Celebrating 23 Years in the west, Now in the northwest! • www.golfTodayNW.com • Number 13 • March 2010
PRIEST LAKE: Idaho’s Crown Jewel
Inside:
What’s The Deal With Women’s Golf?
Northwest Golf Season Kicks Off With Regional Golf Shows! A Range With A View And Much, Much More!
Stunning 1 8 H ole PRIEST LAKE GOLF Course
PGA Professional on staff, Practice Range, Putting Green, Carts, Tournaments, Grill and Bar Service. Golfers permitted to walk. $50.00 (18 holes) high season $26.00 (18 holes) off season
“Golf Today” Stay and Play Package Overnight lodging in a lake side fireplace suite, bre breakfast & 18 holes of golf with cart - $129 per person (based on double or triple occupancy)
Award winning
Lakeside Resort Lakeside Cabins & Sandy Beaches Dine in casual elegance overlooking the lake Off Season Get Away packages - September thru June - Seaplanes Welcome Group retreats, weddings and just plain fun! fun
Idaho’s Crown Jewel www.hillsresort.com | 208-443-2551
www.priestlakegolfcourse.com | 208-443-2525
Boat, Hike, Snowmobile, Relax, Family Time - Every Day is Unique, Come Visit! 2 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
MARCH 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 providess a pleasant experience for those whoo prefer to enjoy the game this way. Cartss 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 enhancess the gently contoured greens and roll-ing 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 MARCH 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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MARCH 2010
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 MARCH 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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ON THE COVER • MARCH 2010: Idaho’s Priest Lake Golf Course graces this month cover for good reason. This stunning recently re-designed and expanded 18 hole golf course offers over 6,500-yards of challenging golf on a course nestled amongst lush forests and wetlands. Offering golfers a driving range, putting greens, restaurant and quiet vistas, Priest Lake and accommodation partner Hills Resort (just minutes from the course) offers visitors year round recreational activities such as swimming, kayaking, boating, skiing and fishing. Scheduled to open for the season in mid-May, be sure to visit pages 2, 3 for more information on how you can experience “Idaho’s Crown Jewel” for yourself. –Cameron Healey, Publisher/Editor
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
7 8 9 10 11 12
MY TWO CENTS: NORTHWEST GOLF SEASON KICKS OFF WITH REGIONAL GOLF SHOWS!
By Cameron Healey
NOTES FROM THE GOLFING “NEWBIE”
By Dan Stark
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH WOMEN’S GOLF?
By Ina Zajac
14 15 22
EWGA INVITES WOMEN TO JOIN SEATTLE MEMBERS ON APRIL 3 FOR GOLF, BUSINESS AND FUN AT 2010 TEEOFF BRUNCH TEACHING GOLF TO JUNIORS
By Derek Mount
A RANGE WITH A VIEW
By Clifford Cowley
SKINCARE AND SERGIO GARCIA…NOW THAT’S AN INTERESTING COMBINATION!
YOU CAN’T ALWAYS GET WHAT YOU WANT, BUT YOU CAN GET WHAT YOU NEED
By Bob Duncan
23
THE LPGA TEACHING DIVISION: WHAT MAKES IT TICK?
25
FOURTEEN GOLF REVEALS ITS NEW MT28 V5 WEDGE
25
NORTHWEST DODGE DEALERS PACIFIC AMATEUR GOLF CLASSIC PACAM DATES CHANGE IN 2010.
By Erin Szekely
WOMEN, GOLF YOURSELF FIRST
By Diana Del Garbino
6 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
By Cameron Healey
MARCH 2010
My Two Cents by CAMERON HEALEY
advertising partners who provide terrific products and services to our readers, and to our readers for supporting our format and editorial approach. Here’s to a great 2010! WHAT’S NEW?
NORTHWEST GOLF SEASON KICKS OFF WITH REGIONAL GOLF SHOWS! What a month! Northwest native Fred Couples continues to tear up the Champions Tour, Spokane native Alex Prugh is becoming a solid fixture on the PGA Tour, and UW alum Paige McKenzie continues her work on the LPGA Tour. Throw in three Northwest Golf Shows in one month and Northwest golfers have much to cheer about! The unofficial ‘official’ start of the 2010 golfing season kicked off last month with the concurrent staging of the Seattle and Portland Golf shows held over three days and the Spokane Golf Show held a week later. With unexpected fair weather, local golfers converged on Northwest exhibition halls filled with vendors tempting you at every turn. Yes, Northwest golfers were in a festive spirit choosing to forget about or, at least ignore for a day, the fledgling economic recovery and opting rather to spend their hard earned cash on everything from the usual golfing ‘must haves’ and Stay-and-Play packages to indulgent day spa services. The feeling of “doom and gloom” that has persisted for too long was for the most part blissfully absent. Or if it was bandied about, it did not filter its way to me! While there is cautious optimism, people are ready and willing to engage in this wonderful activity in any way they can and Golf Today shares and supports that drive towards a future recovery. We applaud our advertising partners who also understand that the good times will return, and when they do, they too will prosper and succeed. Golf Today Magazine had another tremendous show season. A huge thank you to golfers and readers who came to our booth to congratulate us on our monthly magazine, and to offer feedback (positive and constructive) and even new story ideas. Thank you to all that did so. As we enter our second year, we cannot thank enough our editorial contributors, our MARCH 2010
Come Play the 2010 Golf Today Magazine-sponsored McCormick Woods Spring Classic June 22nd. A 1:30pm shotgun start at the premier McCormick Woods Golf Course in Port Orchard, WA is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Yes, its time to tee it up, have fun, and enjoy a sociable event with great tee prizes for all. Golf Today events are focused on providing golfers with great golf and value in a noncompetitive atmosphere where everyone goes home with a bag of swag! Golf Today is excited and pleased to introduce Golf Today readers to the 2010 McCormick Woods Golf Classic, a one-day, play your own ball, “fun event.” Located in Port Orchard, WA on the Kitsap Peninsula, McCormick Woods is an 18 hole Audubon Society certified championship public course that opened in 1987. Nestled amongst idyllic lakes and towering firs and cedars, McCormick Woods will certainly test the mettle of players of all abilities, but fear not, there are five-tee placements at each hole to choose from! Golf Digest and Golfweek think McCormick Woods is a “goodie” as well, rating it “Best Course” and “Most Enjoyable Course” respectively. After the round golfers will enjoy hot appetizers at the delightful Clubhouse Restaurant, which boasts panoramic views and an outdoor patio overlooking North Lake. So what makes our events different? Golf Today Magazine’s “Fun Tournaments” are open to men and women players of all abilities. Yes, you do not need to have a handicap and all players, regardless of score, will take home a Tee Prize
Package worth at least $100. Now throw in the $7500 in value raffle prizes where ALL golfers have a chance to win great 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 in Worley, ID. The winner will enjoy a round of golf on the course Golfweek rates as “One of the Best Casino Courses 2007-2009); just be sure to keep an eye out for your ball as it is not uncommon to share the fairway with local wildlife such as elk and the errant bear!
In addition, we’re giving away other regional Stay and Play Packages, tickets to the upcoming 2010 U.S. Senior Open, 2010 Boeing Classic, and twosomes at Nevada courses such as Angel Park, Alliante, and The Legacy Golf Club, highly acclaimed Tetherow, Wine Valley, and discounted golf certificates at other great Seattle and Washington courses! Before you warm up, any golfer interested in a quick FREE onsite Swing Analysis can do so at the GolfTEC mobile Swing Analysis booth. You’ll need to get in line, however, as I’ll likely be the first one in line ready for a little guidance from our good friends at GolfTEC! If you are like me, and you’ve got your eyes on that new 2010 stick that you’ve been waiting to let rip, we’ll also have a Clubmaker Demo of Clubs on site—Try them with no obligation! Entry fee is $115 per player, $105 per player for a twosome and $95 per player for a foursome. Now be sure to act fast to secure your spot. In fact, if you book by Mar 31, we’ll knock 10% off! For more information and entry forms, call 425-941-9946 or email Cameron@ continued on page 16
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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Still laughing and wincing over the freezing Friday that marked my not-soimpressive first try at golf, the memorable outing will stay with me for a long time to come. Despite my pre-game dream that I would have a record game that launched my pro career, the only record that I set was how wet and muddy I got in a single afternoon. I feel like it has taken until now to dry out. While I am not going to discount the idea of winter golf, I have a new appreciation for proper winter golf wear and the benefit of a kind-hearted golfing partner. Sipping cocoa and cursing the cold, Cameron and I joked that it would have been “enlightening” to have my instructor Brett from GolfTEC along on our adventure to coach us through the rain-soaked course. Though my score was politely ignored by the only other soul on the course that day, I left the clubhouse knowing two things: I am totally hooked and I need more practice. So I headed back to GolfTEC for another lesson. As I pulled my clubs from the trunk, I spotted some souvenir mud, now dry. I resisted the urge to dust it away. Proof that these clubs saw more than the driving range, I was not about to obliterate this trophy. Like a kid on show-and-tell day, I gave Brett the short 7-hole story. While we shared a few laughs about my first game of golf, I told
Brett that we missed him out there. Brett then laughed and told me that neither Cameron nor I could convince him to play in a downpour. On to the lesson…My warm-up felt great. I was making good contact with
pleasantly surprised when he pointed out only a few things that were just a tiny bit off in my setup. My head wasn’t entirely behind the ball, my shoulders were not square and my hands were a little too far forward. Luckily, these issues were minor
the ball without my typical total ball misses. I was anxious to show Brett that I had been practicing to bring my swing path forward a bit and to keep my head from lifting. Still, I knew Brett would find some areas of improvement for me. I was
enough that I conquered them in the next few shots. Working our way through the rest of the swing videos, I was surprised to see that my club head was still not far enough in front of my body. Brett had me focus
8 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
on keeping my right arm long and after another set of balls my swing path had crept back into the zone (just barely). Up at the top of my swing I still had my persistent problem of lifting my body out of the swing. My swing was also a bit on the long side, resulting in a little loss of control at the top of the swing. During the next part of my lesson Brett had me work on keeping my head still, maintaining my spine angle, keeping my body down in the shot and shortening up my swing a touch. My shots were feeling better and better. Previously, I had never really had a feeling that I was muscling the swing but by the end of a lesson or a range session my body would feel pretty worn down. Brett explained that the changes in my swing were increasing the lag of my club head leading to greater swing efficiency. During the next set of balls Brett went relatively silent. Afterwards as we gathered up the balls (“Rocks” in Brett parlance), Brett told me that he does not like to disturb folks when they are in the middle of a really good thing. He also commented about how few miss-hits I was having in this lesson. Back to the sensors, I was floored when a saw the numbers. I was hitting the ball farther than I have hit it for months. All continued on page 28
MARCH 2010
What’s The Deal With Women’s Golf? By INA ZAJAC
The only assumptions you can safely make about women and golf is that it is wise not to. Whether newbie hackers or women with decades of experience, our playing styles and attitudes vary from woman to woman and from round to round. Whether in your foursome or in the next stall at the driving range, you’ll notice we experience the same frustrating ups and downs, euphoric sweet shots and humiliating shanks as men do. Each year more and more women get turned on to the pastime once considered the secret indulgence of men. It’s quite common today for couples to golf together or for her to leave him at home altogether. The term “golf widower” seems to be gaining in popularity. There may have been a time when being a progressive female on the golf course meant she would be up for driving the cart for her guy. This still may be true for some, but as she drives she’ll likely also be calculating yardage, wind speed and mentally selecting the perfect club for her next shot — female multitasking in action. I’ve never been accused of being a jock, but more of uncoordinated tomboy. I only took up golf a few years ago and in that short time, I’ve had the chance to play with women of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels. I once played in a tournament with three young ladies who played on their high school golf team. I believe I was placed in their group in an effort to keep the women together, but I could not have been more out of my element. They wielded their men’s clubs with perfect form and power. I can still recall the pure sound of their drivers making super solid contact—beautiful. That day was cold and drizzly and by the turn it was raining. We were soaked, but these girls could care less. Heading for the clubhouse early was never even mentioned. I love golfing with hardcore “never say never” women. While I have friends who unapologetically turn back and head for the 19th hole at the first sign of rain, most women I play with will finish a round no matter what. In fact, a nearby grass fire wasn’t enough to stop some friends and I last summer. Sure, our eyes burned a bit, but we all knew it would make for a good story. It provided us with the opportunity to be stupid, referring to certain shots as “smokin’” or telling each other, “You are on fire, Girl”. No matter the conditions, I appreciate a low-pressure golf experience where it’s all about getting outside and having fun. MARCH 2010
golf. Either way, asking nicely is always preferable to hitting into us while we are still on the green. If it happens more than once, you may have to reclaim your ball at the next tee box. But for every man who was a bit insensitive, I’ve come across 20 who were wonderful—if not more. Like the gentleman who came to my assistance, helping me pick up my bag and clubs when I forgot to tighten the cart strap. Thank you, Sir. Of course, there are many times when women golfers can be impatient or rude. Some of us are just plain terrible golfers. More than once I have made my way to the green via the edge of the neighboring rough. It’s a tricky endeavor and I proceed with caution, but I’ve seen guys do it too, and you know who you are. I suppose it should come as no surprise that missing the fairway is a true golf experience shared by both sexes. NLGA Fifteen years ago, a group of women golfers sat through a meeting where a struggling ladies golf group disbanded. continued on page 26
I know my handicap is high—like nose bleed high—but I figure I will have 40 or more years to work on my game, and so (as long as I keep up the pace) no worries. I have golfing partners who don’t even keep score half the time, and are content to get some fresh air and time away from the kids. But, I also know women who are intently disciplined about their game. They’ll get extra quiet and they’ll be hyper-focused on their next shot. They are in the zone, and it’s an honor to step back and watch. When teeing off they will forgo the forward “ladies” tees and opt for white, blue, gold—whatever offers the greatest yardage. These ladies will amaze you with their long drives to fairway town. And there is the all-important art of putting. I recently witnessed a friend intimidate a man twice her size when he “gave” her a four-foot gimmie. Scooting her ball into the cup with his own putter, he was surprised by her stern response. I believe it was something along the lines of, “Sir, I KNOW you did not just touch my ball…” Awkward. And yes, of course you can play through, but more often than not we are waiting on the group ahead. I actually find that in general women tend to play at a brisk pace. I know my friends often play ready GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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You Can’t Always Get What You Want, But You Can Get What You Need by BOB DUNCAN
In golf, what you want and what you’re going to get are usually two different things! This may apply even more significantly to women in golf than men. Why? Because golf has traditionally been taught from a men’s standpoint: Here’s a club...Now let’s improve your address position, create the proper angles in the knees and hips, turn your shoulders, keep your head down, swing easy, and extend through the ball.
After 30 years of teaching golf, I can hardly find anyone who can actually fit that model and make it work. And with less athletic experience growing up, women are often caught in a communications trap. What do all those things mean? And are they effective? For starters, though not all men have been properly fit for clubs, the number of women properly fit is far lower. And, the less accomplished you are, the more a proper clubfitting helps! Just as you wouldn’t ski with boots that don’t fit nor would you buy shoes that don’t fit, you shouldn’t buy or use clubs that don’t fit. Read: Clubs that don’t fit are not effective! Proper fitting is often the most effective thing a pro or teacher can do. Here’s the rub, if the Player can’t hit a club effectively, maybe it doesn’t fit! But, going a step further, as golf instructors we would be better off adopting a Coaching philosophy rather than a Teaching philosophy. Teaching often requires adherence to a model in which drills are aimed at eventual learning. In coaching, it’s the PLAYER’S input, experience, and abilities that drive the COACH.
10 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
Read : A Coach learns about the Player’s knowledge and experience, and uses the Player’s terms and phrases. If the Player already knows how to do something- or already has a successful way to do it-then the Coach need not teach it! “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is an adage I like to abide by. It’s the Coach’s job to make you a better Player, not to make you into a machine that constantly needs readjustment due to failure. So, while a swing model is a great tool for a pro to have, it’s a tool to work FROM and not a diagram that requires complete adherence. This is potentially even more important with women based on the original premise that golf been taught from a man’s perspective. As Golf Professionals, we need to enhance and improve upon the experiences and abilities of the Player in front of us, and not overly use terminology, diagrams, and drills that may not be effective for that Player. Women often benefit even more by going to different locations on the course and learning about what actually happens, instead of what you want to have happen.
It’s not effective to teach someone that performance is solely due to making the perfect golf swing only to then watch them fail on a downhill lie. Or in a fairway bunker. Or on a side-hill lie. These all suggest they need modifications to the original ‘Model’ golf swing. On a tee, the ball is at the mercy of the swing and the club. On the ground (it’s only on a tee 18 times a round) the swing and club are at the mercy of the lie. However, many teachers still teach a model that few can fit, one that stems from the premise that perfect is solid and straight, and apply a ‘faults and fixes’ theme to alternative performance. If the ball isn’t on flat ground with a perfect, ‘fluffed-up’ lie, then it probably shouldn’t go straight – that’s alternative. And, if it’s not on a perfect lie, these alternative results are actually predictable! For a right-handed Player, if the ball is on a side-hill above your feet it should go left. Below your feet it should go right. But when you use that perfect driving range swing, you’re set up to fail. Instead, learning how to play these lies makes your continued on page 31
MARCH 2010
The LPGA Teaching Division: What Makes It Tick? by ERIN SZEKELY
It is pretty exciting for me when women and golf get attention at the same time. Yes, the two do go together quite well. Thanks to media outlets giving more and more consideration to the accomplishment of female golfers and the impressive skills that they bring to the course, women’s golf is being taken more seriously than ever. The LGPA is a well-known organization at this point, but I want to tell you more about the LPGA instructors.
MARCH 2010
The Ladies Professional Golf Association is divided into two divisions: the LPGA Touring Division and the LPGA Teaching and Club Professional Division. The LPGA has a very rich and colorful history. As you can imagine, in the 1950’s little attention was paid to women’s sports, but in 1950 the LPGA was founded through the efforts of thirteen courageous women, including the likes of Babe Zaharias, Patty Berg, Betty Hicks, and Louise Suggs. The teaching division was founded in 1959 by Marilynn Smith, Shirley Spork, Barbara Rotvig, and Betty Hicks. In 1960, the first LPGA National Golf School was held in Ann Arbor Michigan and “teaching teachers to teach” was born. The LPGA is now the oldest women’s sports organization and it is with pride that I am a member. After extensive training, I earned my place as an LGPA member in 1996. When I began my training to be part of the Teaching and Club Professional Division, I looked on it as an adventure and a privilege. I felt a responsibility to the founding members to honor their efforts by giving students the best chance at success with their golf games. Certification for the LPGA does not
come easily. You must first pass a player ability test which examines your skills as a golfer. Following the ability test, a golfer vying for membership must complete educational schools where you learn how to be a top teacher. Though golf is a sport—a kinesthetic activity—the LPGA Teaching Division curriculum includes tools to teach golf to auditory, visual, and kinesthetic learners. Additionally, product merchandising and the art of managing golf facilities is taught to those of us in the program. The way I looked at it was that it was an advanced degree. It generally takes four years to complete all the requirements to become a class A professional. All aspects of being a professional are taught, but the emphasis is on teaching. The instructors that we have in the LPGA are second to none, and when you complete all the requirements, you can feel pretty confident that you have been given the tools to be the best professional. Just as a teacher in a conventional classroom can plan on being encouraged to exercise their own style and personalizing methods, the LPGA Teaching division encourages its instructors to do the same. You are encouraged to choose a style
that fits you the best and a method that works best for your students. I have found through a lot of research and personal experience that teaching students what to do with the golf club as opposed to what to do with their bodies is the easiest way to teach and learn the golf swing. I learned this from the 12th member of the Teaching Hall of Fame, Manuel de la Torre, who learned it from the 4th member of the Teaching Hall of Fame, Ernest Jones. Since there are only 12 members of the Teaching Hall of Fame, I think I have chosen my method wisely. With the knowledge that I gained from the LPGA Teaching and Club Professional curriculum and the ongoing educational credits that I am required to obtain, I feel confident that what I and other LPGA teaching pros have to offer is pretty special. So if you are looking for an instructor, take a look at an LPGA teaching pro. Rest assured that your game will improve and your time spent will be rewarding. Have fun out there and keep swinging. Erin Szekely is an LPGA teaching professional. For more information, please visit www. golfingwitherin.com or call 425-398-0443.
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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Women, Golf Yourself First by DIANA DEL GARBINO
Ladies, when it comes to our health, our fitness, our nutrition, or just taking care of ourselves, we consider ourselves last. This seems to be part of our genetic make up. I see mothers, daughters, sisters, grandmothers, and wives take care of everyone else, but when it comes to their own health, as it relates to everyday living and fitness for our favorite game, we put it at the end of the list. Let’s take a look at how much time we really have: There are168 hours in a week. Let’s break it down; 40 hours for a full time job, if you get 9 hours of sleep
a night, that’s 63 hours a week, 10 hours for commuting, 20 hours for kids & family (during the week), if you cook, add 10 hours a week, weekend time (family, friends, & GOLF) add 20 hours. That ith 5 hours extra a week. leaves you with uld you do with that extra So what should time? Start by thinking eeds to about who needs be mentally, physimocally and emong? tionally strong? That would be man you! The woman of the house. As women we are the center of the eryone universe. Everyone knows who to ask nswers to to get the answers homework, where the keys are, and are the dishes clean or dirty? Now that you know how important youu are, why are you still elf last? putting yourself five Take that fi ve hours a week, and break h k You it down to one hour five days a week. can get a lot done in those five hours! Imagine if you dedicated 30 minutes three times a week on just your golfing muscles?
What would that look like? Upper body mobility would give you more rotation. Lower body strength would give you more power and stability in your stance. Upper back workout would keep your shoulders from getting over worked and causing injuries. Strengthening your glutes and abdominal muscles would give you a more athletic stance and keep your lower back from overworking and getting sore. So get working those golf muscles before the kickoff of the spring season!
Now let’s talk about nutrition. Rememh old adage “you are what h you eat?” ber the Well, your mom was right. If you want your body to be soft and squishy, eat more bread, pasta, and rice. If you want to be
lean and toned, eat more fruits and vegetables, lean protein; but go easy on the whole grains and breads, limit your sugar intake. Remember what and how you eat determines not only your figure, but your mood, muscle quality qualit and metabolism. Ok, so now you’v you’ve taken time out for your self. Let’s talk about when you’re out on the links. What W are some of the challenges for wome women on the course? Athletic ready position ((addressing the ball), means it’s ok to bend your knees and stick out your butt!! Make a bad shot? L Let it go and focus on the next opportunity for a great shot. Time on the course cour should be a challenge and leave you with a renewed sense of self-co self-confidence and wellbeing. Do you want bogies for f health or birdies? Your body deserves Yo yyour best effort! Diana Del Garbino is D TPI-Certified Level 2 TP fitness pro in Oregon. She works out Or Trainof Muscles in Motion-Professional Motio ing Studio in Lake Oswego, where she works regularly with local LPGA & PGA Professionals. To learn more about Diana and her golf fitness program go to www. mymusclesinmotion.com.
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:
Carnation Golf Pass 2010 Unlimited Golf, Practice Range, No Restrictions Additional Family Members (adult) Additional Family Members (17 & under)
Weekday Unlimited Play
Regular Rates - 9 holes and 18 holes Weekdays - $12.00 and $18.00 Seniors - $11.00 and $17.00 Juniors - $7.50 and $14.00 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 12 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
Additional Family Members (adult) Additional Family Members (17 & under)
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Chad Tachell Carnation Golf Course 1810 West Snoqualmie River Road NE Carnation, WA 98014 (425) 333-4151 / chad@carnationgolf.com
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EWGA Invites Women To Join Seattle Members On April 3 For Golf, Business And Fun At 2010 Tee-O Brunch All work and no play is no fun, but combine work WITH play, add social activities and golf education, and you have the EWGA (Executive Women’s Golf Association). The EWGA’s Seattle Chapter is preparing for its 18th year of bringing networking and golf to the women of Puget Sound. The season oďŹƒcially starts with the organization’s biggest event of the year, the annual Tee-O brunch, to be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 3rd at Bear Creek Country Club in Woodinville. Women interested in learning more about the EWGA and its schedule of 2010 activities are invited to join current members for a buet brunch, a product/service expo, a preview of the upcoming EWGA season, and a fashion show sponsored by Shi Golf. “The Tee-O kicks o our season of events, including weekly leagues throughout the Seattle area, weekend golf trips all over the PaciďŹ c Northwest, social events, and educational sessions for golfers of all levels,â€? Chapter President Dee Johnson said. “It’s a great time to meet new golf friends.â€? One lucky attendee will win a golf vacation for two to The Grand Del Mar in
!
, 0
San Diego. This grand prize was donated by Stellar Travel, a 10-year sponsor of the EWGA Seattle Chapter. Reservations for the brunch are $45 for
at Redmond Ridge. Online registration for the golf option is also available on the EWGA Seattle Web site, due by March 19th.
members and guests and may be made online at ewgaseattle.org before March 25. For brunch attendees interested in hitting the links afterward, tee times have been arranged at the nearby Golf Club
For companies interested in promoting their businesses to career-minded women golfers, several sponsorship options are available, including vendor tables for information sharing and demonstrations
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prior to and following the brunch, table sponsorships, and in-kind donations. For more information regarding sponsorship, please contact Donna Becker at sponsorship@ewgaseattle.org. About EWGA Since its founding in 1991 as the Executive Women’s Golf Association, the EWGA has enriched the lives of over 100,000 women, connecting them to learn, play and enjoy golf for business and for fun. This not-for-proďŹ t association delivers a wide range of golf, social and networking activities for 20,000 new and experienced golfers who belong to more than 125 local chapters throughout the United States and international chapters in Canada and France. The Seattle chapter is one of the largest EWGA chapters, with over 250 members. Visit www.ewgaseattle.org for more information, or contact the chapter hotline at 206-781-5813. EWGA membership is available starting at $125. The EWGA is headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. For more information about the EWGA and its membership, visit www.ewga.com.
JoinUs Online!
continued on page 14
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Better than a birdie! Tweet us at www.twitter.com/golftodaynw.com MARCH 2010
Teaching Golf to Juniors by DEREK MOUNT
Children have a natural ability to swing the golf club because it is generally too heavy for them to make an incorrect motion like a reverse pivot (weight going forward on the back swing and backwards on the downswing). This forces them to use the weight of the club head to hit the
much less likely to flourish. Job one is being friendly to the child and never condescending. Find common ground as quickly as possible (ask them what they like or don’t like about school, other sports, their experience with golf, etc.). By establishing a rapport quickly,
immediately by giving them positive feedback, but when they start hitting golf balls into the cup, the hole looks a heck of a lot bigger. If you can teach them the short stuff first then build towards the full swing (first putting, then chipping, pitching, lofted irons, followed by less lofted
By establishing a rapport quickly, the child feels comfortable and ready to learn in a completely non-threatening environment. I love teaching golf, but I especially love teaching golf to kids. Seeing the joy in the face of an eight year old child when they hit one pure or sink a long putt is much more satisfying than trying to turn an eight handicapper’s 10 yard draw into a 5 yard draw. If you can get a young child interested in golf, they will benefit in countless ways. More important than learning fundamental skills of this great game, they will learn much about life, as the parallels between golf and life are well documented.
ball rather than try to force it, ingraining a keen sense of feel that will set a great foundation for the swing. To parents, it may seem unproductive that I don’t immediately force certain aspects of a swing, though it is for good reason. Quite simply kids will succeed at their sport, but only after they have learned it. Constantly trying to correct their form at this stage will cause them to tense up, foregoing the use of their natural instincts. I believe this turns the learning process into a chore, and consequently the child will be
the child feels comfortable and ready to learn in a completely non-threatening environment. I like to act goofy and try and get them to laugh at me. This reduces any ‘intimidation’ factor. Obviously, avoid any technical words or terms, and get down to their level by squatting down so that they can look at you face to face. Before taking a child to the driving range, I take them right to the putting green and have them hit a few tennis balls into the hole from a very short distance. This not only builds their confidence
irons, then woods) they will develop a wonderful feel for the game. There is a great drill I use for kids on the putting green. I set up a circle of tees on the green about the size of a hulahoop, spacing the tees about 6 inches apart. I then have them putt balls towards the ‘hula hoop’. If they get the ball to either stop inside the circle or hit a tee, they get to choose their favorite color tee in the circle and keep it. They keep trying this drill from different distances and then I continued on page 16
The Clicgear Cart is the original compact three wheel golf pushcart and winner of the 2007 Best New Product Award at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida. Clicgear offers a full sized three wheel golf pushcart that glides smoothly down the fairway and yet still folds up incredibly small to only 13" x 15" and 24" The Model 2.0 again offers many improvements and new features. In addition to the much improved folding added in 2008, we have improved brake function and further increased the strength of our already rugged aluminum frame. Our low maintenance wheel design continues with an improved compound and increased tread radius. At Clicgear, we didn't invent the three wheel cart, we just made it compact and cool! **Look for us at the upcoming Seattle Golf Show Feb 12-14, 2010 or all major golf retailers!
MARCH 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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continued from page 7
golftodaynw.com. We will fax, send, or email entry forms to you! The following are a few golfing “goodies” that I discovered while walking the exhibit halls at last month’s Northwest golf shows and deserve mention. Good luck and I hope they help and foster further enjoyment of this great game! ALMOSTGOLF
The Point 3 combines tour quality flight characteristics with safety unmatched by any other practice ball on the market. Weighing just 13.5 grams the Point 3 carries 1/3 the distance that you would hit a traditional golf ball and has a COR rating of .32 (Point 3). As a result it has realistic launch angle and spin off the clubface, so you can safely hit true fades, draws to help accurately diagnose and correct swing flaws while practicing. Now juniors, beginners and serious players can get real practice time in their backyard, schoolyard or on any playing field. Practice trouble shots and difficult lies anytime, anywhere without the worry of hurting anything. This product is proudly endorsed by Dave Pelz and used in his golf schools nationwide.
tered golfer accounts. Please visit www. golfnow.com for details. PREMIER GOLF CENTERS Premier golf centers was established in 2001 and currently manages 10 golf courses for five municipalities in the puget sound region including the city of seattle. Become a member of their premier golf club and enjoy discounts on green fees, range balls, and golf carts at any of their 10 courses. Please visit www.Premiergolfcenters.Com for more information. MT SI GOLF COURSE
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continued from page 15
have them chip some balls to the circle, keeping the same rules. This is a great way to introduce the importance of distance control (which is really what golf is all about isn’t it?) and the small prize is enough to keep their attention. The kids I’ve tried this drill with have wanted to keep doing it over and over, which is exciting because it encourages falling in love with the short game before moving on to the full swing (it’s a great drill for adults too, by the way, if you can just convince them that learning how to hit their driver can wait). Introducing the fundamentals (grip, stance, aim, ball position, swing techniques) should happen very slowly to prevent sensory overload. As I stated before, kids often have an innate understanding of the game that is lost on adult beginners, so they should be encouraged to find their way on their own to some degree. This is where some parents and I differ, as often they will want me to make sure their shoulders are square at address or that they are swinging the club on a flat enough plane. I don’t think kids under 10 or so should worry about any of this, unless they are already into competitive golf. As they hit balls they will pick up on
Golfnow.com is the largest online tee time retailer in the United States. Operating in 25 states, and partnering with more than 1,500 courses across the nation, GolfNow offer northwest golfers affordable pricing, 24 hour tee time bookings, and excellent customer service to manage more than 1.5 million regis-
POLLEN PUTTERS
I’m always amazed at just how busy their booth is each year; however, it’s not a stretch to work out why as Mt SI, located in Snoqualmie, WA, serves as a beautiful backdrop to a course headed by long time Head Professional Matt Campbell. Mt Si often offers golfers terrific coupons such as “Two for Ones”, “Pay for Nine, Play 18,” and “50% off Breakfast and Lunch”. Please visit www. mtsigolf.com for more information.
Pollen Golf, a new Seattle-based putter company, unveiled two acrylic putters at the Show. The putters look and feel like nothing else on the market, composed of a high-density polymer and stainless steel. “The concept behind the Pollen design is to shape the entire club head out of this lightweight acrylic,” explains Ian Burke, spokesperson for Pollen (www. pollengolf.com). “This allows the weight to be precisely added back in, for solid contact and good balance. Most leading manufacturers are milling out the face of a metal putter and filling it back in with a polymer. We just made the entire club head out of this material.” Check them out at pollengolf.com. continued on page 30
what works and what doesn’t and will make adjustments accordingly. I make sure they have their hands together and are aimed in the right general direction and just have them whack away. Contests, friendly competition with other kids, and positive reinforcement are keys to holding their attention for the lesson. I always have a pocket full of small prizes to give away during junior lessons. I don’t ever tell a child they are doing something ‘wrong’. I always, however, point out (enthusiastically) when they doing anything correctly or experience any amount of success. Words like ‘no’ and ‘don’t’ stifle the learning process and only confuse the child as they are generally unaware of what they are doing wrong even if you explain it to them. If you can just let the child have fun and enjoy the game rather than pushing them to succeed they will be much more likely to become a lifetime player (and, probably a better player too). Derek ‘Jeff ’ Mount is a USGTF Golf Teaching Professional who teaches at the King City Golf Course in King City, OR. He can be reached at 503-577-8807 or email djm8181@ yahoo.com.
16 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
MARCH 2010
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GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
21
A Range With A View by CLIFFORD COWLEY Way back, when the earth was young, when they had just barely named dirt, a great river ran through the Rogue Valley. It carved out a huge flat area and left a few hills on each side. That part of the valley is now known as the Agate Desert. A few years later, when they had invented the word homestead (1860’s), a number of hearty souls decided they wanted to live in and around the Agate Desert. A few more years later, the government invented the words artillery range (1940’s), and they decided they would use the Agate Desert for playing with guns, and things that go boom and make big holes. Still, even more years after that, Jim Cochran decided
to build a golf course in that same area (1990). Cochran is the designer, builder, and sole proprietor of Stone Ridge G.C., and he remains involved in every facet of the course. He can be seen early in the morning, and late in the evening applying his personal touch to the watering, raking traps, weeding flower beds, or whatever needs to be done. Stone Ridge opened in 1995, and in 1998, Golf Digest voted it, “Oregon’s #1 public course with green fees under $50.” The course provides breathtaking views on 18 different golf holes, each with its own character, and with four tees to choose from, it allows the average golfer a good time while providing a challenge to scratch players as well.
The yardage from the tips is a challenge at 6,738 yards, while the blue and white tees are 6,314 and 5,823 yards, respectively. Most players around a 10 handicap play from the whites. The Par
and the fairways are fairly wide and accepting, but anything awry can add extra strokes. Hole #6, another dog-leg left (90 degrees) is another risk and reward decision.
in February issue for more on the Vortex). Putts break the opposite of what you predict and what you think is an uphill putt runs out way more than you expect. After a hot dog and a beverage at the turn, #10 is a long uphill par 5 at 451 yards. This is the beginning of a 3 hole climb to the top of the hill. The green is two-tiered and a fun putt from any level. Number 11 is an uphill blind shot on the drive, but it is here where you start to get a sense of the beauty of the course. From the tee box, you can see part of the original rock wall that was built in the 1860’s when the land was homesteaded. Number
72 course shoots 35 on the front and 37 on the back. The front nine has one par 5. At 456 yards, #3 offers risk and reward opportunity. A well hit drive can put you out about 200-220. The dog-leg left allows you to shave off 10 to15 yards across the water to a narrow green for an “on in two” landing. Or, you can lay up (like we do that!). Hole #4 is an innocent looking 412 yard par 4, but it is the number one handicap hole on the course. Two ponds guard the left side and unless you are down the middle, the mounds on the right can make a difficult, uphill lie, second shot. The irrigation canal borders #5 on the left and woods flank the hole on the right. Down the middle is the goal, as always,
If you decide to cut the corner, you need a solid 250 yard drive across the tall rough. If you hit the hit 250 yarder straight, the fairway turns into tall rough. Starting to see a pattern? Signature hole #7 is an uphill Par 3. It’s guarded by a trap on the left and a waterfall and creek on the right. Aim below the hole on this green. It’s a treacherous downhill putt if you don’t. Except for the blind shot, severe downhill, narrow landing area, woods on the left and right, couple trees in your way, #8 isn’t bad. Big hitters have been known to hit the green on their drive. Hint: Aim for the cream colored house on the horizon. It’s right in line with the green. The hole is cart path only, for safety sake (can you say steep?). Some say the Vortex runs through its green (see Laurel Hill article
12 tops the ridge and is guarded by the rock wall at the back of the green, thus the name “Stone Ridge.” The original homestead dwelling was at the top of #12 just beyond the stone fence. Number 13 is where you get your money’s worth even if you’re having a bad game. From up top, the panorama of visual stimulation is breathtaking. You can see the Table Rocks, the layout of the golf course, and the Agate desert clear to White City. The town is named after Camp White, an army camp and training facility from the ‘40’s. Soldiers from Camp White used the land for war games and artillery practice. And, you can see a green way down the hill. The 280 yard hole is steeper than a cow’s face and scary even to walk. Like #8, carts are not allowed on this Par 4. What is really fun
22 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
continued on page 32
MARCH 2010
Skincare And Sergio Garcia…Now That’s An Interesting Combination! by CAMERON HEALEY
If you were like me as a kid—always outdoors and playing sports as a young kid and teenager during the long dog days of summer—you no doubt experienced your fair share of over exposure to the sun or the pain of sun burned skin. The rere sulting discomfort of blisters and d peeling skin is not easily forgotten;; in fact, I often recall the tube of cool ol and calming aloe gel was never far ar from my reach. Yes, as a “young ng fella” who enjoyed his childhoodd “down under”, I would often, with complete abandonment, venture outdoors to offer up my youthful skin to the sun gods whether playing golf, cricket or just enjoying the summer. Addmittedly, this cycle of over exposure ure to the sun was an annual occurrence ce that I would often shrug off as “par for the course” of playing out under clear ar blue skies. Those same skies, I might ht add, we now know are responsible forr some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world helped by the huge hole in the protective ozone layer that resides es in the southern hemisphere! Despite the national sunscreen advertising campaign mpaign in the late 80’s that coined the phrase “Slip Slap Slop”, which I did adhere to on occasion, I now fear that as I approach the big 4-0, my skin is showing a contradictory result to the “I’m fine” attitude of my youth. As I look back at the mug shot that greets me every morning in the bathroom mirror, I can’t help but notice the effects of sun exposure that include an ever increasing collection of wrinkles, crow’s feet, blemishes and sun spots. Can I rewind the clock? No. Can I take steps to reduce or even prevent future damage while out on the course? Absolutely! One of the more golfer (or athlete) friendly skin care products available on the mar-
MARCH 2010
ket is the Mission Skincare products. What makes Mission different to the other 120,000 skin care products on the market? Sergio Garcia, for starters, along
skincare that has been proven to meet the specific needs of athletes across all sports. The range of products includes a concoction of nutrients and antioxidants that
with other world-class athletes including Serena Williams, Mia Hamm, and Steve Nash have developed and tested their products and standby their quality and effectiveness. It also doesn’t hurt that Mission Skincare was the official sunscreen provider of the 2009 PGA TOUR Superstore World Amateur Handicap Championship. They understand the skincare needs of athletes and golf is no exception. Teaming up with scientists and skincare industry veterans, Mission Skincare went to work to create athlete-engineered
are included to maximize on-the-field performance. The line offers golfers (and non-golfers alike) everything from the essential Anti-Sting Sunscreen SPF 30+ Facestick that won’t irritate your eyes or clog pores, and Ultra-Soothing AfterSun Revive Gel to help combat the effects of wind and heat damage to your skin, to the vitamin and oxidant infused Refreshing Foot Therapy cream! Yes, Mission Skincare offers a great range of products that doesn’t stop at the conventional. Sergio had the foresight to add a product called Ultra-Grip™ Gel, a quick-drying,
non-sticky formula made with natural ingredients that can be applied to your hands or gloves and instantly increases the “feel” of your clubs. In addition, golfers can buy Sergio Garcia’s Sunscreen Kit, which comes with a signature TaylorMade MISSION Accessories Pouch. Lined with soft padding to protect your valuables, the pouch is made to clip onto your golf bag so you can stay protected with the Fast-Drying Sunscreen SPF 30+ Spray, Anti-Sting Sunscreen SPF 30+ Facestick, and the Ultra-Hydrating Lip Protector SPF 20 Gel. Yep, if only I had this mini-survival pouch last year when I hit the links in Las Vegas and played in 104 degree heat? Now am I able to tell the difference between a vitamin-infused moisturizer that contains Vitamins A, B, C, D3, E and K and Antioxidants such as Goji, Acai, Pomegranate and Cranberry? Probably not. But, my assessment of the MissionCare range of products is that they are the best that I have tried, bar none. My face stays hydrated through the day; my lips are no longer the poster child for why you should always have lip balm on hand, and the on-the-course sun protection products are easily applied, non-greasy, and do provide great protection. As a golfer and a guy who is entering a more mature stage in life, I need all the help I can get to protect the skin I have! What’s the saying? “You will never be as young as you are today.” For more information about the Missioncare range of products please visit www.missionskincare.com. “In golf, the sun is just part of the game, and nothing protects my skin better than Ultra-Sweatproof SPF 30+ Lotion.” ~ Sergio Garcia
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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4105 NW Camas Meadows Drive * Camas, WA 1-800-750-6511 * 360-833-2000 * www.camasmeadows.com 24 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
MARCH 2010
Fourteen Golf Reveals New MT-28 V5 Wedge FOURTEEN GOLF, recognized worldwide amongst top touring golf professionals as one of the foremost leading wedge designers and manufacturers, introduced their new MT-28 V5 at the recently concluded PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, FL. The new MT-28 V5 represents a long legacy of winning wedges. Its predecessor, the MT-28 V4 is known on several professional Tours as the “go to club” or the “money maker.” Its exceptional performance has positioned FOURTEEN as the wedge authority. This classically designed wedge features the signature FOURTEEN “reverse taper design” but has been improved by adding a groove strategically located in between the club sole and blade portion of the wedge. This structural change allowed the engineers to move the CG to a higher more stabilizing position for more precise shots. The sole of the MT-28 V5 possesses a flatter shape with a trailing edge and heel relief. This new dynamic combination allows any player to fully utilize the club’s bounce and execute pure or solid shots out of any type of rough.
The MT-28 V5 boasts a rounded leading edge that promotes confidence at address and its clubface has been engineered so that the player can easily open or close the face. The head is manufactured with a Nickel chrome moliben alloy which conforms to the 2010 USGA club regulations. It is available in both a chrome and non-plated black ck finish. In preparation for the new groove ve policy on the professional tours such ch as the PGA and LPGA, the company ny spent years engineering a new trapezoidal al shaped groove for the MT-28 V5 Wedge. ge. This distinctively sharp-edged trapezoioidal groove also undergoes a mirror-face ce milling process which precisely and carefully mills each groove for optimal spin. The professionally designed MT28 V5 comes in a variety of lofts, a 48, 50, 52, 54, 56 (2), 58 (2) and a 60 degree. Two steel shafts, a Dynamic Golf and NS Pro 950GH are available. A proprietary rubber grips finishes these
Northwest Dodge Dealers Pacific Amateur Golf Classic (PacAm) Dates Change in 2010. If there is a go-to place for great golf playing and watching this summer, it is Oregon. Golf ’s top senior players will be making Sunriver Resort’s Crosswater Course one of their destinations on The Champions Tour, participating in the JELD-WEN Tradition Championship. Vying for a purse of $2.5 million dollars, amazing players like Greg Norman, Tom Watson, and native Oregonian Peter Jacobson will test their skills on Crosswater’s 600+ scenic acres. Sunriver Resort, worthy of hosting honors, is an impressive destination rich with natural beauty. The land, once covered with water, was developed in 1965. The grounds are filled with the perfect amount of woodlands and preserved wetlands along side accommodations that leave guests feeling well cared for. Mark your calendar for August 19-22 and make plans to and watch the talented golfers in action. If a great week of competitive play is on your list, make plans to participate in the Northwest Dodge Dealers Pacific Amateur Golf Classic (PacAm) also hosted by Sunriver Resort. MARCH 2010
The PacAm, now in its 14th year has made a few changes to better accommodate the field of participants. Previous years have been a bit chilly for golfers as October in Central Oregon is quite cool. Listening to players and working hard, the Central Oregon Visitors Association moved the PacAm to summer dates of August 30th through September p 4th. Abiding by the USGA Rule Rules of Golf, players can plan on a fun yet challenging three day, 54 hole, net, stroke-play tournament. Adding yet another reason to participate is the Golf Digest & Golf World Experience Tour that will wrap up the PacAm with a two-day celebration of golf, showcasing the finest golf equipment complete with demos and activities. Stay-and-watch or stay-and-play. Both the JELD-WEN Tradition and the PacAm are impressive, fun events. The Sunriver Resort has accommodations to please and the towns of Sunriver and nearby Bend have plenty of activities to please your entourage. For more information, please visit www. pacamgolf.com.
classic wedges. w FOURTEEN GOLF in Japan estabFOUR lished itself in 1981 as a premier golf equipment design company. The equi highly successful venture develhig oped exclusive designs for Titleist, op Yamaha, Srixon (formerly DunY lop Japan), Wilson, PRGR, and l many more. The original team was credited with developing the first hybrid iron and the highly popular “Citation” cavity iron by Power Bilt which was one of the most popular irons of the 1980s. In the year 2000, the business transitioned into branded design and manufacturing company. For more information on FOURTEEN GOLF please call 949-852-8811 or visit the company website at www.fourteengolf.com.
king s” a t w “No tee time e onlin
9010 Boalch Avenue SE, Snoqualmie, WA 98065 425-391-4926 • www.mtsigolf.com
Mount Si Food Drive Valid through March 19th
Bring in a non perishable food item and play golf for cheap!!! Help those in need at the same time!!! Weekdays (Mon-Fri)
$15 – Unlimited Golf $10 - Unlimited Golf after 1pm
Weekends (Sat-Sun)
$20 – Unlimited Golf $10 - Unlimited Golf after 1pm
Food donations will be given to the Mt Si Helping Hand Food Bank. GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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They were frustrated and with good reason. Unless they could join a private golf club and play during the day, their golfing options were extremely limited. Instead of going home feeling defeated, a group of women decided on the spot to take action. They took their discussion to a nearby bar, where began planning the ideal ladies golf organization. The result of their impromptu bar brainstorming session is the Northwest Ladies Golf Association (NLGA). Today NLGA has approximately 200 members, who represent a diverse group of women of all ages, backgrounds and experience levels. What brings them together is the shared desire to get out and play golf, and to provide opportunities for Puget Soundarea women golfers to join in, regardless of experience or skill level. Founding member and Current NLGA President Rikki Rothenberg-Klein remembers that very first discussion and says they were all in agreement. “We knew we could offer many opportunities to play and improve skills, and have more fun,” she says. Fellow founding member Sally Sullivan says 15 years ago options for local women golfers who worked fulltime were few and far between. “Many women’s groups met during the day,” Sullivan says. “We began as a group of mostly working women so decided to start a group that would allow us to meet other women golfers, socialize and offer after work and weekend golfing opportunities.” Sullivan remembers those first NLGA meetings as being very action oriented. “We each threw $5 on the table to get a business license with the state as a nonprofit,” Sullivan recalls. “ We formed our first committees. I took on leagues.” At their first official meeting, they wrote the NLGA mission statement, which is still followed today: “To organize and promote regular golf play for women of all skill levels and to foster the development of social relationships.” Rothenberg-Klein remembers those
early days as exciting, challenging and hectic. There were days when founding members, who would rather be out playing a round, sat discussing Roberts Rules of Order and writing bylaws. There were countless phone calls to be made and details to be finalized. Rothenberg-Klein says it didn’t take long for them to recognize they were really onto something. Membership started out strong and steadily increased with each passing year. “We did not realize how popular golf would become for women,” she says. “Many women are more comfortable
being part of a group, and we provide opportunities to play and learn the game in a no-pressure atmosphere.” Things really took off in 2002 with the launch of the NLGA Web site. For the past two seasons, the site has been part of the Golf Handicap Information Network (GHIN), an added benefit for members who want to post scores online. The NLGA offers an array of golfrelated events starting each April with an annual spring social. New players are not only welcomed into a lively group of ready-made golf partners, but are also offered tools to improve their game through clinics and mentoring events. Sullivan appreciates seeing the way members encourage each other on the
26 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
course. “The members are willing to share golf tips on the game and equipment, which helps too,” she says. Members can join in a number of group outings to courses they may normally not play and join weekly league play.
Each member picks and chooses her level of involvement depending on her interests and schedule. She could choose to rework her chip shot at a short game clinic, ask about flag tending etiquette while playing a round with a mentor, and then practice these new skills in a weekly league. Members can also find golf partners with similar schedules or skill levels through the NLGA Web site — http://nlga.ghinclub.com. “To me it feels as if the NLGA is a living entity,” Rothenberg-Klein says. “We promote nurturing, development and being the best you can be. We have some competitions but they are fun based.” The NLGA is active in the local golf community, donating to the Susan B. Komen foundation, and sending volunteers to help local golf events including the golf show. Each summer the NLGA joins the Seattle chapter of the Executive Women’s Golf Association (EWGA) in hosting Golf Fore Red, which raises money for the American Heart Association. The EWGA is a not-for-profit, which started in much the same way as the
NLGA, but now operates on a much larger scale. Founded in 1991 by Nancy & Ed Oliver in West Palm Beach, Florida, the EWGA now has 120 chapters and 20,000 members throughout the United States as well as Canada and Europe. The EWGA provides opportunities for women of all skill levels to learn and experience the game of golf in a social setting. The EWGA also fosters relationships through networking and business-related social activities. Because there are EWGA chapters throughout the United States and Canada, it is a terrific option for those who travel often for business or pleasure. EWGA members have access to (GHIN), and are able to post their scores online. Go to www.ewga.com to find a local chapter. FASHION FORWARD Whether male or female, everyone wants to look good out on the course—it’s universal. Some days, when you can’t make a putt to save your life, a nice, new pair of golf shoes may take a bit of the sting out of a painful round. And while the LPGA means serious golf, many of the newest players are trending toward attire that is unapologetically fun. Whatever feels comfortable seems to be the rule. For some that’s pants or long shorts and conservative polo, and for others it’s short-shorts, skirts or the perfect compromise—skorts. LPGA fashion favorites like Anna Lawson, Natalie Gulbis and Paula Creamer have made one thing clear. Women golfers can be sexy while they play yet still be serious about their play. Creamer, a.k.a. the Pink Panther, is a great example. Ever seen her temper flare on a bad day? The pink she wears may make her look sweet, but it seems it has no calming effect on her fierce competitive spirit. Creamer ranked ninth on the LPGA’s 2009 money list, and her fashionably feisty persona keeps her ever popular with sponsors. While watching Creamer and other LPGA golfers, many Northwest women may become inspired by a look. I admit continued on page 31
MARCH 2010
2010 U.S. Senior Open: Daily Tickets Now On Sale Daily tickets for the 31st U.S. Senior Open, to be held July 26–August 1, 2010 at Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish, WA, are now on sale. A limited number of daily tickets are available for both championship and practice rounds. Championship Round tickets (Thursday – Sunday) are available able for $45 per day. Practice Round tickets (Monday – Wednesday) are available for $20 per day. Daily tickets provide ovide access to the championship grounds and include complimentary parking and shuttle transportation too the main admission gate. “The support from the local community has as been outstanding. Our ticket sales are trackingg 25% ahead of past U.S. Senior Opens which could yield record setting crowds.â€? said Chris Falco, Champimpionship General Chairman. “With the addition tion of daily tickets, we have options that can meet every budget and hope everyone has a chancee to experience championship golf at Sahalee.â€? Additional ticket options are also still available, able, including the Fore Pack, Championship Weekly eekly ticket, and the upgraded Trophy Club Weekly ticket. The Fore Pack includes four (4) gooddany-one-day championship tickets and a commemorative program. This is the most exible option, allowing for tickets to be divided up throughout the week or used all on n
the same day. The Fore Pack is priced at $135, but has a value of $185. The Championship Weekly ticket provides access to the championship grounds and includes seven (7) individual tickets, one for each day of the championship
(Monday – Sunday). A commemorative championship program is also provided free of charge. The Championship Weekly ticket is priced at $150. Trophy Club Weekly tickets provides an upgraded experience, including entry to an up-scale, on-course, climate-controlled hospitality pavilion as well as grounds climate-cont access. The Trophy Club is located adjacent to the 18th fairway and has premium food and beverage available for purchase. Each E Trophy Club ticket includes seven (7) individual tickets, ti one for each day of the championship (Monday – Sunday) and a commemorative championship program. pro The Trophy Club ticket is priced at $250 and a quantities are limited. Throughout r the week of the championship, kids 17 and an under receive free admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Kids also receive comp front-row seating in all on-course grandstands. fron Daily capacity on the golf course is limited to Dail 30,000 individuals to enable all spectators the 30,0 opportunity to experience the championship up oppo close. All tickets include free parking and free shuttle transportation to the admission gate. Tickets for the 2010 U.S. Senior Open are available online at www.2010ussenioropen. com, in store at all Fred Meyer locations, or by b phone at 877-281-OPEN.
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the while I was hitting it considerably more consistently. The really important part was that I was doing so with less effort than ever before. Brett, seeing that I am making progress, had me try out my driver near the end of the lesson. The driver (“The Big Stick”, as Brett calls it) has always made me a little nervous and rightfully so. Add the length of the driver to my monkey long arms and no one and nothing is safe around me. After surveying my surroundings, verifying that I wouldn’t destroy something in the training bay, I let it rip. Despite my lack of practice, my driver was my most reliable club when I played Cedarcrest in Marysville. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case this time. My first few hits felt and sounded bad. Brett had me make a few minor setup adjustments and sent me swinging again. The next few shots were much better. I was making good contact with the ball and the shots continued to feel smooth. By channeling the earlier parts of the lesson I kept hitting satisfying shots until we were out of time. Brett and I were both really pleased with the lesson, probably my best lesson to date. Now I’ve got to hit the range to lock in my new efficiency. Thanks to GolfTEC’s amazing coaching and technology, I’ve been thinking about that magical moment when as an athlete you make the shift from hand-
holding student to proficient and independent player. On my bike I have a power meter that continually monitors my training effort. While heart rate monitors were the standard years ago, power meters have taken over as they measure your actual effort rather you’re your reaction to the effort. All you need to do is take a look down at your handlebars and immediately you get a sense of how the workout is going. The power meter records a sample of data every second so that you can analyze your workout on the computer later. At GolfTEC there is a wealth of information to teach us about our swing: high-speed cameras, velocity sensors and tilt meters and instructors. But, it would be impossible to pack these things up and take them with you to the course. Out on the golf course you are all alone to make your own adjustments. Of course, as I progress in cycling, I am more in-tune and now look down at the meter less. I still use the power meter, but depend on it less. I suppose the same could be said for golf. I’ve gotten better at applying self-corrections yet I still feel like that hand-holder. Certainly, there will be a day when my efforts will be rewarded with a swing that is effective and second-nature just as I have experienced in cycling. For more information about GolfTEC, please look for their ad on page 34
... Index of Advertisers for March 2010 ...
28 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
almostGOLF ................................ 4
Laurel Hill Golf Course ............ 12
BallKaddie ................................. 28
MacroGolf .................................. 32
Best Western University Inn .... 17
McCormick Woods ................... 21
Camas Meadows Golf Club...... 24
Mount Si Golf Course ............... 25
Carnation Golf Course ............. 14
Nile Golf Course ........................ 11
Chicks Golf, too ................... 10, 20
Palouse Ridge ....................... 16,17
Clicgear ...................................... 15
Post Falls .................................... 10
Club Glider .................................. 8
Priest Lakes Golf Course......... 2,3
Eaglecrest Resort....................... 19
Semiahmoo Resort Golf Spa .... 17
EWGA .......................................... 9
St George Red Rock Golf Trail ....... 35
Golf TEC .................................... 34
The Golfwarehouse ................... 18
Golfnowcom ............................... 33
Tom Wells Golf .......................... 20
Jorgensen Golf........................ 7,20
Wedgewood Golf ....................... 27 MARCH 2010
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VANCOUVER ISLAND GOLF TRAIL
A 250-kilometre golf trail of PaciďŹ c paradise from Victoria to Campbell River, awaits golfers on British Columbia’s Vancouver Island – ranked as the Top North American Island by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine. Over the past couple of decades numerous “golf trailsâ€? have sprung up. Many have detoured and disappeared. The product, the experience, the logic to the whole thing, just wasn’t there. But, rest assured, The Vancouver Island Golf Trail – unquestionably, one of the ďŹ nest golf trails in North America – isn’t going anywhere. It’s too good. And it just keeps getting better. Two new courses - The Valley Course at Bear Mountain and Highland PaciďŹ c – have boosted the total number of courses on the trail to 12. Throw in a couple of days of sightseeing, ďŹ shing, or whale watching, and you’ve got two weeks worth of good times. Please visit www.vancouverislandgolftrail.com for more information. GOLF-N-SCOPE Want to see how a rangeďŹ nder can improve your game? There’s an app for that! Now iPhone users can download Golf-n-Scope, a digital rangeďŹ nder, from the iTunes App Store for a one-time cost of $4.99. Golf-n-Scope uses your iPhone’s camera, with ag recognition and range ďŹ nding calculations to estimate your distance to the ag. It works without GPS, mak-
ing it usable on any golf course regardless of coverage. It’s easy to use, just aim the cross hairs at the ag, press the camera button and Golf-n-Scope gives you your
sionals alike. It virtually eliminates sore shoulders and back resulting from lugging golf clubs from the parking garage through the airport check-in counter and to the hotel. The integrated set of legs with in-line caster wheels retracts into the bag making ClubGlider safe and secure for travel. At baggage claim simply extend the legs and glide to your destination. This is great for the traveling golfer. Golf Today readers enjoy a special $30 discount and free name embroidery by using Promotion Code GTNW at www. clubglider.com. CHICKS GOLF, TOO
distance to the ag. You can ďŹ ne tune the ag location by touching the markers on the screen. Golf-n-Scope will suggest a suitable club based on the computed distance to the pin and clubs in your golf bag. For more information visit www. qualnetics.com/golf-n-scope. You can purchase Golf-n-Scope at http://itunes. com/apps/golf-n-scope. THE CLUBGLIDER The CLUBGLIDER Travel Bag continues to wow golfers and Tour profes-
town Puyallup, WA is a lively and social gathering place to stop in and share your stories - about golf, family, work or whatever - all while seeing what is new in ladies golf fashions, the coolest gadgets and must-have bags. A big hit at the Seattle Golf Show, Chicks Golf, Too also has an online store for those shoppers wishing to browse the logo products on the Internet. “The goal we had in mind for our booth, was to create a mini-replica of the shop,� says owner Amanda Brunagh. “It was a huge hit with all of the show’s lady attendees, and we look forward to visiting with them all again soon during the 2010 golf season.� For more information, please visit www.chicksgolf2.com.
Chicks Golf, too is a fun, inviting store for women’s golf apparel, shoes, and accessories. The shop, located in Down-
STAFF
REGIONAL EDITORS / AD REPS
PUBLISHER / EDITOR . . . . . . . Cameron Healey
cameron@golftodaynw.com PRODUCTION DIRECTOR . . . Kris Hansen kris@golftodaynw.com GOLF EXPLORER EDITOR. . . Hal Gevertz GCSA & NORCAL PGA . . . . . . Emmy Moore Minister ASSOCIATE EDITORS: . . . . . Bob Weisgerber, Bob Fagan CONTRIBUTING EDITOR . . . . Leith Anderson leith@calgolftech.com
CONTRIBUTORS . . . . . . . . . . . John Berkovich,
Don Carlson, Dan Hruby, Tom Kubistant (PhD), Tom LaMarre, Bill Nestor, Rick Newell, Barry Salberg, Ron Salsig, Pat Simmons, Robert Strahan, Terry VanderHeiden “ACEâ€? EDITOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Mc Colgan LMccol3525@aol.com CARTOONISTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . Randy Evert for Finkstrom‌ Jonny Hawkins‌Rich Newell for Life in The Trap‌Frank Roberson
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA/RENO/TAHOE
Charley Coppola‌916-427-3441 RENO/TAHOE
Bob Gee‌775-741-5300
ccgolf@comcast.net geeforce@prodigy.net
NORTHERN CALIFORNIAREGIONAL EDITOR
Robert Strahan, former Tour Pro CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
Mike Hamiel‌2094998779 LAS VEGAS
Xavier Basquez‌7024088658
707-673-7206
michaelhamiel@comcast.net basquezxman@aol.com
MAXWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
Christopher (CB) Maxwell‌2095338291 cbmaxwell@sonnet.com
Cameron Healey 1VCMJTIFS &EJUPS t (Plf Today Magazine Northwest Edition QIPOF t fax www.GolfTodayNW.cPN t $BNFSPO!(PMG5odayNW.com
ISSN 1524-2854
Golf Today Magazine, The Best in the West for 23 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 ďšť NORTHWEST EDITION
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game more predictable. We need to consider more effective game-playing techniques and strategies because we all know that the perfect swing will fail at the most unexpected time. We need to enhance and improve the abilities and experiences of the Player we are coaching. And, we need to work with Players on the course – after all, iff I never saw you play, how would I know what to teach h you? These are principles that make the he game of golf easier. Yes, that’s right – easier! er! It requires far more ore ‘mental toughness’ and swing knowledge to adhere to a model golf lf swing that is built solely on the range but inexplicably fails on the course. And,, we should nott
force Players solely into swing models – it’s the experience of the Player that counts the most. And, really, playing golf is more fun! Bob Duncan is the Teaching Professional at Tetherow Golf Club in Bend, Oregon. Bob has given over 8,000 hours of instruction and coaching, and has ccustom fit over $1.6 million in golf equipment. Bo Bob is an expert in on-co on-course coaching, and typ typically spends 60 - 75 75% of his lesson time on the course at Tethe Tetherow. You can reach Bob at golfsavvy@ msn.com, visit his website at www www.golfecoach. com, or visit Tetherow at www.tetherow.com. www.teth
that on occasion while watching Rawson line up a putt, I find myself thinking “Looks like she’s putting against the grain. Hey, that’s a cute hat.” The next question is inevitably, “now, where do I get one?” I have had some luck at Peutz. I have always had great experiences with their staff who are always attentive and nice. I haven’t been so fortunate at some of the golf chains. I often feel like the ladies attire section is sort of an afterthought. Four or five racks does not a ladies section make. I must address the one big, big complaint I hear from my women friends about golf attire. Size matters. We come in all sizes. While many stores stock size 2-14, there are often few choices for those of us who are tall, athletic or well built. More attire in larger sizes please. I have friends who rarely even try local retailers for this reason and instead go straight to their computer to make their purchases.
Local golf enthusiast Amanda Brunaugh owns Chicks Golf Too, a women’s specialty shop in Puyallup. The very reason she is in business is to hear and address the individual needs of local women golfers. Chicks Golf Too offers a variety of contemporary, comfortable and classy ladies golf apparel and accessories. I know I dislike ordering clothing online because you just never know how things will fit and feel. I could care less if that sweater looks good; if it’s scratchy or not long enough to stay put on the backswing then forget about it. Brunaugh hears this complaint a lot and this is why she proactively searches out the latest looks so her customers won’t have to. Brunaugh keeps Chicks Golf Too stocked with a range of styles and sizes. Downtown Pullayup and online store (253) 845-0554, http://www. chicksgolf2.com. Add links to women’s blogs, products and services:
CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES 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 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
HOUSE OF KANGAROO GOLF SHOES
LEFT HANDED GOLF CLUBS
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
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.
GOLF ACCESSORIES
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. 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.
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.
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. MARCH 2010
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is that even though it’s guarded by woods on the left, and woods and a creek on the right, you can potentially make this green in one shot. If you hit it just right, there is a slot between the cart path and the sand trap at the bottom of the hill that allows
Places to Stay
Medford Oaks RV Resort is just a few miles east of the course at 7049 Hwy. 140. They gladly accept overnighters and offer complete facilities including laundry, pull through sites, Wi-Fi, pool, even a fishing pond. 541-826-5103 The La Quinta Inn and Suites offers a Stay-N-Play package for $99.99 which includes a 2 room suite for one night’s stay and one round of golf with a cart. Suites have a King size bed and a Queen sofa sleeper. Additional vouchers for rounds of golf can be purchased for $30.00/person. La Quinta is located on 2020 Leigh Way, White City, on the corner of Hwy’s. 62 and 140. 541- 826-0800 or 1-800-753-3757.
the ball to roll right to the green. Some can even make the green on the fly. Interestingly, between #13 and #14 on the right side of the of the cart path, you can see remnants of cement “spider holes” (6’ deep fox holes) the army used during training in the 1940’s (wonder how many of their shots went in the woods). Number 14 is another downhill shot from an elevated tee box. Club down one club on your second shot. You finally reach the bottom of the hill at the Par 5
While You’re There
The clubhouse features a deli where you can purchase your favorite beverage and custom prepared sandwiches. With a fully stocked pro-shop, head pro Scott Lusk, can provide you with new clubs, clothes, and lessons. With over 30 years of experience, he is well known for his ability to teach the beginner, as well as providing needed “tune-ups” for the frequent player. Outside the club house, there are two large putting greens and a driving range with real grass tee boxes.
32 GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
446 yard #15. Again, risk and reward. There is a pond on the right on the approach. A slice here is NOT good. When Mr. Cochran was digging out the ponds on #15 and #16, he says he found numerous mortar shells, bullets and grenades. Now the ponds are getting filled up with errant golf shots. It would be interesting to know if the number of golf shots in the ponds match the number of shots made when it was an artillery range. I’ve contributed my share. Number 17, yet another elevated tee, is a 134 yard Par 3. I suggest you drop down two clubs so you don’t fly the green into the tall grass behind it. Did I mention that the course has lots of woods, water and tall grass?
How to Get There I-5 Exit 30, Crater Lake Hwy./ Hwy. 62 East to White City. Turn right (east) on Hwy. 140. Course is 3 miles on the right (you can see hole #16 from the highway). Turn right on East Antelope Road. You can’t miss it!
Finally, #18 is a straightaway 459 yard, Par 5. Again, risk and reward (broken record here). If you can get to the 200 marker, you can make it in 2, but alas, Dry Creek runs right in front of the smallest green on the course. When you get to the clubhouse, and you’ve had time to lick your wounds, and nurse your woes with a favorite beverage, you will look back on your round and want to come back for more. The course does make for a lot of “would’a, could’a, should’a’s” in the club house. Realizing I may have made Stone Ridge sound like the course from “you know where”,the course can be forgiving, too. Fairly decent shots can be rewarded with a second shot on and a two putt. Par can be had at Stone Ridge, and no matter what you shoot, the course is fun and affordable (under $50!), the history is interesting, and the views are fantastic. Cliff Cowley lives and works in Southern Oregon. When he is not on the golf course, he teaches English at a local middle school in Medford. He runs a writers’ group for young writers, and puts on a young writers’ camp, sponsored by the Oregon Writing Project and Southern Oregon University. He can be reached at cliff.cowley@gmail.com.
MARCH 2010
continued from page 33
The best tee times, The best golf courses, The best prices. Visit today! Follow us on twitter: @golfnownw
MARCH 2010
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE ďšť NORTHWEST EDITION
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MARCH 2010
Red Rock Golf Trail ! 4 nights , 3 rounds start @ $350
Are you searching for a new winter golf destination? Look no further - St. George, Utah’s Red Rock Golf Trail lets you choose from nine courses, 10 hotels and 100’s of postcard settings. Book up to 6 months in advance with no fees. Just 90 minutes north of Las Vegas on I-15!
For a custom package that fits your schedule, skill level and pocketbook, visit www.RedRockGolf.com or call 888.345.2550
MARCH 2010
red rock golf trail
GOLF TODAY MAGAZINE NORTHWEST EDITION
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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! Ø Valuable prizes for longest drive competition Ø Valuable prizes for closes to the pin competition Ø Discounted golf coupons at Seattle-area courses
$115 per golfer
$105 golfer in twosome $95 golfer in foursome
Ø Free practice range balls—cart included Ø Win a new $189 putter at one-shot putting contest (Top 2) Ø Major Clubmaker Demo of Clubs—Try them! Ø Tournament open to men and women—no handicap req’d Ø Awards presentation after round Ø Meet Golf Today staff—they’ll participate, but not be eligible for prizes Ø 1.30pm Shotgun start!
For more information & entry forms, call
425-941-9946 or email cameron@golftodaynw.com We will fax, send, or email entry forms to you!