CELEBRATING 23 YEARS IN THE WEST, NOW IN THE NORTHWEST! • WWW.GOLFTODAYNW.COM • NUMBER 15 • MAY 2010
BC’s Predator Ridge If you think you know Predator, You only know the half of it. See inside for details
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Idaho Golf Trail Revisited! For Your Junior Golfer, Make It THEIR Game The PRO-FILE: Stone Ridge’s Scott Lusk
EARN SERIOUS
BRAGGING RIGHTS Play The Ridge Course before it opens to the public. Book a stay at Predator Ridge and you can be among the first to experience the new 18 designed by legendary golf course architect Doug Carrick. Want to experience it? Book a stay at Predator Ridge, a resort famous for its gourmet dining, AVEDA™-concept salon and spa, and, of course, golf.
2 nights & 2 rounds in July from $379*. 1.888.578.6688 Okanagan Valley, BC *Price is per person, based on double occupancy in a studio suite. Subject to availability and applicable taxes.
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Are You Ready For The Ridge Course At Predator Ridge? As we enter into the 2010 season, many golfers find themselves on a quest to find the latest and greatest, not only in golf gadgets, clubs and high-tech clothing, but also in courses – virgin greens to conquer. Though the recent downturn in the economy has resulted in less new turf, in Canada, one course is determined to stand out this year: The Ridge Course at Predator Ridge. Located in the lush landscape of the Okanagan Valley, only 25 minutes north of Kelowna, British Columbia, The Ridge Course is aptly situated among some of the best golfing in the western hemisphere.
fanatics will be happy to know guests and members can get a special sneak peek round in starting July 1. Bragging Rights packages start from $379 and include two nights accommodation at Predator Ridge Lodge, plus a round on the coveted Ridge Course and a second round on the legendary Predator Course. The Predator Course is already in full operational swing, with brand new greens on all holes. The course, which opened in 1991, features 18 holes of elevated green complexes and links
A complement to its sister course, The Predator Course, (renowned in North America for hosting the Skins Game twice), The Ridge Course incorporated a redesign of the resort’s existing Peregrine nine to create a classic, yet challenging 18 holes. Not that we would expect much less from master golf course architect, and Canadian, Doug Carrick. “Predator Ridge has some of the most beautiful scenery in Canada, from breathtaking views over Lake Okanagan to some of the surrounding mountain peaks,” says Carrick when describing the new course. “The new golf course weaves through a remarkable landscape with dramatic elevation changes and stunning rock outcroppings framing many of the holes.” The 7,190 yard, par-72 Ridge Course, which began construction in 2008, will open to the public this August, but golf
style bunkering with golden fescue and grassy dunes rolling into the horizon. If you’re feeling a bit rusty, Predator Ridge offers a Golf Performance Centre, unmatched in the region. Director of Instruction, Sean Richardson, has coached at both the provincial and regional level in Canada, with a strong track record of success. A great draw for golfers at Predator Ridge is the size and convenience of the accommodations and amenities. The Peregrine and Falcon Point cottages are ideal for foursomes looking for a weekend or week-long getaway. It is easy to settle in as each cottage comes equipped with one, two or three bedrooms, full kitchen with microwave and dishwasher, and a sizeable
MAY 2010
living area. A neighborhood swimming pool and barbeque are opportune for spending an afternoon relaxing after a long round. The refreshed AVEDATMconcept Spa & Salon will re-open at the end of May. If you should choose to dine out, Predator Ridge offers two exceptional options – range restaurant and In the Cup Café. With stunning views of The
by Predator Ridge’s in-house pastry chef will have you lingering by the fireplace longer than usual. Extend your stay by becoming part of the Predator Ridge community. More than 10 neighborhoods are offered with homes ranging from fractional ownership to townhomes and even custom built sites. All owners are privy to the exceptional resort amenities (pool, Clubhouse,
Predator Course’s 18th hole, range restaurant is perfect for either a quick bite or an upscale feast. Chef Jeff O’Neill is a true locavore and proudly incorporates local Okanagan fare into his well-rounded menus. The adjoining Clubhouse Lounge is perfect for kicking back and has a clever big-screen TV that replays guest’s 18thhole putt in all its glory. The warm and casual atmosphere at In the Cup Café serves as a complement to its food. Freshly ground fair trade coffee, homemade soups and pastries baked daily
fitness centre, spa), spectacular golf, exciting events calendar and top-notch service, but with the added comforts of home. And the best part - homeowners who purchase a golf membership will have advanced access to the new Ridge Course starting July 1 – for some, worth its weight in gold! For more information or to book a reservation visit www.predatorridge.com or call 1-888-578-6688.
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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Experience the Difference—Play The Best! Find Out Why McCormick Woods Is Truly The Northwest Golfer’s Choice
Immaculate greens. No adjoining fairways. Built in concert with the Audubon Society. Recipient of many awards including “Top Public Course”, “Most Beautiful Course” and “Best Golf Course Restaurant”.
5155 McCormick Woods Dr SW Port Orchard, WA 98367 Pro Shop 800.323.0130 / 360.895.0130 Clubhouse 800.279.7705 / 360.895.0142 www.mccormickwoodsgolf.com
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Port land’s Premium Golf Experience at a Value Price
Heron Lakes offers 36 Championship Holes designed by Robert Trent Jones II and can accommodate 12-288 players for Tournaments, Outings and Events. Visit heronlakesgolf.com today and join our E-Club to win monthly drawings for complimentary packages. Heron Lakes Golf Club | 3500 N. Victory Blvd. Portland, OR 97217 Ph: 503-289-1818 | www.heronlakesgolf.com
MAY 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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ON THE COVER • MAY 2010: Predator Ridge. The name itself evokes much wonderment. Located in BC’s spectacular Okanagan Valley, Predator Ridge Resort with 1,200 acres of immaculately-groomed fairways, natural lakes and streams, rugged pine-covered ridges, and wheatgrass meadows is one of Western Canada’s top golf resorts. The 18-hole Predator Course is the only two-time winner of the BCPGA Facility of the Year; however, this year, golfers have an additional 18 reasons to be excited! Yes, The Ridge, a new 18-hole golf course designed by legendary golf course architect Doug Carrick offers scenic undulating fairways, dramatic elevation changes, majestic granite rock outcroppings and dramatic views of Lake Okanagan will open to the public this summer. As our cover title suggests, “ BC’s Predator Ridge: If you think you know Predator, You only know the half of it.” To learn more about Predator Ridge Resort, and how to earn serious bragging rights by playing The Ridge first before it opens to the public, please visit pages 2, 3. –Cameron Healey, Publisher/Editor
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
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16
“YES” A WELLUSED WORD AMONG VOLUNTEERS AT AMERICAN LAKE VETERANS GOLF COURSE
21
HMM. WHAT CAN I GET THE ‘OL MAN FOR FATHERS DAY?
IT’S TIME TO DISPEL A FEW MYTHS
22
COUNT OF MONTE FISTO”, “K ABOOM, BABOON”…AB GOLF DESIGN’S HEAD COVERS ARE NO JOKE!
WARMING UP TO THE PACE!
23
GOLFTEC CELEBRATES 15 YEARS OF GOLF IMPROVEMENT
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LASER SPINE INSTITUTE OFFERS EXPERT ADVICE TO HELP GOLFERS AVOID BACK AND NECK PAIN
29
DON’T FORGET THE KIDS! EYE PROTECTION WHEN IT COUNTS
32
By Clifford Cowley
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINESPONSORED HERON LAKES SPRING CLASSIC FUN EVENT!
By Cameron Healey
FOR YOUR JUNIOR GOLFER, MAKE IT THEIR GAME!
By Bob Duncan
9
By Erin Szekely
10
By Diana Del Garbino
11
By Ina Zajac
IDAHO GOLF TRAIL REVISITED
CENTENNIAL GOLF COURSE: PRESTIGE IN PEAR COUNTRY
12
By Clifford Cowley
14
FULL FIELD EXPECTED FOR THIRD ANNUAL GOLF FORE RED™ “HEARTHEALTHY”WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT
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By Cheri Brennan
THE PROFILE: STONE RIDGE’S SCOTT LUSK
MAY 2010
Golf Today Magazine-Sponsored Heron Lakes Spring Classic Fun Event! by CAMERON HEALEY
Playing golf, in my mind, is less about selecting the right club or managing the course, and more about spending quality time with like-minded friends who enjoy spending four hours to experience something special. It is about the experience, right? Cliché? Perhaps. But for me, a good day of golfing must include an appreciation for the course and its environs. That is why I chose Heron Lakes
MAY 2010
Golf Course—Great Blue Course for our first 2010 Golf Today Magazinesponsored “Fun Event.” You may be familiar with Portland’s popular muni, a favorite challenge among low handicap golfers and high handicappers alike. The 6,902 yard Robert Trent Jones II course’s fairways typifiess Scottishstyle mounds and nd offers golfers a collecollection of risk/reward ard holes that will test your course rse management skills kills to the core! This course is an abbsolute gem and nd with the resident ent Blue Herons nevver far from sight, ht this course fit the mould perfectly. And when you have a bunch of golfers who have played in probably hundreds of tournaments to be collectively impressed and, more importantly, “happy as Larry” over a one-day, one round golf event, then you have an
end result that speaks volumes. Yes, the overriding consensus is that the Golf Today Magazine-sponsored Heron Lakes Spring Classic held Monday, April 26th, was one that will not be
easily forgotten. And in a good way! Mt Hood did its part and helped create a natural shield to the potential threat of inclement weather that day and golfers continued on page 28
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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For Your Junior Golfer, Make it THEIR Game! by BOB DUNCAN
Teaching juniors the game of golf is harder than you might think, but coaching them and getting them to learn the game is easier than you might think. In the past, the mantra was always practice, practice, practice your golf swing on the range. Some even said practice until your hands bleed and legend has it Ben Hogan did exactly that. But then, what happens when you get on the course?
Rather than subjecting kids to endless drills and confining them to the range, here is what we need to do: 1) Under-teach rather than overteach! 2) Make swing changes related to improved ball flight instead of model swing ‘corrections’. 3) Get kids to learn on the course instead of turning out ‘range rats’. 4) Use a Coaching philosophy of asking them what is right about their performance rather than telling them what is wrong with it. Over-teaching is easy to do! Of course you want them to avoid mistakes and avoid bad habits, but with kids you must keep it simple. Keep your head down, your left arm straight, extend, swing inside-out, hit down on the ball, roll your wrists, extend through the ball, and finish the swing – and swing easy...It’s no wonder some kids don’t get it! One of the few things we must teach them is how to hold the club. Beyond that, they learn visually. Instinctively, many kids know what the problem is: Even a great golf swing is going to fail
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on different lies unless they change it and adapt. Nevertheless, many pros and parents are forcing swing models upon them. This bases their performance solely on swing faults, which prevents them from playing the game. Of course, we all know that a perfect swing is not all you need to play great golf, even though it helps. In order for kids to learn, we cannot and should not make swing improvements without relating to what it will do to the ball flight. If there is no relation to the ball flight, the instruction becomes meaningless. In other words, a change in the ball flight should be the only reason for a change in the swing. For example, toward the end of a lesson a parent noticed that the player’s posture was somewhat ‘hunched’ rather than having a relatively straight back. Yet, the player was striking the ball well and hitting it straight without the posture change. y introducing a posture change without a ball flight reason this player was confused and his performance suffered. This is an example of over-teaching. As soon as he was hitting it well, why make
a change? Some would say he has to get worse before he gets better, but that is definitely the wrong way to go. Instead, make the improvement relate to better ball flight and then prove it. Where is the best place for juniors to learn? On the course! Juniors will learn to play the game more effectively because they have the opportunity to learn to adapt to the course. The range and chipping/putting greens can’t provide the variations they face on the course – and it’s the variations that they will continue to face: Side-hill lies, uphill, downhill, different grass conditions, wind conditions, and different landing zones all contribute to results. By encouraging juniors to be consistent in ball flight and distances, we are actually doing them a disservice. This philosophy is constantly working against the golf course. For example, when hit correctly, a ball above your feet goes lower, left, and farther than normal, and a ball below your feet goes lower, right, and shorter than normal. If a solid and straight shot is struck continued on page 29
MAY 2010
It’s Time To Dispel A Few Myths by ERIN SZEKELY come to me with the idea that as golfers we have to stand a particular way and move in an even more particular way, certain that there is only one way to effectively get your ball down the fairway. It is beliefs like this and many others that
respond to the motion made by an object than it is to try to move your muscles in a conscious way. A true swinging motion has everything moving at the same time in the same direction and at the same rate. Any restriction, like keeping your lower
respond naturally to what you do with the club, so ďŹ gure out how to move the club! Read more about this in Manuel de la Torre’s book “Understanding the Golf Swingâ€?, or check out the DVD by the same name or my DVD. “GolďŹ ng with
A true swinging motion has everything moving at the same time in the same direction and at the same rate. I am a golfer with convictions and I am a golf instructor with convictions. I have learned a unique golf swing method that works. So, as a golfer, I practice this method and as an instructor I teach it. My conviction is this: Success on the course is not how you swing, but what you do with the club. I am an advocate of this practice because it is logical and easy. My students
sometimes keep students from improving. Why can’t we treat this like any other sport? You don’t try to isolate dierent muscles when you throw a ball or swing a racquet. Golf is not any dierent yet we treat it dierently. So, my solution to this is to teach students what to do with the club, forgetting about locking an arm, twisting here, bending there and negotiating planes and angles. It is much easier and natural to
body still just interferes with the natural motion your body will make in response to the moving club. When you tell a golfer to restrict any part of their body, they lose their exibility and the swing becomes less powerful or eective. Still weary? Head outside with a few balls and a club and give it a try. Let go of the conventions you have practiced for so long. Your goal is to have your club make contact with the ball. Your body will
!
Erin�. Have fun out there and keep swinging. Erin Szekely is an LPGA teaching professional. For more information, please visit www.golfingwitherin.com or call 425-3980443.
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GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE ďšť NORTHWEST EDITION
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Warming Up to the Pace! by DIANA DEL GARBINO
Do you remember the children’s song about how everything is connected? The neck bone’s connected to the shoulder bone, the shoulder bone’s connected to the chest bone, etc. Well keeping this in mind as you begin the new season of golfing as it may help you prevent injuries along the way. Let’s start with the golf swing. To avoid golf injuries, it’s important that golfers get their swing technique as solid as possible.
Amateur players are at increased risk of injury because their swing will often put excessive stress on the shoulder, arms and the back. Since golf is played at a slower pace a warm up is essential to help prevent injuries. Think about the song at the beginning and work your way down the body. Warming up the neck. Start slowly and with purpose. Instead of the usual head circles, think about the position you put your neck in from presenting the ball to your backswing and downswing. Your head is in a neutral position. Then pull your arms into your backswing position, now look at the position of your head; it’s still facing forward, however, your shoulders have rotated so your chin is now touching your shoulder. For a warm up, stand facing forward and slowly turn your head to the right, then dip your chin and try to touch your collar-bone. Now repeat the other direction. This will warm up the muscles along the sides and back of the neck. Let’s move on to the shoulders. This is where a lot of injuries can occur. With the large amount of torque needed on the downswing, it’s critical to warm up all the muscles in the shoulder. Start with small circles and work your way to med and
then large. Make sure your hand positions change. This ensures you will hit each different muscle that makes up the rotator cuff; Thumbs up, palms down, & thumbs down. Rotate five times each set. Now the back. Just saying “the back” doesn’t give you enough information. There are two specific areas that we want to warm up. First is the thoracic spine (upper back area). The thoracic spine starts just under your ribs and stops at your collarbone. This is also where you want the most rotation in your back swing and not in your lower back region. Taking your club and placing it on your shoulders and rotating from right to left is a good warm-up, but take care to lock your hips in place so you’re not rotating in your lower back. Sit down and squeeze your knees together, then place your hands behind your head and spread your elbows out. Now sit up straight and turn to your right, as if you were looking over your shoulder, now drop your right elbow and try to touch your right elbow to your hip. You should feel a stretch on your opposite ribcage (left side). This works the thoracic spine in the two ways it works best, rotating behind you and side-to-side. Complete eight times each side. The second area of the “back” is the hips.
Again, we don’t want to rotate through the lumbar spine. It might feel like that is what is happening, however, the hips are made to rotate and have a much better design for it. So stand tall and take your 5-iron or hold onto a pole or rail. Twist your hips in a circular motion as if you’re trying to take your front hipbones and touch the pole or 5 iron. Make sure you keep the upper body as still as possible. Also, keep your feet flat on the ground to get a bit of internal and external rotation. Rotate each side eight times. Ok, so you are warmed up in the areas that get the most work in your golf swing. As you move your static warm up to a more dynamic warm up, a slow start as you hit balls will get you fully warmed up and help keep you from injury. The more conditioned you are for your golf swing is the best way to keep yourself injury free! Diana Del Garbino is a certified golf fitness instructor through the Titelist Performance Institute and coaches beginner through advanced golfers at Muscles in Motion-Professional training studio in Lake Oswego Oregon. For more information about the program visit www. MyMusclesInMotion.com.
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10 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
Additional nights nights Additional available at at $84.99. $84.99. available (Must be purchased with golf package.)
Packages dates April - October 2010.
Space available basis. Applicable taxes not included. Not available on special event dates.
MAY 2010
Idaho Golf Trail Revisited! by INA ZAJAC Going down the golf getaway away checklist, the Idaho Golf Trail is looking pretty good this summer. An array rray of awardwinning golf courses andd amenities— check. Long, breezy summer mer days and wide-open blue skies—check. heck. Getting away and experiencing ing new courses without having to travel too far—check, check. You may have heard a bit here and there about Idaho daho golf. Yes, it is true Idaho’s ho’s Coeur d’Alene Resort has the world’s only floating green. Yes, it is true Idaho’s Sun Valley Resort has a rare 18-hole putting course, and that’s great for the whole family. Yes, Idaho’s Teton Reserve Golf Club was designed with a reversible aspect, making it possible for 4 different 18-hole courses. While these courses are re great must-sees in Idaho, o, they represent only three of the 14 stops on the Idaho Golf Trail. rail. The Trail is a convenient ent collection of the state’s preremiere, nationally recognized zed ible courses, many with incredible daho resort accommodations. Idaho udget Golf Trail resorts offer budget ay of conscious golfers an array mptoptions and add-ons -- temptmple. ing spa services for example. ssage It’s hard to beat a good massage after a 36-hole day. Traveling the Trail, it’s easy to perb golf get accustomed to the superb offerings as well as many other recreu may want to ational opportunities. You do some whitewater rafting or fly-fishing.
If so, you can indul indulge in that too. The Idaho Golf Trail is also a an ideal place for outdoor endeavors lilike mountain biking, hiking and photography. photograp If you have the time tim you can check out the Eastern Loop, which w gets you close to both Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton Nation National Park. Both Teton Springs and Teton R Reserve are less than a 30-minute drive from f Jackson, which is the gateway to Gr Grand Teton National Park. Pinecrest is in Idaho Falls, which is on the way to Yellows Yellowstone National Park. Visitors often take ad advantage of this and go on to one or bot both parks while in the area. There are also a variety of options in terms of getting to the loop of your choice. You may fly into the area through Spokane, Boise or Idaho Falls and rent a car. If yyou prefer making it the Northern Loop is a true road trip, th about a five-hour drive from Seattle. Boise is about a 7-hour Portland to Bois drive.
NORT NORTHERN LOOP LO The Northern North Loop offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of northern Idaho: I commanding fir tree forests forests, meet rolling hills and pristine m mountain lakes. Air travel to this aarea is convenient via Spokane. CIRCLING RAVEN GOLF COURSE: PAR: 72/YDS: 72/ 7,189 www.circlingraven.com www.circli Circling Raven Ra has it all complete with scenery that is rich and varied. Beautiful fairways fairwa aside, golfers can take in the pristine wetlands, w woodlands Image provided courtesy Tourism Idaho continued on page 16
MAY 2010
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Centennial—Prestige in Pear Country by CLIFFORD COWLEY Southern Oregon is full of golf courses. Twelve in the Rogue Valley alone. Some stand out more than others, but all have something that makes them unique, and most can point to some accolade from some magazine or poll that voted them “best” in some category. Sometimes we don’t pay attention to those claims because, as you know, sometimes the ratings don’t match the round. Let me share with you one course that does live up to its ranking--Centennial Golf Club. If you’re travelling through Southern Oregon, Centennial is a “must do” for the destination golfer who’s looking for a superior quality Stay-N-Play at an affordable price. Nestled next to the foothills of the Rogue Valley in Southern Oregon, Centennial opened its fairways to rave reviews in May of 2006. Managed by OB Sports, it has continued to climb in the ranks of “best” courses in the country: Rated #6 in top 50 golf courses in the country Top 10 honors for “Best of the Best” in qualities of course conditions, pace of play, and customer service 2010 Golf Reader Choice Awards Golf World Magazine. The course is long, and boasts a choice between 5 different tees, from a spectacular 7,309-yards to an easier 5,244, guaranteeing a pleasant experience for golfers of every level. The course is walkable, with a few uphill climbs on the front nine. Most younger golfers use a three wheeled cart. Motorized golf carts are available for those who prefer them. Other amenities at Centennial include an expansive practice facility featuring a grass driving range, state of the art chipping facility, and a large putting practice area. Most golfers with a single digit to 12 handicap play from the purple tees (Centennial’s signature color). Twelve and up handicappers generally play from the whites, although even the white tees,
at 6,401 yards, provide a formidable challenge for the 225 yard driver. The par-72 layout, designed by two-time PGA Tour winner and 1977 U.S. Amateur Champion, John Fought, offers spectacular views of the Rogue Valley. The picturesque landscape of the surrounding
mountains makes you feel like you’re playing in a huge natural stadium. Every time you hit a good shot, you’ll swear you can hear the roar of the cheering crowd in the stands. The course itself was built on an old pear orchard. One of the three houses on the golf course sits next to the 14th green. Built in the early 1900’s by a local doctor, now it ministers to the ailments suffered from hopeful yet errant golf shots on the long par 3 hole. My favorite holes are #4, a 213-yard downhill par 3 (I love to watch golf shots fly from an elevated tee), and another par 3, hole #6. At a mere 186 yards, the #6 tee box is only slightly
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elevated, but the green slants toward a pond. Even if your ball lands on the upper part of the green, it could roll clear to the bottom. Heaven forbid you should miss it to the uphill side and have to chip on. Good luck with that! Another hole I really like is the 281-yard, par 4, #13. Most try to drive the green. Some do. However, the green is guarded on the ffront by deep sand traps. If you’ve got the gguts, take the shot. My least favorite hole, only because it’s been awarded the most
d difficult hole in Southern O Oregon, is #3. At 406 yyards from the white tees, iit should be an easy par 44, but it’s the steep, uphill ssecond shot, to a narrow llanding area that makes tthe hole difficult. The fairways are exppertly manicured to crisp ““semi-tight lies,” and the ggreens are quick, firm aand true (be sure to bring yyour backspin with you). Y You’ll be impressed with the shape of the course, as well as the consistency of the terrain. There was not a “blemish” in sight the day I played. Matt Grove, Centennial’s Maintenance Superintendent, makes sure everything is properly watered, groomed, and prepared. His crew is polite, and attentive to the flow of the golfers. Attention to details is the norm at Centennial. The service in the Pro Shop holds true as well. Even at the busiest times, the guys behind the counter are courteous, friendly, and efficient. They all know your name after seeing you once. According to Head Pro, Peggy Atwood, “It’s all about the customer. When someone comes out to play,” she says,“they want to have a good
time. Everything we do is geared toward that goal.” The Pro Shop is also generously stocked with everything a golfer needs from clothes to clubs. The clubhouse’s rustic open beam construction offers a casual elegance to its country style atmosphere, making it just right for the after round camaraderie with your golf mates. You can add up your score in the Centennial Grille and catch up on the day’s sports by watching one the two big screen TV’s, or you can sit on the patio overlooking the 18th ggreen while enjoying your ffavorite beverage and snack. The Grille has a full service bbar and menu. I was tempted tto try the Buffalo Wings, but ssettled on the Black and Bleu B Burger and was glad I did. My ppartner had the Hot Pastrami S Sandwich, vowing that it was d delicious. Golfers in the region have aalready come to their own cconclusion, putting the Centtennial golf experience on a pedestal when they voted tthe layout as the Number O One Best Golf Course in the re region. When you are traveling through Southern Oregon, stop by Centennial. You’ll vote it #1, too.
How to Get There •
On I-5
•
Take the Medford Exit 27 to Barnett Road
•
Take Barnett East to North Phoenix Road
•
Turn right. Proceed on North Phoenix Road one mile.
•
Centennial is on the right
Where to Stay NEW HOMEWOOD SUITES MEDFORD just minutes away from Centennial has Stay-n-Play packages ranging from $139.00 to $279.00. Homewood Suites can be reached at 541-779-9800, or visit www.centennialgolfclub.com 541773-GOLF. MAY 2010
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MAY 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE ďšť NORTHWEST EDITION
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Full Field Expected For Third Annual Golf Fore Red™ “Heart-Healthy” Women’s Tournament Three years ago, two women decided to act on a conversation they had been having for several years. They were avid golfers, but belonged to different women’s golf groups. They shared a friendship that spanned nearly four decades. And they shared the loss of their mothers to heart disease. Shelley French and Mary Robinson decided they could honor their mothers and bring their two associations together on a theme of education, friend-raising and fund-raising. Golf Fore Red™ was born. Fast-forward three years. The Golf Fore Red™ name is now trademarked, but the event—being held this year on July 24—is still an all-volunteer endeavor to promote heart-healthy lifestyles. Bellevue resident Mary Robinson, a past president of Northwest Ladies Golf Association, continues as event chair. “ This tournament is all about women having fun and raising awareness of heart disease as the single leading cause of death for American women,” Robinson stated. She said the American Heart Association is providing
information to all golfers on recognizing heart disease symptoms (and how they may differ than symptoms in men), along with practical tips for
Since its inaugural year, the event has gained traction and fans, Robinson reports. She said commitments are already made for about half the
reducing their risk of heart disease and improving their heart health to enjoy stronger, longer lives.
available slots for the tournament, which is open to women golfers of all abilities. Many golfers are returning
for the third year. The July 24 Golf Fore Red™ tournament will be held at The Golf Club at Redmond Ridge with an 8 a.m. shotgun start. The $125 registration fee includes a continental breakfast, range balls, green fees, golf carts, goody bag, lunch, program and prizes. R e g i s t rat i o n m ay b e m ad e at https://tournaments.okigolf.com/ Eventinfo.aspx?E=749249. Women may register as individuals, or as twosomes, threesomes or foursomes. Net proceeds benefit the Pacific Mountain Affiliate (Seattle) of the American Heart Association, Go Red for Women campaign. Last year’s event generated more than $4,500 for AHA. The tournament is presented with assistance from Northwest Ladies Golf Association. Various sponsorship opportunities are available; inquiries may be directed to GolfForeRed@yahoo.com or by calling Robinson at 425-462-3887.
SW Washington’s Premier
Public Golf Course
18-Hole Championship Golf Course Voted #1 public course in Oregon and SW Washington by Portland Business Journal Full service Restaurant & Bar Golf Carts with color GPS screens ens Fully lit 300 yard Driving Range with Covered and Heated Stalls and seasonal Grass Tees Spacious indoor and outdoor Banquet Facilities Upscale Rental Clubs available
Short 15 minute drive from PDX (only 5 miles from I-205 or Hwy 14)
4105 NW Camas Meadows Drive * Camas, WA 1-800-750-6511 * 360-833-2000 * www.camasmeadows.com
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MAY 2010
Priest Lake Golf Course & Hill’s Resort Opportunities Abound Discover the unparalleled beauty of the Priest Lake Golf Course. The 18-hole, par-72 course is located near the shores of Priest Lake, Idaho’s Crown Jewel. A visit to the panhandle of North Idaho offers many opportunities to those who enjoy nature’s bounty. The stunning course takes guests through rolling hills, expansive natural wetlands and lush forest. The varied terrain provides golfers with a unique and ever changing visual tapestry that creates an unparalleled golf experience. Tee boxes are surrounded with natural granite rock. Fairways and greens are bordered by towering trees and many species of wildlife can be seen both on the course and in the surrounding forests.
Walking the course at Priest Lakee is permitted, and the course provides a pleasant experience for those who prefer to enjoy the game this way. Carts are available for those who would ratherr not carry their clubs around the course.. If you need to rent a set of clubs or a pulll cart, these are available as well. The picturesque landscape enhances the gently contoured greens and rolling fairways that create an enjoyablee experience for golfers of every level. The h course offers three sets of tees to match the challenge with the players ability. Forr m the adventurous, it can be played from the challenging Championship tees att 6500 yards. The beauty doesn’t end on the 18th hole. The full service golf shop and adjoining Bar and Grill cater to your needs both on and off the course. Before, or after your round of golf, you can enjoy a cold beverage of choice and a relaxing meal on the covered patio overlooking the front nine. Just 90 minutes from MAY 2010
Spokane, Washington or Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Priest Lake Golf Course offers all of this at very reasonable rates. Shoulder season rates provide value for those playing in May through mid June and from mid September through mid October as the 18 holes fee is only $26.00. For those wishing to come during the high season,
from mid June through mid September, the green fees are a resort bargain at $50. One of the finest destination golf courses, Priest Lake Golf Course is uniquely tied to the award winning Hill’s Resort, located on the lake just minutes from the course. Hill’s Resort has long been recognized as a unique family resort
by magazines including Family Circle, Redbook and Sunset. The resort is set along the beautiful sandy shores of Priest Lake, Idaho’s Crown Jewel. The secluded nature of the lake has led to Priest Lake being referred to as the “lake without the city”. Guests can sit back, relax and take in
the grandeur of the area at the resort or venture out and enjoy boating, fishing or picking huckleberries, a regional delicacy. Equipment for outdoor activities is available for rental through the resort, so you need not bring all your gear to enjoy these unique recreational opportunities. Hill’s offers lake side cabins, condos
and chalets, 52 units in total. Guests can enjoy the resort’s highly acclaimed award winning restaurant, where every menu item is homemade, featuring Huckleberries, Morel and Chanterelle mushrooms and always with a touch of a Hill family memory. Hill’s Resort offers a Stay and Play Package for singles or couples – call 208-443-2551 The 2010 “Golf Today” Stay and Play package features overnight lodging in a lake side fireplace suite, breakfast and 18 holes of golf including cart and practice balls for only $129 per person, based on double or triple occupancy. If you are unable to visit Priest Lake during the sum-
mer, you can put on your coat and join us m all winter long. Mother Nature blankets al the area with generous amounts of snow th and the golf course is transformed into a an Nordic and snowshoe haven. The Priest N Lake Golf Course & Nordic Center is L the perfect compliment to the countless th other outdoor recreational opportunities ot at Priest Lake. Hill’s Resort also provides accommodations throughout the winac ter for those who enjoy snowmobiling, te cross country skiing and snow shoeing. cr Together, Priest Lake Golf Course and T Hill’s Resort provide a perfect year-round H location to relax and enjoy Mother Nalo ture’s beauty and bounty. To learn more visit www.priestlakegolfcourse.com 208-443-2525 www.hillsresort.com 208-443-2551
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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continued from page 11
and grasslands. It all makes for a pictureperfect round. It’s pretty, but make no mistake, the course is challenging. Named “Top 100 Courses You Can Play” by Golf Magazine and “Best Resource Courses” by Golfweek. Of its 620 acres, only 100 have been cultivated, providing an authentic wilderness experience.
Situated next to Lake San Succi at the base of Mt. Spokane, StoneRidge incorporates its natural scenery making for unique water hazards and thick forestlined fairways. Add in some well-placed white sand bunkers, and it challenges golfers of all skill levels.
THE CENTRAL LOOP
THE COEUR D’ALENE RESORT GOLF COURSE: PAR: 71/YDS: 6,803 www.cdaresort.com Best known as the home of the floating green, the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course located on the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, and provides views of vast forested ridges, gently rolling woodlands, Fernan Creek, and the spectacular Rocky
The Central Loop traverses Idaho’s heartland and showcases the areas fertile valleys, pine trees and awe-inspiring vistas. Air travel can be arranged via Boise.
Mountains. It is the kind of course you’ll want to say you’ve played at least once. It provides a challenging round as well as a memorable golf experience.
Idaho in scenic Meadow Valley. Golfers experience wide-open meadow fairways as well as greens lined with tall pine trees. Many greens offer remarkable mountain and valley views.
THE UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO GOLF COURSE PAR: 72/YDS: 6,602 www.uidahogolfcourse.com The University of Idaho Golf Course is longtime local favorite. Its last three holes are known as “Heartbreak Ridge”, but no worries. This course has a little something for golfers of all skill levels. Set against the rolling hills of the Palouse region, golfers are met with elevated and recessed greens, and three open grassland holes. Fairways tighten up and culminate with Heartbreak Ridge. STONERIDGE PAR: 71/YDS: 6,684 www.stoneridgeidaho.com
There are multiple tee options at each hole, providing a variety of lengths – from to 7,319 yards. WHITETAIL PAR: 72/YDS: 7,200 www.shorelodgemccall.com Golfers get a real wilderness feel at Whitetail, where many fairways are tucked into dense forest, and others open into beautiful open meadows. It’s a challenging course to maneuver, considering the bunkers, trout ponds, mountain boul-
courses are located in and around the city of Boise. Sun Valley is just two hours away. Air travel can be coordinated directly into Boise. SUN VALLEY RESORT GOLF COURSE PAR: 72/YDS: 6,892 www.sunvalley.com This course is a true test: golfer vs. river. Golfers will become very familiar with the Trail Creek River, crossing back and forth seven times over the front 9. The river
MEADOW CREEK GOLF RESORT PAR: 72/YDS: 6,696 www.meadowcreekresort.com MeadowCreek, a public golf resort, is centrally located in the heartland of
TAMARACK PAR: 72/YDS: 7,319 www.TamarackIdaho.com Osprey Meadows at Tamarack Resort may sound familiar. This course has been receiving a lot of attention, ranked “#1 Course in Idaho” by Golfweek’s 2008 & 2009 “Best Courses You Can Play” list. This popular course is beautifully situated against the slopes of Tamarack Mountain on the shores of Lake Cascade. Spread over 400 acres, there are forested greens, creek crossings, and opportunities to see wildlife. Oh, and of course, remarkable views in every direction. Making Osprey Meadows at Tamarack Resort even closer to perfection is the fact it’s so playable.
16 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
ders and occasionally wildlife. For those who want to get away from it all, this is golf at its best. JUG MOUNTAIN RANCH PAR: 72/YDS: 7,265 www.jugmountainranch.com This exceptional public course offers panoramic views of old-growth forest, natural wetlands, rolling hills, and fantastic views of Jug Handle Mountain. Though it’s challenging enough for even the pickiest golfer, Jug Mountain Ranch is known as a friendly venue for golfers of all skill levels.
SOUTHERN LOOP The Southern Loop is where wideopen spaces, rolling foothills and mountains meet urban conveniences. These
provides plenty of opportunities for fun and frustration. There is also a new 9-hole course to enjoy. The White Clouds offerings a challenging layout and spectacular views. And there is Sawtooths, the 18hole putting course, fun for golfers and non-golfers alike. BANBURY GOLF CLUB PAR: 71/YDS: 6,890 www.banburygolf.com This course was thoughtfully designed around the south channel of the Boise River, which provides golfers with the chance to test their game against the naturally existing terrain. The river also offers glimpse of native wildlife, and of course, water plenty of water hazards. continued on page 32
MAY 2010
MAY 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
17
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18 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE ïš» NORTHWEST EDITION
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20 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
MAY 2010
Hmm. What Can I get the ‘Ol Man For Fathers Day? Bushnell Patriot Pack: Bushnell has become the exclusive electronic measuring device of Patriot Golf Day, the Folds of Honor Foundation and the Patriot Golf Course. Bushnell is supporting the foundation’s fundraising efforts by providing a percentage of every 2010 sale of their Tour V2 Patriot Pack too the Folds of Honor Foundation. In doing so, Bushnell is introducing n intro the Tour V2 Patriot Pack which comes eequipped with a Tour V2, Skinz with a Patriot Golf Day symbol on one side, and red, Patrio white and blue stars and stripes on the other, extra ba battery and premium carrying case for $299. The Tour To V2 incorporates the same “PinSeeker” technology that has made Bushnell products the technol #1 rangefi range nder on the PGA Tour. It is available in Tournament and Slope Editions, features golf-grip Tournam touch poi points for enhanced feel and stability, and is capable of ra ranging up to 300 yards to the flag stick with incredible +/- one yard accuracy. $299
Money Clamp: If you want to give dad a great gift, you should consider the stylish and functional Money Clamp. Gone are the days of the fat wallet. Now men have an eye-catching accessory to hold all their important bills and cards. Money Clamps come in a variety of colors and materials and range in price from $25 - $100.
adidas Tour 360 4.0 Sport: Go low with the all new TOUR360 4.0 golf shoe. ASBuilt on the advanced THiNTech outsole, re-engineered POWERBAND CHASraordinary SIS and THiNTech cleat all delivering extraordinary stability and bring you closer to the ground;; this shoe is ultimate warm weather option and is progressive with athletic-styling. The all new TOUR360 4.0 Sp ort offers 3 key te ch n ol o g i e s ing this again making eather golf the best warm weather shoe. First is 50/50 protectt that surrounds the lower half of the foot and is water and debris echnology resistant with a highly breathable mesh upper; second is Ion-mask nano coating technology -STATIC to protect the shoe while being water repellent and reduce staining and third is X-STATIC silver filament fibers that are woven into the lining to help regulate temperature for optimized comfort. Available now in 2 colors (metallic silver/metallic silver/blackk and black/black/metallic silver). $120
TaylorMade Pure-Lite Stand Bag: Weighing less than five pounds, the new Pure-Lite stand bag from TaylorMade is the ultimate bag for the golfer who wants to walk the course. The Pure-Lite features four full-length dividers to make sure clubs don’t tangle at the bottom as well as six zippered pockets to store balls, tees, valuables and extra clothing. Best of all, the Pure-Lite incorporates a new system called “Fast Action Snap Technology.” In short, the concept provides for easy snap-on, snapoff holders that will allow you to carry accessories such as a cell phone, GPS unit or even a cigar holder right on your golf bag. When you’re done with your round, simply release the snaps and take them with you. They’re in the same place every time - easy to track. $149
TRX Suspension Training Pro Pack: Suspension Training develops strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. It requires the use of the TRX® Suspension Trainer™, a highly portable performance training tool that leverages gravity and the user’s body weight to enable hundreds of exercises for every fitness goal. You can use the TRX in the privacy of your own home, using the door as an anchor point OR you can secure the TRX to a tree limb, pull-up bar, fence, playground equipment or even weight rack. The TRX is easily packed away, weighing less than 2 lbs and fitting in a shoebox. Functional Training is great idea for those that not only want to get fit, but also stronger to improve daily movements. The Suspension Training movement is truly growing; it is used by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and elite athletes like NFL stars Drew Brees and LaDainian Tomlinson. The TRX has gained widespread exposure not only by the use among these global celebrities and athletes, but also through its exposure as a “go-to” training tool for contestants on the popular reality TV show, The Biggest Loser. Price: $189.95 MAY 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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“Count of Monte Fistoâ€?, “Kaboom, Baboonâ€?‌AB Golf Design’s Head Covers Are No Joke! by KELLY HANDLEY Not one to defy at the rules, I am happy to show up at the clubhouse wearing my collared shirt. Stained and ripped clothing is not my style and, yes, I do iron my golf clothes. I think argyle is cool. And plaid, too. But a simple, no-airto-be-found golf bag is where I draw the line. Enter AB Golf Designs. Formerly known as Butthead Covers, I can get my fix for fun, lighthearted golf accessories. I see nothing wrong with a squirrel diving head ďŹ rst into a golf bag, nor do I balk at my friends and their favorites. A beaver for my friend from Oregon and a kangaroo for my friend from Sydney, Australia. Others have the cougar, the duck, and the ďŹ sh. If a novelty cover isn’t your thing, then take a look at the Throwback Head Cover Collection. Giving a nod to the golf covers from the seventies—the cover that every golfer had—is the knit sweater style, complete with an updated pom-pom atop. Stripes and contrast, fun and retro, the recent addition of the Throwback covers leaves me wondering if my nosediving squirrel should take the summer
o. My driver probably would be happier ped sweat in a blue and white striped sweater.
On a more serious note, I can’t help but love the new Throwback covers because they are made from recycled materials. ugh the fabric lo Although looks and feels like wool,l, the Throwback col collection is made from polyester fi-
bers crafted from recycled plastic bottles. Who wouldn’t w wa want that? Co-owner of A Golf Designs, Chip BurAB le ley, says, “For years, AB Golf has bbeen known for its unique head covers, and now we’re the ďŹ rst to really introduce an environmentally-friendly line
to the market. In response to requests from consumer and corporate customers, the truly classic styling of these head covers oers the retro look of the knit design that remains tremendously popular with players of all ages at a very attractive price.â€? Knowing that not everyone wants a bottoms-up creature from the animal kingdom and a pom-pom adorned sweater might not be patriotic enough, th the kilted golfer will surely tell everyone your heritage is relevant while the Pink Ri Ribbon cover will remind everyone that breast cancer research matters. Let’s not overlook the American, English and Australian boxing gloves. While I would never approach another golfer and tell them what I think of their no-nonsense, all-too-predictable black bag with shiny clubs, adorned only with shabby golf towel, I revel in the fact that I can ďŹ nd my rented plain ivory colored golfcart in a heartbeat thanks to my golf bag air. For more information, please visit www. abgolfdesigns.com or call 888.439.8379.
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0 S E F S T B O E * O G P P S X X X X F E H F X P P E H P M G D P N 22 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE ďšť NORTHWEST EDITION
MAY 2010
GolfTEC Celebrates 15 Years of Golf Improvement Fifteen years ago this month, two Colorado entrepreneurs and PGA Professionals set out to change the world of golf instruction by opening the first GolfTEC Improvement Center. The goal: create a repeatable way to help people play better golf. Today, that operation has grown to over 140 locations nationwide and over 400 Certified Personal Coaches. GolfTEC’s Proven Path delivers a consistent 95% success rate utilizing five unique factors; fact-based diagnosis, sequential lessons, video-based practice, advanced retention tools and precision-
mystery out of researching, fitting and purchasing the perfectly-matched set of clubs. The program has been well received and GolfTEC has doubled its club sales despite the challenging economic conditions. “Precision-matched clubs are one of the five factors that clearly separate GolfTEC from the rest of the golf improvement industry,” said GolfTEC COO and Cofounder, Mike Clinton. “We are proud that the SPORTS ILLUSTRATED GOLF GROUP recognized our advanced equipment matching skills. Our
matched clubs. “We founded GolfTEC with the vision of bringing an enjoyable, organized approach to golf lessons,” said GolfTEC CEO and Co-founder, Joe Assell. “When we began, we had no idea that we would be able to maintain a 95% success rate, and we are pretty humbled that our dream has now grown to teach over 2.2 million lessons. We still get excited as we get emails every week from golfers playing better and more consistently than they could ever imagine. It is very rewarding to bring skills to people that will last a lifetime.” Just this February, GolfTEC expanded its impact on the golfing community by becoming the official retail and clubfitting partner of the SPORTS ILLUSTRATED GOLF GROUP – GOLF MAGAZINE, SI GOLF PLUS, and GOLF.COM. Powered by the “SeeTry-Buy” program, GolfTEC takes the
‘See-Try-Buy’ partnership has proven to help players of all skill levels find their ideal set of clubs and improve their game.” With millions of lessons given and a Proven Path to Proven Results, GolfTEC has clearly established itself as the nation’s leader in golf improvement. And with the start of GolfTEC’s “Birdie Season” campaign (April 1 – May 15), GolfTEC is helping golfers across the United States celebrate the unofficial beginning of the golf season by shooting more (or their first) birdies. From now until May 15, players can get started with GolfTEC by taking a Swing Evaluation Session for only $79. This fact-based diagnosis has been the starting point for more than 200,000 clients that reached their golfing goals. For more information, please call 425454 7956.
MAY 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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Laser Spine Institute Offers Expert Advice To Help Golfers Avoid Back And Neck Pain Both amateur and professional golfers understand that the game of golf requires a great swing and strong back muscles. However, the repetitive nature of the golf swing and the constant twisting of the lumbar region makes golfers particularly prone to back pain. It should comes as no surprise that 75 percent of golfers fall victim to game-related injuries. As the leader in ground breaking minimally invasive spine surgery, Laser Spine Institute (LSI) treats numerous injured athletes every year, and a significant portion of these athletes are golfers. To help golfers avoid the type of debilitating back pain that keeps them off the course, LSI physician and resident avid golfer Dr. Michael Weiss provides expert advice to help golfers keep their tee time as prime golf weather approaches. An Approach to Hit the Course Without Pain Warm-Ups and Cool Downs: Stretched muscles are less prone to injury, so stretching before and after the game is crucial. Golfers should target muscle groups in the shoulders, neck, wrists and hands, torso, lumbar, quads, hips and hamstrings. To get the most out
of stretching, move to the position and hold the stretch for three to four seconds. Then, repeat the position and stretch on the opposite side. Do three or four sets of each, switching from right to left, and moving through alternating muscle groups. Keep it Loose: Remember to keep moving throughout the game and walk as much as possible. When using a golf cart, avoid simply jumping right out the cart, taking a swing, and then heading off to the next hole. Instead, take a couple of slow deliberate practice swings before playing the shot and concentrate on body mechanics, position, tempo and feel. Putting Products: Supportive products such as back braces, shoe inserts and magnetic bracelets only provide anecdotal benefits, but they are completely safe to use. However, LSI’s experts do advise carrying over the counter anti-inflammatory medicines such as Ibuprofen, Aleve or Tylenol to help alleviate pain that may occur while playing. Caddy Clubs: Golfers who have experienced prior back or neck pain should avoid carrying their clubs, or any other
24 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
heavy items, as this causes unnecessary strain on the spine. Comfort Zone: Always stay within a personal comfort zone and listen to your
the perfect answer. “To this day I can’t believe how short my recovery time was,” Jacobsen says. “I even made a run at winning the 2007
Peter Jacobsen body. Everyone’s ability to practice and play are different, so golfers are advised to develop a routine that fits their condition, pain awareness and function. Line It Up: Remember to align not only your shot, but also your spine. During the typical golf swing, the lumbar spine undergoes a variety of stresses, including compression and rotation. Rotating the shoulder and hip about the same amount, shifting weight between the hips during the backswing, as well as keeping the spine vertical (perpendicular to the ground) during the follow-through will avoid hyperextension of the spine. Recovery: If a player has been hurt from the sport, they should rest initially. Golfers who try to “play through” an injury will likely make their conditions worse and delay their recovery. Conservative treatment should include ice for the first 24-48 hours after the initial trauma and then heat or an alternating combination of ice, heat, and anti-inflammatory medication can be effective. Physical therapy, massage, osteopathic manipulation and chiropractics may also play a role in recovery. Thirty-year PGA TOUR veteran and LSI success story, Peter Jacobsen, understands firsthand the effects of golf on the spine, as he developed pain in his back and legs impacting his game and competition level. Jacobsen searched for a solution that would allow him to stay at the top of his golf game, and LSI provided
Toshiba Classic only 10 days after my LSI procedure.” Dr. Weiss explains, “Back pain limits the golfer’s ability to concentrate, swing freely and enjoy the experience. To avoid injury all together, golfers should stay aware of the positioning of their back and neck throughout the round. Golfers who experience severe back and neck pain should first, consult with their physician, and then enlist the help of a golf professional. Since poor swing technique is often the culprit for lower back pain, let a pro evaluate your mechanics and grip, and then collaborate on these tips with your doctor.” With facilities across the country, including Tampa, Philadelphia and Scottsdale, LSI is the leading innovator in endoscopic spine procedures that alleviate a variety of back and neck ailments from degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis, to herniated discs and pinched nerves. By using an incision measuring less than one inch, LSI’s revolutionary outpatient procedures with drastically reduced recovery times help injured golfers quickly get back on the course and back to par. Gol fe rs s u ffe r i ng f ro m b ack and neck pain can visit www.laserspineinstitute.com/pr or call toll free 1-866-761-5084 for more information on outpatient minimally invasive spine surgery and upcoming seminars in cities across the United States and Canada. MAY 2010
“Yes” – A Well-Used Word Among Volunteers At American Lake Veterans Golf Course by CHERI BRENNAN “No” is not part of the vocabulary around American Lake Veterans Golf Course. At this unique facility, the mantra is “can do.” Just ask the two Ryder Cup teammates who said yes when asked if they could help with this haven for wounded warriors. Ask the 160 volunteers (many of them retired military) who, since 1995 have operated and maintained all aspects of the course, from mowing grass to flipping hamburgers. Ask retired teacher Pepper Roberts who formed a nonprofit organization in 2003 to raise money for improving playing conditions and facilities. Ask the rehabilitation specialists about the healing power of golf. Most importantly, ask the 25,000 wounded and disabled veterans and their families who play golf each year at American Lake Veterans Golf Course. Longtime volunteer Ken Still said yes when invited to get involved. Now he says the word “yes” is heard a lot around the golf course. To him, an especially grati-
fying and gracious “yes” came from his Ryder Cup teammate, Jack Nicklaus. Still, a Professional Golf Association
dedicated volunteer since 2004 and currently serves on the board of directors for “Friends of American Lake Veterans Golf
member since 1953 and winner of three Tour tournaments played on the 1969 Ryder Cup Team with Jack Nicklaus. The Fircrest (Wash.) resident has been a
Course,” the facility’s nonprofit arm. Still says volunteering at ALVGC has been more rewarding than any of his career accomplishments. That impressive
3 3 3 3
list of achievements includes being in the top 60 on the Tour money list for eight consecutive years and being inducted into the Pacific Northwest Section PGA Hall of Fame in 1995. At a 2009 board meeting when directors talked about adding nine more holes to the current 9-hole track, someone thought Jack Nicklaus should be approached about designing the new nine. Soon thereafter, Still made a call to his former teammate and cherished friend of 40 years, expecting his wife Barbara to answer. Not only did Jack answer the call, there was no hesitation before he declared, “Count me in.” “We hear a lot of spontaneous yeses,” Still remarked in recalling the conversation, which marked the first time he had asked a favor of his former teammate. Not only did Jack Nicklaus tell Still “yes,” he refused to consider any fee for his design services. “For what these guys have given to us, sacrificing life and limb for the freedoms we enjoy, there will never continued on page 26
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GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
25
“Yes” – A Well-Used Word Among Volunteers At American Lake Veterans Golf Course by CHERI BRENNAN continued from page 25
be a charge. Just to be asked to be a part of it is a privilege,” said The Golden Bear, whose charitable activities are as legendary as his achievements as a golfer and golf-course designer.
Together with his wife, Barbara, they epitomize volunteerism. They are the guiding light for the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation and countless other worthy causes. Although perhaps best known for his four decades of charitable work with
children, Nicklaus is admired as both a businessman and goodwill ambassador. Among accolades he has accumulated are The Woodrow Wilson Award for Corporate Citizenship, the Charles Bartlett Award from the Golf Writers Association of America (recognizing unselfish contri-
butions to the betterment of society) and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor given to any civilian. Nicklaus’ philanthropy for American Lake Veterans Golf Course deepened when he agreed to serve as honorary co-chair with retired General John Shalikashvili for the capital campaign to construct the “New Nine by Jack” and other rehabilitation facility improvements. In November, he led a clinic for disabled veterans and invited guests at BIGHORN Golf Club in Palm Desert as part of a weekend fund-raiser that netted more than $1 million toward a goal of $4.5 million. Like other beneficiaries of the generosity of Jack and Barbara Nicklaus, the volunteers at American Lake Veterans Golf Course consider his involvement and gift of design services to be priceless. Pepper Roberts believes veterans from other states will travel to Lakewood (about an hour south of Seattle) just to play the “New Nine” designed by Jack Nicklaus. The course, with its special accommodations for mobility-impaired veterans, is expected to become a model facility that can be replicated across the country as a
much-needed recreational and rehabilitation outlet for the growing population of veterans. Using the campaign theme, “A Course in Courage: Healing America’s Veterans through Golf,” American Lake Veterans Golf Course unites volunteers of all stripes. Some are young, some are in their 80s; some are wealthy, but many are of modest means; some are well-known, others less so; some have written large checks, others donate time. All are united as Friends of American Lake Veterans Golf Course and in saying “yes” to providing a more accessible and enjoyable golfing experience for those who have served and sacrificed in service to our country. Friends of American Lake Veterans Golf Course 9600 Veterans Drive SW, Lakewood 98498 253.589-1998 • www.veterangolf.org
26 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
MAY 2010
MAY 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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continued from page 7
inclement weather that day and golfers teed off under dry conditions and a mild 58 degrees for the spring event! So why all the smiles? For starters, the golfers were treated to a continental breakfast complimented by a stiff cup of Joe served by the good folks at Portland’s Bridgetown Coffee. Boy is that good Java! All the while sorting through their Tee Prize goody bags valued at more than $100. And if the golfers were concerned about losing any golf balls on a few of Heron Lake’s forced water carries or ever-present fairway bunkers, all they needed to do was tap into their complimentary dozen Taylormade Burners that were in their goody bags! With plenty of time to warm up and shake off the cobwebs, the golfers had an opportunity to win a $198 S-Blade putter from Spherical Blades with the one-shot 50ft long putt competition or head to the practice range with free range balls. Many took advantage of the free swing analysis set up on the driving range provided by GolfTEC and had an opportunity to compare their swings to what they should look like and not look like. Turned out that my swing was somewhat absent that day! Of course, the key attraction was the course itself and the Great Blue course
did not disappoint. While players could choose their own sets of tees to play from, the links did rob a few of my golf balls, but as I reminded myself that the key goal was to have fun and to forget about the score. The playing conditions were near perfect and the course and greens were in great shape for early season. My thanks and gratitude to Ross Liggett and his staff. On the third hole, golfers were met by Diana Del Garbino, a certified golf fitness instructor through the Titelist Performance Institute who coaches beginner through advanced golfers at Muscles in Motion-Professional training studio in Lake Oswego Oregon. Diana briefly demonstrated core exercises to improve flexibility and overall swing quality. Diana, a regular contributor to Golf Today, was warmly received. As golfers checked into the clubhouse after the round, they were met by hot appetizers and additional discounted golf coupons to local courses to add to their goody bags as the prizes were given away. No scorecards are used at the Awards Ceremony since every golfer has an opportunity to win prizes by the free raffle system. There
28 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
were closest to the pin prizes on all par3s and long drives for both men and women; there were prizes for the 50ft long putt contest, new clubs were given away in addition to $5000 worth of free golf certificates, stay and play packages including dinner; and prizes for just being there! Oh, we even gave away a prize for someone who looked under his chair for a sign reading “Winner”! Yes, there will be another Golf Today Magazine-sponsored Spring classic scheduled for spring 2011, but if you can’t
wait until then and want to get in on the fun and action, the next GTNW-sponsored event will be at the McCormick Woods GC on Tuesday, June 22. Yes, this is another course that fits the Golf Today mould and offers immaculate greens, no adjoining fairways, and was built in concert with the Audubon Society. Plans to expand and get more co-sponsors involved are already underway! For more information about future events, please email cameron@golftodaynw.com.
MAY 2010
Don’t Forget The Kids! Eye Protection When It Counts
If you are a parent like me, the health and wellbeing of your children always takes precedence over everything else! I recently discovered Baby Banz, a company that offers a range of products designed to protect the skin and eyes of our “lil ones”. Whether your kids are on the driving range or out hitting the links with Mum and Dad, remembering to provide eye protection is essential during the relentless glare on hot summer days. Baby Banz offers a range of wrap-around sunglasses and is a leader in the children’s safety market of head to toe protection for children ages 0-10. Baby Banz original wrap around sunglasses are equipped with an embedded silicon nose and brow piece, making them a better fit and even more comfortable. The
design has passed some of the most stringent standards on sunglasses in the world. Interestingly, Baby Banz was created by an Australian father worried about raising his kids in one of the harshest UV environments in the world. He is committed to developing solutions to protect kids on all of their adventures, as well as helping kids with ocular diseases and special concerns. After ten years of providing quality child sun protection, it’s no surprise Baby Banz is endorsed by the Australian Cancer Foundation as well as the Melanoma International Foundation. Their products are all CPSIA compliant, meaning they are made from completely non-toxic materials and are safe for children. They are also the proud winners of the iParenting Media Award, Awar the Toy Man Award Excellence, and the Creative Child of Excellence Top Choice of 2009. For To more information about Baby Banz and where to buy their products, please visit www.babybanz.com.
continued from page 8
correctly, and anything else is a mis-hit, these mis-hits are not failures or mistakes. Mis-hits should be filed under ‘alternative results’ or the ‘OOPS’ file. Even a topped shot is a learning experience: It may have been below your feet, or you were too far away from it. Instead of telling kids what is wrong with their performance... ASK! Do not offer your opinion of the last shot. Ask them what they liked or didn’t like about the last shot, even if it is obvious! Then ask them how they would fix it. If they can fix it on their own, there is no reason to tell them how. If you do, you are getting in the way of their learning process. This is the Coaching philosophy. Ask about their performance and don’t offer your opinion unless they ask
you. Teachers can be invasive, whereas Coaches work with the player. Think about how you would want to learn: from someone forcing you into positions and telling you what was wrong with the last shot, or from someone who asks you for your opinion. In the case of kids, take the easy way through: Help them learn by coaching rather than getting invasive by teaching. You’ll see a much happier junior golfer. Bob Duncan is the Director of Instruction at Tetherow Golf Club in Bend, Oregon. He has custom fit over $1.6 million in golf equipment, and has given over 8,000 hours of coaching and instruction. Bob can be reached for lessons at bduncan@tetherow.com.
JoinUs Online! ... Index of Advertisers for May 2010 ...
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Jorgensen Golf........................ 7,20
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Maplewood Golf Course ........... 11
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Carnation Golf Course ............... 9 Chicks Golf, too ................... 18, 24 Club Glider .................................. 8 Courtyard by Marriott ............. 10 Dave Smith Motors ................... 35 GolfBC ....................................... 17
Better than a birdie! Tweet us at www.twitter.com/golftodaynw.com MAY 2010
Mount Si Golf Course ............... 16 Nile Golf Course .......................... 9 Palouse Ridge ...................... 14, 18 Predator Ridge ............................ 2 Priest Lakes Golf Course.... 15, 20
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Tanman Products ...................... 26
Golfnowcom ............................... 31
Tom Wells Golf .......................... 18
Golf Vancouver Island .............. 35
Warrior Custom Golf................ 13
Heron Lakes................................. 5
Wedgewood Golf ....................... 22
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
29
CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
HOUSE OF KANGAROO GOLF SHOES
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HOUSE OF KANGAROO GOLF shoes are made from kangaroo leather which is one of the lightest & strongest leathers! Walking 18 holes feels like walking a few blocks. Try a pair today! Phone#: 1-800597-9091www.hoknorthamerica.com
LEARN TO TEACH GOLF. The Profession of a Lifetime. Call for a certification course near you. United States Golf Teachers Federation. Please call toll free 1 (888) 346-3290 for more information. Or log on to www.GolfTeachingPro.com OWN THE RIGHTS TO manufacture and market one of the most popular golf aids on the course, that has been growing in name and sight recognition in the retail golf an promotional industry for 3+ years. Steady and profitable growth. Interested parties, please call 830-896-1598, or send e-mail to raikman@ easiergolfing.com for more info. This may well be your opportunity of a lifetime.
GOLF ACCESSORIES
GOLF ACCESSORIES NEED THAT EDGE? OUTFIT your golf game, tournament or corporate outing with Lucky golf accessories. Custom logo program available Visit us online at www.luckystroke.com. Inquires - 408.313.0081.
GOLF PACKAGES STARTING AT ONLY $59, treat yourself to comfortable lodging and great golf (including cart!) at 10th Green Inn at La Contenta. Visit www.10thgreeninn.com for more information. Or, call 1 (888) 727-8705.
GOLF VACATION RENTALS WAILEA, MAUI - GRAND Champions Villas on Blue Course, 7th Fairway. 1 BR, 2 bath, Discounted golf and tennis fees to tenants. $805 per week. $3000 per month, plus tax. Call (916) 408-1049. Or, Grandc181@sbcglobal.net
LEFT HANDED GOLF CLUBS DEMOS AND NEW CLUBS, some good used ones, men’s and women’s. Many name brands and knock offs at 50% below retail. I’ll email you the list. Shipping at the true cost, not inflated: duferdon@sbcglobal.net.
LOOKING TO TRAVEL OR WINTER NEST? 2005 27’ TRAILBAY TRAVEL trailer. Barely used, and beautifully kept. Slide-out living room and bunk house floor plan. Sleeps eight comfortably. Fully equipped with awning, stabilizer tow bars, two 10 gallon propane tanks, great stereo, many other extras. Only $25,000. Call (530) 308-7482 or email kristineF@ttlco.com
REAL ESTATE AFFORDABLE GOLF COMMUNITY LOT in Cool Pacific Northwest Home lot for sale in Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club on the Hood Canal in Union Washington. Walk to clubhouse & fairways. Dues only $170 per month & come w/ full privileges for 2 on beautiful 18 hole course consistently ranked among top 25 in the Pacific Northwest. See www.alderbrookgolf.com for community details. 1/3 wooded acre on cul-de-sac. Electric and water in street. Septic required. $85,000. Contact Sharon Roseme at sroseme@garlic.com or 916-663-3450.
COME AND PLAY THE BEST COURSES IN UTAH 14TH ANNUAL ST GEORGE Golf Getaway. April 18-24, 2010. 6 day golf excursion in St. George, Utah includes: 6 nights excellent accommodations, which includes swimming pool, Jacuzzi, 1 hosted party Tuesday.Tuesday Party: (cocktails, beer, wine and real good food provided) and a great auction of WA, Golf Courses. 6 rounds of golf with cart at 6 terrific golf courses that include Coral Canyon, Sand Hollow, Sky Mountain, Sun Brook, and The Ledges Golf Club. Mens and Ladies Tournament. Over $10,000 in cash prizes for weekly and daily cash competition for gross and net. For more information, please email cnastos@comcast. net or visit www.stgeorgegolfgetaway.com.
LAKE LAS VEGAS GOLF RESORT: Live in this beautiful golf community with three golf courses, two major hotels with gaming, plus a wonderful 320-acre lake full of fish. Chose from custom homes or custom lots to build your own dream home. Play a round of golf free, this being our way of saying thanks to qualified people looking for the right location. Call Earl or Anne at 702-460-2192 for an appointment. (Re/Max Pros.) Check our virtual tour at wwww. yourvegashome.com.
New Golf Products! Do you have a new golf product? A new golf service? Give Cameron a call at Golf Today Magazine. Get results with us and grow. For more information, call 425-941-9946 or email cameron@golftodaynw.com.
STAFF PUBLISHER / EDITOR . . . . . . . Cameron Healey
REGIONAL EDITORS . . . . . . . . Clifford Cowley
cameron@golftodaynw.com OPERATIONS MANAGER. . . . Sydney Healey sydney@sydhealeyconsulting.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR . . . Kris Hansen kris@golftodaynw.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS: . . . . . Kelly Handley
cliff.cowley@gmail.com
Wayne Scott wayne@golftodaynw.com
CONTRIBUTORS . . . . . . . . . . . Clifford Cowley, Tony Dear, Diana Del Garbino, Bob Duncan,
Kelly Handley, Derek Mount, Rick Newell, Terry VanderHeiden, Dan Stark, Erin Szekely, Brett Wilkinson, Ina Zajac
Cameron Healey, Publisher/Editor • Golf Today Magazine Northwest Edition (425) 941-9946 phone • (425) 949-3090 fax www.GolfTodayNW.com • Cameron@GolfTodayNW.com
ISSN 1524-2854
Golf Today Magazine, The Best in the West for 22 Years, 12 issues per year, is published monthly. Golf Today Magazine Northwest Edition is published monthly and distributed within Washington and Oregon State. Subscriptions are available at $29 per year, $39 for two years, or $49 for three years. Golf Today is protected under the copyright law. Contents of this publication cannot be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Unsolicited articles should be sent via e-mail and photos are welcome. Correspondence should be sent to Golf Today Magazine.
30 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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The best tee times, The best golf courses, The best prices. Visit today! Follow us on twitter: @golfnownw MAY 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE ďšť NORTHWEST EDITION
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continued from page 16
FALCON CREST GOLF CLUB PAR: 72/YDS: 7,089 www.falconcrestgolf.com Falcon Crest offers golfers a challenging 18-hole experience with sweeping views of the Boise Valley. Another option is it’s 9-hole executive course, which is designed for fun and practice. Both courses take advantage of the existing terrain, and offer the best nature has to offer.
EASTERN LOOP The Eastern Loop is beautifully situated just west of the Teton Mountains and offers beautiful scenery at every turn, particularly with wide-open spaces and river valleys. Conveniently located near Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Air travel can be arranged through Boise and Idaho Falls. TETON SPRINGS PAR: 72/YDS 7,400 www.tetonspringslodge.com Nestled in the foothills of Teton Valley, Teton Springs is 76 miles from Yellowstone and 39 miles from Grand Teton National Park. There is a challenging 18-hole course with magnificent views, as well as a beautiful 9-hole course perfect for working on those problem areas or just for fun.
PINECREST PAR: 70/YDS: 6,421 www.idahofallsidaho.gov Pinecrest is a beautiful option for low and high handicappers alike. This
very popular course has a lot to offer. Its relatively short yardage doesn’t necessarily make for an easy round. Pinecrest challenges players with its tough bunkers and small greens.
THE PRO-FILE by CLIFFORD COWLEY
Scott Lusk Occupation: Head Pro Stone Ridge Golf Course Location: White City, Oregon Pro Status: Class A-1 Scott Lusk has been in the golfing business for 35 years. He started working at Cedar Links Golf Course at the ripe old age of 17, receiving his pro status in 1984. He is a local
guy made good. His savvy business sense of how to run a golf course has kept him around not only where he lives, but also in the business the loves. Golf. “I’ve been extremely lucky,” says Scott. “In a business that sees a lot of turnover, I’ve been able to stay where I was born and raised.” Scott served at Cedar for 27 years before heading to nearby Stone Ridge. Jim Cochran wooed Scott over to his course after Cedar Links succumbed to the housing bubble and decided to develop part of the golf course into housing in ‘04. Over the years, Scott has trained many a pro how to run a course. “A lot of golfers want to be pros at a golf course so they can golf, but you can’t just be a jock behind the counter,” he says. “A golf course has business value. Businesses sell widgets. A golf course’s widgets are rounds of golf. When people come out to the course, you want them to enjoy it enough to come back, and the golf pro behind the counter has a lot to do with that.” Scott
32 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
embodies that standard. He never forgets a name. If someone golfed 15 years ago, once, and they come in again, Scott calls them by name when they walk in the door. He smoothly runs the Men’s Club and tournaments, and behind the counter he’s a multi-tasker, juggling money, the phone, the credit card machine, assigning carts, and telling a joke all at the same time. Scott is a players’ “pro” as well. He’s trained a lot of golfers--from beginner to scratch. “The key,” Scott counsels, “is to look at their past athletics, find out their learning style, look at the individual’s swing, and concentrate on the fundamentals while catering to the body style of the player.” He can get a beginner hitting the ball in thirty minutes and he can fix the swing of a normal golfer in five. Next time you are in the Southern Oregon area, give Scott at Stone Ridge a call. You’ll have a friend for life.
TETON RESERVE PAR: 72/YDS: 7,426 www.tetonreserve.com Situated at the base of the breathtaking Teton Mountains, 25 miles from Jackson Hole, Teton Reserve is perfect for golfers who want to challenge their skills. This course tests even the most experienced golfer. The beautifully crafted fairways, strategic elevation changes and substantial bunkers keep things interesting. The most difficult part about golfing the Trail is likely making the decision what loop to take. If you are up for it there is no reason you couldn’t do two loops or three or all four.
FOR MORE INFO Idaho Golf Trail packages can be customized depending on how many different courses you want to experience and the length of your stay. It is recommend the Idaho Golf Trail be played as a Northern Loop (StoneRidge, Circling Raven, Coeur d’Alene, and University of Idaho), Central Loop (MeadowCreek, Tamarack, Whitetail and Jug Mountain Ranch), Eastern Loop (Pinecrest, Teton Reserve, and Teton Springs), or a Southern Loop (Falcon Crest, BanBury, and Sun Valley). For more information about golfing the Idaho Golf Trail, go to: www.idahogolftrail.com or call (800) 844-3246 (84 IDAHO)
MAY 2010
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35
Golf Today Magazine & McCormick Woods Golf Cour Course present the
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Tuesday, June 22, Port Orchard This fun golf event is for players of all skills, abilities, and ages. No handicap required. No scorecards handed in! Everyone wins! Ø Includes chance to win $7500 in free raffle prizes such as a stay-and-play package at the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, including golf for two at the spectacular Circling Raven Golf Club! Ø $100 in value Tee Prizes for every player Ø Chance to win tickets to 2010 U.S. Senior Open & 2010 Boeing Classic!
$115 per golfer
$105 golfer in twosome $95 golfer in foursome
Ø Valuable prizes for longest drive competition Ø Valuable prizes for closest to the pin competition Ø Discounted golf coupons at Seattle-area courses Ø Free practice range balls—cart included Ø Win a new $189 putter at one-shot putting contest (Top 2)
Supporting Sponsor
Ø Major Clubmaker Demo of Clubs—Try them! Ø Tournament open to men and women—no handicap req’d Ø Meet Golf Today staff—they’ll participate, but not be eligible for prizes Ø 1.30pm Shotgun start! Ø Awards presentation after round, including hot appetizers and too much more to list
For more information & entry forms, call
425-941-9946 or email cameron@golftodaynw.com We will fax, send, or email entry forms to you!