2023 Golfing Magazine New Jersey / Pennsylvania Spring Issue

You’ll feel it the moment you enter the community. The tree lined streets, lush landscaping and brick walkways. With its magnificent Clubhouse as it’s centerpiece, the feeling is traditional and memorable. Then there’s the worldclass Baywood Greens golf course that winds it way through the community, creating backyard vistas like nothing else around. And if that weren’t enough, there are marinas with boat slips with access to Rehoboth Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, beaches, restaurants and shopping all just minutes away.

Known as the “Augusta of the North,” Baywood Greens is by far the most visually spectacular golf course in Delaware and is consistently ranked #1 by Golf Digest’s Best in State.

Spring, a Perfect Time for Golf

Despite the fact that some of us in New Jersey and the surrounding region were fortunate enough to get out on the courses during what can only be described as an unusually mild winter with little snow and ice, spring is still a splendid time to reboot the game and prepare for months of fun and competition. And is there anything that smells as sweet as freshly mown grass on a sunny spring morning?

In this issue of Golfing Magazine, we give you the lowdown on happenings at several courses, including the majestic Seaview Resort and Golf Club. The resort features two championship layouts, the Bay and the Pines courses.

The Bay Course presents a Scottish-links feel, dramatic seaside views, deep pot bunkers and small undulating greens. The recent enhancement project included bunker renovations and cart path upgrades. All greenside bunkers were modified and rebuilt incorporating a

The Bay Course’s sister Pines Course opened in 1929 and was designed by William Flynn and Howard Toomey. Unlike the Bay Course. The Pines Course winds its way through woodlands, presenting elevation changes and bountiful doglegs. The course measures 6,800 yards, and features large bunkers and expansive, sloping greens.

Harbor Pines Golf Club is finishing up phase two of a threepart renovation. Phase one was the construction of a new pro shop, which offers the latest in golf equipment and apparel and fully updated locker rooms. Phase two includes “The Roost” and an all new pub and grill due to open this spring.

Harbor Pines is a parkland style golf course and is a unique design by Stephen Kay. The course is laid out so that (with only a few exceptions) each hole is private, meaning you won’t see other fairways or golfers during play. The course is set on 650 acres, offers five sets of tees and two sets of combination tees, wide manicured fairways and short rough.

We also visit Greate Bay Country Club (yes, the spelling is correct) is in the midst of a special year. It is the historic club’s 100th anniversary and things will be hopping in 2003.

The club traces its origins back to 1921 when Harvey Lakes hired Donald Ross to design Ocean City Country Club. Ross’ touch was limited, however, as Lake hired Willie Park, Jr. to complete the golf course a year later. Ocean City Country Club opened in 1923. In 1972, the club hired George and Fazio to redesign the 18-hole golf course and to add a driving range to the property.

Enjoy our digital magazine and keep returning to our sanctuary, the golf course. We hope you enjoy this issue and hit ‘em straight and long.

Cheers, Sean Fitzsimmons Publisher

Golf on 45 acres of pristine forest

Lessons for all skill levels 7 days a week

Practice on driving range, putting greens, and bunkers

Elevated above the rest...naturally Shop at the stocked Pro Shop

Memberships to a premier

course located adjacent to OVR

About us...

Shore Gate Golf Club has been perpetually ranked as one of the top public golf courses in New Jersey. Carved out of the trees, Shore Gate allows each group to feel unbothered as they navigate the course from start to finish. Whether you are looking for a round of golf, a membership to a premier golf course, lessons, or just a driving range, we have it all. Located just two miles from the

beach, Shore Gate is the perfect place to relax.

Seaview Resort Features Two Championship Courses

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

Alex McGann was absolutely chomping at the bit in early spring to get the show at the Seaview Resort and Golf Club fully operational.

“2023 is going to be another exciting golf season here at the club,” said the PGA Director of Golf. “We are in the process of finishing spring maintenance practices and reopening all 36 holes for the season. No drastic changes occurred in the offseason. However we are constantly working to improve overall turf conditions and our guest experience. We’ve been very fortunate to have sold out our membership programs for the season and have a great events schedule for members as well as plenty of additional events through the year.”

There were some changes at the club’s historic Bay Course heading into the 2022 season, when an enhancement project on the Hugh Wilson and Donald Ross-designed course was completed. The near $700,000 project, which began in October of 2021, focused on enhancing the overall aesthetics

of the golf course and improving playability. Turco Golf, a New Jersey-based golf course construction company, performed the construction work. The Bay Course had an grand opening ceremony in May of last year.

The Bay Course presents a Scottish-links feel, dramatic seaside views, deep pot bunkers and small undulating greens. The recent enhancement project included bunker renovations and cart path upgrades. All greenside bunkers were modified and rebuilt incorporating a technically advanced drainage and liner

system featuring Capillary Concrete. This new generation lining method increases the speed at which water flows through the bunker; minimizing washouts, reducing maintenance and producing superior playability. In addition, nearly 15,000 square feet of cart paths were replaced across the Bay Course.

“Turco Golf did an excellent job enhancing the Bay Course greenside bunkers,” said Dr. Kiran Patel, principal of the resort’s ownership group. “We were excited to show off the new bunkers to our members and golfers. We look forward to welcoming back the best LPGA players in the world to Seaview for the ShopRite LPGA Classic in June so they can again experience this Bay Course enhancement.”

McGann said, “The ShopRite LPGA Classic presented by ACER has a positive community impact and will be in the center of a packed May/June of Ladies Professional Golf in the state of New Jersey following the

Founders Cup at Upper Montclair, Inaugural Americas Open at Liberty National, and two weeks before the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship at Baltusrol. It’s a very exciting time for golf. To have Brooke Henderson here to defend her title as well as an impressive field we look forward to again playing host.”

The ShopRite LPGA Classic presented by ACER is more than just great golf. ShopRite’s charitable contributions since 1992 are over $38 million dollars with more than $1.5 million donated to local charities following each tournament.

The Bay Course on which the tournament is played opened in 1914. The 6,300yard layout is less a test of length, and more a test of imagination, accuracy and short game.

The Bay Course’s sister Pines Course opened in 1929 and was designed by William Flynn and Howard Toomey. Unlike the Bay Course. The Pines Course winds its way through woodlands, presenting elevation changes and bountiful doglegs. The course measures 6,800 yards, and features large bunkers and expansive, sloping greens. The 16th hole was the site of Sam Snead’s miraculous 60-foot chip-in to win the 1942 PGA Championship, his first major.

Beyond the great golf on the resort’s two championships courses, there’s another reason to visit Seaview, a major one being the charming 296 guest room hotel. When combined with two completely distinct golf courses filled with championship history many individuals make it a two or three-day stay to take in all the resort has to offer as well as visit nearby Atlantic City and boardwalk and the sites in historic Smithville. “There is plenty to do on and off the course,” said McGann.

McGann added, “Our play comes from a variety of areas. We have a strong local contingent that includes our membership of about 275 golfers, but also attract resort guests in our hotel or neighboring Marriott Fairway Villas, as well as seasonal shore traffic. We get a very large push from those traveling `down the shore’ from Memorial day to Labor day and highlight golfers from all over the region.”

McGann talked about two of his favorite holes on the two courses.

“The fourth on the Pines Course, a 424yard par-four, commands a tough tee shot to a near 90-degree right turn in a narrow landing area. If you’re lucky to clear the bunker on the right and catch the fairway leads to about 175 yard shot downhill to a small green. Try to hit a cut over and clear the bunker to setup that

second shot.

“And on the Bay Course, the 12th hole, a 344-yard par-four, makes a sharp turn about 220 from the middle box or 260 from the back. It calls for a pretty precise tee shot but an even more strategic shot to one of the smallest green complexes on property as both sides fall off to catch areas. My trick is to hit (attempt to) the fairway right as it turns right typically with something less than driver and leave about 100 yards into the green to give yourself the best chance to hit it.”

The Bay Course measures 6,252 yards from the tips but there’s plenty of challenge in that distance. The par-71 course features shortish par-fours, several reachable-in-two par-fives, including the 480-yard 18th, and four par-threes that range in distance from the 113-yard 17th to the 228-yard 11th hole.

The Pines has a par of 71 and plays about

6,600 yards. There are five par-threes and three par-fives. The 15th and 16th are long, tough par-threes measuring 232 and 220 respectively. Par on both is a solid score. The course ends as the Bay Course does, with a par-five that plays 499 yards. Birdie on the last hole is a pleasing way to end a round.

The resort offers impeccable accommodations that vary in size and scope, as well as three dining choices, including a cozy lounge/ bar where you can kick back and talk over the day’s play on the golf course. There’s an outdoor and an indoor pool for relaxing after a hectic day.

I n t r o d u c i n g T h e N e w N a t i o n a l P r e m i e r M e m b e r s h i p w i t h O v e r n i g h t A c c o m m o d a t i o n s

E x p e r i e n c e M o s e l e m S p r i n g s f o r y o u r s e l f t o t r u l y u n d e r s t a n d t h e p e a c e a n d s e r e n i t y t h a t e n c o m p a s s e s t h i s s p e c t a c u l a r g o l f c o u r s e S t a y t h e n i g h t i n o n e o f o u r g u e s t s u i t e s , e n j o y d i n n e r a t G u e n t h e r ' s P u b , a n d w a k e u p t o a n i n c r e d i b l e v i e w o f t h e r o l l i n g c o u n t r y s i d e w i t h o n e o f A m e r i c a ' s g r e a t e s t g o l f c o u r s e s j u s t o u t s i d e y o u r d o o r

LPGA and PGA of America

Announce 2023 as the Year of Women’s Golf in New Jersey, With Four Prestigious Events Descending on the Garden State, Highlighted by a Major Championship

The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and The PGA of America (PGA) have announced that 2023 will be the Year of Women’s Golf in New Jersey, with four prestigious golf tournaments descending on the Garden State, highlighted by a Major Championship. The 2023 lineup of tournaments that will take place over a six-week span across Northern and Southern N.J. include:

• Cognizant Founders Cup: May 10-14 at Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton

• Mizuho Americas Open: May 30 - June 4 at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City

• ShopRite LPGA Classic presented by Acer: June 7-11 at Seaview in Galloway Township

• KPMG Women’s PGA Championship: June 21-25 at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield

As one of a few states to host multiple women’s professional golf events in a calendar year, New Jersey will establish a significant women’s golf footprint in 2023 that will showcase the best players in the world, while highlighting the importance of business leadership, mentorship and the empowerment of women and young girls through a host of unique marketing programs that coincide with the respective tournaments.

On the heels of the 50-year anniversary of Title IX, in 2023 golf fans and corporate hospitality partners/sponsors will get an upclose look at the game’s best professional women golfers who will compete for record purses that continue to positively impact the sport. Additionally, through philanthropic initiatives, special events and on-site activations, the combined efforts of these

events will further elevate opportunities in the sport so the next generation can dream big.

“We are thrilled that N.J. will be the epicenter of women’s golf in 2023, allowing the LPGA, PGA of America and our sponsors to use our collective platform to inspire young girls and women throughout NJ and the surrounding Tri-state region,” said Mollie Marcoux Samaan, LPGA Commissioner. “The combination of these four truly first-rate and meaningful events played at some of the best golf courses in the world in a major market provides a rare and exciting opportunity to not only elevate Women’s golf but also elevate the conversation around Women’s leadership and empowerment more broadly.”

“The PGA of America is especially proud to be a part of this important moment for women’s golf when we return to iconic Baltusrol Golf Club, the host of so many historical events, including the 2005 and 2016 PGA Championships, and showcase

the world’s best women golfers in a Major championship setting for the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship,” said Seth Waugh, CEO, PGA of America. “N.J. loves professional golf, and we are excited to be part of such a powerful lineup of women’s professional events across the Garden State in 2023.”

Waugh adds, “Not only will 2023 be engaging for fans and sponsors alike but hosting a Major championship and three LPGA Tour events across the state during a six-week span presents a significant economic impact for N.J., especially in the communities surrounding the tournament venues.”

In advance of the four events coming to New Jersey in 2023, women’s professional golf has experienced significant growth on a global scale and with readily growing purses. In 2023, the LPGA Tour’s 33 tournaments will offer a record-high $101.4 million in prize money to athletes representing more than 35 countries. In 2022, purses increased

at nine existing events, including the seasonending CME Group Tour Championship’s $7 million purse, with $2 million awarded to the champion. In June 2022, the purse at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship doubled from $4.5 to $9 million. The figure represented a 300% surge since 2014 ($2.25M), while the winner’s share on Sunday doubled to $1.35 million.

Adds Samaan, “This is a great time for women’s professional golf, but we will not stop here. The LPGA and its partners and sponsors are fully committed to exponential growth in both events and purses, allowing the talent of our great players to be showcased to the world.”

For more important on the 2023 lineup of women’s professional golf events in New Jersey, visit: Cognizant Founders Cup at www.thefounderslpga.com, KPMG Women’s PGA Championship at www.kpmgwomenspgachampionship. com, Mizuho Americas Open at www. mizuhoamericasopen.com, and ShopRite LPGA Classic at www.shopritelpgaclassic. com.

About the LPGA

The LPGA is the world’s leading professional golf organization for women. Founded in 1950 and headquartered in Daytona Beach, Fla., the association celebrates a diverse and storied membership with more than 2,300 Members representing more than 30 countries. With a vision to inspire, empower, educate and entertain by showcasing the very best of women’s golf, LPGA Tour Professionals compete across the globe, while the Epson Tour, the official development and qualifying tour of the LPGA, consistently produces a pipeline of talent ready for the world stage. Additionally, LPGA Professionals directly impact the game through teaching, coaching and management. The LPGA demonstrates its dedication to the development of the game through The LPGA Foundation. Since 1991, this charitable organization has been committed to empowering and supporting

girls and women through developmental, humanitarian and golf community initiatives, including LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, the LPGA Women’s Network and the LPGA Amateur Golf Association. Follow the LPGA on its U.S. television home, Golf Channel, online at www.LPGA.com and on its mobile apps. Join the social conversation on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and

YouTube.

About the PGA of America PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of nearly 28,000 PGA Professionals who work daily to grow interest and inclusion in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

About Rutgers Golf Course

The 18-hole Rutgers University Golf Course is open to the general public and tee times start at 7AM weekdays and 6AM on weekends in the height of the season.

Over 6,300 yards in length, the picturesque, tree-lined, PGA sanctioned course is a par 71 and offers a challenging layout with four teeing areas per hole. Highlights include narrow fairways, fast greens, and water hazards on nine seven holes.

The Pro Shop

The Pro Shop offers a variety of Rutgers branded and professional golf merchandise. Speceial orders are welcome. Our selection of name brand merchandise includes:

Practice and Teaching Facility

Rutgers Golf Course has a 28-bay driving range and an 11,000 square foot chipping and putting practice area. The practice green is available on the day of play to warm up and cool down. We recently added a new product, AccuRange, that provides GPS measured distances to each flag on the range through an app on your phone!

848-445-2637

rugolfcourse@ipo.rutgers.edu

golfcourse.rutgers.edu

Harbor Pines Is Challenging and Scenic

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

Recently voted the number one country club in the Egg Harbor Township area by local golfers, Harbor Pines Golf Club is known for its outstanding conditions and sweet, fast rolling greens.

“The goal of our club and its employees is to give the best customer service possible for an all around outstanding experience from the moment guests arrive,” said Deb Stevenson, Director of Sales and Marketing. “We are a full-service club with practice facilities, on and off course food and beverage services, men’s and ladies’ locker rooms and of course some of the best golf in South Jersey. It’s not uncommon for golfers to stick around a little longer than usual to enjoy the atmosphere.”

The club is finishing up phase two of a three-part renovation. Phase one was the construction of a new pro shop, which offers the latest in golf equipment and apparel and fully updated locker rooms. Phase two includes

“The Roost” and an all new pub and grill due to open this spring. Along with the indoor bar and comfortable seating, The Roost offers a large wrap-around deck and patio overlooking the first tee and ninth and 18th greens. It’s a perfect place for golfers to convene before or after their round and enjoy watching the on course action. Phase three will begin later this year and includes a full update and renovation of the existing clubhouse and banquet facilities.

The club celebrated its 25 anniversary last year with a variety of special events and giveaways.

“We have been serving the entire Tri-State area for over 25 years,” said Stevenson. “We have a wonderful community of golfers here in Atlantic County, many of whom have taken advantage of one of our membership offerings. Of course, our location, being so close to popular shore points, brings in many summer home owners and vacationers as well. Harbor

Pines is also the area’s golf tournament specialist. We are host to many events that benefit people and organizations from all over the region including Philadelphia, North Jersey, New York and Delaware.”

Stevenson began at Harbor Pines as a seasonal employee 26 years ago. She started working full-time 16 years ago and oversees the club’s marketing and advertising initiatives as well as special events and golf tournaments. She is a Certified Golf Tournament Planner and her “passion” is helping events reach their goals.

Harbor Pines is a parkland style golf course and is a unique design by Stephen Kay. The course is laid out so that (with only a few exceptions) each hole is private, meaning you won’t see other fairways or golfers during play. The course is set on 650 acres, offers five sets of tees and two sets of combination tees, wide manicured fairways and short rough.

Said Stevenson, “There aren’t a lot of gim-

micks, just a pure design that is challenging but fair. We are also proud to be part of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. We protect the natural areas and wildlife habitats. Golfers may enjoy seeing deer, turkeys and other wildlife during their rounds, including Bald Eagles, which nest on our grounds.”

Stevenson said the ninth hole is considered the toughest on the course. The number one handicap hole looks pretty straight forward, but the fairway slopes to either water on the left or woods on the right, so each shot requires premium accuracy. “For me and my high handicap, I try not kill it off the tee, I’d rather be straight and accurate than long. Even a long hitter will need very good, very accurate shots to make par here.”

Let’s take a look at the holes on the special course that plays 6,827 yards with a par of 72.

The first is a rather challenging way to start a round. It’s a par-five playing 505 yards from the tips. The difficult part is the water to the left running all the way to the green, making the drive and layup tricky.

Number two is a 380-yard, par-four that is narrow off the tee. On the approach to the green you must steer clear of several bunkers that guard the putting surface.

The third hole is a 170-yard par-three that has bunkers protecting the green.

Number four is a 400-yard, par-four and

there’s a bunker guarding a bend in the fairway to complicate the drive and one near the putting surface.

The fifth is the first of several long parfours. The 452-yarder has water protecting the right side of the green that will catch a wayward approach shot.

Number six changes things up from the previous hole and is a driveable 304-yard par-four. Having a big stick in your hands can prove a bad choice though if you stray with your tee shot and find water to the right of the hole.

The seventh hole is a 526-yard par-five that offers another birdie chance if the drive and second shot are true. There’s a cross bunker protecting the green, so perhaps a layup and a wedge into the putting surface is the wise choice.

The eighth hole is a stern, 215-yard, par-three that demands a tee shot over water. Make sure to chose the right club to safely fly the ball over a pond.

The ninth is another long par-four that plays 460 yards from the back markers. Once again there is water to steer clear of on the left side of the fairway running all the way to the green.

The 10th is a 540-yard, par-five that is a dogleg right and again there is water to stay away from all the way to the green.

The 11th hole is a 182-yard par-three that features two large bunkers near the

green and water to the left to catch missed approach shots.

Number 12 is another short par-four measuring 339 yards. There is water near the green and several bunkers scattered about to make a drive and wedge into the green dicey.

The 13th is a 400-yard, par-four that bends slightly to the left. There’s a fairway bunker that makes the hole narrower off the tee and several sand traps protecting the green.

The 14th is yet another short par-four and birdie hole that plays 335 yards. There are two bunkers near the green.

The 15th is a par-three playing 179 yards with a large bunker guarding the left side of the green.

The 16th hole is a 402-yard, par-four that has three bunkers in the fairway landing area and three near the green.

The 17th plays 401 yards and is another solid par-four that bends slightly to the right. There are bunkers to carry short of the green.

The finisher is a real good 487-yard, parfive that is reachable in two for the big hitters. There are bunkers in the fairway landing area and near the green.

Harbor Pines Golf Club

Egg Harbor Township, N.J. 609-927-0006

www.HarborPines.com

C o m e j o i n u s a n d p l a y a t r u l y u n i q u e a n d c h a l l e n g i n g c o u r s e t h a t f e a t u r e s e l e v a t e d t e e s , s l o p i n g f a i r w a y s a n d i n t e r e s t i n g w a t e r h a z a r d s . L o c a t e d o n t h e g r o u n d s o f a n o l d i r o n o r e m i n e , a n d o r i g i n a l l y c o n s t r u c t e d i n t h e l a t e 5 0 ’ s a n d e a r l y 6 0 ’ s , T h e C l u b a t T w i n L a k e s h a s b e e n f u l l y r e n o v a t e d , c o m p l e t e w i t h c o u r s e u p g r a d e s , n e w b a n q u e t a n d d i n i n g f a c i l i t i e s , a n d t h e n e w W i l d T u r k e y G r i l l

A Special Year for Historic Greate Bay Country Club

By, JOHN TORSIELLO

This is a special year for Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point, New Jersey. It is the historic club’s 100th anniversary and things will be hopping in 2023.

“We are all proud to be part of the lineage of Greate Bay and the incredible history of team members, members, guests, owners and events,” said Frank Ruocco, one of a limited number of new owners. “We will be celebrating all season with our special edition centennial logo that pays homage to our original course architect, Willie Park Jr.”

A little back-story. In 1921, Harvey Lakes hired Donald Ross to design Ocean City Country Club. Ross’ touch was limited, however, as Lake hired Park, Jr. to complete the golf course a year later. Ocean City Country Club opened in 1923. In 1972, the club hired George and Fazio to redesign the 18-hole golf course and to add a driving range to the property. Sands Casino purchased Ocean City Country Club in 1981 and renamed it Sands Country Club, which drew celebs such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. In 1988, former golf professional Archie Struthers and a group of limited partners purchased the club. From 1988-97, it hosted the ShopRite LPGA Classic.

In 2004, Mark Benevento, former Philadelphia 76ers owner Pat Croce and a group of limited partners purchased the club and rename it “Greate Bay.” The new owners took over two years ago.

Park designed a course that stands the test of time. Director of Golf Matt Crowley called Greate Bay a parkland course. Trees border tight fairways that feed to small green complexes surrounded by bunkers.

Said Crowley, “The course is always in great

shape, greens are the best in the area, you can always find a game, pace of play is the fastest I have seen in all of my years in the golf industry, the clubhouse and amenities offer everything a member would need in a club.”

Ruocco explained, “The club’s Best in Class Member Guest tournament this year will have a theme based on our first 100 years, and the history of the club. On July 16, the club will be hosting a 100th anniversary party with a 1920’s theme to commemorate the year Greate Bay

Country Club was built.”

The course continues to go through improvements and enhancements, said Ruocco. “We have instituted a comprehensive bunker renovation project at our members’ request. We are also improving several of the cart paths, as well as preparing for our tunnel replacement project in the winter season. In advance of the tunnels, we have rebuilt the entrance and exit retaining walls and related drainage.”

In addition, several tee boxes have been modified or improved as part of the beginning of a more comprehensive course program. “We have also constructed a new green complex for the 11th hole as well as an entire new hole, inclusive of multi level tees, bunkering and a water feature, for future use as a new 12th hole,” said Ruocco. “Lastly, we are re-locating our halfway house to a more convenient and accessible location on the golf course.”

Ruocco said the club will “continue to enhance our new outdoor patio areas with fire pits, bar and restaurant service.” He added, “We have largely renovated the clubhouse, from the entrance to the exit. Members will enjoy a new, centrally located pro-shop stocked with all the essentials, including the latest branded golf apparel. The entrance, banquets areas, bars and support areas have all undergone a complete update and renovation, including flooring, additional windows, bars and an outdoor elevated deck. We are most excited about the new underground cart storage area that presented an exceptional outdoor patio area that will be able to accommodate events of up to 250 people, while overlooking the bay and brand new wedding garden.”

Crowley said ,”The patio terrace is fully equipped with a service bar and an area to watch fellow members finishing their rounds on number 18. We have fully renovated the teeing area and green surround on hole on number 13 along with bunker restoration on seven other holes on the course. The new halfway house will be much more convenient for our membership.”

“We are all proud of team members, members, guests, owners and events,” said Ruocco. “There are a number of secondary reasons to play Greate Bay. The course is conveniently located, always in great shape, the greens are consistently fast and true, pace of play is exceptional and the clubhouse offers all the amenities a true golf club should. But the number one reason anyone should play Greate Bay is the people. I am referring to the team and the entire membership. The overall experience

whether you are playing or working is welcoming, inclusive, and fun. Greate Bay is known to be the best game around, that’s what makes it so special.”

Greate Bay draws many members from South Jersey. However, due to a convenient South Jersey location and proximity to several seasonal high population areas, the club has members from all over New Jersey, Philadelphia and New York. “Our membership is an eclectic, diversified group that creates the fabric of the club,” said Ruocco.

Greate Bay is indeed a parkland course. Trees border tight fairways that feed small greens complexes surrounded by bunkers. It’s a challenging, fun golf course. Greate Bay plays to a par of 70 with only two par-fives and three par-threes. The yardage is around 6,350 from the back tees and you can score here if you keep your ball straight off the tee and on approach shots. Many of the fairways and green complexes have multiple sand traps, which serve to toughen the course.

The sixth hole is the only par-five on the front and it plays 548 yards from the tips. There are several bunkers in the fairway landing area and three large traps protecting the green. The ninth is a tough par-three, playing 216 yards from the back markers. There is a small pond to the left of the green and sand traps in the front of the putting surface. Par here is a great score.

The 11th hole is a 423-yard par-four that has a bunker on the right side of the fairway landing area and two bunkers front and to the right of the green. The 12th is a great riskreward hole. The 412-yard par four has a stream bisecting the fairway and water in front of the

green that must be avoided.

The 13th is a 175-yard par-three that seems simple enough but there’s water at the back of the green that will penalize too long a shot. The 17th is a challenging 423-yard par four that has a pond to the right side of the fairway landing area and a putting surface that is surrounded by sand traps.

Ruocco said as to what hole is the toughest on the course is the cause of much internal debate among members. “The second hole eats me alive, but as Matt will very quickly point out, that’s because I’m not that good. I think there are several holes in the discussion, but holes 10 and 13 keep coming up. The 13th is very sneaky and unassuming. It’s a par-three that plays anywhere from 160 to 200 yards and has a small elevated green surrounded by penalizing bunkers.”

Offers Crowley, “I would say hole number 13 is the toughest. For an unassuming parthree, it probably yields the highest score to par on the course. A small green, surrounded by bunkers calls for a precise tee shot.”

Ruocco said with change there comes analysis but in this instance all talk has been favorable. “The feedback from the membership over the past year and a half has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive. We all are working to make Greate Bay a place we are proud to be part of, proud to present and proud to bring guests.”

Greate Bay Country Club

Somers Point, N.J. 609-927-5071

www.greatebay.com

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Apopular beach resort is now the hottest golf destination on the East Coast! Ocean City, Maryland offers activities for everyone to enjoy, and is “Close To Home and Close To Perfect”. Ocean City Golf Getaway brings one stop hassle free shopping for your golfing vacation.

OC Golf Getaway has made choices simple. Included are varieties of all inclusive service-oriented packages with championship golf, hotels, condominiums, golf course townhomes, restaurants, golf schools, and entertainment.

“Ocean City Golf Getaway has been catering to golf enthusiasts and booking their Buddy’s Golf Trip since the early 1980’s, said Walter M. Brooks, Chief Operating Officer of OC Golf Getaways. “We have 17 championship courses, which rank nationally in Golf Digest and Golf Magazine’s ‘Top 100’. It’s challenging

coastal golf, designed by legendary players and world renowned golf architects.”

For after golf, said Brooks, there is 10 miles of white sandy beaches with a world famous-three-mile boardwalk to enjoy and there are luxury accommodations from oceanfront to bayfront hotels and condos. The area also boasts excellent dining venues

and an exciting nightlife to keep you going all day and night. There are activities and year-round events, such as concerts, golf tournaments, wine tasting, fishing tournaments and more.”

Ocean City features as perfect climate for playing the game with the warm waters of the Atlantic keeping the temperatures mild well into fall, with courses staying open year-round.

“We are less than a half-day’s drive from the Northeast,” said Brooks. “We have great stay and play packages with more added value, group leader incentives, and packages for all golfers’ needs and budget.

Ocean City is serviced by American Airlines into the Salisbury/Ocean City Regional Airport via Charlotte, North Carolina and Philadelphia. For information and reservations, contact American Airlines at 800-433-7600. Flights fly directly into Salisbury, Maryland. Salisbury is

- Rum Pointe (Hole # 17)

a 20-minute drive to Ocean City. Ocean City Municipal Airport can be contacted for direct charter service by calling 410213-2471, or contact your local airport for further information.

When planning next year’s summer family vacation, don’t forget about championship golf at great value. You can take advantage of discounted prices that range from $40 to $65 for 18 holes with cart included. If you are coming to Ocean City and have a place to stay, you can book your tee times on OC Golf Getaway’s Website or can always call us direct. There are attractive golf specials all summer long.

Said Brooks, “Plan, book and customize your next Buddy’s Golf Trip with us.” For information on the Ocean City area, visit www.OceanCityGolf.com or call 800-4-OC-Golf.

Here is a brief look at the courses you can play when you hook up with OC Golf Getaway:

Bayside Resort Golf Club

Bayside Resort Golf Club is Delaware’s

first Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, conveniently located just west of Fenwick Island, Delaware, off Rt. 54 and just 5 miles from Ocean City, Maryland. It features a state of the art clubhouse and practice facility with gorgeous views along the Assawoman Bay coastline and magnificent pine forests.

Baywood Greens

An “Exclusively Public” 18-Hole championship course, Baywood Greens offers golfers the most scenic and spectacular golf on the Delmarva Peninsula. Described as the “Augusta of the North”, at Baywood Greens you will experience meticulously, manicured woodland and waterside holes.

Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club

Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club offers one of the area’s most unique and memorable golf experiences on the Eastern Shore and is located in Ocean View, Delaware, just 3 miles west of Bethany Beach. Winding bentgrass fairways are lined with native wetland grasses that drift into stunning sand dunes.

Eagle’s Landing

Eagle’s Landing boasts the most scenic and challenging golf course on the Eastern Shore. Eagle’s Landing has been rated “Best in State” in Maryland by Golf Digest and is the first certified Audubon Sanctuary in Maryland. A variety of links style holes with carries over marsh and wetlands.

Glen Riddle--Man O’ War

GlenRiddle Golf Club (a 36 hole championship golf facility) is the centerpiece of the GlenRiddle residential development located just minutes from Ocean City, Maryland. The Man O’ War course features pure, windswept links golf. The golfer faces challenges often found in the British Isles.

Glen Riddle--War Admiral

GlenRiddle Golf Club (a 36 hole championship golf facility) is the centerpiece of the GlenRiddle residential development located just minutes from Ocean City, Maryland. The War Admiral course is routed through mature forest and offers a completely different golf experience.

Heritage Shore Club

Heritage Shores Club offers an excit

- Bayside Resort (Hole # 13)

ing Arthur Hills designed championship golf course, featuring a signature design with water flanking a majority of the holes and an elegant Nantucket inspired clubhouse providing a comfortable and inviting retreat with every visit.

Links at Lighthouse Sound Golf Club

This 4 1/2 Star Championship Golf Overlooking the Bay and the Ocean City Skyline was designed by premier golf architect Arthur Hills, Lighthouse Sound and offers a great variety in terms of visual excitement and strategy. The championship course features marsh, river and bay on 15 of the 18 holes.

Nutters Crossing Golf Club

“Southern Hospitality at Its Best”, Nutters Crossing Golf Club is strategically located off Rt. 50, just 25 miles west of Ocean City, Maryland. You will be welcomed with southern hospitality when you arrive at their classic colonial clubhouse.

Ocean City Golf Club--Newport Bay

Newport Bay Course has all 18 holes alongside marsh and bay vistas and recognized as one of the premier routing in the area. The course has great conditions.

Ocean City Golf Club--Seaside

The Seaside Course at Ocean City Golf Club offers players at every level of experience, age, and ability a round of golf with

solitude and beauty that will inspire you to challenge the course and evaluate both your play and enjoyment of the game.

Ocean Pines Golf Club

Discover golf at the only Robert Trent Jones, Sr. designed golf course on the Eastern Shore. With a new clubhouse and 18 newly restored greens, this timeless classic is sure to win you over as you make your way through tree lined fairways.

Rum Pointe Seaside Golf Links

“A true seaside golf course,” says designer Pete and P.B. Dye. Rum Pointe overlooks Assateague Island National Seashore and the Sinepuxent Bay with no less than seventeen of the eighteen holes having a bay view and several holes having direct bay frontage.

See why “Great Golf Is Just The Beginning” in Ocean City, Maryland. Visit www.OceanCityGolf.com or Call (800) 4-OC-Golf

- Links at Lighthouse Sound (Hole # 5)

- Baywood Greens (Hole # 18)