OUR 13th YEAR!
SEE INSIDE: 55 - Page Golf Holiday Guide to Tenerife
GOLF VACATIONS DECEMBER 2015
GOLF REIGNS IN SPAIN!
TENERIFE PERFECT ISLAND GETAWAY
V EGAS BABY! TEEING UP THE STRIP IN SIN CITY
Plus: ENJOYING SOUTH CAROLINA SPLENDOR www.golfvacationsmag.com
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GOLF VACATIONS DECEMBER 2015
Golf del Sur in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
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Chip Shots
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Vegas Baby!
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Tantalizing Tenerife!
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by David R. Holland
LAS VEGAS -- It runs like an old black-and-white movie in my mind. It was the late 1950s. Waves of mirage heat rolled over the asphalt, and a ribbon of hotels, casinos and neon appeared. It was the Las Vegas Strip.
by JD Latorre
I was recently invited by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) (www.iagto.com) to their annual International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) held this past October in Tenerife, Spain. Not knowing two bits of knowlege about this fascinating island, the largest of the seven islands that make up the archipelago of the Islas Canarias, my first thought was, “Where in the world are the Canary Islands and who in the world vacations there?”
South Carolina Splendor
by Terry Ross
Don’t look now, but some parts of the country are already dealing with snow or cooler temperatures that keep everyone but the die-hard golfers away from the course. Thankfully at Hilton Head, the wintry precipitation and frosty conditions are nowhere to be found. Instead, sunshine and pleasant temperatures greet golfers who come to this South Carolina retreat.
Sweet Stuff
by Terry Ross
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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Chuck Miller (The Traveling Guy) is a resident of the golfing community of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. For the past 20 years he has traveled extensively throughout the US and around the world writing about “Places to Play and Places to Stay”. In 2012 he played golf in every state during a 50-week, 50-state driving tour of the US.
Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz
David R. Holland is an award-winning former sportswriter for The Dallas Morning News, football magazine publisher, and author of The Colorado Golf Bible. Holland, whose favorite golf moment was teeing it up with former Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry, splits home time in Colorado and Texas. He has written for GolfWeek’s Superintendent News, Colorado AvidGolfer, Midwest Golfing Magazine, South Central Golf Magazine, and Fairway to Green (UK). He also worked for the Dallas Cowboys Weekly, United Press International and the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
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.
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, Tenerife, St. Kitts, Cancun and Marseilles. His past lives included working for the Miami Herald, Chicago Daily Herald, Boston Globe, Daily News of Los Angles and Southern California Golf Newspaper.
Associate Editor Terry Ross
Features Editor Larry Feldman
Senior Writers JD Latorre Andy Reistetter Fred Robledo
For Editorial:
call (760) 774-2655 e-mail: Info@GolfVacationsMag.com
Regional Advertising Los Angeles Terry Ross • 949-279-7801 terryr@GolfVacationsMag.com Atlanta Harold Chambliss • 770-239-7500 haroldc@GolfVacationsMag.com
Published by
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portsMedia publications
President Jeffrey Diaz
455 NE 5th Avenue, Suite D-151 Delray Beach, Florida 33483 (760) 774-2655
and
Destiny Media, LLC President/CEO James A. Diaz
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 2015 SportsMedia Publications, all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.
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PGA Golf Club Unveils Stay-and-Play Package as Vacationers Flock South
PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – PGA Golf Club has unveiled a stay-and-play package ideal for traveling golfers escaping the first icy blasts of winter. For $334 / person (including all applicable taxes), enjoy two rounds of golf on one of PGA Golf Club’s three courses or the new St. Lucie Trail G.C. (also owned and operated by the PGA), accommodations at the Hilton Garden Inn PGA Village, cart and unlimited range balls. The rate is based on double occupancy, a two-night stay and golf played between Dec. 1 and 31. Vacationers planning a post-Holidays (Jan. 1-30) escape to south Florida are invited to take advantage of the same deal at a slightly increased rate of $411 / person. “All four courses – the Wanamaker, Ryder, Dye and St. Lucie Golf Trail – have never been in better shape,” says Jimmy Terry, General Manager of PGA Golf Club. “Superintendent Dick Gray and his team have done a masterful job
readying them for the high season; we’re excited to welcome guests to our ‘new look’ facility.” Case in point, the Wanamaker recently completed a significant re-grassing project, heightening the playing experience by introducing new turf to fairways and bunker surrounds, and planting several ornamental species to reframe holes. This re-grassing initiative is one of several exciting changes this season at PGA Golf Club. Its 20,000-square-foot clubhouse has been enhanced and expanded by Tom Hoch Design. The state-of-the-art centerpiece includes a completely revamped and modern golf shop; the American-British fusion Taplow Pub featuring a cozy, welcoming interior with cutting-edge audio / video components; and NINETEEN-SIXTEEN Bar & Grille, a members-only restaurant adjacent to the 18th Hole of the Wanamaker Course. Additionally, the PGA has relocated notable trophies and artifacts tracing its nearly 100 years to the new “PGA Gallery” area of the clubhouse. A showcase of the major
championship trophies of golf includes the PGA Championship’s original Wanamaker Trophy. The Senior PGA Championship’s Alfred S. Bourne Trophy and the Vardon Trophy, with its iconic overlapped hands sculpture, are also prominently displayed. To book, please call 866.580.0885. For more information about PGA Golf Club, visit www.pgavillage.com. For more about the PGA of America, visit www.pgamediacenter.com.
Timbers Resorts Announces Hōkūala, Kaua‘i’s Newest Oceanfront Resort
KAUA‘I, HAWAII – Months of anticipation surrounding the formerly named Kauai Lagoons property in Kaua‘i’s Lihue/ Kalapaki area ended today when boutique developer and operator Timbers Resorts unveiled plans for a spectacular, 450-acre resort-residential development named Hokuala (“rising star” in Hawaiian). Hokuala will include renovation of the
Ocean Course at Hokuala
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sensational 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus Signature Ocean Course (formerly named Kiele) – home to the longest continuous stretch of oceanfront golf than any other course in Hawaii – a private residence club, luxury whole ownership residences, custom golf course home sites, a retail shopping village and a boutique hotel featuring a destination spa, multiple dining options, extensive pools and multiple wedding venues. Construction and renovation will begin in December at the oceanfront property, starting with Timbers Kaua‘i – Ocean Club & Residences. Ocean Course renovation will begin in 2016. “Timbers Resorts embraced a wonderful opportunity, and Hokuala will be an idyllic location for people to immerse themselves in our breath-taking beauty and awe-inspiring golf and beaches,” said Kauai Visitors Bureau Executive Director Sue Kanoho. “The Ocean Course at Hokuala complements our collection of top courses that includes Poipu Bay, Princeville Makai, Puakea and Wailua.”
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About Kaua‘i Golf Kaua‘i offers more than 50 miles of white sand beaches -- more beach per mile than any other island in Hawaii – with only five percent of the island developed for commercial and residential use. Kaua‘i Golf (www.golfkauaihawaii.com) is a destination with 5 world-class golf courses and 3 awardwinning resorts.
Island Resort & Casino Unveils New Golf Course Plans
HARRIS, MI - Hannahville Indian Community is building a new golf course in the Upper Peninsula as an amenity to its Island Resort & Casino, a complementary second course to award-winning Sweetgrass Golf Club. If Sweetgrass is indicative of what’s to come, the currently unnamed new course will be highly regarded; it is scheduled to debut in 2017. Sweetgrass has been named a top course in the state by both Golfweek and GOLF
Magazine since opening in 2008 and annually hosts the LPGA Symetra Tour’s Island Resort Championship. “One golf course is a course, two is a destination,” said Tony Mancilla, Island Resort & Casino general manager. “We believe the new course and new spa we’re building combined with our existing resort amenities and established golf-visitor appeal - will draw more people who stay longer and spend more.” Paul Albanese, of the golf course architecture firm Albanese & Lutzke, was chosen to author the new course, which will be dramatically different than Sweetgrass. Ground was recently broken in open spaces but the majority of tree removal for fairways will take place this winter. “The land is very hilly; a lot of vistas where you can see 20 miles,” said Mancilla. “The land is so good that we’re expecting the new course to be first class.” For more information: sweetgrassgolfclub. com or call 877-ISL-GREEN.
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Desert Willow Golf Course
Linda Hartough Featured In “Links To St Andrews”
Linda Hartough, world-renowned golflandscape artist (hartough.com), is featured in “Links to St Andrews - Love Letters to the Home of Golf,” a beautifully-crafted, largescale casebound volume that makes for a highly collectible book and a welcome gift. It contains a compendium of tributes to St Andrews. Hartough’s homage to the home of golf, replete with memories of her visits and insights into her St Andrews paintings, is noteworthy. In addition, every one of Hartough’s St Andrews paintings is included in the book. “It is a privilege to have my reminiscences and my artwork as part of this magnificent volume,” Hartough said. “For those who enjoy learning about golf’s St Andrews origins, history and tradition, this is a book to be treasured.” The 100-plus contributors include revered amateurs and international pros, including Arnold Palmer, Sir Michael Bonallack, Rory McIlroy, Ben Crenshaw, Jack Nicklaus, Jackie Burke Jr., Tom Watson, Gary Player, Annika Sörenstam, Greg Norman, Lorena Ochoa and many more; course architects and golf historians; Royal and Ancient members; University of St Andrews graduates; caddies, greenkeepers, coaches, artists, photographers and many others (even a chef who offers favorite drinks and dishes for golfers at the “19th hole”)-all joining their voices in a uniquely conceived volume. Also among the treasures within are a thoughtful and personal 18-hole analysis of the mother of them all, the Old Course at St Andrews; a history of women in golf; a look at how St Andrews has inspired course architecture and golf culture around the world; detailed portraits of life at St Andrews and
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much more. Links to St Andrews is colorfully embellished with more than 400 images, from commissioned fine art and inspired photography to vintage posters and seldom-seen archival photos. Written contributions range from the poignant to the bawdy, from astute scholarship to the deeply personal. “Links to St Andrews - Love Letters to the Home of Golf” may be purchased from Hartough’s website, hartough.com.
Desert Willow Golf Resort Selected As Home Course Of American FootGolf League
The American FootGolf League (AFGL) proudly announces an agreement with Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert, CA as its official home course. “Having a home course for FootGolf has been a dream and goal since we founded the AFGL,” says AFGL president Laura Balestrini. “The agreement with a premium facility like Desert Willow, along with the City of Palm Desert and Kemper Sports, surpasses everything we hoped to achieve. This is a huge step forward for the AFGL and FootGolf in the United States.” Desert Willow Golf Resort will host the AFGL U.S. National Training and Conference Center, assist creating and testing FootGolf pilot programs, and host the finals of the U.S. National FootGolf Championship played on the Desert Willow certified FootGolf course in November 2016. Desert Willow will prominently display on the property and its website that it is the home course of the AFGL, and actively promote FootGolf. AFGL members will receive a
discount on FootGolf greens fees. Co-branded FootGolf apparel and merchandise will be offered in the Desert Willow golf shop. The AFGL will actively promote Desert Willow as its home course on the AFGL website and all appropriate digital and print collateral. “We are having outstanding success with FootGolf,” says Desert Willow General Manager Derek White. “It is widely accepted in the Greater Palms Springs community, and visitors to Coachella Valley are discovering it as well. The AFGL leadership is a genuine pleasure to work with; and I, my staff, and Kemper Sports looks forward to helping FootGolf grow locally, and nationally.” About the American FootGolf League: Established in 2011, the AFGL is the founder and official governing body for the sport of FootGolf in the United States, as sanctioned by the Federation for International FootGolf (FIFG.ORG). With over 450 certified and accredited participating golf facilities, the AFGL is growing this new sport locally as well as promoting it nationally. The AFGL operates the U.S. Pro-Am FootGolf Tour, the U.S. FootGolf National Championship, and represents the United States in the official FootGolf World Cup. The AFGL also publishes “This is FootGolf Magazine” (thisisfootgolf.com), provides the only official FootGolf equipment in the U.S., and offers FFANS, the only recognized FootGolf handicap service at footgolffans. com. For more about the American FootGolf League, visit: afgl.us. Desert Willow Golf Resort is located in Palm Desert, CA, just minutes away from Palm Springs, and offers two of the Coachella Valley’s best plays. desertwillow.com.
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THE GLENEAGLES HOTELS TO HOST NEW PGA INTERNATIONAL PRO AM
PERTHSHIRE, SCOTLAND – The PGA in Scotland and The Gleneagles Hotel have announced today a new Pro-Am tournament for 2016, scheduled to take place at the renowned venue in Perthshire, Scotland next summer. The Gleneagles International Pro-Am will take place from July 5-8 2016, across The King’s, Queen’s and PGA Centenary Courses. The event will be open to teams of four, comprising three amateurs and one PGA Professional, and will have a total prize fund of £18,000 “We’re really excited to announce this new event for the 2016 golfing calendar, which gives players from around the world the opportunity to compete across Gleneagles’ three championship courses,” said Gary Silcock, Gleneagles’ Director of Golf. “Competitors will have the chance to play two of James Braid’s Classic Courses – The King’s and Queen’s – as well as the PGA Centenary Course, the venue for 2014’s Ryder Cup Matches. Afterwards, they can enjoy some warm Scottish hospitality in one of the UK’s most iconic luxury hotels.” “We hope to welcome lots of international visitors, who will be able to use Gleneagles’ location in the heart of Scotland as a base to explore the country – from historic attractions, to whisky distilleries and, of course, some great golf courses. The fact that it’s taking place the week before The Open at Troon means it’s great timing to make the trip.” “This is an exciting addition to the PGA
in Scotland’s tournament calendar for 2016,” commented Shona Malcolm, Secretary, The PGA in Scotland. “The Gleneagles Hotel is instantly recognizable throughout the world, and what better place to welcome visitors to Scotland, the Home of Golf. We look forward to working in partnership to make The Gleneagles International Pro-Am a “must play” event for golf fanatics from around the globe.” Entry to the tournament costs £7,500 for a team of four, and includes four nights’ accommodation per player; drinks reception and welcome dinner; packed lunch on tournament days; four rounds of golf; celebration dinner and prize presentation.* To register, entrants should visit gleneagles. com/golf/international-pro-am and fill in a booking form.
Boyne Golf Celebrating Two Major Anniversaries in 2016
PETOSKEY, MI – BOYNE Golf – home to 11 premier golf courses spanning three resorts in the scenic northwest corner of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula – announces it will celebrate landmark anniversaries for both Boyne Highlands’ The Heather course (50th) and 27hole Bay Harbor Golf Club (20th) in 2016. Opened for play in 1966, The Heather was the first BOYNE Golf course and widely credited with starting northern Michigan’s golf course construction boom. Robert Trent Jones, Sr., arguably the world’s most famous golf course architect at the time, was given the task of designing a layout to put Boyne Highlands
on the map as more than a ski destination. He succeeded in spades; to this day, The Heather is consistently ranked among the top 20 courses in Michigan. Thirty years later, the establishment of Bay Harbor Golf Club marked the opening of a new chapter for BOYNE Golf. The byproduct of a massive land reclamation project, Bay Harbor brought the first lakeside, five-star resort golf experience to the region. Bay Harbor boasts three distinct ninehole courses – The Links, The Preserve and The Quarry – all designed by Arthur Hills. The Links is reminiscent of Ireland’s famous seaside courses with six holes overlooking Lake Michigan; The Quarry winds its way through an immense, abandoned shale quarry; and The Preserve features stately trees towering over native grasses, wild flowers and wetlands. The 18-hole Links / Quarry combination is regularly ranked among the U.S.’s top 100 public courses by Golf Digest and GOLF Magazine. “We’re excited to build on a very successful 2015 season with special 2016 programming that will commemorate both of these milestones,” says Bernie Friedrich, Boyne Resorts’ senior vice president of golf and resort sales. “They’re a tribute to the strength of the BOYNE brand and our unwavering, decadeslong commitment to bringing guests the best in northern Michigan golf.” More details regarding anniversary-themed golf stay-and-play packages, deals and events will be announced in the coming months.
Bay Harbor Golf Club
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VEGAS
. . . BABY! by DAVID R. HOLLAND
Bali Hai Golf Club
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L
AS VEGAS -- It runs like an old black-and-white movie in my mind. It was the late 1950s. Waves of mirage heat rolled over the asphalt, and a ribbon of hotels, casinos and neon appeared.
It was the Las Vegas Strip. My brothers and I pressed our faces to the casino windows-cupped hands, shielding the pulsar-bright summer sunshine— kids weren’t allowed inside, and it was a mystery unsolved until adulthood. The Las Vegas Strip today is full-color, an upgraded glitz of neon—more like PS4, not the unpolished 16 mm film I first saw from a turquoise Buick Roadmaster. Today, you don’t have to visit for Texas hold ‘em. You can play golf or experience fine dining or elevate yourself for some outstanding views. Or even watch your kids play with the remote control that opens and closes the shades in your corner suite at the Aria Resort & Casino. Flash -- was that Elvis? Almost on a daily basis things happen in a flash – a celebrity sighting – sharing an elevator ride with Dr. J or spotting a professional golfer being tutored by Butch Harmon at Rio Secco Golf Club. Could that be Natalie Gulbis? Down the eighth fairway two recognizable specks appear and golfers having lunch stop, exit their tables, take their drinks out to the patio and observe Harmon work with a former pupil named Phil Mickelson. From the patio deck of Janelas Restaurant these celebrity watchers can see the seventh, eighth and ninth holes. On the 566-yard par five Mickelson has hit a high cut into the wind about 300 yards past a corner bunker. He makes birdie. “The crowd that gathered was awe-struck witnessing how far and how flush he hit the ball,” recalled Cascata general manager Charles Packard, formerly at Rio Secco. “It was impressive.” Today in Las Vegas The Rat Pack and Elvis are far-flung memories but this is surely a city that changes on a daily basis. The weather in Las Vegas reminds me of West Texas. It can be perfect year around, but you never know when it will be too hot or too windy or even sleeting. In the summer the desert heat bakes the irrigated golf courses and green fees get very affordable. But it can be Christmas Day and 70 degrees with no wind.
Watch for the black coal slag bunkers from Nicklaus’ Old Works in Montana along with the first hole at Castle Pines in Colorado. Other courses included are PGA West Tournament Course (California), Cabo Del Sol (Mexico), Desert Highlands (Arizona), La Paloma (Arizona), Las Campanas (New Mexico), Palmilla Golf Club (Mexico) along with arroyo holes and a view of the Las Vegas Strip. Rio Secco Golf Club Rio Secco, home to the Butch Harmon School of Golf (ranked No. 1 on Golf Digest’s list of America’s 50 Greatest Teachers at one time), is an desirable start to a golf trip to Vegas. Play is fast and firm on this Rees Jones’ 7,332-yard, par-72, with quick and undulating greens. There are six broad desert holes, six plateau holes, and six diving into a steep canyon. This landscape rolls across 240 acres of rocky scenery, perched 800 feet above the Las Vegas Valley. Bali Hai Golf Club The vintage “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign is just a minute away on The Strip from Bali Hai Golf Club, which was built to recreate a tropical, Indonesian land of golf fun. Designed by Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley in 2000, Bali Hai is a lush seven acres of water and palm trees. It totals 4,000 trees with 2,500 stands of towering palms and 100,000 tropical plants. Out-of-play areas are accented with Augusta white sand and black volcanic rock. The par-71 course measures 7,002 yards from the tips and opens up views of Mandalay Bay and the Luxor pyramid and other hotels on The Strip. Bali Hai’s No. 16 is a a par-3 island green that frequently comes with an audience from the Cili Restaurant patio and the third hole which is a 468-yard par-4 with a creek running the entire rightside. Some call this hole “Shipwreck.” TPC at Las Vegas Bobby Weed and Raymond Floyd designed TPC at Las Vegas, formerly named TPC at The Canyons, this par-71, 7,063-yard adventure. With a panorama of Red Rock Canyon, this course is brawny and tawny, and an Arizona-like desert golf course you will have to think your way around. It requires shots over canyons, rocky arroyos, and has elevation changes.
Here are some selections you might consider:
No. 12, a 145-yard par-3, shoots to a canyon mesa island green. It is followed by a 423-yard, par-four thirteenth, called “Death Valley.” It has a blind tee shot and arroyo trouble the length of the hole.
Bear’s Best Las Vegas What do you get when Jack Nicklaus hand picks 18 of his favorite holes from 270 designs worldwide and puts them in one location? You have Bear’s Best Las Vegas, a high-end daily fee golf course rolling out to 7,194 difficult yards.
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort The Paiute Tribe imagined large when imaging this complex that includes 54 holes of desert golf and lush conditions. The Resort is 25 minutes from the strip, and stars with its boondocks location. Golfers enjoy the only Pete Dye-designed courses in Nevada.
Manicured bent grass greens, lush fairways, tons of sand and tricky green complexes will greet you along with state-of-the art GPS on the carts.
Select the Wolf, Sun Mountain, or Snow Mountain courses, as well as some widely varied golf that includes water features, rolling terrain, and rugged mountain vistas.
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Golf Vacations • December 2015 13
Snow Mountain is the original course at Paiute, and according to some, it’s still the best. The 7,164-yard course features a progressive layout with wide rye grass fairways, traditional Dye railroad tie-decorated bunkers, and dogleg finishing holes. Water plays on seven of the holes at Snow, from a peninsula green on the 16th hole to an 18th hole that wraps itself around a lake. The Sun Mountain course is tamer, they say, and considered a “kinder, gentler” Pete Dye course. Golfers will be by the natural rolling terrain, the course’s isolated location within the resort, and the mountain backdrop. Easily the most scenic of the three courses, Sun features blue lakes and Joshua trees. The Wolf course is the most difficult of the three courses, as well as the longest course in Nevada at 7,604 yards. Swales, bunkers, arroyos, and undulating greens test you along with the fairways. The par-3 15th hole is an island green where half the challenge is simply getting on the green. Wynn Golf Club and Country Club When you visit Las Vegas you gotta splurge on one decadent round of golf. Wynn’s rack rate is $500 – but that includes bunches of extras like country club locker room amenities and attendants, no-charge rental club, shoes, and available caddies. Wynn Golf Club, a Tom Fazio design, occupies the land that was once the storied Desert Inn Golf Club. When it operated from 1952 until 2002 every celebrity golfer walked these fairways – entertainers like Bing Crosby, Jackie Gleason, Bob Hope, Dinah Shore and the Rat Pack. Wynn is compact in acreage – a par-70 course is 7,042 yards in length with Tifway II Hybrid Bermuda grass on the fairways and tees, and its’ Pennlinks Bentgrass. The old Desert Inn GC was flat, but the renovation included Wynn Golf and Country Club
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moving more than 800,000 the elevation changes and a 100,000 new shrubs to the salvaged and relocated, some 60 feet tall.
cubic yards of earth to create rolling landscape, that includes 1,200 existing trees that were more than 50 years old and over
Where to stay On your golf trip to Las Vegas be sure and stay at Aria Resort & Casino. It is the height of luxury. Book a corner suite with 950 square feet, 1.5 bathrooms, tub with a view and lights and shades work by remote control. Where to dine My favorites are many but include Triple George Grill, Rivea at Delano, Yardbird at the Venetian, Della’s Kitchen at Delano, Guy Fieri’s Las Vegas Kitchen and Bar inside The LINQ, plus drinks and cigars at Andre’s Cigar & Cognac Lounge inside Monte Carlo. The Cili restaurant inside Bali Hai’s clubhouse has an awesome menu. Las Vegas’ best views No doubt the High Roller, the world highest observation wheel, has pods that hold 40 persons and goes 550 feet in the air. Views are also stunning from the Skyfall Lounge at Delano. The Grand Canyon helicopter tour by Papillon Helicopters in Boulder City is a never forget adventure. Las Vegas’ future star attraction? Mat Franco is an American magician (sleight of hand) and the winner of the ninth season of America’s Got Talent. Franco rose above tens of thousands of acts to become the first and only magician in history to win AGT, including the $1 million prize. See him at The LINQ Hotel and Casino. Las Vegas has come light years since the late 1950s. But 2015 is fun for everyone and visitors come from all corners of this planet. Out of this world? You “bet”. Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort
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Bear’s Best Las Vegas
Rio Secco Golf Club
TPC Las Vegas
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Golf Vacations • December 2015 15
TANTALIZING Golf del Sur in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
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G TENERIFE! It’s oh so easy to
fall in love with this
Amazing Spanish Isle by JD LATORRE
I
was recently invited by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) (www.iagto.com) to their annual International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) held this past October in Tenerife, Spain. Not knowing two bits of knowledge about this fascinating island, the largest of the seven islands that make up the archipelago of the Islas Canarias, my first thought was, “Where in the world are the Canary Islands and who in the world vacations there?” I quickly found out why over 13 million tourists visit the Canary Islands each year (over 5 million to Tenerife itself). One word might sum up this volcanic paradise and that is the “Hawaii’ of the Atlantic. It contains all the natural beauty and splendor of the Hawaiian Islands, but adds in its own charming, yet very cosmopolitan, cultural mix of Spain. Sprinkle in influences from the rest of Europe (Brits and Germans especially love the warm embrace of the island’s year-round climate) and a dash of Africa, and you have a tourist mecca that will keep you coming back year after year. The largest of the island chain is Tenerife, situated less than 200 miles from the African coast, and about 800 miles from the Spanish Mainland. It has a unique triangular shape, with the gigantic Mount Teide volcano rising up in the center of the island, to over 12,000 feet, making it the highest point in all of Spain. LEGEND Even before the Canary Islands were part of history as such, they were legendary as the mythical lands beyond the Pillars of Hercules, the Gibraltar Straits, toward the Dark Sea. Paradise, the Elysian Fields or the Garden of the Hesperides are often placed here by Classical authors. One of the first reliable reports of the islands comes from Pliny who, in the 1st century, spoke of an expedition sent by Juba, King of Mauritania, which brought back giant dogs as a souvenir of the adventure. This is the origin of the name of the islands: Canary Islands, from can or canes. Magnificent examples of these fierce-looking native hunting dogs can still be found in the islands, where they are called “verdinos” on some islands and “bardinos” on others. It is hardly surprising that the first legendary and historic accounts of the Canary Islands almost always mention Tenerife, also known as Nivaria, as the sight of an enormous snowcapped mountain, sticking up above the clouds at those latitudes and visible for miles around, must have made quite an impression on those ancient seafarers.
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THE TRADE WINDS AND MICRO-CLIMATES Tenerife is known throughout the world as the Island of Eternal Spring. Its geographic position, in an imaginary strip around the world in which you find some of the best holiday
Golf Vacations • December 2015 17
Black volcanic sand beaches of Playa de la Arena
spots in the world, means that this slogan is not far from truth. The reasons for the gentle climate are the prevailing winds - the trade winds - the orography of the terrain itself and the cold Canary current, which ensures that the coasts and beaches of Tenerife always enjoy magnificent temperatures, sometimes above the temperature of the air. In general, the Island’s climate is mild, temperate and moderate throughout the year. Average temperatures fluctuate between 62º and 65º F in winter, and up to 75º or 77º F in summer. What us Americans might call “San Diego weather”, which is about as good as it gets! These temperatures are especially applicable in coastal areas where most of the tourist resorts are situated. Tenerife has a surprisingly rich biological diversity due to its special climate. The rugged terrain of the island modifies the general weather conditions, generating a wide range of micro-climates. The abundance of micro-climates, and, therefore, natural habitats, is reflected in the rich and varied vegetation to be found on the island (1400 species of higher plants, including many species endemic to the Canary Islands (200) and to Tenerife (140). TENERIFE TOURISM CORPORATION and LANDMARK MEDIA On opening day of the IGTM, held at the spectacular Magma Convention facility in the South of Tenerife, I had the good fortune of meeting two of the Tenerife Tourism Corporation’s top officers, Pia Louw and Karen Blanchard. Accommodating as two tourism officials could ever be, they quickly sprung into action, and before I knew it, Karen had arranged for me to go on a whale-watching adventure the very next morning to experience the beauty of the area’s Pilot whales, up close and personal with Captain Felix on his sailboat “Lina”. Lunch overlooking spectacular ocean vista
18 Golf Vacations • December 2015
Valle de Masca
After an afternoon of roaming the streets of the Las Americas beach area of Tenerife South on my own, I was treated to a fabulous dinner and extraordinary Spanish wine, along with a presentation of golfing in Spain’s Costa Brava region (just north of Barcelona). It was there that I was able to spend some quality time with Gary Firkins, Manuela Whittaker and Tim Franklin, all representatives of Landmark Media, (www.landmark-media. com) who arranged my trip courtesy of my gracious hosts at IAGTO. SPEAKING OF WINE - TENERIFE’S WINE CULTURE Vines first appeared in the Canary Islands following their conquest in the 15th century. The new settles brought with them grape varieties from their homelands in Spain, Portugal, Italy and France as well as other areas. Vine-growing really took off between the 16th and 18th centuries when it became the prime source of revenue for the islands. The celebrated sweet Malvasia wines made there were exported to European courts and the colonies in America and Africa under the name of Canary or Sack. These wines were often traded by merchants who made the Canary Islands a port of call on their voyages. I had the fortune to meet Felipe Monje of Bodegas Monje during my travels around the island and was given a wonderful tour of his fifth-generation family winery. Bodegas Monje sits atop stony-but-rich volcanic soil 1,640-feet above sea level, with its vineyard spreading out below, seemingly to the sea. A wine tasting followed that convinced me that the local wines grown in Tenerife are some of the best that I’ve enjoyed . . . and I’ve enjoyed my share! www.bodegasmonje.com For a walk on the wild side, Bodegas Monje orchestrates erotic wine tastings during the year. I’ll let your imagination run free. For more visit http://wineandsex.net Bodegas Monje
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Swimming at Garachico
MY GUIDE EXTRAORDINAIRE CARLOS I awoke the next morning to find my guide, Carlos Miles, waiting for me with a fresh cup of coffee, anxious to get started on an all-day auto trip around the island of Tenerife. Again Pia and Karen had come through like true pros to give this clueless American a taste of Tenerife that I would never forget. Carlos, versed in five languages, proceeded to whisk me off on a one day adventure like he was one of my lifelong traveling buddies. Best estimate is that we packed in three days of normal sightseeing into one crazy roadtrip. I can barely remember all the towns and sights that we saw, including driving up to Mt. Teide - which should be scheduled for a whole day in itself! At the risk of embarrassing myself with a hazy recounting of all the Maspalomas Golf many fascinating nooks and crannies of this amazing island of Tenerife that we visited that day, I’ve taken to plagiarizing once again from the expertly designed and content rich website of Tourism Tenerife (www.webtenerife. co.uk) to help me describe the many unique regions of Tenerife.
Tourist Regions Tenerife South The tourist resorts in the south of Tenerife have the greatest concentration of hotels and apartments on the island. This area is best known for its many hours of sunshine and its attractive and accessible beaches boasting ma host of facilities. However, it also has picturesque towns and villages, which preserve their traditional character. There
are nature areas and great scenery where sports and outdoor activities are plentiful. In Tenerife South the leisure options are outstanding, both during the day and at night. There are also a number of quality shopping centers selling designer goods. Playa de los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes, Puerto Santiago, Las Galletas and El Médano are some of the key places to visit. From many of these places boat excursions depart in search of another of this area’s great attractions: whale-watching among the colonies that inhabit the waters off the south coast.
Isla Baja In the north-east of Tenerife is the region known as “Isla Baja,” which is made up of the districts of Buenavista del Norte, Garachico, Los Silos and El Tanque. It is a haven of tranquillity in the heart of the countryside, and an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Its towns still preserve all their traditional flavor, and the richness of the local scenery and architecture is remarkable. This is especially true in the streets of Garachico, the old commercial capital of the island, which has been awarded the Fine Arts Gold Medal for the high level of preservation. In Isla Baja the small coves and seawater pools invite you to take a swim and the stunning Teno Rural Park, an ecological treasure, offers many options for outdoor activities or simply the quiet enjoyment of the countryside. The most typical accommodation is in small, charming hotels or “casas rurales” (rural houses). Whale watching
Roadtrip buddy, Carlos
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Golf Vacations • December 2015 19
Puerto de la Cruz-Valle de La Orotava Located in the north of Tenerife, in a valley of extraordinary natural beauty, this popular tourist area is made up of the districts of Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava and Los Realejos. Puerto de la Cruz, one of the pioneers of tourism in Spain, has a great range of hotels and is a lively, cosmopolitan town, ideal for strolling around and shopping. In La Orotava and Los Realejos the accommodation is mainly in “casas rurales” (rural houses).
Mt. Teide National Park
Lighhouse at Buenavista del Norte
The area also offers outdoor activities and historic buildings (the historic center of La Orotava has been designated a Monument of National Historical and Artistic Interest). On the coast of these three districts there are picturesque beaches, as well as the original “Complejo Costa Martiánez,” a magnificent complex of swimming pools and natural pools. Traditional gastronomy and handicrafts are other attractions of Puerto de la Cruz –The Orotava Valley.
Santa Cruz-La Laguna The cities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristóbal de La Laguna, with geographic and urban links, make up the most important center of population on Tenerife. Santa Cruz is the capital of the island. La Laguna, which is a university city, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Both are equally recommended for strolling around or shopping and they offer the chance to appreciate the island’s gastronomy or enjoy some of the best cultural events, the best example being the Auditorium of Tenerife, next to the port of Santa Cruz. San Cristóbal de La Laguna
This is the venue for all kinds of musical events, dance and other shows throughout the year. The beaches and swimming areas of both districts and the Anaga Rural Park, another of the great natural treasures of Tenerife, complete this area which is also an excellent departure point from which to visit the rest of the island.
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Must See! Mt. Teide National Park This network of national parks in the Canary Islands attempts to conserve their most characteristic ecosystems. Hence, the Mt. Teide National Park, in the center of the island of Tenerife, shelters the best examples of the supra-Mediterranean vegetation level. On the other hand, with an average altitude of over 2,000 metres, the Mt. Teide National Park offers one of the most spectacular examples of vulcanism in the world and represents the best example of alpine volcanic ecosystem in the Canary Islands. From a geo-morphological point of view, the structure of the caldera and the Teide-Pico Viejo strato-volcano are among the most spectacular geological monuments in the world, apart from the wide variety of volcanic cones and domes, lava flows, tors and caves that form a range of colors and forms that increase the scientific and scenic interest of the area. With regard to the enormous biological wealth of the area, the outstanding flora includes a large percentage of endemic species and the invertebrate fauna a large number of exclusive species. This National Park, created in 1954 in recognition of its volcanic and biological singularity, is the largest and the oldest of the National Parks of the Canary Islands, and the fifth largest of the thirteen National Parks in the network. Apart from its Peripheral Protection Zone, this natural area is surrounded by the Corona Forestal Nature Park, the largest protected natural area of the Canary Islands. The Teide National Park Board and the Joint Canary Island National Parks Commission held several meeting in 2002 to have the Mt. Teide National Park declared a World Heritage Site. As a result of this initiative the Teide National Park was included in the list of World Heritage in summer 2007.
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HOTEL JARDÍN TROPICAL I had the fortune during my stay in Tenerife to stay at the Hotel Jardín Tropical, near Playa Bobo and Playa de Las Américas. The openair lobby greeted me to Tenerife in the most local of ways, feeling the warm nightime ocean air, as I was welcomed by the friendly staff to their little slice of Heaven in the Atlantic. While the elegant and well appointed rooms offer spectacular views of the ocean and the Tropical Wellness program offers all you could want in first-class pampering, the real stars of this property are the swimming pools. Enjoy the relaxing pleasure of the seawater swimming pool, offering an area exclusively for adults to insure complete relaxation. The same sensations are doubled in the tropical heated pool, surrounded by the great gardens. The Jardín Tropical helps golfers in booking tee times at all golf courses in Tenerife, as well as special packages at Abama Golf. Enjoy superb views to La Gomera from the restaurant Las Rocas or try the buffet at Las Mimosas, offering one of the best breakfasts on the island. The Jardín Tropical also provides gastronomic activities such as kitchen workshops, barbecues, or the re-creation of a “first date”. If you take one tip from this article, make it Hotel Jardín Tropical! For more information visit www.jardin-tropical.com
CARNIVAL OF SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is held each February in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife, and attracts people from all over the world. It is considered the second most popular and internationally known carnival, after the one held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Partially for this reason, the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is twinned with the city of Rio de Janeiro. In 1980, it was declared a Tourist Festival of International Interest by the Secretary of State for Tourism. In 1987, singer Celia Cruz went to the Carnival Chicharrero with Billo’s Caracas Boys; attended by 250,000 people, the concert was registered in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest gathering of people in an outdoor plaza to attend a concert. The festivities on the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife start on the Friday before Carnival with an opening parade, which reaches its height during the night when thousands of people in elaborate dresses dance until the early hours of the next day. The party continues night after night until Ash Wednesday. That day, people of Santa Cruz de Tenerife celebrate the “entierro de la sardina” (burial of the sardine), and with this event the carnival is officially over. However, the party starts up again the following weekend, known as the weekend of the piñata. The festival has two parts: the official Carnival, and the Carnival
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on the street. The official carnival has more than a hundred groups, including murgas, comparsas, rondallas and other musical groups. The street carnival is more loosely organized, and comprises the people celebrating on the streets. Thousands of people come each day to the streets to participate, most of whom wear a disguise in accordance with Carnival tradition.
Golf Vacations • December 2015 21
FACT FILE WHEN TO GO With its attractive climate the Canaries can be visited year round. High season is during the winter and places usually get busy from mid-December to February. It can be an advantage to visit the Canaries during the summer months when accommodations, flights from Europe and green fees can be cheaper and more easily available. GETTING THERE: Flights from the US tend to connect through Madrid, though daily flights are plentiful from most European cities. The Tenerife Tourism Corporation is actively working with various airlines to arrange direct flights into Tenerife from New York City and Miami. GETTING AROUND: The main tourist area of Las Americas is easy to walk around. Courteous and knowledgeable taxi cabs are also plentiful, as well as a host of rental car, E-car and motor bike rentals. GOLF PASS OF TENERIFE The Tenerife Golf Pass is a formula for booking that allows every golfer to play easily in most areas of the island during their stay in Tenerife. Present in infinite variations, the Pass is designed to offer a wide variety of golf courses, with different degrees of difficulty, suitable for the different levels of the game and for the different needs of golfers. www.tenerifegolfclub.com/en FURTHER INFORMATION / USEFUL WEBSITES www.webtenerife.co.uk www.webtenerife.co.uk/activities/sports/golf www.dreamvacationideas.com/tenerife-holidays
22 Golf Vacations • December 2015
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Majestic cliffs in the South of Tenerife
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Golf Vacations • December 2015 23
INTERNATIONAL GOLF TRAVEL MARKET
TENERIFE, SPAIN – With over 325 buyers, more than 500 exhibitors and in excess of 11,300 meetings taking place, the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) 2015, held for the first time in Tenerife, was one of the most successful editions ever. The world’s premier global event for golf tourism suppliers, buyers and media, was again brought to a close by the 16th annual IAGTO Awards ceremony, which saw some of the golf industry’s bestperforming destinations celebrated, including Mauritius, Vietnam, Lisboa Golf Coast, the Dominican Republic and Hilton Head Island. The awards ceremony also saw Michael Campbell, one of New Zealand’s most successful sportspeople and winner of the 2005 US Open Championship, presented with an honorary award for his services to golf, following his retirement from the game earlier this year. Campbell, who held off Tiger Woods to win the major title, along with claiming the HSBC World Match Play Championship title in the same year, was guest of honour at the gala dinner, staged at Siam Park, Costa Adeje, Tenerife, on October 8. Also celebrated during the evening were the Golf Resort of the Year from three geographic regions, with the Seve Ballesteros designed Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort claiming the European award, Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge winning the North America category, while Banyan The Resort Hua Hin, Thailand won the Rest of the World prize. Environmentally friendly golf resorts from Asia, Europe and The Americas were also celebrated during the ceremony, in the 2016 Sustainable Golf Course Of The Year category, in association with the Golf Environment Organization (GEO). Designed to recognise an exceptional commitment throughout the golf operation, with regards to nature enhancement, resource efficiency and community values, the winners were Mission Hills Haikou, China, La Galiana Campo de Golf, Valencia, Spain, and PGA National Resort & Spa, Florida, USA respectively. In previous year’s, notable winners of the IAGTO Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year Award include Bulgaria, Vietnam and Slovenia, with the 2015 prize being claimed by Tasmania, an island off Australia’s south coast and home to more than 65 golf courses. Peter Grimster, IGTM Exhibition Manager, said: “The 2015 IAGTO Awards have once again provided the perfect way to bring the curtain down on what has been another very successful edition of IGTM. “IGTM continues to provide an accurate gauge of the golf travel industry and with key buyers attending the three-day event, along with exhibitors from 65 countries highlighting the vast array of experiences available to golf travellers across the globe, 2016 looks set to be another positive year for the entire market. “Our host venue, Tenerife, fulfilled all of our expectations in terms of infrastructure and hospitality and we are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back for the 2016 edition in Mallorca.”
IAGTO Honorary Award • Michael Campbell - (pictured above) 2016 Sustainable Golf Course Of The Year • Asia: Mission Hills Haikou • Europe: La Galiana Campo de Golf • The Americas: PGA National Resort & Spa The 2016 edition of IGTM, will be hosted on the Mediterranean island of Mallorca at the Palau de Congressos in Palma, the island’s capital city, November 14-17. For more information about IGTM visit: www.igtm.co.uk
2015 IAGTO Award Winners: Golf Destination of the Year • Africa, Gulf States & Indian Ocean: Mauritius • Asia & Australasia: Vietnam • Europe: Lisboa Golf Coast • Latin America & Caribbean: Dominican Republic • North America: Hilton Head Island Golf Resort of the Year • Europe: Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort • North America: Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge • Rest of the World: Banyan The Resort Hua Hin IAGTO Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year • Tasmania
24 Golf Vacations • December 2015
IAGTO Awards Dinner at Siam Park, Water Park in Costa Adeje Tenerife
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Tenerife
Golf The fairway ends at the Atlantic
Turismo de Tenerife Avda. Constituci贸n,12 Canary Islands, Spain Tel.: (0034) 902 321 331 tenerifegolf@webtenerife.com Design and layout As Publicidad Photography La Creme Films Turismo de Tenerife Image Library Cover photo Golf Costa Adeje Printing Gr谩ficas Tenerife S.A. Legal Deposit Number TF 632-2014
Contents Tenerife Golf Map Nine courses, nine reasons Golf can be even more magical Designer courses A stage for great tournaments The full experience What about later?
04 05 06 08 09 10 12 13
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Golf courses
South Abama Golf Amarilla Golf Golf Costa Adeje Golf del Sur Golf las Américas Los Palos Golf Centre North Buenavista Golf Real Club de Golf de Tenerife
Golf del Sur
16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
La Gomera Tecina Golf
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Hotels
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South The Ritz-Carlton, Abama Spring Arona Gran Hotel Iberostar Anthelia Hotel Jardín Tropical
36 37 38 39
Hotel Las Madrigueras Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa Hotel Sir Anthony Hotel Suite Villa María Iberostar Grand Hotel El Mirador Sandos San Blas Nature Resort & Golf Sheraton La Caleta Resort & Spa Vincci Tenerife Golf North Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden Vincci Selección Buenavista Golf & Spa
40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47
48
49
La Gomera Hotel Jardín Tecina
50
Other services
52
Specialised Agency Golf Number One
53
Transport Ultramar Transport
53
Shop The Players Golf Shop
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Practical information
Tenerife Golf Tenerife Golf is the Turismo de Tenerife brand in charge of promoting the island as a destination for playing golf. It brings together eight courses in Tenerife (plus the Tecina on La Gomera), as well as destination management companies, specialised shops and transport companies. Created in 1999, it promotes the best holiday packages to enable golfers to fully enjoy
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Amarilla Golf
their favourite sport on the island, both in terms of a round itself and the other charms of Tenerife that make the island a top holiday destination. Its year-round promotional work focussed on collaboration with tour operators, travel agents and players, as well as attendance at fairs, is all aimed at achieving the widest awareness of Tenerife’s unique qualities for the sport.
The island organises tournaments and renowned events that contribute to positioning Tenerife as the ideal destination for a round of golf.
Contact: Tel.: (0034) 663 011 696 / (0034) 922 237 521 tenerifegolf@webtenerife.com www.webtenerife.com/golf
LALA GOMERA GOMERA
ISLAS ISLAS CANARIAS CANARIAS CANARY ISLANDS ISLANDS CANARY ISLANDS
LANZAROTE LANZAROTE LA PALMALA PALMA FUERTEVENTURA FUERTEVENTURA TENERIFETENERIFE LA GOMERA LA GOMERA GRAN GRAN CANARIACANARIA EL HIERROEL HIERRO
TENERIFE TENERIFE
Altitude
Golf courses Abama Golf Amarilla Golf Costa Adeje Golf Golf del Sur Golf las Américas Centro de Golf Los Palos Buenavista Golf Real Club de Golf Tecina Golf
1. The weather 2. The courses The island’s average annual temperature of 23 degrees Celsius is extraordinary and, of course, highly practical for a round. Players can enjoy a game in shorts and a polo shirt in summer. And in winter? The same of course! Springtime on the island runs from January to December!
Tenerife’s courses have been designed by golfing greats over the years. Donald Steel, Severiano Ballesteros and Dave Thomas infused each hole with the best of their experience and managed to make the most out of every valley and hillside.
3. Customer service
4. Hotel infrastructure
Guests are the lifeblood of the course and hotels... meaning staff who work there have been carefully trained to assist golfers with spot-on professionalism just as it should be.
The efforts made to keep Tenerife a top holiday destination have certainly paid off and the island enjoys one of the most modern selections of 4- and 5-star hotels in Spain and Europe. In addition to this, there is direct access to the course from many of these hotels - a luxury for any golfer.
Nine courses, nine reasons 5. The pleasant 6. International airports atmosphere Why do the locals always seem to be in a good mood? 50% is in the genes and the other 50% could possibly be down to the climate. Smiling comes naturally to people who live on the island and playing golf helped by friendly staff makes it all the more fun and pleasant.
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Maps should be drawn based on how long it takes to get to places. Tenerife has two international airports with two to four hours’ flying time to Europe’s main cities (there are flights to nearly 150 cities).
7. Destination services
8. Safety
9. Tenerife, the holiday destination
You can hire clubs (or get them repaired if there is an incident), trolleys, transport to the course and anything else you may need for a full-service stay on Tenerife.
Tenerife is a Spanish region and thus a member of the European Union which ensures the highest safety standards: individual safety and healthcare at the same standard as anywhere in Europe, alongside a mild, calm climate with no risks or unpleasant surprises.
Since golf never takes up 100% of your time, you will be able to enjoy the rest of the island. From the local cuisine and Michelin-starred restaurants to beaches, shopping centres, world heritage cities, the Teide or dolphin and whale spotting. Golf and Tenerife - what we could term ‘the perfect match’.
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Golf can be even more magical Do you long to be able to play a round in good weather throughout the year? Golfing amateurs and professionals take refuge in Tenerife every year thanks to its warm winters and gentle bright summer days. Visitors come to the island and discover the secret lies with an average annual temperature of 23ÂşC.
Although if you are a golfer, the top reason without doubt drawing you to the island is its eight exclusive golf courses, in addition to the Tecina course on the island of La Gomera (lying just a half hour boat ride away).
Each course is uniquely original thanks to its location and design, top-quality services, mythical views and the welcoming atmosphere awaiting you there. Not to mention the picture perfect sunsets - the kind you wish could last forever.
Golf Las AmĂŠricas
Buenavista Golf
Golf Costa Adeje
Designer Courses Tenerife’s courses have been designed by golfing greats such as Donald Steel or Severiano Ballesteros. They frequently host all kinds of European championships and tournaments such as the Men’s and Ladies’ Spanish Open which welcome both national and international stars. If you are wondering what lies behind this success, the answer is diversity. One day you can play on mountain courses 700 metres high and the next, on the coast, at the foot of cliffs or on sandy or rocky coves. The freedom to choose is most welcome as it
Real Club Golf de Tenerife
means you can continually experience something different and new, and that little bug is what makes you come back to island time and time again. The ocean is a star attraction at most of Tenerife’s courses. Lots of greens are located on the shore itself, making for a spectacular backdrop! Can you imagine the amazing mix of colours with the green course, deep blue water and white caps of the waves? The mere fact of hitting the ball whilst listening to the gentle rolling of the ocean makes it a worthwhile sensation to explore.
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A stage for great tournaments Tenerife is an expert in hosting national and international golf tournaments, something it has been doing since 1964 when it welcomed the Spanish International Open Championship, known today as the Open de España Masculino, at the Real Club de Golf de Tenerife. Since that first Spanish Open, four Tenerife Opens have been held: 1989, 1990, 1992 and 1994, two Canary Island Opens: 1993 and 2005, and a Spanish Open: 2005, all on the European Men’s Tour.
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Real Club de Golf de Tenerife
For almost a decade, from 2002 and 2010, Tenerife has been the host of the prestigious Tenerife Ladies Open, welcoming the best players on the Ladies European Tour. The Tenerife Ladies Match Play was held in 2011 and in recent years, 2012 and 2014, we have been the benchmark in World Ladies Golf thanks to the Tenerife Open de España. The Fred Olsen Challenge de España has been held for the last six years running (2009-2014) at Tecina Golf (La Gomera), a member course of Tenerife Golf. The tournament is played on the European Men’s Satellite Tour.
The Salme’s Cup, the charity golf tournament known as ‘the place where dreams come true’ and deemed to be the most fun tournament in the world, and the DISA Professional Women’s Championship of Spain chose the island to host their 2013 and 2014 editions. In addition to these renowned tournaments, Tenerife is the setting throughout the tournament season that keeps the lifeblood of amateur golf pumping with, for example, the Abama Pro-Am International, now it is fifth year, and the Tenerife Golf Tour that is held over summer at the island’s courses.
Great national and international tournaments
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The full experience The fairways and greens on the island’s courses are meticulously manicured. The surrounding gardens are beautiful, filled with palm trees, giant cacti, spurges or pine trees. Wandering around, you will come across all types of birds (ducks, coots, ospreys) and enjoy the carps that swim in the lakes. The truth is you’ll be captivated by the lush vegetation and variety of animal life. If you then
12
happen to glance up at the clear blue sky, you will surely want to stay and play golf here forever. Beyond the beauty, the key is feeling comfortable and treated well - something the island can guarantee. People smiling at you, treating you nicely when you get to the course, putting your name on your buggy or loading up your clubs are little things that all add to make it a resounding experience.
Buenavista Golf
What about later? What about when you’re not on the fairway? What if you come with a partner who isn’t a golf lover? What to do... The island has dozens of spas where you can relax; hundreds of boutiques and department stores for strolling around, window-shopping and splashing out. We’ll be honest with you: sometimes it is hard to choose just one of the cultural offerings waiting to be enjoyed
every day. Some even think it a sin to not find time to head into the island’s wild volcanic nature spots.
specialised services for before, during and after a game that live up to, and even surpass, your expectations.
Then, of course, there’s accommodation. The selection of 4- and 5-star hotels on Tenerife is (probably) the most modern in Europe. Many establishments have been meticulously designed to meet golfers’ requirements. They offer
This is what makes you dream about your golfing trip when you get back home and we are not exaggerating when we say that you’ll be counting the days to your return. It’s what usually happens!
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
13
Abama Golf
9
Golf Courses
15
South
Abama Golf
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Club House
No. of Holes 18 Par 72 Slope 133 128 133 126 Course length (m) 6.271 5.934 5.525 5.030
Year opened 2005 GPS Coordinates 28°10’14.0”N 16°47’59.3”W Course manager Pedro da Silva Course designer Dave Thomas Required handicap 28 for men / 36 for ladies Opening times 7:30am to 7pm Hotel next to the golf course The Ritz-Carlton, Abama
Other services Buggy hire with GPS Club hire Locker hire Pro Shop Restaurant Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professionals Video and swing analyst
Use of spikes Only soft spikes Contact Carretera General TF-47, Km. 9 38687 Guía de Isora Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 126 300 Fax: (0034) 922 126 303 golf@abamahotelresort.com www.abamahotelresort.com
Fairway grass type Bermuda (F1 Princess) Grass type on green Agrostis (Stalonifera)
More hotels
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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South
Amarilla Golf
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Pinehurst August Park Under construction
La Quinta Heights
Ptich & Putt La Torre Pro Shop
Pebble Beach
Fairways
Ritz Resort Driving Range Equestrian centre
La Quinta
Ocean Ridge Lagoon
No. of Holes - Championship Course 18 No. of Holes - Pitch & Putt 9 Par - Championship Course 71 Par - Pitch & Putt 27 Slope - Championship Course 130 129 Slope - Pitch & Putt 69 Course length - Championship Course (m) 5.929 5.518 Course length - Pitch & Putt (m) 709
Year opened 1989 GPS Coordinates 28°01’45.5”N 16°37’06.1”W Course manager Eduardo Tavío Course designer Donald Steel Required handicap 28 for men / 36 for ladies Opening times 7:30am to 7pm
126 69 4.901 709
Other services Buggy hire Push-pull and electric trolley hire Club hire Locker hire Pro Shop Restaurant Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professional
Use of spikes Only soft spikes Contact Urbanización Amarilla Golf 38639 San Miguel de Abona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 730 319 Fax: (0034) 922 785 557 info@amarillagolf.es www.amarillagolf.es AmarillaGolfCourse
Fairway grass type Paspalum and Bermuda Grass type on green Paspalum
Nearby hotels
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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South
Golf Costa Adeje
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Club House
No. of Holes - Championship Course 18 No. of Holes - Los Lagos 9 Par - Championship Course 72 Par - Los Lagos 33 Slope - Championship Course 138 133 Course length - Championship Course (m) 6.258 5.868 Course length - Los Lagos (m) 2.223
5.525 -
1128 5.082 1.865
Year opened 1998
Hotel next to the golf course Hotel Suite Villa María
Grass type on green Bermuda Tif eagle
GPS Coordinates 28°06’45.9”N 16°44’58.5”W
Other services Buggy hire with GPS Push-pull and electric trolley hire Club hire Locker hire Pro Shop Restaurant (Buffet) Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professional Video /swing analyst Trackman Golf club fitting
Use of spikes Only soft spikes
Course manager Paul De Sterck Course designer José Gancedo Required handicap 28 for men / 36 for ladies (Championship Course) 36 for men / 54 for ladies (Los Lagos) Opening times 7am to 8pm
Contact Calle Alcojora s/n Los Olivos 38670 Adeje Tel.: (0034) 922 710 000 Fax: (0034) 922 710 484 reservas@golfcostaadeje.com www.golfcostaadeje.com golfcostaadeje @GolfCostaAdeje
Fairway grass type Paspalum More hotels
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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South
Golf del Sur
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Driving Range club house
putting green
car park
No. of Holes 27 Par 72 Slope - Links Course / South 131 129 132 Slope - North Course / Links 135 135 133 Slope - South Course / Links 137 137 137 Course length - Links Course / South (m) 5.821 5.607 5.017 Course length - North Course / Links (m) 5.764 5.568 5.030 Course length - South Course / Links (m) 5.897 5.637 5.005
Year opened 1987
Course designer Pepe Gancedo and then remodelled in 2005 by Manuel Piñero
Other services Buggy hire Push-pull and electric trolley hire Club hire Locker hire Pro Shop Restaurant Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professional Golf club fitting
Required handicap 28 for men / 36 for ladies
Fairway grass type Bermuda
Opening times 7:30am to 7:30pm
Grass type on green Agrostis
Hotels next to the golf course Sandos San Blas Nature Resort & Golf Vincci Tenerife Golf
Use of spikes Only soft spikes
GPS Coordinates 28°02’03.5”N 16°36’37.3”W Course manager Maca Rodríguez
Contact C/ José Miguel Galván Bello s/n, Casa Club 38639 San Miguel de Abona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 738 170 Fax: (0034) 922 738 272 golfdelsur@golfdelsur.es www.golfdelsur.es GolfDelSurGC
More hotels
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South
Golf Las AmĂŠricas
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Club House
Driving Range
No. of Holes 18 Par 72 Slope 126 124 127 126 Course length (m) 6.051 5.865 5.173 5.026
Year opened 1998
Hotels at the golf course Hotel Las Madrigueras
Grass type on green Agrostis
GPS Coordinates 28°03’44.6”N 16°43’06.4”W
Other services Buggy hire with GPS Motorbike hire Push-pull and electric trolley hire Club hire Locker hire (free) Pro Shop Restaurant Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School Video / swing analyst PGA Professional Trackman Golf club fitting
Use of spikes Only soft spikes
Course manager Joan Piferrer Commercial manager Brendan Breen Course designer John Jacobs & Assoc. Required handicap 28 for men / 36 for ladies Opening times 7:30am to 7pm
Fairway grass type Bermuda 419
Contact C/ Landa Golf nº22 38850 Playa de Las Américas Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 752 005 Fax: (0034) 922 795 250 info@golf-tenerife.com www.golflasamericas.com golflasamericas @GolfAmericas
More hotels
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South
Los Palos Golf Centre
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Driving Range Club House
No. of Holes 9 Par 27 Slope 77 76 Course length (m) 951 795
Year opened 1994 GPS Coordinates 28°02’20”N 16°40’50”W Course manager Juan M. Gimeno Bello Course designer Integral Golf Design (José María Olazábal)
Other services Trolley hire (free) Club hire Pro Shop Restaurant Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professional
Contact Carretera Guaza - Las Galletas (TF-66), km 7, 38627 Arona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 169 080 Fax: (0034) 922 169 238 mail@golflospalos.com www.golflospalos.com Golf-Los-Palos
Fairway grass type Bermuda, Raygrass and Seaside
Required handicap None
Grass type on green Penncross
Opening times 8am to 8pm
Use of spikes Only soft spikes Nearby hotels
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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North
Buenavista Golf
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Club House
Driving Range
No. of Holes 18 Par 72 Slope 127 124 123 119 Course length (m) 6.019 5.747 5.311 4.932
Year opened: 2003 GPS Coordinates 28°22’18.0”N 16°51’46.0”W Course manager Alberto González Pérez Course designer Severiano Ballesteros Required handicap 28 for men / 36 for ladies Greencard or Plätzreife from 1:30pm in winter Opening times 8am to 7pm Hotel next to the golf course Vincci Selección Buenavista Golf & Spa
Other services Buggy hire Push-pull and electric trolley hire Club hire Locker hire Pro Shop Restaurant Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professional Video /swing analyst
Contact Vista La Monja s/n. 38480 Buenavista del Norte Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 129 034 Fax: (0034) 922 128 044 reservas@buenavistagolf.es www.buenavistagolf.es Buenavista-Golf @buenavista_golf
Fairway grass type Bermuda 419 Grass type on green Penncross and L-97 Use of spikes Yes, soft spikes More hotels
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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North
Real Club de Golf de Tenerife
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Driving Range
Club House
No. of Holes 18 Par 71 Slope 135 130 129 129 Course length (m) 5.740 5.503 4.950 4.950
Year opened: 1932 GPS Coordinates 28°29’16.2”N 16°22’46.8”W Course manager Vidal Carralero Ceva Course designer Antonio Lucena Andrés Alberto Joaquín Laynez Aureliano Yanes Required handicap 28 for men / 36 for ladies Opening times 8am to 9pm
Other services Buggy hire Push-pull and electric trolley hire Club hire Locker hire Pro Shop Restaurant Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professional Video /swing analyst
Use of spikes Only soft spikes Contact C/ Campo de Golf, 1 38350 Tacoronte Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 636 607 Fax: (0034) 922 636 480 reservas@rcgt.es www.rcgt.es golftacoronte
Fairway grass type Kikuyou Grass type on green Agrostis A4
Nearby hotels
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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La Gomera
Tecina Golf
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Club House
DRIVING RANGE STARTER HUT
No. of Holes 18 Par 71 Slope 121 120 121 Course length (m) 6.343 5.841 5.361
Year opened 2003
Course designer Donald Steel
Other services Buggy hire Push-pull and electric trolley hire Club hire Locker hire Pro Shop Café Bar/Snack Practice areas: Driving Range, Putting Green, Chipping Green and Bunkers Golf School PGA Professional
Required handicap 36 for men / 36 for ladies
Fairway grass type Bermuda 419
Opening times 8am to 7:30pm
Grass type on green Bentgrass L-93 (Agrostis Stonolifera)
Hotel next to the golf course Hotel Jardín Tecina
Use of spikes Only soft spikes
GPS Coordinates 28°01’57.1”N 17°11’24.8”W Course manager Primos Pusnik
Contact Lomada de Tecina 38811 Playa de Santiago La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 145 950 Fax: (0034) 922 145 951 tecinagolf@fredolsen.es www.tecinagolf.com tecinagolf @HtJardinTecina
More hotels
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Abama Golf
The best hotels in Europe
South
The Ritz-Carlton, Abama The Ritz-Carlton, Abama is a picture postcard of a grand Moorish citadel in sensuous red tones. The resort is a representation of luxury and good taste located in one of the best hidden spots on the Tenerife coastline. Its undoubted attractions include two Michelin-starred restaurants, a 2,500 square
metre spa, its villas and the Sánchez-Casal Tennis Academy. In addition to these is the 18-hole golf course: surrounding the entire complex, it underlines the sensation of being at the heart of a delightful oasis far from the noisy outside world.
Contact Carretera General TF-47, Km.9 38687 Guía de Isora Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 126 000 Fax: (0034) 922 126 621 reservations.abama@ritzcarlton.com www.ritzcarlton.com/abama ritzcarltonabama @ritzcarlton Year opened: 2005 Number of rooms: 469 (321 in Main Building and 148 in Villas) GPS Coordinates: 28°10’14.3”N 16°47’58.9”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room
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South
Spring Arona Gran Hotel It is located on the sea front meaning the fantastic location offers up beautiful panoramic views: in the foreground is the fishing harbour of Los Cristianos, where small boats and timeless colourful tenders anchor. In the background is the island of La Gomera.
Contact Avenida Juan Carlos I, nº38 38650 Los Cristianos, Arona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 750 678 Fax: (0034) 922 750 243 arona@springhoteles.com www.aronahotel.com aronagranhotel @springtenerife
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
The hotel offers attentive service and delicious cuisine. The open-plan hotel is filled with light and plant life. If you are looking to enjoy the sun, beach and some golf with several courses located nearby, this is the place to stay.
Year opened: 1990 Number of rooms: 391 GPS Coordinates: 28°02’46.3”N 16°42’35.3”W Services for golfers: Golf club room
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South
Iberostar Anthelia A luxury five-star complex perfect for couples and for the whole family. An oasis on the sea front, there are plenty of cosy, openplan spaces and large gardens with two huge swimming pools. The hotel is filled
Contact C/ Londres nº15 38660 Costa Adeje Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 713 335 Fax: (0034) 922 719 081 grand.hotel.anthelia@iberostar.com www.iberostaranthelia.com iberostarhoteles @iberostar Year opened: 1999 (remodelled in 2007) Number of rooms: 365 GPS Coordinates: 28°05’24.6”N 16°44’18.2”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room
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with nooks for guests to relax and enjoy, and there is select cuisine to suit all tastes. The large comfortable rooms, Thai Zen Spa and proximity to several golf course make it a perfect choice.
Contact C/ Gran Bretaña s/n 38660 Costa Adeje Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 746 000 Fax: (0034) 922 746 060 golf@jardin-tropical.com www.jardin-tropical.com JardinTropical @HJardinTropical
South
Hotel Jardín Tropical This 4-star hotel provides 5-star establishment services. Located on the shore, facing the island of La Gomera, it stands out for its top-notch cuisine, the 12,000 square metres of gardens, the comprehensive wellness centre and the two large pools. It is an ideal ho-
tel for golf lovers. The hotel is recommended by the Professional Golfers Association of Europe in the Relais du Golf. Guests benefit from special terms at the Abama course and discounted green fees and other benefits at all of the island’s courses.
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Year opened: 1987 Number of rooms: 390 GPS Coordinates: 28°04’33.1”N 16°44’00.4”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room
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Contact Golf Las Américas 38660 Playa de Las Américas Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 777 818 Fax: (0034) 922 777 819 comercial@hotellasmadrigueras.com www.hotellasmadrigueras.com Year opened: 2003 Number of rooms: 57 GPS Coordinates: 28°03’44.6”N 16°42’49.7”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room Buggy garage Direct access to the golf course
South
Hotel Las Madrigueras ‘The green... at your feet’ is the tagline for this hotel to entice golfers. And it is literally true. The hotel has a colonial design and seamlessly blends into Golf Las Américas. The panoramic views are great: on one side is the beautiful course and, on the other, the ocean and La Gomera. Staying here is
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Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
undoubtedly a great choice, especially for golf lovers. The hotel has direct access to the course and special green fee offers for guests. Then there are the small details such as shoe cleaning and clubs or the use of a buggy that are included in the price.
South
Hotel Paradise Park Resort & Spa A family-owned resort that aims to be a home away from home for island visitors. It has a huge selection of amenities (5 pools, Spa, restaurants...) alongside professional personalised service. The modern double and family rooms, as well as the luxury suites with dream-like views, make it a safe bet for a few days’ holiday and an unforgettable stay. It is a stone’s throw from Golf Las Américas, providing an added bonus for golfers. Contact C/ Hawai nº2 38650 Los Cristianos , Arona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 757 227 Fax: (0034) 922 750 193 reservations@hotelparadisepark.com www.hotelparadisepark.com HotelParadisePark @paradisepark Year opened: 1988, remodelled in 2010 Number of rooms: 376 GPS Coordinates: 28°03’14.5”N 16°42’20.6”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk
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Contact Süden Avenida de Las Américas s/n 38660 Arona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 757 545 Fax: (0034) 922 757 515 mnrventas@expogrupo.com www.expogrupo.com Expo.Hoteles.Resorts @Expo_Hoteles
Number of rooms: 70 Year opened: 1988 (completely renovated in 2008) GPS Coordinates: 28°03’12.1”N 16°43’48.6”W Services for golfers: Golf club room
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South
Hotel Sir Anthony This elegant hotel has its own personality and provides an unforgettable stay in a setting surrounded by nature and peace and quiet. A mix of charm and sensitivity, it is ideal for those visitors who know that real luxury is in the small touches. The Hotel Sir Anthony is the jewel in the Mare Nostrum
Resort crown. Its seafront location and exclusive tailored services are just some of the touches that make it a special unique place. It is a marvellous choice for golfers who are looking to combine a round of their favourite sport with a few days of R&R.
Contact Avenida de Los Acantilados s/n 38679 La Caleta de Adeje Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 168 584 Fax: (0034) 922 168 583 info@suitevillamaria.com www.hotelsuitevillamaria.com hotelsuitevillamaria @suitevillamaria
South
Hotel Suite Villa María A spectacular five-star complex. The 78 villas have individual architectural styles and come with all amenities to ensure a luxury stay in every sense. Some have an outdoor jacuzzi and private pool. They have top-notch views
over the mountains, sea or the adjacent Golf Costa Adeje course. Depending on the season and length of stay, players benefit from exclusive offers at the course, such as unlimited play in summer.
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
No. of villas: 78 Year opened: 2011 GPS Coordinates: 28°06’25.5”N 16°45’01.1”W
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Contact Avenida Bruselas s/n 38660 Costa Adeje Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 716 868 Fax: (0034) 922 716 688 mir.rec@iberostar.com www.elmiradorgrandhotel.com iberostarhoteles @iberostar Number of rooms: 120 Year opened: 2001 GPS Coordinates: 28°05’33.5”N 16°44’40.0”W Services for golfers: Golf club lockers
South
Iberostar Grand Hotel El Mirador A dreamy hotel only for adults that comes with top luxury facilities. The five-star service guarantees perfect holidays for R&R, alongside a touch of distinction. The architecture harks back to ancient Al-Andalus, whilst the entire setting is a marvel: large terraces and gardens, pools, sun terraces with loungers
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and Bedouin-style tents... as well as a wide exclusive culinary selection. For a first-class experience, guests have a VIP area with private pools and solariums, in addition to their own butler service if requested. The hotel’s location is fantastic, near several golf courses in the area.
South
Sandos San Blas Nature Resort & Golf Its maxim is respect for the environment with a commitment to sustainable tourism. The resort is peaceful and truly charming, with different pool areas, modern rooms and delicious cuisine. There is a boating lake on the grounds in addition to a spa, gym
and dozens of activities for adults and children. There are two courses in the immediate vicinity, Golf del Sur and Amarilla Golf, where hotel guests benefit from special rates on green fees.
Contact Avenida Greñamora nº1 Urbanización San Blas, Golf del Sur 38639 San Miguel de Abona Tel.: (0034) 922 749 010 Fax: (0034) 922 749 458 comercial.sanblas@sandos.com www.sandos.com sandossanblas @sanblas Number of rooms: 331 Year opened: 2008 GPS Coordinates: 28°01’54.8”N 16°35’54.1”W Services for golfers: Golf club room
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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South
Sheraton La Caleta Resort & Spa The extensive subtropical gardens (where families can have some great fun), top-notch cuisine and the tailored service are just a few of the attractions guests at this select and welcoming resort appreciate. In addition to the marvellous pools, there is direct access to the promenade and, from there, to the arContact C/ La Enramada nº9 38670 La Caleta de Adeje Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 162 000 Fax: (0034) 922 162 010 lacaleta@sheraton.com www.sheratonlacaleta.com sheratonlacaleta @sheratoncaleta Number of rooms: 284 Year opened: 2005 GPS Coordinates: 28°05’44.7”N 16°44’54.2”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room
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ea’s beaches. The fantastic volcanic-inspired spa is a paradise for R&R. In short, this is a top-class hotel that is great for golfers thanks to its proximity to several of the island’s courses such as Golf Costa Adeje and Golf Las Américas.
Contact Urbanización Golf del Sur 38620 San Miguel de Abona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 717 337 Fax: (0034) 922 737 378 tenerifegolf@vincchoteles.com www.vinccihoteles.com vinccihoteles @Vincci_Hoteles Number of rooms: 125
South
Vincci Tenerife Golf This hotel has golf running through its veins (and name). Located right on the sea front, the service is professional and the kind and welcoming staff are a hallmark of the establishment. This four-star hotel guarantees an
unforgettable stay with its different room types that offer spectacular ocean views. Guests benefit from discounts and special offers at the Golf del Sur course, located just a few hundred metres away.
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
Year opened: 2006 GPS Coordinates: 28º01´38.2” N 16º36´01.9” W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room
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North
Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden Thanks to its elegant peaceful atmosphere, this is one of the island’s most emblematic hotels and a place to stay for a sophisticated clientele. The rooms and suites are stunning, comfortable and come with exclusive furnishings and décor. The lush gardens cover over 25,000 square metres and the wide
culinary selection and select spa just add to the charms of the hotel that benefits from sparkling views over the Teide and Atlantic Ocean. For golfers, there is an 18-hole putting green with bunkers and ball machine next to the hotel.
Contact Avenida Richard Yeoward nº1 38400 Puerto de La Cruz Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 381 400 Fax: (0034) 922 381 504 hotelbotanico@hotelbotanico.com www.hotelbotanico.com hotelbotanico @HotelBotanico Number of rooms: 252 Year opened: 1974 GPS Coordinates: 28º24’40.55”N 16º32’16.91”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room 18-hole putting green Net to shoot balls Practice hole with bunker
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North
Vincci Selección Buenavista Golf & Spa This hotel is located in an almost untouched area of Tenerife, alongside the Teno mountain range in the northwest of the island. It’s hard to decide if the best thing here is the five-star facilities, service and professional staff, colonial architecture, the innately tran-
quil setting or the views. It may well be all of them combined that makes it a unique place. The Buenavista Golf hotel and course are completely blended meaning golfers could wish for nothing better for their golf and rest days.
Contact C/ La Finca s/n 38480 Buenavista del Norte Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 061 700 Fax: (0034) 922 061 701 buenavista@vinccihoteles.com www.vinccihoteles.com vinccihoteles @Vincci_Hoteles Number of rooms: 117 Year opened: 2010 GPS Coordinates: 28°22’10.8”N 16°51’36.9”W Services for golfers: Golf Desk Golf club room
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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Contact Lomada de Tecina s/n 38811 Playa de Santiago La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 145 850 Fax: (0034) 922 145 851 tecina@fredolsen.es www.jardin-tecina.com hoteljardintecina @htjardintecina Number of rooms: 434 Year opened: 1987 GPS Coordinates: 28°01’55.5”N 17°11’20.6”W Services for golfers: Golf club room
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La Gomera
Hotel Jardín Tecina First-time visitors are likely to be electrified by the priceless views over the ocean and towards Tenerife, although there are many more equally mind-blowing attractions. This complex is located on La Gomera in a 70,000 square metre landscaped orchard where the architecture blends seamlessly into the nat-
ural setting. Designed in an attractive bungalow style, the rooms and suites induce a sense of relaxation, increased by the subtle addition of birdsong and the gentle murmur of the ocean. Golfers can’t help but fall for the 18-hole course.
Tecina Golf
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
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Other Services
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Golf del Sur
Specialist online agency
Golf Number One A new business concept for the 2.0 world. Golf Number One is an internationally renowned destination management agency with wide experience in golfing, leisure and adventure breaks. Its approach is that golf is much more than just a sport; rather, it is a unique way of having enriching experiences both for players and for companions. They provide know-how to and collaborate with major tour operators in the sector with a 100% guarantee.
Plaza de la Candelaria nยบ 1, 4ยบ Edificio Olimpo, Oficina 312 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 668 825 355 www.golfnumberone.com support@golfnumberone.com
GolfNumberOne @GolfNumberOne
TRANSPORT
Ultramar Transport
Ultramar is the leading Spanish discretionary transport company specialised in tourist services. It manages transport for 10% of the tourists who come to Spain every year. It has a fleet of over 200 vehicles and employs 400 professionals across its dozen bases spread throughout the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands and the mainland. Ultramar Transport offers a wide selection of transport services to the main national and international operators in the tourist sector.
Autopista del Sur, km. 6,5 38627 Arona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 736 900 Fax: (0034) 922 736 167 www.ultramartransport.com rhernandez@ultramartransport.com
ultramartransport @ultramartrans
SHOP
The Players Golf Shop This is the largest golf shop in the Canary Islands. It offers products from the most prestigious top brands linked to golf, from clubs to trolleys, to balls, equipment, etc. It also offers a hire service for these items. Its services are complemented by personalised fitting, a repair workshop and classes given by qualified PGA professionals. The shop is located just a few minutes away from the golf courses in the south of the island, in El Paso Shopping Centre. Easy-to-reach, it has its own free car park. theplayersgolfshop @PlayersGolfShop
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
C.C. El Paso, local 8 38620 Las Chafiras San Miguel de Abona Tenerife, Spain Tel.: (0034) 922 736 743 Fax: (0034) 922 736 753 www.playersgolfshop.com tienda@playersgolfshop.com
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SEE FOR YOURSELF Useful information
Practical information
The following channels are available to tourists seeking detailed information on the island.
Useful information Tourist Information Centres
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Tenerife Island Council Plaza de EspaĂąa, s/n (0034) 922 281 287 amonteverde@tenerife.es Puerto de la Cruz Casa de la Aduana Calle Las Lonjas, s/n (0034) 922 386 000 manuelp@tenerife.es Tenerife Sur Reina SofĂa Airport Granadilla de Abona (0034) 922 392 037 huete@tenerife.es Tenerife Norte Airport Los Rodeos (La Laguna) (0034) 922 635 192 info@webtenerife.com Costa Adeje Avda. Rafael Puig, 1. Adeje (0034) 922 750 633 turismo@adeje.es Playa de Las Vistas Paseo Las Vistas, s/n Los Cristianos. Arona (0034) 922 787 011 info-vistas@arona.travel
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Centro de Golf Los Palos
Tenerife Golf | www.webtenerife.com/golf
La Laguna Information Points Casa Alvarado Bracamonte (Capitanes Generales) C/ La Carrera, 7 bajo (0034) 922 631 194 turismo.laguna@cabtfe.es Santiago del Teide Avda. Marítima Centro comercial Seguro de Sol, local 34 Playa La Arena Puerto Santiago (0034) 922 860 348 santiagodelteide@yahoo.es We have over 40 Tourist Information Centres. www.webtenerife.com/oficinas Safety Emergencies 112 National Police 091 Local Police 092 Civil Guards 062 Guardia Civil traffic police (0034) 922 662 441 Civil Defence 0034 922 606 060 Health services Hospital Quirón Tenerife (0034) 922 270 700 Hospital Quirón Costa Adeje (0034) 922 752 626 Hospital Universitario de Canarias La Laguna (0034) 922 678 000 Hospital Nuestra Sra. de Candelaria Santa Cruz de Tenerife (0034) 922 602 000 Hospital del Norte Icod de los Vinos (0034) 922 923 107 Hospiten Bellevue Puerto de la Cruz (0034) 922 383 551 Hospiten Sur, in Arona (0034) 922 750 022
Hospiten Rambla Santa Cruz de Tenerife (0034) 922 291 600 Hospiten Tamaragua Puerto de la Cruz (0034) 922 380 512 Airports Tenerife Sur Reina Sofía (0034) 922 759 000 Tenerife Norte (0034) 922 635 998 Ports Santa Cruz de Tenerife (0034) 922 605 400 Los Cristianos, in Arona (0034) 922 790 827 Guagua (Bus) Stations TITSA (buses) (0034) 922 531 300 Santa Cruz de Tenerife (0034) 922 219 399 La Laguna (0034) 922 259 412 Puerto de la Cruz (0034) 922 381 807 Playa de las Américas (0034) 922 795 427 www.titsa.com Regional airlines Binter Canarias (0034) 902 391 392 www.binternet.com
Radio taxi Adeje: 922 714 462 Arona: 922 790 352 Arona, Guía de Isora and San Miguel de Abona (Servitaxitenesur): 922 747 511 La Laguna: 922 255 555 Güimar: 922 510 811 Puerto de la Cruz: 902 205 002 / 650 770 994 La Orotava: 922 323 077 Los Realejos: 922 346 096 Granadilla: 922 397 475 Buenavista: 616 804 942 / 696 568 775 / 630 639 869 Vilaflor: 922 709 047 / 649 487 387 Candelaria: 922 503 880 / 608 038 113 Tenerife Norte Airport: 922 635 114 Reina Sofía Airport (Tenerife Sur): 922 392 119 Eurotaxis Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 609 867 581 / 607 612 816 / 629 132 269 Eurotaxis in La Laguna: 922 253 677 / 922 255 555 / 635 819 087 / 609 680 244 Eurotaxis in La Orotava: 646 369 214 Eurotaxis in Santiago del Teide: 922 860 840 Lost & found Contact the local police of the corresponding town council. What to pack in your suitcase
Regional sea links Fred Olsen (0034) 902 100 107 www.fredolsen.es Naviera Armas (0034) 902 456 500 www.navieraarmas.com
With average temperatures of 20ºC in winter, 25ºC in summer and 300 days of sun per year, the best thing is to bring beachwear and sun cream, comfortable cotton clothing, a jumper or two and a jacket in winter, always depending on the altitude of the area you’re visiting. Bear in
mind that different altitudes and the trade winds create microclimates, so sometimes temperatures can vary considerably in just a few short miles. Electricity 220 volts Currency We use the euro € Travel documents Current National ID Card or passport. Further information At your hotel Ask at reception for the what’s on guide. On your mobile Download the Tenerife Golf app for your Apple and Android devices.
On the web www.webtenerife.com/golf
Temperature chart Average monthly temperature (ºC) JAN 17.9º FEB 18º MAR 18.7º APR 19.2º MAY 20.6º JUN 22.4º JUL 24.6º AUG 25.1º SEP 24.6º OCT 23º NOV 21º DEC 19º
South Caroli
Palmetto Dunes Jones Hole10
26 Golf Vacations • December 2015
www.golfvacationsmag.com
ina Splendor
By Terry Ross www.golfvacationsmag.com
Golf Vacations • December 2015 27
D
on’t look now, but some parts of the country are already dealing with snow or cooler temperatures that keep everyone but the die-hard golfers away from the course.
Thankfully at Hilton Head, the wintry precipitation and frosty conditions are nowhere to be found. Instead, sunshine and pleasant temperatures greet golfers who come to this South Carolina retreat. Just 12 miles across and five miles wide, Hilton Head Island is a remarkable backdrop of marshes, rivers and Spanish moss. In addition to beautiful golf courses, the island is bustling with spectacular homes and fine dining establishments. Combine all that, and you’ve got the ideal spot for golf getaway. Readers of GOLF.com named Hilton Head Golf Island a “Top 10 Most Dreamed About U.S. Golf Destination,” and a four-day, threenight itinerary makes it easy to see why it received this praise. Day 1 Arrive in style and play Harbour Town Golf Links, site of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage presented by Boeing. Designed by Pete Dye, Harbour Town is famous for its signature red and white striped lighthouse behind the 18th green and the railroad ties prevalent throughout the layout. A new 26,000 square-foot clubhouse was recently unveiled and boasts a stunning 4,000 square-foot locker room featuring first class amenities worthy of the most pampered PGA TOUR pro. Day 2 Head to the north end of the island and spend the entire day challenging the outstanding layouts found here. Designed by Rees Jones, Oyster Reef Golf Club traverses through towering trees and lush vegetation, with lagoons scattered throughout. One hole that’s
sure to capture your attention and heart – the par-3 sixth, which looks out over Port Royal Sound. While on the north side, also check out Palmetto Hall Plantation, which features two solid layouts. The Arthur Hills Course plays through intimidating pines and moss-draped oaks, while also possessing one of the top finishing holes on Hilton Head Island. The Robert Cupp Course has always been an island favorite for golfers of all skill levels since it opened in 1991. Out in the remote reaches of the island sits Port Royal Golf Club and its three distinct layouts – Barony Course, Robber’s Row and Planter’s Row. The golf experience at these courses is as unique as their names, so expect fun and exciting rounds. Day 3 Situated in the heart of the island is the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. Palmetto Dunes is home to three of Hilton Head Island’s more memorable courses. The Robert Trent Jones Course takes players through tree-lined corridors among 11 miles of lagoons. The George Fazio Course pairs off holes in couplets, as it works its way through a battalion of pines. The Arthur Hills Course bobs and weaves around an array of water hazards, and is one of the more challenging layouts on the island. Day 4 Finish the trip where you started – at the Sea Pines Resort. While another round at Harbour Town would be glorious, try the other outstanding golf options here. Both Heron Point and the Ocean Course stand out for their playability and scenery. Pete Dye designed Heron Point and is one of his better modern designs in the Southeast. The Ocean Course is a Mark McCumber layout that features one of only two oceanside holes on Hilton Head Island, the par-3 15th.
Harbour Town
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Oyster Reef Golf Club
Jones Holes 9, 10 & 11
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SWEETSTUFF W
hen the New Year rolls around one of the biggest changes in recent times will take place in the Rules of Golf with the long-anticipated ban of the anchoring stroke that has been popular on all levels of the sport with the long broom-stick and belly putters. The so-called long putters will be illegal—at least when used by anchoring the stroke to the body—as of January 1, 2016—and although teachers and equipment manufacturers have been anticipating that day with some alternatives over the past few years with new methods and products, there is much uncertainty in golf as to how those that swore by long putters are going to adapt to the new rules. While the major club makers have just begun to answer this shift with counter-balanced putters that are longer than the traditional “shorter” length clubs by two to three inches-- and weighted in the butt end to promote a smoother pendulum stroke--there is still a void when it comes to these other products—especially when it comes to putter grips. With all of the sizes, shapes and textures available for regular length putting grips to help keep too much hand motion out of the stroke and promote a soft feel, the same choices for the longer-length grips required for counter-balanced putters are almost non-existent. Players who need a 14, 15 or 17-inch length grip have almost no choices when
it comes to getting a fatter grip in that size. That is where Arm-Lock Golf comes in. Headquartered in Aberdeen Washington, Arm-Lock Golf was started by stockbroker Ed Klein and PGA Club Professional Ronnie Espedal and they have developed a unique line of grips not only for counter balanced putters, but also for the arm-lock method of bracing the putter against the leading forearm, which is legal under the new rules in 2016 and a method that several Tour players are using. Many touring professionals, club professionals and amateurs worldwide have embraced the enhanced stability, control and feel that counter balancing their putter provides, and Arm-Lock Golf’s BIG RED CB grip (430 grams) and COUNTER BALANCE RX grip (235 grams) provide the player with two unique grip options. The weight of these grips is distributed across its entirety as opposed to most grips that merely place weight on the butt end of the grip. Arm-Lock counter balance grips are suitable for all putters and they provide a substantial feeling of “mass” in the hands while maintaining “head feel”. Many players are convinced that counter balancing promotes a smooth swinging of the arms while helping to reduce excessive hand action during the stroke. For a minimal cost virtually any putter can be converted into a counter balanced putter with an Arm-Lock Golf CB putter grip. The ArmLock Converter Grip enables the golfer to modify his or her current putter, whether it is a “broomstick / long”, “belly” putter or “standard” putter by simply installing one of these grips. No further modifications to the putter loft are required. Trimming (for broom and belly models) or extending (for standard length models) the putter length to roughly one inch below the forearm elbow crease is the only other modification required to the existing putter. Arm-Lock Golf offers a quick, cost effective alternative for players who are seeking the stability anchoring previously provided. The Converter grip can be used on either the left or right forearms and by both right or left handed players, and work well on counter balanced putters to help stabilize the stroke. All these grip designs feature a rubber underlist and a tacky synthetic leather wrap for great feel, ease of cleaning and durability. More information is available at www.arm-lockgolf.com
O
ne of the basics of a sound golf swing is proper set-up and aiming at the intended target. Sounds easy but it is an aspect of the game that needs constant attention from beginners to the top professionals in the world. Players have used everything from setting a couple of clubs on the ground to the recently popular aiming sticks that you see in golf bags. All for the same purpose—to practice and develop a consistent aim and setup for each shot. Now we have the high-tech electronic version for this training ritual that is called, simply, The Aiming, said to be the world’s first wearable golf aiming device. Using a patented motion sensor rotation algorithm, the Aiming directs the golfer to the right position for an accurate shot. This flash drive-sized device clips on to a waistband or a belt; you stand behind the ball and aim down the target line and press a button. A low beep will tell you that you are lined up left of the target while a high beep tells you that you are lined up right. When you have the proper alignment there is a ding-dong sound and a voice says “perfect.” Or you can put it on silent mode and a vibration will let you know.
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SWEETSTUFF by TerryRoss
of a WeatherSTRONG™ Collection. This collection includes Coolcore®: To fight the heat and stay cool; Sun Protection: To protect from harmful UV rays; Waterproof: To keep you dry in wet weather; Ultimate Stormchasers: Waterproof and wind resistant fleece-lined caps to stay warm and dry and Keep Warm Knits: To keep you warm in the cold weather. Founded in 1916, Imperial Headwear is one of the leading makers and marketers of premium quality headwear for the golf industry. The company features a wide variety of quality headwear with superior customer service and art customization capabilities. For more information on the new winter knit caps by Imperial headwear, visit www.imperialsports.com
While the Aiming takes a few moments to get used to after looking at clubs and sticks as guide tools on the ground for many years, but you start to get in the habit of looking down the fairway and getting a better mental picture of the proper alignment after a little practice with this new device. And this can carry over into a round of golf as well. Ideal for golfers of any level, The Aiming can be used for tee shots, shots on the fairway, and on slopes as well as flat lies. The device is rechargeable, and a single charge can last up to 10 rounds. The Aiming can stay in the bag with the rest of your accessories. “Aim is fundamental to a good golf shot, but at the same time every golfer knows that the game is at least 50 percent mental,” said George Cho, CEO at Motionscape, Inc, the manufacturer of The Aiming. “We use cutting-edge technology to take the guesswork out of lining up for a shot, while also giving golfers the ever-elusive confidence that reduces stress and saves swings.” The Aiming is available this winter in time for holiday shopping with e-tailers such as Amazon, Newegg, Sears, Kmart, Target and Walmart or at www.theaiming.com
A
s the word has spread about the benefits of compression garments—pants, tops, socks—more and more apparel companies are entering the field and the choices are becoming much more plentiful—especially when it comes to socks aimed at the golfing public. Compression socks appear to be the most popular item in this category and most players will try anything to make their feet feel better after a long day walking their favorite course. A new line of golf-specific compression socks by a German company—CEP—are not only some of the more comfortable and easy- touse products of this type on the market, but have a lot of science and research behind them as well.
W
ith winter finally hitting just about every section of the country as we close out the year, Imperial Headwear is changing with the seasons and has introduced its new Keep Warm Knits from their Weather STRONG Collection. The Keep Warm Knits feature six new cold weather and colorful hat styles with customized club name woven into the hat design. All styles are fleece lined, waterproof and are available with or without the pompom, and over 70+ color options from which to choose. Imperial’s specialty headwear collection to fight the elements has been brought under the umbrella
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Born from a 60-plus year German lineage of medical-grade compression products, CEP performance compression technology has traditionally been used for the benefit of runners and triathletes. But CEP compression products have recently been embraced by athletes across the sports spectrum. Now, with CEP’s newest short and no-show line, people that prefer lower profile designs that just cover the shin have some exciting new choices. So why compression socks that don’t cover the lower leg? The benefits of properly-applied compression go much further than circulation; muscle containment, to push swelling fluid out of the Plantar complex of the foot, and due to the snug ergonomic profile of the sock, CEP
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SWEETSTUFF socks do not rub or cause blistering--perfect for long rounds on the course. For golfers that have never tried compression before because they don’t care for the knee-high socks that many manufacturing companies have marketed, these are an outstanding alternative. CEP products enhance performance and recovery through the targeted use of compression to improve blood circulation and speed up lactate metabolism by compression for specific activation of the muscles and increased circulation for more oxygen. CEP Golf socks also keep your foot in direct contact with your shoe and fit like a second skin to give a better sense of feel during the swing. They also feature outstanding heat and moisture management properties that keep your feet well ventilated even after a long day on the links. For more information about CEP compression socks visit: www.cepcompression.com
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ivo Sports, the Montreal-based company that has started to make an impact on the golf fashion world, has released its new offerings for 2016, highlighted by its Essentials polo as the company will offer its largest line ever in the New Year. The soft interlocking fabric of the Essential polo is moisture wicking for cool comfort on and off the course. The mix of fashionable and trendy pieces works well whether you’re on the fairway with friends, are enjoying lunch at the clubhouse or are working away at the office. NIVO continues to target women with active lifestyles, who love to play sports, travel and who are not afraid to be a little edgy. Nivo is a vibrant, confident, performance-oriented brand and has a fashion focus that keeps its designs fresh. The Nivo collections for 2106 will be available at local retailers, golf pro shops and online at www.nivosport.com starting this month.
The new version Athletic Hytail mirrors the signature patented Hytail Ponytail Hat design of a high arched opening and 2 inch band in the back. Not only does the opening keep her hair secure, stylish, and outof-the-way, it allows her to keep playing even if she’s forgotten a hair tie. As she works out, its unique fabric regulates sweat while providing protection from the sun’s harmful rays while keeping her ponytail in place. This versatile accessory is currently available in either white or black. Frustrated by the one-size-fits-all baseball cap that makes sporting functional hairstyles inconvenient and wearing sunglasses uncomfortable, Tess Rogers decided it was time to dip her toes into the accessory industry. Her creation, the Hytail Ponytail Hat, took the ball cap market by storm, bringing a fresh female perspective to the design table. Her newest design, the Athletic Hytail, is building on its versatility with a moisture wicking material for high impact applications. For more information on Hytail hats, visit: www.adactivewear.com
E
ven though it is winter, sunglasses make a great gift year-round and Sundog Eyewear has two of its most popular models front and center for the holiday season. Sundog Eyewear features TrueBlue® lenses with Melanin and Ocular Lens Pigment technology, providing the ultimate eye protection and vision performance on and off the golf course. Based on the patented science of Dr. James Gallas, renowned physicist and inventor, the new TrueBlue™ Lens represents the evolution of Photoprotective Technologies’ patented filtration of blue light. The fact that this latest of technologies is available in such fashionable styles and at less than $100 make them a hit for several reasons. TrueBlue® premium polycarbonate lenses provide unique blue light filtration, improved performance, refined protection, enhanced definition, maximum visual clarity, superior glare reduction and reduces visual fatigue. The Fairway sunglass—worn by LPGA star Paula Creamer-- just makes you look and feel great! This model is part fashion-- part funk with full-time comfort, and is available in either classically reserved or lavish color explosions to suit every mood. The Fairway features a lightweight polycarbonate frame front and MaxFlex Rilsan® temples. For the guys, the Default has the same TrueBlue® lenses and features an innovative twist on classic sunglass styling. With an integrated smooth-fit nose pad to eliminate pressure points and punchy color--burst temple logos--comfort and style reign supreme. Both models include a soft Microfiber lens cleaning cloth case. For more information on these and other Sundog styles, visit www.sundogeyewear.com
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fashionable new hat line that allows women to comfortably wear their hair high in a ponytail (with or without a hair tie), while on the golf course, court, in the field, during a run or even relaxing in the sun, is now available from ADActivewear. Called the Hytail Hat, this new twist on the traditional baseball cap makes a perfect holiday gift and is very convenient for the woman who likes to wear a hat with her ponytail hanging out the back.
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