our expert panel talks putting fundamentals
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Scene M A G A Z INE
Sou t h w e s t e r n O n t a r i o ’s G o l f S o u rc e
Volume 11 | Issue 3 | Fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
I always put pressure on myself. I'm my biggest critic and a bit of a perfectionist, but it's been that way my whole life. So I wouldn't say that there is any more pressure now.
TIME WITH TIGER
Sean Foley offers us all a little advice that he's picked up from working with the world's #1 player
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TAP & TURN FOR THE OFF-LINE GALLERY
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SEASON IN REVIEW
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SNEAK PEEKS 26
ARE YOU OPEN MINDED? 50 "When we opened the green fee was $1.00 for all day and the twilight rate was 50¢ We had guys who would drive up at 4:30, sit in their car ‘til 5PM and then pay the twilight rate, because that’s all the change they had in their pocket.”
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"The “Players’ Assistant” – the placard on the windscreen was a dead giveaway – slammed on the brakes of the Club Car, popped out and flashed a smile that was the product of pubescent braces and off-the-shelf whiteners. He wore the requisite windbreaker festooned with the resort’s logo, and his name and hometown (like we cared) were displayed on the faux-brass badge pinned to his chest.
FALL 2010
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THE EASIEST WAY IS TO JUST FLIP PAGES
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REGULARS NOTEBOOK : 8 Adam Hadwin
GREEN SIDE UP Tom Margetts QUINN ESSENTIALS Hal Quinn THE TARTAN CHAMELEON Carolanne Doig INSIDE THE ROPES Sean Foley MAINLY GOLF David Main AROUND THE GLOBE Paul Tribe TALKING IN YOUR BACKSWING Ian Hutchinson
SNEAK 16 PEEKS The Covenient 6 Pack DRIVING AROUND 35
TIME WITH TIGER 29
PROSpectives One elite panel of experts - equals - more insight, knowledge, and answers.
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CONTENTS
PUBLISHER’S WELCOME
»
CONGRATULATIONS! GolfScene contributors Terry Lenyk and Brent Long were both winners recently at the Golf Journalists Association of Canada (GJAC) awards.
Heading into the Fall of 2010 it’s time to reflect a little and also to look ahead with anticipation and a little 'what-do-we-do-next?' It’s been a great season for GolfScene with three print issues now behind us and, in my humble opinion, (more notably thanks to feedback from readers and advertisers) probably our best three publications to date. We are proud to be bringing you the best we can in regional golf news and always striving to keep things interesting, curious, sometimes funny and maybe even a bit controversial.
GolfScene TM
Terry won a second place in the 'Magazine Profile' category for his feature on Bill Paul of Golf Canada while Brent also took second for his photo of young Canadian golfers, Matt Hill and Nick Taylor. Brent’s award was in the 'Editorial Photo'category. Terry’s story and Brent’s photo both appeared in our summer 2009 edition.
Our contributors continue to provide us interesting content from their worlds of golf expertise. Hope you have enjoyed what Quinn and Hutchinson, Doig and Main, Tribe and Margetts have contributed. And, of course ‘Skip’ who has been with us from day one - we hope he stays with us for a long time. Following our successful test last year, we are filling this issue with ‘stories from the Summer of 2010’. It has been an eventful year for golf and golfers from our part of Ontario. Once again, we were blessed with a Canadian Open in our back yard at the historical St. George’s Golf and Country Club. A new Canadian name, Adam Hadwin emerged at this year’s tournament as the top Canadian finisher. We caught up with Adam a week later at The Jane Rogers Canadian Tour event at Clublink’s Greystone Golf Club. Read a little about Adam’s thoughts on his future in our notebook. We also spent a day down at the Economical Insurance Group Seaforth Country Classic. Always fun to watch the up and coming professionals from Canada and around the world. Had a chance to reminisce with Ken Doig, “the father of Seaforth Golf ” and wife Mary about how the club got started and a whole lot of other fun stuff that Ken loves to talk about. An amazing family! On the ladies side, we caught up with Ashley Sholer, an up and coming young professional golfer from Hamilton, Ontario. Read about the challenges that Ashley faces in her dream of becoming the next Annika.
SERVING SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO
Publisher
Norm Woods Operations Manager
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Steve Woods Contributors
Ian Hutchinson; Bill (Skip) Johns; Hal Quinn; Sean Foley Columnists
Carolanne Doig; Paul Tribe; David Main; Tom Margetts Cover
CUt & PASTE © GolfScene Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the expressed written permission of the publisher. The magazine is printed 3x per season and distributed to over 350 golf courses in southern Ontario, with additional distribution through selected golf outlets.
FALL 2010 : Volume 11 : Issue 3 Advertising rates and publishing schedules are available on request. Opinions expressed in signed articles are those of the author only and not necessarily those of the Publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts are invited, but their return cannot be guaranteed. Letters to the Editor may be edited for legalities and only signed letters will be considered for publication.
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Congratulations to all the 2010 golf winners from our circulation area, both professional and amateur. It’s been another banner year for Ontario golfers.
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And don’t forget to check out the next GolfScene contest. As one reader said recently “GolfScene has the best golf contests anywhere!” Our 2010 Footjoy (MyJoys) contest and our early Spring Ultimate Bag Tag contest were overwhelmingly successful. Thanks to all for their 'active' participation. More to follow - bookmark us at golfscene.ca Enjoy this issue. Send us your comments. We are always happy to hear from our readers. Let’s hope the weather continues and we all can enjoy some great autumn golf.
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Our popular destinationGOLF magazine is in the works. You should see it online in November. So if you're planning a trip - wait - and we'll have a few good options available.
www.golfscene.ca | GolfScene® Inc. 2010
Planning for some neat things in 2011. But for now, it's one shot at a time. Stay tuned! PLEASE RECYCLE
CANADIAN OWNED & OPERATED
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PREFERABLY TO A GOLFER
GIMMEES Âť
This is how we roll, eh !
Having a sense of humour should be a requirement for anyone who is going to play this game on a regular basis. The folks at Innerkip Highlands certainly appear to have one so we thought it only proper to forward it along to 10,000 of our closest friends. (Wonder who has actually tried to knock it through the ... we absolutely did not just endorse that)
The speed limit at
Piper's Heath in Milton always makes us smile - and actually slows us down. The power of unordinary suggestion we suppose.
Canadian Tour player Cesar Coello of Mexico had absolutely no idea what this odd shaped vehicle even was - parked between holes at Seaforth. So we told him it was the Canadian way to speed up the greens between nines. The slippier the better. Thaw out that stimpmeter. Not sure he completely understood or even believed us, but the mutual laughter sure didn't require any translation. With events on more than just this continent and players from as far away as Australia, the Canadian Tour really is an international operation and a fertile learning ground for the next wave of PGA Tour players. As a side note, Cesar finished T3 - excelente juego Cesar!
Not all that Plaid She doesn't have golf in her school - so we opted for golf camp. Actually, a pair of the GolfScene grandkids attended golf camp this summer. They both have clubs, enjoy time on the range, and have probably torn up most of the mini-putts in southern Ontario (including the glow in the dark variety) - but we thought it was time for a little formal instruction. Special thanks to Merry-Hill and the instructors there for a fun few days. It was great to see the kids outside (sunshine and fresh air is so underrated when it comes to the growth and vitality of the next generation), trying something new, learning a little, and smiling a lot.
Mississauga's Damon Crane finished in 13th place
at the U.S Kids World Junior Golf Championship (out of 150 kids) in only his 1st time attending this World Championship event.
Did they improve? Yes. Is the game easy? No. Will they play again? We think hope so but not for the reasons that golf might have hoped. If they do it will be because golf, unlike many activities, is a game that we can all play together.
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GolfScenery Âť
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It may be September, but if we look on the bright side, one of the unique benefits to our shortened season is the undeniable fact that we actually have four seasons ... and what better a time to play golf in Ontario than in the Fall. Case in colourful point is a grand image of an even greater Muskoka golf course. Grandview #17 www.clublink.ca
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NOTEBOOK [ steve woods ]
Abbotsford, BC's Adam Hadwin may be a rookie on the Canadian Tour but being Top 5 in the 'Order of Merit' meant an exemption into the Canadian Open which translated into a 68,66,70, and 71 (-5) at St George's - good enough for a share of 37th place, $19,890 and the Rivermead Cup as low Canadian. We caught up with Adam at the Jane Rogers Championship.
When Canadian Adam Hadwin teed it up on Thursday of the Canadian Open there was barely a sound - our guess is there was not even 4 or 5 spectators. But by the time he had almost completed his 4 days of exceptional play there was the 'roar of the weekend' and about a few thousand more eyes when he stuck his timely approach to within a foot. We'd never heard of him - neither had anyone else for that matter. So we caught up with him at his next event, a Canadian Tour stop, to learn a little more about the Abbotsford BC native. HISTORY OF HADWIN : You seemed to come out of nowhere AH: Yeah - for the Open for sure. Definitely, I wasn't on the map. The two coasts are kind of separate. The guys out East really don't know the guys out West and the guys from out West don't know much about the guys out East - not a lot of mixing going on. It was definitely a breakthrough at the Canadian Open - I know that.
get out and play 2010
THE ABBOTSFORD CONNECTION : Something very cool going on out there with you, Nick Taylor, James Lepp1 ... AH: Yeah, same golf course too - it's one of those little city run courses that are on the side of a mountain where you need to play well - maybe it's something in the water. It's just one of those courses2 where you can go out after 4 or 5 o'clock and just sort of chip around and have some fun. ORIGINS : You took up the game ... AH: It wasn't until around age 13 when I began to take the game somewhat serious. Played all of the other sports up until then. ROOKIE SEASON : Professional life on the Canadian Tour thus far ... AH: It's been going great thus far - I really couldn't ask for anything more, besides a win maybe, but I have had my chances and my worst finish is 13th. Just trying to take it a day at a time, a shot at a time, try not to get ahead of myself, not get too down on myself, and have some fun.
the 400 Series of highways is meant to get us around the province quickly and easily ... sort of made us think of just how truly accessible so many great golf courses really are ...
NEXT LEVEL : What will you need to do to improve - to get to the next level ... AH: Well, definitely for me the short game is the biggest thing right now. After playing in the Open you see how good PGA players are with their wedges and in and around the greens. They just rarely make mistakes. I putted horribly at the Open but worked on it and seem to be putting much better now.
ON GREYSTONE3 : Your thoughts on this course ... AH: Love this course. It is a great test of golf. The rough sneaks up on you, the greens are getting firmer - you really have to golf your ball.
ADDED PRESSURE : After the Open is there a different personal expectation? AH: I always put pressure on myself. I'm my biggest critic and a bit of a perfectionist, but it's been that way my whole life. So I wouldn't say that there is any more pressure now.
For the audio version of our chat - visit us at golfscene.ca
1
Nick Taylor & James Lepp are among the Country's best young talents - you can learn more about them
and what they are up to now at golfscene.ca (HINT: Taylor probably turning Pro : Lepp running KIKKOR Golf)
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The course is Ledgeview - where juniors 18 & under can get an annual membership (unlimited range
included) for $500 - and no you probably won't find it on anyone's TOP 100 - perhaps it should be
3
Greystone Golf Club is a ClubLink facility in Milton - INTERESTING: Adam's scores relative to par while in
Ontario - St George's (-5), Greystone (-3), Seaforth (-9)
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184 yards to a back pin, slight breeze, cut a 5 iron, to a foot, hear the roar, walk up the 18th fairway on Sunday, enjoy the ovation, tap in for birdie, take in the moment, sign a bunch of autographs (then your card), hang around for a few minutes, raise the Rivermead Cup.
any given sunday Sunday, July 25th, 2010
Adam Hadwin of Abbotsford B.C. captured the Rivermead Cup as low Canadian at the 2010 Canadian Open photo: B.Brault
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REVIEW
SUMMER REWIND
Dean Wilson was a picture of consistency shooting 65, 65, 65, in his first 3 rounds including 26 putts per round in each. Number one on the week in putting translated into a second place finish and a PUTT FOR DOUGH take of $550,800. Carl Pettersson gets his victorious final round underway as he walks up the first fairway. His record breaking round the day before included 100% driving accuracy - adequately correcting the clichĂŠ from DRIVE FOR SHOW to DRIVE FOR REALLY LOW. Thick, lush, dense, and long (41/2 inches), the grass at St George's was more than a little rough around the edges.
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We asked a few random patrons down at the tournament and while most unscripted, impromptu, content tends to be a little basic and bland (the general public is not always ready to ad lib) it is honest and we think that accounts for something ...
"Fantastic. Getting some sun and following Camilo!" - a pair of local girls who have never played the game using an iPhone to try and get a picture
"(in a whisper) Great. I'm here with my Dad and my son watching some great golf - hoping it doesn't rain."
- middle aged dude in a Nike shirt, TaylorMade hat, carrying an Adams Golf umbrella, and wearing his golf shoes? (Footjoy)
"It's awesome. And sure beats being at work. Hey, do you know where we can catch Fred Couples?"
- three corporate hustlers, holding Coronas, playing hookie on Friday afternoon - Couples had played in the morning
Carl Pettersson followed up a Canadian Open record 60 on the softened St George's fairways Saturday with a win on Sunday. A fairly significant weekend seeing as he only made the cut on the number.
"Seriously? (pause while we nod) I can't say there seems to be much going on. Waiting for something to happen I suppose. Just saw David Duval - that was kind of neat - didn't realize he was still playing. Wasn't he the #1 player in the world once? (pause while we nod). Guess I just don't recognize many of these guys. Do you know how I can get to the 16th hole?
7 - the number of beers Carl Pettersson claims to have consumed while waiting to see if he made the cut on Friday night. 60 - the number of 67 - his final round score which was just enough to crown him champion. ? - the number of beers he drank on Sunday night! or perhaps why you are reading this magazine sideways.
FANtastically ambiguous
strokes it took him to make his way around St George's on Sauturday.
St George's played host to this year's Canadian Open Championship and it was ...
- guy in his 40s - there by himself tickets provided by a client.
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2010 REVIEW Signing In and Showing Up
REVIEW
With the likes of actor Kevin Dillon (Johnny Drama on the HBO hit series Entourage), Toronto Maple Leaf Captain Dion Phaneuf, and others on hand celebrity Monday at St George's was a great kick off to the tournament week. And all of the lament around the date being right after the British Open didn't stop Luke Donald, Stephen Ames, Sean O'Hair, Trevor Immelman or even Paul Casey from making the overnight trip to support a great cause. Casey, as you will remember, was in the final pairing at St Andrew's and still managed to get transatlantic and on the practise tee by 10:30 am the next day.
Mike Weir was all smiles on Monday as the celebs were once again on hand to support his Charity Classic. $350,000 was raised for Mike's foundation that is dedicated to advancing the physical, emotional, and educational welfare of children in need. Just one more reason for Canadians to be very proud of Mike.
Weyburn Saskatchewan's Graham DeLaet has been making some big strides on the PGA Tour this year and, as of the Canadian Open, was sitting 116th on the PGA Money List. Unfortunately, even a custom 'Canadianized' headcover could not warm up his putter and he missed the cut at St George's. Graham leads Canada's next wave of PGA Tour players and is, hopefully, on his way to retaining his card / playing status on the big circuit for next season.
Stephen Ames does his fair share of yeomen's work for the kids - seen here signing autographs prior to the Mike Weir Charity Classic - and on page 43 where he hosts / helps juniors as part of the 6th annual Stephen Ames cup.
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Twenty year old Michelle Wie went wire to wire in Winnepeg to capture the 2010 Canadian Women's Open. It was Michelle's second victory on the LPGA Tour. photo: Golf Canada
High expectations turned south quickly as an apparent tendinitis flare up and poor play ended Mike's hopes early - as evidenced by his body language come Friday. The realization that yet another missed cut was imminent also added fuel to the already burning media speculation that his chances of winning again, realistically, may be fading. Add to that the recent revelation that Weir has a season ending partially torn ligament in his right elbow - and there may just be some reasons for concern.
Canadian Tour Stops Aaron Goldberg went 2 for 3 in Ontario with a win at the Jane Rogers Championship in Milton in addition to capping off the most dominant year in the Canadian Tour's history with a victory in St Catherine's at the Tour Championship. Regina's Kent Eger returned to the winners circle in Seaforth. Eger captured the bronze plate in 2008 as well.
photo: Grant Fraser
John Daly made it through the weekend but fell short of the Saturday cut. A quirky tour rule that saw fans miss out on 3 former Major Champions in John, Paul Azinger and Lee Janzen. Daly still draws large galleries but one has to wonder whether they are there to see him play or, perhaps, just to be in a better position to witness the downward spiral.
Hunter Mahan steadies things on the range during the Canadian Open under the watchful eye of Coach Sean Foley. "Hunter is hitting it as well as he ever has, right now", noted Foley. Mahan proceeded to top the PGA Tour's statistical best in driving accuracy by 10% for the week and finished in the top 20. And from there he proceeded to best the very best in the world to win the WGC Bridgestone Invitational. Read Sean's column and some great advice on what he learned while working with Tiger - on page 29. Hunter was using a club that you couldn't have,THEN (see page 17)
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2010 REVIEW
C Ngratulations Toronto's Rebecca Lee-Bentham captured the 2010 Royale Cup Canadian Junior Girls Championship. The 18-yearold ended the tournament with a score of 7368-67-70-278 (-6).
Rebecca Lee-Bentham captured the Canadian Junior Girls Championship. Richard Jung
Adam Svensson
Eugene Wong
Albin Choi
Cam Burke
Three very, very, very, good reasons to be optimistic about the future of Canadian Golf
Canadians 'owned' the podium so to speak at this year's Canadian Men's Amateur Championship. At 18 years young, Toronto native Albin Choi capped off a remarkable week with a sizzling 66 in the final round to post 17 under. Choi's four-round total of 271 ties Richard Zokol (1981) for the best stroke-play finish in Canadian Men’s Amateur history, and lowest since the event returned to stroke-play format in 2008. BC's Eugene Wong finished in second while two time defending champion Cam Burke, of New Hamburg, took third. This year's event featured an international 240 player field competing over 72-holes with a 36 hole cut. London Hunt & Country Club and Redtail Golf Club were dual hosts.
Toronto's Richard Jung was crowned the 2010 Canadian Junior Boys Champion. Jung held the lead throughout the week at the Richmond Country Club and finished with a four day total of 283 (-5). Jung has participated in the last four Canadian Junior Boys Championships, this was his first win. Richard also won the CN Future Links Ontario Championship, placed third at the Callaway Golf Junior World Championship, and made it to the quarter finals at the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship. In the Juvenile Division, Adam Svensson of Surrey B.C., took home the title.
Bunker to Bunker to Bunker Woodbridge native Dave Bunker, once again, captured Canada’s prestigious Mid-Amateur golf crown. Bunker carded a fourround total of 279 (-5) at the 24th playing of the Canadian Men’s Mid-Amateur Championship at The Royal Ottawa Golf Club. For his efforts, Bunker also nabbed 40 and over MidMasters division for a fifth time in a row. With the win, Bunker earns an exemption into the 2011 playing of the Canadian Open to be held next summer at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club. Bunker played in this year's Canadian Open based on his 2009 victory. His totals at St George's were 71,71 - good enough for par, but not to make the cut.
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SNEAK PEEKS » White is the New Black? The new Backdraft GT+ from Tour Edge features a high-contrast white head and jumbo size grip. These two performance enhancing features are meant to deliver unprecedented levels of accuracy and forgiveness. Optic Technology increases the contrast between the golf ball and the green helping you focus on the leading edge and alignment aids - the more contrast, the easier an object is to see. Alignment technology is only half the story, the GT’s jumbo grip helps prevent golfers’ wrists from breaking down making it easier to create a pure and fluid putting stroke. And now for the really crazy part - the Backdraft GT+ features four designs and will retail for just $49.99, a third of the price of competing products.
eSTABLE Etonic's new Stabilizer™ Golf Shoe is positioned to be 20 Percent Lighter - 40 Percent Cooler - and 110 Percent More Comfortable. We're not sure of that exact math, but when the folks at NASA engineer a material to reduce heat - we think that it's probably very cool. And 'stability' throughout the swing, remember, is what many of the world's best (including Tiger) are working on right now.
Caught You Lookin'q Canada's own Quagmire Golf is looking for a break out year in 2011 with the launch of a new Premium Line and a Kids Line in addition to its already popular highly stylized, nontraditional golf fare. And for all of those actually reading the small print - 'CRANK' for ladies is a striped dress that looks as good off the course as it does on the course as it does right here in the magazine. Want to see more? • Start looking forward to 2011 • or bugging your favourite retailer
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D volume is getting up to 11 Wilson Staff's newest edition to its 'Di' family of distance irons, is the aggressively designed Di11 iron. The fifth generation in the Di Iron franchise features modifications and updates in virtually every performance area. Low Centre of Gravity: A modified exoskeleton pulls weight low to promote a higher ball flight. Ultra-Wide Sole: Designed to glide over tight lies and rip through heavy rough. Largest Sweet Spot: 36% larger than 4 leading brands in the super game-improvement category. More Forgiving: A wider sweet spot and perimeter weighting, combined with the torsional stability of its wide tip shaft makes the Di11 easier on the those off-centre hits. • Available December 2010
Sun'N'ice
Far from your ordinary outerwear, Sunice has updated its Tornado collection with a new-and-improved stretch fabric— FlexVent™. Designed for the active golfer, Tornado offers highly breathable waterproof fabrics in a four-way stretch and combines them with innovative game-enhancing features that are sure to make any golfer perform at their best regardless of the conditions. Bowen Full-Stretch Waterproof Jacket Ultra quiet with a soft hand feel, the Bowen features high-performance ultra-breathable laminate fabric, WxTECH™ coating, Pro-Trim™ waist-cinching system, X-Static® stretch lining, in-pocket ball cleaner, exposed waterproof YKK zippers, Sunice lock-down zipper pullers, soft-touch chin guard, laser-cut pockets, Lycra action cuffs, adjustable Velcro cuff tabs, laser-cut twill tape details, adjustable bungee at hem, patented V collar with neoprene finish (need a breath, we thought so). Evelyn Performance Full Stretch Waterproof Jacket This ultra-quiet jacket features FlexVent™ with high-performance ultra-breathable laminate, WxTECH™ coating, a Pro-Trim™ waist-cinching system, X-Static® stretch lining, in-pocket ball cleaner, exposed waterproof YKK zipper, Sunice lock-down zipper puller, soft-touch chin guard, laser-cut pockets, Lycra action cuffs, adjustable Velcro cuff tabs, laser-cut twill tape details, adjustable bungee at hem and Sunice patented V collar.
Forged and or Cast: You've Got Questions, Ping has Answers. Launched to significant global buzz in Japan earlier this year, the PING Anser iron is the company's first forged iron in more than 40 years. The Anser carries the same name as one of the earlier models produced before Karsten Solheim transitioned to the casting process. The newest version, is forged from 8620 steel with a tungsten sole that delivers feel with forgiveness. Sort of tops the 'Can't wait to hit list'
Already a major winner, the blade-style S56 iron places a premium on shot control. Louis Oosthuizen played the new S56 irons en route to his surprise win at St Andrews and the 2010 British Open. Hunter Mahan (see page 13) used them to win the WGCBridgestone Invitational placing him in select company as a multiple winner this season. A steel body design with variable tungsten toe weighting positions and an improved centre of gravity translates into more control over for lack of another word control which is really what iron play is all about.
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PEOPLE[file]
: by Norm Woods
THREE STROKES UNDER HIS AGE Ken Doig is 82 years young and he told me he shot a 79 last week at his home course, the Seaforth Golf Club. The course, celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2010, has had Ken Doig Sr. and his lovely wife Mary at the helm for every single one of them!
“Today I leave most of the work to my kids,” Doig says. “But I keep a close eye on them,” he adds, with a gleam in his eye. Ken Doig has more stories about golf, hockey and life in Seaforth and Scotland than this, or any, publication could ever print. So many that I had to be reminded by his son Cam and then, daughter Carol Anne that it was time to come into the clubhouse for lunch and the scheduled media presser for their third annual and newly sponsored Canadian Tour event, The Economical Insurance Seaforth Country Classic. Once you get Ken and Mary started, they are invariably hard to stop. Ken, a spry 82 shows no signs of slowing down and is eager to do his share to
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Ken and Mary Doig
make the golf operation a success. “I have wonderful children who have taken it upon themselves to make this golf course a successful operation. There is no doubt it would not be where it is without their tireless efforts.” Doig, an avid hockey fan and former player actually met his wife Mary while playing professional hockey in Scotland back in the late forties and early fifties. Prior to his hockey exploits Doig worked on the family farm as a youngster helping his parents eke out a meager living growing oats, hay and barley. He notes, “I used to shovel sh…t right from the spot where we are now sitting (the clubhouse used to
“
We had guys who would drive up at 4:30, sit in their car ‘til 5PM and then pay the
CANADIAN LEADERBOARD
twilight rate, because that’s all the change they had in their pocket.
RANK
EP
EARNINGS
PGA TOUR be the barn) over to that spot where the barbecue pit now stands. And I was only 9 years old.” Doig has had a successful career as a hockey player and as an amateur golfer, playing the amateur circuit in Ontario back when the first place prize was a toaster. “I have dozens of them”, he says. “Also have a few of the old black and white televisions. They were a real hit back in those days.” Back in 1958, Ken and his brother Rod convinced their father that the farm wasn’t worth farming anymore and they would like to turn it into a golf course. Work began. With very little money and a good deal on fertilizer and grass seed from local Seaforth businessman, George McIlwain, the job began. The original 105 acres were seeded in 1959, the course opened in 1960, and the rest is golf history. Doig says, “when we opened the green fee was $1.00 for all day and the twilight rate was 50¢. We had guys who would drive up at 4:30, sit in their car ‘til 5PM and then pay the twilight rate, because that’s all the change they had in their pocket.” Ken and Mary have been married for 60 years and that in itself is something of a record. “We fight all the time,” says Mary. “We stay together in spite of ourselves. Ken won’t leave and I won’t leave. It’s a great arrangement and we often laugh about it.” Doig still has a compassion for juniors and every Fall he scours the creeks for golf balls, puts them in egg cartons and gives a dozen to every junior registering in the golf program the following year. "I enjoy doing it and the kids enjoy the free dozen,” he says. The Doigs have turned a farmer’s field into a first class golf course in rural Ontario. They started with few dollars and a lot of hard work.
87
Stephen Ames
18
$849,393
126
Graham DeLaet
23
$589, 240
131
Mike Weir
19
$559,092
230
Chris Baryla
7
$24,254
NATIONWIDE TOUR 21
David Hearn
17
$130,949
34
Jon Mills
17
$110,830
94
Dustin Risdon
15
$37,521
105
Barrett Jarosch
16
$29,582
CANADIAN TOUR 3
Adam Hadwin
6
$57,061
9
Jim Rutledge
2
$32,550
12
Kent Eger
8
$28,329
14
Brad Fritsch
8
$25,649
LPGA TOUR 53
Alena Sharp
12
$113,340
103
Lori Kane
9
$23,642
MEN'S AMATEURS : WORLD RANKING 9
Eugene Wong
39
Nick Taylor
82
Marc-Étienne Bussières
(to turn PRO)
If you ever get a day, take the drive to Seaforth and play the course. You will surely run into a Doig and you will never forget the experience. Congratulations to the entire family for a great 50 years!!
AS OF AUGUST 25, 2010
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For more questions and answers from the PROS visit us online at golfscene.ca/prospectives
PROSpectives One elite panel of experts - equals - more insight, knowledge, and answers.
Based on your feedback, and in cooperation with the Ontario PGA, we have assembled some of the top Canadian PGA Professionals and Apprentices in Ontario to form an expert panel in an effort to provide GolfScene readers with a cross-section of views and a wealth of game improvement knowledge.
“
... wondering if you could ask the panel for their thoughts on basic putting fundamentals? I went down and and watched the Canadian Open noticed that there really are a lot of gths different styles, grips, and even len of putters out there.
Are there any core elements involved here or is the putting stroke really just completely personal and subjective? Reader Question: from Trish
Liam Mucklow Head Professional President Golf Lab Inc
Trish, Putting is a highly personalized skill. This is reflected by the plethora of different putters available on the market today. With the short (traditional) putter we see two common mechanical fundamentals. The first is that the trail forearm and the putter shaft are in alignment; there is no hinge present like at setup for a full swing. Eliminating this lever allow for greater distance control. The second fundamental is that the player will get their eyes over the golf ball. This helps the player see the line the ball will actually travel on.
Conor O'Shea Teaching Pro Core Golf Academy at Piper's Heath coshea@pipersheath.com
Trish, Great Putters ... • Hit the ball solid each time • Roll the ball with lovely speed - as well as match the break they choose with a speed that supports it • All share a wonderful imagination But on both the women's and men's tours there is perhaps nothing fundamental about their 'fundamentals'. The only common ground they share is a desire to make the ball go in. In putting you can only do one of two things .... (1. try to make it or 2. try not to miss)
THE PANEL : Gary Bos | Ann Carroll | Sean Casey | Shawn Clement | Mike Crane | Rob Hannah | Danny King | 20
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Sean Casey
help you get an upward stroke on the ball - allowing the ball to roll more consistently.
Gary Bos
Pro Class A Teaching y at em ad Ac nk ClubLi y be Glen Ab clublink .ca
Head Teaching Professional y Gary Bos Academ
There is certainly room for personal preference, but there are some fundamentals worth noting. Regardless of your putting style I believe the following fundamentals will improve your putting.
Thanks for your question Trish - a great topic often forgotten in the age of long drives & technical swing gurus. Great to see you were down at the Open and had the chance to observe many of the world's best players in person!
1) Ensure that the putter rests flat on the ground with the sole flush to the earth. This will help you hit the ball on the sweet spot and will also promote the ball to roll out straight. I see a lot of golfers set up with the toe in the air promoting a pull. Have your putter fit to you rather than you trying to make awkward adjustments to achieve this.
I feel putting is very much a personal preference and it often comes down to what feels right to the individual and gives that player confidence. As you know, many professionals and amateurs alike will switch putters and change their grip about as often as they read the newspaper.
2) Soft arrival speed. Try to have your putts arrive at the hole softly. This will allow full use of the cup and putts will fall in the sides of the hole and avoid lipping out. 3) Play enough break. Most golfers miss their putts on the 'low side' meaning they don't take into account the slope of the green and the ball curves more than expected. After identifying the slope, try playing twice as much break as you think and challenge yourself not to miss the putt on the low side of the hole. 4) Keep your head down! While this can be bad advice for the full swing as golfer's tend to over do it, I highly recommend it for putting. So often putts are missed because golfers lift their heads excited to see the ball go in the hole. 5) Set-up and Grip: In terms of set up and technique it's tough to say or recommend one way to putt. I try to set up with the shaft of the putter and my forearms on the same plane. This means I must hold the club somewhat in the palms and my hands oppose each other. There are many grip styles that work well. I usually recommend the reverse overlap or left hand low. Golfers seem to be hesitant to take a lesson on putting, however, I find they are often the lessons that make the most immediate and positive impact on my student's games. So if you struggle with putting, do yourself a favour and take a lesson from a golf professional sometime.
FITTING Having a putter that is properly fitted for you is essential. Putters are generally fitted based on length, loft, and lie angle. Other characteristics that will vary by individual preference include the weight of the putter, grip size, clubhead design, and shaft position. Many of these are personal preference. Length and lie angle are most common and definitely something that I look for anytime I see someone for a putting lesson. The length of the putter will directly affect how the putter head sits relative to the ground (toe up or heel up). This in turn will affect the direction your ball will take and the impact itself. The proper length for a putter will allow you to stand in a posture that is comfortable for you and have your eyes positioned over the golf ball. Your putter should be fitted for YOU - not the reverse!
FUNDAMENTALS Grip - There is no right or wrong grip when it comes to putting. If you are in search of a new or different grip, I like to recommend the 'reverse overlap'. Stance & Ball Position - Position your feet about shoulder width apart with both feet square to the target line (pointed straight ahead). The position of the ball should be slightly forward of center (between the middle of your stance and inside the left heel for a right handed golfer). This will
Liam Mucklow | Ed Maunder | Conor O'Shea | Bradlee Ryall | Mike Skimson
Eyes - Getting your eyes positioned directly over the golf ball is a great way to see the line of your putt clearly. To test this, while in your putting set-up position - drop a ball from the middle of your eyes and let it hit the ground. If it strikes the ball you were intending to putt, you have your eyes positioned directly over the ball. Posture and Arm Position - Should you have your elbows bent or your arms straight? This is also a matter of personal preference. I have varied this throughout my career and now putt with an extended left arm to solidify my wrists. As you swing your putter like a pendulum, you would like to have NO wrists involved in the putting stroke. Your arms should move along with your shoulders like a triangle rocking back and forth. Head Position - Keep your head still! Set up a few practice balls about 3 feet from the hole and make your normal putting stroke. Now listen for the ball to go in the hole, rather than watching it - you should be able to complete this drill without having tilted your head or changed its position until you have heard the ball drop in the hole. Dominant Characteristics - A final and perhaps critical aspect that I like to review with all of my students is to find out whether one eye is dominant over the other. If you are someone who has a very strong dominant eye, you may feel that you are aligning straight to the hole when this is actually not the case at all. This will have nothing to do with your actual putting stroke, but more with your vision. This is something I would highly recommend to discuss with a qualified Canadian PGA Professional. Good Luck and remember to spend more time on the putting green than anywhere else!
PROSpectives and answers. One elite panel of experts - equals - more insight, knowledge,
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David Main
MAINLY GOLF
Who is Golf Canada? Golf Canada has a nice ring to it. It certainly evokes more understanding than the RCGA. I have heard, and read, a lot recently about the name change but, in reality, a name or logo change is never really the solution to anything so let's not assume that this change will do much of anything in regard to major association issues such as ‘growing the game’. What is really needed is a strong strategic plan - a plan that is realistic and attainable. And I think Golf Canada is on the right track with both. Let’s start by asking ‘who is this new Golf Canada?’ Well simply, it is all of us. Golf Canada needs every golfer in Canada to begin spreading the word about the new name, the new initiatives and the new plan. Some of the goals of Golf Canada, and hence our goals are to: 1) grow Golf Canada membership 2) increase golf participation and excellence 3) conduct the best in class championships. I know. Your first question will probably be, how can I contribute to this and what benefits do I get?
A good start might be to check out their website and find out what the membership idea is all about, where your membership money goes and what you receive by becoming a Golf Canada member. You’ll even find ways to directly support the Team Canada High Performance Team and assist the great young talent like Stephanie Sherlock, Nick Taylor and Jennifer Kirby to excel on the world stage. Another initiative might be for you to encourage your local golf club to get involved in hosting a regional or national championship that will help grow the stature of all of Canada’s Championships. And there are many more initiatives, along with the benefits of membership. Enough of the sales pitch. I speak of competition in the industry often, and today there is more competition for golfers than ever before. Economics tell us that if there aren’t enough golfers to fulfill club budgets, the industry will suffer. Your club (public or private) might be the next one to become a housing development. This is why Golf Canada must succeed. Increasing participation and excellence will not only see better Canadian golfers on a world stage but will ensure a supply for every golf course across the country. By the way, I think we can all remember where we were when Mike Weir won the Masters in 2003. Who will be the next Canadian to win the Masters, or maybe the Canadian Open? Ultimately, the name of our national golf association doesn’t really matter to most golfers. What does matter is that every Canadian golfer feels a part of the association and has the means to contribute to its success. The growth of the game and the success of each and every golf course is every golfer’s responsibility. Are you in?
David Main is the Chief Executive Officer of the Beacon Hall Golf Club
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Regionally Speaking
Chasing Ashley Hamilton native set to pursue her passion
When did you begin playing golf and what / who was instrumental in getting you started? My Dad got me started in golf. He used to play all of the time and being a 'Daddy's Girl' I always wanted to go with him. However, he didn't think I had the patience for it so he told me that kids weren't allowed to play until they were 14. He started taking me to the range when I was 12, but I didn't really start playing until I was 14. From there I started working with my first coach, a great mentor for me, Jim Beddome.
Number one golf accomplishment thus far? Winning the NAIA championship as a team and individual while a freshman representing Oklahoma City University. In winning, I set 3 NAIA records that I still hold today.
Greatest influence on your game? As little as I see him I still have to say my coach is Sean Foley. Since he's moved to Florida I haven't been able to see him as often but when I do he re-inspires me each time. He is not only a great coach but an amazing friend that always has the right words.
In the bag? TaylorMade all the way through -Driver - R9 460, 3 and 5 R9 woods, 4 and 5 rescue, 5-PW R9 irons, 56 and 52 degree wedges, itsy bitsy spider putter.
Best round and where? It is Blackthorn in Southbend. I would say, my best round was in 2005 during the NAIA National Championships. I shot 68 at Blackthorn Golf Club in Southbend, Indiana.
School? I graduated from Oklahoma City University with my bachelors degree in business administration (Not even sure if that's the proper way to say it?) this past December.
Challenges ahead of you for the next year? Over the next year, I will be working very hard to raise money and / or find sponsors so that I can play a full season on the Canadian Tour as well as other mini tours in the United States. I am also hosting a scramble called 'Shots for Sholer' on the 29th of August to help with my expenses for LPGA Qualifying School in September.
Starting my professional career has been a very exciting experience so far and there is nothing I would rather do, but golf is a very expensive sport. It is a struggle for everyone starting out. Entry fees, travel expenses, room and board at each event - they all add up pretty fast.
If you were the head of Golf Canada what would you do to get more girls into the game?
I honestly am not sure of everything Golf Canada does but if they don't already, I would suggest bringing a golf program to schools to expose not just girls but all young kids. I also would urge them to design a program similar to that of the U.S. First Tee program to give under privileged kids a chance to play the game. Make a charity specific donation of clubs and time to help those kids. Our golf programs at Oklahoma City assist kids in the First Tee program by giving them some short lessons. I would not just direct my attention to girls golf, but I do think this would increase the number of girls along the way.
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I’m very sorry sir. I checked with the cart girls and then back at the clubhouse. But we don’t seem to have any hemlock.
QUINN THE PLAYER'S ASSISTANT It all started at the bag drop with the young
girl – good looking, charming – who somehow managed to simultaneously talk, look, and act as if she’d never swung a club. She topped it off by telling us to enjoy our rounds. There was no ‘hope’ attached to her ‘remark by rote,’ even though each and every golfer passing her way that day had little else to cling to. Bad enough that all these young people are smiling and opening car doors and trunks and loading carts and nodding like Vegas concierges everywhere you turn and smiling, always smiling like golf was fun, and getting every one of your small bills before you hit the pro shop. Worse, once you’ve run that gawking gauntlet you realize that they’re out on the course too, driving into sight lines, smiling, waving, asking if you need a double before the dew lifts, how’s my cleavage, how’s your beer, and smiling. Where the heck do they find them? Where do all of these obliviously obsequious, terminally turbid, double A-type “Players’ Assistants” come from? Who are these ever-smiling 'Up with People' clones making us nostalgic for unmanned bag drops and ex-Marine drill sergeant course marshals? Case in point: this actually happened at a highend resort course last season. Only the name of the resort and that of the ‘Players’ Assistant” have been withheld to protect the systemically
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ESSENTIALS
an alternative view from the veranda
stupid. This is how it played out, no kidding. The weather was perfect for early fall; the fresh breeze held just a hint of the approaching arctic ferocity that would descend from the north in a matter of weeks. The days were shortening, but then again in some sort of Mother Nature guilt thing, the sun always seems more brilliant when it plays off the burnished oranges, light yellows, and crimsons of faltering leaves. The accidental tourists were long gone. It was that rare time of year when this solid resort course – no more hints, but the early snow line was clearly defined on the surrounding peaks – was left to those who came to play golf rather than those who come to hit and giggle, take pictures, and actually keep the bag tag.
asphalt path after skirting some scrub pines. We were carrying our bags, and so propped them on their stands, and turned to face the intruder. The “Players’ Assistant” – the placard on the windscreen was a dead giveaway – slammed on the brakes of the Club Car, popped out and flashed a smile that was the product of pubescent braces and off-the-shelf whiteners. He wore the requisite windbreaker festooned with the resort’s logo, and his name and hometown (like we cared) were displayed on the faux-brass badge pinned to his chest. “How are you enjoying your round?” he chirped, while maintaining that halogen bulb smile, his lips never touching.
And so it was that my playing partner and I found ourselves fairly close to the middle of the 16th fairway, walking along, quietly enjoying the views and our thoughts. Mine were reflective; another season with not enough rounds played and that slight, yet visceral, pain at the grudging acceptance that another year of golf was close to its end.
“By playing it,” my playing partner replied. He had long ago cornered the market on droll, but this retort was heavily larded with a huge dollop of ‘pissed off.’
We practically had the course to ourselves. The single ahead of us was a distant memory and the trailing foursome was more than a couple of holes behind. We hadn’t seen them since the turn.
"Not ‘was,’ ‘is’," my buddy began, edging his drollery up a notch. “My name hasn’t changed since I teed off on #1.”
So it came as quite a shock when a cart raced up behind us having cut a sharp left from the
“Wow, that’s great,” the kid said, inexplicably, while extending his hand in an overly-warm greeting. “And what was the name?”
“Super,” our assistant blurted, giving the impression that he never met a speed bump he’d slow down for while inviting me into the handshake trifecta.
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“What a great day! Perfect for golf! We’re so happy that you’ve chosen to play our great course. Where are you gentlemen from; are you staying with us here at the resort?” he pestered, squinting into the sun that was getting ready to set. “We’re from away,” my friend sighed, “And we’ll never come back if we can’t finish our round before dark. Do you mind if we play some golf?” “Hey, you go right ahead,” he said, the smile even wider for some reason. As my bud walked toward his ball, the PA wrapped up his obligatory visit with: “If there’s anything you need, you just let me know.” Doing a slow turn, my pal fixed the kid with a withering look and uttered the immortal line: “At this stage, some hemlock would be nice.” “No problem,” said Mr. Triple A-type as he jumped in his cart, grateful for the mission. “I’m on it.” Damned if he wasn’t. Truth be told, he was back with us as we approached our second shot on the 17th. Racing up, he jumped out of the cart. “I’m very sorry sir. I checked with the cart girls and then back at the clubhouse. But we don’t seem to have any hemlock,” he apologized, the sting of failure writ large across his ample brow. “But I’ve put in calls to the other resorts and hotels in town and I’m sure we’ll have some ready for you when you finish your round. Again, I’m sorry sir.” With that he raced off to continue his quixotic quest. “You’re going to tell him, aren’t you?” I asked, as we walked toward the green.
First there was the eager (for a tip?), smiling (of course!) kid with a damp towel who started wiping my clubs before uttering; “Clean your clubs?” My buddy halted him after his cursory swipes over my sticks as the kid reached for one of his wedges: “I don’t make shots with dirty clubs, so mine don’t need wiping with a filthy towel, thank you.” You knew that bad to worse was just moments away when the kid – they’re all of that indeterminate age somewhere between late-high school and early-college sophomoric where optimism still has a foothold and tips decide the label on the beer that night – posited the mandatory:
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“How did you enjoy your round?” “By f@#king playing it!” my maybe-not-quitebest friend shouted, having hit his PA wall. “If you had asked me; ‘Did you enjoy your round?’ I would have said ‘No!’ because of all you little twerps asking me if you can park my car, if you can put my clubs on a cart, if I want some sunscreen, can you attach a bag tag, if I want a beer, if you can be of any service, can you get me a cigar, do I want to have the special at the halfway house, can you clean my clean clubs, and telling me – telling me! – in the midst of that incessant inquisition to have a nice f@#king day!” We drove back to the hotel in silence. Over a couple of cold Stellas at the bar, my playing partner asked: “Remember that course marshal down in Florida, years ago, around Clearwater?” “The one you called the Golf Nazi?”
“No. Olde 'Will wouldn’t appreciate it,” my buddy said quietly, just before the bile started to rise. “My Gawd, hemlock’s in Macbeth, King Lear, Henry V. Damn it all, it killed Socrates! What are these kids reading? Where the hell do these kids come from?”
“Ya, him. In retrospect, I’m starting to like him.”
We still don’t know, but we met a few more on the way out.
“Sure. Hope we have a nice day.”
“How’d you enjoy your beer?” “Don’t start with me. Let’s play somewhere else tomorrow; maybe the muni.”
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Hal Quinn is a writer / broadcaster whose articles and columns have appeared in magazines and newspapers across North America, England, and as far away as New Zealand. Quinn lives in North Vancouver with his wife, their two daughters, and their dog Mulligan.
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Your Game Plan Don’t let your Mind Interfere with your Game Plan
Touring professionals consistently achieve peak performance. It takes a team that includes a golf instructor, golf performance coach, equipment specialists and mental coach. At Precision Golf Performance Centre we are your team. TO ENHANCE YOUR GAME WE OFFER: • Customized club analysis and fitting for your entire bag • Identify physical factors that affect performance • Individualized golf performance / fitness programs • Mental game assessment and strategies to improve play • Golf Instruction • All golf club related services: (re-shafting, re-gripping, lie / loft analysis, etc)
Our team of specialists have experience working with men, women and junior golfers of all levels and ability. All of your club data, swing analysis information and lessons will be digitally captured and made available to you in a secure and private folder on our website for no additional cost. ( 905 ) 337-2061 WWW.PRECISIONGOLF.CA INFO@PRECISIONGOLF.CA
For many of us who enjoy the game of golf, we sometimes allow our mind to interfere with our game. It is important to let that last bad shot go! If you allow your emotions to run wild you will be fast-tracking to more lost balls in the rough, out of bounds, or in the sand. It really adds stokes when it affects your chipping and or putting. To take your game to the next level it’s important that you concentrate on the next shot, not the previous shot. If you can teach yourself to move ahead you will have better games and scores, if you continue to worry about what has happened on the previous hole you are clouding your mind with negative thoughts. You need to stay focused on what is in front of you to become a better player. Like all of us, this is something you need to work hard at. Make a point during your next lesson to ask your CPGA professional how to overcome some of your bad shots so you can improve on your mental side the next time they appear. Sometimes this also requires a playing lesson to see what you are thinking when you happen to hit that unfortunate bad shot! When it comes to your financial plans, you must apply similar rules. You need to focus on what is the next step. Not the one that happened before. What would a financial ‘game plan’ look like? It would certainly need to include estate planning, risk management and cash management to give you an understanding about where your money is going. Proper tax planning and setting up a strategy for children’s education and/or legacy for offspring and grandchildren is also important. Just as in golf, have an advisor assist you with your financial ‘game plan’. A financial advisor will help you create a plan that is specific to your needs and assist you as time goes on. Your advisor will ensure you have everything included plus will assist with alternatives to incorporate life events. A ‘game plan’ in golf will better prepare you for a big win. A sound financial ‘game plan’ will better prepare you so you can reach and achieve your life’s goals and dreams. BRAD MATTHEWS Consultant-Investors Group (Waterloo) brad.matthews@investorsgroup.com 519.886.2360 ext.277 | 226.929.2723 cell This is a general source of information only. It is not intended to provide personalized tax, legal or investment advice, and is not intended as a solicitation to purchase securities. Brad Matthews, Consultant with Investors Group Financial Services, Inc is solely responsible for its content. For more information on this topic or any other financial matter, please contact an Investors Group Consultant.
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INSIDE THE ROPES Âť with Sean Foley THOUGHTS FROM PGA CHAMPIONSHIP
TIME WITH TIGER TAUGHT ME ... The PGA Championship was an interesting experience for me to say the least. As I am sure you have probably heard, I observed Tiger Woods that week and shared some ideas with him. During that week something became evident to me that I believe can help all of you reading this. In life, the two most important elements are passion and self-belief. My love for the game of golf and the simple fact that deep down I know that if I am a man of character, remain humble, and continue to learn on an hourly basis, things will work out for me. That being said, that is what I have influence over. That is all I have influence over. All of the external factors that I have no control over will be what they will be. Accepting this ideology simplifies things because the only person who you should set out to please is you and no one else. This is very liberating and frees us up to be as great as we have been designed to be. When we let others influence our own self-image we empower them to either add to or take away from our confidence. The hard truth is that outside of a very few people in our lives no one really cares. This is proven to me every time I watch the news. These atrocities occur because we are too busy taking care of our own lives. It isn't about right or wrong - nothing really is. It is more about self-preservation which is inherently hard wired into our DNA. I want you to think about how worrying about people's opinions of you affects your golf game. I think you will find that it does a great deal. Sean Foley is the Coach of Stephen Ames, Sean O’Hair, Hunter Mahan and others. He is also the 2008 Ontario PGA Teacher of the Year.
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Tom Margetts
GREEN SIDE UP
ETIQUETTE Lead by Example Golf is a game of etiquette, where we play by a set of rules and govern ourselves around the course without umpires or referees. It is a gentleman’s game where we compete against ourselves and freely encourage and compliment our opponent’s efforts. When we think of etiquette, we generally reflect on these items and honour our dress codes and mannerisms. We should be proud of our conduct and not forget our commitment to the etiquette of our playing surfaces. Golf Course Superintendents are honourable stewards. They are entrusted with the property and the environment of the golf course. We as golfers must be honourable stewards to the golf course and Superintendents that care for them. We need to make a conscious effort to leave the golf course in better order than when we came. Imagine if we all did that! There are many theories and thoughts on etiquette such as repairing ball marks and divots and lessening the impact of ourselves on the golf courses we enjoy. I would like to review these items of etiquette and give provide a little guidance based on my experience.
Ball Mark Repair:
Goal: Restore the smoothness of the putting surface with the least amount of disturbance. First of all, forget using a golf tee, we must all make a conscious effort to have a pronged ball mark repair tool in our pocket before we start the round. Insert the two pronged tool on a 45 degree angle to the putting surface and “knead” the turf evenly around the perimeter of the ball mark, filling in the depression. Do not insert and lift from the bottom! By “kneading” the edges together
you are encouraging the turf to grow laterally and heal. Last but not least, tap your repair smooth with the head of your putter (not your shoe) for the best finished result. A repaired ball mark has an excellent chance for a quick recovery if the repair is done by the person that created it.
Divot Repair:
Goal: Again, to restore the smoothness of the playing surface and repair in a way that will present the greatest potential for healing. Divots come in many different sizes and forms. My theory on divot recovery is as long as the divot has soil attached, replace the gash created with as much of the originally recovered turf as possible. Look at it as an unfinished puzzle and spend some effort to correctly replace the pieces exactly the way they came out. If it is a deep pelt that is likely accomplished quite easily or if it came out in a few pieces it will require a little more effort. Use the divot mix provided to you in order to fill in any voids in the gash and around the edges. The replaced turf and divot mix are partners in that they both protect each other by holding moisture and encouraging regrowth. Firmly step on your repair in order to smooth the surface and replace any air pockets. If your divot is unrecoverable or unreplaceable, fill the gash with the divot mix provided in a manner that fills the hole and step it down in a swiping motion to restore a smooth surface. Golf Course Superintendents work tirelessly to lesson our impact and increase our enjoyment. They develop their programs of water, fertilizer and cultural practices to recover as quickly as possible from wear and tear and to balance this with our desire for quality playing surfaces. Let’s show our commitment to the game by being a steward to your golf course and the Superintendent that cares for it. Let’s repair more than we have created and walk off the golf course with knowledge of leaving it in better condition than when we came. We will all benefit from this! Tom Margetts is a soil and turf consultant. He can be reached at 519.496.2143
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GOLF COURSE FEATURES
TRAILER PARK FEATURES
• GAO RATED | 18 HOLES | PAR 70 • PUTTING GREEN | LICENSED LOUNGE & PATIO • POWER CARTS & RENTALS • PRO SHOP • SENIOR SPECIALS ON TUESDAYS
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fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
9503 Dublin Line, Milton 905 878 5494 direct booking 1877 golf 126
GS2010_Layout 1 10-08-15 5:04 PM Page 1
“
Carolanne Doig
THE TARTAN CHAMELEON
Preparation for the BIG event Most people will tell you that I am seldom at a loss for words – spoken or written – so it is with some surprise that I find myself with a bit of writer’s block as I try to get this column in for deadline. It has been an amazingly summery summer this year and those of us in the golf business have been enjoying the sunshine, heat, and the beer drinking cart riding golfers. I think the golf-starved Canadians are out in full force this season after some short summers and even longer long winters in recent years. It has been a bit of a challenge for the supers though as we are not the only ones enjoying the heat and humidity. There must be a dozen or so different fungi thriving on the hot, humid weather. That aside, we all toil away at making the most of a business that has a lot of long shifts crammed into a short season. As I write this the ‘reefer truck’ is kicking in and out with its tick-ticktick, followed by a rumble, half an hour of humming and then a complete shuddering shut down ending in a whine. I will be dealing with
this for the next ten days as one of the glories of living on a golf course is being right where the action is during a big event. With the Canadian Tour’s Economical Insurance Group Seaforth Country Classic here the traffic increases tremendously. Early in the morning, long before the sunrise, mowers, pickup trucks, blowers, golf carts, and tractors fire up. While the grounds crew head out onto the course cars are arriving with the food and beverage staff who will fire up their own machinery - ovens, coffee perks and grills. In come the volunteers dressed in their yellow and tan, many carrying coffees and clipboards as they head to their posts as marshals, spotters, scorers, range rovers, and ‘gophers’. Committee heads fire up the computers and, well, the day begins.
I am the guardi an of true links golf. The pessim complains abou ist t me; the optim ist hopes I’ll chan the realist adju ge; sts the way he plays the game. tribute to me w Pay ith every swing because with ju whisper, I can st a make or break your entire roun d.
Do you dare ch
allenge me?
The bulletin boards in the pro shop and volunteer tent are covered in spreadsheets with schedules, maps, telephone numbers, and tee times. Thank goodness for Excel or we’d never be able to get it all or keep it all organized. Players arrive and need info on everything from where they are staying to where to get a haircut. The final ropes are being installed and the bleachers are in place. The programs and badges and signs and scorecards and on and on and on, are ready to go. The flags from twenty three countries are waving in the wind as we welcome the Canadian Tour and the Economical Insurance Group Seaforth Country Classic once again to rural Ontario. “Game on!”
Carolanne Doig is a member of the Doig Family, Owners of the Seaforth Golf Club.
#9 - top-50 public courses in ontario Ontario Golf Magazine - 2009
ontario’s best bang for the buck Ontario Golf Magazine - 2010
green fees Including tax
$45 $55 weekday
weekend
20 minutes east of london 1.888.869.9656 www.puregolf.net fall 2010
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golfscene.ca
33
NEWS FROM THE NORTH MEMBERSHIP : The Answers Are Simple Well, it’s that time of year again. The time when the evenings get cooler, the leaves start changing colour and avid golfers start looking at their golf playing options for the following season. We have seen a resurgence over the past two years of players looking for that loyalty aspect that a membership and various loyalty programs offer. Not to mention the other benefits that come with specific affiliation.
Exceptional Golf... ...Conveniently in the GTA.
Considering purchasing a membership entails a few different questions to ponder. Do I want to get tied down to playing one course all of the time? Will I play more golf if I get a membership? Can I fit a membership into my golfing budget? The answers to these questions never used to be quite as simple as they are right now. As Fall approaches each year we, at GolfNorth, diligently develop programs that offer a multitude of possibilities for avid golfers of every demographic while answering those sometimes difficult questions. The 2011 season proves to be one of paramount proportions for those seeking a membership as GolfNorth has compiled the most aggressive and appealing membership program yet for the 2011 season.
Did You Know ? Deer Creek Golf Clubs offer the following: • “Best Teaching Facility” • “Best Practice Facility” • “Best Value Golf Course” • “Best Executive Par 3” and “2 Top 18 Holes in GTA” All in your own backyard! Located 20 mins East of the DVP between 401 & 407. Visit us Online Awards as voted by Toronto Sun Reader’s and Metroland Publications 407 400 401
Mississauga 2
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2
401
Audley Rd.
Salem R d
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407
Ajax
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www.golfdeercreek.com/gta 34
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Golf Scene 1-2 page vertical spr1 1
4/19/2010 4:07:44 PM
Along with bringing back the Players Club program again for 2011 and raising the number of golf courses under that program to 8, we have added the Players Club Plus program where you are now able to play 10 different courses anytime and any day of the week. To complement the Players Club programs, GolfNorth also offers its always popular traditional membership where you may play anytime and any day at all of GolfNorth’s properties. Currently with 18 properties in its stable of courses and prices of $549.00, $749.00 and $1895.00 respectively, it is difficult to find a better program that will assist you in answering those tough questions. “Do I want to get tied down to playing one course all of the time?” Absolutely NOT! ... now I can play 8, 10 or even 18 different courses! “Will I play more golf if I get a membership?” Absolutely! … with being able to play whenever and wherever I want, finding time to get out and play will be that much easier! “Can I fit a membership into my golfing budget?” Absolutely! … with a minimal commitment I can enjoy everything a membership has to offer and potentially spend less than I normally do! Fall golf doesn’t get much better than that!
Mike Garside Chief Operating Officer GolfNorth Properties www.golfnorth.ca
DRIVING AROUND with Bill (Skip) Johns
THE CONVENIENT SIX PACK In the summer issue of this magazine, the editors provided a photo style feature on 12 Ontario golf courses located on or within close proximity to the province’s extensive '400' highway system. Specifically they highlighted highways 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 407 and 410 for the dozen courses and the package spanned a large chunk of southern Ontario. For this issue’s Driving Around feature, I will be highlighting six Ontario courses but in a much shorter span of driving distance. For want of a better name, I’m calling it the 'Ol’ Geek’s Six-Pack Road Trip’ and it covers only a 62-kilometre stretch that touches on both sides of Highway 401 from just east of Guelph to just west of Waterloo Region. I don’t know of any golf enthusiasts who haven’t been on a ‘road trip’ with one or more buddies but as you get older, you have a tendency to leave the driving to someone else, especially on the long-haul junkets. This six-pack day-tripper could cover as few as three days – if you can still do 36 holes a day – or six days and it isn’t only featured because it is short, it’s also featuring courses that have a good set of tees for us ‘older’ players who are finding the ball is going shorter and shorter off the tee
each year. And feel free to wear shorts in the warm weather. Could I get the word short into these sentences more than I have? Okay, so much for the humor. In addition to not being on the road very long for this ‘road trip’, it will also feature courses that are outstanding value for their varying green fee prices, user friendly for the most part for seniorage enthusiasts and traditionally in outstanding condition. And why am I featuring the senior point-ofview? Because ‘seniors’ - men and women – are currently and will be the next big thing in the golf business. There are still plenty of juniors attracted to the game each year but that surge of the last 15 years is basically over and it’s now the Boomers and Zoomers who are finding their way to the course – discovering it for the first time in retirement or just playing more now that they have more free time. My route starts at 401 exit 312 – for the Turtle Creek Golf Club – and ends at 401 exit 250 – which leads to the Innerkip-Highlands Golf Club. In between you’ll find four other courses – Springfield, Puslinch Lake, Cambridge and Doon
Springfield #13
Valley – to complete my six-pack. (And I’ll bet you thought I was talking about some brewskis.) Starting on the eastern end, Turtle Creek is the newest of the six, just now in it’s second full season. Located north of the 401 on Guelph Line as you head for Campbellville, this is a compact 18-hole layout located on 100 acres of parklandstyle property and designed by Rob Stevens, a member of the Stevens family ownership group. Although the par-70 layout might be considered short at just a little over 5,600 yards off the back set of three tees, it’s sloped at 133 for the men and 131 for women who chose to play those tees. Therefore, short isn’t always an acronym for easy. The next stop heading west is at exit 299. The Springfield Golf Club is also located north of the 401 just seven kilometres up on Gordon Street in Guelph. This 21-year-old gem from the drawing board of designer and former Kitchener resident John Robinson is also one of my favorites because of its length with three sets of tees ranging from the black at 5,682 yards and sloped at 119, white at 5,345 and 111 and red at 4,503 and 107. Robinson did an excellent job of routing 18 holes over a compact piece of property which features modest elevation changes and plenty of water hazards in what is a traditional parkland setting. Par is 70. continued on page 48
fall 2010
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35
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fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
Two week advanced bookings to guarantee your tee time. Exemplary tournament coordination and service.
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fall 2010
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37
DIRECTORY TEE IT UP TODAY
1 Acton Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 29 Apollo Valley Golf Course 519 647 2069 2 Ariss Valley Golf Club 519 824 1551 91 Batteaux Creek Golf Club 705 444 8337 3 Beaverdale Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 4 Braeben Golf Club 905 615 4653 5 Brant Valley Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 6 Brookfield Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 7 Burford Golf Links 519 449 5172 9 Caledon Country Club 905 838 0200 10 Calerin Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 12 Cambridge Golf Club 519 621 5491 14 Canterbury Common Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 15 Cardinal Golf Club 905 841 7378 107 Carlisle Golf & CC 1 800 661 4343 16 Cedar Creek Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 110 Century Pines Golf Club 905 628 2877 97 Chedoke Golf Course 905 546 3116 47 ClubLink Academy 905 844 1902 20 Conestoga Country Club 1 888 833 8787 21 Copetown Woods Golf Club 905 627 4653 8 Crosswinds Golf Club & CC 1 866 319 5991 23 Cutten Club 519 824 2650 24 Danayr Driving Range 519 632 7321 28 Deer Creek 905 427 7737 25 Derrydale Golf 905 670 3030 26 Doon Valley Golf Club 519 741 2939 27 Dundee Country Club 1 888 833 8787 30 Elmira Golf Club 519 669 1652 31 Erin Heights 519 833 9702 33 Fairview Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 17 Fescues Edge 519 484 2200 34 Flamborough Hills Golf Club 905 627 1743 65 Foxwood Country Club 1 888 833 8787 98 Goderich Sunset Golf Club 519 524 8047 46 Grand Highland 905 712 1183 39 Granite Ridge Golf Club 905 878 5494 40 Grey Silo Golf Club 519 880 8181 41 Guelph Country Club 519 824 2741 42 Guelph Lakes Golf Club 519 822 4222 43 Hidden Lake Golf Club 905 336 3660
95 King's Forest Golf Course 905 546 4781 48 Lake Belwood Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 105 Lionhead Golf & CC 905 455 8400 49 Listowel Golf Club & CC 519 291 2500 50 Lowville Golf Club 905 335 6181 53 Northridge Golf Club 519 753 6112 54 Oakville Executive Golf 905 875 3932 56 Orangeville Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 45 Otter Creek Golf Club 519 879 9800 57 Owen Sound Golf Club 519 376 2784 58 Paris Grand Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 59 Pike Lake Golf Club 519 338 2812 37 Precision Golf 905 337 2061 60 Puslinch Lake Golf Course 519 658 2292 61 Rebel Creek Golf Club 519 634 8666 64 Rock Chapel Golf 905 689 8860 36 Rockway Golf Club 519 741 2949 108 Royal Niagara Golf Club 905 685 9501 109 Royal Ontario Golf Club 905 693 9832 66 Saginaw Golf Club 519 620 0322 68 Savannah Golf Links 519 622 0555 52 Scenic Woods Golf Club 905 692 3163 22 Science Hill Golf & CC 519 284 3621 104 Seaforth Golf Club 519 522 0985 100 Southbrook Golf Club 905 692 3592 72 Springfield Golf Club 519 821 4655 74 Stratford Golf Club 519 271 4212 106 Streetsville Glen Golf Club 905 451 9325 35 Tarandowah Golf Club 519 269 9656 101 The Club at Bond Head 1 800 276 9542 87 The Golf Performance Centre @ Whistle Bear 519 650 2327 75 The Greens at Renton 519 426 1340 79 The Raven at Lora Bay 1 866 231 0631 63 Thundering Waters 905 357 6000 55 Turtle Creek Golf Club 905 854 4653 82 Victoria Park East Golf Club 519 821 2211 84 Waterloo Golf Academy 519 886 6555 85 Wedges N Woods Range 519 621 9233 88 White Oaks Golf Club 905 257 5409 89 Wildwinds Golf Club 519 763 8700 90 Willow Valley Golf Club 905 679 2703
SPECIAL
pecials 2 Player Cart s -NOW available -3 $50 each 11 n e e tw e b y a (Weekd each) en Weekend betwe
38
fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
11-3 $55
124 11
Huntsville 141
Tobermory 400
Muskoka Lakes Bracebridge Gravenhurst
6
400 11 57
Owen Sound
Orillia
26 79
Southampton
Collingwood 91
21 6
39
Barrie
10
Kincardine
24
4
89
400
Walkerton
9
9
86
9 56
9 98 49 Listowel
6
9 33
86
Seaforth
CHECK OUT THE DIRECTORY ONLINE golfscene.ca/directory 21
Stratford 74
3
Kitchener
7
24
16
7
68
5
34
64
402
401
35
QEW
St. Thomas
St Catharines
52
Niagara Falls
100
45
Tillsonburg 2
QEW
Hamilton 90
Brantford 24
London
402
Oakville
97
21
79
Sarnia
37
95
29
403
53
47
43
Mississauga
88
54
50
66
5
58
Woodstock
55 39
12
46
4
401 8
Cambridge
24 87
7
60
72
6
85
26
27
22
82
Guelph 23
61 84 65 36
Toronto
25
25
10
41
2
Waterloo
104
1
42 40
401
24
89
20
28
Brampton
Fergus
30
8
407
400
10
31
48
404
Orangeville
Arthur
Goderich
14
89
Mount Forest
59
9 15
101
6
20
56
Dunnville
75
63
406
17
3
Simcoe
Fort Erie Port Colborne
3
LEGEND
401
Golf Course
Retail
Practise Facilities
Other
40
Chatham Windsor
2 401 3
Amherstburg
• Golf Academy • Practice Facilities • Golf Tournaments • Corporate meetings • Weddings • Christmas Parties • Social Golf
NEW
12 CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE
cambridgegolfclub.com
1346 Clyde Road, Cambridge, Ontario 519- 621- 5491 • 1- 877- 621- 5491 fall 2010
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golfscene.ca
39
12
Whistle Bear truly is a club for everyone. Make it yours.
Finally,
a 12 hole golf course !
Whistle Bear Golf Club offers you a private club experience in a friendly, inviting atmosphere with no monthly initiation fees or monthly minimums. • Choose from corporate, individual, family, junior or social membership • Monthly payment plan options • Enjoy easy access to the tee • Spectacular clubhouse and patio Less than 100 memberships remain. We invite you to tour our facilities, meet our team, and see for yourself what everyone is talking about.
Derrydale Golf Course
(905) 670-3030
www.derrydalegolf.com
185 Derry Road West | Mississauga, Ontario
www.WhistleBear.ca Membership Enquiries: Brad Duench, Managing Partner Call: 519-650-2327 x 230 or email: bradd@whistlebear.ca Two minutes south of Hwy 401, between Kitchener & Cambridge
Truly a Treasure www.elmiragolfclub.com
Come see our Heli-Tour Contact: Jeremy Logel, Director of Golf Operations
40 Eldale Road | Elmira, Ontario | 519 669 1652
40
fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
EDITOR'S NOTE See page 47 for a little more context on the impact of this great event and why CTS & golf have such great ties to charity. Well done CTS and all of the participants!
2010 Winning Team Jeromy Moss & Marty Stanfel Dundee Country Club $10,000 raised for the Canadian Cancer Society
PHOTO : Left to Right John Henderson, President CTS Jeromy Moss, member of winning team Todd Majaury, GM, Dundee Golf Club Fred Schmidt, CTS Tournament Director
www.ctstournament.com
Play for Fun : Win for Charity GolfScene Golf Scene Fall
8/18/10
2:21 PM
Page 1
rs! the colou ls y o a t j En r fall speci nts a a e l r v m u u e c o o cta ew ing n.c spe Previ pcom caledo u golf and ww. w
YOUR HOME FOR MORE THAN JUST GREAT GOLF! WEDDINGS
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MEETINGS
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TOURNAMENTS
We’re Much Closer Than You Think! Only 30 minutes from downtown Toronto with the NEW 410 extension. 2121 Olde Baseline Road, Caledon L7C 0K7 | 905-838-0200 | www.golfcaledon.com fall 2010
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golfscene.ca
41
Become a Member of the
Canadian Junior Golf Association develop your talent & golf resume for the future establish yourself on the CJGA National Order of Merit play any CJGA event stop in Canada receive RCGA Future Links Order of Merit Points test your skills in each event by taking part in the Lexus Skills Competition for great prizes receive a free IJGT membership as a part of your CJGA membership & participate in over 60 IJGT events in the USA represent the CJGA and Canada in key international events around the world including Holland, Scotland, South Africa, Trinidad & Tobago, & the United States be mentored and meet Stephen Ames at the Stephen Ames Cup – an all expenses paid trip to compete against juniors from Trinidad & Tobago
Your Future Starts Here
“Whether you are a beginner with a burning desire to learn and improve through tournament competition, or a highly skilled player looking for a competitive and professionally run environment, the CJGA is the right place for you.” Stephen Ames, PGA Tour Professional, CJGA National Spokesperson National Founding Partner
For further information call Canadian Junior Golf Association 1-877-508-1069 or visit www.cjga.com
the challenge of our island green awaits you ...
Graduates Receive: Graduate Studies Diploma from GMIC and Certificate of Completion in Golf Operations from Wilfred Laurier University www.golf-management.org | 905 844 7666 For More Information: Contact: Grant Fraser, M.Ed., M.B.A. | President | phone: 905 844 7666 fax: 905 844 2035 General Inquiries: gmic@golf-management.org
[ members of these organizations receive 10% off course fees ]
1333 Dorval Drive | Oakville, Ontario | Canada | L6J 4Z3 (905) 844-7666
42
fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
519 821 4653 • 18 hole par 70 Florida-style Coure • Superb Dining Facilities overlooking golf course
2054 Gordon Street, Guelph | www.springfieldgolf.on.ca
END OF SUMMER
FALL SPECIAL ALL YOU CAN PLAY FOR $30 All day everyday but Tuesdays!!!
Canadians Claim First Cup on Foreign Soil at Stephen Ames Cup
The Guelph Country Club Golf • Curling • Dining • Banquets • Meetings 133 Woodlawn Road, Guelph | 519 824 7039 | www.tgcc.ca
listowelgolfclub.ca
A team of 10 Canadian junior golfers from the CJGA avenged a loss last season on home soil to capture the Stephen Ames Cup for the first time away from home winning 11 ½ to 8 ½ at the St. Andrews Golf Club in Moka, Miraval Trinidad. “It was a great final day of matches to end a fantastic week of golf for both sides,” said tournament host and PGA Tour Professional Stephen Ames. “I am really proud of what we have been able to accomplish over the last six years thanks to the great support of my partners at RBC and Nike Golf. I look forward to many great things in the future.”
27 holes Bent grass greens Tree-lined fairways
“Best Value” -- Toronto Star “Hidden Gem” -- TeeingItUp Ontario
27 Championship Holes full service facility - call or book online today 519 291-2500 or 1 877 291 2507 (toll free) 8380 Fairlane Rd. Listowel Ontario N4W 3G6 fall 2010
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golfscene.ca
43
fall frenzy
Golf Club
at BraeBen Golf Course
Nestled into the Niagara Escarpment, with panoramic views of the G.T.A. in abundance, Lowville Golf Club blends natural beauty with a challenging 18 hole layout.
2 Great Golf Courses Driving Range Golf Academy
Britannia Road and Guelph Line Burlington
Large Pro Shop Lowest Prices on Equipment
Golf, Cart, Taxes all in
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Monday & Tuesday, all day! Use promo code GS03 or "frenzy"
905 335 6181 1 800 688 2931 www.lowvillegolf.com
905-615-GOLF (4653) www.mississauga.ca/golf
905 336 3660
www.hiddenlakegolf.com
10- 289
1137 #1 Side Road | Burlington, Ontario
‘nominated by ScoreGolf as 2009 Best New Course in Canada’
Challenge Your Game, not your pocketbook
traditional parkland layout 6000 yards • par 70 tree lined • bentgrass fairways club car electric carts ohio sand water in play on 12 holes challenging • affordable
BOOK TEE TIMES TODAY
905.854.4653 11660 Guelph Line Campbellville, Ontario | www.turtlecreeekgolf.ca 44
fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
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at Niagara College CaNada Our Three-Year Business adminisTraTiOn PrOgram includes: • Specialized hands-on courses conducted by golf professionals • Applied co-op internship for practical hands-on experience • Convenient on-campus residence option • Year-round student playing privileges • State-of-the-art golf simulator • International study week
Co-ordinator: Mike Santoro
905.641.2252 ext. 4146 niagaracollege.ca/golf E-mail: golf@niagaracollege.ca
A TrAInInG PArTnEr WITH
EndorsEd by
business.humber.ca Endorsed by the CPGA
fall 2010
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Rediscover affordable golf! www.brantford.ca
18 Ho les Tee Times: 519-753-6112 Clubhouse: 519-756-6345 320 Balmoral Drive, Brantford, ON
$28
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Chedoke Golf Course (905) 546 - 3116 www.myhamilton.ca
Banquet hall available yearly for all your events. Ask about our new Men’s Golf League. Exemplary tournament coordination and service.
Mother Nature must be a golfer.
519.622.0309
savannahgolflinks.ca 46
fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
Transform your Fireplace in Less than One Day.
Do you have an ugly brick fireplace?
a good slice (interesting & worthwhile things we find while looking for our ball)
GOLF IS GIVING Jeromy Moss and Marty Stanfel, both of Kitchener and members at the Dundee Country Club were victorious this year on two fronts. They won the 11th annual CTS (Canadian Team Shootout) event held at the Craigowan Golf and Country Club in Woodstock and they also ‘won for cancer’. The tournament, which annually attracts amateur teams from across Ontario who play a Scramble, Alternate Shot, Best ball format with the winning team declaring a charity and the tournament writes a cheque for $10,000. This year, before the awards were even announced, Marty had already returned home to Kitchener to let his 54 year old brother know that his team was victorious and the $10,000 was being donated to The Canadian Cancer Society. Marty’s reason for leaving the tournament so early? Well, his brother is currently battling cancer and Marty simply wanted him to be the first to know that the Dundee members were victorious and that cancer was also a winner. Just another example of how golf sometimes works for the betterment of others. And a very, very, good slice. Congratulations Marty and Jeromy.
Looking for a dramatic change? We can help. Our custom-fabricated panels fit perfectly over your pre-existing fireplace. Any fireplace. The patina finish hints at textures of wood and stone. And when you see the results, you won’t remember how your room looked before.
Peter Law CPGA
Natural Golf Certified Instructor
• Winter - The Mississauga Golf Dome / Soccer World Dome in Hamilton • Summer - Hidden Lake Golf Course in Burlington / Vic Hadfield’s practice facility in Oakville / The Launch in Woodbridge
For Natural Golf Lessons, Golf Schools, Natural Golf Equipment and Accessories call 905-616-6112
Once it’s done, you’ll be able to enjoy the good things in life. Like sitting down in front of a fireplace with family and friends. Chatting over a glass of wine after a good day. Or recovering from a bad one.
1-877-267-3869
www.copetownwoods.com
Course calibre tee deck & daily ‘SPECIALS’
Put your feet up. Sit by your new Fireplace. Relax.
519.632.8584 • www.danayr.ca In the village of Ayr | Exit 268 from the 401
Proud sponsor of the Canadian Team Shoot-Out.
WEDGES'N WOODS GOLF ACADEMY
Bring drama to your living space. Call 647-476-4420 www.incendiodesigns.com
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155 Can-Amera Pkwy at Hespeler Rd | www.wedgesnwoods.net
fall 2010
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47
PIKE LAKE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
continued from page 34
519 338 2812 18 Hole Links, 9 Hole Lake Courses Junior Golf Camp in July
www.pikelake.com • proshop@pikelake.com PAY FOR 9
519-489-6767
6527 Ellis Road, Cambridge | puslinchlakegolf.ca
PLAY 18 MONDAY - FRIDAY (after 10) (valid for the 2010 season)
Two can play for $50 weekdays with this ad
Goderich Sunset Golf Club 519 524 8047 www.sunsetgolfclub.com 7 km north of Goderich on Hwy #21
“a great course to work on your short game” 376 Barondale Drive | Mississauga, Ontario
(905) 712-1183
www.victoriaparkgolf.com
PAR 71
NEW YARDAGE GUIDE AVAILABLE GREAT SAVINGS INSIDE
(519) 821-2211
Victoria Road South of Stone Road, Guelph
Guelph Lakes Golf & Country Club
519 822 4222 Across from Guelph Lake on HWY 24 | www.guelphlakesgolf.ca
Owen Sound Golf & Country Club
Public Welcome Tee Times 519 376 1961 ext 1 or 1 800 257 GOLF(4653) www.osgcc.com
“Creating great golf memories since 1920.” Come for the Greens ... ... Return for the Value
10
Willow Valley Golf Course is celebrating 10 years of operation with some great happenings and prizes.
TH
A N N IV ER
SA RY
S P E C IA L
S
On the 10th of every month, all golfers playing that day will receive a special anniversary gift. In addition, golfers who check out the Willow Valley website and join their exclusive email club will be automatically entered into special anniversary draws.
USE CODE GS51 WHEN SIGNING UP
48
fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
Stop No. 3 is the Puslinch Lake Golf Club in Cambridge where you can actually see an edge of the course from the 401 before you exit north at 286 which is also Townline Road. This is the smallest of my six pack with the two sets of tees at 5,280 yards (sloped 99 for men) and 4,835 (111 for women) but it features some challenging elevation changes, doglegs left and right and interesting greens in its par-70 routing. Nobody is quite sure who designed the layout on Ellis Road but in two years it will mark 50 years of operation and was home base at the start of his golf days for PGA Tour veteran Ian Leggatt. Course No. 4 is off the same exit 286 but you head south on Townline Road through the eastern edge of the city of Cambridge for a couple of lefts and rights until you get to the Cambridge Golf Club which is located on Clyde Road. Designed by famed architect Robbie Robinson, the first nine of this par-72 layout opened in the fall of 1962 and the second nine was launched in August of ’63 and the entire operation was then known as the Galaglades Golf Club. A succession of owners – including current leaders Chris Miranda and Carla Munch - have made improvements and impressive changes over the years and the par-72 track now plays to yardages of 6,441 (blue), 6,091 (white) and 5,719 (yellow) for the men and 5,512 (red) for the women with slope ratings ranging from 121 to 114 at the various tee markers. Course No. 5 is bonus time for the road trip since it features the newly renovated and expanded 27-hole Doon Valley Golf Club, also visible from Highway 401 before you exit at 275 north at Homer Watson. There is speculation famed designer Stanley Thompson had something to do with the original plans but the course didn’t open until 1955 which was two years after Thompson had died so it’s quite possible one of his protégées, Robert Moote, oversaw the construction. The City of Kitchener has owned the course since 1966 and this year completed an extensive addition/redesign operation which was under the direction
Derrydale Golf Course
Puslinch Lake #4
Erin Heights Golf Course
Mississauga, Ontario 12 hole facility
Village of Erin Challenging 9 holes
905 670 3030
519 833 9702 a few miles south of Brantford
photo: Jim Moisse
9 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
www.fescuesedge.com · 519 484 2200
SO U T H B R O O K
GOL F & CO UNT RY C LUB
ship Golf Champion Rates ble at Afforda
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w. ar
iss
va ll
ey .co
m
Binbrook | Ontario | 1 800 916 6049
Innerkip #13
of Elora-based architect Sean Watters. You start and play the some old/ some new 18-hole layout without returning to the clubhouse while the ‘stand alone’ nine features holes from the original routing. The new 18 is special for this story because it is the only course in my half-doz that features holes on both sides of the 401. The 18 is a par 72 with yardages of 6,386, 5,748 and 5,079 but hasn’t been slope rated yet by the GAO. Some might say I was saving the best for last because there is no question I think Innerkip-Highlands, north at exit 250, is one of the best value/ conditioned courses in the province, if not the nation. Not professionally designed but a labor of love in the beginning more than 20 years ago for a butcher-by-trade and his golfing buddy who did the routing, Innerkip has progressed unbelievably over the years under the leadership of the current owners, the Peister family from Kitchener-Waterloo. There are only three official sets of tees at this par-72 layout but combining the blues, whites and reds in a variety of situations allows for five yardage packages of 6,417 to 6,128 to 5,920 to 5,328 to 4,910. The slope rating is reflected in the combinations from the back blues at 123 to the front reds at 100 for the men to 131 to 119 for the women. I haven’t listed green fee costs because there is a wide variation for charges at all the courses, based on day, time of day, age, gender, etc. The best thing to do is contact the course – via phone or website - you want to play and check out their rates and specials. Needless to say, there are many outstanding other courses in this section of Southern Ontario but I have zeroed in on these six because of their proximity to the 401 and the fact that all have challenging tee markers at 6,000 yards or less which is now my distance of choice. Enjoy the road trip. Bill (Skip) Johns has been writing about golf and courses for this his 53rd year and playing, in his own fashion, even longer.
www.southbrookgolf.ca
27 Challenging Holes Purchase a Frequent Players Card and get 25% off green fees (519) 824-1551 or (888) 824-1552
2 miles north of higway #7 on Elmira Road just north of Guelph
Join Us Today and Start Enjoying ... THE INNOVATION OF SERVICE
124 Saginaw Parkway | Cambridge | 519.620.0322 | saginawgolfclub.com
(519) 271-4212
since 1896
www.stratfordcountryclub.com
53 Romeo Street North Stratford, Ontario
11.99 for 9
Everyday $
(the rest of 2010)
519-647-2069 • apollovalley.com
2462 2nd Concession West Lynden, Ontario
WEEKDAY SPECIAL * $10 (before 11am) * $14.95 (between 11-2) 100 Wilmot Line • Waterloo, Ontario • 519 886 6555 • www.waterloogolf.ca
WHITE OAKS GOLF CLUB AND DRIVING RANGE
Find us at highway #5 & 9th Line, just west off 403
Nine Hole ‘executive’ Complete Range & Practise Facilities Lessons Pro Shop & Snack Bar
Gord Cochrane, CPGA Professional www.whiteoaksgolfclub.com
(905) 257-5409
1429 Dundas Street East, Oakville Ontario fall 2010
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OPINION » TALKING IN YOUR BACKSWING > THE VIABLE FUTURE IS FOR THE ...
OPEN MINDED This may not be the most popular thing to say in this era of pandering to pampered pros from the PGA Tour, but Glen Abbey should remain part of the RBC Canadian Open rotation, if there is such a thing, after Golf Canada’s contractual obligation to ClubLink Corporation runs out. As part of the 1999 deal that saw the Royal Canadian Golf Association, now Golf Canada, sell the Abbey to ClubLink, the longtime home of the Open still has one more to host prior to 2015. I suspect that will take place in 2013 because the Abbey could be more accommodating to new tournament dates that will likely become a reality after the tour tweaks its schedule by the end of 2012. In fact, the Abbey offers much more than flexibility to organizers, although the reaction of many narcissistic PGA Tour pros towards the Jack Nicklaus design has ranged from indifference to downright dislike over the years. That’s a nail in the coffin for those who pander to the pros in the belief that if you give the best players in the world a golf course that they approve of, they will automatically respond by signing on for the tournament, which is a naïve assumption. The reality is that the golf course is just one of the things that are considered by tour players when they are planning their schedules. They also look at the time they want to spend with their families. They automatically look at events that are close to their hearts for whatever reasons. Money is certainly a consideration as is the prestige of majors and other higher profile stops.
Luring new people to the game will not be accomplished by trying to have them come around to the traditional way of thinking in golf, but by providing reasons for newcomers to come out and experience the game ...
The world’s best players have lived a charmed existence over the past decade or two, but with Tiger Woods struggling to regain his form and the U.S. economy still clunking, could we see the focus shift from the players back to the people who actually buy tickets? Fan-friendliness is
the last word
fall 2010 | golfscene.ca
where the Abbey stands out and it’s really too bad there aren’t more stadium courses in Canada, but it was considered bad form when the RCGA tried that a few years back and was accused of going into competition with other golf course owners and its own member clubs. The Open seemed to be entering a new era when it was held at the Abbey in 2008 and 2009 and that had something to do with the arrival of RBC as title sponsor. It started with the unheard-of idea of holding a concert series after play ended each day and that carried from the first year into the second, when the Mike Weir Charity Classic brought in names such as Kevin Costner and Michael Jordan to entertain the masses. The Weir Classic continued into this year’s Open at St. George’s, but the concert series did not, reportedly due to lack of space and proximity of residences. What the concert series at Glen Abbey did was offer Canadian fans a taste of one of the more popular tournaments on the PGA Tour schedule and certainly one of the most unique. The Waste Management Phoenix Open is a name that sets up a few punch lines, but it’s all about fun, so jokes are okay. The epicentre of the tournament is the infamous par three 16th, where the most famous of players don’t escape the boo-birds if they miss the green. A few years ago, I remember Fred Funk walking tee to green and serving up the 'raise the roof' motion, which whipped the rowdy crowd into an even greater frenzy. The fact is that the Phoenix Open is all about fun, either around the fairways or at its infamous watering holes either on the course or off. The bottom line is that it regularly draws the biggest crowds on tour and brings in significant coin for the charities supported by the Thunderbirds, a local service group. It doesn’t always draw the most top shelf field and some players avoid it because of its rambunctious nature, but there are enough tour players from the area or those who played their college golf in the state to make it interesting. What the Phoenix Open does right is it doesn’t rely on the players to make it a success, but instead, makes it an event to look forward to even before the field is announced.
Ian Hutchinson
The suggestion here is not for Golf Canada and RBC to go for a cheap knock-off of the Phoenix Open, but to use it as a reminder of the importance of fun to the public and the Abbey showed that it is capable of helping achieve that objective. Besides being a competitive event, the national championship can also be a high profile vehicle in Golf Canada’s mission of bringing more people into the game and while those who get caught up in tradition, including myself, are already sold on golf, innovation will lure those who don’t have the same affinity. Golf Canada can take a breather now on making a decision about future sites for the Open. Magnificent courses at Shaughnessy in Vancouver and the Hamilton Golf and Country Club are on deck and will provide spectacular settings over the next couple of years, as St. George’s did this year. As it waits to see what happens with the tour schedule, Golf Canada may want to ponder its mission of growing the game. When it was the RCGA, it was accused of being more concerned with private clubs and being out of touch with the masses that play the game in this country. Luring new people to the game will not be accomplished by trying to have them come around to the traditional way of thinking in golf, but by providing reasons for newcomers to come out and experience the game, whether its concerts or other innovations that are focused on fun. Private clubs such as St. George’s or Hamilton may showcase the best this land has to offer, but a public facility such as the Abbey can house an Open where F-words are used frequently. Those F-words are fun and fans. To grow the game in this country, it’s the people outside the ropes that need to be catered to instead of the fellows on the fairways.
Hard 7 or easy 6?
3 foot or 3 inch gimmie?
Claw grip or traditional?
Interlock or overlap?
Mulligan or honour?
Draw or fade?
Walk or ride?
Chip or pitch?
18 holes or 819?
33 Clubs. More than 40 championship courses. 1- 800-661-1818 clublink.ca
Golfer’s Paradise… Majestic Colonial Punta Cana Beach Resort, Golf, Casino & Spa ★★★★★
In a word, wow! From the incredible two-storey lobby and 400-meter pool that lazes through the resort, to the lovely rooms, comprehensive kids’ club, casino, abundance of sun chairs and palapa huts, and massage beds at the spectacular beach, this resort is a beauty. The Majestic Colonial Punta Cana is a stunning 5-star all-inclusive property, perfectly integrated with the exuberant flora and fauna of the Dominican Republic. A very popular choice for Canadians! The 18-hole PGA championship Punta Blanca Golf Course next door was designed by the architect and famous golf champion, Nick Price. The course plays through natural wetland areas with large waste bunkers and big lakes built into the tropical vegetation.
GOLF BONUS!
EARLY BOOKING BONUS UP $ TO
SAVE
860
• 1 complimentary round of golf per week at Punta Blanca golf course* (minimum 7-night stay is required)
per couple when you book and pay by November 14, 2010!
• Transfers from the hotel and balls for driving range are included • Golf cart is mandatory at extra charge *Not applicable to Garden View Junior Suite - special discounted price is available at the hotel.
GolfScene0810_Layout 1 10-08-20 1:35 PM Page 1
UNIGLOBE Travel
(Eastern Canada) 5915 Airport Road, Suite 900 Mississauga, ON L4V 1T1
1-800-999-8000
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Early Booking Bonus offer is per room in Canadian dollars, based on double occupancy. Applicable to 7-night or longer all-inclusive holiday packages to the Majestic Colonial Punta Cana Resort. Valid on new individual bookings made and paid in full by Nov. 14/10 for travel from Dec. 23/10 to Dec. 23/11. Savings vary by date (max. amount of $860 applies to Dec. 24-27/10 departures). Not applicable to groups, air or hotel only bookings. Not combinable with child rates, Deal of the Day special or any other offers. Not redeemable for cash; nontransferable. Other restrictions may apply. ON. Reg. # 50012702/BC Reg. #3597-6 DC24880