OUR 20th YEAR!
THIS MONTH: My Turn • SweetStuff • ChipShots
GOLF VACATIONS JULY 2021
GOLFASIAN ELEVATES
THAILAND’S GOLF INDUSTRY
SCOTTSDALE TEES UP A SUMMER OF FUN Plus: 2021 SUMMER GOLF GIFT GUIDE www.golfvacationsmag.com
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VISIT: www.swingcaddie.com/SC200plus/golfvacationmagazine OR
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GOLF VACATIONS JULY 2021
International Olympic Academy Golf Course, Navarino Hills, Greece
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My Turn: US Open Back With A Bang In So Cal
by Terry Ross
10 In The Bag: Golf Bags and Wood Putters For You
by Dave McKibben
12 Chip Shots 20 22 26 31
Golfasian Elevates Thailand’s Golf Industry
by Dakota Diaz The Bangkok-based company has acquired FORE Management Group, a respected organiser of golf events in Thailand. Its formidable track record includes the Thailand Open (an Asian Tour event), the World Corporate Golf Challenge, and the Thailand instalment of the Faldo Series: the only global amateur series for juniors.
2021 Summer Golf Gift Guide
by Shane Sharp From golf equipment and apparel to high-tech gadgets and bucket list getaways, here’s a list of some of the summer’s hottest golf gifts and experiences.
Scottsdale Tees Up A Summer Of Fun
Summer in Scottsdale is in full swing. While that means high temperatures on the thermometer, it also means low prices both on and off the course. Here’s what’s hot this season in “The World’s Finest Golf Destination.”
Sweet Stuff
by Terry Ross
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CONTRIBUTINGWRITERS Dakota Diaz is a Chicago-based freelance writer. Growing up in the golf mecca of Palm Springs, CA, Dakota is no stranger to the golf resort lifestyle. You’ll find him at his “real job” as Partner/Chief Investment Officer at Green Cloud Capital, a Southern Californa based private equity firm.
Executive Editor Jeffrey Diaz
Dave McKibben has been battle-tested in raucous newsrooms and dimly-lighted press boxes for nearly 20 years as an award-winning Los Angeles Times journalist. He’s covered the PGA Tour, Major League Baseball, NFL, NBA, NCAA sports and even local high schools sports. In his career he’s interviewed such greats as Muhammad Ali, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Cal Ripken, John McEnroe, Arthur Ashe, Tony Gwynn and Michael Jordan.
Associate Editors Terry Ross Dakota Diaz
Features Editor JD Latorre
Senior Writers 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.
Tim Cotroneo Larry Feldman David R. Holland Dave McKibben
For Editorial:
call (760) 774–2655 e-mail: Info@GolfVacationsMag.com Shane Sharp is a freelance writer and the owner of Southbound 4, a content marketing and PR shop in Greenville, S.C. He’s a contributing editor with GOLF Magazine, Club & Resort Business, Golf Inc. and Club Management.
Regional Advertising
Los Angeles Terry Ross • (949) 279–7801 terryr@GolfVacationsMag.com Atlanta Harold Chambliss • (678) 906-4050 harold@chamblissmediagroup.com Chicago Dakota Diaz •(312) 809–8808 dakota@GolfVacationsMag.com
Published by
President Jeffrey Diaz
PO BOX #222 Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania 18229 (760) 774–2655 StonyCreekMedia.com
Cimarron Communications 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 2021 Stony Creek Media, LLC, 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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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • MYTURN
The U.S. Open: Bringing Golf Back with a Bang in So Cal BY TERRY ROSS
E
ven after Tiger Woods electrified Southern California golf crowds by winning the 2008 United States Open in 91 holes at Torrey Pines playing on one leg, it took 13 years for the event to return to the seaside-course in San Diego—and the sequel more than held its own—even in these strange times. Because of the Covid restrictions, fans were not allowed to attend the regular PGA Tour event at Torrey Pines this past winter, and with travel limitations and other restrictions, golf travel in general has not been the same. That is not to say that the popularity of golf has suffered during the past 15 months of quarantines and lockdowns—the game has grown tremendously in popularity and participation—and everyone from equipment manufacturers to golf courses have seen a surge in business since this sport is one of the few recreational activities that has been available—and without a mask. June’s 121st U.S. Open at Torrey Pines was the first Open since 2019 that allowed
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fans, although the limited capacity of 10,000 and constantly changing covid regulations created a decidedly different vibe than in 2008 when 295,000 fans filled out the course over a week’s time for one of the classic opens in history. But for golf-crazy Southern California and especially San Diego, the event was like a rebirth for golf and travel as the state officially re-opened two days before the tournament and the crowds were enthusiastic and anxious to see professional golf again. The fact that Torrey is a municipal course that anyone can play made it that much more compelling. And boy, did they get to see a show. The stage had been set a few years before when Reese Jones and Greg Muirhead were enlisted to give a facelift to the course and added 40 yards to create a 7,680-yard layout—the longest in U.S. Open history. Even though the course was set up shorter than that at between 7,200 and 7,400 yards for the tournament, it stood up to the best players in the world and created Sunday drama worthy of a national championship. The leaderboard on Sunday was a who’s who of the world’s top players-- and in the end crowned a new No. 1 player
in the world—Jon Rahm. And just like in 2008, the winner had a history with Torrey Pines and came from behind to win with clutch putting at the end. With the top players all circulating up and down the leaderboard on the final day it even heightened the drama—especially when Rahm curled in a 24-foot birdie putt on 17 and an 18-footer on 18th to become the first Spaniard to win a United States Open Championship. Rahm’s win—like Tiger’s 13 years before—was a victory years in the making. He won his first professional event at Torrey Pines in 2017 and even proposed to this wife Kelly on the beach below the course not long after that. San Diego is a favorite spot for Rahm since it reminds him of the Barrika, Spain region where he grew up and watched Tiger win the same event there when he was 13 years old. This was a Father’s Day gift for Rahm who got to celebrate with his 10-week-old son by winning his first major championship. And for golf in Southern California, this was an exciting re-opening for the entire region and the start of many more memorable experiences on the links.
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IN THE BAG
For The Modern Golfer: The Most Innovative Golf Bag In 20 Years BY DAVE MCKIBBEN
W
hat would it take to make the bestlooking, most innovative, and most fun golf bag for the modern golfer? Here’s how MNML Golf did it: MNML Golf founder Sam Goulden realized there hadn’t been a real innovation in the golf bag in over 20 years. So they set out to make a bag that was clean, smooth, and minimalistic. They wanted golfers to be proud to rock THEIR bag, so they kept branding as minimal as possible. They began reimagining the golf bag by removing all zippers. “The number one failure in golf bags is a broken zipper,” Goulden said. “That’s why the MNML GOLF Bag has 100% magnetic closures on all pockets.” He added a filming pocket that allows golfers to capture their swing quickly and easily both on and off the course. So no more bugging friends to film your swing or balancing your phone hoping that it won’t fall into the bag - or worse, onto the concrete. Goulden also realized that all modern golfers use their phones on the golf course, whether they’re streaming music, using a GPS app or texting their friends. They also know that there’s nothing more annoying than a dying phone on the last few holes, so they solved both problems with an addon tech kit that includes a solar battery pack for phone charging and an easy-toconnect Bluetooth speaker with surprising sound quality. “What’s more fun than rolling in a birdie and celebrating with your favorite playlist?” Goulden said. The MNML Golf bag features: TECH KIT • Custom Bluetooth Speaker (8hr Battery Life) • Solar Power Bank • Phone Charger BAG SPECS • Pat. Pending Filming Pocket • Magnetic Pocket Closures (strong and long-lasting) • 4-Way Divider (two full-length) • Very Comfortably Carries 14+ Clubs • Comfortable Backpack Strap • Naturally Water Repellent
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MicroSuede • Pat. Pending Port and Portal System • Thermal Pocket (up to 5, 16oz bottles or 6 12oz cans) • 5lbs (standard for carry/stand bags)
• Internal Stand Mechanism • Colors, black and white To order a MNML Golf bag, go to https://minimalgolf.com/products/mnmlgolf-bag
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IN THE BAG
Throwback Wood Putters Give Golfers Back Their Feel BY DAVE MCKIBBEN
I
t started with an unexpected discovery while cleaning out an old garage. Greenwood founders Joel Luyt and Mark Wilson found an antique putter with a wooden head and immediately noticed that the resonance and feel of the wood head hitting a golf ball was unlike any other putter on the market. “We were never interested in making a gimmick, or putters just for decoration,” said Luyt. “We wanted to actually improve people’s golf game.” Reimagining a wood head putter meant creating prototype after prototype
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while they enlisted the help of PGA pros, coaches, and even architectural engineers. The outcome? The two flagship models of Greenwood Putters: The Classic and the Tour Series Facet. Besides standing out on the putting green with a wood head putter, Greenwood Putters are known for their soft feel and large sweet spot. Greenwood Putters are also the only solid wood head putters that are USGA approved. “Your missed putts are going to miss by less,” Luyt shared. “From beginner to pro, every level of golfer who has tested their putter against ours, finds ours is consistently better.”
Putter specs and info: • Custom built in Canada • Solid black walnut head • Standard head weight of 345 grams • 71 degree lie angle • 0 degree loft • FST or KBS CT Tour Putter shaft • Grip Master genuine leather midsize grip • Comes with a Greenwood head cover • In black stain or natural finish beneath water resistant hybrid lacquer • Brass ferrel and engraved baseplate • Limited lifetime warranty The putters are available exclusively online at greenwoodputters.com and golf.com.
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Eagle Mountain Golf Club
Enhancement Project Underway At Eagle Mountain Golf Club SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Eagle Mountain Golf Club in Fountain Hills, Ariz. is in the midst of a golf course renovation and enhancement project. The five-month-long project, which began in mid-May, is focused on enhancing agronomic conditions and bunker playability at the 25-year old property. Troon’s Agronomy and Golf Course Development teams is planning and managing the project with Scottsdale-based Casa Verde Golf, an industry-leader in golf course construction and renovation, executing the work. With the enhancements occurring during the slower summer months, the project will not result in the golf course closing as crews will work around play. The original 18-hole Scott Miller-designed golf course opened for play in 1996. This summer’s renovation and enhancement work will focus on three areas: drainage, irrigation and bunkers. Drainage areas in approaches and landing areas will be renovated to support turf health along with firmer and faster conditions. Bunkers will be modified (some eliminated), reshaped and rebuilt incorporating a technically advanced drainage and liner system featuring Capillary Concrete. This new generation lining method increases the speed at which water flows through the bunker; minimizing washouts, reducing maintenance and producing superior playability. The new bunkers will be refilled with premium 50:50 bunker sand (50 percent white and 50 percent tan blended together) and are expected to last for many years to come. Crews will also improve various wash crossings and make landscape enhancements throughout the course. “Bunkers are being rebuilt and updated, but we will be keeping the same overall look and strategy that has been a hallmark of Eagle Mountain over the years,” said Casa Verde Golf Senior Vice President of Agronomy & Construction Luke Beardmore. “We plan on remov-
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ing redundant bunkers, moving from roughly 88,000 square feet of bunkers to 68,000 square feet. Some bunkers will be morphed together, with those that are eliminated converted into either grassy hollows or filled-in to look like they were never there at all.” In addition, the Eagle Mountain agronomy team and Casa Verde Agronomic Solutions will perform an extensive soil remediation project aimed improving long-term turf quality and playing conditions. “Like many courses in Arizona, Eagle Mountain uses recycled waste water (effluent) to irrigate,” said Dave Nicholls, Senior Vice President of Science and Agronomy for Troon. “With that comes a variety of unique challenges. The water is extremely high in sodium, chloride, and bicarbonates and those ‘salts’ have a profoundly negative long-term impact on the soil and its ability to support plant life. To counteract the salt load from the water, we perform a variety of natural cultural practices, including aerification, linear decompaction, drainage, flushing, and applications of calcium (gypsum) to amend the soil.” “Our inputs are typically proportionate to the challenge, and therefore are more intensive following long, dry periods of weather (drought) such as 2020, which was the hottest and driest summer on record. The result of this and the other actions we are taking this summer will enhance the agronomic conditions, playability and keep Eagle Mountain Golf Club at the top of golfers must play lists,” added Nicholls. The par-71, 6,800-yard course is located in the ravines and foothills of the McDowell Mountains just east of Scottsdale. In 2020, Eagle Mountain Golf Club moved under the Troon Golf brand and is now managed by the resort and daily-fee division of the leading golf management company. For more information on Eagle Mountain Golf Club, visit www. eaglemtn.com or call 480-816-1234.
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Horseshoe Bay Resort Opens Spectacular Cap Rock Clubhouse HORSESHOE BAY, TX – A dramatic exclamation point on Horseshoe Bay Resort’s four-year, $100-million-plus full-property renovation, the stunning new Cap Rock Clubhouse opened this week for members of the AAA-Four Diamond- and Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Award-winning resort and club. Perched atop an impressive outcropping of ancient granite boulders that affords 50-mile views from countless vantage points, this warm, luxurious dining and entertainment space showcases a decidedly modern and inspired take on classic Hill Country architecture. The stylish, contemporary clubhouse building services the resort and club’s acclaimed Ram Rock and Apple Rock golf courses with upscale and casual dining and an inviting, finely-appointed pool cabana with ample amenities for swimming, lounging, sunning, dining, refreshment and socializing. With the alluring surrounding scenery in mind, the Cap Rock clubhouse design draws in sunlight and outdoor scenery with slender roof openings and gently angled floor-to-ceiling windows. Three large rock-spire sculptures separate the entry, bar area, and dining room with boldly designed rock-adorned fireplaces. “When you hear people talking excitedly about the architecture, making comparisons to Frank Lloyd Wright because of the clean, geometrical lines of the design, you know you have something special,” says director of golf Anthony Holder. “What the entire clubhouse space does so well is bringing the outdoors in and the comfort and refinement of the indoors to all of the wonderfully designed outdoor spaces. The patios, outdoor dining and luxurious pool cabana (complete with outdoor dining and bar service, heated pools, deck lounging and waterfalls amid native boulders) all take incredible advantage of the setting and the ‘big sky’ views of the Hill Country.” The club house and spacious outdoor pool cabana space bring completion to a village-concept design that includes the Cap Rock golf pro shop building and the Cap Rock Pavilion (for meetings and receptions), all connected by a winding drive, canopied by mature native oaks. A new putting green adjacent to the golf shop further adds to the sense the completeness on this pleasantly walkable chain of upscale amenities. “The completion of the Cap Rock Clubhouse renews the pride our ownership, members and dedicated staff have in the now-completely revitalized Horseshoe Bay
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Horseshoe Bay Resort
Resort,” says Horseshoe Bay Resort’s managing director Bryan Woodward. “We’re excited to see new traditions take shape on the exquisite patios, dining and lounging areas of this remarkable new building. Cap Rock is going to be so many people’s favorite hip, new restaurant, their favorite place to celebrate the Fourth of July, Easter and so many great occasions.” With a large, open indoor dining space, posh cocktail lounge, private dining areas, spacious patio dining, the energized pool cabana space and lush great lawn all overlooking the 18th greens of the Apple Rock and Rock courses, the Horseshoe Bay staff expects this to be one of the most unique and widely-used gathering spaces on the entire private 7,000-acre resort footprint. “The way the space is designed and creatively broken up, it’s very easy to have an intimate experience or a large, festive occasion all at once,” Holder says. Native Texas limestone in a charcoalgray hue wraps all of the clubhouse build-
ings, complementing the existing vegetation and rock outcroppings. Other materials used for the soft-modern design include clearcoated exposed structural steel and stained wood ceilings to imbue the clubhouse with warmth and regional character. Previous renovations to the awardwinning resort and club include revitalized guest rooms, suites, and multi-room units, as well as renovation of all three of the Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed golf courses, new beach club, yacht club, dining, spa, meeting and Kids Club spaces. J’s restaurant in the first floor of the is a new attraction, showing off Southern cuisine and Texas barbecue while the Whitewater 360 sports bar caters to a fun- and sports-minded crowd with casual dining, full bar and numerous flat screen TVs. The new Cap Rock Clubhouse amenities are now fully open to Horseshoe Bay Resort members. Call 877-611-0112 or visit www.hsbresort.com for more information.
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS The Lodge at Torrey Pines
The Lodge at Torrey Pines Offers Play Where the Pros Play Package LA JOLLA, CA – For the second time in its esteemed 19-year history, The Lodge at Torrey Pines, one of Southern California’s most sophisticated luxury resorts, was the site of some of the world’s greatest golfers during the 2021 U.S. Open in June. Located directly adjacent to the 18th hole of the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course, the grand California Craftsman-style Lodge served as a stunning backdrop for this prestigious tournament and welcomed its distinguished guests with exceptional hospitality and the finest level of service. The Lodge boasts an almost two-decade long pedigree of hosting professional golfers, from the annual Farmers Insurance Open in January to this year’s U.S. Open. The 2021 U.S. Open marked the third USGA championship for the acclaimed Torrey Pines South Course and the second time hosting the national championship. After the tournament, golfers looking for the perfect getaway can stay and play like a pro at The Lodge at Torrey Pines and enjoy a round on this illustrious course with priority tee times and exclusive golf packages, including the Play Where The Pros Play package: Book a three-night stay at The Lodge and receive a complimentary round of golf at Torrey Pines Golf Course. Starting from $445 per night. For reservations and to learn more about teeing off at Torrey Pines, call (858) 453-4420 or visit www.lodgetorreypines.com/golf.
Five Golf Courses In Malaysia Made The List At Top 100 Golf Courses In Asia Award 2021 Five golf courses in Malaysia made the list at Top 100 golf courses in Asia Award 2021 Five (5) golf courses in Malaysia have made the list of the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia Award 2021. Organised by Golf Travel Magazine; an esteemed magazine for avid golfers in China and South Korea, the fifth (5th) annual event was held between 8-10 June 2021 in Wanning City, Hainan Province, China.
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Among the criterias that are taken into account for the award include shot values, playability, resistance to scoring, design variety, aesthetics, memorability, and ambience. Five golf courses in Malaysia checked the list to be among the best 100 in Asia, namely the Tournament Players Club (TPC) Kuala Lumpur (21st), The Els Club Teluk Datai, Langkawi (51st), The Mines Resort & Golf Club, Selangor (73rd), Forest City Golf Resort, Johor (78th), and Kota Permai Golf & Country Club, Selangor (79th). Representing Malaysia, the Director of Tourism Malaysia Office in Guangzhou had received the notable award on behalf of the winners. Tourism Malaysia - Guangzhou was also one of the sponsors for the ceremony. In 2019, the third (3rd) Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia Award 2019 was held at Forest City Golf Resort in Johor, Malaysia.
Destination Kohler Opens The Baths of Blackwolf Run KOHLER, WI – Destination Kohler–one of the world’s foremost golf resorts and home to four Pete Dye championship courses–unveils The Baths of Blackwolf Run, the resort’s unique and entertaining 10hole, par-3 course. Spread across 27 acres between the first and 11th holes of Meadow Valleys, The Baths of Blackwolf Run offers holes ranging from 60 to 160 yards and four strategic water features, or “Baths,” situated throughout that are not forced carries unless desired. Although the course will play as a 10-hole course, The Baths’ imaginative routing allows for flexible alternatives for shorter or longer golf experiences. Adding to the atmosphere, The Baths features a two-acre putting course, plus a log cabin food-and-beverage station with outdoor seating and a firepit surrounding the opening Bath. Chris Lutzke and Herb Kohler designed the Baths. Lutzke spent over 30 years working alongside Pete Dye as he constructed many of his courses, including the two at Whistling Straits. Over the past three years, Lutzke prepared The Straits for the Ryder Cup, which
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS The Baths of Blackwolf Run
will be contested Sept. 21-26, 2021. Mr. Kohler, Executive Chairman of Kohler Co., has over 200 product design patents. He helped bring the course to life by calling upon his many years playing the game’s great courses in the U.S., U.K., and Europe. He also recognized a larger trend occurring within the sport of creating short layouts that promote more enjoyment for golfers of all skill levels. “We look for ways to enhance the golf experience and grow the game for all golfers” Kohler says. “The Baths complement our four world-renowned championship golf courses while also honoring Kohler Co.’s 130-year history of bathing design. We are delighted to officially open this exciting and unique course.” “The Baths will be a new twist for our resort guests, regardless if they are a serious player wanting to hone their game or someone yearning for an extraordinary closer to an amazing day on one of our 18-hole golf courses,” adds Dirk Willis, Vice President of Golf for Kohler Co. “Our continued mission is to find new and innovative ways to grow the game and make it more inviting and accessible to all. The Baths of Blackwolf Run allows us to do just that.” Kohler Golf ushered in championship golf in the state of Wisconsin when it hosted the 1998 and 2012 U.S. Women’s Open at Blackwolf Run, along with the 2004, 2010, and 2015 PGA Championships at Whistling Straits. The historic American Club is the
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Midwest’s only Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond resort hotel. The nearby boutique Inn on Woodlake recently launched new two- and four-bedroom suites that are well-appointed for group and buddy travel. Tee times at The Baths can be reserved by calling 800-344-2838 or visiting the resort’s golf booking page. For golf package information, call 855-444-2838. Visit DestinationKohler.com for more information.
Pines Lakes Country Club Restoration Project Going Smoothly; Myrtle Beach’s First Course On Track To Reopen in Mid-July MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. -- The greens and bunker restoration project at Pine Lakes Country Club, Myrtle Beach’s first golf course, continues to progress, and the “Granddaddy” is on pace to reopen in midJuly. The Craig Schreiner-led effort is highlighted by the installation of new Sunday bermudagrass greens, a conversion that is significantly enhancing the putting surfaces at Pine Lakes. The greens are also being restored to their original size, expanding the total putting surface area from 103,000 square feet to 124,000 square feet, an increase of 20 percent. Schreiner, ASGCA, ASLA, is also restoring every bunker on the course with an eye
on improving drainage, playability and returning Pine Lakes to the more natural look architect Robert White intended. “The restoration of Pine Lakes is going well,” said Steve Mays, president of Founders Group International. “We’ve enjoyed near perfect weather and the bunker project has been seamless. The more work we do on the bunkers, the more we like them. We can’t wait to welcome golfers back to the Granddaddy.” Nearly every bunker on the course will be smaller with high-faces being replaced by grass that rolls more gently into the sand. The changes will reduce the number of times players are faced with near-vertical bunker shots, in addition to improving access into and out of sand and maintenance. Myrtle Beach traces its origins as a golf destination to the opening of Pine Lakes in 1927, and the course, designed by White, a native of St. Andrews, Scotland and the first president of the PGA of America, continues to hold a special place in the market. Built along natural dunes less than a mile from the Atlantic Ocean, Pine Lakes features elevation change and a classic design that has long made it one of the Myrtle Beach area’s most popular courses. Pine Lakes is one of 21 FGI courses and more information is available at PineLakes. com. More information about Founders Group International is available at www.foundersgroupinternational.com, www.mbn.com or MyrtleBeachGolfTrips.com.
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS Torremirona Golf Club
Costa Brava Makes The French connection Around 1,000 French golfers will battle it out for the chance to win an unforgettable golf trip to the Costa Brava. As part of the popular Fairways Cup, the amateur competition organised by French magazine Culture Golf Fairways, nine tournaments will take place throughout the country with more than 200 prizes up for grabs. Now in its 13th year, the competition is an individual event with prizes for both gross and nett with categories for men, women and junior golfers. Mérignies kicked off the series early in May as Guillaume Lefevre claimed the top prize with a voucher to be spent on golf courses and accommodation in the Costa Brava, while Dieppe Pourville held the next round in June. Champ de Bataille gets in on the act in July before Lacanau Ocean steps up in August, followed by Domont and Isabella in September. Saint-Omer and Saint Donat bring the curtain down in style in October. It’s an ideal opportunity for competitors at each of the venues to learn about a destination which is just beyond France’s southern border. Located 100km north of Barcelona and surrounding the historic city of Girona, the region boasts seven golf clubs and nine varied 18-hole layouts to suit all levels of abilities and experience. The unmistakable jewel in the crown is the outstanding PGA Catalunya, which is a regular haunt for European Tour professionals and has previously hosted the annual battle for European Tour cards at the final stage of Qualifying School. The famous Stadium course is consistently ranked in the top-10 of Europe and seen by many as the number one course in Spain, while the Tour course is only marginally less challenging, but no less
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enjoyable with a similar standard of maintenance and quality. But there is a fabulous selection of courses to choose from: Club Golf d’Aro Mas Nou, Club de Golf Costa Brava, Empordà Golf (Forest and Links courses), Club de Golf Peralada, Golf de Pals and Torremirona Golf Club. Antoine Davot, editor of Culture Golf Fairways, said: “It’s fantastic to have Costa Brava support our Fairways Cup and provide some amazing prizes for our participants. It’s a superb golf destination and is within easy reach for French golfers to enjoy.” A spokesperson for Golf Costa Brava said: “It’s a pleasure be involved with the Fairways Cup and to showcase our region to so many golfers. We look forward to welcoming the winners.” Follow the Costa Brava on Instagram at @costabravagolf or to learn more about playing golf in the Costa Brava, visit golf.costabrava.org COSTA BRAVA TOURIST BOARD – GOLF CLUBS The Costa Brava Tourist Board offers golfers the opportunity to enjoy outstanding golf all year-round in one of the most beautiful and unspoilt natural environments in Spain and Southern Europe. Situated 100 kilometres north of Barcelona in a region nestling between the foothills of the Pyrenees and the waters of the Mediterranean, the Costa Brava boasts an array of first-class golf experiences, and the association features seven golf clubs and nine varied 18-hole layouts from some of the game’s most well-known and accomplished designers, as well as a highly-rated par-three course. The golf clubs in the Costa Brava-Empordà Golf Course Association are: - Club Golf d’Aro Mas Nou (www.golfdaro.com) - Club de Golf Costa Brava (www.golfcostabrava.com) - Empordà Golf (Forest and Links courses) (www.empordagolf.com) - Club de Golf Peralada Golf (www.golfperalada.com)
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS - PGA Catalunya (Stadium and Tour courses) (www.pgacatalunya.com) - Golf de Pals (http://golfdepals.com) - Torremirona Golf Club (www.golftorremirona.com) - Gualta Par Three (www.gualta.com) THE COSTA BRAVA The coastal region of the province of Girona, the Costa Brava (which translates as “wild coast” in English) features of 214 km of spectacular and captivating coastline running between Blanes in the south and the French border in the north. One of Catalonia’s principal tourist centres, the area enjoys average annual temperatures of 16.5C has everything needed for an unforgettable stay; from outstanding nature, beaches and forests to unforgettable culture, history, gastronomy and art, many of which enjoy international recognition. The most well-known towns and cities in the Costa Brava and the province of Girona include the historical city of Girona, Figueres – the home town of famous Catalan artist Salvador Dalí – Olot, Banyoles, Blanes, Platja d’Aro, Pals, Peralada, Lloret de Mar, Cadaqués, Tossa de Mar and Peratallada. www.costabrava.org GETTING THERE The Costa Brava and its golf courses are easily accessible from the UK and Europe with regular flights operating from across the continent into the three main airports serving the region – Girona (in the centre), Barcelona (one hour’s drive to the south) and Perpignan (to the north).
Gleneagles Launches Special 2022 Package To Celebrate #1 Status Gleneagles, the iconic Scottish hotel and global luxury destination, has unveiled a special celebratory 2022 stay-and-play package, to mark its announcement as the UK & Ireland’s #1 Golf Resort, an award it has now held for the past four years. To celebrate the achievement, golfers are being given the opportunity to enjoy an overnight stay and play experience at ‘The Glorious Playground’ during March and April 2022, from £400 per room*, based on two people sharing. To take advantage, bookings must be made before July 31 this year. The package, offering guests significant value, gives two golfers
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the choice of playing one of the three iconic 18-hole championship courses on the 850-acre Perthshire estate. It also includes luxurious accommodation in a Country Room and breakfast in The Strathearn Restaurant, at the world-famous five-star Gleneagles Hotel. The King’s and The Queen’s courses, regarded as James Braid classics and a regular feature of Top 100 rankings, have benefitted from significant renovation projects that have seen them restored to their original ‘inland links’ and heathland designs. The PGA Centenary Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a pristine modern design, and welcomed both The Ryder Cup (2014) and Solheim Cup (2019). Gleneagles remains the only venue in Europe to have staged both events, and will also host the Senior Open Presented by Rolex next year (July 21-24) on The King’s Course. Beyond the fairways, Gleneagles boasts over 50 pursuits, including fly-fishing, falconry, cycling, off-roading, equestrian experiences and archery. Guests will also have use of a range of leisure facilities, including the pitch-and-putt course, lawn games and outdoor tennis courts. Before or after golf, guests can unwind and relax at the hotel, where a wealth of food and drink options await, including The Strathearn, the theatrical Franco-Scottish dining experience, the Birnam Brasserie, a relaxed Mediterranean style restaurant serving the best Italian and French-style cuisine, or toast the day’s play in Auchterarder 70, overlooking the 18th greens of The King’s and Queen’s. Conor O’Leary, Managing Director of Gleneagles, said: “We are thrilled to once again be recognised by the experts at Golf World as the #1 Golf Resort in the UK & Ireland. It is important to us that we celebrate this achievement with our customers, and we hope this very special ‘Tee it up’ 2022 booking opportunity gives golfing enthusiasts and aficionados the perfect opportunity to pre-book an early-season experience with us, at a very special price.” A ‘Tee it up more’ package is also available with a one-night, tworound option from £530 per room, for golfers seeking 36-holes of golf. For bookings and further information, call Resort Sales on: 0800 704 705, or +44 (0)1764 662231. Alternatively, bookings can be made online: gleneagles.com/ offers/tee-it-up/
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS International Olympic Academy Golf Course, Navarino Hills
The International Olympic Academy, The Hellenic Olympic Committee And Costa Navarino Launch World’s First International Olympic Academy Golf Course MESSINIA, GREECE – In an exciting and ground-breaking new initiative, the International Olympic Academy (IOA), the Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC) and Costa Navarino in Greece, have announced during a virtual event, the world’s first International Olympic Academy Golf Course. The name of the new course, which is located at Costa Navarino’s Navarino Hills symbolises the links between golf and Olympism, as it is the nearest golf development to Ancient Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. The announcement – on the occasion when the International Olympic Day is celebrated across the world – comes at a time when golf’s popularity continues to soar and is expected to be one of the main attractions in Tokyo this summer, following its spectacular return to the Olympics at Rio in 2016. The new partnership between the IOA and Costa Navarino, with the significant contribution of the HOC, is guided by the principles and values of Olympism and aims to promote Olympic Education through a variety of activities in both Costa Navarino and the IOA premises, and will play a key role in helping to promote golf to an expanding worldwide audience. The naming of the new International Olympic Academy Golf Course reflects the IOA, HOC and
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Costa Navarino’s shared values of sustainability, personal welfare, education, and growth. The course is one of two 18-hole signature courses at Navarino Hills, which have been designed by twotime Masters champion José María Olazábal and will fully open in spring 2022. During thes event, moderated by Sky Sports’ David Jones, the General Manager of Costa Navarino Golf, Nuno Sepulveda, joined live from Navarino Hills, together with members from Costa Navarino’s Junior Golf Academy, representing the sport’s future bright stars. Representatives from the HOC, the IOA, the Hellenic Golf Federation and Costa Navarino spoke at the event, while its special guests were the course designer José María Olazábal and GEO Sustainable Golf Champion, Suzann Pettersen (former Olympian at Rio 2016 and 15-time winner on the LPGA Tour). Spyros Capralos, President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee and IOC Member, said: “It is with great pleasure that we announce today, during the Olympic day, the cooperation between the Hellenic Olympic Committee, the International Olympic Academy and Costa Navarino, for the world’s first International Olympic Academy Golf Course. We are therefore given the opportunity, through golf, which is a sport without age limits, to call on all citizens to participate in sports activities and to integrate exercise into daily life.” Isidoros Kouvelos, President of the International Olympic Acad-
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CHIPSHOTS emy, added: “The outcome of this cooperation will affirm the fact that Olympic Education, through which the Youth approaches Olympism, is not limited to traditional means but also extents itself to new methods which lead to innovative paths for further development.” On behalf of the Hellenic Golf Federation, President Thomas Tokas, said: “The reintroduction of golf at the Olympic Games was a very important milestone for the sport which is played in 207 countries around the world. The International Olympic Academy Golf Course will further boost the sport’s development and will attract younger generations, and I would like to congratulate the IOA and Costa Navarino for this innovative partnership”. Tomas Nemec, Chairman of Consillium SA (co-founders at Navarino Hills), said: “Through the IOA Golf Course, we are happy to contribute to the essence of the Olympic Spirit for all generations of golfers. Our vision for Navarino Hills was to create the perfect environment for golf in this incredible location in the Messinian land, and introduce a unique development which reflects Costa Navarino’s commitment to sustainable development.” Achilles V. Constantakopoulos, Chairman of TEMES – Developers of Costa Navarino, said: “We are very honoured that the new course will contribute to building a strong alliance between sport and education and conveying the principles of the Olympic Movement. Through Costa Navarino’s growth, we aim to continue having a
positive impact in the areas where we operate – and to establish an upscale golf and sports destination that appeals to the global community.” José María Olazábal said: “It is a great honour to have designed the first International Olympic Academy Golf Course at Navarino Hills. The development of the game is very close to my heart and I am proud that future generations of golfers will have the opportunity to be educated in the Olympic values at this wonderful new facility.” Suzann Pettersen added: “My experience of competing at the Olympics in 2016 was inspirational and the development of the first International Olympic Academy Golf Course is a great moment for golf, as it strives to deliver a bright and sustainable outlook for future generations.” Named as the ‘World’s Best New Golf Development’ at the 2020 World Golf Awards, Navarino Hills is one of Europe’s most eagerly awaited golf developments. Situated over 125 hectares overlooking the historic Bay of Navarino and the Ionian Sea, the International Olympic Academy Golf Course will measure 6,366m in length and will open exclusively for the 5th Messinia Pro-Am which will take place from the 24th to the 27th of November. When both Navarino Hills courses open to all visitors in spring 2022, Costa Navarino will offer its guests four signature golf courses to enjoy within a maximum distance of 13km from each other, further enhancing its status as one of Europe’s unrivalled golf destinations.
International Olympic Academy Golf Course_Navarino Hills
Piza Golf
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Golf Vacations • July 2021 19
by Dakota Diaz
GOLFASIAN WIDENS SCOPE TO ELEVATE
THAILAND’S GOLF INDUSTRY
Tour operator announces acquisition of FORE Management Group and partnership with FENIX XCell BANGKOK, THAILAND — Golfasian, Asia’s largest inbound tour operator, is utilising strength in diversity to take Thailand’s golf industry to a higher level. The Bangkok-based company has acquired FORE Management Group, a respected organiser of golf events in Thailand. Its formidable track record includes the Thailand Open (an Asian Tour event), the World Corporate Golf Challenge, and the Thailand instalment of the Faldo Series: the only global amateur series for juniors. Golfasian has also forged a strategic partnership with FENIX XCell, one of the region’s most creative names in golf apparel. “Together the companies will create the strongest brands in the Asia golf industry, particularly related to golf travel, golf events, and golf apparel,” commented Mark Siegel, the founder and chairman of Golfasian. “The new status will facilitate additional vertical integration and allow the companies to offer a broader range of products and services for golfers and international partners.” Since its founding in 2016, FORE Management Group has established itself as the go-to firm in Thailand for professionally run, fun golf tournaments — organising over 70 events per year. Its acquisition will allow Golfasian to utilise its logistic expertise at a packed roster of events including corporate days, charity tournaments, and open events for domestic and visiting golfers at some of Thailand’s most premium clubs. “FORE Management Group is delighted to become the event arm of Golfasian,” said Chris Watson, the co-founder of FORE Management Group who will now become Chief Commercial Officer at Golfasian. “Golfasian already has an exemplary reputation worldwide thanks to its status as the region’s biggest tour operator. The new arrangement strengthens its position domestically and provides numerous synergies. It’s exciting.” The pandemic has been devastating for the golf tourism industry in Thailand. But while most companies are in survival mode, Golfasian is utilizing strength in numbers to ensure that it emerges intact AND enhanced from the global crisis. “We believe that we are the strongest Thailand-originated brands in the industry,” says Michael Moir, the founder of FENIX XCell. “These have been very uncertain times, but by joining together we can show potential partners that we offer foresight, vision, and stability.” Golfasian has helped cement Thailand’s reputation as a must-visit destination for golf since its establishment back in 1997. Utilizing expert knowledge of the game and the region itself, it prides itself on being the first choice for golfers embarking on a dream vacation to the Kingdom and other thrilling golf destinations in Southeast Asia. With international travel severely restricted, clubs have been forced to rely on domestic clients since early 2020. But with Thailand’s government proceeding with a mass vaccination program for its population, there’s growing confidence that international visitors will be able to return to the Kingdom’s fairways sooner rather than later.
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With that in mind, Golfasian believes that diversifying its services can help Thailand build momentum with a domestic audience and also swiftly regain its status as a bucket-list destination for golf travelers. “Thailand’s reputation as a golf destination was as bright as it has ever been before the pandemic,” said Boyd Barker, Golfasian Chief Operating Officer. “We can’t wait to showcase the country to visiting golfers again while growing the domestic golf market through compelling events.”
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From Left: Boyd Barker, Chief Operating Officer GolfAsian, Mike Moir, Founder and Managing Director, FENIX XCell, Mark Siegel, Founder and Chairman, GolfAsian and Chris Watson, Chief Commercial Officer, GolfAsian - pictured at Thai Country Club - will work in tandem to bolster Thailand’s golf industry.
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Golf Vacations • July 2021 21
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rom golf equipment and apparel to hightech gadgets and bucket list getaways, here’s a list of some of the summer’s hottest golf gifts and experiences.
2021 Summer Golf Gift Guide By Shane Sharp
Walker Trolley Cape 1.5 Walker Trolleys generated palpable buzz at the 2019 PGA Merchandise Show with its Cape Model, a regal golf trolley with a traditional profile and modern design elements. It was a pushcart unlike any the golf cognoscenti had seen before, and founder, CEO and golf enthusiast Brad Payne had a hit on his hands. Enter the Walker Trolley Cape 1.5 in 2021 featuring a fistful of clever updates. A new buckle system accommodates a larger variety
GOLF GEAR
Honma Golf TR21 Hybrids Based in Sakata, Japan, premium golf club manufacturer Honma Golf has blazed a trail in the U.S. golf market with its elegantly-crafted irons, fairway metals, hybrids and putters. Its TR21 Hybrids ($249) feature a beautifully clean, compact profile that fits even the most discerning golfer’s eye. The TR21 is engineered for crisp turf interaction that mimics the feel and flight of a well-struck iron shot. Its high-performance housing and thin, high-strength steel face with variable-thickness design delivers hot ball speed while a centrally located sole weight optimizes for a solid feel. The club is available in 18-, 21- and 24-degree lofts with highperformance Honma Sakata VIZARD shafts in 65-, 75-gram options. Honma’s patented non-rotating hosel system allows loft and lie to be adjusted +/- 1 degree while keeping the shaft spine optimized.
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of bags, a new rubber logo button protects the leather the handle against scuffs and scrapes, and a drainage feature in the lower storage accessory keeps water out on rainy days. Walker Trolleys recently launched a run-flat rubber tire version, Cape 1.5F, now available for pre-order with a mid-July target delivery date. The Cape 1.5 and Cape 1.5F continue to utilize premium materials: waxed canvas, leather and anodized aluminum that create a trolley built to last. In addition to its line of high-end trolleys, the company produces custom head covers and storage accessories, which make the perfect Father’s Day gifts. All custom head covers and storage accessories are 25% off now through June 20th.
True Linkswear TRUE Knit II While there’s no official estimate of how many golfers prefer to walk, versus taking carts, anecdotal observations over the past year all point to an exponential increase. There’s a reason it was nearly impossible to find a push cart in 2020. True Linkswear, with its branded #enjoythewalk tagline, is the No. 1 golf shoe for walkers. And within its lineup of uber comfy, high-performing kicks, the TRUE Knit II is the all-time best-seller. Since everyone loves a comeback, the company has updated the “TKII” with even more flexibility and durability. The big addition this time around is the WANDERLUX super foam midsole that equips the TKII with more rebound off any surface. It’s hard to describe, but the 2021 edition just feels more “alive” than its predecessor. As always with True Linkswear, the upper portion of the shoe steals the show, and the TKII’s TRUEknit housing is breathable, unfailingly comfortable and (this blows our mind given the look and feel) both water and oil repellant. TKII is available in four colors for $140 direct from the True Linkswear website.
Southern Tide T3 Gulf Brrr Performance Short Dad needs a go-to golf short for the summer, and Greenville, S.C.-based Southern Tide delivers with its eight-inch T3 Gulf Brrr Performance Short. The “GPS” features Brrr technology that provides
Sun Mountain PX3, PX4 Most years, golfers can look forward to a new Sun Mountain pushcart model. This year is no exception. For 2021, the Missoula, Montana-based lifestyle brand has reinvented its popular Pathfinder model via the introduction of the new three-wheel PX3 ($229) and four-wheel PX4 ($239) push carts. The laundry list of additional enhancements is lengthy: a continuous handle for one-handed pushing; a console for balls, tees, scorecard and phone; a phone holder with a slot for a charging plug to be used when the phone is in place; dual umbrella holders on either side of the console tray; and a mesh basket and velour-lined pouch for additional storage. What remains the same? The Pathfinder’s small, folded size, lightweight chassis (16 and 17 pounds) and easy folding system. What we love: New upper and lower bag brackets nest bags in the cart and work equally well for cart or stand bags, and the adjustable bungee system allows for rapid bag anchoring. Sun Mountain is a gear lovers’ brand, so there are plenty of accessories for tricking-up dad’s new PX3 or PX4, including Sun cooler bags, water bottle holders, cigar holders, adjustable umbrella holders, travel cases, supercharged pouches, and more.
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has up-leveled green maps and yardage book technology, appealing to serious recreational and high-level amateur golfers. The Book offers two views of each green, including an easyto-read color thermal image allowing golfers to quickly recognize ridges and possible hole locations. The detailed view features arrows and contours at the maximum level allowed within the rules of golf, helping players process vital information. The yardage information offers fairway arrows when slope exceeds four percent, carry and runout distances, elevation change and distance rings, among other valuable information.
GOLF TECH
TecTecTec Rangefinder The ULT-X from TecTecTec, is Amazon’s No. 1 selling golf rangefinder brand. Lightweight, easy to store, it provides the features and benefits associated with ultra-high-end rangefinders but is more affordable than its premium competitors. Advanced, crystal-clear optics, target-lock capabilities and optional slope functionality make ULT-X one of the most popular rangefinders in the world. Extremely accurate, the ULT-X provides measurements precise within 0.3 yards from up to 300 yards away. It is backed by a two-year warranty and is available for $249.99 at the company’s website.
a patented cooling effect, key for those sultry rounds in the afternoon. Available in five spring and summer-friendly colors and priced at $99.50, the Gulf Performance Short’s Brrr triple chill effect technology is equipped with natural cooling minerals, active moisture-wicking and rapid drying that can keep you up to four degrees cooler on the golf course (or off). Southern Tide, like many sport and lifestyle-centric men’s brands, has gotten more aggressive with the inseam in its shorts. We really like the 8-inch edition of the Gulf Performance for walking rounds as it provides a much more athletic look and feel with less friction.
GOLF STUFF
PuttView’s “The Book” PuttView’s “The Book,” golf’s most detailed yardage and greens map book, is the brainchild of putting instructor Phil Kenyon, who
Arccos Caddie Few things in golf are more challenging than attempting to describe the features and benefits of the Arccos Caddie system in 150 words or less. It’s a GPS-powered shot-tracker, A.I.-powered rangefinder, virtual caddie, strokes gained analytics guru and overall game improvement solution. What the Arccos Caddie does is borderline mystical, but how to buy it and activate the system is really quite simple. Golfers can select from either Smart Sensors that screw into the ends of club grips or Smart Grips that replace their existing grips. Next, download the Arccos Caddie app, pair all your clubs (takes around five minutes), download your home course and boom, you’re off. Purchasing either the Smart Sensors or Smart Grips comes with. The Arccos Caddie Bundle, which includes Smart Sensors and Link, is an excellent option for Father’s Day. A one-year membership to the Arccos Caddie app is included.
GOLF TRIPS
Pinehurst Resort’s Donald Ross Golf Package There’s no gift quite like the gift of golf itself, and no golf pilgrimage compares to a summer sojourn to the Cradle of American Golf. Pinehurst Resort’s Donald Ross Package is an ideal way to play Coore and Crenshaw’s restoration of No 2, Gil Hanse’s reimagined No. 4 or any one of its nine legendary layouts (plus the sporty, par-3 Cradle short course).
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Cherokee Valley Golf Cottage Package Greenville, S.C., has been nothing short of a media darling over the past decade. Recognized as one of the best small cities in the U.S. for visiting and living, its location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the state’s scenic Upstate region sets up beautifully for golf. Cherokee Valley Course and Club in neighboring Tigerville, just 30 minutes north of downtown Greenville, serves up the area’s only P.B. Dye-designed golf course, quaint on-course cottages and a newly-opened chef-driven restaurant, Core 450. The cottage collection features three elegantly appointed homes right on the golf course. Each is equipped with four bed-and-bath suites to provide plenty of privacy and ample room. The cottages afford a relaxing atmosphere with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Rates start at $130 a night for one room with one bed and range up to $600 for a four-bedroom cottage with two beds per room. The popular stay-and-play includes a two-night stay, three rounds of golf, breakfast buffet and three-course dinner, daily. A Pro Tip from Pinehurst Resort Reservationists: you’re mostly likely to find lodging and tee time availability booking Sunday-Tuesday or MondayWednesday. The Manor was recently renovated and houses private hospitality suites that up-level any golf buddies trip. The North & South Bar in the hotel’s lobby was part of the complete overhaul in 2019 and makes for an optimal stop for a night cap after dinner and drinks at the Pinehurst Brewing Company.
Rumbling Bald Resort’s Hole-in-One and Ryder Cup Packages The image of dad and his buddies blazing a trail into Western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains for a totally unplugged, off the grid golf trip is a visceral one. Rumbling Bald, a 36-hole golf retreat at the northern end of Lake Lure, delivers this experience via its Hole-in-One and Ryder Cup Packages. A round of golf on Cherokee’s Dye-designed mountain-style layout can be added for $33 on weekdays (Mon. – Thurs.), $43 on weekends (Fri. – Sun.) or $60 for “all you can play,” subject to availability. For more information on cottage rates, configurations, availability or to book visit the club’s Accommodations Page.
Starting at $345 per person, the popular “Hole-in-One” package features a two-night stay, two rounds of golf on the Apple Valley and Bald Mountain courses, breakfast both days and complimentary, unlimited range balls. Lodging options abound, including the recently updated Apple Valley Studios and two- and four-bedroom Fairway Villas. Paying homage to the 2021 Ryder Cup at Destination Kohler’s famed Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, Rumbling Bald is offering a limited availability “Ryder Cup Package.” Expert golf vacation planners are available to design an exciting, Ryder Cup team formatted event for golf groups in search of an unforgettable experience. The Ryder Cup Package starts at $589 per person and includes: three nights lodging; three rounds of golf scored and handicapped; complimentary replays on either course; a team shirt and hat; private, one-hour opening reception with wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres and unlimited use of the practice facilities.
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Golf Vacations • July 2021 25
ROAD TRIP
SCOTTSDALE TEES UP
A SUMMER OF FUN
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SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA
S
ummer in Scottsdale is in full swing. While that means high temperatures on the thermometer, it also means low prices both on and off the course. Here’s what’s hot this season in “The World’s Finest Golf Destination.” A Scottsdale golf vacation is a great idea any time of the year, but insiders who can handle the heat know that summer offers the best value and availability on the destination’s best golf courses. Take Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Golf Getaway Package, for example. It provides luxury accommodations and a $75 credit per person, per paid night towards golf at either the iconic TPC Scottsdale, home of the PGA TOUR’s Waste Management Phoenix Open, or Grayhawk Golf Club, recent host of the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Championships. Play early in the day and spend the afternoon lounging by one of Fairmont Scottsdale’s luxurious pools, enjoying the resort’s acclaimed Well & Being Spa, or exploring Scottsdale’s other outstanding attractions, like the nearby Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons shopping and dining centers. Let’s face it; nothing is more refreshing in the summer than a cold six pack, and Grayhawk Golf Club’s “Summer 6 Pack” is a golf and dining deal not to be missed in the Valley of the Sun. Running through Sept. 12, the offer includes six rounds of golf on either of Grayhawk’s two courses – Talon or Raptor – as well as dining at any Grayhawk restaurant – Phil’s Grill, Isabella’s Kitchen, Quill Creek Café, or The Morning Joint, at preferred rates. The golf rounds and dining benefits are also completely transferrable, so you can treat your friends while you treat yourself. For golfers who only have a little bit of time to spend in Scottsdale, it’s a great reason to enjoy it at its very finest. That’s exactly what the “Best of Scottsdale” golf package from Troon Golf Vacations offers. It provides three nights’ accommodations at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North along with three rounds of golf – one each at Troon North Golf Club, The Boulders Golf Club and Quintero Golf Club, as well as a full-sized rental car from Avis. Additional rounds can be arranged at most area golf courses managed by Troon Golf for an additional fee.
Grayhawk Golf Club
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Golf Vacations • July 2021 27
ROAD TRIP Sometimes, you just need the basics – golf, a great hotel room and a killer rate – and the rest can be played by ear. Look no further than the “Golf Escape” at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa by Troon Golf Vacations. The package includes overnight accommodations at Scottsdale’s most innovative golf resorts as well as one round of golf for two adults with each night’s stay. Golf Advisor has named The Westin Kierland Golf Club among the top 10 public courses in Phoenix Scottsdale, and the resort itself has endless opportunities for fun, including an enhanced Adventure Water Park with a 900-foot lazy river, a 110-foot waterside and the iconic FlowRider surfing simulator. Need something a bit more sedate? Agave, The Arizona Spa and Westin’s signature Heavenly® Bed are sure to satisfy. Even the avid golfer can only be out on the green so many hours in a day. And, while Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale’ hugely popular Short Course promises one of the Valley’s most enjoyable golf experiences, a great way to sprinkle in some
“local flavor” to a visit while learning something new is to add the resort’s Sip, Saber and Savor culinary experience to a stay. This immersive program adds private culinary events for two, including a Champagne Sabering, in which you learn the history of Veuve Clicquot and the woman behind the iconic French Champagne house. Also offered are a private cooking class taught by Mountain Shadows’ Executive Chef, Charles Wiley, and a Spirited Sipping Seminar with Jim Gallen, the resort’s Food & Beverage Director, who walks guests through the wonderful world of wine and spirits. Note: Sip, Saber and Savor works best for stays of at least two nights. To learn more about the more than 200 courses in the greater Scottsdale area, plus the accommodations and activities for rounding out the perfect golf vacation, check out ExperienceScottsdaleGolf.com. To find more information about summer in Scottsdale, including hot hotel rates and special offers, visit ItsThatHot.com. Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale
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SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
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30 Golf Vacations • July 2021
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SWEETSTUFF by Terry Ross
Swing Caddie SC300I
S
wing Caddie recently introduced its most advanced launch monitor—and the innovation and advances in their new SC300I model take this professionalgrade tool to an all-new level—especially with the cutting-edge software that it now can be paired with. The SC300I is slightly smaller and sports a sleeker all-black design than the previous SC300 model--but with a similar orange and black LCD display—and has several technological improvements that are readily apparent when testing it on the driving range. As in the previous model, the new SC300I shows all your essential shot metrics in a compact 6-3/8” X 4-1/2” X 1-1/8” frame that fits easily in a golf bag. Valuable information such as carry and total distance, swing speed, ball speed, launch angle, apex (shot height) and smash factor--can be fine-
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tuned to your specific club and loft angle on the device or with the handy remote that comes with it. The rechargeable battery has also been improved and now lasts 20 hours on a full charge instead of 12. The display shows all the statistics without moving to another screen, which is a nice feature. You can also have your distances called out after every shot (three languages can be selected) with the adjustable voice feature. The device uses Doppler technology and calibrating atmospheric pressure on each shot to track a variety of measurements (just like the super expensive models from Trackman, etc.) and provides accurate feedback-- giving you the statistics on every swing. The LCD display is easy to read even in the bright sun. It also has some valuable practice tools in its two modes: practice and target--which are great for mixing up sessions to gain valuable feedback while
trying to hit to a selected distance—just like on the golf course. All these features can be controlled with the handy remote. In the target mode, you can set a distance and test your consistency over a 10-shot round. All the stats are displayed after each shot, in addition to a score of 1-10 depending on how close you get to the preset distance goal. The SC300I has noticeably quicker response than its predecessor and greater accuracy with the new and improved processors in the unit. It also is better at tracking all kinds of shots—hooks, slices and low stingers, and has better detection of shots overall with its improved tracking sensors. The unit also works well for a home practice setup inside or in the yard—and will measure shots hit into a net with surprising accuracy. While the SC300I is on par with the $25,000 Trackman as a stand-alone unit for under $500--things go to an entirely new level when it is paired with the free MySwingCaddie app (IOS and Android) that has been drastically improved and refined for this new model. It gives you the ability to connect the SC300I directly to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth to see spin rates of shots in real time, track and save all your shot data-and even export it to a spread sheet to print out and give to a club fitter or instructor. It even shows graphs of shot height patterns. With this feature you can also keep months or even years of data on every practice shot to compare and look for trends. The latest version of the app—built especially for the SC300I—even offers the ability to record practice swings with a data overlay of key metrics, draw graphic lines and circles for analysis and to play back in slow motion to fully analyze every practice swing. These are saved automatically by the app and are a great reference for game improvement or for showing an instructor. For a player, club fitter or teacher, this unit gives as much accurate information as you would want in a small, easy to use package that will not break the bank. For more information on the new Swing Caddie SC300I and a special offer for Golf Vacations Magazine readers, go to: https://www.swingcaddie.com/sc300/ golfvacationmagazine
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SWEETSTUFF
Safe Catch Snack
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or those looking to get some nourishment and stay on the healthy side of the food equation before, during or after a round of golf, Safe Catch Elite Wild Tuna is now offering portions in handy snack bags that can be carried in a cooler or even a golf bag for when the hunger pains strike. Safe Catch tests every tuna for mercury and the tuna is a lean source of protein and offers essential amino acids and B vitamins to keep you going without weighing you or your swing down. Every tuna is hand-selected to a mercury limit (10x) -- lower than the FDA action limit. That is why Safe Catch Elite meets Consumer Reports “Low Mercury” criteria set for pregnant and nursing women and young children. These products are also the only
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tuna endorsed by the American Pregnancy Association. The tuna is hand filleted and packs nothing but sashimi grade tuna steaks— not with fillers or artificial additives. The handcrafting of premium fish into noticeably elite tuna steaks makes Safe Catch a healthy and deliciously differentiated tuna with its Artisan cook process. The company follows the recommendations of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch® program. All Safe Catch seafood is wild caught, only using sustainable fishing practices. The 3.0 oz pouches provide a refreshing treat, are a handy size, filling and much healthier than a candy bar or hotdog. For more information on Safe Catch Elite Wild Tuna snacks: visit the company website at: https://safecatch.com/buy-safe-catchtuna/elite-wild-tuna-pouch/
Perfect Practice Putting Mat
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ith more players practicing at home over the past year, it is no wonder that new products that help players improve their game from the comfort of their own home or the backyard are more popular than ever. Putting is probably at the top of the list when it comes to home golf practice activities, and perhaps the frontrunner of training aids for this is the Perfect Practice Putting Mat. Even with all the putting-improvement aids on the market today, this product stands out—it is made of high-quality materials—including a fine wood frame for the putting cup(s) and ball return—and the putting mat itself is made of a unique Crystal Velvet material featuring Tru-Roll Technology that can have your ball rolling 10-14 on the stimp meter, depending on what is under the mat. Hard floors roll closer to 14 whereas thick carpets tend to roll closer to a 10. The Perfect Putting Mat will work on all kinds of flooring—carpet, wood and tile—the key is getting a flat surface so that putts will roll true. The mat has an array of great features— especially for anyone who is serious about improving their putting. It is 9.5 feet long and has some helpful printed measurement markings at 2,4,6 and 8 feet--and an alignment “train track” marking to help with a straight-back straight-through putting stroke. The mat itself gives you a true roll—and the two holes are elevated to encourage a firm, uphill stroke--and to trigger the automatic return that brings the balls right back to where you are putting, which is nice. The Perfect Putting Mat has one regulation hole and one that is half size to help focus— (“aim small—miss small”)— and to groove a stroke that will deliver the ball to the center of the cup. The mat can be easily moved to any location in the home, office, gym or even the backyard--and rolled up for easy storage. Another nice feature is that you can unroll it to less than the full length for a smaller area and still get some excellent putting practice, so it is very versatile as to where you can use it. Dustin Johnson, the world’s former top-ranked professional golfer, is the chief endorser for the Perfect Practice Putting Mat and says that he uses it daily.
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SWEETSTUFF by Terry Ross
“Every golfer should have a Perfect Practice mat in their home or office,” said Johnson. “It’s the best way to improve your stroke and boost your confidence on the greens. I use mine daily when at home and have already seen the benefits.” According to the company, over 100 professionals are using the mat for practice, including Marc Leishman, who raves about the alignment tools on the mat, while Vijay Singh calls it the best mat he has used in years. The Perfect Practice Putting Matt also has an excellent set of instructional videos and a 5-day system to improve 5 strokes by using the mat with some particularly good drills. For more information: https://rainorshinegolf.com/products/ perfect-practice-putting-mat
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