GolfScene Summer 2011

− NEW CONTEST ON PAGE 36 −

Scene M A G A Z INE

Sou t h - C e n t r a l O n t a r i o ’s G o l f S o u rc e

Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

I nodded to my caddie and promptly – perhaps, in retrospect, hurriedly – snap-hooked my historic opening tee shot across the first fairway, across the entire 18th fairway, and put just enough spin on my ball (Ultra 432) to stop it on the path abutting the fence that separates the Old Course from the olde towne.

the ladies of the

LPGA TOUR are coming to waterloo

STREET INSPIRED FOOTWEAR SHORT GAME TIPS Conforms to the body like a second skin and oddly enough provides a feeling of strength - perhaps - a summons to our inner superhero People say golf is like life, but I can't remember hearing the analogy that life is like hockey or even basketball for that matter. The part of both life and golf that people struggle with is the idea or illusion of 'control'.

looking for a smarter

FOLEY +DEMO SEAN DAY

SAWMILL CREEK PRO[file] The Pink Panther, Paula Creamer

am I better to hit to ofpractice? away bunch balls from one spot PROSpectives panel in- the repetition (to train my mind tohas remember that shot) or instead the answers should I be moving around and hitting single shots from varying distances in an effort to mirror a game situation?

SUMMER 2011

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10

22

49 11

REGULARS

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PLACES TO PLAY

I think Rene did an outstanding job

GREEN SIDE UP Tom Margetts crafting 18 holes over 38 an L-shaped piece of property – check the scoreQUINN ESSENTIALS Hal Quinn card and tell me if you30 don’t think the overview looks like a putter?

THE TARTAN CHAMELEON Carolanne Doig 29 most impressive thing about INSIDE THE ROPES Sean FoleyThe 25 Rory McIlroy’s entry into the books at Congressional was MIND OVER MATTERS Paulhistory Dewland 27 not his records, nor his margin of but the use of his considerAROUND THE GLOBE Marcvictory, Chiarenza 50 able talents to politely correct elder detractors who said he’d be TALKING IN YOUR BACKSWING Ian Hutchinson 58 devastated after his final round PROSpectives

NEW

CONTEST !

36

we'll get the green fee - you buy the beer

collapse at the Masters in front of the entire world.

One elite panel of experts - equals - more insight, knowledge, and answers.

BETTER WAYS TO PRACTICE? Our expert panel of CPGA Professionals offer up some valuable insight for any of those trying to make our practice time count - page 18

summer 2011

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CONTENTS

GolfScene TM

SERVING SOUTH-CENTRAL ONTARIO

Publisher

PUBLISHER’S WELCOME »

Norm Woods Operations Manager

Linda Woods

season is in full swing Summer's here. Summer's there. Summer is wherever you are right now - which is hopefully at the golf course. I hope you are enjoying the golfing season - getting in a few extra rounds - playing a few great shots - sharing some memorable moments - and squeezing the absolute most out of our short season.

Greenskeeper

Steve Woods Contributors

Ian Hutchinson | Bill (Skip) Johns Hal Quinn | Sean Foley special thanks to Tim O'Connor Columnists

Carolanne Doig; Paul Dewland; Mark Crone; Tom Margetts; Rob Foster Cover

PINK PANTHER

As always, our summer edition marks the midway point of the golfing season. And even though things started a little slow, the weather as of late seems to be cooperating. There are birdies to be made. And pars to be saved. − NEW CONTEST ON PAGE 36 −

Scene MAGAZINE

S o u t h - C e n t r a l O n t a r i o ’s G o l f S o u rc e

In this Issue

the ladies of the

LPGA TOUR are coming to waterloo

STREET INSPIRED FOOTWEAR SHORT GAME TIPS Conforms to the body like a second skin and oddly enough provides a feeling of strength - perhaps - a summons to our inner superhero People say golf is like life, but I can't remember hearing the analogy that life is like hockey or even basketball for that matter. The part of both life and golf that people struggle with is the idea or illusion of 'control'.

looking for a smarter

FOLEY +DEMO SEAN DAY

SAWMILL CREEK PRO[file] The Pink Panther, Paula Creamer

am I better to hit to ofpractice? away bunch balls from one spot PROSpectives panel in- the repetition (to train my mind tohas remember that shot) or instead the answers should I be moving around and hitting single shots from varying distances in an effort to mirror a game situation?

© 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

Volume 12 | Issue 2 | Summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

I nodded to my caddie and promptly – perhaps, in retrospect, hurriedly – snap-hooked my historic opening tee shot across the first fairway, across the entire 18th fairway, and put just enough spin on my ball (Ultra 432) to stop it on the path abutting the fence that separates the Old Course from the olde towne.

original photo : GOLF CANADA

Big news out of Waterloo as the LPGA Tour will be making a stop in that city (our region) for at least the next 3 years. If you've never been to an LPGA event, check off June 18-24, 2012 and plan to be impressed and entertained. The host course is Grey Silo - and if you have not played it recently, you may want to pay them a visit for a little pre-tournament perspective.

over 350 golf courses in southern Ontario, with additional distribution through selected golf outlets.

SUMMER 2011 : Volume 12 : Issue 2 Advertising rates and publishing schedules are available

We've also got some really interesting insight from our PROSpectives panel on smarter ways to practice. Well worth the read for anyone looking to improve their game.

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

And speaking of game improvement, we've also got a few simple tips for shaving strokes around the greens in our instruction section.

their return cannot be guaranteed. Letters to the Editor may be edited for legalities and only signed letters will be considered for publication.

Bill (Skip) Johns spent a day at Sawmill Creek. Sean Foley reminds us all not to take this game so personally. Ian (Hutch) Hutchinson discusses the rise of Rory and what may just well be the birth of many new eras in golf. Hal Quinn talks about playing with a caddie in a way that is both eloquent and cantankerous. And don't forget our eclectic group of columnists who continue to serve up quality insight into the game. We've learned a lot about this game through them - and hopefully, you have too.

PRINTED IN CANADA FOR SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES Please call 519 954 5587 Email • info@golfscene.ca FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 519 954 5587 • sales@golfscene.ca

Great new contest on page 36. Our Places to Play online feature has seen a lot of traffic and that prompted us to find a way to reward our readers. So, your next few rounds could be on us ...

A sincere thanks to you, our readers, as well as all of those who support the publication.

Enjoy your next round. Play well and have fun.

SINGLE COPY PRICE $4.25 GolfScene 270 Morrison Road Unit 11C Kitchener | Ontario | N2A 3Y1 Phone: (519) 954-5587 | info@golfscene.ca www.golfscene.ca | GolfScene® Inc. 2011

PLEASE RECYCLE

CANADIAN OWNED & OPERATED

4

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PREFERABLY TO A GOLFER

GIMMEES » 1

1 Adam Hadwin and Wes Heffernan not only qualified (so did Jon Mills) for the US Open, but made the cut. Hadwin ended up tied for 39th (nice $41,154 payday) while Heffernan finished in 71st (earning $16,539).

It should be noted that only one player birdied the 18th hole at Congressional on Sunday and that was Adam Hadwin.

2 At the age of 14, Rory McIlroy suggested to Jim Treacy "build me a championship golf course and I will be your touring pro". Pretty astute vision Mr. Treacy had in supporting the brash young lad.

That resort is now known as Lough Erne - located in Northern Ireland - and the Faldo course is a Top 100 Course in the UK and Ireland. 'golf escape' that is and it also happens to be the this magazine - as it was of r highlighted on the back cove ing those folks over at mak well as e in the spring issu well as Uniglobe Travel pretty astute

2 3

3 It seems that just about every brand is the leader at something ... but here are some pretty overwhelming statistics with respect to tour player adoption of a product. Golf Pride grips were used by 81% of the U.S. Open field. In fact, more than half of the field used the Tour Velvet model. Toss in the fact that 82% of the players who teed it up at this year's Masters also chose Golf Pride and a mere 92% squeezed them during the 2011 NCAA Division 1 Men's Championship. That's a healthy reminder that the only place where the equipment comes into contact with the player is pretty important. Which should also serve as a reminder to make sure that your grips still have, well, grip.

goes back to school ...

GolfNorth, a group of 18 courses, primarily in south-western Ontario, recently made a major, long-term investment in the growth and future of the game.

They have committed to the Golf in Schools program, an initiative of the Golf Association of Ontario and

Golf Canada to introduce the game to elementary school children. The plan is to work with schools and school boards to introduce golf into the curriculum of every school in Canada, with the expectation that kids will become curious about the game and pursue it as a lifetime recreation.

Mike Garside, GolfNorth’s VicePresident and Chief Operating Officer says, “we are very anxious to do our part and help develop

the game at the grass-roots level and we felt that working along with the GAO and Golf Canada with this already popular program was the best way to begin. We have made a five-year commitment to the program beginning with 32 schools in year one and an additional 30 schools each year for the next four years."

‘fun,’ we are convinced that our efforts will show positive results down the road. We are also developing a strong junior program with clinics and camps at all of our golf courses and, as part of our overall plan, we will be able to offer the keen kids a chance to move to the next level, get onto a golf course with real golf clubs and golf balls and actually play a few holes.”

Garside adds, "I know that golf is a high skill sport but by introducing golf to kids with an emphasis on

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GolfScenery Âť

6

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ICE IT ON 18 One sign of a good golf course is a strong finishing hole - a place where anything can happen. And usually does. Which is exactly what came to mind when we ended up here at the 18th hole of Vic Hadfield's hockey themed mini putt.

Located at the corner of Trafalgar & Burnamthorpe in Oakville, the facility features 120 tee areas (mats and grass), a self contained short game area, including two bentgrass putting greens, a chipping area, practice bunker, and ... one really 'cool' miniature golf course.

Vic Hadfield, in case you are wondering, was the first member of the New York Rangers to score 50 goals in a single season (71-72). www.vichadfieldgolf.com

Photo Credit: SeventyOne

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FASHION FORWARD

TAKING IT TO THE STREET

the new wave of style in golf shoes is getting its inspiration from the concrete

C

B

A

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There is little doubt that urban culture continues to be a major catalyst when it comes to main stream fashion design - many of those new styles and trends just don't always seem to make it allthe-way-up to the Country Club.

We've never known anyone to wish they could wear their golf shoes around town - but for those who once thought it might be nice to wear your street shoes on the course - welcome to casual day.

E

A) PUMA's 917 is in fact a reverse digit homage to the fast cars of 1971. Canvas, curves, and classic.

B) ASHWORTH's CARDIFF is golf's version of a cross-over elegant style and appeal both on and off the fairway.

D

F

C) KIKKOR's CLAYBURN models are as comfortable at the skatepark as they are on the greens. Take Clay (grey) and Burn (red) and you have a little place in Abbotsford, B.C. D) TRUE linkswear shoes are for every golfer who has ever dreamed of walking the fairways barefoot (with a little added traction, style, and protection of course).

E) ECCO's GOLF STREET and Fred Couples might just have been the ones who started it all. Big style and bigger comfort - anatomically excellent.

F) FOOTJOY's FJ STREET is a fashion forward throwback from a timeless golf shoe company that knows a few things about quality ... and golf.

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NOTEBOOK [ simple still works - steve woods ]

PROLOGUE

a few thoughts on the

SWINKEY - golf's answer to multitasking or just a really clever set of training tools

I didn't get down to the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando this year and, in hindsight, I didn't miss that much other than perhaps the chance to check out this new practice contraption / device / tool / aid (not really sure how to define it) from a couple of Canadian golf professionals.

NOTES

Ok, let's reference the marketing package and call it a golf training tool. An adequate description. Scroll down a little more and we see the term tool box - perfect.

THE SWINKEY IS A GOLFER'S TOOL BOX. In one intuitively designed and self-contained package, the Swinkey has all the essential tools that committed golfers need for a better golf game.

Designed by professionals (and that is key), what you get is a very simple set of interchangeable parts that include just about everything you'll need to practice and improve - except the hard work. No magic hinges here.

No gimmicks. No tricks. Not even some exaggerated guarantee. It's a rarity nowadays to comes across a product that really should be a staple in every serious golfer's bag. Akin to a rain hood from Seaforth, Therma Sleeves from Nike, sunscreen, and Tylenol the Swinkey should take up permanent residence in the bag.

essential practice tools all rolled into a single easy to use form factor - that stays in the bag

There are simply too many reasons not to check out the Swinkey. And far too many uses to fit onto a single page, so my suggestion would be to visit swinkey.com for more information on this innovative new product.

THINGS¡ for IT more CAN info DO OR on the DOES new...

20XI ball JUST TO visitNAME page 42 A FEW: or watch tech video▼ • ALIGNMENT AIDS - both full swing and putting • DRIVER PROTECTOR - at 48" long it will protect your driver from any compression or impact • SWING WEIGHT TRAINER • WARM UP / EXCERCISE BAR • SWING PLANE GUIDE • PUTTING SET-UP & STROKE SYSTEM • MONOPOD - it's even got a screw to mount a camera for those using video for analysis

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summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

INSTRUCTION SHORT GAME

results of our online poll

golfscene.ca

How much of your designated practice time do you actually work on the short game - 100 yards and in?

21% GREATER THAN 50%

27% AROUND HALF 50%

27%

25% ON AVERAGE

15%

10%

MAYBE 10% ( majority of that on putting )

PRACTICE! - BARELY HAVE TIME TO PLAY

as always, our readers are a very clever bunch and do in fact spend the properly inordinate amount of time working on the short game - the place where good rounds get lost and or saved depending on one's ability to get the ball up and in - as a responsible publication, we thought we should try and help out so we asked a few of our PROSpectives panel members to assist ... and they did on the pages to follow â–ş

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INSTRUCTION SHORT GAME

Mike Skimson, CPGA Pro The Golf Performance Center at Whistle Bear

3 Simple Rules to Remember Around the Green

1

get ball on the green

2

get the ball in close proximity to hole

the safe play is the smart play

the main goal of any shot around the green is to get the ball close to the hole for a makeable putt. Your aim is to get the ball into the hole in two shots counting the chip

3

Aim for the appropriate side of hole don't make your

next shot any more difficult than it has to be - leave yourself the putt that you can make (which for most of us is the straight and up-hill variety)

12

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INSTRUCTION SHORT GAME

give yourself a break 'aim' for the largest part of the hole When playing a putt with break always remember that the 'high' side of the hole is also the 'largest' point of entry.

We want the ball turning into the 'heart' of the cup, not turning away from the opening.

Finding that spot requires the right line and the right speed - there is definitely an element of 'feel' that is required - but, let's remember this is an athletic endeavour.

Practice visualizing the line, then 'feeling' the pace for a putt that will curve into the hole and you will start to make more putts with break in them. a ball entering the hole at the proper angle results in the best chance of going in

Conor O'Shea, Teaching Professional Core Golf Academy at Piper's Heath

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INSTRUCTION SHORT GAME

the longer follow-through required to try to carry the ball farther onto the green and closer to the hole

the shorter follow through and shorter target equals easier to execute

14

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lower loft for lower scores When playing shots from just off of the green, why not chose the easiest means of execution?

Using a lower lofted club (here I have an 8 iron) allows me to choose a landing spot that is closer to me and uses a more simple swing motion - shorter backswing and follow through. And whether we're throwing a football or shooting a basketball - it's always easier to hit a target that is closer to us right? The target is bigger and, subsequently, our margin for error is reduced. Getting the ball onto the putting surface and rolling towards the hole as quickly as possible is almost always a smart play.

Using a higher lofted club (say a sand wedge) forces me to try and carry the ball further due to the higher trajectory leading to less roll after landing. My effective landing area (or target) is now farther away and smaller. To compound things, my swing is also a little longer and these two elements combined mean that my execution now requires much more precision with respect to contact. Basically, my margin for error has increased dramatically.

On of the simplest ways to be more consistent around the greens and shave off a few strokes is to play the odds - opt to chip rather than pitch if the option is available. From there, choose the club that will get the ball rolling sooner and rolling out to the hole.

Sean Casey, CPGA Class A Teaching Professional Director of Instruction The ClubLink Academy at Glen Abbey

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Starting ne xt year, the LP GA Tour is going to have 2 tournaments in Canada. The newest event will be held and hosted in Waterloo.

- Story by Ian Hutchinson -

There are still a few questions that remain

unanswered, but for now,

LPGA Tour in Waterloo appears the arrival of the

to be one of those dream business deals that works for all parties involved.

Manulife Financial has made a three-year commitment as title sponsor with a two-year option on the tournament, which will first be played the week of June 18-24, 2012.

The 72-hole, full field stroke play event will be played at Grey Silo Golf Course.

“We’ve been working for the better part of a year to bring this event together,” said Sports Properties International Chief Executive Officer and Chairman Hugh Morrow.

Grey Silo has several environmentally sensitive areas that will cause routing

16

challenges for the movement of spectators and it’s expected the normal order of holes will be altered.

Grey Silo’s clubhouse is also considered small for hosting at such an event.

It also remains to be seen how the tournament will dole out exemptions, particularly to Canadian players, but all of these questions will be addressed over the next year. For now, the $1.3-million event becomes Canada’s second LPGA Tour event, along with the CN Canadian Women’s Open.

“Manulife Financial and the Waterloo region are a perfect fit with the LPGA Tour,” said commissioner Michael Whan.

“Manulife is a worldwide leader in the financial services sector and, like the LPGA, it has a global presence that will help build

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

connections to this tournament from around the world,” added Whan.

The launch of another tournament is good news for the tour, which has dipped to 24 events on the schedule, but to have it in Canada is a bonus for Alena Sharp who grew up just down the road in Hamilton.

“Right now, we just want to continue to add tournaments. It makes it extra special for the Canadian players,” said Hamilton’s Alena Sharp.

“You know how golf fans are in Canada. They come out to watch and they stay the weekend. People will come from all across Southern Ontario to volunteer, so just that alone is going to raise awareness for Waterloo,” she added.

► Michele Wie, the winner of the 2010 Canadian Women's Open, will most likely, due to a short LPGA schedule, be in Canada more than once in 2012 thanks to Manulife and the group who have secured the new event in Waterloo to be played at Grey Silo.

Sharp added that while much attention has been paid to Research In Motion as a corporate citizen of Waterloo the past few years, you can’t overlook the contributions of a company such as Manulife, which is expected to not only provide financial support, but also a volunteer base for the tournament.

“Manulife has employees, customers and advisors in every country represented by the players in this tournament, so that’s why this is a perfect fit for us,” said Brian Gooding, a Manulife Senior Vice President.

“Waterloo Region has such a strong community spirit of volunteerism and that’s a great fit with Manulife’s national signature cause of volunteerism. We’re delighted to have this opportunity to bring local people together who will play such a critical role in the success of this event,” he added.

The area does have a precedent in hosting strongly attended events. In 2004 and 2005, the Canadian PGA Championship, which was a Nationwide Tour event at the time, was wellattended just down the road at Whistle Bear in Cambridge.

A city the size of Waterloo is considered by many to be a prime venue for the LPGA Tour and with several cities within driving distance, Waterloo mayor Brenda Halloran sees golf fans converging next year.

“This is a golfing town. There’s a lot of support for golf. We have some beautiful courses all throughout the region, so this is like a dream come true for this community to have this calibre of a tournament,” she said.

“I think sometimes people don’t realize just what the draw area is for this community. If you were to put the pencil here and just draw a circle, it’s a big community,” added Halloran.

“We’ve got London and Hamilton if you look at the big cities around. We have no doubt that we’re going to get a huge turnout for this tournament and people are really excited about the LPGA in Canada,” she said.

Photo: Golf Canada

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PROSpectives One elite panel of experts - equals - more insight, knowledge, and answers.

Our expert panel is made up of some of the top Canadian PGA Professionals in Ontario in an effort to provide GolfScene readers with a cross-section of views and a wealth of game improvement knowledge.

“

SMARTER WAY TO PRACTICE As a player who generally shoots in the high 80's, I was intrigued by Sean Foley's article in the Spring issue which suggested that simulating playing is a better way to improve than being overly focused on fundamentals.

I am aware that most of my shots are lost around the greens - which is why I spend what little practice time I have working on my short game.

My question is this ... when working on lag chipping or even pitch shots from a certain distance, am I better to hit a bunch of balls from one spot in repetition (to train my mind to remember that shot) or instead should I be moving around and hitting single shots from varying distances in an effort to mirror a game situation?

Reader Question: from Johnny J

For more questions and answers from the PRO'S visit us online at golfscene.ca/prospectives

THE PANEL : Rob Bernard | Gary Bos | Sean Casey | Mike Crane | Eric Frederickson | Rob Hannah | Danny King | 18

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

Mike Skimson

Danny King

CPGA Teaching Pro

Head Teaching Pro

The Golf Performance Center at Whistle Bear

Performance Academy

You may best be served to combine

the two different activities together.

Try breaking down your practice time into two segments and spend your time this way.

Segment # 1 Hitting pitch shots or chip shots to a desired distance with multiple balls promotes the mechanics that are necessary to gain a sense of shot execution. Try to make sure that you maintain your grip, posture and hold your finish until the ball has stopped moving, as this will keep you connected to the shot, providing feedback through repetition Segment # 2 During the second half of your practice session use one ball and bring your putter along with you.

The idea is to work on up and down situations that may arise on the course. My suggestion to you is to try and pick six different shots from different yardages and attempt to get the ball up and down in two shots , two out of six times to start.

The concept is to try and complete these six different scenarios in the fewest shots possible. As you improve, change the par by subtracting one shot. A method like this will allow you to become focused on game situations which leads to improved execution on the course.

By utilizing your time properly you will achieve what you are ultimately looking for - shot execution when the heat is on.

Magna

I believe that you have to develop

a proper practice routine that will enable you to produce lower scores, making the work you do off the course more difficult than the situations you experience during a tournament round or playing with your Sunday four ball.

If you're experiencing inconsistent results because of poor mechanics, work on improving your mechanics using a routine called Blocked practicing. During this type of practice routine you should focus on one specific mechanic while attaching to one target for a 20-40 minute interval. Your body will start to develop new patterns and feelings allowing you to progress toward a practice session that will emulate on course situations .

The secret to improving your pitching , chipping and putting is a game called Par 18. This type of random practicing will simulate game situations , placing your mind and body into a game situation.

The unique rule to Par 18 is that you're only allowed to play the game once a day tracking your results and scores daily. The objective is to pitch or chip a ball to nine different targets with a goal of scoring a total of 18 for the nine holes.

Keep track of your progress and you will find that your short game improves and the next time you have to get up and down to shoot a sub par round you will execute with confidence.

is the top ranked did you know that Danny King ? well, ntry cou the club professional in the CPGA by ings rank st late the to according he is just that

Sean Casey Class A Teaching Pro ClubLink Academy at Glen Abbey

Ideally, if you had enough time I would recommend you

do both. If you had to choose I would definitely recommend varying the distances. This will help you improve your ability to react to different situations on course and improve your 'feel' around the greens.

Having said that, if you are looking to improve your technique I would also recommend you create a work station and hit shots from one location working on solid contact and awareness of body positions.

Rob Hannah TPI Certified Teaching Pro Rebel Creek Academy

The best answer to your question is that most golfers should employ both types of short game practice.

Golfers who are less skilled at chipping and pitching should practice their technique with the initial goal of being able to hit the ball solidly, in the air, and with a consistent trajectory.

Once a more consistent strike develops they should then start varying landing spot, target distance, and trajectory.

Better short game players may still occasionally work on basic technique but they should spend a greater percentage of their practice time imitating game situations ‌ varying lies, carry distances, etc.

A common problem many amateur golfers don’t even know they have is not knowing the type of shots they should be playing given different short game circumstances. A good instructor will help you by doing a short game evaluation that will assist you in finding the best techniques, short game practice methods, and strategies for your game.

More answers / insight to this question on on page 20

Liam Mucklow | Ed Maunder | Conor O'Shea | Bradlee Ryall | Mike Skimson

PROSpectives and answers.

One elite panel of experts - equals - more insight, knowledge,

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19

PROSpectives SMARTER WAY TO PRACTICE Our panel of CPGA Professionals answer reader questions question is on page 18.

Conor O'Shea Teaching Pro Core Golf Academy at Piper's Heath

I would cut out the block practice

totally and set some goals for your practice sessions.

My good friend J.C Deacon was roommates with Ryan Moore in college. Moore would often attend practice at UNLV and make 100 up and downs with only 1 club 1 ball and his putter. Not a bad way to tackle things.

It sounds like you need to get better at "transferring" your skills from the practice tee to the course.

If this is the case your short game practice should feel like a state of mind practice as well.

If you want full access to your pitching skills you need to learn how your body must feel to use it best.

When your practice sessions create evidence that you are improving, you have the framework in place for growing confidence.

20

Liam Mucklow

Gary Bos

One elite panel of experts - equals - more insight, knowledge, and answers.

Head Teaching Professional Gary Bos Academy

The determining factor when it comes

down to what to practice, and for how long, really comes down to your specific goals and time available.

As a player shooting in the high 80’s with limited practice time available, I strongly feel that you are best to practice as many ‘real’ situations as possible. These can be in and around the practice green or on the golf course itself.

If you are a member at a club, I would suggest trying to get out onto the course you regularly play, to put yourself into as many ‘realistic’ situations as possible.

Find a nice quiet evening that fits your schedule and wander out to a couple of the areas on the course where you might have had trouble in the past. Drop a few balls down in different situations around the same green, creating varying lies and pin positions, and see how many times you can get up and down. Analyze each situation independently before making your shot and take into consideration where your ‘miss’ area would be – the side or general location of the green that you would prefer to be putting from should your chip or pitch not go in the hole. A 20-footer back up the hill may give you the best chance to save your par or bogey, rather than a slick 10-footer down hill.

The next time you are out on your favourite course, take an extra moment after completing each hole to look backwards and assess the hole from the putting green back towards the tee box. This will give you a very different perspective on the design of the hole and perhaps a different look at a strategy that best suits your game and ability level. Your chip and pitch shots may become easier for you - the more green you have to work with, allowing yourself to play to your strengths rather than short-siding yourself.

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

Director of Instruction The Golf Lab

For that specific example I would

say the answer is a mix of both.

The best thing is to incorporate elements of both Block and Random practice.

Block practice would be chipping an entire pail of balls to the same spot. The value in Block practice comes in the form of task mastery, its not so much that you will ever have the EXACT shot on the golf course, but that you engrain a particular motion pattern or become more proficient with an existing one.

Random practice would be hitting to many different targets. This is best served for practicing to hit better golf shots, not making better golf swings.

Use Block practice if you are working on a new move, or refining an old one. When working in Block practice mode measure your successes and failures in terms of execution of the skill, not outcome of the shot. When you are just trying to hit shots in Random practice, evaluate success and failure on the outcome of the shot, not the 'feel' of the swing.

Rob Bernard

Director of Instruction Centre of Gravity Golf Rebel Creek

There has been a lot of discussion

regarding this very subject on practice.

I have my clients do a combination of 'Blocked' practice (repetitive shot rehearsal) and 'Random' practice (simulating game play). After rehearsing the shot repetitively to ingrain the motion (no more than 15 minutes) switch to game situation rehearsal.

Using only one ball, execute the chip shot to a specific target (hole) and then take your putter and put it in the hole. The goal of course is to get 'up and down' from various locations around the green. This will produce game-like pressure on the shot and your results are easy to track and record.

I have always found a combination of Blocked and Random practice improves your game situation performance. Keep track of your Random practice results, have a goal of 80% up and down from a variation on ten different positions. This will put game like pressure on you as you practice. Hitting balls mindlessly is good exercise, but only focused practice, is true practice.

PRO[file]

Harold Myers Alongside daughters Katrina (left) and Alexandra or behind the taps, Harold Meyers keeps busy in the family business.

Hard Work Yields Positive Results Oakville Executive's Harold Myers

has been in the golf industry for half his life and he’s still going strong at age 75.

With an unmatched work ethic and a very supporting family, Harold Myers has built, managed and owned two golf courses over his lifetime. He currently operates Oakville Executive, but he got his start as a contractor doing work for well-known area golf course designer Rene Muylaert. He built the Nanticoke Golf Course near the town of Nanticoke not far from Port Dover and Lake Erie.

“This was a region of the province that was supposed to blossom into a highly populated area, based on plans for the Nanticoke Power Station. I built the golf course thinking that we would be in a ‘boom town’. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons it never happened but we proceeded with the course and opened 18 holes in 1975,” Myers says.

He adds, “Nanticoke was a true ‘Mom and Pop’ operation with my wife Angelika running the kitchen and the pro shop while I looked after the golf course. Angelika, of Bavarian descent was noted for her great German style food and came to be known affectionately as ‘the German lady’. While food was her specialty and kept many golfers happy after their rounds, she did have a bit to learn about the Pro Shop operation. For awhile she was selling golf clubs as a pair. Everyone who purchased a golf glove got two, one for the right hand and one for the left. She thought all gloves were sold in pairs.

We had a good laugh about it and she soon learned the intricacies of Pro Shop equipment sales.”

On the food side, although Angelika had great German food, she wasn’t quite up on the North American golfer wishes. Myers says with a laugh, “we put chili on the menu because it was requested by our customers. Anglelika was able to make pretty good chili, but she served it on a flat plate with a knife and fork. She soon learned it had to be in a bowl along with a spoon.”

With two young daughters in tow, Harold and Angelika figured the girls should start to learn what golf courses were all about. Before they were teenagers Alexandra and Katrina learned the work ethic of their parents and chipped in to help wherever they were needed.

In 1988 Nanticoke was sold and Myers found a piece of farm property just north of Oakville.

“I used to drive my daughters from Port Dover where we were living to Toronto where they were attending school. After I dropped them off I would drive the back roads looking for property for sale,” Myers says. “I eventually found the site where our current facility, Oakville Executive now sits.”

There was a year of transition following the sale of Nanticoke and the building of Oakville Executive. Myers says, “we commuted to Oakville from Nanticoke daily and the girls, then 13 and 14 were a key part of the golf course construction. They spent full days picking stones on the property, a job probably no one else would ever do.

They were amazing!”

He adds, “some nights I would stay over in the old original farm house on the property. My only company were the mice.”

The first 18 holes opened in 1989 and was an executive par 61. “We operated this 18 for ten years and then added a regulation nine hole course, with a GAO rating of 127 and it opened in 2001", said Myers.

The courses were eventually renamed.

The nine hole regulation course became Angels View, inspired by Angelika and ‘an angel’s view of the valley’. The 18 hole executive course became Mystic Ridge, a name coined by Alexandra for its ‘mystic view of the escarpment’.

As the girls grew older they continued with their education and eventually came back to assist dad with the

operation of what has now become a very successful golf facility catering to a wide range of golfers from the Oakville, Burlington and Milton area.

Katrina, Alexandra and two managers, who have been with the family for twenty years, now operate the golf course on a day to day basis. And have very much kept the family tradition front and centre. Even a fire to the clubhouse a few years back did not deter their will to keep customers happy.

Katrina says, “the fire which completely destroyed our club house, was reported to us at 4 in the morning on August 5, 2008. We were taking tee times at a card table at 7a.m. the same day. It was devastating for my dad and all of our staff but we soldiered on and today we have a new facility that we are very proud of.”

Harold Myers, who doesn’t look anywhere near his age is still very active, spending a couple of days each week at the course. “I work on various projects to help keep us abreast of all the government regulations that we are constantly faced with. It’s very complicated and time-consuming but it has to be done.”

Myers still spends a bit of time when he can, on the course, but it’s not golfing.

He adds with a smile, “the best club in my bag is a shovel”.

Oakville Executive has a bright future and much of its success can be attributed to Harold, his family and a remarkable work ethic.

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21

DEMO DAY We've had a suspect spring here in southern Ontario and trying to stay comfortable out on the course under changing weather conditions has been a challenge. Fabric technology aside, the only foolproof way to combat changes in temperature is through layering. â˜ş COLD = ON - HOT = OFF

LAAYYEERRSS L LAYERS

THE LAYERING SYSTEM: FootJoy's layering system is based on the simple principle of having the right shell(s) for the right conditions. Pieces within the system include:

+ DryJoys Tour Collection Rain Jacket as the outer layer + ProDry Base Layer as a base layer in cooler conditions + Performance Half-Zip Pullover with four-way stretch fabric functions as a mid-layer ProDry Performance Polo as the Base Layer on warmer days

+

NOTES: 1) The jacket is really quite nice - well made, great fit - and in an age when the professionally polished photo generally leaves us wondering why something seems so much different once in hand, the craftmanship here is refreshingly the opposite. In fact, put on any of these apparel pieces and you'll quickly realize just how seriously FootJoy takes things like thread count, stitching, fit, weight, pocket placement, etc the little things that make all of the difference don't get overlooked here. And warm. Maybe too warm.

It really has never been cold enough (yet) to need the jacket. That said, our Canadian climates are ingloriously unpredictable - we are never without the need for warmth - on the course and off.

2) The base layer fits snug (especially around the forearms). Conforms to the body like a second skin and oddly enough provides a feeling of strength perhaps - a summons to our inner superhero.

Nice side benefit to the base layers is that one can't help but think they'll come in just as handy off the course - maybe beneath that dusted off old Winnipeg Jets jersey during a not so impromptu winter pond hockey match. Yes, we know the label states 'designed specifically for golf' - we're just thinking and acting reasonably - we think.

ON DECK: hmmmm, we'll have to wait for the next issue

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four way stretch fabric equals full range of motion and less wrinkles while the pullover style allows for an easy on / off as weather conditions change

base layer fabric conforms to the body - keeps the warmth in while allowing for other layers to fit easily over-top without any restrictions to movement

CANADIAN LEADERBOARD RANK

The Tour Collection Rain Jacket does all of the things you might expect from a garment tagged - 'TOUR COLLECTION.' Allows you to move, keeps you warm & dry (every seam is sealed including the zipper), and looks great doing it.

Aside: we also like that we now can boast to having a green jacket

EP

EARNINGS

PGA TOUR 115

Stephen Ames

14

$452,972

126

David Hearn

14

$387,108

240

Matt McQuillan

8

$12,705

245

Mike Weir

12

$10,788

246

Graham DeLaet

2

$10,472

NATIONWIDE TOUR 25

Jon Mills

8

$75,093

114

Richard T. Lee

11

$13,314

152

Andrew Parr

3

$6,180

155

Chris Baryla

4

$6,028

CANADIAN TOUR

exclusive ProDry fabric wisks away moisture keeping you both cool and dry - UV protection is built in as are double stitched seams and an extra long shirt tail - go ahead take a rip at it, this shirt was built to last

2

Roger Sloan

4

$38,132

4

Adam Hadwin

6

$26,559

5

Danny Sahl

3

$24,760

6

Duston Risdon

3

$23,937

LPGA TOUR 59

Alena Sharp

9

$64,224

79

Stephanie Sherlock

7

$32,252

83

Lori Kane

6

$28,195

103

Samantha Richdale

6

$15,157

+ notes: Graham DeLaet (PGA TOUR) was, once again, not playing due to back injury - Adam Hadwin (CANADIAN TOUR) collected $41,154 for his play in the US Open - Jon Mills (NATIONWIDE TOUR) is right on the # (25) for a PGA Tour Card via the Nationwide Tour's Top 25 exemption status

* figures as of July 1, 2011 summer 2011

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Whistle Bear Truly Is A Club For Everyone Full Service Development Centre in the heart of Oakville

Make It Yours In 2011 A private golf experience like no other Whistle Bear Golf Club boasts a championship length course with generous fairways, plus multiple tee boxes to appeal to golfers of all skill levels.

Join 2009 Canadian and Ontario PGA Teacher of The Year" Sean Casey and his staff of Professionals:

Peter Oliphant

Carrie Vaughn

Tommy Falletta

Janine Ballow

Brad Kinvig

Dan Rea

Alf Callowhill

Reggie Millage

Select from a variety of individual and family memberships.

Our corporate memberships offer flexibility for any business.

For Whistle Bear Golf Club membership enquiries, contact Brad Duench: 519-650-2327 x230 • bradd@whistlebear.ca

It’s the area’s premier training facility The Golf Performance Center @ Whistle Bear has everything you need to achieve your golf goals, including instruction from 10 on-staff professionals.

Our 12-acre facility has a driving range with target greens, and a short game area with chipping green and sand traps.

To book your lesson, camp or club fitting year-round, contact Dave Smallwood: 519-650-2327 x422 • daves@whistlebear.ca

COMPLETE LINE OF SERVICES

Whistle Bear is right in the heart of Waterloo Region, two minutes south of Highway 401 between Kitchener and Cambridge.

1316 Dickie Settlement Rd. Cambridge, Ont. N3H 4R8

(905) 844-1902 | gaacademy@clublink.ca

www.WhistleBear.ca 24

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

WB_HalfVertical_3.875x10in.indd 1

www.clublink.ca 11-06-14 2:00 PM

INSIDE THE ROPES

"It's amazing how many times golf is compared to life."

with Sean Foley

People say golf is like life, but

attachment, on the other

I can't remember hearing the

hand, is a function of the ego.

analogy that life is like hockey or even basketball for that

The ego is always looking for

matter. The part of both life

a reason to root itself in a

and golf that people struggle

field of despair and defend its

with is the idea or illusion of

insecurity.

'control'.

As people living life and or In all games, the only thing

as golfers playing the game,

that you actually have control

we need to learn not to take

over are your decisions;

things personally. And in

the emotional connection

doing such, not to become

to those decisions; and the

willing victims. We must

results that come from that

concern ourselves with all of

process.

the things we can influence and be at peace with the

Both in golf and life we deal

things we can't.

with an array of emotions elation, anguish, self-apathy,

Both life and golf should be

guilt, joy and many others.

enjoyed and we control that.

What we need to learn is

But realize that even if you

that our 'attachment' to these

enjoy them as you should,

emotions is the true evil.

they will, at times, continue

Ownership and responsibil-

to be difficult as both will

ity are true character traits

remind us each and every

of people who 'get it' while

day.

Sean Foley is the Coach of Tiger Woods, Stephen Ames, Hunter Mahan, Justin Rose and others.

summer 2011

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A GOOD SLICE ( AND THE INTERESTING THINGS WE FIND WHILE LOOKING FOR OUR BALL)

CUSTOM MARK - ER EH !

SELF CORRECTING GOLF BALL TECHNOLOGY? The ULTIMATE STRAIGHT GOLF BALL from a company called Polara has been making a few waves in the industry - and why not? They claim to have a golf ball that, through its shallow, small, and deep dimple design, can in fact reduce the effects of hooks and slices.

They believe in the product so much that - as of this printing - they were offering a free sleeve to anyone willing to give them a try. Now that's standing behind your advertising.

And hitting more fairways is fun, right? Or did that go left. + www.polaragolf.com

Pretty simple yet pretty intuitive idea for those who like to customize / mark their golf ball. Customize your design online, sharpen your favourite coloured Sharpie (that's a marker), and never wonder whether 'that guy' just played your ball again. + www.tin-cup.com

MOBILE PUTTING LAB For those mobile techno zealots - here comes the ultimate putting companion. iPING is a putter application that can identify stroke type, analyze impact angle and measure tempo. And did we mention that you can do all of this from just about anywhere.

The app (which is free) works in conjunction with a PING cradle ($30 MSRP), that holds the mobile device in place on the putter shaft just below the grip.

Definitely on the must-try list. + www.ping.com

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summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

MEASURE TWICE, CRUSH ONCE That finely tuned and diligently adjusted driver will do you no good if you don't connect the ball to the sweet spot. That's the theory subscribed to by EPOCH golf tees. They've even built a web app to 'translate' it for you.

Simply stated, be consistent with the height of your tee - every little detail helps. + www.evolvegolf.com

“

Paul Dewland

MIND OVER MATTERS

I often ask people to describe their internal experience during the best round of their life.

Unanimously, they say they felt calm, things seemed easy, decisions were simple to make, and they were free of mental effort. Nobody has ever described an emphasis on thinking (positive or negative).

Conversely, when I ask about a really bad round, most people say they felt uneasy and that their minds were full of thoughts (both positive and negative).

just breathe When we play well, we have an inner ease that allows us to swing freely. Great players don’t emphasize thinking, managing their thoughts, or trying to stay positive. Rather, they maintain a calm, alert inner state which allows their minds to stay quiet. Most thoughts become positive as a natural by-product of this state, whereas attempting to jam positive thoughts into our mind only makes things worse (particularly when we’re irritated). For example, when you’re driving your car or riding a bicycle, do you try to stay positive or manage your thoughts?

where we typically have several minutes available.

At this point, try breathing evenly and gently into your mid-to-lower abdomen. Never force your breathing or use effort - just enjoy the simple feeling of breathing in and out. If you’re upset about a shot, do not to try to calm down, as making an effort to calm down takes us further from it (a bit like making an effort to swing the club ruins our swing).

Just focus on quiet breathing and let that have its calming effect on you. It can take a bit of time and practice, but it’s a skill that can really change your game.

One of the many things we can do to create this calm state is to breathe deeply and slowly. It’s not enough to take a deep breath just before we hit a shot. It can certainly help, but it’s not the best use of breathing - it takes several minutes of correct breathing to have a calming effect on our nervous system. The real opportunity lies between shots,

Many golfers are surprised by this, but by focusing on putting themselves in the right state, rather than focusing on swinging the club in the right way, they play better and enjoy the game more.

Play well.

Paul Dewland works with many of Canada’s best professional, amateur and junior players on the mental side of the game. He is passionate about helping players “bridge the gap between the range and the course.” Paul is a Certified Trainer of Neuro-Linguistic Programming and lives in Mississauga, Ontario. - www.puremindgolf.com -

summer 2011

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OFF COURSE This book, on the other hand, is different. Prepare to be shocked, amazed, thrown into fits of laughter, and thoroughly amused with every page.

Author James Pomerantz takes on all the traditions of golf and spins them beautifully, with cutting sarcasm, vivid examples, and the stark truth of how the game is really played.

Very different from the way the golf gods say it should be played.

Most golf books tend to be a little uninteresting because they usually just say the same old stuff about the same old things.

A few excerpts. (I’ve avoided the strong language to protect the innocent – our readers). / Norm Woods ☻☻☻☻

I don't care what Tiger did in Las Vegas last month or last year. I didn't sign up to have Tiger raise my children but I will watch Mr. Woods every week because Sunday afternoons and the back nine at The Masters have nothing to do with fidelity.

x

e cerpts Chapter Three - The Truth about Men and Tiger (page 57) “golf is arguably known for the myriad of nonsensical clichés associated with the game, accounts of the game and assumptions surrounding it. “He played his game today.” “The game is played on a five inch course between the ears.” “Hit it Alice.” “You’re on the dance floor.” “That shot was

right in your wheelhouse.” “A bad day on the golf course is better than a good day at work.” My best day at work involved closet sex with a strikingly beautiful co-worker. My second best day at work involved an obscene raise in salary and bonuses. I like golf but sex and money trump the dumb game any day of the week.”

(page 59) “I don’t care what

Tiger did in Las Vegas last month more on page 56

Len and Nancy Bartholomew were one of the very early buyers at RiverBend, long before all the facilities were completed. Both London area teachers at the time of purchase (but now retired), they bought ‘on a promise’ and the reliable Sifton Properties name. Both golfers, they have become very active within the community, particularly on various golf committees.

Golf Community

“I really enjoy the sense of ‘community’ here and all of the activities that are available. I get very involved. It’s my nature and I love it. Sometimes Len and I feel like we are ‘RiverBend cheerleaders’!”

Nancy Bartholomew “Nancy and I know just about everyone here at RiverBend, not just our next-door neighbours. We are a very out-going couple and this lifestyle suits us to a tee. We are both avid golfers and it’s so nice to have the course and the practice facilities right outside our front door.”

Len Bartholomew

... it’s so nice to have the course and the practice facilities right outside our front door.

2200 Jack Nash Drive, London Ontario N6K 5R3 | 519.657.4333 | www.riverbendgolf.com

28

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

“

Carolanne Doig

THE TARTAN CHAMELEON IT'S ALWAYS THE LITTLE THINGS I was heading to the U.S. Open in Detroit

back in 1996 and along with me was my young nephew. He wasn’t interested in golf. In fact, he was a bit of an introvert and spent most of his time in the basement on electronic games. However, I needed a helper because I had broken my hand and Reegan was at the age when the promise of a hotel with a pool and supper at McDonalds was enticement enough to help his Aunt out.

Off we went to Oakland Hills and after spending a day promoting rain hoods and yardage book covers we took some time on Friday to follow Neal Lancaster who had Reegan’s Uncle Kenny on the bag. Anyone who knew Neal and Kenny when they were a team will remember that these two eccentric characters seemed to be a match made in heaven. They went everywhere in a cloud of smoke. Neal, of course, was from tobacco country, and there was always a cigarette, being lit, being inhaled, or being butted out. They were both chatterboxes too and they seemed to gel really well on the golf course. I could probably write a whole column on those two!

Neal is a naturally talented golfer and was always exciting to watch. He and Kenny had had enjoyed some success on tour and Neal had created some waves the year

before when he shot 29 on a 9-hole stretch at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills.

At Oakland Hills, Neal wasn’t playing particularly well. He played so poorly on the front nine on Friday that his family and friends headed home after nine because they figured he was going to miss the cut. Reegan and I were pretty well the only ones who witnessed Neal Lancaster’s second 29 in two years at a US Open!

Being the only fans left when Neal and Kenny came off the final green, we had a chance to chat with the elated duo that had not only just made history, but also made the cut. I congratulated Neal on his great finish and wished him luck over the weekend.

Then I introduced him to Reegan, 14, shy and very apathetic towards golf. Neal gave him a smile and in his southern drawl asked Reegan if he played golf. When Reegan replied in the negative, Neal took his Taylormade Burner Bubble driver out of his bag and handed it to Reegan. “Here,” he said, “Go home and hit this.”

I don’t know if I was more surprised or annoyed at Reegan who had the nerve to take the club from Neal.

qu w. w w

m ag

ir e

s

le ty

s.c

om

In any case Neal encouraged Reegan to go home and take up golf.

Later Reegan and I headed back to Seaforth.

When I turned into my sister’s driveway to drop Reegan off he turned and asked, “Auntie CA, do you think I could come out now and hit some balls on the range with this driver?”

He did. He also made new friends, changed his attitude towards golf and his attire, worked on his game, and worked at our course.

A few years later with his cousin from Scotland cheering him on, he won our Seaforth Men’s Invitational and I was teary eyed as I presented the trophy. Reegan enjoyed a trip to the Open at St. Andrews in 2000 that included golfing with his grandfather and relatives as well as visits to many of his family’s ancestral haunts.

Today Reegan works for the Canadian Tour where he is the Director of Business & Tournament Affairs. Professional athletes can change a kid’s life …

no

t

or tf

th

e

r fai

wa

y.

featuring

Thank you Neal Lancaster.

Carolanne Doig is a member of the Doig Family, Owners of the Seaforth Golf Club.

summer 2011

golfscene.ca

29

Who's Your Caddie ?

R Despite years, okay decades, of watching how it was done on television it was still a bit disorientating the first time round with a caddie.

QUINN ESSENTIALS

an alternative view from the veranda

I played a

Over the opening holes it was weird to reach down for the bag and see this other hand, coming in a bit late but right there, claiming ownership. And it was a bit off putting when after a bit of stick handling, and quiet cursing of all the most popular gods right back to the Druids, not to be able to make a desultory walk and (after the grand sigh) pick up the stick.

That was part of the shtick, so to speak.

I had long grown accustomed to slowly grasping the pin, wrapping the flag tightly around the end – so as not to cast a shadow or allow a wind-gusted flapping to upset my fellow hacks – and assuming a pose of yogic disinterest after each and every three-jack.

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summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

rated R for read at own risk / reward or really worthw hile readin g

But, oh no, suddenly there’s this guy in tweed beating me to it with a look that implied – if not absolutely full-channel telegraphed – that if a yipper like me even so much as touched the flag stick it would spoil the day for all who followed. Sure, I’ve given some measly tips over the ensuing years – deserved, I thought – as there have been moments when playing with a caddie felt like the worst-ever blind date. There have also been those rounds that were more like a honeymoon (early days).

But like most things in life, first encounters resonate and are perhaps amplified by the passage of time (begetting phrases such as: The older I get the better I was). This golfer’s first encounter with a true and full-time caddie was memorable, perhaps for both of us.

It was oddly enough at St. Andrews, the Old Course. The 8 a.m. tee time had been freed up by a trans-Atlantic call to a bar (this guy was connected) in Edinburgh about 11 p.m. the

Golf_GolfScene_MagAd_HalfVert_Layout 1 11-04-12 12:04 PM Page 1

“ Where do I drop?” I politely inquired. With a withering look that scaled the heights, Jock growled : “ There are no drops on St. Andrews, Sirrrr.” night before. A series of shouts; “Oh Ya, I’m in!” was predictably followed by even more yells of “I’ll get this one. We’re playing St. Andrews, man!”

The rental lurched – right-hand drive, standard, me driving – out of the hotel lot and toward golf ’s grail at closer to 5 a.m. than anyone in the cramped sub-sub-compact (the boot held three golf bags, barely) had previously imagined.

We made it to St. Andrews and the starter’s hut in time, just. With a faint breeze wafting off the Firth intermingled with the peaty scent of single malt as my threesome exhaled in anticipation of the challenge ahead, I stood in the shadow cast by the gothic headquarters of the Royal and Ancient sensing every vapour and the history (my grandmother had honed her game here a century earlier).

I nodded to my caddie and promptly –perhaps, in retrospect, hurriedly – snap-hooked my historic opening tee shot across the first fairway, across the entire 18th fairway, and put just enough spin on my ball (Ultra 432) to stop it on the path abutting the fence that separates the Old Course from the olde towne. With what I interpreted as a guttural exclamation of disgust at this horrific foreshadowing of an agonizing four hours to come, my caddie – we’ll call him Jock, but his name was actually Andy – cursed, jammed a hand-rolled fag (U.K. term for cigarette) in his mouth and slung my bag over his shoulder.

(My totally still-inebriated friends blithely nursed 200-yarders down

www.kitchenergolf.ca

AMAZING VALUE

Affordable green fees, superior course conditions, accessible golf carts and a new golf academy – all within Kitchener city limits.

the first fairway, but that’s another story).

After politely waiting for the group on 18 to go through – it was high summer when the sun barely sets in Scotland, and playing two-ball matches they can get around in less than two hours – my comrade in arms and I crossed the 1st and 18th fairways and finally reached my ball on the path. It was there that I cemented, so to speak, our relationship.

“Where do I drop?” I politely inquired. With a withering look that scaled the heights, Jock growled: “There are no drops on St. Andrews, Sirrrr.” I had no idea, until then, that sir had two syllables, could be used sarcastically and almost as an expletive. It was just a hint of what was to come.

Looking at the distant first green that was barely discernable against the morning haze and the mist rising off the Firth, I had no idea how far I’d gone astray. Jock had done some local and ancient calculations – although even his caddie father probably hadn’t had a ‘bag’, even a North American one, that almost hit the towne off number one – and handed me my six-iron. It was, and still is, a Hogan Apex, a beautiful blade that was fashioned, happily, before the stylized BH logo was stamped on the back all Ben’s clubs.

I loved it then even more than now as it sits in exile in my office, but it was the first at St. Andrews and I was on the path at the edge of the towne on the far side of 18. So, I hit it.

KITCHENER GOLF

Golf along the Grand!

Offering experienced golfers an 18-hole riverside course that rivals the region’s finest, as well as a 9-hole course for those looking for a quicker game. If you are looking to hone your skills, Doon offers a new academy, pitch and putt and driving range.

KITCHENER GOLF

Golf within the city One of the oldest and best kept courses in the region, Rockway is famed for its pristine greens and calm settings... all nestled within downtown Kitchener.

Looking for a close course? Look no further!

Doon Valley

Rockway

Golf Course

500 Doon Valley Dr., Kitchener, ON N2P 1B4

Tel: 519.741.2939

Golf Course

625 Rockway Dr., Kitchener, ON N2G 3B5

Tel: 519.741.2949

continued on page 57

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31

SoloRider Offers Accessibilty The City of Hamilton's two public golf

courses have a terrific solution for wouldbe-golfers with a physical challenge or

disability who wish they could still play golf.

and also for golfers who may simply enjoy the experience of a single-rider cart at courses where walking a full challenge.

18 may be a

Chedoke Civic Golf Club and King's Forest Golf Club, a top-100 course in Canada, are expanding their single rider electric car program for 2011.

"We just need to get the word out. If we can create some awareness and get more people out to try them, I think word of mouth will tell the story," says Head Professional Mark Arnett.

"They're also great for seniors, who just need a little assistance from time to time."

The SoloRider golf car provides the solution for mobility impaired individuals who have played golf in the past and want to play again despite the mobility loss. The cart features a seat that swivels 230 degrees to the left and right and with the flip of a switch, raises the seat and elevates the occupant to a standing position. Hand controls replace foot pedals so persons with little or no mobility can drive the vehicle.

"It's a sweet ride, smoother than our golf carts," says Arnett, who rents them out for $20 for a round, which is a steal compared to the initial $10,000 cost to purchase one.

The SoloRider difference is a golf car that you can drive onto greens and tees with no impact on the turf. This golf car actually has

a lower PSI (pounds per square inch) than a person walking on the green! When compared with other golf cars, it is also one of the safest golf cars on the market and travels the same speed. Â Other area clubs with SoloRider golf cars include Flamborough Hills Golf Club and Legends on the Niagara. Frank Peter, a local golfer and frequent user of the SoloRider says, "I encourage people to come out and give it a try, they are so comfortable and so safe that it really makes the game fun to play.".

Peter, who is paralyzed from the waist down, estimated he played about 75 rounds of golf in 2010 with the assistance of SoloRider.

He even had a hole in one while playing the Battlefield course at Legends on the Niagara in April 2008.

He said several Ontario municipalities such as London, Brantford and Toronto are considering purchasing these vehicles. The City of Mississauga is committed to purchasing two single rider vehicles for Lakeview GC and BraeBen this year.

Seaforth Golf Club has a rich tradition of great greens & a friendly atmosphere.

Our redesigned course is perfect for golfers of all skill levels. just 45 minutes from Kitchener and London Visit our website and then visit us for great golf at great prices!

519-522-0985 www.seaforthgolf.com Home of the # 1#1 Rain Hood in Golf

The number one choice in rain protection among pros on the PGA & LPGA Tours as well as amateur golfers around the world

Come out and see the Stars of the Future August 18th - 21st 2011

1-A Doig Drive | Seaforth | Ontario | N0K 1W0 summer 2011

golfscene.ca

33

If you’re in the Sarnia area of Ontario, and you hear about Sawmill Creek, don’t let the name fool you.

and isn't that what golf should be all about 1 driving around with Bill (Skip) Johns 2

34

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

It’s not an old woodcutting operation but an impressive yet modest golf resort and spa that has been operating as a full-size 18-hole operation for a little over a decade after being launched as a nine-hole course in 1997.

In more than five decades of writing about this game / activity, I’ve visited my share of golf resorts.

And when you have my passion for this pastime – and I’ve said or written this thousands of times – there are no “bad” courses, some are just better than others.

Meanwhile, comparing “resorts” with “courses” isn’t really a factor. I’m not a spa guy although I can see that as being a great selling point for a couple where one half golfs and the other doesn’t.

I have enjoyed golf junkets to some of the best-known “resort” names in parts of Canada and the U.S. Anybody heard of Doral and the Blue Monster in Florida? The resorts I’ve stayed and played in Georgia, South and North Carolina and Mississippi – to name just four states - are too numerous to mention.

I have a special fondness for many Ontario locations like Monterra, Cranberry, Blue Mountain, Cobble Beach, Bigwin Island, and on and on the list goes. Want a location where you can stay and play, there are a multitude of choices.

Now, I add Sawmill Creek to my played and enjoyed list and for an important reason that many, many golfers don’t even think about when they are teeing it up.

11090_Rec&Parks_GolfAd_GolfSceneMag_3x10_f2.pdf

The course – completed in nines over two years – was designed by the late Rene Muylaert, a native of Strathroy who sort of “accidentally” designed his first course in 1960 and completed more than 50 before he died in 2005.

I had the good fortune to talk with Rene a few times over the years and I like to think of him as the 'blue collar' craftsman during a span when names like Tom McBroom and Doug Carrick were the Canadian stars in the design world.

Rene once told me he liked to work with small properties and he didn’t think any of his projects should cost more than $4 million to complete.

I have the utmost respect for Tom and Doug – both are good guys, good designers and I hope good friends – but I can play a course that doesn’t have flash bunkers, massive rock outcroppings, tons and tons of moved earth and tee blocks way past the 6,000-yard range and still have an enjoyable time. Of course, that also means not worrying about my score.

My first Muylaert course was at the Horseshoe Valley ski resort between Orillia and Barrie and other than the first hole – which was at the base of the ski lift – it impressed me tremendously.

The Valley course at Horseshoe is still one of my favorites from the Muylaert drawing board but I also like Peninsula Lakes in the Fonthill/ Fenwick area of the Niagara Peninsula, the Oaks in London and St. Andrews Valley near Aurora.

I think when Rene crafted Sawmill Creek for original owner Bill Gerryts he was still very much in his “let’s make it playable and fun” mode and that’s the way it should be, especially in this era when “zoomers” and “boomers” are the next big thing in the game.

The two nines – completed in ’97 and ’99 respectively – cover more

than 125 acres of land near the Camlachie community not far from Sarnia and not far from Highway 402.

I think Rene did an outstanding job crafting 18 holes over an L-shaped piece of property – check the scorecard and tell me if you don’t think the overview looks like a putter? Ironically, Carrick did some touchup work on some of the holes a few years back.

With a variety of small ponds and Sawmill Creek coming into play on many of the holes, the layout – at just 6,445 yards off the championship tees -- is hardly a pushover, sloped at 133 and rated 71 for the men.

The other numbers are: 6,109, 130 and 69.5 for the blues; 5,710, 122/127 and 67.7/72.8 (men/ women) for the whites and 5,194, 113/121 and 65.2/69.5 for the reds.

Windsor native and head pro Paul Dumont said the operation features seven overnight rooms, the spa, three pubs and dining venues.

The semi-private operation has 450 members and there is expected to be a growth in the housing situation that flanks part of the course and now has 40 to 50 homes.

Needless to say, don’t just show up there on a nice day without a reservation.

And don’t show up expecting to play something resembling K-W Westmount, Glen Abbey, Greystone or Whistle Bear, to name just four high-profile courses.

But do visit with the idea that as far as the golf is concerned, the course is challenging yet fair and playable. And isn’t that what golf should be about.

For more information visit www.sawmill-creek.com

1

4/1/11

1:14 PM

great golf IN MISSISSAUGA

Get 1/2 Price Cart

Mon. - Thurs. 10am to 3pm Fri. - Sun. 12pm to 3pm with purchase of regular price green fee* 905-615-GOLF (4653)

www.mississauga.ca/golf * must present this ad at time of redemption

Bill (Skip) Johns has been writing about golf for 54 years, and playing it in his own fashion, even longer.

11090

summer 2011

golfscene.ca

35

GolfS WIN!

PLACES TO PLAY

PLACES TO PLAY

CONTEST !

1

That's right - yet another great contest from GolfScene.

This time around we're giving away not 1, not 2, but 3 free rounds of golf - at 3 courses of your choice!

HOW DO I WIN ?

Just visit our 2011 Places to Play microsite - tell us what 3 great courses are pictured on this page (there will be an easy to fill out online form) - then peruse the glorious details on all 16 of our featured courses before selecting the 3 you'd like to play (which will most likely be the hardest part)

2 DO YOU KNOW THESE COURSES ?

3

DETAILS ► GO TO www.golfscene.ca/play ► Fill Out the Online Form - tell us what courses are in the pictures ► Random Draw will be made on August 8th ► Use the rest of the summer to play 3 great area courses compliments of GolfScene and the participating courses.

36

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

Scene .CA

MAGAZINE

eNEWS

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VIDEO

PLACES TO PLAY | INBOX | PROSPECTIVES | REGIONAL NEWS

Everyday the INBOX is full of press releases / announcements / and sometimes a little nonsense related to the golf industry - we do our best to sort through it all and bring you the relevant stuff ... you'll find it all @ golfscene.ca - but the easiest way to stay informed is via eNews subscription

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THE GOLF BOYS

Ok, if you haven’t seen this one already – you might want to sit down. Turn up the volume. Go to full screen and …

Well, we’ve watched it twice and still aren’t really sure what exactly to make of it. Doesn’t matter. It’s fun. Golf needs fun.

WATCH

Canadian Open Field Contains World Number 1 iPING Putting App The Golf Boys Are You A Range Player?

Game On Turn left Driver Humber and UBC Come Out on Top Results from the Ontario Future Links Junior Championship Elmira's Garret Rank Earns Canadian Tour Berth Better Late Than Never Fila and Group Purchase Acushnet Not Squeamish in Squamish Hill and Taylor Earn Canadian Tour Exemptions Mutiny and the Muny

HILL AND TAYLOR EXEMPT

The Canadian Tour has granted exemptions to Matt Hill and Nick Taylor. Both highly decorated amateurs have entered the professional ranks and, subsequently, ventured into that grueling labyrinth (some call it a road) to the PGA Tour.

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In 1998, city courses were used for 180,000 rounds of golf; by last year the number had dropped to 95,000.

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Scene M A G A Z I N E

S o u 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

Vo l u m e 1 1 | I s s u e 3 | F a l l 2 0 1 0 | g o l f s c e n e . c a

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

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29

Sean Foley offers us all a little advice that he's picked up from working with the world's #1 player

8

MAGAZINE | E-NEWS | DIRECTORY | SUBSCRIBE | CONTESTS | APRIL

Volume 11 | Issue 1 | Spring 2010 | golfscene.ca

( HINT, HINT )

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‘Fore’ Words from the INBOX The Shark swims with TaylorMade | Trish Stratus Launches Callaway | Mike Weir’s Charity gets a Boost | GolfNorth grows Again | New ProV1 | ...

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SEASON IN REVIEW

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10

SNEAK PEEKS 26

"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.”

▼details inside

this magazine can be read both forward and backward - is 360˚ adjustable - centre weighted engineered for less spin - and, as always, is fully transferable

IF Y OUR N EXT P UTT I S L ONGER T HAN T HIS M AGAZINE I T M IGHT N OT B E A G IMMEE

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

Last month I participated in the Toronto Golf and Travel Show. I worked for the Ontario PGA providing 5 minute lessons to golfers of all levels for the three days of the show. Looking back on the many lessons, I found myself working on 3 main things with all golfers.

S o u t h - C e n t r a l O n t a r i o ’s G o l f S o u rc e

18

18

or so

THINGS ...

YOU MIGHT WANT WITH YOU ON THE COURSE THIS SEASON page 11

M A G A Z I N E

3 Keys to get you Ready For Spring

( NUDGE, NUDGE )

PROSpectives

"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.

I N S I G H T F R O M O U R E X P E R T P A N E Lpage 18

UP AND DOON 26 | PUTT, PUTT, PUZZLER 39 | NOTEBOOK 05

ARCHIVE ISSUES AVAILABLE ONLINE

golfscene.ca summer 2011

golfscene.ca

37

“

Tom Margetts

“the greens were perfect and they just ripped them up” or “I paid for this?”

Although we generally understand the importance of aerating, we sometimes over hear others saying things like “the greens were perfect and they just ripped them up” or “I paid for this?”

The truth is, aeration, in particular core aeration (where plugs are removed) is a big job. I have not met any superintendents that truly likes the effort it takes to aerate their greens. It is a process that requires a large crew in order to do it efficiently and other tasks must be pushed off to the side when it is aeration time. The greens can be vulnerable during aeration and require a lot of TLC in order to recover. This requires additional planning and equipment maintenance as well.

GREEN SIDE UP great greens are seldom under-AErated The Course is Aerated, Let’s Give Our Super a High Five!

Aeration is an absolutely necessary practice that must be performed on regular basis.

Ok, now that I have caught your attention, I can’t be more serious! If our golf course superintendent is implementing an aeration program, this person is forward thinking. This person is a planner, proactive, concerned about the asset of the golf course and dedicated to providing us with quality playing conditions.

As our superintendents fertilize and maintain our putting greens, they continue to grow.

Growth is very important in order to repair the wear and tear from us, the golfers, as we enjoy our sport. At the same time, turf produces thatch and this thatch must be controlled. Too much thatch reduces the quality of turf and putting

greens will inevitably decline quickly. Our superintendents must balance the art and science of turf growth and thatch control, or let’s say “one foot on the gas and the other on the brake.”

Let’s appreciate the effort and dedication our Superintendents have to preserving and improving our putting greens.

Let’s understand our golf course is a continually living and changing environment that requires balance. Let’s support our superintendent's maintenance program and be tolerant of their efforts.

The next time your golf course superintendent aerates, give him / her a firm hand shake and a sincere thank you or a BIG HIGH FIVE! Tom Margetts is a soil and turf consultant. He can be reached at 519.496.2143

EA RN PO IN TS | FR EE GO LF

It’s this simple

36 HOLES “ WE ARE THE SHOT-GUN SPECIALISTS ”

WWW.GOLFGRANITE.COM 38

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

9503 Dublin Line, Milton 905 878 5494 direct booking 1877 golf 126

TECH

if the sock fits, wear any shoe

silicone insert removes and 'negative space' between the foot and the shoe

Equal parts technology and sport enhanced apparel, there is a new golf specific sock on the market from an equally new Waterloo based company, Stable 26.

Designed by Daryl Sherman, a Doctor of Chiropractic medicine, the Stable 26 sock incorporates a silicone insert that ensures a custom fit with any shoe by effectively eliminating the negative space or gaps between the foot and shoe.

For those familiar with high performance hockey skates, this works along similar lines as the gel inserts which 'mold' the skate to the individual foot.

No two feet are the same and Stable 26 technology looks to be on the right track to reducing any inefficiencies with respect to that anatomical truth.

Golf is a game of consistency - looks like you can add another element, regardless of what shoes you wear that day. + www.stable26.com

summer 2011

golfscene.ca

39

WWW.REBELCREEK.CA

FOLLOW US ...

• on FACEBOOK & TWITTER or our website for Summer Specials !

• Introducing ... the NEW COG Golf Academy

519-634-8666 •1517 Snyder's Road • Petersburg

southwestern Ontario’s best kept SECRET ...

check out our website for SPECIALS!

www.sciencehillgolf.com 3 miles north of St Marys

RR #1, St Marys, Ontario 519 284 3621

40

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

ONE YEAR LATER ...

17% INCREASE IN ROUNDS About this time last year we announced the

opening of a 12-hole golf course (that’s right 12 holes) in the Highway 10 / Derry Road area of Mississauga. Long-time owner Jim Holmes decided that his piece of property was just big enough to add an additional 3 holes to his existing 9 and his members and regulars liked the idea of a 12-hole facility.

Now one year later, Holmes is pleased to announce that his rounds increased 17% in 2011 ... something unheard of in today’s golf climate!

“The response to 12-hole golf by the

public has been extremely positive in all of our customer demographics. The 12 holes seem to satisfy the golfing appetite of golfers who feel that 18 holes is too expensive and takes too long while nine isn’t quite enough golf," noted Holmes.

Truly a Treasure

www.elmiragolfclub.com 40 Eldale Road | Elmira, Ontario | 519 669 1652

summer 2011

golfscene.ca

41

DIRECTORY TEE IT UP TODAY

1 2 34 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 12 14 15 16 97 47 20 21 8 23 28 25 26 27 30 31 33 17 98 65 46 39 40 41 42 43 24 95 48 49

Acton Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Ariss Valley Golf Club 519 824 1551 Bear Creek Golf Club 519 245 7773 Beaverdale Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Braeben Golf Club 905 615 4653 Brant Valley Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Brookfield Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Burford Golf Links 519 449 5172 Caledon Country Club 905 838 0200 Calerin Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Cambridge Golf Club 519 621 5491 Canterbury Common Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Cardinal Golf Club 905 841 7378 Cedar Creek Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Chedoke Golf Course 905 546 3116 ClubLink Academy 905 844 1902 Conestoga Country Club 1 888 833 8787 Copetown Woods Golf Club 905 627 4653 Crosswinds Golf Club & CC 1 866 319 5991 Cutten Club 519 824 2650 Deer Creek 905 427 7737 Derrydale Golf 905 670 3030 Doon Valley Golf Club 519 741 2939 Dundee Country Club 1 888 833 8787 Elmira Golf Club 519 669 1652 Erin Heights 519 833 9702 Fairview Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Fescues Edge 519 484 2200 Forest Golf Club 519 786 2397 Foxwood Country Club 1 888 833 8787 Grand Highland 905 712 1183 Granite Ridge Golf Club 905 878 5494 Grey Silo Golf Club 519 880 8181 Guelph Country Club 519 824 2741 Guelph Lakes Golf Club 519 822 4222 Hidden Lake Golf Club 905 336 3660 Indian Hills Golf Course 519 786 5505 King's Forest Golf Course 905 546 4781 Lake Belwood Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 Listowel Golf Club & CC 519 291 2500

50 Lowville Golf Club 905 335 6181 29 Mystic Golf Club 1 888 833 8787 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 60 Puslinch Lake Golf Course 519 658 2292 61 Rebel Creek Golf Club 519 634 8666 63 RiverBend Golf Community 519 657 7075 36 Rockway Golf Club 519 741 2949 66 Saginaw Golf Club 519 620 0322 68 Savannah Golf Links 519 622 0555 64 Sawmill Creek Golf Resort & Spa 519 899 4653 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 91 Tangle Creek 705 720 2150 35 Tarandowah Golf Club 519 269 9656 87 The Golf Performance Centre 519 650 2327 75 The Greens at Renton 519 426 1340 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 71 Whistle Bear Golf Club 519 650 2327 EDUCATION 79 Georgian College 705 728 1968 x1137 93 Niagara College 905 641 2252 x4146 92 Fanshawe College 519 452 4289 83 Humber College 416 675 5000 99 Golf Management Institute of Canada 905 844 7666

LADIES • $30 Green Fees on Mondays

42

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

124 11

Huntsville 141

Tobermory 400

Muskoka Lakes Bracebridge Gravenhurst

6

400 11 57

Owen Sound

Orillia

26

Southampton

Collingwood 79

21 6

64

Barrie

10

Kincardine

91

24

4

89

400

Walkerton

9

9

86

9 56

9

49 Listowel

6

9 33

86

Seaforth Waterloo

CHECK OUT THE DIRECTORY ONLINE golfscene.ca/directory 21

Stratford 74

3

Kitchener

7

26

27

24

7

64

21

63

402

Sarnia

34

402

7

92

401

35

45

St. Thomas

54

47

50 43

66

68

95

Brantford

Toronto

Mississauga

99

Oakville

QEW

Hamilton

21

403

46

97

5

5

QEW

29

St Catharines

52

6

20

56

406

17

Dunnville

75

93

Niagara Falls

100

24

London Tillsonburg

2

71

53

16

55 39

401 8

12

85

58

Woodstock 24 98

60

72

6

4

Cambridge 87

22

Grand Bend

82

Guelph 23

61 84 65 36

25

25

10

41

2

83

1

42 40

104

401

24

20

28

Brampton

Fergus

30

8

407

400

10

31

48

404

Orangeville

Arthur Goderich

14

89

Mount Forest

59

9 15

101

3

Simcoe

Fort Erie Port Colborne

3

LEGEND

401

Golf Course

Retail

Practice Facilities

Other

40

Chatham Windsor

2 401 3

Amherstburg

12

between 12&2 SPECIALS • 2 golfers with a cart Mon-Fri $50 / player • 2 golfers with a cart Sat-Sun $60 / player

Visit cambridgegolfclub.com for more information

1346 Clyde Road, Cambridge, Ontario 519- 621- 5491 • 1- 877- 621- 5491 summer 2011

golfscene.ca

43

Lambton Shores

A Fairway Down the 402

signature holes HOW TO PLAY THE

INDIAN HILLS

Forest Golf and Country Hotel Home of “Unlimited Golf Packages”

Forest is an exclusive resort with a 75-room hotel, dining room, lounge, patio and 27 holes of golf

To book your getaway call 1.800.265.0214 | www.golfforest.com

44

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

signature holes Bear Creek Golf Club Signature hole is par 5, #18, a long 492 yards off the blue tees.

Hazard lines left side from tee to green and trees line the right. An 80 foot oak tree protects the green on the right side of the fairway about 100 yards from the green. A stream crosses the fairway about 20 yards in front of the green and there are bunkers short left and long right.

SAWMILL CREEK

For a par chance the tee shot should be a well placed 3-wood about 250 yards. Second shot should be a nine iron lay-up to the 100 yard marker and then a gap wedge onto the putting surface. Two putts and you have a nice par.

Biggest mistake made is using driver off the tee and ending up in the rough, right or left.

Play the hole smart and pars are possible. www.bearcreekgolf.ca

BEER CREEK

Sawmill Creek Golf Resort and Spa The most interesting hole on the golf course is #18.

It’s a 500 yard, par 5 with a scenic view of the clubhouse in behind the green. Best to hit driver or 3-wood down right side of fairway. A strong drive gives you the risk / reward option of another 3-wood and a ‘go’ at the green. For most golfers the best second shot is a mid-iron to within 100 yards of the green and a wedge over Sawmill Creek to a tricky green. Two putts will give you a par and a happy ending to your round. Always best to play it safe.

Golfers usually find trouble with second shot and the ‘go for the green’ mentality. Big numbers can result and maybe even ruin a good round.

That beer in the clubhouse following golf always tastes better if you’ve finished with a good hole!

Golf and Country Club

Celebrating Golf Since 1914 Whether you require a location for your company’s annual golf tournament, Dinner and dancing for 300, or a private room for select clients or friends, ...

Bear Creek will provide you with the finest in service, facilities and cuisine.

www.sawmill-creek.com

Indian Hills Golf Club Our signature /most interesting hole is a par 3 peninsula hole that plays about 135 yards from the blue tees.

The hole has challenges from every angle coming into the green. The left side has rough as well as a bunker and the right is mostly water.

Long and short of the green is also ‘wet’.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

571 Metcalfe Street E. Strathroy, Ontario N7G 1R1 Office 519-245-5112 Pro Shop 519-245-7773 summer 2011

golfscene.ca

45

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

The best way to play the hole is to start with a club that you feel most comfortable with for a 130-135 yard shot, all carry. Hitting the green will put you in a position for a par (depending on your putting ability). Try to keep to the right side of the green as left can play havoc with the bunker and the undulations that come into play.

We would suggest a seven iron off the tee for the average golfer, with a target of the front or bottom end of green.

Most mistakes are due to under-clubbing and coming up short, and wet.

The hole, in itself is a risk / reward hole. Any time you are hitting over water, there is ample risk.

Play it smart and play it safe! www.indianhillsgolf.ca

Forest Golf and Country Hotel Hole # 11 is probably one of the most picturesque holes in all of Ontario.

A 301 yard par 4 with an island green, this hole offers plenty of challenge.

Best way to play the hole for a par is to hit something 200 yards to the 100 yard marker. Also a good idea to aim right of centre on the fairway to avoid the large tree that can impede your second shot. Wind across the green is always a factor so best to go up one club for the 100 yard approach. Once on the green, two careful putts and you are walking away with a par. If you are close to the pin on that second shot a birdie is possible.

This hole always seems to ‘get inside the head’ of our golfers. Leave the driver in the bag and rely on your favourite 200 yard club for best overall results. Any island green hole is full of risk. Play it safe and you’ll reap the reward. A nice par or maybe a bird! www.golfforest.com

FOREST GOLF CLUB

46

summer 2011 | golfscene.ca

Golf Scene Final

4/27/11

10:55 AM

Page 1

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 

 

 



 

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a re y o u re a d y t o c o m p e t e i n t h e w o r l d ’s l a rg e s t 2 p e r s o n e v e n t ?

www.internationalpairs.ca

Golf Club

2 Great Golf Courses Driving Range Golf Academy Large Pro Shop Lowest Prices on Equipment Online Booking

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.

Britannia Road and Guelph Line Burlington

905 335 6181 1 800 688 2931 www.lowvillegolf.com

905 336 3660

www.hiddenlakegolf.com 1137 #1 Side Road | Burlington, Ontario

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A GOOD SLICE

( AND THE INTERESTING THINGS WE FIND WHILE LOOKING FOR OUR BALL)

the answer to slow play ... is here. Well, at least in the prototype stage.

The Hoverbike is a pretty cool invention that is essentially a couch-sized, dual-prop hovercraft comprised of a 250lb-ish Kevlar & carbon fiber body that doesn’t require a pilot’s license to fly. Expected to reach a max airspeed of 130mph via a 115hp engine, think of it as part motorcycle, part helicopter. No more worrying about walking around the water or through those environmental sensitive areas. Might want to ask the super before landing on the greens though. www.hover-bike.com

‘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 conveniently located just minutes from the 401 - 11660 Guelph Line Campbellville, Ontario

www.turtlecreekgolf.ca summer 2011

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“

Mark Crone

AROUND THE GLOBE jammin' in Jamaica When Canadians think of a beach vacation, the popular choices

are Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Jamaica.

All 4 have golf but only Jamaica combines a real laid back Caribbean holiday with some of the most spectacular golf courses you will find anywhere in the world.

Jamaica travel choices are plentiful. Air Canada has daily non-stop flights to Montego Bay from Toronto and seasonal nonstop services from other Canadian gateways. The list of Jamaican resorts could fill this entire magazine but a few of the better choices are- Half Moon Resort, Ritz Carlton Resort and Rose Hall Hilton Resort.

There are also 7 Sandals Resorts with access to Sandals Golf Club but you’ll need to stay at either the Sandals Royal Plantation or Sandals Grande Riviera to be anywhere near the Sandals Golf Club.

Caddies are mandatory on all courses in Jamaica. If you’ve never played with a caddie a word to the wise - ask the distance to the hole (instead of them telling you which club to play) and follow their putting suggestions- they are always right!

I have had the good fortune to play all 5 of the following top courses in Jamaica: White Witch - Tom Fazio designed, 6,859 yards. This is definitely the most challenging course in Jamaica. The course was carved

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out of Rose Hall Plantation and features Caribbean Sea views on 16 of 18 holes. Some of the most spectacular golf course views in the world. Stay and play packages are available with the Ritz Carlton Resort.

Cinnamon Hill - Robert vonHagge designed, 6,637 yards. The course features several holes along the ocean coast, plantation relics and great ocean views. It is also located in Rose Hall close to White Witch. The Rose Hall Hilton Resort is right beside the course with golf packages available.

Half Moon - Robert Trent Jones, 7,119 yards. This course is a classic Trent Jones design and is located directly across the street from the other part of the property- Half Moon Resort. Half Moon makes a great vacation.

Tryall - Ralph Plummer design, 6.772 yards. This classic old Jamaica course is about 30 minutes west of Montego Bay. Lush and well groomed but very much a country club. Be on your best behaviour- members rule.

Sandals Golf Club - Former Upton GC, 6,502 yards, purchased

by Sandals in 1992. A nice course located in Ocho Rios. Green fees are included with your stay at Sandals Resort.

White Witch ► Mark Crone is Owner of Uniglobe Graham’s / Normark Travel Inc. www.uniglobegrahams.com

titled-2 1

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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 summer 2011

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EDUCATION To Insure or not to Insure, that is the Question!

Have you ever sat back and thought how

much you have invested in your golf equipment?

Driver, irons, utility woods, putter, golf bag, golf balls, gloves, rain gear and umbrella ...

Is your equipment worth $500, $1000, $2000, $3000? Did you know that you may not be covered in the event of a loss?

As we know, your clubs are very susceptible to theft. Ask yourself this question … Do you leave your clubs in the public bag rack after your round? If you’re like me, you leave your clubs in the trunk of your car for the majority of the golfing season (and no, if your car gets stolen, the contents are not covered under your auto policy).

In fact, your golf equipment is insured under your home insurance policy. However, depending on your deductible limit or your claim frequency, you may be unable or deterred from making a claim.

For example, if your loss equals $1000 and your homeowners or tenant’s insurance deductible is $1000, you have no claim. The loss does not exceed the deductible limit. What if your loss is

$1500 with a $1000 deductible? Are you willing equipment is worth $3000, then your premium to tarnish your good insurance record over a $500 would be approximately $32.40 + tax per year. loss?

That’s only $2.92 per month. Aside from the Some of you may be thinking... “I’m a member reasonable premium there is no deductible and and have my equipment stored at the club...” I your home insurance policy is not affected in the have a question for you? Did the club clearly event of a loss. You can insure your golf equipoutline whether or not your equipment is covered ment for as little as the cost of two large Tim by the club’s insurance policy in the event of a Horton coffees loss? Did you sign a contract or waiver? Some So take some time and review your situation and commercial golf club policies exclude coverage hopefully you can adjust your policy to meet your for golf equipment in storage. It may be worth insurance needs. asking the club manager or golf pro. In some cases, golf clubs will not be responsible for the Here’s the best news... If you bought your golf loss. equipment at a yard sale for $50, the above does The good news is that most insurance companot apply to you! nies offer personal article policies or insurance riders on expensive contents that are susceptible Rob Foster is currently the to damage or theft at a reasonable premium Coordinator of the Golf & and low deductible. For example, a well known Recreational Club Management North American insurance company recently program at Fanshawe College quoted the following ... Premium rates for this (London Campus). He has over particular insurance policy are based on $1.08 of 14 years Golf Club Management premium per $100 of insurable property with a experience from family operation minimum premium charge 12131_HTBS_golf_Golfscene:Layout of $30. So if your golf to corporate management.

1 14/04/09 11:20 AM Page 1

Turn the game you love

into a business career.

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LEARN TO TEACH GOLF Become a Certified Golf Teaching Professional

www.golf-management.org

®

THE PROFESSION OF A LIFETIME

Graduates Receive: Graduate Studies Diploma from GMIC and Certificate of Completion in Golf Operations from Wilfrid 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

®

Please call the Canadian Golf Teachers Federation to find a certification course near you: 1-866-362-2483 The CGTF is a member of the World Golf Teachers Federation®.

[ members of these organizations receive 10% off course fees ]

1333 Dorval Drive | Oakville, Ontario | Canada | L6J 4Z3 (905) 844-7666

Looking for a Career in Golf?

WWW.CGTF.COM | INFO@CGTF.COM

Seats still available for Fall 2011!

PROFESSIONAL GOLF MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

AT N IAGARA COLLEGE CANADA OUR T HREE -YEAR B USINESS 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

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• Nominated for ‘Best new course in Canada’ - 2003 Golf Digest • Rated one of Canada’s Top 100 golf courses - Globe and Mail

Green fees start at

For all of our programs please check our website.

www.tanglecreekgolf.com Thornton, Ontario L0L 2N0 705.720.2150 | 1.866.844.1044

AFFORDABLE GOLF on a CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE

Rates M-F $35.40+HST Weekends and Holidays $43.36+HST Seniors M-F $25.66+HST

Mother Nature must be a golfer.

519.622.0309

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Southbrook Golf and Country Club Binbrook, Ontario www.southbrookgolf.ca | 1.800 916.6049

SPECIAL SECTION

GOLF

GUELPH

The Guelph Country Club www.tgcc.ca 519.824.7039

how to play the SIGNATURE holes

Here at the Guelph Country Club our most interesting hole is 515 yard par 5 #2.

This hole is marked by two severe elevation changes that add intrigue to an already long golf hole. The interest is created right off the tee as your initial drive is straight up hill to a flat area after which you are faced with a second shot, downhill.

Depending on the initial drive and where you end up, there is the option of going for the green in two.

The green is protected by a bunker on the left just inside the 100 yard mark, as well as a row of trees. Right of the green is OB about ten yards away.

Of course the big risk is standing over a well-struck drive and making the decision to ‘go for the green’.

Reward is a possible birdie.

Risk is walking away with 7!

Play the hole smart and play up to the 100 yard mark with second shot mid-iron, pitch on and two putt.

Guelph Lakes

www.guelphlakesgolf.ca 519.822.4222 Signature hole is #3, a dogleg left of 368 yards from blue tees with ponds on either side of the fairway on tee shot.

To make par play a tee shot of 190-200 yards with a 4 iron or hybrid and aim for right side of fairway.

Second shot would be a 160 yard 7 iron shot aimed to right side of green to avoid deep bunker at front left of green. Anything on the green will leave about 25 feet and two putts to make a par.

The RISK. Use a driver off the tee and hit it at least 220 yards across the corner of the pond on left side of fairway. A 100 yard second shot to green provides a birdie opportunity with a one-putt.

Ariss Valley

Springfield

www.arissvalley.com 519.824.1551

Our signature hole is #13, a 372 yard island green dogleg left par 4. Golfers tee off from other side of lake to a narrow landing area with water left and forest right.

Tee shot requires a club to provide 180-200 yards of carry.Second shot will be an approach to the island green of anywhere from 120 -180 yards and preferably below the pin to allow for an uphill putt.

Biggest mistake made is under-clubbing on second shot and ending up in the water.

Risk / Reward is for bragging rights only.

To make a birdie on the hole gives bragging rights and players can etch their name in “The Clan of the Island Green” located in the club-house.

Of our 27 holes on three nines, the ‘most talked about’ hole is always # 6 on the Willow Nine.

This island green hole has an elevated tee box and is 158 yards to the centre of the green. In addition to the water, there is a bunker front right and a giant swale in the centre of the green which makes putting a challenge regardless of pin placement.

For best chance at a par, aim for centre of green and then trust your lag putting. If the pin happens to be located in the centre, then birdie becomes a possibility.

“An interesting hole, but also a challenging hole,” according to Associate Professional Gary Neil. “The large swale in the green and the wind are your two biggest enemies, and let us not forget - the water.”

www.springfieldgolf.on.ca 519.821.4653

the challenge of our island green awaits you ...

Golf • Curling • Dining • Banquets • Meetings 133 Woodlawn Road, Guelph | 519 824 7039 | www.tgcc.ca

Guelph Lakes Golf & Country Club

519 822 4222 Across from Guelph Lake on HWY 24 | www.guelphlakesgolf.ca

2054 Gordon Street, Guelph | www.springfieldgolf.on.ca | 519 821 4653

27 Challenging Holes www.arissvalley.com (519) 824-1551 or (888) 824-1552 2 miles north of higway #7 on Elmira Road just north of Guelph

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- continued from page 28 -

12

1 BOOK REVIEW 2

Finally,

or last year. I didn’t sign up to have Tiger raise my children but I will watch Mr. Woods every week because Sunday afternoons and the back nine at The Masters have nothing to do with fidelity.”

a 12 hole golf course !

Chapter Four - What Do Women Really Think About Golf (page 67) It was said once…

There was a guy who went golfing every day, it didn’t matter what kind of weather it was because he was hooked on golf. One day he left the house early and headed for the golf course, but it was so bitter cold that he decided not to play that day and went back home. His wife was still in bed when he got home so he took off his clothes and snuggled up to his wife’s backside. “Terrible weather out there,” he said. She replied, “Yeah and my stupid husband went golfing.”

Derrydale Golf Course

(905) 670-3030

www.derrydalegolf.com

185 Derry Road West | Mississauga, Ontario

PIKE LAKE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

519 338 2812 18 Hole Links, 9 Hole Lake Courses Junior Golf Camp in July

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519-489-6767

6527 Ellis Road, Cambridge | puslinchlakegolf.ca

PAY FOR 9

PLAY 18 MONDAY - FRIDAY (valid for the 2011 season)

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(905) 712-1183

Join Us Today and Start Enjoying ...

THE INNOVATION OF SERVICE

124 Saginaw Parkway | Cambridge | 519.620.0322 | saginawgolfclub.com

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Chapter Five – Cheating … Why it’s OK to Lie Like a Dog in Golf (page 82) The golden rules of golf are common practice, encouraged and blatantly acceptable for a game that is universally known for its integrity. There are two golden rules in golf as practiced by the average Joe Golfer: “If no one saw it, then it doesn’t count" “ I found it!”

Chapter Six – Country Clubs and the Locker Room (page 92) Country Club Rules for Tough Guys “Tough guys do not associate themselves with anything connected to a decision-making group called a Board of Governors” “Tough guys do not have to be nominated for inclusion into anything. They are asked to join or they do not give a damn”

Chapter Nine – Tough Guy Descriptions (page 138) …from 10 descriptions of a tough golfer #4 “A tough golfer is an out of work contractor who understands pressure. Pressure is not a PGA Tour Professional standing over a ten foot putt to win a major title and a $1.5 million purse or face going home with a second place prize of $850,000. Pressure is losing your job at forty years of age, holding your family together through ten months of unemployment and taking the time to bring your kids to the driving range on Sundays when you cannot be out looking for work”

- continued from page 31 -

1 WHO'S YOUR CADDIE? 2 Owen Sound Golf & Country Club

Public Welcome Tee Times 519 376 1961 ext 1 or 1 800 257 GOLF(4653) www.osgcc.com

It sounded awful and flew lamely. I looked up quickly to see the damage to the club as much as the damage to my score. A sharp sand wedge and a one-putt followed and so, in an effort to make things right, I casually mentioned to Jock as we walked to the second tee: “Not bad, a par.”

He stopped dead in his tracks. Conjuring again the withering stare, he said, in utter disgust: “It’s not often that we cross the Swilken Burn twice on the way to Number One, Sirr!” And so it went. I hit a heroic four wood (remember them?) and he grunted: “You’re in hell, sir.” I replied: “No, I’m in heaven. I just hit a great shot and I’m playing my grandmother’s home course.” Jock, over his shoulder smiled: “No, you’re in Hell Bunker, Sirrrr. Good Luck,” as he put the cigarette back between his lips. That was as warm as it got.

He said four into the famous 17th; I said six (scuffed as it was).

We argued, or debated the point. I had never been in that spot, and haven’t been since, but I had watched Seve play the hole and Jack and Arnie and from there it wasn’t a four iron, even a Hogan blade. I hit six. Two putts later, I said: “I think it was a six, sirrr.”

To this day, I regret that. We made amends at the Jigger Inn, as all golfers should.

In Mexico I thanked a caddie for a good read and he said: “Por Nada.” I played a massive draw (okay, hook) in China and the caddie said: “Fairway good. Water no good.” In Malaysia as the ball sailed into the jungle, “Sorry,” my caddie said, her first English words of the round, with a beatific smile. “Maybe five iron, not four.” In Florida the caddies rode on the back of mandatory carts, and didn’t even rake the bunkers; in Costa Rica every caddie was a university student but you felt your tip would make a difference; at Bandon Dunes, they’re pros but in that horizontal rain they have to be.

“Creating great golf memories since 1920.”

Cutten Fields Golf and tennis

519.824.2650 info@cuttenfields.com www.cuttenfields.com

Peter Law CPGA

Natural Golf Certified Instructor

• Winter - LAUNCH 407&Weston Rd / Soccer World Dome in Hamilton • Summer - Hidden Lake Golf Course in Burlington / Vic Hadfield’s Practice Facility in Oakville

For Natural Golf Lessons, Golf Schools, Natural Golf Equipment and Accessories call 905-616-6112

Derrydale Golf Course

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

9 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE

www.fescuesedge.com · 519 484 2200

I caddie for my daughters, and I think it was my reads of the greens that helped my wife to her fourth-place in the club championship 20 years ago. To this day she says it had more to do with the fact that there were only four women members at the time. I still think it was the club selection, and the reads.

As I hoist my bag, or have it hoisted for me, I sometimes think back to that first time and Andy. Hope he’s had better luck with his ‘bags.’ I’ve had better luck since, and some grand long walks, with my caddies.

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.

1-877-267-3869

www.copetownwoods.com

(519) 271-4212

since 1896

www.stratfordcountryclub.com

53 Romeo Street North Stratford, Ontario

WATERLOO GOLF ACADEMY * Tuesday 9 Hole Senior Special $13 (before 11am)

100 Wilmot Line • Waterloo, Ontario • 519 886 6555 • www.waterloogolf.ca

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OPINION: » TALKING IN YOUR BACKSWING

WILL WE ROLL WITH IT? > THE NEW WAVE IS HERE

I’ve made a public pledge to cease and desist with the juvenile references to the U.S. Open champion, but he makes it so easy with that cherub face and the curls cascading out from under his cap.

The most impressive thing about Rory McIlroy’s entry into the history books at Congressional was not his records, nor his margin of victory, but the use of his considerable talents to politely correct elder detractors who said he’d be devastated after his final round collapse at the Masters in front of the entire world.

That kind of grit earns a man the kind of respect he needs to lead the new world order that is permeating golf, a realm that, at times, is begrudging about making way for the next generation.

With McIlroy’s being the fourth major title won by players in their 20s, youth is having its day, but such trends are not absolute, so Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Bubba Watson or others who have seen the last of their 20s are bound to interrupt this major domination by the young guys.

On the other hand, even the most hardened of golf fans will enjoy the ride with the 20-something champions such as McIlroy, Charl Schwartzel, Louis Oostuizen and Martin Kaymer and even the guys who are knocking on the door like Dustin Johnson, Jason Day and Rickie Fowler.

Those who see themselves as experts will warn about expecting McIlroy to become the next Tiger Woods, but I have yet to hear anybody predict that outcome.

What I do see is excitement building about so many young stars gathering at the gates to greatness in a celebration of parity over oneman domination. Nobody is predicting 14 or 18 majors for McIlroy, but the totals of Woods and Jack Nicklaus may be possible for a select group of 20-somethings.

McIlroy has been the most charismatic of the new wave, but all come across as grounded, which is a bonus considering the way Tiger evolved into the perception of being aloof, arrogant and controlling in many people’s eyes.

McIlroy and the rest currently stand where Woods stood 14 or 15 years ago, not as an

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individual but as a collective personification of golf as a game that can be played by young people and their parents in that 25 to 44-year-old age group that it’s missed the boat on.

The faces of that message will need to maintain the image they’ve presented thus far and it won’t be easy.

It hadn’t even been 24 hours after his win at Congressional when I received several e-mails, one from a promoter wanting publicity for a Rory McIlroy song. Another was from somebody talking about McIlroy’s repeatable swing and how a DVD he was selling could help purchasers obtain a repeatable swing.

The senders didn’t actually say McIlroy endorsed these products, but by loosely using his name, they were capitalizing on his success.

Assuming that continues, companies are going to legitimately want a piece of McIlroy as will the media, meaning more demands on his time and a possible change in attitude.

Maintaining their present images in the eyes of the public will be as great a challenge for these young stars as continuing with the success they’ve already enjoyed and, if they can accomplish both, golf needs to figure out a way to capitalize, just as the song promoter and DVD guy were trying.

Woods was expected to have the same impact on the game when he first arrived and his impact on luring new players – either juniors, their parents, women, minorities, etc. – is generally thought of as positive for the game.

While there are no definitive numbers to back up that claim, it is clear that Tiger’s arrival about 15 years ago did trigger a change in attitude among companies that cater to golfers, with the term “fashion forward,” or funky, becoming a common one.

You’ve got the party dude look of Quagmire apparel, for example, and the guys who run that

Ian Hutchinson company recently redesigning the traditional Arnold Palmer line with not only a different look, but under a simple brand name change, with it now being known as “Arnie.”

Kikkor, launched recently by Canadian golf standout James Lepp, offers a wide variety of alternative golf and street style shoes that go along with the motto that nobody wants to wear the same stuff as their dad.

In women’s golf, Lija apparel first caused gasps of disbelief with its styles, but has become a staple in golf shops, while more mainstream golf/ athletic companies have also strayed from the traditional with the introduction of technical fabrics in apparel and street shoes in their footwear lines.

The edgy outfits worn by Fowler, Johnson and Anthony Kim are becoming the norm and that is trickling down to the grassroots, where there’s work to be done in order to grow the game, which is seen as slow, boring, time-consuming, unwelcoming, too expensive and difficult in this age of instant gratification.

Nine-hole leagues, special affordable rates for juniors/families, even if they’re in traditional downtimes for golf courses, scramble events, teaching programs, and an emphasis on communication that helps ease the neophyte into the game, are all required at individual golf courses.

What the game needs to avoid at any level are instances like the one that took place at the Masters, where a tournament official jumped on Fowler for wearing his hat backwards.

The message was blend in with the snappy dressers at Augusta. That’s when young people tune out and tournament/golf course officials dig in for a war of wills in which the game is the main casualty.

Golf has moved forward since Tiger made his initial impact on the game and the arrival of this latest wave of young stars puts more young faces on the game, which it badly needs as participation continues to dwindle.

The initial impression of these young stars is that golf is in good hands with them leading the way as role models for youngsters. The degree of success that the golf industry experiences from such a timely gift depends on how willing it is to roll with this new wave.

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