Golf Coast Magazine - Southwest Florida Spring 2020

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GolfCoastMagazine.com

GOLF COURSES

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Southwest Florida Edition

INSTRUCTION

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SHOPPING

Spring 2020

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SERVICES

Golf in the 2020s A Look Forward to the Next Decade

INTRODUCING: A New Section for Private Golf Clubs INSIDE: LOCAL NEWS, MAPS, DIRECTORIES and more


End Star of Sea Thro ting M son S ale ugh ar All c the e ch 14t h Bes lothi nd o f t pri ng o A p ces n of sale! ril the year !

Locally owned and operated since 1971 We Have The Largest Selection of Ladies Apparel in the Area! Featuring: Annika, Bette & Court, B-Skinz, Chase 54, Daily Sport, Dresses, EP, GG Blue, Greg Norman, IBKĂœL, Jamie Sadock, Jofit, Life is Good, Lucky in Love, Nivo, Slimsations, Sofibella, Sport Haley, Tail & Tzu Tzu

We Carry All the Top Name Golf Brands in the Industry. Featuring: Callaway, Cleveland, Cobra, G-Fore Shoes, Mizuno, Ping, PXG, Titeist, Taylormade, US Kids, Wilson and many more! We also carry all accessories: Balls, Ball Markers, Gloves, Retrievers, Shoes, etc. www.blackdiamondranch.com 3125 W Black Diamond Circle, Lecanto, FL 34461





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FROM THE EDITOR

Golf Coast Magazine

Contents

Cover Story We look into the future of the golf industry and how it’s evolving to stay relevant to the times.

8 WELCOME

Where to contact us, plus a letter from our publishers

ON THE WEB

Visit GolfCoastMagazine.com to keep up with local news and events Bocci Ball Courts at The Club at Gateway

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23-35 GOLF COURSE

FEATURES

Some of the best local golf courses in SWFL

Cover

For our first issue in the 2020s, we spoke to industry experts about what golfers can look forward to in the next decade

16-21 PRIVATE

40-41 NEW ESSAY COLUMN: Out of Bounds

COUNTRY CLUB

Featuring area clubs, their offerings, recent renovations, and tips on what to look for while searching for a club.

Looking at the game of golf from an alternative angle

DIRECTORIES

LEE, COLLIER & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES 50 51 52

53-56 57

LEE & COLLIER MAP LEE & COLLIER FEATURED COURSES SHOPPING, SERVICES, AND ENTERTAINMENT LOCAL GOLF COURSE LISTINGS CHARLOT TE COUNT Y COURSES

MANATEE, SARASOTA COUNTIES 58 59

MAP COURSE DIRECTORY

PINELLAS, HILLSBOROUGH, PASCO & HERNANDO COUNTIES The Club at Gateway GolfCoastMagazine.com

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61 62

MAP COURSE DIRECTORY

Follow Us: Facebook.com/GolfCoastMagazine



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WELCOME LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to

Golf Coast Magazine Pantone 647 C

Pantone 646 C

Pantone 363 C

C=100 M=56 Y=0 K=23

C=65 M=30 Y=0 K=11

C=68 M=0 Y=100 K=24

2013 Best Publication Award

Except for a few days in January, Florida does not

Connecting Golfers on the West Coast of Florida. Mary Raimondo, Publisher - Southwest Florida Mobile: 410-449-2822 mary@golfcoastmagazine.com Ryan Ruppert, Publisher - Southwest Florida Office: 941.361.1536 ryan@golfcoastmagazine.com Rose Ruppert, Partner rose@golfcoastmagazine.com Jean M. Couser, Publisher - Sarasota Area Bruz Fellenz, Publisher - Tampa Bay Area Tami Vaughan, Production Manager Olivia Baldassari, Digital Marketing Manager Mark Cardon, Golf News - fcardon@aol.com Golf Coast Magazine is published by Golf Coast Magazine, Inc.; 3X’s a year and distributed along the West Coast of Florida.

© 2020 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in this guide. Golf Coast Magazine and it’s affiliates are not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions, or changes in rates or information.

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get the pleasure of experiencing “real winter,” but that does not mean we don’t get excited when spring arrives in our state. The summer heat has not hit us yet, member events are filling up calendars, and there is still quite a bit to look forward to in the coming months before the season ends. In our Southwest Florida issue, we have added a brand new Private Country Club section, where we will feature area clubs and what they have to offer to potential new members. We are featuring The Club at Gateway, which is finishing up a $5 million renovation project on their clubhouse and amenities. In addition is a new essay column titled Out of Bounds, where we look at the game we love from a different angle. There is much to look forward to in the coming months along the Gulf Coast and we hope to be your guide for local golf courses as well as golf news, tech, tournaments and tips. You can also visit us at GolfCoastMagazine.com to stay on top of all the latest stories and don’t forget to subscribe to our free e-newsletter which publishes every other week. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter and join us as we continue to enjoy the season here in Southwest Florida! Fairways and greens, Mary Raimondo, Ryan Ruppert and Rose Ruppert


COLLIER | LEE

COURSES

FORESAILNAPLES.COM “FROM GULF to GOLF” I represent Southwest Florida BUYERS & SELLERS . . . .

Robert H. Povilaitis PA Call: 239-784-1744 ForeSailNaples@comcast.net

New properties Re-sales Investment Luxury golf homes

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The Next Decade in Golf

Golf in the 2020s

The first known record of golf was written in 1467, when James II of Scotland banned the game. In 1502, his grandson James IV lifted the ban because he had become an avid golfer. Through the centuries golf has been a game that we love despite its challenges, a game with highs and lows that keep us coming back. Golf may be the greatest game ever played, but it didn’t become so popular by standing still. Golf has evolved continuously since it was invented – early golfers played with wooden clubs, and the Old Course at St. Andrews, the ‘home of golf’, once had 22 holes. Change is critical to golf’s success as a new generation picks up golf clubs for the first time. As we enter the 2020s we are looking forward to extraordinary changes golfers can expect, and leaning on the industry experts to give us a preview. GolfCoastMagazine.com

‘A tectonic shift’ “Golf, as a business, is changing. Entertainment is the growth machine. Enterprises such as TopGolf and smaller competitor Drive Shack are just the beginning. Even Fort Myers is getting an upscale putting, playground and dining concept by TGR (Tiger Woods Ventures) called PopStroke. What does it mean? It means that the tectonic plates of this industry are shifting. The core of modern strategies for growth are not “if you build it they will come”, it is “let’s build it and show them why they need to come”. And, those golf entertainment concepts have a lot of reasons people want to go. In the next decade, and thereafter, we will see golf clubs investing in development that includes entertainment concepts such as indoor hitting bays or activity centers. Golf courses are expanding their playing options by adding Golf Boards, scooters and


COVER STORY

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A focus on entertainment has resulted in a greater range of options for golfers. There is no one size fits all golfer, and there definitely isn’t a one size fits all golf club. Southwest Florida has some extraordinary championship golf courses, many of which have hosted professional events. These stadium courses tend to be much longer and more challenging. However, that’s not what every golfer is looking for –

motorbikes so golfers have a creative and different way to play the game. So what is the big shift, or change that is happening you ask?

“Bigger may not mean Better. Our culture has become extremely fast paced. Playing 18 holes of golf has changed. Golfers are looking to play a round of golf in 3.5 hours or less, not 5 hours! Golfers are finding clubs like Quail Run Golf Club more enjoyable, a shorter course with par of 70, offering 18 holes of golf on 65 acres. It not only allows quick rounds but an opportunity to maintain the expected golf experience at a fraction of the price.”

In my personal opinion, golf is evolving. The days of being in the business as a recreational facility are slowly fading away. We are now in the service industry and the fundamentals of hospitality are paramount. At Cape Royal Golf - Doug Burnham, PGA, Quail Run Golf Club Club we treat every golfer that comes to our facility as our guest. And, hopefully, they receive While golf course design is affecting a little entertainment while they are here.” how players enjoy the game, technology has been playing an incredible role in - Sean Biggs, PGA, Cape Royal expanding the game of golf. Golf Club


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COVER FROM THESTORY EDITOR

The PGA Merchandise Show, held every year in Orlando, is a tremendous place to take the pulse of the industry and learn about what golfers can look forward to next. One of the most exciting categories this year was golf simulators. Golf simulators have long been present in the industry, but they are becoming much more common due to their success at driving ranges and technological advances. This year the Rapsodo R-Motion Golf Club Simulator and Swing Analyzer (see it: golfcoastmagazine.com/simulator) received a lot of attention because golfers can use it to simulate 15 of the world’s top courses from home – for just $200 (though some stores have it on sale for as little as $100 at the time of this writing). The system plugs into any PC and clips onto your golf clubs. So with a net and a mat, players can practice on some of the most extraordinary courses in the world all GolfCoastMagazine.com

while receiving valuable swing insights. “Golf Simulators have been transformational at Quail Village Golf Club. Our members use them every day to warm up for their rounds, and most prefer it to a full range. Golf Simulators will tell you precisely how far you are hitting the ball with each club and give PGA Professionals valuable data points that make it easier for us to improve your swing. At Quail Village, we’re always trying to make golf more approachable and fun. Golf Simulators, along with an exceptionally designed course, help us offer members the best possible experience.” - Chuck Lange, PGA, Quail Village Golf Club Hospitality has always been the defining feature of the golf industry, especially here in Southwest Florida. Golf clubs are among the most welcoming places in our communities, and they are expanding their offerings to reach an even wider audience. Country clubs have been adding


COVER STORY

expanded fitness facilities, tennis, resort-style pools, pickleball, and a wide range of amenities to attract people with more diverse interests. While golf is still the main attraction, more non-golfers are getting drawn to the country club amenities. Greater off-course features can be credited, in large part, to the growing participation of women in golf. While only 23% of golfers are women, that number has been growing every year and women make up a disproportionate number of new entrants to the golf market. Women have been demanding more from golf courses, and local clubs are delivering. “The Country Club lifestyle has become more than just golf with a vast array of amenities and social options becoming a must have... And where the women play… the men typically follow.” - Mary Jane (MJ) Chappy, MBA, The Club at Gateway We can expect that more women on the golf course will mean more great opportunities, events, and amenities for all golfers! What can players expect in the next decade? Fast Paced Entertainment: Expect options that are catered towards professionals and people who don’t have enough time to play a full round of golf. Driving ranges and golf facilities will

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be tailored to deliver entertainment options both during the day and night. Greater Use of Technology: Driving ranges will be enhanced with simulators and other technology that transform them into entertainment hubs. Technology will also open the door to new ways to enjoy golf, such as giving players the option to replace Golf Carts with Golf Boards. A Complete Lifestyle: Golf clubs are going to stay at the center of our communities by offering a wide array of amenities targeted at people with diverse interests. Clubhouses will do more to attract women and, in turn, offer a better experience to everyone. There’s a lot to be excited about in the next decade. Golf will continue to adapt to a new generation of golfers, and the game will be better for it.


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COURSES

COLLIER | LEE

Dr. Safko’s X-Factor Belt® Arrives To Wide Acclaim From Chiropractic Community, Patients, Golfers

X-Factor Belt®, the groundbreaking pelvic belt designed by Dr. Ron Safko, features a revolutionary approach to chronic back, hip and leg pain by addressing lumbar-pelvichip imbalance. Safko’s patented ‘X-Factor®’ technology was a result of four years of research, design and patient trials. Unlike other back braces on the market, Safko – a former U.S. Marine and Vietnam veteran – designed The X-Factor Belt® to be worn around the user’s pelvic region, the center of the kinetic chain that stabilizes the core and controls balance. By utilizing small flexible steel Xs in the belt’s sacral area, Safko was able to stabilize the lower lumbar

GolfCoastMagazine.com

spine segments without weakening the core muscles. He then strategically placed soft stretchable compression Xs on both sides of the belt to protect against excessive twisting, tilting or over-extension associated with golf and other sports that result in pelvic torque. The specific orthopedic arrangement of these Xs resulted in what Safko called his ‘X-Factor®’, an Enhanced Momentum Control that became the key to ideal lower back support and vital pelvic alignment. Available only at their online store. Visit xfactorbelt.com/golfcoast to view testimonials from golfers and patients about how the X-Factor Belt® helped them get back to their active lifestyles.



Private Golf Clubs Private Membership Offers Many Advantages

Welcome to our new Private Country Club section — A Guide to the Country Club Lifestyle in Southwest Florida

West Bay Club, Estero FL


It’s Not Just About the Golf Back in the day, any country club worth its crest would build a reputation around its golf operation. Golfers, mostly men, ran the clubs, and their thinking was that every dollar a club spent on food and beverage, swimming, tennis and general hospitality wasn’t being spent on grooming the fairways, culinary classes, cabanas by the pool and value -adds such as preferred rolling the greens, stocking the pro pricing on wine, theme park passes shop, maintaining caddie programs and other offsite events and services. and cart fleets, and ensuring the Golf Coast Magazine has researched quality of the gin in the men’s locker some of the best Private Clubs the and grill rooms. Southwest Florida area has to offer. Times have changes. More than In this issue of Golf Coast ever, clubs across the country Magazine, we recognize that the food, beverage, More than ever, clubs feature recently renamed amenities and recognize that food, The Club at programming are the primary beverage, amenities Gateway in Fort Myers, when drivers for and programming are new ownership member the primary drivers for came on board in satisfaction. While of 2018. course quality member satisfaction March This private remains a factor, club features a Tom Fazio Signature a resort-style approach has replaced Course and is approaching the the golf-dominated ones. completion of a $5-plus million That can mean fitness facilities renovation to the clubhouse focusing so members don’t need a separate on dining areas and adding a new gym membership. Healthy casual fitness center, resort style pool, wine dining options also are important cellar and children’s playground. so members can bring the family. Stay tuned in future issues for In addition, members want on-site more information about the colossal childcare and junior enrichment and renovations which are under way at sports programs, massage and spa many other area private clubs. services, events like concerts and


PRIVATE CLUBS COLLIER | LEE

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Private Golf Club

MAP #210

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: I 6981 / 73.6 / 134 II 6613 / 71.6 / 127 III 6253 / 70.0 / 124 III/IV 6030 / 69.3 / 122 IV 5781 / 67.4 / 120 V 5219 / 65.0 / 115

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Course Designer: Tom Fazio General Manager: Matt Malloy Membership Director: MJ Chappy Director of Golf: Christopher Shultis Golf Course Superintendent: David Pagel

COURSE AMENITIES • • • • • • • • •

Tom Fazio Signature Course 20 Acre Practice Facility 2 Practice Holes — Par 3 & Par 4 4 Short Game Areas Tennis-Pickleball-Bocce Courts Fitness Center & Spinning Room Indoor/Outdoor Dining Venues Exhibition Kitchen w/Pizza Oven Resort Style Pool w/Beach Entry, Lap Lanes & Bar • Residency Not Required

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For t Myers

The Club at Gateway The Club at Gateway is a non-equity private casual country club known for having the “Friendliest Members.” The Tom Fazio Signature course features 6 sets of tees, playing over 7,000 yards (Par 72) was rated the “Best Private Golf Course & Country Club” in Fort Myers and included in Golf Digest’s list of “Top 100 Private Courses.” With a 20-acre Golf Improvement Center created by Ron Garl, this first-class facility features a 2-sided range, 4 short-game areas and 2 practice holes. Over $5 Million is being spent to renovate the Club including a 300 seat dining facility, fitness center, spinning room, resort style pool with lap lanes and bar, display kitchen with a pizza oven and wine cellar. Club amenities, tennis, pickleball, bocce, fitness center and pool including dining in the Grille Room have remained open during the renovations. Members can participate in daily golf games, tournaments, as well as an array of clubs, classes, games and social events. There is no residency requirement. Membership Offerings have been created to meet a variety of lifestyles and ages. For Information on Membership Opportunities and a tour, please contact MJ Chappy at (239) 561-1012 or Membership@GatewayGCC.com. 12091 Gateway Greens Dr. Fort Myers, FL 33913 239-561-1012 www.gatewaygolf.com



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HOMES

Evaluating Southwest Florida Private Golf Communities By Joe Morgan-GOLF HOME GURU ® ”What is the best private golf community

in Naples and Southwest Florida?” This is—by far—the question that I get asked most frequently. My answer is always the same…there’s not just one; there are a large number of private golf communities that appeal to the varying needs and wants of our world-wide assortment of buyers. But finally, a few years ago, I decided to develop a “Top 25 Southwest Florida Golf Communities” list that would allow my thousands of website (GolfHomeGuru.com) visitors and my many customers to narrow down our 100+ private golf communities, and focus on the few that come the closest to being their #1 option. From there, the final selection of the ideal private golf community becomes a lot easier. My exclusive “Top 25” list has been fine-tuned over time, and it’s now based on 15-years of showing and comparing properties in 80+ different golf communities, and ultimately selling in 50 of these communities. It essentially consists of a compilation of the communities

most often chosen by my buyers, whose diligent, well-researched buying decisions have been predicated on a number of very important considerations. Although my individual buyers had different rankings of the elements that were most important to them in choosing a private golf community, the following ten are probably the most worthy of consideration for YOU to select the one in which you want to buy. I’ve also indicated key questions/points that you should address for each one. LOCATION—Do you want to be close to…the Gulf of Mexico and beaches; shopping and dining; 5th Ave. in Naples; the River District in Ft. Myers; near Southwest Florida International Airport; etc.? COMMUNITY HISTORY—Who is/ was the developer of the community; how old is it; what is its financial condition; how progressive is it; how active and involved are its members? COMMUNITY SIZE—How many homes does it have; will it be tough to develop friendships, and organize activities groups? GOLF COURSE—How many holes do they have; who designed the course(s); how “player friendly” is it…for both men & women; how recently was it renovated; are there any existing, or planned, special assessments for golf course renovation? GOLF MEMBERSHIP—Is a golf membership mandatory or optional; is there an initiation fee…if so, how much is


HOMES

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it and is it refundable; are there any new member purchase incentives; can you sell your golf membership to someone who is buying your home; how much is the annual golf fee; what is the maximum number of golf members; how many golf members do they currently have; how hard is it to get on the course in peak season (ie January thru April); can you have your own golf cart…if so, how much is the annual trail fee; how extensive is the off-season reciprocal list? MEMBERSHIP PROGRAMS—What types of non-golf memberships do they offer; are there initiation fees for them…if so, how much is each and are they refundable; are there any new member purchase incentives; how much are the annual membership fees; what amenities does each type of membership allow you to utilize; are the non-golf memberships mandatory or optional; do they have separate memberships for private beach clubs and/or boat storage? CLUBHOUSE—Has it been updated recently; is it big enough to accommodate the size of the community; are there adequate dining facilities; are there any special assessments? AMENITIES & FACILITIES—Do they have a full array of amenities and facilities, including today’s “hot” items…an updated outdoor bar/dining area, pickle ball, and bocce’ ball; what key amenities are they missing…and are there plans to add them in the near future; if so, will there be a special assessment, and how much; do they have a private beach and/or beach club on the Gulf; do they have boat docks and/or boat storage on-site; are there any special assessments for recent renovations? TYPES OF HOMES AVAILABLE—Do they have single family estate homes, slightly smaller single family homes, attached villas, coach homes, carriage homes, verandas, basic condos; do their condos have garages; do they have new construction; what are the HOA or Condo fees for each type of home; what are the real estate taxes for each type of home? HOUSING SALES HISTORY—What’s the average age of homes in the community; how many homes have sold in the past year; how many are currently for sale…and what is their average number of days on the market? Undoubtedly, it’s going to be too time-consuming for you to get answers to all of these questions. However, if you focus on the ones you deem the most important to your efforts to select the private golf community that will best fit your personal budget, golfing habits and ability, and family lifestyle, you’ll be well on your way to making a solid, long-term decision. Or, in golf jargon…no “mulligan” necessary!

Joe Morgan—aka the GOLF HOME GURU—specializes in real estate sales in Naples/SWFL golf communities. He’s an 11-year winner of Gulfshore Life magazine’s “FIVE STAR Client Satisfaction Award”, and an annual “Platinum Producer” for Downing-Frye Realty Inc., in Naples, Florida. Please visit his ® comprehensive, user-friendly website, GolfHomeGuru.com, and check out his EXCLUSIVE “GURU Top 25 SWFL Golf Communities” website page. Contact him at 239/438-6426 (Cell/Text), and Guru@GolfHomeGuru. com, to assist you with buying/selling a SWFL golf community home.



COLLIER | LEE

COURSES

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C BLI U EP TH O T EN OP

Public Golf Course

TEE INFORMATION

MAP #201

King/Queen Yards / Rating / Slope Black: 6515 / 70.9 / 133; Blue: 6023 / 68.7 / 125; White: 5602 / 67.9 / 110; Yellow: 4960 / 65.0 / 104 Red: 4548 / 67.1 / 107 Queen/Prince Yards / Rating / Slope Black: 6562 / 71.1 / 134; Blue: 6155 / 69.3 / 127; White: 5717 / 68.0 / 113; Yellow: 5199 / 65.6 / 109 Red: 4610 / 67.1 / 108 Prince/King Yards / Rating / Slope Black: 6611 / 71.0 / 129; Blue: 6246 / 69.4 / 123; White: 5877 / 68.7 / 111; Yellow: 5215 / 65.8 / 104 Red: 4698 / 67.2 / 106

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 27 Director of Golf: Sean Biggs, PGA Superintendent: Greg Coyne, GCSAA

Cape Coral

Cape Royal Golf Club Magnificent Golf, Outstanding Food, Championship Service Come watch the Wood Storks, Ibis, Egrets and Herons on the fairways and preserves of the community. Considered one of the best kept secrets in the greater Fort Myers area, Cape Royal offers the feel of a protected enclave, yet is minutes away from all that Southwest Florida has to offer. Just a short drive from the beaches, Cape Royal features 27 holes of championship golf in Southwest Florida spread across a course design that is too good to miss! Their unique, Gordon Lewis-designed layout features 5 sets of tees in order to challenge players of all skill levels. Prepare yourself for an unparalleled golfing experience. Our course is a pleasure for golfers of any skill level to play. Test your accuracy with our fairways, water hazards and sand traps; we have everything you need to challenge you and improve your game. 11460 Royal Tee Circle Cape Coral, FL 33991 239-283-5522 www.caperoyalgolfclub.com



COLLIER | LEE Public Course

MAP #229

TEE INFORMATION

COURSES

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Naples

Eagle Lakes Golf Club

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Teal: 7177 / 74.5 / 134; Black: 6436 / 71.1 / 127; White: 5952 / 68.2 / 122; Grey: 5288 / 66.2 / 116; Red: 4466 / 65.3 / 108

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Gordon Lewis General Manager: Josh Brunet, PGA Superintendent: Chris Allen

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 • Covered hitting mats on full driving range plus short game area

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



COLLIER | LEE Public Course

MAP #203

TEE INFORMATION

COURSES

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Naples

Hibiscus Golf Club

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6476 / 71.1 / 131; White: 6103 / 69.0 / 125; Gold Mens: 5300 / 65.5 / 114; Gold Ladies: 5300 / 70.1 / 114; Red: 4925 / 68.2 / 113

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Dave Wallace Director of Golf: Mike Smuniewski, PGA General Manager: Brian Diver, PGA Superintendent: Robert Trebilcock, GCSAA

COURSE AMENITIES

• Home Course of the Dennis Meyer’s Golf School • Erin’s Isle Restaurant & Irish Pub • Exceptional Practice Facility including Driving Range, Short Game Area, and Putting Green

Hibiscus Golf Club is an 18-hole public golf course located in beautiful Naples, Florida. Built in 1969, with renovations to the course and clubhouse completed in 2007, this splendidly conditioned layout is one of the few courses in the Naples area open to the public. Hibiscus is a golfer’s dream with 18 totally different experiences for both the high and low handicap golfer. Wide fairways, bunkered greens and numerous lakes and streams make each hole a new challenge and a pleasure to play. In addition, we offer one of the few public practice facilities in Southwest Florida. 5375 Hibiscus Drive Naples, FL 34113 239-774-0088 www.hibiscusgolf.com


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COURSES

Semi-Private Course

COLLIER | LEE

MAP #205

TEE INFORMATION Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 5087 / 65.7 / 112; White: 4842 / 64.8 / 109; Gold: 4481 / 63.9 / 106; Red: 4300 / 65.9 / 109

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Walter Smith General Manager: Doug Burnham, PGA Membership Director: Cindy Burnham Superintendent: Mark Hoffer

COURSE AMENITIES • Member for a Day Option • Relaxed Club Dining • Rental Golf Clubs Available • Home ownership not required to join • Walk any time with no trail fees for members

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Naples

Quail Run Golf Club Minutes from Downtown Naples, you’ll find one of the city’s best kept secrets – Quail Run Golf Club. It’s a private member-owned golf course that delivers all the amenities that people expect of private golf clubs at a realistic price. The 18-hole Par 70 course is just over 5000 yards, making it ideal for walkers and players who focus on ball placement over distance. Unlike many Florida courses, water hazards are used sparingly on the property, giving golfers a better chance of keeping their ball in play throughout the round. At Quail Run ‘Members have Privileges.’ The course is available exclusively to Members in the morning and there’s a full calendar of events available. Members can take part in league play and special golf events, or come in for one of the many social events held in the restaurant. Guests are welcome after 10 a.m. weekdays and any time on the weekends. Although the beautifully landscaped course stretches through several residential communities, home ownership is not required to become a member. To join, you just need to love golf and enjoy friendly people! Quail Run Golf Club is Affordable and Enjoyable! If hitting more greens in regulation and making more Pars and Birdies interests you and you’re looking for a relaxed and casual club, then come try us on for size. 1 Forest Lakes Drive Naples, FL 34105 239-261-3930 www.naplesquailrun.com


THE BEST VALUE FOR A PRIVATE GOLF CLUB IN THE HEART OF NAPLES. OUR MEMBERS SAY “QUAIL RUN IS A HIDDEN GEM.”

Centrally Located in Beautiful Naples Be a Member For A Day Lunch & Golf Promotion Call our Pro Shop to Reserve your Tee Time and ask for our current rate Quail Run Golf Club offers great golf, relaxed dining, a wide range of social opportunities, outstanding hospitality and warm welcoming members, all at a realistic price. Contact Cindy Burnham 239-261-3930 Ext. 3 For More Details 1 Forest Lakes Blvd., Naples, FL 34105 www.naplesquailrun.com


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COURSES

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ent sid ble e R on- vaila & N ips A t n h e sid ers Re emb M

Private Golf Club

MAP #206

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue 4873 / 63.6 / 116 Blue/White 4714 / 63.2 / 112 White 4410 / 62.4 / 111 White/Gold 4177 / 61.7 / 107 Gold 3973 / 60.9 / 105 Red 3707 / 60.1 / 102

COURSE FACTS

Designer: Gordon Lewis General Manager: John Lane Director of Membership: Nancy Farris Dagher, CAM, MBA PGA Professional: Chuck Lange, PGA Golf Course Superintendent: Craig Nelson

COURSE AMENITIES

• Inviting 18-hole golf course • Clubhouse Dining • Wine Tastings • Bogeys Poolside Bar & Patio • Pro Shop • Walk the Course after 11:00 am • Private, Group, Youth PGA Lessons • 60+ Reciprocal Golf Clubs

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Naples

Quail Village Golf Club Quail Village Golf Club is the Best Private Golf Club Value in Naples. A beautifully manicured course challenges the best golfer who easily secures tee times and family members who walk after 11:00 a.m. when completing school and work daily. We embrace both non-resident and resident members. The Village is a place that is conducive to making friends with people with handicaps to challenge and different interests to explore. The course is demanding yet fun. Placement is critical. Members especially enjoy strategically planning their games as they traverse the par 69 golf course measuring about 5000 yards and is comprised of three par 5s, nine par 4s, and six par 3s. We are bold, fun and casual. With our diverse membership demographics, members enjoy coming off the course and mingling at the Club House or at Bogeys Poolside Bar and Patio for lunch and happy hour seven days a week. Quail Village values the quality of our community and lifestyle, as much as the beauty of our golf course. Join us! 11719 Quail Village Way Naples, FL 34119 239-598-2815 www.quailvillagegolfclub.org


QUAIL VILLAGE GOLF CLUB

QUAIL VILLAGE OFFERS THE BEST VALUE FOR A PRIVATE GOLF CLUB IN NAPLES JOIN BEFORE JULY 31ST TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR LARGEST PROMOTION EVER *

25% OFF

FULL GOLF MEMBERSHIPS - NON-RESIDENTS WELCOME

Call Nancy Dagher at (239) 598-2815 TO EXPERIENCE QUAIL VILLAGE FOR YOURSELF

It’s

Bold, Fun and Casual

Contact Nancy Dagher at

(239) 598-2815 to learn more about membership.

*

CONDITIONS APPLY



NAPLES | FORT MYERS

Public Course

MAP #207

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue 6423 / 71.6 / 120 White 6055 / 69.5 / 116 Gold 5648 / 67.5 / 113 Red 5109 / 70.1 / 113

Green 3847 / 59.8 / 99 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

COURSES

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For t Myers

San Carlos Golf Club

San Carlos Golf Club strives to have the most affordable rates in Southwest Florida throughout the year while providing excellent course conditions. Nestled in the community of San Carlos Park, San Carlos Golf Club is one of the oldest established clubs in Southwest Florida. It 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 an aqua driving range, pitching and chipping area, practice bunker and a large putting green. The teaching professionals at San Carlos Golf Club specialize in personalized instruction tailored to your skill level. From the golfer just taking up the game to the experienced player trying to take the game to the next level, golfers will receive plenty of individual instruction. San Carlos Golf Club was voted ‘Best Public Golf Course’ by the readers of the Fort Myers News Press in 2015. 7420 Constitution Circle Fort Myers, FL 33967 239-267-3131 www.sancarlosgolfclub.com


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HOMES

The Many Benefits of SWFL Public Golf Communities By Joe Morgan-GOLF HOME GURU ® As all Southwest Florida residents and

Even with their lower overall annual expenses, most of these communities still offer basic country club-type amenities such as community pools, fitness centers, tennis and pickle ball courts, and limited dining. Even though their greens fees/cart fees do spike somewhat in-season (ie January thru April), they’re still a superb value for golfers that can’t be in Southwest Florida much of the year; or, for one reason-or-another, can’t play many rounds of golf when they’re here.

These communities typically have lower prices on single family homes and condominiums and more affordable annual HOA/Condo fees, assessments, and real estate taxes than their private golf community counterparts. They provide the opportunity to live in an appealing golf course environment, but without the expenses of an initiation fee or an annual golf fee…you simply pay-as-you-play each round of golf. Some of them do, however, offer annual and/or seasonal golf “memberships” to their residents in order to save them money and give them tee time scheduling priority.

To learn more about these public golf communities, please check out the “Top 5 SWFL Public Golf Communities” list on my website, GolfHomeGuru.com. Please contact me if you have any questions or need any additional information about them. And, if you’re in SWFL, I’d love to show you their homes!

visitors know, our private golf communities are plentiful and world class. However, many of our golf-enthusiast visitors don’t have sufficient time to play enough rounds of golf during the season to justify a house/condo purchase in even our most reasonably-priced “bundled” private golf communities. The best option for these folks are gated residential communities that are built around public golf courses.

Joe Morgan—aka the GOLF HOME GURU— specializes in real estate sales in Naples/SWFL golf communities. He’s an 11-year winner of Gulfshore Life magazine’s “FIVE STAR Client Satisfaction Award”, and an annual “Platinum Producer” for Downing-Frye Realty Inc., in Naples, Florida. Please visit his comprehensive, user-friendly website, GolfHomeGuru.com, and check out his EXCLUSIVE “GURU Top 25 SWFL Golf Communities” website page. Contact him at 239/438-6426 (Cell/Text), and Guru@ GolfHomeGuru.com, to ® assist you with buying/ selling a SWFL golf community home.


COLLIER | LEE

COURSES

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ed vat no e R wly Ne

Public 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. A variety of monthly memberships are available. 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


The LPGA Returns to Tampa Bay May 11-17 The stars of women’s professional golf are headed to the Tampa Bay region for one of the most talked about new events this year in all of professional golf. The inaugural Pelican Women’s Championship will be contested at the Pelican Golf Club, a Donald Ross design that has been completely overhauled to create a truly unique experience for golfers and fans. The Tampa Bay region last hosted the LPGA in 1989 when the final St. Petersburg Open was played at the Pasadena Yacht & Country Club. The Tampa Women’s Open was held at Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club from 1947-1960. The field for the Pelican Women’s Championship will be one of the strongest in all of professional golf and is expected to include stars like Lexi Thompson, Paula Creamer, Morgan Pressel and Brooke Henderson. It’s also expected to include top-ranked players with ties to the Tampa area including Brittany Lincicome and Nelly Korda. The week of festivities includes activities for kids and adults of all ages. Children under 18 get in free and are invited to the Junior Golf Show on Saturday to meet and mingle with LPGA professionals and learn about what it takes to be a professional athlete. The event also includes the opportunity to play and party alongside the pros in the Pelican Pro-Am. Golfers of all abilities are invited to contact the tournament office to learn more about this unforgettable experience. The tournament has been highly engaged in the community during its first year, including the launch of a Ticket Design Contest with local elementary schools. Thousands of students are

submitting their own designs and four winners will be selected to appear on the faces of the Daily Grounds Passes. The Women’s Leadership Summit on Tuesday of tournament week promises to be an amazing afternoon of personal and career development. Speakers include notable community and business leaders, as well as some of the world’s top professional golfers showcasing their skills. Every professional golf tournament needs an army of volunteers to assist in operations. While volunteer support has been especially strong leading into the first year, there are always open positions available. A few lucky volunteers will even have the opportunity to play a round of golf at the Pelican following the tournament. There are a variety of ticket options to attend the event. Grounds passes start at only $20 and provide the opportunity to walk the course and witness not only the impressive play of the golfers but experience the immaculate course renovation completed by Beau Welling Design. Fans looking to entertain family, friends or clients can check out the Lightning Lounge, a fully-enclosed luxury skybox overlooking the 18th green with complimentary food and beverages, climate control, private bathroom, televisions and observation deck. Active and retired service members and first responders are invited to attend the event free of charge by showing proper credentials. Visit www.PelicanLPGA.com for more information about the 2020 PelicanWomen’s Championship.




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OUT OF BOUNDS

The Shanks By Jeff Thoreson, Golf and Travel Writer j.thoreson@comcast.net

The shanks are the golf equivalent of the common cold. It’s a simple virus, so why oh why can’t anybody figure out how to cure either? They say a cold is three days coming, three days here and three days going. The shanks might show up and stay until Christmas. But you just have to let both run their course, and while you have either, you’re miserable. We’re only talking about a runny nose or a quarter of an inch in the arch of the swing plane, but the answer has eluded man for several millennia and the 500 years since the first shepherd had to yell “Fore” at the foursome playing to the rabbit hole way right. I don’t understand how we can be so scientifically advanced that we can isolate the Higgs Boson particle, land Curiosity on Mars and communicate with our thumbs, but we can’t figure out how to get the hosel out of the GolfCoastMagazine.com

swing path? I believe somewhere out there in this vast cosmos is a more advanced civilization where no one ever sniffles and no one ever shanks. But until we reach that more sophisticated level of human scientific know-how, we’ll just have to tolerate both. Truth be told, I rarely shank the ball. My outside-in, over-the-top excuse for a swing all but ensures the hosel is moving away from the ball at impact. So to me, the shanks are funny. I can’t explain them, and I can’t cure them, so I laugh at them. There was an E-Trade commercial many years ago that coined the hilarious term “Shankapotamus” and it’s still part of the golf lexicon. But if you get tagged with the moniker, it’s anything but funny. The worst case of the shanks I ever saw was my son after his junior year in college. He had played only a couple of times during the school year, so the


first thing we did when he arrived home for the summer was head to the course. It all started humorously enough with a floundering duck slice on the third hole into the adjacent 12th fairway, but he made a spectacular up-and-down for par. He hit a couple more that day, including one that ricocheted off a tree and back into the fairway, and we laughed about them all on the drive home. That’s the way it is with a virus. It creeps up on you. At first you’re not even sure you’re getting sick, but gradually it knocks you down. We went out a couple days later and his swing was clearly infected. We lost track of how many balls he shanked but it was probably half of his full-swing shots, several chips and I think even a couple of putts. It was a bad case, lasting most of the summer. I tried not to look when it was his turn to play, but it turns out the shanks are like an interstate car wreck.You just have to see what’s going on. So I studied hard. My research led me to the conclusion that a shank comes from a swing path slightly too inside-out, confounded by a slight forward movement of the head, thus redirecting the hosel ever so slightly forward and into the hitting path. The resulting shot looks like a one-winged bird trying to fly in a heavy wind. We ran through the litany of swing drills either of us had come across over the years, but no matter how we tried

OUT OF BOUNDS

41

to fix it, his swing remained infected. It peaked on a 36-hole, triple-bogey hot August day when, on the drive home, we concluded that he had butchered the course with at least one shank, in either the first round or the second, on all but three holes. So I took him to the local pro who told him to he needed to make a better upper body turn with a quiet lower body and that his arms should feel like ropes. The pro fluffed one up for him on a plush piece of range turf, and he shanked it across the range like Tin Cup. Then he deadpanned: “Maybe I’ll just use the ropes to make a noose.” The shanks aren’t so bad you need a noose, but maybe they are more severe than a cold; maybe the shanks are the mononucleosis of golf. When September came my son returned to school and laid low. He didn’t exert himself too much; stayed away from the course and the driving range. When we hooked up for a round late in the fall semester, he looked good again – healthy and strong. He still fires one off the hosel every now and then, and when he does we look at each other as if to say, “Oh no, they’re back.”But now we have the cure: Feed a cold. Starve a fever. Ignore the shanks. They all go away. Just give it time.


Spectacular Golf is Just Deep Creek Golf Club 941-625-6911 www.deepcreekgolf.com

Now in its 32nd year of operation, Deep Creek has become one of the top-rated golf clubs in the Charlotte County area. 18 holes of enjoyable golf and a welcoming and friendly staff will make your experience topnotch. Warm up on our putting green and driving range before your round.

Heron Creek

941-423-6955 www.heroncreekgcc.com

The 27-hole championship course is rated 4-1/2 stars by Golf Digest, for it’s superb, natural design that not only preserves, but enhances its natural surroundings. Now featuring all new TifEagle ultradwarf Bermuda greens. The practice facilities and learning center are without question the largest and finest in the region.

Kings Gate Golf Club

941-625-0680 www.kingsgategolfclub.com

Golfers of all abilities will enjoy this 18-hole executive course. Enjoy the natural beauty of picturesque lakes, natural preserves, and a beautifully landscaped community. Walking is allowed anytime. Play in leagues, tournaments or just for fun! Whether you play for the challenge,the fun, the friends, the exercise, or to get away from it all, you’ll love living and playing here.


a Short Drive Away!! Rotonda Golf & Country Club 941-697-2414 www.rotondagolf.com

Five Golf Courses & 99 Holes of Great Golf! You will find great golf that challenges all skill levels, whether you are a beginner or seasoned veteran. Rotonda Golf & Country Club has been awarded a “Beginner Friendly Certification” from the National Golf Course Owners Association as well as numerous Charlotte Sun Herald’s Reader’s choice awards.

Oyster Creek Golf & Country Club

941-475-0334 www.oystercreekgolfclub.com

Not your typical executive golf course, Oyster Creek, designed by Ted McAnlis, is both challenging and scenic. Accuracy off the tee is important as water comes into play on 13 of the 18 holes. Distance is critical on only a few of the par 4s, but even low-handicap golfers find they play to their handicap. Oyster Creek offers meticulously-manicured greens surrounded by environmentally-protected natural wetlands.

Twin Isles Country Club 941-637-1232 www.twinislescc.com

Twin Isles Country Club is a Private Club, located 5 minutes south of the historical district of Punta Gorda, Florida. Since 1985, Members enjoy private amenities enhanced by superior service provided by a dedicated and professional staff. Twin Isles’ golf course, tennis complex and spacious Clubhouse create a comfortable atmosphere that makes new members feel welcome - we invite you to our special place in Punta Gorda.


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TOP TEN

Cobra King Speedzone Drivers Cobra’s Speedback driver was inspired by supercars from the color to the aerodynamics. The Speedzone delivers their fastest and most powerful driver yet. Like a race car, every component from the internal chassis design to the exterior shaping was engineered to maximize power output. This has translated in to allowing better players to work the ball with ease and fine tune launch and low spin without sacrificing forgiveness. CobraGolf.com

Bushnell Wingman GPS Speaker Bushnell, the premier company for providing golfers with on-course yardage information, introduced The Bushnell Wingman speaker that doubles as a GPS yardage device, providing front, middle and back distances when paired with the Bushnell Golf app on your phone. You can also play music through the Bluetooth, and by using the remote, which also doubles as a ball marker, the music pauses for the audible readout of the distances to the green. BushnellGolf.com

GolfCoastMagazine.com

ECCO M GOLF BIOM COOL PRO SHOE New technology allows comfort and feel— in any condition. Built on ECCO’s foot-shaped BIOM® using FLUIDFORM™ Technology to frame and anatomically support the foot, while bringing the golfer closer to the ground to allow you natural motion and better control. TRI-FI-GRIP™ outsole ensures stability, durability and rotational support. GORE-TEX SURROUND® construction, paired with T.PU EXHAUST GRID built into the midsole, lets fresh air to the sole of the foot, while allowing heat and moisture to escape. us.ecco.com


TOP TEN

Zero Friction Stryker 2 Glove

Triple Track Putter

Inspired by Callaway’s Triple Track golf ball, the Odyssey Triple Track putter line features three lines at the center of the putter head. This unique alignment aid uses the same visual technology that is used to land planes on aircraft carriers, giving you easy alignment and better putting accuracy. The three Triple Track lines are prominently featured to help improve your putting accuracy. It’s a design that’s incredibly intuitive and easy to use. CallawayGolf.com

Lamkin’s Grip Fitting System Putting is all about feel. Then why buy a grip without trying it? Lamkin’s Grip Fitting System is the solution to allowing golfers to quickly and easily demo a variety of putter grips on a club to find the model that best complements unique preferences and putting styles. Available at a store near you. LamkinGrips.com

Impact Press Training Aid Bill Schmedes III, one of America’s Best Teachers is behind this simple new golf training aid. The red indicator points towards the center of the body at address. The green indicator should point at the target at impact. It forces a golfer to instinctively react to its design allowing for improved impact. ImpactPressGolf.com

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Zero Friction has been a leader in golf tee innovation and is also known for taking the guess work out of buying a glove because one size fits all in men’s and women’s sizes, making it the perfect gift for a golfer. The new Stryker 2 is made of performance material and Lycra for a better fit and enhanced breathability at an unbeatable price. A 2-pack is only $19.99 ZeroFriction.com

SEED Golf Balls The Irish startup offers affordable golf balls that they claim perform as well as Pro-V’s, Callaways or any other ball in the business. They offer a subscription model where golfers can order only once, or set up a schedule to keep them coming. The balls are popular in Europe since 2017, and are now available stateside. seedgolf.com

Wingman Putters

Tour Edge’s new putter offers an extreme M.O.I. modern mini-mallet with LockOn alignment and interchangeable sole weights. The multimaterial putter has an extremely high resistance to twisting. Weighted wings promote a square face for a true roll. Lock-On alignment allows the lie angle to be set perfectly square at address. Interchangeable weights on the sole give golfers the option of adding or subtracting more weight to the heel and toe to obtain their preferred feel. TourEdge.com

CoolNES Neck and Face Mask More than 200 product were featured in the 2020 PGA Show’s New Product Zone. Top PGA Professionals and golf buyers voted CoolNES® as the best product among new merchandise. CoolNES is an innovative, two-in-one neck and face mask that prevents sun damage. Founder and CEO David Terol invented this unique product after his father was diagnosed with facial skin cancer. The CoolNES flap can be used as a neck shade or face mask. Coolnes.com


Reclaim Your Game! See why so many golfers have virtually left over-the-counter pain relief options behind! Many reported faster recovery & better relaxation with the all-natural option of BioSpring!

W

hen pain has begun taking the fun out of the game, golfers of all ages have generally turned to overthe-counter medications to keep them swinging. However, it’s no secret that over-the-counter pain medications, while effective, can bring with them their fair share of negative side-effects. Thousands are now turning away from these negative side-effects and turning towards the all-natural option of CBD.

The burgeoning demand for CBD, as evidenced by the number of exhibitors at the 2020 PGA Merchandise Show, is proof that golfers are seeking the natural pain relief benefits of this growing industry! BioSpring, being at

the forefront of this industry, has a patent pending for its extraction method, which yields the highest grade of CBD. CBD stands for cannabidiol, a naturally occurring compound found in the hemp plant. Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive element of the hemp plant. People of all ages, professional athletes, amateurs, & the general public have begun to tout the many potential benefits of CBD. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties and general lack of negative side-effects have been the catalyst for its popularity over recent years. People from all walks of life are finally taking advantage of the many health benefits reported by so many who regularly use CBD. BioSpring CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid


system (ECS). The ECS has two types of CBD receptors in your body. One is in the brain, which deals with movement, coordination, thought process, emotional state, memories, and appetite while the other receptors deal with your immune system that induce pain and inflammation. With a meticulous growing and extraction process, accompanied by rigorous quality control, BioSpring uses full spectrum hemp extract, which is always accompanied by a certificate of analysis, so the end user is assured of the quality of these CBD products. In addition, BioSpring uses non-GMO, clean ingredients in its product line like coconut oil, olive oil, lavender, aloe and others. In contrast to treating chronic pain with prescription or over-thecounter drugs, BioSpring offers a

Seizures

variety of products — topicals, tinctures, pet treats, and lip balms — providing a natural approach with a range of reported beneficial results including calming emotional sensations, anti-inflammatory recovery and healthy pain relief alternatives. Discover for yourself how so many golfers are getting back in the game with BioSpring! biospringcbd.com




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Practice Fac. Food Rental Clubs Pro Shop Lessons Page

Yardage /Rating /Slope

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Par

See Map on Page 50.

COURSES

Type Hole

Map Number

COLLIER | LEE

(239) 283-5522 P 27

72

6611 / 71.0 / 129 • • •

• • 23

72

7177 / 74.5 / 134 • • •

• • 25

72

6476 / 71.1 / 131 • • •

• • 27

70

5304 / 65.7 / 112 • • •

• • 28

69

4873 / 63.3 / 113 • • •

• • 30

71

6423 / 71.0 / 121 • • •

• • 33

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7007/ 74.1 / 128 • • •

• • 35

72

6891/73.6/134

• • •

• • 18

72

7159 / 75.0 / 137 • • •

• • 32

(800) 874-9053 R 18

72

7915 / 73.8 / 136 • • •

• • 24

(833) 279-0700 R 18

72

7271 / 74.9 / 137 • • •

• • 4

Type: P=Public P= PR=Private, SP= Semi-Private, R=Resort, E=Executive

FEATURED COURSES 200

Cape Royal Golf Club

11460 Royal Tee Circle, Cape Coral, FL, 33991; I-75 to Exit 161 Jones Loop Road, Burnt Store Rd to Royal Tee

229

Eagle Lakes Golf Club

(239) 732-0034 P 18

18100 Royal Tree Parkway, Naples, FL 34114; 41 South, right on Royal Hammock Blvd; Left on Royal Tree Pkwy

203

Hibiscus Golf Club

(239) 774-0088 P 18

5375 Hibiscus Dr, Naples, FL 34113; 41 South to Rattlesnake Hammock Rd.

205

Quail Run Golf Club

(239) 261-3930 SP 18

1 Forest Lakes Blvd, Naples, FL 34105 ; I-75 Exit 107, Follow Pine Ridge Rd to Forest Lake Blvd.

206

Quail Village Golf Club

(239) 598-2815 SP 18

11719 Quail Village Way, Naples, FL 34119 ; I-75 Exit 111, East on Immokalee Road, Left on Valewood to Quail Village Way

207

San Carlos Golf Club

(239) 267-3131 P 18

7420 Constitution Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33967 ; Off US41, 1 mile south of Alico Road to Constitution Blvd.

209

Valencia Golf & Country Club

(239) 352-0777 P 18

1725 Double Eagle Trail, Naples, FL 34120 ; I-75 to Exit 111 off I-75 - West to Randall Blvd., N on Approach Blvd. PRIVATE CLUBS

210

The Club at Gateway

(239) 561-1012 PR 18

12091 Gateway Greens Drive, Ft. Myers, FL 33913; I-75 to Exit 131; East 2.8 m L at Gateway Blvd 1.5 m. Left into Gateway Greens Dr.(Gateway G&CC entrance) DESTINATION GOLF Black Diamond Ranch

(352) 746-3446 R 18

2600 W. Black Diamond Cr., Lecanto, FL 34461 Mission Inn 10400 CR 48., Howey-In-The Hills, FL 33825 Streamsong Resort

1000 Streamsong Dr., Bowling Green, FL ; I-75 Exit 170,


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COURSES

COLLIER | LEE

SHOPPING | SERVICES/ENTERTAINMENT | INSTRUCTION MAP PAGE 50

SHOPPING BioSpring www.BioSpringCBD.com | Ad Page 46 Edwin Watts 5247 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 | www.edwinwattsgolf.com | (941) 922-1006 | Ad Page 63 Golf & Casual Shop 11900 South Cleveland Avenue, Ft. Myers | www.ftmyersgolfshop.com | (239) 936-8753 | Map #216, Ad Page 2 In The Sand Golf 1628 Dale Mabry Hwy, Lutz, FL 33548 | www.ITS-GOLF.com | (813) 264-7911 | Map #48, Ad Page 27

International Barter Exchange 1161 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 | www.IBEBarter.com | 941-955-6100 | Ad Page 39 Lennar | WCI LennarSWFL.com | 877-45-LENNAR | Map #100, Ad Page 7 Pelican Women’s Championship 525 IndianRocks Rd., Belleair Bluffs, FL 33770 | www.pelicanlpga.com | (727) 977-5180 | Ad Page 36 Visit Sebring Citrus Golf Trail www.SebringCitrusGolfTrail.com | (863) 402-6909 | Ad Page 15

Nature’s Rite www.mynaturesrite.com | 800-991-7088 | Ad Pages 3 X-Factor xfactorbelt.com | 212-758-1350 | Ad Pages 14 SERVICES /ENTERTAINMENT Amuni Financial, Inc. 720 Second Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | www.amuni.com | (800) 868-6864 | Tampa Map #59, Ad Page 38 DOMUM www.domumexperience.com | Email:ryan@domumexperience.com | 941-702-1231 | Ad Page 49 Fahrenheit10 www.Fahrenheit10.com | Email:info@Fahrenheit10.com | 941-955-0151 | Ad Page 26 Florida Aerial Services Team www.fastaerial.com | (800) 723-7425 | Ad Page 25 Golf Home Guru - Joe Morgan www.golfhomeguru.com | Email: Guru@GolfHomeGuru.com | (239) 438-6426 | Page 64

GolfCoastMagazine.com

Marketing, Promotions, Special Events and Tournaments

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Golf Today is a family-owned company that works closely with organizations of all sizes to assist with golf event and charity golf tournament planning. We provide products & services including: • Raffle & Silent Auction Items • Hole in One Prizes & Insurance • Par 3, 4 and 5 Contests • Super Tickets • Portable Putting Greens • Vacation Getaways • Airline Tickets • TEE SHOT Blasters • And much more

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CHARLOTTE | COLLIER | LEE

COURSES

53

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COURSES Alden Pines Country Club

(239) 283-2179 P

14261 Clubhouse Dr, Bokeelia

Alico Family Golf

(239) 334-4653 P

16300 Lee Road, Fort Myers

Arrowhead Golf Course

(239) 596-1000 P

2205 Heritage Greens Dr, Naples

Audubon Country Club

(239) 566-9800 PR 625 Audubon Blvd, Naples

Bay Colony Golf Club

(239) 592-9515 PR

Bear’s Paw Country Club

(239) 263-3007 PR 2500 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples

9740 Bent Grass Bend, Naples

Bentley Village Golf Club

(239) 513-1125 PR 2550 Golfside Drive, Naples

Bonita Bay Club

(239) 495-0200 PR

26660 Country Club Drive, Bonita Springs

Bonita Bay Club East

(239) 455-7535 PR

2700 Wildwood Blvd, Naples

Bonita Fairways Golf Course

(239) 947-9100 P

9751 West Terry Street, Bonita Springs

Bonita National Golf & Country Club

(239) 908-0704 PR 17481 Bonita National Blvd, Bonita Springs

Calusa Pines Golf Club

(239) 348-2220 P

Cape Royal Golf Club

(239) 283-5522 PR 11460 Royal Tee Cir, Cape Coral

2000 Calusa Pines Drive, Naples

Cedar Hammock Golf & Country Club

(239) 793-1134 PR

8660 Cedar Hammock Blvd., Naples

The Club at Gateway

(239) 734-4474 PR

12091 Gateway Greens Dr., Ft. Myers

The Club at Grendézza

(239) 948-3569 PR

11481 Grande Oak Blvd., Estero

The Club at Mediterra

(239) 254-3000 PR

15755 Corso Mediterra Cir, Naples

The Club at Olde Cypress

(239) 596-4797 PR

7165 Treeline Dr., Naples

Club Pelican Bay

(239) 597-1183 PR

707 Gulf Park Drive Naples

The Club at Renaissance

(239) 561-4170 PR

12801 Renaissance Way, Ft. Myers

The Club at the Strand

(239) 592-7710 PR

5840 Strand Boulevard Naples

Colliers Reserve Country Club

(239) 597-7200 PR 11711 Colliers Reserve Dr, Naples

Colonial Country Club

(239) 768-9421 SP

9181 Independence Way, Ft. Myers

The Colony Golf and Country Club

(239) 390-4720 PR

4101 Pelican Colony Blvd., Bonita Springs

Copperleaf Golf Club

(239) 390-2027 PR

23101 Copperleaf Blvd, Estero

Coral Oaks Golf Course

(239) 573-3100 P

1800 Northwest 28th Ave, Cape Coral

Country Club of Naples

(239) 261-1032 PR

185 Burning Tree Drive, Naples

Countryside Golf Club

(239) 353-1780 PR

600 Countryside Drive, Naples

Cross Creek Country Club

(239) 768-1922 P

13050 Cross Creek Blvd, Ft. Myers

Crown Colony Golf & Country Club

(239) 590-9044 PR

8851 Crown Colony Blvd, Ft. Myers

Cypress Lake Country Club

(239) 481-3222 PR

6767 Winkler Road, Ft. Myers

Cypress Woods Golf & Country Club

(239) 592-7860 P

3525 Northbrooke Dr. Naples

Del Tura Golf Club

(239) 731-7814 P

18621 North Tamiami Trl, North Ft. Myers

The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club

(239) 472-3355 P

949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel Island

Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club

(239) 793-0500 PR 11 Cypress View Drive, Naples

Eagle Lakes Golf Club

(239) 732-0034 P

18100 Royal Tree Parkway, Naples


54

COURSES

CHARLOTTE | COLLIER | LEE

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COURSES Eagle Ridge Golf Club

(239) 768-1888 P

14589 Eagle Ridge Drive, Ft. Myers

Eastwood Golf Course

(239) 321-7487 P

4600 Bruce Herd Lane, Ft. Myers

El Rio Golf Club

(239) 995-2204 P

1801 Skyline Drive North, Ft. Myers

Estero Country Club at the Vines

(239) 267-7000 PR

19501 Vintage Trace Circle, Ft. Myers

Esplanade Golf & Country Club

(239) 494-8020 SP

8912 Torre Vista Lane, Naples

The Golf Club at Fiddlers Creek

(239) 732-5222 PR

8152 Fiddlers Creek Pkwy, Naples

Fiddlesticks Country Club

(239) 768-1111 PR

15391 Cannongate Drive, Ft. Myers

Forest Glen Golf & Country Club

(239) 348-1332 PR 3855 Forest Glen Blvd, Naples

The Forest Country Club

(239) 482-1310 PR

6100 Club Blvd, Fort Myers

Fort Myers Country Club

(239) 321-7488 P

3591 McGregor Boulevard, Ft. Myers

Fountain Lakes Golf Course

(239) 495-3555 PR

22201 Fountain Lakes Blvd. #1, Estero

Foxfire Country Club

(239) 643-3139 PR

1030 Kings Way, Naples

Glades Country Club

(239) 774-6899 PR

174 Teryl Road, Naples

Glen Eagle Golf & Country Club

(239) 354-3289 PR

1403 Glen Eagle Boulevard, Naples

Golden Gate Country Club

(239) 455-1010 SP

4100 Golden Gate Pkwy, Naples

Golf Club of the Everglades

(239) 354-4727 PR

8835 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples

Golfview Golf & Racquet Club

(239) 489-3808 PR

14849 Hole in 1 Circle, Ft. Myers

Grey Oaks Golf & Country Club

(239) 262-5550 PR

2400 Grey Oaks Drive North, Naples

Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club

(239) 433-5111 PR

14500 Vista River Drive, Ft. Myers

Hammock Bay Golf & Country Club

(239) 394-2511 PR

1370 Borghese Ln, Naples

Heritage Bay Golf and Country Club

(239) 353-7056 PR

10154 Heritage Bay Blvd, Naples

Heritage Palms Golf & CC

(239) 278-9090 SP

10420 Washingtonia Palm Way, Ft. Myers

Herons Glen Golf & Country Club

(239) 731-0322 SP

2250 Herons Glen Blvd., N. Ft. Myers

Hibiscus Golf Club

(239) 774-3559 P

5375 Hibiscus Drive, Naple

Hideaway Beach Club

(239) 394-5555 PR

250 South Beach, Marco Island

The Hideaway Country Club

(239) 275-6232 PR

5670 Trailwinds Drive Ft. Myers

Hideout Golf Club, LTD

(239) 352-4141 PR

3025 Brantley Blvd., Naples

Highland Woods Golf & Country Club

(239) 495-9332 PR 9100 Highland Woods Blvd, Bonita Springs

High Point Country Club

(239) 263-8735 PR

1100 High Point Drive, Naples

Hole In The Wall Golf Club

(239) 261-6481 PR

3600 Goodlette Road, Naples

Hunters Ridge Golf & Country Club

(239) 992-4900 PR

28400 Hunters Ridge Blvd, Bonita Springs

Hunters Run Executive Golf Course

(239) 574-4454 P

1006 SE 4th PI, Cape Coral

Imperial Golf Club

(239) 597-8165 PR

1808 Imperial Golf Course Blvd, Naples

Island Country Club

(239) 394-6661 PR

500 Nassau Rd, Marco Island

Kelly Greens Golf & Country Club

(239) 466-9570 PR

12300 Kelly Greens Blvd, Ft. Myers

Kensington Golf & Country Club

(239) 213-1983 PR

2700 Pine Ridge Road, Naples


CHARLOTTE | COLLIER | LEE

COURSES

55

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COURSES Lake Fairways Country Club

(855) 209-3684 PR

19371 N Tamiami Trl North Ft. Myers

Lakewood Country Club

(239) 775-0765 PR

4235 Lakewood Blvd, Naples

Landings Yacht, Golf & Tennis Club

(239) 482-3211 PR

4425 S. Landings Dr, Suite 100, Ft. Myers

LaPlaya Golf Club

(239) 254-5001 PR 9891 Gulf Shore Drive Naples, FL

Legends Golf & Country Club

(239) 561-8740 PR

8600 Legends Blvd Ft. Myers

Lehigh Resort Club

(239) 368-2022 P

231 Joel Boulevard, Lehigh Acres

Lely Resorts

(239) 732-1200 SP

8004 Lely Resort Blvd, Naples

Lexington Country Club

(239) 437-0404 PR

16257 Willowcrest Way Ft. Myers

The Links of Naples

(239) 417-1313 P

16161 Tamiami Trail E, Naples

Magnolia Landings Golf & Country Club (239) 543-4146 P

3501 Avenida del Vera N. Ft Myers

Majestic Golf Club

(239) 369-8216 P

350 Homestead Rd S. Lehigh Acres

Marco Shores Country Club

(239) 394-2581 PR

1450 Mainsail Dr Naples

Miromar Lakes Golf Club

(239) 390-5128 PR

18520 Miromar Lake Blvd, Miromar Lakes

Moorings Country Club

(239) 261-0909 PR 2500 Crayton Road Naples

Myerlee Country Club

(239) 481-1440 PR

1380 Myerlee CC Blvd, Ft. Myers

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

(239) 435-2475 SP

851 Gulf Shore Blvd North, Naples

Naples Grande Golf Club

(239) 659-3711 SP 7335 Premier Drive, Naples

Naples Heritage Golf & CC

(239) 417-2555 PR

8150 Heritage Club Way, Naples

Naples Lakes Country Club

(239) 919-1150 PR

4784 Naples Lakes Blvd., Naples

Naples National Golf Club

(239) 775-3468 PR

9325 Collier Blvd, Naples

Old Corkscrew Golf Club

(239) 949-4700 P

17320 Corkscrew Road, Estero

Olde Florida Golf Club

(239) 353-7667 PR

9393 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples 790 Main House Drive, Naples

Old Collier Golf Club

(239) 597-9898 PR

Olde Hickory Golf & Country Club

(239) 768-2400 PR

14760 Olde Hickory Blvd, Ft. Myers

Palmetto-Pine Country Club

(239) 574-2141 SP

1940 Southwest 9th Court, Cape Coral

Palmira Golf Club

(239) 949-4466 PR

28501 Matteotti View, Bonita Springs

Panther Run Golf Club

(239) 304-2835 P

6005 Anthem Pkwy, Ave Maria

Pelican Marsh Golf Club

(239) 597-3000 PR

1810 Persimmon Drive, Naples

Pelican Preserve Golf Club

(239) 985-1707 PR

9802 Pelican Preserve Blvd, Fort Myers

Pelican Sound Golf & River Club

(239) 948-4331 PR

4561 Pelican Sound Blvd, Estero

Pelican’s Nest Golf Club

(239) 947-2282 PR

4450 Pelicans Nest Drive, Bonita Springs

The Plantation Golf & Country Club

(239) 561-8650 PR

10500 Dartington Drive, Fort Myers

Quail Creek Country Club

(239) 597-2831 PR

13300 Valewood Dr, Naples

Quail Run Golf Club

(239) 261-3930 PR

1 Forest Lakes Blvd, Naples

Quail Village Golf Club

(239) 598-2815 PR

11719 Quail Village Way, Naples

Quail West Golf & Country Club

(239) 593-4100 PR

5950 Burnham Road, Naples

The Quarry Golf Club

(239) 260-3748 PR

8950 Weathered Stone Drive, Naples

Raptor Bay Golf Course

(239) 390-4600 P

23001 Coconut Point Resort Dr, Bonita Springs


COURSES CHARLOTTE | COLLIER | LEE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COURSES

56

River Hall Country Club

(239) 313-4653 SP

3500 River Hall Pkwy, Alva

Riviera Golf Club

(239) 774-2011 P

48 Marseilles Drive, Naples

Riverbend Golf Course

(239) 240-8125 P

6270 River Club Court North, Ft. Myers

The Rookery at Marco

(239) 642-2796 PR

3433 Club Center Blvd, Naples

Royal Palm Country Club

(239) 775-1315 PR

405 Forest Hills Boulevard, Naples

Royal Poinciana Golf Club

(239) 261-3968 PR

1600 Solana Road, Naples

Royal Wood Golf & Country Club

(239) 774-2213 PR

4300 Royal Wood Blvd, Naples

Sabal Springs Golf & Racquet Club

(239) 731-0101 P

3410 Clubview Drive North Ft. Myers

San Carlos Golf Club

(239) 267-3131 P

7420 Constitution Circle, Ft. Myers

The Sanctuary Golf Club

(239) 472-6445 PR

2801 Wulfert Road Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island Golf Club

(239) 472-2626 P

1100 Par View Drive, Sanibel Island

Seven Lakes Golf & Tennis

(239) 481-6560 PR

1965 Seven Lakes Blvd, Ft. Myers

Shadow Wood Preserve

(239) 947-4552 PR

7101 Shadow Creek Blvd Fort Myers

Shell Point Golf Club

(239) 433-9790 SP

17401 On Par Boulevard, Ft. Myers

Six Lakes Country Club

(239) 995-0595 PR

9151 Littleton Road, North Ft. Myers

Spanish Wells

(239) 992-5100 SP

9801 Treasury Cay Lane Bonita Springs

Spring Run Golf Club

(239) 992-3811 PR

9501 Spring Run Blvd, Estero

Stonebridge Country Club

(239) 594-5200 PR

2100 Winding Oaks Way, Naples

Stoneybrook Golf Course

(239) 948-3933 P

21251 Stoneybrook Golf Blvd., Estero

Talis Park Golf Club

(239) 514-1051 PR

16475 Talis Park Drive, Naples

Terraverde Country Club

(239) 433-7733 P

17000 Terraverde Ct., Ft. Myers

Tiburรณn Golf Club

(239) 593-2200 P

2620 Tiburรณn Drive, Naples

TPC Treviso Bay

(239) 302-5738 PR

9800 Treviso Bay Blvd, Naples

TwinEagles Golf & Country Club

(239) 354-1700 PR

11330 Twin Eagles Boulevard Naples

Valenicia Golf & Country Club

(239) 352-0777 P

1725 Double Eagle Trail, Naples

Vanderbilt Country Club

(239) 348-2662 PR

8250 Danbury Blvd Naples

Vasari Country Club

(239) 596-0645 PR

11250 Via Del Vasari Drive, Bonita Springs

Verandah Country Club

(239) 694-7229 PR

12201 River Village Way Fort Myers

Villages at Country Creek

(239) 561-1444 PR 21180 Country Creek Drive, Estero

Vineyards Country Club

(239) 353-1500 PR 400 Vineyards Blvd, Naples

West Bay Club

(239) 444-2310 PR 4606 W Bay Blvd Estero

The New Westminster Golf Club

(239) 368-1110 SP

2199 Berkley Way, Lehigh Acres

Whiskey Creek Country Club

(239) 481-3021 SP

1449 Whiskey Creek Drive, Ft. Myers

Wildcat Run Golf & Country Club

(239) 947-6066 PR

20300 Country Club Drive, Estero

Wilderness Country Club

(239) 261-5505 PR

101 Clubhouse Drive, Naples

Windstar on Naples Bay

(239) 775-3400 PR

1700 Windstar Blvd, Naples

Worthington Country Club

(239) 495-2278 PR

13550 Worthington Way, Bonita Springs

Wyndemere Country Club

(239) 263-1700 PR

700 Wyndemere Way, Naples


COURSES

72

5836-4746/70

• • •

• • 36

(941) 625-0680 SP 18

60

3182-2384/60

• •

• • 23

Oyster Creek Golf & Country Club (941) 475-0334 E 18 119 66511 Oriole Blvd, Englewood, FL; I-75 to Exit 191 River Road

60

3976-2840/60

• •

• • 36

72

27 Holes/72

• • •

• • 37

72 72 63 70 72

6511-4669/72 6304-5072/72 4197-3190/60 6000 6722-5258/72

• • • • •

• • • • •

Type: P=Public P= PR=Private, SP= Semi-Private, R=Resort, E=Executive

Type Hole

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Practice Fac. Food Rental Clubs Pro Shop Lessons Page

57

Par

Map Number

CHARLOTTE | COLLIER | LEE

CHARLOTTE COUNTY Deep Creek Golf Club (941) 625-6911 SP 18 172 1260 San Cristobal Ave., Punta Gorda, FL ; Exit 170 off I-75, east on Kings Hwy, R on Sandhill, R on SanCristobal

Kings Gate Golf Club

152 24000 Rampart Blvd, Port Charlotte, FL 33980 1 mile west of I-75, Exit 170 Kings Hwy

to Pine, left on Pine to SR776, left on 776, south 2 miles

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Long Marsh (941) 698-0918 SP 18 121 100 Rotonda Circle, Rotonda West, FL 33947; Exit 191 off I-75, Country Road 775 just north of Boca Grande Island

Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Palms Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Hills Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Links Rotonda Golf & Country Club - Pinemoor Twin Isles Country Club

(941) 697-8118 SP 18 (941) 697-2414 SP 18 (941) 697-8877 SP 18 (941) 697-7006 SP 18 (941) 637-1232 PR 18

143 301 Madrid Blvd., Punta Gorda, FL 33950; Exit 161 off I-75,

• • • • •

• • • • •

• • • • •

west 1.4 miles to US 41, right then quick left

172 152

119

100 143 121

100

37 37 37 37 22




60

REVIEW

13 Rules of Golf Etiquette For Dummies - by Charlie Parsons

If you’re someone who’s been playing golf a while, you know there isn’t much worse than having to deal with poor golf etiquette. It’s one thing to play with someone who’s a brand new golfer but it’s entirely different to play with someone who should know better.

with the golf shop before driving all over the course. Depending on the season and conditions, you might only get to drive on the cart path.

In my opinion, someone’s golf etiquette can really make or break a round, especially if you’re playing with complete strangers. Because let’s face it, you only get one first impression.

This usually happens with winter golf or when it’s really wet conditions to make sure the carts don’t tear up the course. You will also find this is pretty common on holes 1, 9, 18 or any other holes that can be seen from the parking lot or outside the course. They do this to show off course conditions to people driving by or first seeing it.

And the quickest way to never get invited back to a new club is having poor etiquette. People can forgive bad golf as it happens to everyone but bad etiquette leaves a bad taste with other golfers.

Keep that first impression of the course positive by obeying cart path only signs. Make sure to check with the starter and don’t try to drive likes it’s a Fast and the Furious movie. And stick with the 90* rule whenever possible.

Luckily, once you’re finished reading this post you can avoid a lot of common etiquette mistakes.

3. Warm Up with Three Balls -Another quick way to look like you’re brand new on the course? Warming up on the putting green with a bucket of range balls.

If you follow these golf etiquette rules, I’m confident you will make friends, grow your network, and always get invited back. 1. Show Up Early - This is one of the easiest things to do yet so many people still make this mistake every single day. Please make sure to show up at least 20 minutes before your tee time. It’s rude to fellow players and bad for your game when you scramble from the car to the 1st tee box. You want to arrive at least 20 minutes early so you can check in, get loose, and hit some range balls. And even if you “Don’t want to waste all of your shots on the range,” you should at least hit some putts and chips. There isn’t much worse than stepping up to the first tee cold and the first green trying to guess the speed. Showing up early will make it a better experience and most likely a better round for everyone. And you’re more likely to avoid injury too. Aim to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your scheduled tee time. 2. Obey The Cart Path Rules - If you’re new to the game, you probably think golf carts are the best thing ever. And while they are awesome, make sure you check

GolfCoastMagazine.com

Please use your own golf balls and don’t use more than three golf balls on the putting green. Also, make sure they are clearly marked to avoid. 4. Don’t Talk While Others Are Hitting -The other tips mentioned are important but I’d argue this is the biggest golf etiquette screw up on the list. When someone is hitting, stay silent! When you’re standing over the golf ball, you can hear a twig break and one whisper can screw your swing up. This is the biggest faux paus on the golf course and can really make other golfers angry. Make sure to stay off your phone and always know when people are hitting. This will help you play ready golf and not interrupt another player’s swing. 5. Talk to Competitors Shots - Speaking of talking on the course, another piece of golf etiquette for dummies is to only talk to your golf ball. There is nothing worse than someone saying talking to your golf shot. I hate hearing other golfers say things like “Stay out of the water” or even worse “Great putt” about your shot before it actually went in. Talk to your ball and your ball only.


REVIEW

61

7. Be Careful Where You Walk -Make sure you are super careful of where you walk on the green as well. While the rules of golf now allow you to fix spike marks, it’s still extremely rude to walk in a fellow players line as it can guide their putt offline.

11. Get Off The Phone - This is a new golf etiquette rule but an important one. While phones and social media are addicting, don’t let them ruin a fun round with your friends. Get away from technology as much as possible and stay off your phone.

Not only do you want to avoid their original line but also their “through line.” The through line is where their ball would go if it missed long and avoid that line as well.

If you need to keep it on or close by, please make sure it’s in silent mode and stay present throughout the round. Just because you putt out doesn’t mean it is time to go back to your phone and look at Facebook.

8. Lost Ball Etiquette -Another great new rule of golf in 2019 is the shortened time to find a lost golf ball. Instead of five minutes you now have three minutes to hunt for wayward golf balls. Personally, I think slow golf is ruining public golf but the new rules in 2019 should help. If you think your ball is going into a hazard or potential trouble, please make sure to watch it land so you can find it quickly. Once your three minutes are up, take the drop and move on. Remember, it’s only a golf ball.

Plus, staying off your phone will help with slow play and make it more fun for everyone in the group. 12. Know the Rules - Each group is different so make sure the rules are clearly established on the first tee, especially if money is involved. What happens if you spray one OB? Are you doing match or stroke play? Are you giving putts or putting everything out?

And if you want to be a standout player, make sure to watch (not talk) to other players balls to help them find them quickly. A little good k

It’s so important to establish the rules for the day before teeing off. There’s nothing worse than someone dragging a four-footer when no one gave it to them. Know the rules in advance and save yourself a lot of frustration later in the round.

9. Playing Slow -As I mentioned, slow pace of play is turning away so many people from the game. At all costs make sure to play fast. My family motto growing up,

Check out our article on the rules of golf, to make sure you have basic understanding before showing up to the course..

“Even if you’re playing bad, make sure that you play bad fast.”

13. Always Yell Fore! - The final golf etiquette for dummies rule is simple. Always know where other golfers are on the course. If your ball is heading toward another group, make sure to yell “FORE” loudly. And I like to add “FORE left” or “FORE right” if you’re in a congested area.

If you notice that you’re behind the next group or get warned from a marshall, pick up, move faster, and stay with the group ahead. Please don’t let your ego get in the way either. No one wants a six-hour round. Speed up your round by using a GPS device or rangefinder instead of walking off sprinkler heads. Plus, if you’re just beginning golf, having the exact yardage probably is not going to matter that much anyway. And if slow play becomes a regular thing, tee it forward as it’ll make the game more enjoyable for you and everyone on the course. 10. Ready Golf -One of the reasons golf takes so long is that most golfers aren’t playing ready golf. Ready golf is nothing more than being ready when it’s your time to hit. It’s about being prepared and not taking loads of time once you’re up. Whenever I’m playing with strangers I always say ready golf on the 1st hole to make sure the group plays ready golf vs. honor’s golf. The only time I’d recommend playing honors golf is when someone makes a birdie, eagle or you are in a competitive event. Otherwise, stick to ready golf. Not only will you play faster but I’ll bet you also stay in rhythm and shoot lower scores.

Nearly getting hit can make other golfers extremely angry. So make sure you’re avoiding a fist fight on the course by yelling FORE if your ball is anywhere close. Golf Etiquette For Dummies Wrap Up If you’re brand new to the game and you happen to make some of these mistakes, don’t worry. Learn from them and move on. But the biggest ones to avoid are talking in someone’s swing, walking in their line, and not yelling fore towards another group. The other 10 tips will not help your etiquette but also make it look like you know what you’re doing out there. Hopefully, you can use these golf etiquette tips to have more fun, make new friends, and play better golf this year. And while you are at it, if you are a complete beginners head over to our post on common golf terms https:// theleftrough.com/golf-terms/so you don’t sound like a beginner.About the author: Charlie Parsons is the the owner of TheLeftRough.com He’s been playing golf for over 35 years and is a regular golfer just like you. For more great articles on golf or to contact him visit TheLeftRough.com


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