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Ken Green

Keeps Knocking It Down the Fairway

Connecticut professional golfer Ken Green is still standing tall these days, thanks to the use of a prosthetic right leg. He vowed after the accident that occurred in Mississippi in 2009 while travelling to and from golf tournaments that he would once again swing a golf club in competition, even as he lay in a hospital bed after doctors had removed the lower portion of his right leg.

Well, Green, who lives part time in the Nutmeg State and Florida, made good on that vow and built himself physically and mentally to return to competitive golf, playing in Champions Tour, regional and state tournaments. And, playing well, we might add, with his low score being a 69 on the Champions Tour, a laudable score for any golfer let alone one playing with a prosthetic leg to go along with the physical and emotional scars that Green carries with him every day. He finished fourth at the Connecticut Senior Open at Shennecossett Golf Course in Groton in 2019, and tied for second at both the 2018 and 2016 state Senior opens.

“I’ve have had so many crazy things happen to me,” said Green, who splits his time between West Palm Beach, Florida and New Fairfield. “I guess it’s the Ken Green reverse one percent law. I don’t think many people have had things happen to me, good and bad, like I have.”

Green was born in Danbury and moved to Honduras with his family where his father, Martin Green, whom he claimed was an alcoholic, was principal of the American School in that country. Having to choose between soccer and golf, young Green chose the latter and he wound up quitting school at the age of 16, telling his mother that he wanted to pursue his dream of playing professionally.

He wound up finishing his high school education and attending Palm Beach Junior College in Florida for a year before he was recruited to play for the University of Florida, earning second team All-Southern Conference honors in 1979. Green indeed did turn professional in 1979 and joined the PGA Tour the following year. He became a proficient player, known for his all-out style of play and fierce competiveness. He posted five wins on the PGA Tour, lost two tournaments in

playoffs, and captured five international events. His selection to the U.S. Ryder Cup team in 1989 was a highlight of his career. Even after his life and golf game began to break down in the late 80’s and 1990’s, Green could occasionally rise up. He finished seventh at the 1996 U.S. Open.

“I had a great run during the 1980’s and I felt like I was getting better every year,” said Green, now 61. “I was winning tournaments on the PGA Tour, was on the Ryder Cup team, and winning overseas, which I am equally as proud of as my wins in the states. I would love to have been able to see what I was capable of if I didn’t lose my focus. I was still young and probably had another six or seven really good years ahead of me when things broke down.” Green’s sister, Shelley, caddied for him for several years while on Tour.

“Things broke down”, he said, because of a nasty divorce with his first wife and losing custody of his children. He began drinking more than socially, gambling, fell into the deep hole of depressions, started missing cuts and continuing to pile up fines from the PGA Tour. He had over two dozen fines levied against him, some of them for seemingly rather silly and harmless antics, like sneaking friends into The Masters in the trunk of his car, toasting Arnold Palmer with a beer while playing in The Masters, swearing on the course, burying or flinging into the water several putters, and signing autographs for fans while playing.

In June 2009, Green was seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident when his motor home left the road. Green was in his recreational vehicle traveling on

Interstate 20 near Meridian, Mississippi when the right front tire blew, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and go down a deep embankment before hitting a tree. The accident killed the passengers:

William Green, his brother; Jeanne

Hodgin, his girlfriend; and his dog, Nip.

The following year his estranged son,

Hunter, died of a drug overdose in Dallas,

Texas. Green used golf as a way to keep himself going, although his journey back to the golf course was one filled with pain and long hours of therapy and rehab. But back he came, the guy whose life has had more twists and turns than a double dogleg hole. He was fitted with a prosthetic and basically taught himself how to play the game again. He began hitting balls on the range, playing practice rounds and then got himself fit enough that he was able to play several events on the Champions Tour, as well as local and regional events. Green authored a book released in 2019 entitled, Hunter of Hope: Life In, Outside and on the Ropes, in which he details his life in honest fashion, the good and the bad. “The book gave me the opportunity to show what I went through and maybe it can help people out there that have gone through or are going through similar things as I have; the loss of a son, a nasty marriage and divorce, depression, and the tragic accident. I can give my point of view and maybe help people and get them back on the right track. If I can do it then people reading the book may say that they can do the same thing.”

When at his home in New Fairfield, Green spends much of his golfing time at Danbury’s Richter Park Golf Course and Ridgewood Country Club, “courses that I grew up playing.” He added, “The pros around the state are very kind to me, probably because I was a former Tour pro, and I can play pretty much anywhere I’d like.”

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Private Eyes

Raritan Valley Country Club

Delights a Growing Membership with an

Historic, All-Inclusive Country Club By, JOHN TORSIELLO all employees, masks required for players an elegant clubhouse, racquet sports, and

Raritan Valley Country Club in and visitors while walking through the cluba resort-style pool, RVCC has something Bridgewater, New Jersey is bustling house and social distancing on the driving for every member of the family. But, raiswith action on its stunning and range, patio and pool areas. ing the bar is what made and continues to historic course. Raritan Valley, Boucher said, is a great make Raritan Valley Country Club what it

Because of the COVID-19 pandemplace to play and to be a member of because, is today; one of the jewels of the New Jersey ic and government-ordered shutdowns “It’s the people, our atmosphere and a feelgolf world. of many businesses, including golf clubs, ing of community, camaraderie and genuine Raritan Valley Country Club has deepRaritan Valley did not open until May 2. belonging.” rooted traditions. The H.H. Barker-designed But the wait was worth it for members and Said Membership and Club golf course’s gently rolling terrain, and beautheir guests, as the course was groomed Communications Director Jennifer Panaia, tiful views of the Watchung Mountains to be a great shape once the season finally “Our members feel a sense of security during provide a beautiful backdrop for both wellkicked off. these times; they enjoy coming to their own seasoned players and occasional golfers. The

“The course is the best shape it’s ever private oasis where they know the staff and club’s tennis and squash courts, resort-style been in,” reported General Manager Patrick fellow members and can feel comfortable pool, first-class dining and elegant banquet Boucher. “Not having play for 45 days in and safe as a result of the safety protocols we facilities, offer complementary amenities the spring allowed for a lot of maintenance have in place.” that make Raritan Valley a unique familypractices not usually done during that time.” Panaia said Raritan Valley, which is friendly country club experience.

Boucher said the club’s and staff’s biggest Managed by Troon Privé--Private Clubs of Raritan Valley has a core group of long challenge during the year of COVID-19 has Distinction, had a large influx of new memstanding members that value the club and been reacting to the ever changing guidebers this summer after extending the club’s all it affords its members and guests. With lines. “In spring, it seemed like it changed spring promotion, which included no initiarecent enhancements to the golf course and every day. Play at the course overall is up, a tion fee. “We also offered a pool memberclubhouse facility, as well as the expansion lot of people are looking for an escape and ship this summer since so many pools in the of the club’s junior programs, the club has being outdoors has offered that.” region elected not to open. For the fall, we experienced a resurgence that continues dur

Raritan Valley has a number of guidelines are offering pro-rated dues for the remainder ing these uncertain times. in place for golfer safety, including cleaning of 2020 and half off initiation fee.” The Raritan Valley implemented an protocols per Centers for Disease Control The club was founded in 1911 and the extensive enhancement plan for the golf and Prevention guidelines utilizing Federal private, member-owned facility is sweetly Environmental Protection Agency-registered nestled in the middle of Somerset County. disinfectants, masks and gloves required for With an impeccably manicured course,

course that was launched several years ago. RVCC completed a full greenside bunker restoration on its 18-hole, 6,808-yard parkland-style course. Work has also taken place to enhance the fairways and greens, upgrade the course’s irrigation system, and incorporate more modern equipment into its agronomic practices. James Rusnic serves as golf course superintendent and oversees a talented and dedicated crew.

The course at Raritan Valley CC is a strong test for accomplished players yet approachable for all golfers.

The layout starts off in stern fashion, with a 570-yard par-five that is the longest 5 on the course. Three good shots are required here. Finding the fairway off the tee is crucial. The fourth is a short par-four with out of bounds protecting the green left. Hit a driver off the tee to leave a short iron or wedge into the green.

The signature hole is the par-three seventh. It demands a challenging 173-yard shot over the water to an undulating green surrounded by several bunkers. The hole is best played a bit long, as there is only a short landing area forward of the green and the ever-present water to contend with.

The finisher on the front side is arguably the easiest par-five (493 yards) on the course. A well-played tee shot and second will likely place you on or near the green.

The back side begins with a sweet, short par-five playing 151 yards from the tips. Three bunkers and an undulated green guard errant tee shots. Accuracy is key. Hit the green and be rewarded with a look at birdie. The 12th is a 528-yard dogleg right par-five that is framed by two trees and a

creek that must be overcome on the second shot. It’s all about the tee shot here. Find the fairway and options open up.

The 15th is a long (205-yards) par-three where you are hitting through a shoot of trees. When in doubt about club selection, elect to play long as this will afford the best opportunity for par.

The 18th is a masterful, 400-yard parfour with appropriate bunkering off the tee and a two tiered green. Hug the left side off the tee as the green opens up from that side of the fairway.

RVCC’s tennis facility boasts four resurfaced Har-Tru tennis courts, and a first-class tennis program offers leagues, clinics, and lessons. Also, RVCC is the only private club in the area to offer two indoor squash courts. RVCC has open-air entertaining to a new level, constructing an awning above the clubhouse patio that overlooks the picturesque golf course. Also on the patio, the club added intimate fire pits surrounded by cozy lounge furniture, and a big screen television. Members can enjoy a full season of outdoor relaxation and entertainment. Maria Rathjens is the club’s Food and Beverage Manager, and Filomena Lombardi is its Executive Chef. There has never been a better time to become a member at RVCC. To learn more, contact Membership and Club Communications Director Jennifer Panaia at 908-722-2000, ext. 207 , or email her at membership@rvcc1911. org. “Like” the club on Facebook, and follow RVCC on Twitter and Instagram (@ rvcc1911).

Raritan Valley Country Club Bridgewater, New Jersey 908-722-2000 www.RVCC1911.org

BEYOND GOLF

THE MEMBER EXPERIENCE GOES BEYOND GOLF AT RARITAN VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB. IT IS OUR RICH HISTORY, PICTURESQUE SETTING, SENSE OF COMMUNITY, AND EXTENSIVE ACTIVITIES/AMENITIES THAT MAKE RVCC SOMERSET COUNTY’S PREMIER PRIVATE COUNTRY CLUB.

SCHEDULE A PERSONAL TOUR AND EXPLORE OUR MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES TODAY.

747 State Route 28, Bridgewater, New Jersey 08807 (908) 722-2000 rvcc1911.org membership@rvcc1911.org

Crystal Springs Resort Definitely has the WOW Factor

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

The “wow” factor hits you when you arrive at Crystal Springs Resort if you are an avid golfer, and even if you are not.

Crystal Springs, located in the Sussex Skylands area of northwestern New Jersey, just south of the border with New York State and fairly close to the rolling farmlands of eastern Pennsylvania, has its golf spread among six courses. The resort’s Ballyowen Golf Club is a superb Celtic link-style course created by master architect Roger Rulewich. The Crystal Springs course is regarded as one of the sternest tests in the region. The ninehole Cascades, also designed by Rulewich, formally opened for play in the spring of 2009 and turned the Crystal Springs Golf Club into a 27-hole facility. You can choose from three different options when playing an 18-hole round by using any of the ninehole layouts--the Cascades, the Classic and the Villages. Neighboring favorite Wild Turkey is also located on the property of the luxurious Grand Cascades Lodge, and Black Bear Golf Club is just a few miles away from the resort’s main property. In addition to the above layouts, there is the nine-hole Minerals Golf Club, where adults and youngsters can enjoy the game together without feeling intimidated.

The Resort’s courses reopened in early May after closures due to the COVID19 pandemic. Michelle Abate, Director of Marketing for Crystal Springs, stated that guidelines per the direction of the N.J. Governor and local Board of Health are in place to safeguard visitors, golfers and staff against the virus. Included in those protocols are: Staff members wearing masks; carts being cleaned with disinfectant between uses; cart attendants not touching golf bags: and hand sanitizer stations being located around all facilities. In addition, tents are erected to accommodate guests for outings.

“We are promoting our popular fall golf and stay packages (https://www.crystalgolfresort.com/golf/stay/) and we have also launched a beginner golf clinic that began on August 5th (www.crystalgolfresort.com/ golfclinic),” enthused Abate.

In addition, the Resort offers group golf outings for groups from 16 to 360 golfers with its six championship courses, award winning catering and PGA professionals to assist with event execution. (https://www. crystalgolfresort.com/golf/outings/).

The Resort offers a variety of overnight packages https://www.crystalgolfresort. com/golf/stay/, and offers FootGolf, two sports rolled into one. FootGolf provides precision, power and passion found in both golf and soccer. FootGolf can be played on Cascades and Minerals Golf Courses. (https://www.crystalgolfresort.com/golf/ footgolf/). You can take your game to the next

level at the Leadbetter Golf Academy, with the Region’s best golf instruction for all ages and skill levels. https://www. crystalgolfresort.com/golf/crystal-springsgolf-academy/.

A little about the outstanding golf at Crystal Springs.

The fairways at Ballyowen and at Wild Turkey are rather generous and the greens undulating, though not tricked up. The biggest hazard you’ll run into (usually) at Ballyowen is unseen--the wind. This is a treeless course that sits on a bit of a hill with nowhere to hide when the breeze kicks up, as it did during the second nine holes of our round. The wind can make a two-club difference on some of the approach shots. Better pick the right club because three par-threes play across water. And when the fescue grows tall during the summer months, you will have trouble playing errant shots out of the rough.

Crystal Springs is a beautiful beast, especially if you play it from the tips (around 6,900 yards). The fairways here are narrow and there is trouble all around, you name it, water, quarries, woods, wetlands and plenty of bunkers.

Wild Turkey is a beautifully routed layout. Rulewich, known for wise use of existing terrain, outdid himself on this track. The tee shot on the first hole is from a severely elevated tee to a massive fairway below and it’s a visually fun way to start the day. Wild Turkey has maybe the second most impressive hole at the resort. The seventh plays close to 200 yards from the tips and the tee shot must clear another yawning quarry lake. The hole is very similar to the 11th at Crystal Springs Golf Club, although this one plays straight across the quarry and not from an elevated tee. A lake sits about 60 feet below.

Wild Turkey (the Cascades nine was designed to emulate this layout to some degree) features holes laid out along a ridgeline and those located in a sunken, or basin, area. The “basin holes” of Wild Turkey, holes number three and 12 through 17, are reminiscent of the classic American links style of Ballyowen. There are enough bunkers in the fairway landing areas and around the greens to grab your attention.

Black Bear, a very playable 6,673-yard layout, was co-designed by Jack Kurlander and David Glenz and offers diverse holes. Some 65 bunkers are scattered about the track and water comes into play on three holes. The

Minerals nine is an “executive-style” layout and has a number of interesting holes.

The Grand Cascades Lodge, a stunning stone and wood structure that sits atop a hill and affords views of the area. It has 250 well-appointed, state-of-the-art accommodations and is only a few steps away from 45 holes of golf (the Crystal Springs, Wild Turkey and Cascades golf courses). There is also a real-grass 18-hole putting course at Grand Cascades. The laid back sophisticated Crystal Tavern, an upscale pub located in the Grand Cascades Lodge, features views of the practice range and mountains in the distance. If you are into upscale dining, a visit to 4-star Restaurant Latour at Crystal Springs is a must. Annual winner of the Wine Spectator Grand Award and rated “Excellent” by The New York Times, Latour is a culinary phenomenon and considered one of the finest restaurants in New Jersey. One of the coolest (literally and figuratively) places at Grand Cascades Lodge is the Wine Cellar. You start your journey by walking down a winding staircase, and then in front of you lies the sprawling Cellar, where 45,000 bottles and more than 3,640 labels lie protected against the elements. The resort’s owners are so proud of The Cellar they offer free self-guided daily tours. No less an authority on the fruit of the vine than the Wine Spectator gave The Cellar its stamp of approval. The Lodge’s “Biosphere” is one of the most unique features at the Resort. The indoor pool complex has an underground aquarium, vortex pools, caves and tropical foliage, as well as a 140-foot water slide enjoyed by kids and adults alike. The glass enclosure allows for year-round tanning given its unique roofing structure. Outside, there is an adjacent swimming area, an oversized, marble chessboard, ping pong and other table games, the Chef’s Garden restaurant featuring an expansive herb and vegetable garden, and ample space for merely lounging about and enjoying the view of the hillsides and a practice area. The resort also features the Reflections Spa at Grand Cascades Lodge. The interior of the spa contains such unique features as thousands of quartz crystals in its ceiling, water features in each corridor, red fire art glass throughout the interior and exterior of the space, and a relaxing foot soak. Sister property Minerals Hotel, which features 175 comfortably appointed guest rooms, features the tranquil Elements Spa, multiple indoor and outdoor heated pools, a massive sports club and casual dining at Kites American Grille. So, if you are into golf and the good life, check out Crystal Springs Resort. It’s one of the few places in the Northeast where you can drop your bags in your room and be a few minutes walking time of 45 holes of championship golf, a great practice facility, a putting course, and a plethora of other fun stuff to do. Heck, you don’t even have to go outside to get to the clubhouse for Crystal Springs and Wild Turkey. A covered walkway will take you from Grand Cascades Lodge to the starting point in comfort and style. Crystal Springs Resort Hamburg, Vernon and Franklin, N.J. 844.205.1857 www.CrystalGolfResort.com