Golf Today Northwest Edition - January 2011 Issue

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CELEBRATING 23 YE ARS IN THE WEST, NOW IN THE NORTHWEST! • WWW.GOLFTODAYNW.COM • NUMBEER 22 • DEC/JAN 2011

Are You Ready for TaylorMade’s New R11 Driver? See page 2 to learn why “One of These Things is not like the Other”!

Inside This Issue

Guess the Northwest Golf Course Contest Golf Man-cation to Vancouver Island

And Much, Much More!


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DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


ON THE COVER • DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011: Whether you are an 18 handicapper, weekend duffer, or a seasoned PGA tour pro with the skills (and length) of say...a Dustin Johnson, the new R11 driver line, which debuted at the PGA Tour’s season-opening Hyundai Tournament of Champions event earlier this month, is earmarked to make a huge impact on the golf industry. TaylorMade Golf Company, makers of the No. 1 Driver in Golf and arguably the industry leader in metalwoods, controls over 40% of the category market share and continues to drive the industry with bold new products. With the “iconic”white crown and black club face, the fully adjustable (yes, loft, CofG, and club face angle!) R11 drivers are no exception. As Bob Maggiore, Taylormade’s vice president, brand and product marketing recently stated, “Golf marketing has become so cookie-cutter, and we felt it was time to move away from the pack.” With the new aesthetics of the R11, he may well be right. In stores 2.4.11. Please see pages 2, 26 for more information. –Cameron Healey, Publisher/Editor

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

6 8 9

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR NORTHWEST GOLF COURSES?

by Cameron Healey

BRAIN FREEZE: LEARNING TO NOT OVER THINK IT!

by Diana Del Garbino

20

NEW 18HOLE PUTTING COURSE OPENS IN SOUTHERN OREGON

by Cliff Cowley

SWEET SPOT GOLF: FUNCTION FOLLOWS FASHION

21

GOLFECOACH: TECHNIQUES, HABITS, AND MINDSET FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE GOLF

22

NORTHWEST GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY

GOLF MANCATION TO VANCOUVER ISLAND

26

TAYLORMADE INTRODUCES R11™ AND R11 TP DRIVERS

BREAK AWAY FROM FRUSTRATION: WHAT MOVIES, MUSIC, AND TIME WILL TEACH US

28

by Cliff Cowley

by Cameron Healey

by Cliff Cowley

12

by Andrew Penner

15

WAILEA GOLF CLUB TEMPTS NORTHWEST GOLFERS WITH SEAHORSE SWING SPECIAL

MORE POST HOLIDAY GOLF PRODUCTS WORTHY OF MENTION!

10

14

16

by Jeff Ritter

NOTES FROM THE GOLFING NEWBIE

by Sydney Healey

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

29

by Elizabeth Noblitt

THE PRO’S CORNER

HOW I GOLFED THE AUSTRALIAN PRO AM WITH ADAM SCOTT

by Mark Platt

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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How Well Do You Know Your Northwest Golf Courses? by CAMERON HEALEY

As we enter quite possibly the coldest (and wettest) time of the year we think about such things as the recent Holiday season and what gifts we bestowed on those we care about; however, perhaps we should be begin thinking about the plethora of Northwest golfing options as we peer out the window at the winter wonderland. Yes, while the Northwest is not exactly bathed in warm sunshine and temps in the mid-seventies, we do contin-

ue to think about—and play golf. In fact, as I think about the year passed and the display of world class golf that was on display in the Northwest, I can’t help but be grateful for the experience. What will you remember most about this “boom boom” of a Northwest golf season? For me, it was having the opportunity to see the world’s best amateur and senior golfers up close and personal mid-summer at the prestigious U.S. Amateur and U.S. Senior Open held at the newly minted Chambers bay Links course in DuPont, WA and the Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish respectively. Who knows when we’ll all have an opportunity to see hometown fave Fred Couples compete with this year’s U.S. Senior Open and Boeing Classic winner German maestro Bernhard Langer whose career best resembles that of a bottle of fine wine; he simply gets better

6 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

continued on page 24

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


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DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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Brain Freeze: Learning To Not Over Think It! by DIANA DEL GARBINO

When we are learning a new skill or are trying to perfect one most adults will over think the technique. Sound familiar? Recall the last time you practiced chipping, putting, or driving. So often we adults don’t want to just get better, but we want to master the skill. We want to be able to conquer all of the intricacies. This, while admirable, can actually be a set-back as it is far from practical. Golf pro Paula Ketchum of the Lake Os-

wego Municipal Golf Course, has a great training technique she showed me for her “over-thinking” students. Paula has them close their eyes and “feel” the swing. For someone as mentally overpowered as I am, this was like trying to swim using just the golf club. As I used this technique it made me think about why some adults, like me, try to analyze the movement of the swing instead of feel it. Seems that as we get older we have a disconnect between our body and our mind. The brain seems to take over and our body doesn’t respond as quickly. Thinking back to when I was a kid and how I played sports, I don’t ever remember ever “thinking” about what I was doing. There was more balance between the body and the brain; I just did it. So how can we get back to that state of balance? One way is to get out of your comfort zone. Since the invention of the computer, most adults are spending an average of 4-6 hours in front of a computer-daily (that’s work and leisure combined). Now take an average golfer who is out on the golf course once a

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week for 3 hours. Is that non-stop play? Are you hitting repeatedly for those 3 hours? Probably not. You’re walking, taking turns with your play partners and only striking the ball a limited number of times. Doesn’t quite add up, does it? That’s where your golf fitness comes into play. This is where the real work for the brain starts. When you workout specifically for your golf game, you want to isolate each muscle, then batch muscle groups together, finally incorporating that into the whole body. It’s like learning anything new; it is a process where success is achieved in small steps. You have to start by identifying the muscles, determining if they are strong or weak, and then determine if the brain has the ability to isolate and create movement. Once you’ve done that with all your muscles, you can start putting them to work in groups until you have the whole body functioning with ease. Here is a simple example of getting the brain connected with the body: Locate your shoulder blades and retract them forward and backward, and up and

down. Next locate your shoulder (deltoids) muscles and straighten your arms. Lift your arms up and down without your shoulder blades moving. Next get down on all fours (hands and knees) then without bending your arms, retract your shoulder blades forward and backward. This process will get your brain to know where your shoulder blades are and as their strength improves, these muscles will engage easily to help with your swing. Remember that over thinking technique can be just as much of a set back as not keeping your body in top shape. Take the time to feel the swing but at the same time get your body and mind working in well-timed unison. Diana Del Garbino is a certified golf fitness instructor through the Titleist 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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More (Post) Holiday Golf Products Worthy of Mention! By CAMERON HEALEY

Were you able to survive the traditional holiday season and inevitable gift-giving with dignity (and wallets) intact? With any luck you had an opportunity to review our “Best Gift” ideas from last month’s issue; however, if you are still searching for the right golf product to add to your golfing arsenal, perhaps the following products might help fill the need. Yes, this time of year is the perfect opportunity for me to unclutter my desk and email inbox of the dozens and dozens of golf gadgets and equipment press releases that promise to do this and that. I cannot say with any guarantee that the products outlined will help you become a scratch golfer, but they should certainly be worthy of your attention. Enjoy! IZZO GOLF If you own or are shopping for a GPS unit, then you are probably familiar with IZZO’s popular SWAMI 1500 hand held unit; however, you may not realize that they also offer a range of golf bags, golf clubs including putters, shoes, training and fitness aids; even travel golf bag covers, Shoe Caddies and weekender

bags. Yes, the weekender bags are ideal if you are like me, an average guy who tends to inefficiently throw one change of clothing into my hard case Samsonite and call it good. Hmm, not the most efficient way to travel. So why not have a specific bag designed for golfers that includes g g generous space for golf gear and clothing, offers multiple organizer pockets, and easy-

pull oversized zippers. IZZO offers a range of storage options priced from $21.99 upwards. IZZO’s 2011 lineup also includes a new range of lightweight carry bags called the Highlander (among others) offering bold new graphic designs while making the task of carrying your clubs a little easier on your back with Izzo’s patented p straps designed for maximum carrying comfort. Other features include a Insulated water bottle in holder, External tee holder for h quick access, a velcro patch holds glove in place to air dry, magnetic sspine pocket for easy access to your ggolf tools, and a spacious valuables ppocket protects keys, cell phone, aand wallet. MSRP $149.99

RULE 21 Known for their stylish and functional Rule 21 ball towel, the folks at Rule 21 are introducing the new ruletwentyone portable waterproof ball towel. New in 2011 is an opening to continued on page 18

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GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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GolfeCoach: Techniques, Habits, and Mindset for High Performance Golf by CLIFF COWLEY

Bob Duncan, Director of Instruction at Tetherow Golf Club in Bend, Oregon has developed an interactive, computer generated series of lessons that truly teach you how to play golf on the course itself. Most golf instructional videos are focused only on the perfect swing. If your swing isn’t making you a better player, then you need this program. Not since Harvey Penick’s Little Red Book has there been a golf instructional program that actually teaches you how to ‘play’ golf. In his instructional program, The GolfeCoach: Techniques, Habits, and Mindset for High Performance Golf, Bob Duncan actually takes you out on the course and teaches you how to hit for accuracy and distance under real-life conditions. “Many who have taken lessons from me know that I go beyond the golf swing into what you actually face on the course,” says Bob. “I decided to share those real-life lessons using unique content, in a one-of-akind format specifically for that purpose,” adds Bob. GolfeCoach offers 25 effective and concise lessons in a downloadable program that is easy to use and becomes the property of the user. The program, which is actually more like a book with videos, allows users to cruise through the lessons at their leisure, and interact with what they see.

you have the combined benefits of video coaching, text, illustrations, and even interactive text so you can keep track of your thoughts, and actually plan what you want to do on the course next time you play.” Duncan uses tried and proven techniques that work on the course, developed during his 28 years as a PGA Golf Professional and over 8,000 hours of instruction and coaching experience. He bases his instruction on two simple principles: 1) Not every on-course lie performs the same way. Critical elements in the lie of the ball prevent your ability to use that perfect swing to make the ball flight consistent. 2) Without properly fitted equipment your ability to learn to play different lies is severely impaired. GolfeCoach shows you how proper club fitting can make a difference in your score. GolfeCoach shows you how to adjust your swing to different conditions on the course itself. Playing the game requires you to adapt to different conditions, not use one swing everywhere or one club for specific distances. Bob even gives you the first four lessons for free—Just download the GolfeCoach: Techniques, Habits, & Mindset for High Performance Golf!, and watch your score improve! What’s different about this program? “Golf is more than just a golf swing,” notes Bob. “With each lesson

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Better than a birdie! Tweet us at www.twitter.com/golftodaynw.com DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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Golf Man-cation to Vancouver Island by ANDREW PENNER

If you’ve ever seen the gang movie “The Warriors” – it’s a B cult classic! - then there’s a pretty good chance the line “Waaaariorrrrs, come out to play-ay!” still reverberates within you from time to time. I love that movie. And it was perfect post-round cinematic fare for the boys. You see, after four inspiring rounds of golf in two days on Vancouver Island, there wasn’t a whole lot of fight left in us. It was after midnight, the card game was over, and the only thing left to do was throw on a movie, suck back one last pop, and get horizontal. Yes indeed, just like “The Warriors,” we definitely came out… and we definitely played. This, after all, was mid-March, the prairies were still frozen hockey-puck solid, and the courses on Vancouver Island were lush, green, and gorgeous. For flatlanders with snow blindness and cabin fever, gazing upon green grass and flagsticks blowing in the pacific breeze made for a highly religious experience. In fact, just getting off the airplane in Victoria and seeing real, actual plant life was enough to make us feel like we were crossing into Gloryland. So, understandably, given our golf addictions and severe withdrawal symptoms (prior to departure we practiced putting down the moving walkway), our “script” looked something like this: Day 1: Golf brains out. Day 2: Golf brains out. Day 3: Golf brains out then make mad dash to airport. Oh sure, drinking (beer), eating (chicken wings), and a smattering of other (mostly) juvenile activities were also worked into the festivities. Now, don’t get me wrong, the trip didn’t entirely play out like a scene from Animal House but, rest assured, it was far from Driving Miss Daisy. The Westin

Bear Mountain Resort, for example, is not really a place where “Bluto,” aka John Belushi – or any of the bat-wielding chumps from The Warriors – would really be at

12 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

home. This is, unquestionably, one of the finest, most luxurious golf resorts in Canada. And we respectfully enjoyed it to the fullest.

With two Jack and Steve Nicklausdesigned courses – the Mountain and the Valley – Bear Mountain is definitely golf heaven for round-bellied prairie boys with serious cravings. However, there’s much more than golf here. World-class restaurants, the luxurious Santé Spa, plenty of meeting space: indeed, all makes and models can thoroughly enjoy this haven.

The drive into the property is a major “wow” experience. And, no surprise, the original Mountain Course, too, is laced with stunning golf holes. The par-5 starter, for example, which careens down the hill and concludes with a wild green protected by a creek, is an early engagement with the spectacular. And from

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


there, it just gets better. The roller-coaster back nine reaches its climax at the one-of-a-kind gambling hole, surely one of the most amazing golf holes Jack’s ever envisioned. An “interlude” between the 14th and 15th, the gambling hole, surprise surprise, provided our motley crew with a few theatrics. After all of us missed the tiny cliffside green in dramatic fashion, our balls ending up on the far side of Never-Never Land, one of the boys (mesmerized with the incredible view of Victoria?), took his eyes off the road and nearly pulled a “Thelma and Louise” off the cartpath. Thankfully, no

bake!” before every tee shot), reeled back like he was possessed and cold topped it two feet. Both me and my buddy Mark, a dead-ringer for Steve Buscemi (God help him), busted our tee shots and were still a half-wedge shy of Tiger’s mark. The next day our crusade took us over the Malahat into the Cowichan Valley where a couple of fine courses awaited our assault. First up: Arbutus Ridge. For whatever reason, (there’s no way in the world it was the all-night poker game or the single malts) we all played like rank beginners at Arbutus Ridge. But, interestingly, we probably enjoyed it the most,

laughing throughout at our complete ineptness. Arbutus Ridge, while not overly long, is peppered with fun, option-laced golf holes, including an island green at the par3 17th. And, with plenty of side bets on the go and some spirited banter, the day played out like a scene from Goodfellas, minus the gunplay and needless torture. In the end Ricky Bobby took the cash and stole the show with some “shake and bake” for the ages. With nerves of steel he holed out for birdie from well off the green on the excellent par-4 closer. The second round at nearby Duncan

Meadows was also reminiscent of a famous Hollywood movie: Dawn of the Dead. Indeed, the collective lack of sleep took a bit of a toll on the boys as nobody sniffed a par until the lovely fourth, a classic par-4 that swoops down the hill and requires a deft approach to a green guarded by towering trees and a ballhungry creek. Actually, after this crowd pleaser (sadly, it featured more shake and bake) the gang found their second wind and thoroughly enjoyed the super-scenic and much underrated track. In a blatant act of sleepless stupidity, we continued on page 25

damage was done and “Thelma,” as he was called for the rest of the trip, was not allowed behind the wheel anymore. After a brief tour of the Valley Course and noting it to appear slightly more forgiving than its’ sister Mountain Course, we added it to next year’s plans and moseyed over to nearby Olympic View for a second round. Complete with waterfalls and wicked views of the Olympic Mountains, Olympic View is a pastoral treat that winds through some of the most enticing terrain in the Greater Victoria area. The up and down layout is full of unique golf holes that tease and please. Not surprisingly, given the amount of testosterone in the group, we all decided to try and attempt the massive tee shot Tiger Woods hit on the 18th hole when he played Olympic View as an amateur in 1994. Word has it he cleared the rock outcropping, some 300 yards away. Thelma was up first and hit a hard-hooking missile that pin-balled in the pine trees just 50 yards off the box. Mike, whose favourite character is Ricky Bobby of Talladega Nights (and, yes, he bellows “shake and DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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Break Away From Frustration: What Movies, Music, and Time Will Teach Us by JEFF RITTER

The ďŹ rst key to long-term success is to have a deďŹ nitive blueprint in mind for how you are going to build your game over the long haul. You need a belief system and a clear idea of how you are going to approach what you do and why it will work. This will serve you well when things are up and down. From here, remember the mantra,“Pressure and Time.â€? One of my favorite all-time movies is the Shawshank Redemption. Keep in mind, this is the story of a man wrongly accused of murder is sentenced to life in prison. The character Andy Dufresne, played by actor Tim Robbins, devises a plan to tunnel through the prison wall to his salvation. With only a tiny rock hammer, Dufresne scrapes minimal amounts of wall away each night as to not alert the guards of his plan. Over twenty years, Dufresne, one handful of rock at a time, brakes through the wall, ďŹ nally realizing his freedom. With consistent pressure against the wall from his tiny hammer and the patience that comes from not

ďŹ ghting against the constraints of time, his impossible dream became reality. A few years ago, I decided I was going

Just like music, golf is something you can play forever. To ďŹ nd success and long-term enjoyment, break away from

“Break away from the pack by committing to learning to do things the right way.�

In many ways, your journey in golf is like a ship sailing at sea that will never reach its port. Realizing this should be a comforting thought, for now you can rise each morning not worrying or stressing about “When will I be a black belt?� Frustration and upset are of no use. The student with the black belt mentality knows they will become a black belt when they deserve to be. They fully embrace the journey and the belief “There is joy in the struggle.�

to learn guitar. After my ďŹ rst lesson, I was so discouraged by the diďŹƒculty of the task I literally believed playing was going to be near impossible. I then ďŹ gured the guitar was something I could pursue and enjoy for the rest of my life, so I adopted the mantra of “pressure and timeâ€? I had garnered from watching the movie. I committed to doing the drills and exercises my instructor prescribed for a little each day with full focus on doing the drills properly. Over time, I learned to play chords, eventually leading to a full catalog of songs I could pull o with relative ease. Three years later my dream of being a performer was realized as I was playing in my own band for money!

the pack by committing to learning to do things the right way. With a blueprint, patience, pressure and time! An accomplished speaker, author and coach, Jeff Ritter’s articles appear in Golf Digest Magazine, Golf Tips Magazine, Golf Punk Magazine, UK, The A Position and the Arizona Republic. He has also been seen and heard on ESPN, FOX Sports, FOX Sports Radio, Sirius XM Radio and The Golf Channel. In 2010 Jeff was named by Golf Digest Magazine as one of the Best Young Teachers in America! He coaches at the PING Learning Center in Tempe, AZ.

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14 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE ďšť NORTHWEST EDITION

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


Presented by

by SYDNEY HEALEY In early December, marked by 2010’s final days of 70-degree weather in the Pacific Northwest, I went to the Choice Turf driving range in Snohomish, WA. What a great way to take in a true outdoor driving range with nothing but the warm Snohomish Valley and its cornfields, greeting any golf ball that makes it that far. Still trying to assess the right club for me, I brought my 6, 7 and 9 irons along with my driver so that I could try each out. I also took my twin 4-year-old boys and husband, though not for moral support or their golfing wisdom. My reasoning was one part idealistic, one part reality. The purpose in taking my family was to encourage the boys to get involved with—and enjoy— the outdoor activity all while I test my ability to focus regardless of the possible distractions that my kids might create for me. The boys relished in the adventure and rightfully celebrated their own achievements. However, their excitement for a well-struck ball, putt or drive, was distracting other golfers. Furthermore, my 4-year-old dynamic duo have yet to learned the fine art of being quiet, and this mom had trouble keeping focus. Just as I learned not to take my kids with me again until they’ve come to understand a little more about golf etiquette, when I was able to focus on my address and swing, I had success! I took my time to

recall the advice my golfing Sherpa, Brett Wilkinson at GolfTEC Bellevue and I’m glad I did. I practiced using the imaginary yard-stick trick he taught me to keep my upper body quiet and my connection with the ball more powerful. The result? When I followed his teachings, my ball sailed high and as far as 100 yards. When distracted or hurried, I often sliced or made an otherwise weak move. That said I had some great hits. More importantly, I began to smile and really enjoy myself out there. It’s easy, I think, to become discouraged while still uncomfortable with the process of learning the game of golf. It’s easy to move on, abandoning the sport, at that point. However, to find the time to get out there and take your time in learning your own form is so worthwhile. The week following my trip to the driving range, Brett actually reached out to check in on my progress and I was so pleased to share my experience and resulting excitement with him. In turn, he was able to provide me with some ongoing advice I can employ the next time I go out. Always supportive and encouraging, Brett offered congrats in reaching a point of enjoyment and some additional advice to implement until our next lesson. Stay tuned! If you would like to comment or offer words of encouragement for Sydney, the “Golfing Newbie”, please email Sydney@golftodaynw.com.

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GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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Wailea Golf Club Tempts Northwest Golfers with Seahorse Swing Special Maui is a golfer’s paradise any time of the year. But over the next few months, there’s an especially big reason to swing over to this beautiful Hawaiian isle: 45 foot long, 35 ton humpback whales that vacation in Maui every winter. From approximately November through April, as many as 6,000 of these magnificent marine mammals are thought to migrate to Hawaiian waters to mate and bear young. You might even see them from Wailea’s golf courses, renowned for their unobstructed views of the ocean from virtually every hole. The waters near Wailea are relatively shallow and protected, ideal for birthing new humpback calves. “ There’s a 200 foot elevation change from top to bottom on the Wailea Gold and Em-

erald courses, and no homes or buildings other than our golf facilities,” says Head Golf Professional Rusty Hathaway. “That means plenty of panoramic vistas of the fairways, Mt. Haleakala, the ocean and off shore islands. I’ve seen many whales breaching or spouting when I’m out on

16 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

Photo by Erica Chan

Photo by Rob Brown the course, and I never get tired of it.” Whales and aesthetics are just part of the reason Wailea is one of the world’s foremost golf resorts. The golf club has garnered more than seven dozen honors and awards for everything from course design and customer experience to the caliber of its pro shop and clubhouse architecture. With three 18-hole layouts -- the Gold, Emerald and Old Blue -- it offers more choices than any other golf destination in the state. You can avoid airline baggage fees and rent a set from the club’s new fleet of Nike SQ Machspeed clubs for men, and Nike SQ Machspeed and Slingshot clubs for women; dust the cold weather cobwebs from your game at Hawaii’s only David Leadbetter Golf Academy; enjoy pre-round breakfast or post-round libations overlooking the golf course; even arrange for a muscle-loosening massage by a trained therapist before heading to the first first tee. If those aren’t reason enough, over 70 percent of Wailea Golf Club’s customers are repeat guests, perhaps the ultimate testament to the Wailea golf experience. Beginning January 10, Wailea Golf Club’s popular Seahorse Swing Special

Photo by Erica Chan kicks in in, offering offering three days of unlimited golf on the Wailea Gold and/or Emerald courses for just $450 per person – a savings of $75 per round off of Wailea’s regular green fees. Additional days may be added for $150 per person per day. Players can book their first tee time of each day up to 30 days in advance, with subsequent rounds on the same day on a standby basis, subject to available daylight. Golfers can choose either course for any of their rounds, so you could play the Gold in the morning, the Emerald in the afternoon, and re-live the fun the following day. One of the best places to check out Wailea’s greens fee specials is at www. waileagolf.com, where you can also get more information and reserve tee times. Or, call toll-free 1-888-328-MAUI. DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

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continued from page 9

the cap as well as an optional bag/belt clip and improved the waterproof shell and absorbency of the interior bamboo terry. With its lightweight design and patent pending innovation, ruletwentyone’s interior Bamboo Terry stays wet while its soft-feel waterproof shell keeps pants dry. So no matter where you go, you’ll always hav have a wet towel for clean clea shots and clear put putts. Also, new to their product line is the Rule 16, a one-of-a-kind putone-o ting alignment a ball marker located mar between the tines betw of aan ergonomic divot repair tool. divo When you mark W your ball on the yo green, the Rule gr 116 tool allows yyou to mark the line of your putt at the same time. The rectangular shape of its ball marker helps visual-

surface. Since the game can be played on any smooth surface, ranging from natural grass to carpet to wood flooring, just open up the game and users will find a fun, interactive training aid to help improve the skills of both veteran golfers and those new to the sport. Suggested price: Full 19-piece set: $299.95; “Front Nine” Set: $169.95; “Back Nine” Set: $169.95. For more information, please se visit www.startingtimegolf.com or www. myminigolf.us.

according to their marketing pitch, “green” to the core. They are 100% recyclable and made from recyclable materials; in fact, even the packaging is made from 100% recycled material. Offering golfers three distinct options: Dixon Earth (MSRP $39.95); Dixon Wind (MSRP $24.95); and the Dixon Fire (MSRP $74.95…yes $74.95!) designed for the professional golfer who demands the best. Why is the

Dixon Fire the most expensive golf ball on the market? Because in life, you generally get what you pay for. Other golf balls use cheap metals as fillers; the Dixon Fire only uses reprocessable materials in its construction. The Fire ball boasts Dixon Golf ’s Ignite TechnologyTM and ElastodynamicTM cover. Couple that with the fact that it is a member of the only family of high performance, completely recy-

DIXON GOLF If you are a golf ball aficionado, you are likely kely familiar with the name ame Dixon Golf and their line of golf balls. If not, Dixon xon Golf is forging a name me for themselves as they are creating a new standard d in environmental conscioususness by creating the world’ ld’s first high-performance ecofriendly golf balls. Given ven many brands manufacture ure balls by using heavy-metal etal fillers and pollutants like tungsten, cobalt, lead or contain non-renewable ble synthetic materials and nucompounds, all balls manufactured by Dixon Di Golf are,

ting line thereby ize your putting allowing you to sink more putts. Its well-weighted stainless steel body is easy to find in your pocket. Available in stainless steel (MSRP $15) or polycarbplastic (MSRP $5). For more information, please visit www.rulegolf.com. MY MINIGOLF Whether you are interested in getting in some practice for the next golf tournament, or engaging in some friendly competition on the living room carpet with a budding young golfer, My Mini Golf appeals to any age group and can be used in a variety of settings. The game is the first and only portable indoor/outdoor golf putting kit for golfers and non-golfers designed to develop, improve, or maintain their golf putting skills while having enjoyment. My Mini Golf is entertaining and rewarding for golfers and non-golfers of any age; in fact the game is fun for the whole family and can be played both indoors or outdoors, and on any smooth

18 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

clable golf balls - and you have yourself lf the h most expensive i ball b ll in i golf. lf Available directly at www.dixongolf.com and the PGA Tour Superstore. NIKE SQ MACHSPEED JR. GOLF SETS The first time I ever picked up a golf club and swung away with youthful exuberance, I was 15 years old. Now if I recall, it was one of the dusty, slightly rusty archaic mallets of old sitting— disregarded-- in the corner of my local golf course Pro Shop. The blade was too long (and heavy) for my height and just simply not the best choice for someone new to the sport. Oh, how the game and equipment has evolved. Nike Golf have addressed the need to provide quality clubs to the junior ranks and launched the new Nike SQ Machspeed Jr. Golf Sets. Oh, what I would have done to have had the opportunity to learn with age appropriate clubs! The set comes with an oversized/ultra light driver featuring high loft to promote launch, lightweight graphite shaft, rubber grip, and head cover. Also included is an oversized #4 hybrid, Kids Hybrid head cover, deep cavity back lightweight stainless steel head # 7 iron, #9 iron, and Sand Wedge (Wide Sole), rubber gripped traditioncontinued on page 32

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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New 18-Hole Putting Course Opens in Southern Oregon by CLIFFORD COWLEY

The first annual City of Medford Putting Championship was held at the brand new 18-hole Putting Course recently. Local golfer, Jacob Gooding, was the winner of the inaugural event. Brent Santoni, Assistant Golf Professional at Quail Point, says the putting course is the only one of its kind in Southern Oregon. Built by Superintendent Matt Grove, who manages both Centennial and Quail Point Golf Courses, and designed by John Fought, two-time PGA Tour winner and 1977 U.S. Amateur Champion, there’s no better way to enjoy a beautiful day in Southern Oregon. The putting course features fast, challenging, and winding greens, perfect for an hour of putting practice or the family looking for an inexpensive outing. Right next door to the putting course is Quail Point’s nine-hole golf course. Known as “the public course that feels private,” it is beautifully laid out on seventy-five acres of lush fairways and manicured greens. Conveniently located in the heart of Medford, Quail Point is a great place to enjoy weekend fun with family and friends. It’s also a great way to unwind after a long day at the office.

PUTTING COURSE PRICES: 9 Holes/18 Holes--Adult: ...................................................................................................................$5/$8 9 Holes/18 Holes--Child (17 and younger) .......................................................................................$3/$5 9 Holes/18 Holes--RVM Resident .....................................................................................................$3/$5 9 Holes/18 Holes--Quail Cardholders, Centennial Cardholders & President Club Members ................$4/$6 Enjoy a fun time for the entire family - at a nominal price! Call Brent Santoni or Rod Pope @ 541-857-7000 for more information!

Laurel Hill Golf Course Senior Discounts, Snack Bar, Beer & Wine, Power Carts, and Driving Range. You can call ahead for a tee time, but it is not necessary. You can usually get right on with minimal wait.

Winter - 9 holes and 18 holes Weekdays - $11.00 All Day Everyday $7.00 After 2pm Juniors under 18 - $5.00 All Day Winter Rates are in place until February 15th:

Regular Rates - 9 holes and 18 holes Weekdays - $11.00 and $17.00 Seniors - $10.00 and $16.00 Juniors - $6.50 and $15.00 Weekend and holidays are just a couple dollars more. You may purchase a 10 game discount card for $100.00 Yearly memberships are available.

9450 Old Stage Rd., near Gold Hill at Exit 40

Pro Shop-(541) 855-7965 20 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

Tri-Cities Golf Courses, Open for Business Year ‘Round Some golfers in the Northwest may take the winter months off to sit by the fire place with some hot cocoa, reading up on their latest golf magazine and figuring out how they are going to solve their slice come springtime. In the Tri-Cities of southeastern Washington that’s not the case. Golfers come from all over the Northwest and get out on the course all winter long to work on their game. “The only day we are scheduled to be closed is on Christmas Day and even then a lot of members will sneak out and play,” says Mike Lundgren, President and General Manager of Canyon Lakes Golf Course in Kennewick. The Tri-Cities is known for 300 days of sunshine a year and those sunny days keep on shining in the wintertime. “Golfers from western Washington are pleasantly surprised with the amount of roll they experience on the Tri-Cities dry fairways.” “On the west side they often run into the problem of balls falling short because of damp air and soggy landing areas, typical this time of year. And of course they love our blue skies and sun shine,” says Nick Rodriguez of Horn Rapids Golf Course in Richland.

“One of the best things about winter golf at Canyon Lakes is that we are generally open year ‘round and ‘play summer rules.’ Everything on the golf course is off grass. There are no mats and no reason to “bump the ball,” explains Lundgren. As an added bonus, the Tri-Cities is located in the Heart of Washington Wine Country. There are over 160 wineries for you to visit within an hour drive. Tasting rooms at area wineries remain open throughout the winter months. Drive times to the Tri-Cities are convenient. If conditions are ideal across mountain passes in Washington and Oregon plan on a three and a half hour jaunt from both Seattle and Portland and just over two hours from Spokane. Direct daily flights are also available from Seattle. Golf packages including green fees, carts, and hotel accommodations are being offered right now on www.VisitTriCities.com, so don’t let old man winter keep you inside. Get out on the course in the Tri-Cities.

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


Sweet Spot Golf: Function Follows Fashion by ELIZABETH NOBLITT

At Sweet Spot Golf, function follows fashion and it works beautifully. They make putters (shown), drivers and hybrids that are specifically designed for women. “We are focusing exclusively on the women’s market, specifically mid- to high-handicap golfers looking to not only improve their current performance, but also add a little style into their game,” says Brian Allman, President of Sweet Spot Golf. I’ve been using the putter for the last month or so and I love it. I had been using

a Ping long putter, so it’s taken a while to go back to a shorter model, but the results have been worth it. My stroke is smooth, straight, and there is a very satisfying “ting” sound when you hit the ball. WHAT MAKES THEIR CLUBS SO DIFFERENT? •

The Performance Positioning system (the arrows on their golf clubs) is designed to point to the club’s sweet spot, allowing you to hit the ball more solidly as well as helping to keep your line (especially when putting).

the ball on impact but also enable the woman golfer with a slower swing speed to be able to hold the club-face steady through impact, generating a straighter shot. •

The putter has beveling at the front and back for easy stroke control around the green fringe.

You can choose the shaft length you want, from 32 – 35 inches.

Sweet Spot Golf ’s commitment to women in the game extends beyond their

products. They sponsored the EWGA’s 2010 California Cup and their Pink Line supports the National Breast Cancer Foundation with a percentage of each club sold. What’s cool is that “giving back to the community is a part of our company’s DNA,” says Allman. The Think Pink putter retails for $99 and is available on www.sweetspotgolf. net. Elizabeth Noblitt is founder of ShiShiPutter.com, a women’s online golf magazine that features the best golf fashion, equipment and travel. She can be reached at Elizabeth@shishiputter.com.

The clubs have a perimeter weighting system and a center of gravity (COG) back [in the club] that help the average golfer not only lift

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

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Northwest 18 3 13 10 15 12 17

19 2

5

Cour d’Alene C e

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Help More Golf Lovers Find You!

9 20 16

Get listed in the NEW Northwest Golf Course Directory

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For one small yearly fee, you will have your golf course or driving range listed in all issues of Golf Today Magazine, including your location plotted on its corresponding state map!

Listing ($199) Bend en nd

1

Business name, city, location, URL, phone, type, slope /rating, yardage, # of holes. Call 425-941-9946 to have your course included today!

22 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


Golf Course Directory 1. Tetherow Golf Club Bend, OR [P:]541.388. CLUB (2582) [Web:]tetherow.com [Type:] semi-private [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]74.8/144 [Yardage:]7298

2. Sun Country Golf & RV Park Cle Elum, WA [P:]509.674.2226 [Web:]golfsuncountry.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]68/114 [Yardage:]5715

3. Camaloch Golf Course Camano Island, WA [P:](800) 628-0469 (360) 387-3084 [Web:]camalochgolf.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]70.9/126 [Yardage:]6241

4. Pumpkin Ridge: Ghost Creek North Plains, OR [P:]503.647.2515 [Web:]pumpkinridge.com [Type:] semi-private [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]74/145 [Yardage:]6839

5. Auburn Golf Course Auburn, WA [P:]253-833-2350 [Web:]auburngolf.org [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]68.5/121 [Yardage:]6068

10. Carnation Golf Course Carnation, WA [P:]425-333-4151 [Web:]carnationgolf.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]NA [Yardage:]

11. University of Idaho Golf Course Moscow, ID [P:]208-885-6171 [Web:]uidahogolf.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]72.4/135 [Yardage:]6602

16. Lake Oswego Public Golf Course Lake Oswego,OR [P:]503-636-8228 [Web:]lakeoswegogolf.org [Type:] public [Holes:]9 [Rating/Slope:]NA [Yardage:]2538

17. Mount SI Golf Course Snoqualmie,WA [P:]425-391-4926 [Web:]mtsigolf.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]69.2/117 [Yardage:]6261

6. Galena Ridge Golf Course Kellogg, ID [P:]208-783-1522 [Web:]silvermt.com [Type:] public [Holes:]9 [Rating/Slope:]n/a [Yardage:]3617

12. Maplewood Golf Course Renton, WA [P:](425) 430-6800 [Web:]ci.renton.wa.us [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]68.8/115 [Yardage:]6127

18. Eaglemont Golf Club Mt Vernon, WA [P:]800-368-8876 [Web:]eaglemontgolf.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]74.6/143 [Yardage:]7006

7. Palouse Ridge Pullman, WA [P:]509-335-4342 [Web:]palouseridge.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]75.9/140 [Yardage:]7308

8. The Links at Moses Pointe Moses Lake, WA [P:]509-764-2275 [Web:]mosespointe.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]75.6/130 [Yardage:]7549

13. Ballinger Lake Golf Course [P:]425-775-6468 [Web:]ballingerlakegolf.com [Type:] public [Holes:]9 [Rating/Slope:]32.4/105 [Yardage:]2564

14. Langdon Farms Golf Course [P:]503.678.4653 [Web:]langdonfarm.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]72.5/128 [Yardage:]6931

15. Nile Golf Course 9. Camas Meadows Camas, WA [P:]360-833-2000 [Web:]camasmeadows.com [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]72.4/144 [Yardage:]6571

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

Mountlake Terrace,WA [P:] [Web:]nilegolf.com [Type:] semi-private [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]63.7/107 [Yardage:]5001

19. Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course Coeur d’Alene, ID [P:]800-688-5253 [Web:]cdaresort.com/golf/ [Type:] public [Holes:]18 [Rating/Slope:]71.1/119 [Yardage:]6803

20. Heron Lakes Golf Course (Greenback) Portland, OR [P:]503-289-1818 [Web:] www.heronlakesgolf.com [Type:] Public [Holes:] 18 [Rating/Slope:] 71.4/124 [Yardage:] 6615

20. Heron Lakes Golf Course (Great Blue) Portland, OR [P:]503-289-1818 [Web:] www.heronlakesgolf.com [Type:] Public [Holes:] 18 [Rating/Slope:] 73.2/140 [Yardage:] 6902

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continued from page 6

with age. With any luck it will be at the 2011 Boeing Classicc at TPC Snoqualmie later this year. I do consider onsider myself fortunate to have had an opportunity to watch these athletes pursue ue their craft with incredible dignity and nd respect for the game, and can only hope that my four year old son wass paying attention to the masters ters of golf as we walked the tight Douglas Fir-lined fairways at Sahalee last year and will remember how the game should be played—win or lose. What will you reflect upon last year as you fumble for your toe and hand warmers? There are many hardy souls who continue to patronize area courses armed with their graceful swings (and thermal leggings) and I congratulate you for doing do. Our local courses need your support, particularly during our not always favorable ‘off season’ and, yes, we are doing our part to stir up a little discussion and banter about our local Northwest tracks. How so? If you were paying attention when you picked up this month’s magazine, you will see 14 Northwest golf course photos gracing the back cover. Your mission (should you decide to accept it) is to match (or guess) the names of each golf course with the photos. Correctly guess the names of the Washington, Oregon, and Idaho private and public golf courses (no, you are not required to name the specific hole, although we would certainly be impressed) your name will go into a drawing to win a free foursome from Golf Today Magazine! Yep, the green fees are on us. If your name is drawn, you and three of your friends will win a free round of golf at either the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course located on the shores of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene in North Idaho or the challenging Ghost Creek Course at the Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club in Portland, OR. We must receive your entry NO LATER than February 15, 2011. Either photocopy the form and fax to 1-425-949-3090 or email your guesses to info@golftodaynw.com.Get to it and good luck! Also of note, we turn our attention to Golf Today “Fun Event/Tournaments” in 2011 with the first (of many) scheduled for Monday, April 25. Yes, it’s that time again to provide Northwest golfers with the same combination of challenging golf, great prizes, and great food. Welcome to the Second Annual Heron Lakes Golf Classic, a one-day, play your own ball, “fun event” Monday, April 25 at Heron lakes Golf Course, Great

24 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

Blue Course. Cour You may be familia familiar with Portland’s pop popular “muni” including The Great Blue Course, which wh is a favorite chal challenge among han low handicap golfers and high handica cappers alike. The 6,902 yard Robert Trent Jones II co u rs e’s fairways

typifies Scottish-style mounds and offers golfers a collection of risk/reward holes that will test your course management skills to the core! So what makes our events different? Golf Today Magazine’s “Fun Tournaments” are open to men and women players of all abilities. No need to feel intimidated with our events! You do not need to have a handicap and all players regardless of their score will take home more than $100 in their Tee Prize Package “goody” bags PLUS have an opportunity to win raffle gifts! Now throw in the continued on page 28

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


continued from page 13

handed Ricky Bobby the keys to the car and gave him directions to the fabulous Crown Isle Resort in Courtney/Comox. But lo and behold, the shake and bake was applied just right and we made it safely. And that was good, because Crown Isle is one of the best on the island. After the inspiring movie night (sorry to spoil the suspense, but the Warriors beat the hell out of everyone) and a world-class sleep in a luxurious courseside room, the game at Crown Isle was the pinnacle achievement for us all. Besides a memorable, sun-soaked round on the outstanding 7,024-yard Graham Cooke design, birdies were poured in like they were going out of style. At one point, Ricky Bobby was so excited he seriously considered taking off his clothes and running around in his underwear. Our final round, at the idyllic Storey Creek Golf Club near Campbell River, was also one for the ages. Here tranquil, tree-lined holes curl through the forest and provide golfers with a sublime “natural” golf experience. We loved every second. Given the fact we soon had to fly back to our frozen home, Storey Creek was difficult to leave. It’s such a pretty place. We all agreed, the perfect “script” would involve missing our Comox-to-Calgary flight so we could do it all again. And, with Mr. Talladega Nights behind

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

the wheel, we knew it was a distinct possibility. To book your Golf Man-cation to Vancouver Island, visit www.golfvancouverisland.ca and contact the specialists at Golf Vancouver Island at 1-888-465-3239. They are your one-stop shop for golf tee times, accom-

modation, meeting space, transportation and even après golf activities! Andrew Penner is a freelance writer based in Calgary, Alberta.

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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TaylorMade Introduces R11™ and R11 TP Drivers Seven years ago, TaylorMade Golf introduced Movable Weight Technology™ (MWT®) with the revolutionary r7® quad, which gave golfers the ability to move weight to promote changes in trajectory for greater distance and accuracy. Again, in 2009, the R9™ driver transformed the metalwood category with the introduction of Flight Control Technology (FCT), providing golfers the ability to change the orientation of the driver head with the shaft. Last year, TaylorMade introduced the R9 SuperTri driver, which incorporated

face angle. Plus, the combination of ASP and FCT effectively doubles the range of face angle for the club for ±2° to ±4°. THREE DIMENSIONS TO DISTANCE (3-D): COMBINING ASP, FCT, AND MWT Altogether, the combination of ASP, FCT and MWT gives golfers 48 ways to set up the clubhead to promotes up to 100 yards of side-to-side trajectory adjustment, the most of any driver in existence. Combining full FCT and MWT settings promotes a launch-condition

www.lopakagolf.com lopakagolf@msn.com

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The putter head is almost the same diameter as the ball and creates forward roll by contacting the ball just above the equator. Available with either a straight or offset shaft. Lengths 30 to 36 inches. Mention this ad and receive a free sleeve of balls with your order.

$ Price: 89.95 Free shipping in the U.S.A. Conforms with the rules of golf.

IT GETS THE BALL ROLLING!! 26 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

two major driver technologies — FCT and MWT — in a 460cc clubhead. Now TaylorMade is proud to introduce the R11 driver — the next revolution in golf club adjustability. “By incorporating our new Adjustable Sole Plate (ASP) Technology, along with our proven Flight Control Technology and Movable Weight Technology, into a single clubhead, the R11 gives golfers the ability to adjust their driver to fit their individual needs with even greater precision,” said Dr. Benoit Vincent, TaylorMade’s chief technology officer. THE INTRODUCTION OF ADJUSTABLE SOLE PLATE (ASP) TECHNOLOGY When you change the clubhead’s loft using FCT, you’re also forced to change the face angle – increase loft and the face angle closes; decrease loft and the face angle opens. Adjustable Sole Plate solves that problem by allowing you to adjust the face angle independently of the loft, which is controlled by FCT. The ASP sole plate provides ±2° of face angle change (neutral/square, 2° open, 2° closed). You can create three lofts with the same face angle, or you can further accentuate a face angle or counter a negative

range of 2° launch angle and 1,000 RPM. The FCT system is extremely sleek and streamlined, resulting in less mass and a lower clubhead CG location compared to hosel adjustability systems in competitive drivers. The R11 includes two weight cartridges weighing 10-grams and 1-gram. To create a neutral bias, install the heavy (10-gram) weight in the toe, for a draw bias, put the heavy weight in the heel. If a more neutral setting is desired, 4 and 6-gram weights are available separately. Players who prefer a specific face angle setting can bias the weights to adjust trajectory independent of the ASP setting. For instance, a player may prefer an open face angle at address while also desiring a draw-bias performance. With the R11 driver, the player can open the face using ASP and put the heavy weight in the heel, resulting in an open face but a draw-bias weighting. UNDERSTANDING 3-D: THREE SIMPLE STEPS TO FITTING AN R11 DRIVER Metalwoods with TaylorMade’s ASP, FCT and MWT will revolutionize the clubfitting process and promote supecontinued on page 30

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

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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.

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.

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.

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

clifford@golftodaynw.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 and photos are welcome and can be emailed to info@golftodaynw.com. Some of the opinions expressed in the magazine and in the digital format are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Golf Today Magazine | Northwest Edition.

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

27


The Pro’s Corner

Presented by

by CLIFFORD COWLEY

Name--John Thorsnes Occupation--Director of Golf Location-- Wine Valley Golf Club Walla Walla, Washington Status—Class A-4

Luck is born out of being in the right place at the right time, and sometimes you place yourself in the way of opportunity and it seems like you’re lucky. John Thorsnes let fate get in the way of his goal, and with determination and tenacity, he made his own luck. John grew up in Medford, Oregon. He played baseball and tennis through high school, graduating in 1979. In college, while pursuing a degree in Education at Pacific Lutheran University, he started playing a little golf. “I got a summer job at Harris and Conley Driving Range in Bellevue,” says John. “Ted Wurtz gave me a few lessons, and took me from a 15 to an 8 handicap in a couple months. I was hooked.” That’s when “luck,” stepped in. After serving stints for Mark Sivara at High Cedars Golf Course and Rick Acton at Sahalee Country Club, John was hired by another northwest legend, Jerry Mowlds, becoming the first Head Professional at Pumpkin Ridge’s Witch Hollow course. “Pumpkin Ridge was a perfect place to hone my skills as a pro,” remarks John, “but I missed Seattle, and I wanted to be closer to family.” In Seattle, he secured a position as Head Pro at Tam O’Shanter Country Club in Bellevue. In 1999, John moved his family to Walla Walla to be the Head Professional at Walla Walla Country Club. That’s when luck stepped in—again. While at Walla Walla Country Club, he became friends with local farmer, Russ Byerley. Russ wanted to build a golf course on one of the farms he owned with his brother. continued from page 24

That’s where determination and tenacity paid off. After five years of wading through the permits and bringing in former PGA Professional Dan Hixson as designer, and Jim Pliska, owner of Emerald Valley Golf Course in Eugene, Oregon as the primary owner, Wine Valley Golf Club became a reality. “Many golf pros dream of being involved in building their own course,” says John. “I was very fortunate to be a part of making Wine Valley become a reality.” Indeed, Wine Valley has opened to rave reviews, and has already hosted numerous Northwest events including the Northwest Open and Washington State MidAmateur Championships. “What makes me really lucky,” adds John, “is that I have been married 26 years to Nanci and I have two great boys, Erik, 23 and David, 19. Life is good.” Carry on, John.

$5000 in value raffle prizes where ALL golfers have a chance to win great prizes such as an overnight stay-and-play package at the Resort at the Mountain where you and a friend will tee it up at the The Resort’s 27-hole golf course (The Courses), ), nestled in the Salmon River Valley of the Mt. H o o d National Forest. In addition, we’re giving away other Stay and Play Packages, tickets to the 2011 Boeing Classic, twosomes to the highly acclaimed Palouse Ridge, Wine Valley, and Pumpkin Ridge Golf Courses, and discounted golf certificates at other great Portland and Oregon courses. And it gets even better! You could win a prize package from our friends at GolfTEC that includes a one hour initial evaluation PLUS three (yes, “3”) 30 minute follow up lessons valued at $354. Yes, this could be the year that your swing becomes as smooth as that of the “Big Easy” himself! Entry fee is $101 per player, $91 per player for a twosome and $81 per player for a foursome. Now be sure to

28 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

act fast to secure your spot. In fact, if you book by Jan 31, we’ll knock 10% off ! Now, if you want to make a trip out of it, we recommend the Portland North Harbour Courtyard located only minutes from the course. Time to kno knock the rust off those clubs and start s w i n g i n’ and we’ll see you at the 2011 Heron Lakes Spring Classic on April 25! For more information and entry forms, call 425-941-9946 or email Cameron@golftodaynw.com. We will fax, send, or email entry forms to you. Bring on spring, I say!

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


How I golfed the Australian Pro Am with Adam Scott by MARK PLATT

ABOUT ME I’m an average 37-year-old guy who lives in Portland Oregon, works from home, and takes care of my two-year-old daughter. One of my passions is golf and I try to take every opportunity to get out there and struggle. While my index reads 6.6, let’s be honest…I am more like a 12. NO WAY COULD I HAVE WON THIS CONTEST! So, imagine my surprise when I get an email from a travel agency called Springboard Vacations claiming I won a 13-day vacation to Australia to play golf with Adam Scott. And I could bring a friend! First reaction, straight to the spam folder, I was used to getting these emails from Nigeria, but not Los Angeles. Over the next couple days I finally realized – what is the downside to calling? It’s not like I am going to give them my credit card info and social security number, right? In the interim I did send an email to Shelly Ryan, Adam Scott’s PR director. She sent me an email back assuring me that it was in fact legit and she would see me in 3 weeks. I WON! Finally the reality was sinking in. I immediately called Springboard Vacations and spoke to the president, Ruth Grau, to get all the details. A born and bred Australian, Ruth has been helping travelers discover the true Australian experience including amazing golf trips, outdoor adventures, beaches, and wildlife Down Under for more than 20 years. She and Lisa Ruiz, one of her travel consultants, were unbelievable. Dealing with 2 guys (I asked the wife and she passed, so I decided to take my little brother) who were not prepared for an overseas vacation couldn’t have been easy. Lisa took care of ALL the details, accommodations, travel visas, tour schedule, etc. She and Ruth surprised us by upgrading EVERY FLIGHT to business class. I really can’t say enough about how great Springboard was, both Ruth and Lisa, keep in mind that we did not pay a penny to them for this trip!

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

the rest of the South Pacific. MEETING ADAM SCOTT So I know you’re all wondering what was it like to meet Adam Scott? As he is 30-yeasold, a successful professional golfer, and single, I’m pretty sure that golfing with me was not high on his list of things to do. However, he was the consummate host. He was friendly, engaging, and just a great guy. My day with Adam started with a golf lesson from 11:0012:00 where I was so nervous (and a bit hung-over) about playing with him that I literally could not hit anything! There were photographers everywhere and I felt like everyone was watching my every move. The best visual image would be the scene in Tin Cup when he goes to the driving range at continued on page 31

THE DREAM GOLF VACATION OF A LIFETIME In a nutshell here are the details of the amazing trip we won: • Tee time with Adam Scott in the Australian PGA Championship Pro Am. • A golf lesson with Adam Scott. • Lodging and golf at two of Queensland Australia’s top golf courses. • Tour of the Great Barrier Reef. • A guided tour on the Kuranda Rail and to Hartley’s Crocodile Farm. • “Dinner with the Stars,” pretournament banquet with the PGA pros. • Passes to the Australian PGA tournament. GOLFING DOWN UNDER We left on rainy Wednesday (is there any other kind in Oregon in December?) and arrived on Friday morning. I don’t know a lot, but I do know that business class aids the adjustment to a new time zone. We hit the ground rolling and had a great Friday night out in Port Douglas. For those of you who don’t know – it’s summer over there as they are south of the equator and seasons are reversed. Just when the weather is complete crap in the Northwest – it’s perfect in Australia and

More About Adam Scott: Adam Scott has won eight US PGA Tour events, nine international events in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Middle East, and has been a member of four President Cup Teams - 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009. Adam Scott has this to say of the contest, “As a professional golfer I get the opportunity to play great courses all over the world so I am thrilled to be able to promote my home country throughout my travels. Australia has so many great areas to visit and I was very lucky to grow up in Queensland near one of the natural wonders of the world –The Great Barrier Reef. It’s an amazing place and I’m looking forward to sharing my home country with the winners!” If you’d like to see a video interview of him talking about golfing in his native country, you can see it here: http://mail.qttclax.com/images/ adamscottq&a.mov

... Index of Advertisers ... Auburn Golf Course ................. 32

Maplewood Golf Course ........... 12

Ballinger Lake Golf Course ....... 8

Moses Pointe Golf Course .......... 9

BallKaddie ................................. 21

Palouse Ridge ............................ 33

Best Western University Inn .... 14

Portland Golf Show................... 15

Camas Meadows Golf Course .... 8

PowerChute ............................... 11

Camaloch Golf Course ............... 9 Carnation Golf Course ............. 10 Clicgear ...................................... 15 Clover Island Inn ...................... 13 Club Glider .................................. 6 Dave Smith Motors ................... 35

POW Gloves............................... 16 St George Red Rock Golf Trail ...... 19 Sun Country .............................. 33 TanMan ...................................... 24 TayleurMayde Travel................ 33

GolfTEC ..................................... 34

TaylorMade Golf Company ....... 2

Langdon Farms Golf Course ... 14

Think Pink Putters.................... 25

Laurel Hill Golf Course ............ 20

Tour Striker ............................... 17

Lopaka Putters .......................... 26

Wailea Golf Club ......................... 4

Loews Lake Las Vegas ................ 3

Zipfizz ......................................... 28

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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continued from page 26

rior performance. Properly fitting an R11 driver takes three simple steps: 1. (FCT) Select desired loft by setting the FCT, choosing either Neutral, 1º higher loft, or 1º lower loft (or one of the intermediate positions ±0.5º). When you change the loft, the face angle will be modified. A higher loft equates creates a closed face angle, while a lower loft creates an open face angle. 2. (ASP) Rest the club in the address po-

sition and decide if you want to change the face angle. gle. If the club looks too closed, adjust ust the ASP to square or open the face. If the djust the club looks too open, adjust ASP square or close the face. If the face angle look just right, no need to adjust the ASP. 3. (MWT) Adjust the weights ass necessary to achieve the desired trajectory bias. The ball directional tendency goes towards the side that the heavy weight is placed. For example, move the 10-gram to the heel side to create more draw bias. Modern-Classical Club head Shape with White Crown, Black PVD Clubface for Optimum Contrast for Alignment The R11 driver is designed with a new, modern-classical clubhead shape intended to suit the eye of better players, while still providing forgiveness and confidence

for average players. The shape is more contemporary appearance than traditional drivers, and slightly triangular to create a modern yet classical address silhouette. The triangular shape creates more inertia and a deeper back CG position for greater stability and forgiveness.

At 440cc, the R11 appears slightly (2%) larger due to its white crown color. Most golfers recognize address size relative to the size of the ball as a key confidence builder. The white crown color and black PVD face provides optimum contrast against he ground to make the R11 easier to aim. the Thiss advantage is even more pronounced er light, such as when the tee box is in lower in shadee or shadow, on overcast days or when the sun is low in the morning and in the evening. The crown color also elimitensity “hot spots” caused by nates high-intensity ht that afflicts reflected sunlight afflicts gloss-finish metalwoods.

30 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

EXTENSIVE TOUR FEEDBACK INFLUENCES DESIGN, SHAFT PROPERTIES The R11 was designed with significant feedback from tour players and the unification of three major driver technologies, including ASP, has been extremely well-received; we expect it to be the No. 1 model very quickly after introduction on

the PGA Tour. And, like all TaylorMade drivers, it features Inverted Cone Technology for higher ball speed on off-center hits. The R11 measures 45.75” and is equipped standard with a Fujikura Blur 60-gram shaft, which features a medium-firm tip profile. fe The Fujikura Blur features a large weave

material in the outer diameters of the layup to provide more stability at impact. As a result, this shaft specification delivers more distance and control without the harsh feel associated with some firmer-tip shafts. AVAILABILITY AND PRICING Two versions of the driver — R11 and R11 TP — are to be offered to suit a

wide range of pl ay ers. The R11 driver is available in two lofts righ right-handed – 9°, 10 5 – and two lofts 10.5° left-hand left-handed – 9.5° and 10.5°. The standard s R11 comes in four shaft sh flexes – X, S, R, M. In addit addition to the Fujikura Blur TP, the R11 R TP comes with the option of 19 additional shaft choices Availability begins on February 4, 20 2010 at a street price of $399 for the R11 and $499 for the R11 TP. Learn more about TaylorMade-adid TaylorMade-adidas Golf and its brands at (866) 530TMAG (8624) or www.taylormaww degolf.com g , www degolf.com, www.adidasgolf.com, www.ashw www.ashworthgolf.com, and ww www.tmag.com.

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


continued from page 29

the US Open and starts shanking balls down the line. To make matter worse, I was sweating so badly that at one point Adam Scott went and got me water and came back to ask, “Are you all right?” Not good. Not good at all. He proceeded to call his swing coach Brad who came over and sorted me out. Incredible considering I was hitting 1 out of every 10 balls into the jungle on the right! It must have helped. By the time the Pro Am started at 1:15, I was back on my game. I wasn’t terrible –I shot a respectable 82 (had 2 chili dips on 14 and 16, without that I have a score in the 70’s). My foursome was insane, Adam Scott, Max Garske, the CEO of PGA Australia, and John O’Sullivan, the CEO of Events Queensland who put on the whole event. No pressure at all. MY MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT On the first tee Adam Scott hit first and smoked the ball (he is obviously playing from the tournament tees). I took a look around and didn’t see anyone else wanting to tee off after that, so I decided to go for it. I put my ball down and got ready to swing. But wait. Why was everybody laughing at me? I looked down suddenly worried I’d forgotten to wear pants. I see

Adam walking back to the tee box, “Mark, what are you doing?” I told him I was just getting ready to tee off and he kindly let me know that all the other players would be teeing off from the Blue Tees. I have to admit, when he said, “I like your attitude”, my day was made and it helped me forget the disaster at the driving range. We had a great game. The other guys in the foursome were fantastic, and it was just an incredible experience. There were about 15 people following us through the whole round. A 10-year-old boy named Christian, and his father walked with us. Christian, who completely idolized Adam, was carrying his wedge and juggling a golf ball – while I was watching he did 50 in a row (while walking). At one point Adam gave him the ball he was playing with, a complete class act. I also need to mention Adam Scott’s caddy, Dillon. The courses in Australia are measured in meters so you can imagine the difficulty we were having (basically a meter is 1.1 yards). Dillon gave me all my distances in yards – I told you he was the man. THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME All in all, I couldn’t have picked a better group of guys to have this amazing golf adventure with. I told several of the people we met that we go to Mexico for that

climate and golf in the winter – NEVER AGAIN – Australia is the new place, the extra flying time is well worth it. Thank you Adam Scott! Thank you Tourism Queensland. And Thank you Springboard and everyone else for giving me this amazing experience I will always remember. The contest was created by Tourism Queensland in partnership with Queensland native Adam Scott, and Springboard Vacations – a full service travel agency to Australia, New Zealand and the islands of the South Pacific.

To get the inside scoop on where to golf, and the best places to go, I’d talk to Ruth who really knows how to pull together amazing customized vacations. You can email her at info@springboardvacations.com. You can also see their current golf vacation deals here. (link to: http://springboardvacations. com/hip/golf.html)

Top Tips for Traveling to Australia If you’re going to go, I can’t think of a better time of year than winter in the Northwest. Who doesn’t want to escape the rain and get a little sunshine with their golf? Australia is packed with great courses and I would recommend visiting several key destinations while you’re there to do some exploring while you get in your golf games. On this trip I got to explore the Australian Wildlife with guided tours on the Kuranda Rail and with a trip to Hartley’s Crocodile Farm. I also did a daylong cruise to the Great Barrier Reef where I snorkeled, soaked up the sun and took in the most beautiful scenery you can imagine. I saw tons of tropical fish and the water was so clear, you could easily see the bottom. We took a helicopter ride back and got some amazing aerial shots of the reef.

JELD-WEN Sells Golf Resorts in Southern and Central Oregon JELD-WEN has announced the sale of three destination golf resort facilities in Central and Southern Oregon--Eagle Crest Resort near Redmond, Brasada Ranch in Powell Butte, and Running Y Ranch Resort in Klamath Falls--to an investment company. Northview Hotel Group will manage the resorts in partnership with a subsidiary of funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management LP. Northview will oversee a strategic repositioning plan focused on enhancing the resorts’ amenities and the guest experience. David Zeuske, Northview partner and the president of NVHG Management, will oversee the management of the resort portfolio. “ We are extremely excited to be involved with these three spectacular resorts and to have an opportunity to invest in Central and Southern Oregon’s tourism and real estate industries,” says Zeuske. “JELD-WEN has created three well-built and well-planned communities that are already recognized for their exceptional offerings.”

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

LEADING WITH A HOSPITALITYFOCUSED APPROACH Northview’s hospitality-focused repositioning strategy at the three resorts will leverage the solid foundation created by JELD-WEN, starting with the exceptional team of managers and associates, almost all of whom will be staying on with Northview. Upgrades at all three properties are in the works from lobby and guest room renovations at Eagle Crest and Running Y, to a newly enlarged spa, a reconfigured lobby, new meeting space, and significant landscaping upgrades at Brasada. Based in Westport, Conn., and San Francisco, Calif., Northview is owned by Mark Mance and Simon Hallgarten. In 2007, Northview successfully implemented a strategic repositioning strategy at Hawks Cay Resort in Florida that included a $42 million renovation. Under Northview’s management, Hawks Cay has been awarded the coveted AAA Four Diamond Award and was recently named by Travel + Leisure as one of the Top 50 Resorts in North America. JELD-WEN, the world’s leading manufacturer of reliable windows and

doors, has diversified interests in a variety of real estate-related businesses. Based in Klamath Falls, Oregon, JELD-WEN began as a small Oregon millwork plant in 1960 and now has operations in more than 25 states and in 22 countries. Rod Wendt, JELDWEN president and CEO states, “I am very pleased that Northview is such a great fit for the resort properties’ strengths and future potential, [and] I am very appreciative of all of the employees of JELD-WEN Development Inc.” The company celebrated its 50th year in business in 2010, and has been a long standing mainstay of employability for many years.

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

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continued from page 18

al putter with a milled flat face design. The set also includes a stylish bag with kickstand and a soft double strap for ease of carry. The three-way top divider helps organize clubs, and there are three zip pockets to store tee, balls, sunscreen and more. Nike Golf offers the sets in two sizes: Size 1 (unisex left and right handed) for heights 44” – 52”. The set includes a driver, hybrid, #7, #9, SW, Putter and a bag. And Size 2 for heights 52” - 61”. This boys set come in either right or left handed clubs. The size 2 girls set comes with right handed clubs. Each set includes a driver, hybrid, #7, #9, SW, Putter and a bag. Suggested price for all sizes is $179.99. For more information, please visit www.nikegolf.com. MIC SPORTSWEAR MiC Sportswear is a women’s contemporary golf apparel company offering unique, groundbreaking women’s golf apparel opportunities for women seeking smart

32 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

and sassy apparel for their golfing lifestyle. Seattlebased and owned by creative designer Melba Lee, Mic Sportswear is dedicated to creating the finest quality active wear and sportswear that combines versatility, femininity and performance. In fact, if you followed Northwest-native Paige Mckenzie on the LPGA tour, you will likely

have seen her decked out in Mic Sportswear latest fashions. MiC spring/summer 2011collection will be distributed worldwide in golf pro-shops, resorts, up-scale department stores, cruise-lines and will also be available at MiC’s Online store early spring. I won’t pretend to know a darn thing about fabrics and ensembles, but MiC’s line will offer women golfers a full line of women’s golf apparel including pants, shorts, skirts, skorts, shirts, knit ensembles, visors, and hats manufactured with couture custom embroidered fabrics and light weight cotton stretch poplin - a fine grain cotton twill with horizontal stretch - available in classic black/ white and sand/white. Designed with motion for every swing, garments will range in price $70.00 – $275.00. For more information, please visit www.micsportswear.com.

DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011


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DECEMBER 2010 / JANUARY 2011

GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE  NORTHWEST EDITION

35


1.

3.

2.

4.

Think You Can Correctly Identify The Following Northwest golf courses?

Prove it.

5.

Correctly guess the names of the following Washington, Oregon, and Idaho private and public golf courses (no, you are not required to name the specific hole, although that would be impressive) your name will go into a drawing to win a free foursome from Golf Today. Yep, the green fees are on us. If your name is drawn, you and three of your friends, will win a free round of golf at either Coeur d’Alene Golf Course, in Coeur d’Alene, ID or Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club (Ghost Creek) in Portland, OR!

7.

Golf Today Magazine must receive your entry NO LATER than February 15, 2011. Either photocopy this form and fax to

6.

8.

1-425-949-3090 or email your guesses to info@golftodaynw.com

Get to it and good luck! Here are the courses, now match them with the photos! 9.

SunCountry Golf & RV Park Camaloch Golf Course Pumpkin Ridge: Ghost Creek Auburn Golf Course Palouse Ridge

The Links at Moses Pointe Camas Meadows Carnation Golf Course Maplewood Golf Course Ballinger Lake Golf Course

Nile Golf Course Chambers Bay Golf Course Mount SI Golf Course Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course

Photo courtesy of Aidan Bradley ©2009

10.

Photo courtesy of D2 Productions ©2009

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