Welcome to Golf Coast Magazine
We’ve had a transformative year at Golf Coast Magazine, and we can’t wait to share it all with you!
Bruz Fellenz, Publisher - Tampa Bay Area Mobile: 727-409-0797 bruzfellenz68@gmail.com
Mary Raimondo, Publisher - Greater Sarasota Area & Southwest Florida Mobile: 410-449-2822 mary@golfcoastmagazine.com
Ryan Ruppert, Partner Office: 941.361.1536 ryan@golfcoastmagazine.com
Rose Ruppert, Partner rose@golfcoastmagazine.com
Tami Vaughan, Production Manager Olivia Baldassari, Digital Marketing Manager olivia@golfcoastmagazine.com
Mark Cardon, Golf News - fcardon@aol.com
G olf Coast is transitioning to a print and mobile model, where we can deliver better information to our readers at a faster pace. To accomplish this, we are shifting to an annual print schedule with a mobile app that will be updated continuously!
You can read more about Golf Coast Mobile on page 62 and sign up to be among the first to know by emailing us at App@ GolfCoastMagazine.com.
T he 2023 Annual Edition may be our best edition ever – we have so many great stories to share with you. In Tampa, our cover story features Seminole Lake Country Club, one of the area’s premier family-owned country clubs. In Sarasota, we are proud to feature Heritage Harbour Golf Resort after an enormous tee to green renovation.
We are also excited to share news about local events, including the Valspar Championship and the Chubb Classic, along with all the great golf news that you have come to expect in Golf Coast Magazine.
A s always, we encourage you to visit GolfCoastMagazine. com for all the latest in news and local events. We can’t wait to see what 2023 has in store, and hope that you’ll join us on the journey!
Fairways and greens,
You’ve come to expect great value from Big Summer Golf Card® and we’ve delivered for 30 years.
Sam Burns Goes for Three-peat at 2023 Valspar Championship
S am Burns, one of the top 12 players in the Official World Golf Ranking, will go for a three-peat this March 13-19 when the Valspar Championship returns to the Copperhead Course at Innisbrook in Palm Harbor.
Burns won his first PGA TOUR title on the Copperhead in 2021 finishing three shots ahead of Keegan Bradley and four in front of Viktor Hovland. His repeat win in 2022 was much more dramatic, as he used a 32-foot birdie putt on the 2nd hole to defeat Davis Riley, with Justin Thomas missing the playoff by a stroke.
T he win moved Burns into the OWGR top 10 for the first time and he went on to add another playoff victory at the Charles Schwab Challenge over Scottie Scheffler. Now 26, Burns is primed to continue his rise to the top of the golf world. And looking to become the first player to win an event in three consecutive years since Steve Stricker won a trio of John Deere Classic titles in 2009-10-11.
T he 2023 Valspar Championship will offer plenty of excitement besides Burns battling top PGA TOUR golfers on the course.
T he tournament’s popular concert series, Valspar LIVE presented by Chick-fil-A, returns for a 7th time. Toby Keith and Brad Paisley are among the top country acts that have graced the stage on the Osprey Driving
Range in the past – and they are rivaled in 2023 by Country legend Darius Rucker. His full 90-minute show on Saturday, March 18 is free to all tournament patrons. A three-time GRAMMY®-winner, Rucker has released four #1 albums on the Billboard Country charts and has topped the charts with 10 hit singles including “Wagon Wheel”, one of the top five bestselling Country songs of all time.
T he Valspar Championship will be debuting a new premium, upper level, single-ticket, seating area at the 18th hole called “The Rooftop” which will feature entertainment, celebrities, special food and drink as well as spectacular up-close views of the 18th hole. Tickets for the 2023 Valspar Championship, including The Rooftop and the Hooters Owl’s Nest, are now on sale at ValsparChampionship.com.
Two-time defending champion Sam BurnsAs the holidays approach and the schedule flips to 2023, ticket packages are now on sale for the 2023 Chubb Classic presented by SERVPRO, where legends of the game will come together for Naples’ flagship PGA TOUR Champions event, Feb. 13-19 at Tiburon Golf Club’s Black Course.
Tic kets are available for purchase now exclusively at www.ChubbClassic.com
“The Chubb Classic is a mainstay in Naples and Southwest Florida, giving fans the unique opportunity to watch the legends of the game play in one of the top golf destinations in the country,” said Sandy Diamond, executive director of the Chubb Classic. “We will have several fan amenities in 2023, including the Conditioned Air Family Putting Challenge and the Hoffman Family of Companies Wine Bar VIP area on the 18th green. We are also excited to have Porsche Naples as our new automotive partner for the 2023 Chubb Classic. We are excited to once again return to Tiburon Golf Club with our great fans in February.”
All militar y personnel (active, retired, reserve and veteran), first responders (fire, police and EMS) and a plus one will receive complimentary admission to the 2023 Chubb Classic, compliments of SERVPRO. Tickets will be available at Will Call tournament week by showing proper identification. Children under 18 also will be admitted free into the tournament with a paid adult.
Tic ket packages for the 2023 Chubb Classic include exclusive hospitality and general
Tickets Now on Sale for the 2023 Chubb Classic Presented by SERVPRO
admissions tickets offering a wide degree of entertainment and access. All 2023 tournament tickets will be completely digital and will be emailed after purchase.
Volunteer Registration Now Open: Volunteer registration also is now open to support the 2023 Chubb Classic. Each year, hundreds of volunteers donate their time to serve critical needs such as marshaling, scoring, transportation, hospitality services and many other important roles. For more information on volunteering at the 2023 Chubb Classic, visit www.ChubbClassic.com/volunteer.
The 2022 Chubb Classic was the biggest and best to date! The amazing and ageless Bernard Langer won his fourth Chubb Classic at the age of 64 and beat a world class field by three shots at 16-under par. We expect all of the big names to be in Naples once again – many of whom are World Golf Hall of Famers and Major Champions – including Langer, fan favorite Fred Couples, Ernie Els, Steve Stricker, Jim Furyk, winning Presidents Cup Captain Davis Love III and former Masters champions Mike Weir and José Mariá Olazábal.
Welcome to Tampa Bay, home of the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship and the
Seminole Lake Country Club
Family-Owned, Old-Florida Golf
In 1911 William Cunningham moved his family from Fletcher, North Carolina to St Petersburg, Florida and opened a hardware and grocery store on Central Avenue. From the onset they enjoyed success with their business venture. In the early 1930’s, as a result the family’s successful business, William’s son Howard Cunningham, Sr. was able to purchase a 300-acre piece of property west of St. Petersburg. He named it Pine Ridge Farm. Pine Ridge Farm was a working cattle ranch with all of the family members contributing to its operation. For many years the Cunningham family –including Howard’s three sons Gene, Book and Doc Cunningham – enjoyed the farm, which at that time was a long way from their
home in the city. While not working on the property, the family members used the farm as a getaway. The remnants of the family cabin remain on the property just west of today’s clubhouse.
In the early 1960’s, the brothers were approached by a local real estate developer. He convinced them to turn the property into a housing development and country club. So in 1962 Seminole Lake Country Club Estates was born. Shortly after the start of the project, the developer was no longer involved and the Cunningham brothers obtained control of the property.
As time went by, the community flourished and the club acquired an excellent reputation
as one of the premier country clubs in Florida, boasting a full membership and an active social events calendar. Arnold Palmer played an exhibition round at Seminole Lake Country Club shortly after the course opened. The club hosted several of the premier events in the Tampa Bay area during this time.
Over the next four decades the club remained a successful private club, adding tennis courts, and a swimming pool to enhance its amenities. In 2007, golf course renovations were initiated including the resurfacing of all greens, refurbishing the bunkers and adding a complete practice facility. These improvements were very well received by the members. However,
membership started to decline in the wake of the historic 2008 economic downturn and the club converted to semi-private status. Since then, Seminole Lake Country Club has become one of the favorites of golfers throughout the Tampa Bay area. Its excellent location, consistently good condition, playability and service level bring golfers back again and again. Coincidentally, memberships have grown and are near capacity in all categories.
To this day, the club is still owned by the Cunningham family and maintains a very warm feel just as the three brothers originally intended when the club opened in 1962.
Playing from 6501 yards from the back tees, Seminole Lake offers five tee stations, ensuring a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities. The greens feature Sea Dwarf Paspalum grass, providing smooth and true putting surfaces. The championship layout features native Florida landscaping, making players feel like they’re back in “Old Florida”. Golfers will be amazed at the unrivaled natural habitat and abundance of wildlife that Seminole Lake has to offer, including its own family of American bald eagles.
Current Programs and Special Offers: Member for the Day
Come be a member for the day and enjoy greens fee, cart fee, a small bag of range balls and lunch — which entitles you to anything from their extensive menu and a
non-alcoholic beverage all included in one great rate. Lunch is available from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily.
Twilight Rate
Reduced afternoon twilight rate includes greens fee and cart fee.
Kids Play Free Program
One child plays free with each paying adult. Available every day after 12:00 PM. Program is limited to children 15 years old or younger.
Tennis and Pickleball
Golf isn’t all Seminole Lake has to offer. The Seminole Lake Tennis facility offers 13 lighted Har-Tru courts and eight pickleball courts. There are instructional programs nearly every day of the week from their Doubles Academy clinics to active junior programs for beginners to elite junior
players. Private instruction is always available from one of their USTA professionals. Seminole Lake also hosts a full schedule of events with monthly USTA events and their Club Championship Series coinciding with the four tennis Grand Slam events.
Memberships
Seminole Lake Country Club specializes in affordable quality golf and tennis, offering the best value for your membership dollar. Seminole Lake features an 18-hole championship golf course, complete practice facilities, pickleball courts, a full-service food & beverage operation, swimming pool, tennis courts, kayak launch, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms, club storage and service that is consistent with the finest country clubs in the Tampa Bay area.
Memberships carry No Initiation Fee, No Food & Beverage Minimums and include unlimited use of the golf course, practice facilities, pool, kayak launch, restaurant, all social functions and walking privileges. Monthly dues for golf start as low as $239.
If you have ever considered joining a country club but were afraid that you could not afford it, Seminole Lake’s Membership Program features some of the lowest monthly dues in this area.
If you are interested in learning more about Seminole Lake Country Club membership programs, call Stacy at (727) 391-6255 to learn just how easy it is to start enjoying all of the benefits associated with a family-owned, OldFlorida golf club.
RESERVATIONS
For tee times up to seven days in advance, call the Pro Shop at (727) 391-6255 or book online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at SeminoleLake.net.
• St. Petersburg’s Premier Name Brand Golf Shop
• Huge Selection of Famous Brand Equipment
• TaylorMade, Callaway, Adams, Mizuno, Wilson, Bridgestone, Cleveland, Honma and more
• Custom Fitted Clubs by Our Professional Staff
• Indoor Launch Monitor
• Lessons Available by Our PGA Professional Staff
• Full Repair Center
• Large Selection of Shoes, Apparel and Accessories
Follow us on Facebook: Southerngolfshopofpinellas
The President’s Report
The 2022 season is coming to an end, and it has been another excellent year for the West Central Chapter of the North Florida PGA. I would first like to thank our outgoing President, Mr. Tim Baker, from Tampa Bay Golf & Country Club. In his 6-year term, Tim has taken our chapter to new heights. During Tim’s tenure, he enhanced and streamlined our event processes, continued relationships with chapter sponsors, and improved educational opportunities.
I would like to recognize a few of our chapter members and their accomplishments.
Keith Kulzer from Golf Grove driving range won our major championships by playing some amazing golf! Keith won our 2022 Chapter Championship at Avilia Golf & Country Club in May. Keith also won the 2022 Senior Chapter Championship in August at Southern Hills Plantation Club. The women’s winner in the 2022 Chapter Championship for the second year in a row was Emily Motta, from Mountain Lake Golf Club, and the Assistant Champion was Dalton Gore from The Vinoy Golf Club.
The West Central Chapter would also like to congratulate John Mansfield from Clearwater Golf Club on qualifying and competing in the Senior PGA Championship, which was held at Harbor Shores Resort in Benton Harbor, MI. The West Central Chapter would also like to welcome Rich Unger from Heritage Isles Golf & Country Club as the new
Chapter Secretary; we look forward to having him as part of the leadership team.
The West Central Chapter held the Assistant Association Series again in 2022 and it continues to flourish. This series helps new assistants navigate through the PGA Apprenticeship Program. Gary Koch and his foundation have been instrumental in keeping this program going by providing scholarships to worthy assistants to continue throughout the program. This program will award $3,000 in scholarships in the next few weeks. Thank you, Zoran Ilic of Grasslands Golf & Country Club, for leading this committee.
The West Central Chapter would also like to thank our chapter sponsors for the 2022 season. Our sponsors have allowed professionals to enhance their events and amateur experiences. Thank you, Century Buick GMC Tampa, Breakthru Beverage Florida, Golf Coast Magazine, Jan Pro, and Horus Construction.
In closing, thank you to all members of the West Central Chapter for continuing to participate and allowing the West Central Chapter to host events at your facilities. I would also like to welcome our new board members consisting of Mike Glenn (Vice President) Rich Unger (Secretary), and Mike West (Tournament Director). The 2023 year looks promising, with great event venues and exciting educational opportunities.
– Bryan Moran, President GCM$200 CanWin$2,00000 Fora Hole-In-One on#16!
Public Course MAP #14
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Blue: 4540/62.3/96
White: 4490/61.8/93
Red: 3556/63.7/107
COURSE FACTS
Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 67
General Manager: Tyson Duane
Assistant General Manager: Mike Monteleone
Director of Golf:
Joel Jaress
Superintendent: Aaron May
COURSE AMENITIES
• Clubhouse
• Snack Bar with beer
• Pro Shop
• Practice Green
• Rental Clubs
• Walking Allowed Anytime
• Putting & Chipping Green
• Practice Cage
• Daily Hole-In-One Contest
Pinellas Park
Mainlands Golf Club
Family owned and operated for over 50 years
Family owned and operated for over 50 years, The Mainlands Golf Club is the destination for both discriminating locals and savvy snowbirds. The course is conveniently located in the heart of Pinellas County about 1 mile north of US 19 and Park Boulevard. Great conditions and friendly service are cherished traditions here.
A par 67, nine par 4’s, seven par 3’s, and two par 5’s comprise a walkerfriendly, links-style course. A completely stocked pro shop is on site to cater to any and all golfer’s needs before your round. We are happy to welcome our new director of golf Joel Jaress. Joel has been a teaching pro for over two decades. Lessons are available Inquire at the pro shop.
After your round, visit the snack bar, grab a bite to eat and a cold beer and tally up your score on the patio. Come play The Mainlands Golf Club. We look forward to seeing you. 9445
(727)
(727)
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT mainlandsgolf.com/golf-course-news/
BestGolfValue InPinellasCounty
Municipal Course MAP #30
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Blue: 6069/68.5/117
White: 5729/67.0/113
Yellow: 5145/64.4/107
Red: 4886/67.6/113
Family (M): 3388/58.7/96
Family (W): 3388/59.6/96
COURSE FACTS
Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 72
Architects:
Wayne Styles, John Van Kleek
Golf Course Manager:
Howard Hunt, PGA
Head Pro: Steve Didik, PGA
COURSE AMENITIES
• Clubhouse
• Snack Bar
• Pro Shop
• Renovated Driving Range
• Range Memberships Available
• Short Game Practice Area
• Lessons Available
• Rental Clubs
• Walking Allowed
• Book Online 24/7
Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs Golf Course
Originally built in 1908, the Tarpon Springs golf course follows the architecture of the time with small, elevated greens and quite a few doglegs. The course is very scoreable on your good days, while water hazards can wreak havoc on your bad ones.
During the summer of 2014, all 18 greens and two practice greens were reconstructed. The greens now feature new contours and state-of-the-art Seashore Paspalum turf. At the same time, bunkers were re-sanded and the driving range renovated.
Tarpon Springs golf course is honored to be a participating course on the Florida Historic Golf Trail. The “Trail” celebrates Florida’s early golf heritage by featuring publicly accessible golf courses throughout the state that golfers can still play today.
Tarpon Springs boasts two PGA Professionals, each with over 25 years of experience. Together, they oversee golf operations, leagues, clinics, summer junior camps and much more.
PARTICIPATING GOLF COURSE
FLORIDA HISTORIC GOLF TRAIL
1310 South Pinellas Avenue
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 (727) 934-5191
www.tarponspringsgc.com
Public Daily Fee MAP #7
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Back: 6451/70.1/128
Middle: 5967/68.1/125
Forward: 5286/71.5/129
COURSE FACTS
Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 71
Architect: William Mitchell
General Manager: Bruce Orr
Superintendent: Bruce Orr
Teaching Pro: Harry Barbin, PGA
COURSE AMENITIES
• Clubhouse - Restaurant
• Pro Shop
• Driving Range
• Practice Green
• Lessons Available
• Rental Clubs
• Pro Shot GPS Yardages
• Leagues Welcome
• Book Online 24/7
Largo
East Bay Golf Club
PublicWelcome
Located in the heart of Pinellas County, minutes from the Gulf Beaches. East Bay is an 18-hole, par-71 championship layout. Water comes into play on 14 holes. East Bay offers full restaurant, lounge, banquet facilities and on-course beverage cart service. Tees, fairways and greens are overseeded for the winter season. Now featuring the Pro Shot GPS System on every golf cart with accurate yardages and detailed hole graphics. Located on East Bay Drive, 2.5 miles west of U.S. Hwy. 19.
702 Country Club Drive
Largo, FL 33771 (727) 581-3333
www.eastbaygolfclub.com
Semi-Private GC MAP #10
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Gold: 6976/74.3/137
Blue: 6236/70.4/133
White M: 5615/67.6/129
White W: 5615/72.7/134
Green: 5033/66.2/114
Red: 4832/69.2/117
COURSE FACTS
Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 72
Architects:
Gordon G. Lewis, Jed Azinger
Director of Golf:
Rich Unger, PGA
Superintendent: Don Cox
COURSE AMENITIES
• Clubhouse - Restaurant & Bar
• Pro Shop
• Aqua Driving Range
• Short Game Area
• Lessons by PGA Professional
• Tournaments, Outings, Weddings & Banquets Welcome
• Book Online 24/7
• Home of Players Advantage Club
Beautifully carved from Florida’s rich landscape, Heritage Isles is everything Florida golf was meant to be. Architects Gordon G. Lewis and Jed Azinger dedicated themselves to preserving the land’s rustic beauty to create a course that is not only challenging but also extremely enjoyable. Heritage Isles now features all-new Champion Dwarf Bermuda grass greens.
$5.00 OFF
10630 Plantation Bay Drive
Tampa, FL 33647
(813) 907-7447
www.heritageislesgolf.com
Semi-Private GC MAP #9
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Champ: 6898/73.5/129
Blue: 6053/69.4/117
White: 5487/66.9/109
Red: 4773/68.2/116
COURSE FACTS
Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 72
Course Architects:
Jed Azinger & Gordon Lewis
Pro Shop Manager: John Panno
Superintendent: Marty Ford
COURSE AMENITIES
• Renovated Clubhouse
• Restaurant & Bar
• Banquet Facilities
• Pro Shop
• Driving Range
• Putting Green
• Short Game Area
• Lessons
• Rental Clubs
• Book Online 24/7
Heritage Harbor Golf & Country Club
”The course has to be challenged. You have to test the players and I think we have all the components out there.” Designer Jed Azinger
Heritage Harbor measures nearly 7,000 yards from the back tees and is one of the most challenging public-access layouts in the Tampa Bay area. Four sets of tees are incorporated into the design, making the course fun for golfers of all skill levels. Swirling winds and strategically located bunkers can wreak havoc with players of this finely manicured links. Course designers Jed Azinger and Gordon Lewis took extra care when laying out the course to preserve the wildlife in residence. Check our website for golf rates and specials.
You are invited to experience Double Bogeys Tavern & Grille, a new full-service restaurant and full liquor bar located in the Heritage Harbor clubhouse. Whether you’re playing golf or just want to watch your favorite sporting events, Double Bogeys is open to the public and we are all about having fun. Enjoy our food and drink specials either indoors or on our covered patio. Specializing in comfort food, we put a new spin on an American cuisine by creating our menu from a scratch-made kitchen. Beverage and snack carts are also available on the course. We are happy to be a part of Heritage Harbor’s community and looking forward to becoming a neighborhood staple
19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway
Lutz, FL 33558
(813) 949-4886
www.heritageharborgolf.com
ChampionshipGolfAt ExecutiveCoursePrices
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Gator/Panther: 6270/70.8/120
Bobcat/Gator: 6039/69.7/117
Panther/Bobcat:: 6110/70.0/119
COURSE FACTS
Holes/Par: 27 holes, Par 71-73
General Manager: Marc Weber
Director of Golf: Ron Hoffman
Superintendent: Joan Pichardo Arias
COURSE AMENITIES
• Clubhouse & Snack Bar
• Lounge
• Pro Shop
• Driving Range
• 3-Hole Practice Course
• Lessons Available
• Rental Clubs
• Book Online 24/7
• Saturday AM Junior Clinics
• Thursday Ladies Day (1/2 price)
Odessa Silver Dollar Golf Club
27 Holes of Championship Golf
Silver Dollar Golf Club offers a truly great golfing experience for every skill level, with three 9-hole courses that can be played individually or consecutively. This scenic golf club, located on the northwest corner of Tampa, Florida, conveniently located on the Pinellas/Hillsborough border offers a complete pro shop, extensive practice area, restaurant, and a fun, friendly staff.
Enjoy the perfect blend of challenge and relaxation on three 9-hole courses with a wide variety of fairways, bunkers and water features designed to test and entertain you. Flanked by stately trees and sparkling waters, nature enhances the beauty of Silver Dollar Golf Club and adds to your enjoyment. Pristine Paspallum turf putting surfaces are a pleasure to play.
Practice facilities include full driving range, three putting greens, a pitching and chipping green with sand trap, and three practice holes. Come and round out your game with us at the Silver Dollar! Ask about our rewards program.
12711 Silver Dollar Drive
Odessa, FL 33556
(813) 920-3884
www.silverdollargolf.com
Public Golf Course MAP #27Upscale Public GC MAP #36
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Blue: 6699/72.6/131
White: 6233/70.6/127
Green: 5869/67.2/121
Red: 5205/70.8/127
COURSE FACTS
Holes/Par: 18 holes, Par 72
Architect: Lloyd Clifton
General Manager:
Jarod Atkinson, PGA
Director of Golf:
Darryl Spelich, PGA
Superintendent: Terry Mounce
COURSE AMENITIES
• Clubhouse
• Full-Service Dining Room
• Full Liquor Bar
• Banquet Facilities
• Weddings/Private Functions
• Fully-Stocked Pro Shop
• Aqua Driving Range
• Putting & Chipping Greens
• Season Passes Available
• Book Online 24/7
Tampa Westchase Golf Club
The course winds through acres of lakes, woods and conservation areas.
The Westchase Golf Club takes full advantage of its setting… natural lakes and wetlands teeming with wildlife including an occasional gator. Florida golf at its best.
The layout, designed by nationally recognized architect Lloyd Clifton, winds through acres of lakes, woods, conservation areas and communities. Westchase offers manicured Paspallum greens surrounded by natural wetlands, wooden bridges and bulkheads.
With its 9,500-square-foot clubhouse, full-service dining room, and fully stocked pro shop, Westchase offers a country club atmosphere along with first-class service. The club has established itself as one of Tampa Bay’s best upscale public golf facilities. The National Golf Foundation has ranked Westchase in the Top 10 nationally and #1 in the state of Florida in customer loyalty and satisfaction.
Westchase Golf Club’s promise to its customers is the relentless pursuit of perfect conditions and uncompromising service in a fun and relaxed environment.
11602 Westchase Golf Drive
Tampa, FL 33626
(813) 854-2331
www.westchasegc.com
Fox Hollow Golf
This Tampa Bay Favorite Keeps Getting Better
Fox Hollow Golf Club is one of the premier golf courses in the state of Florida and was recently rated 57th by Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Courses Accessible to the Public in Florida.” As a testament to the quality of the golf course, Fox Hollow has hosted U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur qualifiers as well as qualifiers for the Valspar Championship, a PGA Tour event played at nearby Innisbrook resort.
Opening in 1994, the Fox Hollow golf course has the distinction of being one of the last courses designed and built by Robert Trent Jones, Senior, one of the most prolific and innovative golf course designers of all time. In his design of Fox Hollow, the legendary Jones created a layout as picturesque as it is playable.
The par-71 championship layout features five sets of tees and offers new challenges every time it’s played, mixing native trees and vegetation, sparkling lakes, sand bunkers and a variety of wildlife. Fox Hollow’s rolling fairways are a delightful departure from the pancake-flat layouts found elsewhere in Florida.
Fox Hollow’s greens feature SeaDwarf Paspalum turfgrass. This grass has the ability to deliver fast green speeds (9+ on the Stimpmeter) and requires less fertilizer, pesticide, weed control and irrigation than Bermudagrass.
The updated Fox Hollow clubhouse is available for tournaments, private parties, receptions and dinners, all catered by
18
it s professional events staff. They handle tournament groups from 20 to 144 players. Competitive pricing is available. For more information, visit FoxHollowGolfClub. com or call (727) 264-8939.
Fox Hollow’s practice facilities include a large putting green; a pitching green with sand bunker; and a natural turf driving range. Lessons and clinics are available, taught by Fox Hollow’s highly experienced PGA professional teaching staff.
Fox Hollow is a semi-private club that welcomes daily fee players. You will be pleasantly surprised by their rate structure. Playing Fox Hollow has never been more affordable. Reserve tee times online at FoxHollowGolfClub.com or call the Pro Shop at (727) 376-6333. GCM
RESERVATIONS
For tee times up to 6 days in advance, call (727) 376-6333 or toll free (800) 943-1902. Tee times available
Tournaments, Corporate Outings, Weddings and Banquets are welcome.
Instruction by PGA Professionals available.
Fellow Golf Course Community homeowners and board members,
I l ive at The Groves Golf and Country Club, a great retirement golf course community located in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. When I first moved in, the golf course’s pro shop was well below what the community’s homeowners deserved. I went directly to the HOA Board of Directors and showed them what their homeowners were entitled to. The Board agreed.
T hat was 10 years ago and the partnership between The Groves and Steve’s World of Golf is still going strong, along with ten other golf course communities in partnership with SWOG. They all have fully-stocked pro shops with merchandise selection and prices that compete with big box and online golf stores. And the HOA Boards have a consistent revenue stream.
T he Steve’s World of Golf business model allows its pro shop partners to earn a profit with no financial risk. SWOG stocks their pro shops with $30,000 to $120,000 of retail merchandise at no cost to the course. Every month our pro shop partners earn a profit from the merchandise sold in their shops.
Steve’s World of Golf will stock your pro shop with golf clubs, balls, men’s and women’s apparel, golf shoes, golf bags and accessories. We have accounts with all the major vendors including Titleist, Ping, TaylorMade, Callaway, Adidas, Bridgestone and many more.
I ndividual pro shops cannot offer a designed clothing and golf shoe inventory rotation. SWOG has a well planned rotation of these inventories. After 60 days, we add new merchandise and extract what’s been there for 60 days. This keeps our partner pro shops fresh with new merchandise.
A s a homeowner paying HOA dues, all you have to do is ask your HOA Board to give us ten minutes of their time. We will present our business model and show them how their pro shop net profit can at least double. We’ll show the Board how none of their homeowner’s HOA dues need to be tied up in pro shop inventories.
Yes, you can be the hero of your golf course community. Just reach out to us and have your HOA Board do the same. You deserve a full-stocked and profitable pro shop.
P.S. Check out the testimonials on the next page.
Here’s what participating golf courses are saying about Steve’s World of Golf…
“Inverness Golf Club is a member-owned club. We have been partners with Steve’s World of Golf for 12 years. We have always had great regional and member golf tournaments. Our only struggle was having enough manufacturers to provide a full representation of product that our members and guests desired. We recruited the SWOG team and our pro shop quickly became the dream our members and guests wanted. Once we were free from managing the pro shop, we were able to focus more attention on growing our memberships and creating more golf tournaments. Our sales in the pro shop have increased dramatically with no effort by us. Bringing in SWOG as our pro shop partner was one of the best decisions we ever made.”
– Jeff Shelton, General Manager, Inverness Golf Club“I invited Steve’s World of Golf to become out pro shop partner. We now have the best pro shop, stocked with merchandise from all the major manufacturers and a set schedule for rotating our merchandise. I am so proud every day to come to work and stand in my pro shop with all of the great merchandise that we stock. I could never have brought this to our golf course without Steve’s World of Golf as our pro shop partner.”
– Kelly Lagedrost , LPGA, Director of Golf, Brooksville CC“Ten years ago, the HOA board for The Groves Golf & Country Club brought in Steve’s World of Golf to be our pro shop partner. At the time, our pro shop was not up to our homeowners’ needs. SWOG came in and created a fully-stocked, professional pro shop and has brought pride to our community. Having SWOG as our pro shop partner has given our pro shop manager and staff time to concentrate on growing our community’s golf course business. In 10 years, we went from ranking in the top 30 to the #1 rated golf course to play by GolfNow. We could never have accomplished this goal and be earning a generous revenue stream for our homeowners without SWOG as our pro shop partner.”
– Glenn Douglass, HOA President, The Groves G&CC
You can contact Glenn at (603) 702-1889
“Eleven years ago, our golf course management company, Green Acres, and our HOA board at Continental Country Club, recruited Steve’s World of Golf to be our pro shop partner. This quickly became a great asset to our homeowners and our HOA community, boosting sales and inventory variety and rotation for our members and guests. Personally, this allowed me more productive time to take care of our homeowners needs and outside player’s needs. I also have more freed up time to give more golf lessons and fit my golfers for golf equipment through my teaching facility.”
– Stephen Wresch, PGA, Continental CC
For more information, go to StevesWorldOfGolf.com or call Steve or Kristen directly. Steve’s cell is (727) 967-1019; Kristen’s cell is (727) 271-2105.
Steve and his daughters Gina (left) and Kristen (right) are now running Steve’s World of Golf together. They are looking to add six additional pro shop partners.SHOPPING
Big Mike’s House of Golf
12647 US Hwy. 19 N, Hudson, FL 34667 | www.BigMike’sHouseOfGolf.com |
(727) 3378-4999 | Map #16, Ad Page 23
Bob VanSweden Golf 2300 – 26th St. North, St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | www.BobVanSwedenGolf.com |
(727) 321-4653 | Map #54, Ad Page 22
Edwin Watts Golf Shops
32257 US Hwy 19 North, Palm Harbor, FL 34684 |
(727) 787-3370 | Map #52, Ad Page 83
www.worldwidegolfshops.com
Edwin Watts Golf Shops
11120 S. Cleveland Ave, Ft. Myers, FL 33907 |
(239) 939-5235 | Ad Page 83
www.worldwidegolfshops.com
Florida Aerial Services Team
www.fastaerial.com |
(800) 723-7425 | Ad Page 20
Golf Locker 6200 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL 33614 | www.GolfLocker.com |
(813) 265-8999 | Map #64, Ad Page 14
In The Sand Golf 1628 Dale Mabry Hwy, Lutz, FL 33548 | www.ITS-GOLF.com |
(813) 264-7911 | Map #48, Ad Page 20
Southern Golf of Pinellas, Inc. 4647 – 4th St. North, St. Petersburg, FL 33703 |
www.southerngolfofpinellas.com |
(888) 690-4920 | Map #55, Ad Page 25
Steve’s World of Golf 13125 Fairwinds Rd., Hudson, FL 34669 | www.StevesWorldOfGolf.com |
(727) 813-9333 | Map #24, Ad Page 84
T & D Golf Stores
4205 W. Waters Ave., Tampa, FL 33614 |
(813) 888-5433 | Map #56, Ad Page 21
A New Epicenter for Golf Travelers is Coming to the Suncoast
A once shining star burns bright again after Tee to Green renovation.
Located in Bradenton, just thirty minutes south of the St. Petersburg metro and Brandon town center area, the new Heritage Harbour Golf Resort will be perfectly positioned to meet the demands of golf travelers visiting the Tampa Bay and Suncoast area.
Phase one of the twenty-year-old Club’s master plan was a Tee to Green course renovation completed during the summer of 2022. Originally designed by Arthur Hills, this course was praised for it’s great architecture, wide playing corridors, and natural settings that wind throughout the property. The redesign goal was to blend the original elements with modern day golf
course architecture to create a fun to play course with challenges for players of all skillsets.
To accomplish this goal, the Club hired course architect Nick Campanelli. Campanelli hails from the Connecticut area, and his firm, M-D-L-A is based in Boston, MA. Campanelli first visited Heritage Harbour in 2019 while on a family vacation. It was then that he learned about the Club’s plan to reinvent the property by adding a Stay & Play component that will include a 100-room golf lodge and 74 villas in the space that was then the first and second hole of the existing course. The challenge for the Club owners was to create two new holes that fit
comfortably into the existing corridors. Campanelli took a cart ride with managing partner and twentyfive year PGA Member Mark Bruce to explore options. “The first corridor we could work with was easy to pin-point,” said Bruce. “The old 11th Hole was a beast, with 650 yards of space to play with”.
Campanelli saw the vision immediately and started scratching out ideas on a single piece of paper pegged to a clipboard he was carrying around to make some notes. “I could tell right then and there that Nick had course architecture pulsing thru his veins. It doesn’t take me long to see talent in others”, said Bruce.
The second new hole wasn’t as easy to define, so Campanelli and Bruce agreed to stew on some ideas as time was on their side. The next step for Heritage Harbour was to start the process of re-zoning the 16 acres that their resort accommodations would sit on. From the onset, Manatee County officials were thrilled with the idea of adding a boutique golf resort to the list of things offered to folks visiting the area. Especially one located along the I-75 corridor that literally could serve residents of four counties, Manatee, Sarasota, Pinellas, and Hillsborough.
Bruce is no stranger to golf and golf tourism, in 2009, he and a fellow PGA professional started a local
golf media and marketing company called Play Golf Sarasota. Their mission was to expose the public, traveling golfers, and people looking to relocate to the area courses and country clubs that would best fit their lifestyle. “For years we served golf groups big and small. Setting up their tee times at area courses, suggesting where they have drinks and dinner, and showcasing clubs and communities our clients could see themselves living,” said Bruce.
In late 2017, Bruce was introduced to the concept of acquiring the Heritage Harbour course, formerly called Stoneybrook Golf Club. The owner of the course was looking to sell, and Bruce saw the possibilities. Great course layout, amazing location, and commercial and residential growth metrics in the area were strong. In
2018, the deal was done, and Bruce embarked on a mission to transform the property into something special.
Fast forward to today, with all the zoning approvals in place, and developers eager to enter the destination golf space where there is virtually no competition, getting the golf course renovated, and the two new holes positioned, was the task for summer 2022.
“It was time for us to do our thing”, said Bruce. After three years of planning and navigating the governmental process, all smack in the middle of the Covid era, the members, customers, and surrounding communities were excited to see the course transformation commence.
Heritage Harbour opened the new course on November 3rd, six months to the day after closing. Golfers are
redesign and love the two new holes.
all-new bunkers
Tif Eagle greens, Celebration Bermuda eye-popping crushed that are the new Campanelli design.
new hole, it was not renovation process Campanelli was in town literally woke up scratched out same clipboard. “I was stewing on several concepts after being on site for a couple of days, then wham, my eyes popped open in the middle of the night, and I had it”, said Campanelli.
The concept involved some changes to the back nine course routing, but most importantly created two new holes, 11th and 12th, in a spectacular corridor of the old 8th hole. Campanelli didn’t realize it, but he
was also solving some operational problems. The new routing now accommodated two integral things. First, a halfway house, for players to get snacks and drinks during their round became a part of the “flow”, and the creation of a new short game practice area using the existing 8th green becomes a part of the amenities available to golfers seeking to hone their skills. “We will place a big priority on offering members, local visitors, and hotel guests access to short-game instruction, it’s the fastest way for golfers to improve their scores,” says Bruce.
The resort accommodation components will be constructed in 2023 and 2024. At present, Heritage Harbour Golf Resort offers daily tee times to the public, programs and memberships for locals and seasonal residents and can host charity tournaments.
Semi-Private Course MAP #151
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Blue: 3373 / 58.8 / 97
Yellow: 3014 / 56.2 / 89
Red: 2749 / 55.6 / 89
COURSE FACTS
Number of Holes: 18
Architects: Jed Azinger and Gordon Lewis
General Manager: Tom Donato, CAM
Pro Shop Manager: Brian Schmidt
Superintendent: Ray Bartels, Jr. , CGCS
COURSE AMENITIES
• Complete Pro Shop
• Terrace on The Green Restaurant with Full Bar service
• Tiki Bar at Pool Side
• Banquets and weddings
• Golf Lessons available
Bradenton
Peridia Golf and Country Club
SundayBrunch!
Manatee County’s Premier Executive Golf Course offers lush fairways and redesigned Tif-Eagle greens that provide a challenge to golfers of all skill levels and the ability to play in 3 hours. Walk or ride anytime! It’s the perfect course for couples, families, and seniors to improve their short game. Peridia’s full service restaurant and banquet facility is open to the public for lunch and dinner. Peridia has a new Tiki Bar, open every day from 11 am to 8 pm, serving your favorite drinks and offering a limited food menu. Sunday brunch is the Club’s most popular event, every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm, please call to make your reservation.
4950 Peridia Boulevard East Bradenton, FL 34203
941-758-2582
www.peridiagcc.net
Semi-Private Course MAP #112
TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Venice
Pelican Pointe
Golf and Country Club
Voted Best Semi-Private Club in Venice 20 years in a row!
• Six Sets of Tees to Satisfy Every Skill Level
• Beautiful Nature Preserves and Lakes
• Extensive Driving Range and Practice Facility
• PGA Professionals to Fine-Tune Your Game
• Golf Tournaments & Corporate Outings Available
• Golf Memberships Available Conveniently located on Center Road between Jacaranda Blvd (I-75 exit 193) and Bypass 41.
COURSE FACTS
/
Number of Holes: 27
Architect: Ted McAnlis
PGA Head Pro: Bill Neal
General Mngr: Tom Weaver
Superintendent: Dan Haubein
Assistant Pros: Travis Blauvelt, Brian Todd
4-DAY ADVANCE TEE TIMES
625 Center Road Venice, FL 34285
941-496-4653
www.pelicanpointeclub.com
SEASONAL GOLF MEMBERSHIP
Includes 54 Holes of Golf, Tennis, Pickleball, Fitness, Pool, Dining, and Social Privileges. Plus Golf Groups, Tournaments, Driving Range, Putting Green, and Clinics from PGA Professionals.
Platinum Option
Reduced Cart Fees!
(Also includes Bag Storage, Locker, & Handicap Registration Fees)
Monthly Dues: $1,855.00 (Family) | $1,470.00 (Individual)
Gold Option
Monthly Dues: $1,420.00 (Family | $1,155.00 (Individual)
SEASONAL TENNIS MEMBERSHIP
Includes 17 Har-Tru Courts, Pickleball, Fitness, Pool, Dining, and Social Privileges. Additionally, Clinics and Training with USPTA Professionals is Available!
Monthly Dues: $1,010.00 (Family | $725.00 (Individual)
SEASONAL SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP
Includes Fitness, Pool, Dining, Pickleball, and Social Privileges.
Monthly Dues: $575.00 (Family & Individual) CLUB
27 holes of Championship Golf
Rated 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest
*Premier facility with Best Value Between Fort Myers and Sarasota
Annual Practice Facility Memberships are available.
A 25-acre practice facility and learning center with 4 USGA spec TifEagle practice putting and 3 short game holes, that is without question the largest and finest in the region with multiple areas to develop your game. Range membership comes with 4 complimentary twilight rounds of golf.
Try our Complimentary Trial Golf Membership by calling Richelle at 941-423-6955 or email Membership@heron-creek.com
Member for a day rates: Nov, Dec, & April $79
June - September $59 May & October $69
Name___________________________________________________________________________
Address__________________________________________________________________________
Restrictions May Apply - Exp: 9/30/2023
CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE COURSES
CHARLOTTE | SARASOTA | MANATEE COURSES
Golf Coast is Going Mobile
Golf Coast has aspired to be the ultimate guidebook to golf on Florida’s Gulf Coast since our founding in 1987. Our magazine has enjoyed tremendous success over the years, becoming the area’s most popular golfing publication and the best resource for locals and visitors alike!
However, more golfers are looking to their phones for information on local golf – so to keep delivering the best guidebook to golf, we knew that we had to change.
Golf Coast is excited to let you know that we are launching Golf Coast Mobile in 2023.
Our goal is simple – to put all the resources you have come to rely on in Golf Coast Magazine, into a mobile app, available on both Apple and Android devices!
If you’d like to be among the first to get this FREE App, please email us at app@ golfcoastmagazine.com
Here is a little taste of what we have planned:
A Comprehensive Directory of Courses
We know that you come to Golf Coast looking for the best local courses and information about each. We are creating a digital resource that will put every local course in our market at your fingertips.
We’ll be highlighting our favorite courses – providing links to book tee times, see the scorecard, a full photo gallery, and more information.
Our goal is to give you the best tool for learning about local golf courses along the Gulf Coast! We will constantly update our course directory with new courses and resources.
A Curated Selection of Golf Destinations
Whether you are looking to escape the summer heat or travel closer to home at one of Florida’s many incredible golf resorts,
we’ll have a selection of the best golf resorts that are available.
Community Calendar
We’ll keep track of local events and share the latest and greatest of Golf on the Gulf Coast! From major tournaments for the pros, to amateur events that you can join with your friends – Golf Coast’s community calendar will have a space for you!
The Best Industry Pros
Golf is a game of inches, and some of those inches come from your equipment! We have connected with some of our local experts – club fitters, local shops, pros, and other related services – to create the best library of resources for golfers so that they can play with confidence.
Community News
We are more committed than ever to delivering the most relevant golf news to our readers. Our digital app will put us in a position to deliver relevant news faster than ever and connect you with the newsmakers so that you can participate in all the events that make our community incredible!
A Mission to Connect
We want to put the best of Gulf Coast Golf at your fingertips –in the most convenient manner possible. With the Golf Coast Mobile App, you’ll be able to access everything you need to know about golf in our beautiful community on your phone.
As always, we will make our App free to our readers – so that you can continue to enjoy
our content without paywalls or other barriers.
If you’d like to be among the first to get the new app, please email us at app@golfcoastmagazine. com! We’ll add you to the list to be among the first users.
If you are an industry pro and want to ensure that your club or related service is included in our app, we’d love to hear from you!
For pros in the Tampa / St. Petersburg area, please contact Bruz@GolfCoastMagazine.com
For pros in the Sarasota, Bradenton, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, and Naples areas, please contact Mary@ GolfCoastMagazine.com
We can’t wait to show you what we are building!
Newownership! Newlyrenovated!
Public Golf Course MAP #230
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Blue: 3388 / 60.1 / 101
White: 2785 /
Red: 2338 /
COURSE FACTS
Number of Holes: 18
Architect: Gordon Lewis
PGA Golf Pro: Travis Snyder
COURSE AMENITIES
• Tee Times up to 7 days in advance
• Men’s and Ladies Leagues
• PGA Professional Travis Snyder on site for lessons
• Available for Tournament and Corporate Outings
• Full size putting green
• Fully stocked pro shop
• New Bobcat Cafe now open
Bonita Springs
Bonita Fairways Golf Club
Bonita Fairways is an 18-hole executive golf course and is one of the few public golf courses in our area that has been part of the community for many years. It is the only public course in Bonita Springs.
In the last year, the residents of Bonita Fairways have played a major part in restoring the beauty of the course by hiring Lifestyle Management Group of Florida to oversee the operation and give the facility a full makeover. This includes a complete re-grass of the golf course, expansion of our café, beautification of the property, and a new fleet of golf carts. Designed by Gordan Lewis, the natural beauty of the nature preserve and abundance of lakes challenge your short game as well as your long game
26740 Sammoset Way
Bonita Springs, FL 34135 (239) 947-9100
www.bonitafairways.net
Cape Royal Golf Club
Cape Royal features 27 holes of championship golf and was designed by golf course architect Gordon Lewis, who has designed more than 80 courses in the Sunshine State. This unique facility features five sets of tees, so there’s sure to be one that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. As you make your way around this layout you’ll find 180 acres of sparkling lakes, natural wetlands, and all kinds of Florida wildlife including wood storks, ibis, egrets, and herons, both on the fairways and in the community’s preserves.
When it comes to memberships, Cape Royal Golf Club offers something for everyone, whether you live locally or are only in the area for a short time. Choose from 3, 6, or 12-month memberships. As a member, you’ll receive unlimited greens fees as well as full use of all club facilities, advance tee time bookings, discounts on merchandise, food and beverage, and special rates on cart and range pass. And, as a member of a Troon facility, you’ll be a part of Troon Advantage, which allows you and up to
3 guests to take advantage of preferred rates at Troon resorts and daily fee facilities worldwide.
As clubhouse restaurants go, Cape Royal’s Caloosa Club sets a new standard. They offer casual dining in a laid-back atmosphere that includes a wide variety of food not typically found at a golf course. Chef and the culinary staff have created a menu of unique and tasty appetizers and dishes. Trust us, this is not your typical golf clubhouse menu!!
Public Course MAP #229
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Teal: 7144 / 74.5 / 134;
Black: 6436 / 71.1 / 127;
White: 5952 / 68.2 / 122;
White/Grey: 5448 / 66.2 / 116;
Grey: 5221 / 64.9 / 110;
Red: 4466 / 65.3 / 108
COURSE FACTS
Number of Holes: 18
Architect: Gordon Lewis
General Manager: Josh Brunet, PGA
Head Golf Professional: Justin Rountree, PGA
COURSE AMENITIES
• Casually elegant dining and banquet space for up to 100 guests
• Fully equipped pro shop
• Men’s and women’s private locker rooms
• Golf Lessons - Justin Rountree, Total Game Management, $100/hr
• Covered hitting mats on full driving range plus short game area
Naples Eagle Lakes Golf Club
Located minutes from Olde Naples and Marco Island Florida, Eagle Lakes Golf Club is a new 7,150-yard, par 72 championship course that will match-up well against the lowest handicappers while providing casual players with a one-of-a-kind Everglades golf experience.
Abundant wildlife, including a pair of American Bald Eagles, will accompany you as you make your way around the track. We offer the best value for public golf in Naples with 18 holes, 6 sets of tees and 7100 yards of beautiful golf.
18100 Royal Tree Parkway Naples, FL 34114 239-732-0034
www.eaglelakesgofclub.net
Semi-Private MAP #234
Fort Myers
Cross Creek Golf & Country Club
COURSE FACTS
Number of Holes: 18
Architect: Arthur Hills
Golf Pro: Bill Chapman
Superintendent: Matt Mihelich
COURSE AMENITIES
• Clubhouse
• Pro Shop
• Restaurant
• Practice Greens
• Pitching/chipping area
• Bermuda Grass
• Rental Clubs
• PGA Instruction
Cross Creek Country Club has all the combined attributes of “the good life.” It sits on 266 acres in a carefully planned Executive Golf Course community. It’s nestled along the Six Mile Cypress Nature Preserve and spotted with sixteen glistening lakes, lush green fairways and beautiful tropical flora. The 18-hole executive golf course was built by wellknown architect Arthur Hills and plays 3,511 yards from its longest tees and 2,682 from the forward tees. It was renovated in 2015. The course can be challenging from the back tees and at the same time, a beginner can enjoy the course by taking advantage of the front tee box. What a wonderful place! The members are proud of their course, as they should be. It has charm and character and a unique quality that sets Cross Creek apart from other courses. You might call it a hidden treasure.
Additionally, residents of the community have access to a large resort-style swimming pool, hot tub, bocce, tennis and pickleball courts.
13050 Cross Creek Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33912 239-768-1922
www.CrossCreekFL.com
Meet Gyles Robin, DiRectoR of Golf
Gyles Robin was born and raised on the island of Jersey located in the Channel Islands, United Kingdom. Gyles learned to play golf at a young age at the Royal Jersey Golf Club. There is a rich history of golf in Jersey, with players like Harry Vardon and Ted Ray having been born there and learning to play golf there in the early 1900s. In 2007, Gyles came to the United States on a golf scholarship at Florida Gulf Coast University. After graduating in 2011, he pursued a career on tour, then found himself in Operations and Teaching roles in the golf industry. Gyles has taught golf in Fort Myers since 2016. Throughout his golf career, he has worked with top teachers worldwide, growing his knowledge of the game in all areas. Since he grew up with teachers like Tommy Horton, PGA, and Dr. Jim Suttie, PGA, some of these techniques have been incorporated into his style of teaching as well as his own game. Now Gyles enjoys sharing this knowledge with his students at The Club at Gateway. With the use of various methods, including video analysis, Gyles can outline issues and fix them through simple drills and exercises aimed at feeling the right positions in a golf swing. Gyles is happily married to his college sweetheart and they live in Fort Myers with their 6-year-old pug, Percy. Gyles continues to play successfully in the PGA section and chapter events.
For more information, please contact Reba Angell, Membership Director at 239.561.1012 or reba@GatewayGCC.com.
TEE INFORMATION
Fort Myers
San Carlos Golf Club
ThreesNewlyRenovatedPar andDrivingRange!
COURSE FACTS
General Manager/ Head Pro: Gary Keating, PGA
Golf Course Superintendent: Jason Craft, GCSAA
GOLF LESSONS
Private Lessons
$50 for 30 mins or $90 for 1 hour
Group Lessons & Clinics Also Available. Call for Pricing.
AMENITIES
• Fully stocked pro Shop
• Multiple practice facilities including all grass aqua driving range.
• Chipping and sand practice area
• Snack bar with full liquor bar
• Club Repair
Come play the “newly renovated” San Carlos Golf Club, voted “Best Public Golf Course “ by the readers of the Fort Myers News Press in 2015. Experience our expanded grass driving range teeing area, renovated course bunkers and excellent course conditions.
Nestled in the community of San Carlos Park, San Carlos Golf Club was developed in 1971 by the San Carlos Park Community and in 1981 was purchased by local area golfers. This traditional layout has received rave reviews for its playability from professionals and amateurs alike. Practice facilities include a newly renovated “grass” aqua driving range, pitching and chipping area, spacious practice bunker and a large putting green.
The PGA Certified Teaching Professionals at San Carlos Golf Club specialize in personalized instruction tailored to all skill levels. From the beginning golfer to the avid player, all golfers will receive high quality individual instruction with video analysis.
San Carlos Golf Club is open 7 days a week mid October thru April 30th.
7420 Constitution Circle Fort Myers, FL 33967 239-267-3131
www.sancarlosgolfclub.com
proshop@sancarlosgolfclub.com
Public Course MAP #207Public Golf Course MAP #209
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage/Rating/Slope:
Mens/Green: 7007 / 74.1 / 128
Mens/Blue: 6658 / 72.3 / 125
Mens/White: 6167 / 69.0 / 122
Mens/Gold: 5468 / 65.7 / 110
Ladies/Gold: 5468 / 70.7 / 114
Ladies/Red: 4786 / 66.4 / 113
COURSE FACTS
Number of Holes: 18
Architect: J. Drew Rogers
PGA Golf Pro: Nick Stokke
Superintendent: Dominic Wachena
COURSE AMENITIES
• All Grass Driving Range
• Golf Lessons
• Clubhouse and Pro Shop
• Large Practice Greens
• Full-Service Bar & Restaurant
• Golf Club Rental
Naples
Valencia Golf & Country Club
Four Star Rated by Golf Digest
The readers of the Naples Daily News have rated Valencia Golf and Country Club the Best Public Golf course 3 years in a row! This 18-Hole golf course, driving range and practice facility is open to the public and includes a full-service Pro Shop and PGA Golf Professional available daily and 30 station public driving range and practice facility.
Noted golf course architect J. Drew Rogers recreated this masterpiece, taking advantage of the pristine natural beauty and carving out a spectacular course, which has quickly become one of Naples’ premier public golf courses. Highlighting the unique features of the landscape and native plants, the course features undulating fairways, sparkling lakes and lush stands of palms, pines and cypress preserves.
Work on your game at the best public practice facility and driving range in Naples, FL. Located just 9 miles east on Immokalee Rd, within minutes of Bonita Springs, Fort Myers and Immokalee.
1725 Double Eagle Trail Naples, FL 34120 239-352-0777
www.ValenciaGolfNaples.com
Alltournamentsopen topublicyearround
Public Golf Course MAP #233
TEE INFORMATION
Yardage:
Gold: 6795
Blue: 6359
White: 5960
Green: 5268
Red: 5113
Purple: 4180
COURSE FACTS
Number of Holes: 18
Architect: Ted McAnlis
PGA Golf Pro: Jake Whitehouse
COURSE AMENITIES
• Tee Times up to 7 days in advance
• Range Memberships
• Tournaments open to the public
• Men’s and Ladies Leagues
• Full size putting green
• Fully Stocked Pro Shop and Restaurant
• Private and Group Golf Instruction
Lehigh Acres
The Club at Westminster
The Club at Westminster golf course travels around eight lakes with generous landing areas making it both beautiful and player friendly as well as exciting to play. These strategically placed water hazards, as well as the “few” sand bunkers, make for a challenging round of golf. Amenities include a practice range, with driving, chipping, and putting practice areas. Westminster is enjoyed by all levels of golfers and is a player friendly course from the forward tees to the back tees that really challenges the lower handicapper. In addition, you can book your tee time on their website under the Tee Times link, six days in advance.
The Club at Westminster is a semi-private golf course, restaurant, and practice facility open to the public, and accepts resident & non-resident memberships.
Seasonal affordable prices, great course conditions, experienced friendly staff, and great practice range facilities is what brings golfers back year after year.
2199 Berkley Way
Lehigh Acres, FL 33973 (239) 368-1110
www.westminster-golf.com