At first glance, Silver Dollar Golf and Trap Club in Odessa, FL is not your typical golf club. For starters, there’s a skeet shooting range directly across the street, hence the Trap part of the name. It’s not uncommon to be teeing off or putting to the sound of gunfire, but you get used to it after a few holes.
by Shane Sharp
We’re approaching the end of 2022, but you likely already received an email from your favorite golf destination this fall urging you to book your spring golf trip ASAP. Despite prolonged inflation and rising interest rates, demand for golf travel is still bearish. In the Southeastern U.S., the golf season is year-round but gets underway in late February as the Eastern redbud trees bloom. From Florida to North Carolina, these golf destinations are setup perfectly for an extended golf getaway next year.
In addition to truly spectacular scenery in the Canadian Rockies, Western Canada has an abundance of excellent golf courses. One way to enjoy the scenery and some great golf courses is to take a Rocky Mountaineer Railroad train and motorcoach sightseeing tour.
David Theoret (aka The Golfin’ Guy) grew up in Southwestern Ontario, Canada, where it was naturally assumed he would play hockey. Beginning at the age of 3 and continuing into his late 30s, he did just that, however, after one too many pucks to the head, he realized that golf was a lot easier on the body and took the game up. From 2003 until 2009, David ran the sales and marketing department of TravelGolf Media – now known at GolfNow.com. While at TravelGolf, an editor told him he had a flair for writing and he started writing articles about anything golf-related. He currently resides in Lake Tansi, TN with his wife Belinda and their four-legged “kid,” Louie.
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.
Jeffrey Diaz
Associate Editors
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Tim Cotroneo • Larry Feldman David R. Holland • Dave McKibben Jakki Right • David Theoret
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Terry Ross • (949) 279–7801 terryr@GolfVacationsMag.com Atlanta
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ORLANDO, FL – The ANNIKA Foundation – golf Hall-ofFamer Annika Sorenstam’s charitable organization – announces the establishment of the ANNIKA Development Program at Old Barnwell, a private golf club in Aiken, South Carolina.
Each year, four young women will be selected to participate. These individuals must be a recent graduate of a four-year college golf program in South Carolina, North Carolina or Georgia, or a resident of one of those states who recently graduated from a fouryear college golf program. A selection committee will vet applicants and then conduct finalists’ interviews. Applications for the first class are now being accepted through January 15, 2023.
Benefits to program participants include access to Old Barnwell’s golf amenities and the ANNIKA Development Program for three years, housing for the first year of the program, a $10,000 stipend each year to help cover tournament fees and associated travel expenses, access to the professional networks of Old Barnwell members and staff, and mentorship from Annika.
In return, program participants will be expected to play and interact with club members, participate in an Old Barnwell / ANNIKA Foundation “Share My Passion” clinic, annually attend one ANNIKA Foundation tournament, and continue the pursuit of their dream to play professional golf.
“We’re honored to partner with a mission-based club like Old Barnwell to create the first ANNIKA Development Program,” says Annika, who founded her ANNIKA Foundation in 2007. “This new focus on assisting young women who’ve graduated from college
and exhausted their NCAA eligibility nicely complements current Foundation programming that’s devoted to junior and college-aged players.”
Through its mission to bring people together through golf, Old Barnwell has also partnered with Evans Scholars, the Western Golf Association, several Historically Black Colleges, and other passionate groups and individuals who understand and appreciate the impact golf can have on improving lives, creating relationships and bettering communities.
Old Barnwell is scheduled to open in late 2023. Set on sandy soil across 575 acres, Old Barnwell is inspired by the groundbreaking courses of the London heathlands and embraces the charm and strategy of Golden Age architects in America. It is the first of the club’s three planned courses and has been designed by Brian Schneider (Renaissance Golf Design) and Blake Conant (Dundee Golf). Schneider has worked closely with Tom Doak on many notable projects, most recently overseeing the resurrection of C.B. Macdonald’s Lido Golf Club in Wisconsin, and Conant has been an integral part of the restorations at classic gems such as Bel-Air CC, Hollywood GC, and most recently, the restoration of Perry Maxwell’s first course, Dornick Hills CC, in Ardmore, Oklahoma.
Since the inaugural Foundation tournament – the 2009 ANNIKA Invitational USA – 87 ANNIKA event alumnae have earned LPGA cards. Three of the five 2021 major champions – Patty Tavatanakit, Yuka Saso and Nelly Korda – are ANNIKA alumnae.
For more information, please visit www.annikafoundation. org, @ANNIKA_Fdn & ANNIKA59 (Twitter), and @ANNIKA_Fdn & annikas59 (Instagram).
NAPLES, FL – Tiburón Golf Club at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples recently began an incredible run of hosting three professional golf events over a four-month stretch. Tiburón is the only golf facility in the world to host LPGA Tour, PGA TOUR Champions and PGA TOUR-sanctioned tournaments. The LPGA Tour’s season-ending CME Group Tour Championship was played last month (November 17 –20, 2022), followed by the QBE Shootout, a PGA TOUR Challenge Event, December 7 – 11, 2022. After a two-month break, Tiburón will then play host to the PGA TOUR Champions’ Chubb Classic presented by SERVPRO, February 13 – 19, 2023. The CME Group Tour Championship and QBE Shootout will both played on Tiburón’s Gold Course, while the Chubb Classic will be contested on the Black Course at Tiburón.
LPGA Tour players have been accumulating points throughout the 2022 season to qualify for the CME Group Tour Championship. The top 60 points earners and ties will be competing in the Championship, vying for the $7 million purse and the $2 million winner’s check, the largest single prize in the history of women’s golf. Jin Young Ko is the event’s defending champion.
The QBE Shootout will feature 12 two-person teams consisting of 24 professionals, including PGA TOUR stars Jason Day, Max Homa, Billy Horschel, Kevin Kisner and Cameron Young, as well as LPGA TOUR stars Nelly Korda and Lexi Thompson. Team Troon member Matt Kuchar will again pair with teammate Harris English at the 2022 QBE Shootout. The most successful duo in Shootout history with three wins, Kuchar and English have also recorded two runner-up finishes.
2023 will mark the Chubb Classic’s 36th anniversary and the third straight year the event will be played at Tiburón. Bernhard Langer is expected to return to defend his 2022 title against many of the game’s biggest names, including Jim Furyk, Ernie Els, Retief Goosen, and Jerry Kelly as well as World Golf Hall of Fame and Team
Troon member Colin Montgomerie.
“Our team is honored to once again have the privilege to host these three professional events in such a short period of time,” said Tiburón Golf Club General Manger Kevin DeDonato, PGA. “As our area recovers from the impact of Hurricane Ian, we are very proud to showcase the resiliency this market has in pressing forward. Our entire team at Tiburon is grateful for the support we receive from all of our partners and we look forward for three successful events.”
For more information on Tiburón Golf Club at the RitzCarlton Resort, Naples, please call (239) 593-2214 or visit www. tiburonnaples.com.
Sentosa Golf Club Officially Unveiled as LIV Golf Venue for 2023
(Sentosa Golf Club, Singapore – 30 November 2022): Sentosa Golf Club has continued to reinforce its status as Asia’s finest after The Serapong was announced as a venue on the LIV Golf League for 2023 (28-30 April).
Today, LIV Golf announced Sentosa Golf Club as one of three new marquee destinations outside the United States for its 2023 14-tournament schedule, which will see The Serapong welcome 48 of the world’s best players next season, including former Singapore Open Champions Ian Poulter and Sergio Garcia.
LIV Golf’s field also includes Major Champions such as Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Brooks Koepka, Bryson DeChambeau and Phil Mickelson.
The announcement comes off the back of one of the Club’s most successful awards season, headlined by being named ‘World’s Best Eco-Friendly Golf Facility’ for the third year in a row and ‘Asia’s Best Golf Course’ at the recent 2022 World Golf Awards. The Club also scooped two further awards, ‘Best Championship Course in AsiaPacific’ and ‘Singapore’s Best Golf Course’ for The Serapong at the recent edition of the Asian Golf Awards in Vietnam.
Sentosa Golf Club continues to go from strength to strength as an established powerhouse of Asian golf, defined by its state-of-the-art agronomy programme and ‘Tournament Ready’ conditioning all year round across both of its two world-class championship courses, The Serapong and The Tanjong.
The outstanding conditioning of The Serapong and Sentosa Golf Club’s proven track record of staging world class tournaments, as well as what the island of Sentosa and city of Singapore has to offer, played a significant part in the LIV Golf event staging.
Since 2018, Sentosa has been widely recognized for its commitment to sustainability, having become the first golf club in the world to join the UN Sports for Climate Action Initiative.
Regarded as one of the world’s best golf courses, players will get to experience The Serapong’s iconic layout, with fast, challenging greens, trademark contours and signature holes, enhanced during the outstanding renovations programme undertaken in 2020.
Andrew Johnston, General Manager and Director of Agronomy at Sentosa Golf Club, was quick to highlight the significance of this announcement for the Club, saying: “To be officially announced as a LIV Golf venue is exciting for everyone associated with Sentosa Golf Club. We are proud to have the opportunity to welcome 48 of the world’s best players to battle it out across The Serapong, for what will be the biggest prize purse and event in the history of golf in Singapore. We cannot wait to host the event and showcase to millions of people why Sentosa Golf Club is renowned for being one of the world’s best golf clubs.”
Andrew M Lim, President of Sentosa Golf Club, added: “Sentosa Golf Club has an illustrious history and track record of hosting
international golf tournaments. 2023 will be no different and we anticipate another eventful year for the Club. Against the backdrop of golf’s global resurgence, Sentosa Golf Club welcomes fans in Singapore and the world over to come and watch some of the best players and brightest stars in world golf compete on The Serapong.”
Sentosa Development Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Kwee Eng Thien, also added: “Together with Sentosa Golf Club, we are elated to host LIV Golf’s Singapore debut, and are confident that we can provide a top-of-class experience for golfers and fans alike. As tourism regains momentum and Sentosa continues to gear up and welcome world-class events, we remain committed to our sustainability goals and are proud that Sentosa Golf Club has received recognition for their steadfast efforts in sustainability.”
LIV Golf CEO and Commissioner, Greg Norman, concluded: “LIV Golf is committed to expanding the game of golf and aims to inspire the next generation of golfers across the globe. As one of the world’s best golf clubs, Sentosa Golf Club is the perfect setting to do just this as it has a long-standing history of hosting high-profile events. It’s world-class championship course, The Serapong, is famous for delivering historical moments that live long in the memory and we can’t wait to tee off next season and create a new legacy for the game of golf in Singapore.”
Grounds passes are now available at LIVGolf.com, including special Early Birdie pricing for single-day passes and three-day passes, as well as opportunities to register for hospitality packages. Fans are encouraged to secure tickets now for LIV Golf’s festival-style three-day tournament that feature shotgun starts, individual and team competitions, live music and fan activities for all ages.
Troon Events 2023/2024 Pro-Am Series
SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Troon Events, the luxury travel experiences and tournaments division of Troon, announces its 2023/2024 ProAm Series – a collection of golf events that offer professional and amateur golfers premier competition with exceptional hospitality at iconic venues. Registration for 2023/2024 Pro-Am Series events is now open at www.TroonEvents.com.
The 2023/2024 Troon Pro-Am Series schedule currently includes five tournaments, each with amateur competitions in both gross and net divisions with top teams earning prizes, while top professional golfers will compete for shares of $10,000 purses. Golfers who participate in four of the five events, including the TPC Sawgrass, Whistling Straits, Pinehurst and the 2023 or 2024 Pebble Beach Resorts Cobra Puma Pro-Am tournaments, will receive a complimentary National Troon Foursome Card. The 2023/2024 Troon Pro-Am Series schedule includes:
2023 Cobra Puma Pro-Am at Pebble Beach Resorts in Pebble Beach, California (February 14-19, 2023) – The 2023 Cobra Puma ProAm is already sold out and will feature 72 teams of golfers competing across three award-winning courses. Those interested in joining the waitlist for the 2023 Cobra Puma Pro-Am may register here.
Pro-Am at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida (July 30 – August 3, 2023) – Open to 50 four-person teams (200 players), the TPC Sawgrass Pro-Am will feature three rounds of golf across two
award-winning golf courses, The Player’s Stadium Course and the Dye Course at TPC Sawgrass and four nights luxury accommodations at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa.
Pro-Am at Whistling Straits in Sheboygan, Wisconsin (August 8 – 13, 2023) – The Whistling Straits includes five nights luxury accommodations at The American Club Resort and four rounds of world-class prestige golf at the Straits, Irish and River courses. The field will be limited to 54 teams (216 players).
Pro-Am at Pinehurst in Pinehurst, North Carolina (August 23 –27, 2023) – With golf rounds on Pinehurst No. 2, No. 4 and No. 6 (three rounds total), and luxury accommodations at The Carolina Hotel and The Manor, the Pinehurst Pro-Am should not be missed. The Pinehurst Pro-Am will feature a field of 52 teams (208 golfers).
2024 Cobra Puma Pro-Am at Pebble Beach Resorts in Pebble Beach, California (February 13-18, 2024) – The Cobra Puma Pro-Am is a five-day, 72-team tournament featuring competition across three award-winning golf courses: Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and The Links at Spanish Bay. Participants will enjoy five nights luxury accommodations at the Inn at Spanish Bay.
“We’re thrilled to introduce Troon Events’ exciting new ProAm Series,” said Troon President and CEO Tim Schantz. “Many members and guests of Troon-affiliated facilities have expressed a desire for more experiential golf travel. Through Troon Events
and the introduction of the Pro-Am Series, the Troon Events team will plan, develop and execute distinctive travel opportunities. In addition to spectacular golf at world-class golf destinations, Pro-Am participants will be treated to outstanding hospitality and luxury accommodations.”
All 2023/2024 events will be held at CADDIEMASTER-serviced locations. CADDIEMASTER, a division of Troon, provides caddie programs of all shapes and sizes to exclusive private clubs and five-star resorts, enhancing the golf experiences for their members and guests.
For more information on Troon Events, or to register for the 2023/2024 Pro-Am Series, visit www.TroonEvents.com.
SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Troon®, the leader in providing golf and club-related leisure and hospitality services, has launched its 2023 Troon Card frequent player program with more than 150 Troonaffiliated courses participating. Troon Cards are now on sale at www.TroonCard.com and can be used November 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023, providing Cardholders with preferred rates of up to 50 percent off the standard rate at participating Troon-managed and brand-affiliated courses. Troon Cards are available as a TwoSome Card (for two golfers to play and save), or a FourSome Card (for four golfers to enjoy preferred pricing), and are offered for specific states and regions of the country. A portion of the proceeds for every Troon Card sold in the month of October will be donated to the American Red Cross in support of Hurricane Ian relief efforts.
The popular and specially priced Patriot Troon Card has returned in 2023 as a way of honoring and thanking first responders as well as active duty, veterans, reserve and U.S. military retirees. The Inspire Troon Card also returns in 2023 and is for healthcare professionals and teachers. Both the Patriot and Inspire Troon Card offer the same incredible benefits as a National Troon TwoSome Card, including up to 50 percent off the standard rate for the Cardholder and a guest at ALL participating Troonmanaged and brand-affiliated courses around the world.
The golf industry’s leading frequent player program is in its 25th year and has grown to include more than 150 Troon-affiliated courses worldwide. State and region-specific Troon Cards available in 2023 include: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kansas/Missouri, New York, Midwest U.S., Northeast U.S., Southeast U.S., and West Coast U.S. In addition, the National Troon Card offers Cardholders preferred rates at all participating Troon facilities, including properties across the continental United States, Hawaii, and international facilities. Plus, some state-specific cards also include “bonus states” so Cardholders can tee it up in neighboring states. All Troon Cards offer Troon Card rates at Troon’s international locations.
Troon Cardholders can reserve tee times within three days of their desired date of play and enjoy up to 50 percent off golf fees. For those who cannot wait until three days out to book their tee time, with Troon Card’s Best Rate Guarantee, Troon Cardholders can book any online rate four-plus days in advance and still receive 15 percent off their golf fees at check in. The benefits of being a Troon Cardholder go beyond savings on golf. Troon Cardholders can improve their golf games by participating in complimentary clinics, play more golf with exclusive replay rates and explore the world of Troon with customized experience packages. Troon Cardholders can treat their friends, and themselves, to “2 for 1” golf offers and can celebrate their birthday in style with “birthday round” discounts.
Additional Troon Card benefits include the Troon Card Facebook Group and special offers exclusively to Cardholders, 10 percent off merchandise at participating golf shops and golf course restaurants, Troon Card E-News with monthly special offers and the ability to book tee times online at www.TroonCardTeeTimes.com.
2023 Troon Cards are valid November 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023 with “early bird” pricing available through December 9, 2022. To view the entire list of participating courses, see Troon Card rates or to purchase a Troon Card online, go to www.TroonCard.com or visit any participating facility.
HARRIS, MI – While golf season is over six months away, now is the perfect time for golfers to start locking in summer golf vacations. Home to award-winning Sweetgrass and Sage Run golf courses and located just outside of Escanaba in Michigan’s breathtaking Upper Peninsula, Island Resort & Casino announces 2023 golf packages are now available.
The newly expanded Island Resort & Casino is coming off a record-breaking year in golf rounds. And with the sport’s continued rise in popularity, the resort is experiencing high demand for hotel rooms and golf, which has put golf package pre-sales on pace to surpass 2022’s sales.
“During a normal golf season pre-pandemic, people would start booking packages in February,” said Tony Mancilla, General Manager of the resort. “This was about 2,000 rounds that would pick up through the spring.”
Mancilla went on to say that recent accolades for the two golf courses and the positive impact of resort renovations and other Island Resort & Casino efforts have increased demand from 2,000 pre-bookings by the end of February 2021 to 16,000 by the same time in 2022.
“By late April, it was 30,000 rounds, and we will end up doing over 36,000 rounds in 2022, our best summer for a five-month season,” he said.
The Island Resort & Casino golf packages have soared in popularity, in no small part due to the accolades bestowed on its two championship courses, both designed by architect Paul Albanese. Sweetgrass Golf Club was awarded 2021 Michigan Golf Course of the Year and 2022 National Golf Course of the Year, and Sage Run was named a 2019 Golf Digest Best New Course.
Island Resort & Casino golf packages combine the best golf in the region
Whether it’s a buddy trip or couple’s golf getaway, fully customizable golf packages can be booked featuring 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-night lodging options with up to four rounds of golf. Package prices range from $95 - $758, depending on the time of year and single or double occupancy.
The hugely popular Perfect 4-Some package is a great way for Golfers to expand on their golf options. The combination of Island Resort & Casino’s Sweetgrass and Sage Run courses, together with the acclaimed Greywalls course in Marquette and TimberStone course in Iron Mountain make the region a top golf destination. Perfect 4-Some packages include 3, 4, and 5-night lodging options at Island Resort with four rounds of golf.
The increased demand for golf packages was the driving force behind the resort’s recent $30 million expansion. Renovations featured the new 11-story Palm Tower, with 138 guest rooms and golf suites, bringing the property’s guest room total to 454. Also included in the expansion are Horizons Steakhouse, located on the top floor of the Palm Tower and featuring the best views in the region, and Splash Island, a new family pool with waterpark features.
Golfers seeking to escape the stress of the big city and experience one of the most scenic golf destinations in the country won’t want to pass up a trip to Island Resort & Casino. Set amidst the peaceful beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Island Resort & Casino is easily accessible via regional airports in nearby Escanaba and Marquette, connecting through Detroit, Saginaw, Lansing, or Grand Rapids.
For more information on booking 2023 Island Resort & Casino golf packages visit: http://www.islandresortgolf.com
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL – PGA National Resort – South Florida’s world-class golf, vacation, culinary, events and spa destination – is offering vacation packages catered to golf groups as well as those seeking winter escapes to sunny South Florida.
Starting at $659 (per person, per day, double occupancy), the value-laden “Gold Golf” package includes one round of golf daily on The Fazio, The Match, The Estate, The Champion (with surcharge) or The Palmer (with surcharge) courses along with luxury accommodations. Guests can also take advantage of unlimited range balls as well as access to the resort’s state-of-the-art Sports & Racquet Club.
For families wanting to take full advantage of the wide range of PGA National Resort’s amenities and activities, the “Ultimate Family” package also is available throughout the winter. With prices starting at $233 (per family, per day, two children included), guests can enjoy a daily resort credit along with discounts at the Banyan Buddies Kid’s Club and the luxurious Spa at PGA National Resort. Golfers of all levels will also savor the opportunity to tee-it-up on the thrilling, new nine-hole Staple Course for a complimentary round.
Currently unveiling the stunning results of its substantial $100 million transformation touching every aspect of the property, the dramatic “new” PGA National Resort features reimagined guest rooms inspired by a theme of “1960s Palm Beach chic” as well as spacious villas, six exciting new culinary concepts, and a host of superlative amenities.
The legendary South Florida destination boasts the famed Champion Course (host venue of the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic from Feb. 23 - 26, 2023) as well as three additional “traditional” 18s (The Palmer, The Fazio and The Estate courses) and two new bold and innovative Andy Staples designs – The Match Course (18 holes) and The Staple Course (nine holes).
“Winter is the ideal time of year to experience the many glories
of PGA National Resort as well as our usually sunny South Florida weather,” says Jane Broderick, director of golf. “We are excited to showcase our newly revitalized resort to our guests with these getaway packages serving as the perfect way to enjoy the full array of amenities and fun we offer.”
Now open after an extensive renovation, the 40,000-square-foot Spa at PGA National Resort is an oasis of opulence for those who wish to indulge in lavish luxury with additions including a couple’s treatment room and two Himalayan salt rooms. Acting as a “resort within the resort,” the spa offers a comprehensive menu of restorative treatments designed to nurture an openness to healing, balance and growth.
A golf lover’s dream location, PGA National Resort features extraordinary instruction at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, and Full Process Golf – the world’s first science-based and statistical data-driven training system for golf improvement – located at its off-site Estate Course. PGA National Resort additionally offers state-of-the-art club fitting.
For more information about PGA National Resort visit www. pgaresort.com/offers or call 800.863.2819.
INDIAN WELLS, CA – Indian Wells Golf Resort – the world-class public golf, vacation, culinary and events destination located in the picturesque Coachella Valley – has partnered with four neighboring hotels to offer a trio of ideal stay-and-play offers perfect for golf groups, families and those simply seeking a getaway to long savor.
Guests can enjoy accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, Renaissance Esmerelda Resort & Spa, Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa, or Indian Wells Resort Hotel, all situated within a comfortable walking distance of Indian Wells Golf Resort and offering superlative amenities.
Celebrating its 36th anniversary, the acclaimed resort features 36 holes of exceptional golf with its Celebrity and Players layouts. The Celebrity, designed by architect Clive Clark and colloquially referred to as “Beauty,” features aesthetically pleasing water features, colorful wildflowers and narrow corridors placing an emphasis on shot making.
The John Fought-designed Players Course, or “The Beast” as it’s known, is a longer, more open layout with demanding bunkering and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges. Like The Celebrity, no roads or homes encroach the course, and each hole is designed to provide a feeling of privacy and escape in the heart of the scenic Coachella Valley.
With the exceptional “Indian Wells Stay & Play” package, guests will enjoy three nights’ accommodations along with a round each on both The Celebrity and The Players courses. The offer also features one additional round on either 18 with the option to add a fourth round on departure day for an additional fee.
The superb “Lifestyle Escape” vacation offer features two nights’ accommodations to go with one day of unlimited golf on The
Celebrity and The Players layouts. For an additional fee, guests can also add a round on their departure day and reserve a lesson with one of the resort’s PGA Professionals.
Additionally, the “Best of Indian Wells” package includes three nights’ accommodations at either Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa or Renaissance Esmerelda Resort & Spa with a round of golf on both The Celebrity and The Players. Other features include an AVIS full-size rental car and Troon Rewards on the golf portion of the package for program members.
“We are thrilled to welcome guests for the fall and winter seasons, and these stay-and-play packages are the perfect way to experience everything our resort has to offer,” says Sven Wiedenhaupt, general manager. “There is so much fun to be had here at Indian Wells Golf Resort from our phenomenal golf amenities to top-notch dining as well as our array of special events we have planned for the coming months.”
The VUE Grille & Bar, located in the resort’s stunning 53,000-square-foot clubhouse, boasts award-winning cuisine and an extensive selection of wine and spirits complemented by gorgeous views of the property and top-of-the-line customer care. Now open seven days a week, The VUE is the preeminent location in the region to dine while also enjoying watching major sporting events on its many high-definition televisions.
Indian Wells Golf Resort is also the ideal destination for weddings, meetings and other group outings, highlighted by the in-demand pavilion accommodating up to 700 guests and event lawn spaces accommodating a combined 1,300. The resort’s Celebrity Ballroom is another premier event space, with a beautiful outdoor patio and total capacity of 250 guests.
For more information about Indian Wells Golf Resort stay-andplay packages call 760.346.4653 or visit https://indianwellsgolfresort. com/stay_and_play.
For those taking a break from winter weather for some sun and golf in the Palm Springs area in January, the American Express™ PGA Tour event that traditionally kicks off the professional golf season has some top-flight entertainment options for those attending this iconic tournament.
Southern California native Gwen Stefani and three-time Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Darius Rucker are the musical lineup for the 2023 Concert Series on the PGA West Stadium Course driving range during the Coachella Valley’s annual PGA Tour golf tournament in January. Infusing competition with cause, the tournament also has a long history of supporting charities in the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas, contributing to the vibrance and sustainability of the local community.
Stefani, born and raised in Anaheim; a singer songwriter and charismatic frontwoman of No Doubt, will open The American Express’ Concert Series after the conclusion of second-round play on Friday, Jan. 20. Rucker, who first achieved musical prominence as the lead singer of Hootie & the Blowfish and has since become a hugely successful Country artist, will take the stage after the tournament’s third round on Saturday, Jan. 21.
The 64th edition of The American Express will showcase 156 professional golfers and 156 amateurs playing at PGA West’s Stadium Course (host course) and Nicklaus Tournament Course and La Quinta Country Club in La Quinta, Calif. from Jan. 19-22, 2023.
“The Concert Series helps make this tournament one of the most highly anticipated stops on the Tour,” noted Pat McCabe, Executive Director of The American Express. “We’re looking forward to welcoming Gwen and Darius and continuing to grow the more than $63 million in total charitable funds that have been raised through this tournament to support local Coachella Valley-based charity organizations.”
Daily ticket options (for as low as $50) for The American Express
are now on sale at the tournament’s website, www.theamexgolf. com. American Express Card Members receive a 20% discount for any online ticket orders.
The daily Champions Club ticket allows spectators to experience The American Express in the grandest fashion. Ticket holders receive a preferred parking pass and access to the Champions Club – a private, climate-controlled venue on the 18th green of PGA West’s Stadium Course which offers a hosted breakfast and lunch, snacks and a full bar all day--as well as all public fan venues at PGA West’s Stadium Course and the tournament grounds.
Champions Club tickets are $250 per day for Thursday’s first round (Jan. 19) and Sunday’s final round (Jan. 22), and $399 per day for Friday’s second round and Saturday’s third round. Champions Club ticket holders on Friday’s and Saturday’s concert days are welcomed access to an upgraded VIP viewing area near the stage with a complimentary full bar during each concert.
Daily Premium Pass tickets are a new tournament offering and provide access to the grounds, public fan venues at PGA WEST and the brand new, exclusive Club 18 venue, situated behind the 18th green of the Stadium Course and including lunch, beer and wine.
Premium Pass tickets for Thursday’s first round (Jan. 19) and Sunday’s final round (Jan. 22) are $125 each day. Premium Pass tickets for Friday’s second round and Saturday’s third round (includes admission to the post-round concert) are $199 each day.
Daily grounds tickets (general admission to the grounds at PGA WEST and La Quinta Country Club and public fan venues at PGA WEST) for Thursday’s first round (Jan. 19) and Sunday’s final round (Jan. 22) are $50 each day. Grounds tickets for Friday’s second round and Saturday’s third round (includes admission to the post-round concert) are $79 each day.
On concert days (Jan. 21-22), daily Premium Pass and grounds ticket holders may purchase a VIP concert upgrade, providing access to the VIP concert viewing area near the stage and a complimentary full bar during each concert, for an additional $100.
At first glance, Silver Dollar Golf and Trap Club in Odessa, FL is not your typical golf club. For starters, there’s a skeet shooting range directly across the street, hence the Trap part of the name. It’s not uncommon to be teeing off or putting to the sound of gunfire, but you get used to it after a few holes.
Secondly, the course sits in the back of a manufactured housing community/RV Park. Back in the day, it was rumored that more than 20 multimillionaires would park their formidable RVs at Silver Dollar for the season and enjoy both trap shooting and golf. A lesser-known fact is that several well-known professional wrestlers used to play at the course regularly. Names like (Flyin’) Brian Pillman, Brian (Crush) Adams, (Dangerous) Dan Spivey, Paul (Big Show) Wight, and Mark (Undertaker) Calaway could often be found playing in weekly games or creating games of their own.
There are three 9-hole layouts at Silver Dollar meaning there are three unique 18-hole combinations. The Gator/Panther combination is the one most played however, throw in the Bobcat nine and you can have all kinds of fun and challenging golf. As you make your way around each of the three nines you’ll encounter the usual golf hazards with trees, bunkers, and water features that will test and entertain you. Narrow, treelined fairways are often complemented with generous landing areas which are great for beginners. Some sparkling lakes and ponds come into play on a few holes and strategically placed bunkers are situated around many greens. Paspalum greens provide excellent rolling putting surfaces!
The Gator nine plays 3,003 yards from the White Tees with a par of 37. Water is present on at least 7 holes but only comes into play on about 3 or 4 of them. Gator starts with a relatively short 319-yard par 4, dogleg left. The green sits directly beyond the large evergreen trees and just past the retention pond on the left side. With a good drive, it is reachable if you know where the right line is. Otherwise, hit your tee shot down the left side of the fairway past the dogleg and you’ll have a short pitch shot into a small, elevated green. Bunkers guard each side of the green and there’s a small pond right of the cart path. Par or better can be had and get your round off to a great start.
The 3rd and 4th holes are short par 5s and if played correctly can help you pick up a couple of shots. Number 3 is a short 415-yard par 5 dogleg left; a good
drive past the dogleg will allow you to go for the green in two. You’ll need to navigate over the small pond that fronts the green, which slopes gently from back to front. Number 4 is a 421-yard par 5 that plays to the left around a large lake. The more of the lake you can carry, the shorter your approach shot. Clear the corner of the lake off the tee and you’ll only have a mid-iron into the green.
Number 8 is a legitimate 500-yard par 5 with a double dogleg. Unless you’re a longball hitter off the tee, don’t even try to cut the dogleg left. There’s a small pond just beyond the palm trees that have claimed its fair share of tee balls. A good drive followed by a successful layup shot around the second dogleg will leave a short chip shot into the green which slopes gently from back to front.
The Panther nine plays 2,974 yards from the White Tees and plays to a par of 35. This layout places more of a premium on accuracy than on length. The last three holes can make or break your round. Sixteen (7) is the shorter of these back-to-back par 5s, but because of the way it’s laid out, it’s going to be a three-shot hole for most players. The
tee shot is wide open, but you need to be careful with your layup shot. Hit it too far and you’ll find the water that guards the front of the green, A good layup short of the ponds will leave a short pitch into the green of a little more than 100 yards. The green is a lot wider than it is deep.
Number 17 (8) is the longest hole on the entire property, playing 577 yards from the White Tees. The pond that comes into play off the tee requires a drive of at least 290 to clear so most players will be laying up. A good drive followed by a well-struck layup shot will still leave a short or mid-iron into a relatively flat green with bunkers fronting either side. Par is a good score here.
Number 18 is a 171-yard par 3 that requires a carry over water off the tee into a small green. A good tee shot can set up a great end to a wonderful round of golf.
For some reason, the Bobcat layout seems to be the forgotten nine, but we found it quite challenging. The first hole is one of the property’s most interesting, a short par 5 that wraps around the driving range on the right with a chain-
link fence down the right side. It’s a great risk-reward hole because you can go over as much of the driving range as you want and shorten your approach shot. Take the driving range out of play and play down the left side, and it’s a definite three-shot hole. Live oaks on either side of the fairway as you approach the green seem to shrink the fairway. The green is large and fairly flat. Another opportunity to make up a stroke or get started on the right foot.
Number 3 is the closest I’ve ever come to making a holein-one on a par 4. The hole plays 246 yards from the White Tees which requires about a 200-yard carry to clear the pond. There is no sand around the green, just the pond.
Unless you know it’s there, the pond that fronts the green on the 306-yard, par 4, 5th hole can be an unwelcome surprise. From the White Tees, you only need to hit it about 180 yards, which will leave a short pitch shot into the green.
Silver Dollar Golf Club has some of the best practice facilities in the area. For starters, there’s a full-length driving range where you can hit every club in the bag. Then, there is a putting and chipping green complete with sand trap, two putting greens, and to top it off, 3 practice holes. For $6, you can play the three practice holes as many times as you like! There’s no reason not to be ready when you hit the first tee.
With an in-season rate of just $38 for greens fees and cart, Silver Dollar is affordable by anyone’s standards. Other courses in the area are charging twice that rate. If you’re competitive and looking to get in a game at Silver Dollar, you’ll find them just about every day of the week. I used to live in the area about 20 years ago and played a money game every Friday afternoon. Head Golf Professional Ron Hoffman who returned to Silver Dollar a few years ago, has been able to keep that game going all this time.
As you would expect during the peak golf season in Florida, the course was very busy. We spoke with golfers from all over the Midwest who make Silver Dollar Golf Club a regular visit on their snowbird migration. Everyone we spoke with raved about what a great value the course is. Ladies seemed to favor the Panther 9 because it has three par 3s and Thursdays. After all, that’s Lady’s Day. Another common denominator between those we spoke with was the food. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also priced right too! Hamburgers seemed to be the favorite, however, it was Lady’s Day and we saw a lot of salads!
For more information or to book your next round at Silver Dollar, call them at (813) 920-3884 or visit them online at www.silverdollargolf.com.
We’re approaching the end of 2022, but you likely already received an email from your favorite golf destination this fall urging you to book your spring golf trip ASAP. Despite prolonged inflation and rising interest rates, demand for golf travel is still bearish. In the Southeastern U.S., the golf season is yearround but gets underway in late February as the Eastern redbud trees bloom. From Florida to North Carolina, these golf destinations are setup perfectly for an extended golf getaway next year.
Innisbrook Golf Resort – Innisbrook’s Copperhead Course is a favorite among PGA TOUR pros, and it’s also one of the most difficult on the ever-popular Florida Swing. This highly
amenitized resort west of Tampa on the Gulf of Mexico houses four courses along with various rooms, suites, vacation rentals and top-notch restaurants. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it golf stronghold and easy drive from Tampa International Airport.
PGA National Resort and Spa – Palm Beach County is a hotbed of golf, and it doesn’t get any hotter than PGA National Resort and Spa, home of the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic. Four 18-hole courses, including the Jack Nicklaus-designed Champion (home of the TOUR’s Honda Classic), await golfers willing to test their mettle against this tournament-tested venue. The Match Course, designed by Andy Staples, recently opened, touting a modern twist on Golden Age templates.
PGA Golf Club – The flagship public property of the PGA of America, PGA Golf Club at PGA Village is a 54-hole golf panacea with a world-class practice range, short game area and short course. Catch a bite to eat in the Taplow Pub and stay a few nights in the adjacent Perfect Drive Villas or neighboring Hilton Garden Inn. This is a golf purist’s pitstop devoid of frivolous amenities and activities. All golf, all the time.
Streamsong Resort – One of Florida’s newest and most publicized golf resorts got even newer with the opening of its Gil Hanse-designed Black Course in 2018. Streamsong’s Red and Blue courses have also quickly moved atop the national rankings, and the Streamsong Lodge is the perfect place to kick back and relax, post-round. Earlier this year, resort officials announced the construction of The Chain, a short course being designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.
Callaway Resort and Gardens – Golf may not be the first thing that comes to mind at this famous water-skiing stronghold, but the 18-hole Lake View and Mountain View Courses are a couple of underrated gems. Golfers can choose from the AAA Four Diamond Lodge, cottages or villa accommodations. Callaway Resort and Gardens doesn’t get the “ink” many of its Georgia counterparts do, but it’s worth the visit and priced to please.
Reynolds Lake Oconee – Reynolds Lake Oconee is to Georgia as Pinehurst Resort is to North Carolina. That is to say, a seemingly endless supply of golf in the form of six highlyranked layouts designed by Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, Rees Jones, Bob Cupp and Jim Engh. Lodging ranges from cozy cottages to the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Lake Oconee. Golf course big game hunters will want to tackle the Great Waters Course which lies gracefully along the lake shore and features many of the Southeast’s most scenic holes.
Sea Island Resort – While Georgia is better known as the home of The Masters, the RSM Classic at Sea Island Resort is a PGA TOUR player favorite. So much so, several pros make their home at this golf haven on Atlantic. The Seaside Course is a Tom Fazio redesign perched hard on the Atlantic; the Plantation Course was recently renovated by natives Davis and Mark Love, who also recast the vastly underrated Retreat Course in 2001.
Grandover Resort – Golfers need only veer off I-85 in Greensboro to access this 36-hole collection designed by Gary Panks. A full-service onsite hotel offers all the accouterments, from casual and fine dining to a spa and fitness center. If convenience and value are major considerations, it’s hard to top Grandover Resort in either of these categories.
Pinehurst Resort – Nine 18-hole courses, including famed No. 2, host of the 2024 U.S. Open, make Pinehurst Resort the largest golf resort in the U.S. Golfers also flock The Cradle, a nine-hole short course designed by Gil Hanse, and Thistle Dhu, a 75,000 square-foot putting course. Three hotels, including the recently renovated Manor Inn and Carolina Hotel, are just a short walk to the Pinehurst Brewing Co, which opened in 2018 in the Village’s old steam plant.
Rumbling Bald – Spring in Western North Carolina means mountain golf and Rumbling Bald along scenic Lake Lure won’t disappoint during peak 2023 golf season with two 18hole tracks, Apple Valley and Bald Mountain, designed by W.B. Lewis and Dan Maples. Spacious vacation rentals are available for stay-and-plays, and the lake offers endless offcourse activities. Apple Valley, with several downhill and level fairways, is a mountain-style course. Bald Mountain, bequeathed with doglegs and a bevy of blind shots, is a true mountain layout.
Cherokee Valley Course and Club – Upstate South Carolina’s premier golf destination, Cherokee Valley Course and Club is home to a P.B. Dye mountain-style layout, on-site cottages and a brand-new casual dining restaurant, Core 450. Get game ready at one of South Carolina’s most expansive practice facilities.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort – For golfers who want to play where the pros play this year, Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Ocean Course is hosting the 2020 PGA Championship in May. If Pete Dye’s diabolic oceanside layout it too tough to tackle, four other 18-hole courses adorn this majestic barrier island near Charleston. Catch a good night’s rest at the Sanctuary at Kiawah, a AAA Five Diamond hotel.
Myrtle Beach – While it’s not a resort, per se, the Grand Strand one of the world’s most iconic golf destinations. Accommodation options are limitless, and lineup cards can be filled with vaunted venues like Tidewater Golf Club, Grande Dunes Resort Course, King’s North at Myrtle Beach National, Caledonia Golf and Fish Club and TPC Myrtle Beach. Check out www.myrtlebeachtrips.com for one stop shopping for golf packages featuring many of the Grand Strand’s best tracks and lodging.
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort – Hilton Head is known as “Golf Island,” and the three brawny layouts at Palmetto Dunes are a big reason for that moniker. The Robert Trent Jones features one of the island’s only oceanfront holes, and the George Fazio and Arthur Hills courses round out the bill. Golf groups love the popular “Birdies and Beer Getaway” and the resort’s comfy vacation rentals.
Sea Pines Resort – Settled along Hilton Head Island’s
south end, The Sea Pines Resort is home of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage tournament and famed Harbour Town Golf Links. Two other championship-caliber tracks reside inside the gates, Heron Point by Pete Dye and Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III. The Inn and Club at Harbor Town is just a pitching wedge from the clubhouse and the famed Yacht Basin is a short jaunt away.
The most seaward of South Carolina’s Sea Islands, Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort’s is 18 miles east of historic Beaufort, where novelist Pat Conroy spent his summers. Its original course is Ocean Point, designed by George Cobb while its newer layout, Ocean Creek, is a Davis Love III / Paul Crowley collaboration. A wide selection of vacation rentals are available, ranging from on-course villas and condos to luxury rental homes. On the way in or out of Fripp, don’t miss Legends Golf Course on Parris Island, one of the country’s best militaryowned venues.
Banff Springs Golf Course
By Chuck “The Traveling Guy” Miller
In addition to truly spectacular scenery in the Canadian Rockies, Western Canada has an abundance of excellent golf courses.
One way to enjoy the scenery and some great golf courses is to take a Rocky Mountaineer Railroad train and motorcoach sightseeing tour.
Since its founding in 1990, more than two million passengers on Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer Railroad have enjoyed gorgeous scenery while traveling past snow- capped mountains, wide and deep glaciers, rushing rivers, crashing waterfalls and shimmering aquamarine lakes.
By combining one of Rocky Mountaineer’s “First Passage to the West” train journeys with their excellent motorcoach tours, you will be able to visit a number of the Province of Alberta’s highly interesting and beautiful cities including Banff, Calgary, Lake Louise, and Jasper, as well Kamloops and Vancouver in British Columbia. And…you will have the opportunity to arrange golf in Banff, Jasper, Kamloops and possibly on one or more of the sixty courses in and around Calgary including Calgary’s Shaganappi Point Golf Course overlooking the Bow Valley, the Bow River and the Calgary skyline.
When visiting the colorful alpine city of Banff, arrange to play one or both of the Banff Springs Hotel’s two meticulously groomed courses, the 9-hole Tunnel Mountain course and the 18-hole Stanley Thompson championship course. Both are located just a few miles down the hill from the historic and magnificent hotel which opened in 1888.
On your trip, opt to spend a day or two in Jasper so you can play Canada’s #3 ranked golf course at Canada’s #1 golf resort, the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge located just minutes from downtown Jasper.
When you combine a two or three-day Rocky Mountaineer
train journey with their comfortable and educational motorcoach bus tours, you will not only see beautiful scenery but most likely a variety of Canadian wildlife. On our recent Rocky Mountaineer trip, my wife and I observed a mama black bear teaching her cubs how to forage for food, a small herd of mountain goats, two big horn sheep, a baby elk, a bald eagle, dozens and dozens of geese, and numerous deer.
Today’s Rocky Mountaineer passengers ride in spacious glass domed train coaches and are hosted by energetic and attentive hosts. Hosts on our recent trip were Bernadette from Ireland, Stephanie from Germany, Ivan from Mexico and Kadja from the Czech Republic. Not only did they offer informative commentary about the area and scenic things we were about to see, but they also served snacks and unlimited complimentary mixed drinks, wine, beer, water and sodas. Their counterparts on the Mountaineer’s culinary team amazed us with freshly prepared, mouth-watering breakfasts, lunches and delicious chocolate chip cookies.
Whether you start your tour in Vancouver or Calgary, when you are in Calgary, stay at, or at least visit, the Fairmont Palliser Hotel, a true Calgary landmark. The Palliser, located in downtown Calgary, is just two blocks from Stephens Ave, Calgary’s colorful main pedestrian street which has upscale shopping malls, boutique stores, and numerous outdoor restaurants and bars. And…The Palliser is a mere wedge shot from Calgary’s famed 630-foot Sky Tower where you can overlook the skyline while dining at SKY 360, the tower’s revolving restaurant located 511 feet above street level.
When in Calgary, an excellent way to spend the day for adults and families alike, is to visit Heritage Park, a mere twenty minutes from downtown. There you will get a real sense of what Calgary was like during its founding in the 1860’s. You can ride on a thundering steam train; roam the antique midway; enjoy over 180 exhibits, many of which are manned by volunteers in period dress; grab a meal at the Selkirk Restaurant or enjoy an ice cream cone at the Vulcan Ice Cream Parlour. You can set sail on the Moyie, Calgary’s only paddlewheel boat, visit a typical one-room school house, and spend time at the Gasoline Alley Museum admiring one of the largest collections of antique vehicles and oil and gas pumps in the world. History buffs and pleasure seekers alike enjoy a trip back in history when visiting 127-acre Heritage Park.
Whether you take the Rocky Mountaineer’s nine-day trip from Calgary to Vancouver or Vancouver to Calgary, in addition to two wonderful days on the train from Vancouver to Jasper, you will be able to relax in large comfortable seats on the motorcoach bus tours while your driver-guide comments on upcoming historic and scenic stops.
If your plans include a stay at Banff’s majestic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel while on a Rocky Mountaineer tour, you will enjoy a cruise on Lake Minnewanka; an up close view of the roaring Bow River Falls waterfall; and a ride on the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulfur Mountain where you will have an incredible view of the Bow River and the Banff Springs golf courses in the valley below.
Whether you stay at or just visit the Fairmont Banff Springs’ historic and elegant 754–room hotel, take time to enjoy a beverage on the outdoor terrace and then go inside for an outstanding dinner in either the hotel’s 1888 Chop House restaurant or the Vermillion Room restaurant.
When in downtown Banff, which combines the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies with the comforts of a small town, stroll down Banff Avenue. The colorful main street is home numerous outdoor restaurants and boutique stores. For a tasty breakfast, lunch or dinner, locals and tourists alike enjoy the freshly prepared meals at the eclectic Coyotes Southwestern Grill on Caribou Street.
On the short thirty five mile ride from Banff to Chateau Lake Louise, you will see numerous glaciers; view glacier fed Lake Peyto; make a stop at Emerald Lake for a view of its aquamarine water;
and will learn how the Upper and Lower Spiral Tunnels were built when you make a stop at a scenic overlook. Both tunnels are recognized as monumental achievements in Canadian railroad history.
While staying overnight at the Chateau Lake Louise, before additional sightseeing while busing to Jasper, you’ll be mesmerized by the view of canoers paddling gracefully on the tranquil aquamarine waters of world famous Lake Louise. The view from your room or the Lakeview Restaurant is magical, much like an Ansel Adams photograph.
Shortly after your stay at Lake Louise, while on your motorcoach journey to Jasper, you will cross the Continental Divide where rivers form and begin flowing in different directions to the Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Two amazing highlights on your trip to Jasper. The first will be the opportunity to ride a large Ice Explorer bus onto the Athabasca Glacier so you can walk on the glacier. The second is the opportunity to walk on the Columbia Icefield’s Glacier Skywalk, a semicircular glass walkway 800 feet above the valley below.
If your plans include a stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, for an excellent meal, treat yourself to dinner in the lodge’s Orso Trattoria Restaurant or its casual Great Hall Gastropub. Following dinner, when the sun sinks and the sky is dark, sit outside and view the star filled night sky. In 2011, the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada designated Jasper as a dark sky preserve which means there is minimal artificial light to interfere with the beauty of the night sky. Jasper ranks as the second largest dark sky
preserve in the world. Whether your Rocky Mountaineer Railroad trip takes you from Vancouver to Jasper or Jasper to Vancouver, you will stop for the night in the high desert city of Kamloops where wineries, distilleries, cideries and breweries make their home. Kamloops is situated on the Thompson River and is just west of eighteen mile long Thompson Lake. Kamloops boasts over 2,000 hours of sunshine each year ranking it as one of British Columbia’s sunniest destinations. Because of this, the city hosts
more than 100 tournaments at its world class sports facilities and is known as the Tournament Capital of Canada.
Kamloops is the site of one of Canada’s top public courses. Since its opening in 2008, when it was designated “Best New Golf Course”, the Tobiano Golf Course has had the reputation of a top course to play. In 2020 and 2021 it was ranked as “One of Canada’s Best Golf Courses”.
Spectacular golf and scenery will definitely have you enjoying your vacation when you visit and take in the amazing Canadian Rockies while on a Rocky Mountaineer Railroad train and motorcoach tour.
You can arrange a complete Rocky Mountaineer package that includes the rail trip, the outstanding motorcoach tours, and first-class accommodations at the magnificent Fairmont Hotels in Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. Or, should you prefer, you can develop your own Rocky Mountaineer Railroad itinerary through your travel agent.
For information about the Rocky Mountaineer Railroad and the tours it offers, visit www.rockymountholidays.com. For information about the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and its Tunnel Mountain and Stanley Thompson golf courses, visit www.banff-springs-hotel.com. For information about the Fairmont Jasper Hotel and it’s #3 ranked golf course, visit www.FairmontJasperParkLodge.com. For information about Kamloop’s Tobiano Golf Course, visit www.tobianogolf.com, and for information about golf courses in and around Calgary, visit www.calgarygolf.com
One of the better putting training aids on the market. Tony Bush, the owner, inventor and sales maven hardly sleeps, for sure. Aside from being obsessed with improving your putting specifically, he is a really “cool guy.”
His new iNLiNE putting aid, combined with his already existing Lights-Out portable system, will definitely move you up the scale to becoming a very proficient putter.
The iNLiNE targeting and putting model WILL perfect your aim, putter face alignment, eye position (with the hatch marks that frame the ball), club path and line – the main keys in putting. You just focus on distance control.
The elegant looking unit is CNC milled from an aluminum billet, which is then hard anodized and laser etched. You can request the graphics of your choice which makes them great for corporate handouts or gifts. Bulk pricing is available.
The unit has both an adjustable putter gate and an adjustable width ball gate for players of all skill levels. The patent pending design enables you to place your putter and ball directly on the green for real playing conditions. You simply position, raise and/or lower tees to adjust the challenge. Take my word for it, it takes a lot of focus to get to “make putts” on a consistent basis.
Combined with Tony’s Lights-Out portable four-inch in diameter CNC milled alloy moving “hole” that actually captures the ball, this completes the system. Either unit can be used singularly depending on your needs, time and proficiency. This unit can also be laser etched with any logo or motto.
by Terry Ross and Barry LotzNeedless to say, the system’s parts can be used indoors and outdoors, individually or with a group of fellow friends or competitors. Make up your own personal challenges or games to take the boredom out of putting practice.
Our testing group was enamored with the system and what it could do for their putting. The system takes up minimal space and is, of course, very durable.
More information is available at: www.golfslingshot.com
Agreat gift idea for any occasion. Nobody sells quality or unique shoelaces! The laces that do come in men’s and ladies’ shoes are all the same. Rather Boring.
With Whisker Laces you will not only enjoy switching your laces out every so often, but you will stand out, and your day will be brightened!
Team Colors, Pride Laces and Americana Laces collections are really great and ideal for somebody who has everything. Whisker Laces are available in different lengths.
Whiskers recently introduced their sock range and here as well, the color range is exciting and works well with the laces.
For more information: www.whiskerlaces.com
GolfLogix, which has a reputation for being on the cutting edge of golf course mapping and giving players every possible bit of information on the course right in the palm of their hand on their cell phone, has introduced its latest two features that keep it as a leader in golf Apps.
Already the world leader in app technology for golfers, GolfLogix
once again sets new boundaries with two extraordinary new features: 3D Flyovers, which allows the user to see the shape and elevation of every hole from tee to green--and GPS Distances with Slope that utilizes elevation data for accurate slope distance to any point on the course.
This drone-like 3D Flyover component offers golfers the opportunity to strategize on how to best attack any given hole, based on ability level, by showing a true representation of their ball in flight, using their own personal club distances for their tee shots and then their approach shots, so that they can see what lies ahead before they address the ball.
These are just the latest in a years-long development of the goldstandard in golf Apps—and giving everyday players the same kind of information that Tour players get from their printed yardage books that they keep in their pocket.
Additional features like the Putt Breaks function on the GolfLogix app is an augmented reality engine that brings to life green contour maps by automatically orienting from wherever you’re physically standing on the green. Just touch the phone screen to indicate where the hole is, and it immediately provides an extremely accurate green read by displaying every contour of your putt in stunning 3-D color detail.
Putt Breaks gives users a whole new level of insight into the contours of the green. With intelligent one-touch putt reading, users can analyze greens before hitting their approach shot and read putts in a matter of seconds. The App does a tremendous job of keeping stats, score and all of the analytics that you need such as the putting line and pin position.
Founded in 1999, GolfLogix was the first to introduce handheld GPS to the golf industry. The company holds a U.S. patent for its unique GPS and club tracking application. Based in Scottsdale, AZ, GolfLogix has been professionally mapping courses for more than 23 years--owning the largest, most up-to-date golf course database in the world.
For more information on GolfLogix and its new 3D Flyover features, visit www.GolfLogix.com or the Google Play Store.
CBD products have been widely accepted in the golf community over the past few years to combat muscle soreness, strains and general discomfort associated with the physical demands of the sport. The array of products on the market now is truly impressive and can be daunting to those looking for an alternative to pharmaceuticals.
A new line of products from Blazy Susan—one of the most respected and innovative brands in the cannabinoid lifestyle space, has just introduced a new brand of premium full spectrum CBD products called Susan’s Own.
Made exclusively in Colorado using all natural, vegan ingredients, and only American-grown hemp, Susan’s Own contain every cannabinoid present in the plant--and thus provide the most holistic approach to combatting pain, inflammation, anxiety and more. These formulations are also third-party lab-tested for potency and to screen out unwanted additives and pesticides. Details of the lab testing can be found on the company website.
Full-spectrum CBD products, also known as whole-plant extract,
TrueEnergy® is a line of very functional socks powered by NASAinspired infrared technology in the form of nanoparticles woven right into the yarn. This converts body heat into infrared energy which leaves feet feeling amazing and energized, helping optimize performance, stamina and recovery. Feel is everything with socks, and the comfortable, soothing feel of this sock is remarkable—not to mention the design with just the right amount of padding in the toe and heal areas.
These socks provide arch support and wick away moisture-and the built-in infrared technology won’t wash out for the life of the product. Among the benefits of this technology listed by the company include temporary pain relief; increased circulation; relaxing of tight muscles; enhanced recovery; reduced swelling and lactic acid. Other features include a welt top; seamless toe and select
are the least processed and filtered CBD products. Full-spectrum CBD contains the fullest possible profile of hemp plant compounds, meaning it contains the plant’s natural terpenes, flavonoids and cannabinoids.
These cannabinoids include small amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBN (cannabinol), CBG (cannabigerol), and more. Full-spectrum hemp CBD contains no more than 0.3 percent THC, which isn’t enough THC to cause any psychoactive effects.
Full-spectrum CBD is considered the most effective and beneficial due to the other compounds working together in a phenomenon called the entourage effect.
Susan’s Own was developed to deliver healthy, natural treatment alternatives that provide relief, relaxation, focus and wellness without the extremely negative side effects of modern pharmaceuticals. Daily use of CBD is shown to provide improvements in many areas, including physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual aspects of life, according to the company.
These CBD products appear to be one of the more effective remedies on the market--with different types of products that actually do provide relief from soreness and create a relaxing effect.
The product lineup includes: CBD tinctures in Original (unflavored), Creamsicle and Lemonade –1000mg; bath bombs in either lavender or rose, with their biodegradable glitter and real flakes of flowers –100 mg.
• The muscle balms are non-greasy and provide instantaneous relief for muscle or joint pain –4000mg. Added to the mix with this balm is camphor, arnica and menthol.
• The gummies are delicious and effective relief on the go—and come in Blue Raspberry, Dragonfruit or Pina Colada –25 mg CBD per gummy. These are a great addition to a dose or two of the tinctures.
For more information, visit the company website at: https:// susansown.com
At just about any time of year, golf or any other athletic endeavor is more enjoyable when your feet feel good. Even before you put on those favorite golf shoes, the socks you wear in them can make all the difference in the way you feel during a round.
Well-fitting, comfortable socks can make all the difference in how you feel—and now some new technology is even being used to increase the way they help support the foundation—your feet.
cushion for added comfort and support; expanded heel pocket for an improved fit; arch band to keep the sock stable and mesh venting for improved air movement.
TrueEnergy has designed its socks for just about every activity— including golf—and brings a 75-year history of footwear innovation to this latest development. It began in 1946 when C. Hugh Moretz founded Grandview Hosiery in the foothills of North Carolina, with a focus on quality, comfort, durability and innovation.
Over time, the hosiery company grew to be a national powerhouse led by the founder’s son--John Moretz--and dominating the athletic sock market with the wildly popular PowerSox--considered the top performance sock in America by the 1990s.
The company grew, becoming a global leader in sourcing, manufacturing and marketing with owned brands such as iconic Gold Toe® sock, as well as a licensed portfolio of brands that included Under Armour®, New Balance®, Rawlings®, Coleman®, NASCAR® and Kathy Ireland® Worldwide. Soon, the extended family included Hall of Fame athletes such as Kareem Abdul Jabbar, John Elway and Ronnie Lott.
Now, after years of research, development and testing, the TrueEnergy Infrared Technology socks--Inspired by NASA scientific research—are available for the golfing public.
Available in both low cut and full length, there are plenty of fashion-forward styles and colors for both women and men.
For more information on TrueEnergy socks, visit: https:// trueenergysocks.com
With winter weather enveloping much of the country these days, getting some practice in sometimes means setting up some indoor facilities—such as a portable putting green.
One of the most versatile and well-made of these is the Putt-ABout® portable putting greens that are perfect for golfers of all skill levels. These putting greens are portable and easy to roll-up for easy storage and transport. Putt-A-Bout is made of a high-quality putting surface turf with a non-skid backing that always stays smooth. It has built in sand trap cutouts to catch missed shots. They are available in five different sizes--and personalization is available.
Made in the USA, the Putt-A-Bout mats are good to use on any floor space and give you a very realistic feel of an actual putting green. They can also be used outside, although it is recommended not to leave them there between uses.
Besides being light and very easy to roll up and store in the box that it comes in, these mats have a lay-flat backing that makes it easy and quick to roll out and start to use in the home or office.
Although the Putt-A-Bout comes in four versions with lengths from 8 to 15 feet long, the Par 3 Plus model is the most versatile with three holes flanked by two sand traps to catch errant shots. With its realistic feel and speed, this is a great tool for practicing and perfecting this most important aspect of the game—and offers a good challenge that helps any practice session.
For more information: https://putt-a-bout.com and available on Amazon.
