetic ball marker that allows players to mark their ball prior to cleaning it on the green. Many BizMark users have experienced a therapeutic grasp while using the cleaner. Golfers at all levels of play routinely note the motion of cleaning the ball simply feels good, is stress relieving and helps relax them, especially before high pressure putts. BizMark makes cleaning easy. All you need is the BizMark golf ball cleaner and some water. Pour some water into the cleaner at the beginning of your round, give it two shakes to get rid of excess water, put it in your pocket and you’re ready to play. The BizMark is completely customizable. Companies, country clubs and charitable organizations have the ability to display their logo on the ball marker and on the body in a variety of styles. The BizMark comes in a variety of colors and metallized finishes. BizMark Golf also offers a wide range of retail packaging options including customized gift boxes and executive gift sets. For more information, or to order the BizMark golf ball cleaner, visit www.bizmarkgolf.com. 35

stay header & play

The Number One Golf Coaching Team in the World

ed by two of the most celebrated coaches on the PGA Tour, Steve Bann and Dale Lynch, Saddlebrook Golf Academy offers the most comprehensive player development and instructional programs to golfers of all abilities. Saddlebrook Golf Academy was the first in America to combine dedicated junior golf training and nationally accredited college-preparatory academics with the founding of Saddlebrook Preparatory School. We invite new and experienced golfers, aspiring juniors, and tour players to the performance-enriched training at Saddlebrook Golf Academy. Come see why the BannLynch coaching approach has developed more top golfers in the world than any other junior program.

Saddlebrook Golf Academy’s Coaching Team Has Developed More Junior Players Into PGA TOUR Professionals Than Any Other Academy Steve Bann and Dale Lynch personally direct the training program at Saddlebrook Golf Academy; they coach and instruct each golf student enrolled at Saddlebrook Preparatory School along with other experienced Academy teaching professionals, Mark Hirschey, Mike Tali, and Rolf DeRegarded as the number one golf coaching team in the world, Bann and Lynch originated a singular approach to training; it is “holistic” by integrating technical, mental, physical, and strategic factors and “Olympic-style” with its focus on building champions. Chosen by the Australian government

in the late 1990’s, Bann and Lynch successfully created a national golf training program responsible for producing more champions than any other program internationally, including three of their current students and PGA TOUR winners Aaron Baddeley, Geoff Ogilvy, and Stuart Appleby. Saddlebrook Golf Academy meets the individual goals of each player through a comprehensive series of instructional programs both on and off the golf course. In August 2011, Saddlebrook Golf Academy will add to the current practice area, opening a newly renovated practice center complete with the most advanced facilities and technologies to enhance golf instruction and player development. These additions include: • 20 acres dedicated to golf instruction • Multiple teeing areas and target greens • Dedicated short game practice areas • Two indoor golf studios with the latest swing analysis technology • An indoor putting lab • A custom club fitting facility and repair center The Saddlebrook Golf Academy continues to offer private lessons as well as many popular instructional programs under the direction of Steve Bann and Dale Lynch, including: • Junior Golf Camps • Play With A Pro • Player Development Program • New Player Academy Just 30 minutes north of Tampa International Airport, Saddlebrook’s secure, gated 480-acre resort features the Golf Academy, as well as two Arnold Palmer signature golf courses; 45 tennis courts, including all four Grand Slam surfaces; a state-of-the-art Fitness Center; a European-style Spa; the half-million gallon Superpool; five award-winning restaurants; and 540 suites and deluxe guest rooms. WWW.SADDLEBROOK.COM.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

GOLF DIGEST & GOLF WORLD

COMING TO orange county national golf center & LODGE april 16-17 - winter garden, FL - www.ocngolf.com 16301 Phil Ritson Way Winter Garden, FL 34787 888.727.3672

DEMO THE LATEST equipment FROM GOLF’S LEADING MANUFACTURERS! Free Admission • Open from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Prize Drawings Enter skills competitions • Free Golf Instruction For more information and event updates, visit www.GolfDigestPromotions.com/buyersguide

GOLF DIGEST & GOLF WORLD

DEMO THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY FROM GOLF’S LEADING MANUFACTURERS >> >

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

COMING TO orange county national golf center and lodge www.ocngolf.com april 16-17, 2011 - winter garden, FL

and others...

feature header

Photos by

Grand Chic

ust 55 miles off the coast of South

prefer the simple pleasure of just lounging

Florida lies a pristine palm-filled para-

by the pool.

dise, Radisson Our Lucaya Resort, Grand

From the moment you walk into the

Bahama Island. Situated on 7.5 magnifi-

Bahamian-chic lobby of Radisson Our Lu-

cent oceanfront acres, here you will find

caya Resort, Grand Bahama Island and look

everything you could possibly wish for in

out to its perfectly manicured lawns and

an idyllic tropical vacation. From sparkling

white-sand shores of the Atlantic Ocean,

pools and an abundant selection of water

you know you have entered a world of pure

sports to exciting dining and entertainment,

relaxation. The resort’s tropically elegant,

our secluded beach setting is just steps from

Caribbean destination. Unlike any other

laid-back atmosphere makes it the ideal

Grand Bahama Island’s most-visited attrac-

resort on the island, we offer our guests up-

choice for all kinds of fun-filled getaways,

tions, including the beautiful and colorful

scale surroundings perfectly complemented

from spring break to a long weekend away

Port Lucaya Marketplace and the world-

by a variety of stimulating recreational and

with the girls. The resort offers the utmost

famous Count Basie Entertainment Square.

dining options. Whether it be fine dining

in casual luxury, with guest accommoda-

At Radisson Our Lucaya Resort, Grand

versus casual, a day trip to the spa or a

tions that are stylish and comfortable with

Bahama Island, we offer a very unique

round of golf, shopping or island excursions

an air of breezy elegance, thoughtful ameni-

resort experience in one exceedingly cool

and adventures, we have it all, even if you

ties and beautiful views of the ocean, lush

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

gardens or the nearby marina. Make a splash in one of four oceanfront resort-style pools. Experience a wide array of water sports, including windsurfing, scuba lessons, jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, and banana boats. Or, swim with the dolphins at The Underwater Explorers Society. For fun on land, we offer tennis on four Grand Slam surfaces, a Las Vegas-style casino, and when it’s time to really unwind, our 25,000-square-foot spa and fitness center offers a full menu of soothing treatments, a cardio theater and a wide selection of fitness classes and equipment. Golfers will appreciate the challenges of two stunning championship courses. Test your accuracy at the 6,824-yard Lucayan course, known for its tree-lined fairways, small elevated greens and trademark Dick Wilson bunkers protecting almost every pin. Experience large undulating greens protected by water, rolling fairways with balldevouring bunkers, and acres of native rough and shifting Trade Winds at the 6,930-yard Reef course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Home to one of the world’s largest underwater cave systems, three national parks, endless beaches, emerald-green waters and an enchanting marine life, Grand Bahama Island offers a setting unlike any other—and Radisson Our Lucaya Resort, Grand Bahama Island offers the most amenities and the widest variety of recreational, dining and entertainment venues on the island—for one amazing vacation destination that can’t be found anywhere else. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

By Joel Jackson, CGCS, FGCSA Executive Director

live header golf

Photos by Joel Jackson

Photos by

Water Restrictions are Coming As

of Saturday, March 26th golf courses in the 16 County, South Florida Water Management District will be required to go on Phase 1 Water Restrictions. This means they must reduce their water usage by 15% and submit pumping reports every Monday before noon each week. Currently those using reclaimed water will not be affected. This is the result of one of our driest summer rainy seasons in 2010 combined with a drier than normal winter in 2011. I mention this and show you’re the Florida Water Use pie chart above to put all the claims and assertions that golf courses are “big water users” into proper perspective. It is estimated that in that Public Supply slice of the pie 50% or more is used for outdoor irrigation, although I suspect filling pools that have been evaporating water at record paces are in there too. So superintendents will be tweaking their irrigation cycles,

reducing run times, and hand-water hot dry spots instead of turning on the sprinklers. So, what can we all do as home and property owners to also conserve water? First you can inspect each and every zone of your irrigation system. Just turn on each station and observe all the sprinklers in each zone. Are they turning or spraying properly? Are some broken or gushing water? If so, replace them. If you can’t do it, ask a handy neighbor friend or pay to have it done. You’re wasting water and running up your bill and not watering the plants or grass anyhow. Then check your timer settings for each station on your clock or controller. Try reducing the run time 5-10 minutes per station. That adds up and if you see the turf needs more you can always set it back, but only on those stations that need it. Don’t just set and forget your system. Be aware and alert to rainy days and turn your system off, and

then back on when your yard begins to show some signs of stress again. Our state’s water resources are being maxed out. More growth is sure to happen in the future so be a wise water user now and help us all conserve our precious water resources.

Golf Water Facts from the U.S Geological Survey of Florida’s Water Management Districts:

• Statewide about 30% of courses use reclaimed water for irrigation.

• 94% of courses have weather stations and computer controlled pumps and sprinklers.

• Statewide about 140,000 acres of golf courses are irrigated, compared to 4-5 million acres of home lawns.

• Compared to five years ago, water use per acre has decreased 5% on golf courses.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Marie Roberts received an award for her 37 years of service to the South Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association from SFGCSA President Marcus Prevatte at the March 24th Turf Expo held at the U. of Florida Research & Education Center in Ft. Lauderdale. They SFGCSA helped build and maintain a research test green at the site.

Superintendent and Co-Director Mike Giddens (left) with Brad Bryant, Andy Bean and Charles Barkley at the Annual Barkley, Bean Bryant and Friends Celebrity Pro-Am. This annual event helps to raise money for the Lakeland YMCA Par 3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Tee and Golf Learning Center for kids and families. The par 3 course and practice range is lighted for night play as well. Joel Jackson, FGCSA Executive Director (left) receives a $2,500 Turf Research Donation check from Jeff Strother, President of the Suncoast GCSA. The occasion was the annual Suncoast Scramble event which pairs a course superintendent with his golf pro, a club official and golf supplies vendor. Proceeds from the event also go to junior golf and local charities. Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 12, Issue 1

swing thoughts header

A Foursome of Fours... My New Lucky Number S

pring is almost around the corner, and I am preparing for more golf adventures. We (my parents and I) are planning several trips in California and the surrounding states to play competitive junior golf. I am really getting excited. As preparation for these competitions, I have been golfing every day and played in a few tournaments over the last month. My birthday was in early February, and I turned 15. I got to play in the Future Champions Junior Golf event at Carlton Oaks, in San Diego. The weather was interesting, featuring foggy mornings and,

on the second day, drizzling rain. This event brought in a star-studded field. Nationally ranked and highly regarded junior players, such as Jonah Texiera and Edwin Yi, could not resist the temptation to compete in this nationally-ranked tournament. I was pretty stoked and ready to play. I carded a decent 75 in the first round. That put me in second place. The second round was much more difficult for both players and spectators because the fog did not lift until ten a.m. Then, 42

it started to drizzle and it would not let up. I think the weather affected my game that day. I had to settle for fourth place for this event. I was still very happy with the outcome and to be competitive with such big names in junior golf. I thought this was a good way to start my new year at age 15. The following weekend I had another opportunity to enter a local tourna-

ment. This tournament was a lot of fun because I was able to get my friend, Michael Chylik, to caddy for me. It is great to have someone like Michael on bag. He is easy to get along with and enjoys the game. Even though he is new to the game of golf, he was very helpful in getting me to relax. I hope I was helpful in showing him parts of the game that he can work on. I really love the teaching part of the game. I also hope I was able to inspire Michael to get more involved in golf. I played reasonably well but was disappointed that I got another 4th place. I was getting worried that fourth place finishes would never stop coming my way. So, I prepared really hard for my next tournament. I wanted to do well because this is one of my favorite events and this would be the last time I would be eligible to play in this tournament. My preparation consisted of making many putts and hitting lots

"Q Tips" By JJ Qualkenbush

Photos by Mike Coonan

of golf balls on the range. And, what better time could there be to do that than with a five day weekend off from school? Perfect! I was excited and confident that if I worked hard enough the title would be mine. But things happen. I got really sick with the flu, had a temperature of 101 and could not keep food down. Still I did not give up. I practiced through it and I asked my new coach, Joe Simonds, to be my caddy. He worked with me to keep my motivation up. The day of the tournament I struggled to pull myself out of bed. Every move I made ached like nothing I have ever experienced in my life. And, it was raining again. But there are no excuses in golf, so I walked to the first tee drenched and feeling weak. Still I managed to keep positive thoughts in my head. I did not do as well as I had hoped, but I never gave up. Of course the score did not turn out to be what I wanted it to be, but that did not matter because I never gave up and never dwelled on any shot. The final result after the first day was a surprisingly good 9th place out of 25 junior golfers. I was proud of that round of golf. I knew I was capable of playing better golf. I just needed rest. I went back to the hotel to eat and sleep. This gave me time to map out a new game plan for the following day. The next day I played relaxed. It was a good strategy. I shot a decent score, and that moved me up to fourth place. I could not help but laugh because every tournament in the month of February, I placed fourth. It seemed like 4 was my new lucky number. I ended the month with my high school golf team team tryouts. It was fun because it was something that I have never done before. I played four consistent rounds of golf and made the varsity team as a freshman. My high school has one of the top golf teams in the country, so I felt proud of this accomplishment. This is cool! I would like to thank my family and friends for their continuing support and encouragement. You are all my number one motivator. Hit it long and straight! Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 12, Issue 1

competitiveheader spirits

Voodoo Tiki Tequila Voodoo Tiki Tequila Corp. offers a full range of high-concept, highquality Ultra-Premium and Super-Premium handcrafted tequila made from the highest quality 100% Weber Blue agaves aged between 10-12 years. Voodoo Tiki Tequila Corp. chooses only the biggest and sweetest agaves, which are baked from 26-48 hours and the tequila is distilled twice. Every bottle is hand-blown with an actual glass Voodoo Tiki inside , and are hand etched, wax dipped, signed, numbered and include 1 of 100 possible “magic words.” The Tequila Factory is located in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico in the region known as “Corazón de los altos” in the small town called Capilla de Guadalupe, renowned for being blessed by nature with geographic features integral to the cultivation of the sweetest and largest “Agave Azul.” www.VoodooTiki.com or call 1-VooDooTiki.

Platinum Mar-Tiki®

Grand Slam

Triple Crown

Muddle 1/2 orange and 1/2 lime with rind in shaker glass

2 oz Voodoo Tiki Anejo Tequila 1/2 oz Cointreau 2 oz Sour Mix 1/2 oz Orange Juice Juice of 1/2 lime Float Grand Marnier® orange liqueur Rim: Salt Serve: Up Rocks Garnish: Lime Wedge

1 oz Blue Dragon Blue Raspberry and Kiwi Infused Tequila 1 oz Midori Melon Liqueur Chilled Champagne Pour Blue Kiwi Infused Voodoo Tiki Tequila and melon liqueur ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Add crushed ice and let stand for five seconds. Shake vigorously for five seconds. Strain into martini glass. Fill the glass with chilled Champagne. Rim: Sugar

Add ice Pour 2 oz Voodoo Tiki Platinum Tequila Agave syruo (to taste) Shake Serve: Up Rocks Frozen Garnish: Lime Wedge or Wheel

Serve: Up Rocks Garnish: Honey Dew Melon

Nominate your favorite bartender to showcase his/her signature drink with a recipe and photos. Readers will also find a discounted price for that drink so they can visit the bartender to sample the true taste of the libation. 44

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

golf header fitness

Fitness Xperts

offers tips for tuning up your swing for spring Golfers will spend countless time and money to improve their game. They’ll look for the best coaches to perfect their swing mechanics, the best equipment to get more precision and distance, and talk with sport psychologists to learn all about maintaining their focus and controlled concentration. They do all of this in the name of becoming a better golfer but ironically they completely neglect the machine that swings the Karen Hildreth spots husband Kitt on the bench press at Fitness Xperts, an club -- their own body! upscale fitness studio they own and operate in Altamonte Springs, Fla. Over the past 10 years, two fitness trends have become very important to common injuries that can limit one’s time on today’s golfer -- strength and flexibility. the course.” “A stronger golfer will drive the ball further, To address these two issues Hildreth maintain better swings and see a reduction recommends that golfers enroll in a customized in injuries fitness program. prone to “Start with 30-45 minutes of weekly strength the sport as training, 2-3 days a week,” she said. “Then to he or she help build flexibility, golfers should participate gets older,” in 1-2 days of Pilates focusing on stretching said Karen and strengthening their core. Add some cardio Hildreth, throughout the week and be sure to treat owner / your body to a good sports massage with the operator emphasis on stretching and loosening the of Fitness muscles at least once every two weeks.” Xperts, an Fitness is only part of the solution. Studies upscale have shown that when it comes to looking, fitness feeling or performing better, 70 percent of your studio, in results come from proper nutrition. Altamonte "Because nutrition Springs, Fla. is so vital, we focus a “Flexibility is lot of our time working important to with clients to help help achieve them put together maximum meal plans that will power best benefit their from the particular goals,” she said. “In the strength and Strength training on a balance board swing and conditioning world they often say that you can’t with cables builds core stability. helps avoid out-train a bad diet. The same adage is true 246

Florida Golf Central Volume• April 12, Issue Florida Golf •Central 20111

in the golf world. You can’t outpractice or out-swing a bad diet. There’s absolutely no substitute for providing the right nutrients at the right times.” In the past 50 years, the food we eat has changed dramatically for the worse and our body lacks many of the key nutrients it needs to run optimally. That is why more and more coaches, nutritionist and doctors are recommending using nutritional supplements. “Nutritional supplements are designed to fill in the gaps where our diets are lacking,” said Hildreth. “They give us the optimal health and vitality we all deserve.” For the past three years Karen and her husband Kitt have been recommending ADVOCARE nutritional products to their Fitness Xperts has a variety of carclients and they have seen diovascular equipment to train on. incredible results. “Since we started our clients on the ADVOCARE program we have seen amazing results including reduced body fat, increased muscle/bone strength and more energy than ever before,” she said. “We start each of our clients on a 24-Day Challenge, which includes a healthy eating plan coupled along with key products to help jumpstart their fitness program.” Fitness Xperts is offering a free 30-minute nutritional consultation to review your meal plan and help you set up a healthy eating program tailored to your individual needs. For more details call (407) Proper stretching improves fitness & prevents injuries. 758-6791.

Fitness Experts Karen and Kitt Hildreth have 25 years of combined experience as fitness professionals in personal training, corporate wellness, and nutritional counseling. FloridaGolf GolfCentral Central••April Volume Florida 201112, Issue 1

Fitness Xperts' 'Biggest Loser' Lee Viersen began his journey to fitness at 55-yearsold after he'd been sick for 10 years. His cholesterol was 401, his blood sugar 250 and blood pressure 200/98. He Viersen (Before) weighed 310 pounds with more than 36 percent body fat. He suffered from severe sinus issues and his joints hurt so badly he Viersen - After couldn’t jog. “I was killing myself with poor eating habits and complete lack of physical activity,” Viersen said. With knowledge and care of his personal training coach, Marco Dalabona, Viersen transformed his body to such a degree that he competed in a body building competition at 60. He's currently 205 pounds with a consistent body fat of less than 8 percent. “I learned that how you eat is the most important factor in a healthy plan and training is also vital,” he said. Viersen devotes his life to helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle. “Through positive affirmations, proper meal planning, and biomechanically correct resistance training I can help you become the healthy energetic, vibrant person you are meant to be.” Call Lee at (407) 435-7059 or email lviersen@cfl.rr.com. www.leeviersen.com. 47 3

urnament news tournament news tournament news tournament news tourn

St. Paddy’s Day ‘Scramble in the Night’ Tournament at Errol Errol Golf and Tennis now open to public

rrol Golf and Tennis in Apopka, Fla. kicked off their series of fun-filled golf events on St. Paddy’s Day with a “Scramble in the Night” 9-hole Glo-Ball tournament March 17th. Under the light of the “Supermoon” complete with a bounty of beverage stops, more than 80 players enjoyed four hours of Irish fun and plenty of green beer. Following the event players feasted on a buffet including corned beef and cabbage and danced to party tunes spun by DJ Ruthie Bei. Errol Golf and Tennis offers 27 holes of championship golf with dramatic views, beautiful lakes, vistas and lush fairways with towering native pines and oak trees unique to Florida. The Lake, Highlands and Grove Courses were designed by Florida's prolific golf course designer “Gentleman” Joe Lee. Errol Golf and Tennis is home to Steve's World of Golf where you can find the lowest prices on equipment in Orlando. Visitors can enjoy lunch, dinner, happy hours every day of the week and live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights in Pirie's Tavern. Along with golf and tennis, Errol offers meeting space, golf villas and a family swimming complex. For tee times and more information call 407-886-5000 or visit www.errolestatecc.com. 48

Today, under new owners, a fresh look and a broader attitude, Errol Golf and Tennis is the place where everyone in Orlando can come to have fun and escape the daily grind. “Nothing pretentious, nothing ostentatious,” said the new management team at Errol. “Errol continues to strive away from 'The Old Country Club Vibe' into becoming the place where everyone in the area can come play and enjoy.” Errol Golf and Tennis was first settled as a residence: the home of John Thomas Pirie, and is situated on 1,000 acres originally purchased by Pirie in 1886. The property was named “Errol” after a village in Scotland, John T. Pirie’s birthplace. He later developed Errol into a showplace, not only with the main “Hill House” and grounds, but as a progressive stock farm. The Pirie tradition is still alive at Errol. John T. Pirie’s great grandson, William “Bill” Pirie, and his wife Isabelle built their home on Errol Parkway in 1983 and remain as winter residents. For more information call 407-886-5000 or visit www.errolestatecc.com.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

FROM YOUR ‘MAN-CATION’ TO YOUR VACATION...

IT’S ALL HERE

GOLF WHERE THE BEST PLAY HOME OF 7 COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIPS IN 2011

Play “Florida’s rare hills” on our timeless course El Campeón (est. 1917), and our championship Las Colinas course. Experience the superior contours and putting speeds on the most scenic golf courses in Central Florida!

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header

Duffer Dan at

his month we decided it was time for a road trip to Florida’s First Coast. We packed up our clubs and visited the oldest course in Nassau County, the northern most county before leaving the state. Fernandina Beach Golf Club is a great municipal facility comprised of three fantastic nine hole layouts with over 10,000 yards of pure golf. Billy Casper Golf, owner and operator of over 125 golf courses and resorts nationwide just recently took over the management of the club for the city of Fernandina. Before there was an Omni Amelia Island Plantation or the other beautiful developments and courses built in and around Fernandina, there was a 9 holer designed in 1956 by Ed Madison, the club pro, and built by the citizens of the town. The city fathers realized that if they included a golf course with a magnificent coastline on the Atlantic Ocean, that folks might just want to extend their stay to living there. Now you know the rest of the story. Getting there is easy. Take exit 373 off of I-95 and go east till you get to Amelia Island Parkway, and soon as you pass the airport, turn left on Via Del Rey Road and follow it to the clubhouse. The golf club is located about 2 blocks from the Ocean and the nines are 3 distinctively different courses. The North was the first and is the shortest and most forgiving. The West is the longest at over 3600 yards 50

and built in 1959 with the same head pro designing the layout. The South is the tightest with its fair share of water lining the 3300+yards course. Tommy Birdsong, the head pro at the time designed this nine and it opened for play in 1972. All of them have Mother Nature’s specialty touch throughout with towering pines, stately palms and moss draped oaks bordering the fairways. The neat thing about having separate 9 hole layouts is that they can have three groups teeing off at the same time and players who want a quick game can go out and walk if they care to, finishing after nine. One distinctive thing I found during my time at FBGC is the warm hospitality of the staff and their pride in the golf club. Everyone wants to make your golf experience the best- from the starter, the pro shop attendees, and the restaurant staff. Damian Brink, the new general manager who has been with Billy Casper at other facilities, gave me a tour of the golf club and some of the subtle changes already going on. Mike Lovejoy, the player assistant, told me about the history of the course and visited with us numerous times to insure a speedy and joyful round. Before we went to play we enjoyed a delightful lunch in the relaxing lounge and met Bridgett Pettingill, food and beverage manager, who was preparing for a party in the large dining area. She gave us some

insight as to the changes that will be made to the lounge and that they can host wedding, banquets and parties in the clubhouse that was built in 2000. Fernandina Beach Golf Club really is one of the best municipal golf facilities in the country. They have a driving range plus putting and chipping areas to work on your game and the staff is available for lessons. Our venture today took us to the South & North courses. We started out on a par 5 that the Duffer got a shot up from the Gang quickly only to lose it at the #1 handicap hole, the 4par 398 yard dog leg right 2nd. A par on the 3rd, a short par 3 and I smelled the money. I have got to stop watching Tiger, because my tee shots are not finding the short grass which caused a snowman on the 591 yard 4th. I steadied the ship on the rest of the holes by putting the driver in the bag and playing 3 wood off the tee to the narrow fairways. I used the big dog on the North because there was a lot more room for my errant shots. There was only one par 5 that I could take advantage of but my drives kept me in play only to win the match. It is good to be the Duffer, but it is better to win. You can quote me on that. If you want to enjoy a great round of golf and save a whole bunch of money when visiting Fernandina and Amelia Island call 904-277-7370 or go to www.FernandinaBeachGolfClub.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

GOLF SOUTH CAROLINA

Rolling hills and mossy oaks mix lowcountry charm with highland terrain. Enjoy over a dozen courses including Santee National Golf Club, rated 4 stars by Golf Digest’s Places to Play. Stay in the convenient golf course villas, beautiful waterfront condos overlooking Lake Marion, or one of our full service hotels. For more information visit www.GolfSantee.com.

GOLF PACKAGE

Daily Rates Starting at: October 1 - November 14 November 15 - February 6 February 7 - February 13 February 14 - March 6 March 7 - May 15

$69 $62 $68 $72 $74

Seasonal surcharge/credit may apply to some courses. Tax is additional. Rates are per person, per day and are subject to change without notice.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

CUSTOM PRICED GOLF VACATION PACKAGES: •Daily Golf Packages starting at $69 Per Person •Weekly and Monthly Condo Rentals Available •Instant Online Quotes Visit www.golfsantee.com/giftcard for a chance to win a Callaway Gift Card. You must enter FGOLFCTL as the promotion code.

I-95, Exit 98 Santee, South Carolina www.GolfSantee.com 1-800-345-7888

orth GA offlorida America PGAPGA northofflorida America PGAPGA north of America florida PGA PGAnorth of America florida PGA north of Am

By Mike Coonan and Sean Harney

Photos by Mike Coonan and Sean Harney

Mike and Sean: Fashionistas at the 2011 PGA Merchandise Show The golf gods have spoken. Golf is fun. Bring on the color.

play at night and you can

Dump the preppy look.

a hit with the youngsters

easily play through Zombies. This fashion line is and the biker clubs. Many

Make a statement. Strike a pose. Cre-

are found wearing it in the

ate a buzz. Have fun. These are some

exclusive, private clubs,

of the themes from the fashion side of

and we are not just talking

golf at the 2011 PGA Merchandise Show.

about Federal prisons.

40,000 button down PGA professionals and golf executives in khakis, from all

Skin is good.

over the world were exposed to some of the most “wild and wonderful “ golf

Loudmouth Golf

fashions that are guaranteed to make a

Firm, strong, well-defined, muscular, skin is better.

statement.

the rumor that Loudmouth has plans

Firm, strong, well-defined, muscular

Loudmouth (us.loudmouthgolf.com)

to paint the Sistine Chapel on John’s

skin on women is best. Our nominee

was, yes you guessed it, a loud pres-

behind. However, there is some talk

for this category of the above, with

ence at the PGA show. Contrary to

that Stuart Cink will be wearing Loud-

minimalist style of clothing, while

popular belief, John Daly is not the

mouth’s broad red and white spiral

in great shape is: Spin Gym (www.

pioneer golf celebrity to wear the Loud-

stripes from the tip of his shoes to his

spingym.homestead.com) We hope

mouth style. Scott “Woody” Woodworth,

shirt collar in honor of barber shops

to see more Spin Gym graduates on

the founder of Loudmouth, re-invented

all over the country. Stuart still has to

and brought back this outrageous and

promise not to wear a hat.

wild fashion trend from the 1970’s. Bob Hope and Johnny Miller were among

Goth is good for golf.

the first slaves to fashion and made

Alice Cooper, move over! Bill An-

golf fun to watch in their infamous

derson, the founder of Tattoo Golf

fashions, even on black and white TV.

(www.tattoogolf.com), has the honors

John Daly, of course, has some built-

and is on the tee. He is filling a black

in advantages as the spokesperson and

void in golf fashion. Our kids and grandkids, the newest generation to pick up clubs, are now just making their own fashion statements. While companies in the golfing business are brand-

Spin Gym

ing their products, many of

Tattoo Golf

the younger golfers have

the course. The leader of this pack of

beat them to it, by actu-

gorgeous women is Forbes Riley. At 50.

ally branding themselves.

Forbes is a protégé of recently deceased

Their brand/tattoos can be

Jack Lalanne. She is a knockout. Mike

found in the most unique

told her in true sincerity, while looking

places. Our favorite tattoo

deeply into her eyes, that she did not

looks like a grocery list in

look a day over 49. We were so im-

a foreign language spread

pressed with both Forbes and Spin Gym

movable fashion statement for Loud-

across the abdomen. Tattoo Golf

that Sean bought two. Sean has been

mouth. John has a much larger “can-

boasts they have styles for men and

using Spin Gym for the last week, and

vas” for Loudmouth’s unique designs.

women, and we think Vampires and

he is proud to say he is now a C cup.

With that in mind, we are squelching

Zombies. Fortunately, Vampires only

(Photos to follow.)

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

* Ad r lls is 85 ﬀe Fa nt Th -40 al O te ese 38 eci 25 liet st Pr 6-2 e Sp $1 Ju Mu -86 azin a y d • l 1 ag Pl de al M clu s C tral In e rt m en Ca Ti lf C e o Te a G

id or Fl

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orth florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north

By Steve Morris

Moving on UP! O

ur membership rallied behind ED/ CEO Rich Smith’s initiative to be number one! We finished 2nd in submissions for the PGA’s Annual Compensation Survey. Being the 4th largest Section, that is an impressive response percentage and huge improvement over previous years. This survey provides valuable information and data that can be used as tools to the weekend help our members and their PGA and facilities Professionals achieve their gave hundreds set goals with of free lessons. pertinent and FanFast accurate numbers. captured the It’s a numbers attention of game these days hundreds of and the right PGA Master Professional Bob Intrieri, passerby’s at numbers contribute Thanks for coming! Universal’s to successful CityWalk. marketing and operational strategies. PGA Professionals gave free tips there Our members were out front and as well. We’re working together to center for Golfest The Villages and promote the game and the PGA to the Arnold Palmer’s Invitational FanFest masses. at Universal Citywalk in Orlando. The Our Section Champion, Jeff Freeman, Villages hosted over 10,000 golfers for CC of Orlando, competed in the PGA

Nancy Lopez at GolFest Tampa 54

Annika at GolFest Orlando Tour’s Transitions Championship. Our PNC Champion, Rod Perry, Daytona Beach GC, competed in Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Invitational. Both earned special exemptions as a reward for being champions in our Section Majors. Junior Golf continues to remain a priority as Summer approaches. The Section Junior Championship will also be the qualifying venue to advance finalists to the National PGA Junior Championship. Each Chapter will host their own Junior Championship, with their top kids earning “exemptions” into the Section Junior Championship at Disney. Disney will also incorporate its Children’s Miracle Network Junior Championship with our Section Junior Championship. Disney will offer special rates for rooms and park tickets for the families. Doesn’t get any better than that for the kids and the families! We’re going to Disney World! We’re looking forward to a great Junior Major Series. The Florida Golf License plate has committed thousands of dollars to our Section for our Junior Golf Initiatives. They are seeing the benefit of partnering with the PGA to help junior programs throughout the state with the monies set aside from the sales of the Golf License Plate. This money is monitored and specified for junior golf only. The money is in the fund and they want to give it away for junior golf! Our cooperative effort with the State of Florida along with the Florida State Golf Association continues to benefit the programs, initiatives and most importantly, our kids! Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

TPC SawgraSS No.17

outh orth florida PGA north south florida florida PGA PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth south

Nicolas Cavero and Marissa Kay Start the Junior Tour Season Off With Victories at the Fountains Country Club

he South Florida PGA Junior Tour presented by the Honda Classic hosted Event #1 at The Fountains Country Club in Lake Worth. The North course at the 54-hole facility provided for an excellent test of golf throughout the two day event. Nicolas Cavero of Doral, FL was able to hold off last year’s winner Derron Peyton of Boynton Beach to win the Boys Overall Division. Cavero carded a final round 2-under 69 for a two day total of 140 to claim a three shot victory. Raymond Boone of Cutler Bay , FL edged out a second place finish with a combined score of 143. Derron Peyton had another successful weekend at the Fountains Country Club finishing third with a 144 total score. Claiming the Girls Overall Division

Nicolas Cavero with Director of Golf Joe Roux was Marissa Kay of Delray Beach . Kay was able to keep her lead from Round 1 by finishing 73 – 73 for a two stroke lead of 146. Annie Dulman of Palm Beach Gardens, FL finished strong with a 1-over par 72 Sunday, awarding her second place with a 148 finish. Ashley

Dane Cianelli 56

Burke, last year’s winner from Boynton Beach , was able to capture third place with a 151 total score for the tournament. The Boys 12-13 Age Division was not short on great play as Ty Strafaci of Davie , FL won the event after firing a second round 69. Strafaci finished the tournament with a two day total of 144. Hamilton Long of Palm Beach Gardens had a strong tournament, finishing second with scores of 73-74 for a total 147. Finishing third was Cole Sposato of Vero Beach , with a total of 148. In the Girls 12-13 Age Division, Kaely Krayeski of Wellington shot a 74 the first round, to beat her personal best score. Krayeski continued her momentum and edged out the competition by 1 stroke Sunday finishing with a 161. Both Zora Gittens of Parkland, and Story Shaw of West Palm Beach tied for a finish of 162. Congratulations to all competitors in the event. The next South Florida PGA Junior Tour event will be held April 9th and 10th at Santa Lucia River Club in Port St. Lucie. For more information on the Junior Tour, please visit the South Florida PGA Website at www.sfpgagolf.com and click on Junior Golf. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Combine one of the best layouts in Central Florida with 120-foot elevation changes and superb guest service, and you’ll understand why golfers from all over the globe have put Highlands Reserve at the top of their “must-play” list of Orlando golf courses.

ighlands Reserve provides an experience over and above your typical Florida golf course. With the rolling hills, large undulating greens and a wide open layout, the course is a fair challenge for players of all calibers. Open to the public, Highlands Reserve takes pride in welcoming golfers from all over the US and throughout the world. The club has even recently been honored to host LPGA Tour player Christina Kim and European Tour player Pablo Martin who raved about the golf course conditions. Considered one of the best values in Central Florida, you don’t want to miss your opportunity to play at this great facility. The course is conveniently located on just minutes from the Disney World Resort on U.S. Highway 27 just north of Interstate 4. All golfers are welcome and tee times are available every day at (863) 420-1724 or toll free at (877) 508-4653.

Tee times may also be reserved online at www.highlandsreserve-golf.com.

Bring this ad and receive a special discounted rate!

NDress L ike A Player O A

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ntigua’s exclusive

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Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

Ask a b o u t o u

summe r cAm ppusblic) (o pe n to th e

We found your Way into the Pool, Parties, and tiger sharks sWim team for your summertime Blues from only

$113 a month!

entral florida central florida central florida central florida central florida centr

The More You Play, The Less You Pay!

ocal golfers can still enjoy a great

advance booking window. Tee times

50% off the price of range balls on day

value and many benefits for their

can be booked for any time of day,

of play.

frequent rounds of golf at Mystic

based on availability. Other benefits

For an additional $75, golfers can up-

Dunes Golf Club. The Frequent Play

include 1 complimentary bag of range

grade the pass with an Add-on Dining

Pass is now being offered through April

balls per day of play, a 15% discount on

Option. With this upgrade, golfers will

30th, and is designed to benefit the

all merchandise in the Pro Shop, and

receive 25% off of all food and beverage

frequent golfer at a tremendous value.

a discount rate for additional players.

(including alcohol) at Kenzie’s in the

The more you play, the less you pay!

Guests can play at the prevailing Dunes

clubhouse. (Discount does not apply to

Priced at $400, the Frequent Play Pass

Club discount rate if they register for a

beverage cart purchases).

gives golfers an UNLIMITED number

complimentary Dunes Club member-

To learn more or to purchase a Fre-

of rounds during the months of May

ship on day of play (Dunes Club rates

quent Play Pass, please contact the Pro

– December 2011 and enjoy a 7 day

vary seasonally). Guest also receives

Shop, at 407-787-5678

About Mystic Dunes Golf Club Mystic Dunes Golf Club, a high-end daily fee course, is open to the public and is located at Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club in Celebration, Florida, which is owned and operated by Tempus Resorts International, Ltd. Designed by Champions Tour player and NBC Golf Analyst Gary Koch, this premier Central Florida course is a par 71, 7,012-yard golfer’s dream. The course is ranked a 4 ½-star facility among Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play”, has been honored as a Course of Distinction among Golfweek’s “Best Resort Courses”, and is ranked #2 among “Orlando’s Top 5 Golf Courses” by TravelGolf.com. Tee times can be booked online at www.mysticdunesgolf.com or by calling the pro shop at 1-866-311-1234 or 407-787-5678. 60

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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Improve your golf score with BirdiePackTM Do you want to improve your golf game? You are working on it but there is only little progress? Boost your game with the latest performance product designed exclusively for golfers. BirdiePack is committed to support the golf sport with the latest technologies to improve the game of every single player. We know from our researches and experience that the golf sport requires physical and mental conditions like no other sport does. We met this challenge to develop a unique product especially for golfer's requirements that works.

Improve your game up to 60% with our power formula Concentration like a PRO + Fitness like a PRO = Score like a PRO The components of BirdiePackTM are well selected to improve your golf performance. BirdiePackTM provides the focus, concentration and fitness that you need to have the perfect game. It works in 60 minutes or less. It is designed to improve the oxygen transfer within the mitochondria – fundamental for better and stable physical strengths. At the same time the components of BirdiePackTM support the formation of brain active neurotransmitter for your stable mental power.

Important Notice: BirdiePackTM is a Dietary Supplement. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, mitigate, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

“As a golf professional, my biggest hiccup on the course is staying focused thru every shot for all 18 holes. Since I have been taking BIRDIEPACK, my concentration level has extremely improved. Therefore, reaching the ultimate goal of lowering my score. With all the specific ingredients in each capsule, I have never felt more physically fit. I recommend the BIRDIEPACK to all levels of golfers, no matter your handicap, BIRDIEPACK can and will benefit your game. Bodie Sheffield Professional Golfer Golf Channel “

Get Our Golfer's Nutrition Guide For Free Golf is a sport that requires both mental and physical exertion over an extended period of time. This particular combination means that golfers need to be very careful about what they eat before, during and after a game in order to stay fit and play well. Proper nutrition is essential in any sport. It is not enough to simply have a healthy diet. The food that a sportsperson eats before, during and after playing should be tailored to the specific needs of his or her particular sport. Visit our website www.birdiepack.com and subscribe to get your Golfer's Nutrition Guide for free.

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Langer Aces It B

ernhard Langer (64-66-66=196) posted a tournament-record 20-underpar 196 to capture his first victory of the season at The ACE Group Classic. Langer had eight birdies and finished with a final round six-under-par 66 to outlast Fred Funk by four strokes. “It’s always exciting winning,” said Langer. “Winning is what we’re out here for, what I practice for.” Langer spent the early part of the week in Naples with extra work on the practice range. He was one of the last players to leave the range on Wednesday and Thursday. That practice paid off as Langer enjoyed a share of the lead over the course of all three days. His first round 8-under-par 64 is the lowest opening round by a champion in tournament history. All together, he carded 23 birdies and an eagle during the tournament. Langer, who lives in Boca Raton, FL, enjoyed the tremendous crowd support, including a surprise appearance from three of his kids at the first tee on Sunday. The Southwest Florida community came out in full force all week, with some of the best crowds in tournament history. “It’s wonderful to see that many people, even on Friday,” said Langer. “We were surprised how many people showed up and it’s great to see that kind of support from the community and obviously a lot of money goes to the charities, to local charities, so it will benefit them and it’s great for us to have that kind of support out there. 62

It’s more fun playing in front of a large crowd than a small crowd.” Funk (16-under) and first round coleader Russ Cochran (15-under) each made a run at Langer during Sunday’s final round. However, the four-stroke lead Langer held heading into Sunday was too much to overcome. Funk (68-66-66=200) closed the gap to two strokes after a Langer bogey on hole 11, but Funk was not able to capitalize on several opportunities and

made pars on the final seven holes. “I put myself in position where I needed to… except for I didn’t finish them off,” said Funk. “It was fun to get in the hunt.” Cochran and Nick Price finished T3 at 15-under. Mark Calcavecchia, playing in the final pairing with Langer and Cochran, finished fifth at 14-under. For complete information on The ACE Group Classic visit www.theacegroupclassic.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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easure coast treasure coast treasure coast treasure coast treasure coast trea

Concours d'Elegance

he developer of One Thousand Ocean recently hosted a lunch and cocktail reception in the largest

of the condominium building’s four penthouses. The 8,770 square feet of interior space plus 4,417 square feet of terraces provided a unique venue for guests to dine and admire extraordinary ocean, Boca Raton Inlet, lake and city views. “We were delighted to welcome the celebrated Unser family along with

(L to R) Jamie Telchin, Bobby Unser, Donald Davidson, Al Unser and Al Unser, Jr.

many of the leading supporters of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County during the weekend’s fifth annual Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance,” said Jamie Telchin, LXR Luxury Resorts’ president of development. “The event, which attracts thousands of car enthusiasts each year to the Boca Raton Resort & Club, raises funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs and, in turn, presents opportunities for at-risk children that

James McDonnell and Helene Weicholz

they ordinarily would not have. This is a very worthy cause.” Concours d’Elegance Founders and

Andrew Pietrak, Maureen Egan.

Producers Rick and Rita Case, as well as Jamie McDonnell, this year’s event chairman, were among the esteemed guests at One Thousand Ocean. During lunch prepared by the Boca Raton Resort & Club, Rick Case acknowledged One Thousand Ocean’s generosity for

Steven Chapman, Bill Daniels and Janet Daniels.

hosting the event. Many of the visitors spent time on the sprawling ocean terrace where they relaxed and watched mega yachts entering the ocean from the inlet below. A number of guests also expressed interest in seeing the

Rick and Rita Case

building’s two furnished models and were taken on tours.

(L to R) John Mendel, Doug Danuser and Kurt Antonius.

Located adjacent to the Boca Raton Resort’s Boca Beach Club on a private peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, One Thousand Ocean offers ultra-luxurious Residences, Beach Villas and Penthouses priced from approximately $3 million to $15 million. For more information, visit www.onethousandocean.com. 64

UK artist Colin Carter

Jeff Vickers, Bob Van Riper, John Hunt, Doug Danuser, Arthur Benjamin

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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Florida Golf Central presents:

My Book

A Benefit for Left Behind in Florida

Your tax deductible dontation will provide:  Your own photo book  Your own column in a golf magazine  You will play in a PGA Pro-Am event  You will have your own golf sports

writer and photographer

For more information, contact Florida Golf Central Mike or Prudy Coonan 1549 Warrington Court Winter Park, FL 32708 850-377-1960 mikecoonan@cox.net

Left Behind supports children with a developmental disability on waiting lists Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

easure coast treasure coast treasure coast treasure coast treasure coast trea

During the Allianz Championship at Broken Sound Club, (from left) Broken Sound Club General Manager, John Crean receives the GEO Certified Award from GEO’s CEO Jonathan Smith, together with the club’s Golf Maintenance Director Joseph Hubbard.

Nation's Second GEO Certified™ Award B

roken Sound Club in Boca Raton, Fla. , host to the 2011 PGA Champions Tour Allianz Championship, has become the second golf facility in the U.S. to be GEO Certified™ -- the sustainability assurance of the international Golf Environment Organization (GEO). The staff and management of Broken Sound Club have made environmental enhancement and corporate responsibility central to their business model since launching “green” initiatives three years ago, according to John Crean, CCM, general manager. A ‘Platinum Club of America,’ Broken Sound provides a multi-faceted social and recreational hub with two golf courses as the centerpiece for a large operation that employs over 350 people. Leading Broken Sound’s vision, strategy and management team, Crean is a recognized advocate for resource efficiency and environmental stewardship within the Club Managers Association of America. At Broken Sound, he coordinates a group that includes sustainability leaders within country clubs, plus local community and government officials. As required for the GEO Certified™ award, Broken Sound’s golf facility met advanced sustainability requirements and is committed to continuous improvement in areas such as landscape and ecosystems, water, energy, products and supply chains, and environmental quality. This spring, for example, the club launches operation of an environmental composter/digester to reduce green 66

and food waste and produce refined compost. The initiative is expected to decrease the amount of water and fertilizer needed to maintain the course. Broken Sound has also installed solar panels and is adding a solar array. The club is an Audubon certified sanctuary, and it has implemented programs to reduce electrical costs. “To become only the second club in the United States to receive GEO certification is a huge honor,” Crean said. “GEO’s stringent certification requirements reflect our own philosophy in maintaining environmental responsibility. GEO sets the international ‘gold standard’ in the field of golf course sustainability, and to be recognized by them is an incredible distinction.” In the team effort required to achieve certification, Broken Sound Golf

Maintenance Director Joseph Hubbard, CGCS, a GCSAA member, coordinated a vast amount of data from the club’s operations to complete the GEO application. “I have been involved in getting over a dozen courses Audubon Co-Operative Sanctuary certified in my years as a superintendent,” said Hubbard, “but this was by far a more advanced look at accountability and sustainability within the environmental preservation world. “ Jonathan Smith, the Scotland-based CEO of GEO, was in Florida for the annual GCSAA Golf Industry Show. He attended the Allianz Championship at Broken Sound to make the presentation in person. He noted, “The management team at Broken Sound has demonstrated how every golf club can transition to increasingly sustainable practices -- even in relatively short timeframes. “Their vision, commitment and teamwork have reduced resource consumption as they gradually naturalize the golf courses,” Smith added. “Their flagship composting and water treatment projects will have tremendous added benefits for the club and the local community and demonstrate both innovation and determination to make a significant difference. We look forward to watching Broken Sound’s ongoing progress toward the priorities agreed upon with the GEO Accredited Verifier during the official site visit, and which will be fully reported as part of the Club’s re-certification process in three years.” The full GEO report is available at www.golfenvironment.org/clubs/brokensound.

Broken Sound Club’s Old Course

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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Hickory Sticks Golf

was everything Florida boasts about. Sunshine and blue skies in February, while the rest of the country shivered under a blanket of snow I vividly remember trudging through delivering the morning newspapers. The words of P.G. Wodehouse sprang to mind… “a day all of nature cried fore.” On the morning of the Inaugural United States Professional Hickory Golf Championship, I was excitedly preparing the tee boxes for my fellow pros who had accepted the call to celebrate golf history. The 1922 Tom Bendelow(the Johnny Appleseed of American Golf) designed course at Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club in Tampa looked fairly docile in the early morning mist, but the players would soon find her 6400+ yards a stern test, as the wind kicked up prior to the late morning start. The field of golfers was led by PGA Champions Tour player David Frost, who has 22 wins throughout the world and competed in the Ace Group Classic in Naples the weekend before. Yet here Frosty was, sifting through niblicks and mashies provided By Dr. Jay Harris of Pinehurst and the Society of Hickory Golfers, unlike David’s perfectly fitted Taylor Made clubs with which he’s more familiar. His son Sean was making his professional debut at Temple Terrace as well, prior to setting off on the Hooter’s Tour to try his swing on the competitive circuit. Think about that for a moment. You are turning pro in 2011 and your first professional

outing has you playing with clubs from over 100 years ago. This was a day not just for Hickory Golf, but for all of golf. Players reliving the roots of the game not only with old time sticks but on a historical layout, experiencing the sheer joy we hickory golfers have known for some time. When people ask me why I prefer Hickory shafted clubs I just tell them the story about another name from bygone days- the great Joe DiMaggio. During a

By Mike Stevens

heated contract negotiation with the Yankees, Joe finally relented and signed to their offer. When asked why he gave in DiMaggio simply replied ‘the game was in his blood’. No more need be said. All of us who play know exactly what he meant. For me, the best part of the day was seeing all the smiles and listening to the post-round chatter. Everyone was commenting on how much they enjoyed the play and were asking how to get hickory clubs. The experience was so positive that everyone was wanting to know when the next tournament will be and whether they could bring along some friends. Golfers talking about the game with a renewed interest and becoming life-long friends. That’s what it’s all about. We all enjoyed a fabulous buffet luncheon provided by Executive Chef Edward Stenhoff. Our champion, Leroux Ferreira, originally from South Africa and now residing in Texas, is another young pro trying to make his mark. He bested the field with a 79 and captured the John Shippen Cup, honoring the first American-born professional. And right behind, David Frost with an 81 for 2nd with Wesley Chapel pro Jon Benson 3rd at 83. As for yours truly, I managed to tie for sixth to enjoy some spending money. Many thanks to PGA Professional Head Pro Jim Garrison and the staff and membership at Temple Terrace for their gracious hospitality. To learn about the Society of Hickory Golfers you can visit www.HickoryGolfers.com.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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➌ Datrek® Catalina ➋ Jack Black Introducing a sunscreen that won’t budge – no matter how hard you play. Jack Black’s new Sun Guard Sunscreen SPF 45 is an oil-free, very water and sweat resistant, vitamin-enriched lotion that won’t run or drip into your eyes. The quick-absorbing formula with exceptional staying power makes it a must-have accessory for sports professionals and weekend warriors. Singlehandedly raising the bar for waterproof sunscreens, Jack Black provides superior broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection in an oil-free formula that is fragrance-free, colorantfree and dermatologist tested. Sun Guard Sunscreen SPF 45 stays on in the most extreme conditions, so nothing gets in the way of your outdoor performance. The PureScience® formula locks in nature’s best - using healing botanicals, vitamins and certified organic ingredients and formulated without parabens, sulfates, fragrance or colorants. Products are cruelty-free, vegan and dermatologist-tested. Availability: Sun Guard Sunscreen SPF 45 is available at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Sephora.com, Saks Fifth Avenue and at www.getjackblack.com.

On the heels of introducing a full line of men’s bags in 2010, Datrek, a Division of Dynamic Brands and an industry leader in golf bags, recently debuted the Catalina cart bag, the first women’s specific model in the Datrek collection since the brand was acquired by Dynamic Brands. The Catalina’s abundance of design features offer golfers the ultimate in functionality, style and organization. The fashionable new bag is equipped with a 10-inch 14-way top with individual full length dividers; seven pockets, including a fleecelined valuables pocket and insulated cooler pocket; external putter clip; dual apparel pockets with an interior mesh organizer pocket; embroiderable oversized front ball pocket; premium DG interior lining in storage compartments; towel ring; external tee holders; Velcro® glove holder; umbrella holder; and matching rain hood. The Catalina comes in an assortment of dazzling color combinations including fuchsia/silver, purple/silver, lime green/ silver, light blue/silver and black/silver, and has an SRP of $139.95. The Catalina is now available at golf shops nationwide.

➍ Wilson Staff Travel Gear Wilson Staff has introduced its new line of durable travel gear to fit with any golfer’s travel plans. The line of gear includes a full-sized wheel duffel bag, overnight bag, rolling golf club travel cover, back pack, and shoe bag. The travel gear comes in the distinctive Wilson Staff red color with the iconic Wilson Staff logo, and is made with 1680 D polyester material with excellent tensile and tear-resistant strength. The full travel gear line includes: • Wheel bag features large inside pocket, two side pockets, and a top pocket with retractable handle (34.5” x 16.5” x 13”) • Overnight bag features large inside pocket, two side pockets, and a top pocket with a padded shoulder strap (20” x 11.5” x 8.75”) • Golf club travel bag fits carry and cart golf bags (up to 9”) with its easy-to-wheel design to protect precious golf clubs during travel. It also has two exterior buckle closures to ensure security (54” x 15.75” x 14.625”) • Double shoulder-strap back pack features abundant space with a built-in laptop pocket and file section (17.5” x 12.5” x 9”) • Shoe bag protects shoes during travel and allows for quick and easy storage(13.5”x 8.75” x 4.8”) Visit www.wilsonstaff.com or call 773.714.6400 for more information.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

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aces & header eagles

Aces & Eagles Celebration Golf Management Makes Major Appointments at its Six Central Florida Owned/Managed Golf Courses

elebration Golf Management

Chad Ferguson to Golf Superintendent

Creek Golf Club. Rabaja, who has five

recently promoted Barbara Bearss

at Stoneybrook West. Ferguson,

years of experience in the golf industry

to Reservations Supervisor for all

who has three years of experience

was formerly the First Assistant Pro at

of its public golf courses in the Central

with Celebration Golf Management

The Golden Bear Club, Garrote said.

Florida area, including Legends Golf

as a mechanic, was most recently

Bryan Zuzga was promoted to

and Country Club in Clermont, The

the assistant superintendent at

Event Supervisor at Stoneybrook

Golden Bear Club in Windermere,

Stoneybrook West Golf Club. He

West. Mark Bearss, general manager

Kings Ridge in Clermont, Stoneybrook

replaced outgoing golf superintendent

at Stoneybrook West said Zuzga,

West in Winter Garden, Eagle Creek

Jason Morris, who was promoted to

who formerly worked with the

in southeast Orlando and Celebration

golf superintendent at Legends and

outside services team at Golden Bear,

Golf Club in Celebration.

Kings Ridge.

demonstrated strong customer service

Gene Garrote, president and

Bobby Allen was promoted to

skills there. His new position entails

principal of Celebration Golf

Catering Sales Manager at Legends.

working closely with the sales staff

Management, LLC, said Bearss joined

Allen has one year of experience in

and clients to plan, coordinate and

the firm seven years ago and was most

the golf industry. He was formerly a

execute details on events, Bearss said.

recently the marketing assistant for

member of the outside staff at Golden

Scott Schmidtberger was promoted

CGM. She has more than 14 years of

Bear.

to Event Supervisor at Eagle Creek

experience in the industry.

Nick Hall was promoted to Lead

Golf Club. Schmidtberger who was

CGC promoted Jason Morris to

Merchandise Supervisor at Legends

a member of the golfing staff at

Golf Superintendent at Legends and

and Kings Ridge Golf Courses. Hall,

Stoneybrook West will now plan,

Kings Ridge. Garrote said Morris has

who has three years of experience in

organize and coordinate special

17 years of golf experience and six

golf – one year with Celebration Golf

events at Eagle Creek under the

years in golf course management and

Management – formerly served as

leadership of David Evangelista,

maintenance. Morris formerly served

a member of the golf course staff at

general manager. CGM recently

as superintendent at Legends Golf

Stoneybrook West.

took over operations by leasing the

Club.

Dan Rabaja was promoted to

Eagle Creek Golf Club from Emerson

At the same time, Garrote promoted

Assistant General Manager at Eagle

International. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 1

PURE GOLF Black Bear Golf Club is a quintessential P.B. Dye designed championship links course stretching over 7,000 yards. It is truly a fun test for golfers of all skill levels. Unlike most typically flat Florida courses Black Bear presents a unique challenge with its undulating fairways, elevation changes and fast, well manicured greens. The course has some of the most dramatic bunkers you will ever experience in Florida as well as some of the biggest elevation changes. P.B. Dye lived up to his reputation as a designer of championship courses when he built Black Bear. The focus at Black Bear is pure golf. The club boasts one of the best practice facilities in Central Florida. With a double ended 400 yard range, 40,000 square foot short game complex, 6,000 square foot practice green and 19th hole - shoot out hole, Black Bear is the place to be if you want to improve your game. Shaun Webb, Hank Haney certified golf instructor makes Black Bear his home. Black Bear hosts several professional tour events annually as well as being home to select PGA and LPGA players. Play a tournament quality championship course for $50 or less and rub shoulders with a few LPGA or PGA pros. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nearly impossible anywhere else in the Orlando area. Black Bear Golf Course is about a 30 minute drive north of downtown Orlando. The course is set in Florida ranch country. The drive from the city is easy and relaxing. It is more than worth the few extra minutes drive both for the golf experience as well as the great value offered.

Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 12, Issue 1

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Celebration Golf Club Legends Golf & Country Club Eagle Creek Golf Club Stoneybrook West Golf Club www.CelebrationGolf.com www.LegendsGolfCC.com www.eaglecreekgolf.info www.GolfSBW.com 407-566-4653 352-243-1118 407-273-4653 407-877-8533

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