Florida Golf Central Magazine V13 I2 by Golf Central Magazine

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#8525-06/12

from the publisher header

Volume 13, Issue 2

One of my favorite days playing ChampionsGate with my mom, Polly.

Happy Mother’s & Father‘s Day Mothers have a tremendous influence on their children from child-

Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Contributing Editor: Dave Daubert, USGA 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 Southeast Regional Editor: Ken Rudin Golf Quest Golf Concierge: Ty Delavallade Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson

birth and throughout their lives. Mothers watch over their children with the love that no one else could give. Not surprisingly, one of the places that mothers have an increasing influence is on the golf course. Whereas 10 or 20 years ago you would see an occasional mother taking their child to the course, today it is commonplace. All you have to do is watch a high school golf match, and you’ll witness many mothers waiting or watching their child play. Their children were able to compete on that level as a result of the countless times that mom brought them to the course to practice, take a golf lesson or to play. It’s clearly a case of a ‘lifetime’ mother encouraging their child to play a ‘lifetime’ sport.

Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan

ANOTHER HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

9580 Delegates Drive, Orlando, Florida 32837 • 800.617.5532

You might have noticed there is no apostrophe in the word “MOTHERS.” The reason is based on the NY Times Best Seller, “My Two Moms.” Certainly, there are many people who think this is an incorrect way to raise a child. However, a female comedian shed a different light on the subject when she said, “I want to marry the type of man who I can trust will take good care of my children on weekends after we get divorced!” With that in mind, in today’s society, if two women or two men can devote themselves to raising an intelligent, confident, self-assured child, isn’t that a benefit for the child and society? HAPPY MOTHERS DAY! AND HAPPY FATHERS DAY

Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations

NORTH FLORIDA PGA AWARDS GALA – FUNNEL OF RESPECT EVERY Award Winner gave thanks and appreciation to those who had a positive effect on their career. It shows how a person can have a huge influence on another person’s life’s work. The appreciation for the support of family, friends and mentors was overwhelming. It got me to think about the importance of being positive and encouraging those who are doing a good job. You never really know who you are influencing and possibly changing their life. The PGA Award winners stand for respect, honesty and integrity. It was almost as if they were living the Boy Scout oath. They followed their dream and kept going even when they felt they should quit. Naturally there was a desire and dedication but even more, it was the people around them that gave them the confidence to continue on their path. I say with tears in my eyes, “I want to thank the people who believe in me and keep me going.”

Public Relations & Social Media Director: Dennis Card Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. Executive Correspondent: Dennis T. James Contributing Writers: Dave Daubert, USGA, Jay Golden, PGA; Katie Hatfield, Marc Ray, CMAA; Greg Wise, Ed Gilbert

Media Muse: David E. Bailey Digital Video Producer: James Lee Business Manager: Debbi Westbrook, dwestbrook1487@att.net Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, melahn@mac.com Website Design/Network Support: ryjo.com Associate Publisher, Arizona Golf Central Magazine: Jason Keesling Magazine Printing: Sundance Graphics

Florida Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708 phone: 407.971.4336 • 407.971.4337 fax: 407-365-3436 • toll-free: 877.208.5972 E-mail: info@floridagolfcentral.com One year (12 issues) subscription price is $42.99 ©2012 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.

2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 4

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Play Golf in Scotland and Ireland Golf Tours to Scotland and Ireland in 2012 to suit all budgets. Tayleur Mayde Golf Tours was established in 1999. Play St Andrews, Ballybunion, Turnberry, Muirfield, Carnoustie and many more.

Call free on 800-847-8064 or see www.tayleurmayde.com

Volume 13, Issue 2 34 19th Hole 52 Christini's Ristorante Italiano

12 Departments

4 Caribbean Golf Central 8 34 St. Kitts Marriott 10 26 32 Cart Girl 40 14 Kelly Trayser 44 50 Celebrity Golf 54 16 Playboy Golf Championships 56 58 60 Course of Dreams 62 42 Florida Gulf Coast University 64 Feature 66 36 Golden Hills Golf Course & Turf Club 70 73

Fore Your Health

46 Juan Acosta-Hypnotist

Golf Bachelor 12 Dan Cook

Letter from the Publisher Golf Central Station HAPPY FATHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;S DAY! Social Golf Social Golf Live Golf Grip It & Sip It Duffer Dan North Florida PGA Golf Channel Women in Golf Gold Coast Platinum Coast First Coast Nature Coast Product Showcase Aces & Eagles

Improving Performance 18 Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy 20 Innovex Golf Balls 22 Annika Academy

Player Development 48 International Golf Tour

Special Events

30 VPAR 33 Boy's & Girl's Club of Broward

What's New 24 Polara Golf Balls

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The Renaissance World Golf Village Resort and Beach Club Offering “American Hero Rate” To U.S. Military, Police Officers & Firefighters JACKSONVILLE/ST. AUGUSTINE, FL– If you are an active or retired member of the U.S. military, a U.S. firefighter, or a U.S. police officer you should definitely consider taking advantage of the “American Hero Rate” that is being offered by The Renaissance World Golf Village Resort and Beach Club in Jacksonville/St. Augustine, Florida. That way you can take in charming and historic St. Augustine, visit pristine Atlantic beaches (including a private beach club), take advantage of great shopping at nearby outlet malls, and experience the many other offerings at the resort and in Northeast Florida. The “American Hero Rate” starts at just $109 per room, per night. In addition to deluxe accommodations for two, the special rate also includes complimentary breakfast-for-two in the resort’s Villagio Italian Grille restaurant. The offer is valid through December 31, 2012, based on availability. Blackout dates may apply. To take advantage of the special rate, you simply need to ask for the special rate upon booking, and then show your appropriate supporting ID upon check-in. For reservations to The Renaissance World Golf Village Resort and Beach Club, or for additional information, call 888-740-7020 or 904-940-8000, or visit www.renwgv.com.

Zero Hosts National Father's Day Golf-A-Thon Benefitting The Fight Against Prostate Cancer Washington, DC – Join ZERO – The Project to End Prostate Cancer for the inaugural National Golf-AThon on Father’s Day weekend, June 15-17 2012. Golfers can play any 9-hole or 18-hole golf course from any set of course tees in the world, based on their own schedule. One hundred percent of the funds raised will go toward prostate cancer awareness, research and testing.

3rd Annual Barbershop Extravaganza at Circle Square Cultural Center The 3rd annual Barbershop Quartet Extravaganza will feature performances by

Edwin Watts Golf Debuts TGIF TOUR™ Apparel Line FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla., … Inspired by the popularity of the Think Golf It’s Friday Tour (TGIF TOUR™) -- the golf industry’s largest grassroots consumer retail tour -- and as the golf apparel market continues to enjoy steady growth, Edwin Watts Golf Shops (EWGS), one of the world’s largest specialty golf retailers with over 90 locations, today unveiled the TGIF TOUR Apparel Line™. The trendy new line, named after the Company’s popular consumer retail tour, will be available immediately across the Company’s portfolio of store locations and online at www.edwinwattsgolf.com. 8

“In addition to raising critical funds for prostate cancer research and testing, ZERO’s National GolfA-Thon will raise awareness of prostate cancer on the weekend when we celebrate the men that mean the most to us – our fathers,” said Skip Lockwood, CEO at ZERO – The Project to End Prostate Cancer. The Golf-A-Thon is open to all golfers, regardless of playing ability, gender or age. It is also both an individual and team competition. Participants play golf based on their own schedules on Father’s Day weekend and are in competition to see which team or individual can raise the most money. Prizes will be awarded to the top three individuals or teams that raise the most money. The team or individual raising the most money will win the grand prize trip to the Know Your Score Celebrity Golf Tournament in Myrtle Beach, SC, benefiting prostate cancer awareness, research and testing. The trip includes lodging for four at Pawleys Plantation in Myrtle Beach, SC, four tickets to the VIP celebrity reception, four entries into the celebrity golf tournament, and four tickets to the gala. The runners up will receive ZERO golf apparel. To learn more about Know Your Score, visit www. knowyourscoremb.com. To register or learn more about ZERO’s National Father’s Day Golf-A-Thon, visit www. zerocancer.org/events/other/events/golfathon.

three of Florida’s top groups; The Pursuit, iQuartet and The Humdingers. The Pursuit comes in as the #19 quartet of 2011 and The Humdingers are a well recognized group who also perform as the Dapper Dans at a popular Orlando theme park! All three of these quartets will amaze you with their close 4-part harmonies reminiscent of years ago while keeping you laughing at their hilarious jokes and antics. Don’t miss the 3rd Annual Barbershop Quartet Extravaganza on Saturday, June 2 at 2pm at the Circle Square Cultural Center, located at 8395 SW 80th Street, Ocala. For more information on the 2012 entertainment line-up including times, dates and tickets, visit the website at www.CSCulturalCenter.com or call 352-854-3670.

Inaugural Orlando Junior Masters Golf Tournament July 16 & 17, 2012 The Orlando Junior Masters Golf Tournament

has been established as a proving ground for Florida’s Junior Golf Stars. A home for genuine sportsmanship, a place to experience the thrill of competition and a showplace for the love of this great game! Since this is our inaugural tournament, the traditional “invitation only” will be replaced with an open field. The field will be broken down into 4 separate divisions for boys and girls. The winner of each division will be awarded the traditional “green jacket” and as a result of their accomplishment will have an open invitation

to participate in this event until they reach their 19th birthday. The Orlando Junior Masters will be held at historic Dubsdread Golf Club on Monday and Tuesday, July 16 & 17, 2012 with a welcome reception at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 15, 2012. Cost of the tournament will be $125.00 plus tax. Fees will include tournament reception, two days of golf, range balls and tee gift. For additional information please email us at info@sourceonegolf.com, or call Source One Golf at 321-972-4917. Application and registration please visit us at www.sourceonegolf.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

the snack bar while my Dad would talk about the one shot that he hit well that would bring him back next week. I honestly don’t remember him ever breaking 42 for 9 holes and shooting many more high 40’s than low 40’s. In 2004, my brother and I made it a priority to take My Dad to the Masters. It was the Wednesday practice round and a beautiful Northern Georgia day. My Dad always had either POLIO or a very bad case of Rheumatoid Arthritis so his walking was always very limited and his strength was never very good. We all walked the entire back 9, sitting for 45 minutes at Amen Corner on #12 tee box and trudging step by step up the 18th hole as I could tell his strength was waning. I absolutely remember sitting on #12 tee box not wanting the moment to end, knowing that this was a very special, sacred place in all of our lives. I could go on for pages about some of the other sights from that day at the Masters but, let me leave you with this thought. I would not be who I am today without my dad and his insistence to involve me in the game of golf. I am My name is Sean Klotz, PGA Member North Florida Sec-

a good husband today and a good father due to him. My

tion and my brother is Mark Klotz, PGA Member New

brother and I both quickly “beat” him on the golf course

England Section. Our dad was Mel Klotz. We would not

because of our strength and ability to practice but every

be who we are without having our Dad in our lives.

day I try to strive to be as good as a person, husband and

Some of my fondest memories growing up was playing

father as he was.

9 holes on Sunday morning with my Dad at the local muni

Mel Klotz died in June of 2007. He was a special man, he was my friend and my Dad.”

in Massachusetts. I can still smell the early morning coffee upon walking in the clubhouse of that course. I probably half went for the chance to get a post round brownie from

Sean Klotz, General Manager & Head Professional

Some of my happiest moments as a kid were spent playing catch with my Dad in the backyard. He was an avid golfer and I was a promising baseball player. We both enjoyed our passion together with him hitting 9 irons to me as I worked my mitt catching his fly balls. Almost every night just after supper he›d grab his iron and I›d slip on my glove and we›d work on our crafts. Now as a quarter century member of the PGA, I enjoy sharing the same fun with my two sons. Mixing golf and baseball with the

Pat Walsh center with sons Kohl on right and Connor on left

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

ones› we love; well it just doesn›t get any better than that!!! Patrick Walsh, PGA Teaching Professional River Wilderness Country Club, Parrish FL 9

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

How my Dad influenced me in golf My Dad, Ralph Beach, who was the Head Golf Professional at the Suburban Club of Baltimore County, was my mentor, my idol, my confidant, my boss, and my most respected influence in choosing golf as my career. Having worked and studied with my father since I was 14 caddying, shop boy at age 16, and then up the ranks to Assistant Professional, it was a long and rewarding journey. After farming out for a year as Head Pro at Tabot Country Club, I ultimate returned to be Dad’s Assistant for one more year before his retirement after serving 31 years as Head Pro. I was honored to succeed my Dad as Head Professional at the Suburban Club. I held this position for 28 years before retiring to Central Florida. My Dad, to me, was among other things a much respected leader in his church, community, and business. You might say he was my Guru.

September 1969: Walter Romans, Head Professional- Baltimore CC; Ralph Beach, Retired Head Professional- Suburban Club; Don Beach- Head Professional Suburban Club; Andy Gibson, Head Professional- CC of Maryland

My dad taught me and my brother golf at the age of 5

and both of us have been playing now for over 45 years. At one time my dad, my brother and myself were all members of the PGA of America. My dad passed away last January sadly but not before we had a chance to play a round together at Golden Ocala in the previous November, and it was a most memorable day. He was 77 years old and me 52, we both shot 73’s on a great day with all the replica holes we grew up dreaming about. During the funeral a friend of his read an Eulogy, and said while playing with my dad he asked him who would be his dream foursome to play with if he could play with anyone, he did not say Bobby Jones, Arnold Palmer or even Jack Nicklaus, he told his friend he would want to play with his dad and two sons… My dad died a PGA Member in the Carolina’s Section, I am still with the PGA in the Florida section, he played golf everyday possible and died peacefully on the 6th hole of the Jones course at Palmetto Dunes doing what he loved. One note, he was even par when he passed. Ron Jones Director of Golf Instructor Golf Academy of America Ernest Frank Jones, Jr.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

My father is Bob Weickel, coaches Stetson University Men’s Golf….he is at the NCAA Regional this week with his top golfer Sam Ryder who qualified as an individual for the NCAA Championship. Sam grew up in Central Florida as well, attended Bishop Moore HS

I remember …. ….playing as a little boy with Dad along with other adults, it was cool to be with grownups…Learned how to keep up and shut up, especially if you beat them. ….attending my first PGA TOUR event, the Citrus Open at Rio Pinar, and choking on an tangerine seed in the middle of Hale Irwin’s back swing. ( Hale & caddie laughed when he saw it was a little kid) ….getting up at 5 a.m. and driving an hour from DeLand to attend FCA breakfasts downtown Orlando prior to Bay Hill. ….chasing the fairways of Hal Sutton’s first win at Disney and then chasing the Norman/Nicollete playoff the next spring at Bay Hill ,thinking how exciting golf was. ….watching Jack Nicklaus for the first time, from behind, hit a drive on a par 5 and even as a kid thinking, “ that guy’s ball fly’s a little different than everyone else’s….” ….teeing it up during the summer in DeLand at 12:30-1:00 p.m. always walking 18 cause Dad said, ” the course is wide open, no one is here, it is the best time to play…..and believing it was!... I thought everyone else was missing out.” …. Dad encouraging me if I wanted to be a PGA Professional to study the golf industry in college and then go do it …..and saying, “nice job,” once I did it. ....the excitement in my dad’s voice each time he tells me when his college golf team or players plays well….something he’s been coaching for 31 season’s over the course of the last 40 years. Thanks again, Kevin Weickel Tournament Director Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic at Walt Disney World Resort PGA Professional

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

It all started in 1968 in Ann Arbor, MI. Dad was the Food and Bev mgr at Washtenaw CC for 14 yrs. Part of his compensation was a membership for the family ...that is where my golf life started. He would bring me to work with him and I would get to play with the members’ kids. Rich B. First I started as a caddy, then I was able to go out and play. It was the best thing that ever happened to me. It kept me out of trouble and I looked forward to going there. My father has passed but I think of him first. He was my first phone call whenever I had success on the golf course. Wish I could talk to him one more time. I love to tell my golf story because it includes my father! Rich B thegolfinsiders.com

Happy Father's Day! 11

golf bachelor header

Da n k o o C Where were you born? Did you grow up there? Atlanta GA., Orange Park, FL

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

Is “acting your age” over rated? Completely!!

Name the three most important things to you in this world.

What do you do for a living? Business Development for a law

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

firm. Studying for law school. Internet Marketing

What would you like to do for a living? Travel the world Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Snowboard, Surf, Build Business Relationships

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

What do you fear the most? Death What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? Daly, Garcia, Mickelson Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?

Google them.

Cocktails and then nightclub

Tell us about your first kiss?

Last time you spewed something through your nose from laughing so hard? Never

I was in second grade. Rode my bike to her house after school about 2 miles away. I still remember her name.

Steak, chicken, or seafood? All of the above. Tell us something about yourself that only your closest friends know. I have a huge heart. What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? LOL. Water, Food, Sunscreen Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? My significant other 12

Family, Friends and Faith

Have you ever witnessed sex on the links? No, but I’ve done it. Favorite comedian? Jerry Seinfeld Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? Comedy Favorite television channel? ESPN Last book you read? Four Hour Body Favorite magazine? GQ Favorite charity to support? Water.org Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

cart header girl

Kelly Trayser Where did you grow up?

I was born in Hamilton, Bermuda, but I grew up mostly in Jacksonville.

Which group of people did you associate most with in high school?

I was on dance team in high school so I usually could be found with them or my group of friends

What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch? I like dancing and playing softball but my favorite sport to watch would probably be football.

Do you enjoy playing golf? Are they’re any golfers in your family? I love putt putt, but as far as 18 holes I’ve never played. In my family there are many golfers and at family reunions 2 day golf tournaments are held between a large group of immediate and distant family.

What do you feel makes this club special?

Many things make my club special but it think we have a great team at St Johns and we all work well together. My managers Amanda Dunn and Jessica Burris work really hard to make everyday run smoothly.

What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? What is your least favorite part? My favorite part about being a cart girl is getting to be outside and getting to meet so many different people everyday.

What type of music do you prefer?

I like country music mostly. There’s no beating Jason Aldean or Rascal Flatts.

Favorite type of movie? Comedy hands down.

What else would you like for us to know about you? I love being a part of the family at St Johns Golf where we treat every guest to a fun and enjoyable golf experience. And if any girl is looking for a fun way to make money cart girl is the way to go.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

header

Golf was the Name of the Game as Golfers Compete in the Playboy Golf Finals with Celebrities and Athletes Playboy Golf provided a fun filled

Miss March 2010 Shanna McLaughlin, actor Gary Dourdan and Miss August 2004 Pilar Lastra at the Playboy Golf Finals Pajama and Lingerie Party at the Playboy Mansion

four-day weekend that participants, celebrities and athletes will surely never forget. The Playboy Golf Finals were kicked off with a welcoming party at the Beverly Hilton followed by the Tee Party at the Playboy Mansion. For two days, golf teams took to the course at the Pacific Palms Golf Resort at Industry Hills where foursomes included a special guest celebrity or athlete as part of their teams. The course promised good times along with Playmates, Girls of Golf, food, drinks and plenty of fun in the sun. Evening events featured the Playboy Speakeasy at the Beverly Hilton and the legendary Playboy Golf Finals Pajama and Lingerie Party at the Playboy Mansion. Highlights included Heather McDonald and Brande Roderick as celebrity caddies; closest to the putt and largest drive contests, best dressed, six DJs, bloody mary bar, and food from Belly Up BBQ, Reggie Bush and Chris Paul held court with a bevy of blondes at the Mansion and Shahs of Sunset cast members were also in attendance. Participants in the weekend’s Heather McDonald and Josh Wolf arrive at the Playboy Golf Finals at Pacific Palms at Industry Hills

activities included Andrew Goudelock (LA Lakers), Ayodele Remi (Minnesota Vikings), Calais Campbell (Arizona Cardinals), Chris Gronkowski (Indianapolis Colts), Chris Paul (LA Clippers), Cody Grimm (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Dan Gronkowski (Cleveland Browns), Dane Fletcher (New England Patriots), David Anderson (Washington Redskins), David Walton (Bent), Dean Muhtadi (Arizona Cardinals), Denyce Lawton (Taking Hollywood), Drew Kittleson (PGA Tour), Eric Dickerson (NFL Hall of Fame), Eva Marcielle (Taking Hollywood), “GG”, Gharachedaghi (Shahs of Sunset), Josh Cribbs (Cleveland Browns), Heather McDonald (Chelsea Lately), Louis Vasquez (San Diego Chargers), Marcus Stroud 16

(Buffalo Bills), Mercedes “MJ” Javid (Shahs of Sunset), Michael Robinson (Seattle Seahawks), Mike Shouhed (Shahs of Sunset), Nate Jones (New England Patriots), Nicholas Gonzalez (Grimm), Patrick Warburton (Family Guy), Quinton Aaron (The Blind Side), Remi Ayodele (Minnesota Vikings), Rob Gronkowski (New England Patriots), Josh Wolf (Chelsea Lately), Sammy Younai (Shahs of Sunset), Shayne Graham (New Orleans Saints), Soulja Boy, Stephen Bishop (Moneyball), Takeo Spikes (San Diego Chargers), Terrance Newman (Dallas Cowboys), Todd Herremans (Philadelphia Eagles), Tyron Smith (Dallas Cowboys) Warren Moon (NFL Hall of Fame), Ryan Gomes (LA Clippers), DeAndre Jordan (LA Clippers). Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Heather McDonald and Josh Wolf arrive at the Playboy Golf Finals at Pacific Palms at Industry Hills

Christopher and Albert Manzo of Real Housewives of New Jersey arrive at the Playboy Golf Finals at Pacific Palms at Industry Hills

Heather McDonald and Josh Wolf arrive at the Playboy Golf Finals at Pacific Palms at Industry Hills

Heather McDonald, is triumphant at her shot at the Playboy Golf Finals at Pacific Palms at Industry Hills (photo by Mark Ventrini) Patrick Warburton at the Playboy Golf Finals at Pacific Palms at Industry Hills

Miss May 2007 Shannon James, Miami Dolphins Reggie Bush, Miss March 2010 Shanna McLaughlin and Miss December 2010 Ashley Hobbs at the Playboy Golf Finals Pajama and Lingerie Party at the Playboy Mansion Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 13, Issue 2

improvmg performance

Avoid Three Putts

By Gary Gilchrist Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher in America

with this Four-Tee Drill Winners on the professional tours are routinely at the top of the field in putting the week they win. That’s why performance on and around the green is crucial to shooting lower scores. You can knock some strokes off your score if you can really roll the ball where you want it and avoid three putts. When I work on putting with my juniors and pros at the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy, a drill I like to use a lot is the four-tee drill. The four-tee drill can really help you improve your stroke, especially with your path back and through. DO THE DRILL When you work on direction, the closer you are to the hole, you will really be able to see that the face is square and that the path is improving. Start by placing four tees down as shown in the picture. Just by putting these tees down, you will quickly notice that when you go to set up, you can get your clubface aligned

easier. (You can use the two tees on either side of the ball where the putter will strike the ball at impact as alignment points to get yourself adjusted.) Then when you go to stroke back and through, make a smooth stroke through the opening of the tees while making sure to not take the putter head too far out or too far in to avoid hitting the tees. If anything starts to go wrong with your path, you will get instant feedback if you find yourself clipping some of the tees. While doing this drill, you want to really feel how the putter head moves back and through towards the target, while keeping your head really still. Once you get comfortable working on this, it’s also going to help one of the most important things in golf, and that’s your eye line. A lot of putts are missed because we move our eyes too early, causing us to either push or block the putt. So work on this drill. Setup for success and start rolling your putts more on line with a square clubface.

Gary Gilchrist is a Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher in America and is the founder of the Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy at Mission Inn Resort & Club near Orlando, FL. GGGA features a full-time junior program and training for professionals, amateurs and college players. 18

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Summer Training Camp Gary Gilchrist Golf Academy Students can attend summer training camp for single or multiple weeks at a time. GGGA’s weekly summer training camps provide the perfect opportunity to experience what our comprehensive training program is all about. Following the same philosophy as our full-‐time program, summer training camp at GGGA encompasses all areas of the game and is specifically tailored to each student’s needs. Students gain an understanding of where their strengths lie and obtain practical knowledge they can take home with them.

Training Camp Dates June

July

July+Aug

24-‐30

1-‐7

8-‐14

15-‐21

22-‐28

29-‐4

Program Includes

GGGA’s “Train Like a Champion” training system at GGGA’s world-‐class facility near Orlando, Florida

Swing video analysis and individualized development plan practice drills for improvement

Golf-‐specific fitness training

“Think Like a Champion” Sports Psychology Program

Golf at Mission Inn Resort & Club -‐ featuring two championship courses

Housing in GGGA’s luxurious townhomes

GGGA logoed apparel

G G G A . co m

Howey In The Hills, FL 866-‐639-‐9099

improving performance header

By Jay Golden, PGA

The Greatest Ball of All

What is a ball? “A ball is a round or roundish body, of various sizes and materials. It could be either hollow or solid, for use in games, such as baseball, football, basketball, soccer, tennis or golf. That can lead to the question, “What is the greatest ball in sports? There are varying amounts of science and technology involved in the development of every ball. A basketball is designed with a specific size, weight and durability to bounce an appropriate amount when dribbled. When a soccer ball is kicked, scientists developed a ball that would react well in a variety of weather and playing conditions. The same could be said for a football, tennis ball, baseball, bowling ball, softball and so on. There is little comparison, however, in the amount of ‘scientific mind, time, experimentation and research’ spent on other balls compared to the golf ball. As an illustration, taking only one aspect of the golf ball, the following is one of numerous experiments related to DIMPLES. At a meeting of the American Physical Society’s Division of Fluid Dynamics, a team of researchers employed the same sort of scientific approach commonly used to improve the design of automobiles, aircraft, ships, trains, and other moving objects. The team used a supercomputer to model how air flows around a ball 20

in flight and to study how this flow is influenced by the ball’s dimples. Their goal is to make a better golf ball by optimizing the size and pattern of these dimples and lowering the drag golf balls encounter as they fly through the air. Inner cores, outer cores and coverings each received – and continue to receive - similar research and experimentation from a multitude of scientists and technicians. Not to take anything away from the ping pong ball, but a golf ball is a sample of modern scientific engineering and there is little room for debate that a golf ball is the greatest ball in sports. With more than 1,500 different golf balls that have been approved by the R&A and USGA, what is GOLF’S GREATEST BALL? Through extensive advertising, the brands used by Touring Professionals are well known. That being said, if a lesser known company produced a ball that is EQUAL OR BETTER than any ball on the market – AND IS SOLD AT A CONSIDERABLY LOWER PRICE - could it be considered GOLF’S

GREATEST BALL? The INNOVEX V-MOTION TOUR received a 2011”Golf Digest Hot List Award” including “4 STARS in the Performance Category.” It is a 3-piece premium ball designed for golfers who expect Tour Level performance and playability. It has a cast urethane cover for high spin along with a compensating speed core for distance. (V-MOTION $32.95 per dozen) The INNOVEX E-MOTION TOUR is a 3-piece surlyn performance ball, designed with a Progressive Motion Dual Core to fly further, spin faster, and feel softer while offering durability. The Aeroblend Cover features Aerocontrol parallel dimple dividers that smooth airflow for increased flight distance. (EMOTION $19.95 per dozen), As previously discussed, the golf ball is the greatest ball in sports. In determining the best golf ball, considering the factors of playability and cost, INNOVEX is arguably “THE GREATEST BALL OF ALL!” For more information: www.innovexgolf.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

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Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2 WGV32469 FLGolfCentralAD.indd 1

21 1/19/12 10:25 AM

improving performance header

The Embodiment of a Champion’s Passion for Golf and Fitness

Annika Sorenstam – the most dominant player in the history of women’s golf – stepped away from the LPGA while at the top of her sport in 2008. Since then, she hasn’t looked back, turning her attention to raising two young children and a diverse array of projects. They include her ANNIKA Foundation, course design company and ANNIKA Academy (www.theannikaacademy.com). Opened in 2007, the ANNIKA Academy is a state-of-the-art, boutique golf instruction and fitness facility at Orlando’s renowned Reunion Resort. It offers golfers an opportunity to learn from the same teachers who coached Annika during her storied 22

career. For example, lead instructor Henri Reis has been her golf coach since 1987. He played an integral role in honing the eminently repeatable swing Annika employed en route to 10 major championships and eight Rolex Player of the Year awards. Annika’s personal trainer, Kai Fusser, is also intimately involved, teaching proven cardio and core-strengthening exercises designed to translate to more power on the course. This heavy emphasis on fitness, conditioning and nutrition is a significant differentiator from competitors and, when combined with tried and true swing techniques, allows players of any age, gender and skill level to reach their potential.

“The ANNIKA Academy presents a one-of-a-kind opportunity for golfers to learn the game from the teachers who were so dedicated and influential during my career,” says Annika, winner of 72 LPGA events during her Hall-of-Fame career. “The attention we give to all aspects of the swing, along with club fitting and fitness, provides a truly unique, holistic approach to instruction.” One of only 15 certified Callaway Performance Centers in the country, the Academy offers a diverse menu of custom-tailored corporate packages, individualized golf instruction, personalized fitness programs, club fitting and even Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

and lunch with Annika, winner of the USGA’s 2012 Bob Jones Award for distinguished sportsmanship in golf. Says Annika: “Ingraining proper fundamentals, sound nutrition and fitness habits and a winning mental approach are essential to maximizing long-term potential and enjoyment of the game. Limiting participation to no more than 12 will help juniors make the most of their time with our gifted instruction staff.” The June 25-29 session costs $1,800 per junior; July 9-13 is $1,500. For more information about the ANNIKA Academy, visit www.theannikaacademy.com, or contact Gary Lorfano, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing: garyl@theannikaacademy.com/ 407.385.1245.

“The ANNIKA Academy presents a one-of-a-kind opportunity for golfers to learn the game from the teachers who were so dedicated and influential during my career,” — Annika Sorenstam opportunities to play with Annika. New to the roster in 2012 is the ‘Player’s Package.’ The program includes three hours of instruction on three consecutive days; 54 holes of golf; and full-service breakfast daily. Groups are limited to no more than eight guests, fostering an intimate guest-to-instructor ratio and environment conducive to learning. Prices start at $1,900 per person. Tailored to suit a variety of tastes and budgets, the ‘Championship,’ ‘Platinum,’ ‘Major Championship’ and ‘Soren-Slam’ packages are also available. Annika participates in three of the four, creating an authentic learning environment unmatched in the marketplace. The Academy will also host two, weeklong junior golf camps this summer. The first session will be held June 25-29; the second from July 9-13. Each is designed for up to 12 juniors (ages 14-18) and will be staffed by an Academy team dedicated to sharing Annika’s secrets to success. Program highlights include video swing analysis, short game evaluation, fitness and nutrition advice, rules and etiquette education, practice and tournament preparation tips, on-course instruction (first four days) and a final-day, 18-hole tournament. As an added bonus, the June 25-29 session will include a special clinic Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

By Leonard Finkel

what's new

Driving Deep and Down the Middle Self-Correcting Golf Ball Cures Hooks and Slices Golf is a difficult game. Imagine the unbridled joy of consistently hitting every fairway. The ability to hit the ball straighter makes playing golf faster, less expensive and much more fun; fewer lost balls to replace, less time searching and hunting

Robotic Testing Validates Company Claims

conforming golf balls, which all sliced about 90 feet, the Polara ball corrected

Polara went to Golf Labs in San Diego to validate their self-correcting ball’s performance and the results were eye-opening. During robotic testing where a significant slice was

up to 70 feet of the 90 foot slice.”

Garnering National Acclaim In an almost unprecedented event, Polara was featured on the front page

for wayward drives and above all,

of the New York Times (5/10/11).

greater enjoyment and the improved

Not the sports page, but the front page itself! Polara’s Self-Correcting

self respect and satisfaction that

Technology generated

comes with shooting lower

incredible media interest

scores! The Polara Self-

worldwide. Among

Correcting golf ball

numerous news

does all of that by correcting hooks

stories and reports,

and slices up to

veteran journalist

75%. A unique,

Ron Claiborne

asymmetrical

(ABC News,

dimple pattern

Good Morning

positions shallow

America)

dimples around

reported,” I

the ball’s equator

carefully teed

and deeper

up a Polara ball, arrow on top, as

dimples at the

instructed. I reared

poles. One glance

back and let it rip. The

and you clearly see the Polara difference. Try them and you’ll

A unique, asymmetrical dimple pattern positions shallow dimples around the ball’s equator and deeper dimples at the poles.

correcting effect. Golf Tips Magazine reported, “If you’re a recreational golfer who tends to find the rough more than the fairway, your fast track to straighter shots has arrived. No, it’s not a new training aid, oversized draw driver or magic swing tip. It’s a golf ball that flies straight, even when you put a slice swing on it.”

ball soared high into the sky, arched and landed on the fairway about 250 yards away.

undoubtedly experience the self-

found that compared to several popular

induced, on

average,

Polara

balls reduced the slicing effect by 75% over more traditional balls including premium brands. Golf Labs director Gene Parente states, “We set up the Golf Labs robot to simulate a 90 foot slice based on launch conditions of an average golfer. With the nonconforming Polara Ultimate Straight golf ball we

It had flown straight and true from tee to landing. I was in shock. “No slice!” I exclaimed. I hit another Polara. The same thing. And another. I simply could not hit a bad shot. It was a miracle.” It’s one thing to hit it straight on the range, quite another to do it on the golf course. I hit the ball far, but it’s sometimes an adventure as to direction. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

I went to Aviara in Carlsbad, California,

$170 million start up ball division from

selecting a tight hole to hit a few Polara

scratch.

ball drives. To my amazement, I hit the

Felker led the team that designed and

fairway on eight of nine drives! After

developed Callaway’s first products and

each shot, I felt more and more confident.

he holds many golf ball patents. Polara

I couldn’t miss! My misses stayed in the

balls are designed for the vast majority

fairway.

of golfers who are recreational players,

Polara’s director of R&D, David

ones who want to take advantage of

Felker has a long history of success and

technology improvements; those who

innovation. He was personally selected

want to have fun playing golf. “We’re not

by Ely Callaway to be the VP of Golf

trying to remove the skill from the game,”

Ball R&D and a charter member of the

said Felker. “We’re just trying to remove

executive team that built Callaway’s

the frustration.”

Trial Combo Pack For a limited time Polara Golf is offering one 3-ball sleeve of Ultimate Straight balls and one 3-ball sleeve of XD golf balls together for just $9.95 ( incl. S&H). Polara balls are at retailers nationwide but this specially priced sampler pack is only available at www.TryPolara.com.

I wanted to see for myself what the Polara ball could do. It’s one thing to hit it straight on the range, quite another to do it on the golf course. I went to Aviara in Carlsbad, California, selecting a reasonably tight hole to hit a few drives. To my utter amazement, I hit the fairway on eight of nine drives. I tend to hit the ball far, but it’s sometimes an adventure as to direction. After each successive shot, I felt more and more confident, like I couldn’t miss the fairway! I hit half my drives dead straight, a very unusual trajectory for me. My misses stayed in the fairway. With the Polara ball, I believe I can shoot a career low round, which has me very excited.

doug spencer

16th annual

golf challenge

one day of golf =

daycare. job training. breakfast. a better education. recovery.

be part of the challenge.

special thanks to our 2012 sponsors:

Calling all sponsors and players for 2013: Tracie Morris, Director of Development tracie.morris@cflhomeless.org | 407.426.1265 Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2 Florida Golf - Half Page TY Ad.indd 1

25 5/1/2012 4:30:38 PM

social golf

implementing these strategies, readership and awareness of the paper grew exponentially. We saw first-hand the effect that social media marketing could have on an organization.

Nick: With the excess letters you can spell “A Gizmo Jerk Dusk High Crania.” Greg: We didn’t like any of those words. Nick: Except Gizmo.

Nick: So, upon the conclusion of our careers at Rollins and with The Sandspur, it was a natural transition for us to start plying our trade with other companies. Greg: Right! As we embarked, we realized the hole in our skill-set was search engine optimization, so we reached out to Shakirra. Our new social media team is Green Gazelle Marketing, which is comprised of three young Rollins College grads who just started their own business. I’ll let them introduce themselves. -Terrie

Shakirra: I interned at a marketing firm where I learned about Google rankings and search engine optimization. I also wrote press releases and website content for clients like the Hilton and Marriott.

Greg: Hello! I’ve been around golf the past 20+ years and have enjoyed it for the past two.

Greg: As we began working together we came up with our name to mirror our business’ speed, strength, and environmental friendliness.

Nick: I’m atrocious at golf. Recently got a new 9 iron, though! I can only assume that will fix all my problems.

Shakirra: Plus, it’s a partial anagram of our combined names.

Shakirra: I went to a golf course last week for the first time. It was a totally new experience. Greg: I’m sure you’ve had more run-ins with golf than that.

Greg: Naturally. Nick: As we move forward with our management of Florida Golf Central’s social media, you can look forward to interactive additions to FGC’s most popular features, including online voting for the cart girl of the month-Shakirra: But not for the GGM girl; that’s me! Greg: -as well as voting on the monthly golf bachelor, participating in conversations about today’s golf scene, and going behind the scenes and provide feedback, input, and tweets which could show up on print or in the web. We’re all looking forward to it, and hope you will too.

Green Gazelle Marketing's core three, Greg Golden, Nick Zazulia, and Shakirra Meghjee (top left, top right, center), spend some time off at Winter Pines Golf Club

Shakirra: Well, I once saw Elin Nordegren sitting in the college psychology lounge. Nick: Okay, I guess that counts. Greg: Now that our extensive golf credentials have been established, we can focus on what we do: help companies promote themselves through social media, blog writing, web development, and search engine optimization. We’re recent grads, and like most college grads, we have indeed been on Facebook once or twice. Nick: Speaking of college, that’s where we met; Greg and I were respectively the Managing Editor and Editor-in-Chief of Rollins’ 120-year-old student newspaper, The Sandspur. When we first joined The Sandspur’s staff, its online presence was almost non-existent, which is an obvious faux pas in today’s modern, web-centric world, so we had to work extensively to remedy that situation. Greg: As a result, we needed to learn social media tactics in order to expand our audience. While we were there and 26

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

social header golf

Revolutionary New Golf Mobile Application That Benefits Golfers and Courses– And It's FREE!

Who’s Your Caddy, a free, cutting

serves up “Gimmes” to its golfers.

Who’s Your Caddy also provides all the

edge golf mobile application, is

Gimmes are free gifts from busi-

cutting-edge benefits expected from

about to change the way golfers, golf

nesses in the golfer’s neighborhood,

golf mobile apps, including GPS yard-

courses, and advertisers view mobile

such as a gift certificate to a restau-

age capabilities – all at NO CHARGE.

apps. Not just another golf app, this

rant. Golfers will be alerted of their

Maybe the most important aspect

mobile app is the first of its kind. A

free Gimme via a text while they are

of Who’s Your Caddy for the courses

win-win-win for all parties involved:

using their WYC unit during golf.

that sign on is the unique advertis-

golfers, golf courses, and advertisers.

“The Gimmes really separate Who’s

ing program. Via WYC sales reps,

Who’s Your Caddy, created by

Your Caddy from our competition,” said

local businesses will buy advertising

parent company Red Mat Me-

President Suzanne Cahill-Manning.

on the mobile app for a small an-

dia, is available on iTunes.

“It is a win-win-win program. Our

nual fee. A portion of that fee goes

Three key features set this product

advertisers gain exposure and direct

into a bonus pool, which is divided

apart from other golf apps. First, Who’s

access to potential new customers.

among the participating courses

Your Caddy is a FREE mobile app for

The golf courses offer a benefit to

based on usage at each facility.

both the golfer and the golf courses.

their players, and receive a portion of

There is no expense to the golf

“Other golf apps can charge the course

advertising revenues. And of course,

courses, yet they’ll benefit greatly.

to be on the app. With Who’s Your

the golfers win with the Gimmes

They will engage their customers in a

Caddy, not only does the course not

while using the very best golf app

revolutionary new mobile golf ap-

pay a cent for the app, it can also make

on the market. And it is all free.”

plication unique to their course, drive

revenue from it with our revenue

Third, Caddy Tips give golfers details

traffic to their courses, develop co-

share program. We create partnerships

of each hole on the course through

op relationships with neighborhood

with golf courses and users, no other

videos from the club professional. He

businesses, and make extra revenue.

golf app can say that,” said Timothy

will offer tips on how to play each hole

For more information on Who’s Your

Lyon, CEO of the parent company of

during a short video, just as if a caddy

Caddy or Red Mat Media, visit their

Who’s Your Caddy, Red Mat Media.

were standing by the player’s side

websites at www.whosyourcaddy.

Secondly, Who’s Your Caddy

pointing out the strategies of the hole.

com or www.redmatmedia.com.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Perry’s has been a family favorite for generations. Our spectacular indoor garden and heated pool make your vacation weatherproof. Kids and grandkids love the Kids Beach Suites. And grownups love the Perrycation package that includes dine-around certificates good at outstanding restaurants. But best of all . . . Perry’s knows golf! Our reservations team can craft a custom golf package with any of the many choice courses. So visit perrysoceanedge.com or call (800) 447-0002.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

special events 30

Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 13, Issue 2

special events

Broward County’s Finest Charity Golf Tournament The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward

teed off and played 18 holes of golf on

County (BGCBC) hosted the 26th Annual

the east and west courses. After the

Levine/Slaughter Golf Classic on March

tournament, guests enjoyed a helicop-

23, 2012 at the exclusive Woodlands

ter golf ball drop contest courtesy of

Country Club in Fort Lauderdale with

Nordic Investigations, cocktails and

NFL Celebrity Guest Marshall Faulk

hors d’oeuvres, and a lavish buffet din-

(former St. Louis Rams and Indianapolis

ner featuring silent and live auctions,

Colts all-pro running back, NFL Network

awards presentations and raffles.

analyst and NFL Hall of Fame inductee).

The BGCBC serves children between

the ages of 6 and 18, providing an assortment of activities to benefit the kids in our community and keep them off the streets. BGCBC is focused on helping members, especially “those

Known as the longest running and best charity golf scramble event in Florida, the event raised more than $100,000 for the William E. Slaughter/S. Robert Levine Campus Boys & Girls Club whose mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. The tournament kicked off with registration and brunch with live entertainment followed by an exciting shotgun start. Each foursome then

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County joined the national organization in 1965 and have grown along with the movement. We now have 12 facilities with a membership of over 12,000 youth, making us one of the largest Boys & Girls Club organizations in the nation. We are a nonprofit 501(C) (3) private agency. We rely on funding raised by our Board of Directors, special events, general donations, corporate sponsors, foundation support, endowments, and the Broward County government. 32

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

who need us the most,” achieve success through participation in the following core areas: academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. For sponsorship information on the 27th Annual Golf Classic, please call Events Coordinator Judith Fletcher at 954-537-1010 ext. 226.

Golf is Better - and You're a Better Golfer When Your Feet are in Good Shape

For Tips on Preventive Foot Care, visit the Institute for Preventive Foot Health at IPFH.org

The Institute for Preventive Foot Health (IPFH) is a non-profit foundation dedicated to helping individuals and their families care for their feet through awareness, education, research and the identification of easy-to-follow methods proven by clinical research to prevent, treat and manage painful conditions and diseases affecting the feet and quality of life. Institute for Preventive Foot Health  877-777-4734  1519 W. Front St., Statesville, NC 28677

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

caribbean golf central

St. Kitts Marriott Resort Debuts the

Sun, Sea & Golf Package

Hole #15 at sunrise

The St. Kitts Marriott Resort debuted the Sun, Sea & Golf package, a “sweet” deal for golfers headed to Sugar City this fall. In addition to enjoying luxury guest rooms trimmed with West Indian accents and cutting edge comforts, guests at the hotel from September 1 – October 31, 2012, will receive complimentary green fees at Royal St. Kitts Golf Club. Boasting pristine white sandy beaches surrounded by beautiful blue waters, lush tropical rain forests and a variety of historical and cultural attractions, the island of St. Kitts Clubhouse

truly has something for everyone. The St. Kitts Marriott Resort, located on the Windward side of the island, features 393 luxury guest rooms and is highlighted by The Royal St. Kitts Golf Club, one of the most scenic and well conditioned courses in the Caribbean. The front nine offers a glimpse of the Caribbean Sea on holes 3 and 4, as

well as views of sister island Nevis and colorful island homes which are set into the mountainside, while the back nine features stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests will also enjoy gaming and excitement at The Royal Beach Casino, located onsite, and the largest Vegas-style casino in the Caribbean; revitalizing and luxurious spa treatments at the Emerald Mist Spa; exquisite dining options at eight restaurants and two lounges; and an outstanding Kids Club program – making it the ideal destination for families, couples and corporate travelers alike. The Sun, Sea & Golf package includes overnight accommodations at St. Kitts Marriott Resort, complimentary green fees at Royal St. Kitts Golf Club and breakfast daily. Rates start at $159 per room, per night, based on double occupancy. Tax and service fees not included. Offer valid for stays from September 1 – October 31, 2012. Course closed September 3. Cart fees and club rental not included. For more information or to book, visit www.stkittsmarriott.com or call 1.800.228.9290 and reference promo code H47. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

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feature

Ocala's Legendary Rees Design is Revitalized

Central Florida deservedly stands as a

green players are treated to unique

Florida golf.

bastion of quality golf. Notable courses

terrain with elevation changes of sixty

Standing under the porch of the

stretch from Orlando’s Windermere

to one hundred feet in sharp contrast

23,000 square feet antebellum style

to Innisbrook in Tampa Bay. Among

to the typical “flatter” style courses

clubhouse General Manager Stan Cooke

the regions many hubs is Ocala and it

found throughout the Sunshine State.

highlights, “This golf course is one of

is here nestled among its distinctive

Often cited as reminiscent of the vistas

the finest layouts in the Southeast. It’s

surroundings of rolling hills that lies

and feel of a North Carolina course,

a course that has been highly regarded

the hidden gem of Golden Hills Golf &

Golden Hills is indeed a rare find in

by the best players who frequent the

Turf Club. A course that claims

Ocala market.”

its place as Ocala’s Legendary

Originally the vision of

golf course.

Bernard Castro, patriarch of

Winding through a pristine

the family namesake famed

parcel of 380 acres amid a

for creating the convertible

backdrop of towering oaks

sofa, the course was born in

graced with Spanish moss this

1964 as Marion County’s first

7,302 yard championship course

private club. From the start, the

delivers an astonishing golf

course and its club attracted

experience in the heart of the

members from among the area’s

regions renowned horse country.

equestrian elite and for decades

From its first tee to eighteenth

stood as the enclave of the Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

“Who’s Who” of Ocala. In 2003 Bernadette Castro made a commitment to bring the course her father founded into the 21st Century. Commissioned with the task of elevating Golden Hills and transforming the face of Ocala golf was Rees Jones, currently the #2 ranked course architect in the nation by Golf Digest. The modifications enhanced the course’s challenge by adding length and character to the course’s natural attractions. Particularly notable are the massive bunkers guarding the greens as well as the course’s signature mounds and swells. The masterful reshaping of Golden Hills by Rees would capture the interest of golf enthusiasts and the approval of the USGA resulting in the hosting of notable tournaments including NGA Pro Golf Tour play such as The Ocala Classic and the prestigious U.S. Women’s MidAmateur Championship. Today the vision that created this truly rare niche in the world of Florida golf is dedicated to rekindling its legendary status following a bout with bankruptcy and acquisition by Citrus Hills Golf & Country Club. The long established operator of golf courses and Mr. Cooke have big plans for the course’s rebirth as one of the great golf prizes of the Central Florida golf scene.

General Manager Stan Cooke highlights, “This golf course is one of the finest layouts in the Southeast. It’s a course that has been highly regarded by the best players who frequent the Ocala market.”

“When our company acquired Golden Hills we were excited about the Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

incredible design of the course and its legacy,” comments Stan Cooke, “The Citrus Hills ownership is passionate about the course and is financially committed to bring it to tournament caliber condition. We are clearly launching a new golden era in the course’s legendary heritage.” Spearheading the program to keep the course in top shelf condition is a topnotch maintenance staff managed by Head Golf Course Superintendent Jimbo Rawlings. With an aggressive agronomic schedule underway the course will offer excellent playing conditions through

here at Golden Hills,.” notes Stan.

the Summer and expected to reach

Among avid golfers Golden Hills

its ultimate level of play by end of the

continues to be held in esteem as

season.

one of the finest designed courses

“I am very familiar with the quality

available. It’s an experience that

of course conditions that Jimbo and his

will delight amateurs and satisfy

staff provide. We worked together at

the demands of the best of shot

World Woods Golf Club for eight years

makers. To arrange a visit and

and the reputation established there is a

tee time contact the pro shop

precursor to what will be accomplished

at 352-629-7980.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

The Most Unique

Golf Homes...Ever! The Incredible Pointe Vista Carriage Homes at Terra Vista!

These premier collection of luxury residences offer stunning vistas and the ultimate country club lifestyle experience in one of the most exquisite golf home settings ever created! • Amenity-Rich Lifestyle with 4 Golf Courses…2 Tennis Centers… Expansive Spa & Fitness Center…Private Restaurants • Surrounded by the Spectacular Skyview Championship Course • Privacy Gated Enclave of Only 12 Homes, plus 24/7 Main Community Guardhouse

Only 7 Remaining Homes from $415,000. Welcome Center located at Intersection of Forest Ridge Blvd. & Norvell Bryant Highway (Rt. 486).

Open 7 Days a week for inspection.

352-746-6121

By Joel Jackson, FGCSA Executive Director

live golf

Hidden Treasure –

The Deer Island Country Club You don’t have to spend a lot of money getting to some faraway offshore island to find a hidden golf treasure. Just jump into your car with some friends and motor to the Tavares-Mount Dora area in the heart of Central Florida in the north metro-Orlando area. Deer Island is just that, an island in Lake Dora. You can see the city of Mount Dora across the lake from several holes while playing the front nine. There are residential homes and guesthouses on the island as well if you want to make it a weekend getaway adventure. It’s an spot ideal for company or family gatherings or just a round a golf for the day. The course was designed by Joe Lee and opened in 1994. Lee was the unofficial “King of Central Florida

The City of Mt. Dora is clearly visible from the 4th green of the Deer Island Golf Club.

Course Designs” back in the 80’s and

the course, wildlife sightings are likely

bobcat sightings along with turtles,

90’s with other well known local tracks

to include bald eagles and ospreys

gators, herons, egrets, moor hens,

like the original Disney Trio of the

either nest building or fishing in the

ducks and the usual native songbirds

Palm, Magnolia and Lake Buena Vista

lake and golf course waterways. Just

like cardinals, blue jays, mocking-

courses, Tuscawilla, Grande Pines,

a heads up, a family of eagles was in

birds and all those little bitty birds.

Hawk’s Landing, Interlachen, Twin

residence in the tall pines in the right

The unique location and views, and a

Rivers, Errol Estates, Orange Tree and

rough on #18 when I made a tour this

fun but challenging risk/reward design

The Reserve at Orange Lake Resort.

past March. Superintendent Mike

are major factors for success. But good

Besides the unique views around

Brownsberger also reports otter and

service is also a must on the list for customer satisfaction and visitors and year round members are not disappointed. The friendly atmosphere and staff in the clubhouse and lunch at the full service Blue Heron Grille capped off my discovery trip to Deer Island. The easiest way for me to get to Deer Island was to take Hwy 441 north to County Road 448/Sadler Road. Head west through Lake Jem on 448 until you come to Shirley Shores Rd. Take a right and follow the signs to Deer Island. Island golf courses are pretty darn rare in the middle of the state. Treat yourself and your golf bud-

The Par 3, 13th hole and some of the homes bordering the lake and the golf course.

dies to a fun getaway and discover Deer Island for yourself.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

WHITE METAL GOLF PRESENTS

Sink Pink! SPONSOR LOGO HERE!

State Senator Nancy Detert (Center left) was the guest speaker at this year’s Suncoast Scramble Tournament held at the Heritage Oaks G.C. in Sarasota. Detert’s son Jamie is the golf course superintendent at the Plantation G&CC in Venice, FL. On hand with Sen. Detert was FGCSA Vice President Nancy Miller, CGCS of the Maple Leaf G&CC in Port Charlotte. Twenty EPA and Florida Water Management District regulators on their Annual Spring Tour of Florida Ag & Green Industry operations participated in a putting contest on the Old Collier Club putting green down in Naples in March. Superintendent Tim Hiers has hosted this golf course tour for the past 12 years with help from local superintendents who act as guides around the course for the regulators.

Sink Pink! Mother’s Day, Ladies’ Day, Cancer Awareness, More! www.sinkpink.com 800-548-1033 SINK PINK! is a way for golf courses to paint the course pink for relevant occasions. Pink Ribbon Tee Markers Pink Cups Pink Flagsticks Pink Flags and Pink Paint!

I caught this 6-foot long iguana trying to play through while I was visiting the Miami Beach Golf Club in April for the Florida Green magazine cover story. The original course called the Bayshore Golf Club was built and opened in 1923. Noted architects Arthur Hills and Steve Forrest rebuilt the course from the ground up in 2001, and the name was changed to the Miami Beach Golf Club. Celebs like Matt Damon, Toby Keith and others have teed it up as guests. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

By Katie Hatfield, FGCU Alumnus

course of dreams

College for Golfers

Photos by Tara McKenna

convenience McKenna went on to say that “the weather and ‘smalltown’ feel of the University is a great draw for both students and parents.” After receiving acceptance into FGCU students must then apply to the Golf Management Program (GMP) and submit a handicap verification form showing a minimum 10 handicap. The GMP puts “a 100% emphasis on getting into the PGA, including doing all the PGA Bookwork along with your other coursework” according to Benjamin Windoft, a current FGCU Senior who came from New York to participate in the GMP. Overall,

Tara McKenna, Director of the PGA Golf Management Program

Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) in Ft. Myers first opened its doors in 1997, and in 2005 it became the home to one of only 20 schools in the country to house the PGA Golf Management Program. With accreditation from the PGA of America the four and a half year program is composed of a curriculum designed to ‘provide quality instruction and an unparalleled

the program is designed to educate students through upper level courses over 150 courses within an hour

focused on Turfgrass Management,

commute. “Our close ties with the

Facility Operations, Advanced Golf

community, and the number of courses

Merchandising Operations, Golf

in our area, [along with] the ability

Course Ownership and Golf Executive

to play at a different course everyday

Management.

separates us from other programs and

Those who participate in the

schools” explains McKenna.

program have access to what is known

In addition to the course

as the “PGA Room,” a room frequently A group of students in the program

learning environment [where] students can assemble the skill and knowledge base necessary...to succeed at the highest levels of the golf industry...’ according to the PGA Golf Management Mission Statement. The program at FGCU currently has 90 active students, including 10 women, and is expected to add an additional 40 students in the upcoming semester. Director of the PGA Golf Management Program and PGA Member Tara McKenna feels that “starting students in this program helps them to establish roots and a large network base at an early age.” FGCU does not have a course on campus, but, considering the surrounding community and premium location of the University there are 42

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Students in the program participating in the model golf shop located on campus referred to as “the hitting bays” is

fit for the facility. We have quite a few

Golf Management Program at FGCU,

roughly 1000 square feet made up of 3

success stories.”

McKenna, who has been in the industry

simulation bays. Equipment in the room

One notable success includes FGCU

for 20 years would like the program to

includes a Hi Definition Golf Simulator

Alumni and PGA Program graduate

be “recognized as top four in the country

with video analysis, a club-fitting cart,

Joey Lewis, who is currently working

among [her] peers.” Windoft advises those

and a Sam putting lab. In addition

at the Trump National Golf Club in

interested that “this program is work;

students also help run an on campus

Los Angeles, CA as an Instruction

it’s not all playing golf. They give you the

model golf shop, located in the Sugden

Specialist, according to www.

tools and education to succeed.”

Building, and have access to a state-of-

trumpnationallosangeles.com. Windoft

For more information about the

the-art club repair lab and an outside

is completing his internship at Old

program visit Florida Gulf Coast

short game area with putting and

Memorial Golf Club in Tampa, FL and

University at www.fgcu.edu or

chipping greens. According to Windoft,

has a job lined up at the Country Club of

contact Tara McKenna directly via

“the video analysis program, where

the Rockies in Vail, Colorado.

email at tmckenna@fgcu.edu or at

you can tape and review your swing

As for the future success of the PGA

(239) 590-7717.

is the best piece of equipment in the room, and the most used.” He continued

The simulaltion room

by saying that “being able to use this equipment and getting help from other students has proven to be beneficial.” Upon completion of University and PGA requirements and the 16 months of paid internship each student completing the program will have earned a Degree from the College of Business (as of August) and a Class A PGA Membership. “Future employers value the education we’re getting at FGCU” says Windoft. FGCU’s Golf Management program currently has a 99% job placement rate following graduation, and according to McKenna “our Interns are the best running billboard for our program and they get exposed to a variety of experts throughout the program. We work hard to make sure the student is the right Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

grip it andheader sip it

Rosso Di Montalcino A younger and more accessible version of Brunello, Il Poggione Rosso di Montalcino is made with carefully selected Sangiovese grapes handpicked from the youngest of estate vines that are at least 15 years old.

Acclaim “The 2009 Rosso di Montalcino is a lush, fruity wine with good body and an attractive personality. The Rosso is aged predominantly in 100-hectoliter barrels, although 30% of the wine is aged in French oak tonneaux. This is simply a tasty, well-made wine, but not more. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014.”

Winemaker's Notes: Vintage: 2009 Grape Variety Used: 100% Sangiovese Appellation: Montalcino, Tuscany Alcohol Level: 14% Length/Type of Fermentation: Traditional red fermentation with maceration for 14 days Length/Type of Aging: 12 months in French oak barrels and barriques, followed by a minimum of 8 months bottle aging.

Tasting Facts: Color: Ruby red Nose: big red berries, you can smell the texture to come, wet leaves in the background Taste: Intense ruby red color. Fruity bouquet with red berry notes. Very well structured, mellow, long-lasting flavor with smooth, velvety tannins. Enjoy with pasta with meat sauce, roasted and grilled meats and medium strength cheeses.

n ership

Grip it and Sip it.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

fore your health

Who You Callin’ a

Winner?

Let’s take a trip back to the Masters

2012 - As Bubba Watson was about to swing the club to get out of the rough and onto the green on his 2nd. hole playoff, his chances of winning seemed to fade away in such a close race with Louie Oosthuizen. In a moment of such extreme pressure, as being on the verge of winning or losing The Masters surely is, the true winner has a single focus. To win. “BS!” you say... “everyone wants to win!” - And you’re right. Everyone wants to win but not everyone can keep their focus where it needs to be, to walk away with a green jacket. You see, once the physical skills are acquired in golf, as in everything else, what separates the champion from the... not champion, is the champion’s motivation strategy. If the thoughts going through Bubba Watson’s head had been “I screwed this up and I’m about to lose because of it” or “what if I don’t make clean contact out of this rough” or “I don’t think this is the right club”, do you think he would have won just the same? I’ll tell you why the answer is an emphatic NO. Our brain, as the powerful machine it is, gives us the ability to bring into existence the things we focus on, provided that we have the right set of tools, like: Circumstances, Physical Skills, Etc. As an example, I know that no matter how much I want to win The Masters next year, which I do... it isn’t likely to happen, since I don’t have the right tools: An invitation to the masters, a professional golf game, etc. However, in my professional life, I am a winner because I nurture my motivation and focus on my strengths, while improving on my weaknesses. The best part about it, is that I can teach you how to do the same so that you too can excel in any area of your life! Ready? - Take just a second to pay attention to what goes through your mind when I ask you NOT to think of a black cat... did you? - If you’ve ever 46

heard the phrase “what you focus on increases” you may already be aware that keeping negative thoughts in your head makes your goals less achievable. Conversely, if you, like Bubba Watson, are focused with pin point accuracy on

By Juan Acosta, Hypnotist GolfHypnosisFloridda.com

example: When you’re about to hit a ball over a water feature... do you hear yourself saying “I don’t want to hit it in the water”, or “I’m hitting this ball on the green”? - Focusing on either the water or the green, will bring you closer to IT, whichever one you choose. Q: Oh no! - I’m a water-focusing fool... what do I do? (add drama here) A: Do this little exercise until you notice the change you want taking place: Get a small notebook. Before you go to bed at night, take a couple of minutes to write down all the things that went well during your day. Your accomplishments, things you did right, things that move you forward in the direction of your goal(s). If you think “nothing good ever happens...”, Think again. You woke up, didn’t you? - That’s good!!! - You get the idea. What you may notice, in the days and weeks to come, is that you’ll find yourself starting to look forward to the next good thing happening, so that you can write it in your “journal”! - When you begin to notice that, now you’re learning to motivate yourself the right way. Keep going.

what you want (I’m going to hit that ball onto the green), instead of what you don’t want (I’m in a bad spot), you’ll be able to take the necessary steps to make it happen. As he did. There is a caveat though. The hype of “positive thinking” that came about with popular inspirational movies like “The Secret”, got the world thinking “If I just think positive it’ll all be fine... I’ll win the lottery and we’ll just enjoy ourselves”. Sadly, as in the case of the lottery, just a thought isn’t enough. But it’s a great place to start! So here is a mini Q&A section to teach you how: Q: How do I find out if I already have the right motivation strategy? A: Simple. Notice the way you construct and vocalize what it is you want. For

Q: How can this so called “right motivation strategy” help my golf game? A: For starters, it can keep you from going in the water. You can also sink more puts and improve your swing, etc. if instead of thinking “this is a really tough put” or “don’t over swing”, you learn to THINK “does that hole seem bigger than normal?“ or “swing smooth and let the club do the work”, the possibilities are endless. Pay attention. This forward motivation, is not just something you do in the moment. It is in fact the first step towards living a more productive and fulfilled life. Use it on every shot in golf and in life and may the best motivation strategy win. See you on the course! Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 6

FGCM • Vol 12 Issue 6 Layout.indd 57

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

12/18/11 6:48 PM

player development

Lohith Ramaraju, repeat Champion in the Boys 14 & Under Division

Folkwein Fires 70 to Capture Title at Saddlebrook Ayaka Nakayama's final round score was the lowest score in the Girls Division and won her the coveted Clazic Belts Low Final Round Award.

A highly skilled field of junior golfers gathered at the Saddlebrook Resort to compete in the 36-hole International Junior Golf Tour (IJGT) Florida Swing at Saddlebrook. It was played on the Palmer Course, which is a par-71 layout designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer. The day started off with intermittent rain, but the sun eventually came out giving the juniors soft greens and fairways, which yielded some low scores. Mark Folkwein of Midland, Mich., won the Boys 15-19 Division crown in dramatic fashion to take home his second IJGT victory of the 2011-2012 season. Folkwein, a Hank Haney International Junior Golf Academy (HHIJGA) student, opened up the tournament with a 1-over-par 72 in his first round but trailed the leader, Poom Pattaropong (HHIJGA) of Bangkok, Thailand, who carded an even-par 71. Both players got off to shaky starts in the second round with Pattaropong three-putting and Folkwein four-putting the first green. Folkwein recovered quickly with a birdie on the second hole. Going into the back-nine it looked like Folkwein was going to walk away with the trophy, but Pattaropong made two birdies late on the back nine to pull within one stroke with one hole left. No. 18 on the Palmer Course at Saddlebrook Resort is a short, but testing par-3, especially with the Sunday hole location just eight yards from the water. Pattaropong hit his approach shot to 15 feet, then Folkwein stepped up and put it eight feet from the hole. Pattaropong made his birdie putt, but Folkwein responded like a true champion and hit his birdie putt dead center for the victory. Folkwein finished with a 1-under-par 70 which included a back-nine score of 34 and five birdies on the day. On the weekend, Folkwein took advantage of the short par-5’s at the Palmer Course, having played them at 4-under-par. 48

“Poom was fighting back hard on the back, and he made a clutch 15 foot putt from off the green for birdie. And I had to make an eight foot putt of my own for the win. I just went and made it,” replied Folkwein when asked about what was going through his head on No. 18. Finishing in second place was Pattaropong with a tournament total of 1-overpar 143. Moe Numpituckchaikul (HHIJGA) of Bangkok, Thailand took third place with a tournament total of 3-over-par 145. His final round score of 1-under-par 70 earned him the Clazic Belts Low Final Round Award with Folkwein who also finished with a 1-under-par 70 on Sunday. Ayaka Nakayama (HHIJGA) of Kanagawa, Japan found her way back to the winner’s circle again for the seventh time this 2011-2012 season. This IJGT title was unique, however, because she had to overcome a three stroke deficit during Sunday’s final round. The critical point in the second day came on the par-3, seventh hole at the Palmer Course, when Nakayama took dead aim at the flagstick. “On hole No. 7, I hit a seven iron to a couple of feet and made the birdie,” said Nakayama. Over the course of the weekend, Nakayama played the par-3’s almost perfectly playing them at 5-under-par. Nakayama’s final round 1-over-par 72 gave her a tournament total of 150. Her final round score was the lowest score in the Girls Division and won her the coveted Clazic Belts Low Final Round Award. Finishing in second place was Cake Phuchanbanchob (HHIJGA) of Chiang Mai, Thailand with a tournament score of 151. This was Phuchanbanchob’s best fin-

ish in an IJGT event this season. Taking home third place was Ana Paula Valdes (HHIJGA) of Morelia, Mexico who finished with a tournament total of 156. There was another repeat Champion in the Boys 14 & Under Division. Lohith Ramaraju (HHIJGA) of London, England captured his third IJGT title of the 20112012 season after recording rounds of 74 and 76. Going into Sunday’s round Ramaraju held a five stroke lead, but he stuck to his game plan of playing safe and avoiding large scores that might allow his fellow competitors back into the hunt. Ramaraju was able to put it in cruise control on the back nine and finished three shots ahead of his nearest competitor. Ramaraju was able to score really well this weekend because of his deft touch around the tricky greens on the Palmer Course. “My short game was going well leaving me with short putts all day,” he said. In second place was Will Thomson of Pittsford, N.Y., with a tournament total of 153. He fired a 3-over-par 74 on Sunday which was the lowest score in the Boys 14 & Under Division on the day. Finishing in a tie for third place were Tennoshin Ogawa (HHIJGA) of Ichinomiya-shi, Japan and Masato Yoshitsugu (HHIJGA) of Aichi, Japan with total scores of 160. The IJGT will make its next Southeast stop in Hilton Head Island, S.C., on April 28 - April 29, 2012 for the IJGT KENTWOOL Socks Open at Oyster Reef. Every player in the field will receive a pair of KENTWOOL’s “World’s Best Golf Sock.” To sign up for this event or others, or for more information call (800) 792-9143 or visit www.IJGT.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

By Dave Daubert

duffer dan

Duffer Dan in Lee County Road Trip! The folks in Lee County invited us down to check out some of the great golf courses available in the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel area, just a 3 hour drive southwest on I-75 from Central Florida. With a diversity of executive tracks like Bay Beach Golf Club in Ft. Myers Beach, municipal courses such as the historical Fort Myers Country Club a few blocks away from downtown, and resort layouts on Captiva Island, Boca Grande and Bonita Springs, there is something for everyone who enjoys the sport. Fort Myers was the winter home for both Henry Ford and Thomas Edison, and their estates are both available for tours and worth every minute. It is absolutely amazing to see how many inventions and patents Edison was responsible for and how they have affected our everyday lives. Being on the Gulf of Mexico, Lee County is known for its beaches and as a “fisherman’s paradise”. You can go fresh water backcountry fishing on the Caloosahatchee River and its tributaries, as well as the many lakes and ponds scattered throughout the County. On the coast you can cast your line from the shoreline, use a small boat through the waterways between the islands and the mainland, or take a charter to go for the big ones in the Gulf. Tarpon is a great sport fishing challenge and Boca Grande is known as the “Tarpon Capital of the World”. Make sure your fifteenth club is a fishing pole.

Just a few miles east of I-75 on highway 82 is the bedroom community of Lehigh Acres which boasts 5 championship golf courses. I had the opportunity to play the Copperhead Golf & Country Club, a par 72, 6700 yard test offering tight fairways bordered by whispering tall pines on the front nine, and wider landing areas with narrow approach shots on the back. Water is a natural element on at least 13 holes and the track has the highest elevation in Lee County

with a 72.2/136 rating. The club was bought about a year ago by two individuals from Kentucky who have rerouted the course to make it more playable, and are improving conditions that were ignored before the purchase. Well known South Florida Golf Course Architect Gordon Lewis designed the track which opened in 2001 with rave reviews, and you will enjoy the rolling fairways and varied looks from the tees. They have reasonable rates particularly during this time of year. Go to www.CopperheadGC. com to learn more. When staying in Lee County, you have your choice of a myriad of great places to overnight. The latest addition to their extensive hotel list is the Hyatt Place at the Forum, just 5 miles from Copperhead on Highway 82 at I-75. From here you can get to anywhere in the area with ease.

The Hyatt accommodations are nice and roomy with sitting areas and big screen televisions, in-room Starbucks, complimentary continental breakfast and a menu you can order from 24/7 from the intimate Bakery Cafe. We used the heated outdoor pool and workout areas while staying which also included free internet access and parking. Great restaurants are as numerable as the golf. We enjoyed a fabulous traditional Italian dinner at Two Meatballs in the Kitchen, just off of Daniels Parkway west of I-75 where Salvatore and Rose Basile, well respected restaurateurs of Fort Myers, fill your plate with love and delectable offerings. I guarantee a full tummy and a to-go box. www.twomeatballs.com. The town of Bonita Springs is in the southern most part of the county and has a PGA legend Raymond Floyd designed beauty that will enrapture any golfer, about 5 miles west of 1-75. Raptor Bay which also opened in 2001 is managed by the WCI Company and is the first resort course to receive the Audubon International’s Gold Signature Sanctuary Certification. This layout is set on a 200 acre preserve of nature bordering Estero Bay with 22 acres of lakes and 6700 yards of tournament quality conditions. The unmatched beauty of the entire facility and extraordinary service of the staff make the par 71 Raptor Bay one of the finest golf courses in Florida. I would make the trip again just to play here. Raymond utilized waste bunkers to border the facility instead of sand traps along with the natural tree line and vegetation to give the golfer unbelievable sight lines from the tee. Go to www. RaptorBayGolfClub.com to learn more. Whether you want to stay for a day or a lifetime, Lee County with the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel is great for the sporting life. Did I mention that they have 95 golf courses? Plan your next trip and contact our friends at wwwFortMyersSanibel.com to get the latest information. Go Play Around! Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Getting close to your buddies on the golf course is fun.

Getting close to them in a hotel room isn’t.

Play like you’re at home; stay in a Starmark Vacation Home. Stay in a private home just steps from some of Orlando’s top courses on your next golf getaway. All for less than a hotel suite. In a Starmark Vacation Home, your foursome can relax in a spacious home after a day on the links. You’ll enjoy all the latest amenities and yes, your own bedroom. So go ahead and snore away. Visit StarmarkVacationHomes.com or call 800.783.9939.

Reference code FLGOLF4 to receive a 4th night FREE, plus a discount of $60 per foursome, per round at Orange Lake Club.

19th hole

By Dave Daubert

When you think of fine dining in Orlando there are only a handful of restaurants that really fill the bill. For 28 years the art of exceptional dining has been kept alive and well by Chris Christini at his elegant restaurant on Dr. Phillips Boulevard, about a mile from The Bay Hill Club & Lodge. Seven nights a week you can enjoy the ‘Best of the Best Five Star Diamond Award’ winner’s unique menu and wine list. The minute you step through the door, you are transported to a romantic Italian culinary experience like no other. The magnificent art work, luxurious fabrics and décor make you feel like you stepped out of Central Florida and into a Ristorante somewhere in Italia. Senore Christini and his extraordinarily trained and knowledgeable staff are there to insure that every detail is not overlooked. The sheer warmth and charm of the restaurant, the incomparable aromas of the food and unique

plate presentations make Christini’s a one of a kind gourmet’s delight. This is where the elite eat. And if you don’t believe me, just take a stroll around the interior of the restaurant and you can view his Wall of Fame; framed photographs of Chris with celebrities, dignitaries and folks from all over the world like Tiger, Seve, Phil and yes, the King, Arnold Palmer. In fact, Johnny Carson once dined here and did a joke about how large the signature veal chop (Costata di Vitello) was he enjoyed at Christini’s. Speaking of food, let me tell you about my own special evening. I highly recommend you make reservations in advance. Once you enter you are greeted by the maitre d’ and seated. There is not a bad table in the place. A staff of three takes care of your every want or need headed by a waiter with as much menu knowledge as Chris himself. Alberto Ginez, a Mexoitaliano, has been at Christini’s for years, catered to all our requests, explained the menu choices and how each dish was prepared. There is a selection of 6 appetizers, pasta e fagioli, and three salads to begin your meal. You have your choice of imported sparkling or natural mineral water. My dining partner had the gamberoni alla veneziana, jumbo shrimp sautéed in butter, deglazed with brandy & sherry, finished with fresh tomatoes and mushrooms, while I enjoyed the calamaretti fritti, squid lightly breaded and fried to perfection and served with their own unique marinara sauce. My mouth is watering just remembering. Of course no meal at Christini’s would be complete without wine, and the excellent selection of pairings are best left to your waiter unless you are a worldwide connoisseur. You have your choice of six pastas each with its own special preparation. For my taste I would choose between the Linguini alla

Genovese or the Rigatonni alla Zozzona, which I decided on. Perfect al dente pasta served in a light cream sauce infused with fresh fennel and shredded Italian sausage will have your taste buds falling in love. The experience is made even more romantic by the strolling accordion player who can play just about any request. The entire menu is personally created in the kitchen by Chris and his staff, so it is totally unique in flavor and sauce combinations. There are 9 meat and 3 seafood entrees. His most famous pesce piatti is the Spigolla alla Christini, a pan seared Chilean sea bass served over shrimp risotto with lobster tarragon sauce. Magnifico! Choices from filet mignon, ossobuco, pork or veal chop, chicken and of course my personal favorite, veal, complete the carne menu. There are 3 veal preparations and Scaloppine al Marsala, sautéed with cremini mushrooms and marsala wine was just divine. If you have any room left, the dessert delicacies will delight you with such Italian specialties as tiramisu, cannoli, ricotta cheesecake, tartufo and zabaglione. To learn more you can go to www.CHRISTINIS.com or call 407-345-8770. Buon Appetito!

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s starting to heat up, so is our discounts! Present this ad at time of check-in and receive a $5.00 discount per golfer off our current rack rate. Offer expires August 31st 2012. We offer 36 holes of fun competitive golf. Come out and try one or both of our courses. Non-Resident memberships now available. Inquire with the Pro Shop Staff on information regarding memberships. Outings welcome, contact the PRGC Pro Shop for additional information on your next group golfing adventure. 5 day advanced tee times available. Call 352-365-0526 to book your next tee time. www.theplantationgolfclub.com 4720 Plantation Blvd. Leesburg Fl, 34748 Located in South Leesburg off U.S. Hwy 27 Florida Golf Central â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 13, Issue 2

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

By Steve Morris

Stars Were Out and Shining Brightly at the NFPGA Extravaganza; A Celebration of Golf, Awards and Their Hall of Fame

Cathy Harbin

Jack

It was a special evening for some special people at Reunion Resort in Orlando on Friday evening, April 27. The red carpet was rolled out for the North Florida PGA finalists and guests for their annual Section Awards ceremony and celebration. Four legends were also inducted into the North Florida PGA Hall of Fame. As they arrived, they made their way through the spectators 54

along the red carpet and were greeted by our “reporter” Brandi Williams from the Section office for interviews and questions! Then it was time to socialize and enjoy the show during dinner! Our MC, Tony Johnson, NFPGA President, took the stage to introduce past award winners who announced the nominees and presented them with their award. May I have the envelope please? One person from each of the 4 Chapters within each award category awaited their announcement in an Academy Award style presentation. There was anticipation, some nerves, a few tears and inspiration from the deserving winners. Each shared their stories of life in the golf business and thanked those who inspired and supported them. They were truly the best of the best! The evening concluded with the induction of 4 legends and mentors into The North Florida PGA Hall of Fame. They were introduced by their peers and accepted their honors with humble pride. They too shared their stories of inspiration with dignity. They were all proud to be PGA Members and always strived to do their best for the game, their customers and their Association throughout their many years of service. The class of 2012 were: Jack Binswanger, Cathy Harbin, Will Frantz and Jack Johnson. You could feel their humility and appreciation. Disney’s Yehaa Bob wrapped up the evening with his unique style of entertainment. It was a night of

Will Frantz

Jack Johnson surprises, laughter, some tears but most importantly camaraderie amongst fellow PGA Members and their guests and peers. As many commented, it was fun! A special thank you to our sponsors: Atlas Van Lines, Golfer’s Guide and PGA National Resort. Thank you to Ryan Munson from Folds of Honor for the inspiration and update about the foundation.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

And now, The 2012 North Florida PGA Award Winners:

Tim Beckwith & Kevin Weickel

Golf Professional of the Year: Tim Beckwith, The Oaks Club Teacher of the Year: Matt Mitchell, Downs Golf & Practice Facility Teacher of the Year: Mike Warobick, US 1 Golf Center Horton Smith Award: Kevin Weickel, Walt Disney World Bill Strausbaugh Award: Russ Libby, Hidden Hills CC Patriot Award: Jack Aschenbach, Amelia National Junior Golf Leader: Brendon Elliott, Little Linksters Presidents Plaque: John Cameron, Daytona Beach GC Merchandiser of the Year Private: Joe Angelo III, Heritage Oaks Golf & CC Merchandiser of the Year Private: Chris Slattery, Avila Golf Club Merchandiser of the Year Public: Brian Jaquet, Daytona Beach GC Merchandiser of the Year Resort: Randy Mosley, Renaissance Vinoy Assistant of the Year: Pamela Shelley, Sawgrass CC Assistant of the Year: Mike Touhey, Temple Terrace CC Sales Rep of the Year: Kenny Hobbs, Nike Golf Amateur of the Year: Kris Hedstrom, Dean Hedstrom Foundation for Melenoma Awareness Visit the North Florida PGA website at nfpga.com or facebook site for photos and more highlights…

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Photo credits – Mark Ashman / Golf Channel

he Golf Channel The GOlf Channel The Golf Channel The Golf Channel The Gol

Orlando Residents to Compete on Golf Channel’s Big Break Atlantis Orlando residents Gloriana Soto and Marcela Leon will compete in Golf Channel’s 17th season of its popular Big Break series, Big Break Atlantis, premiering May 14 at 9 p.m. ET. The first female professional golfer from Costa Rica to compete in the United States, Soto, 25, turned professional immediately following graduation from Texas Tech in 2010, and is playing a full schedule on the Symetra Tour in 2012. Leon, 31, the most experienced competitor on the series, has competed on the Symetra Tour for the past nine years, with five career top-10 finishes and one runner-up finish. She also is competing on a full-schedule on the 2012 Symetra Tour. Shot on location at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas, Big Break Atlantis will showcase a field of 12 women at different stages of their golf careers – several are currently playing on the Symetra Tour (LPGA 56

Gloriana Soto

developmental tour), while others turned professional for the series – who will compete against each other in an attempt to make their lifelong dream of playing alongside the world’s top golfers a reality. In addition to other prizes, the winner will receive an exemption to a to-beannounced 2012 LPGA Tour tournament, cash and other prizes. The series also will introduce a new format and will feature multiple surprise guest appearances, including Women’s World No. 1 Yani Tseng, a long-time Big Break fan who wanted to audition for the series when she moved to the United States from her native Taiwan. “I love watching the pressure the contestants go through in the various challenges, especially the Glass Break and the Flop Wall,” said Tseng, winner of three LPGA events thus far in 2012. “This will be my first Big Break, and I’m really excited to be a part of it.” Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Joining Soto and Leon on Big Break Atlantis are: Anya Alvarez (22, Pittsburgh, Pa.) Allison Micheletti (24, Scottsdale, Ariz.) Natalia Ghilzon (21, Windsor, Ontario) Meghan Hardin (19, Lake Arrowhead, Calif.) Selanee Henderson (25, Temecula, Calif.) Aubrey McCormick (29, Arlington, Va.) Zakiya Randall (20, Atlanta, Ga.) Shannon Fish (23, Spring, Texas) Christina Stockton (24, Rocklin, Calif.) Kelly Villarreal (29, Birmingham, Ala.) Golf Channel’s Tom Abbott and Stephanie Sparks return as co-hosts for the series. Produced in January at the Bahamas resort, the 11-part series will unfold on the Tom Weiskopf designed 18-hole championship course – Ocean Club Golf Course – a picturesque par-72 layout featuring breathtaking signature holes and seaside greens and tees stretched over 7,100 yards of coastline.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Marcela Leon

By Helen Yeomans

women in golf

Women and Augusta National: Same Old, Same Old Another sexist tempest at the Masters, this time over the CEO of IBM. The company is a long-time supporter of the tournament and every CEO since the world was young has been invited to join Augusta National Golf Club. But not this time. This time, an infamous snub, because like the Masters, Augusta National is male-only and IBM’s CEO is a woman. Ho. Hum. The only reason anyone gives a damn about this sort of thing anymore is because Augusta National happens to put on what is arguably the best-loved and most prestigious of all professional golf tournaments. It’s seen as very wrong, therefore, that the club is male-only. Not to me. Whether they don’t want to install facilities for women, or they do want to be able to kick off their shoes and make vulgar noises in the dining room, the reason doesn’t matter. The members are entitled to do as they please—and to be judged accordingly. I’ve got to add that if women could compete in the tournament—that is, if women were physically capable of competing against men at the highest levels of golf— then the all-male rule at Augusta National would seem outrageous to me. Unfortunately, women are not able to compete head to head with men. Annika Sorenstam gave it a great try a few years ago and came up short. Michelle Wei has tried. Also came up short. Which doesn’t mean they shouldn’t keep trying. The great Babe Zaharias made the cut in several tournaments back in the 1940s and no doubt another 58

woman will do it again one day. Until then, women at the Masters— as players or members—is an annual tempest in a teapot. I had to face this this issue head-on a few years ago when beginning my novel Ang Tak, about a young golfer and his caddie at the Masters. The event is so relentlessly male I wanted to inject a

female element to broaden the novel’s appeal. So I made my caddie a woman, and made her the narrator. This caddie narrator, Kat, holds a similar opinion to mine about the issue of women as

members. Similar, but not the same: she thinks their choice is a dumb one. But like me, she also thinks they’re entitled to make it. It doesn’t seem to occur to anyone to ask if a woman would even want to be a member of this particular club. Yes, you’d be in influential and wellheeled company, with a membership that includes names like Buffett, Gates and Bechtel. (The club is so wealthy, in fact, they don’t even depend on sponsorship. One of the many reasons to love the tournament so much is because of the wondrous announcement that issues forth each year from the Chairman’s mouth: the one about no more than four minutes of advertising each hour.) But—forgive me— how exciting would it be to be a member? I guess it depends on your tastes. Ten years ago the average age was 78. That’s probably come down somewhat since, but no one knows for sure. The membership of Augusta National is a well-kept secret. The fact is, Augusta National will decide to invite a woman to join only when it feels it cannot afford to keep her out any longer. This may happen next week or it may never happen. Women, like the narrator of my novel, Ang Tak, are making a difference in golf regardless of an invite to Augusta. Helen Yeomans is a writer whose second novel, Ang Tak, takes place at the Masters. More at www.helenyeomans.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

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what'sheader new

The Best of Both Worlds:

Take Your Clubs to the Golf Course…On Your Bike! What do golf and motorcycling have in common? They are both big boy toys. But they also share a long history together. In 1963, three-wheel Harley Davidson golf carts were introduced, with a four wheeled version following shortly there-after. These carts could be seen all over golf courses throughout the 1960’s and 1970’s. Harley-Davidson is as American as apple pie and golf is easily one of America’s great pastimes. Both passions have come together again with the Milwaukee Golf Caddy that mounts easily to 60

any Harley bagger motorcycle. Life doesn’t get much better than a day on the greens or a long winding road with the wind in your face. Imagine the pure pleasure of being able to do both! The Milwaukee Golf Caddy combines two of the most enjoyable leisure activities on earth. You love to ride and you love to golf, but until now there was no way to get your clubs to the course on your bike. Either you didn’t ride, or you had to ask someone else to carry your bags for you. Now you can ride to the golf course in style, with your golf bag

securely attached. It is a sleek and sturdy golf bag rack that installs on your Harley Davidson bagger or dresser and allows you to carry any size golf bag on your bike. You no longer have to choose between a motorcycle ride and a round of golf--you can do both. The patented Milwaukee Golf Caddy installs in less than a minute using the quick release hardware already on your Harley without modifications or tools. Simply remove the saddlebag and set the rack in its place, anchoring it with the Dzus fasteners already on the bike. Two small Velcro strips Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

No Tools No Brackets No Modifications To Your Harley Installs/Uninstalls In Under a Minute Weighs Less Than Stock Saddle Bag Holds Any Size Golf Bag Designed To Minimize Air Drag No Effect On Handling Tested At Speeds Up To 95 MPH Made In The USA secure the rack to the luggage support bar to eliminate vibration. The 2.5 pound caddy is hand crafted in the USA using 6061-T6 aluminum, the same material used in aircraft and the space shuttle. Set your golf bag in the rack and secure it with the included quick pull straps and off you go. The unique design makes it a snap to switch back and forth from the saddlebag to the golf rack, anytime. Glenn Castro, the inventor, has spent the majority of his life on a Harley. He’s a man that enjoys the open road, a good cigar and a reason to play golf. In fact, after taking up golf, he realized something was missing. Castro researched what was available on the market in the way of golf bag carriers and decided he could create his own golf caddy. Today’s patented model has been designed to securely hold any size golf bag, from a small walking bag to a large touring bag. Tested at speeds up to 95 mph, the caddy slips through the wind without any effect on handling, and you can still have a passenger enjoy the ride with you. The Milwaukee Golf Caddy is available in three models, one for baggers, one for touring bikes that have the saddlebag side rails and one for newer touring bikes without the side rails. Each one comes with Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

the rack, 2 bag straps and 2 Velcro pull strips. The Caddy is available in powder coated black, polished or you can special order any color. Imagine being able to switch from stock saddlebag to golf caddy in less than a minute. Now you can easily get clubs to the course on your bike. When you’re done, the saddlebags go

back on again in less than a minute. Harley-Davidson owners take pride in their motorcycles, just as a golfer does in his clubs. Now, with the Milwaukee Golf Caddy, you can ride your bike to the links and enjoy the ride to the golf course as much as the round itself. For more information, please visit www.milwaukeegolfcaddy.com.. 1969 Harley Davidson Golf Cart

Bonita Bay East Summer Program a Hole-in-One Unlimited golf at Southwest Florida’s most extraordinary pure golf experience make Bonita Bay East’s Summer Passport Program one of the area’s best golf deals for daily fee play. Located in North Naples, the 1,400-acre golf facility features two award-winning Tom Faziodesigned championship courses. The nonresidential golf facility has been one of the region’s most sought-after golf experiences since it opened as a private club in 1997. For $600 per person or $850 for a couple, the Summer Passport Program includes unlimited play on The Cypress and The Sabal courses from May 1 through Oct. 31, 2012, and a cart fee of only $25 per person. This one-ofa-kind program includes use of the state-of-the-art practice facility prior to scheduled tee times. Players also receive use of the 8,000-square-foot lodge-inspired clubhouse, dining room, mixed grille and bar within one hour of play. “For as little as $100 per month, golfers can take advantage of two Audubon Signature Sanctuary courses,” said Jay Severson, director of golf sales at Bonita Bay East. “Unlimited golf during the slower summer months is ideal for first-timers as well as seasoned golfers in the area’s most natural habitat.” The Cypress is an impressive 5,999 Bonita Bay Club East - Cypress #18

to 7,077-yard course. The longest Bonita Bay East championship course with the front nine featuring spacious fairways and natural bunkering that gives way to the forested back nine’s layout. The 6,029 to 7,038-yard Sabal course mingles difficulty and diversion

which delights novice golfers while experienced players are challenged to swing for the pin with sub-par scores on nearly every hole. The two Bonita Bay East courses wind through open areas, marsh and woodland and past cypress stands where players often see wild turkey, marsh birds, rabbits and white tailed deer. It was the first 36-hole facility in the world to achieve Audubon International Signature Sanctuary status. Bonita Bay East’s site includes 895 acres of cypress wetlands, 190 acres of pine flats, lakes and hundreds of Bonita Bay Club East

native sabal palms. Bonita Bay received the 1999 Golf Digest Environmental Leader in Golf Award from Golf Digest and the National Environmental Steward Award from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and was included among Travel + Leisure Golf’s top 100 golf communities in America each year since 2006, Links magazine’s 2006-07, 2007-08 and 2008-09 lists of America’s Premier Properties and Golf Connoisseur’s 2007 list of the top 40 golf communities in America. Bonita Bay East is located on Immokalee Road six miles east of I-75. For additional information or to schedule a tee time, contact Jay Severson at 239-405-9002, e-mail BBEGolf@bonitabaygroup.com or visit www.BonitaBayEast.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

rst coast first coast first coast first coast first coast first coast first coast first

By Stephen Trendler

Darryl Donovan, 51 years old, takes the “Yutes” to the woodshed to win the Florida Azalea Amateur (What’s a “Yute? See “My Cousin Vinny”) Top amateur events in the region have

Donovan has an outstanding golf

been regularly dominated by high

resume including being a former pro,

school and college age contestants.

played in the 1992 US Open at Pebble

3 years ago, this event was won by a

Beach, and eventually returned to ama-

15 year old who is now the #1 ranked

teur status winning numerous major

junior in the U.S. They attend full time

events in California.

Winner Darryl Donovan played 54 holes of relentless great golf

Jarred Garcia watches his lead go away with one swing

Day 1 saw Jacksonville’s Jarred Garcia throw in a 64 to take the first day lead followed by a 67 on day 2 to hold the lead. Garcia looked like a lock to win the event. A day 2 low round of 66 was thrown in by recent Underwood Cup stalwart Nick Gilliam (preceded by a first day 76), Nate Yankovich and Donovan. The first hole of day 3 for the lead group set the stage for the rest of the day. Garcia bladed a routine greenside bunker shot out of bounds and never recovered from the shock and posted a final round 79. Kamaiu Johnson (68-67 first two days) likewise, never got going and posted 74. Meanwhile, Donovan played like a well-oiled machine and killed the field with consistency to take

golf academies, and more time to prac-

home the winner’s trophy.

“major tune up”.

tice and play. That’s not a knock on the

A side note about the Palatka Golf

Commented Weed: “We are fortunate

kids, but that’s what the non-“yutes”

Club: it is now being restored and

to have a great partner in the city of

have to compete against.

managed by Bobby Weed . A work in

Palatka. Together, we are working to

California native Darryl Donovan, a

progress , Weed has already provided

bring a fun, authentic experience at a

+1.5 handicap and 51 years young , raised

greatly improved playing conditions.

a reasonable price. This is an assign-

a quiet roar of “thank you” from the over

Weed intends to keep the basic historic

ment that is very dear to me.” The end

40 golf population by putting on a clinic

design intact and is concentrating

game will bring this historic course

of top level play to take the 2012 Florida

on improving greens through a new

back to be a real treat to play. For more

Azalea Amateur at the historic Donald

program of cultural practices. It will be

information, visit their website at

Ross design Palatka Golf Club.

another year before completion of the

www.palatkagolfclub.com.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

The 10th Anniversary of The TOUR Academy at World Golf Village A celebration with an open house to showcase their new teaching technology The premier teaching academy in the First Coast raised the bar with the introduction of new technology to provide the most advanced teaching tools in golf. Travis Fulton, Director of Instruction at The TOUR Academy, and his staff provided a 10th anniversary open house for the public to see for themselves at their St. Augustine facility. The open house included a free short game handicapping test to show players just how important the short game is for making better scores. The test included a series of short, medium and long putts, chipping to 3 different pin positions, and then wedges from three different distances up to 90 yards to a flag. Single digit handicappers were regularly scoring mid to high teens handicap ratings for a short game handicap. It was obvious where most golfers need to improve….at all levels. Attendees were also provided with hands on experiences with all the new teaching technology. The Dynamic Balance system provides amazing instant visual feedback on how your feet are distributing weight and balance throughout your swing, With one swing while standing on a computer linked matt, a wide screen TV monitor provides the percentage of weight distributed on your left and right foot, as well as the weight balance from toes, to the middle of the foot to the heel. You couldn’t hit 20 buck-

Travis Fulton provides attendees with a free instructional clinic on the golf swing elements of your putting stroke to a computer to instantly display results. A picture is worth more than a thousand practice putts with the TOMI system. New cameras, and more of them, have been installed in the teaching bays for even better video quality of

Attendees are shown how the Dynmaic Balance system can immediately show weight distribution in one swing

every angle of your golf swing to provide instant visual feedback. With just a few swings, the Tour Academy instructor can nail down a diagnosis and

ets of balls to find what the Dynamic

cure that 10 buckets of balls

Balance can find in just one swing.

on your own could never do.

The new TOMI putting analysis sys-

The Tour Academy is now

tem provides instant TV monitor feed-

offering a summer program

back in real time on your putting in-

for juniors and adults as

cluding alignment, swing path, speed,

well as various levels of

ball contact, and roll. An infrared

packages. From all of us

transmitter attaches to your putter, and

at Florida Golf Central…..

information, visit their website

then a camera sends data of the 8 key

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! For more

at www.touracademy.com.

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

The TOMI putting system show real time feedback for instant analysis

first coast first coast first coast first coast first coast first coast first coast first c

By Stephen Trendler

ature coast nature coast nature coast nature coast nature coast nature coast

Black Diamond Celebrates their Silver Anniversary In 1987, vaunted course architect Tom Fazio collaborated with Mother Nature to pull off one of the great golf design feats in history – Black Diamond’s Quarry Course. By forging the layout through the steep cliffs and lakes of two retired limestone quarries on Florida’s Nature Coast, Fazio created scenery that can only be described as other-worldly. Twenty-five years later, the Quarry remains one of the most sought-after golf experiences in the world. Like a boxer setting up his opponent with a series of strategic jabs and body shots, the Quarry’s front nine is methodical in makeup, featuring dramatic elevation changes, classic bunkering, and fairways framed with thousands of beautiful live oaks. Shortly after making the turn, Fazio delivers his knockout punch in the form of five holes famed golf writer Dan Jenkins called “the five best consecutive holes in the world.” The stretch begins at No. 13 and concludes with the 218-yard, par-3 17th. The Quarry was a game-changer when it opened 25 years ago and remains one of Fazio’s seminal works. “I honestly believe the Quarry Course was one of our most special, interesting, fun and spectacular golf courses ever created,” says Fazio. Ten years after the Quarry, Fazio added a second course at Black Diamond, the Ranch. Carefully crafted to blend into its natural surroundings, the Ranch is frequently cited as the members’ favorite. The Highlands completes the trinity of Fazio designs at Black Diamond. Completed in 1999, the nine-hole 66

layout plays to almost 3,500 yards and has a stout 143 slope rating. “We are very proud to be a part of the Black Diamond family and we know that the courses will be something that will be a legacy in the game of golf,” adds Fazio. To mark the 25th anniversary, Escalante Golf, which acquired Black Diamond in March 2011, is launching a series of initiatives to cement the property’s place as one of the country’s best residential golf communities. In addition to traditional equity memberships for homeowners, Black Diamond is offering “Non-Proprietary” memberships for those who don’t live in the community. Three levels are available with initiation fees ranging from $6,000 - $25,000. All of the memberships include unlimited golf; advanced tee-time and guest privileges; clubhouse dining; and use of the tennis, pool, fitness, and practice facilities. Prospective members and course collectors wanting to experience Black Diamond can do so through

the community’s new stay-and-play packages. A one-night stay with two rounds of golf starts at $399 per golfer. Two nights’ accommodations and two rounds of golf start at $485 per golfer. Guests stay on-site in one of the community’s homes and rates are based on quad-occupancy. Another 25th anniversary enhancement is the addition of one of golf’s most storied instruction programs, John Jacobs Golf School and Academy. The two- and three-day Golf Schools cover every facet of the game from full-swing video analysis, to shortgame technique, to trouble shots and uneven lies. The Academy offers a variety of customized programs tailored to students’ needs and is open to members and non-members alike. “Our partnership with John Jacobs Golf Schools and Academy provides members with instruction commensurate with our facilities,” says Doug Egly, general manager of Black Diamond. Non-members interested in attending the John Jacobs Golf Schools and Academy can reserve a guest home in the community. Students also receive a special discount at the Holiday Inn Express in Lecanto. Between immaculately conditioned courses by one of the game’s most vaunted designers, meticulous service, and a premier instruction program, it’s safe to say Black Diamond will continue to thrive for the next 25 years and beyond. For more information: www.blackdiamondranch.com, (352) 746-7400. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

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Meet The First Tee of the Palm Beaches The First Tee Palm Beaches has quickly evolved into a major youth development program in Palm Beach County at Michael B. Finnegan Learning Center in West Palm Beach. The chapter originated in 1988, as the Children’s Golf Foundation serving young people with disabilities. Subsequently, this First Tee Chapter was established with the support of the Michael B. Finnegan Foundation, the PGA of America and The Honda Classic. Their territory includes all of Palm Beach County and southern Martin County which encompasses over 90,000 elementary school students. There are also adjacent First Tee chapters in Broward and Miami/Dade Counties. The chapter is one of over 200 throughout the world and one of 15 chapters in the state of Florida. They operate a golf facility that includes a par 3 course, hitting tee, and chipping and putting short game areas and the programs are taught by PGA and LPGA certified instructors. They offer the opportunity for all

students to learn the Nine Core Values and Nine Healthy Habits of The First Tee program. Additionally, the program serves children with both physical and learning disabilities, veterans with vision impairment and people with paralysis. While their original vision of helping children with disabilities is still an everyday commitment, they also provide life skills and life enhancement opportunities to all young people through the game of golf and The First Tee program. Typically, they schedule a series of 9 once weekly sessions with a school or youth development organization. Sessions are 1.5 to 2 hours each time. Most

from left to right is Craig Watson FTPB Program Director, Readus Smith former NFL and NFL Europe player, Kristin Dodd FTPB participant, James Jones former NFL player, Bob Glickman PGA Instructor, and Jay Hampton. This photo was taken during the season ending Hole-In-One Shootout that was presented by the Glickman brothers and sponsored by Braman BMW.

Arnie Glickman, PGA, and Bob Glickman, PGA groups come out for multiple 9 session programs. They also offer Saturday and weekday evening classes. Each session includes a Nine Core Value and Nine Healthy Habit, encompassed into golf instruction. The Nine Core Values are Honesty, Integrity, Sportsmanship, Respect, Confidence, Responsibility, Perseverance, Courtesy and Judgment. The First Tee Nine Healthy Habits were created through collaboration among The First Tee, ANNIKA Foundation and Florida Hospital for Children to promote healthy, active lifestyles for young people. The healthy habits are a list of nine health and wellness topics presented as a part The First Tee, formatted for easy understanding and learning by elementary-age students and chapter participants. Aligned with the “look and feel” of The First Tee Nine Core Values, the Nine Healthy Habits offer a comprehensive approach to youth wellness. The Nine Healthy Habits are organized under three categories of physical, emotional and social health. The Nine Healthy Habits are Energy, Play, Safety, Vision, Mind, Family, Friends, School and Community. The facility is open throughout the year; a typical week finds nearly 350 students participating in one of our programs including golf summer camps, golf clinics, and after school golf instruction. The First Tee Palm Beaches is differentiated from other youth golf programs because we uniquely provide a place to continue the skill improvement and personal development of a child from ages 5 through 17. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

A Shark Sighting in Pompano Beach A standing room only crowd of residents and community leaders from the city of Pompano Beach were on hand for a site visit and groundbreaking ceremony to commence Greg Norman’s redesign of the City’s Pines Golf Course. The project, which will be Greg Norman’s first design at a municipal golf course is on the fast track and scheduled to be completed and re-opened in November of 2012. Norman arrived hours prior to the

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

groundbreaking in order to survey the initial work on the first five holes of the course where construction is already underway. He could be seen walking the holes with his design team and the construction crew who would be responsible for putting his ideas in the ground. Norman’s

passion for golf course design was evident as he traversed each hole with his team, stopping to draw in the sand in order to get his design concepts across to his team. Norman has long held a reputation as a tireless worker and perfectionist when it comes to his golf game, apparently this trait has permeated his golf course design routine as well. After completing his site inspection, Norman made his way to the clubhouse for the official groundbreaking ceremony where he lifted a shovel with the city commissioners and the Mayor of Pompano Beach. During his speech at the groundbreaking Norman stated, “This project is special to me, I wouldn’t be here today if I didn’t have access to public golf facilities when I was growing up. This is the heartbeat of golf right here.” Norman has several redesign, or renovate and rebrand projects under way, but this is his first at a Municipal golf course. He hopes that Pompano Beach will be the first of many municipal golf courses projects. “Working with municipalities to help them improve their golf offerings is a great way to help grow the game of golf.” A golf course redesign, renovation and rebranding with the Norman name gives golf courses a financially reasonable method to inject some new life into their existing golf course. Even though the Pompano Beach project has just commenced, the excitement surrounding this project was obvious at yesterday’s groundbreaking ceremony. 69

product showcase

➊ adidas Golf SAMBA GOLF Footwear adidas’ iconic SAMBA is one of the most popular and recognizable shoes on the planet, with more than 35 million pairs sold worldwide. Now, for the first time, golfers can showcase the legendary footwear on the golf course with the introduction of the SAMBA GOLF shoe. “SAMBA has been widely loved around the world for decades,” said Bill Price, Vice President of adidas Golf Footwear. “It’s time to bring its timeless styling to the golf course.” The footwear is offered in medium width and three colorways: Black/White /Gum, White/Black/Gum, and Satellite/White/ Gumavailable at retail on March 1, 2012 at an MSRP of $100 USD. Learn more about TaylorMade-adidas Golf and its brands at (866) 530-TMAG (8624) or www.taylormadegolf. com, www.adidasgolf.com, www.ashworthgolf.com, and www.tmag.com.

➋ Froghair Beer Company Froghair Beer Co. started with one thing in mind.... to bring Golf it’s own Craft Beer. The concept was created after a long, unsuccessful round at the bar or the “19th Hole” where the beer selection was not up to par. The sport of golf hosts an air of tradition as does a good craft beer. So we took a little history mixed with quality ingredients and created Golf’s first Craft Beer. The name “Froghair” comes from the old golf term for the short cut of grass that surrounds the putting green known as the fringe. The taste comes from wanting to create a beer that was refreshing, crisp, and drinkable, yet 100% craft. Froghair is an american blonde ale brewed with cascade hops and Sweet Orange Peel. The ultimate goal was achieved by crafting a beer that made for a smooth up and down both on and off the course. So continue creating your own traditions and remember that golf like a cold beer is better enjoyed with friends. After all what good is a hole in one if nobody is there to see it.

Grip It, Sip It, Ribbit!

Now available on draft at golf courses and craft beer bars around the Tampa Bay area! www.froghairbeer.com Like Froghair on Facebook at www.facebook.com/froghair or follow us on Twitter @froghairbeer

➌ KIWI® KIWI® Shoe Freshener: KIWI® Fresh Force will take the odor out of golf shoes in no time! The unique upside down applicator gives a fresh blast of deodorant from heel to toe, providing all day shoe freshness. Simply spray in shoes and they’ll be fresh and ready to go for the next time you hit the course! KIWI® Cleaner: KIWI Fast Acting Cleaner can swiftly and effectively remove stains from golf shoes and make them look brighter – just the way they looked when you first bought them! KIWI® Sport Whitener: KIWI Sport Whitener is formulated with an advanced polymer and whitening agent to help older golf shoes look like new. This formula is designed to cover evenly without streaks or chalky residue. KIWI® Laces: Old, dirty laces can make a golf shoes appear to be in worse condition than they actually are. Changing shoelaces every once in a while with KIWI® Laces helps shoes look bright and fresh. www.kiwicare.com. 70

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

➍ Loudmouth Swim Wear Loudmouth has designed an exciting lineup of swimwear made in a lightweight, breathable fabric that is quick to dry and is comfortable to wear. Styles include board shorts and swim trunks and come in twelve different patterns including iconic Loudmouth patterns like Shagadelic Black and Disco Balls. Loudmouth is the proud apparel sponsor of USA’s top Beach Volleyball team, Todd Rogers and Phil Dalhausser. The winning duo will wear Loudmouth board shorts while competing in the games this Summer in London. www.loudmouth.com Cost: $65-$70

➎ ULTRA 19th Hole Light Tea & Lemonade ULTRA 19th Hole Light Tea & Lemonade is an iced tea and lemonade-flavored alcohol beverage inspired by the golf course classic. ULTRA 19th Hole is a lighter alternative to traditional flavored malt beverages and can be enjoyed from the can or, just like the classic tea & lemonade, tastes great when served over ice. ULTRA 19th Hole is the latest innovation in the growing lineup for Michelob ULTRA, a brand known for brewing quality beers that appeal to active-lifestyle consumers. ULTRA 19th Hole is available in single-serve and four-packs of 16-ounce cans and can be purchased at convenience stores, select golf courses, and bars and restaurants. Prices vary by market.

➏ Henry-Griffitt's T12 Blades Henry-Griffitts – a pioneer in custom clubfitting and the originator of the clubfitting cart - is proud to introduce the new T12 Blades. The sole and leading edge of the T12 provide traditional blade workability with a low, centered CG to get the ball airborne very quickly. Combined with the unique upside-down “V”-shaped design, this results in a mixture of workability, an increase in the effective hitting area and a level of “give” rarely seen in a blade. The face has been fly cut to ensure a perfectly flat face, into which Henry-Griffitts has machine-engraved the grooves to provide as much spin as possible, while still conforming to USGA Rules. These distinctive features combine to deliver the accuracy Henry-Griffitts feels its customers demand from a performance iron. www.henry-griffitts.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

product review header

➐ CitySlips Never again will you have to suffer through the agony of painful pumps at the end of a long night. CitySlips are foldable flats that come in a convenient travel case that unfolds into a large tote for you to carry your heels in while your feet find some muchneeded relief.

• Canvas Upper. • Round toe. • Scrunchy collar provides a secure fit. • Jersey Insole • Flat heel. • Includes matcing carring case • Rubber sole. • Imported www.CitySlips.com

➑ Travel Lite Golf Pack LA FRESH LITE GOLF PACK: http://lafreshgroup.com/travel-lite-amenities/travel-kits/travel-lite-golf-pack.html

• Bugs buzzing around your tee shot? Our All Natural Biodegradable Insect Repellent towelettes will protect

you from mosquitoes and ticks. Moreover, our product has been proven effective* and is absolutely DEET-Free! • (3 towelette packets) • Sun scorching down and you’re stuck in the bunker? Provide the SPF30 protection for your skin with La Fresh® Sunscreen towelette. Our towelette enriched with SPF30 lotion is incredibly easy to apply on your skin! Can’t help you with your bunker shot though... • (3 towelette packets) • Mud and scuffs on your favorite pair of golf cleats? No problem! Our Shoe Shine towelette is your personal shoe polishing station. Keeping it all together is part of the game, too. • (2 towelette packets) • Sweating away after a few holes? Our Deodorant for Men towelette freshens you up in an instance and provide long lasting protection against odor and wetness. Play on! • (2 towelette packets) ABOUT LA FRESH GROUP: Based in Chino, California, La Fresh Group (www.lafreshgroup.com) was founded in 1997 to offer unique skin care and travel amenity wipes to those who seek quality, simplicity and the freshest experience from their personal care products. Distribution spans the United States and international territories as well as online. La Fresh’s mission is to provide better products with better design at a better value for a better world.

➒ Nexbelt–The Belt With No Holes A good belt will add to your outfit. A great belt will add to your game. Nexbelt, the belt with no holes, was designed to enhance your golf game by not interfering with your comfort. With PreciseFit, our innovative ratcheting system that allows for ¼” adjustments, you’ll find the perfect fit every time you put it on. That means no more punching or drilling extra holes to make your belt fit correctly. And with our unique innovative hidden Ball Marker System, access to your marker (under the buckle) is just a flip away. With Nexbelt’s smart styling, it would be a shame to wear them only on the golf course. Available in several styles and colors. $54.99 – Order online at www.Nexbelt.com. 72

Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

aces & eagles

Aces & Eagles Elizabeth Hasty

Emma Smyser

High School Seniors Receive Scholarships From WCI Communities’ Junior Golf Foundation WCI Communities Junior Golf Foundation has awarded scholarships to 10 outstanding high school golfers in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties for the 2012-2013 school year. The annual Academic & Athletic Achievement Award scholarship program, now in its 12th year, has awarded $222,000 to deserving high school seniors who exhibit skill, talent and dedication, both on and off the links. Kaitlyn Cross of Riverdale High School and Austin Schultz of Lee Virtual Instruction Program will each receive a $4,000 scholarship from the foundation. Elizabeth Hasty of Gateway Charter High School and Jeffery Bonany of Fort Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 2

Myers High School will each receive a $1,500 scholarship. Ryan Denish of Fort Myers High School, Zachary Flowers of Lemon Bay High School, Megan Marone of Charlotte High School, Preston Nipper of Riverdale High School, Jake Sherwin of Evangelical Christian School, and Emma Smyser of Gulf Coast High School will each receive a $1,000 scholarship. “We are extremely proud of these students who have gone above and beyond to further their education,” said Ed Weber, foundation board member. “They’ve all demonstrated school involvement, scholastic accomplishment, community service

and have developed an appreciation for golf. It’s a privilege to be able to continue this tradition of recognizing and rewarding their efforts while supporting excellence in athletics and the classroom beyond the high school years.” The WCI Communities Junior Golf Foundation awards scholarships annually to graduating seniors who qualify from Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. In addition to being a member of the foundation, junior golfers must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and have participated in a WCI Junior Golf event or similar tour within the last year. For more information visit www.WCIGolf.com/floridajrgolfscholarship. 73

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