Golf & Tourism Magazine - April - June 2013 Issue

ISSUE 1 April - June

2013 $8.95

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Your Passion is Our Purpose

RAYMOND ARRIETA

“WHOLE IN ONE” Torrey Pines

A GOLFER’S DREAM ALL ABOUT

PUERTO RICO OPEN 2013: MEMORABLE TIMES The Puerto Rico Golf Association Shares its Success Stories

Taittinger® Champagne ©2012 Importado por V. Suárez & Co., Inc., San Juan, Puerto Rico. 12% Alc./Vol

Director/Publisher Verónica Rosario-Bautista Editor, Proofreader, Translator Oscar Peñalber Art Director & Graphic Designer Laura Wood Photography Priscila T. Rivera José “Piti” Gutiérrez Leoneill Hernández Writers and Collaborators Paul Stawinski Iván O. Puig Jorge López Andres Subira Leslie Rondon Marta de Jesús Claudio Consultant Julio Soto Executive Director PRGA Sales and Marketing, tourism expert and Club Administrator Charlie Bautista Advertise your business Please contact us at:

787-360-2093 sales@golftourismpr.com

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your passion is our purpose

CONTENTS

Golf & Special Features

8

Puerto Rico OPEN 2013

20

Cover Story Raymond Arrieta Whole in One

By Marta de Jes煤s Claudio

Tourism

30 32 34

12 13 16

Learning from the Masters The Importance of the Pre-Shot Routine

By Andres Subira

24

Highlights of the PRGA On the Upswing

By PRGA

Our Concierge Recommends A Need to Re-think Tourism

By Iv谩n O. Puig

Regulars

6 40

Tourism News Captain Mickey in Puerto Rico

42 44

Juniors Golf Toro and Torres Repeat as Junior National Champs

By PRGA

46

28

Golf Course Showcase Dorado Beach

By G&T

Mixology Classic and Flair Bartending National Competition

By Jorge L贸pez

Golf Gusto Leslie Rondon A Young Epicurean with a Mission

By G&T

Golf Journal A Golfers Dream

By Paul Stawinski

36

Opening Shot Directors Letter

International Vallformosa an every day Luxury

By Ver贸nica Rosario-Bautista

Out of the Course WorldClass Collection Meeting on the Greens Golf Humor 10 Fun Facts About Golf

47

Tech & Gadgets

48

G&T Restaurants Guide

50

Golf Courses Guide

Director’s Letter

Welcome to

the world of Golf & Tourism Puerto Rico is a true tropical golf paradise, and every golfer and tourist that visits it discovers reasons to return.

In every edition of Golf & Tourism Magazine you will find a diversity of fun and exciting things to do and places to visit. I invite you to make the most of your vacation or leisure time and dare to journey past the shores to discover our rich culture and the warmth of our people. Our beautiful island offers picturesque sandy beaches where you can enjoy your favorite water sport; valleys and mountains with breathtaking paradisiacal sceneries; spectacular golf courses played by renowned personalities from around the world; historic landmarks; museums and art galleries; a wide array of restaurants offering local and international cuisine, and lots of shopping opportunities.

Once you are in our island you’ll know you’ve come to the right place where you can have plenty of fun and create unforgettable memories.

I sincerely hope that you enjoy and share each journey which I’ll bring to you with a welcoming heart.

Verónica Rosario Director and Publisher

My special thanks to Julio Soto of the Puerto Rico Golf Association for his help and efforts with this project, and for supporting my mission of helping others in our community.

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

PR OPEN 2013

Scott Brown wins the 2013 Puerto Rico OPEN Scott Brown calmly made a fourfoot putt on the 18th hole at Trump International Golf Club to set a new tournament record of -20 and notch his first PGA TOUR win at the 2013 Puerto Rico Open presented by seepuertorico.com.

“It’s a dream come true, something you dream about as a kid,” said Brown. “For me, I’ve been playing golf since I was four or five years old and, obviously, growing up in Augusta, Georgia, I was probably 500 yards from the front gate. So it means a great deal.”

Brown, who co-led with Fabián Gómez of Argentina heading into championship Sunday, was -19 and one stroke off Gómez’s lead to start the final hole, a par-5 that had yielded plenty of birdies and not a few eagles throughout the tournament. “I knew I’d have to, at least, make birdie, and I figured I’d have to make eagle, to be honest, the way he was playing,” said Brown.

WIth the pressure on and the trophy on the line, however, Gómez stumbled. On his second shot, a wayward 3-iron landed in a trap short of the green.

His third overshot the stick and rolled to a back bunker. Gómez lifted it out cleanly but left himself too difficult a par putt and he missed it by mere inches. The resulting bogey dropped him to -19 and a momentary firstplace tie with Brown and Jordan Spieth, who had charged up the leaderboard en route to shooting a 67.

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The door was opened for Brown, who left his second shot just short of the green, chipped to within four feet and stood over the putt that would make him a champion. “I was just trying to keep my hands from shaking off

the putter,” he later recalled.

They didn’t, and he sank it to card a winning 70.

The 29 year-old Brown wins $630,000, full PGA TOUR status through 2015, and 300

FedEx Cup points. He also earns automatic berths in top-flight events like this year’s Arnold Palmer Invitational, THE PLAYERS Championship, Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial, the Memorial Tournament, ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

PR OPEN 2013

Angel Cabrera

AT&T National, the PGA Championship, and the 2014 Hyundai Tournament of Champions.

For Gómez, who shot a finalround 71, it was his best finish ever at a PGA TOUR event.

Though obviously disappointed about the victory that slipped away, he was generally pleased with his performance.

“That’s golf; you just never know,” said Gómez about his finish. “I felt I had to make birdie because I thought he was going to make birdie, so I tried to hit it on there with the 3-iron and just hit a bad shot.”

It had been the first time the Argentinean led a PGA TOUR event, and he confessed that nerves may have gotten the best of him. “The pressure definitely played its part, as did the course, which played tougher today.”

For Spieth, the 19 year-old former world #1 amateur, this t2nd finish comes in just his third PGA TOUR start as a professional. The former Texas Longhorn had started the day four back before birdies on five of the first 10 holes, but a bogey on 16 cost him dearly.

WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM

Argentinian Pro Fabián Gómez

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PR OPEN 2013

Puerto Rican Pro Rafael Campos

“Just one short; didn’t get up and down on 15 or 16, and it cost me,” said Spieth. “But all in all, obviously I’m real excited with how the week ended, and I would have taken second at the beginning of the week if you told me. It was cool to battle on the back nine there and know that I was close in the heat and feel the pressure. First time experience for me.”

Justin Bolli (66) and Brian Stuard (68) took home of a share of third place at -18. Andrés Romero, who led after the first two rounds before a disastrous 75 on Saturday, bounced back with a 66 on the final day to finish at -17, tied for sixth with former U.S. Amateur champ Peter Uihlein (67).

ished tied for eight to round out the top-10.

Puerto Rican pro Rafael Campos carded a 74 to finish at even par for the tournament, the best score by a local player in the event’s history. He finished 76th.

“These last three days I didn’t do very well, but still happy to be here, very happy to be playing in this tournament and to make it to the final day,” said Campos, who received a special trophy during the award ceremony for having the best performance by a Puerto Rican player.

“These last three days I didn’t do very well, but still happy to be here, very happy to be playing in this tournament and to make it to the final day,” said Rafael Campos, who received a special trophy during the award ceremony for having the best performance by a Puerto Rican player.”

Jorge García, the 17-year-old Venezuelan amateur playing in his first PGA TOUR event, finished at -1, one spot above Campos.

David Hearn (66), D.J. Trahan (66), and Boo Weekley (68) fin-

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

PR OPEN 2013

SUCCESS ON AND OFF THE COURSE With down-to-the-wire action on the fairways and greens, and packed social events throughout tournament week, the 2013 Puerto Rico Open once again proved that it’s a unique and fun-filled event for both fans and players.

Mayor Eduard Rivera, the Government of Puerto Rico, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, our founding partners, Banco Popular and Triple-S, the late Don Arturo Díaz, Jr., and his family, Fondos Unidos, and our over 900 volunteers and staff”, said Tournament Chairman Sidney Wolf.

From the Monday qualifier to the closing ceremony, the tournament was a resounding success on and off the course.

Much of that is due to the hard work of the many organizers, volunteers, and sponsors who made it all possible.

The event was also successful in its many charitable and community initiatives. Whether it be golf demonstrations for area youngsters, sports equipment collection drives, or donations to local hospitals, the Puerto Rico Open was, and will continue to be, a place to show appreciation for our community and help strengthen it through the game of golf.

“I would like to give our thanks to the over 80 great sponsors that have made the 2013 Puerto Rico Open a reality, specially to

A big part of that was on display on championship Sunday which was also Pink Day in support of women’s golf. The Puerto Rico

Open and the Puerto Rico Golf Association have made it their priority to promote golf among women in Puerto Rico, and have created two new programs exclusively for women. The first, Golf and the City, organizes social events around golfing to introduce women to golf and offers free clinics by professional golfer Sasha Medina. The second is the Ladies Puerto Rico Golf Association, which helps female golfers improve their skills and techniques to a professional level.

We look forward to another great year at the 2014 Puerto Rico Open.

“The 2013 Puerto Rico Open was also successful in its many charitable and community initiatives.

Whether it be golf demonstrations for area youngsters, sports equipment collection drives, or donations to local hospitals, the event was, and will continue to be, a place to show appreciation for our community and help strengthen it through the game of golf.”

Argentinian Pro Andrés Romero

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Learning from the

The Importance of a

Pre-Shot Routine

By Andres Subira

From getting dressed to smoking a good cigar, we all have our own routines. Regardless of whether it’s a drive, an approach, a pitch, a chip, a bunker shot or a putt, every single pro golf player performs a preshot routine prior to hitting a shot. Freddy Couples adjusts his pants with his wrists; Kegan Bradley makes a stepping motion back and forth; Tiger Woods takes exactly nineteen seconds from the time he starts his putting routine to the time he strikes the ball.

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nyone who plays golf knows that no one can sustain a deep level of concentration through a full round of golf, which may take between two to more than six hours. The actual time it takes to hit a golf shot is about three seconds. For the average golfer who shoots a score close to 100, it takes about five minutes for a full round. Adding a 10 to15 seconds shot routine, a round requires about thirty minutes of intense concentration.

gin when you reach the tee, then select the club, consider the terrain, wind and type of shot, and may take from five to fifty steps, but it is best to keep them short. Elements may include rehearsing the swing, loosening and relaxing the body, visualizing the shot, stepping to the ball, addressing the ball, taking a stance, checking your balance, verifying your grip and re-checking the target line.

“A pre-shot routine is a set of steps performed in a specific order before a shot is made.”

Although the time between shots may be long, the actual time used to execute the shot is very short. Therefore, a golfer must perform a pre-shot routine in order to re-focus the mind and body to hit the best possible shot, instead of just taking a “whack at it”, hoping for the best, wishing for divine intervention, praying to the gods.

A pre-shot routine is a set of steps performed in a specific order before a shot is made. The routine, however simple or complicated, must include the basic steps in preparing to hit a shot, such as target selection and alignment. Pre- routines be-

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With repetition, preshot routines become automatic and second nature and help us become better golfers. We eliminate chance in the process of hitting a shot and make the game more enjoyable adding a better and faster flow.

Andres Subira is a Master Golf Coach, member of the United Golf Teachers Federation. Currently works as Director of Instruction, Master Club Fitter and Club Maker at Río Bayamon Golf Course.

ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Highlights PRGA

n the upswing: How the Puerto Rico Golf Association Helps Grow the Game

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n that role, the PRGA provides a number of technical services to the local golf community, like course rating and handicapping, but its greatest mission is to promote the game at all levels. To that end, the Association organizes professional and amateur championships, selects and supports Puerto Rico’s national teams, and runs a wildly successful junior program. The PRGA also prides itself on strong community outreach programs; whether it be introducing ladies from diverse economic backgrounds to the game of golf, hosting clinics for undeprivileged children, or its many direct and indirect contributions to charity.

Here are just some of the great golf success stories from last year, proof that the Puerto Rico Golf Association is succeeding in its core mission to promote and strengthen the game.

PROFESSIONAL GOLF

2012 was an exceptional year for golf in Puerto Rico, and for Puerto Rican golfers throughout the world.

The year featured exciting new events, great success on the international stage, and the continued strong development of our junior golfers –the future stars of the game. Much of this success was made possible through the efforts and support of the Puerto Rico Golf Association (PRGA), the governing body of the sport at the amateur level on the Island.

WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM

The Puerto Rico Open, our Island’s most important golf event, celebrated its 5th anniversary in 2012. The tournament, held on March 8-11, was a rousing success on every level; the event featured its strongest field ever and one of its most exciting finishes. With three straight birdies in the tournament’s final holes, American George McNeill took home the title.

That same month, local touring pro Rafael Campos began play on the 2012 Tour de las Américas. A second-place finish at the International Open La Vitalicia in Venezuela helped him finish third on the Tour’s Order of Merit, and granted him full membership on the new PGA TOUR Latinoamérica for its inaugural season.

The 11-tournament circuit began in September, and Campos got off to a fantastic start. The 24-year-old notched top-15

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Highlights PRGA

finishes in the tour’s first four events, including two top-5 finishes. Overall, Campos made eight of 10 cuts and placed 14th on the Order of Merit, thereby ensuring his spot as a full member for the tour’s 2013 season.

Other Puerto Rican pros like Max Alverio and Miguel Suárez also played at various PGA TOUR Latinoamérica events.

In November, Campos was one of hundreds of playing vying for his PGA TOUR card at the second stage of Q-School. Though he played extremely well, finishing at -6 after four rounds at Plantation Preserve in Florida, he was unable to advance to the final round of qualyfing.

That same weekend, the PGA TOUR Latinoamérica came to the Island for the inaugural Puerto Rico Classic. Played on the East Course at Dorado Beach, this exciting new event gave golf fans a glimpse of the region’s best players and allowed half a dozen local pros and amateurs to enjoy some high-level competition. Sebastián Vázquez, of Mexico, a former amateur world champion making just his second pro start, won the event. 19-year-old amateur Edward Figueroa was the

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top amateur and top Puerto Rican player in the field with an impressive 14th place finish.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION Puerto Rico’s national teams had a very successful year in 2012. First up, in July, our junior teams brought home their fifth straight Hank James Trophy as the best overall team at the Caribbean Amateur Junior Golf Championships held in the Dominican Republic. That victory was mainly due to the efforts of Puerto Rico’s junior ladies, as Diana Vélez, Yudika Rodríguez and María Torres all won their respective age categories.

Right after that tournament, Sebastián Toro and Andrew Báez played at the Callaway Junior World Golf Championships in California. Thanks to their fine efforts on the course, Puerto Rico finished 10th in this prestigious international tournament.

The following month, Puerto Rico once again proved itself the best team in the region, winning the Arthur Ziadie trophy given to the best overall country at the Caribbean Amateur Golf

Championships held in St. Kitts.

Puerto Rico had top-three finishes in all of the tournament’s categories, including third place for the male amateurs and second place for the females. María Torres was once again a standout; the 17-year-old had the lowest individual score in the ladies’ competition.

In early September, the juniors were back in action at the 6th annual Copa de Campeones held at the Bahía Beach Golf Club. This friendly match between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic was both great fun and exciting competition. Once again it was the girls leading the way, with Gabriela Santini, Kristina Ortiz, Yudika Rodríguez, and Gabriela Cidras all winning their matches on the final day to secure the win for Puerto Rico.

In late September and October, Puerto Rico’s national teams traveled to Turkey for the 2012 World Amateur Team Championships. Kyle Roig, Patricia García and María Torres made up the Women’s Team, which equaled its best finish in history by placing 20th. Torres was 26th on the individual leaderboard. A week later, the Men’s

Team of Erick Morales, Robert Calvesbert and Jerónimo Esteve placed 39th.

JUNIORS AROUND THE WORLD In 2012, Puerto Rico’s top junior golfers literally went around the world and back to compete in some of the most prestigious tournaments on the planet. Below are just some of the top events and performances from our junior players.

The juniors got started in January, with the second AJGA Puerto Rico Junior Open played right here at Trump International. The event, which would later be awarded a special Volunteer Award from the AJGA, not only was a great success, but saw Puerto Rican golfer Edward Figueroa take home the win and a special invitation to the Puerto Rico Open. Also in January, Paola Robles, María Torres, and Kristina Ortiz played the prestigious AJGA ANNIKA Invitational.

ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Highlights PRGA In April, Torres won the AJGA TaylorMade-Adidas Golf Junior at Innisbrook in Florida.

Just two months later, she would tee off at the U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship.

Also in July, Daniel Cabán and Valeria Pacheco went across the pond to compete at the Junior Open Championship, hosted by the legendary R&A Golf Club. The 13-year-old Pacheco won the North America & Caribbean regional prize for her performance in that event.

Andrew Baez and Sebastian Toro at the CALLAWAY JUNIOR WORLD GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

Women’s Team (2nd Place) - CARIBBEAN AMATEUR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

In August, Edward Figueroa enjoyed the distinct honor of qualifying and playing in the U.S. Amateur Championship held at Cherry Hills Country Club in Colorado. The following month, María Torres finished 19th overall, and 5th in the Girls’ Division at the prestigious Duke of York – Champions Trophy event in Scotland. Torres was also named a second-team Rolex Junior AllAmerican in October.

Puerto Rico’s juniors, particularly the girls, finished the year with strong performance in December. First, at the Doral Publix Junior Golf Classic in Florida, Diana Vélez placed second in the Girls’ 12-13 Division, while María Torres finished third in her 16-18 category. Just a few days later, Torres closed out 2012 with a victory at the Junior Orange Bowl International Golf Championship.

LOCAL EVENTS In addition to its many tournaments throughout the year for golfers of all ages and ability levels, the Puerto Rico Golf Association hosted several important events and championships.

In April, at the 2012 Junior Island Championship, Sebastián Toro emerged as the winner in the Boys’ Division, while María Torres won the Girls’ championship for the second consecutive year.

Sebastián Vazquez - PUERTO RICO CLASSIC

WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM

Championships. Rafael Campos won as a pro for the second consecutive year, while Edward Figueroa was crowned the Island’s new amateur national champion. In the Ladies’ Division, Paola Robles took home the trophy for the third straight time.

In October, the 19th Copa Martín Ortiz was played at Caguas Real Golf & Country Club. Andrew Báez, María Torres, José Pedraza and Gabriel Colón fully took advantage of playing on their home course to give Caguas Real the win over the 10 other local clubs who sent their best junior teams. Later that month, at the 2012 PRGA Associate Club Championship, the squad from the Roosevelt Roads Golf Association took home the Emilio Casellas Cup. Away from the golf course, the PRGA hosted another important event, the inaugural Golf Summit. This innovative meeting brought together pros, coaches, club managers, and many others involved in the local golf scene to share their ideas, improve communications, and help take the sport to the next level in Puerto Rico.

PRESENT AND FUTURE This year, golf is off to another great start. The 2013 Puerto Rico Open and Puerto Rico Junior Open both crowned new champions. Rafael Campos is back at the PGA TOUR Latinoamérica, and the local juniors, after their national championship, are getting ready for international play.

The future of golf is bright in Puerto Rico.

In June, Trump International Golf Club hosted the PRGA

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Juniors Golf

Toro and Torres

Repeat as Junior National Champs Sebastián Toro closed with the best round of the tournament in the Boys’ division, María F. Torres shot the only score under par in the event, and both players defended their titles as Puerto Rico’s junior national champions on Wednesday at the conclusion of the PRGA Junior Island Championship.

Toro and Torres both saved their best golf for last, though under very different circumstances.

Toro began the final round in second place, just one stroke off the lead, but part of a pack of players who were very close behind second-round leader José Cardona. Cardona stumbled a bit on Wednesday, shooting a 77 (+6), while Toro carded a 72 to finish at +14 and win the Hank James Trophy for the second consecutive year. Cardona finished second at +18, while 14-year-old Kenneth Martínez, playing with the ‘big boys’, finished third at +19.

“They were 18 very competitive holes,” said the champion.

“I really enjoyed it because there were some very tense moments.”

The 17-year-old Toro shared that he understands the importance of winning the national championship on multiple occasions, like Eduardito Figueroa, Wilfredo Morales and Rafael Campos did before him. “It means a lot to me and to my family, that has always supported me,” he said.

“It means a lot to me to have my name on that trophy, along with

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the names (of other players) I admire.”

On the other hand, Torres enjoyed a 12-stroke lead after the first two days of play and only widened her margin of victory by shooting a final-round 70 (-1). Torres won the event at +2; Yudika Rodríguez and Gabriela Santini both shot 83 on Wednesday to take second and third place with total scores of +27 and +28, respectively.

With this win, Torres becomes the first Puerto Rican golfer, male or female, to win the Junior Island Championship on four occasions, thus wrapping up an extraordinary ‘career’ with the PRGA’s Junior Program.

“For me, having this record is a real accomplishment,” said Torres. “It was a real thrill to win the Island (Championship) for a fourth time and finish my time as a PRGA junior with a win.”

Torres, a talented player with vast international experience, will be off to play at the University of Florida’s prestigious golf program later this year. She credits tournaments like this ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Photos by Leoniell Hernandez

Juniors Golf

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Juniors Golf

and the Junior Program in general with helping her get this far.

“It has meant a lot. It has allowed me to develop in this sport, which is what I love,” she said. “I hope the girls who are staying will keep on going.”

Though Toro and Torres become junior national champions by virtue of winning the 18 & under categories, there was plenty of exciting action in the other age divisions.

Among the 15 & under boys, Leslie Rivera shot a closinground 79 to finish at +26 and take home first place. He beat out Josaphet Durán (+31) and José Pedraza (+33). The Boys 13 & under division had the only sudden death action of the tournament; after Melvin Morales and Ian Aldarondo finished tied at +25, Morales won the onehole playoff on the 18th hole.

Diego Saavedra took first place among the 11 & under boys, while Fabián Colón did the same in the 9 & under division.

Among the girls, Diana Vélez closed with a 76 on Wednesday to complete a solid performance in the 15 & under category with a total of +14. Her sister, Alexandra, finished second. Valeria Pacheco was the only Girls 13 & under participant, but she had the second-best total score of the entire tournament after finishing with a 78, for a total of +13.

ship for her university studies.

“We had been following her for a while; we saw she had good scores, a good attitude on the course, and her teammates like her,’ he said. “I think she’s going to do very well with us, both on the course and in school.”

Francisco Rivera, the PRGA’s Tournament Director who also works trying to find opportunities for local young golfers in American colleges, was also key in helping Cidras receive this opportunity.

Winners 9 & Under Category

Camila Robles beat out Valeria Jiménez in the 11 & under group, while Darianys Guzmán was unchallenged in 9 & under.

Cidras Signs Letter of Intent Though she finished in sixth and last place in her division at the tournament, Gabriela Cidras still had a good day on Wednesday after signing a letter of intent to play college golf at St. Andrews University in North Carolina.

St. Andrews recruiter Randy Hernández was on hand to formally offer Cidras a spot on the team and a substantial scholar-

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Cover Story

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Cover Story

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t first glance you feel you are in the presence of a great human being, as vouched by the people who know him.

Besides his strong commitment to his work, Raymond Arrieta is deeply involved supporting and helping different community causes. Incidentally, he got involved with golf in 2004 almost by accident. Of his first game he remembers having “a few drinks too many” and losing his focus on the game. After receiving many invitations to participate in celebrity tournaments to raise funds he felt he had to learn more about the sport.

“To me, golf means my son.”

Raymond, feels that in other sports the father is just a spectator, while “the great thing about golf is that unlike with any other sport, you get the chance to spend five or six hours riding a golf cart with your kid.”

By Marta de Jesús Claudio Photos by José “piti” Gutiérrez

When we talk about Raymond Arrieta the first thing that comes to mind is comedy, but there is more to this beloved Puerto Rican figure than just a funny guy.

“I realized I had to take lessons, or someone may just hand me a tennis racquet to play golf, and I don’t want that,” chuckles the comedian and entertainer. That’s when he started taking lessons with golf instructor Carmen Ana, but he did not go alone, he brought along his nine-year old son Raymond Andrés. To his surprise, his kid got really involved with the sport, became a member of the Puerto Rico Golf Association and started playing in local and international events.

His goal to learn the sport resulted in him spending more time with his son. When he talks about golf he cannot avoid expressing his pride about his only son’s achievements.

In no uncertain way he told Golf and Tourism magazine “to me, golf means my son.”

Raymond, who is also an announcer, feels that in other sports the father is just a spectator, while “the great thing about golf is that unlike with any other sport, you get the chance to spend five or six hours riding a golf cart with your kid.”

After playing golf for eight years Raymond is aware that he needs to perfect his game and doesn’t consider himself an expert. “I play to have a good time. This is a very difficult sport which requires a lot of practice and it’s hard for me because I have very little time,” adding that “it’s very technical.”

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Cover Story

Usually his handicap is the highest and his final score is 98 or 99, although he has had his bright spots in golf, like when he played at the Sugarcane golf course in Dorado. “I have never been good but one time I was inspired and scored 86,” adding that he achieved that score after many practices with his son. “My son would practice Tuesdays and Thursdays and play on weekends.

I would follow him and start hitting the ball and getting the swing, especially with pitch shots, 100 yard shots, I loved those shots.”

His favorite golf club is the putter, especially when he plays at Río Mar in Río Grande. “I have that course pretty much figured out.”

On the other hand, Raymond considers the Bahía Golf Club in Río Grande the hardest one to play, although he’s been told that the toughest one is the one in Isabela. “I think that the hardest course is the one you play when you have a hangover,” says Raymond jokingly, meaning that is very difficult to play when you are exhausted.

“Although he has been invited to play in the Puerto Rico Open as Pro-Am twice, he has never been able to play due to time conflicts.

On the other hand, he has participated in different tournaments to raise funds for charity and community causes and organizations.”

While his son is playing in tournaments Raymond cannot accompany him on the course, but “I put a lot of pressure” when he is training, assures the comedian with his typical sense of humor. “He has fun with the things I tell him.”

Although Raymond has not been able to apply all the techniques, he has learned enough about golf to become a sort of critic of his son.

Therefore, it is no coincidence that his most thrilling memory of the sport is also related to his son. It was a memorable hole in one, something that had not happened in the Puerto Rican league in eight years. Unfortunately he wasn’t there with his son. “I always accompany my son. To me golf means my son. One day I wasn’t there and he was playing the Puerto Rico championship.

Although he has been invited to play in the Puerto Rico Open as ProAm twice, he has never been able to play due to time conflicts; nevertheless, he would love to have the chance to play along with a professional. On the other hand, he has participated in different tournaments to raise funds for charity and community causes and organizations. Some of the public figures with whom he has played golf include: Miguel Morales, Chayanne, Iván Rodríguez, Marc Anthony, Melina León, Cordelia González, Michael Stuart, Ali Warrington, Bizcocho, Juan Manuel Lebrón and Chucho Avellanet.

He is also friends with golfer Rafa Campos whom he met when his son played in the Junior League.

The comedian considers one of his biggest achievements the fact that at the early age of ten his son played in two world cups in San Diego, California, and Virginia; and also that Raymond Andrés has played in the Champions Cup in Puerto Rico and the Junior Golf National Tournament in Guatemala. “When your son is standing there with his uniform, that’s something else. When we went to Guatemala and he played against Latin-American countries, that was very exciting,” remembers the proud father, adding that now he is a bit nervous.

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Cover Story

That day I was in Aguadilla starting to walk for cancer. That’s the day when Willie Miranda Marín died and my son called me to tell me that he had made a hole in one, and I wasn’t there,” said the comedian, lamenting not being present in Dorado to see that play.

For cancer patients If Raymond Arrieta doesn’t spend too much time playing golf it is because his work, social and family commitments keep him busy most of the time. “Everything keeps changing, but once in a while I get away and play in some tournament where I have been invited.”

The first six months of the year, the artist mainly focuses on training for the Da Vida con Raymond Walk-A-Thon to raise funds for the Puerto Rican League against Cancer and the Oncologist Hospital. This initiative that brings so much hope to cancer patients and their families will celebrate its fifth anniversary from June 6 to 12 starting in Mayaguez.

The training which takes an hour of intense work and includes routines of Quick Fit, CrossFit, Body Pump and Kickboxing keeps him fit to walk 15 miles a day. This year his cause turned more personal after his aunt was diagnosed with cancer. His goal is to raise one million dollars for cancer patients.

For more information about Da Vida con Raymond Walk-A-Thon you can visit: www. facebook.com/DaVidaCaminandoConRaymond.

WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM

Meanings Birdie: “Maybe two or three, by accident, but not like when the ball goes into the hole, it’s more like birds flying across.”

Eagle: “Reminds me of the Boy Scouts.”

Gym: “Another sacrifice. If it wasn’t for the walk-a-thon I would take ke it easier.”

Hole in one: “To me it’s a miracle.”

Putting: “There are good puttings and bad puttings.

Good puttings ttings happen on the green, reen, and bad “puttings” s” happen in the red light district.”

Telemundo: do: “It’s my home.

This people ple welcomed me, and although ough I have received other offers, I stay here. e. I’m comfortable here, it iss my family. And I’m here every ry day.”

Tiger: “Great Great athlete, but unfortunately ately a letdown for young people.” eople.”

Walk-A-Thon: Thon: “Although I run at the e front, this is not just my sacrifice, but the sacrifice acrifice of the town wn and of many any people that hat work behind hind me.”

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Golf Journal

O

Ag

Torrey Pines

lfer’s dream

By Paul Stawinski

I

’m sure that as an avid golfer you experience the same excitement I do whenever you watch a golf tournament like the US Open that unfolds as one of the greatest matches of all time.

Hole #3 | South Fairway

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Golf Journal

In June 2008 I was watching one of the greatest stories in golf, Tiger Woods and Rocco Mediate playing 18 holes to decide the winner of the 2008 US Open. As I watched the tournament I thought how amazing it would be to play the Torrey Pines and walk down the 18th fairway while the crowd is cheering. Unfortunately for many of us amateur golfers, that will never happen but it never hurts to dream!

“As I watched the tournament I thought how amazing it would be to play the Torrey Pines and walk down the 18th fairway while the crowd is cheering.”

A few months later I was in San Diego on business and I had brought my clubs to try playing the great Torrey Pines. I tried booking tee times on the course’s webpage and other online golf tee time reservation pages, I even used my credit card concierge service to have them book tee times, and everything was 5 or 6 months out. The nearest thing to realizing my dream was to visit the clubhouse and buy a Torrey Pines golf shirt and a ball marker. I stood on the veranda and watched folks tee-off from the 1st hole of the South and North courses and kept dreaming that someday I could play here.

On another visit to San Diego I tried booking the Torrey Pines without any luck. My friend wanted to buy a Torrey Pines polo shirt, so we drove to the course, bought the shirt and before heading out to play another course in San Diego I stopped at the starter’s booth to express my frustration.

The man asked me “at what time would you like to play?” It took me a few seconds to realize that he asked what time and not what day. I asked him if he had tee times for that day for the famous South course or the North Course, and to my amazement he had tee times for both.

So if you want to play Torrey Pines you can always try your luck and show up at the course, but because Torrey Pines hosts many tournaments year-round, make sure to check their calendar online to confirm that the course is available. Given that tee times are limited and in high demand, my advice is to reserve 4 or 5 months in advance.

Morning tee times are usually hard to get, but if you get there around 11am you will find plenty of tee times between 11am – 2pm. Remember, Torrey Pines is a municipal course and the rates range from $150 to $200 per person. Arrive with enough time to go to the store and buy some souvenirs; the store has a good selection of golf merchandise to make your fellow golfers jealous. They also rent clubs and gear.

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San Diego has beautiful golf weather yearround, but it you go in winter bring a light jacket or coat or buy one at the pro shop as the ocean breeze from the Pacific can be a bit chilly for us tropical golfers.

One of the first things that will surprise you about Torrey Pines is that they ask you to keep the golf cart on the fairway at all times. What makes Torrey Pines so challenging is their rough, and keeping carts out of it ensures it is kept as difficult as it looks on TV. So if you are like me you will find yourself walking a lot to your ball on the rough and also spending time trying to find it, as this is one of the thickest roughs I’ve ever played.

Hole #7 | North Fairway

Photos provided by Scott Bentley, PGA Golf Course Manager Torrey Pines Golf Course 11480 North Torrey Pines Road La Jolla, CA 92037

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Golf Journal

The first hole that will catch your attention is the 13th hole; it is a 160 to 190 yard par 3 with the Pacific Ocean cliffs on the back of it. The view is simply amazing. Don’t be surprised if as you line up for your shot you spot a hang glider passing by, there is a hang glider heliport on the other side of the ravine. As with any other difficult par 3, if you are short you will find yourself on the green side bunker, if you go long then just wave at it as it will head down the ravine toward the beach.

As you head to the 14th hole you will see a great view of the Pacific Ocean on your left. In this hole you will definitely see the hang gliders passing buy as they zoom up and down the coast. This is a great spot for a photo. On the 6th hole you’ll see where the famous black tees are located during the tournaments and realize how long pros hit the ball when they take their driver over the ravine and the trees, typically a 290 – 300 yard carry.

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“When you tee off on the 18th hole you’ll live the dream of walking down the 18th fairway at Torrey Pines. Most likely you won’t have anyone taking your picture or asking for your autograph, but if you are a passionate golfer like me, just walking the fairway will be enough!”

Once you finish your round of golf you have many choices for a late lunch or early dinner. You can go to the shop for sandwiches, burgers and hot dogs or have lunch at the hotel next door. I recommend George’s at

the Cove. It is a great restaurant in La Jolla beach, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, just minutes away from Torrey Pines. Make reservations if you plan to go between 5pm and 7pm, as tables on the deck fill up quickly with customers wanting to see a spectacular sunset on the West Coast.

Other courses I have played and recommend in San Diego are the Riverwalk Golf Course, Aviara Golf Course and Coronado Golf Course.

Playing the Torrey Pines felt like an amazing and memorable golf experience. Since there were no other golfers holding us up, it took us almost 5 hours to finish our round.

You also spend a lot of time admiring the views, so remember to bring your camera or at least a phone that takes good quality pictures.

ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Golf Course Showcase

Casa Club

FAST FACTS Located 30 minutes from Luis Muñoz International Airport Spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean Luxury 3-bedroom Resort Residences overlooking the beautiful Sugar Cane golf course.

Ultra-dwarf Champion Bermuda grass greens with a mixture Zoysia and 419 Bermuda grass on fairways and tees Native golden-sand from Dorado Beach used in all bunkers Caddie services available: $80 per bag gratuity included

The tradition of golf at Dorado Beach is as rich as the property’s history. Beginning in 1955, renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr. set out to create the finest golf resort in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, culminating in four spectacular, 18-hole layouts that have played host to celebrities, world leaders, golf legends and PGA tournaments. Today, Dorado Beach is still the only golf venue in the Caribbean offering 72 holes.

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Forecaddie service available: $100 per group gratuity included Brand new Titleist AP1 and AP2 rental clubs includes two sleeves of PROV1X golf balls: $75.00 per set, plus 7% sales tax PGA instruction available for groups and individuals La Hacienda Clubhouse features golf shop, locker rooms, bar, Members’ lounge, seating on the terrace Zafra Restaurant features fabulous eclectic cuisine in an exquisite atmosphere Practice facility features grass practice range, putting green and a green-side practice bunker ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Golf Course Showcase

East Course

EAST COURSE

WEST COURSE

SUGARCANE COURSE

PINEAPPLE COURSE

The Re-Opening of Dorado Beach’s East Course is the first in a series of events signifying its resurgence as one of the premier golf, leisure and private resort membership experiences in the world. Robert Trent Jones Jr.’s restoration of the historic East Course to the original vision put forth by his father brings this classic seaside course into the 21st century with a subtle rebirth as a modern masterpiece.

On the West Course, opened in 1958, Robert Trent Jones, Sr. designed holes running in different directions, making the everpresent breezes off the ocean a challenge to negotiate.

The Sugarcane course, also built in 1972, is the more challenging of the two Plantation courses although it boasts larger fairways and greens. The course demands you to negotiate forced carries and deep bunkers. The back nine is surrounded by newly created rivers and lakes and offers a much different look.

The Pineapple Course, built in 1972, was designed to be the more-friendly course for golfers.

It has fewer forced carries. The bunkers are not as deep and the greens are slightly larger.

Original panoramic site lines to the ocean have been restored on 15 of 18 holes. Native sand harvested from surrounding beaches highlights the contoured bunker complexes. New ultra-dwarf Champion Bermuda greens support double-digit speeds with a number of hole locations on every green. And now, playing over 7,200 yards, Dorado Beach East is as formidable from the championship tee as it is forgiving from the forward tee.

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The four par-3 holes are considered the toughest of Dorado Beach’s four courses. Ranging from 150 to 200 yards, these four holes feature sloping greens and plenty of bunkers.

The 175-yard 13th hole is lined with palm trees and the green is in an oasis of rolling sand that seems to run directly into the ocean.

The Raymond Floyd Group renovated this course in 2002 keeping the original layout and vision of Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Today, the West Beach course is temporarily closed for renovations.

Players have an opportunity for birdies early in the round, but by the 8th hole the course begins to show its teeth. Par is a great score on most every hole on the back nine, with a few birdie opportunities mixed in!

Good thing the new Plantation clubhouse awaits golfers after their round, whether it’s for a cold beverage, a magnificent meal cooked to order, or to just relax on our deck that provides great views of the course.

The back nine of The Pineapple Course consists of four holes with ocean views, followed by a tough five-hole stretch culminating with a fantastic parfour 18th that finishes up on a green just below the clubhouse terrace.

For those seeking a challenge, this course will provide all you can handle from the back tees.

Dorado Beach Resort & Club 500 Plantation Drive, Suite 1 Dorado, PR 00646 Phone: 787.626.1001 Fax: 787.626-1011 www.doradobeachclubs.com

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Our Concierge Recommends

A need to

rethink Tour!sm

By Prof. Ivรกn O. Puig Gonzรกlez, Dean of the International School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts at Universidad del Este (UNE).

The topic of tourism can be approached from different perspectives. Tourists view tourism as a tool to satisfy different emotional and physical needs, and such needs will largely determine the destinations and activities chosen. Businesses view tourism as an opportunity to generate profits by supplying goods and services. Government view tourism as a source of revenue for their respective jurisdictions. Communities view tourism as a cultural phenomenon and employment driver.

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Our Concierge Recommends

The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 resulting from the World Economic Forum Now, which theme was “Reducing Barriers to Economic Growth and Job Creation” assessed 140 economies worldwide, based on their implementation of policies and practices to develop their respective tourism industries. Puerto Rico was ranked #52, and the main factors that negatively affected its performance were: poor quality of transportation and infrastructure; lack of training, education, research and development; and faulty recruitment process.

Based on my academic and professional experience I offer 10 recommendations to better position Puerto Rico and improve its standing: Improve air, maritime and ground transportation

. . Improve the quality of our workforce’s education and training . Improve the management and maintenance of our natural and cultural resources

. Strengthen safety and security . Expand and diversify our hotel, service and tourist offer, and become more competitive offering more pricing alternatives

. Increase the number of international fairs, exhibitions, conventions and competitions hosted in the island

. Increase government involvement to place tourism high on its priorities and development agenda

. Implement

policies and regulations governing the tourism sector that support and drive continued improvement and development

. Enhance

the awareness of citizens and employees of the tourism sector about the value of tourism in terms of economic development for Puerto Rico

. Improve health and hygiene conditions throughout the island

emphasis from Products to Solutions and defines offerings by the needs they meet, not by their features, functions or technological superiority. Instead of Place it focuses on Access and developing an integrated cross-channel presence that considers the customers’ entire purchase journey instead of emphasizing on individual purchase locations and channels. Instead of Price it focuses on Value articulating the benefits relative to price, rather than stressing how price relates to production costs, profit margins, or competitors’ prices. Instead of Promotion it focuses on Education and providing information relevant to customers’ specific needs at each point in the purchase cycle, rather than relying on advertising, public relations, and personal selling that covers the waterfront.

In order to implement the revamped 4 P’s model for Puerto Rico as destination we must encourage a solutions mindset in the tourism industry and organizations; ensure that the Puerto Rico Tourism Company marketing campaigns reflect and reinforce the customer-centric focus, and foment collaboration between the marketing and sales strategies of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company and tourism industry development and delivery teams.

In addition, we need to rethink our marketing strategy as a destination. A recent article published by the “Harvard Business Review” that was written by a professor, a Senior VP and CMO and a consultant outlines a new solution-selling strategy with a model called SAVE Framework (Solution, Access, Value and Education). With this new model, the traditional 4 P’s marketing model (Product, Place, Price and Promotion) becomes more customer-centric and shifts the WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM

31

Tourism News

lo de Captain Mickey visits the Castil o Rico.

San Crist贸bal in San Juan, Puert

Captain Mickey in Puerto Rico In 2014, Disney Cruise Line will homeport in San Juan for p Disney the first time, with the Di Magic sailing four 7-night Southern Caribbean cruis cruises to St. Kitts, Antigua, St. L Lucia, Grenada and Barbados.

Photos and Information provided by Disney Cruise Lines

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

king La Breathta terfall Coca Wa que at El Yun l Forest.

Nationa

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Disney Cruis e Line guests c an explore Puert o Rico with a zipline adven ture through the rain forest or a ka yak river tour.

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a San Cristóbal led by de illo st Ca e th of ur A walking to of d clothing is just one rio pe in d se es dr e id heritage gu e guests may enjoy in Lin se ui Cr ey sn Di es many activiti in the fall of 2014.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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Golf Gusto

Leslie Rondon a Young Epicurean with a Mission

By Golf & Tourism

A seasoned professional with 12 years of experience in the gastronomy industry, Leslie represents the new generation of young chefs and her mission is to develop a crop of emerging young chefs.

L

eslie is a chef instructor at the prestigious University of Puerto Rico and the MBTI Business Training Institute in Bayamon, and a sous chef at renowned hotels such as the Carlson Hotels and Disney World Resorts in Orlando, Florida.

Leslie is also the owner and chef executive of El Meson de Leslie, an innovative chef at home full catering service for private and business parties, receptions or events, o ff e r i n g a wide range of culinary delicacies cooked on site. She is also very active contributing her time and services to fundraising and charity events that benefit our community.

Golf & Tourism had the pleasure of talking with Leslie at her house where she made us feel welcome treating us to some of her exquisite cuisine.

What are your thoughts about culinary critique?

It is always a good idea to find in advance what critics say about a restaurant to have a better idea of what to expect and how your money will be spent. Besides the culinary review you can also get useful information such as prices, location, parking, etc.

What does it take to be a chef instructor?

It takes passion, dedication, and especially social awareness to work with and mold young people to develop them into seasoned professional chefs.

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Golf Gusto

INGREDIENTS: 1½ cups arborio rice 1 qt chicken stock ½ cup white wine 1 medium shallot or ½ small onion, chopped (about ½ cup) 3 Tbsp unsalted butter 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 cup pre cooked pigeon peas, thawed ½ cup of cooked ham

Photos by Priscila Rivera

Spare ribs accompanied by Risotto with pigeon Peas and Ham

PREPARATION: Heat the stock to a simmer in a medium saucepan, then lower the heat so that the stock just stays hot.

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the oil and 1 Tbsp of the butter over medium heat. When the butter has melted, add the chopped shallot or onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until it is slightly translucent.

Add the rice to the pot and stir it briskly with a wooden spoon so that the grains are coated with the oil and melted butter. Sauté for another minute or so, until there is a slightly nutty aroma. But don’t let the rice turn brown.

Add the wine and cook while stirring, until the liquid is fully absorbed.

Add a ladle of hot chicken stock to the rice and stir until the liquid is fully absorbed. When the rice appears almost dry, add another ladle of stock and repeat the process.

Note: It’s important to stir constantly, especially while the hot stock gets absorbed, to prevent scorching, and add the next ladle as soon as the rice is almost dry.

Continue adding ladles of hot stock and stirring the rice while the liquid is absorbed. As it cooks, you’ll see that the rice will take on a creamy consistency as it begins to release its natural starches.

Continue adding stock, a ladle at a time, for 20-30 minutes or until the grains are tender but still firm to the bite, without being crunchy. If you run out of stock and the risotto still isn’t done, you can finish the cooking using hot water. Just add the water as you did with the stock, a ladle at a time, stirring while it’s absorbed.

Which has been your most rewarding experience in this industry?

To watch the development of young students, many of whom have been rescued from the streets, from individuals who have come to our kitchen without any cooking skills to professional chefs. There is a sense of accomplishment when these youngsters are given a second chance to succeed in life and you are able to see the fruits of that labor of love.

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Golf & Tourism is proud to welcome Leslie as a contributing writer. In upcoming editions Leslie will introduce emerging chefs, review restaurants, share her culinary knowledge and provide tips to enjoy your dining experience.

Stir in the pre cooked pigeon peas, cooked ham, the remaining 2 Tbsp butter, the parmesan cheese and the parsley, and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Risotto turns glutinous if held for too long; you should serve it right away. A properly cooked risotto should form a soft, creamy mound on a dinner plate.

35

International

Vallformosa: an every day

During a trip to Catalonia, located between the plains of the Mediterranean coast and the nearby mountains, I was fortunate to visit the Penedes Wine Region, located in the Southwest of Barcelona.

luxury

By Ver贸nica Rosario-Bautista

As I traveled through the landscapes dominated by vineyards and wineries I was impressed and delighted to see that the Vallformosa Winery entrance was adorned with several flags and to my delight I saw the Puerto Rican flag waving alongside.

There, I met the winery owners, the wonderful Domenech family, who graciously opened their doors to Golf & Tourism Magazine and my Barcelona friends and hosts Miguel Angel Puerta and Sofia Anaya.

Angels Olivella greeted us and gave us a delightful tour of the facilities and the impressive wine cellars. Her hospitality made us feel right at home and her knowledge of the region and the Vallformosa family history, passion about wine and cava, and social involvement enriched our visit.

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

International

Angels Olivella giving us a tour of the Vallformosa wine cellars.

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37

International

Oriol Domenech enjoying the bouquet of one of his best wines.

Ver贸nica Rosario, Jos茅 Domenech Torne & Sofia Anaya

38

After the tour with Angels we were received at the tasting room by our hosts, Jose Domenech Torne, owner of the Vallformosa winery and his son Oriol Domenech, a fifth generation Vallformosa. We enjoyed a warm and lovely wine tasting session with an array of wines with exquisite aromas and unforgettable flavors. Our favorite was the Vallformosa Cava, which has a fresh, light, long-lasting taste and an excellent bouquet and well-integrated bubbles.

Oriol proudly stated that the Vallformosa Cava blends exquisitely with a hearty lunch or a quiet diner, and due to the moderate cost, it can truly be considered an everyday luxury.

We invite you to enjoy this spectacular experience for yourself!

ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Photos by Priscila Rivera

Mixology

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

The InterContinental Hotel in Carolina became the national center of mixology when it celebrated the 25th Classic and 12th Flair National Competitions of the Puerto Rico Bartenders Association (PRBA), an affiliate of the International Bartenders Association (IBA). The event attracted the best professional mixers, students and also food and drink aficionados from throughout Puerto Rico.

The winners chosen by the PRBA in both categories will represent us at the 2013 World Congress to be held August 16 - 22, 2013 in the Czech Republic.

The flair bartending and classic mixing competition started at 1 p.m. with free admission for PRBA members. Many of the event sponsors, such as Gasolina, Kinky, Monin, Ghirardelli, Cutty Sark, Bacardi, Don Q, Welch’s, and other companies that support the association throughout the year held raffles, said Jorge A. López Albarrán, President of the PRBA. The PRBA attracted about 60 of the best bartenders in Puerto Rico who showed their bartending mastery, skills and talents. Prizes for the winners, whom will represent Puerto Rico at the upcoming IBA’s Bartenders National Congress, exceeded US$8,000.

López Albarrán added “Our Association keeps offering opportunities to improve and participate in IBA congresses around the world. With a membership of more than 65,000 bartenders around the world the Association is considered the best known and respected globally. This year’s event was different and memorable for the estimated 400-500 attendees. They all enjoyed a happy atmosphere, our music, gastronomy, rum, and the routines of some of the best professional bartenders of Puerto Rico.

I invite bartending aficionados to visit www. bartenderspr.com and www.iba-world.com to find out about our global initiatives and activities. Cheers to life!”

From top to bottom: The Judges; Jorge A. López Albarran, President of the PRBA and Verónica Rosario-Bautista, Director of Golf & Tourism Magazine; competitor at work; Luis Ortiz & Tanya Garcia winners of the competition; students at work; a selection of entry cocktails.

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Out of the Course

Lesli Cofresi winner of Worldclass Puerto Rico for his cocktail preparation

World Class Cocktails complement the Puerto Rico OPEN

Beyond high-class golf, the prestigious Puerto Rico Open was complemented with the unique experience of the WorldClass Collection Suite at Hole 18 of the Trump International Golf Club in Río Grande. The WorldClass Collection: Ketel One and CÎROC vodkas, Tanqueray No.Ten gin, Don Julio tequila, Zacapa rum, and Johnnie Walker Blue Label Suite Scottish whisky captivated and delighted the selected group of guests of this fine golf event.

Joselyn Rodríguez, Ketel One bartender in the Mingle

In this elegant setting, the Suite also offered a full bar with premium liquors from the Diago Reserve portfolio. Bartenders from some of the most prestigious restaurants and bars of Puerto Rico did their magic and surprised guests with their innovative cocktails.

For rum lovers, the WorldClass Collection Suite also offered tastings of the ultra-premium Zacapa rum. Alexandra Rivera, the brand’s local representative for Méndez & Co. contributed to making this unforgettable experience possible.

Raúl González, Irene Bartolome, Alan Cohen

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ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Out of the Course

José Moreno, Iván Puig, Aldo Crescioni, Rodolfo Troche

Brenda Pizarro, Senior Brand Manager of Méndez & Co, Iván Rodríguez, José I. Posada

Joliam Berrios, Michelle Díaz, Eugenia Díaz, Mónica Alvarez, Eva Gadea Richard Carrión, Luis Álvarez Vice President of the Liquors Division of Mendez & Co.

Shimmy McHugh, Iván Puig

John Curry, Jorge Bracero de Méndez & Co., Chris Crosbie, Fermin Castañeda

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Meeting on the Greens

Golfers teed off at the Trump International for the 16th annual

Sears Golf Classic on March 23

Multiple companies were represented by 100 plus golfers that attended the tournament. Sears Golf Classic supported the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico Golf Association Junior Program, the noble cause of “Hogar Cuna San Cristobal “and “Hogar Forjadores de Esperanza”.

SEARS TOURNAMENT RESULTS 1st Gross Ángel Ramallo Días Ángel Ramallo Jr Pipe Colón Cesar González 2nd Gross Yuber Gómez Antonio Castillo Orlando Batista Fernando Batista 3rd Gross José Cardona José Cardona Jr Ángel Rodríguez Anthony Pereira 1st Net Luis Palacios Erick González Luis Ramón Manuel Gómez 2nd Net Sajo Ruiz Pete Birmingham Ricardo Fishman Luis Rodríguez 3rd Net Frank Torres Brighid Hourihan Neg Lagoy Jorge Estéves

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Sears Classic donation to the PRGA received by Jose Cardona Jr.

ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

Meeting on the Greens

Golfing for a

Good Cause Photo by Priscila Rivera

The 18th CSIF Annual Golf Classic organized by Centros Sor Isolina Ferré surpassed the institution’s expectations attracting more than one hundred players to Campo River del Rio Mar Beach Resort, a Whyndham Grand Resort.

Players enjoyed a great day of golf and contributed to the important social work carried out by the CSIF, which was founded by Sister Isolina Ferré.

After a day of great golf, the participants gathered for the awards ceremony and lunch at the golf club’s Río Mar Restaurant.

Alfredo Firpi and Alberto Firpi, Jr. obtained the highest gross score and won the tournament.

The couple formed by Junior Álvarez and Paul Stawinski won the prize for highest net score.

“We express our gratitude on behalf of all those youngsters, adults and seniors that each day are given a new opportunity to improve their quality of life and become better human beings,” expressed José Luis Díaz Cotto, CSIF’s Chief Executive Officer.

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Sisters of the “Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity Order” Juaquina Carrion - Secretary & Mission Custodian, Mildred Vazquez - Executive Director and Rosita M. Bauza - Center Historian Paul Stawinski and Junior Alvarez take a break from the tournament to talk to our Director Verónica Rosario

Photos provided

As part of the awards, winners also received 22 sculptures made with poplar tree wood by artist Enrique Elustondo. The theme of these unique pieces was Old San Juan houses and seascapes, complemented by golf-related images.

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Tech & Gadgets

Callaway LR550 Laser Golf Rangefinder

1

Provides quick and accurate distance measurement up to 550 yards, and features Nikon’s First Target mode technology which displays the range to the nearest target among multiple results obtained with a single measurement - useful when measuring the distance to a pin on a green with woods in the background.

2

Tried & Tested 3

New GolfBuddy Voice+ The new GolfBuddy Voice+ comes equipped with an enhanced set of features including a comfortable silicone wristband to provide the user with greater comfort and usability.

When it comes to sports, golfers have the biggest choice of gadgets. Improve your game and get to the 19th hole a bit quicker, with the help of these four golf gadgets.

Swingbyte 3D Golf Swing Analyzer Named by Golf Digest as one of the “12 Coolest Items” at the 2012 PGA Show, Swingbyte puts answers to a better golf game on your mobile device. Immediately after a swing, the Swingbyte app displays an interactive 3D visual of your swing along with key data. With real-time feedback in the palm of your hand, Swingbyte will help you improve faster!

Connects via Bluetooth Works with iOS and Android 4-hour rechargeable battery Lightweight - only 20 grams

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4 Nike VR_S Covert Tour Driver The new Nike VR_S Covert Tour Driver is the world’s first high-speed cavity back driver and Nike’s most innovative club to date. It’s designed for longer and straighter shots, so you can spend more time in the fairway and less time hacking out of the rough. The weight of the club rests within the heel and toe, allowing more forgiveness on balls that aren’t perfectly struck. And with a 45 percent larger hot zone, you can create more speed where it matters—at impact.

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RESTAURANT GUIDE SELECTION AREA METRO AGUAVIVA Aguaviva specializes in the freshest fish and seafood prepared with Latino – Caribbean flair, and features a wonderful oyster and ceviche bar in front of the open kitchen.

Named one of the 75 best new restaurants in the world by Conde Nast Traveller magazine.

364 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan, San Juan, PR 00901 787.722.0665

BARRACHINA Birthplace of the Famous Piña Colada 1963 but it also sports a menu of Puerto Rican culinary classics.

104 Fortaleza St., Old San Juan, San Juan, PR 00901 787.721.5852

AL DENTE Ristorante and Wine Bar Al Dente is located in the City of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. This 15 year Italian restaurant is been known as one of the most appreciated italian eateries in the metropolitan area. The appearance is casual and the unique menu will please even the most demanding clients.

309 Recinto Sur, Old San Juan, San Juan, PR 787.723.7303

ALFREDO Ristorante and Wine Bar Located at the lower lever InterContinental San Juan Hotel & Casino 5961 ISLA VERDE AVENUE , Isla Verde, San Juan, PR 00979 787.791.6100

BUDATAI Second Floor across of Ventana del Mar Ave. Ashford 1056, Condado, San Juan, Puerto Rico 787.725.6919

DI PARMA Trattoria Mediterranean food with a view Di Parma serves Mediterranean-style tapas, seafood and pizza in a comfortable yet classy setting. The lunch menu features delicately crafted sandwiches, soups, salads

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and stone-baked pizza. Dinner offerings include tapas, escargot, pasta and pizza.

1049 Ashford Avenue Ventana del Mar, Condado San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907

DRAGONFLY Latin Asian Cuisine Opening its door in the oldest city in the Caribbean in the year 2000, this unique Latin-Asian fusion of gastronomic delicacies quickly became San Juan’s biggest spot for the chic and glamorous, for both the locals and the tourists...

Sexy, dark, exotic, and impeccable in Service and Food Calle Fortaleza 364, Old San Juan, San Juan, PR 00901 787.977.3886

LA CASONA Housed in a turn-of-the-20th-century mansion, La Casona is all Old World Spanish charm, with a tiled courtyard, blooming gardens, tropical birds and strolling guitarists. You can’t go wrong with the classics: Grilled red snapper is a specialty, and you can order it with almost any sauce you want. The cuisine here has both flair and flavor 609 San Jorge St., Santurce, San Juan, PR 00907 787.727.2717

SOFIA Italian Ristorante and Pizzeria located on San Francisco Street. The space evokes the personality of the mega star Sofia Loren beautiful, glamorous, colorful and perfumed in passion, perfectly complementing the variety of Italian dishes which are the restaurant’s main attraction. Adding to this experience is a generous list of wines and specialty cocktails. All dishes are served with passion by an extremely knowledgable team.

355 San Francisco, Old San Juan, San Juan, PR 00901 787.721.0396

IL NUOVO PERUGINO In the heart of Hato Rey Financial District.

Fine-dining room is design to please your senses.

Popular Center Second Floor Ponce de Leon Ave, Hato Rey 787.722.5481

LAUREL Creative menu like Shrimp Brulée with Plantain Crust; Marinated Skirt Steak, Yukon and Manchego Mash with Cilantro and Mint Pesto; Veal Chop, Chayote and local Pumpkin Gratin with Madeira wine reduction; and Lemon Tart with local Berry Sorbet. Make you live the art!

Puerto Rico Museum Of Art 299 de Diego, Santurce 787.522.6444

SANTAELLA Chef Santaella transforms what used to be his catering workshop and a former hardware store into an architectural acclaimed space committed to offer a menu full of flavor using many local ingredients sourced fresh daily from ‘La Placita’. Santaella’s style goes from the traditional to the modern, always giving a subtle homemade twist to classic dishes and adding ingredients and elements of international cuisine.

219 Canals St., Plaza del Mercado Santurce 787.725.1611

AREA NORTH MADE IN PUERTO RICO Great cook Alexis Torres opens this ‘funfonda’ in Dorado. It’s a revival of 1940’s rural living in PR. The greeter welcomes you with rollers in her hair: “Hey, Jíbaro!

You look like you’re starving, come and sit down while I get you a table.” You wait in the “living room” where a TV is playing Puerto Rican shows & commercials of the beloved era. The phonetically-perfectyet-mispelled sayings on the wall and the traditional food, transport you to another period of island living. Great menu: just like Abuela’s cooking!

Rd. 693, Bo. Higuillar, Dorado 787.626.6666

LENEL Chef Andy Torres Toledo has his creative stage: The Lenel Tower, a stellar appetizer; skirt steak with plantain strips in the shape of a volcano; La Vasca: fish, mussels, scallops and shrimp; and Cosa Nostra, pork cutlet in haw sauce and a starchy vegetable mash.

51 Palma, Arecibo 787.815.8400 lenelrestaurant.com

ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

RESTAURANT GUIDE SELECTION AREA WEST FUFU A fusion of Afropuertorican cuisine and Delicious Creative dishes from all over the world. Specializes in Surf and Turfs and Sangria which change every week to maintain variety.

Calle Agustan Stahl #61, Aguadilla

787.891.4188

NOVECENTO ITALIAN BISTRO Italian Bistro and Pizza Place Its modern décor and fully stocked bar, features a semi-private VIP lounge area that invites guests to relax and enjoy the ambiance with their choice of cocktails.

Calle Agustan Stahl #61, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico 00603 787.882.7475

ONE TEN THAI Located in Aguadilla this restaurant had its beginning in the kitchen of Chef Andrew, who started selling food to friends on weekends. Southeast Asian Inspired Cuisine, Craft Beer, Fine Wines.

Rd. 110, Old Ramey Base, Aguadilla 787.890.0113

VENDIMIA 305 Creative Caribbean Cuisine Recently opened, this creative Caribbean cuisine venue takes Puerto Rican dishes to a new level. Cocktails here are original, refreshing and fun. Variety of domestic and imported beer. A superb wine list. Chic, relaxed atmosphere.

100 Antonio Pérez, Isabela 787.830.6622

ZAFRA Zafra is a unique culinary concept located amid The Plantation golf course, in West Dorado Beach Resort & Club. Among the bestsellers in their delicious dinner menu: glacéed pork chops in tamarind sauce, and from the sea, the fresh catch of the day sautéed in butter, garlic and lemon and served with rice, beans and tostones; garlic shrimp or Mahi Mahi Casserole with a side of chickpeas and chorizo. For meat lovers: Grilled Rib Eye steak and Rack of Lamb in its own juices, garlic, mashed potato and seasonal vegetables.

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“Cook with your heart and respect the nature of your ingredients. This will infuse your food with flavor,” says Chef Cedeño.

Dorado Beach Plantation Rd. 696; 500 Plantation Dr., Dorado 787. 626.1054 / 787. 626.1031

AREA CENTER EL OTOAO Leyend tells us that Cacique Otoao (in Taíno, “between mountains”), was the highest chief where Lagos Dos Bocas lies today. In his honor, this beautiful inn with a paradisiacal view serves dishes made with fresh produce, gifts of this sacred soil.

140 Rd., Km 31.2, Utuado 787.894.5511

RANCHO MARINA Unique! : Rabbit à l’Orange Forty-five years ago, Don Harry Marrero founded this place on what used to be a bus stop. His son, Harry, and his wife, Vivian, created a spectacular menu with tropical flavors. Best sellers: Rabbit à l’Orange, with touches of papaya.

123 Rd., km. 68.0 Embarcadero Lago Dos Bocas 787.894.8034 ranchomarina.com

SOUTH ARCHIPIÉLAGO The best mojito in the Caribbean Veal chop breaded in onion jelly and served with mushroom risotto…it’ll drive you wild!

Pair it with a delicious mojito -- they are the house specialty. All this in one place with the best panoramic view of beautiful Ponce.

76 Cristina, Ponce 787.812.8822 archipielagopr.com

LOLA’S Just spectacular!

Within the colorful Ramada Hotel. Is Eclectic and creative cuisine. From sushi to traditional mofongo.

Reina St., at the Square (Plaza) Ponce 787.813.5050

AREA EAST CERRO DE NANDY If you like adventure, you must go up to Nandy’s hill, and you can only get up there in a 4 x 4 or a four-wheel track! Don’t worry -- they give you a lift! They have just the right transportation so you don’t miss out on this palatable, wild adventure. “OffRoad” dishes, yams, green bananas, fried pork chunks and tasty rice and pigeon peas with inland flavor are the favorites on this mountain spot, and they’ll satisfy your adventurous palate.

Rd. 765, Bo. Jagual San Lorenzo 939.630.2297

CEVICHE HUT He’s Peruvian. She’s Boricua. He cooks, she serves you, and brings to the table photographs of the dishes to explain how they’re prepared. They employ fresh catch and fresh products daily: grouper, red snapper, coriander and spicy peppers. They prepare chicken and seafood paella with a pinch of ginger. Service’s just like home.

Kiosco 38, Rd. 3, Luquillo 787.942.2873

EL ESCONDITE Delicious chicken and skirt steak cracklings that you can eat with tostones or fries.

Sunday music on the jukebox and an inviting atmosphere for all in the family.

Rd. 181, int. 765, Bo. Jagual, San Lorenzo 787.715.0030

YIYA’S RESTAURANT Puerto Rican food in a family setting. Enjoy the original antique-filled decor. In Yiya’s dishes you fill find the true flavor of Puerto Rico. Her stuffed mamposteao’ (rice and beans, bacon and bell peppers), the green banana chicken breast and Yiya’s Pork Chops are the specialties.

Rd. 181, Km. 30.5, San Lorenzo 787.736.8427

Note: Information subject to change without notice during the course of the year.

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GOLF COURSES GUIDE Aguirre Golf Club $10 - $15

$10 - $15

PUERTO RICO Dorado Beach Resort & Club East Course $100 - $210

Road 705, Km 3, Aguirre, Salinas Type: Public Phone: (787) 853-4052

Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club $125 - $225

$125 - $275

$100 - $210

100 Dorado Beach Drive, Dorado Phone: (787) 626-1010

Dorado Beach Resort & Club West Course $70 - $160

$70 - $160

Route 187 Kilometer 4.2, Rio Grande Phone: (866) 529-3996

100 Dorado Beach Drive, Dorado Phone: (787) 626-1010

Berwind Country Club

El Conquistador Resort and Golden Door Spa

$25 - $50

Member Only

Road 187 Km 4.7, Rio Grande Type: Semi-Private Phone: (787) 876-3056

Caguas Real Golf & Country Club $65 - $110

$65 - $110

700 Alhambra Blvd., Caguas Phone: (787) 653-4653

Club Deportivo Del Oeste $22 - $33

$33 - $43

Carr. 102 KM 15.4 Int., Joyudas, Cabo Rojo Type: Semi-Private Phone: (787) 851-8880

Coamo Springs Golf & Tennis Club $40

$60

Road 546 KM 1, Coamo Type: Semi-Private Phone: (787) 853-4052

Costa Caribe Golf & Country Club

Other facilities: tennis courts, casino, beach, water park 1000 Conquistador Avenue, Fajardo Phone: (866) 317-8932

El Legado Golf Resort $40 - $42

$40 - $48

Carr. PR-713, KM. 2.5 Bo. Jobos y Pozo Hondo, Guayama Phone: (787) 866-8894

Embassy Suites Dorado del Mar Beach & Golf Resort $52 - $102

$52 - $102

201 Dorado Del Mar Boulevard, Dorado Type: Semi-Private / Resort Phone: (787) 796-3070

Fort Buchanan Golf Course Building 171, Fort Buchanan Type: Military Phone: (787) 707-3980

Las Bambuas Golf Course $30- $39

$40 - $49

Back Nine / Front Nine / Middle Nine $56- $64

$45 - $69

Ponce, Porta Caribe Phone: (787) 812-2650 50

Road 189 Km. 10.1 Jardin, Gurabo Phone: (787) 712-0018

Palmas del Mar Country Club The Flamboyan Course The Palm Course $80

$100

PO Box 2020, Humacao Phone: (787) 656-3020

Punta Borinquen Golf and Country Club $20

$22

Base Ramey, Aguadilla Type: Public Phone: (787) 890-2987

Rio Bayamon Golf Course $25

$25

Verdes Carr. 177, Bayamon Type: Public Phone: (787) 740-1419

The Wyndham Rio Mar Beach Resort Ocean Course River Course $150

$200

6000 Rio Mar Blvd., Rio Grande Phone: (877) 636-0636

Trump International Golf Club Championship Course $190

$235

International Course $160

$210

100 Clubhouse Drive, Rio Grande Phone: (787) 657-2000 Other facilities: Meeting facilities, locker rooms, massage, sauna, jacuzzi

Note: Fees subject to change without notice during the course of the year.

ISSUE 1 / APRIL-JUNE 2013

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