ISSUE 4 April - June
2014 $8.95
Complimentary Copy
Your Passion is Our Purpose
CHI CHI RODRÍGUEZ
“STILL GOING STRONG” Learning from the masters
THE LONG BALL Puerto Rico 21st Century Tourism Strategy All about
Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
Director/Publisher Charlie Bautista Sub-Director and Coordinator Verónica Rosario Editor, Proofreader, Translator Oscar Peñalber Art Director & Graphic Designer Laura Wood Photography Priscila T. Rivera José “Piti” Gutiérrez Leoneill Hernández Fernando J. Montano Writers and Collaborators Julio Soto Paul Stawinski Iván O. Puig Alberto C. Medina Gil Jorge López Andres Subira Chip Koehlke Michele Irene Llamas Joseph Nelson Consultant Julio Soto Executive Director PRGA Sales and Marketing Charlie Bautista Advertise your business Please contact us at:
787-503-5437 sales@golftourismpr.com
Find us in Facebook and Issuu: Golf & Tourism Magazine All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owners, Golf & Tourism Magazine Published by JVS Media Corporation. ©2014 JVS Media Corporation PO Box 9023856 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902-3856
your passion is our purpose
CONTENTS
Golf & Special Features
9
Learning from the Masters The Long Ball By Andres Subira
19 20 22
11 12
39
Puerto Rico OPEN 2014 Tournament Final Notes
37
Learning from the Masters Does Custom Fit Gear Make a Difference? By Chip Koehlke
Cover Story Chi Chi Rodríguez Still Going Strong By Alberto C. Medina Gil
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Stay & Play Costa Caribe A Golfing Paradise
Interview Golf Pro Ellie Rodríguez
Regulars
6
Golf News Reed Conquers Challenging Blue Monster
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30
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Tourism
44 A 21st Century Tourism Strategy By Alberto C. Medina Gil Golf Gusto La Perla de Condado By Lindell Smith
The Ultimate Business Networking Tool By Iván O. Puig
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45
Go Shopping A Real Shopping Experience By Michelle Irene Llamas
Opening Shot Director’s Letter Fitness Golf Performance Training By Joseph Nelson Mixology Trendy Cocktails By Jorge López Albarrán Meeting on the Greens Golfing for a Good Cause Off the Course Tribute To Chi Chi Rodríguez Intercontinental Caliche Rum
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G&T Restaurants Guide
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Golf Courses Guide
Opening Shot
Dear Reader
T
hank you for following our magazine in various internet social media. We are pleased to bring you another exciting edition of Golf & Tourism Magazine with lots of information beyond golf and tourism. Our goal is to make Golf & Tourism Magazine a complete guide to explore our beautiful Island and get the most out of it. We have listened to our readers and their suggestions and starting with this edition we are sure you’ll have many more reasons to enjoy our publication. For those of you who enjoy different physical activities like golf, running, swimming or biking, our fitness section will put you in shape to take on any challenge. Our Golf Gusto section will cover topics like food, wine, drinks and much more. We thank all our friends and sponsors that help us continue with this most needed project in Puerto Rico, and a special thanks to Julio Soto of the Puerto Rico Golf Association for always having the time to point us in the right direction. By supporting this magazine you are contributing to the development of the golf industry in Puerto Rico and our future golf champions. Our goal is to entertain and inform you with everything golf and fun in our Island. We hope you enjoy this edition and follow us on our mission to promote the virtues of our beloved Puerto Rico.
Charlie Bautista Director and Publisher
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Stay & Play
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Golf Course Showcase
Hole 1
OVERVIEW The Trump International Golf Club in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, is located on 1,000 acres of waterfront; this spectacular setting provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean National Rain Forest of El Yunque. This first-class Golf & Country Club features 36 holes of Championship golf and a spectacular 46,000 square foot clubhouse with meeting facilities, restaurant and lounge. Trump International is home to the Puerto Rico Open, an official PGA Tour event.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
. PGA Tour Professional Tom Kite has . designed the 36-holes of Championship golf at Trump International Golf Club. Trump International offers exciting golf for players of all abilities. 36 hole Championship golf course with practice facility and on-course Food & Beverage Service. Host of the 1st ever PGA Tour Event in Puerto Rico – 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 Puerto Rico Open, an Official PGA Tour Event. One of the largest Clubhouse in the Caribbean with breathtaking oceanfront views. Men’s & Women’s Locker and Lounge Facilities including massage facilities, saunas, Jacuzzis®, private lounges and lockers.
. . . .
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PGA Golf Professionals who can facilitate instruction and tournament coordination. Elegant dining in the Paradise Bay Grill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Casual dining and cocktails in The Greens Lounge. The ideal place for players to relax and recount their round while looking up at El Yunque. Private dining room for more intimate functions. Rainforest Ballroom with 3,000 square feet of function space and state-of-theart technology enhancements for high performance meetings. Two terraced decks with flexibility to serve large and small functions. Golf Shop featuring equipment rentals (Shoes and Clubs), logowear and the newest golf products.
. . . . . .
CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE YARDAGES
Black Tees Gold Tees Blue Tees WhiteTees GreenTees (Ladies)
7,526 6,984 6,480 6,026 5,345
INTERNATIONAL COURSE YARDAGES
Black Tees Gold Tees Blue Tees WhiteTees GreenTees (Ladies)
6,884 6,505 6,118 5,659 5,014
“Best On-Site Presentations” (one of top two) - PGA TOUR
“Best Golf Course of Puerto Rico” American Academy of Hospitality Services
“Best Golf Courses of the Caribbean & Mexico” Golfweek Magazine
100 Clubhouse Drive Rio Grande, Puerto Rico 00745 Phone: (787) 657-2000 ext. 160 Fax: (787) 657-2003
trumpgolfclubpuertorico.com ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Learning from the
The Long Ball By Andres Subira
Why is it that some golfers, amateur and professionals alike can hit the golf ball a long way with what seems to look like very little effort? Freddy Couples and Ernie Els to name a few swing the club effortlessly an can really put it out there. Is there a magic pill or are they super human?
I
f you are able to analyze their golf swing you will notice that their acceleration is virtually flawless. At the moment of impact they have been able to maximize their swing speed to put all their effort in the impact zone. Is this something that anyone can achieve? My answer is yes. It is possible to achieve greater distance than you are getting at the moment if you work on your swing speed. Many amateurs relate distance to strength and swinging HARD. So, in their efforts to “hit it long� they work on their swing by swinging harder. If you analyze what this entails you will realize that you are going at it the wrong way. The words hard and strong implicate tension and tension is the Swing Killer the Distance Killer and worst of all, it also does away with any semblance of accuracy. Yes, it may look like it works one out
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“They want to smash that golf ball into a million pieces by swinging as hard as possible. This technique has never worked, does not work and no matter how long we work on it will never work..” of ten; however, it is not easily repeatable or sustainable. For example, have you ever been out on the golf course playing fairly well but when you reach the 12th or 13th hole you start having problems with your swing, the ball is no longer responding the way you want and by the 15th hole you feel so frustrated and tired that you want to quit and go home? Well, any athlete will tell you that it is impossible to maintain your strength, stamina and mental agility through a long period of time by being tense. Even marathon runners that train for hours and
hours will tell you that if you do not train yourself to be relaxed while running, you won’t last ten miles. It’s the same with golf.
Rather than thinking of distance as swinging hard, think of distance as an action of acceleration towards the ball. If you can learn to accelerate efficiently through the golf swing you will be able to swing softer and faster, allowing the club to reach the ball at faster speeds that will in turn create more distance, greater accuracy with less effort and greater stamina. The golf club is a well-engineered instrument that if used correctly, will help you get better distance and accuracy with very little effort. Creating better acceleration towards the impact zone is the key to longer shots. There are a series of movements that will create greater speed. If you work on the swing mechanics, the sequence of motion will unleash a chain of events during the swing that will create speed.
RELAXED ROTATION If you can activate the motion of the swing with body rotation, you can keep the muscles in the hands and arms relaxed and loose. If the posture is correct, the hands and arms will swing along the correct path without excessive club manipulation. Once the rotation starts with the correct body movements, the sequence to the top of the back swing falls together. Once at the top, the hands and arms must feel relaxed. This will promote a better range of motion. At this point is where most players lose their cool. They want to smash that golf ball into a million pieces by swinging as hard as possible. This technique has never worked, does not work and no matter how long we work on it will never work. There is a better, easier and more efficient way to do it. Start by slowly rotating forward with the body and let the hands and arms follow. The speed will increase gradually; the club shaft will bend efficiently to the impact zone allowing the speed of rotation to maximize the energy at impact creating an effortless consistent and repeatable swing that will allow you to hit it long. Starting the down swing with the rotation of the hips will ensure the correct sequence. By moving the hips out of the way it allows the club to follow the right path towards the ball creating greater contact accuracy and length. There is no such thing as too much hip rotation. This is where the true speed of the swing is created. Most amateurs out on the course will stop rotating their hips thinking this will give them greater control but on the contrary, it creates the opposite effect. Swing like Ernie, swing like Freddie. Swing relaxed, swing for speed. You will get better accuracy, better distance and your body will appreciate it. You won’t get tired as quickly during a round, your stamina will improve and your score will go lower. Don’t force the club to work for you, it’s not a baseball bat or a broom stick. Let the club work for you. Allow the rotation of the body to dominate the swing and everything else will fall in its place.
Andres Subira is a Master Golf Coach with the United States Golf Teacher’s Federation. Currently, he is the Director of Instruction, Master Club Fitter and Club Maker at Rio Bayamon Golf Course. ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Interview
For the
Love of Golf G
olf Pro Ellie Rodriguez has been at the helm of the Costa Caribe Golf & Country Club for nearly five years. As Head Golf Professional Ellie’s responsibilities include overseeing golf events, course operations and day-to-day management of the Golf Shop. He also leads the Ladies Golf Program, manages the year-round Junior Program and supervises the club’s popular weekly clinic. He is responsible for keeping this spectacular 27-hole championship golf course, nestled between the sparkling Caribbean Sea and the majestic Central Mountains, as one of the top golf courses in Puerto Rico. Its unique layout features several oceanfront holes offering breathtaking Caribbean views, 14 beautiful man-made lakes, truly Puerto Rico’s first island green. Besides his strong commitment to his work Ellie has a huge passion for golf. He shared a wonderful morning with us and told us what being at Costa Caribe means to him.
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What inspires you at the Club? “My staff, without them my days will be endless.” What do you like about Costa Caribe? “By far, we have the best greens on the Island. I also like the course with 27 holes. It is very challenging because of the wind, but at the same time is a friendly resort course. When I do the rounds to check the grounds I get a kick from seeing everybody enjoying it. Everybody is very friendly and I must say that I’m very proud of our facilities.” What’s the difference between Costa Caribe and other golf courses in the Island? “What differentiates us is the quality of service we provide to members and visitors. Also, the course’s unique layout with the island green (Hole 12)… a true challenge. You have to try it to believe it!” Describe yourself in three words? “Honest, helpful and emphatic.” Describe Costa Caribe in three words? “Special, staff and island-green.” How do people react when they see you here? “Wow…” “Ellie in Ponce, he is 100%+” “Long time no see you”. “You deserve to be here.” What message would you send to our readers? “Think about the future of golf in our island and support this magazine because there is nothing like this here. Come and visit us for a true professional golf experience. You won’t be disappointed.” What keeps you here? “My passion for the sport, our clients and that every day is different.” What is your handicap? “Depending on how I feel, typically I am 3 to 4. But remember that this sport requires lots of practice.” What is your favorite golf club? “TaylorMade Drivers.” Have you ever done a “hole in one”? “That would feel like a miracle. I have been very close to it but no cigar. I have done some “eagles.” As he walked us through the driveway, we wished him the best and hoped to meet again…on the green.
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Learning from the
Does Custom Fit make a difference?
Gear By Chip Koehlke
My answer to this question is always yes! Regardless of your play level, properly fitted equipment built to your specifications will improve your game and keep it more consistent by removing the need to compensate for your equipment.
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Chip Koehlke is a highly experienced PGA Professional, with 2013 marking his 30 year anniversary as a golf professional. He brings extensive experience to his clients, including developing and coaching many top professional tour players on the PGA, LPGA, Champions, European and Asian Tours. Most importantly his holistic coaching philosophy has assisted countless golfers just like yourself to truly change their game!
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evertheless, you need to be aware that not all “Custom Fittings” and “Custom Equipment” offered are the same. Until the 1980’s, golf club manufacturers shared the same “standard” specifications for golf clubs as it relates to length, loft angle, lie angle and grip size. Progressively, manufacturers started developing their own specifications, and even varying specification from model to model. Despite the scientific knowledge that the only absolute way to determine the flexibility of a golf shaft is to measure the frequency at which it vibrates, only a limited few shaft manufactures use this process to determine and label shaft flex. Therefore, there are no standards to determine shaft flex, and one manufacturer’s “senior” flex may be considered “stiff” by another manufacturer.
fact is that most golf aficionados are using clubs that are overly long, flexible, stronglofted, and upright and that also lack proper loft spacing for adequate distance separation between clubs. Getting fit for a set of custom golf equipment is more than evaluating you game and simply selecting “custom options” from a manufacturer’s list. It goes beyond choosing your club head, grip type, different lie angle or labeled shaft flex. The least you can do is hit some balls with “standard” demo offerings into a simulator and get a recommendation based on computer generated distances. Some outlets add a pre-determined measurement provided by the manufacturer for club length based on height or your hand-to-ground measurement while other may place lie tape on the bottom of the club to check lie angle, or even measure your club head speed to recommend shaft flex. In the end, the best you can hope for from the majority of these providers is that they will offer you “custom equipment” options which are no more than stock equipment specifications with possibly an adjusted lie angle, or slightly altered length or grip size.
“True fitting starts with a holistic approach. Every golfer has a unique physical build and swing timing which must be determined by both static and dynamic measurements.”
While manufacturers use modern technology in the design and manufacturing processes, they are limited in what they can do to equipment under the USGA Rules. They can change the shaft flex, loft angle, lie angle, grip, and weight distribution/design of the club head, but all new models must be tested by the USGA and if any club is found to have an unfair advantage under the rules, it will not be approved. So, manufacturers have been making their “standard” clubs longer, more flexible, more upright, and less lofted, so when you hit their demo clubs you can get a few shots further, and you are more likely to buy them. But these longer shots are not necessarily more accurate or consistent. The
True fitting starts with a holistic approach. Every golfer has a unique physical build and swing timing which must be determined by both static and dynamic measurements. Static measurements to determine club length must take into account the distance your ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
hands are from the ground, not only standing, but also in a proper set-up posture to account for proportion differences in your torso and legs. Also the fitter must evaluate overall hand length, as well as palm to finger proportions and hand thickness to determine grip size. Once static measurements are taken and your general game evaluated, trial clubs with an appropriate club head design should be assembled at the proper length with different shaft flex selections for dynamic testing. Then, through dynamic testing with each shaft flex, the fitter will monitor and record direction, carry distance, ball speed, trajectory and club head speed. This will determine the best shaft frequency for your swing timing. Once shaft flex has been determined the fitter can then check the lie angle to ensure it is appropriate.
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Also, it is critical to choose a fitter who is extremely familiarized with all manufacturers and their processes, the component parts which make up the clubs, and how they can be built to your specifications. Additionally he should be able to recommend game-appropriate designs, as well as proper loft spacing and set make-up in order to provide a complete set with proper distance separation between clubs. Some players will see immediate improvement while others may need some time to adjust to their new custom fit equipment, but all will make improvements because a properly fit set promotes a fundamentally correct swing that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require compensation. Another frequent question is: How much more expensive is custom fit equipment? Granted, you may pay a few dollars more per club because the manufacturer will charge for nonstock component parts or the additional processes they need to perform to ensure clubs are built to your correct specifications. However, in the long run you will save money because you will not need to keep buying new sets because stock equipment didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t perform. Many golfers purchase set after set, keep getting â&#x20AC;&#x153;great dealsâ&#x20AC;? at discount stores or from the web, and are never satisfied with the results. Think how much money you would save if you only purchased one properly fit set every 5-8 years.
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Cover Story
By Alberto C. Medina Gil Photos by
Juan “Chi Chi” Rodríguez needs no introduction, but he does deserve one.
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is remarkable life story demands, at least, a brief recounting. Born in Depression-era Río Piedras, he endured and overcame a hardscrabble upbringing that saw him working to earn money for his family before he was even eight years old. A natural athlete who would also become a talented baseball player and boxer, he started caddying at Berwind Country Club and teaching himself the game. After a short stint in the Army, he returned to caddy at Dorado Beach, continued to hone his skills, and in 1960 began his pro career.
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ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Cover Story
His achievements on the golf course could fill this entire page, and include 38 professional victories spanning four different decades. He won eight times on the PGA TOUR, and showed a killer instinct when it mattered most with a 3-1 playoff record. On the Senior PGA TOUR (now the Champions Tour) he, quite simply, became a legend. Chi Chi had 22 victories in just eight years, including two Majors, and still holds a couple of Tour records: most consecutive tournament wins (four) and most consecutive birdies (eight), both achieved during a glorious 1987 season when he won three other Tour events. And then, of course, there’s what he has meant to his native country. Chi Chi represented Puerto Rico 12 times in the World Cup of Golf, and was inducted to the inaugural class of the Puerto Rico Golf Association Hall of Fame. He remains the only Puerto Rican— and was the first Hispanic— enshrined in the World Golf Hall of Fame. Beyond any particular accolade, Chi Chi has been the face of Puerto Rican golf for nearly half a century; the one name fans of the sport around the world readily associate with the Island, many with fond memories of his days as a Panama hat-wearing, matador-imitating showman who turned every birdie putt into an entertaining spectacle. One might think, then, that Chi Chi would love nothing more than to spend some time reminiscing about his glory days: reliving his battles with Jack Nicklaus, perhaps, or picking his favorites among the litany of accolades and awards he collected during such a spectacular career. Far from it. “I live my life by the philosophy that yesterday is history and tomorrow is a mystery,” says Chi Chi. “Only fools live in the past.”
Tour approaches life as a senior citizen with the same verve that characterized his play on the course. Even at 78— maybe especially at 78— Chi Chi is active, opinionated, passionate, and most certainly not done yet.
“Chi Chi has been the face of Puerto Rican golf for nearly half a century; the one name fans of the sport around the world readily associate with the Island, many with fond memories of his days as a Panama hat-wearing, matadorimitating showman who turned every birdie putt into an entertaining spectacle.”
That may be an odd pronouncement from a man who turned 78 years old last October; but then, Chi Chi is hardly your typical septuagenarian. It should perhaps come as no surprise that the man who made his name on the Senior WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
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Cover Story
Sharing His Wisdom He is also busy. Chi Chi usually splits his time between the Island and the mainland. When he’s on the former you’re liable to find him at Dorado, playing a few holes or holding court in the clubhouse, where he is unfailingly generous with his time and his wisdom. While his brother Jesús is the more well-known instructor, having worked with an entire
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generation of Puerto Rican golfers over the last few decades, Chi Chi happily takes on his own pupils, even if only on a more informal basis — and if the student is willing to play by his admittedly strict rules. “If someone wants me to teach them, and they’re talented, and they’re willing to follow directions, then sure,” says Chi Chi, who readily acknowledges he likes to have complete control when teaching the game.
His may be an exacting mentor, but he gets results. “I had one pupil, Gabriela Santini, who is a tremendously talented player but she wasn’t winning,” says Chi Chi. “I taught her a couple of things over a few months, and now she is not just Puerto Rican national champion, but also Caribbean champion, and colleges in the U.S. are recruiting her.” Indeed, the 17-year-old Santini, who formally trains with Jesús, has nothing but praise for Chi Chi.
ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Cover Story
“He’s really such a big help,” she says. “He always helps me with anything I need, he gives me advice, and I know that I can count on him if I have any problems.” While Santini is thankful for Chi Chi’s tips and tricks, particularly on and around the greens, she particularly appreciates his insight on the mental side of a sport that requires so much poise and self-confidence. “He’s the only player from here who has really made it on Tour, and he knows what it takes to get to that level,” says Santini. “He’s just a great person and it’s such an honor for me to be able to spend all that time with him. He really helps your development as a golfer and as a person, because he gives you advice that you can use for anything.”
Photos by Priscila T. Rivera
Edward Figueroa, Puerto Rico’s 2012 amateur national champion, has also benefited from Chi Chi’s wisdom and echoes Santini’s thoughts about his mentor’s most valuable lessons. “Chi Chi has taught me a lot,” he says. “I spent quite a bit of time with him and he taught me, mainly, a lot of stuff of the mind: how to be positive, pull yourself through and everything like that.” Figueroa has also had the pleasure of playing a round with Chi Chi. “I played him at Dorado, and I don’t understand how, at that age, he’s still that good,” he says. “I wish I could have seen him play in his prime.” For his part, Chi Chi pays Figueroa what may be his greatest compliment: that he doesn’t have that much to teach him. “That kid doesn’t need too many lessons,” he says, adding that he has advised him, and many other young players regarding their equipment. “I’ve always really studied the equipment I use, especially the club shafts, which is the most important piece of equipment. The shaft makes the club; the club doesn’t make the shaft.” Most of his advice for young golfers, however, goes far beyond the technical and even mental aspects of the game. He suggests they play fewer tournaments so they don’t start to feel burned out, focus on enjoying the game and, especially, see golf as a pathway to a college education. “The top priority is being able to get a scholarship,” he says. WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
Beyond the Course If Chi Chi has helped young people on the golf course, he has transformed the lives of many more through a decadeslong commitment to philanthropic efforts, particularly those involving education. Founded in 1979, the Chi Chi Rodríguez Youth Foundation has worked with thousands of children in Clearwater, Florida. What began as an after-school program for at-risk youth slowly developed into much more, and since 2007 the foundation also runs the Chi Chi Rodríguez Youth Academy, which serves elementary and middleschool students with personal or academic issues. “Former Governor Charlie Crist named it the number one alternative school in Florida,” says Chi Chi. “Ninety-nine percent of our students graduate.” Additionally, through partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Big Brothers Big Sisters, the foundation also reaches many more children in that community. Chi Chi, who often cites Mother Teresa as one of his great inspirations, has also had longstanding relationships with many other charitable organizations and endeavors, most notably the FBI Agents Association’s Memorial College Fund, which provides assistance for the survivors of slain agents to go to college. Perhaps because he did not enjoy the benefit of a good education himself, Chi Chi is particularly committed to making sure others have the opportunities he lacked. “You have to get an education; that’s the most important thing in life,” he says. “That diploma is something nobody can take away from you. They can take away your nationality, your money, they can send you to another country.
“You have to get an education; that’s the most important thing in life,” he says. “That diploma is something nobody can take away from you. They can take away your nationality, your money, they can send you to another country. But that diploma will be there.”
This past October, Chi Chi added another item to that list: an official recognition from the Puerto Rican Senate. The legislative body passed a resolution praising him “for his extraordinary career as one of the greatest worldwide exponents of golf, and for his valuable contribution to noble causes, especially in the education of disadvantaged children and youth.” For Chi Chi, who has often been appreciated and praised more abroad than here on the Island, it was a special moment. “The truth is that it was the first time they did something like that for me in Puerto Rico, and I was very excited.” In a country with so many athletic heroes, and where golf plays second fiddle to more popular sports like baseball and basketball, it can be all too easy to forget just how much Chi Chi has achieved on the course and off. But if that bothers him, you would probably never know it; he’s got too much to do, and he’s having too much fun doing it. In fact, ask him how he’s doing on any given day, and he’s likely to answer you with a chuckle: “I’m six under par.” For Chi Chi Rodríguez, that’s a winning score.
But that diploma will be there.” Chi Chi has been recognized in myriad ways over the years for his efforts on behalf of children. For example, he is enshrined in the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame alongside fellow Puerto Rican legend Roberto Clemente.
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Fitness
Golf Performance Training By Joseph I Nelson
T
he purpose of this article is to educate golf players and enthusiastic beginners about the importance of golf-specific exercise training.
Exercises for golfers may seem an oxymoron, but golf is physical and golf may cause injuries. To hit the ball the maximum distance your body has to have a high level of golf-specific strength and flexibility. The sooner you start doing exercises for golfers the sooner you will see results on the course. So what’s the difference between plopping down on machines at the gym and doing exercises for golfers? For starters, you don’t sit when you play golf. Then why would you sit in a “controlled” machine thinking it will improve your golf? Golf is “on your feet” and in a dynamic golf posture. Because the demands for golf are so unique you need to approach golf physical training from a different angle. Exercises for golfers are more than just strength exercises. They also include golf stretching exercises. Many golfers think they just need more golf stretching, but without golf exercising you don’t achieve permanent flexibility. If you keep stretching a rubber band it gets brittle and eventually breaks, and your muscles are just like rubber bands. The winning combination is golf stretching and golf exercising. When planning a golf exercise routine you need to pay attention to the position of the body required to make a mechanically sound swing. Once you identify this dynamic and unique position you can do golf exercises specific to that position. There is a definite collation to your golf swing and your body’s ability to move. If you try to force your body into an unnatural position you will surely be frustrated. You need to evaluate your range of motion, how much you can move, turn and bend, and how skilful you are, in order to integrate those elements to your game. Every golfer is looking for more power. Pounding more balls or taking more lessons won’t do the trick. The answer for achieving results quickly is to incorporate golf-specific strength exercises. Although the game has a lot to do with talent and a commitment to practice, it can truly be
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improved tremendously with a golf-specific exercise training. After a college career playing at least three sports I have been a professional personal trainer and therapeutic massage therapist for the past twenty years and a five handicap player. My five years of experience playing golf have given me the knowledge to put together the tools needed to play better golf, protect against injuries or decrease pain. Golf Performance Training by Fitness Solutions provides golf- specific exercise training to bring your body to a higher level of strength and increase your balance, flexibility and swing. If you would like more information about golf performance training please call me at 787 547 0296.
ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Golf News
Reed Conquers Challenging Blue Monster What was different at the 2014 WGC – Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral? The renovations and transformation of the Blue Monster golf course, which according to the pros have given the course its teeth back Champion Patrick Reed at four under par.
and made it even more challenging.
of the 2013 tournament and was concluded just before the 2014 tournament. The most significant changes relate to layout and elevation. Hanse and Trump did an excellent collaboration job creating spectacular viewing areas throughout the golf course.
with the golfers. The combination of a fresh course and rough weather, added to very high winds led to plenty of frustration and even more balls in the water all around Doral. The win is Reed’s third on the PGA tour, though he has yet to make his first appearance in a major tournament. He is now the youngest golfer to ever win a WGC event.
They also added a lot of character to what was a rather flat layout. This is great for spectators but also require some challenging tee shots for players.
Tiger Woods tied for the low round of the week with a 66 on Saturday to put himself into contention, but his back problems flared up once again and placed him at fiveover after he shot a 78 on Sunday.
Trump National Doral
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n 2012 Donald Trump acquired the property that hosts the WGC-Cadillac Championship and hired designer Gil Hanse to make some changes to the course to give players a totally new experience. Remarkably, all the work started after the conclusion
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23 year-old Patrick Reed was able to roll his three-day lead into the most important victory of his PGA career. Reed withstood late charges from Jamie Donaldson and Bubba Watson to finish at four under par on a week when the newly redesigned Blue Monster wreaked havoc
While so many things have undergone an exciting transformation some of the signature features and holes are still very prevalent throughout the layout. You’ll still notice the lush landscape throughout, the many varieties of palm trees that line the fairways and create an incredible visual for the player, and not to be forgotten the great 18th finishing hole.
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Stay & Play
osta aribe A Golfing Paradise Home to a championship golf course that ranks with some of the best in Puerto Rico. This open parkland layout provides a wonderful test for your all-round game, with many attractive, skifully crafted and challenging holes to enjoy.
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Stay & Play
Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort room.
Oceanfront O clubhouse and clu swimming pool. sw
D
esigned by Bruce A. Besse, Jr., this spectacular 27-hole championship golf course is nestled between the sparkling Caribbean Sea and majestic Central Mountains. The unique 27-hole layout features several oceanfront holes offering breathtaking Caribbean views, 14 beautiful manmade lakes, Puerto Rico’s first island green and manicured course conditions year-round. And, with four strategically placed sets of tees, few forced carries and yardages ranging from 5,201 to 6,937, the course provides a true test for the skilled golfer while providing a fun and fair layout recreational golfers are sure to enjoy.
The Costa Caribe Golf & Country Club, in addition to the Golf Course, offers a stunning clubhouse with swimming pool, beach access, and a variety of dining options, including Sushi Bar, Chinese restaurant, Grill, Banquet facilities for private events and tournament award ceremonies and a convenience store. The Golf Pro Shop offers fashion golf apparel and gear for rent and sell. The Complex also features the adjacent 255-room Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort and a residential complex with Luxury Villas and Condominiums.
Be on the lookout for both beauty and challenge at Costa Caribe’s signature 12th hole, featuring Puerto Rico’s first island green. At this challenging par 3, players are faced with one of the course’s few forced carries to an island green of generous proportions. Be warned, your tee shot here will likely face the prevailing Caribbean breeze, so be sure and take an extra club. WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
Chesson Hadley wins the 2014
Puerto Rico OPEN Chesson Hadley called his achievement as “a dream come true” after clinching a superb two-shot victory at the Puerto Rico Open on Sunday, March 9 at Trump International Golf Club in Rio Grande. He finished birdie for a final round of 67 and overall score of 21 under par.
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
Q.
I’ve got Chesson Hadley, the 2014 winner of the Puerto Rico Open. I’ve gotta ask you, you looked very calm, cool and collected out there today.
Chesson Hadley:
I did.
Q.
You did. You did. Absolutely. How much did winning twice last year on the Web.com Tour help you today?
Chesson Hadley:
Quite a bit. First and foremost I need to thank somebody, and that is Jesus. I was so nervous. I did not eat well last night. I did not eat well this morning, and through a lot of prayer, and just -- I’m so thankful, and it’s all glory to Him. So thank you, Jesus. Okay. So yeah, the two wins last year, that was -- it helps a lot because you’re there, you’ve learned how to win, you learn how not to choke, and there’s a lot going on, and you know, I was telling Kaye this morning, it’s all about the start, and I got off to a great start, and probably the shot that won me the tournament was the chip-in on 5. I mean I was dead over there and I hit the nastiest little nipper over there, and it snuck in the left door. Obviously playing with Webb in the final group at Vegas was an incredible as well, so a lot of positives to take away from this week obviously, so looking forward to the rest of the year and the next two years.
Q.
R
ookie Chesson Hadley took a one shot lead over Danny Lee into the final round and won by two over Lee at the Puerto Rico Open for his first career win on TOUR. He earns his first PGA TOUR victory at the age of 26 years, in his 13th career start and move from No. 78 into the top 30 of the FedExCup standings pending the completion of the WGCCadillac Championship. Hadley is from Raleigh, N.C., plays golf right-handed but is left-handed in most other endeavors. He is a junior deacon in his church. Hadley won the 2013 Rex Hospital Open and the 2013 Web.com Tour Championship on the Web.com Tour in 2013. Hadley is the only rookie on TOUR with three top-10 finishes this season (T5/Shriners Hospitals for Children Open, T10/
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AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, Won/ Puerto Rico Open). The only other rookies with top 10s this season are Hudson Swafford (T8/Sony Open in Hawaii), Will Wilcox (T8/Sony Open in Hawaii) and Wes Roach (T4/Puerto Rico Open) In 2013, the Puerto Rico Open gave sponsor exemptions to eventual PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year (Jordan Spieth) and the European Tour Rookie of the Year (Peter Uihlein). Spieth finished T2 last year in Puerto Rico and Uihlein finished T6. Rafael Campos’ previous best finish at the Puerto Rico Open was 76th in 2013. Hadley’s 65 in round two matched his career-low round on TOUR (R1/2013 Shriners Hospitals for Children Open).
Without a doubt. I remember that when I got my two-year exemption. Now, you almost did not play this week. Obviously you signed up at the last minute. So tell us how that decision came about.
Chesson Hadley:
So I shot three over the first round of Honda last week, and I went back to the hotel room, and I just -- I just let it all out. I had enough. I was sick and tired of playing like an idiot. And I don’t know, from there on then, I just figured it out, and golf’s fine now. That just shows you how quickly it can change. You can never give up. You know, from the year that I’ve had, you know, to be winning, I mean it’s incredible. So it opens up a lot of doors. It guarantees me a major. I’ve never played in a major before, and I don’t know how close it gets me in the World Golf Rankings to gets me in the Masters, but obviously it’s pretty special.
Q.
Well, wonderful job this week. Congratulations, and best of luck to you in the future.
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
Lee takes second
at Puerto Rico Open New Zealand’s Danny Lee has had his best finish on the PGA Tour with a second placing at the Puerto Rico Open. Lee records his second top 10 on TOUR: T7/2009 AT&T National and 2nd/2014 Puerto Rico Open. He led the field in Greens Hits (62 of 72, 86.1%). Lee earned his way back onto the PGA TOUR this season after finishing No. 27 on the Web.com Tour priority list. Lee’s only win on the Web.com Tour came at the 2011 WNB Golf Classic. He won the 2009 Johnnie Walker Classic on the European Tour at the age of 18 becoming the youngest ever winner of the U.S. Amateur Championship. His age record was broken the following year by 17-year-old An Byeong-hun. The win catapulted him to No. 1 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking in August 2008 where he remained turning professional in April 2009.
BEN MARTIN Martin (3rd) records his first top 10 on TOUR since his rookie season in 2011 (T6/RenoTahoe Open). Martin did not play on TOUR in 2012 or 2013. He has four made cuts in nine starts on TOUR this season.
JASON GORE Gore (T4) records his first top 10 on TOUR since a T7 at the 2009 U.S. Bank in Milwaukee. His last TOUR win came at the 2005 84 Lumber Classic. Gore at the Puerto Rico Open: 2009 (T44), 2010 (WD), 2011 (MC), 2012 (MC), 2014 (T4).
Q.
Danny, you gave it a good run there at the end. Do you want to just take us through the final round and what was going on through your head.
Danny Lee:
Well, to be honest with you, I was really nervous this morning. I didn’t really sleep at all. I woke up at 5:30 in the morning without no reason. I guess I was really nervous, and I think because of that I wasn’t playing my best at the first nine holes. I mean I made some couple birdies and couple bogeys. But after that I got a lot more relaxed and I just keep believing in myself, I can do this, I can do this. And was starting to make more birdies at the end, which I’m really pleased with that.
Q.
You put a lot of pressure on there at the end, birdies on 16, 17.
Danny Lee:
And 18.
Q.
Yeah, and 18. I mean you did all you could really at the end there.
Danny Lee:
Yeah. I mean I really felt like I did my best, I gave it my best, but Chesson was just playing rock solid. He made a couple of good up-and-downs from bad tee shots. And you know, when he plays like that, it’s just really hard to catch. He just didn’t make any silly mistakes at all.
Q.
You gotta be happy with your finish, it’s your second Top 10 on TOUR and it gets you in next week on Tampa also?
Danny Lee: Yeah. I’m really happy with that. My number wasn’t that good, so I was a bit worried. I’m really happy I can go down there and have another opportunity of a good week, and I’ll look forward to it.
Q.
Is it tough for you to do your part and still don’t have the win or are you pleased with the way you just finished?
Danny Lee: Well, obviously I’m a little bit is it disappointed is the right word? Is it I am a little bit disappointed. I felt like I really played good this week, and I was making good putts, good shots, a lot of good shots. And I was making good up-and-downs, but I did all I could do, so I’m pleased with solo second, and I’m just really happy I’m playing next week.
Q. Is it just golf? Danny Lee: WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
I guess it is.
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
Final Leaderboard Chesson Hadley Danny Lee Ben Martin
68-65-67-67—267 (-21) 67-68-66-68—269 (-19) 68-67-70-66—271 (-17)
TOURNAMENT RECORDS Best 18 hole score: 63, Derek Lamely (2010), Chris Tidland (2011), James Driscoll (2011 & ‘14), Scott Brown (2013) Best opening 36 holes: 130, Andres Romero (2013) Best 54 holes: 198, Scott Brown (2013), Fabian Gomez (2013)
Best 72 holes: 267, Chesson Hadley (2014) Best come from behind win: 4, Derek Lamely (2010) and Michael Bradley (2011)
Largest margin of victory: 2, Derek Lamely (2010) and George McNeill (2012)
Playoffs: Rafael Campos (T29) was the only of four Puerto Rican players to make the cut this week. His T29 finish is the best by a Puerto Rican player in the Puerto Rico Open. Miguel Suarez’s T61 finish in 2008 was the previous best finish by a Puerto Rican player in the Puerto Rico Open. Rafa Campos (2008, 2013 and 2014), Miguel Suarez (2008) and Wilfredo Morales (2008) are the only Puerto Rican players to make the cut at the Puerto Rico Open. Five of the six past champions of the Puerto Rico Open were in the field: Michael Bradley (Won twice/ MC), Derek amely (MC), George McNeill (T19) and Scott Brown (64th).
Scoring Averages at the par-72 Trump International Golf Club: Front 9 Back 9 Total Cumulative Thursday 35.638 36.315 71.954 --Friday 34.754 35.569 70.323 71.138 Saturday 35.063 34.800 69.863 70.838 Sunday 35.028 35.521 70.549 70.788
Bogey-free Rounds: R1: Jason Gore (67), Jerry Kelly (69) R2: James Driscoll (63), Carl Pettersson (66), David Skinns (66), Chris Stroud (67), Nathan Green (67), Greg Owen (67), Brad Fritsch (68), David Hearn (68), Tyrone Van Aswegen (68) R3: 13 players - R4: Scott Langley (65), Seung-Yul Noh (67), Wes Roach (67), David Skinns (68)
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014 Stay & Play
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Stay & Play
Stay & Play
Stay & Play
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Puerto Rico OPEN 2014
All the excitement from the Bleachers and VIP tents 1
1. Riveraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brothers from Ruth Chris and friend 2. Iliana Alfaro and Zaida Colon 3. Paulina Salach, Alexandra Rivera and Maria Reyes from Diageo 4. (center)Jesus Cabrera from Mendez & Company and Friends 5. Farid Zaker and Dr. Roberto Kutcher 6. From Gran Melia - Irasema Serrano, Carlos De Freitas and Astrid Rivera
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Tourism
Business Networking Tool
The Ultimate
By Prof. Ivรกn O. Puig Gonzรกlez
Social Networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, e-mail, text messaging, among others have certainly simplified and made it easier for business professionals to meet, communicate and network. Browsing these sites can make you feel connected to a large community, but such easy, casual connections in electronic environments tend to be very impersonal and informal.
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Tourism
W
hen it comes to expanding your network of professional friends, business contacts and truly getting to know people, a far better effective strategy is to play golf and stay active in local clubs. Sharing time on the course also helps people to bond and to create and develop relationships. It also allows you to observe your playmates’ habits, integrity, mannerisms, and ways of dealing with frustrating situations, success and failure.
Golf has become an extremely effective networking tool. “No matter how sophisticated the business world becomes, golf remains the communication hub” says David Rynecki, founder of Blue Heron Research Partners, a former golf and business journalist, and the author of Deals on the Green: Lessons on Business and Golf from America’s Top Executives. Building business relationships takes time and effort. To be successful in today’s business environment you have to develop strong loyal customer and client relationships with a solid foundation based on trust and communication. In business as in private life we usually get just one chance to create a first impression and rarely a bond is developed with potential clients from one meeting, especially if it is a brief introduction at a corporate or social event.
Always give a firm handshake
– When shaking someone’s hand, grab a firm hold and look them in the eye. A firm handshake should be as good as your words and as valid as any contract or deal. Whether in business or in golf, you can tell a lot about people based on their handshake.
Don’t News
on
Yesterday’s
– Every victory and memory must be cherished. To be competitive in today’s world, one must forget and learn from the past and deal with today and move forward towards the future with new challenges.
Practice like a Pro – Greatness is only achieved through practice, dedication and perseverance.
Use Fear for Fuel
– We all want to win or be successful and thinking of losing or failure is not an option. However, thinking that one can lose can drive you to play harder than just thinking about winning. You can’t be afraid to take a chance and fail.
Befriend your Rivals
– Even rivals must develop great relationships. Just because you are competitors or rivals in business or in golf doesn’t mean you can’t be friends.
On the other hand, a game of golf gives you an option to secure additional opportunities to get to know someone you might be prospecting for future business. It is a lot easier to get someone to say yes to a round of golf than to a formal business meeting. Golf courses are tailor-made to allow for business professionals and executives to establish, build and strengthen relationships. Also, golf is a game that involves a lot of downtime so it affords plenty of opportunities for quality conversation. The legendary golf player Arnold Palmer believes that connecting with people at the golf course is pretty much like connecting in business or in life. DurProf. Iván O. Puig González ing his best golf years is Dean of the International he followed certain School of Hospitality and principles in the golf Culinary Arts at Universidad course which directly del Este (UNE). apply to today’s business world: WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
Dwell
“No matter how sophisticated the business world becomes, golf remains the communication hub” Some executives and business professionals may find it difficult to justify spending three to five hours with one customer or fail to see the value of golf in building strong relationships. Although golf is a sport, many deals and contracts are discussed while at the golf course or later at the restaurant, also known as “the 19th hole.” In reality it’s hard to find a better networking place than the golf course to create, sustain and strengthen lasting, meaningful relationships.
Tourism
A 21st Century
Tourism Strategy By Alberto C. Medina Gil
As a tourist destination, Puerto Rico practically sells itself. With its picture-perfect beaches, year-round sunny weather, mouthwatering cuisine, and enticing Caribbean rhythms, the “Island of Enchantment” is exactly that for millions of visitors every year, many of whom return to our shores again and again.
T
here are many more around the world, however, who have yet to discover Puerto Rico’s charms. And, while the Island may have an enviable set of advantages, tourism is a hypercompetitive industry. The Caribbean alone features dozens of vacation hotspots, and destinations halfway around the world are increasingly more accessible to travelers of all stripes. So, while Puerto Rico may sell itself, it can also benefit greatly from a good salesman — or saleswoman. Enter Ingrid Rivera, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, who in less than a year on the job has charted an ambitious course and put together a multipronged strategy with the goal of bringing more visitors to the Island and increasing tourism’s role as an engine of economic growth.
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“We have an amazing opportunity here at Tourism to develop the economy and create jobs,” says Rivera. “It’s an industry that already employs more than 50,000 people and there is a great opportunity to create jobs fairly quickly.” According to Rivera tourism currently makes up about six percent of Puerto Rico’s GDP. “My goal in the next three-and-a-half years is to increase that so tourism represents around eight percent of GDP, which would put us closer to the worldwide percentage.” That modest increase could have an economic impact of over a billion dollars.
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Tourism
To that end, Rivera is leading the charge with several different projects and initiatives to improve every facet of the industry in Puerto Rico. One important step: to increase the number of hotel rooms on the Island; there are currently 14,500 rooms endorsed by the Tourism Company, and Rivera would like to see that number closer to 20,000. There is also a renewed emphasis on the tourist experience as a whole. “We have a strategy built on service, and focused on the idea that each visitor should have a great experience in Puerto Rico from the moment he steps off the plane until the moment he leaves,” says Rivera. The Tourism Company is also working hand in hand with local colleges to increase tourism-related educational offerings. On the publicity side, an innovative campaign, borne out of an alliance with travel website TripAdvisor, tells compelling stories about real-life traveler experiences in Puerto Rico. “It’s all part of promoting Puerto Rico as a premier Caribbean destination,” says Rivera. The campaign’s videos feature Puerto Rican stars narrating real five-star reviews of some of the Island’s most attractive locales and activities. The first two can already be seen on the Tourism Company’s website: one features actress Roselyn Sánchez and promotes El Yunque, while the second, about Puerto Rico’s majestic golf courses, is narrated by the legendary Juan “Chi Chi” Rodríguez. Of course, none of this means very much if travelers can’t easily get to Puerto Rico, and one of the pillars of Rivera’s strategy is increasing both air and sea access to the Island. These are vital efforts, not just for increasing the number of passengers who can make it to our shores, but to make inroads in markets that have been traditionally ignored. “Right now, 92 percent of our visitors come from the United States and we want to diversify when it comes to tourists,” says Rivera. “We’re looking south, to South America; we just opened a route from Bogota to San Juan with direct flights three times a week, and that serves as a bridge to the rest of South America.” Those flights are slated to begin in July of this year. The Tourism Company has also worked to increase the offerings from United and Jet Blue; the latter now operates a direct flight from San Juan to Chicago. “That helps us diversify, too, so that our focus is not completely on the eastern United States,” says Rivera. Even more significant will be the new direct flight, starting this May, between San Juan and Madrid, which reestablishes a strong connection with Europe and over 300 million potential travelers.
“We’re going to have 150,000 new tourists coming to Puerto Rico in 2014 thanks to new partnerships with Royal Caribbean, which now will have two direct weekly arrivals with its Jewel of the Sea, and thanks to being a new homeport for Disney Cruises,” says Rivera. The other pillar in Rivera’s strategy is a focus on niche tourism — that is, travel tailored to visitors who come to Puerto Rico looking for a specific type of experience, be it cultural, adventurous, or gastronomic. One of the most important niches is luxury tourism, and Puerto Rico has started to make inroads into that lucrative market. “The new Ritz Carlton Reserve in Dorado, which opened in 2012, has been very beneficial when it comes to luxury tourism,” says Rivera. “We have seen a level of acceptance from people who visit Puerto Rico and it has created a spillover effect that benefits other properties like the Bahía St. Regis.”
“We have an amazing opportunity here at Tourism to develop the economy and create jobs”
Also helping to drive luxury tourism: golf. “There are more than 20 golf courses in Puerto Rico, all of different difficulty levels, including some of the most recent ones like the beautiful Royal Isabela, with its gorgeous cliffs that are reminiscent of what you would see at St. Andrews,” says Rivera. Indeed, Puerto Rico’s fantastic courses and year-round golf weather have been drawing visitors to the Island for decades. Golf also plays a large role in another significant niche: sports tourism. This past March, the 7th Puerto Rico Open was presented by seepuertorico.com, held at Trump International Golf Club, and the Puerto Rico Tourism Company has been the event’s title sponsor since 2011. “It’s an important alliance,” says Rivera of the partnership with the Open. “It really has a positive impact on promoting Puerto Rico as a destination because we partner with the Golf Channel and it’s a showcase for our beautiful courses. For several days, not just our players, but our courses get a lot of exposure, and every year the tournament has better ratings and better participation.”
Rivera also expects to reverse the downward trend that has afflicted cruise ship arrivals, which were down to about a million passengers from a high of nearly 1.5 million six years ago.
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The Tourism Company also sponsors the NEC Series-PGA TOUR LatinoamĂŠricaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Puerto Rico Classic, but its focus on sports tourism goes far beyond the golf course. Last year, the World Baseball Classic brought to the Island thousands of fans, particularly from nations like the Dominican Republic and Ve n e z u e l a . The Ironman 70.3 Puerto Rico and the Divas Half Marathon & 5K saw significant increases in the amount of participants that came from abroad. Puerto Rico also keeps improving its status as a surfing mecca with events like the Rip Curl Pro presented by seepuertorico.com in Isabela.
â&#x20AC;&#x153;The other pillar in Riveraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strategy is a focus on niche tourism â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that is, travel tailored to visitors who come to Puerto Rico looking for a specific type of experience, be it cultural, adventurous, or gastronomic. â&#x20AC;?
â&#x20AC;&#x153;All of these events are establishing themselves as really competitive, and people want to come to Puerto Rico and do them,â&#x20AC;? says Rivera.
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At a time when Puerto Ricoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy needs all the help it can get, the impact of these events, and the many direct and indirect jobs they create, are of utmost importance. So it is with the entire tourism industry which, under Riveraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership, is poised to ensure that visitors continue flocking to our little slice of paradise for years to come.
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SAN JUAN
TRATTORIA ITALIANA From Excellent to Superlative
An inviting ambiance welcomes patrons the instant they enter the restaurant’s main lobby and hear the soft sound of live piano music: the perfect setting for a special celebration or just fabulous food. Guests at Trattoria Italiana are greeted with a bubbly glass of Prosecco to wet the palate before being escorted to the tables. All the menu items have been artistically combined with a mixture of carefully selected ingredients to take your senses to the historic city of Roma.
PARMIGIANA DI MELANZANE BREADED EGGPLANT, FRESH TOMATO SAUCE, FRESH MOZZARELLA DI BUFFALA, PARMIGIANO REGGIANO CHEESE
RISOTTO PESCATORE MUSSELS, CLAMS, SQUID, SHRIMP, FRESH CATCH OF THE DAY AND SCALLOPS, ASPARAGUS, FRESH GREEN PEAS, TOMATO CONCASSE, WHITE WINE, BUTTER
PROVIDED BY: SAN JUAN
Trattoria Italiana’s commitment to pasta, their specialty, is an unwavering focus. Menu highlights include any of their fresh pastas or risotto selections, but especially the Fettuccine Alfredo, whose story has become legendary. In addition to the pasta, fish, seafood and meats; you will be treated with the rich flavors of fresh herbs that will awaken your palate. To cap off your night of culinary delight, sip a frothy latte or delve into one of thier rich, creamy desserts like the Tiramisú. It is a must!
FIG GOAT CHEESE PIZZA DRIED MISSION FIGS, LOCAL HONEY, BÉCHAMEL, CARAMELIZED SHALLOTS, WALNUTS
SPAGHETTI AL FRUTTI DI MARE MARINARA SAUCE, WHITE WINE, GARLIC, SHALLOTS, FRESH THYME MUSSELS, CLAMS, FRESH CATCH OF THE DAY AND SHRIMP, SCALLOPS, FRESH FISH
5961 ISLA VERDE AVE. | ISLA VERDE | SAN JUAN | PUERTO RICO WWW.INTERCONTINENTAL.COM/SANJUAN
Golf Gusto
I
grew up in the restaurant industry. Food and people have always surrounded me. I made the decision to fully immerse myself into the business while I was studying drama at NYU. During my time at NYU I also had jobs working as a server at restaurant in New York City. It was during that phase that I realized that my love and commitment to the restaurant business was much greater than my devotion to becoming a great thespian. I made the decision to enroll at the Culinary Institute of America. The same school my father, Dayn Smith, graduated from in the 70’s. It was a great experience and one that I reflect on in terms of the culture the school creates.
After my graduation from the CIA I got hired to work in Washington D.C. at a José Andrés restaurant called Zaytinya. It was an interesting experience because my chef at the time was on the show Top Chef and the publicity they were receiving was an eye opener about the power of media on business.
La Perla
de Condado By Lindell Smith
A year and a half into my job at Zaytinya I was looking for a change. That’s when my father, Dayn Smith, offered me a position to work at Perla. I started my career at Perla as a line cook. I worked my way through the different stations learning how to cook everything on the menu. I then decided to become part of the front of the house team at Perla. This allowed me to meet and understand the expectations of our guests. I also became involved in the wine program, which greatly expanded my knowledge and appreciation for wine. About a year and a half into my position in the service part of Perla I decided to return to the kitchen. During this time is when I grew into the role of managing the kitchen at Perla. WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
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Golf Gusto
The shell at La Concha Hotel was built in 1958 by an Italian
COCONUT CURRY SHRIMP WITH RISOTTO CAKE
architect by the name of Mario Salvadori . The shell was famously visited by the Kennedys’ and also Frank Sinatra during their times. Now the shell is the home to Perla Restaurant. A refined contemporary American cuisine restaurant that provides an experience that is truly memorable. Stepping into the
Sauce 3 tbsp. Shallots Chopped 1 tbsp. Garlic Minced 2 in. piece Lemongrass 2 tbsp. Red Curry Paste 1 Can Coconut Milk ½ Can Cream of Coconut 3 Cups Heavy Cream ½ Cup Basil Chopped
restaurant draws an awe to every guest. It has an ambiance that one must experience first hand to fully understand the beauty that is the space.
Sautee in a pan the shallots in canola oil until translucent. Add the garlic and cook until it has a little color. Smash the piece of lemongrass and add to the pan. Add the red curry paste and mix. Add the coconut milk, heavy cream of coconut, and cream. Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes and adjust seasoning. Remove the lemongrass piece and add the basil.
Shrimp 4 Shrimps Olive Oil Salt Pepper Toss the shrimps in a pan with olive oil and season. Grill on both sides for a minute each. Place in simmering coconut curry sauce and cook for 30 seconds.
Risotto Cake Flour Canola Oil Dredge risotto cake in flour and pan fry in the canola oil until golden brown.
Assembly Place the risotto cake on the plate and arrange the shrimps around the risotto. Spoon the sauce over the shrimps. Garnish with red pepper curls, fried basil, and basil oil.
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Mixology
Trendy Cocktails The key to crafting a great cocktail lies in the tiniest of details, little things that elevate a simple concoction to something truly special. Mixologist Jorge A. Lopez Albarran shares the recipes of two of his trendy creations. Enjoy!
Three star mocha 1 ¼ oz Barrilito 3 estrellas ¾ oz Monin Vanilla Madagascar 2 oz Ghirardelli Mocha Base 1 oz milk Add ice PROCEDURE Mix all ingredients into a blender. Add ice and blend. Serve into a hurricane glass or clear glass. Garnish: squirrel chocolate sauce, chocolate and vanilla pearls Method: blend
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White beauty 1 ½ oz Bacardi Superior ½ oz Monin white chocolate sauce ½ oz GHR caramel sauce 3 oz guanabana – sour sop Add ice PROCEDURE Mix all ingredients in to a mixing glass. Add ice and shake it vigorously. Serve into a cocktail glass. Garnish: caramel sauce drizzle & toffee bits Method: shake
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Experience a Taino Restaurant where the flavors and the beauty of “El Yunque” come together Great food. Great Atmosphere. Great Prices.
MENU SPECIALTIES
On your way to or from El Yunque make sure you stop by for some traditional Puerto Rican food...we give old world dishes, new world flavors that will tantalize even the most discerning of taste buds.
Urayoan
Located in El Yunque rainforest our restaurant is set on the tranquil Mameyes river. If you want to relax, listen to good music and have the best food you ever tasted you should definitely stop by the restaurant.
Yuisa
Carr.191, Km 1.1, El Yunque, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico 787-415-2317 / 787-354-5977
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Mouth watering Salmon Filet in an exciting Flavored Caper honey sauce
Canobana Smoked Spare Ribs, Flavored with Tamarind sauce Juicy Cornish Hen stuffed with Yuca in creamy white wine cilantro sauce
Caguana (Vegetarian Delight) Nutricious sautee of Garbanzo Beans with a side dish of Mofonguitos
Jumacao Combination Platter. Assorted combo Chicken Wings, Spare Ribs, grilled Sausage and Yuca “mofonguito”
ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Go Shopping
A Real Shopping
Experience
By Michele Irene LLamas
W
hether you choose to visit Plaza Las Americas, the biggest mall in the Caribbean, the Premium Outlet in Barceloneta, the Route 66 Outlet in Can贸vanas or our premiere boutiques, in historic Old San Juan you can find high end couture and special items you will love to take back home as the souvenir of your dreams. From Puerto Rican gourmet coffee, to our famous rums, arts & crafts, cigars and homemade pastries, you can enjoy it all in Puerto Rico. Shopping can be an important part of the travel experience or its primary focus. For this reason, Get Shopped PR provides special tourist shopping activities for visitors to shop for goods, especially those genuine ones from the island. It is a unique feeling to experience local culture through an engagement with local products and local craftspeople.
WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
Shopping in Puerto Rico is as big and exciting as our beautiful beaches, scenic vistas and rich history. No matter what type of cultural experience anyone is craving for, they will be sure to find it here!
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Go Shopping
When visiting Old San Juan it’s a must to walk around Plaza Colón and visit all the artisans’ tables, get to know Mary who does fabulous handmade painted bags or Rafael who does the most amazing wood carved “pilones”, a signature tool of the Puerto Rican kitchen, if you don’t have one, how else are you going to prepare your delicious “Mofongo”?
If you get thirsty, in many of the squares you will find the colorful pushcarts selling piraguas, a traditional frozen treat made of shaved ice and flavored syrup
Nearby you will find a unique coffee shop, Caficultura! This lovely café prepares beautiful drinks using local products and serves a delicious breakfast. You can purchase fresh Puerto Rican coffee beans here, directly from our mountains. If you get thirsty, in many of the squares you will find the colorful pushcarts selling piraguas, a traditional frozen treat made of shaved ice and flavored syrup if you have a sweeter tooth or you can go for the coconut or passion fruit “helado”. Old San Juan also has plenty of shops specializing in jewelry and souvenirs. You’ll also find good-quality clothing boutiques like Custo Barcelona, or local smaller shops where you can get those cool Guayabera shirts perfect for the tropics.
If you prefer the air conditioned scene to do your shopping and enjoy over 300 stores to choose from, then Plaza Las Americas is the place to be. Here you will find a heavenly chocolate truffle from Godiva to keep you sweet, a sexy lingerie from Victoria’s Secret or a nice golfing outfit at Hugo Boss. Fine upscale shopping is also a possibility when visiting the Condado district. Brands such as Gucci, Cartier and Salvatore Ferragamo are part of what we call our Rodeo Drive. Now, if you are like most of us, in the budget conscious group, then, The Outlet Mall on Route 66 or Puerto Rico Premium Outlets is just for you. Each Outlet has its charm as well as a vast selection of stores to satisfy anyone in the whole family: Tommy Hilfiger Guess, Adidas, BCBG, Calvin Klein, Polo Ralph Loren, and The Gap, just to name a few. Discount and sales are in the menu all year long. So, there you have it! Puerto Rico is a shopper’s paradise. From chic designer stores to wonderful art galleries and unique souvenirs, the island has it all. We hope you meet our beautiful sun and maximize your time visiting our Rain Forest, learning about the history and the amazing culture of the Island of Enchantment but remember: there is always time to Shop, shop, shop! You will love it!
Please contact your hotel concierge for more information on our shopping tours, itineraries and group programs or visit our website at www.getshoppedpr.com
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ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Meeting on the Green
Commonwealth-Parkville School Hosts Successful Scholarship Golf Tournament
First PLace Gross William Rodz - Pedro Soto
Commonwealth-Parkville School (CPS) hosted the 19th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament on March 13, 2014 at the Trump International Golf Club Championship course, 4 days after the PGA Puerto Rico Open. Attendance and proceeds from this tournament exceeded expectation providing much needed scholarships to deserving students. The event which drew 100 players this year, included parents, board members, students, alumni, corporate sponsors and friends of CPS. Golf Pro Jason Tobar helped raise additional funds by teeing off and providing golfing tips at Hole 18. Aleida Mora, CPS Director of Development and Golf Tournament Coordinator remarked “ The sponsorship and participatory support we received for this endeavor is unprecedented, in spite of the economic hardship we are experiencing in Puerto Rico. Our thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s event a success, our generous sponsors, the participating teams, and all those involved in the organization of this amazing event.” CPS thanks its generous sponsors, Super Asphalt, AeroNet, Garage Isla Verde, First Bank, Evolution Press, El Nuevo Día, Pepsi, To Go Stores, Caribbean Cinemas, BDO, Delgado & Fernández Law Offices, Sononuclear, Alarm Depot, Ricoh, Gustos Coffee Co., Total, Lanco, Cofran Food Services, The X-Shop, Subway, CPS Board of Directors, Cardio Health, Scholastic, EIG Group, Dr. Tools, MMM, Suiza Diary, Ranger, Caliche Rum, Christiansen Insurance, Pan Pepín, Merino Infiva, Jorge Rivera Jiménez Insurance, Pollo Campero, FACTS, Kraft Foods, Colomer & Suárez, Facsimile Paper Connection, Kevane Grant Thornton, Consolidated Waste Services, Puerto Rico Supplies Group, Fundación Plaza Las Américas & Área Magazine.
Aleida Mora, José León and Adriano Valle Kids prices
José Díaz Donato Longest Drive
Tom Quinn, Charlie Bautista and José Aponte WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
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Meeting on the Green
SME Charitable Golf Tournament On its twenty first edition the SME Golf Tournament achieved the goal of raising funds for the non-profit organizations “Nuestra Escuela” and Sales & Marketing Executives Association of Puerto Rico. With a Two-Man Scramble format, the event gathered the participation of 110 golfers who played for a good cause at The Palms Course at Palmas Athletic Club in Humacao. “We are very pleased with the response we had to this event which in turn will help to positively impact various initiatives from SME and ‘Nuestra Escuela’. Thanks to the support received from our sponsors, players and collaborators we expect to raise about $20,000. Definitively, when people join efforts for a good cause we can obtain great results”, mentioned Nélida Rivera Claudio, 2013-14 SME President.
This exciting culinary venture marks the first ever golf course food truck as a 19th hole, presented as a collaborative effort between Dorado Beach Resort & Club and Chef José Andrés. The 19th hole experience will never be the same when golfers taste the original creations of world renowned Chef José Andrés, teamed with the Dorado Beach staff, headed by Chef José Shamil Cedeño.
Tomás J. Martínez and Fernando De Zengotita, winners of the First Place Gross
José Rodríguez and Gilberto Pérez, winners of the First Place Net
Jorge Blanco and Humberto Fragela, winners of the Second Place Gross Alexis Negrón and Manuel Quiñones, winners of the Second Place Net
The Food Truck of José Andrés arrives at Dorado Beach Resort and Club
“Today’s golfers have come to expect innovative and elevated dining experience and the golf course should be no exception. Eating has to be fun, especially in the golf course,” said Chef José Andrés. The menu of the Food Truck features American and Caribbean inspired classics such as burger, hot dog, BLT sandwich and cuban sandwich, done José’s way. Other favorites, but unexpected for the golf course and with an innovative approach are lobster roll, crabcake sandwich, gazpacho, and shrimp, crab, stone crab or oyster cocktail or fried oysters, among other items.
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ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Off the Course
Tribute to
Chi Chi
Rodríguez To add to his long list of achievements, wold-famous Chi Chi Rodriguez was officially recognized by the Puerto Rican Senate. The legislative passed a resolution praising him “for his extraordinary career as one of the greatest worldwide exponents of golf, and for his valuable contribution to noble causes, especially in the education of disadvantaged children and youth.”
WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
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Off the Course
Caliche PUERTO RICAN
RUM
Caliche Rum took this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taste of Rum event by storm setting up the bar in an outmost elegant and lavish lounge area. Caliche offered unique and exquisite cocktails that had locals and visitors asking for more of this most delicious Puerto Rican rum.
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ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014
Off the Course
Michael Herrmann, Ivan Puig, Felix Mulero, Robert Rodriguez and Tino Arias
Hernán Copete, Sylma Priegues and Carlos Rincón
Gloria Bonilla, Benny Varon and Edgardo Muriel
Intercontinental Hotel
Launch of the new lobby bar
Left to right: Carlos Rincón, Jholany Avila, Alejandro Cobo, Michael Herrmann, Belinda Herrmann, Hernán Copete, Hilda Jaramillo, Olga Escobar (seating), Judith Merlano, María del Rincón, Diego Valencia, Victoria Reyes and Daniel Terrasa WWW.GOLFTOURISMPR.COM
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Insight and strategy from the best caddyâ&#x20AC;?
Be a part of Golf and Tourism Magazine and let our readers cross paths with you (787) 360-2093 / sales@golftourismpr.com
GOLF COURSES GUIDE Aguirre Golf Club Road 705, Km 3, Aguirre, Salinas Type: Public
Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club $125 - $225
$125 - $275
PUERTO RICO Embassy Suites Dorado del Mar Beach & Golf Resort 201 Dorado Del Mar Boulevard, Dorado
Fort Buchanan Golf Course Building 171, Fort Buchanan
Las Bambuas Golf Course Route 187 Kilometer 4.2, Rio Grande Phone: (866) 529-3996
Berwind Country Club Road 187 Km 4.7, Rio Grande
Caguas Real Golf & Country Club $65 - $110
$65 - $110
700 Alhambra Blvd., Caguas Phone: (787) 653-4653
Club Deportivo Del Oeste Carr. 102 KM 15.4 Int., Joyudas, Cabo Rojo
Coamo Springs Golf & Tennis Club Road 546 KM 1, Coamo
Costa Caribe Golf & Country Club Ponce, Porta Caribe
Dorado Beach Resort & Club East Course $100 - $210
$100 - $210
West Course $70 - $160
$70 - $160
Road 189 Km. 10.1 Jardin, Gurabo
Palmas Athletic Club The Flamboyan Course The Palm Course $145.00 Non members / $28.00 Members - 7 days a week #1 Country Club Drive Humacao, PR 00791 Phone: (787) 656-3000
Punta Borinquen Golf and Country Club Base Ramey, Aguadilla
Rio Bayamon Golf Course $25
Verdes Carr. 177, Bayamon Type: Public Phone: (787) 740-1419
Trump International Golf Club 100 Clubhouse Drive, Rio Grande
The Wyndham Rio Mar Beach Resort Ocean Course River Course $150
100 Dorado Beach Drive, Dorado Phone: (787) 626-1010
El Conquistador Resort and Golden Door Spa
$25
$200
6000 Rio Mar Blvd., Rio Grande Phone: (877) 636-0636
1000 Conquistador Avenue, Fajardo
El Legado Golf Resort Carr. PR-713, KM. 2.5 Bo. Jobos y Pozo Hondo, Guayama 50
Note: Fees subject to change without notice during the course of the year. ISSUE 4 / APRIL - JUNE 2014