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Enjoy three nights lodging and three rounds of golf at Missouri’s # 1 course and we’ll add the
fourth night free! Play Porto Cima by Jack Nicklaus - The Cove by Robert Trent Jones Sr. - The Ridge by Ken Kavanaugh
porto cima DESIGNED BY JACK NICKLAUS
Congratulations to The Club at Porto Cima - MGA’s #1 Golf Course for 2010! Have fun and feel special, with this exclusive offer to play Porto Cima, designed by Jack Nicklaus. Only Club members, and guest of The Lodge of Four Seasons, have exclusive privileges to play the #1 golf course in Missouri as voted by the members of the Missouri Golf Association. Also included in your golf vacation, the legendary signature course at The COVE, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and The RIDGE course designed by Ken Kavanaugh. These are the three courses of THE LODGE – membership and guests have privileges. This three course package turns into a fourth night of free accommodations at THE LODGE…to rest, relax and celebrate.
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contents I february 2012
cover
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stories
NY’s Pound Ridge Golf Club
14
by Terry Ross
Roughly 40 miles outside of Manhattan in Westchester County, Pound Ridge has emerged as the New York City-area’s most sought after golfing experience.
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France: Golf And The Normandy Spirit
22
Stay, Play, Eat, Shop At Sandestin
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by Andrew Marshall
This slice of France is blessed with a selection of fine golf courses, and allows the gourmet golfer ample opportunity to learn about, taste and purchase some of the fine local produce.
by JD Latorre
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast is a 2,400-acre, see-it-to-believe-it vacation destination where golfers can stay, play, eat and shop without leaving the property.
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The Next La Costa Is Here by Andy Reistetter
La Costa has reinvented herself into the impressive, sophisticated, allencompassing resort of the future. Whether you are visiting as a single, a couple, a family or a corporation, everything is there for you at La Costa.
departments
22 9 ChipShots Updates From The World Of Golf & Travel
12 MyTurn
by Terry Ross
Humana Challenge Tour Stop
30 Sweet Stuff
by Terry Ross
F2 Golf SS Wedges, Titleist AP1 and AP2 Irons
on the cover: La Costa Resort & Spa, Carlsbad, California 6
24 G O L F VA C AT I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 2
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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Terry Ross has covered sports as both a print and radio journalist for more than 35 years, and also has served as a consultant to the golf industry in a variety of capacities. He has been a regular columnist for the Long Beach Business Journal and is based in Orange County, California.
Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz
Andy Reistetter is a freelance golf writer as well as a Spotter, Research and Broadcast Assistant for The Golf Channel, NBC and CBS Sports. He spends time on all four major American golf tours and resides near the PGA TOUR headquarters and TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach. Andy is a lifetime golfer and enjoys volunteering at the World Golf Hall of Fame and THE PLAYERS while pursuing his passion for the game of golf. He can be reached by e-mailing him at AndyReistetter@gmail.com.
Associate Editor Terry Ross Features Editor Larry Feldman
Andy Marshall Born in England, Andy has been a professional freelance travel writer for the past 20 years. During that time, he has travelled to over 50 countries including Sri Lanka, Solomon Islands, Barbados, Panama and Indonesia to cover a diverse range of travel-related features for various magazines around the world. He regularly works with his professional photographer brother Paul on different projects particularly golf, food and drinks features. Visit his work at www.bogey.se
Senior Writers Tom LaMarre Fred Robledo For Editorial: call: (760) 774-2655 e-mail: INFO@GolfVacationsMag.com
Regional Advertising
JD Latorre is a freelance travel writer currently calling South Florida his home base. He has a knack for finding himself in some of the world’s most exotic locations, including Bangkok, Montego Bay, Bogata, Havana, Cabo San Lucas, St. Kitts, Cancun and Marseilles. His past lives included working for the Miami Herald, Chicago Daily Herald, Boston Globe, Daily News of Los Angeles and Southern California Golf Newspaper.
Los Angeles • 949-279-7801 Terry Ross - terryross@cox.net Atlanta • 770-239-7500 Harold Chambliss - haroldcmg@ceocenters.com San Diego • 619-889-7706 Bob Black - bobblack@cox.net
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GOLF JOURNEYS
Golf Journeys & Culture www.golfjourneys.net
Kansas City • 913-217-7242 Harry Noll - hmdn1954@yahoo.com
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& CULTURE Author: Andrew Marshall
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G O L F VA C AT I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 2
“A must read for every gonzo golf adventurer.” JD Latorre, Golf Vacations Magazine
Golf Vacations Magazine is published in digital format monthly and distributed online to over 1,000,000 golfer’s email inboxes each issue. Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2012 SportsMedia Publications, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher. www.golfvacationsmag.com
U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >> BLACK BUTTE RANCH UNVEILS ‘UNLIMITED GOLF PACKAGE BLACK BUTTE RANCH, OR.- If the re-opening of its Glaze Meadow Golf Course after a dramatic $3.75 million renovation wasn’t enough, Black Butte Ranch unveiled an “Unlimited Golf Package” that if booked by April 30 includes a $100 dining card to be used at any restaurant on the Central Oregon-based destination family resort property. The attractively priced package – with rates starting at just $99 per person – includes unlimited golf at both of Black Butte Ranch’s championship courses, Glaze Meadow and Big Meadow. Carts and range balls are included with the package, which is available beginning April 1 through the end of the 2012 golf season. For golfers itching to get their first look at the “new” Glaze Meadow Golf Course, closed since September 2010 for a major renovation carried out by noted architect John Fought, the course will reopen open in two phases: the front nine
will be ready for play after Memorial Day weekend, while all 18 holes will be available to the public in late June. At 7,000 yards, Glaze Meadow will play longer by more than 400 yards and will feature many striking changes, including the rebuilding of all 18 greens and tee boxes and greatly improved sightlines and shotmaking options. For those who take advantage of the package prior to Memorial Day weekend, unlimited play will take place on the popular Big Meadow Golf Course, a par-72, Robert Muir Graves-designed layout that reopened in 2008 after a complete renovation. Providing a classic mountain golf experience, Big Meadow has played host to numerous Oregon golf championships since its debut more than 30 years ago. There are more than 100 lodging properties at Black Butte Ranch to choose from, ranging from two-person hotel-style rooms to luxurious six-bedroom residences. From April 1 through May 24, and again beginning Oct. 1 through the end of
chip shots the season, the package requires a twonight minimum stay and is valid any day of the week. From June 1 through Sept. 30, there is a three-night minimum stay required and the package is available for Sunday through Thursday night stays. The Unlimited Golf Package is unavailable Memorial Day weekend, June 28 to July 7 and Labor Day weekend. Package rates are based on double occupancy, and range from $99/person to $159/person depending on the dates and lodging accommodations selected. At the time the package is booked, the guests’ first golf round will be confirmed in advance, with additional tee times eligible to be booked at the conclusion of the first round played. To receive the free $100 dining card, the package must be booked by April 30. The card can be used at any restaurant on the property, including the widely acclaimed Lodge Restaurant and Robert’s Pub. To book the Unlimited Golf Package, visit www.blackbutteranch.com or call 877.917.4576.
Black Butte Ranch
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G O L F V A C A T I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2012
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U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >>
BRISTOL BUENAVENTURA’S JACK NICKLAUS GOLF COURSE TO OPEN PANAMA – Owing to a persistent rainy season in Panama, Bristol Buenaventura announced a new grand opening date for its Buenaventura Golf Club and championship Nicklaus Design Course, now set for May 2012 debut. The first nine holes of the 18-hole course will open along with the Buenaventura Golf Club’s Prime 19 steakhouse restaurant on February 11. An offi-
cial grand opening celebration will open the full course and Club this May. Situated within the exclusive Buenaventura beach community, the Buenaventura Golf Club will add to an already impressive list of amenities offered at Bristol Buenaventura, the award-winning Corotu Spa, Equestrian Club, beachfront El Faro Club House, Ermita Chapel and five gourmet restaurants. Together these new and existing amenities will offer an elevated level of resort luxury unlike any other in Panama. The private Buenaventura Golf Club will be open exclusively to Buenaventura community residents and Bristol Buenaventura guests. The par-72 Nicklaus Design course blends seamlessly within its breathtaking beachfront location and provides a challenging experience for players within an unmatched natural setting. Measuring
DESTINATIONS
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G O L F VA C AT I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 2
chip shots 7,324 yards, the new course features multiple tee placements for different levels of game play, as well as Paspalum Platinum grass, known for its intense green color and uncommon genetic code allowing optimal playability. Additionally, players will be able to relax following tee-time at the 19 Hole Club House, which will house Prime 19 restaurant, a relaxing bar and pro shop carrying the most sought after golf brands available. The Buenaventura Golf Club will be managed by Troon Golf, well recognized for their experience in the market.
BAY HILL’S NEW ENCORE PACKAGE FOR GOLFERS & SPA ENTHUSIASTS ORLANDO, FL – The 2011 year was truly golden for Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge as guests raved over the club’s limited time 50th Anniversary Package for golfers and spa goers. In response to guest demand to return in 2012 on the same value-driven package,
WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO PLAY
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U p d a t e s f r o m t h e Wo r l d o f G o l f & Tr a v e l >>
Bay Hill has introduced the 2012 50th Anniversary Encore Package. The package includes a comfortable guest room in the Lodge, full breakfast, a bottle of wine from the Arnold Palmer label, and choice of one round of championship golf or a soothing spa treatment. Guests will also receive the trademark umbrella logo pin which is the symbol of the Palmer brand around the world and a special keepsake Bay Hill Pin Flag. Built in 1961, the Bay Hill Club was later acquired by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer after he competed in an event on the then unknown golf course and fell in love. In 1970 Palmer began the process to make Bay Hill his own with a 5-year lease that ended with him making it the Florida home he still frequents today. By 1979 Palmer successfully created a tournament that became an official PGA TOUR stop, attracting some of the strongest fields of the season, now called the Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard www.arnoldpalmerinvitational.com which takes place March 19-25, 2012. Just like Arnold Palmer himself, Bay Hill is very charming and inviting. The Lodge features 70 rooms, a full service Spa and Fitness Center, and outstanding cuisine in 3 restaurants. The Encore Package is offered from $165 - $295, per person, per night based on double occupancy making it surprisingly affordable to stay and experience this legendary venue. Reservations can be made by calling (888) 422-9445 or visiting www.BayHill.com
PLAYBOY GOLF ANNOUNCES 2012 FINALS, MANSION PARTIES LOS ANGELES – Playboy Golf today announced that the Playboy Golf Finals will “tee off” in March in Los Angeles. Promising golfers a weekend like no other, the Playboy Golf Finals take place on March 28 – April 1, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. Interested golfers can sign up online at www.playboygolf.com. The four-day weekend begins with arrival in Hollywood and a full itinerary of www.golfvacationsmag.com
super exclusive parties all weekend long. Golfers will be shuttled to the Playboy Mansion where they will meet fellow golfers, celebrities and athletes, Playboy Playmates and Girls of Playboy Golf. After the Tee Party, participants enjoy a pool party back at the host hotel. They’ll surely need a little shut-eye, although they probably won’t get it, as the Finals officially tee off the next day at one of the best courses in Southern California, Pacific Palms Golf Resort. With more than 30 Playmates and 300 Girls of Playboy Golf on the course, they will need those seven hours to play through. And the fun doesn’t stop there. From the course golfers then return to the host hotel for a party like you’ve never seen before. Golfers will be asking if it’s time to sleep yet. Not quite.
Saturday morning finds the top qualifying teams teeing off for a serious round of golf, complete with caddies and scorekeepers. And this phase is only for those best golfers that were able to deal with all the beautiful “distractions” the day before. For those who aren’t on the course, there is a lavish pool party at the hotel, hosted by the Girls of Playboy Golf. The weekend culminates that night with the much-anticipated Lingerie and Pajama Party, where guests get an up close and personal taste of the Playboy Good Life as they attend the ultimate Playboy Mansion party, and rub elbows with Hef, Playboy Playmates, athletes and celebrities. The Playboy Golf Finals are priced from $5000 to $20,000.
TROON”S TURTLE DUNES COUNTRY CLUB OPENS IN ACAPULCO SCOTTSDALE, AZ. – Troon Golf announced the opening of Mexico’s newest golf experience – Turtle Dunes Country Club located within the master-
chip shots planned community of Princess Diamante in Acapulco. Turtle Dunes is an exclusive, full-service country club located on the grounds of the iconic Fairmont Acapulco Princess and The Fairmont Pierre Marques. The club’s new 18-hole golf course, worldclass resort clubhouse, state-of-the-art fitness center, and the world’s only Lorena Ochoa Golf Academy are set to reestablish the property as the foremost golf destination in Mexico. Accessible only to members, and guests of The Fairmont Acapulco Princess and The Fairmont Pierre Marques, Turtle Dunes is a 7,250-yard gem set within a lush tropical sanctuary, featuring expansive water features and aged, towering parota trees that frame several holes. Designed by golf course architect Tripp Davis, special attention was directed at restoring the heritage of the site by recreating the rolling sand dunes that once defined the landscape. The finished project has not only created a uniquely beautiful experience for golfers, it also marks the historic return of an environment where a variety of sea turtles once nested and flourished. Turtle Dunes and the surrounding development have been created to provide a sense of community with facilities and activities devoted to the entire family. The clubhouse includes a beach club, restaurant, large event lawn for private parties and special events, and luxurious men’s and women’s locker rooms. The fitness center has a full range of equipment and plans exist for a pool with private cabanas and a social ballroom. Tennis and paddle courts are also part of this complex as well as a children’s activity and educational center. Turtle Dunes is currently in the founding-member phase, offering 100 founder Diamante memberships and 100 founder Pearl memberships. After the founder Diamante and Pearl memberships are sold out, memberships will only be available only to those who own real estate in Princess Diamante. The founding-member phase is the only opportunity for people living outside Princess Diamante to acquire a Turtle Dunes membership. Visit www.turtledunescc.com G O L F V A C A T I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2012
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MYTURN
story by TerryROSS photos by PaulLester
Humana Challenge Tour Stop
A New Look for an Old Desert Getaway
O
ne of the favorite winter time golf destinations—the Palm Springs desert area of Southern California—is usually aglow this time of year with festivals, shows and of course professional golf as the PGA Tour makes its traditional January stop amid the palm trees and glistening sunshine. In what was the Bob Hope Classic for most of the last half century, the PGA Tour’s annual week in this West Coast golf mecca that features over 120 courses usually kick-starts the winter golf influx that lasts well into the spring and includes lots of golf, professional tennis, world-class music festivals and much more. But over the past few years, with the passing of namesake icon Bob Hope in 2003 and the departure of long-time title sponsor Chrysler a few years later, what was known as the Classic had fallen on tough times with top players by- passing the event and the need for a new title sponsor to step in at a crucial juncture. An overhaul was in order, and this past January a former President of the United States, a major health organization and the PGA Tour helped transform the event that started in 1960 as the Palm Springs Golf Classic into a week-long celebration of healthy lifestyles with some fun and celebrity watching thrown in. Celebrities have been a mainstay of this and just about any other golf event that takes place in the Coachella Valley, which is just over 100 miles from Hollywood. But with the christening of the new Humana Challenge in Partnership with the Clinton Foundation this past January in La Quinta, the star power was definitely up even if the number of celebrities was cut to accommodate fewer amateur spots available in the new format. No PGA Tour event has ever featured a former President as its host, and Bill Clinton, who worked with PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem and Humana CEO Michael McCallister to develop the Tour’s first themed tournament, devoted the week to promoting healthy lifestyles in a resort area that has prided itself on offering recreation and wellness. It ended up being a perfect fit for golf, the Palm Springs area and the PGA Tour. Golf and tourism in these desert communities is on its way back, and having one of four ex-presidents in the spotlight playing golf and even hosting his own Health Matters Conference to kick off the tournament during the week brought a wealth of information and insight into our nation’s health crisis. In a celebrity driven society, the ability of the former President to carry the message of healthy
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living and utilize his influence with those attending and watching this event from afar could become a model for other tour events. Among the other changes to this tour stop was the tightening of the format from five to four days. The old Hope Classic was the final five-day event left on the tour and the condensing from four courses to three seemed to resonate with both players and those watching. Even the other major change to the proceedings, pairing one amateur with one pro instead of three amateurs and one pro, was well-received and was probably overdue. The new format made for quicker play and judging by the markedly larger crowds, the public approved. There was a definite excitement in the mood around this tournament that had not been seen for years, from the stronger field of Top 25 players and legends like Greg Norman who entered for the first time in more than 25 years at the behest of the former President. The past history of this event was not glossed over. Even though Bob Hope’s name was not part of the title for the first time 1964, his legacy was honored with the continuation of Hope Square at the host Palmer Private Course at PGA West that featured many health-related booths, food and entertainment options for those attending. The Clinton Foundation Pavilion even featured the “Shanks for the Memories” display from the World Golf Village that chronicles Hope’s love affair with golf and the desert PGA stop. The championship trophy for the Humana Challenge was even named after the late comedian. From an event that was on the brink of extinction a year ago to one of the more compelling tournaments that the PGA Tour offers-now with a decidedly bright future—is a definite shot in the arm for this winter golf haven.
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G O L F V A C A T I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2012
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POUND RIDGE G
Dye’s New Y
N
ew York City is arguably the most popular destination in the world. People from across the globe visit the Big Apple for a plethora of reasons: Wall Street, the Statue of Liberty, a Knicks game at Madison Square Garden, “The Lion King” on Broadway.
Even with an infinite number of motives for heading to New York there is one constant for travelers who like to play golf: Pound Ridge Golf Club. Roughly 40 miles outside of Manhattan in Westchester County, Pound Ridge has emerged as the New York City-area’s most sought after golfing experience. With a population of close to 20 million, New York has three times as many NFL teams (Buffalo Bills, New York Giants and New York Jets) as Pete Dye golf courses, Pound Ridge being his lone design in the Empire state.
architecture so renowned: dramatic, beautiful tle. A course crafted with Pete's near-mathema ing example of his approach to golf course d
Frame contoured fairways wind through hard open meadows with picturesque green compl highest points in the region, with a number of surrounding county.
Avid and recreational golfers alike are not the creation. Over the past four years, Pound Rid Golf Digest, GOLF Magazine, Golfweek, Ask
Since opening in 2008, golfers have flocked to the course to soak up the work of one of the game’s most acclaimed designers. Pound Ridge took over 10 years to build and an investment of $40 million by owner Ken Wang, younger brother of fashion designer Vera Wang.
From Whistling Straits and Sawgrass to PGA Pete Dye's designs challenge the world's best own games -- and themselves -- will find Poun ing by playing the tee most appropriate to the
Crafted by Dye and his son Perry, Pound Ridge is hewn from 172 acres of magnificent cliffs, streams and wooded hills. Dramatic rock formations and boulders were left onsite, creating one of the most visually stunning settings for golf in the U.S. More than 14,000linear-feet of rock wall surround trees, wetlands and water hazards.
Pound Ridge's greens fees include a cart and u public courses. In an era in which golf courses ty and service (think airline model), Pound Ridg tled water and a player's towel are also includ
Pound Ridge is a quintessential Dye course, exhibiting all the qualities that have made his
The only thing that may be more appealing th to New York City. The course partners with se
GOLF CLUB
By Terry Ross
York Destination for Business or Pleasure
l, rhythmic, challenging, deceptive and subatical precision, Pound Ridge is an outstanddesign.
dwood forests and fescue mounds leading to lexes. The property features some of the f tee boxes offering expansive vistas of the
e only ones to rave about Dye’s New York dge has earned world-class accolades from kMen.com and LINKS Magazine.
West and the Ocean Course at Kiawah, t golfers. Yet golfers who understand their nd Ridge to be fun, reasonable and rewardeir skill level.
use of practice range, an extra charge at most s nickel and dime players for every last amenige is a welcomed relief. Yardage books, botded with the greens fee.
han the golf itself is Pound Ridge’s proximity even hotel properties in the Metropolitan
area to offer full golf concierge services including complimentary rental clubs and shoes ($100 value), booking tee times and arranging transportation. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodation partners including Mandarin Oriental and the Marriott Marquis in New York City; Castle on the Hudson and The RitzCarlton in Westchester County; and Hyatt Regency Greenwich, Delamar Greenwich Harbor and the Stamford Marriott Hotel and Spa in Connecticut. Pound Ridge’s location also allows golfers to take advantage of the dining, shopping and sightseeing in NYC. Whether Pound Ridge augments a New York City vacation or vice versa, golfers will have no problem occupying their time when not on the course. As a luxury alternative to a private club membership, area golfers can take advantage of Pound Ridge’s annual season plans. Returning in 2012, Pound Ridge offers individual and group golf plans with flexible playing options and an assortment of benefits including a new 10 percent discount on pro shop merchandise, starting at $4,000. Plan holders are eligible to compete in the inaugural club championship and monthly golf tournaments. For business travelers or local executives, the corporate golf plans feature rounds priced at lower advanced reservation rates for unlimited designated individuals from a company. Plans start at $16,000 and include a complimentary foursome voucher ($940 value). For more information about Pound Ridge Golf Club, visit www.PoundRidgeGolf.com or call 914.764.5771.
Hôtel du Golf Barriére
Golf & The Normandy Sp 16
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“
How can you be expected to govern a country that has 246 kinds of cheese?” - Charles de Gaulle”
I
t’s early November in Normandy’s Pays d’Auge, a picturesque landscape of small towns and villages, rolling meadows dotted with grazing cattle, russetcoloured apple orchards and half-timbered farmsteads. The Pays d’Auge region is known for the superior quality of its local produce - a land where some of France’s finest cheeses such as Camembert, are made alongside highly-prized drinks such as Calvados; a fiery apple brandy that has been distilled with typical French passion for more than four hundred years. This slice of France is also blessed with a selection of fine golf courses, and for the gourmet golfer who enjoys a tipple, the good news is that between tee-times, there’s ample opportunity to learn about, taste and purchase some of the fine local produce. Our base in Normandy was the Hôtel du Golf Barriére, a luxurious golf hotel situated in a beautiful location on the slopes of Mount Canisy, just five minutes from the coastal town of Deauville. Deauville became fashionable in the early 1920s after construction of a racetrack, casino and boutique opened by designer Coco Chanel, and throughout the years it has glittered with international royalty, film stars and political figures such as Winston Churchill. Many famous guests have enjoyed the old-world charms of the Hôtel du Golf Barriére since it opened its doors in 1929, including Errol Flynn, Harrison Ford and Yves St Laurent, who smile across from their autographed photos inside the foyer. Just opposite, is the cool Le Green Bar, where we happily sank into a couple of red velvet armchairs and admired sketches of famous golfers on the walls – it was the perfect hangout to enjoy some Normandy spirit and discuss the golf trip. “We have a selection of thirty types of Calvados, how about a rare Camut 60-year-old?” said Laurent Mallet, the friendly barman. With an eye-watering price tag of 80 for a 4cl measure, we decided on a more affordable Château du Breuil 8-year-old, before enjoying a belt-loosening five-course meal in the hotel restaurant. The following morning it was time to start sampling other types of courses –the ones with grass, greens and flagsticks. Only a long putt from the hotel, and rated among
pirit: FRANCE www.golfvacationsmag.com
by Andrew Marshall
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2012
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France’s top 20 prettiest and most established layouts, Golf Barriére de Deauville has always been one of the places to play in Normandy. The three loops of 9 holes are in excellent condition throughout the year, with beautifully manicured fairways and greens. We teed off on the original 18 holes (red & white tees), built by Tom Simpson in 1929. It’s a lovely parkland layout, a nice mix of undulating fairways and varied holes with panoramic views over Deauville and Pays d’Auge country. The course requires accuracy and power with two par 4’s of 400 metres and several heavily bunkered par 3’s on the front nine. The other nine holes (blue tees) designed in 1964 by Henry Cotton have a more wooded character. Another excellent 27 holes are located 15 kms south of Deauville at Pont L’Évêque, famous for the Normandy
cheese of the same name. Golf Barriére de Saint-Julien’s main 18-hole layout, called Le Vallon is hilly in sections and winds through lush Normandy pastureland. The higher part of the course encourages some openshouldered driving, and when the holes are not long they are technically difficult, especially 11, 12 and 14. The lower part of the course features several testing water hazards in the form of ponds and lakes. Look out for holes 9 and 18, two par-4s where you must play your second shots over water to reach heavily bunkered and undulating greens, with the marvelous château-style clubhouse as a backdrop. If you have time, stop by the restaurant for some fine French cuisine before taking on the 9-hole Le Bocage course. Completing a trio of 27-hole courses close to Deauville is Golf Amirauté, a chamGolf Club du Champ de Bataille
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pionship course designed by Bill Baker in a magical site, among 36 acres of lakes. It’s a modern layout, featuring huge fairways, large greens, plenty of water and a novel hazard - contemporary sculptures. The aptly named Art Course is mostly flat, so it can easily be walked, though carts are readily available as with most French courses. There’s also the floodlit 9-hole Star Course for a totally new experience, 2 putting greens, a grass practice range and a 42 place driving range. As a break from golf, one afternoon we enjoyed a tour at Manoir d’Apreval, a family-owned estate in the coastal village of Pennedepie (10 km east of Deauville), that makes a line of fine Calvados and cider. “From mid-September to mid-December we hand-pick the apples and then press them into a juice that ends up inside these tanks,” the manager Agathe Letellier told us inside the fermentation house. “If you listen carefully, you can hear a hissing sound. That’s the apple juice naturally fermenting into a dry cider inside the tanks.” She explained that after one to six months, the cider is distilled twice to separate the alcohol and eventually produce a colorless and very strong spirit of around 70 per cent alcohol. Double distillation, in addition to the apples originating in the Pays d’ Auge region are requirements for Calvados to achieve the AOC label (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée), the highest honor that can be bestowed on a French product. Next we visited the cellar, where the liquid gold is aged in oak casks for a minimum of two years, by which time it’s gained a rich amber hue (due to the tannin in the wood) that darkens, as the Calvados gets older. Usually the maturation goes on for several years, and each year the Calvados loses a little volume and alcohol content (due to evaporation) until it drops to between 40 and 45 per cent, and this is known as the ‘Angel’s Share.’ The longer the Calvados is aged, the smoother the taste becomes. “Just put a dab on your wrist and smell,” says Agathe, demonstrating the complexities of Apreval’s Calvados X0 with its aromas of wood and ripe fruit. “There’s a richness in the flavor and finish that’s unique to aged Calvados.” When deemed mature, the cellar master then blends Calvados from different years choosing each for its complimentary qualities. We also learned that it’s a tradiwww.golfvacationsmag.com
tional custom at meal times for Normans to typically down a little glass of Calvados - to help re-awaken the appetite between dishes. Known as the ‘Norman Hole’ or Trou Normand, it was a rather appropriate term since we would be playing a few of them during our trip. After the tour, Agathe announced with a twinkle in her eye, that there would be a taste test inside the shop and a chance to purchase other apple-based drinks such as robust ciders and the refreshing aperitif pommeau (a two-thirds cider and one-third Calvados
mix), that makes a great 19th hole tipple. Another Calvados distillery worth visiting is the Château du Breuil (inland from Deauville). Listed as an historical monument, this attractive slate-roofed château was built in the 16th and 17th centuries, and has been entirely restored by its new owners who have been distilling highly respected spirits for three generations. A Normandy cheese is the perfect partner for a Calvados or cider, with much of it being produced around the small towns of Livarot, Pont l’Évêque and Camembert.
With its golden-yellow centre and creamywhite rind, the circular Camembert is the quintessential Normandy cheese and known the world over. Its origins are relatively young in cheese-making terms and Marie Harel, a farmer’s wife, invented it during the time of the French Revolution and sold her cheese in the market of Vimoutiers. Two lesser-known and much older cheeses are Pont l’Évêque, an uncooked, unpressed cow’s milk cheese that is square in shape and Livarot, an ancient and noble cheese that dates back more than 700 years,
Golf Amirauté
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originating with the monks. Other typical Normandy cheeses include Pavé d’Auge, a semi-soft, creamy cheese with a reddish rind that is so called because it looks like the square cobblestones (pave) you still see in old market places in France and the heartshaped Neufchâtel, a soft, slightly crumbly, mould-ripened cheese. For a closer insight into cheese - making, we visited Fromagerie Graindorge, a cheese producer in Livarot that offers free
tours and tastings. Inside is a unique collection of old black-and-white photos, cheesemaking implements, milk churns, cheese moulds and a replica of the world’s largest Livarot cheese. Measuring around one metre in diameter, it was made from 1165 litres of milk (the equivalent of 250 standard size Livarot cheeses), and shared with all the residents of the town on a special fiesta day in 2008. There’s ample opportunity to observe
the various stages of making the Livarot and Pont l’Évêque cheeses - working the curd, salting, drying, and washing the rind. Before leaving, it’s mandatory to sample some of the cheeses, beautifully displayed in colourful boxes inside the Graindorge shop. Keep an eye out for Le Grain d’Orge with Calvados a delicious cheese that combines two of region’s most celebrated products. West of Deauville is Golf Omaha Beach, a 36-hole golf complex located on the coast at Port-en-
Manoir d’Apreval
Golf Omaha Beach
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Bessin, only a few kilometres from the DDay Landing Beaches of 1944, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer where Stephen Spielberg filmed scenes for the movie Saving Private Ryan among the 10,000 white crosses. The 1985 design of the prime two loops, Bocage (Hedgerow) and La Mer (Sea) are simple and unfussy with the emphasis on good driving. The Bocage nine is set in an apple orchard and the name stands for the
earth and stone buttressed hedges, which criss-cross the interior rural landscape - natural defence lines which made life a nightmare for invading forces. Each of the nine holes on Le Mer loop closest to the sea, are named after famous World War II war heroes, among them Churchill and Eisenhower, Patton and Montgomery. Playing the few holes that run along the bluffs overlooking the beaches we could appreciate the big advantage defend-
ers had over their adversaries below. The signature hole is the dog-leg par-4 sixth, where you can still see remnants of concrete bunkers and gun emplacements which made life hell for the invading army. Fortunately, these days, the only danger was negotiating the sizable bunkers on both sides of the fairway as we teed off. From the green perched on a cliff top, we enjoyed spectacular views to the historic remains of Mulberry Harbour and across the Channel. Further afield on Normandy’s west coast is the superb Harry Colt designed links of Golf de Granville, one of the best in France. Nestling among the dunes by the sea, this is an authentic links with a rugged, natural character little changed since 1912. The mild climate ensures excellent playing conditions with good greens and dry fairways all year round on this traditional Scottish style course. Three short par 4’s (holes 3, 8 and 18) require pin-point accuracy to the green whilst several of the others (4,5,6,13,15 and 17) are very long and can become fearsome in the wind. Of the five par 3’s, only the 7th is straightforward, others have raised greens that are difficult to find from the tee. Situated northeast of Deauville on the journey back to Paris is Golf Club du Champ de Bataille the final course of our Normandy golf trip. An impressive championship course set in an exceptional natural and historical environment; Champ de Bataille has often been compared with England’s Wentworth and Woburn courses. Ranked among France’s top 25, the course is set in 370 acres of historic forest and parkland and takes full advantage of natural features such as valleys, lakes and centuries old trees. The 17th is a particularly memorable par 3 with a tight tee shot over a deep gulley. ‘Bon voyage’ and ‘Bon appetit’. The Marshall brothers, travel writer Andy and photographer Paul, have travelled to 13 countries and played 65 golf courses during an 8-year period. Read more about their fantastic adventures on their blog at www.bogey.se and in their newly released E-book and audio book available at www.golfjourneys.net
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Sandest 22
Golf and Beach Re
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Stay, Play, Eat, Shop
Four immaculately groomed golf courses. Thirteen hundred deluxe condominiums, villas, town homes and a hotel. A lively village with restaurants, nightlife, entertainment and shopping. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort on Northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast is a 2,400-acre, see-it-tobelieve-it vacation destination where golfers can stay, play, eat and shop without leaving the property. The course line-up alone is reason enough to make the trip. Sandestin is home to a PGA Champions Tour layout, a private club to which resort guests receive “member for a day” privileges, and even a tale of buried treasure. The Raven is a two-time host of PGA Champions Tour events. Opened in 2000, the Robert Trent Jones II-design bobs and weaves through marshes, wetlands and pine trees, providing a stern, but fair test of golf.
esort
By JD Latorre
tin www.golfvacationsmag.com
Burnt Pine is the work of Rees Jones (incidentally, Sandestin is the only resort in the world featuring Jones brothers’ courses side-by-side). The club is private, but resort guests can play via a limited number of tee times. In addition to playing, golfers receive the complete private club treatment, from use of Burnt Pine’s locker room to day of play dining privileges. In addition to 18 phenomenal holes, lore has it Burnt Pine is also home to buried treasure. As legend holds, a Scottish sea captain outmaneuvering a Civil War naval blockade stashed his treasure at the base of a lightning-charred pine tree where the course now sits. A fire later burned hundreds of pines, ensuring the booty was never recovered. While they may not house buried treasure, Sandestin’s Baytowne and The Links Course are longtime favorites of locals and resort guests. Baytowne Golf Club is the ideal arrival day track. The par-71, designed by Tom Jackson, plays to a manageable 6,800 yards from the tips, and its wide fairways wipe away both jetlag and off-season rust. Jackson’s second contribution, The Links Course, is a tip of the cap to the origins of the ancient game. Thanks to the challenging layout and ubiquitous Bay winds, The Links Course has garnered the reputation as one of the area’s ultimate risk-reward courses. Post-round, golfers flock to the Village of Baytowne Wharf. Located inside the resort, the Village features casual and fine-dining restaurants, and an assortment of bars and nightlife for those who don’t have an early tee time the next day.
Sandestin offers a variety of packages options
4 Star Golf Package – a round at Burnt Pine, a round at The Raven, and accommodations, starts between $141 - $191 per person, per night depending on season. Player’s Package – a round at The Raven, a round at Baytowne, and accommodations, starts between $113 - $174 per person, per night depending on season. Classic Golf Package – a round at Baytowne, a round at The Links Course, and accommodations, starts between $99 - $173 per person, per night depending on season. More information: www.sandestin.com; (877) 852-6318. Getting There: Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) offers direct flights from Houston, Baltimore/Washington DC, Atlanta, Orlando, Nashville, and Memphis. Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) offers direct flights from Dallas, Houston, Charlotte, Louisville and Atlanta.
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RESORTREPORT
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
By Andy REISTETTER
The Next La Costa Is Here
ome things never change, they are
and banquet space while the Coast
simply transformed into the next
Costa Del Sol Ballroom is the largest in
era. That is exactly what has hap-
North San Diego County.
S
pened at La Costa where the final touches
With two championship golf cours-
of a $50 million renovation by owner KSL
es, 17 clay and hard surface tennis
Resorts are being completed.
courts and one of the best Spas in the
That's on top of an earlier $150 mil-
world once you come on site you will never want to leave.
lion upgrade. Needless to say La Costa has rein-
Plus there is Splash Landing water-
vented herself into the impressive,
slides, Kidtopia children programs and
sophisticated, all-encompassing resort of
the Vibz Game Lounge for kids of all
the future.
ages. La Costa is a guaranteed better
Whether you are visiting as a single, a couple, a family or a corporation, everything is there for you at La Costa.
experience for your kids than any cruise ship that you have ever been on. Shopping is abundant and unique
Not too far from Los Angeles or
with Coastal Dunes, Audrey's and
too close to San Diego, this is a spe-
Audrey's Closet to explore. The golf and
cial place.
tennis shops carry all the top brands and
Redesigned
and
well-appointed
guest rooms, suites and villas are your new home.
are well stocked. La Costa has a village atmosphere that is well accentuated with three large
The family friendly Bistro Legends and
water fountains, majestic palm trees and
the signature Blue Fire Grill are two highly
an ambiance of restorative peace and
acclaimed restaurants. The Diversions
tranquility.
Sports Bar is another dining option as well as outside pool and spa cafes. The Coastal Events Center has 110,000 square feet of flexible meeting
Fire atop the water fountains once the sun sets brings additional warmth to a serene setting. Her Las Vegas desert heritage and G O L F V A C A T I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2012
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RESORTREPORT Hollywood flair seem to be present as the gentle breezes of the not too distant Pacific Ocean envelop you in a sense of well being. Golf, namely professional golf, came to La Costa from the
champions." Gary Player won the first Tournament of Champions at La Costa and Phil Mickelson in 1988 won the last, both for their second time.
desert for the first time in 1969 and stayed for the next 30 years.
In between Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson won it three
Like the resort known as "the best of the best," the golf
times on the famed original 1965 Dick Wilson designed
tournament's mission was to determine "the champion of the
"tournament" course. Lanny Wadkins, Steve Elkington and Tom Kite also won the prestigious event at La Costa. Johnny Miller's triumph there in 1974 was one of eight PGA TOUR victories that year, the year after a Sunday 63 won him the U.S. Open at Oakmont CC. Tiger Woods won in 1998 when it was known as the Mercedes Championship. As Player said in his inaugural win "this is golf." Golf continued at La Costa in 1999 with the very first World Golf Championship. Never before in the history of the game had the world's best 64 golfers come together and compete head-to-head single elimination match play to determine the best golfer in the world. In the premier event Jeff Maggert beat Andrew Magee and won $1 million in a 36-hole final that went two extra holes. The next year Darren Clarke showed early signs of his recent Open brilliance by defeating Tiger Woods in the final match 4&3. The WGC Match Play continued at La Costa though 2006 with the exception of 2001 when it went down under to Australia. La Costa is nearly located in the childhood backyards of Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods. Like San Diego, Phil is closer but Tiger enhanced his legacy at nearby Torrey Pines with a Monday playoff over Rocco Mediate on one leg in the 2008 U.S. Open. Tiger also owns the modern golfing legacy at La Costa. Woods
won
back-to-back
WGC
Match
Play
Championships in 2003 and 2004. Who can forget the "9&8" drubbing Tiger put on Stephen Ames in a first round match in 2006? Mind you it was an 18hole match. Mathematically only "10&8" could have been worse for the outspoken Ames. Remember the 6-iron to 10 inches in 1998 on the par-3 26
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 2
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CARMEL, CALIFORNIA 16th hole to beat Tom Lehman in the first hole of a sudden-death playoff? In 2010 golf came back to La Costa with South Korea's Hee Kyung Seo winning the season-opening LPGA event by six strokes. The LPGA will be back in 2012 with the Kia Classic in mid March. With 45 years of tradition and a superb renovation of 18 holes of championship golf now called the Champions Course, who knows what the future of hosting professional golf tournaments will be for La Costa? All that is known is that the Resort, Spa and Golf at la Costa have been transformed into the next era and are ready for your visit and the perpetuation of professional golf championships. Damian Pascuzzo and Steve Pate formed 2P Pascuzzo & Pate Golf Course Design in 2006. Pascuzzo worked for and became a partner with famed designer Robert Muir Graves right out of college. The John Goodman look-a-like brought in Jeffrey Brauer out of Texas to assist with the La Costa project. Both architects, like Graves are past Presidents of the American Society of Golf Course Architects (ASGCS). Steve Pate, a veteran of 553 PGA TOUR events and a winner of 6, finished in the Top Ten of two majors this year as a rookie on the Champions Tour. A California native and UCLA graduate, Pate's biggest career victory came in 1988 when he opened with a pair of 66s and won the MONY Tournament of Champions at La Costa. To say La Costa is a special place for Pate is probably an understatement as it was also the place where he came as a child to see his first professional golf tournament. Pate's most recent win came last year on the Nationwide Tour in Columbia as he prepared for his May Champions Tour debut. Needless to say the design team to renovate www.golfvacationsmag.com
G O L F V A C A T I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2012
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La Costa was superb! Interestingly, the scope of the project was not a renovation of the original Dick Wilson "tournament" 18.
it pours. The exciting part of the golf course renovations were the changes to the routing and the bunkers.
Instead the scope was to renovate the North Course- the
The 16th is now a dramatic short par-4 with the green
original Dick Wilson tournament front nine and the back nine
perched out into a lake. This is the ultimate risk-and-reward hole
added by his design partner Joe Lee in 1984.
with sand and water hazards guarding the reachable green.
With new Bent grass greens the upgraded holes can no
The par-3 17th was shortened from a middle/long iron to
longer be combined into a tournament course with the origi-
a relatively short iron, an 8-iron for this amateur golfer. With
nal Bermuda greens.
an elevated tee, a lake to carry and a shallow green, this
No longer the North Course it is now known as the "Champions' Course. Also renovated were four holes of the South Course where Lee added the front nine to Wilson's tournament back nine in 1973.
hole like the 16th is simply fun to play. Fairway bunkers that originally were opposite one another in the landing area are now strategically staggered and very appealing from mostly elevated teeing grounds.
The four South holes renovated where the first and last of
The design team used historical deception techniques
each nine, all clearly visible from the elevated resort and
such as hidden fairway between seemingly connected
clubhouse area.
bunkers and oversized distant bunkers that appear to be in
The project significantly improved water flow and
play but are not unless you are Tiger Woods. This makes for
drainage of both golf courses by raising fairways and dredg-
an engaged golfing experience at The Next La Costa that is
ing lakes.
here now for you to enjoy.
Playability under all weather conditions is a key criteria for hosting professional golf tournaments. Even in Southern California, where the song goes that it seems like it never rains but when it does it pours man, 28
G O L F VA C AT I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 2
The upgraded green complexes are difficult yet fair to play and incorporate all the latest design techniques and course setup features such as run-off areas and tight and guarded hole locations to test your short game finesse. www.golfvacationsmag.com
The classical uphill par-5 6th hole is now a fairer hole to play with visible and built up landing and layup areas. This is a golf course that fits your eye with dramatic, magnificent elevated tee shots on par-4 holes Nos. 1, 7, 10, and 13, the par-5 11th and the par-3 16th Pascuzzo & Pate along with Brauer took two nines built years apart and created a unique and special flow of a golf course as it meanders through canyons to the north and then comes gently back to the resort. There is no higher acclaim for a golf course than for it to be in tune with the land it is built upon. This graceful feeling is there for all to experience on the Champions Course at La Costa. My only recommendation is not addressed to the golf course or resort renovation but rather to the LPGA's decision to play the March 2012 Kia Classic on the South Course rather than the newly christened Champions Course.
successful on the Champions Tour. Then we will have our course for professional golf at La Costa and be able to play it too. The new and dramatic Champions' holes Nos. 16 & 17 as the tournament front nine with the "Longest Mile" finish determining future champions at la Costa. One thing for sure is that they got the names right"Champions" Course and The "Next" La Costa! Some things never change they are simply transformed into the next era. La Costa Resort & Spa 2100 Costa Del Mar Road Carlsbad, CA 92009
While it is understood that the South is more central to the resort and convenient for the patrons and contains the
800-854-5000 www.lacosta.com
famous "Longest Mile" finish, the Champions Course is deserving of its first professional golfing event. It's a beautiful stroll to the far 8th green/9th tee and an opportunity to view the 40 acres of new native grasses. The viewing areas for patrons are outstanding on the Champions layout. Granted there is little growing season even in southern California in the next three months but the greens are rolling true and fast and the fairways seem free of any lingering sod lines. Just cut the rough, give it a go and let the girls play! These girls can play and deserve to play on the best tests of golf, including the newly renovated Champions Course at La Costa! Well okay I do have a second recommendation‌ let's get 2Ps & B (Pascuzzo, Pate & Brauer) started renovating the remaining 14 holes before Pate gets healthy and too www.golfvacationsmag.com
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SWEETSTUFF by Terry Ross
O
ne of the easiest ways to lower scores in golf is to improve the short game--and one of the hardest things develop is a top-notch wedge game that is vital to saving strokes around the green. Wedge play is an art that takes hours of practice to refine—even for the best players in the world—with few shortcuts. But an emerging club company called F2 Golf has developed a design for its series of SS Wedges that truly is ground breaking and makes those delicate little shots just off the green much easier than with the traditional muscle-backed designs that are common today. F2 stands for Face Forward technology and its “dog-leg hosel” design is extremely easy to line up and hit for either full or partial shots just off the green. The face has been moved forward and the hosel back, enabling the ball to strike and leave the clubface before grass or sand can grab the hosel and twist the clubface. This keeps the hosel away from the ball, reducing drag and delivering much more club face to the ball. The F2 Wedge may look somewhat unconventional, but as soon as you hit it, you’ll know why it is so much easier to hit than traditional wedges. The cavity-back design also works to make shot-making easier.
Even on hardpan the 60 degree lob wedge is extremely easy to hit and pops the ball onto the green for more control on these scoring shots. Former PGA Tour star and major winner Andy North, who serves as a spokesman for F2, says it the club “you can’t shank” and calls it the most forgiving wedge in golf. The F2 wedges come in five lofts—48, 52, 56, 60 and 64 degrees and bounce options from six to 12 degrees for those various lofts. For more information: http://shop.f2golf.com
S
ince 2007, when Titleist first introduced its flagship AP (Advanced Performance) line of irons that have gone on to be one of the most popular club models that the company has ever produced, both pros and amateurs alike have found it to be user friendly throughout many skill levels--yet a club that the best players in the world can use with precision accuracy. For 2012 Titleist has released a new generation of the AP1 and AP2 irons called the 712 series and there are plenty of new improvements both under the hood and in the way these clubs feel when hitting them. The latest AP’s feel much more solid and are more forgiving on
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G O L F VA C AT I O N S • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 2
off center hits, yet allow for excellent workability on all kinds of shots. These new irons also feature better performance through the turf and have a much crisper, sharper sound that players will find more pleasing. Both the new AP1 and AP2 have been improved with internal weighting that utilizes higher density tungsten in order to distribute mass more efficiently which increases the moment-ofinertia (MOI) without changing the CG location or the blade length. The higher MOI provides more consistent ball speed across the clubface and better distance control. Better distance control leads to more scoring opportunities and is the key to good iron play. Another improvement that Titleist engineered into these clubs was more forgiveness without any loss of workability or shot control. Traditionally it has been thought that forgiveness and workability were mutually exclusive. These new irons prove that they are not. Both models feature sleeker contours that result in a better address position. "The new 712 line of AP irons represents another step forward in iron design," said Steve Pelisek, General Manager, Titleist Golf Clubs. “With the development of the first AP irons we knew we had created something special-- irons that incorporated a true blend of classic golf club aesthetics with modern playability, forgiveness and consistency. With the new 712 line we've taken this breakthrough technology to a new, game-changing level by increasing the stability and forgiveness without losing any workability or shot control." The new AP1 features a new topline shape and progressively reduced blade lengths resulting in more traditional-looking short irons. Notable changes to the new AP2 include a new, tourinspired square toe profile and reduced sole width in the short irons for more precise turf performance. The lofts are also slightly stronger in the long irons. Both new AP models incorporate Titleist's Tuned Feel System, a co-molded insert of soft elastomer and aluminum plate. As for the player profile for each club, the AP1’s are built for the “aspiring to skilled golfer” looking for a little more help and game improvement features, although this club is used by some tour players. The AP2’s are for the “serious and skilled” players and offers a new squarer profile in a forged club with a small progressive offset. This model is the one of the company’s most popular among its tour staff, yet is very playable for the casual golfer. For more information: www.titleist.com
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