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from the publisher header
ShowING the LOVE Let’s talk about passionate
partnerships and showing the love. In my circle of friends and fam, music keeps us groovin’, and if you were moved by the collaboration of talent watching the Grammy’s you felt the same love and respect. Marc, the limo driver, with me and Shannon The collaboration of talent, and partnerships we have that help us produce the magazine is like the hit tune from Lionel Richie and Diana Ross...an “Endless Love”. Well now, where was I, oh that’s right, collaborating…STOP Collaborate and listen. This year’s PGA Merchandise Show was unbelievable: with an increased level of passion from the largest of the manufacturers, to the smallest of the new ideas. What a strong beginning for the true love of PROMOTING THE GAME! It felt so good to walk through the Convention Center and be greeted with such love, and enthusiasm for the game AND our magazine. Oh, and Mother I did get engaged. How does Terrie McGugan strike you? We will be registering at Edwin Watts, Aldi, and Victoria’s Secret (he’s petite so some little short lacy thang). For those of you that have to live vicariously through us telling you about the PGA Show.... the true cast of characters was everywhere. John O’Hurley (Seinfeld), who was the emcee for “Golf Feud”, a take off of “Family Feud”, which pitted Jesper Parnevick against Ian Poulter (Cobra vs Puma). Ian’s attempt at being funny was a riot. I hope they bring it back next year. Robin Meade, (HLN) was gorgeous and candid about her work with Susie Whaley, a support team of “Get Golf Ready”. Their conversation was both entertaining and a real testament to beginner golf programs everywhere. Can I get a witness? There are a few other characters that set the stage; Scott Alvarez Panache and Style, Bob Winters – Class and Tenacity, Holly G – Award Winning, Elisa Gaudet – Stunning and Well Rounded, Tony Johnson – Effervescent. These are just a few that I wanted to give a shout out. I also have to make a stand for the salty dog, Jim Light. What’s a Show without the corn? For 20 years Jim has been at the PGA Show serving free, obnoxious locker room comments (just part of his charm and showmanship) and FREE popcorn. This is a driven, talented promoter, with his pretty little wife Kathy standing by, complementing, salt with the sweet...my two favorite collaborations. From our partnerships with the retailers, destinations, golf clubs, pros and charities that we help, we can only be humbled by the sincere appreciation we get from the comments made by you, or readers and you our industry partners. As we prepare to celebrate our 14th year of bringing Travel, Lifestyle and Golf News to you our readers, and those readers to our advertising partners, I send a passionate appreciation for your patronage and partnership. Love, hugs and kisses....
Volume 13, Issue 7 Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Executive Editor: Joel Jackson–Director of Communications for the Florida Golf Course Superintendents Association North Florida Regional Editor: Stephen Trendler West Coast Regional Editor: Chris Karamitsos Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan Public Relations & Social Media Director: Green Gazelle Marketing Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Greg Wise, Ed Gilbert, Bob Bolton, Leonard Finkel, Mike Jamison, Greg Howard, Marge Vale Business Manager: Debbi Westbrook, dwestbrook1487@att.net Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, melahn@mac.com Website Design/Network Support: ryjo.com
Magazine Printing: Sundance Graphics 9580 Delegates Drive, Orlando, Florida 32837 • 800.617.5532
Florida Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708
NEW PHONE: 321.765.4215 fax: 407-365-3436 • toll-free: 877.208.5972 E-mail: info@floridagolfcentral.com One year (12 issues) subscription price is $42.99
Associate Publisher, Arizona Golf Central Magazine: Jason Keesling 3461 East Acoma Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85032 phone 602.387.0616 E-mail: info@golfcentralmagazine.com or editor@golfcentralmagazine.com ©2013 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 7
30 Cart Girl 14 Katherine Fendrick
Caribbean Golf Central 30 Annie’s Revenge Jamaica
Celerity Corner 18 Parker
Feature 36 VOLVIK GOLF
Golf Bachelor 12 Mike Gooding
Golf FORE Charity 36 HOPE
Improving Performance 42 Swing Jacket
Leader on the Links 29 Dottie Pepper
Living on the Links 34 Talis Park
On Course 20 Errol Estate Golf & Country Club
Volume 13, Issue 7 Departments 4 8 10 22 24 44 48 50 52 54 55 58 60 62 64 66 68 70 72
Letter from the Publisher Golf Central Station Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Golf Channel Thinking of Golf Grip It & Sip It Duffer Dan PGA LPGA NFPGA SFPGA Space Coast Platinum Coast Central Florida Central Florida Emerald Coast First Coast Product Showcase Aces & Eagles
22
On The Green 32 Smimthco Star Command
Player Development 28 Hurricane Junior Golf Tour
Special Events 18 Hickory Hackers
What's New 46 Tour Edge
floridagolfcentral.com
60
History of the PGA Merchandise Show
Now The PGA Merchandise Show, now the world’s largest and most influential golf business event, grew from humble beginnings in Dunedin, Fla., in 1954, when a handful of golf merchandisers assembled in the PGA National Golf Club parking lot during a series of PGA winter tournaments. By 1957, the number of manufacturers’ representatives had become so large, approximately 50 by then, that PGA officials leased a tent. The PGA Merchandise Show moved when The PGA of America’s winter tournaments relocated to Florida’s East Coast. In 1963, the Show was held at the Port St. Lucie (Fla.) Country Club; from 1964–73 at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (now known as BallenIsles Country Club); and in 1974, moved back to Port St. Lucie, still under a circussized tent. The PGA Merchandise Show and winter tournaments moved to Orlando, Fla., in 1975, where the show was indoors for the first time. In 1982, The PGA of America relocated to the new PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, a mile from its former headquarters. The PGA Merchandise Show was subsequently moved to the Miami Beach Convention Center, where it remained for three years. Due to the continuing demand for increased space capacity, The PGA moved the Show to the new Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in 1985 and again the Show was quickly filled to 8
Then capacity. As the PGA Merchandise Show grew so did the West Building of the Convention Center, which added 200,000 gross square feet in 1989 and nearly doubled in size to 1.1 million gross square feet in 1996. In 1998, The PGA of America sold an equity share of its golf shows to Reed Exhibitions, the world's leading trade show organizer. In partnership, The PGA and Reed, under the umbrella of PGA Worldwide Golf Exhibitions, produce and manage the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando and the PGA Expo in Las Vegas. Since the PGA/Reed partnership, the PGA Merchandise Show has evolved to become an all-encompassing global platform for the introduction of new products, indoor & outdoor product testing, wide-ranging education seminars, industry symposiums right on the show floor, national awards presentations,
fashion features, player development programs, professional networking events and more. Several industry programs have been added to the PGA Show since the partnership that remain valuable resources for the industry today including vendor and buyer appreciation programs (1999), the New Product Zone (2001), Outdoor Demo Day and the Show floor’s 19th Hole (2003), PGA Awards Night, Pro-Pro Tournament Series and Indoor Demo Days at the Equipment Test Center (2004), specialty exhibitor pavilions, the Play Golf America Conference and PGA Teaching Best Practices (2006), the PGA Forum and PGA Short Game Testing Center (2007), PGA Mentor Lunch and PGA/ AGM Product Preview & Reception (2008), attendee savings SuperPass (2010), PGA Teaching & Coaching Summit added to early Show Week and the Inventor’s Spotlight Pavilion on the Show floor (2011). In 2013, the PGA Merchandise Show will offer an all-new PGA Education Program including Outdoor Instructional Workshops, a Fast Track Program and a realigned PGA Education Conference. Also, a new FIT to W.I.N. exhibitor pavilion focusing on healthy attributes of golf sponsored by the Titleist Performance Institute and a Fashion Showcase & Networking Lounge in the Apparel Hall will make a first appearance for the 60th Anniversary event. More than 42,000 PGA Professionals, golf retailers and industry executives from some 80 countries and all 50 U.S. states came to the 59th PGA Merchandise Show to launch the business of golf for 2012. Product presentations by golf’s top market leaders combined with indoor and outdoor Demo Days, multiple designer fashion shows, teaching clinics, education seminars, career workshops, industry awards, networking receptions and more. Now more than ever before, the PGA Merchandise Show is the ideal, global platform that industry leaders, top manufacturers, PGA Professionals and golf organizations utilize to grow the business, participation and interest in golf. For information regarding the PGA Merchandise Show visit the official web site at www.pgashow.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
REASON TO GO #011:
MARCH 18-24 Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge
ARNOLDPALMERINVITATIONAL.COM
FL Restaurant & Lodging Assoc. header
Shingle Creek Golf Club It’s no wonder the award-winning Shingle Creek Golf Club is a favorite among locals for “puttering” around the greens. The David Harman designed, 18-hole, par 72 championship course features undulating fairways and interconnecting waterways bordered by the natural backdrop of dense oaks and pines along historic Shingle Creek, headwaters to the Florida Everglades. The 7,149 yard course has received four stars from the Golf Digest “Best Places to Play, just one among numerous awards. As the official golf course of UCF Knights Athletics and co-host of the local NBC Sports 1080 the Team “Monday After the Majors,” Shingle Creek is partial to locals and caters to these important guests with special offers throughout the year. Live in Greater Central Florida? Join their Driver’s Club program, one of the best deals around. Just $99 a year, the membership pays for itself with a free round of golf upon joining and a second free round on your birthday! Members also enjoy the lowest rates available on greens fees (for guests, too) and practice balls, a USGA-GHIN handicap for the year and exclusive offers like 10% off dining and 20% off lessons at the onsite Brad Brewer Golf Academy. Brewer is consistently named one of Golf Magazine’s prestigious “Top 100 Teachers,”
Hole #15 10
Hole #8 while the academy is consistently rated in the magazine’s top 25 in the nation’s golf schools. Or enjoy Shingle Creek’s Golf ‘n Grub, just $69 for a round of golf and lunch. The next GNG is March 27 – April 2. Golfers enjoy a rousing round followed by lunch from a special menu at either Par-Take with sandwiches and snacks or the AAA Four Diamond A Land Remembered steakhouse, offering heartier fare. A special tip before you tee off …
make sure your camera phone is on. Gary Player, Tony Romo, Bryce Harper, Boo Weekley, Nick Anderson -- even Bill Clinton -- and many other well-known celebrities have been known to stop by for a round. Shingle Creek Golf Club is located at the AAA Four Diamond Rosen Shingle Creek, 9939 Universal Blvd., Orlando, Fla. 32819. For more information, call 407-996-9933 or visit shinglecreekgolf. com. Find Shingle Creek Golf Club on Facebook and Twitter.
Hole #9 Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Golf &
Breakfast PackaGe
98
Starting From $ per person per night*
Golf is Your Passion… ProvidinG Great exPeriences is ours
A hidden gem located on the Nature’s Coast of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico awaits your party’s arrival. The resort’s 27 holes of competitive and challenging golf originally designed by Mark Mahannah in 1957 provide a rewarding golf experience in the traditional “Florida” style with a variety of water and bunker obstacles. Challenging fairways lined by mature emerald pines and oaks with water hazards creating a unique Florida golf experience, our course is set on 232 acres of lush preserve land surrounded by the waters of Kings Bay. All of our links are beautifully manicured, well-groomed, and provide a traditional mix of the best golf Florida has to offer. Make us your Stay & Play headquarters. There are 10 additional area golf courses to challenge you, as well as other activities such as: fishing, boating, dining, nature and spa. So come for as long or as little as you like, a la carte or at great savings with packages like our Golf & Breakfast Package. See Your Travel Agent, Visit Us Online or Call 800-632-3232
Southern Hospitality with Florida Charm 9301 W Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429 www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.com *Subject to availability; based on double occupancy; high season rates will be higher. Includes accommodations, one 18-hole round of golf and breakfast for two per each night of stay. Group rates are available on request.
golf bachelor header
Where were you born? Did you grow up there? New Jersey,
but I haven’t been back since I was 18. Lived in 9 other states since then though.
Is “acting your age” over rated? Yes! We only get one crack at this life, so why not have fun with it?
What do you do for a living ? Golf Instructor for National Golf Schools
What would you like to do for a living? I love what I do. I’ve
tried several different careers and it always come back to teaching golf. Being outdoors, in my element, there’s nothing better.
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? Play cards, get out on the water, random road trips, whatever. I can be pretty spontaneous and that has led to some incredible experiences. If it’s fun or relaxing, count me in.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Everything that goes into slow play. Players should be preparing to hit their next shot on the way to the ball. A consistent and timely pre-shot routine to improve the results helps too.
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Success equals money and love is just supposed to happen so definitely success.
What do you fear the most? Spiders and the shanks. What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? My Dad with Mom riding along, my best friend and Tiger.
Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? I tend to stay pretty low key, but I still like to get out and cause some mischief from time to time.
Mike Gooding
Favorite comedian(s)? Dave Chappelle and George Carlin Movies:…comedy, drama, action, romance? Raunchy comedy.
I like movies that don’t have happy endings too, Requiem for a Dream, that kind of stuff. Just to mix it up.
Favorite television channels? ESPN and Golf Channel. Single guys don’t watch a lot of ABC ;)
Last book you read? Playing for Pizza by John Grisham Favorite charity to support? Wounded Warriors. 12
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
cart header girl Where did you grow up? Orlando, FL Which group of people did you associate most with in high school? I hung out with all different types of people in High School, I’ve lived in the same area all of my life so; even though some of my friends and I have had different interests throughout the years, we’ve remained friends.
What is your favorite sport to play? Golf! Even
Katherine Fendrick
though I’m not the best at it, I love to play.
Favorite to watch? I like to watch Basketball, Football and Cheerleading.
Do you enjoy playing golf? I love playing golf; especially with a Bloody Mary in the cup holder!
Are there any golfers in your family? In my family, the list of non-golfers is much shorter than the list of golfers. I guess you could say it’s in the blood.
What do you feel makes this club special? The cart girls of
course! Just kidding. I think that everyone that works here really takes pride in their work and loves being a part of the Orange County National family. As a result there is a really happy, positive, customer-service vibe when you set foot on the property.
What is your favorite part of being a cart girl? I absolutely
love my job. I enjoy being outdoors and I love meeting new people. Not to mention, there are a lot of perks that come with working at a golf course.
What is your least favorite part? My least favorite part of
my job is when someone is grumpy on the golf course! I can think of a million other places that would be a heck of a lot worse to be spending my Saturday morning!
If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing? Taking over the world of course!
What is the funniest thing you’ve ever seen on the golf course? My cart backfires all the time and when it does,
grown men jump and run for cover. I can’t help but, laugh!
What type of music do you prefer? Mainly country but, I
listen to a little bit of everything. I’m really liking Imagine Dragons right now.
What hobbies do you enjoy? I’m a shopaholic so if it involves shoes I’m interested. I love to be outdoors especially enjoying the beautiful lakes or natural springs in the area. Even though, I’m a pescetarian, I’m also a bit of a foodie so I’m always looking for seafood friendly restaurants with great happy hour specials.
Favorite comedian? CHELSEA HANDLER Favorite charity to support? Breast cancer awareness or Anything for the kids!
What else would you like for us to know about you? I am so honored to be the cart girl of the
month! Not only do I work on Beverage Cart but, I’ve recently started working as the merchandise assistant here. It’s really interesting and exciting learning another side of the business. I feel so lucky to work for such a great company!
14
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
celebrity corner
One Thousand Ocean, Boca Raton Resort and other Palm Beach County locations share limelight in movie ‘Parker’
Jamie Telchin, actor Jason Statham and Maria Scarola on the day “Parker” was filmed at One Thousand Ocean (Fall 2011). Ocean Ocean-to-Intracoastal con-
for purchase. “Just days later, they
dominium and the acclaimed Boca
shot another scene adjacent to the
Raton Resort & Club in Boca Raton.
One Thousand Ocean’s Sales Center,
Additionally, the cityscapes of West
as well as multiple key shoots in the
at One Thousand Ocean’s Private
Palm Beach and the island of Palm
nearby Resort’s Cloister lobby and at
Screening Party celebrating the
Beach were in full view for a signifi-
the landmark pink tower.
nationwide premiere of the action
cant portion of the film.
thriller “Parker.” Although Jennifer
“When Jennifer Lopez, who plays
enjoyed a private dessert reception
Lopez and Jason Statham received
the role of a real estate agent, tells
in the Screen Writers Room at Bo-
top billing, viewers thought the real
her new client, a thief named Parker
gart’s Bar & Grille. It was there that
stars were selected locations in
(Statham), to ‘Meet me at the One
Telchin recalled when, in the fall of
Palm Beach County. Among them
Thousand Ocean building,’ the audi-
2011, One Thousand Ocean’s Direc-
The stars were out January 25th
were the iconic One Thousand Candace Jorritsma and Robin Adler
ence filling the up-
tor of Sales Maria Scarola called him
stairs reserved seats
and said, “There are about 20 people
at the Premier The-
who just walked into the Sales Cen-
ater at the Cinemark
ter and are claiming they want to
Palace 20 applauded
film a movie starring JLo and Jason
and whistled with
Statham at One Thousand Ocean.”
pride,” said an ap-
Continuing, Telchin said, “Ini-
preciative Jamie
tially I thought ‘Yeah, sure,’ but after
Telchin, president of
learning more about the plot and
development with
what they were going to shoot, we
LXR Luxury Resorts
gave them permission. We put our
& Hotels. An LXR
faith in Director Taylor Hackford
affiliate developed
who had singled out One Thou-
the 52-unit building
sand Ocean for a key scene, and he
situated at the Boca
certainly did not disappoint us. Our
Raton Inlet.
staff and residents loved seeing our
Based on the
16
Following the screening, guests
iconic building on the screen.”
novel “Flashfire”
Telchin noted that the film crew
by the late Don-
literally took over the building for a
ald Westlake, the
full day of shooting. “This required
production company
a lot of coordination and we went
making ‘Parker’ shot
to great lengths to make every-
a key scene in One
thing run as smoothly as possible.
Thousand Ocean’s
Now that I’ve seen the fruits of this
Signature Penthouse
labor and the incredible exposure
601, a residence that
we received on screen, it was well
is currently available
worth the effort and speaks volume Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Bradley Haring, Elizabeth Finearty, Suzanna Guzman and Jessica Telchin.
Jamie Telchin with Boca Raton Mayor Susan Whelchel.
“Never a day or week passes that someone doesn’t contact the City of Boca Raton wanting to film a scene for a movie here. Usually it means seeing Boca Raton on the screen for about seven seconds. But not this film! With ‘Parker,’ you really get your money’s worth. It allows people to see the beauty of our county, including Boca Raton.” – Mayor Susan Whelchel about the status and prestige of One
after scouting several other locations.
jobs, booking hotel rooms, patroniz-
Thousand Ocean,” he said. “The film-
We are thrilled they chose our build-
ing restaurants, etc.].”
maker made the choice to shoot here
ing and feel they did so because it is
Among other guests at the screen-
Stephen and Nancy Catena
a truly unique South
ing were Troy McLennan, Greater
Florida property.”
Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce
president; Jerry Fedele, CEO of Boca
Whelchel, a guest at
Raton Regional Hospital, and his wife
the screening, said
Terry; Barbara and Dick Schmidt,
“Never a day or week
one of the community’s most phil-
passes that someone
anthropic couples; Randi Emerman,
doesn’t contact the City
president of the Palm Beach Inter-
of Boca Raton want-
national Film Festival; numerous
ing to film a scene for
One Thousand Ocean residents; One
a movie here. Usually
Thousand Ocean sales and market-
it means seeing Boca
ing team members; and Boca Raton
Raton on the screen for
Resort & Club representatives.
about seven seconds.
Currently only six residences re-
But not this film! With
main at One Thousand Ocean, includ-
‘Parker,’ you really get
ing Signature Penthouse 601 and two
your money’s worth.
other finished, move-in-ready resi-
It allows people to
dences, as well as three unfinished,
see the beauty of our
completely customizable top-floor
county, including Boca
penthouses. Prices are from approxi-
Raton.”
mately $3 to $15 million.
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Mayor Susan
Before concluding,
For further information, visit
the Mayor added, “The
www.onethousandocean.com or call
local economy also
(561) 869-5000 to arrange a private
booms and blossoms
showing, including Signature Pent-
when filmmakers come
house 601 where a key scene in
to the area [creating
“Parker” was filmed. 17
special events
By: Bob Bolton
Hickory Hackers – What’s a Niblick? The “Roaring 20’s”, a quick history lesson before we turn to golf The average annual earnings in the 20’s was $1,236. The Dow Jones High was 100, the low 67. It took 13 days to reach California from New York, and there were only 387,000 miles of paved road in the United States. Dance Marathons were the rage and Harry Houdini was the great escape artist. Men’s fashion included knickers, which when they grew in length and width became ‘plus fours’. For women it was the ‘Flapper Age’. Presidents during this decade included; Woodrow Wilson, Warren G. Harding, Calvin Coolidge, and Herbert Hoover. Golf history of the 1920’s includes; the first Native American to win The Open Championship – Walter Hagen. Bobby Jones wins the British Open, and in 1922 – Thomas “Tom” Bendelow, the “Johnny Appleseed of American Golf” completes the Temple Terrace Golf Club. Tom’s grandson Stuart has spent decades researching his grandfather’s impact on golf in America. With more than 500 courses to his credit, we are fortunate to have one in our Central Florida backyard, and I was fortunate to play it “1920’s style”. The Temple Terrace Hickory Heritage weekend was complete with bag pipes, hickory shafted golf clubs and gutta-percha balls, which are a far cry from today’s Pro V-1’s. This year marked the third year for amateurs and professionals alike to travel back in time and play golf as it would have been in the 20’s. Temple Terrace Preservation Social President, Tim Lancaster and City Councilman Grant Rimbey are two of dozens of individuals who have worked hard and long to achieve National Register 18
of Historic Places recognition for the course. I was very excited to play in my first “official” Hickory Golf event. My outfit (provided by www.golfknickers. com) was quite dapper (see picture), and my clubs were a borrowed set of brand new hickory clubs from www.playhickorygolf.com. My Team consisted of; Jim Garrison (Head Golf Pro at Temple Terrace), Rick Sires and Sandy Alpaugh, all of which not only enhanced the camaraderie of the day, but also contributed to an 11 under winning score. Our golfing “legacy” will forever be etched in a trophy that resides at the Club. On a “much lighter note” former European Tour Pro Paolo Quirici won the U.S. Professional Hickory Golf Championship with a 2-over 74. For any of us that have been playing golf since the 70’s, we have seen the evolution of golf effect everything
from the equipment to the course. Fortunately one thing remains the same. Those that play the game appreciate the generational kinship, mutual respect and admiration we have for those that uphold the honor and tradition of the game. If you would like more information about how you can participate in next year’s event, or how you can become a member at one of Central Florida’s truly historic golf courses, contact Jim Garrison, Head Golf Professional at (813) 988-2601, or email him at jim.garrison@templeterracegolf.com. *And in case you were wondering what a Niblick is? It is a 50-55 degree wedge.
The winning team of Bob Bolton, Jim Garrison, Sandy Alpaugh & Rick Sires Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
By Elisa Gaudet
on course
Living the American Dream:
Where you can buy a Zoo or a Golf Course In the movie We Bought a Zoo the father, Benjamin has lost his wife and as a way of starting over for himself and his two children he purchases a house on a large property that includes a struggling zoo in California. The premise of the story is the zoo is in need of renovation so Benjamin goes about refurbishing the zoo with the rest of the zoo staff. The project and expenses are greater than he imagined and the zoo soon runs into financial trouble. The staff must get the zoo back to its former glory, pass a zoo inspection, and get it back open to the public. This movie was based on a real life story of the Mee family and a real zoo in Devon, England known as the Dartmoor Zoological Park. When I learned of Errol Estate Golf & Country Club in Apopka, Florida and took a visit to meet the new owners their story and the history of the club immediately reminded me of We Bought a Zoo. This once flourishing club with 800 members was built in 1973 and the 18-hole, 6,505-yard golf course was designed by Joe Lee. With an additional nine holes added in 1975 called The Grove. When Errol Estate opened in 1973 the grand opening featured a friendly gender competition match between a PGA team comprised of Tour stars Frank Beard and Charles Coody against Judy Trulock and LPGA 1st Hole EEGCC
Elisa with Cameron & Tom – Lee Westwood Students legend Kathy Whitworth. The men won the match, posting one-under par 71s. Interestingly the Pro golfers had a stake in the club. Coody, the 1971 Masters champion, also served as Errol’s director of golf, and Whitworth and Trulock owned the Errol pro shop. The history goes back even further with the estate being the home of John Thomas Pirie, a New Yorker who moved to Apopka in 1886 and named the estate Errol after the Scottish village where he was born. Just as many other clubs in America, over the years Errol Estate suffered from the numerous new course openings, the declining economy and various management changes which led to a gradual deterioration of the course and clubhouse. Fast forward to December 15, 2011, after years of neglect the estate was purchased by Phillippe Weydts-Caesens and Patrick Daoust, two friends from Belgium. Daoust moved his family of five from Belgium to Apopka and began overseeing and doing the day to day management and renovation to bring the club back to its former glory. “I was in management consulting for large multinationals and decided to use my expertise towards something I am passionate about and love, golf. I am living the dream” said Daoust. Both Weydts-Caesens and Daoust have sons that are heavily into golf and Daoust’s youngest son Gary recently won the FCWT Mystic Dunes tournament.
EEGCC is the home of the first Lee Westwood Golf School in the USA. Another great story perhaps built on dreams is Lee Westwood, a native of England who began learning the game at the age of 13. He recently moved his family to Old Palm Golf course in Palm Beach just a few hours down the road from Errol Estate Golf & Country Club. I am sure it would have been impossible to imagine when Lee was 13 that he would achieve number one status in the world for golf, move to America and have his own golf schools. This Lee Westwood Golf School has created a world-class purpose built practice facility, driving range and access to the most advanced golf performance technology and turned the 9 holes known as The Grove to three short game areas and five practice holes exclusively for the school. Currently nine students are in the program and it seems to be a dream opportunity for any young person wanting to play golf. Study from 8am to 12 then hit the links for instruction and playing golf. Errol Estate Golf & Country Club is a charismatic facility nested North West of Orlando in the hills of Apopka. Play the Highland and Lake nines that make up 18 gratifying holes played through a combination of hills, dramatic vistas and lakes making golf at Errol Estate Golf & Country Club a unique experience in Florida and proof that dreams do come true.
Errol Estate - http://errolestategcc.com Lee Westwood Golf School – http://www.leewestwoodgolfschool.com/locations/errol-estate 20
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
he Golf Channel The GOlf Channel The Golf Channel The Golf Channel The Gol
Photos Courtesy of The Golf Channel
Golf Channel's Morning Drive Expands to Seven Days and Unveils New Format, New Co-Hosts, New Set
The list of reasons to wake up to television’s only live morning golf show got longer with today’s announcement that Golf Channel’s popular Morning Drive will re-launch on Feb. 4 with a new format, a new cast of co-hosts, state-ofthe-art studio and an expanded, sevendays-a-week schedule. “If you love golf, Morning Drive has become the way to start your day,” said Mike McCarley, President of Golf Channel. “In just two years, the show has become weekday appointment viewing for those who share a passion for the 22
game and on the few weekends when Morning Drive has aired, Golf Channel has seen a three-fold increase in ratings. This move to seven days a week, with a new set and new additions to the cast, will allow us to engage in a broader range of topics covering all aspects of the game and give viewers a reason to wake up with Morning Drive every day of the week.” NEW AND EXPANDED CO-HOST TEAM: By expanding to seven days each week, the new Morning Drive cast naturally is going to grow. Current Morning
Drive co-hosts Gary Williams, Damon Hack and Holly Sonders will be joined by Golf Channel analyst Charlie Rymer to form the on-air “foursome” typically covering Thursdays through Mondays. Williams, Hack and Sonders have been the regular co-host team of Morning Drive over the past few months and will build upon that camaraderie. Rymer will bring his exuberance for the game to the morning, in addition to his continued work as an analyst for Golf Central. Longtime Golf Channel anchor Kelly Tilghman will be a central figure mid-week on Morning Drive, typically on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Tilghman will continue to be an anchor for Golf Central and a central figure of Golf Channel’s Live From coverage of the biggest events in golf. Matt Ginella comes to Morning Drive after 11 years as the travel editor for Golf Digest magazine. Ginella has garnered a keen sense for what makes a golf course a destination for golfers of all tastes and will be co-host throughout the week. And Lauren Thompson, who has been a regular contributor to the show, now will have a permanent role, providing news updates and reports for midweek shows. Several regular contributors and guest hosts include: • Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster, Ahmad Rashad, headlines as a new guest host. A former All-Pro wide receiver, college football Hall of Famer and 25-year network veteran with ESPN, ABC, NBC and NBA TV – and a voracious golfer – Rashad will bring a unique perspective. • John Cook is an 11-time PGA TOUR winner and recent champion of the 2013 Mitsubishi Electric Championship on the Champions Tour. The 1993 U.S. Ryder Cup team member will join the show during some of the biggest weeks on the golf calendar. • Hall-of-Famer Annika Sorenstam will continue to make weekly Morning Drive appearances, providing insight into the professional ranks to the amateurs, and sharing her passion on growing the game. • Other Golf Channel analysts and Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
reporters also will continue to contribute to Morning Drive on a daily basis, both in studio and on location at various tournaments. Golf World’s Tim Rosaforte will continue to appear weekly on the show; analyst Brandel Chamblee will regularly set up that day’s tournament action on weekends; and Golf Channel on NBC’s Jimmy Roberts will be a frequent contributor in support of his new series, In Play with Jimmy Roberts. NEW FORMAT: Since Morning Drive’s debut in January 2011, the show has become appointment viewing for viewers seeking the latest golf news and information, as well as expert analysis and discussion about all things golf. The show’s new format will continue to set the table for what’s new each day in professional golf, while expanding its scope to cover the golfing lifestyle, including how to play, what to play and where to play. Resident Golf Channel experts and show guests will cover such topics as trends in golf equipment, the hottest travel destinations for golf and the latest fashions turning heads on the course. Morning Drive’s daily polls and interaction with the show’s loyal audience will be conducted through social me-
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
dia, as well as themed weeks exploring unique aspects of golf. Viewers can take Morning Drive with them via a “Best of” highlight podcast hosted by Sonders available online each afternoon and the series’ audio will continue to be streamed live at GolfChannel.com/MorningDrive.
Morning Drive’s production team is led by coordinating producer Jeff Neubarth, producers Kyle Brown and Bill Hentschel, and directors Charlie Reynolds and Eric Rutledge. For Golf Channel, Molly Solomon is executive producer, Geoff Russell is executive editor and Mike McCarley is president.
23
thinking of golf
Hooking Up!
For those of you who missed my articles; I’m back. For those you who did not notice; talk to the hand. For the past 36 months I have been hooking up all over Central Florida with some very beautiful people. Real professionals. A few newbies. All willing to participate to some degree. My encounters occurred in hotels, restaurants, private homes, indoors, outside, and even covertly in the aisles of Bloomingdales at Mall at Millenia. Every encounter filled every fiber in my body with delight. With a profound sense 24
of accomplishment and joy. With an attitude of I’m too old to do this. To give myself to someone else. At this stage of life; who knew? After hundreds of meetings and speeches and asking these beautiful people to give it to me, I was honored as “Volunteer of the Year” by the Florida Hospital Foundation. An organization made up of over 180 volunteers who give their time, resources and heart to helping others. As the song says: “hooked on a feeling”…. I have spent three years on the
Cancer Board at Florida Hospital and this past year and current year I am the Chairman. My role is to bring a group of dedicated, giving, caring people together to raise money to fight cancer. Last year the Cancer Board raised almost $2,000,000. The money was used for special equipment to fight this dreaded disease, to help children who need bone marrow transplants, to provide palliative care to children and their families who are fighting and coping with life threatening diseases and educating young women about breast cancer and early detection. It was a year of participating in a myriad of golf tournaments that raise money to help others. The Chris Dimarco Tournament at Heathrow raised over $300,000 in a day to fight cancer. The Doc Rivers Invitational at Reunion raised over $140,000 for Shepherd’s Hope to help people with healthcare that have no insurance and the annual Gala golf tournament hosted by Florida Hospital in November that is part of their weekend to raise money for many causes that help the Central Florida community. Florida Hospital is putting over $600,000,000 back into the community for more construction and services in order to continue to help Central Floridians with new jobs, new facilities and more medical staff to handle the growing population. Florida Hospital is the busiest hospital in the United States serving over 1,000,000 patients annually. I’m honored and proud to serve my community fighting cancer. I have five people whose lives were affected by Cancer in the last few years and I was able to help in some small way. The bottom line is: get involved. As a golfer, as a concerned citizen, as a humanitarian. It feels good. It certainly has given me a different perspective on life when you can help save one. It is more fulfilling than fixing your hook or slice or three putts. The effect you will have on others far outweighs the effect on you. Pick your cause. Pick your organization. Pick your number. You won’t regret “hooking up”. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
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By Larry Foster, M.D., F.A.A.O.S. (Dr. Divot)
fore your health
Attention Lady Golfers:
Beware of the Injury Bug! Females account for about one-quarter of the 25 million-plus recreational golfers in the United States. But even though females are well represented among the golfing population, there is surprisingly little research published in the medical literature that is dedicated specifically to the woman golfer.
What we do know about injuries among female players comes from large published surveys of professional and amateur female golfers. These surveys shed light on how frequent injuries are among the ladies. First, the professionals: One survey of nearly one hundred LPGA members
revealed that greater than eighty percent of these golfers reported having suffered a golf-related injury, and that there were an average of two injuries incurred per player. The typical injury forced the female pro to miss almost three weeks from the Tour, though some players reported missing up to one year from the competition due to their injuries. The most frequently injured body areas among these female professionals were: • Left wrist (31 percent of all injuries) • Lower back (22 percent) • Shoulder (8 percent) • Left hand (8 percent) • Left knee (6 percent) • Left elbow (5 percent) The two most common reported causes for injury by this group of women professional golfers were: • Overpractice / repetitive swings • Contact with an object other than the ball during a swing (for example, the ground or a rock) In summary, female professional golfers experience the same high injury rate that their male counterparts on the PGA Tour do (the males also report an injury rate of about eighty percent). Overuse injuries, brought on by the relentless practice and play schedules these players maintain, predominate. Now for the amateurs: One large published survey of amateur golfers (which included both men and women) provides some insight. For starters, the overall frequency of injuries was virtually the same for women and men—just over sixty percent for both sexes. The most frequently injured body areas among these female amateurs were: • Elbow (36 percent of all injuries) • Lower back (27 percent)
26
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
• Shoulder (16 percent) • Wrist/hand (15 percent) • Knee (11 percent) The three most common causes for injury reported by this group of women amateur golfers were: • Excessive practice / play • Poor swing mechanics • Hitting the ground or an object during a swing So, there are many similarities and a couple of differences in the injury patterns of female and male golfers. Women golfers (amateur and pro) run the same overall high risk of injury as the men (about an eighty percent injury rate for professionals and about sixty percent for the amateurs, regardless of gender). The left (lead) side is most at risk for all golfers, regardless of their skill level or gender.
The overall pattern of distribution of injuries by body part is similar for females and males. One exception to the trend, however, is the disproportionately high rate of back injuries seen among men as compared with women. This is true for both professionals and amateur golfers. Conversely, female golfers (amateur and pro) are more likely to sustain injuries to the upper limb (elbow, wrist, and hand) than male golfers. So, how can you lady golfers out there work toward reducing your risk for golfrelated injuries and remaining painfree when you play? The advice I give to you is the same as it is for the men: Be aware of the four ingredients to Dr. Divot’s Recipe for Injury: • Poor physical conditioning • Overuse • Inadequate or improper warm-up • Poor swing technique
During the golfing season as well as the off season, make sure that you devote time to basic fitness and conditioning. It will prepare your body for the rigors of golf—a game that is surprisingly tough on the body. Next, avoid the temptation to play or practice too much. Our bodies need time to recuperate after each round of golf or trip to the range. Each time you do play or practice, make sure you warm up and stretch beforehand (a complete and proper golf warm-up routine is outlined in Dr. Divot’s Guide to Golf Injuries). Finally, make sure to use proper swing mechanics by having a local golf pro evaluate your swing. Getting lessons from a qualified pro (and not your cranky husband!) is a great way to lower your score and prevent injury. O.K. ladies—go get ‘em!
Larry Foster, M.D., F.A.A.O.S., is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and self-described golf nut. Trained at Columbia University and the Hospital for Joint Diseases in New York, Dr. Foster is the author of Dr. Divot’s Guide to Golf Injuries—A Handbook for Golf Injury Prevention and Treatment. Written in a humorous “plain-English” style, Dr. Divot’s Guide teaches the reader how to prevent and treat the most common golf injuries. Visit Dr. Divot’s website at: www.doctordivotmd.com.
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
27
player development Top Three Girls 15-18: Macy Mcraney, Katie Holt, and Abby Burditt
Top Three Girls 11-14: Lara Van Staden, Sabrina Hoskins, Sydney Hoskins
Category 5 The Hurricane Junior Golf Tour traveled to Gainesville for the first event of February. The event was hosted by the beautifully designed Haile Plantation Golf & Country Club. This tournament featured perhaps the coldest temperatures of the season thus far for our golfers. Both Saturday and Sunday started off with temperatures in the 40s before settling into the mid 60s. Despite the cold it was mostly sunny for the two days and winds stayed below 10 mph. This tournament was ranked by the Junior Golf Scoreboard and the top ten finishers in all divisions received points towards All-HJGT Teams and the Hurricane Cup. All winners also received an entry into the 2013 Tour Championship. Min Kwon won the boy’s 15-18 age division in impressive manner. Kwon shot an even-par 71 on the first day and followed it up with a 74 for an overall three over par. Kwon was extremely consistent over the two day tournament leading with 26 pars and had pars or better on 83.3% of holes. Kwon did the
vast majority of his damage on par fives where he averaged a 4.90. Minho Oh and Adam Norris tied for second at four over par. Oh tied fourth place finisher Ryoto Furuya for most birdies in the tournament with seven. Norris and Oh both did most of their damage on the par fives where they averaged 4.90 and 5.00 respectively. Macy Mcraney took over the girl’s 15-18 age division on the second day by shooting a one over par 72. Mcraney led in many major statistical categories over the weekend including most birdies with four, best pars or better percentage at 75%, and best par three and par four performance. Katie Holt came in second place by shooting a 75-78 for an overall 11 over par. Holt did her damage on the par fives where she led with a 5.10 average. Holt also had 24 pars which led the field. Abby Burditt finished in third by shooting 82-77. Burditt had four birdies in the tournament which tied her for the lead. Robby Eisch won the 11-14 boys division by shooting a three over par for
the tournament. Eisch was extremely consistent for the tournament shooting a 73-72. Eisch had both the most pars and birdies for the tournament with 23 and six respectively. Eisch was also in the top two in scoring average on par threes, fours, and fives. Aaron Tobin and Ryan Hicks tied for second by shooting an overall nine over par. Both were extremely impressive on day two shooting 74 and 73 respectively. Tobin tied for the lead on par fours with a 4.07 average. Hicks was impressive on par fives where he led with a 5.10 average. Sabrina Hoskins won the girl’s 11-14 age division for her third win of the young HJGT season. Hoskins shot a 7574 for an overall seven over par. Hoskins led in every major category including most birdies and pars. Lara Van Staden came in second by shooting a 77-87 for the tournament. Van Staden had the second most pars for the tournament with 15. Hoskins’ sister Sabrina finished third with a 25 over par. Syndey was most impressive on par threes where she averaged a 3.75.
About Us: The Hurricane Junior Golf Tour (HJGT) was founded in 2008 with the intention of providing junior golfers between the ages of 11-18 an opportunity to play exceptional courses in a competitive environment. Golfers who participate on tour will compete in one of four age divisions: Boys 15-18 Division, Boys 11-14 and Girls 15-18 Division and 11-14 Division. Based out of Jacksonville, FL, the HJGT administers events all across the southeast as well as Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. 28
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
By Jay Golden, PGA Photos Courtesy of The Golf Channel
leader on the links
Dottie Pepper: Moving On Dottie Pepper was a major force on
She decided to leave her role as the
the LPGA Tour winning 17 official
most prominent female golf analyst
events including two major champi-
and join the PGA of America’s board
onships; the 1992 and 1999 Nabisco
of directors, where she can work on
Dinah Shore. Her 19-under-par finish
developing junior golf programs.
in the 1999 victory still stands as the
Announcer Jimmy Roberts said,
lowest score in relation to par in a
“I’m guessing you don’t know that
major championship. She topped the
Dottie is probably the only major
money list in 1992 and finished in
champion who’s been a ski instruc-
the top ten in ten of eleven seasons
tor - and by the way - she’s going to
between 1991 and 2001.
get her certification back. We also
Due to injury problems, Pepper only
know that starting tomorrow she’ll
played one tournament in 2002 and in
devote herself to another passion
July 2004, announced that she would
-- junior golf and growing the game
retire at the end of the season. In
as a board member of the PGA. Now
2005, she began work as a golf com-
I’m not very good at math, but by
mentator for NBC and Golf Channel,
my calculations, Dottie, has walked
reporting on both men’s and women’s
somewhere in the neighborhood of
events. Her candid commentary
2,000 miles of fairways on behalf
earned kudos from golf fans even if it
of NBC and Golf Channel. We’re
sometimes rankled the golfers.
going to miss you, Dottie, not only
supposed to say after that? I just love
Dottie Pepper ended her run at NBC
because you’re so good at doing this
these guys and it’s been a wonderful
at the 2012 Father-Son Challenge. She
but because you’re a blast to have as
eight years.”
was tired of the travel, for one thing,
a member of our family, which you’ll
Roberts also said, “The kids in junior
and she found her passion shifting
always be.”
golf have no idea what’s about to hit
to junior golf. The PGA of America
A choked up Pepper found herself at
them. They probably also don’t know
called on her and Pepper listened.
a rare loss for words. “Now what am I
how lucky they’re about to be.”
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
29
By Vicky DiSanto
caribbean golf central
Montego –Baby, Why Don't We go!
30
Upon arriving in Montego Bay, I am
island of Jamaica. This luxury all-inclu-
affordable even, I am planning my
surrounded by an overwhelming vibe
sive resort consists of three connecting
spring break trip to Montego Bay!
of relaxation and peace. From the
hotels—the “five-star” Iberostar Grand,
The Iberostar Resort offers vaca-
second I stepped out of the airport, I
the “four-star” Iberostar Rose Hall
tion packages that include golf at
wanted to live that lifestyle. You want
Suites, and the “three-star” Iberostar
either of their incredible courses—Cin-
to fit the vibe…it is contagious here. I
Rose Hall Beach. Do not be mistaken:
namon Hill and White Witch. These
seem to have won some sort of lottery
the entire grounds of the Iberostar
two beautiful courses were hosts to
because the Jamaican “Annie’s Re-
Montego Bay is a five-star all inclusive,
the seventh annual Annie’s Revenge
venge” Pro-Am tournament is yet again
however each hotel within the grounds
Pro-Am Golf Tournament. Cinnamon
being housed by the Iberostar Resort in
offers a unique experience and price
Hill Golf Course hugs the shore, with
Montego Bay. I thought I was dropped
point for guests to choose. After touring
multiple oceanfront holes and an-
off at the wrong hotel when I stepped
each hotel--each private beachfront
cient aqueducts, while White Witch
in the lobby. Not only was I greeted by
property having its own delectable
sits high above sea-level, with lush
an amazingly welcoming concierge
pool, multiple a la carte restaurants,
forests, breathtaking views, and the
staff, NikeGolf reps handing me free
and oversized exquisite private
legend of Annie Hall looming overhead.
stuff left and right, and a deliciously
rooms—I expected a stay in any of the
Each morning we were escorted to the
tropical cocktail, but I was escorted to
hotels to be out of my price range. With
courses (teams were split up amongst
my room by my own personal butler.
fantastic food and drinks, ridiculously
the two courses) and played eighteen
That’s right…I said it. And if you choose
accommodating service and staff, and
holes. Put on by the Jamaican Tourism
to attend the tournament either as a
location to make you feel like royalty,
Board, they made certain everyone
player, or a non-golf guest of a player,
I figured you’d have to be a celebrity to
involved got to experience the wonder
you get to enjoy all this resort has to
afford a stay at Iberostar. This is abso-
of Jamaican culture and feel like a na-
offer.
lutely false. This amazing all-inclusive
tive. Almost every hole had a taste of
The Iberostar Resort Montego Bay is
experience is completely affordable,
Jamaica—from fresh coconuts and fruit
nestled beachfront in the heart of the
even in peak season! So unbelievably
smoothies to Jamaican beef patties and Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Appleton Estates rum (one of the tournament sponsors and the official rum of Jamaica) we were spoiled for the entire round every day. After three days of golf, pool and beach relaxation, and nightly parties hosted by The Golf Connection, Nike Golf, and other wonderful sponsors, it was time for the awards ceremony. Fabulous prizes were awarded for best ball, longest drive, and of course the tournament winners. Prize packages ranged from Appleton Estates Aged Rum, to American Airlines tickets, to hotel stays at the Iberostar Resorts and tons of Nike Golf equipment. Every sponsor of the Jamaican Pro-Am really showed up and delivered some amazing prizes. After awards were given and we were fed
to be one of the most memorable weeks
more about not only the Montego Bay
delicious food until we could hardly see
of our lives!
location, but tons of locations worldwide.
straight, we mingled and said goodbye to
For more information about the Jamai-
This tournament is for any and everyone
all the friends we’d made throughout the
can Pro-Am “Annie’s Revenge” tourna-
to enjoy, no matter your level of play-
week. People from all over the country—
ment and how you can take part in the
ing! And as for the incredible location
all ages, skill levels, and walks of life—
coming years, visit www.Jamaicanproam.
destination, as they say on the island of
came together to enjoy what turned out
com. Visit www.Iberostar.com to learn
Jamaica, “Once you go, you know!”
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
31
on the green
By Emil Miller
Star Command is Coming to a Golf Course Near You Soon And No, It Won’t Beam You Up, And Phasers Will Not Be Set to Stun But it Will Make Golf Courses Greener and Save Them Time & Money Herbicides, Pesticides, Nematicides, Oh My! What is it with all these “–cides” we hear about being used on golf courses. Scary, right? A lot of people think “Homicide”! The reality is, your Golf Course Superintendent is one of the best stewards of the environment you’ll find. They utilize the minimum amount needed to maintain playable turf at your local club, as well as a concept called “Integrated Pest Management” – IPM. IPM uses natural controls and strategies and selected, limited chemistry applications to keep intrusive environmental issues as low impact as possible. Along those lines, some innovative modern technology is making the control of chemical applications easier, more efficient and accurate. The system adapts to the specialized sprayers used apply chemistry on golf courses and literally changes the game for professional turf managers. It’s called the Smithco Star Command Advanced Spray Control System and brings some technology that’s been around the agricultural market since the mid 1990’s to golf courses. It combines Blended Pulse Spraying with automatic GPS control of each individual tip across a 15 to 20 foot boom on the back of the sprayer, eliminating pass to pass overlap errors and overspray outside of needed control areas. Blended Pulse Spraying allows turf managers to spray more quickly and over a wider range of rates than con32
ventional spray controllers. In a typical sprayer, if you try to put more liquid though a fixed sized orifice, pressure increases and finer drops are created that become easier to “drift” away from their intended target. Conversely, if you try to slow down the sprayer to maneuver around an obstruction or over rough terrain, the pressure drops, creating droplets that are too large and don’t fully cover the dense canopy of
turf accurately. In fact, pressure may drop to the point that the liquid mix just dribbles out of each nozzle. Think of blended pulse as the spray wand on your sink to rinse dirty dishes; when you turn it on, anywhere from a little bit to full on, the pressure and pattern stays exactly the same. By allowing this constant, operator pre-set pressure at
the correct rates, the Spray Technician no longer has to maintain a constant speed when applying chemistry. This freedom allows him to maximize the efficiency and complete his applications well before the first golfers get to number one tee. We’ve seen application times literally cut in half at some facilities, staying well ahead of the tee sheet or weather considerations. And because the droplet size and pattern stay at an ideal constant, better results are seen, further reducing input by repeated applications. The GPS enabled controller allows the spray technician to precisely define the areas he wants to apply chemistry to, and then the Star Command will only allow the tips to emit the liquid within those defined boundaries, and will only do it once and, as mentioned above, do it single tip by single tip. If an operator mistakenly reenters an already applied area, the controller will not turn on. And on pass to pass applications up and down a large fairway, it will automatically turn a tip off if the tech steers too close to his last pass. In fact, the system is capable of adding an optional automated steering control that guides the sprayer down the fairway to as little as one inch of the ideal path. Also, defining the area to apply chemistry prevents the unwanted and unneeded overspray outside the target, saving money in wasted chemicals and further reducing the impact to the environment. We’ve seen reductions in applications and savings from as little as 12 percent to as high as 30%; significant when considering a chemical budget for an 18 hole golf course can be in the $80,000 - $100,000 range. Finally, the Star Command “remembers” what it’s sprayed, where it’s sprayed it and how much it’s applied to every area; providing a record of every job performed with the sprayer. The “Shape” files generated can be downloaded from Star Command and transferred to the Managers desktop computer for permanent record keeping, even overlaid onto a satellite image of their golf facility in Geographic Information Software (GIS) and application rates can be compared to the desired rate square yard by square yard. This amount of detail has never before been available to turf managers and the state and local entities that oversee the use of chemistry for professional turf applications. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 6
living on the links
Naples Top-Rated Golf Club Has New Name And Vision Kitson & Partners, a private real estate and development company, has teed up a new name and a bold new vision for the prestigious Tuscany Reserve Golf Club and community, which it purchased last February. Tuscany Reserve Golf Club is now Talis Park Golf Club. Ranked by Golf Digest as one of Florida ’s top 20 courses, the newlyrenamed, 18-hole golf course is one of only two in the world designed by golf legends Greg Norman and Pete Dye and is rated one of the best in Naples . Talis Park Golf Club is also universally praised as being among the nation’s premier golf experiences due to its meticulously-tended Sea Dwarf Paspalum fairways and greens. In fact, Dye - regarded by many as the most influential and creative golf course designer in the sport’s history - said he had “never, ever seen a golf course like it in such good shape and condition
34
anywhere in the world.” The Norman & Dye golf course, which measures over 7,000 yards in length, meanders along terraced hillsides with watercourses slowly spilling over aging stone walls into narrow finger-lakes and channels and has been maintained to perfection since its opening in 2005. It is the centerpiece of Talis Park , a visually stunning golf community now being reinvigorated and repositioned by one of Florida ’s premier real estate developers, who plans to introduce a smarter version of luxury for the upscale and highlycompetitive Naples market. “There is no question we have one of the best golf courses in Florida ,” said Syd Kitson, CEO of Kitson & Partners, the Palm Beach-based real estate developer. “We are committed to preserving and enhancing the premier golfing experience at Talis Park .” Kitson & Partner’s vision for the “new” Talis Park will be a fresh, smart interpretation of the elegant Naples lifestyle that is more relaxed and in step with changing attitudes and an active way of life. “The Naples luxury market is evolving, and today its socially connected and health-
conscious residents are centered on so much more than 18 holes of golf,” Kitson added. �������������������������� Reflective of this new approach is The Vyne House. Envisioned as a community gathering place, The Vyne House is a charming, multi-purpose village center with a lively interplay of indoor and outdoor spaces, housing the golf club and resort-style pool, a boutique spa, fitness center, and café. A separate facility will be dedicated to tennis and bocce, and an adjacent Great Lawn will offer the perfect setting for events, from wine festivals to concerts and movie screenings. While the Vyne House is under construction, Talis Park ’s Golf Studio will continue to serve as the interim clubhouse. Resident and nonresident golf course memberships are available for $65,000 with annual dues of $7,000 in 2012. Complementing the stature and beauty of Naples ’ premier golf and residential community are three new home collections, which will be unveiled later this spring. Masterfullyconstructed by premier builders, the homes will offer a diverse architectural palette that is reflective of its surroundings and will feature free-flowing indoor/outdoor living spaces with beautiful golf course and water views. Prices will range from $700,000 to $2 million plus. Talis��������������������������������� Park , located at 16990 Livingston Road , is destined to fulfill its vast potential to become one of Florida ’s premier luxury golf and residential destinations. For more information, or to join our registry to follow the progress of Talis Park and receive advance notice of upcoming events/ offerings, call (239) 261-6798 or visit www.talispark.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
HOPE to Live Underneath perfect blue skies and ideal temperatures golfers took to the links in support of the 4th Annual Golf for HOPE tournament. The setting: The Golden Bear Club at Keene’s Pointe; the cause: eating disorder prevention and awareness, specifically, the creation of Volume lll of Get R.E.A.L. (Realistic Expectations and Attitudes for Life), an educational outreach DVD focused on healthy body image that candidly addresses the dangers of eating disorders. One hundred percent of the tournament proceeds help fund this DVD that will be produced and mailed nationwide to colleges and universities free of charge later this year. Additionally, over 1,000 copies will be circulated in the Central Florida community with a companion resource guide for families and those struggling with an eating disorder.
Elise Kashmiry, Executive Director of HOPE, Kelly Roberts, 2013 Chairwoman of the Golf for HOPE tournament, Melissa Dobies, Boa “Sadly, the prevalence of eating disorders in the U.S. continues to increase each year,” says Allison Kreiger Walsh, founder of H.O.P.E., Helping Other People Eat. “Our goal is to provide information to inform and enlighten, whether you are the person struggling or you are trying to help a friend.” Inspiration for the Get R.E.A.L. DVD rose out of a need to effectively address an increase in speaking requests. As a survivor of an eating disorder Allison was often invited to share her story. And for years she did, from university campuses to women’s resource centers; from iVillage to The Balancing Act; all too soon requests for speaking engagements exceeded available time and the idea for the DVD seemed like an ideal tool to disseminate these important messages on a grander scale. In 2010 Volume l of Get R.E.A.L. was mailed to over 7,000 schools throughout Florida
Deb Knoske Photography and each year the scope, the message and the audience continues to grow. “The continued support of our tournament sponsors allow for the production and distribution of this DVD” says Walsh. Hilton Grand Vacations, Fairwinds Treatment Center, The Eating Disorder Network of Central Florida, The Recovery Village, Fidelity Timeshare Management, Advocare, UF&Shands Florida Recovery Center at Orlando Health, Massey Cadillac, Deb Knoske Photography and Zest Mobile Cafe were key event sponsors. Massey Cadillac tempted golfers with a beautiful 2013 XTS for the Hole-in-One contest and very special guest, Laura McKeeman, Miss Florida 2012 snapped photos with sponsors, golfers and cohosted the cocktail awards program following the tournament. More information about HOPE is available at www.hopetolive.com.
Laura McKeeman, Miss Florida 36
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
J A C K S O N V I L L E / S T. A U G U S T I N E
YO U ’ L L B E IMPRESSED
the moment you arrive.
King & Bear Clubhouse –18th Green
Florida/Georgia Resident STAY & PLAY PACKAGE
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888-740-7020 • RenWGV.com *Valid through 12/31/12. Valid Florida/Georgia Drivers License required. Per room, per night, based on availability. Advanced reservations required. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Tax and gratuity not included.
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
WGV32469 FLGolfCentralAD.indd 1
1/19/12 10:25 AM
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feature 38
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
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By Joel Jackson, FGCSA Communications Director Photos by Joel Jackson
live golf
We Golf
For The Birdies, of Course!
A fantastic festival of feathered friends from Feather Sound GC and Isla Del Sol Y&CC in the Clearwater/St. Petersburg area to remind us what great wildlife habitats golf courses are! Happy New Year!
A common cormorant drying its wings.
Great White Heron, slim and elegant.
Roseate Spoonbill. Colorful plumage. Interesting beak!
The Osprey, also called a fish hawk for good reason. 40
Wood Storks once endangered are everywhere now.
Great Blue Heron doing the one-legged pose. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
WHITE METAL GOLF PRESENTS
Golf Channel announcers Tim Rosaforte and Brandle Chamblee were the featured Opening Session speakers at the 2013 Golf Course Superintendents Association of America’s 2013 Conference and Show in San Diego in February. The highly rated analysts praised superintendents across the world for their skills and talents, which often go unappreciated or taken for granted by so many golfers.
Roz Leventhal paid a surprise visit to the Interlachen Country Club in January to be on hand when the Florida Turfgrass Association presented her hubby Stuart Leventhal with the FTGA’s Wreath of Grass Award signifying his lifelong service to the golf and turf industries. Leventhal has hosted the annual FTGA Research Tournament for 25 years, which has raised over $100,000 for turfgrass research. FGCSA Vice President Kevin Sunderman (Isla Del Sol Y&CC), GCSAA Florida Representative Ralph Dain, GCSAA Director Darren Davis (Country Club of Naples) and GCSAA Past President Bob Randquist (Boca Rio CC) gather to congratulate Davis on being elected to new term on the Board of Directors of the national Golf Course Superintendents Association of America during the recent conference and show in San Diego.
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Sink Pink! SPONSOR LOGO HERE!
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!
41
By Mike Jamison
improving performance
Swing Jacket
The Ultimate Swing Teacher I have been a golf writer for 40 years, and I can tell you that golf writers are a very skeptical lot. As a general rule we’ve seen and tried it all, and by and large we are rarely blown away with the performance of most of the golf products that cross our desk. At the re-launch of the Swing Jacket training aid during PGA Show Week in Orlando, I actually had one of those rare experiences. I stood on the range at Alaqua Lakes and watched one media person after the other put on the Swing Jacket, hit a few balls, and exclaim their surprise and delight in the instant results. ‘This is amazing,” was the general claim after hitting a handful of shots. “I can feel a difference, and it happened so fast.” Most golfers never actually learn how to release the club because they’re slapping at it with their arms and hands. This product will allow all of those
millions of golfers to feel the correct swing and then repeat it consistently. When it originally launched over a decade ago, the Swing Jacket became an instant success as a golf swing trainer, a rarity in the golf industry. Unlike competing products the patented Swing Jacket automatically trained golfers to repeat the core fundamentals of a simple, repeatable, efficient swing. Developing an effective swing was no longer such a daunting challenge. In 2007, however, the Swing Jacket went up in smoke. Literally. The company’s factory burned down, along with all the dyes, molds and product. It was a complete loss. Most people would have buried the company in the ashes of that fire. But Bill Walsh isn’t most people. After some time of mourning, Walsh regrouped, organized new financial backing, recre42
ated the product, and brought Swing Jacket back to life – better than ever. The new product was officially launched at the Tour Edge Media Classic in January during PGA Merchandise Show week. And it was met with rave reviews. “The Swing Jacket is a very well thought out and constructed training aid that I find works equally well with full swings, chip shots and wedges,” said freelance golf equipment writer Ed Travis. Walsh is pleased that the long road back is now official. “I believe we had just scratched the surface with Swing Jacket before the fire,” said Walsh, based in Calgary, Canada. “The product can really serve as a player developmental tool for the golf industry, because it makes learning the proper golf swing very simple. One of golf’s issues is that people walk away from the game because they find it just too difficult to learn. Swing Jacket addresses the issue head-on.” The Swing Jacket is the only product that physically guides golfers through a connected, on-plane swing. Whether you use the Swing Jacket hitting whiffle balls in the back yard, taking practice swings in the living room or on the practice tee, each swing is automatically training your body to repeat that optimal swinging motion. By imposing a level of consistency on each swing, the Swing Jacket locks key swing fundamentals into muscle memory quickly and easily. “The product had developed such a strong reputation of delivering great results that after we ran out of inventory, used Swing Jackets were selling on E-bay for up to 1.5 times our $120 price,” said Walsh. “I was getting phone calls and e-mails every day from people looking to buy the product. Now that we’re back on the market with an even better product, demand has been really strong.” The Swing Jacket wasn’t just an afterthought when it reached the marketplace. “We spent 2.5 years and almost $1M to bring the product to market,” said Walsh. “We retained the world renowned
Human Performance Laboratory to help us understand the bio-mechanics of the optimal swinging motion and then distill that motion down to the core fundamentals that characterize it. “We tested 52 prototypes on hundreds of golfers before we arrived at the design we sell today. Used properly it will absolutely help any golfer. We’ve sold over 100,000 units in 54 countries ranging from PGA Tour players who use it to refine their motion to the raw beginners who want to develop sound fundamentals right out of the gate. “Golfers know that to improve your golf game you need to practice. But for a lot of players the normal trial and error methods can be pretty discouraging. The Human Performance Laboratory taught us that athletes can actually accelerate the pace of learning by practicing under optimal conditions:
1.
Practice perfect: The simplest, most efficient motion is always the best
2.
Consistency: The more consistent each rep the faster you’ll learn it
3.
Real conditions: Practice in gamelike circumstances (hitting full shots with your own equipment)
4.
Focus on the feel not on your mechanics”
The Swing Jacket was designed to create those optimal conditions whenever it is used. And that’s why people like the media members mentioned earlier had such dramatic results so quickly. To learn more about Swing Jacket, visit www.swingjacket.com. To see the Swing Jacket in action visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgLvtzIDrqs. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
grip it & sip it
As maker of the premium American champagne served at more celebrations than any other, Korbel Champagne Cellars knows those glasses of bubbly mark both the occasion and all that led up to that special moment. For more than 130 years, Korbel California champagne has produced champagne in the traditional, time honored méthode champenoise technique and each proudly proclaims “Fermented in this bottle.” The most popular champagne is Korbel Brut which is mediumdry with a light, crisp, perfectly balanced Cuvée. Korbel Brut is crisp and refreshing, with a light citrus and fresh pear- like note in the finish. Pair with chicken or seafood dishes, also with Asian foods, fruits and mild cheeses. Korbel Champagne Cellars continues to grow grapes and make champagne in the Russian River Valley – the only place it has ever called home.
Korbel Sparkling Eagle 4 oz. Korbel Brut California Champagne 1 oz. Lemonade 1 oz. Melon Liqueur In rocks glass add 4 ounces chilled Korbel Brut California Champagne, 1 ounce chilled lemonade and 1 ounce Melon Liqueur and garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Grip it and Sip it.
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Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
By Bob Ochoa
what's new
Record-Breaking Exotics
Latest Exotics Woods Poised to Continue Breaking Distance Barriers
Tour Edge Exotics fairway woods are
Uniquely different from the XCG6, the tour-inspired CB5 offers the workability and feel preferred by better players in a smaller head size. The club’s no-weld design combo-brazes a beta-titanium cupped face with a heavier hyper steel body. The result, every single gram of excess weight is eliminated from the face and shifted to the rear skirt and sole for a deeper center of gravity. The deep, high center of gravity gives the CB5 an explosive, penetrating launch angle. “Almost every player is capable of hitting it further,” says Tour Edge vice president of marketing, Jay Hubbard. “Simple adjustments such as a different shaft or selecting the right fairway wood
setting world records and winning Tour championships. This year, a Tour Edge Exotics fairway wood was used to break the ‘Guinness World Record for Ball Speed with a Driver’ (yes, their fairway wood broke the driver ball speed record!). Plus, an Exotics fairway wood was played by Brandt Snedeker to win the 2012 PGA FedEx Cup championship. It’s hard to believe that Tour Edge could improve on their “Longest Fairway Woods in Golf.” However, it looks like they have with the new Exotics XCG6 and CB5 fairway woods. Guaranteeing more distance, the XCG6 and CB5 are the only fairway woods on the market to feature a titanium cup face and combo-brazing. According to Tour Edge the XCG6 features a titanium cup face that is combo-brazed to a heavier high-density steel sole for incredible power and feel even on off-center contact. Brazing is a high-tech process that bonds the parts together inside a vacuum without welding and is superior to other methods of combining parts. In fact, Trackman robot tests confirm the XCG6 is longer than other popular fairway woods (See chart). You use titanium in your driver for a reason, it hits the ball further. The same holds true in fairway woods.
CB5
head XCG6 or CB5 can produce the desired results and the longest shots of your life”. Hubbard encourages players to enlist the help of a qualified fitter who will analyze and determine the perfect Exotics configuration to help maximize distance. In the desert there are several Tour Edge fitters (see sidebar). Tour Edge is also introducing their first adjustable-hosel driver with the Exotics XCG6. The driver’s Shot Control Technology (SCT) lets players adjust four face angle and loft settings to optimize the driver’s launch characteristics. This new club features an advanced multi-level forged titanium face that maximizes feel and rebound. Included in the sole of the driver are four hexahedron weight pads that increase the head’s MOI for greater stability and bigger distance on off-center hits. According to Tour Edge, the ability for players to ‘dial in the distance’ with the driver’s adjustable hosel combined with the advanced design and construction makes the XCG6 driver a true distance weapon. With a 30-day play guarantee and a lifetime warranty, it looks like Tour Edge is expecting to continue their record-breaking tradition.
XCG6 Driver
XCG6 3 Wood 46
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Vegas Action Ma
r Holiday Party a Win u o y ne ke
r!
On America’s Biggest and Best Casino Cruise Ship!
Call or Email Mrs. Jingle 321-615-5473 • SJingle@VictoryCanaveral.com Groups start at 10 or more.
855-GO-VICTORY • 855-468-4286 VictoryCasinoCruises.com
180 Christopher Columbus Drive • Terminal B-2 • Cape Canaveral • FL 32920 Must be 18 to play & board, 21 to consume alcohol. Valid government issued photo ID required. Advance reservations recommended. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-888-ADMIT-IT.
duffer dan
By Bob Bolton
Just before you take a hard left to head across Gator Alley on I-75 you have the option of taking exit 101 and heading to Marco Island, where you will find miles of sandy white beaches and the beautiful Marco Island Marriott Golf Club and Spa. Having recently completed a $225 million renovation and redesign. the Resort is an
halftime. Unfortunately the wrong
rooms are spacious and comfortable.
awesome retreat for families, romantic
team won, but the experience was
The restaurants at the Resort
couples, or corporate meetings.
not tainted by a Raven victory.
range from the very “beachy” Quinn’s
I had the distinct pleasure of
I’ve spent most of my professional
(where I was convinced to try their
visiting the Resort on Super Bowl
life traveling, and have always been a
succotash, which of course started
weekend. Imagine having inflatable
Marriott fan, and this property lived
a Google search for what cartoon
projector screens on the beach, all
up to the brand, and then some. From
character said, “Sufferin’ Succotash”),
the wings can eat and beer you can
my very pleasant greeting at the front
to the more formal Kurrents.
drink, while you pay close attention
desk, to the staff that was attentive
The Spa at Marco Island Marriott
to the commercials and even more
pool side and in the restaurants, I felt
is discreetly tucked away in a
attention to Beyonce’s moves during
right at home. The newly renovated
tranquil corner of the Resort. With indoor and outdoor services offered, and its own pool, the Spa is an intimate beachside retreat. The Resort boasts two award winning championship golf courses, “The Rookery at Marco” and “Hammock Bay Golf & Country Club”. The “Rookery” was recently redesigned by acclaimed golf course designer Robert Cupp, Jr. Appropriately named the “Rookery”, meaning bird sanctuary, the golf course is nestled in shallow wetlands that attract many species of birds. During my visit I played “Hammock Bay”. The course designed by Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy was in excellent condition from tee to green. I was paired with a couple of nice gentlemen from Michigan,
48
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
and being from Illinois myself, we all chuckled when we thought of our “homeland” and those poor individuals who would be waiting for months for their courses to thaw out. I started my round with illusions of grandeur as I sank a 40 foot greenside chip shot for birdie. That was the only time all day I was under par. I enjoyed the variety of holes on the course and was stopped in my tracks when I approached the tee on the Par 3 11th hole. Measuring 154 yards was not the reason for pause. It was the table top green surrounded by what could only be described as a mini-Mojave desert
a heat-seeking missile my ball was
Gulf behind me, my mind began to
wasteland. My two playing partners
launched at the stick and never left
reflect on the gracious hospitality
found the “junk”, I on the other hand
its target. The only problem was that
of the staff and “when will I get
stuck my shot safely on, two putted,
as it hit the bottom of the stick on
back to play the Rookery”?
and grinned as I walked away with
the fly, it ricocheted out of the hole
If my story prompts you to want
my par. My only other highlight came
and off the green. No eagle, but a
to know more about the Marco
on the 14th hole, a par 4, where I hit a
well deserved par was achieved.
Island Marriott Golf Club and Spa,
large drive and stood over my approach
As I drove away from the Resort,
please call (239) 394-2511, or visit
shot with calm determination. Like
with the sun slowly setting in the
www.marcoislandmarriott.com.
Kenny Perry and Trevor Immelman have made Transitions® lenses part of their game.
On the PGA TOUR®, vision is a golfer’s most important equipment. Transitions lenses adapt to changing light to help golfers see more comfortably in all light conditions and help protect eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Visit your local Vision Source doctor, Dr. James Podschun, located at 2828 Casa Aloma Way, Suite 400 in Winter Park, FL 32792, to ask which Transitions lenses are right for you. 407-671-0960
P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R
Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Adaptive Lenses is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2012 Transitions Optical, Inc.
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
transitions.com
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orth GA offlorida America PGAPGA northofflorida America PGAPGA north of America florida PGA PGAnorth of America florida PGA north of Am
Photos courtesy of Montana Pritchard/The PGA of America
The PGA of America highlights jobs and Employment Services to Kick Off the 12th Annual Jobs in Golf Month
As the national job market continues to show signs of recovery, The PGA of America’s 12th Annual Jobs in Golf Month - which highlights online employment resource tools and a breadth of jobs within the $68 billion industry - will kick off in conjunction with the 60th PGA Merchandise Show, Jan. 24-26, and continue promoting employment in golf throughout the month of February. PGA.com/employment, home to PGA Employment Services, is the centerpiece of the Jobs in Golf Month initiative, and serves as the golf industry’s online resource for jobs. In support of Jobs in Golf Month, PGA Employment Services is ramping up its available resources to ensure that PGA members, golf industry employers and individuals seeking employment within the golf industry have the tools necessary to maximize their career 50
opportunities. Building on the success of its previous campaigns at the PGA Merchandise Show, PGA Employment Services will be an invaluable resource for promoting jobs within the golf industry, while also serving as a solution that matches job applicants with potential employers by highlighting job opportunities that are currently posted on PGAJobfinder. com. The Jobs in Golf Month initiative at the PGA Merchandise Show includes recruitment services by leading industry employers; golf-related job posting boards; on-site interviewing for industry positions; employment workshops; and comprehensive PGA Employment Services. “Jobs in Golf Month is an important initiative that serves to highlight The PGA of America’s commitment to working closely with our Professionals
and golf industry employers to more efficiently align candidates with job opportunities that match their skill sets,” said PGA President Ted Bishop. “The golf industry supports nearly 2 million jobs in the United States and more than $55 billion in wage income, and PGA Employment Services is a leading resource for all jobs in golf, from General Managers and PGA head professionals to starters and sales positions.” PGA Employment Services was developed to serve as the golf industry’s hiring resource and a support mechanism to help ensure the 27,000 men and women PGA Professionals have the necessary tools to secure employment. In addition to serving as a vehicle for PGA Professionals, PGA Employment Services offers a direct communication link between golf industry employers and individuals seeking to gain employment in the golf industry. PGA Employment Services is supported by 12 regional PGA Employment Consultants based throughout the country. These Employment Consultants serve as an invaluable resource for both PGA members and golf industry employers, working tirelessly to match applicants with appropriate employers who are seeking to hire talented and dynamic PGA Professionals. These Employment Consultants are also charged with further educating employers on the unmatched benefits of hiring a PGA Professional. Employment-related education seminars are also being featured at the PGA Member Business Center, and will be led by the PGA Employment Consultants. Some of the featured seminar topics include: “Staff Training - Enhance Team Performance,” “Sales and Service Training - Create a Welcoming Environment,” “Grow Your Value Starting NOW - A Game Plan for Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Success,” and “Utilizing PGA Resources Your Competitive Edge,” among others. While The PGA of America offers additional resources to promote Jobs in Golf Month and the benefits of hiring PGA Professionals throughout February, the Association’s expansive PGA Employment Services division— which caters to PGA Professionals, golf industry employers and individuals seeking a position within the golf industry—serves as an invaluable resource throughout the year. Among the many service options from the PGA Employment Center is CareerLinks, a complimentary employment referral service that enables PGA Employment Consultants to provide support to employers and PGA Professionals nationwide. With this service, PGA Employment Consultants help employers identify the skills and experiences that are necessary to perform a specific job, and then enter the search specifications into the CareerLinks database to identify qualified PGA candidates. This unique service continues to grow, as 575 positions were filled through CareerLinks in 2012—representing a solid 22 percent year-over-year increase.
Other employment services include PGA Jobfinder, an online tool located at www.PGA.com/employment, which helps golf industry employers fill a variety of golf industry positions from PGA Teaching Professionals to Clubhouse Staff to Manufacturer’s Sales Representatives. The PGA also retains the services of a wage-and-hour consultant to help PGA Professionals
and employers interpret labor laws and wage-and-hour information. Over the past year, more than 3,300 jobs for PGA Professional positions were posted on PGALinks.com and nearly 2,200 positions were also listed on the public job board on PGA.com—an increase of nearly 300 PGA-oriented job postings and a boost of an additional 300 industry positions respectively.
Hide the Red Dot Use a SeeMore to reinforce a consistent setup on every putt! A SeeMore Putter has been used to win 2 MAJOR Championships. 40% of your strokes during a round of golf are used by a putter. Have you ever taken a putting lesson? Find your SPi instructor at the SeeMore Putter Institute. SeeMore.com SeeMoreSPi.com 800-985-8170
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
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adies orth florida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGA north Ladiesflorida Professional PGA north Golfflorida Association PGAheader north Ladi
Personalities Shine in LPGA’s Latest Advertising Campaign See Why It’s Different Out Here Beatriz Recari and Lexi Thompson shoot “Smile”
Twenty-seven LPGA players representing 11 countries are featured in the latest See Why It’s Different Out Here advertising campaign spots released today by Golf’s Global Tour. The third-edition of the LPGA’s annual campaign again highlights the unique personalities of the biggest stars in the women’s game, with help from the Tour’s growing fan base. The spots debuted in today’s edition of Global Golf Post. To view all four spots, please visit the LPGA’s YouTube Channel. “Fans want to know more about our players, so the more we can feature the unique personalities of our global stars the better,” said LPGA Chief Marketing Officer Jon Podany. “With the help of our passionate fans, we are thrilled to feature 27 different LPGA players who embody the See Why It’s Different Out Here motto.”
Stacy Lewis and Ai Miyazato Smile – Who has the “Where am I going to put another trophy” smile? Starring Beatriz Recari and Lexi Thompson This year’s campaign will be featured on Golf Channel, through the LPGA’s international television partners, on LPGA.com, and via the LPGA’s social media networks, including YouTube, Twitter and Facebook. The LPGA’s 2012 See Why It’s Different Out Here series of
commercial spots was nominated for the 2012 “Best Television Commercial Series” by the International Network of Golf. The series was up against PING’s “Bubba Watson and Hunter Mahan” and eventual winner, Bridgestone Golf’s “David Feherty In The Lab” series. Follow the LPGA on its television home, Golf Channel, and on the web via: www.LPGA.com, www.facebook.com/ lpga.official, www.twitter.com/lpga, and www.youtube.com/lpgavideo. Stacy Lewis and Azahara Munoz shoot “Countries”
Filmed at the 2012 Kingsmill Championship, the four spots include: Countries – Showcasing the many different countries represented on Golf’s Global Tour; starring Stacy Lewis and Azahara Munoz Hobbies – Find out what Yani Tseng likes to collect; starring Vicky Hurst and Sandra Gal Pressure Putt – Who would Stacy Lewis pick to sink a pressure putt? Starring 52
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Play like you’re at home.
Stay in a Starmark Vacation Home. Plan your next Orlando golf getaway with ease with Starmark Vacation Homes. We’ll hook your foursome up with a spacious, well-appointed private home with four bedrooms or more, pool and other amenities — for less than a hotel suite. All you need to do is bring your clubs. Simply visit StarmarkVacationHomes.com or call 800.921.4590.
Reference code FLGOLF4 to receive a 4th night FREE, plus a discount of $60 per foursome, per round at Orange Lake Club.
orth florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north
By Steve Morris
Charitable Interests As the host Section for the 60
th
Anniversary PGA Merchandise Show, it was our privilege to host the Executive Directors Conference prior to the Show. ED’s from around the country gathered to discuss issues and initiatives that may influence the future of their Section, the game and PGA Members. They also gathered to tee it in the Executive Directors Cup Matches for some friendly competition between the North and South. It’s a great time for the Executive Directors to get together, and for many, one of the few chances they get to see each other each year. The NFPGA will continue to track results in our “Charitable Interest” initiatives. This data provides valuable feedback for us to help leverage and maximize our partnerships. It is estimated that charitable interests with our Section contributed about 70 million
54
dollars to various charities in 2012! They
valuable partnerships.
include funds from PGA TOUR events as
The Florida Golf License Plate
well as the many fundraisers that our
continues to contribute thousands
PGA Professionals administer at their
of dollars to our Section’s Junior
own clubs. Our Chapters also have many
Golf initiatives for 2013. This unique
initiatives that provide valuable funds
opportunity for golfers throughout
to many charities. As our members
Florida to give back to the game they
continue to get involved and report
love has provided valuable funding
their contributions, this number will
for many Junior Programs throughout
be higher! Golf continues to be a great
the State. This program was started
avenue to help charities throughout the
by Charlie DeLuca, who has always
42 counties in our Section. Our “Sphere
been a visionary for the future of the
of Influence” initiative is another great
game and most importantly, it’s for the
benefit to our partners. It’s estimated
kids!
that through our combined efforts and
Finally, our young Tournament
sharing of databases between our
Director, Ben Herring, attended his first
Members, their clubs and the Section
PGA USGA Rules Workshop and scored
that we have the ability to reach and
93 on his first test! This is unheard of.
influence over 1.5 million golfers
A score of 92 and higher is considered
within the Section! These initiatives
“expert.” If you’ve ever taken this test,
are measurable and provide us with a
you’ll understand just how tough that
great tool in attaining and maintaining
first time is. Well played Ben.
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
First Overall Championship of the Season The South Florida PGA Junior Tour presented by the Honda Classic hosted its first ever Junior Championship Tour Event at Club Med at Sandpiper Bay this weekend. A strong field of 74 juniors from all over South Florida competed to start the 2013 season. Alberto Martinez (13) of Weston claimed the first Boys overall championship of the season with an impressive come-from-behind finish. Martinez shot a two under, 68, on Sunday to claim victory with a two-day score of 142. Jb Thompson of Jupiter clenched second place shooting a two-day total of 150. In the Girls Overall division, Alejandra Merchan of Weston, claimed her title with a two-day score of 144; winning a grueling five-hole playoff with fellow competitor Kuriko Tsukiyama. Andreina Merchan of Weston claimed a 2nd place overall finish with a two-day total of 148. Charlie Kennerly of Jupiter claimed the Boys 13-15 title by shooting a two-day total of 150. Finishing Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
in 2nd place was Anthony Wells of Plantation with a 153. Eduardo Blochtein of Delray Beach came in a close 3rd with a 154 two-day total. In the Boys 16-18 year old division, Jb Thompson of Jupiter claimed the title with a two-day total of 148. Finishing in 2nd in the division was Kyle Williams of Tamarac with a 150, and winning a scorecard playoff with a two-day total of 151 was Zachary Bariso of Boca Raton. In the Girls 13-15 division, Claire Fitzgerald of Parkland won a scorecard playoff to claim her first title of the 2013 season with a two-day total of 160. Also in the playoff, being awarded 2nd place was Emma Bradley of Naples. In 3rd was Emily Faulkner of Palm City shooting a two-day 164. Local Club Med resident, Kuriko Tsukiyama, after a five-hole playoff for the overall championship, claimed the honors in the Girls 16-18 division shooting a consistent 72-72 for a two-day total of 144. Andreina Merchan of Weston won 2nd place with a 148 two-day total, and Alexa Hammer of Boynton Beach claimed 3rd place with a two-day 153. The next South Florida PGA Junior Championship Tour event will be held March 23-24 at the PGA National Golf Club, Fazio Course in Palm Beach
Alejandra Merchan 55
south florida PGA north south florida florida PGA PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southfl north
Alberto Martinez of Weston, Don Law, PGA, and Alejandra Merchan of Weston
Gardens, FL. The South Florida PGA Junior Challenge Tour will be back here at Sandpiper Golf Club at Club Med in Port St. Lucie with a full field of 84 players on February 16-17. The South Florida PGA Junior Championship Tour is proudly presented by The Honda Classic and supported by Allianz Championship, Club Med Golf Academy, Don Law Golf Academy, Chiquita, Palm Beach County Sports Commission, The Men’s Fun Group at Mirasol, and Titleist. The South Florida PGA Junior Championship and Challenge Tours, run under the South Florida PGA Foundation, are committed to the mission of keeping membership and tournament-related costs low while providing first-class quality golf at 28 championship venues throughout South Florida over the course of the Junior Tour season. For more information on both of our Junior Tours, please visit the South Florida PGA website at www.sfpgajuniorgolf.com. The South Florida PGA Foundation is a not-for-profit organization founded to support the South Florida community, with a focus on junior golf, education and scholarships, and charitable gifting. The South Florida PGA Foundation falls under the direction of the South Florida PGA, a not-for-profit organization comprised of over 1,600 men and women PGA Professionals dedicated to growing participation in the game of golf.
17 Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Coore & Crenshaw
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6 Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Coore & Crenshaw
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Law Enforcement Appreciation Golf Tournament
By Jay Golden
As the kick-off fundraiser for the 2013
may be viewed at: http:// www.asisonline.org/. LE Appreciation event, ASIS Spacecoast Each year ASIS Spacecoast Chapter 46 - in conjunction with Beef Chapter 46 honors those O’ Brady’s Cocoa Beach - hosted their that protect and serve our first annual Law Enforcement Appreciacommunities by recogniztion golf tournament at Cocoa Beach ing those individuals who Country Club. “Our goal,” says tournahave been chosen as the Law ment chairman Gary Fooks, “Is to make Enforcement Officer of the the 2013 LE Appreciation event even Year by their respective agenbetter than the previous successful cies. In previous years, due to ones. This year the Law Enforcement generous donations, Chapter Officer of the Year awards and BBQ will 46 presented plaques, law be held in May.” enforcement equipment John Casey, Dennis Casey, Tom Dieulio packages and door prizes to volunteers: Bruce Stewart, Veronica LEO of the Year selectees. Collins, Kai Rodriguez, Al Boettjer, Kim Photographs from previCasey, Arabia Greer, Gary Fooks, Tony ous events can be viewed Brannon. Capt. Mark Renkens, Robin at http://www.asisspaceRenkens, Stacey Saunier, Teresa Dale, coast.org/. Council Woman Andrea Young and We are happy to anour photographers, Larry Litwiler and nounce that the former Sherry Scott. Also, thanks to golf enterPresident of the Colomtainer Jay Golden, PGA. bia Chapter, (2010), Luis The following were the donating Gomez, has gotten the sponsors: ball rolling by donating a golf painting for our Volunteers: Bruce Stewart, Veronica Collins, Kai Rodriguez, Kim silent auction at our 2013 Casey, Al Boetijer, Arabia Greer, Gary Fooks, Tony Brannon LE Appreciation Event. The 2011 President of ASIS International is the preeminent ASIS, Bob Granger, sponsored a hole; organization for security professionals. Island Breakers on Merritt Island. Bob Founded in 1955, ASIS is dedicated to is a member of our local chapter. increasing the effectiveness and pro Teams representing local business ductivity of security professionals by and law enforcement participated. The developing educational programs and winning team from Palm Bay PD were materials that address broad security Judy Ellingwood, Chiefs Lee Cote and interests as well as specific security Mark Klayman, and Jeff Pearson. Food topics. More than 200 chapters and With donations still being acand refreshments provided by Beef over 38,000 members worldwide are cepted for the 2013 LE AppreciaO’Brady’s and Petty’s Meats. Bob Dance active in sponsoring local and regional tion Event, those wanting to donate offered two Dodge’s for holes-in-one. seminars focusing on local professional should contact Arabia Greer at: Special thanks to “Vern” Collins, who issues. The ASIS International website arabia@securitechintl.com. received the Certificate of Appreciation from ASIS Space Coast for her fervor in supporting our cause. She donated beer along with excellent food as well as orchestrating the awards program at the post tournament festivities. Judy Ellingwood, Police Chief Lee Cote, Police Chief Mark Klayman, Thank you John Pavone, Tom Nemeyer, Lori Pittman, Larry Kaylor Police Chief Jeff Pearson to our onsite
Law Office of David A. Baker Craig Technical Consulting Ryan Reporting Police Benevolent Association Andrea Young, Council Island Breakers SecuriTech Fraternal Oder of Police American Police Hall of Fame Bob Dance Dodge
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Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
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Visit Marion County’s Newest Luxury Golf Community Play our Nationally Ranked Top 10 Golf Course Live in our Award Winning Ar thur Rutenberg Homes Enjoy our Resor t Style Amenities and Maintenance Free Living Indulge in the Casual yet Luxurious Lifestyle You and Your Family Deser ve Move-in ready homes available now star ting in the $600,000’s with homesite. Call today to schedule your visit:
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TaylorMade Performance Lab Opens at Tiburón Golf Club at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples TaylorMade Performance Labs recently opened its 20th national facility – and the first in Southwest Florida – at Tiburón Golf Club, located at The RitzCarlton Golf Resort, Naples. Mike Weir, 2003 Masters champion, was on hand to showcase the custom-club fitting experience. Tiburón is the 943-acre resortstyle residential community by WCI Communities that features The RitzCarlton Golf Resort, Naples, with 36 holes of Greg Norman-designed championship golf. The TMPL facility at Tiburón, also home to the newly opened PGA Mike Weir showcases custom fitting at Tiburon's TaylorMade Performance Lab
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Bob Radunz, Sean Toulon, Mike Weir, Rick Rainville, Edward V. Staros, Rick Shoemaker TOURAcademy and the Franklin Templeton Shootout, provides golfers with an unparalleled custom golf-club fitting experience. Each TMPL location features Motion Analysis Technology by TaylorMade (MAT-T). Originally developed to fit clubs to TaylorMade-adidas Golf Tour professionals, MAT-T works by gathering vital swing information and statistics by way of a launch monitor, six high-speed video cameras and a computer to capture the golfer’s swing in sharp, 3-D animation – the same technology used in today’s popular movies and video games. “We’re excited to open our last facility of the year at such a highend property as The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples and Tiburón Golf Club,” said Todd Fraser, global directorPerformance Labs. “The number of avid golfers in Southwest Florida, combined with the vast number of tourists that The Ritz-Carlton hosts in Naples, makes for an ideal location to serve players with a fitting technology that wasn’t previously available in this market.” Rick Rainville, general manager at Tiburón, said members and visitors have anticipated the opening for months. “Our golfers know this is a major addition to the Tiburón experience,” he said. The golfer is fit by
way of 34 reflective markers that are placed on strategic points on the body as well as on the shaft and head of the fitting club to capture a number of swings with the driver, iron, wedge and putter. The two-and-a-half-hour custom fitting experience includes recommendations for a driver, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges, putter and even the correct golf ball. “Before making a purchase as big as golf equipment, it is critical that consumers take the time to get custom fit with a set of golf clubs that best fits their swing,” added Fraser. “Our fitting experts are able to dissect the golfer’s swing using motion capture technology and provide invaluable feedback to the consumer. The computer then produces a detailed recommendation of TaylorMade golf clubs based on the golfer’s swing characteristics.” Following the swing analysis and club recommendations, demo clubs are built on-site with the customer’s correct swing specifications; the player can then validate the system’s recommendations on the driving range. New custom TaylorMade clubs built to recommended specifications are shipped directly to the player in as little as 48 hours. Each customer also receives a take-home CD with all captured swings, the swing analysis and MAT-T recommendations, viewable on a computer. “We’re proud to partner with TaylorMade for this unique and highend experience, and are confident that golfers will greatly benefit in their games” said Edward V. Staros, vice president and managing director of The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples. The first TMPL was developed at TaylorMade Golf headquarters to offer Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
tour professionals a more efficient and effective club-fitting experience. Its dramatic success led to the development of off-site TMPLs, which are open to any golfer who seeks a superior club-fitting experience. Located at some of the finest golf properties in the world and administered by specially trained and certified PGA pros, TMPLs offer the golfer the ultimate fitting experience. Every fitting is conducted in a high-end, high-tech atmosphere, where every nuance of the swing is measured, analyzed and interpreted. The information gained makes it possible to provide golfers of all abilities the very best choices in TaylorMade equipment that’s built to suit their specific needs. Custom-built clubs are built and shipped in a matter of days. There are currently 12 U.S. locations, including Aviara Golf Club at the Park Hyatt Resort in North San Diego, the Hyatt Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando, Fla., The Ritz-Carlton at Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Ga., and The Olympia Fields Country Club in Chicago. Tiburón Golf Club is located at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, and features 36 holes of championship golf in a serene, natural setting designed by
TMPL at Tiburon provides golfers with a custom golf-club fitting experience by gathering swing information and statistics the legendary Greg Norman. Tiburón is the home of the PGA Tour and the Franklin Templeton Shootout, held annually in December. The courses are marked by the use of stacked sod wall bunkers, coquina sand and no rough. Players have the choice of five tee boxes per hole to make the experience challenging for all skill levels. Tiburón is home of the PGA
TOURAcademy. The Gold Course measures 7,288 yards from the Tournament tees and The Black Course measures 7,005 yards from the Tournament tees. Courses alternate each day for resort play. A full-service practice area with chipping and putting greens is also available. Homes by WCI Communities in Tiburón start in the low-$700,000s.
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 7
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By Laura E. Richeson, APR
The Place Fore Making Memories at Heathrow County Club Long known for its exceptional 18 holes of championship golf, upscale amenities and an active lifestyle atmosphere, Heathrow County Club also brings these signature elements to corporate and social events. “We knew from the moment we visited Heathrow County Club, that is was the perfect location to showcase our special day,” reflected Julie Coleman as she planned for her Friday evening, intimate wedding in late 2012. It was Kenya, then fiancée now husband, that found Heathrow County Club and enticed Julie with images of the sweeping views, elegant ballroom, and upscale ambience of the entire location. The Colemans live in Lake Mary, Florida, just minutes from the Club, were not members at the time and never imagined that a wedding at Heathrow County Club was within their reach. From customized menus, to personalized touches and service with acute attention to detail, the intimate wedding party of 50 guests celebrated the evening with simple style and sheer joy. “We felt like the king and queen,” noted Julie, “Toni understood our vision, our budget, and our needs each step of the way. We didn’t have to worry about a thing.” “All events are special and when you embrace creativity into your planning, the unique touches really make the difference,” said Toni Curlin, Director of Catering,” Every event, every guest at Heathrow County Club deserves and receives our best.” Food and beverages were flowing from cocktail hour through the seated dinner. The menu was simply designed with classic baked chicken and filet mignon entrees, just as the bride requested for an unpretentious, yet memorable dining experience. From romantic ceremonies in the garden gazebo to elegant receptions in the Grand Ballroom, the team gives personal attention and expert advice. Heathrow offers a variety of wedding packages and reception settings from intimate to gala complete with culinary excellence to cater wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, or bridal luncheons. Menus are a guide, not a limitation to the culinary offerings. We prepare and design customized menus and delicious cuisine for every special event,” commented Executive Chef Tim Dixon. 62
Kenya and Julie Coleman wed at Heathrow County Club Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Have a special event on the horizon? So do we.
Weddings
Corporate & Special Events
Tournaments
Around here, non-members get the VIP treatment, too. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering or golf tournament, your special event will be well above par. For over 27 years our world-class amenities, awardwinning restaurants and exceptional personal service have made us Seminole County’s premier Country Club. FOR TOURS AND PERSONALIZED EVENT PLANNING: Contact Toni Curlin at 407.562.0172 or TCurlin@heathrowcc.com 1200 Bridgewater Drive • Heathrow, Florida 32746 • www.heathrowcc.com
entral florida central florida central florida central florida central florida centr
By Mike Jamison
Fans Of Graeme McDowell, Big Break Champion And Golf Course Among The Winners At $10,000 Timacuan Scramble There were three big winners at the 4th Annual $10,000 Timacuan Scramble at Timacuan Golf & Country Club. One was the winning team of Rick Cochran, Mark Silvers, Jason Millard and Chase Naramore, who shot 19-under-par 53, then defeated three other teams in a sudden-death playoff with a birdie on the par 3 16th. The second were all the fans who came out to follow PGA Tour star and U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell and his playing partners, Robert Gamez, Brian DeCorso and former world long-drive champion David Mobley. Not only were they treated to some incredible shotmaking on the course (the team shot 56), but also McDowell was beyond gracious in signing autographs and posing for photos with every junior and adult who asked. He also stuck around and joined dozens of others to watch a spur-of-the-moment longdrive exhibition on the first tee. The third big winner was the golf course. The Ron Garl-designed track, ranked as high as No. 14 in Florida by one publication, drew rave reviews from many of the players, including McDowell. “I really enjoyed the golf course,” said McDowell, the Irishman who won the U.S. Open in 2010. “It is a great layout with a links-like feel to it. It can be testy in places if you get off the beaten path, but it is a very fair course. And it is in great condition.” Gamez echoed his playing mate’s comments.
Scramble 2013 GM and JZ Team 64
Scramble winner 2013 “This is a great golf course, especially for a format like this one,” he said. “It has a lot of risk/reward type holes. It’s is a lot of fun to play.” The winning foursome needed a 20-foot birdie putt by Silvers on the first sudden-death hole to nip the three other teams who also shot 53. The victors, who pocketed the $10,000 first prize, had a celebrity feel in their group as well. Silvers recently won the Big Break-Greenbrier on The Golf Channel. He will be playing on the Web.Com Tour this season. “It was a pretty straight putt up the hill,” said Silvers. “I just had to hit it hard enough.” After the putt went in, the team had to watch as the other three teams all failed to hole their birdie tries from shorter distances. “I wasn’t surprised,” said
Silvers. “That was a tough pin placement. Their putts were shorter, but our putt was actually easier because it was straighter.” Silvers, too liked the golf course. “Even though it was a Scramble format, you still had to play well because there are a lot of tough holes out there. There’s no faking it around this course,” he said. Splitting second, third and fourth place money were the teams of: Drew Perry, Tommy Gibson, Jason Parajeckas, Michael Lawrence; Brian Mauer, Eric Steger, Chris Baker, David Bean; and defending champions Chris Ross, Randy Hutchison, Ryan Brehm and Barrett Kelpin. Timacuan Golf and Country Club is a semi-private club located just off I-4, 15 minutes north of Orlando. For more information, visit www.golftimacuan.com, or call 407-321-0010. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
Chromax High Visibility Technology
Reflective finish ensures your ball is 'Never Out of Sight' In the six years since Chromax Golf introduced the golf world to its innovative metallic golf balls at the 2007 PGA Show, color and technology have proven to be a growing trend on the PGA Tour. The combination has become a marketing success story for retailers desperately needing a boost in sales. In 2011 Srixon launched its Z-Star Tour yellow golf ball for “added visual performance.” TaylorMade’s White R11 and Super Fast Burner 2.0 have both proven to be two of the hottest product launches in recent years. Dressed in his signature orange, Rickie Fowler joined Cobra in 2012 to help promote their AMP driver. This year Nike is looking for the same type of success with the launch of it's Red Covert Driver.
sharply reduces lost balls. The ball’s sustained visibility in the air allows golfers to track their ball flight better and make adjustments to their swing. The ability to see the ball on the green helps provide feedback for better putting accuracy. Chromax metallic balls are produced in six easy-to-see colors (silver, gold, orange, blue, pink and green) and come in two different finishes and compressions (M1x and M2x) that offer both style and performance. In 2012, Chromax introduced purple to the M1x line. Both the M1x (75 compression) and M2x golf balls (85 compression) are USGA and R&A approved for tournament play.
Chromax Golf's patent-pending reflective finish provides more visibility on the green and in the air. The remarkable brightness of Chromax balls saves time searching for errant shots and
This year Chromax is introducing its 90 compression ball into the market with the launch of 'Distance', the ultra-metallic illuminating color is Chromax's most visible ball too date. For more information, visit chromaxgolf.com.
M1x
M2x
merald coast emerald coast emerald coast emerald coast emerald coast emer
Sandestin Wine Festival Named ‘Best Annual Event’ in Destin Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Wine Festival – one of the South’s premier coastal events – has been named the “Best Annual Event” in the area by Destin Magazine, one of the region’s premier lifestyle publications. Now in its 27th year, the Sandestin Wine Festival is the most established and continuously running wine festival on the Emerald Coast. To be held April 18 – 21, 2013, patrons will discover a wide range of experiences from participating in auctions for rare and distinctive wines to unique culinary demonstrations. “The Sandestin Wine Festival is one of the most treasured traditions in the area and we are thrilled to receive this recognition,” says Lanier Motes special events manager for the Village of Baytowne Wharf. “Each year we strive to bring attendees exclusive experiences and this year’s festival will be the best to date.” Adding to the lineup of impressive presenting supporters, Coastal Living Magazine announced it will sponsor the event for the fourth straight year. The premier magazine for those who live and vacation along the Gulf, West and East Coasts, Coastal Living covers a wide variety of lifestyle topics, home design and architecture and coastal concerns. Sandestin LeCiel
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Winefest Across The Lagoon An array of new activities are planned for this year including “Sparkling Wines and Holiday Lights” in which guests stroll the lighted Village of Baytowne Wharf and participate in featured menu and champagne tastings from various Village restaurants. Guests can also enjoy the annual tree lighting
ceremony and abundant holiday entertainment throughout the plaza. For more information or to purchase tickets: www.sandestinwinefestival. com. For additional information on Sandestin contact (855) 252-3797 or visit Sandestin.com. Sandestin Beach Aerial View
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
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One lucky “Krew” will win all-expense paid trip to THE PLAYERS In celebration of defending champion Matt Kuchar, THE PLAYERS Championship is launching an online contest entitled, “Kuch’s Krew,” in which one lucky fan (and his or her “Krew”) will win a trip to THE PLAYERS, May 6-12, at THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. The promotion was announced today at the PGA Merchandise Show in conjunction with Kuchar’s sponsor, Bridgestone Golf. From January 24 through February 28, fans can visit PGATOUR.COM/theplayers for instructions on how to submit a video that describes why they want to be a part of Kuchar’s gallery at THE PLAYERS 2013. A panel of experts will judge entries based on creativity, originality and style and will narrow the field down to three finalists. In March, fans will vote for their favorite video, with the winning Krew announced in April. The winning Krew will be flown to Jacksonville, Fla., for THE PLAYERS. The trip will include five nights’ hotel accommodation, rental car, food expenses and, of course, week-long tickets to the tournament. As part of their PLAYERS experience, Kuch’s Krew will have the opportunity to meet Kuchar in person, attend some VIP events with him and experience a PGA TOUR event from
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behind the scenes. The Krew can contain two, three or four members and must have one participant who is 25 years of age or older to participate. The Kuch’s Krew promotion celebrates a recent trend of avid player fan clubs surfacing at THE PLAYERS. For several years, Sergio Garcia has been supported by the “Sergio Boys,” a band of seven local
teenagers, many of whom have been friends since they were in kindergarten, who started following Garcia during the final round of the 2007 PLAYERS and wore tiedyed golf shirts emblazoned with Garcia’s name (first name on the front, last name on the back) to support his 2008 win at the event. In 2011, when K.J. Choi became the first Asian player to win THE PLAYERS Championship, six self-proclaimed “good ole boys” from Tennessee donned black “Choi’s Bois” t-shirts and followed Choi as he defeated David Toms in a sudden-death playoff for the biggest win of his career. “Winning THE PLAYERS last year was definitely a career highlight, and I’m so excited to defend my title in a few months,” said Kuchar. “To know that I’ll have my very own Krew to support me every step of the way, among what are already the some of the best crowds on TOUR, will make it even more special. I can’t wait to see what kinds of videos are submitted, and I look forward to meeting my Krew in May!” THE PLAYERS will return to the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass May 6-12, 2013. More information about THE PLAYERS is available at PGATOUR.COM/theplayers.
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
° The 73 is Here! Available in Satin finish LH and RH.
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➊ It’s Game Time Somewhere Tim Forbes was like many Americans: painfully unsatisfied in his corporate job but making too much money to walk away. But then, one momentous day, he and his wife struck the Deal, leading to a career in the one field he loved more than anything: sports. Years later, having carved out his place in the sports business, he was surprised when a friend asked, ‘’Do you still love sports?’’...And stunned when he didn’t know how to reply. Of course he still loved sports! Didn’t he? Was it possible that walking away from a perk-filled Corporate American life had all been for nothing? His year-long quest to find that answer started with a single game. But what he discovered there soon led to an unlikely coast-to-coast “sports walkabout” involving 100 more games and 50 different sports— from major-market events to the smallest of the small. Poignant, irreverent, and ultimately inspiring, It’s Game Time Somewhere chronicles one man’s search for the love of the game.
➋ Bobby Clampett's Impact Zone Golf® Instruction The IMPACT ZONE™ Training System by Impact Zone Golf, the innovative approach to golf instruction created by acclaimed PGA Tour winner and popular television golf analyst Bobby Clampett, has been released in a specially packaged set of four DVDs. This transformational method of learning and teaching golf – which has flourished around the success of Clampett’s book, “The Impact Zone” – is priced at $89 per set at www.impactzonegolf.com. “The IMPACT ZONE Training System” completely changes the way golfers and instructors perceive and interpret each golfer’s swing. Clampett challenges the widely accepted theory of golf instruction that is too concerned with a golfer’s swing style, while overlooking its results and effectiveness. Impact-Based™ instruction puts the emphasis where it should be, Clampett professes: on consistently good shots and lower scores. For more details about The IMPACT ZONE Training System and to order the set of four DVDs or online downloadable product, visit www.impactzonegolf.com, call 1-877-243-8718, or email info@impactzonegolf.com.
➌ Dead Men's Clubs The golf world is turned upside down in Charlie Ryan’s new novel Dead Men’s Clubs, a story of Golf, Death, and Redemption that stretches from the Carolina Lowcountry to West Virginia’s esteemed Greenbrier Hotel. The book, written for general audiences as well as golfers, reached bookshelves in December. Ryan focuses on Munch Malone, a seriously inept golfer on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, who, at seventy years old, has a very high handicap that draws some unlikely attention from the afterlife. From on high, two scratch golfers---both quite deceased---have been scouring Earth on a quest to find the right golfer. If they are ever to again play their beloved game, they need a serious hacker for a grand experiment from the Great Beyond. And then they find Munch. Mission accomplished, they settle back into their easy chairs in the great clubhouse in the sky, drinks in hand, to watch as their experiment plays itself out down on terra-firma on high-definition television. The soft cover and email book is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
➌ My Pro To Go No matter how far from a golf course, driving range, or teaching pro golfers may be, it is now possible for them to receive golf instruction from GolfTEC, a company dedicated to helping golfers of all skill levels play better and enjoy the game more. All it takes to improve is a smartphone or other mobile device. The secret is “My Pro To Go,” the new golf-improvement app from GolfTEC, that can be viewed on any number of personal devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktops. It’s like having a personal pro at your beck and call – GolfTEC coaches have already given more lessons than any golf instructors in the world. A single lesson costs $39, with savings for a series of lessons. Go to MYPROTOGO.com for more details including instructions for downloading the most appropriate app. A free iOS companion app is available in the Apple iTunes® App store. 70
Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
➍ Adventuress Skin Care Founded on the principle of providing active women with a simplified and protective skin care routine, Adventuress is a skin care collection that is specially formulated to combat nature’s elements. Made with the finest natural ingredients, Adventuress was designed for thrill-seekers with varying degrees of skin sensitivities and allergies. By combining some of the world’s most healing ingredients, Adventuress products are scientifically proven to protect, nourish, boost and restore your beautiful outer shield. The line is comprised of seven products that have been meticulously formulated to ensure radiant, protected skin and includes Naturally Liberating Cleanser, Vividly Restorative Skin Purifier, Boldly Nourishing Moisturizer, Fearlessly Refreshing Facial Wipes, EnviroBalm, and High Performance Sunscreen. The spf 30 sunscreen is available in bottle form and an individually wrapped finger-tip swipe which were designed with “on-the-go” in mind. No more greasy hands or fingers, just the exact dosage of moisturizing sunscreen uniquely packaged in a sealed finger pocket to ensure you get a clean application and, more importantly, reapplication during any activity. The individual products range from $18 to $35 and are available online at www.goAdventuress.com.
➏ Cutter & Buck Annika Collection Cutter & Buck’s popular ANNIKA Collection for women, named and designed for legendary golfer Annika Sorenstam, has three offerings for Spring 2013 that are edgy – both striking and functional - and reflect the kind of force of nature spirit of the woman who inspires the line. The ANNIKA Aspire, Dangerous and Fringe lines for Spring ’13 will give women golfers an array of on-course, slimmer fitting garments featuring nature-inspired prints, plus cool, technical palettes and trims. For additional information, access the web site at www.cutterbuck.com or see your local golf retailer.
➏ Maui Jim Hot Sands Maui Jim hits the links with a new sunglass style that sets the pace in eyewear precision performance. The aerodynamic design of Hot Sands embeds the patented PolarizedPlus2® lens technology (protects eyes on both sides of each lens, reduces 99.9 percent of harmful glare from any flat, smooth, or shiny surface to improve vision and give crisp detail to any view) into a sleek, flexible model that is ideal for a wide range of activities that demand eyewear with superior fit, durability and anti-slip features. This style can withstand the most rugged sports, but is packed with advanced lens technology that offers superior clarity and color enhancement. Hot Sands offers lightweight coverage in a sporty, form-fitting frame that is able to flex with a player’s movements. The non-slip temple inserts provide extra grip for a more secure feel, and adjustable nose pads prevent slippage. Maui Jim sunglasses cut 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. Proprietary bi-gradient mirror technology adds protection from light through the top and bottom of each lens: Maui Jim sunglasses squint for you to reduce eye fatigue. Hot Sands comes in three distortion-free lens colors to maximize performance in various light conditions and four frame colors. Mauijim.com Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
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pro visions
Aces & Eagles Vernon Hogan Executive Chef at RedTail Golf Club
Celebration Golf Management, which operates nine Central Florida golf clubs and two more in South Carolina and Tennessee , recently appointed Vernon Hogan Executive Chef at RedTail Golf Club, located on S.R. 44 in Sorrento.
Gene Garrote, president of Celebration Golf Management, said Hogan joined Celebration Golf Management at Golden Bear Club at Keene ’s Pointe in Windermere. Hogan’s career includes positions at Alaqua Country Club in Longwood, Errol Estate Golf & Country Club and Highland Manor in Apopka, where he served as executive sous chef.
Jared Rice top sales person for PGA TOUR-owned events The PGA TOUR recently announced Jared Rice, director of sales and marketing for THE PLAYERS Championship, as its top sales person for the 2012 season. Of the 15 events that the PGA TOUR owns and operates, Rice was the top sales person for his sales achievements with THE PLAYERS in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., and other TOUR network events. This is the second consecutive year that Rice was recognized as top sales person by the PGA TOUR.
Rice and his team exceeded corporate sales performance goals by nearly 17 percent in 2012, generating more than $500,000 in multi-event sales. Rice was also recognized for his leadership skills and timely response to reporting requests. Rice been with the PGA TOUR since 2006 and during that time he worked in the corporate marketing and retail licensing divisions. Prior to the TOUR, Rice was in sales and marketing for the Detroit Red Wings, the Anaheim Angles and the Anaheim Ducks. THE PLAYERS will return to the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass May 6-12, 2013. More information about THE PLAYERS is available at PGATOUR.COM/theplayers.
Reggie Hunter The Golf Club at Cypress Director of Sales & Marketing The Golf Club at Cypress Head is proud to announce the hiring of Reggie Hunter as Director of Sales and Marketing. Hunter has spent the last 15 years in the golf industry where she has held positions at Walt Disney World Resort, Orange Lake Golf and Country Club, as Marketing/Tournament Director at LPGA International in Daytona Beach and Director of Sales and Marketing at Palm Harbor Golf Club. Hunter has coordinated hundreds of charity and celebrity golf tournaments, served on numerous com-
mittees and hosted a local radio golf talk show among other accomplishments. She is also a resident of the Cypress Head community and Port Orange for more than 10 years, and hails originally from Philadelphia. “I am so fortunate to be back home in Port Orange. I’ve pulled together all of my life experiences to get to this amazing golf course” Reggie states. “I’m going to work extraordinarily hard to help make this course a huge success.” Reggie says. “I look forward to a truly rewarding experience for both the residents and myself.” For more information, please contact Reggie at (386) 756-5449.
Golf Academy of America Appoints Jim Hart as New President Golf Academy of America (GAA), the world’s largest and longestrunning two-year golf career college, announced today that Jim Hart was recently named as its new president. Previous president Mike Largent will continue to serve in an executive role for Education Corporation of America (ECA), whose educational properties include GAA, Ecotech Institute, Virginia College, Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College and New England College of Business and Finance. 72
Hart holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, where he lettered in golf three of his four years, and a masters degree in management from Webster University. Before coming to GAA, Hart served as tournament director and then CEO of the Carolinas Section PGA and in 2000 became president of Fair Way Golf Management, LLC, a company that owned multiple golf facilities throughout the Carolinas. Hart joined ECA in 2008 as campus director of GAA’s Myrtle Beach campus and will continue in that position while serving as GAA president. For more information about Golf Academy of America, call (800) 342-7342, or visit www.GolfAcademy.edu. Florida Golf Central • Volume 13, Issue 7
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